Vandalia is a city in Fayette County, Illinois, United States. It was founded in 1819 by Kentucky, Tennessee, and Virginia settlers, with a population of 6,836 at the 2021 census.
Vandalia is the county seat of Fayette County and is home to the Fayette County Fair and the Vandalia State Fair.
The restaurants in Vandalia are diverse in their offerings, but they all have one thing in common: a commitment to quality. So, whether you’re looking for a quick bite or a sit-down meal, you’ll find something to suit your taste in Vandalia.
From American favorites to international cuisine, there’s something for everyone in Vandalia’s restaurants.
Below is a list of the best restaurants in Vandalia, IL.
Best Restaurants in Vandalia
1. Blind Society
Blind Society Restaurant is a great place to eat in Vandalia, Illinois. The food is fantastic, and the service is terrific. The atmosphere is perfect for a night out with friends or family.
Blind Society is a highly recommended Restaurant to anyone looking for a great dining experience. Go to Blind Society today to eat in a classic restaurant with a contemporary twist! Enjoy their house beverages and distinctive entrees in a welcoming, modern setting.
Filet tips, Avocado Toast, house pickles, hot honey wings, crispy chicken salad, deluxe cobb salad, and lobster bisque are all featured on their menu.
They provide highchairs upon request, seating, wheelchair accessibility, table service, takeout, reservations, private dining, street parking, and television. They also offer a full bar, alcohol, wine, and beer, no-cost Wi-Fi, and utilize credit cards.
Blind Society is open for business from 4 pm to 9 pm from Tuesday to Thursday, from 4 pm to 10 pm on Friday, and from 2 pm to 10 pm on Saturday.
Address: 330 W Gallatin St, Vandalia, IL 62471, United States. Phone: +1 618-283-7272
2. Chuckwagon Cafe
The Chuckwagon Café is a great place to go for a good meal and to relax. It is arguably one of the best places to eat in Vandalia, IL. The staff is friendly, and the food is reasonably priced.
They have a wide variety of food, and the portions are large. The atmosphere is casual and comfortable.
The breakfast menu at Chuckwagon’s cafe features eggs, skillets, biscuits and gravy, waffles, pancakes, omelets, steaks and chops, sides, and a variety of beverages to choose from.
They provide delivery, seating, highchairs, wheelchair accessibility, table service, parking, alcohol service, and gift cards.
This cafe is open for business daily from 6 am to 3 pm. It is also one of the top restaurants in Vandalia, IL.
Address: 704 Janette Dr, Vandalia, IL 62471, United States. Phone: +1 618-283-2220
3. Joe’s Pizza & Pasta
Joe’s Pizza & Pasta is an excellent restaurant which stays up as one of the best Vandalia restaurants. They boast of the best pizza and pasta recipes. The staff is friendly, and the food is top-notch. The pizza is some of the best, and the pasta dishes are mouth-watering.
The pizza recipes on the menu are Joe’s Special, Sicilian, Chicken Alfredo, Joe’s Deluxe, Hawaiian, Cousin Tavio, Chicken Bacon Ranch, BBQ Chicken, Meatlovers, and Bianca.
Some of their pasta specialties include Spaghetti, Ravioli, Mostaccioli, Tortellini, Angel Hair, Pasta Pomodoro, Pasta Primavera, Baked Cheddar Mac & Cheese, and Meat or Veggie Lasagna.
They provide table service, wheelchair accessibility, seating, and delivery.
Joe’s Pizza & Pasta is open for business from 11 am to 9 pm from Tuesday to Sunday. They do not open on Monday as it is a holiday for them.
Address: 1227 N 4th St, Vandalia, IL 62471, United States. Phone: +1 618-283-9105
4. Los Amigos Mexican Restaurant
Los Amigos Mexican Restaurant is a family-friendly restaurant that serves traditional Mexican cuisine.
The restaurant’s environment has a Mexican theme and features a full bar.
The menu features classic dishes such as enchiladas, burritos, and tacos, as well as a variety of seafood, steak, and chicken entrees. The restaurant also offers a selection of vegetarian and vegan dishes.
You should also check out their Steak Los Amigos, Camaron con Arroz Y Pescado, Chipotle Chicken, Parillada Al Molcajete, Fajitas Los Amigos, or one of their Vegetarian Specialties!
Of course, they also have your favorite drinks, including Margarita, Daiquiris, Mojitos, and an extensive beer and wine selection. They provide table service, wheelchair accessibility, takeout, and seating. They also serve alcohol.
Los Amigos Mexican Restaurant is open for business from 11 am to 9 pm from Sunday to Thursday and from 11 am to 10 pm on Friday and Saturday.
This restaurant is also among the best restaurants in Vandalia, IL.
Address: 1611 Veterans Ave, Vandalia, IL 62471, United States. Phone: +1 618-283-4110
5. Ponderosa Steakhouse
Ponderosa Steakhouse is a family-friendly restaurant known for its all-you-can-eat buffet. It is one of the best restaurants in Vandalia, IL, as it is one of the community’s favorite spots for meals.
The buffet features a variety of meats, vegetables, salads, and a dessert bar. The restaurant also offers a whole steak, chicken, and seafood menu.
Their menu includes nachos and cheese, loaded nachos, wings, fries or tots, classic cheeseburgers, Texas burgers, hot dogs, grilled cheese, chicken tenders, Texas tender sandwiches, county fried steak sandwiches, and butterfly shrimp or cheddar shrimp basket
They provide seating, parking that is accessible, wheelchair accessibility, takeout, and highchairs.
Ponderosa Steakhouse’s working hours are from 11 am to 9 pm from Monday to Saturday and from 11 am to 4 pm on Sunday.
Address: 2727 Veterans Ave, Vandalia, IL 62471, United States. Phone: +1 618-283-4559
6. The Copper Penny Bar
The Copper Penny Bar is a great place to go for a night out with friends. They have a wide selection of beers and cocktails, and the staff is always happy to help you find the perfect drink.
The bar is also a great place to watch sports, as they have multiple TVs set up around the bar. So, if you’re looking for a place to have a good time and relax, the Copper Penny Bar is the place for you.
They offer Fried Pickles, Penny Poppers, Crab Rangoon, Santa Fe Eggrolls, Pretzel Bites, Wings, Spicy Cauliflower Wings, Onion Rings, and much more on their menu!
They include takeout, reservations, outdoor seating, seating, parking that is both paid and unpaid for, television, available highchairs, and wheelchair accessibility.
Additionally, there is a full bar that serves liquor, wine, and beer, free Wi-Fi, table service, and live music. They accept credit cards, and the establishment is non-smoking and dog-friendly. Gift cards are also available.
This bar is open for business from 11 am to 11 pm on Monday, Wednesday, and Thursday, from 12 am to 11 pm on Tuesday, from 11 am to 12 pm on Friday, and from 12 pm to 12 am on Saturday.
Address: 125 S 4th St, Vandalia, IL 62471, United States. Phone: +1 618-283-9283
7. Denny’s
Denny’s is a restaurant located in Vandalia, Illinois. They offer a variety of breakfast, lunch, and dinner items. Some of their popular things include pancakes, burgers, and salads. They also have a full bar with various alcoholic and non-alcoholic beverages.
Denny’s has been bringing people together over delicious meals for over 65 years. People may unwind and be themselves while savoring traditional American comfort food and everyday staples there.
Every single day, every day of the year, come in and place your regular order or try something new, such as the new Parmesan Chicken Sizzlin’ Skillet from the Sizzlin’ Skillets menu or the new Beyond Burger with a plant-based patty.
All your favorite dishes from Denny’s, like Moons Over My Hammy, Sizzlin’ Skillets, hand-dipped Milk Shakes, 100% Beef Burgers, and the renowned Build Your Own Grand Slam, are still available despite the restaurants’ updates and menu changes.
They take pleasure in having an extensive menu with delicious, creative alternatives that satisfy the tastes and dietary needs of every customer who walks in the door, whether it be for appetizers, brunch, lunch, dinner, or dessert.
Takeout and wheelchair accessibility is available. Denny’s is open for business from 6 am to 10 pm daily.
Address: 4 Interstate Drive, Vandalia, IL 62471, United States. Phone: +1 618-283-9880
8. El Rancho Nuevo
El Rancho Nuevo is a family-owned Mexican restaurant in Vandalia, Illinois. They offer a wide variety of authentic Mexican dishes and a full bar. The friendly staff is always happy to help you choose the perfect word for your taste.
El Rancho Nuevo is the ideal place to satisfy your cravings, whether you’re in the mood for a light lunch or a hearty dinner.
Veracruz plate, Rancho Nuevo Ajillo shrimp, Fajabo, Chile Colorado, Quesadilla Maya, carne asada, burrito lunch, Camaro eneremado, chimichanga loca, and pollo a la Mexicana are all featured in their vast menu.
El Rancho Nuevo is open for business from 11 am to 9 pm from Sunday to Thursday and from 11 am to 10 pm on Saturday and Sunday.
Address: 1433 N 5th St, Vandalia, IL 62471, United States. Phone: +1 618-283-2338
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9. KFC Taco Bell
KFC Taco Bell in Vandalia, Illinois, is a fast-food restaurant serving Mexican and American cuisine. It is one of the top Vandalia restaurants.
The restaurant is known for its tacos, burritos, quesadillas, and American favorites like fried chicken and hamburgers.
The restaurant is a popular lunch spot for locals and tourists alike. Their drive-through is open late for all of your midnight cravings and opens early for breakfast. Online ordering is available for pickup from the restaurant’s drive-thru or inside the building.
All your favorite menu items are available, including old favorites like tacos and burritos and recent additions like the Crunch wrap Supreme and Cheesy Gordita Crunch.
The Beef Burrito and Cinnamon Twists on their Cravings Value Menu are excellent value items, and the Black Bean Chalupa and Cheesy Bean and Rice Burrito on their Veggie Cravings Menu are decadent vegetarian options.
Taco Bell is close by if you’re looking for fast food or food with a Mexican influence in the Vandalia area.
This restaurant is open for business from 10.30 am to 10 pm from Sunday to Thursday and from 10.30 am to 11 pm on Friday and Saturday.
Address: 2737 Veterans Avenue, Vandalia, IL, US 62471. Phone: +1 618-283-9364
10. Baan Thai Restaurant
Baan Thai Restaurant is a family-owned business that has served the Vandalia community for some years and established itself as a community favorite in Chinese, American, and Thai cuisine.
They offer a variety of Thai dishes and a few Chinese and American choices. Their menu is reasonably priced, and offers a lunch buffet Monday through Friday. They also provide catering services for both small and large groups.
Chicken satay, egg roll, fresh spring roll, crab Rangoon, Khanom Jeab, Tom Yum Koong, Tom Kha Kai, Tom Yum Seafood, rice soup, Baan Thai hot wings, and Calamari deep fried are all featured on their menu.
Baan Thai Restaurant’s working hours are from 10 am to 9 pm from Monday to Saturday. They do not open on Sunday.
Address: 515 W Gallatin St, Vandalia, IL 62471, United States. Phone: +1 618-431-2322
11. Mc Donald’s
McDonald’s is a fast-food restaurant chain that originated in the United States. The company, founded in 1940 as a barbecue restaurant, was operated by Richard and Maurice McDonald. In 1948, they introduced the Speedee Service System, a new fast food industry concept.
Today, McDonald’s is one of the world’s largest restaurant chains, serving approximately 69 million customers daily in over 100 countries across about 36,000 locations.
McDonald’s is known for its hamburgers, French fries, soft drinks, and milkshakes. However, the company’s menu has expanded over the years to include a variety of other foods, including breakfast items, salads, wraps, and desserts.
The restaurant is typically clean and brightly lit. There is usually music playing in the background. The staff is generally friendly and efficient.
Spicy Crispy Chicken Sandwich, Big Mac, Chicken McNuggets, World Famous Fries, Quarter Pounder with Cheese, Iced Coffee, Egg McMuffin, and Sausage Burrito are some of the items on their menu.
This restaurant is recognized among the best places to eat in Vandalia, IL, and it is open for business every day from 5 am – 11 pm.
Address: 820 Veterans Ave, Vandalia, IL 62471, United States. Phone: +1 618-283-2711
12. Diary Queen
Diary Queen is a local ice cream and fast-food restaurant in Vandalia, Illinois. The restaurant is known for its wide variety of ice cream flavors and toppings, as well as its burgers, fries, and shakes. Diary Queen is a popular destination for families and kids and is open year-round.
The menu offers a variety of burgers, chicken sandwiches, salads, chicken baskets, meal deals, snacks, sides, and salads. They also provide blizzard treats and classic treats. The ice cream is also a big hit, with various flavors.
They have blended beverages, icy cold beverages, and orange Julius. The staff is friendly, and the service is quick. It is a clean and well-lit restaurant, and the prices are reasonable.
Dairy Queen is open from 10.30 am to 9 pm from Monday to Saturday and from 11 am to 9 pm on Sunday.
Address: 1413 N 8th St, Vandalia, IL 62471, United States. Phone: +1 618-283-0160
13. Wendy’s
Wendy’s is a fast-food and one of the top Vandalia restaurants. The restaurant is known for its hamburgers, chicken sandwiches, and Frosty desserts. Wendy’s also offers a variety of salads, wraps, and sides.
They are dedicated to serving you during this time, just as they provide the highest-caliber food daily. They remain committed to having your back whether you order in person, through the drive-through, or, if available, via delivery.
Homestyle French Toast Sticks, Hot Honey Biscuits, Bacon, Egg & Swiss Croissants, Big Bacon Cheddar Cheeseburger, Hot Honey Chicken, Spicy Big Bacon Cheddar Chicken, Summer Strawberry Salad, Southwest Avocado Chicken Salad, and Taco Salad are all featured on their menu.
Wendy’s is open for business from 6.30 am to 11 pm from Monday to Sunday.
Address: 821 Veterans Ave, Vandalia, IL 62471, United States. Phone: +1 618-283-1878
14. Subway
Subway is a sandwich shop located in Vandalia, Illinois. This franchise is known for its made-to-order sandwiches, wraps, and salads.
In addition, customers can choose from various meat, cheese, and vegetable toppings, as well as sauces and dressings. Subway also offers a variety of breakfast items, including breakfast sandwiches, wraps, and flatbreads.
These scrumptious tastes are served with their renowned Footlongs, 6″ sandwiches, wraps, and salads.
They also have several options, including quick and easy ordering through the app or online, convenient delivery, eating in-restaurant at your local store, and curbside pickup.
They’re delighted to provide an alternative to bland fast food with freshly cut vegetables and protein-rich toppings, freshly baked bread, and, let’s not forget, cookies.
Additionally, they are pleased to assist you with any catering requirements. Every Subway Restaurant is privately owned by entrepreneurs working with skilled Sandwich artists.
Some of their sandwich recipes are American club, monster, and supreme meats.
They are open from 8 am to 9.30 pm from Monday to Saturday and from 9 am to 9.30 pm on Sunday.
Address: 915 Veterans Ave, Vandalia, IL 62471, United States. Phone: +1 618-283-2226
15. Burger King
This Burger King is one of the best Vandalia restaurants. It is a fast-food restaurant serving burgers, chicken, fries, and other food items.
The restaurant is open seven days a week and offers drive-thru service.
Their menu is a variety of Flame-grilled Burgers, hot dogs, salads and veggies, beverages, coffee, sides, sweets, breakfast, chicken, and more.
Burger King’s business hours are from 6 am to 10 pm from Monday to Saturday and from 7 am to 10 pm on Sunday.
Address: 701 Veterans Ave, Vandalia, IL 62471, United States. Phone: +1 618-283-1428
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Plan a Trip to Vandalia
Vandalia, Illinois, is a historic community with a rich past. The town is home to several parks, recreational areas, a public library, and a museum.
The city also hosts several annual events, including a Fourth of July celebration and a Halloween parade.
Vandalia has a charming, small-town feel, evident in its historic downtown area. There are also amazing restaurants in Vandalia, IL, as listed above, that offers amazing dining experience.