Ah, Illinois—home sweet home for a bit, and now we’re ready to take a deep dive into the food scene, Guy Fieri style! From the bustling streets of Chicago to charming spots in the suburbs, Illinois has so much to offer. Here’s our must-visit list, packed with flavor and fun:
Alsip
- Frosted Mug: (Season 1, Episode 3) Looks like this restaurant closed since the show. What a bummer!
Burbank
- Chuck’s Southern Comforts Café: (Season 12, Episode 10) Comfort food at its finest with a Southern twist. Their BBQ and Cajun dishes are to die for!
Chicago
- 90 Miles Cuban Cafe: (Season 15, Episode 3 & Season 19, Episode 14) Authentic Cuban flavors that transport you straight to Havana. The Ropa Vieja is a must-try.
- Bella Luna Cafe: (Season 29, Episode 1) Cozy Italian spot with delightful pasta and classic Italian dishes.
- BIG & little’s: (Season 12, Episode 12) Gourmet street food with a creative edge. Their truffle fries are legendary.
- bopNgrill: (Season 15, Episode 2) Asian fusion burgers that pack a punch. Don’t miss the kimchi fries.
- Cemitas Puebla: (Season 4, Episode 11) Looks like this restaurant closed since the show. What a bummer!
- Chicago Brauhaus: (Season 14, Episode 13) Looks like this restaurant closed since the show. What a bummer!
- Chilam Balam: (Season 12, Episode 7) Mexican small plates using sustainable ingredients. The seasonal menu is always a treat.
- Del Seoul: (Season 28, Episode 18) Korean street food in the heart of Chicago. Their Korean tacos are a game-changer.
- DMK Burger Bar: (Season 12, Episode 9) Gourmet burgers with unique toppings. Perfect for burger enthusiasts.
- Galewood Cook Shack: (Season 2, Episode 11) Looks like this restaurant closed since the show. What a bummer!
- Garifuna Flava: (Season 12, Episode 3) Caribbean cuisine that brings the heat and flavor. Their jerk chicken is incredible.
- Glenn’s Diner: (Season 5, Episode 3) Looks like this restaurant closed since the show. What a bummer!
- Honky Tonk BBQ: (Season 7, Episode 8) Award-winning BBQ in a lively setting. The ribs are a must.
- Hopleaf Bar: (Season 14, Episode 11) Belgian-inspired cuisine with an extensive beer selection. Mussels and frites, anyone?
- Irazu: (Season 12, Episode 8) Costa Rican delights that bring the pura vida vibes. Try the casado plate for a true taste of Costa Rica.
- Kuma’s Corner: (Season 6, Episode 2) Rock and roll-themed burger joint with epic burgers named after heavy metal bands.
- La Scarola: Classic Italian with a cozy, family-owned feel. Their pasta dishes are divine.
- Manny’s Cafeteria and Delicatessen: (Season 28, Episode 17) Iconic Jewish deli with towering sandwiches. The corned beef is a must.
- MFK: (Season 28, Episode 19) Coastal-inspired dishes with a focus on fresh, sustainable seafood.
- Nana Organic: (Season 12, Episode 6) Looks like this restaurant closed since the show. What a bummer!
- Panozzo’s Italian Market: (Season 13, Episode 1) Looks like this restaurant closed since the show. What a bummer!
- Saucy Porka: (Season 28, Episode 16) Latin-Asian fusion that’s creative and delicious. The pork belly bao is fantastic.
- Smoque: (Season 2, Episode 6) Renowned BBQ spot with mouth watering brisket and ribs.
- Sun Wah BBQ: (Season 29, Episode 1) Famous for their Beijing duck, carved tableside. An absolute must-visit.
- Taste of Peru: (Season 8, Episode 5) Authentic Peruvian cuisine with vibrant flavors. Ceviche, anyone?
- The Depot American Diner: (Season 7, Episode 1) Looks like this restaurant closed since the show. What a bummer!
- The Original Vito & Nick’s Pizzeria: (Season 5, Episode 6) Legendary thin-crust pizza that’s been a Chicago staple for decades.
- Tre Kronor: (Season 7, Episode 4) Swedish bistro offering delightful Scandinavian dishes. The Swedish pancakes are a highlight.
- Tufano’s Vernon Park Tap: (Season 5, Episode 8) Old-school Italian in the heart of Little Italy. Cozy and delicious.
- White Palace Grill: (Season 2, Episode 10) Classic diner that’s been serving up comfort food since 1939. Open 24/7!
Des Plaines
- Paradise Pup: (Season 2, Episode 9) Legendary for their char-grilled burgers and cheesy fries. A local favorite!
Glenview
- Hackney’s: (Season 1, Episode 7) Famous for their Hackneyburger and onion loaf. A true suburban gem.
Norridge
- Rex Italian Foods: (Season 15, Episode 1) Family-owned Italian deli with amazing sandwiches and homemade pasta.
Springfield
- Charlie Parker’s: (Season 3, Episode 4) Iconic diner known for its giant pancakes and classic American breakfast.
Wadsworth
- The Shanty: (Season 7, Episode 10) Cozy spot offering a mix of seafood and steaks with a rustic charm.
Willowbrook
- Dell Rhea’s Chicken Basket: (Season 5, Episode 9) Historic roadside diner serving some of the best fried chicken around.
Illinois, we’re ready to savor every bite, from the Windy City’s iconic eats to the charming finds in the suburbs. Let us know your favorite dishes!
Travel Turtles 