If you're going to spend your money eating out, you might as well make it worth your while. You know when you visit these 9 old restaurants in Illinois that you're getting a tried-and-true meal and experience with which you can't go wrong.
All sorts of cuisines and types of eateries are represented in this list. Check them out:
1. Alongi's Italian Restaurant
In business since 1933, this elegant eatery is known for its beautiful indoor and outdoor seating. It serves a wealth of delicious Italian dishes like fried cheese, garlic cheese bread, mini pizzas, eggplant Parmigiano, lasagna, toasted ravioli, penne Alfredo, scampi, tilapia, and veal. Get more details here.
Address: 18 West Main Street, Du Quoin, IL 62832
2. Gene & Jude's Hot Dogs
You can't talk about old restaurants in Illinois without mentioning this iconic joint that's been in business since 1946. They are known for their Chicago-style dogs and putting the fries right on top. Click here for more information about this popular place.
Address: 2720 North River Road, River Grove, IL 60171
3. Long Grove Village Tavern
This wonderful and historic place has been serving Illinoisans since 1949. It is a roadhouse-style bar and grill that specializes in classic American burgers and sandwiches. Get more information about this place here.
Address: 135 Old McHenry Road, Long Grove, IL 60047
4. Maldaner's Restaurant
Our state's capital is home to one of the oldest restaurants in the Midwest. In business since 1884, this place has its own rooftop garden and solar panels and is known for its myriad of worldly cuisines. Click here to get more details about specific menu items.
Address: 222 South 6th Street, Springfield, IL 62701
5. Manny's Cafeteria & Delicatessen
This Jewish deli has been a local favorite since 1942, and it has all the traditional eats and more. You'll find everything from matzo ball soup to latkes to salami to bagels and lox and so much more. Get more information about this incredible spot here.
Address: 1141 South Jefferson Street, Chicago, IL 60607
6. Maid-Rite
The original business began in 1920 and was franchised in 1926, and not much has changed over the past near 100 years. This place is known for a unique burger and style of meat that doesn't look like much but tastes like heaven. Get more details about why people love it here.
Address: 118 North Pasfield Street, Springfield, IL 62702
7. Rowdy's
Notable for its burgers and wings, this joint has been rockin' the northern portion of the state since 1971. It is known for its delicious food and salt water fish tank. Menu items include burgers, sandwiches, wraps, salads, chicken strips, and appetizers. Get more information about this spot here.
Address: 210 South Bridge Street, Yorkville, IL 60560
8. Serena Cafe
Situated in a building from the 1800s, this restaurant has been in business since 1938 and serves classic American fare. Locals love it for its breakfast, lunch, and dinner options as well as its homemade pies. Learn more about it here.
Address: 2274 US-52, Serena, IL 60549
9. Taco Gringo
With five locations around Springfield, the first of these Mexican eateries opened in 1968. The old restaurants serve chicken and beef tacos as well as nachos, quesadillas, burritos, chalupas, tostadas, enchiladas, and tamales. Click here for more information.
Address: 975 Clocktower Drive, Springfield, IL 62704
For more like this, check out 11 neighborhood restaurants in Illinois with food so good that you'll be back for seconds.
What other old restaurants do you love? Share your favorites with us below in the comments.
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