Summer’s a great time to get out with the fam and visit some local restaurants. Sitting outside or in a fun, indoor cafe with loved ones is sometimes as much about the atmosphere as it is about the food. But, let’s be honest…the food is pretty important. Which begs the question…what are your local faves?

We’re talking the Mom & Pop’s…the local eateries, not national chains. Which ones in your town are SO good that everyone needs to know about them?

My personal faves include One World Cafe and Spotted Cow Cafe in Peoria, where the food is fresh and incredible, and they make their own ice cream with amazing daily flavors. Oh, and when I’m in back where I grew up, in Decatur, IL, I absolutely have to stop for a Krekel’s burger. My mom and daughter LOVE Maria’s in Washington…And I do, too!!! But what about the rest of the WCIC team?

Suzanne (Afternoons) says there’s a great place in Hanna City called Gil’s Supper Club. She described the service as “small-town friendly” and loves the comfort food.

Jessie (Community Engagement Director) is also a big fan of One World in Peoria, like me! I knew we were both brilliant…both left-handed, too. She loves it for the wide variety of options including vegetarian, vegan, and gluten-free options and their appetizers (specifically the hummus and spinach artichoke dip) & big portion sizes. I agree!

Morning Show Intern Alyssa loves La Familia Restaurant in Rock Falls. She says the food is great and every meal comes with homemade chips and salsa. She also loves Candelight Inn in Sterling and Rock Falls, famous for its Chicken George and Jan’s Sauce, as well as their steaks, burgers, and salads.

Sam from the office team recommends a Vietnamese restaurant in Peoria called Thanh Linh. Sam likes it because the food is delicious and you get huge portions at a decent price.

Lisa (Community Relations) says you have to check out Cafe Moxo in downtown Springfield. It’s trendy in its setting and has an all-around phenomenal staff that makes you feel welcome and happy. The food is wonderful, from breakfasts like biscuits and gravy, french toast, eggs quiches with varying flavors, to tasty soups, salads and sandwiches. She also loves Omar’s Latin Fusion Cuisine in Springfield for their Mexican food with a Latin flare. She says Omar and his wife Sarah are very friendly.

Kira (Middays, Noon-3) suggests Landmark Cafe and Creperie in Galesburg for their European-style crepes and other specialties. She also loves the cozy atmosphere and beautiful, outdoor patio with trailing vines and brick walls. Another of Kira’s faves is Cyd’s Gourmet Kitchen, Cafe & Catering in Peoria Heights. She says they have amazing baked goods as well as incredible take-home food (salads, sides, entrees). She also enjoys the cafe with indoor and outdoor seating where you can find her (good book in hand) any time she has an hour free on a Saturday.

For casual fine dining, station manager Dave’s pick is 2 Chez in Peoria. He says their flavors are hard to beat in the area!

Intern Abby loves Avanti’s in Bloomington-Normal and throughout the Peoria area, all locally owned. Avanti’s boasts Italian fare including pizzas and pastas (and that incredible sweet bread!) at prices a college student can afford.

Mark (Community Engagement Assistant) loves the Burger Barge in Peoria and East Peoria for their good quality burgers, appetizers, and very filling food.

So, how about a community restaurant roll call? What are your favorite local spots you think everyone needs to try? Comment below to share why your top choice is so great. Don’t forget to add a link to a website or Facebook page so we can drool over the photos.