Eats on or around Sheffield, IL

So it looks like I may be driving out to pick up my half a hog in Sheffield. I'll be coming from Naperville and know nothing about that area. I might as well make a day of it so if there's any restaurants/cheese shops, etc. I should stop at, I'd appreciate suggestions.

I dont get that far west, but here are a few spots en route or on the ay back that are good.

On I-80 you are passing right by the exits for GNR Cajun Connection(exit # 81) in Utica, In Lasalle there is Johns North Star(exit # 77) - great fried chicken, and the exit a little further west for Rip's(exit # 70 in Ladd, IL. - some of the best fried chicken in the state.

Also Princeton(exit # 56) a little further west has alot of antique shops, and a bar called Schooners that turns out some great beer battered mushrooms.

All of these spots are a little further east than Sheffield, Keep in mind Rip's and Cajun Connection & Johns North Star do not open til after 4:00 p.m.
There are threads on all of the above spots on LTH.

Also if you head south on I-39 to Oglesby there is the Rootbeer Stand that has great rootbeer, the best burger Ive had this year, and pork tenderloin sandwiches

From east to west:

Cajun Connection
897 E. U.S. Hwy 6
Utica, IL.

http://www.ronscajunconnection.com

The Rootbeer Stand
225 N. Columbia
Oglesby, IL.

Johns North Star
1840 Saint Vincents
LaSalle, IL.

Rip's
311 N. Main
Ladd, IL.
http://www.ripstavern.com

Have a nice trip out west to pick-up that pig.

Jean:

Are you picking up your 1/2 hog from Meadowhaven? If so, please report back regarding your experience, quality of the pork, etc.

Thanks!

Jim,

Thanks for the suggestions! I just may have to make a stop on the way and a stop on the way back.

Yes, I'm picking it up from Meadowhaven. I've already tried their pork chops and thought them to be quite good. I've had lots of the chicken, beef and eggs and have been very pleased. I didn't really like the way they smoke their bacon so I've opted to just use it for a pork belly recipe I've been wanting to try. Of course, I've had to learn how to cook grass fed meats but I'm pretty committed to changing the way I eat so it's been a welcome challenge. Knowing I didn't have to worry about my eggs was a welcome bonus and the quality is far superior to anything I can get at the store. Knowing the people who are producing my food is becoming more important to me and the folks at Meadowhaven are also nice people that you'd like to call your friend.

enjoyable $5.95 lunch special burger @ Red's Bar & Grill Sat.. Hand formed, juicy, nice.:



Red's Bar & Grill
127 E. Railroad Street
Sheffield, IL.