JHN-Mystery Diner_102818

2018 Magazine Your Guide to Dining Experiences in Will County Sunday, October 28, 2018

est. 1851

JHN Mystery Diner_102818.indd 1

10/18/18 3:07 PM

restaurant - directory ♦ AB Gusto’s Bar and Grill

♦ Maciano’s Pizza & Pastaria

When: Bar Opens 6am Monday – Friday Where: 2115 Plainfield Rd., Crest Hill Info: Call 815-744-4159 or visit www.abgustosbarandgrill.com

When: Sunday – Thursday 11am-10pm, Friday & Saturday 11am-11pm Where: 850 Brook Forest Ave, Shorewood Info: Call 815-773-0800 or visit www.macianos.com

♦ Al’s Steak House When: Monday – Thursday 11am-10pm, Friday & Saturday 11am-11pm, Sunday 10am – 10pm, Sunday Brunch Buffet 10am-3pm Where: 1990 W. Jefferson St., Joliet Info: Call 815-725-2388 or visit www.alssteaks.com

♦ The Happy Place Cafe

♦ Matty’s Grill and Pancake House When: Everyday 6am-3pm Where: 995 Brook Forest Ave., Shorewood Info: Call 815-254-9600 or visit www.mattysrestaurant.com

♦ MyGrain Brewing Company

When: 7 days a week 6am-9pm Where: 1150 W. Jefferson St., Shorewood Info: Call 815-666-1447 or visit www.thehappyplacecafe.com

When: Hours vary. Please call or visit website for updated info.

Where: 50 E. Jefferson St., Suite 106, Joliet Info: Call 815-345-3339 or visit www.mygrainbrewing.com

♦ Heroes West Sports Grill

♦ Silver Spoon

When: Monday – Thursday 11am-10pm, Friday & Saturday 11am-11pm, Sunday 11am-9pm Where: 1530 Commerce Ln., Joliet Info: Call 815-725-1234 or visit https://heroeswest.net

When: Everyday 6:00am-3:00pm Where: 1601 W. Jefferson St., Joliet Info: Call 815-725-6202

♦ Hey Hot Dog When: Monday – Saturday 10:30am-7:30pm. Closed Sunday Where: 601 Ruby St., Joliet Info: Call 815-723-5487

♦ Home Cut Donuts When: Main Shop – 24 hours a day, 7 days a week.

Outlet Shop – Monday – Saturday 5am-Noon, Sunday 6am-Noon Where: Main Shop – 815 W. Jefferson St., Joliet.

Outlet Shop – 1317 E. Washington St., Joliet Info: Call 815-727-3511/815-726-2132 or visit homecutdonuts.com

♦ Johnny’s Beef & Gyros

♦ Tom Kelly’s Chophouse & Pub When: Sunday – Thursday 11:30am-1:00am, Kitchen open until 10pm, Friday and Saturday 11:30am-2:00am, Kitchen open until 11pm Where: 495 Degroate Rd., New Lenox Info: Call 815-462-8420 or visit www.tomkellys.com

♦ White Fence Farm When: Tuesday – Friday 4-8pm; Saturday & Sunday 12-8pm; Closed Monday Where: 12337 S. Route 59, #23, Plainfield Etc.: Visit the website at whitefencefarm-il.com for times and locations for the main branch in Romeoville and the carryout location in Joliet.

Info: Call 815-609-4477 (Plainfield), 815-744-2072 (Joliet) and 630-783-9892 (Romeoville).

When: Monday – Saturday 10am-10pm, Sunday 11am-8pm Where: 3567 W. Jefferson St., Joliet Info: Call 815-725-1590 or visit www.johnnys-beef.com 2 2 | | MYSTERY MYSTERY DINER DINER | | OCTOBER OCTOBER 2018 2018

JHN Mystery Diner_102818.indd 2

10/18/18 3:07 PM

29

Restaurant reviews

D NER

MYSTERY DINER

The Herald-News / TheHerald-News.com • Wednesday, November 9, 2016

The Herald-News/TheHerald-News.com • Wednesday, June 13, 2018 MYSTERY DINER

28

M STERY FOODMDSTERY NER

Friaco’s Restaurant & Cantina is authen Joliet’s legendary Chicken-N-Spice Matty’s is a pleasant dining experience Restaurant reviews

If you go

MYSTERY DINER

MYSTERY–DINER Signature George and JOLIET We’ve been to Friaco’s before, for takeoutvisit and once for kids’ It was a memorable Eddy is restaurant’s orGrill family night, or whatevtonight, Matty’s & Pancake House in Shorewood. ermost they call the Monday night deal popular item We were greeted promptly

n WHAT: • The Mystery Diner is an Friaco’s Restauran employee at ThenHerWHEN: 11 a.m. to 10 p.m. S ald-News. The diner’s Thursday, 11 a.m. to 11 p.m. F identity is not revealed p.m. Saturday to restaurant staff before n WHERE: 1321 Highway 59 or during the meal.

The n INFO: Mystery Diner visits a Call 815-254-4866 o restaurant and then rerestaurant.com. ports on the experience. If the Mystery Diner cannot Ramon Carne Asad recommend theDon establishment, we will not publish cos de pollo asado ($12.99 a review. of other options.

where kids get a free meal with an

by our server and took a few THE MYSTERY DINER adult entree purchase. minutes to peruse the many This week, however, it was just me options on the menu.

Our JOLIET – Haven’t heard of Chickand two kids. server quickly en-N-Spice inbrought Joliet? us our beverages.

Both arehad pretty picky Neither I despite theeaters, fact thebut Thelove coffee was hot andestablished they chips, salsa, quesadillas Joliet restaurant was in and flavorful, and the dinner iced teacompanions 1979.and My three rice beans. was cold and brisk.

Extra were aghast at Friaco’s my ignorance. Their That lemons formade the iced tea were off Highway “You’ve got to try it!” convinced me.

59 inbrought Jolietout, near Wal-Mart And there’s a seafood even much to the in the Of course, I had to check out the IF YOU GO delight of one of our diners.

Shorewood-Joliet-Plainfield menu that includes selec venue online first. Its website atarea very WHAT: Matty’s Grill & The first member of our appealing. as carne asada con cama www.chicken-n-spicejoliet.com said Pancake House party decided on the Greek We were quickly seated, just like and pescado frito ($15.49 Chicken-N-Spice is known for its WHEN: 6 a.m. to 3 p.m. daily Skillet, which included a side “big juicy breast chunks.”

These the Monday night we had come beIt’s hard to imagine g WHERE: 995 Brook Forest of pancakes. We requested chunks “all white boneless Ave, Shorewood into the Mystery Diner w fore, andare the chips cinnamon apples on theand pan- salsa were on breast meat,” which are “cut and ETC: Call for delivery cakes, and the server happily the table quickly, along with waters tioning the drink selecti seasoned” daily in the restaurant.

INFORMATION: Call obliged.

Shaw Media photo andI milk for the kids. was a kids lunch date, so chicken.

I’m sold already.

815-254-9600 or visit Thelove skillet was a delicious Joliet’s Friaco’s Restaurant & Cantina serves up authentic Mexican food.

How quickly that happened is so take. On our previous vi Located at 251 N. Chicago St. in mattysrestaurant.com. mix of chopped gyro meat, Photos by Suburban Life Media Joliet dwarfed bylunch the Joliet key to and a successful date with I shared a sangria marga feta cheese, hash browns andnew Theget “Mixed Berry Cinnamon Toast” special included hash browns, eggs acooked to order, sausage or Junior College campus, exton left.

On French Mondays, they have chicken or twohad kids.

If they’re given time the to curishared, I mean I stole a f eggs cooked to thecity diner’s terior of restless, Chicken-N-Spice bacon and diner who orderedon it described toast as having the right touchthe of sweetness. request.

Our eggs were over reminded As for kids, they loved the fajitas specialthe orFrench enchiladas ous and they’ll usually doham. it. The steak They have options fro Shaw Media photos me The an old Arthur Treacher’s Fish & easy. skillet waswere pipinghappy, quesadillas and beans.

They aren’t mole.

On Wednesday, the burrito and Instead, they and they margaritas ($6.49) to pitc ABOVE: Chicken-N-Spice has been serving its brand of chicken for nearly 40 years.

BELOW LEFT: A George and Eddy is Chicken-NChips, except the signature color is hot, and a tantalizing twist of onions, peppers and feta partial to veggies inrice, their rice, soagreen they sour cream enchiladas are on special, even got a bowl of mild salsa because or specialty margaritas Spice’s signature dish.

It consists of three breast chunks, jo-jos (seasoned fries), spicy biscuit and small drink.

BELOW RIGHT: pink, not blue. flavors. cheese: $9.49 A chocolaty chocolate chip is theor perfect to a Chicken-N-Spice meal. that and enjoyed picked through the on Thursday itscookie chicken beeffinale chimithe one I waswere munching was a little for $11.49.

The interior resembles small The potatoes diced aon Matty’s favorite omelette, fast-food restaurant –from one modest rice part too. changa or flautas, and on Friday it’s too spicy.

Wechange also ordered a small For dessert, they hav and were a nice ham, onions, green peppers, counter for placing orders and a If you go the usual shredded skillet The kids menu has chicken fin- and American fish tacos chipotle or a mariachi bowl. side of guacamole dip ($3.49 or $7.49 ($3.25), flan ($4.49), fried mushroom small dining area. The difference hash browns. sauce cheese: $9.99 gers, Mexican pizza or a hamburger The dinner special days are the for large) toTzatziki go with it. ($6.49), churros ($6.49) an was the boxes bags was served on theand side.

Thelined up on n WHAT: Chicken-N-Spice Three-stack buttermilk or a combo that includes rice and same as the lunch special, only the The appetizer menu has everychimichanga ($6.49). several were of theastables waiting for carpancakes big the n HOURS: 7:30 a.m. to 10 p.m. Monday pancakes, served with beans with a taco, enchilada, quesaare a little more for the dinner thing from a one sampler platter ($14.99)throughprices They all sound good ( ryout, which of friends told plate, with a dusting of my powSunday; and 7:30 a.m. to 8 p.m. whipped butter and syrup: dilla, tostada, tamale or a taco. plates, $8.99Eve. toClosed $12.99 before the were probably all George and tome queso ($9.99) to bruschetta chimichanga looks good dered sugarfundido and the requested Christmas Eve andfrom New Year’s $6.49 Eddy orders. apple slices.

They were Friaco’s does catering, butNutella-stuffed its drink. ($8.99 or $10.99 withlight shrimp) but we Christmas have to save that for nex pancakes and New Year.

For uninitiated (me), a also severand fluffy. with strawberry and menu is also filled with thetopped fare you were upthe for that. There are n WHERE:The 251 N.chicken Chicago St.inin the Jolietenchilada was George and Eddy isin Chicken-NThe second person banana pieces drizzled with Mystery Diner i MORE:and Call tender, 815-727-1100, would expect, from chimichangas pulled andfaxthe enchilada alSpice’s varieties of nachos ($8.49 for cheesen KNOW • The dish. our party signature selected the “EggIt consists of chocolate: $8.49 815-727-1108 or visit ($10.49 to $11.99) to enchiladas ($9.99 sauce waswww.chicken-n-spicejust right. Not really spicy only $13.49 for fajita nachos). ee at The Herald-News. T threetobreast chunks, jo-jos (seasoned Sampler,” which included Three buttermilk pancakes joliet.com. to $10.99) to burritos ($8.69 with to $11.49) to identity and not taking over the taste of the Instead, we ouramain is not revealed t fries), spicy rice, biscuit and small two eggs cooked toordered order, two sweet peaches and raspslices of bacon, sausage on the guacadrink. quesadillas ($5.99 to vegetarmeal. course whiletwo snacking staff before spicy “dirty” rice had a slight heat,to $12.99) olateberry chip cookie, straw- or during th topping:although $8.99 links, ham, hash browns and That sounded good, but since was a memorable breakfast to expeThe skillet, a side ofOn pancakes, was a delicious mixeaten of chopped gyro Itit andthe I enjoyed second to the chickberry shortcake is a dessert option, Pigs in a blanket: $7.99. a tray of George Eddys.

Yep, ian ($10.49 to $12.99) fajitas ($13.99 myand last visit, I had mole, chips and salsa.

We were all with Mystery Diner visits a r choice of toast orwas pancakes. everyone else ordering George rience at Matty’s Grill ina Shorewood. meat, feta cheese, hash browns and eggs cooked to the diner’s request. en.

Rounding out the meal was hot, too.for I left full, but not overly so (I didon the expe Biscuits and gravy: $5.99 that definitely looked good.

I bought to $28.99 for steak fajitas two). steak fajitas special ($12.99) and was happy with all of it. then reports The “Egg Sampler” wasI’d try someand Eddys, I figured flaky biscuit with plenty of prepacksave some of the meal to bring home one, too.

There’s also a Losand Mas Mexicanos pleased as well.

There was plenty of It was a TuesdayThe and I chose FriaMystery Diner cannot re served with hash browns easy eggs. for another “memorable” “absolutely thing else.delicious.”

MORE and ABOUT aged butter and honey. for later), feltMATTY’S I received my I was not disappointed. two buttermilk pancakes or (the most Mexican) portion of worth. the toppings as my flour tortillas were left split co’sThe enchilada from the lunchOur specials establishment, we will n serverOn wasits very friendbreakfast. shredded hash browns menu had thewere typical We also a side of “Creamy money’s website, Chicken-N-Spice toast: $10. ly and efficient.

Our glasses crispy and tasty. menu with Guadalajara steak ($14.49),going overflowing with toppings and I still Macaroni-N-Cheese ($8.49 with soft drink) fast-food breakfast items:menu. biscuit review. to its website Pepperjack I am According definitely back. calls itself “Home of the Breast Scrambled egg served with SAMPLES FROM THE ONLINE MENU were neverChunk” empty and refills The third selection sandwiches, Frenchsamtoast sticks and and Facebook page, Matty’s bites,” which my companions said and “Joliet legend.” One two turkey links, seasonal pled was the “Mixed Berry stoodwere LEFT: pancakes.

One variation out:plentiful. serves breakfast • The• Mystery Diner isand a newsare fairly new on the lineup, and bite The and manager I knew why. mixed fruit and dry whole One served alsoofcame inquire Cinnamon French Toast” chicken-n-gravy with the option a around daily.at The (Joliet) roomlunch employee these tasted as described.

The exactly enThe to chunks are amply cutegg, andany style, wheat toast: $8. hash and about our meal, and were special. special small,The medium orincluded large biscuit.

• offersThe gourmet pancakes, Herald-News. diner’s identity is Think velvety macaroni served upwe hot, tender,with juicy andbrown potatoes chiladahomemade Cheese omelette, choice of $5.49 happy to tell him that hash Ibrowns, twoselect eggs cooked could also bone-in chickwaffles, crepes and blintzes. not revealed to the restaurant staff and cheese with a bite. wrapped ineverya cliched toast: “melt-inlunch Swiss, cheddar, American, Two eggs, any style,Other served thing was excellent. to en order, sausage bacon of and dinners or aor variety sandwich• has threethe menus before or during meal.- inThe Mys“extras” included corn dog your-mouth” batter. I passed on the mozzarella: $7.99 withneed hash’em), brown potatoes and Portionssauces were very ham.

Our diner described the spehouse,visits take-out and catering, es: Italian beef, Italian sausage, tery Diner a different restaunuggets, jalapeno poppers, mozza(the genchunks don’t Turkey Divan omelette, toast: $6.49 erous, weIleft withcatch two the variety, French toast asand having the deep combo (beef sausage), friedand so rant and they then deliver. reports on the experella sticks, and livers or cial nachos at didn’t but my fresh broccoli, turkey and Two eggs, two bacon strips, carry-out containers to enjoy right touch of sweetness.

The rience. If the Mystery Diner cannot Polish sausage, chicken and “BBQ gizzards.Friaco’s companions swore by the ranch. cheddar cheese: $9.99 two pork one at home. We will ham was juicy and a great recommend the establishment, we Because I’m a kid at heart, I also Breast Chunk Sandwich.”

Thedefinitely jo-jos are thick-cut friessausage with links, Joliet.Greek omelette, tomato, will not publish a review. (carved bone) in returning to the Matty’s accompaniment the overone, very chocolaty chocjust rightGrill amountham of spice.

Theoff theordered Then I saw to someone whiskbe away

RIGHT: The steak fajita dinner special.

JHN Mystery Diner_102818.indd 3

Shaw Media

OCTOBER 2018 | MYSTERY DINER | 3

10/18/18 3:07 PM

29

Restaurant reviews

D NER

MYSTERY DINER

The Herald-News / TheHerald-News.com • Wednesday, November 9, 2016

* The Herald-News/TheHerald-News.com • Wednesday, June 27, 2018 SPORTS

26

M STERY FOODMDSTERY NER

Friaco’s Restaurant & Cantina authen Joliet’s Chicken-N-Spice Home Cutlegendary Donuts: Excellence in eachisbite If you go Restaurant reviews

MYSTERY DINER

Signature George and Eddy is restaurant’s most popular item

I have never heard a bad KNOW MORE JOLIET – We’ve been to Friaco’s n WHAT: Friaco’s Restauran word about Home Cut Donuts.

• The Mystery Diner is an before, takeout and once for kids’ Hardly for a day passes when n WHEN: 11 a.m. to 10 p.m. S employee at The Hernight, oronfamily night, or whatevI don’t see, social media, Thursday, 11 a.m. to 11 p.m. F ald-News.

The diner’s someone about Home night deal er theytalking call the Monday identity is not revealed p.m. Saturday Cut or making Home Cut meal with an where kids aget a free to restaurant staff n before WHERE: 1321 Highway 59 Donut run orTHE in some way reMYSTERY DINER adulttoentree purchase. or during the meal. The ferring this independently n INFO: Call 815-254-4866 o Mystery Diner visits a This week,venue however, owned doughnut with a it was just me restaurant.com.

JOLIET – Haven’t heard of Chickrestaurant and then reand two kids.

50-year history in Joliet. en-N-Spice in Joliet? ports on the experience.

If And the are samepretty was true Both picky eaters, but Neither had I despite the fact the the Mystery Diner cannot inside The Herald-News they love chips, salsa, quesadillas Don Ramon Carne Asad Joliet restaurant was established in and recommend the establish recently when staff ordered 1979.and My beans. three dinner companions cos de pollo asado ($12.99 ment, we will not publish a rice variety of Joliet’s famous were aghast at Friaco’s my ignorance.

Their That of other options. a review. doughnut tomade try and critique.off Highway got to try it!” convinced me.

59“You’ve Joliet near Wal-Mart in the Ofin course, everyone has And there’s a seafood Of course, I had to check out the their favorites, and we weren’t IF YOU GO Shorewood-Joliet-Plainfield area very menu that includes selec venue online first.

Its website at the exception. I like plain WHAT: Home Cut Donuts appealing. as carne asada con cama www.chicken-n-spicejoliet.com said doughnuts and the Home Cut WHEN: Main Shop –and 24 hours a day, frito ($15.49 We were quickly seated, just like pescado Chicken-N-Spice is known for its variety are tops (my go-to 7 days a week. Outlet Shop – “big juicy breast chunks.”

These the Monday night we had come beIt’s hard pick whenever I stop in): soft, Monday through Saturday 5 a.m. to imagine g chunks are “all boneless fore, and the chips and salsa were on slightly sweet and sowhite good. into the Mystery Diner w to Noon, Sunday 6 a.m. to Noon breast meat,” which are “cut and In case you’ve neveralong tried the table quickly, with waters tioning WHERE: 815 W. Jefferson St. the drink selecti seasoned” daily in the restaurant. a and Homemilk Cut Donut (new to the Shaw Media Joliet (mainphoto shop) and 1317aE.kids lunch date, so for the kids. was I love chicken.

I’m sold already. area, perhaps?), our com(outlet) Joliet’s Friaco’s Restaurant & Cantina serves up authentic Mexican food. Washington St. Joliettake.

How quickly happened On our previous vi Located at 251 N.with Chicago St. in is so ments might help youthat INFORMATION: CallI815Shaw Media photos Joliet dwarfed bylunch the new Joliet key to and a successful date with shared a sangria marga your selection.

Hardly day passes whenOn I don’t see, on social media, someone talking HomeaCut or left. making a Home Cut 727-3511 or visit homecutdo Junior College city campus, ex-a curiton Mondays, they have chicken orabout had kids.

If they’re given time the to get shared, I mean I stole a f nuts.com.

Donut run in some steak way referring to this doughnut venue with Joliet. loved terior of restless, Chicken-N-Spice Comments Asa 50-year for thehistory kids,in they the fajitas onindependently special or owned enchiladas ous and they’ll reminded usually doorit.

They have options fro Shaw Media photos me an old Treacher’s Fish & “Home CutArthur Donuts remind quesadillas beans. aren’t On Wednesday, the burrito and Instead, they happy, margaritas ($6.49) to pitc ABOVE:mole.

Chicken-N-Spice has been serving its brand of chicken for nearly 40and years.

BELOWThey LEFT: A Georgeclean and Eddy is Chicken-Nthe were signature colorand is they Wonderful, raspberry us Chips, why weexcept love doughnuts. partial to veggies inrice, their rice, soa they cream are on special, even bowl of mild salsa because specialty Spice’s sour signature dish. enchiladas It consists of three breast chunks, jo-jos (seasoned fries), spicy biscuit small BELOW RIGHT:margaritas pink, not jamand filling.

All drink. theor choices They aregot notablue. the over-sweetA chocolaty chocolate chip is theor perfect to a Chicken-N-Spice meal. that and enjoyed picked through on Thursday itscookie chicken beeffinale chimithe The oneinterior Iflavored was munching was a little for $11.49. resembles small availablethe were tempting, but I ened, stale doughnutsaon fast-food restaurant –or one modest rice part too. changa or flautas, and on Friday it’s think I picked the right twodessert, to you can get in a package too spicy.

We also ordered a small For they hav counter for placing orders and or a $7.49 If you fish sample this time. Next time, atside some shops.

The go tacos chipotle or a mariachi bowl.

The kids menu has chicken finofdoughnut guacamole dip ($3.49 ($3.25), flan ($4.49), fried small dining area.

The difference I’ll try something else.” yeasty and doughy flavors gers, Mexican pizza or a hamburger The dinner special days are the for large) to go with it. ($6.49), churros ($6.49) an the boxes andmakes bags lined up on “Doughnut are always arewas delicious, which n WHAT: Chicken-N-Spice or a combo that includes rice and same as the lunch special, only the The appetizer menu has everychimichanga ($6.49). of theCut tables waiting for cara staple in any newsroom, theseveral basic Home doughnut n HOURS: 7:30 a.m. to 10 p.m. Monday beans with a taco, enchilada, quesaare a little more for the dinner thing a one sampler ($14.99)throughprices They but I’d never tried Home Cut all sound good ( ryout, which of my platter friends told always afrom good buy.

Sunday; and 7:30 a.m. to 8 p.m.

Donuts before today.

I decided dilla, tostada, tamale or a taco. plates, $8.99Eve. toClosed $12.99 before the were probably all George and “But the added cinnamon tome queso fundido ($9.99) to bruschetta chimichanga looks good Christmas Eve andfrom New Year’s add some sugar to my life to or($8.99 coconut are great, too. So Eddy or orders.

Friaco’s does catering, to but its drink. $10.99 with shrimp) but we Christmas have to save that for nex and New Year. ensure make it through the are the cream fillings.

Home For uninitiated (me), a also severmenu is also filled with the fare I’d you were upthe for that. There are n WHERE:The 251 N.chicken Chicago St.inin the Jolietenchilada was workday and picked an eclair.

CutGeorge has good coffee, The and Eddytoo. is Chicken-NMORE:and Call tender, 815-727-1100, would expect, from chimichangas pulled andfaxthe enchilada alSpice’s varieties of nachos ($8.49 for cheesen KNOW • The “The chocolate icing on Mystery Diner i shop itself signature is a throwback dish. It consists of 815-727-1108 or visit ($10.49 to $11.99) enchiladas ($9.99 sauce waswww.chicken-n-spicejust right. Not really spicy Three only $13.49 for fajita nachos). ee at The Herald-News. T brothers – Bill, Bobto and Dave top was not overpowering, without being pretentiously threeto breast chunks, jo-jos (seasoned joliet.com. was good there to $10.99) to burritos to $11.49) to because and not taking over the taste of the Ruhaak – invested all they had($8.69 and which retro.

It’s spicy the real thing that and Instead, we ordered ouramain identity is not revealed t fries), rice, biscuit small vanilla icing persists.” in April 1966.

Bill’sto son$12.99) Jim drink. while snacking on the guacaquesadillas ($5.99 to also vegetarmeal. course staffinside before spicy “dirty”opened rice had a slight heat, olatewas chip cookie, although straw- or during th with a dollopis ona top.

It was a “I had what turned out to over the to business in 2000.toberry In case you’ve a Home doughnut to theeaten area, perhaps?), That sounded but since and I enjoyedtook it second the chickshortcake dessert option, traytried of George and Eddys.

Yep, ian ($10.49 to $12.99) fajitas ($13.99 On myCut last visit,(new I had the mole, chips and good, salsa.

We were all anever Mystery Diner visits a r wonderful sweet to start be everyone an apple-filled doughnut.

I George else was ordering comments from Thedefinitely Herald-News staff special might you with your en.selection.

Rounding out the meal was a hot, too.for I left full, but nottreat overly so (I didon the expe that looked good.help I bought to $28.99 for steak fajitas two). steak fajitas ($12.99) and was happy with all of it. then reports my day.” wasn’t it and would cream-filled or fruit-filled? and expecting Eddys, I figured I’d try someflaky biscuit with plenty of prepacksave some of the meal to bring home one, too.

There’s also a Los Mexicanos pleased as well. wasofplenty of Ithave was a Tuesday and I chose Mystery Diner cannot re never chosen it intencan’t beFriahappyIwith has aThere nice blend powdered Thehoney. long frosted eclairs alsoMas thing else. aged butter and for later), and felt I received my was that?” not disappointed.

Home Cut Donut History tionally but was pleasantly “Tasted great.

I could taste sugar on the outside and angel (the most Mexican) portion of worth. the toppings my flour tortillas were left split co’sThe enchilada from the lunch specialsOn its establishment, we will n looked pretty tempting, but menu had the typical We also a side of “Creamy money’s website,as Chicken-N-Spice itsreview. website, surprised bybreakfast how it was. the Joliet tradition in the filling on the inside.

I decided to narrow it down menu with Guadalajara steak ($14.49),to overflowing with toppings and I still Macaroni-N-Cheese ($8.49 with softgood drink) menu. fast-food items: biscuit Pepperjack I amAccording definitely going back. calls itself “Home of cream the Breast Home Cut Donuts, which I’msandwiches, a fan.” dough.

Just delicious!” twocompanions options. Thesaid first was French toast sticks andMy favorite bites,” whichtomy Chunk” was and the “Joliet legend.”

One celebrated its Diner 50th anniversa“Home CutOne Donuts are stood jelly-filled pastry.” a chocolate frosted chocolate • The LEFT: pancakes. variation out: Mystery is a newsarepleasfairly new on the lineup, and bite and I knew why. “The doughnut was in 2016, isat a family business ‘heaven to your tastewith buds.’ doughantlycut fluffy and delightful.

ItThe exactly doughnut, was a greatroomryemployee chicken-n-gravy the option“Iofhad a a Bismarck The (Joliet) these tasted as which described. enThe chunks are amply and with two locations, each open is So small, fresh, they melt in your nut.

Don’t consider myself a wasn’t too sugary or sweet choice.

Loved macaroni the flavor, medium or large biscuit.

Herald-News.

The diner’s identity Think velvety homemade served up hot, tender, juicy and chilada seven days week. mouthI could and such great variexpert, butin it a was some other doughnuts crumb and so fresh and tasty. alsoa select bone-in doughnut chicknot revealed to athe restaurant staff and cheese with a bite. wrapped clichedlike “melt-inThree brothers – Bill,The BobMysetyen of dinners flavors toorchoose from.” excellent. Plenty of jelly with had. on I thought justlunch “The other option that before or a variety of sandwichduring the meal.

Other “extras” included corn dog your-mouth” batter. I’ve I passed the it had Dave Ruhaak – invested “That has to be the best sausage, a fresh, softsauces texture.” the right frosting spe–jalapeno I wentpoppers, with wasmozzaa yummy tery and es: Italian beef, Italian Diner visits a different restau(the chunks don’t needamount ’em), of nuggets, they had and opened eclair I have ever tasted!

Choc-deep “The icedcatch cake the variety, not too much or too rella little.sticks, The raspberry-filled fluffy combo (beef and sausage), fried chocolate and then reports on theinexpeand livers or bite rantall cial nachos at so I didn’t but my April 1966.

Bill’s son Jim cannot took olatey goodness frosting with is without question, the best was a nicegizzards. way to of heavenly goodness. It wasrience.

If the Mystery Diner Polish sausage, chicken and “BBQ companions swore bydoughnut the ranch.

Friaco’s over in 2000, continuing the we a creamy filling inside chocolate doughnut ever!

The start the day.” lightly dusted in powdered recommend the establishment, Because I’m a kid at heart, I also Breast fluffy Chunk Sandwich.”

The jo-jos are thick-cut fries with Joliet. tradition. a lightThen and tasty whowhiskvanilla cream doughnut to choose: cakey, in but it wasn’t too sweet. will family not publish a review. ordered one,sugar, very chocolaty chocjust the right amount of“Which spice. The I saweclair, someone away angel

4 | MYSTERY DINER | OCTOBER 2018

JHN Mystery Diner_102818.indd 4

RIGHT: The steak fajita dinner special.

Shaw Media

10/18/18 3:07 PM

29

Restaurant reviews

Restaurant reviews

MYSTERY DINER

The Herald-News / TheHerald-News.com • Wednesday, November 9, 2016

The Herald-News / TheHerald-News.com • Wednesday, February 28, 2018

26

M STERY FOOD D NER

Friaco’s Restaurant & Cantina is authen Joliet’s legendary Chicken-N-Spice Johnny’s Beef & Gyros offers hefty menu If you go

MYSTERY DINER

Signature George and DINER JOLIET MYSTERY – We’ve been to Friaco’s before, for takeout and once for kids’ Eddy isAnyone restaurant’s JOLIET lookingor forwhateva good night, or –family night, place to sit down and enjoy burgers, fries, ermost they call the Monday night might deal popular item great salads, Greek food and dessert

If you go

n WHAT: Friaco’s Restauran n WHEN: 11 a.m. to 10 p.m. S

Thursday, 11 a.m. to 11 p.m. F n WHAT: Johnny’s Beef & Gyros Saturday n WHEN: 10 a.m. to 10 p.m.p.m.

Monday

where kids get a free meal with want to try Johnny’s Beef & Gyros in an through Saturday, with delivery until 1321 Highway 59 n WHERE: THE purchase.

MYSTERY DINER adult entree Joliet.

9 p.m.; 11 a.m. to 8 p.m. n INFO: Call 815-254-4866 o The restaurant is located atit3567 Jef- me This week, however, wasW.just n WHERE: 3567 W. Jefferson St., Joliet restaurant.com.

JOLIET Haven’t heard of Chickferson St. inkids. a –tiny shopping plaza that’s n INFORMATION: Call 815-725-1590 or and two en-N-Spice in Joliet? close to the Joliet Regional Airport. While visit www.johnnys-beef.com.

Both are easy pretty picky eaters, Neither I despite fact thebut it might not behad to find, the it’s worth they love chips, salsa, Don Ramon Carne Asad Joliet restaurant was established in and visiting if you’re looking forquesadillas a place that 1979.and My beans. three dinner companions rice cos de pollo asado ($12.99 offers almost every burger and sandwich Photos provided were aghast atThe myrestaurant ignorance.

Their you could want. also delivThat made Friaco’s off Highway of other LEFT: Johnny’s Beef & Gyros is locat-options. gotcatering. to try it!” convinced me. ers and offers 59“You’ve in Joliet near Wal-Mart in the Andinthere’s a seafood ed at 3567 W. Jefferson St., Joliet, a Ofof course, I had to check outabout the One the first things I noticed tiny shopping plaza that’s menu close tothat the includes selec Shorewood-Joliet-Plainfield very venue online website atarea Johnny’s Beef &first.

GyrosIts when I walked in Joliet Regional Airport. as carne asada con cama appealing. www.chicken-n-spicejoliet.com was how clean, neat and spacious itsaid was.

We were quickly seated, just like and pescado frito ($15.49 Chicken-N-Spice is and known for its The kitchen is visible framed by a “big juicy breast chunks.”

These the Monday night we had come tin roof, and there’s a menu that seemsbeto It’s hard to imagine g chunks are “all whiteand boneless stretch from the entrance to the back of on fore, and the chips salsa were into the Mystery Diner w breast meat,” which are “cut and the restaurant. the table quickly, along with waters tioning the drink selecti seasoned” daily&in the restaurant.

Johnny’s Beef Gyros’ menu is availShaw Media photo and milk for the kids. was a kids lunch date, so I love chicken. I’mFacebook sold already. able on its website,and page.

Joliet’s Friaco’s Restaurant & Cantina serves up authentic Mexican food.

How quickly that happened take. On our previous vi Located at 251 N. Chicago St. hot in is so The restaurant offers appetizers, Joliet dwarfed bylunch the burgers, new Joliet key to and a successful date with I shared a sangria marga dogs, chili, soup, sandwiches, Junior College city campus, ex- curiwraps, salads, desserts, meatless dishes, had a ton left.

On Mondays, they have chicken or kids.

If they’re given time the to get shared, I mean I stole a f terior of restless, Chicken-N-Spice reminded ribs, seafood, beer andthey’ll wine. It’s a big menu As for the kids, they loved the steak fajitas on special or enchiladas ous and usually do it.

They have options fro Shaw Media photos meaan Arthur Treacher’s Fish & with lotold of Greek-style food. I think anyone quesadillas beans.

On Wednesday, the burrito and Instead, they happy, and margaritas ($6.49) to pitc ABOVE:mole.

Chicken-N-Spice has been serving its brand of chicken for nearly 40and years.

BELOWThey LEFT: aren’t A George and Eddy is Chicken-NChips, except the were signature is they would be able to find at least onecolor appealing partial to veggies in their rice, so they sour cream enchiladas are on special, even got a bowl of mild salsa because or specialty margaritas Spice’s signature dish.

It consists of three breast chunks, jo-jos (seasoned fries), spicy rice, biscuit and a small drink.

BELOW RIGHT: pink, not blue. meal to suit their flavor.

A chocolaty chocolate chip is theor perfect to a Chicken-N-Spice meal. that and enjoyed the picked through on Thursday itscookie chicken beeffinale chimiLEFT: The for Souvlaki the oneinterior I the was munching was a little $11.49.

The resembles aon small I picked Souvlaki sandwich under sandwich under thedessert, they hav fast-food – section one modest rice part too. changa or flautas, and on Friday it’s the Johnny’s Specialties of too spicy.restaurant We also ordered a the small For counter for placing orders and a $7.49 menu.

I wanted to try one the Greek food If you fish go tacos chipotle or a mariachi bowl.

The kids menu has chicken fin-Johnny’s specialties side of guacamole dipof($3.49 or ($3.25), flan ($4.49), fried small dining area.contains The difference section of the menu items.

The sandwich gers, Mexican pizza or a hamburger The dinner special days are the for large) to go with it. chunks of ($6.49), churros ($6.49) an was the boxes lined up contains chunks of char-broiled pork,and andbags it’s served on on pita n WHAT: Chicken-N-Spice or a combo that includes rice and same as the lunch special, only the The appetizer menu has everychimichanga ($6.49). several the tables waiting for carchar-broiled pork, bread withofonion, tomato and cucumber n HOURS: 7:30 a.m. to 10 p.m. Monday beans with a taco, enchilada, quesaare a little more for the dinner thing a one sampler ($14.99)throughprices They all sound good ( ryout,from which of my platter friends told sauce. and it’s served on Sunday; and 7:30 a.m. to 8 p.m. dilla, tostada, tamale or a taco. plates, $8.99Eve. toClosed $12.99 before the were probably all George and For Christmas tome queso ($9.99) to bruschetta looks good As a sidefundido order, I picked coleslaw. pita breadchimichanga with Eve andfrom New Year’s Eddy or orders. dessert, I chose a slice of baklava.

Friaco’s does catering, but its onion, tomato drink. ($8.99 $10.99 with shrimp) but we Christmas haveand to save that for nex and New Year.

For uninitiated (me), a also severThe Souvlaki sandwich wasare delicious. cucumber sauce. menu is also filled with the fare you were upthe for that.

There n WHERE:The 251 N.chicken Chicago St.inin the Jolietenchilada was George and Eddy Chicken-NIt unexpectedly cameiswith fries inside the MORE:and Call tender, 815-727-1100, would expect, from chimichangas BOTTOM LEFT:• The Mystery Diner i pulled andfaxthe enchilada alSpice’s varieties of nachos ($8.49 forofcheesen KNOW signature dish.mind.

It consists sandwich, which I didn’t The meat There was baklava 815-727-1108 or visit www.chicken-n-spice($10.49 to $11.99) to enchiladas ($9.99 sauce was just right. Not really spicy only tobreast $13.49 for fajita ee at The Herald-News. T three chunks, jo-jos (seasoned was tangy and tender, and thenachos). rest of the for dessert, a Greek joliet.com. to $10.99) to burritos ($8.69 to $11.49) to BOTTOM and not taking over the taste of the Instead, we ordered our main identity is not revealed t fries), spicy rice, biscuit andAlthough a small ingredients were tasty, as well. delicacy. drink. given the while large amount of onions and guacacuquesadillas ($5.99 to vegetarmeal. course snacking on the staff before spicy “dirty” rice had a slight heat,to $12.99) olate chip cookie, although strawRIGHT: Coleslaw was or during th That sounded but since cumber sauce inand thegood, sandwich, you might andthe I enjoyed it second to the chick- toberry shortcake is aoption. dessert option, Eddys. ian ($10.49 to $12.99) fajitas ($13.99 On myand last visit,Yep, I had eaten mole, chips salsa.

We were all a tray of George Mystery Diner visits a r a side everyone elseofwas George want a handful en. Rounding out the meal a hot, too.for I left full, but not then overlyreports so (I didon the expe that definitely lookedspecial good. I bought to $28.99 forwas steak fajitas two). steak fajitas ($12.99) and was happy with allbreath of ordering it. mints afterward. and Eddys, I figured I’d try someThe coleslaw was good. Although I’m flaky biscuit with plenty of prepacksave some of the meal to bring home one, too.

There’s also a Los Mas Mexicanos pleased as well. There was plenty of It was a Tuesday and I chose Mystery Diner cannot re thing else. not crazy about baklava myself, it was Fria- I was aged butter and honey. for later), and felt I received my not disappointed. (the most Mexican) portion of worth. the toppings my flour tortillas were left split co’sThe enchilada from the lunch specialsOn its establishment, we will n menu had the typical quite good!

Johnny’s Beef & Gyros also We also a side of “Creamy money’s website,as Chicken-N-Spice menu with Guadalajara steak ($14.49),going overflowing with toppings and I still Macaroni-N-Cheese ($8.49 with soft drink) menu. fast-food breakfast items: biscuit review. offers rice pudding and chocolate chip Pepperjack I am definitely back. calls itself “Home of the Breast sandwiches, French toast sticks and cookies, with Friday being Free Cookie bites,” which my companions said Chunk” and “Joliet legend.” One LEFT: pancakes.

One variation stood out: Day with purchase.

• The Mystery Diner is a newsare fairly new on the lineup, and bite and I knew why. chicken-n-gravy with the option of a room employee at The (Joliet) these tasted as described.

The exactly enThe chunks are amply cut and small, mediumDiner or large biscuit.

• The Mystery is an employee Think velvety served up hot, tender, juicy and chiladahomemade macaroni Herald-News. The diner’s identity is I could also select at The Herald-News.

Thebone-in diner’s chickidentity wrapped in a cliched “melt-innot revealed to the restaurant staff and cheese with a bite. lunch is en notdinners revealedortoarestaurant before your-mouth” batter. I passed on the variety of staff sandwichbefore or during the meal. The MysOther “extras” included corn dog ores: during thebeef, meal.Italian The Mystery Diner Italian sausage, tery Diner visits a different restaunuggets,spejalapeno poppers, mozzasauces (the chunks don’t need ’em), visits a restaurant then reports on the so I didn’t catch the variety, but my combo (beef andand sausage), deep fried rant and then reports on the experella sticks, and livers or cial nachos at experience.

If the Mystery cannot rience. If the Mystery Diner cannot Polish sausage, chickenDiner and “BBQ gizzards.Friaco’s companions swore by the ranch. recommend the establishment, we recommend the establishment, Because I’m a kid at heart, I also Breast Chunk Sandwich.” we will not The jo-jos are thick-cut fries with in Joliet. will not publish a review. ordered one, very chocolaty chocpublish a review. just the right amount of spice. The Then I saw someone whisk away

RIGHT: The steak fajita dinner special.

JHN Mystery Diner_102818.indd 5

Shaw Media

OCTOBER 2018 | MYSTERY DINER | 5

10/18/18 3:07 PM

2929

Restaurant reviews

D NER

MYSTERY DINER

The Herald-News / TheHerald-News.com • Wednesday, November 9, 2016 The Herald-News / TheHerald-News.com • Wednesday, January 24, 2018

M STERY FOODMDSTERY NER

Friaco’s Restaurant & Cantina is authen Joliet’s legendary Chicken-N-Spice Great food and service in a family atmosphere Restaurant reviews

If you go

MYSTERY DINER

Signature George and Eddy is restaurant’s most popular item

SHOREWOOD – I’m rather JOLIET – We’ve been to Friaco’s n WHAT: Friaco’s Restauran possessive of my Saturdays.

If you go before, for takeout and once for kids’ n WHEN: 11 a.m. to 10 p.m. S When possible, I try to keep night, or family night, that one day as low-key and or whatevThursday, 11 a.m. to 11 p.m. F n WHAT: Happy Place Cafe er they callpossible. the Monday night deal flexible when p.m. Saturday n WHERE: 1150 W. Jefferson But onkids this particular where get a freeSatmeal with an n WHERE: 1321 Highway 59 urday, I had an early mornTHE purchase.

MYSTERY DINER St., Shorewood adult entree n INFO: Call 815-254-4866 o ing meeting about a current n HOURS: 6 a.m. to 9 p.m.

This week, however, it was just me project, so I suggested Happy restaurant.com.

JOLIET – Haven’t heard of Chickseven days a week and two kids.

Place Cafe. en-N-Spice in Joliet? n INFORMATION: Call 815Both are pretty picky eaters, but Not only did the name Neither had I despite the fact the sound enticing (Whosalsa, can be they love chips, quesadillas 666-1447, fax 815-666-1956 Don Ramon Carne Asad Joliet restaurant was established in and disgruntled about dinner venturing 1979.and My beans. three companions rice cos de pollo asado ($12.99 or visit www.thehappyplaceforth early on a at weekend were aghast my ignorance.

Their That made Friaco’s off Highway of other options. cafe.com. morning with likeconvinced me. gotatoname try it!”

59“You’ve in but Joliet near Wal-Mart in the And there’s a seafood that?), I’d read a number of Of course, I had to check out the Shorewood-Joliet-Plainfield menu that includes selec positive about venuecomments online first.

Its the website atarea very restaurant from social media appealing. as carne asada con cama www.chicken-n-spicejoliet.com said The venue is warm and inviting connections.

We were quickly seated, just like and pescado frito ($15.49 Chicken-N-Spice is known for its but in an airy, almost upscale Bothjuicy my companion and I These “big breast chunks.” the Monday night we had come beIt’s hard to imagine g way, and yet sufficiently downenvisioned a 1960s-style mom chunks are “all whiteand boneless fore, and the chips salsa were on into the Mystery Diner w to-earth by displaying daily and pop restaurant: quaint, breast meat,” which are “cut and specials on a chalkboard. the table quickly, along with waters tioning the drink selecti straightforward, vintage. seasoned” daily in the restaurant.

Shaw Media photo And both were wrong. andwe milk for the kids. was a kids lunch date, so I love chicken. I’m sold already.

The venue is Joliet’s Friaco’s Restaurant & Cantina serves up authentic Mexican food. Photos provided How quickly happened take. On our previous vi Located atwarm 251 that N.and Chicago St. in is so inviting but in an airy, Joliet dwarfed bylunch the new Joliet key to and a successful date with I shared a sangria marga almost upscale way, and yet Junior College city campus, the ex- curihad a ton left.

On Mondays, they have chicken or kids.

If they’re given time to get shared, I mean I stole a f sufficiently down-to-earth by terior of restless, Chicken-N-Spice reminded As for the kids, they loved the steak fajitas on special or enchiladas ous and they’ll They have options fro displaying daily specials on a usually do it.

Shaw Media photos me an old Arthur Treacher’s Fish & chalkboard. quesadillas beans.

On Wednesday, the burrito and Instead, they happy, margaritas ($6.49) to pitc ABOVE:mole.

Chicken-N-Spice has been serving its brand of chicken for nearly 40and years.

BELOWThey LEFT: aren’t A George and Eddy is Chicken-NChips, except the were signature colorand is they Happy Place Cafe’s partial to veggies inrice, their rice, cream are on special, even bowl ofwebsite mild salsa because orBELOW specialty Spice’s sour signature dish. enchiladas It consists of three breast chunks, jo-jos (seasoned fries), spicy biscuit andsoa they small drink.

RIGHT:margaritas pink,got notablue. promised “fast, courteous, and A chocolaty chocolate chip is theor perfect to a Chicken-N-Spice meal. that and enjoyed the picked through on Thursday itscookie chicken beeffinale chimithe The oneinterior I was munching was a little for $11.49. resembles aon small efficient service.” That proved fast-food restaurant – one modest rice part too. changa or flautas, and on Friday it’s too spicy.

We also ordered a small For dessert, they hav to be true. We were seated counter forand placing orders and or a $7.49 If you fish go tacos chipotle or a mariachi bowl.

The kids menu has chicken finside of guacamole ($3.49 ($3.25), flan ($4.49), fried immediately serveddip both small dining area.

The difference coffee and water before weit. gers, Mexican pizza or a hamburger The dinner special days are the for large) to go with ($6.49), churros ($6.49) an wastake the off boxes and bags lined on n WHAT: Chicken-N-Spice could our coats and sithasup or a combo that includes rice and same as the lunch special, only the The appetizer menu everychimichanga ($6.49). several of the tables waiting for carn HOURS: 7:30 a.m. to 10 p.m. Monday down. beans with a taco, enchilada, quesaare a little more for the dinner thing from a one sampler platter ($14.99)throughprices They all sound good ( ryout, which of my friends told Sunday; and 7:30 a.m. to 8 p.m.

The menu’s breakfast laydilla, tostada, tamale or a taco. plates, $8.99Eve. toClosed $12.99 before the were probably all George and tome queso fundido ($9.99) to bruschetta chimichanga looks good out is so cheery and enticing, Christmas Eve andfrom New Year’s Eddy orders.

Friaco’s does catering, but its drink. ($8.99 with shrimp) but we Christmas have to save that for nex how canor one$10.99 NOT feel in the and New Year.

For the uninitiated (me), a also severmood for most important menu is also filled with the fare you were upthe for that.

There are n WHERE:The 251 N.chicken Chicago St.inin the Jolietenchilada was George Eddy is Chicken-Nmeal of theand day? soon as ($8.49 we MORE:and Call tender, 815-727-1100, would expect, from chimichangas pulled andfaxthe enchilada alSpice’s varieties ofAsnachos for cheesen KNOW • The Mystery Diner i signature dish. It opened them, our waitress re-consists of 815-727-1108 or visit ($10.49 to $11.99) to enchiladas ($9.99 sauce waswww.chicken-n-spicejust right. Not really spicy only tobreast $13.49 for fajita nachos). ee at The Herald-News. T three chunks, jo-jos (seasoned turned to warm up our coffee. joliet.com. $10.99) to– burritos to onidentity and not taking over the taste the Instead, ouraLEFT: main is not revealed t I decided on the “Happy Waffle” for $9.10 with freshof blueberries andto strawberries and hold the($8.69 bananato(I $11.49) ate a banana the way out). fries), spicy rice, biscuit and small I decided onwe the ordered “Happy drink.for RIGHT: The sausagemeal. was “probably the best I’ve gotten atspicy a breakfast place,” my companion said.to $12.99) quesadillas ($5.99 to vegetarcourse while snacking guacastaff before “dirty” rice had a slight heat, olate chip cookie, although straw- or during th Waffle” $9.10 with fresh on the That sounded good, since andthe I enjoyed it second to the chick- toberry shortcake option, blueberries, fresh strawberEddys. ian ($10.49 to $12.99) fajitas ($13.99 is a dessert On myand last visit,Yep, I had eaten mole, chips and salsa.but We were all a tray of George Mystery Diner visits a r everyone George the nutellathat crepes (nutella, The Ifood arrived shortly eggs were perfectly the I’m happy report the en.

Rounding out the meal acooked; hot, too.for I left full, but to not overly so (I didon the expe ries, and with holdelse the banana. definitely lookedspecial good. bought to $28.99 forwas steak fajitas two). steak fajitas ($12.99) and was happy allwas of ordering it. then reports and Eddys, I figured I’d try somewe’d were perfectly save leftover madeto a very flaky biscuit hash with browns plenty of prepacksome ofham the meal bringnice home I mentally debated between fresh strawberries one, too.and banan- after – one would think There’s also a Los Mas Mexicanos pleased as well.

There was plenty of It was a Tuesday and I chose FriaMystery Diner cannot re thing else. as) for $8.90. I was not disappointed. ordered it ahead. aged butter and seasoned. bedtime flavored honey. for later), andsandwich, felt I received my Canadian bacon for $3.95 and (the most Mexican) portion of worth. the toppings my The flour tortillas were left split co’sfor enchilada from the specials establishment, we will n The menu thefor typical how about French “Happy Waffle” arrived The sausage was “probably with spicy brown mustard.

We also a side of “Creamy ham $4.10 andhad went thelunchOr money’s On the its website,as Chicken-N-Spice menu with Guadalajara ($14.49),going overflowing with toppings I still ($8.49 with soft drink) fast-food breakfast items:menu. biscuit review. toast/crepecalls combo: two“Home pieces of the hot Breast with plenty ofand butter and the best I’ve gotten at a break- steak Pepperjack Macaroni-N-Cheese ham.

I am definitely back. itself sandwiches, and toast • The Mystery Diner is an of French on top of “Joliet a syrup onOne the side, which I whichfast my companion It was hard toFrench decide.toast I re- sticks bites,” myplace,” companions said Chunk” and legend.”

LEFT: pancakes.

One variation out: covered employee at The Herald-News.

Fruit was “fresh Mystery Diner is a newsally like pancakes and wafflesstoodcrepe, arewaffles fairly newsaid. on the lineup, and and not • The bitewith and fresh I knew why. eschewed, as I like my withalso the option of a diner’s at identity is not blueberries, strawberries plain.cut This one was these hot and browning,” and the sourdough roomThe employee The (Joliet) forchicken-n-gravy breakfast, and these tasted as described.

The exactly enThe chunksand are amply and small, good: medium or waffle large biscuit. revealed to restaurant staff with and Think through; toast was “very good.” sounded bacon for pecans, drizzled Herald-News.

The diner’s identity is velvety homemade macaroni served up vanilla hot, tender,tender juicy through and chilada could also selectwaffle bone-in chickbefore ortoduring the meal. staff sauce for $9.05. berries were sweet $7.45,Ichocolate banana not revealed the restaurant andand cheese withWhile a bite.we ate, our waitress wrapped in a cliched the “melt-inlunchfrequently en dinners or and a variety of sandwichThe Diner visits a MysMy companion placed batter. a cus- Inicely complemented the returned checkbefore (chocolate chips bananas) orMystery during the meal.

The Other “extras” included corn to dog your-mouth” passed on the restaurant and then reports on tom order: sauces two eggs, sausage waffle. on uspoppers, and warmmozzaup our coffee.

Italian beef, Italian sausage, fores: $9.10, raspberry (or strawtery Diner visits a different restaunuggets,spejalapeno (the chunks don’t need ’em), If the links, fruit so and sourdough The side The portions were or larger than combo (beef and sausage), fried berry) chocolate chip pancakesdeep rant the andexperience. then reports on Mystery the experellamore sticks, and livers cial nachos at I didn’t catch the variety, but of myham was Diner cannot recommend the toast. entree. It, too, was hot we could consume in one rience. (raspberry or strawberry If the Mystery Diner cannot Polish sausage, chicken and “BBQ gizzards. companions swore bylike thean ranch.

Friaco’s establishment, we will not we Our waitress took ourare order with appealing glaze) for $8.35. sitting, bothIasked the establishment, Because I’m a kidso atwe heart, also for recommend Breast Chunk Sandwich.”

The jo-jos thick-cut fries withgrill marks. in Joliet.

Fans of nutella might like publish a review. warmed upthe ourright coffee.amount of My companion said the one, carryout boxes. chocwill not publish a review. ordered very chocolaty just spice.

The Then I saw someone whiskand away

6 | MYSTERY DINER | OCTOBER 2018

JHN Mystery Diner_102818.indd 6

RIGHT: The steak fajita dinner special.

Shaw Media

10/18/18 3:07 PM

3329

Restaurant reviews

D NER

MYSTERY DINER

The Herald-News / TheHerald-News.com • Wednesday, November 9, 2016 MYSTERY DINER The Herald-News/TheHerald-News.com • Wednesday, July 25, 2018

M STERY FOODMDSTERY NER

Friaco’s Restaurant & Cantina is authen Joliet’s legendary Chicken-N-Spice Joliet steak house has vintage atmosphere Restaurant reviews

If you go

MYSTERY DINER

Signature George and Eddy is restaurant’s most popular item

We went to Al’s Steak House JOLIET – We’ve been to Friaco’s n WHAT: Friaco’s Restauran and orderd a little too much before, for takeout and once for kids’ food. n WHEN: 11 a.m. to 10 p.m. S night, or family night, The crazy part, we’d do itor whatevThursday, 11 a.m. to 11 p.m. F again. er they call the Monday night deal p.m. Saturday If youkids are not where getfamiliar a freewith meal with an n WHERE: 1321 Highway 59 it, Al’s Steak House sits on THE purchase.

MYSTERY DINER adult entree the corner of Jefferson and n INFO: Call 815-254-4866 o This streets. week, The however, it was just me Hammes entrance restaurant.com.

JOLIET – Haven’t heard of Chickand two kids. has potted flowers and big en-N-Spice in Joliet? heavy doors. date said ittheeaters, Both areMy pretty picky Neither had I despite fact thebut was like thechips, doors found old they love salsa, quesadillas Don Ramon Carne Asad Joliet restaurant was on established in and churches. was the only re1979.and MyThat three dinner companions rice beans. cos de pollo asado ($12.99 semblance to aat church, though. Their were aghast my ignorance.

That made Friaco’s off Highway of other options.

Walkinggot through to try the it!”doors convinced me.

59“You’ve in Joliet near Wal-Mart in the And there’s a seafood placed us right in front of the Of course, I had to check out the Shorewood-Joliet-Plainfield hostess’ station first. that had very atarea very menu that includes selec venue online Its awebsite modern feel to it. Bathrooms appealing. as carne asada con cama www.chicken-n-spicejoliet.com said were to the right andisrooms forfor its We were quickly seated, just like and pescado frito ($15.49 Chicken-N-Spice known larger parties and events wereThese “big juicy breast chunks.” the Monday night we had come beIt’s hard to imagine g down the hall. chunks are “all whiteand boneless fore, chips salsa were on into the Mystery Diner w Weand wentthe left into the restaubreast meat,” which are “cut and the table along with waters tioning the drink selecti rant, wherequickly, a note of nostalgia seasoned” daily in the restaurant.

Shaw Media photo hung in the for air, the making us realandI milk kids. was a kids lunch date, so love chicken. I’m sold already. ize Al’s had been in the fineJoliet’s Friaco’s Restaurant & Cantina serves up authentic Mexican food.

How quickly happened take. On our previous vi Located at 251 that N. Chicago St. in is so dining business a long time.

Joliet dwarfed bylunch the new Joliet Suburban Life Media photos key to and a successful date with I shared a sangria marga There was a large slanted Junior College city campus, the get ex- curito its website, Al’sMondays, Steak House “has a reputation bestleft. charbroiled steaks in the area.” Each day experienced had atheton On theymaintained have chicken or for serving kids.

If they’re given time shared, chefs I mean I stole a f roof, dim lights, white linen ta- toAccording terior of restless, Chicken-N-Spice cut their chops, fajitas the website This ribeye steak came out exactly asAs ordered: beautifully on top and for the kids,charred they loved thepink in the middle.They onsaid. special or enchiladas ous and they’ll reminded usually dosteaks it. andsteak have options fro blecloths and a big centerpiece.

Shaw Media photos me an old Arthur Treacher’s Fish & There were candles, sparklers quesadillas and beans.

They aren’t mole.

On Wednesday, the burrito and Instead, they were happy, and they margaritas ($6.49) to pitc ABOVE: Chicken-N-Spice has been serving its brand of chicken for nearly 40 years. BELOW LEFT: A George and Eddy is Chicken-NChips, except the signature color is for birthday celebrations andsalsa because partial to veggies inrice, their rice, cream are on special, even bowl of mild orBELOW specialty Spice’s sour signature dish. enchiladas It consists of three breast chunks, jo-jos (seasoned fries), spicy biscuit andsoa they small drink.

RIGHT:margaritas pink,got notablue.

KNOW MORE for $11.49. every server was wearing a A chocolaty chocolate chip is theor perfect to a Chicken-N-Spice meal. that and enjoyed the picked through on Thursday itscookie chicken beeffinale chimithe The oneinterior I was munching on was a little resembles tie. Even the bus boys were a small fast-food – one modest rice part too. changa or flautas, and on Friday it’s too spicy.

We also ordered a small dessert, they hav dressed up.restaurant • The Mystery Diner For is an emcounter for placing and or a $7.49 If you fish go tacos chipotle or a mariachi bowl.

The kids menu has chickenployee fin- at The Herald-News. side guacamole dip ($3.25), flan ($4.49), fried Weof were seated andorders re- ($3.49 smallmenus diningpromptly. area. TheWater difference ceived gers, Mexican pizza or a hamburger The dinner special days are the for large) to go with it. ($6.49), The diner’s identity is notchurros ($6.49) an was the boxes and bags lined up on n WHAT: Chicken-N-Spice glasses were filled, and we revealed before or during or a combo that includes rice and same as the lunch special, only the The appetizer menu has everychimichanga ($6.49). several n HOURS: 7:30 a.m. to 10 p.m. Monday were off. of the tables waiting for carthe meal. The Mystery beans with a taco, enchilada, quesaprices are a little more for the dinner thing from a sampler platter ($14.99) They all sound good ( ryout, which one of my friends told through Sunday; and 7:30 a.m. to 8 p.m.

For appetizers we ordered dilla, tostada, tamale or a taco.Diner visits a restaurant plates, $8.99Eve. toClosed $12.99 before the were probably allfried George and tome queso fundido ($9.99) to bruschetta chimichanga looks good baked potato skins and Christmas Eve andfrom New Year’s and then reports on the Eddy or orders.

Friaco’s does catering, but its drink. ($8.99 $10.99 withwere shrimp) but we Christmas have to save that for nex calamari.

The potatoes and New Year. experience. If the Mystery For uninitiated (me), a also severexcellent.

Crispy on the bottom menu is also filled with the fare you The chicken in the enchilada was were upthe for that.

There are n WHERE: 251 N. Chicago St. in Joliet Diner cannot recommend George iswith Chicken-Nand soft inand theEddy middle MORE:and Call tender, 815-727-1100, would expect, from chimichangas pulled andfaxthe enchilada alSpice’s varieties of nachos ($8.49 for cheesen KNOW The the establishment,•we willMystery Diner i signature dish.over It consists of cheese and bacon melted 815-727-1108 or visit ($10.49 toin$11.99) to enchiladas ($9.99 sauce waswww.chicken-n-spicejust right. Not really spicy only tobreast $13.49 for fajita nachos). ee at The Herald-News. T not publish a review Established 1959, Al’s Steak House three chunks, jo-jos (seasoned the top made for a delicious joliet.com. toone $10.99) burritos and not taking over the taste of the Instead, ordered ouramain fries), rice, biscuit small is of the to oldest upscale ($8.69 dining to $11.49) to identity is not revealed t dish, andspicy that we was before theand drink. restaurants in Joliet andtoa $12.99) former quesadillas ($5.99 toIFvegetarmeal. course while snacking staff before YOU GO although spicy “dirty” rice had a slight heat, olate chip cookie, straw- or during th salt, pepper and chive sour on the guacaThat sounded since nightspot, its said. toberry Nostalgia the airofatGeorge Al’s House and Banquets Joliet: white linens, it and I enjoyed second towebsite the chickshortcake option, Eddys.

Yep, cream. ian ($10.49 to $12.99) fajitas ($13.99 is a dessert OnSteak myand last visit, I hadineaten the mole, chips and good, salsa.but We were all isaintray Mystery Diner visits a r everyone else George candlelight,that bus boys in white shirts and blackIties and attentive service. en. Rounding out the meal a hot, too.for I left full, but Al’s notSteak overly so (I didon the expe definitely looked good. bought The fried calamari was a n WHAT: House to $28.99 forwas steak fajitas two). steak fajitas special ($12.99) and was happy with allwas of ordering it. then reports and Eddys, I figured I’d try somenot finish it.of Service was amazflaky biscuit with plenty prepacksave some the meal to bring home one, too. dream. I don’t normally order andof Banquets There’s also a Los Mas Mexicanos pleased as well.

There plenty of It was a Tuesday and I chose FriaMystery Diner cannot re be happy.

Vegetables, a hard timewas fitting into thing else. inghoney. and the food never stopped agedmy butter and for later),nand felt11I received my I was notfruits disappointed. calamari, but my date wanted WHEN: a.m. to 10 p.m. (the most Mexican) portion of worth. the toppings my flour tortillas were left split co’sThe enchilada from the lunch establishment, we will n andspecials assorted On mixed salads pocket. menuout had the typical coming.

We also a side of “Creamy money’s its website,as Chicken-N-Spice some.

It came perfectly Monday through Thursday, make it a bargain.

We“Home were of the My friend on and thePepperjack other hand Macaroni-N-Cheese menu withthe Guadalajara ($14.49), overflowing with toppings I still ($8.49 with soft drink) menu. fast-food breakfast items: biscuit review.

Although food made steak I am 11 definitely going back. calls itself Breast golden brown and not chewy a.m. to 11 p.m.

Friday and ready had theOne ribeye steak with red French andfor entries. dining at Al’s a great bites,” which my companions saidexperiChunk” and “Joliet legend.” atsandwiches, all. The dipping saucetoast was sticks Saturday and 10 a.m. to 10 Since Al’s a steak house, wasLEFT: pancakes. stood out: thelineup, little things Mystery a newsare Ifairly newence, on the and helped, • Thep.m. biteisand I knew why. skin mashed potatoes. tangy, sweet One and avariation little spicy.

Sunday.Diner Sundayisbrunch I was to try something right.

They to cook chicken-n-gravy withsoups the option of acuriousThe too. Like owner coming room to employee Theto(Joliet) these tasted as the described.

The exactly enchunks are amply cut andknew how Next we moved onto buffet is 10ata.m.

3 p.m. other thanserved steak, just to see if ajuicy steak, beautifullyThink charred on talk small, medium orbroccoli large biscuit. to every table.

The water Herald-News.

The diner’s identity is velvety homemade macaroni up hot, tender, and and salad.

I had the chilada n WHERE: 1990 W. Jefferson the other food wouldin beajust as “melt-intop and pink in theand middle.

I couldsoup. also select bone-in chickglasses never running out. Or not revealed to the restaurant staff cheese with a bite. wrapped cliched and cheese We both got St. Joliet lunchhow included good. Not just steak.

We finished night “extras” en dinners or salad a variety of sandwichthey brought the breadbefore out or during the meal. The Myscorn dog your-mouth” batter. I passed on the out theOther salads from the bar. The n INFO: Call 815-725-2388 spespaghetti es: Italian sausage, So I ordered with tiramisu. lady finger tery Diner visits a different restaujalapeno mozzawithpoppers, the soup or salad. sauces (the chunks don’t need ’em), Thenuggets, soup was hot,beef, thickItalian and cheesy. or visit www.alssteaks.com. combo (beef and again; sausage), fried meatballs and was not the variety, cake was so much sticks, livers or night rant and then reports on the expecial nachos at We and had a fantastic so I didn’t catch butsoaked my inrella I’d eat it again it deepand rience. If the Mystery Diner cannot Polish chicken and “BBQ gizzards. disappointed.

With the pasta that it oozed onto our plate companions swore by rum the ranch. with fantastic food and service. was that sausage, good.

Friaco’s the have establishment, we Because a kid heart, I also Breast Chunk The jo-jos thick-cut with was a beautiful red sauceare and a bit.fries It was soft and easy to cut I’mTop thisatwith a check that recommend The salad bar Sandwich.” is great. You might just found our new in Joliet. will not publish a review. ordered one, very chocolaty chocright amount spice.

The Sadly, Then I saw someone whisk away favorite spot. could go just for that and you’d meatballs just that the would have had of doesn’t break the bank and we with our fork. we could

RIGHT: The steak fajita dinner special.

JHN Mystery Diner_102818.indd 7

Shaw Media

OCTOBER 2018 | MYSTERY DINER | 7

10/18/18 3:07 PM

3529

Restaurant reviews

Restaurant reviews

MYSTERY DINER

The Herald-News / TheHerald-News.com • Wednesday, November 9, 2016 The Herald-News / TheHerald-News.com • Wednesday, October 18, 2017

M STERY FOOD D NER

Friaco’s Restaurant & Cantina authen Joliet’sburgers, legendary Delicious wings,Chicken-N-Spice brews at HeroesisWest If you go MYSTERY DINER

MYSTERY DINER Signature George and JOLIET – We’ve been to Friaco’s before, for takeout and once for kids’ JOLIET – I’ll start with advice.

Eddy isgoing restaurant’s If you’re anywhere near night, or family night, or whatevInterstate 80, check the traffic first. deal ermost they call the Monday night popular item I made the mistake of leaving last

If you go

n WHAT: Friaco’s Restauran n WHEN: 11 a.m. to 10 p.m. S

Thursday, 11 a.m. to 11 p.m. F n WHAT: Heroes West Sports Grill n WHEN: 11 a.m. to 10 p.m.p.m.

Monday to Saturday

where kids get a free meal with an

Thursday, 11 a.m. to 11 p.m.n Friday and 1321 Highway 59, WHERE: minute to get to Heroes West for Mitch THE purchase.

MYSTERY DINER adult entree Saturday, 11 a.m. to 9 p.m. Sunday Trubisky’s Bears starting debut and n INFO: Call 815-254-4866 o n WHERE: 1530 Commerce Drive, Joliet it was tookThis I-55 toweek, 80 to a however, traffic jam that tookjust me restaurant.com.

JOLIET – Haven’t heard of Chickn INFO: Call 815-725-1234 or visit me 20two minutes to go a mile. and kids. en-N-Spice in Joliet? heroeswest.net.

One of my co-workers was smarter.

Both are pretty picky eaters, but Neither had I despite the fact the Well, alove lot ofchips, them are. But, in this they quesadillas Don Ramon Carne Asada Joliet restaurant salsa, was established in and case, I was meeting just one.

1979.and My beans. three dinner companions rice demenu, pollo asado ($12.99 He was there, had bogarted one of purchase for doing it. It’s cos got the were aghast at Friaco’s my ignorance.

Their That made offwas Highway other else options. the hefty craft beer menus and specials and pretty much of anything got to try it!” convinced me. ready order near us 12 boneless wings, 59“You’ve intoJoliet Wal-Mart in six the And there’s a seafood you want.

Of course, I had to and check out the each of habanero-honey chipotle.

By that point, the Bears trailedthat by includes selec Shorewood-Joliet-Plainfield menu venue online first.

Its website atarea very He was trying a 3 Floyds Gumballa 3-2 deficit (yes, that was as a football appealing. carne asada con cama www.chicken-n-spicejoliet.com said head (wheat beer with citrus finish) score) as halftime approached.

We wereout quickly seated, just like and pescado Chicken-N-Spice known for its and checking theismenu.

Maybe It was a long day for Chicago sports frito ($15.49 “big juicy probably breast chunks.” the Monday night wefish, hadThese comea behard pulled pork, not maybe fans. The Cubs won a playoff It’s game, the to imagine g chunks “all whiteand boneless fore, andare the chips salsa were on hefty burger. theway, Mystery Diner w Blackhawks were playinginto (by the breast meat,” are “cut and Shaw Media photo The first thingwhich you notice when the the official Blackhawks bar has a lamp the table quickly, along with waters tioning the drink selecti seasoned” daily in thearen’t restaurant.

Heroes West Sports Grill has lots of food and beer choices and is a good place to watch they light wings arrivefor is that the when the Hawks score and lunch date, so Shaw Media photo and milk thethey kids. was a kids love chicken.

I’m soldboneless already. a game. Heroes West is located at 1530 Commerce Drive in Joliet. sameI as a lot of restaurants’ “Chelsea Dagger” plays) and the Bears Joliet’s Friaco’s Restaurant & Cantina serves up authentic Mexican food.

How quickly happened take.

On our previous vi Located atlarger, 251 that N.thinner Chicago St. in is so wings.

They’re and were in a tight game to finish things.

Joliet and dwarfed by the new Joliet key to a successful lunch date with shared on a Milano hand-crafted roll, served House Foundation, a nonprofit to help more disc-shaped than circular.

As we sat, watched andI saw the a sangria marga Junior College city campus, the ex- curiwith au jus and after former military members andatheir had tonfamilies. left.

Onnamed Mondays, they have chicken or kids.

If they’re given time to get I’m not sure that means anything, new “Star Wars” trailer atshared, halftime,I Imean I stole a f terior of Chicken-N-Spice reminded Artfajitas Schulz on Sr. special or enchiladas As for my co-worker, but they were spicy and they were finished offthe with a RevolutionThey Unses-have options fro As he forordered the kids, they loved steak ous and restless, they’ll usually doJoliet it. Mayor Shaw Media photos me an Arthur Treacher’s Fish & It’s as good as it sounds, and so are the Macon Bacon Burger, which is as good.

Theold habanero-honey is a definite sionable.

It’s one of those margaritas beers you get ($6.49) to pitc quesadillas and beans.

They aren’t mole.

On Wednesday, the burrito and Instead, they were happy, and they ABOVE: beena serving large its brand ofmenu chicken for nearly 40 years. BELOW LEFT:glasses, A George and Eddytulip, is Chicken-NChips, except the sweet Chicken-N-Spice potato fries, buthas I made as its description: “Bill recommendation, as signature is getting acolor wateris the in small a 10-ounce to partial tocheese, veggies inrice, their rice, cream are on special, even got ablue. bowl of mild because orBELOW specialty Spice’s signature dish. enchiladas It eat consists of three breast chunks, (seasoned fries), spicy biscuit andsoa they small drink.

RIGHT:margaritas i pink, notyour deal withsour myself I would only half Lam” Burger,jo-jos with cheddar along with favorite craftsalsa brew to enjoy slowly.

A chocolaty chocolate chip cookie is the perfect finale to a Chicken-N-Spice meal. picked through the its chicken chimithe The oneinterior I was munching was a little for $11.49. resembles aon small and saveon theThursday rest, along with two of the or 2beef strips of apple-wood smoked bacon that and help handle the heat.

Myenjoyed co-worker had a Founders Harfast-food restaurant – one modest boneless for lunch toppedit’s with crispy onion rings and rice part too. changa orwings, flautas, and on Friday too We alsoHour ordered a 5:30 small remaining Inspicy.

October, Happy (2:30 to dessert, they have vest Ale as we finished up andFor I headed counter forhalf placing orders and a $7.49 the covered with BBQ sauce served p.m.) means off craft brews.

Onor home to watch the second($3.25), half (or fall If next you day. go tacos chipotle or a mariachi Theand kids menu has chicken finfish bowl. side of guacamole dip ($3.49 flan ($4.49), fried small dining area.

The5-ounce difference In case you’re we tried of hotpizza or Thursday, ofwith four beers asleep). gers,choice Mexican or a hamburger The wondering, dinner special days on area grilled the bun (your for large)flights to go it. ($6.49), churros ($6.49) an was the traditional wings (with sauce on mild BBQ). are half offboxes at $5. and bags lined up on the n WHAT: Chicken-N-Spice orhea was combo thatIt includes rice and Diner ischimichanga same as the lunch special, only the to say, The appetizer menu has every($6.49). several of theI started tables waiting for car- the n side) a week earlier at the Hub Needless pleased.

Either way, with a Great • The Mystery an employHOURS: 7:30 a.m. to 10 p.m. Monday beans with a taco, enchilada, quesaprices are a little more for the dinner thing from a one sampler platter ($14.99) They all sound good ( ryout, which of myimperial friends red told Arkush Pro Football Weekly Live was so big, they brought out a steak Lakes Nosferatu, a hoppy ee at The Herald-News.

The diner’s through Sunday; and 7:30 a.m. to 8 p.m. tostada, or a taco. plates, from $8.99 toClosed $12.99 before event at Heroes West, the boneless knife tothe cut it. Butdilla, he also took halftamale of it identity were probably all George and tome queso ($9.99) bruschetta ale that wasfundido a great starter as to I stared is not revealed tochimichanga restaurant looks good Christmas Eve and Newso Year’s Eve. were a chance to diversify. home rather than acting like wedoes werecatering, Eddy orders. down the menu.

I considered the BBQ staff before Friaco’s but or itsduring the meal. drink. ($8.99 or $10.99 with shrimp) but we haveThe to save that for nex Christmas and for NewusYear.

The traditional were large and in some sort of eating competition.

Mystery Dineryou visits a restaurant and Beef Monday special but For uninitiated (me), aultimenu is also filled with the fare the was were upthe for that. ($8.75), There are also severn WHERE:The 251 N.chicken Chicago St.inin Jolietenchilada delicious, and you can get them for 60 We’ll save that for a later date, then reports on the experience. If the mately chose Mayor ($12.69) with George andThe Eddy is Chicken-NMORE:and Call tender, 815-727-1100, would expect, from chimichangas pulled andfaxthe enchilada alSpice’s varieties of nachos ($8.49 for cheesen KNOW • Thethe Mystery Diner i Mystery Diner cannot recommend when there are prizes. pepperjack ($1 upgrade) and signature dish.

It horseradconsists of cents a pop on Warrior Wing Wednes815-727-1108 or visit www.chicken-n-spice($10.49 to $11.99) to enchiladas ($9.99 sauce was just right.

Not really spicy only to $13.49 for fajita nachos). ee at The Herald-News. T establishment, we will not publish a days.

In case you’re wondering, 10 ish (50 cents).

Speaking of that, I did download the three breast chunks, jo-jos (seasoned joliet.com. toaburritos ($8.69 to $11.49) to identity is not revealed t andwing not taking over the taste of the review.

Instead, ordered our It’s a sandwich with roastand prime rib cents of each goes to the Fisher Heroes West app to and$10.99) got $5 off $25 fries), spicy we rice, biscuit amain small drink. while snacking on the guacaquesadillas ($5.99 to $12.99) to vegetarmeal. course staff before olate chip cookie, although straw- or during the LEFT: The Mayorspicy is “dirty” rice had a slight heat, That sounded since andthe I enjoyed it second to the chick- toberry shortcake is a dessert option, Eddys.

Yep, ian ($10.49 to $12.99) fajitas ($13.99 On myand last visit, I had eaten mole, chips and good, salsa.but We were all a tray of George Mystery Diner visits a re roast prime rib on a everyone else was ordering George en. Rounding out the meal a hot, too.for I left full, but not then overlyreports so (I didon the expe that definitely lookedspecial good. I bought to $28.99 forwas steak fajitas two). steak fajitas ($12.99) and was happy with all of it.

Milano hand-crafted and Eddys, I figured I’d try someflaky biscuit with plenty of prepacksave some of the meal to bring home one, too.

There’s also a Los Mas Mexicanos pleased as well. There was plenty of It was Mystery Diner cannot re au butter thing else.a Tuesday and I chose Fria- I was and honey. for later), and felt I received my not disappointed. roll, served withaged jus and named after (the most Mexican) portion of the toppings as my flour tortillas were left co’sThe enchilada from the lunch specialsOn its establishment, we will n menu had the typical We also split a side of “Creamy money’s worth. website, Chicken-N-Spice former Jolietand Mayor menu with Guadalajara steak ($14.49),going overflowing with toppings I Art still Macaroni-N-Cheese ($8.49 with soft drink) fast-food breakfast items:menu. biscuit review.

Pepperjack I am definitely back. calls itself “Home of the Breast Schulz The which my companions said sandwiches, French toast sticks and bites,” Chunk” and “Joliet legend.”

OneSr. RIGHT: Macon Bacon Burger - LEFT: pancakes. One variation stood out: • The Mystery Diner is a newsare fairly new on the lineup, and bite and I knew why.

Bill and “Lam” Burger, withtasted chicken-n-gravy with the option of a room employee at The (Joliet) these as described.

The exactly enThe chunks are amply cut cheddar two velvety small, medium or large biscuit. served up hot, tender, juicy and cheese,Think chiladahomemade macaroni Herald-News. The diner’s identity is strips of apple-wood I could also select bone-in chicknot revealed to the restaurant staff and cheese with a bite. wrapped in a cliched “melt-inlunch smoked bacon topped en dinners or a variety of sandwichbefore or during the meal. The MysOther “extras” included corn dog your-mouth” batter. I passed on the es: Italian beef, Italian sausage, with ’em), crispy onion rings spetery Diner visits a different restaunuggets, jalapeno poppers, mozzasauces (the chunks don’t need combo (beef and sausage), deep fried rant and then reports on the experella and livers or cial nachos at so I didn’t catch the variety, my with andbut covered BBQsticks, rience. If the Mystery Diner cannot Polish sausage, chicken and “BBQ gizzards. companions swore by the ranch. sauce on a grilled bun. Friaco’s recommend the establishment, we Because I’m a kid at heart, I also Breast Chunk Sandwich.”

The jo-jos are thick-cut fries with in Joliet.

Shaw Media photos will not publish a review. ordered one, very chocolaty chocjust the right amount of spice. The Then I saw someone whisk away

8 | MYSTERY DINER | OCTOBER 2018

RIGHT: The steak fajita dinner special.

JHN Mystery Diner_102818.indd 8

10/18/18 3:07 PM

Shaw Media

Craft Beer ~ Great Food ~ Good Times Heroes West offers entertainment from your favorite area cover bands and original music, to broadcasted sports events on our 70 High Definition flat screen TV’s, sports tournaments, a kids gaming area and more. There’s never a dull moment!

~We are a premiere destination!~

Mon- Fri Half Price Hops! – 2:30 to 5:30

A Great Selection from top Brewers. Choose from 37 draft lines and all your favorite bottles and cans.

Tuesday- Senior Citizen Day – 2:30-5:30

Buy one Entrée get one of equal or lesser value for FREE. 62 or older.

Wednesday- Warrior Wing Day- 11:00 a.m

Wings only .60 cents each! Our “Famous” Jumbo Wings with your choice of our home made sauce

SAMPLE CRAFT BEER!

Sunday- Prime Rib Featured Food Special BANQUETS AT HEROES WEST

At Heroes West we have two areas specifically designated for special events. We offer the best choices for your banquet or private party, from a completely private room to a semi-private area. Rooms available for smaller or large parties up to 200. Plus a full menu.

LET US CATER YOUR NEXT EVENT! We offer an excellent catering Menu and top notch service.

1530 Commerce Dr., Joliet Illinois 60431 • (815) 725-1234 • Heroeswest.net OCTOBER 2018 | MYSTERY DINER | 9

JHN Mystery Diner_102818.indd 9

10/18/18 3:07 PM

29

Restaurant reviews

Restaurant reviews

MYSTERY DINER

The Herald-News / TheHerald-News.com • Wednesday, November 9, 2016

The Herald-News / TheHerald-News.com • Wednesday, November 22, 2017

30

M STERY FOOD D NER

Friaco’s & Cantina is authen Silver Spoon:Restaurant ‘Home’ to JHN columnist John Whiteside

Joliet’s legendary Chicken-N-Spice MYSTERY DINER

MYSTERY DINER

Signature George and JOLIET – We’ve been to Friaco’s JOLIET – I grew up hearing how before, for takeout and once for kids’ legendary Herald-News columnist Eddy is restaurant’s night, or family night, or whatevJohn Whiteside loved interviewing people at the Silver Spoon restaurant ermost they call the Monday night deal popular item in Joliet.

If you go

If you go

n WHAT: Friaco’s Restauran

WHAT: Silver Spoon n WHEN: 11 a.m. to 10 p.m. S WHEN: Everyday 6 a.m. toThursday, 3 p.m.

11 a.m. to 11 p.m. F WHERE: 1601 W. Jefferson St., Joliet p.m.

Saturday INFORMATION: Call 815-725-6202 n WHERE: 1321 Highway 59 or visit Silver Spoon Restaurant on n INFO: Call 815-254-4866 o Facebook.

where kids get a free meal with an Now, I had eaten thereDINER once, years THE MYSTERY adult entree purchase. ago, when I was a college student. The week, Ihowever, was onlyThis impressions recallheard was it that it just me restaurant.com.

JOLIET – Haven’t of Chickand two Denny’s kids. was night, had better fries en-N-Spice in Joliet? and that my companion hadthe ordered Both are pretty picky eaters, Neither had I despite fact thebut rye toast. they love chips, salsa, quesadillas Don Ramon Carne Asad Joliet restaurant was established in and glaze. I don’t like my berries glazed, But with The Herald-News now 1979.

My beans. three dinner companions rice and cos de pollo asado ($12.99 so props to her for checking. publishing a Mystery Diner series, were aghast at Friaco’s my ignorance.

Their That made off Highway of other options.

The waffle, like the pancakes, came it seemed only fitting to include the me. got to try it!” convinced out light, tender and hot. TheAnd straw59“You’ve in aJoliet near Wal-Mart in the there’s a seafood venue Herald-News legend favored Of course, I had to check out the berries were indeed freshmenu and nicely and see how (or if) it had changed Shorewood-Joliet-Plainfield that includes selec venue online first. Its website atarea very sweet. The sausage patties arrived as since my late teens. The Silver Spoon appealing. as carne asada con cama www.chicken-n-spicejoliet.com said a trio, one more than I could eat, so Facebook page described the cuisine We were quickly seated, just like and pescado frito ($15.49 Chicken-N-Spice is known for its I shared the last with the Southern as American breakfast and brunch. “big juicy breast chunks.”

These bethe night we had It’s hard to imagine g Charm diner.

SoMonday one morning several of us come met chunks are “all whiteand boneless There was plenty of butter fore, and the chips salsa intoand thesyrMystery Diner w Shaw Media photo there for breakfast before work to were on breast meat,” which are “cut and up. We also received plenty of attenThe Silver Spoon dining room. discuss our quickly, various projects a waters the table alonginwith tioning the drink selecti seasoned” daily in the restaurant. tion and Shaw our Media coffeephoto was often warmed relaxed atmosphere.

While waiting to andI milk for the kids. was a kids lunch date, so love chicken.

I’m sold already. up (although it was a little weak). mixed together sounded pretty filling & Cantina be seated, I noticed the restaurant’s and was serves a generous portion. Mexican food.

Joliet’s Friaco’s Restaurant up authentic How quickly happened take.

OnI our previous vi Located at 251 that N. Chicago St. in is so On the way to the cash register, and fulfilling, and it was.” The Italian whimsical nod to itself – a silver Another ordered the Southern Joliet and dwarfed bylunch the new Joliet key to a successful date with I shared noticed two things: a large, airy ban-a sangria marga skillet also was served with tomatoes, Charm for $7.75 which was two eggs, spoon hanging on the wall – and that Junior College city campus, the ex- curihad a sausage ton left.links quet room decorated in cheery On Mondays, they have chicken kids.

If they’re given time to get colors shared, I mean I stole a f mushrooms and mozzarella cheese. two slices or of bacon, two kids were most welcome (one wall terior of coloring Chicken-N-Spice reminded and loved a sign that the have options fro for the kids, they the read: “Faith isThey steak fajitas on special ordered a short stack of or enchiladas and sausage covered As in gravy over devoted to pages gave away do it.Another ous and restless, they’ll usually Shaw Media photos mebit anofold Arthur Treacher’s Fish & pancakes for $4.95 (which came out essence of aren’t all things. Hopemargaritas reflects our ($6.49) to pitc hash browns.

Thequesadillas “over easy” eggs, that information). beans.

They On Wednesday, the burrito and Instead, they were happy, and they ABOVE:mole.

Chicken-N-Spice has been serving its brand of chicken for nearly 40and years.

BELOW LEFT: A George and Eddy is Chicken-NChips, except the signature color is courage. Love conquers all.” light, tender, hot and dusted with are on unfortunately, came out “over hard.” in inner Soon, we were being asked, “booth partial to veggies their rice, they cream special, even got ablue. bowl of mild salsa because or place specialty Spice’s sour signature dish. enchiladas It consists of three breast chunks, jo-jos (seasoned fries), spicy rice, biscuit andsoalooking small drink.

RIGHT:margaritas not So if you’re for aBELOW that powdered sugar) along with a large However, the bacon was “hot and orpink, table?”

One of my fellow diners A chocolaty chocolate chip cookie is the perfect finale to a Chicken-N-Spice meal. picked through that and enjoyed on Thursday its chicken or beef chimithe one I was munching on was a little forbreakfast, $11.49. interior resembles a small feeds both bodythe and soul at orange juice (far too large for this crispy.” The sausage links were “hot, said, The “booth.”

That’s when I knew the fast-food restaurant – one modest too. or aflautas, and it’s juicy.”rice too spicy.

We ordered a smallperson tochanga For dessert, they hav the Silver Spoon is a good bet. finish) and side order of on Friday plump and Andpart the biscuits Silver Spoon was also the right pick.

For counter for placing a $7.49 If you go came menu fish tacos or atomariachi bowl. ham (which outchipotle cold and had and gravy more thanThe madekids up for it. has chicken finon the of wall at our boothorders was($3.49 a and plaque side guacamole dip or ($3.25), flan ($4.49), fried small dining area. The difference Mystery Diner is($6.49), an employbe sent back.The Round two was hot and they had plenty dedicated to to Whiteside. gers, Mexican pizza or •aThe hamburger dinner special days My arefriend the raved that for large) go with it. churros ($6.49) an was boxes bagswith lined up on perfectly ee at The Herald-News. The diner’s seared). of flavor and thator theagravy wasthat out- includes Ourthe coffee wasand served choices n WHAT: Chicken-N-Spice combo rice and same as the lunch special, only the The appetizer menu has everychimichanga ($6.49). the tables waiting for caridentity is not revealed to restaurant Another ordered for standing. In fact, this person ordered of several flavoredofcreamer.

A few sips later n HOURS: 7:30 a.m.the to combo 10 p.m. Monday beans with a taco, enchilada, quesaprices are a little more for the dinner thing from a one sampler ($14.99) They all sound good ( ryout, which of my friends told staff before or during the meal.

The $7.95.

This came with two eggs, bacon, an extra half order to take home. and we were skimming theplatter breakfast through Sunday; and 7:30 a.m. to 8 p.m. tamaleMystery or a taco. plates, from $8.99 tosau$12.99 before were fundido probably ($9.99) all George and tome queso to bruschetta chimichanga looks good Diner visits a restaurant and sausage or ham (they two I hadthe a Belgiandilla, waffletostada, for $4.69 with menu.

Christmas Eve and Newchose Year’s Eve. Closed Eddy orders. then reports on the experience. sage links), toast orYear. pancakes (panfresh strawberries for an extra does $1.50 catering, Friaco’s but its One person ordered Italian but we drink. ($8.99 or $10.99 withthe shrimp) have If tothe save that for nex Christmas and New For uninitiated (me), a also severMystery cannot recommend the cakes in thisThe case) and fresh fruit orenchilada and a side sausage patties.

I skillet for $8.95 because, “the thought menu is also filled with the Diner fare you wasorder of were upthe for that.

There are n WHERE: 251 N.chicken Chicago St.in in the Joliet and Eddy is Chicken-Nhash (theand latter was ordered). establishment, we will not publish asked for fresh blueberries until the of George a juicy piece of Italian sausage, nbrowns KNOW MORE: Call tender, 815-727-1100, would expect, from chimichangas pulled andfaxthe enchilada alSpice’s varieties of nachos ($8.49 forofcheese • TheaMystery Diner i signature dish.

It consists A small orangeorjuice also was ordered server learned the blueberries had a review. runny eggs, and crispy potatoes all 815-727-1108 visit www.chicken-n-spice($10.49 to $11.99) to enchiladas ($9.99 sauce was just right. Not really spicy only $13.49 for fajita nachos). ee at The Herald-News. T threetobreast chunks, jo-jos (seasoned joliet.com. to $10.99) to burritos ($8.69 to $11.49) to identity is not revealed t and not taking over the taste of the Instead, ordered ouramain fries), spicy we rice, biscuit and small LEFT: The Italian drink. while snacking on the guacaquesadillas ($5.99 to vegetarmeal. course staff before spicy “dirty” rice had a slight heat,to $12.99) olate chip cookie, although straw- or during th skillet. Italian and I enjoyed it second to the chickThat sounded good, but since berry shortcake is a dessert option, a tray of George and Eddys.

Yep, ian ($10.49 to $12.99) to fajitas ($13.99 On my last visit, I had eaten the mole, chips and salsa. We were all Mystery Diner visits a r sausage, eggs, en. Rounding out the meal was a hot, too. I left full, but not overly so (I did everyone else was ordering George that definitely lookedspecial good. I bought to $28.99 for steak fajitas for two). steak fajitas ($12.99) and was happy with all of it. then reports on the expe crispy potatoes, and Eddys, I figured I’d try someflaky biscuit with plenty of prepacksave some of the meal to bring home one, too.

There’s also a Los Mas Mexicanos pleased as well.

There was plenty of It was a Tuesday and I chose FriaMystery Diner cannot re tomatoes, thing else. aged butter and honey. for later), and felt I received my I was not disappointed. (the most Mexican) portion of worth. the toppings my flour tortillas were left split co’sThe enchilada from the lunch specialsOn its establishment, we will n mushrooms menu had the typical We also a side of “Creamy money’s website,as Chicken-N-Spice and mozzarella menu with Guadalajara steak ($14.49),going overflowing with toppings and I still Macaroni-N-Cheese ($8.49 with soft drink) fast-food breakfast items:menu. biscuit review.

Pepperjack I am definitely back. calls itself “Home of the Breast sandwiches, French toast sticks and pancakes. One variation stood out: chicken-n-gravy with the option of a small, medium or large biscuit.

I could also select bone-in chicken dinners or a variety of sandwiches: Italian beef, Italian sausage, combo (beef and sausage), deep fried Polish sausage, chicken and “BBQ Breast Chunk Sandwich.”

Then I saw someone whisk away

cheese.

Chunk” and “Joliet legend.”

One RIGHT:bites,” which my companions said LEFT: The Southern are fairly new on the lineup, and bite and I knew why.

Charm. as described.

The exactly enThe chunks are amply cut andTwo these tasted served up hot, tender, juicyeggs, andtwo slicesThink velvety chiladahomemade macaroni of bacon, two and cheese with a bite. wrapped in a cliched “melt-inlunch Other “extras” included corn dog sausage links your-mouth” batter. I passed on the nuggets,spejalapeno poppers, mozzasauces (the chunks don’t need ’em), and sausage and livers or cial nachos at so I didn’t catch the variety, butover my hashrella sticks, gravy gizzards.Friaco’s companions swore by the ranch. browns.

Because I’m a kid at heart, I also The jo-jos are thick-cut fries with in Joliet.

Shaw Media photos ordered one, very chocolaty chocjust the right amount of spice.

The

10 | MYSTERY DINER | OCTOBER 2018

JHN Mystery Diner_102818.indd 10

RIGHT: The steak fajita dinner special.

Shaw Media

• The Mystery Diner is a newsroom employee at The (Joliet) Herald-News. The diner’s identity is not revealed to the restaurant staff before or during the meal. The Mystery Diner visits a different restaurant and then reports on the experience. If the Mystery Diner cannot recommend the establishment, we will not publish a review.

10/18/18 3:07 PM

2929

Restaurant reviews

Restaurant reviews

MYSTERY DINER

The Herald-News / TheHerald-News.com • Wednesday, November 9, 2016 The Herald-News / TheHerald-News.com • Wednesday, November 1, 2017

M STERY FOOD D NER

Friaco’s Restaurant & Cantina isIfauthen Joliet’s Brewing legendary Chicken-N-Spice MyGrain Company goes for quality you go MYSTERY DINER

The MYSTERY DINER and Signature George JOLIET – We’ve been to Friaco’s before, for– takeout and JOLIET There are twoonce typesfor of kids’ Eddy is restaurant’s night, or family night, or whatevbreweries.

Those that try Monday to brew anything ermost they call the night deal popular item and everything to give its customers

If you go

n WHAT: Friaco’s Restauran n WHEN: 11 a.m. to 10 p.m. S

n WHAT: MyGrain BrewingThursday, Company 11 a.m. to 11 p.m. F

p.m. Saturday

n WHERE: 50 E. Jefferson St., Suite where kids get a free meal with an n WHERE: 1321 Highway 59 options. AndTHE those that stick 106, Joliet MYSTERY DINERto the baadult entree purchase. sics, with both food and drink, and try n INFO: Call 815-254-4866 o This week, however, it was just me to get it just right. n INFO & HOURS: Call 815-345-3339 or restaurant.com.

JOLIET – Haven’t heard of Chickand two kids.

MyGrain Brewing visit www.mygrainbrewing.com. en-N-Spice in Joliet?Company at the downtown Joliet station is goBoth are pretty picky Neither had Itrain despite theeaters, fact thebut ing forlove the latter with a one-page food they chips, salsa, quesadillas Don Ramon Carne Asad Joliet restaurant was established in and menu, a one-page beer menu and a few 1979.and My beans. three dinner companions rice cos de pollo asado ($12.99 der it sometime too. drink options to go with it. were aghast at Friaco’s my ignorance.

Their That made off Highway of otherprooptions.

The reality is it was a clean, Quality over quantity. got to try it!” convinced me. fessional atmosphere and the servers 59“You’ve Joliet neara Wal-Mart in the And there’s a seafood Iin was meeting co-worker downOf course, I had to check out the were outstanding. Theymenu stopped byincludes selec town to try the new brewery, which Shorewood-Joliet-Plainfield that venue online first. Its website atarea very to talk, when they could, but stayed opened Sept. 8, and we got there after 5 appealing. as carne asada con cama www.chicken-n-spicejoliet.com said on top of the orders as well. The food p.m. so we could park at one of the two We were quickly seated, just like and pescado frito ($15.49 Chicken-N-Spice is known for its came pretty quickly, and the presentaBMO Harris banks across the street, “big juicy breast chunks.”

These the Monday night we had come beIt’s hard to imagine g tion was outstanding. not far from Slammers Stadium. chunks “all white boneless Eric Ginnard – eginnard@shawmedia.com We learned they wereinto about ready fore, andaare the chips and salsa were on the Mystery Diner w It was Thursday and not packed breast meat,” which are “cut and to start canning beers and, sincethe we drink selecti MyGrain Brewing Company is located at 50 E. Jefferson St., Suite 106, in Joliet. and we had service immediately. the table quickly, along withFor waters tioning seasoned” daily in the restaurant. went, they on their Facebook starters, the brewmaster stopped by Shawposted Media photo andI milk for the kids. was a kids lunch date, so soldup already.

There’s anything from MyGrain page that the Stateville Stout 16-ounce were Friaco’s marinated with (they& Cantina to chatlove andchicken. then we I’m picked menus flavor they Joliet’s Restaurant serves up authentic Mexican food.

How quickly that happened is so take.

On our previous vi Located at 251 N. Chicago St. in four packs are available for $9.99.

We steak and frites ($24.95) to grilled preparing to order $10 flights, with call it brining).

Joliet dwarfed the new key to and a successful lunch date with MyGrain also has flatbreads that Faroe Island salmon ($17.95) to the also found out they’ve Ibeen shared a sangria marga pretty four-ounce tasters of by any four ofJoliet the Junior College city campus, ex- curihad a ton left.point, busy, like line-out-the-door On Mondays, they have chicken or busy, on a kids.

If they’re given time the to get shared, I mean I stole a f current pierogie option.

At one seemed pretty popular (classic caprese options. terior of Chicken-N-Spice reminded few loved recent weekends. it was potato pierogies with Korean meatlovers BBQ chicken I had torestless, try the coffee stout, Where dofor As for the kids, they the fajitasoron special or enchiladas ous and they’ll usually it.$8.95,steak They have options fro Shaw Media photos me an Arthur & for $10.95 or four cheese for $9.95) or short ribs, I’ve heard. have introduced a Happy ($6.49) to pitc Have Youold Bean, and were ITreacher’s went happy, from Fish there. quesadillas beans. They Theyalso aren’t mole.

On Wednesday, the burrito and chicken Instead, they and margaritas ABOVE: Chicken-N-Spice been pouserving itsBut brand nearly 40and years. and Eddy isWednesChicken-NChips, the signature color is they HourLEFT: fromA3 George to 6 p.m., starting weofwent withfor sandwiches, with BELOW more exotic options, suchhas as duck We both except chose Wheel in the Sky IPA partial to veggies inrice, theirwith rice, soa they sour cream enchiladas are on special, even got bowl of mild salsa because orBELOW specialty Spice’s signature dish.($18.95) It consists three breast chunks, jo-jos (seasoned spicy and small drink. pink, notablue. day,biscuit half-off appetizers and aRIGHT: $3 margaritas my co-worker ordering the fries), Mygrain ($14.95), octopus or of muswith guava, and Iron and Steel, the im- tine A chocolaty chocolate is theor perfect to a Chicken-N-Spice picked that beer and enjoyed theday. Wednesday on Thursday itscookie chicken beeffinale chimithe The one I was was for $11.49.is interior resembles small special each Jowl-n-cheese melt ($9.95)through andmeal.

I went sels and clams ($13.95).chip perial double IPA.munching I also choseaon the Stat- a little fast-food –co-worker one modest rice part too.($9.95) the Railfan Porter we both enjoyed, changa or flautas, and on Friday it’shalf-pound too spicy.

We also a had small There’s For dessert, they hav by with the burger also the salted Bavarian eville Stout,restaurant while myordered counter for placing orders and a $7.49 thechicken way. with candied on top.

Pretzel which is gigantic If you($7.95), go tacos Pilcher’s Pale Ale and Railfan Porter.

The($3) kids menu has finfish chipotle or aand mariachi bowl. pork belly side of guacamole dip ($3.49 or ($3.25), flan ($4.49), fried small dining area.

The difference I’ll skip out of($6.49), work early a bacon flavor, pizza and or Maybe its own hanging apparaThe last one, the pale gers, Mexican a hamburger dinner special days areI was the expecting for large) to go with it.ale, was his comes with The churros ($6.49) an wasfavorite, the boxes and Wheel bags lined upSky on tus.nThe large group at the table be- it kind of looked like bacon, but the and drop by. Don’t tell anyone. least while in the WHAT: Chicken-N-Spice or a combo that includes rice and same as the lunch special, only the The appetizer menu has everychimichanga ($6.49). several of the tables waiting for becar- hind taste was much different. Sweet, fatty us (we 7:30 sat a.m. at the was the best, with Railfan not far n HOURS: to 10bar) p.m. downed Monday beans with a taco, enchilada, quesaprices are a little more for the dinner thing a one sampler ($14.99) They all sound good ( ryout,from which of my platter friends told • The Mystery Diner is an employee and .... well, it’s not easy to describe about eight of them in between shots. hind. through Sunday; and 7:30 a.m. to 8 p.m. a Herald-News. taco. $8.99Eve. toClosed $12.99 before the taste dilla, were fundido probably all George and tome ($9.99) chimichanga looks good The The diner’s identhe specific outsidetostada, of good. tamaleator Whenplates, itEve came to dinner, we could Iqueso wasn’t disappointed in to thebruschetta new Christmas andfrom New Year’s Eddystout orders. tity is not staff As for the Jowl-n-cheese, had to have gone in The trio of coffee option, while Iron and Friaco’sIdoes catering, butrevealed its to restaurant drink. ($8.99 or $10.99 with shrimp) but we have to save that for nex Christmas andany Newdirection.

Year.

For uninitiated a also severGooglewas the word “jowl” figured out with before orfare during the meal. The Mystery tacos (skirt steak, tilapia Steel, the double IPA,There was(me), myare favorite. menuand is also filled the you The the were upthe for that. n WHERE: 251 N.chicken Chicagoand St.ininchipotle Jolietenchilada George and Eddy Chicken-Nwas definitely an optionfaxat it was the lower part of the cheek. The Diner visits a restaurant and then reWe enjoyed it all is with an appetizer chicken) MORE: Call tender, 815-727-1100, would expect, from chimichangas pulled and and the enchilada alspicy varieties of nachos ($8.49 for cheesen KNOW • The Mystery Diner i signature dish.wings It consists In fact, my co-worker told me sandwich, according to my co-worker, ports on the experience. If the Mystery ofSpice’s honey chicken ($7.95).of $10.95.

815-727-1108 or visit www.chicken-n-spice($10.49 to $11.99) to enchiladas wasbefore just right.

Not really spicy good.” only tobreast $13.49 for fajita nachos).

The Herald-News. T three jo-jos (seasoned was “really his order the server Diner cannot($9.99 recommend ee theat establishThe wings werechunks, plump, sweet with the that wassauce joliet.com. to $10.99) to and burritos ($8.69wetowill $11.49) to aidentity and not taking Instead, we ordered ourorange fries), spicybut rice, biscuit and amain small stopped by Asthe in, I’ll probably go back or- ment, to make it final.over the taste of not publish review. is not revealed t honey sauce, also had the drink. while snacking on the guacaquesadillas ($5.99 to vegetarmeal. course staff before spicy “dirty” rice had a slight heat,to $12.99) olate chip cookie, although straw- or during th That sounded since andthe I enjoyed it second to the chick- toberry shortcake option, Eddys. ian ($10.49 to $12.99) fajitas ($13.99 is a dessert On myand last visit,Yep, I had eaten mole, chips and good, salsa.but We were all a tray of George Mystery Diner visits a r everyone else was ordering George en. Rounding out the meal a hot, too.for I left full, but not then overlyreports so (I didon the expe that definitely lookedspecial good. I bought to $28.99 forwas steak fajitas two). steak fajitas ($12.99) and was happy with all of it. and Eddys, I figured I’d try someflaky biscuit with plenty of prepacksave some of the meal to bring home one, too.

There’s also a Los Mas Mexicanos pleased as well. There was plenty of It was Mystery Diner cannot re LEFT: A flight of butter thing else.a Tuesday and I chose Fria- I was aged and honey. for later), and felt I received my not disappointed. (the most Mexican) portion of worth. the toppings my flourIron tortillas were left split co’sThe enchilada from the lunch specialsOn its establishment, we will n and Steel, menu had the typical We also a side of “Creamy money’s website,as Chicken-N-Spice Wheel inand thePepperjack menu with Guadalajara steak ($14.49),going overflowing with toppings I still Macaroni-N-Cheese ($8.49 with soft drink) fast-food breakfast items:menu. biscuit review.

I am definitely back. calls itself “Home of the Breast Sky, Railfanbites,” which my companions said sandwiches, French toast sticks and Chunk” and “Joliet legend.” One LEFT: pancakes. One variation stood out: Porter and are fairly • The Mystery Diner is a newsnew on the lineup, and bite and I knew why. chicken-n-gravy with the option of a room employee at The (Joliet) Pilcher’s Pale these tasted as described.

The exactly enThe chunks are amply cut and small, medium or large biscuit. served up hot, tender, juicy and Ale. RIGHT: Think velvety chiladahomemade macaroni Herald-News. The diner’s identity is I could also select bone-in chicknot revealed to the restaurant staff wrapped in a cliched “melt-in-Half-pound and cheese with a bite. lunch en dinners or a variety of sandwichbefore or during the meal. The Mysyour-mouth” batter. I passed on the with Other “extras” included corn dog burger es: Italian beef, Italian sausage, tery Diner visits a different restaunuggets,spejalapeno poppers, mozzasauces (the chunks don’t needcandied ’em), pork combo (beef and sausage), deep fried rant and then reports on the experella sticks, and livers or cial nachos at so I didn’t catch the variety, but my belly and fries rience. If the Mystery Diner cannot Polish sausage, chicken and “BBQ gizzards.Friaco’s companions swore by the ranch.

Ericwith Ginnard – egin- Because I’m a kid at heart, I also recommend the establishment, we Breast Chunk Sandwich.”

The jo-jos are thick-cut fries in Joliet. will not publish a review. ordered one, very chocolaty chocjust the right amount of spice.nard@shawmedia.com The Then I saw someone whisk away

RIGHT: The steak fajita dinner special.

JHN Mystery Diner_102818.indd 11

Shaw Media

OCTOBER 2018 | MYSTERY DINER | 11

10/18/18 3:07 PM

29

Restaurant reviews

D NER

MYSTERY DINER

The Herald-News / TheHerald-News.com • Wednesday, November 9, 2016

The Herald-News/TheHerald-News.com • Wednesday, August 22, 2018 MYSTERY DINER

28

M STERY FOODMDSTERY NER

Friaco’s Restaurant &simple Cantina authen Joliet’s legendary Chicken-N-Spice Maciano’s keeps dining and is good Restaurant reviews

If you go

MYSTERY DINER

Signature George and Eddy is restaurant’s most popular item

If you’re searching for a We’ve been spot JOLIET to sit down– and relax in to Friaco’s n WHAT: Friaco’s Restauran fora takeout and once for kids’ abefore, place with casual vibe, n WHEN: 11 a.m. to 10 p.m. S Maciano’s the bill. night, orfits family night, or whatevThursday, 11 a.m. to 11 p.m. F party fourMonday was erOur they callofthe night deal p.m. Saturday looking to get out of the house where kids get a free meal with an and relax at the end of a busy n WHERE: 1321 Highway 59 THE MYSTERY DINER adult day, andentree we alsopurchase. wanted a n INFO: Call 815-254-4866 o This week, however, casual setting.

Maciano’s has it was just me restaurant.com.

JOLIET – Haven’t heard of Chickdine-in as well as carryout and two kids. en-N-Spice in Joliet? and delivery options, so the Both are pretty picky eaters, but Neither despite dine-in optionhad wasIjust whatthe fact the they love chips, salsa, quesadillas Don Ramon Carne Asad Joliet restaurant was established in and we wanted.

1979.

My beans. three dinnermenu companions rice and cos de pollo asado ($12.99 Maciano’s expansive were aghast at my ignorance.

Their That made off of other options. had something forFriaco’s everyone in Highway got to try offered it!” convinced me. our party.

The menu 59“You’ve in Joliet near Wal-Mart in the And there’s a seafood Ofarray course, I had to check out the aShorewood-Joliet-Plainfield wide of appetizers, area very menu that includes selec venue online first.

Its website at traditional and combination appealing. as carne asada con cama www.chicken-n-spicejoliet.com said pizzas, sandwiches, pastas, We were quickly seated, just like and pescado frito ($15.49 Chicken-N-Spice is known for its salads and calzones. “big juicy breast chunks.” the Monday night we had come beIt’s hard to imagine g Pizzas come in a variety of These chunks are “all white boneless crusts, including thin, double fore, and the chips and salsa were on into the Mystery Diner w breast meat,” are “cut and dough, pan, deepwhich dish and the table quickly, along with waters tioning the drink selecti seasoned” in the stuffed.

Ribs, daily chicken and restaurant.

Shaw Media photo and milk for the kids. was a kids lunch date, so I love I’m sold shrimp alsochicken. are available, andalready.

Joliet’s Friaco’s Restaurant & Cantina serves up authentic Mexican food. quickly that happened take. On our previous vi Located at 251specials N. Chicago St. in is so thereHow are also daily Suburban Life Media photos Joliet and dwarfed bylunch the new Joliet key a successful date with I shared a sangria marga on theto menu.

Pizza Maciano’s in Shorewood comes in athey varietyhave of crusts, includingor thin, double with a perfect Junior College city campus, ex-at curiSpecials include baked had dough, a tonpan, left.deep dish and stuffed. The pizza was hotshared, On Mondays, chicken kids.

If they’re given time the to get I mean I stole a f seasoning of garlic. The spinach on the pizza was plentiful. The pizza had a golden brown cheese and crust. The pizza was filling with enough to take home. terior of restless, Chicken-N-Spice lasagna, pizza, mostaccioli, As for the kids, they loved the steak fajitas on special or enchiladas ous and they’ll reminded usually do it.

They have options fro Shaw Media photos me an oldfettucine Arthur Treacher’s Fish & ravioli and Alfredo. quesadillas beans. mole.

On Wednesday, the burrito and Instead, they were happy, and they margaritas ($6.49) to pitc ABOVE: Chicken-N-Spice has been serving its brand of chicken for nearly 40and years.

BELOWThey LEFT: aren’t A George and Eddy is Chicken-Nthe signature AllChips, of the except items on the menu color is • and The Diner isspecialty an em-RIGHT:margaritas partial to veggies inrice, their rice, soaMystery they cream are on special, even got bowl ofand mild salsa because orBELOW Spice’s sour signature dish. enchiladas It consists of three breast chunks, jo-jos (seasoned fries), spicy biscuit small drink. pink, notablue. are reasonably priced ployee at The Herald-News.

A chocolaty chocolate chip is theor perfect to a Chicken-N-Spice meal. that and enjoyed picked through the on Thursday itscookie chicken beeffinale chimithe The oneare I was was a little for $11.49. interior resembles aon small portions verymunching generous.

The diner’s identity is not fast-food restaurant – one modest After being greeted rice part too. changa or flautas, and on Friday it’s too spicy.

We also warmly ordered a small For dessert, they hav revealed to restaurant by ourof server receiving counter for and placing orders and or a $7.49 If you fish go tacos chipotle or a mariachi bowl.

The kids menu has chickenstaff finside guacamole dip ($3.49 ($3.25), before or during the flan ($4.49), fried our beverages, meal began small diningthe area.

The difference gers, Mexican pizza or a hamburger The dinner special days are the for large) toofgo with it. ($6.49), meal. The Mystery Diner churros ($6.49) an with order mozzarella wasanthe boxes and bags lined up on n WHAT: Chicken-N-Spice or a combo that includes rice and same as the lunch special, only the The appetizer menu has everychimichanga ($6.49). visits a restaurant and then friti.

We enjoyed a generous several of the tables waiting for carn HOURS: 7:30 a.m. to 10 p.m. Monday beans with a taco, enchilada, quesaare a little more for the dinner reports on the experience. thing from sampler ($14.99)throughprices They all sound good ( portion eighta fried ryout,of which one ofmozmy platter friends told Sunday; and 7:30 a.m. to 8 p.m.

If the Mystery Diner cannot zarella sticks accompanied dilla, tostada, tamale or a taco. plates, $8.99Eve. toClosed $12.99 before the were probably all George and tome queso fundido ($9.99) to bruschetta chimichanga looks good Christmas Eve andfrom New Year’s the have establishby warmor marinara sauce.shrimp) but we Eddy orders.

Friaco’s does catering, butrecommend its drink. ($8.99 $10.99 with to save that for nex Christmas and New Year.

The mozzarella sticks were ment, we will not publish a For the uninitiated (me), a also severmenu is also filled with the fare you The chicken in the enchilada was were up for that.

There are n WHERE: 251 N. Chicago St. in Joliet hotGeorge and crispy, with is melted, review. and Eddy Chicken-NMORE:and Call tender, 815-727-1100, would expect, from chimichangas pulled andfaxthe enchilada alSpice’s varieties of nachos ($8.49 for cheesen KNOW • The Mystery Diner i stretchy mozzarella signature cheese dish. It consists of 815-727-1108 or visit www.chicken-n-spicea quick lunch, Maciano’s in ($10.49 to $11.99) to enchiladas ($9.99 sauce was just right. Not really spicy For only $13.49 for fajita nachos). ee at The Herald-News. T tucked inside. threeto breast chunks, jo-jos (seasoned you go to identity is not revealed t joliet.com.

Shorewood offers slices of toIf$11.49) They were great start toand to $10.99) to generous burritos ($8.69 and not taking over the taste of the Instead, ordered ouramain fries), spicyawe rice, biscuit small pizza and a drink for under $5.

Caterour meal. drink. while snacking on the guacaquesadillas ($5.99 to meal. course staff before spicy “dirty” rice had a slight heat,to $12.99) olate chip cookie, although straw- or during th n vegetarWHAT: Maciano’s packages also arechickavailable. berry shortcake The Maciano’s chopped The shells and cheese consists ofvisit, pasta Yep, shells in cheese sauce cov- ing That sounded good, but since and I enjoyed it second to the is a10dessert option, a tray ofentree George and Eddys. ian ($10.49 to $12.99) to fajitas ($13.99 On my last I had eaten the mole, chips and salsa.

We were all Mystery Diner visits a r n WHEN: 11 to p.m.

Sunday salad was a delicious of George ered with bread then baked.

It was accompanied

by French bread. everyone else was array ordering en. Rounding out the meal was a hot, too.for I left full,Thursday but not and overly so (I didon the expe thatcrumbs, definitely looked good.

I bought to $28.99 for steak fajitas two). steak fajitas special ($12.99) and was happy with all of it. then reports through 11 a.m.. lettuce, penne Ipasta, chicken a crunch. Again, the portion and Eddys, figured I’d try someflaky biscuit with plenty of prepacksave some meal toSaturday bring home one, too. to 11 of p.m.the Friday and There’s also a Los pleased as well.

There was plenty of It was and I chose Mystery Diner cannot re breast, bacon, grape tomatoes, was generous, and we had Mas Mexicanos nicely.Friapizza was filling, and we had thing else.a Tuesday aged butter and honey. for later), and felt I received my I was not disappointed. n WHERE: 850 Brook Forest Gorgonzola cheese, onion enough to take home.

We decided to try a 12-inch enough to take home. (the most Mexican) portion of worth. the toppings my flour tortillas were left split co’sThe enchilada from the lunch specialsOn its establishment, we will n menu had the typical We also a side of “Creamy money’s website,as Chicken-N-Spice Ave., Shorewood review. and green pepper, topped Our final diner decided spinach classic pizza, which Another member ofI our menu with Guadalajara steak ($14.49), overflowing with toppings and still Macaroni-N-Cheese ($8.49 with softall drink) fast-food breakfast items:menu. biscuit Pepperjack I am definitely going back. calls itself “Home of the Breast n ETC: For prices, check out with a champagne vinaigrette on the fried chicken dinner. wasand described as a “zesty trio party decided on the shells sandwiches, French toast sticks bites,” which my companions said Chunk” and “Joliet legend.” One the menu online. dressing and One croutons.

The dinner included half of spinach, garlic and fresh and cheese. The entrée LEFT: pancakes. variation stoodofout: • The Mystery Diner is a newsare fairly new on the lineup, and bite and I knew why.

The salad portionwith was the veryoption a chicken, french fries and tomato” a double dough consists of pasta shells in n INFORMATION: Call chicken-n-gravy of a with The room employee at The (Joliet) these tasted exactly as described.

The enchunks are amply cut and generous and mostor satisfying. french bread. The chicken crust. The pizza was hot and cheese sauce, covered with 815-773-0800 or visit identity is small, medium large biscuit.

Herald-News.

The diner’s Think velvety homemade macaroni served up hot, tender, juicy and chilada The croutons added a delipieces were large, and the zesty with a perfect seasoning bread crumbs, then baked.

It www.macianos.com.

I could also select bone-in chicknot revealed to the restaurant staff and cheese with a bite. wrapped in a cliched “melt-inlunchbreading was well-seasoned.before or during the meal. The Myscious crunch to the salad, and of garlic. was accompanied by French en dinners or a variety of sandwichOther “extras” included corn dog your-mouth” batter. I passed on the the onions and green pepper The french fries were hot and The spinach on the pizza bread. es: Italian beef, Italian sausage, tery Diner visits a different restaunuggets,spejalapeno poppers, mozzasauces (the chunks don’t need ’em), provided a nice spice. The plentiful. was plentiful. Our server The shells were served hot menu including appetizers, combo (beef and sausage), deep fried rant and then reports on the experella sticks, nachos and livers or cial at so I didn’t catch the variety, but my champagne vinaigrette was Maciano’s had something brought the pizza to us hot and bubbly. The cheese sauce salads, beef, chicken, a variety rience. If the Mystery Diner cannot Polish sausage, chicken and “BBQ gizzards.Friaco’s companions swore by the ranch. quite tasty and unique and out of the oven, with golden was thick and creamy, and the for everyone. Maciano’s also of pastas, along with catering recommend the establishment, we Because I’m a kid at heart, I also Breast Chunk Sandwich.”

The jo-jos are thick-cut fries with tied all of the flavors together offers a complete catering brown cheese and crust. The bread crumbs added a bit of in Joliet. packages, too. will not publish a review. ordered one, very chocolaty chocjust the right amount of spice. The Then I saw someone whisk away

12 | MYSTERY DINER | OCTOBER 2018

JHN Mystery Diner_102818.indd 12

RIGHT: The steak fajita dinner special.

Shaw Media

10/18/18 3:07 PM

2529

Restaurant reviews

D NER

MYSTERY DINER

The Herald-News / TheHerald-News.com • Wednesday, November 9, 2016 MYSTERY DINER The Herald-News/TheHerald-News.com • Wednesday, August 15, 2018

M STERY FOODMDSTERY NER

Friaco’s Restaurant & Cantina is authen Joliet’s legendary Chicken-N-Spice Tom Kelly’s offers Irish comfort food Restaurant reviews

If you go

MYSTERY DINER

Signature George and Eddy is restaurant’s most popular item

I’ve recently discovered JOLIET – We’ve been to Friaco’s n WHAT: Friaco’s Restauran that I find comfort in pub before, for takeout and once for kids’ n WHEN: 11 a.m. to 10 p.m. S atmospheres. It’s something night, or family night, or whatevThursday, 11 a.m. to 11 p.m. F about the wood paneling, er they call the Irish blessings andMonday plethora night deal p.m. Saturday where kids get a create free meal of beer options that the with an n WHERE: 1321 Highway 59 THE purchase.

MYSTERY DINER ambience. adult entree n INFO: Call 815-254-4866 o Tom Kelly’s in New Lenox This week, however, it was just me restaurant.com.

JOLIET –with Haven’t provided all of heard those of Chickand two me kids. en-N-Spice inand Joliet? qualifications more.

Both arehad pretty picky Neither I despite theeaters, fact thebut The spacious dining area they love chips, salsa, quesadillas Don Ramon Carne Asad Joliet restaurant was in and includes four options forestablished seat1979.

My beans. three dinner ing, including low tables,companions midrice and cos de pollo asado ($12.99 were aghast at Friaco’s my ignorance.

Their height tables, high-top tables That made off Highway of other options.

“You’ve got to Irish try it!” convinced me. and bar. symbols 59 ina large Joliet near Wal-Mart in the And there’s a seafood course, I had tothe check out the and Of sayings decorated Shorewood-Joliet-Plainfield menu that includes selec walls, therefirst. was Its plenty of atarea very venueand online website appealing. as carne asada con cama wood to go around. www.chicken-n-spicejoliet.com said We craft weredraft quickly seated, just like The and botand pescado frito ($15.49 Chicken-N-Spice is known for its tled beer menu alsochunks.” did not “big juicy breast the Monday night we hadThese come beIt’s hard to imagine g disappoint.

It“all included options chunks whiteand boneless fore, andare the chips salsa were on into the Mystery Diner w for beer meat,” drinkers of all are kinds, breast which “cut and the table quickly, along with waters tioning the drink selecti and one of my fellow diners seasoned” daily in the restaurant.

Shaw Media photo and milk for the kids. was a kids lunch date, so enjoyed a Lagunitas CitruSinI love chicken. I’m sold already.

Joliet’s Friaco’s Restaurant & Cantina serves up authentic Mexican food.

How happened take. On our previous vi ensis Palequickly Ale, Located at which 251 that N. was Chicago St. in is so refreshing on a hot summer Joliet dwarfed bylunch the new Joliet key to and a successful date with I shared a sangria marga Suburban Life Media photos day.

Junior College city campus, ex- curihad a ton left.

On Mondays, they have chicken or I ultimately kids.

If they’re given time the toOur get shared, I mean I stole a f server was attentive throughout the meal and made good suggestions. chose the beer-battered fish and garlic Parmesan fries. The batter We started with the pretzel terior of restless, Chicken-N-Spice reminded Assauce for the kids,with they loved the steakbutfajitas enchiladas ous and they’ll usually do it.

They have options fro was thick, in my opinion, flavorful.on Thespecial fries wereor extremely addicting. The tartar that came the fish paired well with everything, too.

Shaw Media photos appetizer, and the plate came me an old Arthur Treacher’s Fish & quesadillas beans.

On Wednesday, the burrito and Instead, they happy, margaritas ($6.49) to pitc with twoexcept options forwere dipping ABOVE:mole.

Chicken-N-Spice has been serving its brand of chicken for nearly 40and years.

BELOWThey LEFT: aren’t A George and Eddy is Chicken-NChips, the signature colorand is they partial to veggies inrice, their rice, cream are on special, even ablue. bowl mild salsa because orBELOW specialty sauces: cheese and of spicy Spice’s sour signature dish. enchiladas It consists of three breast chunks, jo-jos (seasoned fries), spicy biscuit andsoa they small drink.

RIGHT:margaritas pink,got not • The Mystery an emmustard. also a mustard aon A chocolaty chocolate chip is theor perfect to a Chicken-N-Spice meal. that and enjoyed picked through the Diner on Thursday itscookie chicken beeffinale chimithe oneinterior II’m was munching was a little foris $11.49.

The resembles small ployee at The Herald-News. fanatic, so restaurant that’s whatordered fast-food –I went one modest rice part too. changa or flautas, and on Friday it’s too spicy.

We also a small The diner’s identity isFor not dessert, they hav for first. Itfor certainly lived up and a counter placing orders If you go The kids menu has chicken finfish tacos chipotle or a mariachi bowl. side of guacamole dip ($3.49 or $7.49 ($3.25), flan ($4.49), fried revealed before or during tosmall its name – flavored with dining area. The difference gers, Mexican pizza or a hamburger The dinner special days are the for large) tothe go with it. ($6.49), churros ($6.49) an the meal. The Mystery horseradish, dip brought was the boxes and bags lined up on n WHAT: Chicken-N-Spice or a combo that includes rice Diner and visits a restaurant same as the lunch special, only the The appetizer menu hasfor everychimichanga ($6.49). some heat. dip was several ofThe the cheese tables waiting carn HOURS: 7:30 a.m. to 10 p.m. Monday and then reports on They the tasty, as well, and included beans with a taco, enchilada, quesaprices are7:30 a little more for the dinner thing a one sampler ($14.99)through Sunday; and all sound good ( ryout,from which of my platter friends told a.m. to 8 p.m. pimento. experience. If thechimichanga Mystery dilla, tostada, tamale or a taco. plates, from $8.99 to $12.99 before the me were fundido probably ($9.99) all George and to queso to bruschetta looks good Christmas Eve and New Year’s Eve. Closed Our orders. server was attentive Eddy Friaco’s does catering, butDiner its cannot recommend drink. ($8.99 or $10.99 with shrimp) but we have to save that for nex Christmas and New Year. throughout the meal and(me), a the establishment, we will For uninitiated menu is also filled with the fare you a review. were upthe for that. There are also severn WHERE:The 251 N.chicken Chicago St.inin the Jolietenchilada was made good suggestions when not publish George and Eddy is Chicken-NMORE:and Call tender, 815-727-1100, would expect, from chimichangas pulled andfaxthe enchilada al varieties of nachos ($8.49 for cheesen KNOW • The Mystery Diner i we were stuck between Spice’s signature dish.menu It consists of 815-727-1108 or visit items.

Ibreast ultimately the ($10.49 to $11.99) to enchiladas ($9.99 sauce waswww.chicken-n-spicejust right. Not really spicy only $13.49 forchose fajita nachos). ee at The Herald-News. T threeto chunks, jo-jos (seasoned IF YOU GO joliet.com. beer-battered fishordered and garlic to $10.99) todining burritos ($8.69 to $11.49) to identity is not revealed t and not taking over the taste of the Instead, ouramain fries), spicy we rice, biscuit and small The spacious room at Tom Parmesan fries. drink. while quesadillas ($5.99 to $12.99) to meal. course snacking on the guacastaff before spicy “dirty” rice had slight heat, olate cookie, straw- or during th n vegetarWHAT: Tomalthough Kelly’s Kelly’s in aNew Lenox includes four chip The batter was thick, in my That sounded but since and I enjoyed second to the chick- toberry shortcake is aPub dessert option, George Eddys.

Yep, ian ($10.49 to $12.99) fajitas ($13.99 and Oncame myand last visit,jack I had eaten mole, chips and good, salsa.

We were all a tray Mystery Diner visits a r Chophouse options for seating.

The jalapeño bison of burger with pepper cheese, and itthe looked in- it opinion, but flavorful, and the everyone else was ordering George en.with Rounding the meal a hot, too.for I left full, but not then overly so (I didon the expe that definitely looked good.

I bought n WHEN: Sunday throughreports to $28.99 forwas steak fajitas two). steak fajitas special ($12.99) and was happy withtreat. all ofThe it. fries credible. Tom Kelly’s offers many burger options, and each came a side. out perfect Irish and Eddys, I figured I’d try someflaky biscuit with plenty prepacksave some of the meal to home one, too.

Thursday 11:30 a.m.Mystery tobring 1:00 a.m. pesto sauce,ofgreen were addicting.

There’s also apeppers, Los Mas Mexicanos pleased as well. There was plenty of It extremely was FriaDiner cannot re thing else.a Tuesday and I chose agedThere butter and honey. for later), andopen felt until I received my was not disappointed.

My diningI companion and a hard-boiled egg.

Kitchen 10 p.m. basil, red onion and mozzaThe tartar sauce that came (the most Mexican) portion of the toppings as my flour tortillas were left co’sThe enchilada from the lunch specials establishment, we will n menu had the typical We also split a side of “Creamy money’s worth.

On its website, Chicken-N-Spice also was an option to order a Friday and Saturday 11:30 a.m. to rella cheese; buffalo chicken with the fish paired well with chose a salad with ranch menu with Guadalajara steak ($14.49), overflowing with toppings I still ($8.49 with soft drink) fast-food breakfast items:menu. biscuit review.

Pepperjack I am2:00 definitely going back. calls “Home Breast dressing on theitself side.

The sal-of the French baguetteand on the side. Macaroni-N-Cheese a.m. Kitchen open until 11 p.m. club with grilled chicken everything, too. sandwiches, French toast sticks bites,” companions said Chunk” and “Joliet legend.”

One I was very adand came with mixed greens, Overall, im-which my breast topped with buffalo n WHERE: 495 Degroate Road One of my fellow diners LEFT: pancakes. One variation stood carrots, out: are fairly newsauce, on theham, lineup, and brown • The bite andand I knew why. pressed with the restaurant, tomatoes cheese bacon, chose the jalapeño bison burgin Mystery New LenoxDiner is a newschicken-n-gravy with the option oflooked a at The (Joliet) these tasted as described.

The enTheappetizing. chunks are amply cutisand and very which a bit tucked away in exactly sugar and cheddar cheese;room employee er with pepper jack cheese, n ETC: For prices, check out small, medium or large biscuit.The juicy served Herald-News. The diner’s identity is Think velvety homemade macaroni tender, New juicyLenox. and I would chilada burger up washot, packed definitely and basil turkey panini with and it looked incredible. Tom the menu online.

I could also select bone-in chicknot revealed to the restaurant staff and with a bite. wrapped in a cliched to the brim with jalapeños and “melt-inconsider going back to cheese try lunch oven-roasted turkey, tomato, Kelly’s offers one of the largn INFO: Call 815-462-8420 en dinners or a variety of sandwichbefore or during the meal. The MysOther “extras” included corn dog your-mouth” batter.

I passed on the topped with fried onions. some of their other menu bacon, mozzarella cheese and est varieties of burger options or visit tomkellys.com. spees: Italian beef, Italian sausage, tery Diner visits a different restaunuggets, jalapeno poppers, mozzasauces (the chunks don’t need ’em), Our third diner ordered items. basil mayonnaise, to name a I’ve ever seen. The choices combo (beef and sausage), deep fried rant and then reports onrice thepilaf experella sticks, nachos and livers or cial at so I didn’t catch the variety, but my a Cobb salad with honey The pub’s sandwich list is few. included beef, bison, turkey, sauce, homemade If the Mystery Diner cannot Polish sausage, chicken and “BBQ companions ranch. mustard dressing.

The swore plate by the lengthy, includinggizzards. a veggieFriaco’s Tom Kelly’s offers high-rience.and chicken breast and a Reuben veggies; Chilean salmon; recommend the establishment, we Because I’mer-priced a kid at options, heart, I also Breast and Chunk Theham jo-jos are thick-cut fries with included sliced and panini with portabella mushburger, eachSandwich.” one came too: scallops chicken Rockefeller with spinin Joliet. will not publish a review. ordered one, very chocolaty chocjust the right amount of spice.

The Then I saw someone whisk away ach, bacon and asiago cheese. with a side. turkey, mixed greens, cheese room, roasted red pepper, RIGHT: with crumbled bacon, butter

The steak fajita dinner special.

JHN Mystery Diner_102818.indd 13

Shaw Media

OCTOBER 2018 | MYSTERY DINER | 13

10/18/18 3:07 PM

29 29

Restaurant reviews

Restaurant reviews

MYSTERY DINER

The Herald-News / TheHerald-News.com • Wednesday, November 9, 2016 The Herald-News / TheHerald-News.com • Wednesday, March 21, 2018

M STERY FOOD D NER

Friaco’s RestaurantChicken-N-Spice & Cantina is authen Joliet’s legendary A.B. Gusto’s food is worth a stop If you go

MYSTERY DINER

Signature George and JOLIET – We’ve been to Friaco’s MYSTERY DINER before, for takeout and once for kids’ Eddy is restaurant’s night, orHILL family night, or whatevCREST – A.B. Gusto’s isn’t the spot you want go for a quiet ermost they call theto Monday night deal popular item lunch.

If you go

n WHAT: Friaco’s Restauran n WHEN: 11 a.m. to 10 p.m. S

Thursday, 11 a.m. to 11 p.m. F

n WHAT: A.B. Gusto’s Bar and Grill p.m. Saturday n WHEN: 6 a.m. to 2 a.m. Monday

where kids get a free meal with an WHERE: 1321 Highway 59 Maybe itTHE willMYSTERY happen.DINER But maybe through Thursday, 6 a.m. ton3 a.m. adult it won’t.entree purchase. n INFO: Friday, 10 a.m. to 3 a.m. Saturday and Call 815-254-4866 o This week, however, was just me Instead, Gusto’s is a place it you’ll 11 a.m. to 1 a.m. Sunday restaurant.com.

JOLIET – Haven’t heard of Chickand twoyou kids. go when have an hour or two to n WHERE: 2115 Plainfield Road, Crest en-N-Spice in Joliet? blowBoth and you want to enjoy a meal of but are pretty picky Hill Neither had I despite theeaters, fact the greasy, tastychips, goodness. they love quesadillas Don Ramon Carne Asad n INFORMATION: Call 815-744-4159 or Joliet restaurant salsa, was established in and At least that was the choice I made.

1979.and My beans. three dinner companions visit abgustosbarandgrill.com. rice cos de pollo asado ($12.99 I went with a co-worker early one were aghast at Friaco’s my ignorance.

Their That made off Highway of other options. afternoon.

“You’ve got to try it!” convinced me.

59 There in Joliet in the werenear drinkWal-Mart specials, with And there’s a seafood Shaw Media photos Of course, I had to check out the several options on tap, but I went area very Shorewood-Joliet-Plainfield Gusto’s on Plainfield Road menu in Crestthat Hill isincludes selec venue online first.

Its website at with water with my lunch. appealing. as carne con cama a place you go when you have an hourasada or www.chicken-n-spicejoliet.com said It was a Wednesday, so I went with two to blow and you want to enjoy a meal frito ($15.49 We were quickly seated, just like and pescado Chicken-N-Spice is known for its the patty melt special.

The lunch of tasty goodness. “big juicy breast These the Monday night we had come beIt’s hard to imagine g specials are $5, and chunks.” there’s everything chunks are “all white boneless fore, and the chips and salsatowere on into the Mystery Diner w from pot roast nachos on Monday a breastcheeseburger meat,” which are “cut and classic on Saturday. the table quickly, along with waters tioning the drink selecti seasoned” daily in theanother restaurant.

As we were waiting, Shaw Media photo andI milk for the kids. was a kids lunch date, so chicken.

I’msome sold Panalready. patronlove decided to blast Joliet’s Friaco’s Restaurant & Cantina serves up authentic Mexican food.

How quickly that happened is so take. On our previous vi Located at 251 N. Chicago St. in tera on the jukebox and yelled about Joliet and dwarfed the new Joliet key toPantera a successful lunch date I shared a sangria marga loving too. It by reminded me ofwith Junior College city campus, ex- curihad a ton left.

On Mondays, they have chicken or Ifmessage they’re given time to get shared, I mean I stole a f akids. recent that came intothe The terior of restless, Chicken-N-Spice Herald-News Facebook page reminded asking As for the kids, they loved the steak fajitas on special or enchiladas ous and they’ll usually do it.

They have options fro Shaw Media photos me loved an oldPantera ArthuratTreacher’s Fish & who the newspaper. quesadillas and beans.

They aren’t mole.

On Wednesday, the burrito and Instead, they were happy, and they margaritas ($6.49) to pitc ABOVE: Chicken-N-Spice has been serving its brand of chicken for nearly 40 years.

BELOW LEFT: A George and Eddy is Chicken-NChips, except the signature color is A.B. Gusto’s doesn’t have a fancy partial to veggies in their rice, so they sour cream enchiladas are on special, even got a bowl of mild salsa because or specialty margaritas Spice’s signature dish.

It consists of three breast chunks, jo-jos (seasoned fries), spicy rice, biscuit and a small drink.

BELOW RIGHT: pink, not blue. building or dining room at its location A chocolaty chocolate chip is theor perfect to a Chicken-N-Spice meal. that and enjoyed the picked through on Thursday itscookie chicken beeffinale chimithePlainfield oneinterior I was munching was a little for $11.49.

The resembles aon small off Road in Crest Hill. fast-food – one modest rice part too. changa or flautas, and on Friday it’s too spicy.restaurant Wea also ordered a small For dessert, they hav Instead, it’s local tavern vibe. counter for and or a $7.49 If you fish There areguacamole poolplacing tables, orders dart boards, go tacos chipotle or a mariachi bowl.

The kids menu has chicken finside of dip ($3.49 ($3.25), flan ($4.49), fried small dining area.onThe difference some square the sides and gers, Mexican pizza or a hamburger The dinner special days are the for large) totables go with it. ($6.49), churros ($6.49) an and bags lined upison a was hugethe barboxes that wraps around and n WHAT: Chicken-N-Spice or a combo that includes rice and same as the lunch special, only the The appetizer menu has everychimichanga ($6.49). several the tables for caroften filledofwith thirstywaiting and hungry n HOURS: 7:30 a.m. to 10 p.m. Monday beans with a taco, enchilada, quesaare a little more for the dinner thing a one sampler ($14.99)throughprices They all sound good ( ryout,from which of my platter friends told patrons.

Sunday; and 7:30 a.m. to 8 p.m.

ABOVE LEFT: The patty melt.

ABOVE RIGHT: Dave’s Signature Fries. BELOW: The Outlaw. dilla, tostada, tamale or a taco. plates, $8.99Eve. toClosed $12.99 before the were probably all George and tome queso fundido ($9.99) to bruschetta chimichanga looks good To be clear, I had heard rumors Christmas Eve andfrom New Year’s Eddy orders. breaksbut during was that for nex ham, cheddar and Dijon-maple that theor food was outstanding before Friaco’s does catering, its the meal because drink. ($8.99 $10.99 with shrimp) but we have toit save Christmas and cheese New Year. so spicy, but the cheese and jalapeños For the uninitiated (me), a also severmustard. heading menu is also filled with the fare you The chicken in the enchilada was were uphere. for that. There are n WHERE: 251 N. Chicago St. in Joliet were a nice touch.

Once we got the order and took a George Eddy is Chicken-NIn fact,and I had dropped by a few MORE:and Call tender, 815-727-1100, would expect, from chimichangas pulled andfaxthe enchilada alSpice’s varieties of nachos ($8.49 for cheesen KNOW • TheofMystery Diner i So, if you’re up for a challenge nights earlier by myself signature dish.atItaround consists of few bites, we knew why they were 815-727-1108 or visit www.chicken-n-spice($10.49 to $11.99) to enchiladas sauce was just right. $13.49 fornight fajita nachos). ee at spiciness, go($9.99 ahead and give it aThe try. Herald-News. T a specialty.

It was deli-Not really spicy 8only p.m. to on a Tuesday and ordered considered three breast chunks, jo-jos (seasoned joliet.com. to $10.99) to burritos ($8.69 $11.49) to onidentity Instead, we ordered our I wasto happy to take a milder is not revealed t the D-Rox ($12), a half-pound burger fries), spicy rice, biscuit and amain small cious. and not taking over the taste of the option. the patty melt, I already topped 5 ounces of pot roast, drink.with quesadillas ($5.99 to vegetarcourse while snacking on the guaca- As formeal. staff before spicy “dirty” rice had a slight heat,to $12.99) olate chip cookie, although straw- or during th But, either way, is there are 12 option, burgtheofburgers were high quality onion rings and nacho cheese.

That sounded good, but since andthe I enjoyed it second to the chick- toberry shortcake a dessert a tray George and Eddys.

Yep, ian ($10.49 to $12.99) fajitas ($13.99 On my last visit, I had eaten mole, chips and salsa.

We were all knew Mystery Diner visits a r ertoo. options and nine options and worth your while.

This wasI bought no It was delicious and huge, and I everyone else was ordering George en. Rounding out the meal was a hot, I left full, butsandwich not then overly so (I didon the expe that definitely looked good. to $28.99 for steak fajitas for two). steak fajitas special ($12.99) and was happy with all of it. reports for whatever your speed. different, as the quarter-pounder of vowed only toIeat half and have the and Eddys, figured I’d try someflaky biscuit with plenty of prepacksave some of the meal to bring home one, too.

There’s also a Los Mas Mexicanos pleased as well. in There of It half was and I chose FriaMystery Diner cannot re You can find intriguing sirloin/chuck covered cara- was plenty other asaaTuesday second meal later. thing else. aged butter and honey. for later), andsomething felt I received my I was not mix disappointed. (the most Mexican) portion of worth. the toppings myand flour tortillas were left split co’s enchilada from the lunch specials establishment, we will n to money’s you and, if my experience is anymelized onions and as Swiss AmerThe pot roast, by the typical way, is a The menu had the We also a side of “Creamy On its website, Chicken-N-Spice thingsteak godefinitely from, you’ll probably ican cheese between two slices of rye specialty there anddrink) worth your time. menu with Guadalajara ($14.49), overflowing with toppings and I still Macaroni-N-Cheese ($8.49 with soft menu. fast-food breakfast items: biscuit review.

Pepperjack I to am going back. end calls itself “Home of the Breast It’s tender, flavorful and I would sandwiches, French toast sticks and consider ordering it on its own or out: on pancakes.

One variation stood those previously mentioned nachos of ina chicken-n-gravy with the option the future. small, medium or large biscuit.

The menualso mentioned trying it I could select bone-in chickwith a dark beer I did,of ordering a en dinners or aand variety sandwichGoose Islandbeef, Dooley Dry Stout.

It was es: Italian Italian sausage, a combo perfect (beef pairing. and sausage), deep fried This time, we started with another Polish sausage, chicken and “BBQ Gusto’s Dave’s signature Breastspecialty, Chunk Sandwich.” fries,Then topped withsomeone slices of whisk grilledaway I saw

left me happy.

Chunk” and “Joliet legend.” One This time I had why. less portion control bite and I knew and downed the entire patty cut melt, The chunks are amply and which is $7 it isn’t on theand lunch served upwhen hot, tender, juicy special, before could think about it. wrapped in aI cliched “melt-inThe meal comes withI buffalo your-mouth” batter. passed mac on the and cheese or chunks fries normally, but they sauces (the don’t need ’em), were out of the mac and cheese, which so I didn’t catch the variety, but my iscompanions just more reason to by come and swore theback ranch. try itThe again in the jo-jos arefuture. thick-cut fries with As for co-worker, ordered just themy right amount he of spice.

The

14 | MYSTERY DINER | OCTOBER 2018

JHN Mystery Diner_102818.indd 14

bites,” which my companions said The burger.

LEFT: areOutlaw fairly new on He theenjoys lineup,spicy and food, so tasted theThe halfexactly bound as of beef with these described. ensautéed serrano chili peppers, deepThink velvety homemade macaroni chilada fried pepper jack cheese andjalapeños, cheese with a bite. lunch and “Gustos Ghost” pepper mayo was Other “extras” included corn dog right up his alley. poppers, mozzaspenuggets, jalapeno He ate it without the bun, to watch rella sticks, and livers or cial nachos at his carb intake, but said the heat was gizzards.

Friaco’s whatBecause he was looking forat but madeI it a I’m a kid heart, also in Joliet. spicy challenge.

He had to take achocfew ordered one, very chocolaty

RIGHT: The steak fajita dinner special.

Shaw Media

up happy you tried it.

• The Mystery Diner is a news• Theemployee Mystery Diner is (Joliet) an employroom at The eeHerald-News. at The Herald-News.

The diner’s The diner’s identity is identity is not revealed to restaurant not revealed to the restaurant staff staff before during the meal.The TheMysbefore or or during the meal.

Mystery Diner visitsa adifferent restaurant and tery Diner visits restauthen reports on the experience. the rant and then reports on the IfexpeMystery recommend the rience.Diner If thecannot Mystery Diner cannot establishment, we will not publish we a recommend the establishment, review. will not publish a review.

10/18/18 3:07 PM

M STERY FOOD D NER

29 29

Restaurant reviews

The Herald-News / TheHerald-News.com • Wednesday, November 9, 2016 The Herald-News / TheHerald-News.com • Wednesday, October 11, 2017

Restaurant reviews

MYSTERY DINER

Friaco’s Restaurant & Cantina isIfauthen Joliet’s Chicken-N-Spice White Fencelegendary Farm serves ‘world’s greatest chicken’ you go MYSTERY DINER

Signature George and JOLIET – We’ve been to Friaco’s If you go before, for– takeout and once for kids’ JOLIET Older folks who grew Eddy ismight restaurant’s up in Joliet recall night, or family night,the orlittle whatev- WHAT: White Fence Farm white building that sat off Cass ermost they call the Monday night dealWHEN: Tuesday through Friday 4-8pm; popular item Street, not far from Rudy’s Grocery Saturday & Sunday 12-8pm; Closed MYSTERY DINER

n WHAT: Friaco’s Restauran n WHEN: 11 a.m. to 10 p.m. S

Thursday, 11 a.m. to 11 p.m. F p.m. Saturday n WHERE: 1321 Highway 59 n INFO: Call 815-254-4866 o restaurant.com.

where kids get a free meal with an

store past the viaduct, which is now Monday THE purchase.

MYSTERY DINER adult entree Mike’s Furniture.

Thislittle week, however, wastojustWHERE: me 12337 S. Route 59, #23, Plainfield That white buildingitused JOLIET – Haven’t heard of Chick- ETC.: Visit the website at and two be home tokids.

Joliet’s carryout locaen-N-Spice in Joliet? whitefencefarm-il.com for times and tionBoth of White Fence Farm, a locally but arehad pretty picky Neither I despite theeaters, fact the owned business known forquesadillas its fried they love chips, salsa, and for the main branch in Romeoville Don Ramon Carne Asad Joliet restaurant was established in locations chicken and signature corn fritters. and the carryout location in Joliet.

1979.and My beans. three dinner companions rice cos de pollo asado ($12.99 Joliet still has a carryout location, were aghast at Friaco’s my ignorance.

Their INFO: Call 815-609-4477 (Plainfield), That made off Highway of other options. except now it’s Drive. me. got toon tryBarney it!” convinced 59“You’ve in Joliet near Wal-Mart in the 815-744-2072 (Joliet) and 630-783-9892 And there’s a seafood But when a friend and I drove Of course, I had to check out the (Romeoville). through Romeoville thewebsite other day, Shorewood-Joliet-Plainfield menu that Shaw Media photosincludes selec venue online first. Its atarea very both of us suddenly had a taste forsaid appealing. carne asada con cama ABOVE: The Food Network listed White Fence Farm as No. 23 on its list ofas “Iconic Illinois www.chicken-n-spicejoliet.com dinners are $8.50 each. Fish dinners White chicken, which WeFence wereFarm quickly seated, just like Eats: Where to Eat the Greatest Foods in the Land of Lincoln.” BELOW: The menu on the frito ($15.49 and pescado Chicken-N-Spice is known for its are $9 each. The meals come with neither of usbreast had eaten for years, wall listed just three items: chicken, fish and shrimp. Chicken and shrimp dinners are to imagine g “big juicy chunks.” the Monday night we hadThese come be-cole slaw, corn fritters and fries or It’s hard partly because that’s lifeboneless and partly chunks are “all white $8.50 each. Fish dinners are $9 each. The meals come with cole slaw, corn fritters and fore, and theboth chips andto salsa were mashed on into the Mystery Diner w potatoes.

But just about because we’re trying be breast meat,” which are “cut and fries or mashed potatoes. But just about every item could be purchased a la carte, too. the table quickly, along with waters tioning the drink selecti every item could be purchased a la more health conscious. seasoned” daily in the restaurant.

Shaw Media photo carte, too.

Yet it’s for Food and forgood the reason kids. was a kids lunch date, so I milk love chicken.

I’m soldThe already. waiting for theRestaurant food, which& Cantina serves up authentic Mexican food.

Network listed White Fence Farm Friaco’s How quickly that happened take. On our previous vi Located at 251 N. Chicago St. in is so WhileJoliet’s as No. its list ofby “Iconic Illinois Joliet dwarfed the new Joliet key to23and aon successful lunch date witharrived surprisingly quickly and I shared a sangria marga very hot, we checked out the wall Eats: Where to Eat the Greatest Junior College city campus, the ex- curihad a ton left.

On Mondays, they have chicken or kids.

If they’re given time to get shared, I mean I stole a f decor. It featured photos of the Foods inofthe Land of Lincoln.”

The terior Chicken-N-Spice reminded As for the kids, they loved the steak fajitas on special or enchiladas ous and restless, they’ll usually dogames it. and They have options fro rides, museum and petfood is just good, not good in an Shaw Media photos me an old Arthur Treacher’s Fish & quesadillas beans.

On Wednesday, the burrito and Instead, they were happy, margaritas ($6.49) to pitc ting zoo mole. at the Romeoville upscale way, but good in homey, ABOVE: Chicken-N-Spice hasbranch, been serving its brand of chicken for nearly 40and years.

BELOWThey LEFT: aren’t A George and Eddy is Chicken-NChips, except the signature colorand is they along with displays ofenchiladas partial to veggies inrice, their rice, sour cream are on special, comforting way. even bowl of mild salsa because orBELOW specialty Spice’s signature dish.

Itvintage consiststools, of three breast chunks, jo-jos (seasoned fries), spicy biscuit andsoa they small drink.

RIGHT:margaritas pink,got notablue. for kitchen and barn. chip main branch in Romeoville A chocolaty chocolate is theor perfect to a Chicken-N-Spice meal. that and enjoyed the picked through on Thursday itscookie chicken beeffinale chimitheThe one I was munching was a little for $11.49.

The interior resembles aon small remembered being has farm animals andordered number fast-food restaurant –aone modest rice part too. changa or flautas, and on Friday it’s too spicy.

We also a of small My friend For dessert, they hav served American Family Flakes as a nostalgic artifacts that makeand eating counter for placing orders a $7.49 If you go The kids menu has chicken finfish tacos chipotle or a mariachi bowl. side of guacamole dip ($3.49 or ($3.25), flan ($4.49), fried kid; I recognized the name “Oxydol” there andining experience that’s more small area. The difference gers, Mexican pizza or a hamburger The dinner special days are the for large) toIt’s go with it. ($6.49), churros ($6.49) an box, although neither I, nor my than meal. also a chance wasathe boxes and bags lined to up on on a n WHAT: Chicken-N-Spice or a combo that includes rice and same as used the lunch special, only the The appetizer menu hasfor everychimichanga ($6.49). had ever it. take a trip memory lane into several ofdown the tables waiting car- mother, n HOURS: 7:30 a.m. to 10 p.m. Monday Although we are werea eating at the for the dinner beans with a taco, enchilada, quesaprices little more what some perceive a simpler thing from a one sampler platter ($14.99)through Sunday; They all sound good ( ryout, which ofasmy friends told and 7:30 a.m. to 8 p.m. counter,plates, our meals came boxed up past. dilla, tostada, tamale or a taco. $8.99 toClosed $12.99 before the were fundido probably ($9.99) all George and tome queso to bruschetta chimichanga looks good Christmas Eve andfrom New Year’s Eve. in the signature boxes that White So off we went with to White Fence but we Eddy orders.

Friaco’s does catering, but its drink. ($8.99 or $10.99 shrimp) have to save that for nex Christmas and New Year.

Fence Farm has used since I was Farm.

We got there around 4 p.m.

For the uninitiated (me), a also severmenu is also filled with the fare you The chicken the enchilada was were up for that.

There are n WHERE: 251 N. Chicago St.in in Joliet a child.

The food was as good as I and learned restaurant didn’t George andthe Eddy is Chicken-NMORE:and Call tender, 815-727-1100, would expect, from chimichangas pulled andfaxthe enchilada alSpice’s varieties of nachos ($8.49 for cheesen KNOW • The Mystery Diner i open until 5 p.m.

Now what? signature dish.

It consists of remembered it, too.

815-727-1108 or visit www.chicken-n-spice($10.49 to $11.99) to enchiladas ($9.99 was just right. only tobreast $13.49 foronline fajita nachos). ee at The Herald-News. T Aftersauce we first swapped out ourNot really spicy A quick glance showed three chunks, jo-jos (seasoned joliet.com. persnickety as to who to $10.99) to burritos ($8.69 to $11.49) to identity is not revealed t the carryout in Plainfield and not taking over the taste of the Instead, we ordered ouramain fries), spicylocation rice, biscuit and small pieces (we’re likes dark and white pieces), we (White has several drink.Fence quesadillas ($5.99 to vegetarmeal. course whileFarm snacking on the guacastaff before spicy “dirty” rice had a slight heat,to $12.99) olate chip cookie, although straw- or during th upof the napkins and dug in. carryout locations) opened in 30 That sounded but since andthe I enjoyed it second to the chick- toberry shortcake option, a tray George Eddys.

Yep, ian ($10.49 to $12.99) fajitas ($13.99 is a dessert On myand last visit, I had eaten mole, chips and good, salsa.

We were all piled Mystery Diner visits a r Thedefinitely chicken was golden brown minutes.

Carryout theGeorge origieveryone else waswasn’t ordering en. Rounding out the meal was a hot, too.for I left full, but not then overlyreports so (I didon the expe that looked good.

I bought to $28.99 for steak fajitas two). steak fajitas special ($12.99) and was happy with all of it. and crispy on the outside and tender nal plan, but Iwe’d set our heart and and Eddys, figured I’d try someflaky biscuit with plenty of prepacksave some of the meal to bring home one, too. tomorrow’s There’s also a Los Mas Mexicanos pleased as well.

There of lunch.

Itbuds was a Tuesday andFarm I chose FriaMystery Diner cannot re and juicy inside.

The fries was plenty taste on White Fence thing else. aged butter and honey. for later), and felt I received my I was on notthe disappointed.

BTW, White Fence Farm tastes (the most Mexican) portion of worth. the toppings my flourontortillas were left split co’sThe enchilada from the lunch establishment, we will n wereOn golden brownas and crispy and the congestion that specials chicken –menu had the typical We also a side of “Creamy money’s its website, Chicken-N-Spice just as good on Day Two. the outside and fluffy the inside. is part of Plainfield traffic patterns menu with Guadalajara steak ($14.49),going overflowing with toppings and I still ($8.49 with soft drink) fast-food breakfast items:menu. biscuit review.

Pepperjack Macaroni-N-Cheese I am definitely back. calls itself “Home of on the Breast corn fitters were golden brown that time of day was worth sandwiches, French toast it. sticks and The bites,” which my companions said Chunk” and “Joliet legend.” One • The Mystery Diner is an emLEFT: and dusted sugar The first One pleasant surprise when pancakes. variation stood out: • The Mystery Diner is a newsare fairly new on the lineup, and bite and I with knewpowdered why. ployee The The chicken-n-gravy with the of a on the outside and and tenwe arrived was noticing theoption counter room employee at The (Joliet) theseat tasted exactly as described.

The Herald-News. enThe chunks aresweet amply cut and diner’s is not revealed to small, medium or large biscuit. der-fluffy onhot, the tender, inside. juicy and and stools.

Herald-News. The diner’s identity is Thinkidentity velvety homemade macaroni served up chilada staff before or during the I could also select chickThe colein slaw had a nice tang and restaurant “We could just stay bone-in and eat here,” not revealed to the restaurant staff and cheese with a bite. wrapped a cliched “melt-inThe lunch Mystery visits a dog enfriend dinners or a variety of sandwich- crunch. before or during the meal. The Mysmy said. “extras”Diner included corn your-mouth” batter. I passed on the meal.Other and thenpoppers, reports on the es: Italian beef, Italian sausage, tery Diner visits a different restaunuggets,spejalapeno mozzaAll the(the hotchunks food stayed That we could. sauces don’tsuper need hot ’em), restaurant If nachos the Dineror combo (beefon and sausage), deep fried and rant and then reports on the experella sticks, and livers cial at Mystery so was I didn’t the variety, but my experience.

The menu the wall listed stillcatch hot when we – both rience. If the Mystery Diner cannot Polish sausage, chicken and gizzards. companions swore by–the ranch. cannot recommend just three items: chicken, fish “BBQ feeling full to bursting packed up Friaco’s the establishrecommend the establishment, we Because I’m kid at heart, I also Breast Chunk Sandwich.”

The jo-jos are thick-cut fries and shrimp.

Chicken and shrimp we will notapublish a review. half into our respective boxes for with ment, in Joliet. will not publish a review. ordered one, very chocolaty chocjust the right amount of spice. The Then I saw someone whisk away

RIGHT: The steak fajita dinner special.

JHN Mystery Diner_102818.indd 15

Shaw Media

OCTOBER 2018 | MYSTERY DINER | 15

10/18/18 3:07 PM

2729

Restaurant reviews

Restaurant reviews

MYSTERY DINER

The Herald-News / TheHerald-News.com • Wednesday, November 9, 2016 The Herald-News / TheHerald-News.com • Wednesday, February 7, 2018

M STERY FOOD D NER

Friaco’s Restaurant & Cantina is authen Joliet’s legendary Chicken-N-Spice Homemade root beer, great dogs still satisfy If you go

MYSTERY DINER

Signature George and MYSTERY DINER JOLIET – We’ve been to Friaco’s before, for takeout and once for kids’ JOLIET is – I recently saw some Eddy restaurant’s night, or night, or whatevbashing of afamily Joliet icon on social ermost they call the Monday night deal media. popular item

If you go

n WHAT: Friaco’s Restauran n WHEN: 11 a.m. to 10 p.m. S

WHAT: Hey Hot Dog Thursday, 11 a.m. to 11 p.m. F WHEN: Monday through Saturday p.m. Saturday 10:30 a.m. to 7:30 p.m. Closed Sunday 1321 Highway 59 n WHERE: WHERE: 601 W. Ruby St., Joliet n INFO: INFORMATION: Call 815-723-5487 or Call 815-254-4866 o restaurant.com. visit Hey Hot Dog on Facebook.

I’m talking about Dog. where kids get a Hey freeHot meal with an If you live in purchase.

Joliet, you know what THE MYSTERY DINER adult entree I mean. The little diner-style hot dog This week, however, it was just me placeJOLIET on Ruby–Street that’s known for Haven’t heard of Chickand two kids. its homemade root beer. en-N-Spice in Joliet?

Both arehad pretty eaters, And speaking of rootpicky beer, Neither I despite theyou factcan thebut buy it by thechips, glass ($1.25 small, in and they love salsa, quesadillas Don Ramon Carne Asad Joliet restaurant was for established LEFT: The little diner-stylecos hot de dogpollo asado ($12.99 $1.50 for large anddinner $2.75 for extra 1979.

My three companions rice and beans. place on Ruby Street that’s known large), the half-gallon ($4.95) or 5-galwere aghast at my ignorance.

Their That made Friaco’s off Highway of other options. lon kegs ($40). youconvinced know. for its homemade root beer. got Just to trysoit!” me.

59“You’ve inthe Joliet near Wal-Mart in the And there’s a seafood So comment I’d read on social Of course, I had to check out the Shaw Media photos Shorewood-Joliet-Plainfield menu that includes selec media was something like “too much venue online first. Its website atarea very bun, too little dog.” appealing. as carne asada con cama www.chicken-n-spicejoliet.com said Could ... could it be true?

The We were quickly seated, just like and pescado frito ($15.49 Chicken-N-Spice is known forsame its venue where WGN TV’s “Chicago’s “big juicy breast chunks.”

These the Monday night we had come beIt’s hard to imagine g Best” recently filmed?

This, of course, chunks “all white boneless fore, andare the chips and salsa were on into the Mystery Diner w according to Hey Hot Dog’s Facebook breast meat,” which are “cut and the table quickly, along with waters tioning the drink selecti page. seasoned” daily in the restaurant.

Shaw Media photo Themilk newspaper person in me had and for the kids. was a kids lunch date, so I love chicken. I’m sold already. to find out.quickly that happened is so Joliet’s Friaco’s Restaurant & Cantina serves up authentic Mexican food.

How take. On our previous vi Located at 251 N. Chicago St. in Now if you’ve never eaten at Hey Joliet dwarfed bylunch the new Joliet key to and a successful date with I shared a sangria marga Hot Dog, you should know the menu Junior College city campus, the ex- curihad a ton left.

On Mondays, they have chicken or kids. they’re given time to get shared, I mean I stole a f is lean If and straightforward: all dogs terior of restless, Chicken-N-Spice remindeddo it.

As for the kids, they loved the steak fajitas on special or enchiladas ous and they’ll They have options fro (and barbecue) are $2.85 each.usually Chili Shaw Media photos me an old Arthur Treacher’s Fish & or large soup (none made the day I and they quesadillas beans.

On Wednesday, the burrito and Instead, they happy, margaritas ($6.49) to pitc ABOVE:mole.

Chicken-N-Spice has been serving its brand of chicken for nearly 40and years.

BELOWThey LEFT: aren’t A George and Eddy is Chicken-NChips, except the were signature color is went): $5.95.

Polish partial to veggies inrice, their rice, cream are on special, even got ablue. bowl sausage: of mild $3.55. salsa because orBELOW specialty Spice’s sour signature dish. enchiladas It consists of three breast chunks, jo-jos (seasoned fries), spicy biscuit andsoa they small drink.

RIGHT:margaritas pink, not Codfish sandwich: $4.95. No fries, A chocolaty chocolate chip is theor perfect to a Chicken-N-Spice meal. that and enjoyed the picked through on Thursday itscookie chicken beeffinale chimithe The onecan I was munching on was a little for $11.49. interior small but you buy a resembles bag of chipsa for 85 fast-food restaurant – one modest rice part too. changa or flautas, and on Friday it’s too spicy.

We also ordered a small For dessert, they hav cents. counter fortoppings placing orders and a $7.49 If you fish go tacos chipotle or a mariachi bowl.

The kids menu has chicken finside of guacamole dip ($3.49 or ($3.25), flan ($4.49), fried Sandwich include mussmall diningonions, area. The difference tard, ketchup, chili, cheese, gers, Mexican pizza or a hamburger The dinner special days are the for large) to go with it. ($6.49), churros ($6.49) an was the boxes and bags lined up on n WHAT: Chicken-N-Spice jalapeños, giardiniera peppers, or a combo that includes rice and same as the lunch special, only the The appetizer menu has everychimichanga ($6.49). several of the tables waiting for carn HOURS: 7:30 a.m. to 10 p.m. Monday sauerkraut. beans with a taco, enchilada, quesaprices are a little more for the dinner thing from a sampler platter ($14.99) They all sound good ( ryout, which one of my friends told I feel the best way to judge a hot through Sunday; and 7:30 a.m. to 8 p.m. dilla, tostada, tamale or a taco. plates, $8.99Eve. toClosed $12.99 before the were is probably allan George and tome queso fundido ($9.99) to bruschetta chimichanga looks good dog venue to sample assortment, Christmas Eve andfrom New Year’s Eddyisor orders.

Friaco’s does catering, but its drink. ($8.99 $10.99 shrimp) but we Christmas have to save that for nex which just what with a friend and I did and New Year.

For uninitiated (me), a also severone day. menu is also filled with the fare you were upthe for that. There are n WHERE:The 251 N.chicken Chicago St.inin the Jolietenchilada was George and Eddy is hot Chicken-Nselections: one dog ketchMORE:and Call tender, 815-727-1100, would expect, from chimichangas pulled andfaxthe enchilada al Our varieties of nachos ($8.49 forofcheesen KNOW • The Mystery Diner i signature dish.dog It consists upSpice’s only, one chili cheese with MIDDLE LEFT: Chili cheeseee dog:atFlavorful 815-727-1108 or visit www.chicken-n-spice($10.49 to $11.99) to enchiladas ($9.99 sauce was just right.

Not really spicy only to $13.49 for fajita nachos).

The Herald-News. T three breast chunks, jo-jos (seasoned onions, one Polish sausage with muschili, but not spicy. Meaning it doesn’t joliet.com. to $10.99) to burritos ($8.69 to $11.49) to identity and not taking over the taste of the Instead, we ordered ouramain fries), rice, biscuit and small tard and spicy onions and one barbecue. overpower the dog. Ditto for the cheeseis not revealed t drink. quesadillas ($5.99 to LEFT: vegetarmeal. course while snacking oncan the guacastaffCrisp before No chips because, well, you spicy “dirty” rice had a slight heat,to $12.99) olate chip cookie, straw- or during th BOTTOM Polishalthough sausage: sounded good, since buy aThat bag of chips anywhere. andthe I enjoyed it second to the chick- toskin, berry shortcake is a flavor dessert Eddys. ian ($10.49 to $12.99) fajitas ($13.99great On myand last visit,Yep, I had eaten mole, chips andalmost salsa.but We were all a tray of George Mystery juicy centers, andoption, per-Diner visits a r everyone else ordering George One root beer toof split. en. Rounding out the meal a hot, too.for Isized left full, overly sobeer: (I didon the expe that definitely lookedspecial good. I bought to $28.99 forwas steak fajitas two). steak fajitas ($12.99) and was happy with allwas it. then reports fectly to thebut bun.not ABOVE: Root and Eddys, I figured I’d try someThen lined ’em to split in half and flaky biscuit with plenty of prepacksave and some of the to bring one, too.

Thick creamy, notmeal too sweet.

Nonehome There’s also a Los Mas Mexicanos pleased as well.

There was plenty of It was a Tuesday and I chose FriaMystery Diner cannot re thingHere’s else. what we thought: enjoy. aged butter and honey. for later), and felt I received my I was not disappointed. finer in Joliet. (the most Mexican) portion of worth. the toppings my flour tortillas were left split co’s enchilada from themade. lunch specialsOn its establishment, we will n The menu had the typical Buns as soft as if freshly We also a side of “Creamy money’s website,as Chicken-N-Spice menu with Guadalajara ($14.49),going overflowing with toppings and I still Macaroni-N-Cheese ($8.49 with drink) menu. fast-food breakfast biscuit review.

Hot dogs: assoft good asitems: Daisy brand Pepperjack IMedia amphotos definitely back. calls itself “Home of the Breast Shawsteak

sandwiches, French toast sticks (my favorite) and not perfectly sizedand One variation topancakes. the bun, which opened upstood a con-out: chicken-n-gravy with the option versation between my friend and I. of a Should dog be or larger? that small,the medium largeHold biscuit. thought.

I’m also coming back to it. chickI could select bone-in Barbecue: portion, not en dinners Generous or a variety of sandwichtoo on beef, the tomato-y taste or es:heavy Italian Italian sausage, spices, but not and bland either. deep fried combo (beef sausage), Polishsausage, sausage: chicken crisp skin, juicy Polish and “BBQ centers, flavor, perfectly sized to Breastgreat Chunk Sandwich.” the bun.

Then I saw someone whisk away

Chunk” and “Joliet legend.” One Chili cheese dog: Flavorful chili bite and I knew why. but not spicy.

Meaning it doesn’t overThe chunks are amply cut and power theup dog.

Ditto for the cheese. served hot, tender, juicy and Root beer: and “melt-increamy, not wrapped inThick a cliched too sweet. None batter. finer inIJoliet. your-mouth” passed on the Our consensus: A larger leaves sauces (the chunks don’tdog need ’em), inadequate toppings. so I didn’troom catchfor the variety,We but my supposed Hey Hot Dogby could companions swore the offer ranch. dogs The in regular and thick-cut jumbo sizes so with jo-jos are fries plain minimally topped would justor the right amount ofdogs spice.

The

16 | MYSTERY DINER | OCTOBER 2018

JHN Mystery Diner_102818.indd 16

bites,” which my companions said fitare the fairly bun LEFT: asnew wellon as the the lineup, Polish sauand sage does. these tasted as described.

The exactly enIn the velvety end, we homemade simply decided the Think macaroni chilada food was good with and quit trying to fix it. and cheese a bite. lunch Not sure why.

Maybeincluded some things Other “extras” cornjust dog don’t need spechanging. nuggets, jalapeno poppers, mozzaAs my friend says rella sticks, and sign livers or cial nachos atsaid, “The it all.

I keepFriaco’s going back for the good gizzards. food, Because the people and the at old-timey I’m a kid heart, Ifeel. also in Joliet.

It will forever my favorite hotchocdog ordered one,bevery chocolaty

RIGHT: The steak fajita dinner special.

Shaw Media

place.”

• The Mystery Diner is a news-

room employee at The (Joliet) • The Mystery Diner is an employee Herald-News.

The diner’s identity is at not The revealed Herald-News.

The diner’s idento the restaurant staff titybefore is not or revealed restaurant staffMysduringtothe meal. The before during the meal.

The Mystery teryor Diner visits a different restauDiner a restaurant rerantvisits and then reportsand on then the expeports on the If Diner the Mystery rience.

If experience. the Mystery cannot Diner cannot recommend the establishrecommend the establishment, we ment, not publish a review. willwe notwill publish a review.

10/18/18 3:07 PM