The NW Illinois Directory
Explore All 821 Places
Every supper club, trailhead, main-street shop, and stay across all four counties — searchable in one place.
JC's Junction CornerJC's Junction Corner is a laid-back Davis Junction neighborhood bar and grill known for fresh smash burgers, fries, patty melts, cold beer, and cocktails. Dine inside, relax on the outdoor patio, catch a game, or play in the arcade. Takeout is available for a quick meal on the road.
Jay's Drive InJay's Drive In serves a nostalgic 1950s and '60s experience with made-to-order burgers, hot dogs, cheese curds, malts, ice cream, and homemade root beer. Dine inside among vintage memorabilia, relax on the patio, or stay in your car for classic carhop service. This seasonal Oregon favorite also offers online ordering.
Jeff's RefsJeff's Refs is a casual sports bar in downtown Polo with cold beer, cocktails, pizza, pool, darts, and live music. Settle in with friends for an easygoing night out, watch the game, or catch one of the bar's special events and performances.
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.
King Pins Saloon & Dance HallKing Pins Saloon & Dance Hall is an easygoing Fulton bar and gathering place serving burgers and fresh-made bar food, including hot beef, Italian beef, tacos, made-rites, and soup of the day. Established in 2015, it pairs food and drinks with a roomy dance-hall atmosphere and music just outside the city limits.
La Esmeralda Mexican RestaurantLa Esmeralda Mexican Restaurant is a cozy downtown Polo spot serving homemade Mexican and Tex-Mex favorites prepared with fresh ingredients. The welcoming dining room is a local hidden gem for tacos, enchiladas, combination plates, and other comforting classics, with dine-in and takeout available.
La Familia RestaurantLa Familia Restaurant is a family-owned Rock Falls favorite serving authentic Mexican cooking in a welcoming, family-friendly setting. The broad menu includes tacos, tamales, enchiladas, seafood specialties, vegetarian choices, children's meals, and house-made soups, with dine-in, carryout, delivery, and catering options.
La FiestaLa Fiesta is a welcoming Sublette restaurant serving authentic Mexican dishes alongside American favorites. Guests return for generous portions, fresh ingredients, steak fajitas, shrimp tacos, enchiladas, a Sunday breakfast buffet, and friendly service. The restaurant accommodates families and large groups and offers takeout and an accessible dining room.
Las PalmasLas Palmas is a friendly Dixon restaurant serving authentic Mexican and Tex-Mex favorites in a warm, relaxed setting. The menu offers tacos, enchiladas, fajitas, combination plates, and other familiar favorites, along with a broad selection of drinks for an easy lunch or dinner out.
Legends Bar & GrillLegends Bar & Grill is a laid-back downtown Erie watering hole serving burgers, sandwiches, and other bar fare with beer, wine, and cocktails. The roomy neighborhood spot offers outdoor seating, multiple TVs, regular food specials, and live music. Dine in or take out, and check Facebook for current hours and event updates.
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.
Long Branch SaloonLong Branch Saloon is a longtime Amboy dinner spot serving fried chicken, steaks, ribs, seafood, burgers, sandwiches, cocktails, and desserts in a casual historic setting. The building stands on the 1855 site of Samuel Carson and John Pirie’s first dry-goods store, a predecessor of Carson Pirie Scott. Guests can dine in or order takeout; the restaurant offers accessible seating, a kids’ menu, high chairs, and reservations.
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.
MC TapMC Tap is a casual small-town bar and grill in Monroe Center, known for award-winning burgers and a welcoming neighborhood atmosphere. The menu also includes tacos and other hearty bar favorites, backed by cold beer and cocktails. Live music and dancing add to the fun on select nights. Check the active Facebook page for current hours, specials, and event updates.
Maks American & Indian Bar & Grill - Punjabi DhabaMaks American & Indian Bar & Grill - Punjabi Dhaba is a casual Rock Falls restaurant serving both Punjabi favorites and familiar American fare. The menu features butter chicken, tandoori dishes, curries, kebabs, naan, samosas, vegetarian choices, steaks, burgers, and beer and cocktails. Located next to the Days Inn, it offers dine-in, pickup, and delivery for travelers and local diners.
Manny’s TooLocated in the heart of Fulton, Manny's Too is a longtime local favorite known for its unique combination of thin-crust pizza and Tex-Mex classics. Part of the family-owned Manny’s Pizza group—serving Northwest Illinois since 1973—this casual spot delivers bold, satisfying flavors in a laid-back, welcoming atmosphere. Guests come for the crispy, thin-crust pizzas loaded with classic and specialty toppings, but many stay loyal for the tacos, enchiladas, and combination plates that give the menu its signature twist. Whether you’re craving a classic pepperoni pizza, a hearty taco platter, or something in between, there’s plenty to choose from—including vegetarian-friendly options. With dine-in, curbside pickup, and a lively, family-friendly setting, Manny’s Too is a go-to gathering place for both locals and visitors. It’s the kind of spot where casual dinners become traditions—perfect for families, groups, or anyone looking to enjoy a relaxed meal with a touch of local flavor. No credit card order under $10
Maria’s PizzaMaria’s Pizza is a family-owned Dixon pizzeria making its own sauce and dough with fresh ingredients. The menu centers on classic and specialty pizzas, with sandwiches, pasta, chicken wings, chicken strips, Italian beef, lasagna, appetizers, and party-size options rounding out the selection. Order online for pickup or delivery, and check the website for current specials and hours.
Market Street PizzaLocated in the heart of downtown Mount Carroll, Market Street Pizza serves handcrafted pizzas, fresh salads, sandwiches, and a selection of beer and wine in a relaxed and welcoming setting. Owned by the same team behind the neighboring Molly’s Kitchen & Bar, the restaurant brings a creative approach to pizza, featuring both classic favorites and inventive specialty pies made with quality ingredients. Guests can pair their meal with appetizers, fresh salads, or wine or beer, while enjoying an easygoing atmosphere that makes Market Street Pizza a favorite stop for families, couples, and travelers exploring Carroll County. Whether dining in or picking up takeout, visitors will find plenty of delicious reasons to return.
Maxson’s Riverside Restaurant & Pride of Oregon RiverboatMaxson’s Riverside Restaurant pairs Rock River dining with the Pride of Oregon, a 102-foot paddlewheel boat offering seasonal luncheon and dinner cruises. The glass-enclosed restaurant looks across the river toward the Black Hawk statue and serves its celebrated homemade orange rolls, appetizers, soups, salads, sandwiches, steaks, seafood, beer, and wine. The accessible complex also hosts weddings, receptions, reunions, business meetings, and group functions.
Molly’s Kitchen and BarMolly’s Kitchen & Bar is a locally loved restaurant in Mount Carroll offering thoughtfully prepared American cuisine with a creative twist. The menu is rooted in fresh, locally sourced ingredients and features familiar favorites reimagined with seasonal flavors and unique presentations. Alongside its food, Molly’s is known for its standout cocktail program, featuring handcrafted drinks made with fresh herbs, house-made juices, and inventive combinations. The atmosphere is warm, modern, and welcoming—making it an ideal spot for casual dinners, date nights, and special occasions alike. With attentive service and a focus on quality, Molly’s Kitchen & Bar delivers a dining experience that feels both elevated and comfortable.
Mullarkey’s Bar & GrillMullarkey’s Bar and Grill is a casual, family-run Mount Morris gathering place serving burgers, wings, sandwiches, grilled cod, pork tenderloin, chicken, and other American favorites alongside draft beer and cocktails. The neighborhood bar features live music and entertainment, darts, pool, a jukebox, and gaming machines. The operating business has events scheduled into 2026; check current listings or call for today’s kitchen hours and entertainment schedule.
- New China BuffetRochelle Chinese restaurant offering an all-you-can-eat buffet plus carryout and online ordering. The menu includes appetizers, soups, fried rice, lo mein, chicken, beef, seafood and vegetarian dishes, with lunch and dinner service.
Nick's TapCasual Rock Falls neighborhood bar serving beer, wine, cocktails and grilled comfort food, with happy-hour specials and sports on television. Stop in for lunch, drinks and a relaxed local tavern atmosphere.
