These Peoria-area restaurants are my favorites for outdoor dining. Here's why

Cassidy Waigand, Journal Star
·4 min read

It is officially summer in Peoria − one of my favorite times of year.

And, as a foodie, warm weather means outdoor dining season has arrived.

There are plenty of patio and outdoor dining options throughout Peoria. In the wake of the COVID-19 pandemic, in fact, outdoor seating has become quite common.

If you are searching for dining with a view, though, here are my recommendations.

Cyd's in the Park

Cyd's in the Park has opened its entire operation at Donovan Park in Peoria. A full restaurant-bar on the top story of the old Donovan Golf Course clubhouses joins Cyd's to-go market that opened on the first floor earlier this year.
Cyd's in the Park has opened its entire operation at Donovan Park in Peoria. A full restaurant-bar on the top story of the old Donovan Golf Course clubhouses joins Cyd's to-go market that opened on the first floor earlier this year.

As someone who has enjoyed the rolling hills and greenspaces of wineries in Missouri, I have come to realize there is a special − almost tranquil − feeling of relaxing in nature. Savoring a delicious plate of food with friends and family makes the experience even better.

Customers will find both the scenic sights and mouth-watering meals at Cyd's in the Park − which is located inside of Donovan Park. Charming and picturesque, the restaurant is nothing short of a tucked-away gem when it comes to outdoor dining.

And I am not alone in my opinion of the restaurant. Cyd's in the Park was named the winner of the 2022 "Best of the Best" contest for outdoor dining in the area.

Address: 5805 Knoxville Ave., Peoria

Website: https://www.cyds.biz/

More: The 3 best outdoor dining spots in the Peoria area as voted on by readers

Kuchie’s on the Water

What's better than relaxing at a waterside dock on a warm summer day?

Customers at Kuchie's on the Water can soak in a front-row view of the Illinois River as they dine.

On the menu, the restaurant offers unique items like the "shipwreck bloody mary" and monthly "shipwreck freakshakes," which are milkshakes decked out with a variety of toppings. A recent Fourth of July shake included a popsicle, a small red, white and blue cake, sprinkles, whipped cream, an American flag decoration and more.

Address: 579 Wesley Road, Creve Coeur

Website: https://www.kuchiesonthewater.com/

More: 3 of the best places serving a Bloody Mary around the Peoria area as voted on by readers

Charlie's at Sunset Cove

Charlie's at Sunset Cove features a scenic view of the Illinois River with picturesque sunsets.
Charlie's at Sunset Cove features a scenic view of the Illinois River with picturesque sunsets.

Owner Chris Stewart described the restaurant as a “hideaway with a good view.”

The covered outdoor patio space is situated right alongside a cove with direct access to the Illinois River. Being in East Peoria, the front-row view of the water lends itself to beautiful sunsets.

Customers can find alcoholic and nonalcoholic "fishbowl" drinks, along with burgers, pizza, tenderloins, shrimp and more.

Address: 1111 Sunset Drive, East Peoria

Website: https://eatatcharlies.com/

'Hideaway with a good view’: Take in river sunsets, fishbowl drinks at East Peoria eatery

Peoria Heights

A group of friends including, clockwise from top, Karen Ficociello, Nicki Igoe, Bridget Sherman and Ann Fulton, gather for a weekly round of cocktails and conversation Wednesday, Sept. 18, 2020 at The Publik House in Peoria Heights.
A group of friends including, clockwise from top, Karen Ficociello, Nicki Igoe, Bridget Sherman and Ann Fulton, gather for a weekly round of cocktails and conversation Wednesday, Sept. 18, 2020 at The Publik House in Peoria Heights.

If you've picked up on my nature-loving personality, it may be a surprise to learn that Peoria Heights is one of my go-to places for outdoor dining. There are no views of the river, no large greenspace and most of the outdoor dining consists of sidewalk seating along Prospect Road.

Yet, the street offers a close-knit, small-town charm which makes it a wonderful option for those looking to enjoy an outdoor meal. You could order dinner at the Publik House before taking a quick walk to Emack & Bolio's for dessert.

With today's digital world, the street's lively hustle and bustle − paired with regular events − creates a wonderful sense of community for visitors to enjoy.

'Good things come to people who wait': Peoria Heights bakery owners buy KDB property

The 12 Bar Lounge

The 12 Bar Lounge on the top floor and the roof at 4500 N. Prospect Road in Peoria Heights.
The 12 Bar Lounge on the top floor and the roof at 4500 N. Prospect Road in Peoria Heights.

While it is also located in Peoria Heights, The 12 Bar Lounge offers a relaxed, roof-top dining experience that places guests above the hustle and bustle happening below.

Customers can sit back, enjoy a drink alongside "bar bites" or a burger and maybe even catch some live music. The business was also a finalist in the recent "Best of the Best" awards for outdoor dining in the area.

Address: 4500 N. Prospect Road, Peoria Heights

Website: https://edge12bar.com/12bar

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Sweetwater Kitchen & Cocktails

Patrons dine on the patio with a view of the Illinois River at Sweetwater Kitchen & Cocktails at 3637 N. River Beach Drive in Chillicothe.
Patrons dine on the patio with a view of the Illinois River at Sweetwater Kitchen & Cocktails at 3637 N. River Beach Drive in Chillicothe.

Located at the former home of River Beach Pub & Eatery, Sweetwater Kitchen & Cocktails renovated and revitalized the space.

The restaurant's deck and patio provide unobstructed views of Upper Peoria Lake. The menu features items like honey salmon, the "lakehouse burger," BBQ shrimp and more. For dessert, customers can soak in the water views while enjoying a three-piece "truffle flight" or bananas foster cheesecake.

Address: 13637 N. River Beach Drive, Chillicothe

Website: https://sweetwaterpeoria.com/

Previously: River Beach Pub, a mainstay in the Chillicothe area, closes its doors

Storm Shelter at Eastport

The Storm Shelter at Eastport, 703 Mariners Way, in East Peoria.
The Storm Shelter at Eastport, 703 Mariners Way, in East Peoria.

Situated alongside the EastPort Marina, the Storm Shelter's website promises patrons will find the "best view & sunset in central Illinois."

The deck area overlooks the water, with views of Peoria across the way. With the view, breathtaking sunsets and golden hours are nearly guaranteed − weather permitting.

Speaking of weather, Customers will find menu items like the "thunder burger," "StormCloud BBQ," "T-storm wings," "tremor tenderloin" and more.

Address: 703 Mariners Way, East Peoria

Website: https://www.stormshelter-ep.com/

More: The best and worst Peoria food inspections for May

This article originally appeared on Journal Star: Views and vibes: Peoria restaurants with best patios, outdoor dining