My wife and I are coming up on our 34th wedding anniversary in April. Since our dating days, we've been heading to Merichka's restaurant in Crest Hill, Illinois, for meals together. There are many others that have likewise been headi
ng to Merichka's. Some for even longer ... as this family owned restaurant opened in April of 1933. Maybe a coincidence, but we share an anniversary of sorts with this restaurant!
Both Marilyn's and my family grew up listening to the local radio station, WJOL in Joliet. Neither of us can remember a time when we didn't hear commercials for this admired restaurant coming through the airwaves. Our parents "dated" at Merichka's too.
Merichka's is best known for its "Poorboy" sandwich. After tasting one, you'll know why. These "Poorboys" come dripping in fermented garlictine butter that delivers a flavor you don't find anywhere else. Just an amazing treat.
Personally, I'm a spud man ... and you can't beat the double-baked potatoes you get at Merichka's. They're huge and come packed with the fluffy starch. It's heaven for me. Following close behind in sinfulness are the onion rings ... (the seasoning on these things is pure perfection) ... and the fantastic house dressing ...all made from the family recipes handed down since Merichka's opened all those decades ago.
The meats served at Merichka's are Choice U.S.D.A. and cut by a butcher on the restaurant premises. No meat tenderizers are used. The beef is ground fresh right there at the restaurant.
Merichka's now sees its 3rd and 4th generation of family members preparing and dishing up their world famous "Poorboys" and other menu items. Even though there have been expansions and renovations to the original Merichka's building, the restaurant remains in the same exact location as when first opened almost 78 years ago.
Merichka's often accommodates small groups, but strongly suggest that you call ahead for reservations at 815.723.9371. They also have a banquet facility.
Merichka's is closed only 4 days of the year (Easter, July 4th, Thanksgiving, Christmas). They offer "noon specials" between 11 am to 2 pm, Monday through Friday, and are a popular location for area businesspersons to enjoy during those times.
You can find Merichka's conveniently located at 604 Theodore Street in Crest Hill, IL. Think about making the drive and bringing your appetite with you. I think you'll be glad you did ...
Watch this CLTV video regarding Merichka's for further proof of what I write: http://www.cltv.com/videobeta/81a58f33-d9a3-49db-a8f2-9ced8bd59125/Food/Best-of-the-Southland-Merichka-s
Enjoy!
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