Hovey’s Diner was first opened as Mike’s East Side in 1952. Initially, it served mainly ice cream until owner Jerry Hovey decided to add food options to the menu. It is located in the small city of Olney in Southern Illinois.

The diner, now called Hovey's Diner, was taken over by family friend Stacey Dunlop in 2012.
Hovey's Diner Signage Illinois
Hoveys Diner/Facebook
The menu and seating areas have been expanded since she took over. Catering and event space options have also been added.
Most popular on the menu are the hamburgers and the chili, which uses a special blend of seasoning.
Hovey's Diner Burger Illinois
Allen H/TripAdvisor
Jerry Hovey had named the Big Mike and the Big Murt burgers after his in-laws. Jerry's father-in-law had partnered with Jerry to open his restaurant after owning one himself. Despite new ownership, the names of the burgers remain on the menu.
Several different chicken dishes are on the menu such as chicken wings, chicken sandwich, and caesar chicken salad, just to name a few.
Hovey's Diner Fried Chicken Illinois
Hoveys Diner/Facebook
The extensive menu covers all the bases for just about anyone who walks in the door.

Related Stories

Grab A Gourmet Sandwich And Stock Up The Kitchen At The Wonderfully Unique Totto's Market In Illinois

Grab A Gourmet Sandwich And Stock Up The Kitchen At The Wonderfully Unique Totto's Market In Illinois

 3

Visit The Burial Site Of The World's First Nuclear Reactor At Red Gate Woods In Illinois

 1

Revisit The Glory Days At Woody’s Diner, A 50s-Themed Restaurant In Illinois
Breakfast for dinner? Yes, please!
Hovey's Diner Breakfast Illinois
Pioneer00937388399/TripAdvisor
Breakfast is served all day long. Choose one of several egg combo platters (add gravy for a small extra charge) or build your own omelet. Pancakes and French toast are also on the menu. Bring an appetite because portions are big! There are plenty of breakfast side options to order from as well.
Over the years, Hovey's Diner has expanded its footprint.
Hovey's Diner Interior Illinois
Hoveys Diner/Facebook
The large party hall can be rented for special events and accommodate up to 150 guests. Best of all, a rental fee will not be charged just so long as food is ordered off the Hovey's menu for the event!
Hovey's Diner still has the old-fashioned charm of when it first started back in the 1950s.
Hovey's Diner Exterior Illinois
Hoveys Diner/Facebook

With exceptional food and service, Hovey’s Diner is as good as it gets when it comes to an old-school diner. Dine-in and carryout options are available. Have you ever been to Hovey’s Diner? Learn more from the official website, or visit the Facebook page here.

OnlyInYourState may earn compensation through affiliate links in this article. As an Amazon Associate, we earn from qualifying purchases.

Related Articles

Explore Illinois

Featured Addresses
412 E Main St, Olney, IL 62450, USA