The Best Restaurants in Rockford According to the People Who Actually Live Here

A simple question went absolutely bonkers on a Rockford-area foodie group recently. Someone asked for restaurant recommendations in the area that didn't include chains or seafood, and the replies came fast and furious.

Food Is Serious Business in Rockford

Food is serious business for us here in the Midwest, and the Rockford area is no exception. Some restaurants got named over and over, while some sparked debate, and a few hidden gems even surprised longtime locals.

Local Voices Chime In With Their Favorites:

Sheena Harris says:

Marc’s Fusion for the best sushi! Some of our other favorites are Olympic, Tavern on Clark, Ernie’s Midtown Pub, Baker’s Street Burgers, Smokin Coop in summer, Buddy’s Burgers, Lucha Cantina.

Erica Reyes:

Some of the best sushi would be Marc's Fusion. Good Thai would be Sister's. For Indian try Vanakkam.

Jacklyn Kline: 

Crave Kitchen & Cocktails great food, amazing drinks. Nice date night spot. Located off of Riverside and Perryville.

Sylvia Ekedahl Waldsmith:

Rockford and the surrounding towns are FULL of wonderful, locally owned and operated, restaurants! It may take you a long time, but try and visit each and every one.

Beth Ann Alonzo:

Behr Den if a small neighborhood diner with extremely good prices and food sound good. A simple breakfast and lunch menu but you won't be disappointed in the food.

My Go To Rockford Restaurant Recs

Since I've been around Rockford for a minute, here are a few of my personal must-tries for anyone new in town.

• Lino's
• Capri
• Smokehouse BBQ
• Sisters Thai
• John's
• The Olympic Tavern
• Shogun

So, Where Would You Send a Newcomer First?

The truth is, there are so many great places in Rockford that you can literally start anywhere and still eat well.

So, here's the question: If someone new were to move to Rockford tomorrow, where would you send them first?