This Off-the-Beaten-Path Gastropub in Illinois Is Worth the Day Trip

Do you remember Porky Pig from when you were a kid? Well, did you know that Porky Pig has a sidekick? His name is Gabby Goat, and he's easily irritated, which makes him a perfect foil for Porky Pig's mild-mannered shyness. I didn't know he existed either until I researched this incredible off-the-beaten-path Illinois restaurant.

While there doesn't seem to be a clear connection between Gabby Goat, the cartoon sidekick, and Gabby Goat American Pub and Grill in Effingham, Illinois, I learned a neat bit of trivia that I felt was worthy of sharing. You're not here to read about cartoons, though, are you? You're here to learn about a restaurant named Gabby Goat that is downright delicious, which make it a perfect cure for your rumbly tummy.

Your first stop at this Illinois pub should definitely be the bar. Gabby Goat has an impressive cocktail menu, featuring standards like an old fashioned or paloma alongside house specialties like Bug Juice (mango vodka, cranberry juice, sour mix and club soda) or a G.O.A.T. Bucket (red berry, lemon, & mango vodka with pineapple juice, cranberry juice, and a full watermelon Red Bull—plus you get to keep the bucket!).

If cocktails aren't your thing, Gabby Goat has a robust beer program featuring a solid selection of local breweries and their own house brew, Fainting Goat Ale. This restaurant has thought of everyone, including the non-drinkers, with a thoughtful choice of non-alcoholic beers.

No matter what you're drinking, it'll go great with whatever appetizer you order. It would surely be a hard choice between Effin' Tasty Steak Bites, popcorn catfish, or the piled-high nachos for this writer. No matter which meal you're eating at Gabby Goat, be sure to check out the daily specials. If not, you might miss out on something tasty and unexpected!

Onto the main are: Gabby Goat's Fried Green BLT is a fan favorite, and for good reason. This classic 'wich has perfectly cooked bacon, crisp lettuce, and delicious fried green tomatoes. As is true for all the items on this restaurant's specials menu, this sandwich is only served when tomatoes are at the peak of their freshness.

You know what else pairs well together? A hearty meal and indulgent loaded fries, topped with queso, bacon, giardiniera, and sour cream. Gabby Goat also has several desserts to choose from—and that's not even taking into consideration their daily specials, which are always worth a try.

Getting here: Gabby Goat American Pub is located right in the middle of Illinois, making it a bit of a drive (about 3 hours give or take from either Chicago or Peoria) for many of us. But you know what? Sometimes a longer drive is worth it when the food is as good as it is at Gabby Goat American Pub and Grill. And luckily, Effingham has a lot of cool things to explore in addition to eating one of the best pub meals of your life!

If you're planning ahead, definitely try to head that way in December, where the town hosts a myriad of holiday events. What are some other small-town restaurants in Illinois that are worthy of a day trip? We'd love to hear about your favorites over on our Nomination Page. If you're feeling inspired to explore more of the Prairie State's eateries, try planning your adventure using Only In Your State’s itinerary planner.

And in the immortal words of our pal Porky the Pig... That's all, folks!