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Writer's pictureJen

Peoria, IL - My 25 Favorite Restaurants

I love a good restaurant find and in Peoria, I've found plenty! After being around the area for the last 8 years, I've had the opportunity to try several different places. Below you can find my top 25 favorite restaurants in the Peoria area.



  • Po Boys - Po Boys is one of my all-time favorite spots in Peoria. It's a New Orleans themed restaurant which is what first drove me to it. They have some amazing oysters there - the best I've had in Peoria! They also have some amazing, you guessed it, po boys. Definitely worth checking out!


  • Kenny's - Kenny's is my guilty pleasure. I have an addiction to their tater tot Irish nachos. They are to die for!! They also have some delicious Ruben's and other yummy Irish foods.


  • Old Chicago - Old Chicago is a great spot to go to for pizza and beer. Located in Grand Prairie, it makes it a great spot to stop after a day of shopping!

  • Thyme Kitchen & Craft Beer - Thyme is a relatively new spot. They came around right as I was wrapping up my time at Bradley. They are located downtown near the warehouse district. It's such a unique venue with lots of yummy drink and food options. I personally love their mac n cheese!

  • Ludy's - Ludy's is a favorite in Nate's family. It's located just outside of Peoria in Edwards, IL. It's a great burger spot and a fun place to go in the summer to sit outside and enjoy the weather.


  • Pizza 150 - Pizza 150 is located just next door to Ludy's. They serve pizza as I'm sure you guessed, as well as some other options. They also have a fun bar. This is a relatively new spot as well and has a super fun interior and great patio for summer seating.


  • Burger Barge - Burger Barge is one of my families favorite spots in Peoria. We made so many stops here when my they would come visit me in college. Burger Barge is located in East Peoria right along the river making it a really enjoyable spot. Eating here makes you feel like you've left the Midwest and went somewhere tropical. If you're trying to have a good time, order the fishbowl to share with some friends!


  • Kuchies - Kuchies is very similar to Burger Barge but located in Creve Coeur. I always feel like I'm on vacation when I come here. It's also located right on the river and has spots for you to park your boat for a visit! They have an awesome selection of Bloody Mary's to choose from and even a Bloody Mary Bar on Sunday's!


  • Oliver’s - Oliver's is located in the Peoria Heights and offers a variety of pizza and bar foods. They also have occasional live music, karaoke and trivia nights!


  • Cracked Pepper - Cracked Pepper started exclusively as a catering business and has since opened up a bakery and cafe as well. You can find a variety of different options here which makes it the perfect lunch spot!


  • Hofbrau house - The only way to go when seeking out German food in Peoria is the Hofbrau House. You can find all sorts of German greatness inside this cute little restaurant in what looks to be an old house! Such a fun experience.


  • Brasky's - Brasky's is a great place to go for all the yummy bar food located right in Peoria. They also have a nice outdoor patio for you to enjoy when the weather is right as well as some fun live music!


  • Blue Duck - When walking along the river downtown Peoria, it's impossible to ignore the amazing smell's coming out of the Blue Duck. They are always smoking something delicious to get your taste buds worked up. Everything I've had here has been delicious. Plus the location being inside the old train station makes it such a fun and unique spot to hang out at!


  • One World - One World was one of my college favorites. Since it was walking distance from campus I found myself here all the time. They have an amazing breakfast selection, but my personal favorite is their quesadilla. Their juices are also worth a try!


  • Hokkaido - Hokkaido is my favorite place to go for sushi in Peoria. It's located on University Street just minutes from Bradley's campus. They have a delicious selection of sushi and hibachi items.


  • Alexander’s - If you're looking to dine on a bit more of the fancier side, check out Alexander's Steak House. This is always a treat and so delicious. You can even grill your own steak if you'd like!


  • Fish House - Fish House is a delicious seafood restaurant located in Peoria as well. I really enjoyed the oysters here as well as the salmon! Such a fun interior as well which makes you feel like you're right by the ocean!


  • Kelleher's - Kelleher's is another Irish bar/restaurant in downtown Peoria. Being located right across the street from the river makes it a great spot to sit outside in the summertime. They also have occasional live music which makes for such a fun night!


  • Jim’s Steakhouse - Jim's is another steakhouse similar to Alexander's but located in downtown Peoria. It's a great option if you're looking for a fancier dinner and some delicious food!


  • Cyds In The Park - Cyd's is a great place to go for delicious food or drinks. It's located in Donovan Park. Here you can order grilled sandwiches, burgers, salads, soups and more. Sitting outside offers a unique atmosphere with the beautiful park setting behind you.


  • Cayenne - Cayenne is my favorite place to grab a taco in the Peoria area. Located in the heights, this is a fun spot to hang out, eat, and grab a drink. I suggest the fish tacos!


  • El Zarape - If you're someone who enjoys a cheap, authentic, Mexican meal this is the place for you. Located right next to Bradley, this was such an easy place to go grab a quick meal and of course a margarita. We love it here.


  • Good Tequila's - Good Tequila is also a great Mexican spot located by Grand Prairie. They have delicious burrito's and amazing margaritas too!


  • Gil's Supper Club - Gil's is one of Nate's family's favorite spots to go. Located just outside of Peoria in Hannah City, this is really nice place to go for some comfort food. Their fried chicken is amazing, but their desserts are even better!



If you have any restaurants you suggest I add to my list I'd love to hear them! Send me a message or comment below.


Thanks for reading!

Jen



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