Delicious Downstate Fare at Chicago Hut in Pekin, Illinois - Restaurant Review

Tucked into the shopping plaza that houses County Market and Godfather's Pizza, Chicago Hut in Pekin, Illinois occupies a narrow space in front of an adjoining video arcade. The small eatery combines the convenience and value of fast food with the fresh, healthy ingredients and exotic flair of Greek cuisine.

There are several takes on the Vienna Beef hot dogs that are so popular in Chicago, as well as a multitude of other sandwich options. They have gyros (including a chicken variety), at least a half dozen chicken sandwiches, several types of paninis and wraps, combination meals, and lots of side choices. One unique item I noticed was a Greek salad topped with gyro meat. I was surprised to see that they even offered a few different kinds of French fries. Their combo meals offer rice as an option over fries, which is a nice alternative that you don't see very often in Central Illinois; I plan to try the spinach pie next time.

Although you might not guess it, Chicago Hut carries several vegetarian items (but vegans might be hard-pressed to find anything other than fries). I've eaten there twice, and couldn't stop myself from ordering the same thing both times (nor could my boyfriend). He went with the veggie panini, while I had the wrap. When I first asked about the ingredients, I was a little disappointed, as they sounded pretty sparse (not to mention unimaginative) -- lettuce, tomatoes, provolone, onions, and mayo. However, the makings were perfectly mixed, with flavor packed into every bite. The bread, which seemed like a very thin pita, almost like a tortilla, provided the ideal cover for the veggies, and was lightly browned.

The first time we visited, we each ordered fries -- cheese for him, Greek for me. We should have known by the price that these weren't ordinary helpings of fries -- one order would have been enough for a meal. The second time, we shared the Greek ones, and it was still more than enough. As for the taste...yum! I don't normally get too excited about fries, but these were crispy on the outside, and tasted like real potatoes inside--no mushiness here. They were dusted with an amazing seasoning, and a generous sprinkling of feta cheese, with a couple of kalamata olives as a garnish. The cheese fries were good, with a nice, creamy sauce, but they just couldn't match the greatness of their Greek counterpart. On our last visit, we finished with an order of baklava, a steal at 99 cents a piece. Here, you pick your piece from a plate at the counter, and it's heated for you and placed on a flower-shaped plate. It had a nice balance of filo dough and filling, and I thought I tasted a touch of cinnamon.

This place has it all when it comes to food that's fast (though not fast food) - great taste, reasonable prices, a varied menu, and even a touch of originality. The service is fast and friendly; one of the staff told us she loves to answer questions (a good thing, since I had lots of them). Chicago Hut is a must-visit if you're in Pekin, or even worth the trek from Peoria or elsewhere if you want a tasty option with something for everyone.

Chicago Hut Restaurant
2111 Court Street
Pekin, IL 61554
(309) 353-2111