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3 Peoria Hot Hole-in-the-Wall Joints

Peoria Hot Hole-in-the-Wall Joints

3 Peoria Hot Hole-in-the-Wall Joints

We’ll take you on a gastronomic journey through three of the Peoria hot hole-in-the-wall joints, offering a taste of the local flavors and experiences that these establishments have to offer. Nestled along the Illinois River, Peoria, IL, is a city known for its rich history, cultural diversity, and, of course, its vibrant food scene. While Peoria may not always be the first place that comes to mind when thinking of culinary destinations, it has its fair share of hidden culinary gems waiting to be explored.

These Peoria hot hole-in-the-wall joints are not your typical dining spots. They may lack the glitz and glamour of upscale restaurants, but what they lack in ambiance, they more than make up for with their delicious and authentic fare. From Middle Eastern delights to hearty American classics, these eateries have carved out their own unique niches within the city.

However, it’s important to note that Peoria’s culinary landscape is far from limited to just these three Peoria hot hole-in-the-wall joints. In fact, these are just the tip of the iceberg in a city teeming with even more Peoria hot hole-in-the-wall joints for you to discover. So, join us as we embark on this culinary adventure, and keep in mind that Peoria, IL, has a wealth of hidden culinary treasures waiting to be explored beyond the confines of these three delightful venues.


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3 Best Hole-in-the-Wall Joints in Peoria

1) Ulrich’s Rebellion Room

Address >> 631 Main St

Peoria, Illinois, is home to a vibrant food scene, and amidst the culinary diversity, Ulrich’s Rebellion Room stands out as one of the true Peoria hot hole-in-the-wall joints. Nestled in the heart of downtown Peoria, this charming establishment is a hidden gem that embodies the spirit of local dining. Family-owned and operated for generations, Ulrich’s Rebellion Room offers a unique dining experience that combines rich history with delectable cuisine.

Ulrich’s Rebellion Room provides a cozy and welcoming atmosphere for patrons, making it a popular destination for both locals and visitors. The restaurant caters to a variety of dining preferences, offering Dine-in, Takeaway, and No-contact delivery services, ensuring that everyone can enjoy their flavorful creations in their preferred setting.

Signature Dish:

One of the standout features of Ulrich’s Rebellion Room is its legendary “Rebellion Burger.” This mouthwatering creation is the epitome of comfort food. A perfectly cooked beef patty, handcrafted with a secret blend of spices, is nestled between a fresh, toasted brioche bun. Topped with crispy bacon, melted cheddar cheese, and a tangy special sauce, this burger is a flavor explosion that leaves an indelible mark on your taste buds. The Rebellion Burger is often hailed as the cornerstone of the restaurant’s success, and rightfully so.

3 Main Claims to Fame:

1. St. Louis-Style Ribs: Ulrich’s Rebellion Room boasts some of the most tender and flavorful St. Louis-style ribs in Peoria. Slow-cooked to perfection, these ribs are slathered in a smoky barbecue sauce that strikes the ideal balance between sweet and savory. Served with a side of coleslaw and crispy fries, this dish is a carnivore’s dream.

2. Chicken Alfredo: For those seeking a creamy and indulgent option, the Chicken Alfredo at Ulrich’s Rebellion Room is a must-try. Tender pieces of chicken breast are sautéed and combined with fettuccine pasta, all smothered in a rich Alfredo sauce. The dish is garnished with a sprinkle of fresh Parmesan cheese and chopped parsley, making it a comforting classic.

3. Fish Tacos: If you’re in the mood for something lighter yet bursting with flavor, the Fish Tacos are a fantastic choice. Crispy, beer-battered fish fillets are nestled in soft tortillas, topped with crunchy cabbage slaw, and drizzled with zesty lime crema. Served with a side of seasoned rice and black beans, these tacos provide a delightful blend of textures and tastes.

Ulrich’s Rebellion Room unquestionably earns its place among the top Peoria hot hole-in-the-wall joints. With a rich history, family ownership, and a menu that caters to various tastes, this restaurant encapsulates the essence of local dining. They are one of the Peoria hot hole-in-the-wall joints.

Whether you’re in the mood for their legendary Rebellion Burger, succulent St. Louis-style ribs, creamy Chicken Alfredo, or delightful Fish Tacos, Ulrich’s Rebellion Room promises a memorable culinary experience. So, whether you’re a Peoria local or just passing through, be sure to add this gem to your list of must-visit eateries for a taste of authentic Peoria cuisine in a warm and welcoming setting. They rank high among the popular Peoria hot hole-in-the-wall joints for good reasons.


2) Jerusalem Restaurant

Address >> 2027 W Farmington Rd Ste B

Nestled discreetly in the heart of Peoria, Illinois, Jerusalem Restaurant is a true hidden gem among the Peoria hot hole-in-the-wall joints. This unassuming eatery is a testament to the city’s diverse culinary landscape. Family-owned and operated, Jerusalem Restaurant has garnered a loyal following, thanks to its authentic Middle Eastern cuisine and inviting atmosphere. The restaurant caters to various dining preferences, offering Dine-in, Takeaway, and No-contact delivery services, ensuring that everyone can savor the flavors of the Middle East in their preferred setting.

Signature Dish:

Jerusalem Restaurant’s pièce de résistance is undoubtedly the Shawarma Platter. Served on a bed of fluffy, fragrant basmati rice, the shawarma features thinly sliced, perfectly seasoned and tender cuts of marinated beef or chicken. The dish is adorned with a colorful array of fresh vegetables, including tomatoes, cucumbers, and red onions. The crowning glory is the restaurant’s velvety, house-made garlic sauce and tahini drizzle, which elevate every bite to culinary perfection. The Shawarma Platter is a harmonious fusion of flavors and textures that transports your taste buds straight to the streets of Jerusalem.

3 Main Claims to Fame:

1. Falafel Wrap: Jerusalem Restaurant’s Falafel Wrap is a delightful vegan option that is nothing short of a flavor explosion. Crispy and golden brown falafel balls are nestled in warm, soft pita bread and accompanied by a medley of fresh vegetables and tahini sauce. Each bite offers a harmonious blend of earthy chickpea goodness, crunchy textures, and creamy sauces, making it a must-try for vegetarians and falafel enthusiasts.

2. Lamb Kebabs: For those seeking a savory meat dish, the Lamb Kebabs are an excellent choice. Succulent pieces of marinated lamb are skewered and grilled to perfection. Served with a side of fragrant saffron-infused rice and a generous helping of mixed greens, this dish is a celebration of Middle Eastern flavors. The tender lamb is complemented by the subtle spices and aromatic rice, creating a dish that is both hearty and satisfying.

3. Baklava: No visit to Jerusalem Restaurant is complete without indulging in their Baklava. This classic Middle Eastern dessert is a sweet and flaky masterpiece. Layers of buttery phyllo dough are generously filled with a mixture of chopped nuts and sweet honey syrup, resulting in a dessert that is both crunchy and sticky, with a delightful balance of sweetness and nuttiness.

Jerusalem Restaurant embodies the essence of Peoria hot hole-in-the-wall joints, offering an authentic taste of the Middle East in a warm and family-oriented atmosphere. With their delectable Shawarma Platter, mouthwatering Falafel Wrap, succulent Lamb Kebabs, and heavenly Baklava, they’ve created a culinary haven that appeals to both locals and visitors alike. They are absolutely one of the Peoria hot hole-in-the-wall joints.

So, if you’re looking for a hidden gem that showcases the vibrant flavors of the Middle East, make your way to Jerusalem Restaurant in Peoria and savor an unforgettable dining experience that will transport your palate to the heart of Jerusalem. They definitely stand out among the Peoria hot hole-in-the-wall joints.


3) Chef Moussa

Address >> 201 E Lake Ave

Chef Moussa, a hidden treasure among the Peoria hot hole-in-the-wall joints, offers a culinary journey like no other in Peoria, Illinois. This unpretentious gem is a testament to the city’s diverse dining scene. Chef Moussa is a family-owned and operated restaurant that has earned its reputation as one of the must-visit spots for locals and visitors alike. They proudly offer a range of dining options, including Dine-in, Takeaway, and No-contact delivery services, ensuring that patrons can savor their delectable creations in their preferred setting.

Signature Dish:

The star of Chef Moussa’s menu is undeniably their mouthwatering Beef Shawarma Platter. Tender slices of marinated beef, bursting with flavors of garlic, cumin, and paprika, are expertly grilled to perfection. Served on a bed of fragrant basmati rice, the shawarma is accompanied by a vibrant assortment of fresh vegetables, including tomatoes, cucumbers, and pickles. To elevate the dish to perfection, it’s generously drizzled with their special tahini sauce, adding a creamy and nutty dimension to every bite. The Beef Shawarma Platter is a symphony of Middle Eastern flavors that transports your taste buds to the bustling streets of Beirut.

3 Main Claims to Fame:

1. Chicken Kebabs: For those seeking a lighter yet savory option, Chef Moussa’s Chicken Kebabs are a delightful choice. Succulent chunks of marinated chicken are skewered and grilled to perfection, resulting in a dish that is tender, flavorful, and slightly smoky. Served with a side of fragrant saffron rice and a fresh garden salad, this dish is a harmony of textures and tastes that will leave your palate satisfied.

2. Vegetarian Falafel Plate: Chef Moussa doesn’t disappoint when it comes to catering to vegetarians. Their Vegetarian Falafel Plate features golden-brown falafel patties made from a blend of chickpeas and aromatic spices. Accompanied by a generous portion of hummus, tabbouleh, and warm pita bread, this dish offers a medley of flavors and textures that celebrate the essence of Middle Eastern cuisine.

3. Baklava: To conclude your meal on a sweet note, indulging in Chef Moussa’s Baklava is a must. This classic Middle Eastern dessert consists of layers of delicate phyllo pastry, filled with a mix of crushed nuts and sweet honey syrup. Each bite is a delightful combination of crispy, sticky, and nutty goodness, making it a heavenly dessert that perfectly complements their savory dishes.

Chef Moussa stands out as one of the Peoria hot hole-in-the-wall joints, offering an authentic taste of Middle Eastern cuisine that is both delicious and inviting. With their exquisite Beef Shawarma Platter, flavorful Chicken Kebabs, satisfying Vegetarian Falafel Plate, and heavenly Baklava, they have created a culinary haven that showcases the rich flavors of the Middle East. They are another one of the Peoria hot hole-in-the-wall joints.

Whether you’re a local looking for a hidden gem or a visitor seeking an unforgettable dining experience, Chef Moussa is a destination that will transport your palate to the heart of Beirut, right in the heart of Peoria. They deserve to be ranked high among the best Peoria hot hole-in-the-wall joints.


The three Peoria hot hole-in-the-wall joints we’ve explored offer a tantalizing glimpse into the diverse and vibrant culinary scene that this Illinois city has to offer. From the authentic Middle Eastern flavors of Chef Moussa to the comforting and savory dishes at Ulrich’s Rebellion Room and the mouthwatering delights of Jerusalem Restaurant, these hidden gems showcase the passion and dedication of their owners in creating memorable dining experiences.

However, it’s essential to remember that Peoria, IL, has so much more to offer in terms of the Peoria hot hole-in-the-wall joints waiting to be discovered. The city’s rich culinary landscape is brimming with unique, locally-owned establishments, each with its own distinctive charm and flavors. Whether you’re craving international cuisine, down-home comfort food, or something entirely unexpected, Peoria has a large number of culinary gems to explore.

So, while we’ve only scratched the surface with these three Peoria hot hole-in-the-wall joints, I encourage you to embark on your own gastronomic adventure through the city. There’s no shortage of hidden treasures waiting to be uncovered, each offering a delightful and unforgettable journey for your taste buds. Whether you’re a resident or a visitor, the Peoria hot hole-in-the-wall joints are a testament to the city’s culinary richness, and there’s no better way to discover its heart and soul than through its diverse and delectable dining options.


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