BEST CASUAL EATERIES in IL
Honey Butter Fried Chicken
3361 N Elston Ave, Chicago, IL 60618
Honey Butter Fried Chicken was opened in 2013 by chefs Christine Cikowski and Joshua Kulp. The restaurant is known for its skinless and boneless fried chicken breasts and thighs that are served with honey butter, a sweet and savory spread that complements the crispy and juicy chicken. The chefs are known for their activism and progressive views on workers’ rights, social justice, and environmental sustainability. So you can feel extra good while indulging in their Honey Butter Pimento Mac and Cheese, the Corn Muffins with Honey Butter, and the Chocolate Toffee Cookie.
Ko Fusion
30 E Main St, Champaign, IL 61820
Ko Fusion in Champaign is a sleek and modern showcase for a unique blend of Contemporary American and Asian fare. Executive chef Nigel Morgan is known for his creative and innovative dishes that combine different flavors and techniques from various cuisines. Try the Coconut Shrimp & Mango Roll with tempura shrimp, mango, toasted coconut, mango sauce, unagi sauce, or the Dol Sot Bi Bim Bob featuring marinated carrots, zucchini, spinach, mushrooms, soybean sprouts, radish, white rice, fried egg, and gochujang sauce. Ko Fusion also features an extensive beer and wine menu with a full array of sakes and house cocktails.
Fritz and Frites
317 N Main St, Galena, IL 61036
Fritz and Frites is a cozy bistro that offers a taste of French and German cuisine. The restaurant was created by Fred Grzeslo and his wife Karyn, who wanted to share their passion for European food with locals and visitors to the Galena area. Both are of Greman descent and both are trained in classic French Cuisine. Fritz and Frites prides itself on serving traditional dishes that showcase the finest ingredients sourced locally. The menu features traditional dishes such as wiener schnitzel with sauerkraut, and the aromatic coq au vin. With an array of craft beers, carefully curated wines, and a warm and inviting atmosphere, the restaurant instantly makes you feel at home.
Paulie Gee’s
2451 N Milwaukee Ave, Chicago, IL 60647
Native Chicagoan Derrick Tung loves pizza. Really loves pizza. As the first franchisee of Brooklyn's Paulie Gee’s, he brought his own twist to the menu by adding Detroit-style pizzas and collaborated with local vendors and suppliers to source the best ingredients and support the Chicago community. The menu at Paulie Gee's is a culinary delight, featuring Neapolitan-inspired woodfired pizzas and Detroit-inspired pan pizzas. It also has some of the best vegan and gluten-free options available in the city. Check out the award-winning The Honey Bastard: A Detroit-style pizza with mozzarella, white cheddar, hot soppressata, and Mike’s Hot Honey, or the gluten-free The U.S. Pizza Cup Winner: A Detroit-style pizza with mozzarella, sharp white cheddar, pepperoni, bacon jam, ricotta, and Mike’s Hot Honey.
Charlie Parker's Diner
700 W North St, Springfield, IL 62704
Charlie Parker's Diner has been serving breakfast and lunch to Springfield since 1992. The 50s-themed diner is famous for its breakfast Horseshoe - egg on toast topped with ham, bacon, or sausage, smothered in gravy, cheese sauce, or both, and topped with hash browns or seasoned American fries. The diner is a novelty in itself, as it is one of the few remaining Quonset huts in the area. Charlie Parker’s Diner is a popular spot for locals and visitors alike, who enjoy its retro atmosphere and delicious dishes.
Thyme Kitchen and Craft Beer
736 SW Washington St, Peoria, IL 61602
Thyme Kitchen and Craft Beer is known for its 40 beers and 250 bourbons on tap. Patrons can also indulge in a diverse menu filled with delectable dishes crafted from locally sourced ingredients. Whether you're a foodie seeking culinary delights or a beer enthusiast looking to explore new brews, Thyme Kitchen is the perfect destination. The Deconstructed Duck Tamale consists of a crispy corn cake topped with braised duck, roasted corn salsa, queso fresco, and cilantro-lime crema, while the Pork Osso Bucco features a slow-cooked pork shank served with creamy polenta, roasted root vegetables, and a red wine demi-glace. And the staff will be happy to recommend a beer pairing for your favorite dish.
