Illinois Food Spots That Deserve A Bigger Crowd
Ever stumbled upon a hidden gem of a restaurant and wondered why it’s not packed every night? Illinois is bursting with incredible food spots that fly under the radar despite serving up mind-blowing dishes.
I’ve explored the Prairie State from Chicago to Springfield, hunting down those magical places where the food makes you close your eyes and sigh with happiness. Here are some spots that definitely deserve more love from hungry diners!
1. Frank’s Chicago Shrimp House, Seafood Paradise In The Windy City
My taste buds did a happy dance when I first tried the perfectly fried shrimp at Frank’s. This no-frills spot has been serving up some of Chicago’s best seafood for decades, yet somehow remains a local secret.
Their signature breading is light and crispy, never greasy. Each bite delivers that satisfying crunch before revealing sweet, juicy shrimp inside.
Did you know? Frank’s still uses the same family recipe from when they first opened, proving that some things just shouldn’t be changed!
2. Boston Fish Market Inc, Fresh-Off-The-Boat Delights
Holy mackerel! The seafood at Boston Fish Market is so fresh you’d think Illinois suddenly grew a coastline. Located in Des Plaines, this market-restaurant combo offers an experience that’s worth every minute of the drive.
You can watch fishmongers filleting the day’s catch while waiting for your order. Their lobster roll contains chunks so big you’ll need two hands just to manage it.
The homemade clam chowder might be the best I’ve had outside of New England, thick, creamy, and loaded with tender clams.
3. Gene & Jude’s, Hot Dog Heaven Without The Frills
If hot dogs were royalty, Gene & Jude’s would be wearing the crown. This River Grove institution has been serving up Chicago-style dogs since 1946 without changing a thing, and thank goodness for that!
Don’t expect ketchup here (or even chairs). Their dogs come wrapped in paper with fries literally piled on top. The snap of the natural casing, the perfect balance of toppings, and those hand-cut fries create hot dog perfection.
Cash only and always worth the wait, this place proves that sometimes the simplest things are the most extraordinary.
4. Akahoshi Ramen, Soul-Warming Bowls In Unexpected Places
Tucked away in a modest strip mall in Des Plaines sits ramen that rivals anything I’ve slurped in Tokyo. Akahoshi crafts broths that simmer for days, developing flavors so rich you’ll want to drink every last drop.
The tonkotsu ramen features a milky pork broth that coats your lips with collagen, topped with perfectly marinated eggs and char siu that melts like butter. Each noodle has that ideal springy bite.
Family-owned and passionate about authenticity, they make everything in-house. Even their chili oil, which adds a subtle heat that builds with each spoonful.
5. La Bamba Mexican Restaurant, Burritos As Big As Your Head
If you’ve never had a burrito the size of your face, you haven’t lived! La Bamba’s slogan isn’t just clever marketing, it’s a literal description of the massive, flavor-packed burritos they serve.
Started by Mexican brothers in Champaign-Urbana, this spot has expanded but kept its authentic recipes intact. The steak burrito comes loaded with perfectly seasoned meat, fresh pico de gallo, and just the right amount of cheese.
Late-night cravings? They’ve got you covered with hours that extend well past when most kitchens close, making them heroes to hungry night owls everywhere.
6. The Village Squire, English Pub Charm In The Suburbs
Imagine walking into a cozy English pub without leaving Illinois. The Village Squire in Crystal Lake brings that warm, welcoming vibe along with comfort food that soothes your soul on chilly Midwest evenings.
Family-owned since 1974, this place knows what regulars want. Their prime rib is legendary, slow-roasted for hours until it’s tender enough to cut with a fork.
The horseshoe, an open-faced sandwich topped with fries and smothered in cheese sauce, might not be traditional English fare, but it’s a central Illinois classic done right. The dark wood interiors and stained glass make every meal feel special.
7. Oceanique, French-Seafood Fusion That Wows
Hiding in Evanston is a culinary masterpiece that’s been quietly collecting awards for over 30 years. Oceanique blends French techniques with the freshest seafood, creating dishes that belong in food magazines.
Chef Mark Grosz changes the menu seasonally, ensuring everything is at peak deliciousness. The Maine diver scallops practically melt in your mouth, while the lobster with vanilla butter sauce sounds strange but tastes like a dream.
The wine list here is legendary too, with perfect pairings suggested for every dish on the menu.
8. The Cozy Corner Diner, Small-Town Comfort With Big Flavor
Imagine stepping into a time capsule of the 1950s, where every corner of the Cozy Corner Diner exudes nostalgia. Known for its classic American breakfast, this quaint spot offers pancakes that are the epitome of fluffiness.
A friendly elderly waitress, with a smile that warms your heart, serves you amidst the backdrop of checkered floors and red booths. The diner, though reminiscent of a bygone era, has embraced a modern twist with its inventive milkshake flavors.
Customers rave about the bacon-infused shake that perfectly complements their hearty breakfast menu. Whether you’re craving a traditional breakfast or an afternoon treat, the Cozy Corner Diner welcomes you with open arms.
9. Thattu, Kerala Cuisine That Transports You
Who knew a food stall inside Politan Row market would serve some of the most authentic South Indian food in Chicago? Thattu brings the flavors of Kerala to life with dishes that pack serious flavor punches.
The appam (rice flour pancakes) with creamy coconut stew are life-changing. Soft, spongy centers with crispy edges soak up the fragrant stew perfectly.
Owner Margaret Pak learned these recipes from her mother-in-law, giving everything that impossible-to-replicate homemade quality. Her egg roast, spicy, tangy, and topped with fresh curry leaves, is worth the trip alone.
10. Aura On The Lake, Waterfront Dining With Spectacular Views
Perched on the shores of Lake Michigan in Kewanee, Aura on the Lake offers something increasingly rare: breathtaking water views without the tourist-trap prices or mediocre food.
Chef Maria crafts seasonal menus highlighting local ingredients, particularly the freshwater fish caught just yards from the kitchen. The walleye comes with a crispy skin and flaky interior that makes fish lovers swoon.
Sunset dinners here are magical, the pink and orange sky reflecting off the lake while you sip house-infused cocktails. Their outdoor patio practically hovers over the water, creating an atmosphere that rivals the coastal restaurants of either coast.
