Edwardsville, Illinois, a town steeped in history and brimming with modern energy, is quickly becoming a culinary hotspot in the Metro East region. Nestled in close proximity to St. Louis, this vibrant community offers a delightful mix of classic comfort food and innovative cuisine, satisfying every palate and budget. Whether you’re a student at Southern Illinois University Edwardsville (SIUE) craving a quick bite, a family seeking a memorable dinner, or a seasoned foodie eager to explore new flavors, Edwardsville has something delicious to offer. This guide highlights some of the best food places in Edwardsville IL, catering to a variety of tastes and ensuring an unforgettable dining experience. Come explore the best restaurants Edwardsville IL has to offer.
Casual Eats and Family Favorites
When you’re looking for a relaxed atmosphere and familiar flavors, Edwardsville doesn’t disappoint. Several establishments offer classic American fare with a local twist, perfect for a casual lunch or a family gathering.
One such gem is Stagger Inn Again. Stepping into Stagger Inn Again is like stepping into a warm embrace. This beloved local institution is renowned for its laid-back vibe, friendly service, and, most importantly, its mouthwatering burgers. Their burgers are cooked to perfection, piled high with fresh toppings, and served with a side of crispy fries. The extensive menu also features other classic American comfort food, including sandwiches, salads, and appetizers perfect for sharing. The atmosphere is warm and welcoming, making it an ideal spot for a casual meal with friends or family. Located on Main Street, it is a perfect spot to enjoy the day. It is budget friendly, and typically falls into the $ range.
Then there’s Cleveland-Heath, a must-visit in Edwardsville for those seeking a refined take on American comfort food. This restaurant prides itself on using locally sourced ingredients whenever possible, resulting in dishes that are both fresh and flavorful. The menu changes seasonally, reflecting the best of what the region has to offer. From their savory entrees to their handcrafted cocktails, everything at Cleveland-Heath is prepared with care and attention to detail. The restaurant has a trendy feel that is sure to make anyone enjoy their dining experience. Cleveland-Heath is located on Main Street, and is in the $$ price range.
For a combination of fun and food, Edison’s Entertainment Complex is a fantastic choice. This family-friendly venue offers not only bowling and arcade games but also a full-service restaurant with a diverse menu. From burgers and pizzas to salads and appetizers, there’s something for everyone to enjoy. Edison’s Entertainment Complex provides entertainment for the whole family to enjoy. It is in the $$ price range.
Global Cuisine in Edwardsville
Edwardsville’s culinary scene extends far beyond American classics. The town boasts a diverse array of international restaurants, offering a taste of flavors from around the world.
For Asian cuisine enthusiasts, Wang Gang Asian Eats is a must-try. This popular spot serves up delicious and authentic Asian dishes with a modern twist. Their menu features a variety of stir-fries, noodle dishes, and rice bowls, all made with fresh ingredients and bold flavors. The portions are generous, and the prices are reasonable, making Wang Gang Asian Eats a great value for a satisfying meal. Located on Troy Road, it is a perfect choice for anyone wanting to try Asian Cuisine. Wang Gang Asian Eats is in the $ price range.
La Casa Mexicana brings the vibrant flavors of Mexico to Edwardsville. This family-owned restaurant is known for its authentic Mexican dishes, including tacos, enchiladas, burritos, and fajitas. The ingredients are fresh, the portions are generous, and the atmosphere is festive. Be sure to try their margaritas, which are the perfect complement to any meal. Their chips and salsa are endless, and the service is top notch. This restaurant is a great place to bring a family or to enjoy dinner with friends. La Casa Mexicana is in the $$ price range.
If you’re in the mood for Italian, Bella Milano is an excellent choice. This upscale Italian restaurant offers a sophisticated dining experience with a focus on fresh, seasonal ingredients. Their menu features a variety of classic Italian dishes, including pasta, seafood, and meat entrees, all prepared with care and attention to detail. The wine list is extensive, and the service is impeccable. Bella Milano offers an exceptional Italian dining experience in Edwardsville. It is in the $$ price range.
Pizza Perfection and More
When the craving for pizza strikes, Edwardsville has plenty of options to satisfy. From wood-fired creations to classic pies, you’re sure to find the perfect slice.
Peel Wood Fired Pizza is a standout for its artisanal pizzas, crafted with high-quality ingredients and cooked in a wood-fired oven. The result is a pizza with a perfectly crispy crust and a smoky flavor that is simply irresistible. Peel Wood Fired Pizza offers a variety of toppings, from classic pepperoni to more adventurous combinations. The restaurant also has a great selection of craft beers, making it a perfect spot for a casual night out. They also have some amazing appetizers, like the fried pickles. The service is great, and you won’t be waiting long for your meal. Peel Wood Fired Pizza is in the $$ price range.
For a more upscale dining experience with a focus on prime cuts of meat, Moussalli’s Prime is an excellent choice. This restaurant offers a sophisticated atmosphere and a menu featuring high-quality steaks, seafood, and other fine-dining dishes. The wine list is extensive, and the service is impeccable. Moussalli’s Prime is the perfect place to celebrate a special occasion or enjoy a romantic dinner. It is in the $$$ price range.
For a healthy, refreshing experience, Source Juicery is the place to go. They offer fresh pressed juices, smoothies, acai bowls and more. Everything there is made with fresh ingredients, and it tastes so good! It is a healthy and great option for someone looking to grab a light meal or a snack. The employees are extremely friendly and helpful. Source Juicery is in the $ price range.
Coffee, Pastries, and Dessert Delights
No culinary tour of Edwardsville would be complete without indulging in some sweet treats. The town has several excellent coffee shops and bakeries, perfect for satisfying your sweet tooth or grabbing a caffeine fix.
Goshen Coffee Company is a local favorite, known for its expertly brewed coffee and cozy atmosphere. This coffee shop serves a variety of coffee drinks, from classic espresso to specialty lattes, all made with high-quality beans. Goshen Coffee Company also has a selection of pastries and light snacks, making it a perfect spot to relax and recharge. Many people rave about their coffee being the best in town! Stop by and try a coffee for yourself! Goshen Coffee Company is in the $ price range.
For a classic frozen dessert, Annie’s Frozen Custard is a must-visit. This beloved ice cream shop serves up creamy, delicious frozen custard in a variety of flavors. Annie’s Frozen Custard has something for everyone, from classic vanilla to more creative creations. The perfect choice on a hot summer day! Annie’s Frozen Custard is budget friendly, and in the $ price range.
My Just Desserts is a charming bakery that serves up a variety of homemade pies, cakes, and other sweet treats. This bakery is known for its high-quality ingredients and delicious recipes. My Just Desserts also has a selection of savory items, making it a great spot for lunch or a light dinner. Many locals rave about how amazing the pies are, and they are a great choice for any occasion. My Just Desserts is in the $ price range.
Beyond the List
While this guide highlights some of the best food places in Edwardsville IL, it’s by no means exhaustive. Keep an eye out for the area’s food trucks, often parked at community events or near SIUE. These mobile eateries offer diverse cuisines and a fun, casual dining experience. A few options are After Thai food truck, Mann Meats BBQ, and Vincent Van Doughnut. Explore local farmer’s markets for fresh produce and locally made goods, offering a glimpse into the region’s agricultural bounty. Also, there are some food places in Edwardsville that have amazing views, like the restaurant at Sunset Hills Golf Course, or The Weingarten.
Conclusion
Edwardsville, IL, offers a surprisingly diverse and satisfying culinary landscape. From casual eateries to upscale restaurants, from classic American fare to international flavors, there’s something to please every palate. This guide provides a starting point for your culinary adventure, but the best way to discover your own favorite food places Edwardsville IL is to explore the town’s many dining options and experience them for yourself. So, grab your appetite and get ready to discover the delicious side of Edwardsville! Don’t miss the chance to experience the best restaurants Edwardsville IL has to offer.
