Unearth The Voyage
Craving that perfect combination of crispy bread and mouthwatering fillings that only a po’ boy can deliver? Illinois might not be Louisiana, but the Prairie State boasts some seriously impressive sandwich spots serving up authentic New Orleans flavor. From Chicago’s bustling food scene to hidden gems in smaller towns, these nine po’ boy havens offer delicious takes on the classic sandwich that will transport your taste buds straight to the Big Easy.
Daisy’s Po’ Boy & Tavern — Chicago (Hyde Park)
Gulf shrimp takes center stage at Chef Erick Williams’ Louisiana-inspired haven in Hyde Park. The kitchen team doesn’t skimp on portions here – each sandwich bursts with plump, perfectly cooked shrimp nestled in bread that strikes that ideal balance between crisp exterior and pillowy center.
What separates Daisy’s from the pack? Their commitment to authenticity shines through in every bite, from the precisely balanced remoulade to the fresh, crisp lettuce and tomato. The tavern atmosphere adds to the experience, making it feel like a genuine slice of New Orleans in the Windy City.
Po’ Boys On Frostwood — Peoria
Central Illinois foodies rejoice! This Peoria treasure brings authentic New Orleans flavors straight to the heartland. Their menu shines with variety – from succulent pulled chicken to perfectly seasoned seafood offerings – all served on bread that somehow manages to be both substantial and light.
Regulars rave about the red beans and rice side dish, a perfect complement to any sandwich selection. The welcoming atmosphere makes first-timers feel like regulars, while the attentive service ensures you’ll never wait long for your Cajun fix.
Pro tip: Try the shrimp po’ boy with a side of their house-made remoulade for an extra flavor kick.
Arnie Yarber’s Po’ Boys — Urbana
Sometimes the smallest places pack the biggest flavor punch. This Champaign-Urbana institution might be tiny in square footage, but its reputation looms large among locals and university students alike. The BBQ-influenced menu items showcase slow-cooked techniques that result in melt-in-your-mouth sandwiches.
Family-owned for generations, the recipes here haven’t changed much – and that’s exactly how regulars like it. Each bite delivers that nostalgic, old-school flavor that’s increasingly hard to find in today’s food landscape.
The cramped quarters actually add to the charm, creating a community vibe where strangers often strike up conversations while waiting for their sandwiches.
Merichka’s — Crest Hill
Nostalgia meets culinary excellence at this 91-year-old family institution in Crest Hill. While not exclusively a po’ boy destination, their take on the Louisiana classic has earned devoted followers throughout Chicagoland and beyond.
The vintage ambiance transports diners to another era – red vinyl booths, wood-paneled walls, and servers who might remember your grandparents’ usual orders. What keeps people coming back isn’t just sentiment, though; it’s the consistently excellent execution of their signature sandwich.
Value-conscious diners appreciate the generous portions that often result in tomorrow’s lunch. Their secret? A proprietary sauce recipe that family members guard more closely than state secrets.
PO-Boys — Peoria
Straightforward name, straightforward excellence. This unassuming Peoria spot lets the food do the talking, earning consistent 4+ star reviews from locals and visitors alike. The menu doesn’t try to reinvent the wheel – instead focusing on executing traditional po’ boy recipes with precision and care.
Budget-conscious diners appreciate the reasonable prices that don’t sacrifice quality. The bread – that critical component of any proper po’ boy – strikes the perfect balance between crispy exterior and soft interior, providing the ideal foundation for their generous fillings.
First-timers often become regulars after just one visit, drawn back by the friendly service and consistent quality that makes this spot a reliable lunchtime favorite.
Po’ Boyz — Mount Vernon
Southern Illinois’ answer to the po’ boy question doesn’t disappoint. Their beef and steak variations have earned particular acclaim, featuring tender, perfectly seasoned meat that practically melts with each bite. The bread – sourced from a local bakery – provides that authentic crunch-then-yield texture that defines great po’ boys.
Unlike some spots that focus solely on seafood options, Po’ Boyz excels with land-based proteins. Their cheese steak po’ boy merges Philadelphia and New Orleans influences into something uniquely delicious.
The modest storefront belies the culinary treasures within. Family-owned and operated, the owners often chat with diners, creating a welcoming atmosphere that enhances the already stellar food experience.
Fish Bar — Chicago
Seafood specialists with a knack for the perfect po’ boy. While the menu at this Chicago hotspot extends beyond sandwiches, their shrimp and fish po’ boys consistently earn spots on “best of” lists throughout the city.
The secret lies in their seafood sourcing – always fresh, never frozen, and prepared with techniques that highlight rather than mask the natural flavors. Their remoulade strikes that perfect balance between creamy and tangy, complementing rather than overwhelming the delicate seafood.
The maritime-themed decor creates a casual yet polished atmosphere. Come summer, their small patio becomes one of the city’s most coveted dining spots, where lucky patrons enjoy their perfectly executed po’ boys in the sunshine.
Old Urbana Smokehouse — Urbana
Smoke meets sandwich perfection at this Champaign-Urbana favorite. While technically a barbecue joint, their po’ boy interpretations have developed a cult following among locals who appreciate how they merge Louisiana tradition with Midwest smoking techniques.
The pulled pork po’ boy showcases 14-hour smoked pork shoulder, dressed with just enough sauce to complement without overwhelming the meat’s natural flavors. Friendly staff members greet regulars by name, creating a community hub around their smoky, sandwich-centered menu.
University students spread the word about this hidden gem, leading to lines out the door during peak hours. Worth the wait? Absolutely – especially when paired with their house-made potato salad that rivals any grandmother’s recipe.
