Delicious food is important when visiting a restaurant, but sometimes, you might be looking for a special ambiance as well. Whether you want to fall back in time or be transported to another part of the world, these Illinois restaurants will take you there.

1. Medieval Times (Schaumburg)
Medieval Times Dinner & Tournament/Facebook
Step back in time to the 11th century and eat turkey legs while you watch knights duel for glory. Bring your competitive spirit, because you'll be expected to cheer for your team!

2001 N. Roselle Road, Schaumburg
2. The 50's Diner (Peoria)
The 50's Diner/Facebook
This sock-hoppin' diner is always fun, but visit during one of their car shows for the full experience. Don't forget to grab one of their milkshakes while you're there; they are famous for them.

4700 N. University Street, Peoria
3. The Tiki Terrace (Des Plaines)
The Tiki Terrace
Join the luau at this festive Hawaiian-themed restaurant. Check their events calendar to see what Hawaiian musical act will be performing next!

1591 Lee Street, Des Plaines
4. Dreamland Palace German Restaurant (Waterloo)
Jerry Kokesh/Facebook
Dive in to a delicious dinner, German bierhaus-style at Monroe County's only German restaurant. Go there ready to have a few drinks, as they have an extensive beer and wine list.

3043 IL-156, Waterloo
5. Buck's Pit Stop (Hodgkins)
Buck's Pit Stop
NASCAR lovers will appreciate the racing decor and memorabilia at this spot. Don't forget to look under the tables and chairs; they are made from tire rims!

6501 Kane Avenue, Hodgkins
6. Westwoods Lodge (Springfield)
Westwoods Lodge/Facebook
This lodge-like spot will get you ready for hunting season. If you're really hungry, ask for the legendary Yeti - a pile of cheese fries topped with burgers and pulled pork.

2406 W. Jefferson Street, Springfield
7. Saint Lou's Assembly (Chicago)
Saint Lou's Assembly
Head here for a classic meat-and-three meal in an old school cafeteria setting. The best part, though, are the boozy twists on classic drinks like root beer floats.

664 W. Lake Street, Chicago
8. Ragin Cajun Piano Bar (Alton)
Ragin Cajun Piano Bar/Facebook
It's Mardi Gras all year round at this busy Cajun restaurant! It's always a good time, but the very best time to head over is when the dueling pianos are being played.

210 W. 3rd Street, Alton
9. All Aboard Family Dining (Frankfort)
All Aboard Family Dining/Facebook
Have your food delivered by a miniature locomotive at this train-themed spot. Their signature corn fritters are a must have.

20831 La Grange Road, Frankfort
10. Lowery's Irish Pub (Mt. Vernon)
Lowery's Irish Pub/Facebook
With a 6,000 square foot beer garden in the summer, what's not to love? Grab a stout beer and you'll fit right in.

300 S. 9th Street, Mt. Vernon
11. Level 257 (Schaumburg)
Level 257/Facebook
This massive arcade and restaurant will let you play like a kid again. If playing PAC-MAN on a big screen has always been your dream, this is the place to go.

2 Woodfield Mall, Unit A, Schaumburg

What is your favorite themed restaurant in Illinois? Let us know in the comments.

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