14 Illinois Restaurants Locals Proudly Recommend To Visitors
Illinois isn’t just about deep-dish pizza and hot dogs, though those are pretty spectacular. The state is packed with hidden culinary gems that locals swear by and can’t wait to share with visitors.
From smoky barbecue joints to cozy European bistros, these restaurants represent the heart and soul of Illinois dining culture, and they’re the spots where you’ll find authentic flavors and unforgettable meals.
1. 17th Street Barbecue
Mike Mills opened this legendary spot, and honestly, it changed my entire perspective on what barbecue could be. The ribs fall off the bone like they’re apologizing for being too tender, and the sauce has won more awards than I can count on both hands.
Located in Murphysboro, this place has been smoking meats since 1985. The pulled pork is so good it should probably be illegal, and the baby back ribs have a cult following that rivals any rock band. They’ve even competed on the national barbecue circuit and dominated.
Don’t skip the cornbread—it’s sweet, moist, and pairs perfectly with the smoky meats.
2. The Ariston Café
Since 1924, The Ariston Café has been serving travelers along Route 66, making it one of the oldest restaurants on the Mother Road. Walking in feels like stepping into a time machine, but with way better food than any sci-fi movie could offer.
Their horseshoe sandwich is an Illinois classic—imagine an open-faced masterpiece piled high with meat, fries, and cheese sauce. I tried it once and needed a nap immediately after, but zero regrets happened that day. The homemade pies are legendary too, especially the coconut cream.
3. Gene & Jude’s
Forget ketchup—Gene & Jude’s doesn’t even keep it in the building, and they’re unapologetic about it. This River Grove institution has been slinging Chicago-style hot dogs since 1946, and they’ve perfected the art of the Depression Dog.
What makes it special? They pile fresh-cut fries right on top of your hot dog, creating a carb-loaded tower of joy. The sport peppers add just enough kick to wake up your taste buds without burning your face off.
There’s no seating inside, so you’ll eat standing at a counter or in your car. It’s gloriously no-frills, and that’s exactly why people love it.
4. Oceanique
Chef Mark Grosz has long been associated with this Evanston gem like a seafood symphony, and every dish hits the right notes. I celebrated an anniversary here once, and the Dover sole was so perfectly prepared I almost cried into my glass.
The menu changes with the seasons, ensuring the freshest catches make it to your plate. They source sustainable seafood, which means you can feel good about what you’re eating while also enjoying flavors that’ll haunt your dreams. The ambiance is sophisticated without being stuffy.
Reservations are essential because locals book this place weeks in advance for special occasions and Tuesday nights alike.
5. Thattu
Chef Margaret Pak brings Kerala cuisine to Chicago’s Avondale neighborhood, and it’s a flavor explosion that’ll make your tongue do a happy dance. The word “thattu” means street food stall in Malayalam, but this place elevates street food to an art form.
Their coconut rice with prawns is insanely good—creamy, spicy, and comforting all at once. I’m obsessed with the beef fry, which has layers of flavor that keep surprising you with each bite. The dosas are crispy perfection, and the chutneys are made fresh daily.
Vegetarians will find plenty of options here, and everything is authentically spiced without overwhelming heat.
6. Hearth Restaurant
Farm-to-table isn’t just a buzzword at Hearth—it’s their entire philosophy, and you can taste the difference in every bite. Located in Peoria Heights, this restaurant sources ingredients from local farms, which means the menu shifts with what’s actually growing in Illinois soil.
The wood-fired pizzas have blistered crusts that are somehow chewy and crispy simultaneously. I once ordered the roasted chicken, and it arrived so juicy and flavorful I wanted to write it a thank-you note. Their seasonal vegetable sides steal the show sometimes.
The atmosphere is warm and inviting, perfect for date nights or catching up with old friends.
7. Chef Klaus’ Bier Stube
Klaus Reinwald brings authentic German cuisine to Frankfort, and his schnitzel is so good it should have its own fan club. The restaurant feels like you’ve been transported to a cozy Bavarian hall, complete with dark wood and that unmistakable gemütlichkeit atmosphere.
Their sauerbraten melts in your mouth after being marinated for days in a secret blend of spices and vinegar. The spätzle is handmade, and you can tell because it has that perfect irregular texture.
8. Francesca’s Fortunato
Part of the Francesca’s restaurant family, this Frankfort location serves Italian cuisine that makes you want to book a flight to Rome immediately. The pasta is made fresh daily, and you can taste the difference between this and any grocery store box.
I’m particularly fond of their osso buco, which has meat so tender it surrenders to your fork without a fight. The risotto is creamy perfection, stirred with patience and love until it reaches that ideal consistency.
The staff treats regulars like family, remembering preferences and making genuine recommendations based on your tastes.
9. Connected
This Peoria spot focuses on bringing people together over thoughtfully prepared food, and the name perfectly captures the vibe. Chef Rodney Staton creates dishes that blend comfort with creativity, making familiar flavors feel exciting again.
The fried chicken sandwich has achieved legendary status among locals—crispy, juicy, and topped with pickles that add the perfect tangy crunch. Their burger uses locally sourced beef and comes stacked with toppings that actually enhance the meat instead of hiding it. The sides rotate seasonally, showcasing whatever vegetables are at their peak.
The atmosphere encourages conversation and community, with communal tables and friendly service that makes solo diners feel welcome too.
10. Guzzardo’s Italian Villa
Since 1978, the Guzzardo family has been serving generous portions of Italian-American classics in Lincoln, and they haven’t skimped on quality or quantity. Walking in feels like visiting your Italian grandmother’s house, if she had a liquor license and could seat 200 people.
Their lasagna comes out bubbling hot with layers of pasta, meat sauce, and cheese that stretch when you cut into it. The chicken parmigiana is pounded thin, breaded perfectly, and covered in marinara that tastes like it simmered all day. Portions are massive—plan to take home leftovers or bring a very hungry friend.
Locals celebrate birthdays and anniversaries here because it feels special without being pretentious.
11. The Neon Bison
Peoria’s most colorful restaurant serves up creative American cuisine with a side of artistic flair that makes every visit memorable. The walls are covered in local art, and the menu changes regularly to keep things interesting for repeat visitors.
Their bison burger is obviously a must-try—leaner than beef but incredibly flavorful, topped with creative combinations that change seasonally. I loved the duck confit tacos, which sound fancy but taste like pure comfort food.
The vibe is casual and welcoming, attracting everyone from college students to retirees who appreciate good food without stuffiness.
12. DESTIHL Restaurant
This Normal, Illinois restaurant and kitchen takes flavor and creativity seriously, crafting dishes with careful attention to quality and balance. The name comes from “destiny” and “enthusiasm,” reflecting the founders’ passion for bold, inventive cuisine.
Their cheese soup is ridiculously good—rich, creamy, and deeply comforting. The wild boar sloppy joe sounds unusual but tastes incredible, with layers of savory flavor that make it unforgettable. The kitchen rotates various seasonal dishes throughout the year, so there’s always something new to experience.
The atmosphere strikes a perfect balance between upscale dining and relaxed comfort, making it ideal for date nights, family dinners, and gatherings with friends who appreciate thoughtfully prepared food.
13. The Burger Local
Geneva’s answer to the question “what if burgers were made with actual quality ingredients” is The Burger Local, and they’ve nailed it completely. Everything is sourced from local farms and producers, which means your burger has a story beyond just tasting incredible.
The beef is ground fresh daily from pasture-raised cattle, and you can taste the difference immediately. Their toppings range from classic to creative—I recommend the one with local goat cheese and caramelized onions. The sweet potato fries are hand-cut and perfectly seasoned, crispy on the outside and fluffy inside.
They also offer vegetarian and vegan options that are actually satisfying, not sad afterthoughts on the menu.
14. Chef Moussa
Chef Moussa Sissoko brings authentic West African flavors to Peoria, and his restaurant is a delicious education in Malian cuisine. The space is intimate and welcoming, decorated with African art that transports you before the food even arrives.
The Mediterranean dishes, like kabobs, shawarma, and falafel, are the highlights, with bold yet balanced flavors. The chicken dishes are tender and well-seasoned, and the homemade sauces tie everything together beautifully.
Chef Moussa often greets diners personally, explaining dishes and sharing stories about his homeland, making the experience both delicious and culturally enriching for curious eaters.