There’s nothing wrong with eating in a nice, traditional restaurant. You’ve probably done it many times in your life. People do it every day, all over the world. But sometimes you just want to mix it up. Maybe you’re tired of the standard brick and mortar and want to enjoy your meal in a place you wouldn’t expect to eat. That’s what you’re getting when you eat at The Rafters in Lena, Illinois, because the restaurant is inside of an old barn.

The barn that is now the Rafters was in poor condition and set for demolition when it was purchased and turned into a restaurant in the spring of 2002. They are now joined on the property by their sister business, Lena Brewing Company.
Facebook/The Rafters Restaurant, Catering & Events
It's located in the small town of Lena, Illinois, which is west of Rockford. The restaurant has had a successful 20 years in business, despite the town's modest size of about 3,000.
Wikipedia/I, IvoShandor

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The wood-filled interior provides a cozy atmosphere for all guests. In addition to lunch and dinner, the restaurant is also able to host weddings, banquets, and other events.
Shannon J/TripAdvisor
The menu offers a vast array of choices including burgers, wraps, salads, ribs, and more. Guests especially rave about the house sirloin, a 10-ounce cut of steak.
Kate Illinois1/TripAdvisor
The Rafters is open on Wednesday, Thursday, and Sunday from 11 a.m. to 8 p.m. and from 11 a.m. to 9 p.m. on Fridays and Saturdays. There are delicious specials offered throughout the week, including fried chicken dinners every Sunday.
lovetochill10/TripAdvisor

Have you been to The Rafters restaurant in Lena, Illinois? How about any other restaurants that are in old repurposed buildings? Tell us about it in the comments below.

For a cool accommodation in Illinois that’s lived many different lives, check into this unique Airbnb that used to be a publishing house!

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