Rockford's food scene is about to get a makeover with the upcoming openings of Buona Beef and Rainbow Cone. Dive into the rest of our culinary wishlist.

Businesses We Wish Would Come to Rockford

It doesn't matter what Rockford resident you talk to, we all have a favorite store, restaurant, or business we've been exposed to while traveling that DOES NOT have a location back here in Rockford.

Almost everyone mentions Trader Joe's or Whole Foods almost immediately. I don't have confirmation on this but I think they both hate Rockford because all we keep getting are new or remodeled Aldi stores. No disrespect to Aldi but I'd love to see what all the TJ and WF hype is all about.

When that conversation gets to restaurants, we're all over the place with our favorites. Rather than share all the places that made our (informal Facebook) list, here are the chain restaurants mentioned most often.

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5 Chain Restaurants We Would LOVE To See Come to Rockford

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Getty Images
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Cheesecake Factory


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Google Maps
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Bonefish Grill


Hollywood Exteriors And Landmarks - 2021
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In-N-Out Burger


Georgia County Steels Itself to Reopen Despite 10% Death Rate
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Waffle House


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Raising Cane's Facebook
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Raising Canes


Other chains not mentioned as often included:

  • White Castle
  • Melting Pot
  • Uncle Julio's
  • Insomnia Cookies

What have you tried somewhere else that you'd like to see come to Rockford? Two legendary family-owned Chicago chains will be opening locations in the area soon.

Buona Beef and Rainbow Cone are coming to E. Riverside Blvd, in Loves Park.

20 Hidden Gem Spots from Across Illinois You Should See

Illinois is home to a plethora of hidden gems waiting to be explored. Parks, historic sites, roadside attractions, boutique hotels, and more. Go discover.

Gallery Credit: Steve Shannon

20 Things Rockford People Miss When They Go Out Of Town

What do you miss the most when you leave Rockford? 

Rockfordians had a lot to say when asked this question. Some were pretty serious... and others just have a really good sense of humor. Maybe you can relate to some of these!

Gallery Credit: Emily

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