The Small-Town Diner Where Locals Catch Up Over Homemade Pies, Soups, And Breakfast Skillets
By Linze Rice|Published October 26, 2023
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Linze Rice
Author
Ope! From the rural cornfields of DeKalb County, Linze is an Illinois native and true Midwestern gal who can make a mean bonfire and whip up a perfect marshmallow salad. Since 2014, her bylines and photography have appeared in the Chicago Tribune, Chicago Magazine, Chicago Sun-Times, and Block Club Chicago/DNAinfo Chicago, Only in Your State, and more. She has interviewed Dolly Parton, written about beloved diners along historic Route 66, visited the last Rainforest Cafe in the Illinois, and reviewed luxurious English manor-inspired hotels. Whether it's writing about a local gem or world-renowned establishment, Linze brings a heartwarming and historical perspective to each story, using facts, wit, and personal experience to impress upon readers the importance of culture, food, travel, and all things local. Her favorite destinations in Illinois include Starved Rock State Park, Chicago's Edgewater neighborhood, the charming small town of Sycamore, and historic Rosehill Cemetery. When she's not writing or photographing, Linze enjoys gardening, spending time with her husband and pets, cooking, baking, and grilling, and relaxing with trashy TV.
Is there anything as soothing as meeting a familiar face at the local diner to catch up over coffee and delicious food? For me, the answer is no — I’ve spent hours at diners doing homework, having dates, reuniting with family, and spending time with friends. While every diner is different, I’ve found that each has its own unique personality, often showcased through the specialties it becomes known for. And the best local diner in Sycamore, Illinois is the perfect place for people to gather over fresh-baked treats and belly-warming soups.
Sycamore Parkway Restaurant, located at 605 E. State St., is a family-owned restaurant that's beloved by locals for its homemade comfort foods, friendly staff, and cozy, classic diner feel.
One of the first things you'll notice about Parkway, as locals call it, is its beautiful landscaping. From the parking lot to the front door, fresh, seasonal flowers and plants dazzle as guests make their way inside.
The lobby is filled with photographs and memories from over the years, and two main dining rooms, plus a long counter, make for excellent gathering spaces. Whether you're with a friend, spouse, club, or colleagues, Parkway is always buzzing with chit-chatting residents. My grandparents come here with friend groups, and I often came here during my college years for a hot, home-cooked meal.
The next thing you'll notice upon entering is the dessert case, stacked with fresh homemade pies, cakes, and other goodies. Like what you see? You can also order specialty pies and holiday cakes! But do make sure to try a slice of something while in-house, since all Midwesterners know that pie is acceptable at any point in the day.
Of course, one fresh-baked item that's always on the menu is the restaurant's famous cinnamon rolls. Pro tip: Eat one at the diner and take one to go — you'll thank me (and yourself) later.
If you're looking for something more savory, try one of Parkway's amazing skillets. Hash browns topped with eggs your way and a variety of toppings, plus a side of buttery biscuits, make for a hearty breakfast or brunch that will give you a little bit of everything in each bite.
Another favorite here is the homemade soup — chicken tortilla, cream of broccoli, and cream of chicken with rice, to name a few top contenders. The chicken tortilla is piled high with corn chips and shredded cheddar cheese, becoming almost a meal in itself. Warm and flavorful, this one is good for the soul.
Like any good diner, Parkway offers generous portion sizes so that guests have plenty to nibble on as they talk. Hefty burgers and sandwiches, potatoes in every form, and tender meats and fish mean there's something for everyone.
