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Dixie Family Restaurant

About Us

Dixie Family Restaurant is a beloved American eatery located in McLean, IL, that has been operating since 1928. Our iconic establishment proudly serves as a historical Route 66 stop, welcoming travelers and locals alike to enjoy our flavorful offerings. Specializing in a buffet-style dining experience, our menu features an array of delicious options including hearty breakfast sandwiches, mouthwatering pizza, comforting biscuits and gravy, and succulent crab legs. Adding to our charm, we also cater to truckers passing through, making us the perfect pit stop for a filling meal. Come visit Dixie Family Restaurant and savor a taste of both tradition and culinary excellence in the heart of McLean.

Our Story

Dixie Family Restaurant – Buffet, Comfort Food & Classic Route 66 Charm

Dixie Family Restaurant is a long-loved American classic located in McLean, Illinois, proudly serving guests since 1928. As a historic Route 66 stop, Dixie has been a welcoming place for travelers, truckers, and locals for generations. Today, under the ownership of Diego—who grew up working in the kitchen and learning from past owners—the restaurant continues its legacy of friendly service, hearty food, and genuine small-town hospitality.

While our history draws people in, it’s our food that keeps them coming back. Dixie Family Restaurant is best known for our generous, always-fresh buffet. From breakfast favorites to comfort-food classics, the buffet is packed with rotating selections that satisfy every appetite. Guests love piling their plates high with dishes like biscuits and gravy, mashed potatoes with rich gravy, pizza, seasonal favorites, and homestyle entrées that taste just like they came from grandma’s kitchen.

Alongside the buffet, we also serve a full made-to-order menu, giving guests even more freedom to customize their dining experience. Whether you’re craving a hearty breakfast sandwich, a fresh-from-the-oven pizza slice, or a classic diner meal, our kitchen team prepares every dish with care and quality ingredients. It’s the perfect blend of convenience and comfort — choose the buffet, order from the menu, or enjoy both.

A guest favorite is our Soup and Salad Bar, offering a lighter, fresher option while still delivering big flavor. Loaded with crisp greens, toppings, house-made dressings, and rotating hot soups, it’s ideal for a quick lunch, a side to your entrée, or a satisfying meal all on its own. Travelers love it. Locals rely on it. And regulars swear by it.

Dixie Family Restaurant also remains a trusted truck stop and traveler’s pit stop, providing great food, fast service, and a relaxed atmosphere where you can unwind from the road. Whether you’re driving Route 66 for nostalgia or for work, you’ll always be welcomed with a smile and a warm plate of food.

Nearly a century after opening its doors, Dixie Family Restaurant continues to blend tradition, flavor, and community. From the iconic Route 66 heritage to the modern-day buffet and menu offerings, Dixie remains a place where memories are made over meals worth slowing down for.

So whether you’re hungry for a full buffet spread, a fresh meal from the menu, or a crisp Soup and Salad Bar experience, stop in and enjoy the timeless taste of Dixie Family Restaurant — right here in the heart of McLean, Illinois.

Areas Served

What We Offer

Our Specialties include:

Historical Route 66 Stop
Buffet
Serve Out
Truck Stop

Our Products include:

Breakfast Sandwiches
Pizza
Biscuits and Gravy
Crab Legs
Mashed Potatoes and Gravy
Soup and Salad Bar

Testimonials

On 2/13/2026 Clara Brewer had this to say:
This place has an awesome breakfast loved the skillet it was fresh and warm and biscuits and gravy delicious. Great Service one of the best breakfast had in a very long time.

On 2/6/2026 Lilia had this to say:
The crab legs are really good, I really recommend this restaurant. Testimonial written by Lilia on this site.

On 2/5/2026 Byran Dewey had this to say:
The food was hot and fresh, very tasty. Our server was very friendly,helpful, and patient. It had been a long time since we had ate at a Dixie. The restaurant was very clean and inviting, nice nostalgic decorations which made it feel so comfortable. I would suggest Dixie to anybody that likes a home cooked meal and staff that is very on top of your needs and being helpful.

On 1/28/2026 John Grotelueschen had this to say:
Great food, nice staff.

On 1/25/2026 Maurice Berry had this to say:
It reminds me of a small town restaurant and gas station with everything in it

Contact Us

Dixie Family Restaurant
315 Dixie Rd Suite C McLean, IL 61754
Phone: (309) 874-2900
Email: diegoespinosa799@gmail.com

Payment Types Accepted

American Express, Apple Pay, Personal Checks, Debit Cards, Discover, MasterCard, Visa

Our Hours

Holiday Hours May Vary. Please Call For Details.

Monday: 5:00 AM - 10:00 PM
Tuesday: 5:00 AM - 10:00 PM
Wednesday: 5:00 AM - 10:00 PM
Thursday: 5:00 AM - 10:00 PM
Friday: 5:00 AM - 10:00 PM
Saturday: 6:00 AM - 9:00 AM
Sunday: 6:00 AM - 9:00 AM

Info

FAQ

What are your hours of operation?

We’re open daily to serve travelers and locals alike! Monday - Friday: 5 am - 10pm. Saturday & Sunday: 6 am - 9 pm.

Do you offer a buffet every day?

Yes! Our all-you-can-eat buffet is available daily, featuring a variety of breakfast, lunch, and dinner options, including classic comfort foods, seasonal specials, and fresh favorites for every appetite.

Is Dixie Family Restaurant a good stop for truckers?

Absolutely! We’ve long been a trusted pit stop for truckers along historic Route 66. Our hearty meals, quick service, and welcoming environment make it easy to refuel on the road.

Do you accommodate large groups or family gatherings?

Yes! We love hosting families, groups, and Route 66 travelers. Our buffet-style setup and spacious dining area make it easy to enjoy a meal together comfortably.

Do you serve seafood and specialty dishes?

Yes! In addition to classic American fare like pizza and biscuits and gravy, we also offer special dishes like succulent crab legs and seasonal items to keep your visit exciting and satisfying.