The NW Illinois Directory
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Every supper club, trailhead, main-street shop, and stay across all four counties — searchable in one place.
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FeaturedMoonlight Bay Marina & RestaurantMoonlight Bay Marina & Restaurant is a family-owned waterfront destination on the Rock River, serving the Sterling area since 1963. The relaxed restaurant and bar offers burgers, tacos, tenders, locally sourced dishes, beer, wine, cocktails, outdoor patio seating, live music, and river views. The marina provides a safe harbor and recreational boating access, while the property also welcomes wedding parties and special gatherings. Check the website and social pages for current kitchen hours and events.
FeaturedThe Rusty Fox Alehouse & Wine BarRusty Fox Ale House is a laid-back neighborhood bar and grill in Sterling, offering a mix of craft beer, wine, and classic cocktails alongside approachable pub food. The menu includes burgers, sandwiches, and shareable appetizers, making it a comfortable option for lunch, dinner, or an easy night out. The Rusty Fox also hosts live music and regularly features beer, wine, and liquor tastings. With its relaxed atmosphere and friendly service, it’s a go-to local spot for gathering with friends and enjoying a casual night in town. Closed on Sundays and Mondays.
Air Play Espresso & BakeryThe Air Play Coffee Shop and Micro-Bakery provides our community with fresh, premium coffee, espresso and bakery items. We are currently offering INSIDE DINING We opened with our first cup of coffee on December 1, 2010. We quickly became locally famous for our fresh-baked scones. In 11 years, we have sold over 140,000 of these delicious treats. We are a full-service coffeeshop, we feature the finest Espresso and Lattes. We have been voted #1 favorite Place for Coffee in the Sauk Valley area for 6 years. Think of us when you are ready for some great caffeine and fresh-baked pastries. We are a great meeting place for friends or business. Coffee groups, book clubs, and we are great with children, including a changing station in our clean bathroom. ENJOY our DRIVE-THRU access from the alley on the corner at 202-4th Avenue, one block east of the city offices. Make Air Play Espresso your favorite place, too. Join our frequent customer program to earn free beverages. Link to us on Facebook, Twitter and SnapChat to stay up to date on what's cooking for the day or for our upcoming events. See you soon.
Angelo’s II Pizzeria - SterlingFamily-friendly: pizza, salad bar, hot sandwiches. Dine-in/takeout. Lounge with TVs. Hours may vary—call to verify.
Angelo’s Pizzeria - DeliveryAngelo’s Sterling delivery location serves pizza, pasta, Italian dishes and signature sandwiches. Delivery and takeout are available daily, with late-night hours on Friday and Saturday.
Arthur’s Garden Deli - SterlingEstablished in 1977 and voted “best place for lunch” in 2005. Deli sandwiches, soups, stuffed potatoes, salad bar, frozen yogurt, and catering.
Aurelio’s Bake ShopFamily-owned bakery and coffee house specializing in custom cakes for weddings, quinceañeras, birthdays, and other celebrations, plus cookies, cupcakes, doughnuts, pastries, tres leches desserts, and coffee. Dine-in and drive-thru service are available at the Locust Street location.
Brink’s Bar & GrillDowntown Sterling pub. Appetizers, sandwiches, unique items, live entertainment, gaming, attentive staff, modern setting, local history theme.
Brother Daryl’sAs of 2025, Brother Daryl's offers only carryout and free deliver. Brother Daryl’s offers great tasting, affordable, and convenient breakfast or lunch. All ingredients are fresh and delicious! Order ahead for faster service. Open Wednesday through Sunday, 6 am - 2 pm. Catering and food truck available for events. Committed to excellent food and service.
Chuck Wagon SaloonThe Chuckwagon Saloon brings a taste of the old west to Sterling’s east side. Along with full bar service, there are Gold Rush gaming machines for your gambling enjoyment. The bar serves domestic and imported beers and wines, and soft drinks for customers who don’t imbibe. The bar is built from reclaimed bass, oak, and cherry wood that Rogers got from a man in Emerson. Old steins, a saddle mirror and several remnants of an old-style saloon are part of the decor.
Dips Chicago EateryDip – Famous Chicago Eats is the go-to spot for Classic Chicago fast food. Italian beef, Chicago dogs, fresh fries, and the flavors that made Chicago famous — served fast and at a price for everyone. Drive-through & Indoor seating available. Open 7 days: 10 a.m. to 10 p.m.
Don Pedro’sDon Pedro's is a beloved Mexican restaurant in Sterling, IL, serving authentic Tex-Mex cuisine since establishment. Known for quality ingredients and generous portions, we offer everything from classic nachos and tacos to specialty items. Our family-friendly atmosphere welcomes diners looking for great Mexican fast food at affordable prices. Whether you're dining in or carrying out, we pride ourselves on fresh, made-to-order meals that have kept customers coming back for years. We're also mindful of dietary restrictions and work with customers who have allergies to ensure a safe dining experience.
Don’s Seafood & ChickenLocally owned Sterling restaurant established in 1992, serving battered fish and chicken, bone-in chicken, sandwiches, burgers, appetizers, sides and family-style meal options. Don’s Seafood & Chicken is known for approachable prices and generous comfort-food choices; check the official website or call for the current menu and hours.
El JacalitoA family-owned Sterling restaurant serving authentic Mexican recipes in a spacious downtown setting. The extensive menu includes tacos, birria, burritos, enchiladas, tamales, fajitas, seafood and Mexican breakfast favorites, with a full bar, carryout, catering and semi-private event rooms.
Ellie’s Gaming CafeA 21-and-older gaming cafe in Sterling offering Illinois video gaming in a relaxed lounge setting, along with coffee, tea, beer, wine, refreshments and free Wi-Fi. Open daily with late-night hours and rotating promotions for eligible players.
Firehouse Roadside Café26 unique ½-lb burgers, full menu, local delivery. Hours: 11am–10pm. FB for updates.
Johnny's Bar & GrillJohnny’s Bar & Grill is a laid-back neighborhood bar and grill in Sterling, serving up classic comfort food, cold drinks, and a welcoming atmosphere. Known as a go-to spot for casual dining and socializing, Johnny’s offers a menu of familiar favorites alongside a full bar with beer, cocktails, and spirits. Beyond the food and drinks, Johnny’s Bar & Grill is also a regular stop for live music, featuring local and regional bands throughout the year. With an easygoing vibe, friendly service, and entertainment that keeps the nights lively, it’s a popular hangout for locals and visitors alike looking to unwind, catch a band, and enjoy a relaxed night out in Whiteside County.
Kelly's Restaurant & LoungeKelly's Restaurant & Lounge is a family-owned downtown Sterling institution serving fine Mexican dishes and American favorites in a friendly Irish-pub setting. Most menu items are made from scratch, with locally sourced produce when available, hand-cut USDA Choice meats, crafted cocktails, and a wide selection of imported and domestic beers. Dine in or call ahead for carryout.
Lisa's Brick House Bar & GrillLisa’s Brick House Bar & Grill is a cozy Sterling neighborhood spot for burgers, wings, sandwiches, fries, and other casual comfort food alongside cocktails and cold drinks. Guests praise the house burger, friendly service, generous portions, and relaxed atmosphere. The bar has TVs for sports, Wi-Fi, video gaming, and a popular Sunday breakfast. Dine in or order for pickup and delivery.
Luxx The RestaurantLUXX The Restaurant offers an elevated dining experience in Sterling, combining a refined atmosphere with a thoughtfully curated menu of contemporary American cuisine. Known for its stylish interior, creative cocktails, and beautifully plated entrées, LUXX is designed for special occasions and memorable nights out. Whether celebrating Valentine’s Day, an anniversary, or simply enjoying an upscale evening downtown, guests can expect attentive service and a menu that emphasizes quality ingredients and bold flavors. LUXX has quickly established itself as a go-to destination for polished dining in Whiteside County.
Rock-Star DonutsPopular donut shop in Sterling, IL, offering creative and delicious donuts in various flavors. Friendly staff and welcoming atmosphere. Visit their Facebook page for menu and updates.
- Sloppy Gene’s CafeOld-school downtown Sterling diner serving breakfast and lunch, including omelets, loose-meat Gene Rite sandwiches, soups, fries, and daily comfort-food favorites.
Sophie’s Cafe - SterlingSophie’s Cafe is the perfect spot for a quick bite! Serving breakfast, lunch and dinner dine-in or takeout and offering specialty coffees, baked goods, soups, and sandwiches - all made fresh and in-house. Like and follow us on Facebook for the latest specials and updates!
The Factory Pub-n-GrubSpecialty burgers, chicken sandwiches, BLTs, seasonal martinis/mixed drinks. Indoor & outdoor seating, largest HDTV in area. Weekend bands/DJs. Follow on Facebook for events.
The PrecinctFriendly atmosphere with homemade soups, pasta, burgers, and deli sandwiches. Dine-in or carry out.
Willy's RestaurantFamily-friendly Sterling restaurant serving authentic Mexican food including tacos, burritos, enchiladas, fajitas, tamales, seafood, fresh chips and salsa, margaritas, and other traditional favorites.