What is Rockford's best "hidden gem" restaurant?

Well, when I saw that Enjoy Illinois on Facebook asked "what are the best "hidden gem" restaurants in Illinois?", I knew I needed to figure it out for myself.

Using Yelp! and a quick "Hidden Gem Restaurant" search I found the Top 5.

1. Tavern On Clark - 755 Clark Drive Rockford

Reasonably priced, diverse menu, great atmosphere, courteous and attentive staff, amazing food.  Walking distance to many of the local hotels.  Well worth a visit.

2. Abreo Restaurant - 515 East State Street Rockford

Abreo is one of the top restaurants of Rockford and the surrounding area. The food is outstanding: creative, high quality and fresh ingredients, well-balanced dishes, and excellent cocktails as well.

3. Five Forks Market - 6565 Lexus Drive Rockford

The Californian Chardonnay by the glass was one of the best I've had at a restaurant--a perfect blend of sweet, dry, and peachy. I'll definitely be coming back to try out the rest of the menu.  You wouldn't know it from the outside, but the ambiance in Five Forks is cozy and inviting.

4. Chinmi Asian Cuisine - 298 North Mulford Drive Rockford

I had all you can eat sushi and I was pleasantly surprised with the variety allowed on the all you can eat menu.  Everything came out beautifully.

5. Cantina Taco - 117 South Main Street Rockford

I was extremely impressed with how well seasoned and perfectly crisp their fish batter was without overpowering the fish itself and their slightly sweet slaw offered a great balance in the taco.

All of those are good choices and certainly worth the trip. On the other hand, you could go with my list (15th and Chris, Lydia's Cafe, LaCresia's Taste of Soul, DiTullio's and Smokehouse Barbecue.)

Just for fun, take our poll. Let us know which restaurant you think is Rockford's best "hidden gem" restaurant.

Sweet Lenny is the brand manager of 97ZOK and Operations Manager for Townsquare Media Rockford. Catch him afternoons 3 to 7 on 97ZOK. Follow him on TwitterInstagram and like his page on Facebook.

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