6 Long Gone Rockford Restaurants We’d Love to Bring Back

In the midst of our fast-paced lives, there’s a certain charm in reminiscing about the Rockford area restaurants that shaped our youth. These 6 long-closed eateries we'd love to bring back hold a special place in our hearts, conjuring memories of simpler times.

Who could forget the cozy booths of our favorite pizzerias, where we celebrated birthdays and high school victories, or the family-run diners that served the best milkshakes and fries after school?

These restaurants were more than just places to eat; they were community hubs, where faces were familiar and stories were shared. They taught us the joy of food as an experience, not just a necessity.

The friendly banter with the waitstaff, the comforting ambiance, and the signature dishes that we couldn’t find anywhere else – these elements combined to create unforgettable memories.

The nostalgia for these beloved spots is not just about the food, but the feelings they evoked. They were where first dates happened, friendships blossomed, and milestones were celebrated.

While the world has moved on and new dining trends have emerged, a part of us still longs for those irreplaceable experiences. Bringing back these cherished restaurants would be like bringing back a piece of our youth, reminding us of the joy found in simple, delicious moments shared with loved ones.

A popular Facebook group, Growing Up in Rockford IL, asked "If you could bring back one long gone restaurant, what would it be?"

These were the 6 restaurants mentioned (and favorited) most often. Are any of these still holding a special place in your heart?

MARIA'S

Maria's was one of the restaurants I was sure would be mentioned many times. I never had a meal I didn't love here. Oh, that sweet delicious sauce!

THE LAST STRAW

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My wife and her mother's favorite place to eat together. It's where many fell in love with the chocolate malt.

Two locations - Alpine across from the Park and in the North Towne Mall. Just one more Fire Engine Special, please. When you had your birthday here, they had the Fire Engine Special where the staff would run around with the lights flashing and a siren going off. They would finally arrive at your table with enough ice cream to feed 12 people.

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BISHOP'S

Two locations, the first one downtown Rockford on North Main St, and then they moved to Colonial Village. There's nothing like pressing the light on the table to have someone get you something else. The chocolate Ambrose pie was a big favorite, as were the balloons with feet.

CHEN'S

The best egg rolls and mai tai's! Rumor has it that this was a favorite place of Cheap Trick's Rick Nielsen, who was a regular customer when he was home.

DIAMOND DAVE'S

They had some of the best salsa, in a squeeze bottle at your table. They also had wonderful taco salads and Spanish rice.

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TOP HAT

Fantastic buffet and the best fried chicken and au gratin potatoes in town.

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