Years before the Burger King franchise made its way to cities and towns all across America, the Prairie State’s original Burger King opened its doors. Independently owned, this Burger King is not affiliated with the fast-food chain. Come to Mattoon and visit the original Burger King in Illinois; there’s no other fast food restaurant quite like it in the world.

Gene and Betty Hoots first opened an ice cream shop called Frigid Queen in 1952. A few years later, they opened up its companion restaurant, Burger King, and trademarked the name.
flyingtraveling24-7/TripAdvisor
When the Burger King chain made its way to Illinois in the 1960s, the Mattoon restaurant leveraged its trademarked name. After a legal battle, the state ruled that the chain couldn't set up shop within 20 miles of the Mattoon Burger King.
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With its long, fascinating history and made-to-order burgers, Illinois' original Burger King is a popular spot for locals and travelers alike.
Curtis Goldstein/Google

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Still independently owned, this fast food joint is a nostalgic throwback to simpler times. It's a place where you can get a quick delicious meal and good ol'-fashioned friendly service.
Jake H/TripAdvisor
Burgers are made fresh to order and there are many choices on the menu including one called the "Hooter" with cheese, lettuce, and tomato. You may also choose to get a double or triple cheeseburger or even a bacon double cheeseburger.
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Sides include onion rings, fries, cheese sticks, and chili. And children will love the menu options just for them - and they come with a toy!
Frigid Queen/Facebook
Of course, you can still get ice cream from the Frigid Queen here, too. Cones, sundaes, shakes, floats, and more are available to order.
Ethan Humphreys/Google

Have you visited the original Burger King in Illinois? Let us know if you have in the comments. Visit the Facebook page to learn more about Mattoon’s Burger King and the Frigid Queen.

If you love hidden gem restaurants, check out these mom-and-pop eateries around Illinois.

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1508 Charleston Ave, Mattoon, IL 61938, USA