7 Illinois Restaurants That Are So Much More Than Amazing Places To Eat
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Melissa Mahoney
Author
Illinois is a state filled with some of the best restaurants in the country, and sometimes we may want to visit one that something a little more than just good food. Visiting an eatery with a one-of-a-kind historic trait or a unique theme or location can often enhance your experience. Let’s have a look at a few restaurants around the Prairie State that are more than just amazing places to have a meal.
The Village Tavern in historic Long Grove was established in 1847 and is the oldest continuously operated tavern in the state. A large brick fireplace and oak beams throughout add to the cozy ambiance of this historic locale. And most impressive is the 35-foot mahogany bar that you have to see. Stop in for a juicy burger or steak, pair your meal with a craft brew, and enjoy the old-fashioned atmosphere in a place that's been around for almost 175 years. For more information on The Village Tavern, visit the website.
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If you're looking for something fun to do while having dinner, then Izzy's Arcade Bar is the place for you. Enjoy a delicious burger, pizza, appetizers, and drinks while reliving your childhood as you play retro video games that are scattered throughout the bar. Children over age 10 are allowed during certain times, but for the most part, it's for adults only. For more information on Izzy's Arcade Bar, visit the website.
The 18-room mansion known as The Bennett-Curtis House was built in the year 1900 by George M. Bennett and was eventually purchased by Illinois Senator Edward C. Curtis in 1919. Sometime later, it became a restaurant that serves both lunch and dinner and hosts some incredible themed dinners as well. If you are able to attend one of the special nights like Wizard Themed Dinner, expect to see decorations throughout the mansion and staff dressed in costume. You'll also have the opportunity to order a special drink like Butterbeer. It will be a night to remember! For more information about The Bennett-Curtis House, visit the website.
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One of the most beautiful restaurants in the Prairie State has to be Mesón Sabika which occupies a mansion built in 1847 on a four-acre estate. You will be seated in one of eight rooms where you'll dine on Spanish cuisine like tapas and paella and feel as though you've been transported to Spain. For more information on Mesón Sabika, visit the website.
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If you enjoyed themed restaurants and airplanes, then you'll love Pilot Pete's! This airplane-adorned restaurant serves up some delicious fare with panoramic views of the Schaumburg Airport runway. Watch planes take off and land as you chow down on some First Class Lobster Salad Nachos. Kids and adults alike will love this place. For more information, visit the Pilot Pete's website.
We couldn't help but include another airplane-themed restaurant on this list. Charlie's Restaurant is a family-friendly restaurant with panoramic views of Clow International Airport in Bolingbrook. Not only does this eatery have an incredible front-row spot to watch the planes, but you'll love the food and tremendous service as well. Enjoy a variety of breakfast items from skillets and crepes to waffles and pancakes or come here for lunch and try the pizza or a burger. For more information, visit the Charlie's Restaurant website.
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From airplanes, we now head to trains at The Junction located in Forest Park. At this family-friendly location, you can watch as a model train delivers food along the restaurant's counter. To keep your kids further entertained, there is also a large interactive train table for them to play at. Plenty of kid-friendly fare can be found on the Lil Conductor's Menu, and there are several burgers and wraps for the adults to choose from. For more information, visit The Junction website.
Have you had the opportunity to dine at any of these restaurants? Please let us know in the comments.
If you want to have a look at another unique eatery in Illinois, read this post about a bacon-themed restaurant.
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Featured Addresses
308 Old McHenry Rd, Long Grove, IL 60047, USA
7421 N Milwaukee Ave, Niles, IL 60714, USA
302 W Taylor St, Grant Park, IL 60940, USA
1025 Aurora Ave, Naperville, IL 60540, USA
905 W Irving Park Rd, Schaumburg, IL 60193, USA
130 Clow International Pkwy, Bolingbrook, IL 60490, USA
7401 Madison St, Forest Park, IL 60130, USA