When it comes to dining in Central Illinois, Peoria Heights stands out as a culinary destination where locally-owned restaurants and bars serve up everything from craft cocktails and artisan pizzas to upscale dining and comfort food classics. The walkable Prospect Road corridor has earned its reputation as the region's premier food and drink scene, where you can spend an entire evening hopping between unique eateries, each with its own personality and devoted following.
Supporting local restaurants means more than just a great meal—it means investing in the heart of your community. The Heights is home to passionate restaurateurs, innovative chefs, and welcoming bartenders who pour their creativity and dedication into every dish and drink. Here's your complete alphabetical guide to the restaurants and bars that make Peoria Heights a true food lover's paradise.
Address: 4925 N Galena Road, Peoria Heights, IL
Website: Visit Big Behm's
Big Behm's Sports Bar is where sports passion meets community spirit. Owner and former Richwoods basketball state champion (2009) created this family-owned sports bar as a place where family, friends, and the community can connect over great food, cold drinks, and the game. With multiple screens showing all the action, a welcoming atmosphere, and pub fare done right, Big Behm's has quickly become a Heights favorite for game day gatherings and casual nights out.
Address: 4408 N Prospect Road, Peoria Heights, IL
Website: Visit Bust'd Brewing
Bust'd Brewing is a true family affair—owners Amber and Brian are husband and wife, Amber's sister serves as taproom manager, and you might even see their son Dylan around (he might rope you into a Minecraft game!). This craft brewery offers locally brewed beers in a welcoming taproom atmosphere where everyone who walks through the door is invited to join the family. From seasonal releases to year-round favorites, Bust'd creates approachable craft beers that celebrate community and creativity.
Address: 1327 E Kelly Avenue, Peoria Heights, IL
Website: Visit Cafe Santa Rosa
Cafe Santa Rosa brings vibrant Latin flavors and warm hospitality to Peoria Heights. This locally-owned café serves authentic dishes that transport diners south of the border with fresh ingredients, bold flavors, and recipes crafted with care. Whether you're craving tacos, enchiladas, or specialty Latin dishes, Cafe Santa Rosa delivers quality and authenticity in a colorful, welcoming atmosphere.
Address: 4542 N Prospect Road, Peoria Heights, IL
Website: Visit Casa Agave
Casa Agave offers a fresh, modern take on Mexican dining in Peoria Heights. From the moment you step inside, the contemporary atmosphere and thoughtful design set the stage for an elevated Mexican dining experience. The menu features creative interpretations of classic dishes alongside innovative specialties, all crafted with quality ingredients and authentic flavors. Casa Agave proves that Mexican cuisine can be both approachable and sophisticated, making it perfect for everything from casual dinners to special celebrations.
Address: 4541 N Prospect Road, Suite 103, Peoria Heights, IL
Website: Visit Clink Bar
Clink Bar and Events transforms from family-friendly dining by day to a vibrant social scene after dark. This spirited space features fresh, lighter fare than typical bar food, with a menu designed for kids of all ages. Watch Chicago sports on multiple screens while enjoying craft cocktails and elevated pub food on the spacious outdoor patio or in the stylish indoor dining room. Clink also offers a cozy private event space complete with a private bar—and they're home to the area's only mobile Airstream bar for events.
Address: 4604 N Prospect Road, Peoria Heights, IL 61616
Website: Visit Hearth
Hearth has earned its reputation as one of Peoria Heights' most beloved dining destinations, consistently ranking among diners' top choices for quality, ambiance, and service. This restaurant focuses on seasonally-inspired cuisine with an emphasis on locally-sourced ingredients and from-scratch cooking. The warm, inviting atmosphere strikes the perfect balance between upscale and approachable, making Hearth equally suited for romantic date nights and celebrations with friends and family.
Address: 4612 N Prospect Road, Peoria Heights, IL
Website: Visit Jim's Bistro
Jim's Bistro offers a refined dining experience with a menu that celebrates both classic techniques and creative innovation. This intimate restaurant specializes in expertly prepared dishes that highlight quality ingredients and thoughtful flavor combinations. Whether you're enjoying a leisurely dinner or celebrating a special occasion, Jim's Bistro provides attentive service and a sophisticated atmosphere that elevates any meal.
Address: 4609 N Prospect Road, Peoria Heights, IL 61616
Website: Visit Joe's
Joe's Original Italian & Martini Bar combines authentic Italian cuisine with a sophisticated bar program featuring creative martinis and an extensive wine selection. The menu ranges from traditional Italian classics to contemporary interpretations, with house-made pastas and signature dishes that keep diners coming back. The elegant yet comfortable atmosphere makes Joe's perfect for romantic dinners, special celebrations, or anytime you're craving exceptional Italian food paired with craft cocktails.
Address: 4800 N Prospect Road, Peoria Heights, IL 61616
Website: Visit Leaves n Beans
Leaves n Beans is more than just a coffee shop—it's a roasting company, café, and community gathering space all in one. This locally-owned business roasts their own coffee beans and serves them alongside freshly made lunches in a cozy atmosphere perfect for catching up with friends, working remotely, or simply savoring a perfectly crafted cup. As a wholesale distributor, their fresh-roasted coffee also reaches cafés and restaurants throughout the region.
Address: 4603 N Prospect Road, Peoria Heights, IL 61616
Website: Visit Olio and Vino
While primarily known as a specialty retail shop, Olio and Vino's olive oil and balsamic tasting bar, wine tastings, and gourmet offerings make it a unique addition to the Heights' food scene. Sample premium olive oils from around the world, pair them with aged balsamic vinegars, and discover how quality ingredients can transform your home cooking. Don't leave without picking up artisan bread, specialty cheeses, and gourmet spices.
Address: 4450 N Prospect Road, Suite C1, Peoria Heights, IL 61616
Website: Visit Pour Bros
Pour Bros. Craft Taproom is Peoria Heights' destination for craft beer enthusiasts. With an ever-rotating selection of local, regional, and national craft beers on tap, Pour Bros creates a laid-back atmosphere where beer lovers can discover new favorites or enjoy tried-and-true classics. The knowledgeable staff can guide you through flights and pairings, and the casual vibe makes it perfect for everything from date nights to catching up with friends over pints.
Address: 4450 N Prospect Road, Suite S-1, Peoria Heights, IL
Website: Visit Slow Hand BBQ
Slow Hand BBQ brings authentic, slow-smoked barbecue to Peoria Heights. True to its name, this restaurant takes its time to create tender, flavorful meats smoked to perfection. From pulled pork and brisket to ribs and smoked wings, Slow Hand serves up barbecue made the right way—low and slow—with house-made sauces and classic sides that complete the experience.
Address: 4541 N Prospect Road, Suite 33, Peoria Heights, IL
Website: Visit The 33 Room
The 33 Room is one of Peoria Heights' most unique cocktail lounges, offering craft cocktails in an intimate, sophisticated setting. This bar specializes in expertly crafted drinks made with premium spirits, house-made ingredients, and creative flavor combinations. The retro-cool atmosphere and attention to detail make The 33 Room perfect for special date nights or when you want to enjoy cocktails that are as beautiful as they are delicious.
Address: 4534 N Prospect Road, Peoria Heights, IL
Website: Visit The Daily Scoop
The Daily Scoop (formerly Emack & Bolio's) is independently owned by Peoria Heights residents and offers premium ice cream, vegan options, sugar-free choices, Italian ice, smoothies, and shakes. With seasonal flavors like Caramel Apple Pie in fall and Peppermint during the holidays, there's always something new to try. Unlike most ice cream shops, The Daily Scoop stays open through December, and they also offer catering with an ice cream push cart and truck for special events.
Address: 4408 N Prospect Road, Peoria Heights, IL
Website: Visit The Other Dawg
The Other Dawg serves up gourmet hot dogs and casual American fare with creative twists. This laid-back eatery proves that hot dogs can be elevated to an art form with quality ingredients, unique toppings, and flavor combinations you won't find anywhere else. Perfect for a quick lunch or casual dinner, The Other Dawg delivers big flavors in a fun, unpretentious atmosphere.
Address: 4614 N Prospect Road, Peoria Heights, IL 61616
Website: Visit Publik House
The Publik House is a classically hip Euramerican gastropub that consistently ranks among Peoria Heights' top dining destinations. Owner Travis Goff, who grew up in the restaurant industry and met his wife while bartending, brought his vision of quality food and service to life in this beloved establishment. The menu features elevated pub fare with European influences, craft beers, and an inviting atmosphere whether you're dining inside or on the spacious patio. It's everything diners want in a restaurant and bar: great food, top-notch ambiance, and excellent service.
Address: 4538 N Prospect Rd, Peoria Heights, IL
Website: Visit W.E. Sullivan's
W.E. Sullivan's brings authentic Irish pub atmosphere and fare to Peoria Heights. This locally-owned Irish pub offers traditional favorites, cold pints, and the warm hospitality that defines great pub culture. Whether you're catching a game, enjoying happy hour with coworkers, or settling in for a hearty meal, Sullivan's delivers the comfortable, welcoming environment that makes Irish pubs beloved gathering places. With classic pub food done right and a selection of beers and cocktails, Sullivan's has become a Heights favorite for both regulars and newcomers looking for friendly service and satisfying food in a relaxed atmosphere.
Address: 4303 N Prospect Rd, Peoria Heights, IL
Website: Visit Yeni's Palarte
Yeni's Palarte brings vibrant, authentic flavors to the Peoria Heights dining scene. This locally-owned restaurant specializes in delicious, carefully crafted dishes that celebrate culinary traditions with fresh ingredients and bold flavors. Whether you're discovering new favorites or enjoying familiar comfort foods prepared with care and expertise, Yeni's Palarte offers a dining experience that combines quality, authenticity, and warm hospitality. The welcoming atmosphere makes it perfect for everything from casual weeknight dinners to special celebrations with family and friends.
Curious about the real impact of dining local? Read our comprehensive guide on why eating at Peoria Heights restaurants matters and discover how your restaurant choices strengthen our community, support your neighbors, and preserve the unique culinary culture that makes the Heights special.
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Whether you're a longtime resident or visiting for the first time, Peoria Heights' locally-owned restaurants and bars offer something special that chain establishments simply cannot replicate: authenticity, community, and passion poured into every plate and glass. From craft beer and bourbon to Italian feasts and barbecue, from intimate cocktail lounges to family-friendly sports bars, the Heights serves up culinary experiences that feed both body and community spirit.
Ready to taste what makes Peoria Heights special? Pull up a chair, raise a glass, and discover why eating local is always the best choice!
This blog post features restaurant and bar members of the Peoria Heights Chamber of Commerce. For current hours, menus, and reservations, please contact establishments directly or visit their websites. Want your restaurant or bar featured? Join the Peoria Heights Chamber of Commerce today!
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