More than just a charming suburb nestled in the heart of DuPage County, Wheaton, IL, boasts a surprisingly diverse and delicious food scene waiting to be explored. Forget the stereotypes; Wheaton is a culinary destination in its own right, offering everything from cozy breakfast spots to globally inspired dinner destinations. Whether you’re a long-time resident, a curious visitor, or simply a food enthusiast looking for your next favorite meal, Wheaton has something to tantalize your taste buds. This guide will take you on a culinary tour of Wheaton, highlighting the best restaurants, hidden gems, and local favorites that make its food scene so unique, making sure you experience the best Wheaton IL food. Get ready to discover delicious American classics, authentic Italian dishes, vibrant Mexican flavors, and exciting Asian cuisine, all within the welcoming atmosphere of this vibrant Illinois town.
Morning Delights: Breakfast and Brunch in Wheaton
The morning sets the tone for the day, and in Wheaton, you can start yours with a delicious breakfast or brunch at one of its many delightful eateries. The breakfast and brunch scene in Wheaton is generally relaxed and welcoming, perfect for a casual weekend outing or a quick bite before heading off to work. You will find everything from family friendly options to modern takes on classics.
The Original Pancake House: A Wheaton Institution
A true Wheaton institution, The Original Pancake House lives up to its name, serving up a dizzying array of pancakes in every imaginable flavor. From the classic buttermilk to the decadent Dutch Baby, there’s a pancake for every palate. But it’s not just about the pancakes; their omelets are fluffy and generously filled, and their breakfast meats are perfectly cooked. The atmosphere is bustling and family-friendly, making it a popular spot on weekend mornings. Expect a wait, but trust us, it’s worth it. The portions are generous, and the coffee is strong, making it the perfect place to fuel up for the day. Price range is moderate.
Egg Harbor Cafe: Elevated Breakfast Experience
For a more upscale breakfast experience, Egg Harbor Cafe is the place to be. With its bright and airy interior, fresh ingredients, and innovative menu, Egg Harbor Cafe offers a modern twist on breakfast classics. The menu features a variety of gourmet omelets, skillets, and pancakes, as well as lighter options like avocado toast and yogurt parfaits. Don’t miss their signature cinnamon roll pancakes, a truly indulgent treat. The atmosphere is sophisticated yet welcoming, making it a great choice for a special occasion or a business breakfast. Expect to find a higher price point here.
Suzette’s Creperie: A Touch of France in Wheaton
Craving something a little different? Suzette’s Creperie brings a touch of France to Wheaton with its authentic French crepes. Whether you prefer sweet or savory, there’s a crepe to satisfy your craving. Their sweet crepes are filled with everything from Nutella and bananas to fresh berries and whipped cream, while their savory crepes feature fillings like ham and cheese, spinach and mushrooms, and roasted vegetables. The atmosphere is cozy and charming, reminiscent of a Parisian cafe. Suzette’s is a great place to enjoy a leisurely brunch or a light lunch, and it’s the perfect spot for a romantic date. Moderate prices make this an accessible option.
Lunchtime Adventures: Casual Dining in Wheaton
When lunchtime rolls around, Wheaton offers a plethora of casual dining options to satisfy any craving. From quick bites to sit-down meals, you’ll find something to suit your taste and budget. Wheaton IL food for lunch is a delightful exploration into local flavors and quick eats.
Gia Mia: Pizza Perfection in a Modern Setting
For pizza lovers, Gia Mia is a must-visit. This modern pizzeria serves up wood-fired pizzas with creative toppings and a crispy, chewy crust. Their menu also features a selection of salads, sandwiches, and appetizers, all made with fresh, high-quality ingredients. The atmosphere is trendy and energetic, making it a popular spot for lunch with friends or colleagues. Try their signature Gia Mia pizza, topped with prosciutto, arugula, and balsamic glaze, or build your own pizza with your favorite toppings. Gia Mia offers both dine-in and takeout options, making it a convenient choice for a quick lunch. Moderate prices for this popular spot.
Corner Bakery Cafe: A Wheaton Staple
A Wheaton staple, Corner Bakery Cafe offers a wide variety of sandwiches, salads, soups, and baked goods. It’s a great place to grab a quick and affordable lunch, and their menu features plenty of healthy options. Their signature chicken pomodori panini is a customer favorite, and their salads are always fresh and flavorful. The atmosphere is casual and relaxed, making it a great place to catch up with friends or get some work done. With multiple locations throughout the Chicago area, Corner Bakery Cafe is a convenient choice for a quick and easy lunch. Budget friendly is the name of the game here.
Wheat Cafe: Fresh and Healthy Options
For a healthier lunch option, Wheat Cafe offers a variety of fresh and delicious salads, sandwiches, and wraps. Their menu features locally sourced ingredients and plenty of vegetarian and vegan options. Try their signature Wheat Bowl, a customizable bowl filled with your choice of grains, vegetables, and proteins, or their avocado toast, topped with everything bagel seasoning and a drizzle of olive oil. The atmosphere is bright and airy, making it a pleasant place to enjoy a healthy lunch. Wheat Cafe is a great choice for those looking for a nutritious and delicious meal. The prices here are in the moderate range.
Dinner Delights: Exploring Wheaton’s Diverse Culinary Scene
As evening descends, Wheaton’s culinary scene truly comes alive. From cozy Italian trattorias to vibrant Mexican cantinas, Wheaton offers a diverse range of dining options to suit any taste and occasion. Enjoying Wheaton IL food for dinner is an experience in itself!
Passero: Italian Elegance and Flavor
For an elegant Italian dining experience, look no further than Passero. This upscale restaurant serves up classic Italian dishes with a modern twist, using fresh, seasonal ingredients. Their menu features a variety of handmade pastas, wood-fired pizzas, and grilled meats, all prepared with passion and precision. The atmosphere is sophisticated and romantic, making it a great choice for a special occasion or a date night. Be sure to try their signature cacio e pepe, a simple yet flavorful pasta dish made with Pecorino Romano cheese and black pepper. Expect this one to be one of the pricier options in town.
Ivy Restaurant: American Classics with a Twist
Ivy Restaurant offers a modern take on American classics, with a focus on fresh, seasonal ingredients. Their menu features a variety of dishes, from burgers and steaks to salads and seafood, all prepared with creativity and care. The atmosphere is upscale yet welcoming, making it a great choice for a casual dinner with friends or a family celebration. Their craft cocktail menu is also worth exploring, with a variety of creative and delicious drinks. Prices are in the moderate to high range.
El Molino: Authentic Mexican Flavors
For authentic Mexican flavors, El Molino is a must-visit. This vibrant cantina serves up classic Mexican dishes, such as tacos, enchiladas, and fajitas, all made with fresh ingredients and traditional recipes. Their margaritas are also a customer favorite, and their festive atmosphere makes it a great place to celebrate a special occasion. Be sure to try their mole poblano, a rich and complex sauce made with chili peppers, chocolate, and spices. El Molino offers both dine-in and takeout options, making it a convenient choice for a casual dinner. Expect this to be a budget friendly option.
Benihana: A Theatrical Dining Experience
For a unique and entertaining dining experience, Benihana is the place to be. This Japanese steakhouse features teppanyaki-style cooking, where chefs prepare your meal right in front of you on a sizzling grill. The atmosphere is lively and interactive, making it a great choice for a family dinner or a celebration with friends. Be sure to try their signature Hibachi steak, chicken, or shrimp, all cooked to perfection and served with fried rice and vegetables. Prices here are moderate to high depending on your order.
Quick Bites and Takeout Treats: Wheaton’s Casual Options
Sometimes, you just need a quick and easy meal on the go. Wheaton offers a variety of casual eats and takeout options to satisfy your cravings without breaking the bank.
Papa’s Pizza Place: A Local Favorite
A Wheaton staple, Papa’s Pizza Place serves up classic pizzas with generous toppings and a crispy crust. Their menu also features a variety of other Italian dishes, such as pasta, sandwiches, and salads. It’s a great place to grab a quick and affordable meal, and their pizza is always a crowd-pleaser. Papa’s Pizza Place offers both dine-in and takeout options, making it a convenient choice for a casual dinner. A perfect choice for a budget friendly pizza night.
Jimmy John’s: Speedy Sandwiches
For a quick and easy sandwich, Jimmy John’s is the place to go. This national chain is known for its “freaky fast” delivery and its simple yet delicious sandwiches. Their menu features a variety of cold cut sandwiches, as well as vegetarian options. It’s a great place to grab a quick lunch or dinner on the go. Jimmy John’s is also a budget friendly choice.
Sweet Endings: Desserts and Treats in Wheaton
No meal is complete without a sweet ending, and Wheaton offers a variety of bakeries and ice cream shops to satisfy your sweet tooth.
My Best Friend’s Closet: Decadent Baked Goods
My Best Friend’s Closet is a bakery cafe and sweet shop offering decadent baked goods, custom cakes and amazing gourmet chocolates!
Graham’s Fine Chocolates: Artisan Chocolates and Treats
For artisan chocolates and treats, Graham’s Fine Chocolates is a must-visit. This local chocolatier creates handcrafted chocolates using the finest ingredients and traditional techniques. Their chocolates are perfect for a special occasion or a thoughtful gift. Graham’s also offers a variety of other treats, such as ice cream, fudge, and caramel apples. Expect to pay a bit more for this premium treat.
Kimmer’s Ice Cream: Homemade Ice Cream Delights
Kimmer’s Ice Cream is famous for it’s unique delicious flavors that vary seasonally. Be sure to keep an eye out for special seasonal options.
Local Gems: Discovering Wheaton’s Hidden Treasures
Beyond the well-known restaurants and chains, Wheaton is home to a number of hidden gems and local favorites that are worth discovering.
Suzette’s Creperie: Cozy and Delightful
We already mentioned Suzette’s Creperie above for breakfast but it’s so amazing we mention it again, especially because it’s so beloved by Wheaton residents!
Wrap-Up
Wheaton, IL, may be a suburb, but its food scene is anything but ordinary. From cozy breakfast spots to elegant Italian restaurants, Wheaton offers a diverse range of culinary experiences to satisfy any palate. So, whether you’re a long-time resident or just visiting, be sure to explore the delicious Wheaton IL food scene that Wheaton, IL, has to offer. You’re sure to find something to satisfy your cravings! What are your favorite Wheaton restaurants? Share them below!
