Mary Lou’s Grill has been a beloved part of Carbondale’s dining scene since 1962, serving the kind of classic American breakfast and lunch that keeps customers coming back.
Located at 118 S Illinois Ave #5 in Carbondale, Illinois, this popular cash-only restaurant offers a welcoming diner experience built around familiar favorites, satisfying portions, and dependable home-style flavor.
Whether you are starting your morning with a hearty breakfast or stopping in for a comforting lunch, Mary Lou’s Grill provides a relaxed setting for a delicious, straightforward meal.
What makes Mary Lou’s Grill special is its lasting connection to the community and its commitment to the timeless appeal of classic diner fare. Guests can enjoy a casual meal at a long-standing local favorite where tradition, friendly service, and freshly prepared comfort food come together.
Its convenient Carbondale location makes it an inviting choice for residents, visitors, and anyone looking for a satisfying American restaurant experience with genuine neighborhood character. Please note that Mary Lou’s Grill accepts cash only.
With a 4.70 out of 5 rating based on 883 customer reviews, Mary Lou’s Grill has earned strong appreciation from the people it serves. This consistently positive feedback reflects the restaurant’s reputation as a trusted destination for breakfast and lunch in Carbondale.
To learn more or confirm current details, call +1 618-457-5084, or visit Mary Lou’s Grill at 118 S Illinois Ave #5, Carbondale, IL 62901, United States.
Our Specialties
Every dish tells a story. Explore our carefully curated menu featuring seasonal favorites and signature creations.
Our chef's signature creations featuring locally-sourced ingredients and innovative culinary techniques.
We partner with local farmers and suppliers to bring you the freshest seasonal ingredients every day.
Every plate is prepared with attention to detail, combining traditional recipes with modern presentation.
Our Story
Welcome to a place where great food meets warm hospitality. We believe dining is more than just a meal - it's an experience to be savored and shared.
Our kitchen is dedicated to creating dishes that bring people together, using recipes that honor tradition while embracing innovation.
Photos
A glimpse of our restaurant experience
Hear from our valued guests
Omg, this place is amazing! It's like a trip back in time, great food, and lots of it. …
Highly recommend!!! We wanted an authentic small-town diner experience with tasty food and that is exactly what we got! The BLT, cheeseburger, and biscuits and gravy were delicious and the portions were sizeable. Great service, real people, and we even met the owner Kyle. Thanks for everything!
It has been about 40 years since I last visited Mary Lou's and I was not disappointed. Same great food, service and atmosphere. Portions here are huge(or about right for a college student). The only thing missing was Mary Lou but now in the very capable hands of her grandson. Highly recommend!
Common questions about Mary Lou's Grill
Mary Lou's Grill is located at 118 S Illinois Ave #5, Carbondale, IL 62901, IL 62901, United States.
You can reach Mary Lou's Grill by calling +1 618-457-5084.
Mary Lou's Grill has a rating of 4.7 out of 5 based on 883 customer reviews.
We look forward to welcoming you. Make a reservation or stop by - walk-ins welcome!
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