A Restaurant for Every Month: 12 Bucket-List Worthy Spots in Illinois

When a new year is upon us, we tend to make resolutions to do something different or try something new. Perhaps you'll want to try a new hiking trail, visit some of the many small towns, or eat at some bucket-list-worthy restaurants in Illinois. The following is a list of some incredible restaurants you should try, one for each month of the year.

1. January – The Turf Room in North Aurora

Why not kick off the new year with a visit to The Turf Room in the town of North Aurora? Offering creative twists on American cuisine, its seasonal menu will have you loving the ambiance and cozy fireplace.

To learn more about The Turf Room, visit the official website and Facebook page.

2. February – Mesón Sabika in Naperville

The month of February comes with an air of romance (hello, Valentine's Day!), so a reservation at one of the state's most romantic restaurants may be necessary. Mesón Sabika is housed in a historic Georgian mansion spanning 4 acres in Naperville. It offers upscale dining, perfect for a memorable evening out.

Since the restaurant is housed in a historic mansion, accessibility may vary between dining areas. To learn more about Mesón Sabika, visit the official website and Facebook page.

3. March – Kelleher's Irish Pub & Eatery in Peoria

The month of March brings St. Patrick's Day, so perhaps there's no better time to visit an Irish pub. Located along the water in Peoria is Kelleher's Irish Pub & Eatery, one of the best Illinois restaurants, where you can enjoy traditional pub food and Irish draft beer. One specialty you may want to order here is the shepherd's pie...delicious!

When approaching St. Patrick’s Day, March is one of the busiest times of year here. The riverfront location makes it a great stop before or after a stroll along Peoria’s RiverWalk. To learn more about Kelleher's Irish Pub & Eatery, visit the official website and Facebook page.

4. April – Italian Village in Carbondale

Since 1960, the Italian Village has been serving up fresh pasta, pizza, and other delicious Italian dishes in Carbondale. This local favorite also offers indoor and outdoor dining, perfect for when the weather starts to get warm.

This restaurant is family-friendly and a perfect spot for casual gatherings, especially when outdoor seating opens for the season. To learn more about the Italian Village, visit the official website and Facebook page.

5. May – Fresco at the Gardens in Rockford

During the spring, when the flowers are in bloom, head to Anderson Japanese Gardens and have a delicious breakfast or lunch with a view of the property at Fresco in the Gardens. You won't find a more picturesque setting for a restaurant!

Consider visiting in May to enjoy peak spring blooms at Anderson Japanese Gardens. Also, please note that admission policies and hours may vary seasonally. So be sure to check ahead before visiting. To learn more about the Fresco at the Gardens, visit the official website and Facebook page.

6. June – Log Cabin Steakhouse in Galena

Take a day or a weekend trip to the historic town of Galena and stop by for a bite to eat at the Log Cabin Steakhouse. With its friendly ambiance and mouthwatering steaks, one visit here and you'll understand why it's been a mainstay in town since 1937.

When here, consider visiting Galena’s historic downtown. Please note that weekends can be busy. So be sure to make reservations in advance. To learn more about Log Cabin Steakhouse, visit the official website and Facebook page.

7. July – The Loading Dock Bar & Grill in Grafton

Sunny summer days call for eating outside, and there's no better or more scenic place for outdoor dining, drinks, and live music than at The Loading Dock Bar & Grill. This Grafton eatery is set along the Illinois River, so you can take in the views while chowing down on some nachos and sipping on a frozen lemonade.

Be sure to check the forecast before visiting since seating is primarily outdoors. To learn more about The Loading Dock Bar & Grill, visit the official website and Facebook page.

8. August – The Blue Duck Barbecue Tavern in Peoria

If you're in the mood for some BBQ in the summer, head to The Blue Duck Barbecue Tavern in Peoria. Made from scratch, enjoy melt-in-your-mouth brisket, pork, chicken, and a whole lot more! Sit outside and take in views of the water while you eat.

To learn more about The Blue Duck Barbecue Tavern, visit the official website and Facebook page.

9. September – Hank's Farm Restaurant in Ottawa

Enjoy homestyle, "farm-to-fork" cuisine inside a former dairy barn at Hank's Farm Restaurant. Between the rustic ambiance, delicious food, and excellent service, this may become your new favorite eatery.

Consider visiting during early fall for seasonal menu offerings and comfort. To learn more about Hank's Farm Restaurant, visit the official website.

10. October – Country House Restaurant in Clarendon Hills

When October arrives, it's Halloween season, and some of us tend to seek out spooky places, including restaurants. Located in Clarendon Hills, the Country House Restaurant is said to be haunted. When you visit, perhaps you'll encounter one of the ghostly residents who call this place home.

While ghost stories are part of the restaurant’s charm, the classic American menu and the historic setting are what keep locals and visitors coming back. To learn more about the Country House Restaurant, visit the official website and Facebook page.

11. November – Firefly Grill in Effingham

Located on a lake in the countryside, the Firefly Grill in Effingham offers a picturesque setting to enjoy a delicious meal. Best known for its steaks, this restaurant also offers seafood, pizza, and plenty of small plates.

Consider making reservations early, especially during weekends and holiday seasons. To learn more about the Firefly Grill, visit their Facebook page.

12. December – Edelweiss Restaurant in Norridge

Edelweiss Restaurant is a Bavarian lodge that gets into the holiday spirit with festive décor and visits from Santa. It's perfect to visit during December. While you're here, dine on German cuisine and try a variety of German beers on tap.

receives many visitors during December due to seasonal décor and holiday programming,
– hence a festive choice for end-of-year celebrations. To learn more about Edelweiss Restaurant, visit their Facebook page.

Have you been to any of these bucket-list-worthy restaurants in Illinois? If so, which ones? What were your favorite items? Tell us all about it and share some of your delicious, eye-popping food pics! And when ready to turn this list into a yearlong food adventure, be sure to use the Only In Your State Itinerary Planner to map out your month-by-month restaurant visits in Illinois.