Ariston Cafe

413 Old Route 66 N., Litchfield, IL
Phone: 217-324-2023 link

East < GO > West

The Ariston Cafe has been serving local residents and travelers since 1924, starting out in Carlinville in a location on the town square. The square is on IL-4 which became the original 1926 alignment of Route 66. According to the 1953 Litchfield Centennial booklet the restaurant moved to Litchfield in 1930 and then to it's current location in 1935. It is located on Old Route 66 and Union Ave. (Highway 16).

From 1930 to 1940 Route 66 went right past the front entrance, then the route moved a block west so new signage was added to the rear of the building to attract travelers on the new highway. That side of the building appears to be mostly for storage etc. now. The lettering under the name says "Better Place To Eat"

Pete Adam was one of the original owners and after his death his son Nick continued to operate the restaurant until 2018 when he sold it to Marty and Kara Steffens. They are carrying on the tradition of great service, great food and friendly staff that began so many years ago.

We've had dinner here a couple of times and thoroughly enjoyed the experience both times.

The Litchfield Museum and Route 66 Welcome Center is across the street.

The Ariston was named to the National Register of Historic Places in 2006.

Photo(s): 2012, 2016