There's A Trail of Waterfront Restaurants Along The Illinois River You Need To Take
By Elizabeth Crozier|Published June 16, 2017
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Elizabeth Crozier
Author
An Illinois transplant who grew up and went to school in Indiana for 22 years, Elizabeth holds a BFA in creative writing and has enjoyed traveling across the country and parts of Europe. She has visited half of the states, as well as parts of Canada, Mexico, and the Caribbean, and regularly travels home to the Hoosier State to see friends and family. With more than five years of writing experience, Elizabeth’s articles have been featured on several websites, and her poetry and short stories have been published in multiple literary journals.
Though it is one of the most important rivers in the state, the Illinois River often gets overshadowed by those around it, but we found the best way to enjoy this mighty body of water. This restaurant trail will lead you to bars and diners that all feature waterfront views of Illinois’ namesake river.
Make summer more amazing this year with a visit to some of the most beautiful and exciting restaurants in Illinois. Check out the riverfront eateries below:
Clocking in at two and a half hours, this trail takes you along the Illinois River Scenic Byway to some of the state's most amazing places to eat. Riverfront views abound on this unforgettable trip.
This restaurant is a favorite for celebrating holidays and enjoying live bands. It serves incredible crab, salmon, and catfish dishes as well as appetizers so good, they could be meals. The restaurant also serves fried chicken, steak, pastas, and an extensive selection of wine and beer. There is also a general store selling candy and soda. The place is open Tuesday through Sunday and has an outdoor patio for your river-viewing pleasure.
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2. Jonah’s Seafood House & 2601 Oyster Bar - 2601 N Main St. in East Peoria
In operation since 1986, this casual restaurant serves upscale seafood dishes, such as shellfish, lobster, and calamari, and features a modern oyster bar. You'll be able to enjoy views like this one from your table by the window. The restaurant is open Monday through Saturday, and there are also a bakery and fresh market that sell fresh seafood, meats, cheeses, and more.
Open daily for lunch and dinner, this atmospheric dive is known for its truly epic burgers, seafood, sandwiches, salads, and more. The menu features unique creations like chippizza, which is pizza toppings on top of nachos. The joint also serves up a masterpiece called Anchor Pies, which is best described as a burger and fries salad. Prepare yourself for large portions and amazing views of the Illinois River.
4. Kuchie's on the Water - 579 Wesley Rd. in Creve Coeur
This casual bar and diner has a huge appetizer list as well as a wealth of burgers, seafood, and sandwiches. You can dock your boat while dining and sit out on the deck to watch all the others floating by. Don't forget to try their famous Shipwreck Bloody Mary before you go.
5. River Beach Pub - 13637 N River Beach Dr. in Chillicothe
River lovers will be able to enjoy views at this restaurant from both the inside and outside. It is open for lunch and dinner Tuesday through Saturday with occasional Sundays. Guests enjoy casual dining, live performances, and a menu of sandwiches, wraps, salads, burgers, and other American fare that is crave-worthy.
