Dining out in Alton, IL just got easier, thanks to these recommendations!
It started as a simple question, “Where can you eat in Alton?” And as I started rattling off my list of favorite things all around town, it dawned on me you could work through Alton one course at a time. So let’s begin:
Coffee
Maeva’s (1320 Milton Rd.) – This is always on my list, not just because it is close but because their seasonal menu is unique. My winter go-to is the Midnight Mocha, with charcoal mocha powder and hazelnut syrup. They also have quiches, soups, and a wide selection of breakfast essentials in their display case.
Germania Brew Haus (617 E. Broadway) – They have various drive-thru locations throughout the Alton area. My favorite coffee option is the GBH, a white mocha with caramel drizzle. If you are running errands later in the day, make sure to grab your kiddo one of their delicious shakes or cozy hot chocolates.
Breakfast
Mac’s Time Out (315 Belle Street) – Their Sunday brunch is my favorite. Four words: Crème Brûlée French Toast. It will melt in your mouth with fluffy, syrup-topped goodness. The menu changes, but plan on getting multiple plates!
Lunch
Sammi’s Sandwiches (2505 State Street) – The sandwiches found at this stop are massive. If my husband is feeling the Italian, we will split it – if he is not, we will have sandwiches for lunch and dinner. They have also added salads that are large and filling.
Brown Bag Bistro (318 E. Broadway) – Their daily specials tend to be what we order, especially when the grilled cheese with Granny Smith apples is featured. They also offer delicious salads and naan flatbreads.
Happy Hour
Bossanova Restaurant & Lounge (112 W. Third St.) – If you are looking for a great martini, this is your place. The cocktail menu has a clear theme – one side James Bond – the other Austin Powers. If you are not up for a martini, they also have a wide variety of whiskey and scotch.
Old Bakery Beer Company (400 Landmarks Blvd.) – With a wide selection of their beers and a seasonally changing food menu, this is probably our most frequented restaurant in Alton. Also, if you have kiddos, the PB and J is the best on this side of the river. Grab extra napkins because this one gets messy.
Dinner
Bluff City Grill (424 E. Broadway) – The No. 1 thing that keeps me going back is their guac bites. Guacamole, with just the right amount of heat, in a fried won-ton and sweet chili dipping sauce. Yum! The menu is huge, so you will be able to find something to enjoy.
Castelli’s (3400 Fosterburg Rd.) – If you are craving fried chicken, you will not be disappointed with this dinner location. Are you not feeling fried chicken? Try any of their Italian dishes. I still miss their manicotti, but the baked lasagna does not disappoint. Also, I highly recommend the house dressing.
Fancy Dinner
Tony’s (102 W. 9th St.) – For me, this will always be a place for a nice steak dinner (there is a reason why the Pepperloin is “Famous”). But they also have great seafood and pasta options. If you want a more low-key dinner, you can always eat on the bar side and grab a sandwich or pizza.
Gentelin’s (122 E. Broadway) – This is our other go-to for fancy dinners. My favorite is the wild mushroom ravioli. You cannot get much more Alton than the view of the Clark Bridge from inside this restaurant. Also, get dessert. You are welcome.
Fancy Dinner at Home
Epicurean Fare (4 E. Broadway) – If you are reading this, you probably have a kiddo … or more … which sometimes means no fancy dinners out. Alton has an answer. Epicurian Fare sells specialty items that you take home and heat up. Think roast duck, lamb chops— things too fancy for me to try. I got a crab cake the size of a softball, resulting in the happiest lunch.
Dessert
My Just Desserts (31 E. Broadway) – They offer more than desserts, but the pie crust is better than anything I could ever make at home! And speaking of home, their chocolate chip cookies are just like the ones my mom makes, only I don’t have a pile of flour on my floor when I attempt to recreate them at home.
There are so many great places to eat in Alton. Bon appétit!
