Carroll County Directory
American in Carroll County
The places to visit in Carroll County, searchable in one place.
Bear’s Drive InnGreat food & ice cream. Open seasonally.
Season opens Early April (mark your calendars—11 a.m. sharp!)
Seasonal Hours:
Open daily, 11 a.m.–8 p.m.
They’re located in Thomson—the Melon Capital of the World—so your road‑trip bliss includes diners’ favorite drive‑in classics alongside legendary ice cream and fresh‑cut melon.
Why stop in?
🍦 Made‑to‑order ice cream & frozen custard
🍔 Classic drive‑in fare—burgers, hot dogs, loaded fries
Heads up: They’re only open through late summer (typically the end of September, weather‑dependent), so don’t wait—sweet season doesn’t last forever!
Candlelight at Lake CarrollRestaurant and banquet facility open to the public. Great for sharing good times with family and friends. Please call for reservations. Like and follow on Facebook for hours, events, and promotions.
Hours: Sunday & Monday 10-8 (Bar Only), Tuesday-Thursday 10-10 (Kitchen 11-9), Friday & Saturday 10-Midnight (Kitchen 11-9).
Circa 1888Urban farmhouse kitchen in downtown Savanna, overlooking the Mississippi River. Homemade food with a modern twist. Casual indoor/outdoor dining. Family-friendly, relaxing, beautiful views. FB/website for hours.
Dusty’s Pizza PlusDowntown Thomson, near Great River Bike Trail and Thomson Causeway. Great pizza with homemade crust and all the extras!
Hawg DogsHistoric downtown Savanna. Over-the-top food, cold drinks, live music. Bar open 10am–11pm daily.
Kountry KettleSmall diner serving American-style cuisine since 1986. Donuts made daily on site. Open Tuesday through Sunday, 6 a.m. to 2 p.m. Ample parking for motorcycles and boats on trailers.
Las PalomasMexican & American Eats in Downtown Savanna
Las Palomas is a locally owned restaurant bringing Mexican and American flavors to the heart of downtown Savanna. Located at 409 Main Street, it’s open Tuesday through Sunday, 11 a.m.–9 p.m.
The menu includes traditional Mexican dishes such as fajitas, chimichangas, enchiladas, and tacos, along with American options like burgers and steaks. Appetizers range from queso dip and guacamole to sampler platters, and weekday lunch specials offer a variety of choices at a good value.
Guests will find a casual, family-friendly setting with seating for groups, a children’s menu, and carryout available. Both street and lot parking are nearby, making it convenient for a meal while exploring Savanna and nearby attractions like Mississippi Palisades State Park.
Mill Wheel TavernDowntown Milledgeville. Home of Mill Wheel Chicken, best pork tenderloin. Full bar, breakfast/lunch/dinner. FB for updates.
Molly’s Kitchen and BarMolly’s Kitchen & Bar is a locally loved restaurant in Mount Carroll offering thoughtfully prepared American cuisine with a creative twist. The menu is rooted in fresh, locally sourced ingredients and features familiar favorites reimagined with seasonal flavors and unique presentations. Alongside its food, Molly’s is known for its standout cocktail program, featuring handcrafted drinks made with fresh herbs, house-made juices, and inventive combinations. The atmosphere is warm, modern, and welcoming—making it an ideal spot for casual dinners, date nights, and special occasions alike.
With attentive service and a focus on quality, Molly’s Kitchen & Bar delivers a dining experience that feels both elevated and comfortable.
Mount Carroll CafeOpen for breakfast, lunch, and dinner with daily specials. Friendly service, great food, and lots of hometown charm. Located across from the courthouse square in the historic district.
Mr Z’s Sports Bar & RestaurantBreakfast, lunch, dinner, full bar. Sun–Thu 6am–9pm, Fri–Sat 6am–10pm.
My Friends Place Bar & GrillJoin us for a good time while sipping on a beverage and enjoying a meal! Don’t forget, you can also test your luck with the slot machines! We’re located in downtown Savanna.
My Go To PlaceOffers food, fun, and a full bar. See Facebook for updates. Hours: Mon-Thu 2-10pm, Fri-Sat 11am-1pm, Sun noon-10pm.
Poopy’s Pub & GrubWelcome to Illinois' premier biker destination! Poopy's Pub & Grub offers a unique combination of delicious American comfort food, full-service bar, live entertainment, and much more. Our facility features an official Harley-Davidson store stocked with bikes, apparel, parts, and accessories. We also offer professional tattoo and piercing services on-site. Whether you're a motorcycle enthusiast or just looking for great food and atmosphere, we provide dine-in and carry-out options. Check our website for upcoming events, live music schedules, and seasonal hours. With our welcoming environment and diverse offerings, we're the perfect stop on any journey through Northwest Illinois.
Pub 225Friendly neighborhood bar. Custom drinks, relaxed atmosphere, free peanuts. Mon–Thu 4pm–midnight, Fri–Sat noon–1am, Sun noon–10pm. FB for events.
Shannon CafeQuaint, cozy family restaurant serving classic breakfast and lunch options. Follow on Facebook for updates.
ShortiesRestaurant & bar specializing in pizza, tacos, and more! Dine-in or carry out. Follow us on FB for updates and nightly specials.
Sunshine RestaurantWe offer the best in small town cooking with dine in or take out. Open 7 days a week from 6:30 am - 2 pm.
Thom's InnThomson pub and café serving beer, wine, spirits, espresso drinks, soups, burgers, quesadillas, and baked goods, with a beer garden and periodic live music, jams, and karaoke.
Trailside Enterprises Inc.Trailside Enterprises is a full-service destination in the scenic Lake Carroll area, featuring the Trailside Inn - a comfortable 12-room motel with modern amenities. Our property includes a well-stocked General Store and Gift Loft, a fun 18-hole Mini Golf course, a convenient Gas Station, an on-site Restaurant, and a Wine & Spirit shop. All guest rooms are equipped with TV, A/C, refrigerator, microwave, hair dryers, and complimentary gourmet coffee, tea, and cappuccino. Select rooms feature Jacuzzi tubs and fireplaces. Guests can enjoy beautiful panoramic country views, a picnic area with grills, and a screened deck. High-speed internet is available throughout the property. Located just two miles west of the intersection of Route 72 and Route 73 on Zier Road, we offer a perfect blend of comfort, convenience, and countryside charm.
Uncle Sean’s Marina CafeGood burgers, hand-cut fries, daily specials, relaxed/friendly atmosphere.
Vessel on MarketLocated in the heart of historic downtown Mount Carroll, Vessel on Market is a welcoming bistro and coffee shop that’s become a beloved stop for locals and visitors alike. Enter through the Nuuva Amelia Boutique space, and you’ll find a thoughtfully restored interior with original wood floors, tin ceilings, and vintage lighting that set the scene for a relaxed and community-focused experience.
Vessel on Market serves up a full lineup of quality beverages—from freshly brewed coffee, espresso drinks, and specialty teas to refreshing iced concoctions, smoothies, and one-of-a-kind refreshers. Pair your drink with house-made pastries or a satisfying breakfast or lunch, including breakfast burritos, paninis, wraps, salads, and seasonal bowls. Whether you’re grabbing a morning latte, meeting a friend for lunch, or picking up treats on the go, there’s something delicious here for every appetite.
Vessel On Market
Vessel’s mission is to provide not just great food and drinks, but a culinary experience that highlights fresh ingredients and local flavors whenever possible, all while supporting the local community and creative culture of the Driftless Region. With dine-in, carryout, and customizable catering options, it’s the perfect place to relax, refuel, and connect during your visit to Mount Carroll.
Wally’s PlayceFun, casual bar. Cool drinks, free popcorn, friendly faces. Mon–Thu 10am–10pm, Fri–Sat 10am–1am, Sun noon–10pm. FB for events.
