15 Best Restaurants in Chatham, IL
Buckle up, fellow foodies. It's time to embark on our delicious journey through the best restaurants in Chatham, Illinois.
While this list showcases some remarkable restaurants, it's important to note there are many other exceptional dining establishments in Chatham that are not featured here. Our aim is not just to guide you to popular eateries but to encourage you to venture out and experience the city's diverse culinary landscape for yourself.
Sangamo Brewing
There's nothing like ending a long day at Sangamo Brewing, my favorite local spot.
Nestled in the heart of our small town, this place is more than just a brewery.
It offers an array of mouthwatering dishes as tempting as craft beers and spirits.
I remember when I decided to try their late lunch/early dinner menu.
The General Tso Crispy Chicken and the Titan Shoe stood out among the many delicious dishes.
They were so delicious that I can't wait to return for more.
Also, the Chicken and Bacon Caesar Salad is a must-try if you're a fan of salads.
Overflowing with bacon and dressed just right, it's worth every bite.
That one time, I paired it with their "Bur Oak - Old 63" Pilsner, and it was a match made in food heaven.
The Pilsner tasted like a Pilsner should - crisp, refreshing, and perfectly balanced.
With so many other dishes to explore, I'm sure you'll find your favorites at Sangamo Brewing.
A J's Corner
Have you ever had one night where all you want is a warm, friendly pub to unwind?
Well, that's exactly what A J's Corner offers.
Nestled in the heart of Chatham, this cozy spot has been my go-to place for years.
The relaxed ambiance perfectly complements the charm of our little town.
Whether you're a local or just passing through, A J's Corner has a unique charm that's hard to resist.
Chatham Cafe
When you walk into Chatham Cafe, you're not just stepping into a restaurant but embarking on a culinary journey.
The first time I visited Chatham Cafe, I was hooked.
Nestled in our town, this quaint eatery has quickly become the go-to spot for my family and friends.
Their expansive menu offers something for every palette, from hearty comfort food to delicate desserts.
Every dish I've tried bursts with flavor, a testament to their commitment to quality.
The Cafe is a sight to behold, with its charming architecture and immaculate interiors.
The Chatham Cafe offers fresh air from monotonous local chains with its vintage charm and personalized service.
But the cherry on top, undoubtedly, is their dessert.
The tiramisu is a dessert lover's dream come true. Its rich taste brings back memories of my trip to Italy.
It's, without a doubt, the best I've had stateside.
So, don't skip the Chatham Cafe if you're ever in the mood for a gastronomical adventure.
I guarantee you won't be disappointed.
The Creek Pub & Grill
You know, every town has that one spot that feels like home.
For me, it's The Creek Pub & Grill.
Now, there's just something about their South of the Creek burger - oh, it's a heaven-sent delight with a side of crispy fries.
Nothing beats sinking your teeth into that juicy patty while the tangy sauce dances on your palate.
It's a burst of flavors that makes you wonder how you ever settled for any other burger.
I've visited this restaurant about four times; each visit is a new culinary adventure.
I'm a recent settler here, and I've noticed that most places serve almost the same stuff.
However, The Creek Pub & Grill has this unique twist to their meals that makes them stand out.
The 'shoe,' for instance, is simply divine.
And if you're craving some juicy, full-flavored chicken, try their bourbon grilled chicken breast.
You can thank me later.
The pulled pork is another favorite of mine; tender, nicely seasoned, and served with a side of cold beer from the entire bar.
Now, it's not just the food that's amazing here.
The service is top-notch, the staff is friendly, and the environment is perfect for family outings.
There's even an arcade attached for the kids!
Overall, The Creek Pub & Grill is the heart of our little town.
A place where good food meets great people. A place that feels like home.
Más Sabores
Have you ever had that moment when you're so full, but the food is so good you can't stop eating?
That's what happened to me at Más Sabores.
It's like a festival of flavors over there; each dish is an experience in itself.
Let me start with their Pozole.
Oh, what a delight!
The generous portion of succulent meat and Homony left me wanting more.
It's something new and exciting to try.
And then there was the Chori-Queso, a savory combination that made my taste buds dance.
The Street Corn and steak nachos were the perfect companions to these star dishes.
What's a good meal without a refreshing drink, right?
I ordered their Horchata, the perfect palate cleanser, a cool rice drink.
And for those who prefer a tangy twist, their Jamaica, a Hibiscus drink, is something you shouldn't miss.
And guess what? They also make these fantastic Mechiladas.
If that doesn't make you want to run to Más Sabores right now, I don't know what will!
But don't forget to save some room for dessert.
You'll find the most mouth-watering Palettas and ice cream next door.
But the real show-stopper for me was the Pina Loca.
Picture this - grilled pineapple, steak, chicken, onions, and green peppers served in a pineapple shell and covered with a luscious cheese sauce.
It's a sight to behold and an explosion of flavors in your mouth!
You know where to go next time you find yourself looking for delicious Mexican food.
Más Sabores is where every dish is a feast, and every bite is a celebration.
Trust me. You won't go home hungry!
Great Wall
There's nothing like coming home to the savory aroma of Chinese cuisine.
And no place does it better than the Great Wall.
The restaurant has proven itself as more than just an establishment in our town; it's become an integral part of our daily lives.
Every time I walk in, I'm greeted by the friendly staff, always ready with a warm smile.
Their service is top-notch, and they always make you feel at home.
More often than not, you'll find me indulging in their mouth-watering chicken.
It's so lean yet incredibly juicy, each bite a testament to the culinary prowess of the chefs.
But wait until you try their egg rolls - it's like a festival of flavors in your mouth.
Never have I tasted anything like it; it's the best egg roll in town, hands down.
Whether you're looking for a quick bite or a full meal, the portions are always spot on, never leaving you wanting more.
And did I mention how clean the place is?
It's spotless!
Truly a reflection of their commitment to providing the best dining experience.
The Great Wall is not just a restaurant. It's a haven for food lovers.
I'm so glad it's part of our community.
It's the perfect place to satisfy your craving for authentic Chinese cuisine!
Little Italy's
Have you ever craved a slice of pizza that's just deliciously right?
That's precisely what you'll find in Chatham's Little Italy's Pizza.
If I were to compare their food quality to a popular chain, I'd say it's something akin to Little Caesars, but with a delightful local twist that sets it apart.
What's impressive is the consistently good service, making every visit a pleasant experience.
The pizzas have never disappointed me, always created with careful craftsmanship and bursting with flavor.
A recent change in ownership has only improved things, with a fresh and enthusiastic approach reflected in their food.
One of the features I adore about Little Italy is the extra cheese.
It's not just an additional topping; it's an experience.
There's something comforting about biting into a hot, cheese-laden pizza delivered straight to your doorstep right on time.
But the pizza isn't the only star of the show.
I've enjoyed trying their sandwiches, calzones, and unique bacon bars - a delightful alternative to traditional breadsticks.
The seasoned crusts on their pizzas are a delectable treat. I cannot recommend them enough.
Every meal I've ordered has arrived hot and fresh, a testament to their commitment to quality.
Little Italy's Pizza has managed to carve out its niche in the sea of pizza places.
A local gem, this is a place that serves up perfection, one slice at a time.
China River Restaurant
I've always had a soft spot for Chinese cuisine.
There's something about the mix of flavors, the spice, and the variety that always excites my taste buds.
One of my frequent spots in town is the China River Restaurant.
Once, I decided to try their Sesame Chicken and Singapore Chow Mei Fun, which was a pleasant surprise.
The dishes were delicious, the flavors vibrant and authentic.
I find myself going back there again and again, hoping to discover another dish that makes the trip worthwhile.
Chalamo
Every town has that one place where everyone knows your name, and in our village, that place is Chalamo.
The moment you step into Chalamo, you're instantly greeted by the warm and friendly staff who treat you like family.
It's a place where one can unwind and feel right at home.
Chalamo offers more than just a sense of community; it's a hub for entertainment and fun.
There's always a game of darts, pool, or shuffleboard to jump in on.
And for those feeling lucky, six gambling machines provide endless fun and excitement.
To me, that's what sets Chalamo apart.
It's not just a local hangout. It's a cherished part of our community where you're not just a customer. You're family.
The Range Bourbon & Brew
Whenever I look for a lively atmosphere and friendly faces, I head straight to The Range Bourbon & Brew.
It's not just a place to drink. It's an experience.
The knowledgeable staff is always eager to greet patrons with a warm smile and an enthusiastic hello.
They've quickly become friends rather than just employees.
Not a bourbon connoisseur? Don't worry.
It's a paradise for those looking to explore their palate.
But what sets The Range Bourbon & Brew apart is the fun and games accompanying the drinks.
Talk about golf simulators that make you feel like you're on a professional course.
There's nothing quite like a round of virtual golf to bring on friendly competition among friends.
Despite being a place that exclusively serves alcohol, it never feels lacking.
It's a great spot to mingle and meet new people.
Every visit feels different; every visit is memorable.
So, if you're in town and looking for a great time, swing by The Range Bourbon & Brew.
It's more than just a bar. It's a community.
Weber's Ice Deli
When summer rolls around, there's nothing quite like the sweet relief of flavorful shaved ice from Weber's Ice Deli.
This local gem is bursting with various flavors and combos guaranteed to satisfy your sweet tooth.
One of the things I love the most about Weber's is the friendly staff.
They're always ready with a smile, and their service is swift.
The second you step up to the counter, you're greeted warmly, and before you know it, you're walking away with a refreshing treat in your hands.
The selection here is unbeatable.
With sizes ranging from small to extra large, there's a perfect icy delight for everyone.
The snow cones get a generous pour of syrup; if you order it, a snow cap too!
It's the perfect balance of crunchy ice and sweet, sticky syrup.
Plus, the area is ideal for a relaxed day out.
There's ample parking available, including a bike rack if you cycle around town.
And once you've got your treat, there's lots of seating - even covered seating for those who prefer to stay in the shade.
This little haven of sweet treats even has a little lending library, making it a perfect spot to stop on a lazy summer day.
Weber's Ice Deli is more than just an ice deli - it's a summer experience.
The inviting ambiance, exciting range of flavors, and friendly service all come together to create a delightful summer escape.
Scoop Du Jour
What a delight having a place like Scoop Du Jour in our town!
An afternoon visit to this cheerful spot has become a cherished tradition in our family, especially on those warm summer days when all you crave is a generous scoop of heavenly ice cream.
You're always greeted with a charming smile and promptly attended to as soon as you step in.
The staff here is not just friendly but super patient, too - taking time to explain all the unique and exciting flavors and answering every curious question kids throw.
The selection is outstanding - ice cream or donuts, they've got you covered!
We usually follow a ritual on our visits - trying a new ice cream flavor each time, followed by a walk around the connected thrift store.
Digging through the treasures while enjoying our treats is a fun little adventure.
And, oh yes, they even have dog treats!
Scoop Du Jour has genuinely become our little community's sweet haven - where you can indulge, relax, laugh over a scoop of ice cream, and create precious moments.
Sabores
Not every day, you find a place that can tantalize your taste buds and make your heart sing.
But let me tell you about my latest venture to Sabores, a delightful little spot in our town.
I remember the first time I took my daughter there.
We were on our way to a family gathering and decided to stop for a quick smoothie.
What a surprising delight it turned out to be!
The burst of flavor was so incredible that on our way back, my daughter pleaded for another round.
The smoothies were delicious, and the atmosphere was lively and fun - just the place you want to be on a sunny day.
Always wearing welcoming smiles, the staff made us feel right at home.
But Sabores is not just about the smoothies.
They also serve some of the most amazing homemade ice cream.
The horchata ice cream, in particular, is a must-try; it's so good it's like a scoop of heaven on a cone.
On the flip side, they do have a few quirks.
For instance, they charge an extra fee for using a credit card and take-out orders, which they don't inform you of until after.
And I found their steak torta a bit disappointing.
No place is perfect.
Despite these minor gripes, I still find myself drawn to Sabores for its vibrant atmosphere, friendly staff, and heavenly smoothies and ice cream.
It's a little slice of joy right here in our town.
Other Restaurants Nearby
Mario's Italian Restaurant & Pizzeria (Springfield)
There's something utterly comforting about walking into my favorite local eatery, Mario's Italian Restaurant & Pizzeria.
It's like stepping into a little slice of Italy in our town.
The wafting aroma of simmering tomato sauce and freshly-baked pizza dough makes your mouth water.
The moment you step in, you're treated to the Italian hospitality that Mario's has become famous for.
My first time here was with a group of friends, and from the get-go, the food was excellent.
Everything from their crisp salads to the hearty pasta dishes is flavored perfectly.
The meals are always a sight for sore eyes, beautifully presented and delicious.
If you ever wonder what love tastes like, try their food.
Every dish is prepared with a whole lot of love and passion.
The food and overall experience at Mario's make it a favorite place of mine.
Even after years of being a regular, the food is still as excellent as it was on my first visit.
Whether you're a local like me or just visiting, I bet you'll fall in love with Mario's Italian Restaurant & Pizzeria.
La Fiesta Chatham (Springfield)
One thing I can tell you is that living around here. You get to know every nook and cranny of Springfield.
But occasionally, it's worth driving a short distance outside the city for a unique dining experience.
Like visiting La Fiesta Chatham, a hidden gem that has a way of making Mexican cuisine that delights my vegan palate.
This wasn't my first rodeo with La Fiesta Chatham.
I've been there twice now. Each visit has been a gastronomic fiesta.
Imagine a full menu of your favorite Mexican dishes; now imagine a good chunk catering to vegetarian and vegan preferences.
That's what you get here.
The vegan chorizo tacos are a sight for sore eyes and a delight for the taste buds, and the tofu tacos are equally irresistible.
What sets this place apart is their attention to vegans and their overall commitment to quality and taste.
Each dish is a work of art, bursting with color and flavor.
They also have a special vegetarian and vegan menu, which is a plus.
But it's not all about food.
They also serve great margaritas that pair well with the food, while the ambiance is warm and cozy, though you might want to dress in layers as it can get chilly.
They also host karaoke on Thursday nights in the bar, which adds much fun to the dining experience.
Despite a slight hiccup with the service on my last visit, they were attentive and patient as soon as they realized we were all there.
And considering the quality of the food and the overall experience, I'd say it's reasonably priced too.
So, if you are looking for a place that offers a little bit of everything - from vegan delights, good drinks, and a fun atmosphere to excellent service, La Fiesta Chatham is undoubtedly worth the drive.
Final Thoughts
As someone who's sampled the best Chatham offers, I can confidently say these places added a flavorful twist to my life.
So the next time you're in town, don't miss out on these culinary gems in Chatham.
There's always something deliciously new to discover!
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