This is a chronological list of restaurants permanently closed in Kankakee, Illinois—a nostalgic look back and a helpful resource for those seeking available restaurant spaces. These are the places that we miss. This is our restaurant history, a forgotten piece of our heritage. No matter how long each of these eateries operated, they daily contributed to someone’s rent, provided sustenance for a hungry traveler, or simply became a part of the community. So please join us in remembering this important aspect of our town.
Kankakee, Illinois, nestled in the heart of the Midwest with a population of around 27,000, boasts a vibrant food scene that reflects its rich agricultural heritage and diverse community. Known for its proximity to the fertile Kankakee River Valley, the area is renowned for its farm-to-table offerings, with notable local dishes like the classic Chicago-style hot dog and deep-dish pizza taking on a unique twist here. A must-visit is the iconic **The Brickstone Brewery**, which pair craft brews with hearty Midwestern fare. This culinary hotspot not only highlights the local flavors but also pays homage to Kankakee’s historic brewing traditions that date back to the late 19th century, making it a delicious destination for both locals and visitors alike.
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Disclaimer: The information on this website is provided as a resource, but it may not always be 100% accurate. While we strive to research and verify details, errors can occur, and businesses frequently change names, locations, or reopen after closing. Addresses, operating status, and other details may be outdated or incorrect. Use this information at your own risk. If you spot an error, please contact us here, and we will do our best to update it promptly.
Love old restaurant stories, local history, and keeping up with the places that quietly disappear? Our free weekday emails follow restaurant closures across the entire United States—one region at a time— with short stories, links, and context you won’t see in a headline. Sign up once, and you’ll get a quick tour of what closed this week, Monday through Friday.
- 🌵 Southwest Stories — Monday
Texas · New Mexico · Arizona · Oklahoma - 🌾 Midwest Farewell — Tuesday
Iowa · Illinois · Indiana · Ohio · Michigan · Minnesota · Wisconsin · Missouri · Kansas · Nebraska · North Dakota · South Dakota - 🌤 Southern Last Call — Wednesday
Louisiana · Mississippi · Alabama · Georgia · Florida · South Carolina · North Carolina · Tennessee · Kentucky · West Virginia · Arkansas - 🌊 Coastline Closings — Thursday
California · Oregon · Washington · Alaska · Hawaii - 🏔 Mountain West Report — Friday
Idaho · Montana · Wyoming · Colorado · Utah · Nevada - 🍁 New England Notes — Saturday
Maine · Vermont · New Hampshire · Massachusetts · Rhode Island · Connecticut - 🏙 Mid-Atlantic Memo — Sunday Morning
New York · New Jersey · Pennsylvania · Delaware · Maryland · Washington, D.C.
Howard Johnson’s Restaurant was located in the Meadowview Shopping Center at Kennedy Dr, Kankakee, IL 60901. The shopping center currently features a Planet Fitness and several other shops.
