There's no lack of outdoor dining in Tazewell County. Here are 10 spots to try
As the weather grows warmer, the number of diners opting for a patio or beer garden traditionally increases. From fast food chains to family restaurants to sports bars, Tazewell County alone offers nearly 100 outdoor dining options – here are 10 of them.
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Black Top Inn Inc.
Off the beaten path in Manito, this bar and grill’s outdoor dining patio appears to be popular with local motorcycle enthusiasts. One Google review described it as a “perfect stop when out riding,” while another reviewer described Black Top’s outdoor tables as “motorcycle friendly.”
10956 N. Manito Road, Manito
(309) 545-9980
Blue Margaritas Mexican Bar and Grill
Named for its signature cocktail, this Washington restaurant features traditional Mexican cuisine inspired by different regions in Mexico. Patio dining is available in the spring and summer. A family-owned business, Blue Margaritas also has locations in Peoria and Springfield.
661 N. Cummings Lane, Washington
(309) 481-5363
bluemargaritas.com
The Burger Barge
Boasting a laid-back “day at the beach” atmosphere to complement its specialty burgers and tropical cocktails, the original Burger Barge offers seasonal outdoor seating that overlooks the Illinois River.
1401 N. Main St., East Peoria
(309) 694-9191
burgerbargeinc.com
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Kemp 208 Main St. Grille
Situated in a century-old building, this Morton restaurant emphasizes fresh ingredients, changing food and drink menus, an extensive wine list and a patio for al fresco diners.
208 N. Main St., Morton
(309) 263-4446
kemp208.com
Mashie’s Pub and Eatery
Located in Pekin’s Sunset Hills Golf Course, this eatery’s bill of fare includes burgers, wraps and traditional pub grub. The veranda overlooking the course is open in the spring and summer months, offering diners a view of central Illinois sunsets and entertainment in the form of golfers trying to navigate bunkers and water hazards.
1620 Summit Drive, Pekin
(309) 347-7553
sunsethillsgc.com
Maquet’s Rail House
Operating out of a 120-year-old building, this Pekin eatery features 170 craft and domestic beers, signature burgers and the inevitable Midwestern hand-breaded tenderloin. A shaded outdoor seating offers a view of the Illinois River from Pekin’s historic downtown.
221 Court St., Pekin
(309) 620-8072
maquetsrailhouse.com
OZ’Z Bar
Located near Fort Creve Coeur, OZ’Z is a live music venue with an expansive outdoor beer garden and a stage. Food options are currently limited to pizza. More information is available on OZ’Z Facebook page.
216 Marquette St., Creve Coeur
(309) 839-1109
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Perdue’s Grill
Featuring burgers, steaks, fish, pasta and wings, this Tremont restaurant sends something of a mixed message: The restaurant’s website greets visitors with a promise of “warm beer and lousy food.” But the site also includes testimonials from patrons that extol the eatery’s food and service. The greeting probably suggests nothing more ominous than owners with a working sense of humor.
201 S. Sampson St., Tremont
(309) 925-5200
perduesrestaurant.com
Seasons Gastropub
This Morton restaurant’s cuisine ranges from a selection of sandwiches and wraps that features the beef and pulled pork “Oink Moo Burger” and the “Jive Turkey” to a sushi menu. Apropos of the name, Seasons seems prepared for all four seasons. Open-air garage doors facilitate a seasonal outdoor dining experience, while a fireplace offers warmth in the winter.
149 S. Main St., Morton
(309) 266-1169
seasonsgastro.pub
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Storm Shelter at Eastport
Located at Eastport Marina in East Peoria, Storm Shelter is touted on its website as the “best view & sunset in central Illinois.” Nautical themes abound in the décor and a heavy weather-themed menu features such items as the Thunder Burger, StormCloud BBQ, Take Cover Chicken, and the Tremor Tenderloin.
701 Mariners Way, East Peoria
(309) 966-1445
stormshelter-ep.com
This article originally appeared on Pekin Daily Times: 10 outdoor dining options from restaurants to bars in Tazewell County
