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Welcome to South Side Cafe

Nestled in Charleston, IL, South Side Cafe embodies the charm of a classic diner. Here, you’ll find a delightful blend of home-cooked meals and speedy service, echoing the warmth of family recipes. Patrons rave about the breakfast selection, particularly the expertly cooked hashbrowns and freshly brewed coffee. The cozy atmosphere, featuring booths and a welcoming bar, enhances the dining experience. With daily specials and homemade baked goods, this café satisfies cravings for hearty, delicious food. Local reviews highlight the friendly owners and attentive staff, making South Side Cafe a beloved spot for brunch and beyond. Discover the flavors that feel like home.

South Side Cafe: Reviews & Ratings

Lyla Weese
Lyla Weese

The food was home cooked and it came out very fast. We watched our 3 orders be cooked and brought to the table in great time. And just like mom or grandma would make.

Donald Carpenter
Donald Carpenter

I loved it! Never been there before always at work when they're open. Took the family there for a brunch. The Food was fresh and tasty. Very simple cafe, which is nice. Great selection of meals too.

Ian Daily
Ian Daily

It's my favorite diner of all time. Everything is really good, it's well priced and the owners are really cool humans. They are one of the few places that can actually cook hashbrowns well. The coffee does make me have to pee all the time, but that isn't their fault. They have some booths, or you can sit at the bar. Classic breakfast fair with some lunch options. I've had the burgers, and they're okay, but breakfast here is my favorite. They have daily specials, some baked goods and really nice wreaths. They do close in the early afternoon, so get in early. Love this place so give them a try!

Vanessa M
Vanessa M

Quick and friendly service, food made to order.

Greg Rourke
Greg Rourke

Excellent little classic diner. Great food, great service, great atmosphere.

Joseph McGuire
Joseph McGuire

What a great little diner with good food at a reasonable price and incredibly friendly service. A real down-home experience.

Micah Fishman
Micah Fishman

I was passing through Charleston and considered grabbing something quick. I’m glad I didn’t. I ended up wandering into South Side Cafe and had a great experience. The family-owned spot has a quintessential old diner feel with a classic breakfast and lunch menu prepared right behind the counter. The service was lovely, the food tasted great, and the prices are unbeatable. I’d be visiting frequently if I lived in town.

DeAnn S
DeAnn S

Best little secret in Charleston. Cute restaurant tucked in just South of the courthouse. It's a must see. The staff is so welcoming and friendly. Our youngest loves spinning on their stools at the bar. We love this small town, down home cafe. The food is so good. They have fried mush if you ask.

Location

  • South Side Cafe
    614 Jackson Ave, Charleston, IL 61920, United States Hotline: +1 217-345-5089

Welcome to South Side Cafe, a beloved spot nestled at 614 Jackson Ave, Charleston, IL 61920. This charming diner stands out for its home-cooked meals that evoke a sense of nostalgia, reminding patrons of meals lovingly prepared by moms and grandmas. With a phone number to reach the cafe at +1 217-345-5089, it’s easy to get in touch, especially when cravings hit!

What sets South Side Cafe apart is not just the quality of the food, but the speed and care with which it's served. Customers like Lyla Weese rave about how quickly their orders arrive, watched closely as they are cooked right before their eyes. It's a demonstration of culinary skill that resonates with those who long for that home-cooked feel.

Brunch is an experience to savor here, as Donald Carpenter discovered during his visit with family. He appreciated the freshness and taste of the offerings, praising the menu's delightful selection that marries simplicity with flavor. This is reflected in Ian Daily's affection for the cafe; he regards it as his favorite diner, not just for its well-priced meals but also for the community vibe that the friendly owners create.

Breakfast reigns supreme at South Side Cafe, where hashbrowns are cooked to perfection—a true highlight for any diner enthusiast. The ambiance invites you to pull up a booth or take a seat at the bar, further enhancing the nostalgic diner experience. Daily specials, baked goods, and inviting decorations add to the cafe’s charm.

Quick and friendly service is a staple, as noted by Vanessa M, who emphasizes the made-to-order aspect of each dish. Whether it's a classic breakfast or a comforting lunch option, the excellence in both food and atmosphere keep diners coming back for more. Greg Rourke captured it well with his praise of the overall experience: "Great food, great service, great atmosphere."

As we delve into the culinary offerings at South Side Cafe, we celebrate everything from the hearty breakfast classics to satisfying lunches. It’s a place where flavors meet nostalgia and the community thrives. So, why not take a trip there soon? Experience the warmth and flavors that make South Side Cafe a cherished gem in Charleston.