🍕 1. Chicago – Route 66 Begins with a Bite

Lou Malnati’s or Giordano’s: Deep-dish pizza is a must. It’s cheesy, saucy, and ridiculously satisfying.
Portillo’s (original near Route 66 start): Famous for Chicago-style hot dogs and Italian beef sandwiches.
Lou Mitchell’s (Route 66 icon): This legendary diner has welcomed Route 66 travelers since 1923. They hand out Milk Duds and donut holes—yes, seriously.
Garrett Popcorn: Try the “Chicago Mix” (cheddar + caramel), a sweet-savory flavor bomb.

🌽 2. Joliet – Comfort Food & Drive-Ins

Old Route 66 Diner: Classic diner fare with big portions—burgers, shakes, fries, and good vibes.
Chicken-N-Spice: Local favorite for fried chicken with a spicy twist.
Joliet Route 66 Diner: Another vintage spot with a nostalgic menu and Instagram-worthy interior.

Launching Pad Drive-In: Home of the Gemini Giant, this retro drive-in serves classic burgers, fries, and malts. It just reopened and has been lovingly restored.
Nelly’s on Route 66: Burgers, gyros, and their famous cream cheese-stuffed jalapeño poppers.

Polk-a-Dot Drive-In: Retro neon, Elvis memorabilia, and everything from tenderloins to thick shakes. The pie selection here is legendary—try coconut cream or lemon meringue.

Old Route 66 Family Restaurant: Famous for its Route 66-themed dishes, including homemade meatloaf and hearty breakfasts.
Classic Dairy Queen Stop: Sometimes you just need a dipped cone in the middle of a road trip.

Delong’s Casual Dining: Known for their burgers and fried cheese curds. It's small-town food at its best.
Pontiac Bakery: Grab a sweet roll or local cookie to go as you explore the murals and museum.

The Palms Grill Café: This historic café has been restored to its 1930s charm. Famous for fried chicken, meatloaf, and homemade pies. Don’t skip the pie!

The Blue Dog Inn: Known for huge burgers, loaded fries, and friendly locals.
Guzzardo’s Italian Villa: Homemade pastas and hearty Italian-American classics. A cozy spot for a break from diner fare.

Cozy Dog Drive-In: The first place to serve corn dogs on a stick—this is essential foodie Route 66 lore. Still family-owned, still delicious.
Charlie Parker’s Diner: A kitschy breakfast and lunch spot in a quonset hut. Try the Horseshoe Sandwich—a local Springfield creation featuring toast, meat, fries, and cheese sauce.
Obed & Isaac’s Microbrewery: Pair your food with craft beer in a beautiful historic building. They’ve got a solid gastropub menu.

Ariston Café: One of the oldest restaurants on Route 66, serving travelers since 1924. Great steaks, pork chops, and homemade desserts in a white-tablecloth setting that still feels homey.
Jubelt’s Bakery & Restaurant: A Route 66 favorite for breakfast, homemade soup, and amazing desserts. Think giant cinnamon rolls and flaky pies.

Doc’s Soda Fountain in Girard (bonus detour): Classic soda fountain with root beer floats, phosphates, and vintage charm.
Route 66 Creamery in Hamel: Cool off with handcrafted ice cream and milkshakes.

Stop for a picnic with views of the Mississippi. Pack local snacks or grab a takeaway from your last Illinois food stop. It’s the perfect spot to reflect on the miles (and meals) behind you.

Take Your Time: Many of these places are slow food, not fast food. Part of the fun is chatting with owners or locals.
Try Regional Specialties: Illinois has its own food culture, like Horseshoe sandwiches and corn dogs—don’t skip those.
Bring a Cooler: Great for stashing leftovers, pies, or specialty meats/cheeses.
Map It Out: Many towns have more than one great food stop—use Google Maps or Roadtrippers to plan your food crawl.