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Welcome to Willy's Restaurant

At Willy's Restaurant, we celebrate the vibrant, authentic flavors of Mexico right in the heart of Sterling, IL. Our story begins with a passion for crafting memorable dining experiences, from lively lunch gatherings to cozy family dinners. With a full bar and outdoor seating, we invite you to enjoy mouthwatering dishes that honor tradition while embracing rich, bold tastes. Whether you’re savoring guacamole made fresh daily or indulging in our signature tacos, every bite tells a story. Our welcoming atmosphere is perfect for groups and kids alike, making Willy's a beloved local staple for food lovers and families.

Willy's Restaurant: Reviews & Ratings

Milton R.
Milton R.

Real Mexican food cooked bet Mexican chefs!!! A Must stop if you like true Mexican food!!!

Free B.
Free B.

These guys make a pretty good Tex-Mex. The burrito is massive. Flavors are pretty good. The wait staff change every time we come to town. What impresses me the most is I asked for extra cheese and they gave it to me. The whole family was happy.

Ann W.
Ann W.

My favorite Mexican restaurant! I'm obsessed Delicious food and service. Wish the buffet was back.

Michael P.
Michael P.

For the last three years the wife and I have camped in the area about every other week, and were looking for a good Mexican eatery. We've tried a couple and were disappointed. So, we decided to try Willy's but frankly with a name like that we didn't hold out much hope. We were wrong. The food and service are fantastic. This place rivals the best Mexican you can find in Chicago or Joliet. The chips and Salsa were on point as were the two different dinners we had. Even the side dishes that come with the dinners were fantastic. And best of all our server was a prince. My wife is a tamale lover and we didn't see it on the menu so we asked. Our server told us the tamales were being made and would take another forty minutes. We waited and purchased twelve tamales for fifteen dollars. They were the best tamales we have ever had. They are filled with pulled and flavored pork and seasoned to perfection. Willey's is our new go to eatery for Mexican food. Try them out you won't be disappointed.

Brett L.
Brett L.

This place is good! Staying in Rock Falls for work and I searched Yelp for Mexican food and found this place. So glad I chose to stop in! Barbacoa tacos were delicious, was happy to hear they offer it; back home barbacoa isn't traditionally offered at our Mexican restaurants, so this was positive from the start. Food was exceptional and service was friendly and accommodating. Give it a go! Side note; when I was checking out I overheard the staff tell an incoming couple that the kitchen was closed and it was only 7:30pm. The bar remains open, however. Maybe it was just this evening the kitchen closed early but Yelp says 9pm. Just a friendly heads up!

Matt S.
Matt S.

Very good authentic Mexican restaurant. Food tastes like it's cooked fresh on the spot. The chips are hand cut and fried to order. Everything I have had off the menu is very good and seems to be more authentic and of better quality than your average Mexican restaurant. The building is on the outskirts of town and has kind of a roadhouse feel. A must eat if your a fan of Mexican food

Steve B.
Steve B.

Was highly recommended by the locals, we were craving Mexican food and drink. We were happy with the size of beer and the quality of the margaritas. The food was good we both had the Carna Asado. Very flavorful, servings were just right. Prices are reasonable compared to home. I would definitely come back for another meal.

Jason H.
Jason H.

My friend and i stopped here today from the Quad Cities. I had heard the food was pretty good. It really was. We each ordered a 'Willy's taco' and a 'Fabian's taco'. The Fabian taco was the better of the 2 (had avocado, etc) but they were both splendid. The chips they brought out were light and airy. A big plus for me was that they offered Horchada, which a lot of places don't have. Prices were on par with most Mexican restaurants. I would put it in the top 3 best Mexican joints I've eaten at.

Dan M.
Dan M.

I've been here once so far, but it struck me as a very clean place with good food and pleasant servers. There was definitely a nice laid-back vibe, but we were definitely not neglected. (Of course, it helps that we were some of the only customers, during a snowstorm.) I'll be back for sure!

Chrissy N.
Chrissy N.

I've been here twice with my fam- and I like it. An un-assuming authentic Mexican restaurant on the western outskirts of Sterling. The place has a lot of tables for dining, and a large bar area for those just looking to watch the game, have some drinks, etc. The menu is huge. I mean huge. And they will do almost any substitution you can dream up. Breakfast served as well. My main reason for going though- the GIGANTOR peach frozen margarits! Fresh made tortilla chips and salsa with a KICK as soon as you are seated. Sometimes when I look around the restaurant while I'm eating- I could almost picture that I am in a little restaurant IN Mexico. But then I look at the digi-jukebox attached to the wall, and it brings me back. I hear they have awesome Cinqo de Mayo parties too. They must have a large buffet some days of the week too- because I saw the buffet area. And our waitress- sweet as can be!!

Location

Discovering the Flavor Explosion at Willy's Restaurant

If you're seeking a lively dining experience infused with the rich flavors of Mexican cuisine, look no further than Willy's Restaurant. Nestled at 3210 W Lincolnway, Sterling, IL, this unclaimed gem offers a vibrant atmosphere perfect for families, friends, and groups of all sizes. With amenities like reservations, takeout, and delivery, Willy's ensures you can enjoy your meal however you prefer.

Highlights of Willy's Restaurant

  • Diverse Menu - Willy's boasts a tantalizing array of Mexican dishes that are guaranteed to please. Whether you're craving classic tacos, sizzling fajitas, or rich enchiladas, each dish is crafted with care and flavorful ingredients.
  • Outdoor Seating - Embrace the fresh air as you dine al fresco. The outdoor seating area creates a perfect setting for enjoying meals, especially during pleasant weather.
  • Full Bar - Pair your meal with a selection from the full bar. Savor expertly crafted cocktails, wines, and beers that elevate your dining experience.
  • Family-Friendly - Ideal for diners of all ages, Willy's is particularly good for kids. The extensive menu caters to little palates while still impressing adults.
  • Engaging Atmosphere - With TVs broadcasting sports, this restaurant not only feeds the body but also nourishes the spirit, making it a perfect spot for a casual lunch or a lively dinner.

A Taste of Tradition

As I stepped into Willy's Restaurant, I was greeted by the warm, inviting ambiance and the enticing aroma of spices wafting from the kitchen. Each bite of the dishes I sampled was a delightful revelation, showcasing the rich culinary heritage that Mexican food embodies. The tacos were seasoned to perfection, bursting with flavor and accompanied by vibrant salsa that added a zesty kick. The guacamole was freshly made, creamy, and perfectly balanced — a must-try for any avocado lover.

While I could go on raving about every dish, what truly stood out was the welcoming attitude of the staff and the community spirit that permeated the restaurant. It was evident that Willy's is more than just a place to eat; it’s a community hub where flavors unite and memories are made.

Whether you're dining in or opting for takeout, I highly recommend making Willy's Restaurant your next culinary destination. With its diverse menu, inviting atmosphere, and dedication to a quality dining experience, you’re in for a feast that will leave you craving more.

To plan your visit, give them a call at (815) 626-0401 and prepare to embark on a flavorful journey that celebrates the heart and soul of Mexican cuisine.