Valerie Hall+FollowPeru’s best-kept secret: The Igloo’s legendary pork tenderloinLocals in Peru, Illinois, know there’s no need for flashy signs when you’ve got a pork tenderloin sandwich this good. The Igloo Diner, tucked away on 4th Street, has quietly built a cult following for its massive, perfectly crispy pork tenderloin that hangs way over the bun. It’s the kind of place where the red vinyl booths and friendly faces make you feel right at home, and the food always hits the spot. If you’re craving comfort food that’s big on flavor and tradition, this is the spot. Who else has made the trip for that famous tenderloin? Share your stories! #Food #IllinoisEats #HiddenGems20Share
Robert Daniels+FollowIllinois bakeries you’ll crave again and againNothing beats the joy of discovering a bakery that feels like a hidden gem—especially when it’s right here in Illinois! From Chicago’s iconic paczki at Oak Mill to the legendary cheesecakes at Eli’s, these spots aren’t just about sweets—they’re about tradition, family, and flavors that bring people together. Whether you’re into gooey cinnamon rolls in Naperville or chocolate-dipped strawberries in Moline, each bakery on this list has its own story and signature treat. Which local bakery holds a special place in your heart, and what’s your go-to order? Let’s swap recommendations! #Food #IllinoisEats #BakeryTour00Share
Ryan Horne+FollowIllinois soul food gems you need to trySome of Illinois’ best soul food is hiding in plain sight, from Chicago’s bustling Bronzeville to the heart of Springfield. These spots aren’t just about food—they’re about family, tradition, and flavors that stick with you. Whether it’s the legendary breakfast at Pearl’s Place, the life-changing mustard-fried catfish at BJ’s Market, or the melt-in-your-mouth brisket at Lexington Betty, each place brings its own story and twist on comfort classics. Which local soul food spot has your heart—or should be on everyone’s must-try list? Let’s swap favorites and hidden gems! #Food #IllinoisEats #SoulFood170Share
Annette Jones+FollowJack in the Box returns to Northern IllinoisAfter more than 40 years, Jack in the Box is making a comeback in Northern Illinois, opening three new locations this month in Lake in the Hills, Naperville, and Tinley Park. For those who remember the chain’s last local run in the 1980s, this is a big deal—especially since Jack in the Box helped invent the drive-thru intercom we all use today. With more spots planned for next year, it looks like the burger scene is about to get a shake-up. Who’s ready to revisit some old favorites or try them for the first time? #Food #JackInTheBox #IllinoisEats10Share
Robert Daniels+FollowIllinois fried chicken spots everyone’s raving aboutFried chicken fans, Illinois is officially on the map for the best in the country! Chicago’s Honey Butter Fried Chicken is winning hearts with its crispy, juicy chicken paired with honey butter and creative sides like Buffalo mac ‘n’ cheese. Meanwhile, Romeoville’s White Fence Farm has been a family favorite for generations, serving up classic fried chicken and homemade sides that haven’t changed in decades. Both spots are drawing crowds and rave reviews—locals and visitors can’t get enough. Have you tried either? What’s your go-to fried chicken place in Illinois? Let’s swap recommendations! #Food #IllinoisEats #FriedChicken00Share
mary01+FollowHidden Illinois eats locals swear bySome of Illinois’ best meals are tucked away in unassuming spots you’d probably drive right past. From a fish shack under a bridge in Chicago to a Northbrook Italian joint with garlic bread so good it’s sparked marriage proposals, these hole-in-the-wall restaurants are the real MVPs of the state’s food scene. Whether you’re craving smoky seafood, a burger the size of your head, or Colombian comfort food, these places serve up flavors that regulars can’t stop talking about. Which hidden gem do you think deserves more love? Share your favorites or secret spots below! #Food #IllinoisEats #HiddenGems1507Share
