Foodie tour de Alton, Illinois
# **Alton, Illinois: A Foodie’s Guide to the Best Local Eats**
Nestled along the Mississippi River, Alton, Illinois, is a hidden gem for food lovers. From smoky barbecue joints to authentic Mexican taquerias and classic American diners, this historic town offers a diverse culinary scene that will satisfy every craving. Whether you're a local or just passing through, here’s your ultimate guide to the top dining spots in Alton—what to order, what to expect, and why these places are worth a visit.
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## **1. 3rd Chute II – A Cozy Bar & Grill with Hearty Comfort Food**
? *2204 Fosterburg Rd, Alton, IL 62002*
? [Menu](
)
**Why You Should Go:**
3rd Chute II is the kind of place where locals gather for cold beers, friendly service, and satisfying bar food. The atmosphere is relaxed, with a mix of sports fans, families, and regulars who come for the generous portions.
**What to Order:**
- **Chute Burger** – A juicy, half-pound patty loaded with cheese, bacon, and all the fixings.
- **Fried Pickles** – Crispy, tangy spears served with ranch—perfect with a cold beer.
- **Pulled Pork Sandwich** – Smoky, tender pork piled high on a toasted bun.
**Pro Tip:** Check their daily specials—they often feature homemade soups and hearty entrees like meatloaf or fried chicken.
---
## **2. Fast Eddie’s Fried Chicken – Crispy, Golden Goodness**
? *701 Central Ave, Alton, IL 62002*
? [Menu](
)
**Why You Should Go:**
This no-frills spot is all about one thing: **crunchy, perfectly seasoned fried chicken**. The portions are huge, the prices are fair, and the chicken is always fresh out of the fryer.
**What to Order:**
- **2-Piece Chicken Dinner** – Comes with a drumstick, thigh, or breast, plus a side (go for the mac & cheese or coleslaw).
- **Chicken Tenders Basket** – Extra crispy with fries and Texas toast.
- **Fried Catfish** – A Southern-style alternative if you want something besides chicken.
**Pro Tip:** Get extra hot sauce—their homemade version adds a nice kick.
---
## **3. Village Inn Pancake House – Breakfast All Day, Every Day**
? *2657 College Ave, Alton, IL 62002*
? [Menu](
)
**Why You Should Go:**
A classic diner with a retro vibe, Village Inn serves up fluffy pancakes, hearty omelets, and bottomless coffee in a cozy setting. Open early for the breakfast crowd and late enough for midnight pancake cravings.
**What to Order:**
- **Country Fried Steak & Eggs** – A tender steak smothered in gravy with two eggs any style.
- **Strawberry Banana Pancakes** – Thick, buttery pancakes topped with fresh fruit and whipped cream.
- **Biscuits & Sausage Gravy** – A Southern-style staple that’s pure comfort.
**Pro Tip:** Their **pie selection** is legendary—don’t skip the Dutch apple or chocolate cream.
---
## **4. Riviera Maya Restaurant – Authentic Mexican Flavors**
? *2704 Corner Ct, Alton, IL 62002*
? [Menu](
)
**Why You Should Go:**
This family-owned spot brings the bold, vibrant tastes of Mexico to Alton. The salsa is fresh, the margaritas are strong, and the portions are generous.
**What to Order:**
- **Carne Asada** – Grilled steak with charred edges, served with rice, beans, and warm tortillas.
- **Mole Poblano** – Rich, complex sauce over tender chicken—a must-try for mole lovers.
- **Chile Relleno** – A stuffed poblano pepper fried to perfection.
**Pro Tip:** Their **horchata** is creamy and cinnamon-spiced—perfect for balancing spicy dishes.
---
## **5. Hickory Grove – Smoky, Slow-Cooked BBQ**
? *201 E Center Dr, Alton, IL 62002*
? [Menu](
)
**Why You Should Go:**
If you love barbecue, Hickory Grove is a must. Their meats are slow-smoked over hickory wood, creating deep, rich flavors. The rustic, lodge-like setting adds to the experience.
**What to Order:**
- **Brisket Platter** – Melt-in-your-mouth tender with a perfect smoke ring.
- **St. Louis Ribs** – Fall-off-the-bone with a sweet and tangy glaze.
- **Pulled Pork Nachos** – A mountain of chips, cheese, and smoky pork.
**Pro Tip:** Their **homemade BBQ sauces** (spicy, sweet, and mustard-based) are fantastic—try them all.
---
*(Continued in Part 2—Fast Eddie’s Bon Air, Taqueria Maya, Decaros, China King, and Chubby’s Grill & Garage!)*
Would you like me to continue with the remaining five restaurants? I can also adjust the tone or focus if you'd like more details on specific dishes!
Nestled along the Mississippi River, Alton, Illinois, is a hidden gem for food lovers. From smoky barbecue joints to authentic Mexican taquerias and classic American diners, this historic town offers a diverse culinary scene that will satisfy every craving. Whether you're a local or just passing through, here’s your ultimate guide to the top dining spots in Alton—what to order, what to expect, and why these places are worth a visit.
---
## **1. 3rd Chute II – A Cozy Bar & Grill with Hearty Comfort Food**
? *2204 Fosterburg Rd, Alton, IL 62002*
? [Menu](
)
**Why You Should Go:**
3rd Chute II is the kind of place where locals gather for cold beers, friendly service, and satisfying bar food. The atmosphere is relaxed, with a mix of sports fans, families, and regulars who come for the generous portions.
**What to Order:**
- **Chute Burger** – A juicy, half-pound patty loaded with cheese, bacon, and all the fixings.
- **Fried Pickles** – Crispy, tangy spears served with ranch—perfect with a cold beer.
- **Pulled Pork Sandwich** – Smoky, tender pork piled high on a toasted bun.
**Pro Tip:** Check their daily specials—they often feature homemade soups and hearty entrees like meatloaf or fried chicken.
---
## **2. Fast Eddie’s Fried Chicken – Crispy, Golden Goodness**
? *701 Central Ave, Alton, IL 62002*
? [Menu](
)
**Why You Should Go:**
This no-frills spot is all about one thing: **crunchy, perfectly seasoned fried chicken**. The portions are huge, the prices are fair, and the chicken is always fresh out of the fryer.
**What to Order:**
- **2-Piece Chicken Dinner** – Comes with a drumstick, thigh, or breast, plus a side (go for the mac & cheese or coleslaw).
- **Chicken Tenders Basket** – Extra crispy with fries and Texas toast.
- **Fried Catfish** – A Southern-style alternative if you want something besides chicken.
**Pro Tip:** Get extra hot sauce—their homemade version adds a nice kick.
---
## **3. Village Inn Pancake House – Breakfast All Day, Every Day**
? *2657 College Ave, Alton, IL 62002*
? [Menu](
)
**Why You Should Go:**
A classic diner with a retro vibe, Village Inn serves up fluffy pancakes, hearty omelets, and bottomless coffee in a cozy setting. Open early for the breakfast crowd and late enough for midnight pancake cravings.
**What to Order:**
- **Country Fried Steak & Eggs** – A tender steak smothered in gravy with two eggs any style.
- **Strawberry Banana Pancakes** – Thick, buttery pancakes topped with fresh fruit and whipped cream.
- **Biscuits & Sausage Gravy** – A Southern-style staple that’s pure comfort.
**Pro Tip:** Their **pie selection** is legendary—don’t skip the Dutch apple or chocolate cream.
---
## **4. Riviera Maya Restaurant – Authentic Mexican Flavors**
? *2704 Corner Ct, Alton, IL 62002*
? [Menu](
)
**Why You Should Go:**
This family-owned spot brings the bold, vibrant tastes of Mexico to Alton. The salsa is fresh, the margaritas are strong, and the portions are generous.
**What to Order:**
- **Carne Asada** – Grilled steak with charred edges, served with rice, beans, and warm tortillas.
- **Mole Poblano** – Rich, complex sauce over tender chicken—a must-try for mole lovers.
- **Chile Relleno** – A stuffed poblano pepper fried to perfection.
**Pro Tip:** Their **horchata** is creamy and cinnamon-spiced—perfect for balancing spicy dishes.
---
## **5. Hickory Grove – Smoky, Slow-Cooked BBQ**
? *201 E Center Dr, Alton, IL 62002*
? [Menu](
)
**Why You Should Go:**
If you love barbecue, Hickory Grove is a must. Their meats are slow-smoked over hickory wood, creating deep, rich flavors. The rustic, lodge-like setting adds to the experience.
**What to Order:**
- **Brisket Platter** – Melt-in-your-mouth tender with a perfect smoke ring.
- **St. Louis Ribs** – Fall-off-the-bone with a sweet and tangy glaze.
- **Pulled Pork Nachos** – A mountain of chips, cheese, and smoky pork.
**Pro Tip:** Their **homemade BBQ sauces** (spicy, sweet, and mustard-based) are fantastic—try them all.
---
*(Continued in Part 2—Fast Eddie’s Bon Air, Taqueria Maya, Decaros, China King, and Chubby’s Grill & Garage!)*
Would you like me to continue with the remaining five restaurants? I can also adjust the tone or focus if you'd like more details on specific dishes!
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