Crazy Joe's Fish House

Hey Google, what’s the best hole-in-the-wall restaurant in Illinois? The answer—Crazy Joe’s Fish House in rural Ava, Illinois. Opened in 1995, folks said Joe was crazy to build a restaurant way out in the country. He ran it for 10 years, then sold to the Martin family, who’ve grown it for the past 20. Thirty years later...who’s crazy now?

They have several types of fish. Try them with tartar sauce or give ’em a kick with their homemade Joe Sauce. You’ll also find five kinds of shrimp (butterfly, coconut, country fried, cheese-stuffed, and jalapeño cheese), plus frog legs, chicken, BBQ, and great burgers... wow! Start with one of 11 appetizers. Food isn’t the only thing on the menu, though. There’s a full bar and fun games, including cornhole and Ring Toss Battle. Stay the night at one of three Airbnbs—Crazy Joe’s Cabins 1 & 2, and Hickey House. There’s also an 18-hole disc golf course for their Airbnb guests. The place itself is something to behold. The atmosphere is electric, and the décor is eclectic. The walls and ceiling feature some of the wackiest, coolest treasures you’ll see—including paintings from local artists, plus they even have books for sale by local author Gary Martin, who can also whip up smooth, signature drinks. When asked how he makes his margaritas so good, he smiles and says, “Honestly, I don’t do anything special. Maybe it’s just ’cause they’re made with 100 percent love.” For the best in food, fun and atmosphere you've gotta get to Crazy Joe's!

Open year-round Wed, Fri, Sat at 4 p.m.