Classic Flavor of Route 66 Remains Unchanged, Preserving the 1950s Vibe It's Known For
Road tripping on the iconic Route 66, you'll find a mouthwatering blend of classic eats and modern culinary delights. Whether you're starting in the Windy City or cruising towards the Pacific, this legendary highway promises a flavor adventure that goes beyond Americana.
Not every road tripper is a history buff or driving a red convertible, but everyone can appreciate the Mother Road's legendary dining scene. All you need is an appetite!
In Illinois, you start in Chicago with hearty breakfasts from Lou Mitchell's and cute donut holes as parting gifts. As you weave southwest, you'll stumble upon small-town gems like Polk-a-Dot Drive In in Braidwood. Retro kitsch hits you as you bite into your chili cheese fries, watched over by statues of Elvis and Marilyn.
The Country-Aire Restaurant in Atlanta, Illinois, serves comfort food reminiscent of grandma's kitchen. Don't forget to snap a pic with Lumi the Pie Lady, a 19-foot-tall fiberglass statue inspired by an Illinois State Fair Grand Champion pie baker.
Springfield's funky quonset hut charm at Charlie Parker's Diner pairs well with gigantic plate-sized pancakes and oversized horseshoe sandwiches. This regional specialty features Texas toast, meat, fries, and cheese sauce - you'll be full for miles!
Litchfield's Ariston Cafe has welcomed travelers since 1924. Four white tablecloths and a mix of American and Mediterranean classics make this centenarian eatery a staple for history and food lovers alike.
Cleveland-Heath in downtown Edwardsville offers a refreshing change of pace amidst classic favorites. With creative dishes boasting fresh, high-quality ingredients, you'll find unexpected flavors on the Mother Road.
Crossing into Missouri on Route 66, you'll reach Ted Drewes's iconic Chippewa Street location. For over ninety years, they've served up thick frozen custard, and their concrete desserts are so dense you can have them upside down!
In Wildwood, Big Chief Roadhouse revives the spirit of early road travel in a restored 1929 motor lodge. Burgers and St. Louis specialties like smothered pork steak ensure a cozy, hearty stop.
There's so much more to explore along the route - but we can't mention everything! Along the way, you'll find family-owned restaurants, hole-in-the-wall gems, and iconic Route 66 spots where history and haute cuisine collide.
So come hungry, and the Mother Road will feed you deliciousness with every step.
In Illinois, as you travel along Route 66, you'll find charming eateries like Charlie Parker's Diner in Springfield, known for its gigantic pancakes and oversized horseshoe sandwiches. Moving further, in Missouri, you'll encounter Ted Drewes, a legendary spot on Chippewa Street, renowned for its thick frozen custard and iconic concrete desserts.
