Peoria has a bustling cuisine scene that will satisfy even the most sophisticated palates. From informal eateries to gourmet dining experiences, the city has a diverse selection of restaurants that serve up exceptional flavors.
Whether you’re looking for a delicious steak, fresh seafood, or something with a global twist, these seven eateries are sure to satisfy your cravings. Each provides a distinct culinary experience by mixing high-quality ingredients with innovative menus.
Whether you’re a native or just passing through, these must-try spots will leave you wanting more after each taste.
1. Coffee The Right Way At Thirty-Thirty
Do you find yourself getting the same item over and again at the coffee shop because the menu is so overwhelming, and you’re always rushing because you don’t want to be the one holding up the line? You do not have to worry about it at Thirty-Thirty Coffee. The baristas here are excellent at what they do and are eager to share their skills. Any queries you have about beans, roasting procedures, fair trade, or the like will be answered.
To contribute to the superior coffee house ambiance, Thirty-Thirty is housed in a cool, ancient building where rough edges are treated like gold and minimalist, eclectic themes rule the day.
Thirty-Thirty Coffee: 734 Main St (309) 713-2983
2. Raise your chopsticks to Thanh Linh
If you’ve tried every Chinese and Japanese restaurant in town and are searching for something different, visit this Vietnamese gem. You’ll find Asian food that is flavorful and unique compared to standard locations. The Saturday Noodle Soup is a local classic; it’s flavorful, spicy, and excellent for warming up on a cool day.
Don’t miss the pork and shrimp spring rolls or the spicy lemongrass beef. But the real must-try while you’re here is the Vietnamese beef jerky, which is unlike anything you’ve ever bought in a shop.
Thanh Linh Vietnamese Restaurant, 1223 W Main St, (309) 495-0179
3. Get Lost In Mozzarella Paradise. At Biaggi’s
Bring someone out for a meal at Biaggi’s, whether it’s your mother on Mother’s Day, a business associate for lunch, or simply a girlfriend to catch up on drinks. You’ll discover some of the best Italian in the city in a more modern setting than conventional places. You won’t be dealing with tapas dishes here, so there’s no reason to overorder.
The amounts are generous, and once you’ve finished the basket of dipping bread, there won’t be much left over. But, if you can make it through dessert, get the tiramisu to round off a perfectly delicious Italian meal.
Biaggi’s Ristorante Italiano, 2601 W Lake Ave, (309) 686-8114.
4. Aurelio’s Puts The “Eat” In Eat, Pray, Love
This modestly designed Italian restaurant does not advertise itself as the most upmarket in town. But that is because it does not need or want to be. The charming, traditional ambiance, complete with pristine red and white checkered tables, is ideal for one reason: delicious food. Oh, and great service. So make it two reasons.
Aurelio’s pizza has long been a local favorite. While some restaurants that have been around for a while tend to get caught in their ways and lose their flair, Aurelio’s just gets better with time. Come for the famed lunch buffet, but make sure to go on a day when you aren’t counting calories. However, it is worth every last indulgent bite.
Aurelio’s Pizza : 3821 N Sterling Ave
(309) 682-3722
5. Find Schnitzel Galore At Hofbrau
When you’re searching for a sumptuous lunch that you won’t find anywhere else in town, head to Hofbrau and prepare to get your lederhosen blown right off. And if you happen to be wearing lederhosen, you’ll almost certainly be greeted like a king here, as this German tavern and restaurant is as authentic as they come.
Hofbrau serves Jaeger Schnitzel with spaetzle and red cabbage, grilled German sausage skewers, special homemade horseradish mustard, and, of course, some of the best German potato salad this side of the homeland. In addition, the beer selection is very impressive.
Peoria Hofbrau: 2210 NE Jefferson Ave, (309) 686-9739.
6. Get Lost In Shawarma Heaven At Kabob-G
When you’re in the mood for a huge meal of shawarma, the only place in Peoria to go is Kabob-G, which is hands down the greatest in town. The hummus is also extremely amazing. It comes with olive oil drizzled on top, giving it a distinct richness that you will crave each time you order it. Pair it with the homemade, toasty pitas for an unusual supper.
But don’t stop there since the falafels are above your wildest expectations. They’re fresh and fried to order, served with a light yogurt sauce brimming with spices and flavor that no pita in the city could possibly manage alone.
Kabob-G : 7800 N Sommer St
(309) 691-6188
7. Mediterranean with a modern flair At Khoury’s
Is there anything more fascinating than a wonderful Mediterranean restaurant? Perhaps an excellent Mediterranean restaurant with a modern twist. Khoury’s serves great classic dishes such as everyone’s favorite, the gyro.
However, they also serve delicious gyro burgers and other hybrids such as the garlic chicken wrap, Philly cheesesteak, homemade and savory cheeseballs, and spicy falafels. And no real Mediterranean institution would be complete without baklava, which they also provide – sweet, flaky, and exquisite, just as it should be.
Khoury’s Cuisine: 3326 N University St, (309) 685-3000
Conclusion
Peoria’s thriving food industry offers a wide range of cuisines to suit every palate. From Thirty-Thirty’s handmade coffee to Thanh Linh’s strong, original meals, each of the restaurants listed here offers something distinct. Whether you’re eating Italian comfort food at Biaggi’s or relishing German schnitzel at Hofbrau, these seven restaurants offer exceptional dining experiences. With broad menus, fresh ingredients, and imaginative cuisine, these Peoria jewels will keep you coming back for more. Whether you’re a local or a guest, don’t miss out on these must-see destinations.