Charlie Parker’s – Springfield, IL

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If you’re taking a trip to Springfield, IL Charlie Parker’s Diner is a fun place to check out!  Not only was it featured on Food Network’s show “Diners, Drive-In’s, and Dives” it has won so many awards, and the building is a Quonset hut, which is unique.  Check out their website to read more on the history and see the menu.

We visited Charlie Parker’s Diner around 10:45am on a Saturday and it was hopping.  We snagged a seat at the bar (a table would have been a wait), and ordered our food.  Even though it was busy, service was quick and everyone was very friendly.  I loved the signs and decorations inside the restaurant, it was like going back in time.

Before our trip, I read about “Horseshoes” and “Pony Shoes” (the smaller version of a horse shoe), and that they are open faced sandwiches which originated in Springfield, so I knew I had to try the “Breakfastshoe” (the breakfast version).  It was delicious, but next time I’ll be ordering the pony size :)

I haven’t actually seen the episode about this Diner on Food Network yet, but hope to see it as a re-run.  I had fun checking this place out, and would definitely go here again!

Other things to explore in Springfield

Lincoln – movie sets, costumes, & props

Route 66 Drive-In theater