Fairview Farm

(309) 697-4111

Closed Mondays
Tues-Sat 4:30 to 8 p.m.
Sun Noon to 5 p.m.

Review by Steve Tarter of the Journal Star

May 27, 2015

You’ve got to hand it to any locally-owned restaurant that’s remained in business since 1952.

Especially one that’s not exactly located on a main drag. At a time when easy-to-find eating places come and go, Fairview Farms Restaurant, 5911 Heuermann Road, defies both time and space to serve up family-style meals that never seem to go out of style.

Located in a residential area by the airport, Fairview Farms isn’t likely to be discovered by accident unless a wayward traveler takes a wrong turn or two after flying into Peoria. As for defying time, one need only view the various Fairview dining rooms (the place can support 300 people) to know that, like grandma’s house, change isn’t a frequent visitor here.

Diners, however, enjoy good old-fashioned meals as we did on a recent Saturday night.

We arrived late, and while there were still groups dining around us, we were the only ones in this particular dining room notable for the dinner plates of area churches mounted on the walls.

I ordered the smoked pork chops ($15.95) that came with mashed potatoes and green beans. Gravy and signature corn fritters come family-style for everyone to share.

The pork chops went wonderfully with the beans and mash while the corn fritters were a treat, especially with the maple syrup provided.

I recommend the coleslaw that comes with the meal (or you can order a side salad). It’s both fresh and creamy, although I sampled the delicious dressing provided with my dining partner’s salad so you can’t go wrong either way.

My son found the four-piece chicken dinner ($13.95) to his liking.

While we went with individual meals, Fairview Farms still serves family-style meals providing chicken, fish, ham or roast beef with all the trimmings (ranging in price from $13.95 to $17.50 per person) with seconds provided (but no doggie bags).

Our server offered old-school hospitality that Fairview has come to represent, routinely refreshing drinks (I had iced tea while he had Coke), proving both attentive and helpful.

Normally a big meal like this wouldn’t dictate dessert but it was Saturday night so we splurged on pie. I tried the coconut cream ($3.95) while he went with French silk chocolate ($4.50). Both disappeared rapidly without regret. Apple pie is also on the menu along with ice cream and cheesecake.

A trip to Fairview Farms may be a nostalgic journey but it’s also an opportunity to recognize some things — like good food and friendly service — are time-honored.

Additional Reviews

"...the heart of the menu escaped from Grandma's recipe file: cured ham, roast beef, pork chops. Other fare includes shrimp and salmon."
"The service is unfailingly helpful and cheerful. Unfamiliar with the menu options, we received ample help from our sunny waitress."
"Went for a tasty dinner, and received a delicious and mouth watering home cooked meal. If you're wanting food that is filling and cooked with love, then you best get yourself to Fairview Farms!!! The owners are the sweetest, friendly, and down to earth."
"I've been coming to this restaurant for 30 years (since I was a wee lad). The first thing you notice when stepping through the door is that it feels like grandma and grandpa's house, it's just like home. The fried chicken, corn fritters, and mashed potatoes are some of the best you can eat. I could not recommend this place more!"
"Food is amazing, love the family style meals. Did I say the food is AMAZING here. All staff is great. They close at 8 we got there at 730. I think staff was ready to go home. But they was still very pleasant and friendly to have us. Thanks for the great food."
"Talk about homestyle cooking!! The corn fritters are the best anywhere, pineapple ones for breakfast, yummy!! Swiss steak that melts in your mouth. Fried chicken like mom makes. And locally owned."
"Wonderful local family style restaurant, not too far from the Peoria airport. They’ve got an excellent lunch buffet on Thursday - Saturday and you can order off the menu at any time."
 
 
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