The Ariston Cafe

Our first time visiting the Ariston was while we were vacationing on Route 66. It is located about an hour... more

Our first time visiting the Ariston was while we were vacationing on Route 66. It is located about an hour and a half away from our home, but we m... more

I've heard of Ariston's for quite a few years and our family was coming from Vandalia where we attended a funeral so we decided to stop and eat lunch before coming back to Springfield, IL. I love catfish and usually order it whenever I can. I should have read the menu more carefully because I expected it to be a whole catfish. It did say ""filet."" The first few bites were very good and then it started tasting very fishy. So much so that I didn't finish it. Everyone else's meals were OK. The soup & salad bar were very good. BUT the BEST part was the desserts. My husband and I ordered a light & fluffy cheesecake topped with strawberries. It was absolute the best dessert that I have ever tasted. I even saved most of it so I could enjoy it more at home when I wasn't so full. And did I ever enjoy it. When we return, I'll just order a sandwich (not as expensive) and definitely dessert! Pros: Wait staff very good; checked on us several times Cons: Prices a little high; $12.95 for catfish filet more

The catfish is delicious and the portions were extremely generous. In fact, two people could actually share one catfish dinner. The salad was great and our waitstaff , Linda, was one of the best. She even came by our table with a dissert tray that looked absolutely wonderful; however, we resisted the tempation...we were travelling.\r \r The lighting needs to be a little brighter. Don't want to accidentally eat catfish bones.\r \r Give it a try, you'll like it!!!! Pros: Fast friendly service Cons: lighting too low more

The Ariston is a Route 66 and American institution. Cafes like this are rarely seen today in larger cities. The warmth of the service, the wholesome goodness of the great American standards on their fairly large menu and the comfortable atmosphere are reasons why this great cafe has stood the test of time for over 80 years. The Ariston was recently inducted into the Restaurant Hall Of Fame not just for it's great longevity (it is the longest operating restaurant on Route 66 known) but for excellent food, service and value. Whether you are a roadster stopping in for a quick cheeseburger or you are a local with a large wedding reception, the Ariston will forever be there for you. Pros: Great burgers, steaks, omelettes and Mexican food. Cons: It's not in my town. more

Not recommended if you expect large portions for the amount that you are paying for the meal. Do not order the catfish; it is cooked too fast; the coating is hard and the fish is mushy. Does not taste like fresh catfish. Not much to the salad bar; did not see any tomatoes and our visit was in July. \r Customer service was good. Pros: Good atmosphere Cons: Not recommened for fish or chicken more