The first time I ever went to the Illinois Food Emporium, some clients took me out to breakfast one morning. We had exchanged emails for many weeks but it was the first time I had actually met them in person. It was a beautiful morning much like the day here in this photo. It turned out to be a perfect place to get know each other. Although there is a dining area inside, the day was so nice that we sat outside at one of the tables, ate toast and omelets, and sipped a few cups of coffee while talking about the kind of home that they were envisioning and the list of homes that we were going to be looking at later on. I really enjoyed that and never forgot the impression it made on me.
Since that first time, I have suggested to other clients on other occasions that we meet there before or after an appointment if we are going to be in or near the Meridian-Kessler area. It has exactly what I want…a casual atmosphere, good food, large variety, and a friendly energy to it. And sometimes I just stop when all by myself. I like it because it’s not in one of the megatropolis malls or on a really busy street. Just a neighborhood location and village-like setting. It serves just about anything you can think of for breakfast and lunch…and they have a dinner menu, staying open a little later Tuesday through Friday. By experience I can tell you it has a great bakery…and deli too. I’ve heard they also do a fabulous job catering parties and large gatherings.
Stop by if you are in the area. Located just south of 56th Street on Illinois Street… just west of Meridian Street and south of Westfield Boulevard.
