ROCKFORD, Ill. — With St. Patrick’s Day putting corned beef front‑and‑center on menus across the Stateline, there’s no better time to track down a great Reuben.
From diners to pubs to breweries with river views, these 10 restaurants serve up some of the region’s most satisfying takes on the classic sandwich.
The list was compiled using a combination of online reviews and viewer feedback gathered from local discussions and engagement.
1. Johnny Pamcakes
3700 E. State St., RockfordJohnny Pamcakes’ Reuben remains one of the city’s most‑talked‑about sandwiches, with local reporting noting it as an item that “continues to have customers coming back.”
2. Tavern on Clark
755 Clark Dr., RockfordA usual suspect in conversations about the Stateline’s best Reuben, Tavern on Clark earns praise for its hearty corned beef offering.
3. Prairie Street Brewing Co.
200 Prairie St., RockfordPrairie Street Brewing Co. has become known for its pub-style Reuben, made with its house-made corned beef.
4. Jason’s Deli
575 S. Perryville Road, RockfordIt’s a chain, but Jason’s repeatedly appearing remains a reliable source for the “Reuben The Great.”
5. Lydia’s Café
1710 Rural St., RockfordStateliners frequently call Lydia’s Reuben one of the best in the city, including some who say it could easily be a top-two finisher.
6. Cherry Valley Café
216 E. State St., Cherry ValleyCherry Valley Café appears prominently in Reuben‑related conversations and continues to be a dependable classic diner known for solid sandwiches.
7. Olympic Tavern
2327 N. Main St., RockfordThe Olympic earns repeated praise in local discussions, where locals describe its Reuben as a “fantastic classic.”
8. Hope & Anchor English Pub
5040 N. Second St., Loves ParkHope & Anchor features a pub‑style spin on the Reuben that keeps customers returning.
9. Machine Shed Restaurant
7475 E. State St., RockfordIt’s not locally owned, but Machine Shed appears is place to get a good Reuben, keeping it in the conversation among local diners seeking hearty Midwestern comfort food.
10. Murphy’s Pub and Grill
510 S. Perryville Road, Rockford. Murphy’s is always included in local Reuben debates, earning consistent praise from regulars and standing as a solid, local option for a classic pub‑style sandwich.
Vegan Option
Pig Minds Brewing…