Darling’s Downtown

I am a single mother with four kids, with absolutely no financial support. Why am I telling you my personal business on a restaurant review? To let you know how broke I am. Generally, I try to set aside some «me» money to get lunch on my lunch breaks at work at least once a month. If I can manage to do it, I usually just order somewhere I can take advantage of a dollar menu.
I started a new job a few months ago in Downtown Peoria. Walked into the Twin Towers not knowing what to expect. The places I had tried there in the past had very bland food and an unexciting atmosphere. So you can imagine my amazement when I stepped around the corner to see Darlings.
You can automatically tell from the smiles and conversations from the customers in the open seating that this is the place I wanted to be. On to the food.
I ordered a Cheeseburger and fries. I always love when there is a variety of cheese to choose from, as opposed to the lame American slice; I chose Cheddar. How good could a cheeseburger possibly be? Good enough that instead of getting to treat myself to a meal once a month, I save that money and go to Darlings once every few months.
Yes, the burger is that good, and even the pickles I order on the side seem better than anywhere else. Maybe this is all because of the awesome buzz of this place. The employees are all in sync with each other, and have great communication. I wouldn’t be considered a «regular» since I’m only able to afford going once every few months, but I definitely feel welcomed when I do make it in there.
I would definitely recommend walking the extra block to Darlings to get awesome food and amazing personalities instead of getting lunch at the rushed, impersonable food carts.

Okay, I have a very serious statement to make here. Today I had THE. BEST. CLUB. SANDWICH. EVER. There’s a reason why this is a serious statement. Not only am I a professional foodie, but I’m also a former restaurant owner. I don’t make these statements lightly.
I was in the Twin Towers on business and was looking for a quick sandwich before I had to hop in the car to my next meeting. I had never been to this place before, and randomly chose the club sandwich. I was asked if I wanted wheat or white bread– I chose wheat. The sandwich came hot– the wheat bread perfectly toasted (with ample butter) on the flat top. The ham and turkey were also cooked on the flat top, probably with the cheese added with just enough surface time to melt, then this glorious mound plus bacon was placed upon the toast, fresh tomato and lettuce added, and served alongside their homemade chips. Each bite was like heaven– the perfect blend of buttery, crispy toasted bread (quality wheat bread, mind you), seared turkey and ham, and just the right amount of cheese. I ate each bite in awe, sad to see this amazing lunch creation come to an end.
Well done, Darling’s. Well done.

I stop in to Darlings at least 2 – 3 times per month for a quick sandwich during lunch. Jill is always cheery and funny. She knows all of the regulars’ names when they order. I like the grilled chicken sandwich or salad. The chicken is always juicy and well seasoned.