The fried chicken dinner was amazingly good! Service was great and everyone was friendly. We all loved the decorations and can't wait to go back again! read more

What a great find! It's so nice to be in an old building that has been loved, respected and taken care of! The staff is friendly and takes care of customers in the same at. What a great variety on the menu. Even though there is a good variety, we each opted for the Thai chicken wonton tacos from the appetizer menu. They did not disappoint! Just enough of a tangy sauce to coat the chicken. Can't wait to come back and try more! read more

Cerno's Bar & Grill - History of the bar - Bars Near Me - Kewanee, Illinois

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I try and visit here every Fall when I come back to help with the harvest. I find the food is good. There's excellent service by employees who are friendly and efficient. I love the ambiance of the place - courtesy of the old 50 foot wooden mahogany bar that was built by Pabst Blue Ribbon and imported from Belgium in 1898. She's a real beauty! Of course that's where I choose to set. They now have a tablet interactive menu that one can see all their items including food, drinks, and desserts. This visit I tried their 8 oz sirloin with sides Cole slaw and fried zucchini. For my drink I chose their seasonal Sam Adams Octoberfest, draft, tyvm. The Octoberfest was cold and refreshing (actually my favorite S.A.), however the sirloin was not up to par. It was very tough, and very chewy. There was a lot of seasoning on it, but it couldn't hide the fact that it wasn't a very good cut of meat nor very well prepared. My sides of cole slaw and (especially) the fried zucchini were excellent and prevented this from being a 3-Star review. Seriously, I can not recommend the sirloin and will not order it on my next visit here. read more

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We first discovered "Cerno's" 7 years ago on our way to lake property we had purchased and were back and forth improving upon, and "Cerno's" was a lunch or dinner pick nearly every time on our travels. I fell in love with their PBR (Pabst Blue Ribbon) burger. Read their description of it in their menu, an odd concoction but OH SO delish! The only problem was their fries did not match the quality of the burger. Basic crinkle cut fries, nothing exciting. So quite awhile back I gave them good reviews but gave a thumbs down on the fries and asked for more of a quality French fry. And out of the blue they did switch out the fries and began serving more of a homemade fry that was deep fried and what seemed like a bit of batter on them. EXCELLENT compliment to their top notch juicy burgers. Then about 2 years ago or so I had a questionable experience with the PBR burger one afternoon. I'm a butcher's daughter and the burger that day did not seem like their usual quality meat, I'm sensitive to the quality of meat. And I stopped going at that point bc the high quality meat in their burgers was really their major calling card there. But just recently I was on their Facebook page and they were talking about reducing the price of various meals. I mentioned that reduced prices seemed questionable to me bc good quality food is not cheap. And I told them I had stopped coming bc of the quality of the meat in the burgers. They responded and said some of their vendors were lowering their prices, so "Cerno's" was able to lower also. They asked me to please come back, that my previous experience with the PRB burger might have been a misstep bc they never changed the quality of the meat, that it is the same quality since they first opened. So I agreed to give it another try today and that burger was as excellent as I first remembered it. One problem tho........they went back to those original mediocre fries!! Someone else also chimed in on the fries and asked them to go back to the improved homemade ones that they had been serving after they stopped the crinkle cut ones. The crinkle cut are just too sub-par. To the point you might find yourself choosing a different side with your burger. And that's a shame bc a great burger like this deserves an equally great fry! read more

Everything was amazing! Great food, excellent service, and a cozy atmosphere that works. The original antique bar is stunning. Whoever you go, you won't be disappointed! I recommend reservations on weekends and holidays as they're very popular. read more

First off, I apologize for no food pictures. I was halfway through my meal before I remembered.... However I have few shots of the interior which convey the vibe of Cerno's. I was super impressed with the caliber of restaurant, interior, food, service, and overall vibe. I met up with family who had been there before and also had the place recommended to me by another local business. I ordered the salmon which was seasoned and cooked perfectly. Others at the table tried the shrimp platter, a Reuben sandwich and burger (pizza is temporarily off the menu) and all were equally delicious. It was a bit loud making it hard to talk at a large table but overall it added to the vibe of an upscale bar/restaurant that was bustling with activity, obviously a local favorite. I would definitely come back. read more

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Amazing food absolutely horrendous service. Got drink right away then I guess dishes were more important than taking orders. Then I was told to chill out when asked if I could place an order read more

Beautiful old bar. The service was very good. We shared an order of cheese curds that were good, not homemade but still good. I had the steak Philly and fried potato salad. The sandwich was very good (real sliced steak, not deli sliced). The fried potato salad was very good but overwhelming with mayo, bacon and cheese. My husband had the brisket cheddar sandwich with tator tots and really liked them! If we would ever be in the area again we would stop by. read more

This is an absolute can't miss. Old school dive bar. My first time here. The wife had a 1/4 white fried chicken dinner. She said it was delicious. I had the PBR burger with fried potatoe salad. Some of the best bar food I've ever had. The bar itself is one of deep tradition. Oh yeah, they have $1 PBR pints all day every day. It also looks they have a wide variety of rotating taps. The service was very good. My only complaint was the dude at the table next to us was eating his fried chicken leg with a knife and fork. Who does that stupid stuff? 5 star and will be back!! read more

Cerno's Bar & Grill - Bars Near Me - Kewanee, Illinois

Just left. Table of 3 ..... 16 minutes and you still hadn't taken our order .... We let you know we were ready.... You bus tables and dropped off bills on your way to finally take our order..... nah.... Not waiting around any longer for that kind of service.... read more

Food was so good. Got the mushrooms and fried pickles and they were delicious! It's a popular bar, used to hang out a read more

Cerno's Bar & Grill - Shuffleboard! - Bars Near Me - Kewanee, Illinois

Stopped here on our way to the east coast. Food was good. I had the cheeseburger with a side of grilled veggies. My husband has the fish and chips. Service was awesome. Thanks Ethan - you were awesome! read more

This bar was a lovely surprise! We were in the area, looking for a place to have an early dinner. As soon as my mother and I stepped inside, I saw this was a very special place. I love the original patterned tile floor, beautiful wood bar and so many other historical detail accents. The hamburger I ordered was one of the best I've ever had! When I mentioned that to the server, she shared that Cerno's burgers were named number one burgers in Illinois! I loved the ambiance of the place and wish I lived closer so I could visit often. read more

This place is great. It's in a great historic building. There is a lot of memorabilia and historic pictures on the walls. They have a TON of beer on tap and actually have a pretty big food menus. We had a huge group and they had really quick service. The brisket burger was amazing. The topping of cheese, sauce, and jalapeños were great. The side of cheesy potatoes was amazing. Finally the PBR on draft was the best PBR on draft I have ever had. This is a great historic bar with a great line up of food and beers. Definitely check this place out! read more

Cerno's Bar & Grill - Full meal: smoky brisket burger, side of cheesy potatoes, and a PBR. - Bars Near Me - Kewanee, Illinois

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Hidden gem in a small town. Great bar/comfort food, service and value. The menu was extensive. Great beer selection. Everything we had was delicious. We'll definite go back to try other items. Highly recommended. read more

Prompt service, wide food selection and fun atmosphere. It's popular but a little noisy at times:) An easy comfortable hangout for couples or larger groups. read more

The service was so horrible I have drove here many times and loved it everytime. This was a whole new experience we were put on the wait list and some how our name got erased and after 30 minutes of waiting we went in and they did find us a table. The waitress we got was not at all a happy person took our order and didn't see her again till wait to late . When we told her our food came out cold she got mad. Took it back then brought my salsa and sour cream to table and slammed it down. When food came out was cold again She again did not apologize when she gave us ticket to pay i never leave a tip on card i always cash she must have decided i was not leaving one came back to table and push my hand out of her way to get the dishes it was ridiculous! I have never had service like this so sad!​ read more

Very warm and welcoming staff, great atmosphere, some of the best food I've had since Chicago. Looking forward to being a regular here. read more

Cerno's Bar & Grill - PBR Burger and Fries - Bars Near Me - Kewanee, Illinois

This restaurant has very good food. I had their hamburger soup, and it was very tasty. It also has some history involving the world's fair. You will have to try it to get the whole story. read more

Beautiful bar! Excellent food. Highly recommend. The vintage decor and million beers on tap make it a must visit! read more

Cerno's Bar & Grill - Bar - Bars Near Me - Kewanee, Illinois

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In town visiting my mom so have to come for the best Rueben sandwich! They were super busy on a Sunday at 2 pm so we had to wait for a table. The three of us wanted to try a few menu items so shared their chicken corn chowder, missing a little flavor, fried chicken, hot and fresh but a little too much breading, beef cheddar brisket sandwich, tasty but a lot going on as far as flavors but our favorite is the Reuben. read more

Cerno's Bar & Grill - Beef & Cheddar Sandwich - Bars Near Me - Kewanee, Illinois

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This is the second time coming to the restaurant. First time was told a 15 minute wait which ended up being over a hour. This time the place was empty and were told couldn't sit anywhere but the bar due to a reservation in a half an hour. Very disappointed won't be back. read more

What a gem in the downtown area. Love, love the history behind it and especially that bar! Good food and good service. Definitely recommend! read more

At Cerno's you can rest assured you will receive an awesome meal from many options available and be waited on by a friendly staff that accommodate your every need. The history of the bar itself has a story that brings in many a tourist to see. read more

We eat at CERNO's often and the food is always delicious and the staff does a great job. We recommend it to all. Thanks Mr. K

Cernos is the go to spot for a good beer and a great meal in Kewanee. I've been coming here for about 15 years since I moved to this area. Cerno's Bar and Grill has a new menu out. I do not like change. I mean I've been ordering the same thing for about 13 years. My order never deviates. Ribeye, Extra Grilled Vegetables and Extra Rice. I want my steak bloody. We decided to drop in last night as we had not been there in a while . I noticed a few new additions to the menu. I also noticed they still had the favorites that we love. I stepped outside of my comfort zone last night. I got the chicken bowl , I believe Laura did as well. Extra mashed potatoes, and lots of gravy. I also ask for diced tomatoes and onions. I simply have to have some type of vegetable with every meal. This thing is huge . I can make two more meals out of it. It's a really big dish of comfort food. I think it's a great addition to the menu. If you want to sit back and enjoy a great meal with a good beer or a cocktail and excellent service drop in. They're known for their back which has been there for over 120 years read more

Cerno's Bar & Grill - The chicken bowl - Bars Near Me - Kewanee, Illinois

It was great. Our server was awesome. We will be back again next Friday fir our grandsons 21st birthday celebration.

Passing through for the night and got the smokey brisket burger. It was massive and wildly delicious!

The food & service are always great! This is our favorite place in Kewanee! During the week, never a long wait for a table. On the weekends, we generally call ahead for a reservation. read more

Tried the new Deluxe Smashburger today. It was excellent! The burgers were seasoned just right with the right amount of lettuce and Thousand Island Dressing on the side. It's a new menu item for them and it is already one of my favorites. Our server was very attentive and provided excellent service. The atmosphere is very good as well. read more

Cerno's Bar & Grill - Deluxe Smashburger - Bars Near Me - Kewanee, Illinois

We make it a point to go to Cerno's when in town visiting family. Food is always good and can't beat the $1 ice cold PBRs.

Service, food, and quality of everything we had. The interior of the restaurant and bar is beautiful and inviting.

Lunch w my boo. Stuffed mushrooms app: 5 HUGE mushrooms and super tasty. Very good Hot Smokey Brisket Burger, mid shrimp tacos. Good service, cool, old bar. Plus a Blue Moon, $55 pre-tip. read more

Great tasting fried chicken at an ideal price. Leftovers the next day hit the spot too! Happened to stop in when chicken dinners were the special, as well as a very generous pour on their half price wine! Friendly + knowledgeable wait staff. Beautiful restoration of the bar + building. Gorgeous place! read more

Let me apologize. I often take pictures of the food, but we just didn't get it done this time. It was delicious though! We arrived at 12:30 on a Friday and had to wait just a few minutes for a table. We didn't do this, but some diners had a fresh bowl of popcorn on their tables. The popper stood near the restaurant entrance. Cerno's has decades of history in Kewanee and with PBR beer. Check out the website and the story of the restaurant. I like places with a story. We ordered two sandwiches so we could split them. We could have managed one with two sides, but we would have missed out. The Reuben sandwich was wonderful. The corned beef was very tender, and every aspect of the sandwich was delicious, including the bread. We tried the Fried Potato Salad as a side with this one. It tasted a bit like twice baked potatoes with the texture of crispy fried potatoes smashed into the hot, creamy mixture. I loved the Reuben! The other sandwich was a PBR Burger. Wow!!!! This was a smoky burst of goodness. This signature cheeseburger had a frozen cube of PBR cooked into it and was flavored with a Sriracha sauce as well. Crazy good. We had plain fries on this one. Plain fries at Cerno's are so yummy, crispy on the outside and melty on the inside. Make time for Cerno's, and enjoy the painted murals/signs on the sides of Kewanee businesses when you go. read more

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Nice food I eat here every month it has a nice TV with sports on it and it is a nice place to go with your family .Nice service they are nice to you.a nice place to eat and chill and nice lights. Goodbye to all of the yelp read more

Cerno's Bar & Grill - Me confirming that it's a good place - Bars Near Me - Kewanee, Illinois

Have to say, if you're not a regular drinker at this establishment, don't expect a friendly reception. Or even quality food. The waitstaff doesn't really care if you're there or not, and who do you tip? The uncaring waitress, the person that brings the food, or the bartender? Who knows? The drinks are weak and over priced. The food is fairly priced but greasy and barely warm by the time you get it. Just a over all mediocre dining experience. I know it's primarily a bar, but if you are going to offer food as well then the staff needs to do better if they are expecting a tip. Come here to drink, but to eat? You could do better at McDonald's. It's a bar ambiance. read more

I don't believe we've ever had a bad meal here. Love the wide variety menu! A very unique old antique bar! You have to see it to believe it! Staff is always friendly and efficient. A good go to place whether for lunch or dinner. read more

Great ambiance, beautiful back bar, ice cold PBR on tap, and attentive bartenders. I'm only giving 3 stars because I rolled the dice and ordered a fried pork tenderloin sandwich. I've been skunked lately when I order a pork T, every place I order one serves a pork fritter, which is a ground and formed pork patty, whereas a tenderloin is an actual piece of pork loin pounded flat and breaded and deep fried like German Wienerscnitzel. When my sandwich arrived, I broke off a piece and tried it, and you guessed it. A pork fritter. This probably isn't an indictment of Cerno's so much as it is of Illinois bars in general. Every place I've ordered a pork T has served me a pork F. F that! Looks like pork tenderloins are a thing of the past, with restaurants and bars cutting corners to save money in the post-Covid economy. Nice looking bar though. Just don't expect a pork tenderloin. read more

The food is great! The servers are efficient and friendly and the the 1898 PBR bar from Belgium is a show stopper.