A list of more than 40 restaurants, shops and cafes that opened in the Peoria area in 2023 (2024)

As 2023 comes to a close, it is the perfect time to reflect and look back at the past year.

New restaurant concepts debuted, local favorites expanded and shuttered storefronts reopened. So, here is a look at the Peoria-area restaurants, bars and cafes that have opened this year.

More:Looking for the scoop on Peoria restaurants? Sign up for PJStar Dining

1. Ardor 2.0

A list of more than 40 restaurants, shops and cafes that opened in the Peoria area in 2023 (1)

While many in the Peoria area have come to know Ardor Breads and Provisions for its baked goods, the business launched its restaurant space on May 17. The restaurant offers breakfast platters, hearth-cooked chicken, specialty drinks and more.

“We made this leap because of the continued, very consistent support and business that we've seen for three years, which I think is any new business owner’s dream,”owner Cody Scogin said.

Details: 301 SW Water St., Peoria; (309) 431-7801, https://ardorbp.com/

'Peoria wanted more':Popular downtown bakery debuts new restaurant in historic space

2. Bake & Brew Panadería

A list of more than 40 restaurants, shops and cafes that opened in the Peoria area in 2023 (2)

Ana Chavez-Estrada opened Bake & Brew Panadería with her family on May 6. The coffee shop and Mexican bakery, located at The Shoppes at Grand Prairie, serves tres leches, conchas and more.

“I know there's not a lot of Mexican bakeries around here that sell this type of bread and stuff," Chavez-Estrada said. "So, we're hoping to introduce them to that and hopefully they like it.”

Details: 5201 W. War Memorial Drive, Suite 530, Peoria; (309) 670-1040, https://bakeandbrewpanaderia.com/

More:From sweet breads to coffee, new bakery bringing Mexican treats to Peoria shopping center

3. Bollywood Bites Bistro & Events Center

A list of more than 40 restaurants, shops and cafes that opened in the Peoria area in 2023 (3)

Bollywood Bites held its grand opening in the MAXAM Building on Oct. 13. Customers at the restaurant can find biryani, curries, naan bread and more.

"People are gonna start traveling here for this because this is special," building owner Andrew Driscoll said.

Details: 316 SW Washington St. STE 1B, Peoria; (309) 670-0936, https://bollywoodbitesbistro.com/

More:New Downtown Peoria restaurant opening with Indian dishes and drinks

4. Bust'd Brewing

A list of more than 40 restaurants, shops and cafes that opened in the Peoria area in 2023 (4)

Peoria Heights' new brewery opened with a selection of eight craft beers on May 17. The menu included names such as "Tower Pale Ale," "Trailblazer,""Misty Mountain"and more.

Dunlap couple Amber and Brian Buss opened the business.

Details: 4408 N. Prospect Road, Peoria Heights; (309) 839-1032, https://www.facebook.com/bustdbrewing

From hobby to business:Couple is bringing brewing back to Peoria Heights

5. Charlie’s at Sunset Cove

A list of more than 40 restaurants, shops and cafes that opened in the Peoria area in 2023 (5)

Charlie's at Sunset Cove is situated on the banks of Peoria Lake. Owner Chris Stewart saw the space as a “hideaway with a good view.” The restaurant offers pizza, burgers specials and more.

Details: 1111 Sunset Drive, East Peoria; (309) 822-1800, https://www.facebook.com/p/Charlies-at-Sunset-Cove-100087599510262/

Learn more:Take in river sunsets, fishbowl drinks at new East Peoria eatery

6. Clink Bar and Events

A list of more than 40 restaurants, shops and cafes that opened in the Peoria area in 2023 (6)

After beginning as a mobile bar roughly five years ago, Clink Bar and Eventsopened its in-person location in October. The menu features starters, sandwiches, salads and more.

Owner Sam Heppard said the goal was to offer "fast casual but really elevated bar food."

Details: 4450 N. Prospect Road, Peoria Heights; (309) 670-0844, https://www.clinkbarandevents.com/

Raise a glass:Mobile bar to open brick-and-mortar location in Peoria Heights

7. Craft 309 Kitchen and Bar

A list of more than 40 restaurants, shops and cafes that opened in the Peoria area in 2023 (7)

Craft 309 is not new to the Peoria area. The downtown establishment closed earlier this year to bring the restaurant "up to par," according to JC Shurts, food and beverage director for Hawkeye Hotels.

“We're putting everything we have into this — mind, body, soul, blood, sweat and tears,” he said.

The restaurant reopened on May 29.

Details: 500 Hamilton Blvd., Peoria; (309) 306-3428, https://www.craft309.com/

More:This downtown Peoria restaurant is being reorganized before it reopens

8. Dog Haus Biergarten

A list of more than 40 restaurants, shops and cafes that opened in the Peoria area in 2023 (8)

Customers at Dog Haus can find hot dogs, burgers, sausages and more. In the Biergarten, there are 14 beer options on tap.

Details: 4712 N. University St., Peoria; (309) 643-1206, https://doghaus.com/location/peoria-biergarten/

More:Long-awaited eatery to open soon in Peoria with 'unique twist' on American classics

9. Freddy's Frozen Custard & Steakburgers

A list of more than 40 restaurants, shops and cafes that opened in the Peoria area in 2023 (9)

Freddy's Frozen Custard & Steakburgers has over 400 locations in the United States. Known for its steakburgers and frozen custard, the restaurant opened an East Peoria storefront in October.

10. Good Tequilas

A list of more than 40 restaurants, shops and cafes that opened in the Peoria area in 2023 (10)

Good Tequilas opened its Peoria Heights location in the building which once housed TNT's Sports Bar and Grill. Owner Jose Barragansaid he had his eye on the space since before the former establishment had closed.

“The building itself is perfect setup for what I want it to be,” Barragan said.

Details: 4319 N. Prospect Road, Peoria Heights; (309) 839-1368, https://www.goodtequilaspeoria.com/

Previously:Popular Mexican restaurant to fill vacant building in Peoria Heights

11. Grand Prairie Pizza & Tavern

A list of more than 40 restaurants, shops and cafes that opened in the Peoria area in 2023 (11)

Grand Prairie Pizza & Tavern opened in the building once occupied by Old Chicago Pizza & Taproom. The former business − situated at The Shoppes at Grand Prairie − rebranded after closing in early July.

Details: 7610 N. Grand Prairie Drive, Peoria; (309) 691-1885, https://www.gppizzatavern.com/

More:Peoria pizza restaurant reopens with menu favorites, 30 beers on tap after rebranding

12. Happenstance Mobile Bar

A list of more than 40 restaurants, shops and cafes that opened in the Peoria area in 2023 (12)

Happenstance Mobile Bar went to its first public event in late July. The business − which features a retro, 1940s teardrop camper − was created by Megan Eilts.

“It’s been fun,” Eilts said. “A very impulsive, wild ride.”

Details: 4541 N. Prospect Road Suite 300C, Peoria; (309) 391-8253, Heightshttps://happenstancemobilebar.my.canva.site/happenstancemobilebar

More:Peoria business owner takes chance to open new mobile bar

13. Highly Flavored

A list of more than 40 restaurants, shops and cafes that opened in the Peoria area in 2023 (13)

Highly Flavored opened on Oct. 7. The restaurant was announced nearly four months after Jeremy and Cierra Sargent found a new in-person home for The Fry Spot.

"God always blows your mind," Jeremy said. "I would say the abundance of what we have received these past five, six months has just been remarkable.”

Details: 3225 N. Dries Lane, Peoria; (309) 685-8200, https://www.highlyflavoredpeoria.com/

14. High Voltage Taphouse

High Voltage Taphouse opened in Princeville in February. The business offers a variety of drinks, as well as a grill menu.

Details: 129 E. Main St., Princeville; (309) 385-2159, https://www.facebook.com/highvoltagetaphouse

15. Hong Kong Sushi Buffet

A list of more than 40 restaurants, shops and cafes that opened in the Peoria area in 2023 (14)

Hong Kong Buffet opened in Peoria on March 9. The restaurant offers Chinese, Japanese and American foods.

Details: 7708 N. University St., Peoria; (309) 839-2417, https://www.hongkongbuffetil.com/

More:Looking for a Chinese buffet? Here are five in the Peoria area to try

16. Intuition Coffee + Juice

A list of more than 40 restaurants, shops and cafes that opened in the Peoria area in 2023 (15)

In October, Ty Paluska and his wife, Kami, opened Intuition Coffee + Juicein the Kickapoo Building.

The space was previously home to Thirty-Thirty Coffee Co. and Paluska had been one of shop’s original founders before moving away. Getting the opportunity to open a new shop in the space, Paluska said, "It felt too right – like the stars aligned."

Details: 734 Main St., Peoria; (309) 285-1110, https://www.intuitioncoffee.com/

More:'The stars aligned' to bring a coffee shop back to this iconic downtown Peoria space

17. Jonah's at Jump

A list of more than 40 restaurants, shops and cafes that opened in the Peoria area in 2023 (16)

On May 8,Jonah's Seafood House opened a new location, Jonah's at Jump, in Peoria's Jump Trading Simulation and Education Center. The space features staples from the East Peoria restaurant, such as the seafood nachos and the seven-layer salad.

Address: 1306 N. Berkeley Ave., Peoria

More:Longtime East Peoria seafood restaurant makes the 'jump' to Peoria with new cafe

18. Kung Fu Tea

A list of more than 40 restaurants, shops and cafes that opened in the Peoria area in 2023 (17)

Kung Fu Tea opened its first Peoria-area location in June. The business has a focus on bubble tea.

Details: 378 W. Washington St., East Peoria; (309) 839-8642, https://www.kungfutea.com/

'Customized by you':Popular bubble tea shop opens in East Peoria. Here's what to know

19. Okinawa Hibachi Sushi Ramen

A list of more than 40 restaurants, shops and cafes that opened in the Peoria area in 2023 (18)

Housed in the former home of Jerk Hut, Okinawa Hibachi Sushi Ramen features a range of Japanese dishes. These include ramen, Maki rolls, Japanese spring rolls and more.

Details: 1200 W. Main St., Suite 21A, Peoria; (309) 966-0004, https://okinawa-hibachi-peoria.square.site/

20. On Da Bun Burgers N More LLC

A list of more than 40 restaurants, shops and cafes that opened in the Peoria area in 2023 (19)

Initially known as Shawn's Kitchen, On Da Bun began operating in February. The business's original location has since closed, but On Da Bun has opened a new location inside the Northwoods Mall food court.

Details: 2200 W. War Memorial Drive, Peoria; (309) 307-5066, https://www.facebook.com/p/On-Da-Bun-Burgers-N-More-LLC-100086361426855/

21. Peoria Nutrition Spot

Customers can find smoothies, refreshers and breakfast items at Peoria Nutrition Spot. The business is located at the Windsor Square shopping plaza.

Address: 7318 N. University St., Peoria; (309) 839-8615, https://www.facebook.com/people/Peoria-Nutrition-Spot/100086272343572/

22. Pickled Radish Provision Co.

A list of more than 40 restaurants, shops and cafes that opened in the Peoria area in 2023 (20)

Jeff and Shelli Stahl opened Pickled Radish Provision Co. in October. The restaurant fills the space of their previous business, the Chanticleer, which closed in 2021.

Details: 744 N. Main St., Eureka; (309) 481-4055, https://www.facebook.com/chanticleer

23. Popper's Tea

A list of more than 40 restaurants, shops and cafes that opened in the Peoria area in 2023 (21)

Popper's Tea opened inside of the Northwoods Mall food court on June 24 - filling the space previously occupied by Mrs. Fields and tcby.

The business's menu features smoothies, fruit tea, milk tea and other drink options. Customers can then select from a variety of poppers, boba or jellies to add to the drink.

Details: 2200 W. War Memorial Drive, Peoria; (872) 201-4384

More:Check out the drink options at this new Peoria shop

24. Reisons

A list of more than 40 restaurants, shops and cafes that opened in the Peoria area in 2023 (22)

Situated at 314 Edward St. in Henry, Reisonsopened in May. The ice cream shop wrapped up its season in October.

"Thank you Henry for a wonderful first season, we look forward to seeing everyone in the Spring!" the business wrote on Facebook.

Details: 314 Edward St., Henry; https://www.facebook.com/reisonshenry

25. Richard's Under Main

A list of more than 40 restaurants, shops and cafes that opened in the Peoria area in 2023 (23)

On July 29, the former home of Richard's on Main was revived as Richard's Under Main. Customers at the restaurant can also find cheese fries, a variety of prohibition-themed burgers and more.

Details: 311 Main St. Lower, Peoria; (309) 674-8007, https://richardspeoria.com/

More:Downtown Peoria restaurant is being revived

26. Saffron Social

A list of more than 40 restaurants, shops and cafes that opened in the Peoria area in 2023 (24)

Saffron Social opened Sept. 13. The upscale restaurant, owned by Travis Mohlenbrink, offers steaks, seafood, salads and more.

Details: 187 SW Washington St., Peoria; (309) 740-0434, https://www.saffronsocialpeoria.com/

More:Long-awaited downtown Peoria restaurant has opened for business

27. Scooter's Coffee

A list of more than 40 restaurants, shops and cafes that opened in the Peoria area in 2023 (25)

Situated in Bartonville, Scooter's Coffee opened in August. Customers at the drive-thru location can order cold brew, smoothies, lattes and more.

Details: 300 McKinley Ave., Bartonville; (309) 214-3902, https://www.scooterscoffee.com/

'It's been phenomenal':Coffee business opens Bartonville location

28. Scrolls

A list of more than 40 restaurants, shops and cafes that opened in the Peoria area in 2023 (26)

After enjoying rolled ice cream while on a family trip to Florida, Krystal and Jordan Sondag decided to bring the treat to central Illinois.

“It’s been neat watching not only kids but adults of all ages that are experiencing it for the first time and really having a lot of fun with it," Krystal said.

Address: 321 S. First Ave., Morton; (309) 241-5785, https://goscrolls.com/

More:Taking a 'leap of faith,' family rolls out a unique ice cream shop in Morton

29. Sharkey's Fish and Chicken

Located on North Sterling Avenue, Sharkey's offers fish dinners, burgers, boneless wings, chicken tenders and more.

Details: 3108 N. Sterling Ave., Peoria; (309) 966-3312, https://www.facebook.com/people/Sharkeys-Fish-and-Chicken-Peoria/100095386351264/

30. Sucré Sweets and Socials

Months after closing its in-person Morton location, Sucré Sweets and Socials has opened a new brick-and-mortar establishment. Customers can find ice cream, sweet treats and other items found on the business's mobile trolley.

Details: 105 S. Main St., Morton; (309) 291-5065, https://sucresweetsandsocials.com/

A sweet return:Morton business is offering soft serve, floats and more in a new location

31. Tacos and Thai

A list of more than 40 restaurants, shops and cafes that opened in the Peoria area in 2023 (27)

While not a brick-and-mortar restaurant, Tacos and Thai began serving the Peoria area this year. The food truck − launched by longtime friends Devin Wyman and Laura Lytle − melds tacos, nachos and Thai food.

Facebook:https://www.facebook.com/tacos.and.thai/

Thai food or tacos?Friends embark on journey with a new food truck and unique menu

32. Tadoughs

A list of more than 40 restaurants, shops and cafes that opened in the Peoria area in 2023 (28)

Known for its potato-based Spudnutdoughnuts, Tadoughs opened its new Peoria location in December.

“They're not like any other doughnut. You know what I mean?” said Jackie Walden, a manager at the shop.

Details: 7024 N. University St., Peoria; https://www.tadoughs.com/

More:After delays, new Peoria shop finally comes together

33. Térroir 3:17 Your Home Kitchen

A list of more than 40 restaurants, shops and cafes that opened in the Peoria area in 2023 (29)

Husband and wife team Pierre and ScarletDaoud opened Térroir 3:17 Your Home Kitchen in June. The restaurant offers a variety of Mediterranean staples.

Details: 128 N. Davenport St., Metamora; (309) 367-4256, https://mediterraneancuisinemetamora.com/

More:Love of cooking evolves into family restaurant

34. The 520 Cafe

A list of more than 40 restaurants, shops and cafes that opened in the Peoria area in 2023 (30)

The 520 Cafe opened in May. The location was previously home to Mel’s Cafe, which operated in the space for more than a decade. The online menu features waffles, biscuits and gravy, burgers, pasta and more.

Details: 520 Bloomington Road, East Peoria; (309) 839-1416, https://www.thecafe520.com/

'A hidden gem':Neighborhood cafe in East Peoria revived with new business

35. The Coffee Coop

A list of more than 40 restaurants, shops and cafes that opened in the Peoria area in 2023 (31)

Housed on the first floor of 401 SW Water St., The Coffee Coop opened in September. The business has since opened a mobile shop, as well.

Details: 401 SW Water St., Peoria; https://www.facebook.com/thecoffeecooppeoria

More:This new coffee shop with doughnuts and iced drinks is opening in downtown Peoria

36. The Fry Spot

A list of more than 40 restaurants, shops and cafes that opened in the Peoria area in 2023 (32)

After closing The Fry Spot's North Prospect Road location last year, Jeremy and Cierra Sargent have reopened their business. Now found on North Dries Lane, the restaurant continues to serve fries decked out in a variety of toppings.

Details: 3214 N. Dries Lane, Peoria; (309) 989-2298, https://www.fryspotpeoria.com/

'By the grace of God':Shuttered Peoria restaurant is giving it another go at new location

37. “The Original” Wonderdog- East Peoria

A list of more than 40 restaurants, shops and cafes that opened in the Peoria area in 2023 (33)

A fire forced “The Original” Wonderdogto temporarily close its East Peoria storefront last year. The location was able to hold a grand reopening on June 17.

“It's kind of like starting over with a brand-new beginning,” said co-owner Lin Terlesky.

In late 2022, “The Original” Wonderdog also opened a Peoria location.

Details: 2430 E. Washington St., East Peoria; (309) 839-1535, https://www.facebook.com/originalwonderdog/

Peoria location: 8807 N. Knoxville Ave., Peoria; (309) 406-1499

More:Popular eatery to reopen in East Peoria after being closed by fire

38. The Queen of Squash

A list of more than 40 restaurants, shops and cafes that opened in the Peoria area in 2023 (34)

The Queen of Squash opened on April 29. Customers can find turkey, veggie or beef burgers, as well as bowls, flatbreads, salads and appetizers.

Details: 1108 W. Glen Ave., Peoria; (309) 670-0948, https://thequeenofsquash.com/

39. W Down Under

A list of more than 40 restaurants, shops and cafes that opened in the Peoria area in 2023 (35)

Situated in the space that once housed The Blacksmith Steakhouse, W Down Under opened on April 17 as a "hometown pub." Customers can find beers, special drinks, bar snacks and more.

Details: 105 N. Main St., Washington; (309) 508-7155, https://www.wdownunder.com/

Beer, wine and specialty drinks:New bar takes over at bustling spot in Washington

40. Wendy Puff Pizzeria + Pub

A list of more than 40 restaurants, shops and cafes that opened in the Peoria area in 2023 (36)

Brothers Mike and Bob Mayo opened Wendy Puff Pizzeria + Pub on Nov. 1. The Eureka restaurant serves a variety of pizzas − known as "puffs" – as well as salads and starters.

Details: 112 S. Main St., Eureka; (309) 304-1020, https://wendypuff.com/

'Let's make it a reality':Brothers open family restaurant in Eureka

41. Whiskey Taco

A list of more than 40 restaurants, shops and cafes that opened in the Peoria area in 2023 (37)

Customers can find tacos like "Baja Fish," "Whiskey BBQ" and "The Dragon." The Pekin restaurant, which opened in late August, also offers nachos, grain bowls and more.

Details: 507 Court St., Pekin; (309) 512-8226, https://whiskey-taco.com/

More:From unique tacos to nachos, new Pekin restaurant opens for lunch and dinner

42. William B's Steakhouse

A list of more than 40 restaurants, shops and cafes that opened in the Peoria area in 2023 (38)

Par-A-Dice Hotel Casino opened William B's Steakhouse on Feb. 16. The casino's previous steakhouse, Boyd's, closed shortly before the opening.

"It's an entirely new look and feel from Boyd's," Vice president and general manager Cori Rutherford said.

Details: 21 Blackjack Blvd., East Peoria; (309) 699-7711, https://paradice.boydgaming.com/dine/william-bs-steakhouse

More:East Peoria casino welcomes new steakhouse

Connect with Cassidy Waigand by emailing her at CWaigand@gannett.com or by following her on Twitter at @justxaxwriter.