There’s A Restaurant On This Remote Illinois Farm You’ll Want To Visit

Dinner on the farm? This used to be a common occurrence in Illinois. These days, it's a distant memory. But did you know that there is one restaurant where this tradition is alive and well? And it is a lot closer than you may think. Head to Hank's Farm Restaurant in Illinois. They serve your down-home country favorites, as well as Italian-American dishes. It's one of the most unique places you have ever been, and the food here is spectacular.

Hank's Farm Restaurant was once an actual dairy barn. It was turned into a neighborhood tavern in 1941, and now it is a family-owned and operated restaurant.

It's truly a place to get away from it all, and you will feel quite secluded. Although it is technically in Ottawa, Hank's is hugged by a curve of the Fox River and feels miles away from anything else.

Staying true to the farm theme, animals roam the beautifully landscaped grounds. There are turkeys, chickens, ducks, and even peacocks running around wild in the front yard. Taking a stroll around the property is just part of the whole Hank's experience.

Just next door to the barn is the companion gift shop, Curious Goods. This shop would be worth a visit on its own even if you weren't already here for the food. It's packed full of Christmas items year round, and there is a well-stocked costume shop (also open all year) where you can buy or rent just about any costume you can imagine.

The inside of the barn sports beautiful exposed beams, reminding you that you are, in fact, in an old dairy barn. But don't worry - you won't be sitting on milking stools or shuffling your way through the hay.

The hearty, down-home fare here is absolutely terrific. You'll find all of the familiar comfort food standbys on offer here. May we suggest the pan-baked cod? Your entree also comes with a trip to the salad bar, which you definitely do not want to miss. You get to cut your own hunk of cheese off of an enormous block!

Sunday brunch is legendary here. The ever-changing buffet offerings include treats like oysters, french toast sticks, biscuits and gravy, frittatas...and we forgot to mention the desserts. Oh, the desserts. A 16' section of the brunch buffet is dedicated to all types of pastries, cakes, pies, cobblers, fresh fruit, and a chocolate fountain.

I'm hungry just looking at all of those pictures. Hank's Farm Restaurant in Illinois is a unique gem with a dedicated following, and it's not hard to see why. Come on down for dinner on the farm at 2973 IL-71, Ottawa, IL 61350. Get more information on hours and special events at the Hank's Farm website.