The Best Hole-in-the-Wall Restaurant in Illinois Is in a Town You’ve Never Heard Of

The best food in Illinois isn’t found in fancy restaurants—it’s hidden in no-frills spots like this must-visit hole-in-the-wall in the tiny southern Illinois town of Ava.

The Best Food Comes from the Least Fancy Places

There’s something that just hits differently about a hole-in-the-wall restaurant. Maybe it’s the no-frills atmosphere, the laminated menus that have been around since the dawn of time, or the fact that you have to know someone who knows someone just to find the place. Whatever it is, these hidden gems often serve up food so good it makes you question every overpriced, overhyped restaurant you've ever been to.

In Illinois, we have our fair share of unassuming eateries that pack a punch. Whether it’s a burger joint where the grill has been seasoned by decades of history or a tiny diner where the biscuits and gravy could bring a tear to your eye, there’s no shortage of amazing food hiding in unexpected places.

Rockford’s Hidden Gems Hold Their Own

If you’re from Rockford, you know we have our own selection of underrated, hole-in-the-wall favorites. Think of spots like The Norwegian, where the brunch is legendary despite its cozy setting, or the unassuming taco joints scattered across the city that serve up the most authentic flavors you can find without crossing the border. These places don’t need gimmicks—they just need a hungry crowd that knows what’s up.

The Ultimate Hidden Gem: Crazy Joe’s Fish House

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Hot fish and cold beer. Not much else needs to be said.

When it comes to the best hole-in-the-wall restaurant in all of Illinois, we have to talk about Crazy Joe’s Fish House in Ava. And no, you’re not alone in wondering where Ava, Illinois, even is. Turns out, it’s way down in Southern Illinois, and it’s so off the beaten path that Google Street View doesn’t even bother showing you what it looks like. That’s how you know it’s the real deal.

According to Tasting Table, Crazy Joe’s is the kind of place that makes the trek worth it. The menu is packed with seafood goodness, but the fried selections are where this place really shines. Regulars swear by the catfish and hush puppies, and the laid-back, family-friendly vibe makes it the perfect spot to kick back and enjoy a meal that might just ruin all other fried fish for you.

It would appear the fish house might also smoke some great racks of ribs on occasion.

Time for a Road Trip

If you’re the kind of person who loves tracking down hidden food gems, Crazy Joe’s should be on your list. Sure, it might take a little extra effort to get there, but that’s part of the fun. After all, the best meals are the ones that come with a good story—and maybe a GPS reroute or two.

Crazy Joe's Fish House is located at 693 Suchman Road in Ava, Illinois. See more on Facebook.