4 more Peoria restaurants we wish were on USA TODAY's Restaurants of the Year list

Cassidy Waigand, Peoria Journal Star
Updated ·2 min read

Ardor Breads and Provisions was among 47 restaurants nationwide to be listed in USA TODAY's Restaurants of the Year list for 2024.

More than 150 nominations were submitted, and finalists were selected for their consistently amazing food, unique atmosphere and great service. In Peoria, Ardor stood out because of its staple baked goods — which never disappoint — paired with its unique and innovative restaurant, which was launched in 2023.

While we had to narrow down this year's nomination to one business, the Peoria area is home to many spectacular, unique and outstanding dining establishments. So, here are the other local restaurants we wish would've made the list.

2 Chez Restaurant

Bone-in pork chops are on the menu at 2 Chez Restaurant, 7815 N. Knoxville Ave., Peoria.
Bone-in pork chops are on the menu at 2 Chez Restaurant, 7815 N. Knoxville Ave., Peoria.

This Peoria restaurant offers a romantic dining area with black tablecloths, candles, framed artwork and dark wood accents. At the same time, the restaurant space feels cozy and welcoming.

This elevated yet approachable theme carries over to 2 Chez's menu — which features salmon, pork chop, ribeye, duck, lamb and more.

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Childers Eatery

A burger topped with bacon and smoked blue cheese and a breakfast burrito with hash browns wait to be delivered to diners at the Childers Eatery at 815 Camp St. in East Peoria.
A burger topped with bacon and smoked blue cheese and a breakfast burrito with hash browns wait to be delivered to diners at the Childers Eatery at 815 Camp St. in East Peoria.

Childers Eatery is nothing short of a Peoria staple — featuring four restaurant locations in the area.

I have taken all of my out-of-town guests to the restaurant for a laid back, late-morning brunch. The menu includes a variety of breakfast and lunch options — with something to fit everyone's taste.

Customers can order a caramel apple churro waffle, breakfast burrito or the "Best Breakfast in Peoria." For lunch, the menu features sandwiches, burgers, unique street tacos and more.

You voted: 3 of the best breakfast restaurants around the Peoria area

Cyd's in the Park

One of my personal favorites, Cyd's in the Park melds delicious dishes with outstanding outdoor dining opportunities.

The restaurant is nestled inside of Donovan Park, which offers picturesque views of nature to guests. It’s no wonder why the restaurant was recognized as the best space for outdoor dining in the 2023 Official Community's Choice Awards.

On the menu, customers will find a mix of staple and seasonal offerings.

More: Popular Peoria restaurant extends days of operation, adds brunch menu

Jim's Steak House

Jim's Steak House at 110 SW Jefferson Avenue in downtown Peoria.
Jim's Steak House at 110 SW Jefferson Avenue in downtown Peoria.

Having operated for more than six decades, Jim’s Steak House is a staple of downtown Peoria.

The restaurant's customer service is top-notch and its dry-aged steaks are a cut above in terms of quality and flavor (find the filet mignon in my favorite foods of 2023 article). Jim's was also listed as a finalist in the steakhouse category for the 2023 Official Community's Choice Awards.

The menu also features pasta, seafood and more.

Previously: Jim's Steakhouse, a fine dining constant in Peoria for 60 years

This article originally appeared on Journal Star: Peoria restaurants we wish were Restaurants of the Year for USA TODAY