Cardinal Inn, located at 1299 W Washington St, Pittsfield, IL, is a remarkable American restaurant that captures the essence of home-style dining. This establishment stands out for its welcoming atmosphere and commitment to community, especially evident during the holiday season when the owners invite those in need to enjoy a free Christmas meal. It's a testament to their values that you won't find at typical chain restaurants. The menu offers a delightful array of comfort food, with many patrons raving about the well-loved fried chicken and lunch and dinner buffets that are both generous and reasonably priced. Customers like Calvin Meyer appreciate the good home-style buffet and friendly service, while Ilene Wright emphasizes the excellent fried chicken that keeps diners coming back. Moreover, the catfish dish recommended by a waitress has received glowing reviews, proving their ability to satisfy a diverse palate. Everyone from road travelers to locals finds something to love here, making Cardinal Inn a go-to spot for anyone seeking a hearty, comforting meal. With prompt service and fair prices, it's clear why this restaurant has earned its praise in the community. If you’re in Pittsfield, don't miss the chance to enjoy a true taste of American hospitality.
Amenities and More
Accessibility
Has wheelchair-accessible car park
Has wheelchair-accessible entrance
Has wheelchair-accessible seating
Has wheelchair-accessible toilet
Service options
Offers takeaway
Serves dine-in
No delivery
Highlights
Has fast service
Serves great coffee
Serves great dessert
Has great tea selection
Popular for
Popular for breakfast
Popular for lunch
Popular for dinner
Good for solo dining
Offerings
Has all you can eat
Serves coffee
Serves comfort food
Serves food
Quick bite
Serves small plates
Dining options
Serves breakfast
Serves brunch
Serves lunch
Serves dinner
Serves dessert
Has seating
Amenities
Has toilet
Atmosphere
Casual
Cosy
Crowd
Good for groups
Popular with tourists
Children
Good for kids
High chairs available
Has kids' menu
Parking
Free of charge street parking
Free parking lot
Plenty of parking
Photos
Reviews For Cardinal Inn
Calvin Meyer
Jun 19,2025
Ate here a few times while working on the road. Just some good home style buffet good. Nothing fancy, fair priced, friendly service. On Christmas the owners invite in people that aren't able to afford a Christmas meal so they can eat for FREE. You won't see that at chain restaraunts.
M C
Jun 9,2025
Stopped in for lunch on our way home from Jellystone RV campground. They were closing but they took an order for me. Waitress suggested the catfish oh my gosh it was wonderful. My husband's hamburger was just as good. I recommend this place.
Ilene Wright
Jun 8,2025
Great fried chicken and very reasonably priced lunch & dinner buffets.
big beast
Jun 6,2025
Place to go if youre looking for a home cooked good meal. I always suggest this place to people coming through looking for a good place to eat!
Robert Wilbert
May 22,2025
Food was great, service is prompt and friendly. Fairly priced and generous portions.
Sherry Langley
May 3,2025
This place is nice . It's spacious, clean. Friendly people. Food very good I had buffet, husband had biscuits and gravy. Can't say any bad about this one.
Sherri Hildebrand
Mar 29,2025
We pass through town once or twice a year from IA. Love to eat here! Great food, friendly service, great prices. Been stopping at Cardinal Inn since 2006
Phillip Begley
Mar 20,2025
Terrific place to eat! Breakfast served all day, in addition to a multitude of entrees to choose from. Great home cooking at a reasonable price. It's worth the drive to check it out.
Reviews For Cardinal Inn