Merichka’s Restaurant
604 Theodore St, Crest Hill, IL, 60435
Merichka’s Restaurant Menu
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Visit below restaurant in Crest Hill for healthy meals suggestion.
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Visit below restaurant in Crest Hill for healthy meals suggestion.
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Address :
604 Theodore St
Crest Hill, IL, 60435 - Phone (815) 723-9371
- Website https://www.merichkas.com/
- Click To Get Directions
Opening Hours
- Mon :11:00 am - 9:00pm
- Mon : 11:00 am - 9:00pm
Specialities
- Takes Reservations : Yes
Delivery : No
Take-out : Yes
Accepts Credit Cards : Yes
Good For : Lunch, Dinner
Parking : Private Lot
Bike Parking : Yes
Wheelchair Accessible : Yes
Good for Kids : Yes
Good for Groups : Yes
Attire : Casual
Ambience : Casual
Noise Level : Average
Alcohol : Full Bar
Outdoor Seating : No
Wi-Fi : No
Has TV : Yes
Waiter Service : Yes
Caters : No
WE SERVE THE FOLLOWING STATES
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Mona J.
OH!!! The Poor Boy! Steak with mushrooms, the bread and all that garlic butter! Ask for paper napkins when you order because the cloth ones don't help at all. BTW, I wish we'd ordered the onion rings instead of the relish tray...seems they make their macaroni salad with (stinkin) Miracle Whip (ewww).
(5)James P.
After reading mostly good reviews, I was hyped about trying this place out. But I have to agree with most of the neg postings here. Steak poorboy: seemed like hamburger meat to me. Very greasy, which is fine (hence the garlic butter). But I saw many reviews say "extra" garlic butter. Wow their sandwich must be swimming in the plate. Onion rings: definitely home made. But compeltely flavorless. Had to dip/drown in ranch dressing... Double-baked potato: I thought was very good. Some reviews claimed it was too dry. But what do you expect for double-baked. Overall, very over-priced as other reviews say. For just my meal, $25 (tip included) was way too much for what I ate.... Won't be back again :(
(2)Pat F.
-This place is amazing. I have never had anything but the poor boys, and I don't need anything more than that. I have tried them a number of different ways (cheese, onions, etc) and have never had a bad one. -Onion rings and baked potatoes are also a must
(4)Lee Anne M.
Although at 1st I thought it was way too greasy. Next time I'll ask for easy on the garlic butter. The FLAVOR burst was phenominal I love garlic in everything. I was hangry when I arrived but heard so many good things. I took 1/2 home and Let me tell you the flavor magnafied After a few hrs. I'm not ashamed to say I woke at 3 am and ate the rest. I added grilled onions and mushrooms on mine easy on the cheese. Will go back again no question
(5)Edward E.
Very greasy, prices were ridiculous for what you got and where you dined. Onion rings were great but too much $$$ My stomach was killing me several hours later, I will not be back.
(2)Angela P.
This is a casual but old school restaurant that takes reservations. There was an interesting mix of people here including elders in their finest pink pantsuit and pearls, along with some middle aged adults in sweat pants. The checkerboard tablecloths invite casual ensemble. The menu will expand your waistline tenfold. The onion rings are a must; the small portion will feed more than two adults. The "plates" come with a salad, a potato, and pickle slices on the side. I recommend the double baked potato over the fries. We each ordered a po' boy, one steak and one spicy fried chicken, cut them in half and shared. The steak was tender and juicy, but underseasoned. The buttery garlic bread made up for that though. The spicy fried chicken was extra crispy but also in need of some seasoning. The po' boy is not traditional New Orleans style; these are sandwiches on French bread, which I suppose you could loosely call a "po' boy." I cannot stress enough how much food we ate. I took the half of my spicy chicken po' boy home and ate it for lunch the next day. I actually enjoyed it more reheated, since the sandwich absorbed some of the spices from the garlic bread. The beer list is short but sufficient. I had a Goose Island Green Line. Prices are fair, and there is lots of seating. The older folks and families make up most of the clientele. Merichka's would be a cozy spot for a small party. Our waitress was a total sweetheart. My husband ordered chili, but as our food started to come out, we realized she forgot about the chili. After seeing how much food we had, he was fine with that. At the end of our meal, she delivered the chili to our table with a to-go container, apologized for the mistake, and took the chili off of our bill. I thought it was an honest, classy move.
(4)TR M.
I have to say that I agree with the negative reviews as much as I do with the positive. For me, though, its about nostalgia. When I was a child my parents would bring us to Merichka's. Most likely because an unruly brood of 6 kids didn't much disturb the other patrons. Having said that, this joint brings back fond memories for me. So, while I understand that it isn't the best food, it is special to me. Its all greasy, butter soaked, garlic infused and wonderful. The house dressing is uber tangy and the house pickles are super tart.
(3)Pam D.
We liked Merichka's. It is old like us, but still cool, like us. LOL. The onion rings were really good and my poorboy sandwich rocked. Christopher had a burger, which was a typical burger. You can feel the history here. We will be back :)
(4)T A.
I had been hearing about the amazing onion rings here for over 3 years. Finally, I got a chance to try them and they did not disappoint. Very crispy and delightful...probably some of the best onion rings I've ever had. I had also heard of these po'boy sandwiches that they serve with garlic butter. This excited me... However, when I finally had it, I didn't know what to do with it.. I put the butter on the bread, it tasted OK but was missing something -- so I asked for mayo and some grilled onions, which helped bump things up a notch or 2. But, the sandwich fell short to the onion rings. They had weird coleslaw too..it was vinegar based instead of creamy.. I wasn't a fan. This is one of those places that has their regulars who have probably been eating here since the beginning of time. It's old school and they just do things the way they do em and don't make any apologies for it. When I asked for a glass of water to go, they seriously only had a tiny styrofoam cup. I asked for a larger to-go cup and she said that was their largest cup. HA..ok weird.. but, I'll take it. Service was good and the place had a nice vibe. I'm bummed they only had brown t-shirts left in our size because I love their t-shirts. Oh well, maybe next time. :)
(4)Brian D.
Drove past this place for a year. Finally decided to try because someone here on yelp recommended. I had the poor boy steak sandwich . It was a very simple sandwich. Steak, bun, pickle and garlic sauce. Very very tasty. Im sure ill crave one again soon.
(4)Lupe G.
Fast service; locals dine in often. Very old school food; great portions & specials. There were too minor a thing to complain about. I want to come back as often as I can. I'm super glad the boyfriend asked me to move here!
(4)Ken V.
Worlds greatest Poorboy. The original. Over 60 years old. Others try, and fail. If you want an real and original Poorboy sandwich, you must go to Merichka's
(5)Kristen S.
Since I've only ever had poor boys, onion rings, mushrooms, salads, and twice baked potatoes any time I've ever come here (over 30 yearsof visits) I can only speak to those items. Good stuff. It's by no means fine dining, just old fashioned grub. Unfortunately the prices are pretty ridiculous but sometimes a merichkas poor boy just his the spot. I sometimes go in thinking I'll try something else but the garlic seeping throughout the restaurant makes me go back to the old standard. I think those poor boys have shrunk quite a bit in the last few years though. Twice baked potatoes awfully dry the last couple times we've been there (maybe go once or twice a year). I make the same salad dressing so all in all I can make it at home fresher, cheaper, and tastier but then I'd have to do the dishes and it's nice to have a night off every once in awhile!
(3)Scott G.
I got the poorboy steak sandwhich and double baked potatoe and the sampler platter (onion rings, chicken tenders, fried mushrooms, and mozzarella sticks). So for anyone who doesn't understand what the sandwhich is, it is simplu a thin long ground beef patty on garlic bread essentially. The enfatuation the reviewsers have with is not understandable. The meat did not have any flavor at all really though they did use excellent bread and the garlicyness was good. But given the hype one would think there was something more to the sandwhich but there wasn't which is a shame. The potatoe was also very lack luster along with the sampler items of which some if not all were not made in house. Correct if I am wrong but the mozzarella sticks for example were identical to ones at numerous other location such as Sonic annd the freezer aisle. Now for some why it has 3 and not 2 stars... the food did seem to have some potential, perhaps the ribeye sandwhich and the staff was great and the building is fun. Come and visit. The place has history and afterall most places deserve a second shot.
(3)Michael B.
Wasn't quite sure what to expect with this place. But my girlfriend said it's a Joliet staple, and she knows that I like old timey places. We went here on a Monday night and there was no wait. My first impressions of the place with that it was almost kind of like a supper club. Big tables, relish tray, and huge portions. We Both ordered the steak poorboy and it did not disappoint. Comes loaded with butter and garlic. So good!! The service was pretty good. I have had better, but I have also had much worse. They also have a really cool looking bar area (the tap room, according to their sign outside) that I would like to sit in next time I go. They even have PBR on tap!!! Very cool - I'll be back!!
(5)Jim K.
Great huge beer prices & onion rings. The poor boy is GOD AWFUL! I have no idea how or why anyone would like that sandwich. It's a soggy greesy garlic mess. Not in a good way. My plans for this evening are no more. They should serve it to u while you are on the toilet. How can so many people be wrong you say?? No idea!! It was disgusting!! I brought 3 guest with me and I'm sure NONE of them will ever take my recommendation again. By the way. When you serve someone a beer. It's a good idea to not have your fingers in it when you pass it to the patron. That's it!! One less star!
(1)Armand D.
It's true: you can't go home again. When I was a child I thought Merichkas was at the center of the culinary universe. I've grown. My family went there after a funeral. 50 of us. The bar service downstairs was prompt. This was the highlight. Orders were taken upstairs. Our salads arrived and it was lackluster. Just iceberg with some red onion and 4 croutons. No spring mix...no romaine added to the mix...no spinach. No added color...perhaps cheese or carrot....tomatoes? The dressing was home made in their defense. Everyone at our table ordered a poorboy. I can't believe I loved these as a child. Good quality bread with a beef patty and sautéed mushrooms, onions, and butterine. Maybe my palate has matured. The twice baked potato lacked salt and pepper and was bland. Fat needed to be added: sour cream, butter, cheese, anything! You place is clean and service was prompt. Not my cup of tea anymore.
(1)Natalie N.
Delish! Had a pork chop sandwhich with a double baked potato.... Although, the pork chop was weirdly placed on a regular hamburger bun. That's really the only negative thing I have to say about this restaurant. The pork chop itself and potato was great! The service was ok, not bad and not fantabulous. But, no major complaints here! Would go again!
(4)Brian M.
To Giles S: I believe I was there on the same day you were. I remember my poor waitress having to deal with you trying to get a free meal by stating those exact displeasures to get a free meal. I actually had to wait on my food because you were so absurd. I remember thinking you were ridiculous then, and I think you are ridiculous now. This is a true story...you unnecessarily distressed a waitress over food she had no control of. But I digress...your attempt to get free food notwithstanding, I offer my review: I remember eating at Merichka's as a child. My entire family thought of it as a great night out with great food and atmosphere. I cannot be sure since I was there in the late 70's early 80's before last week, but I think the bread has changed. I loved the bread years ago, and it seemed Jimmy Johnish last week. Regardless, it was still delicious. There is a nostalgia factor for those of us who dined there as a kid. My southern Illinois wife loved it last week, and so did I. She especially loved the double baked potato. I have a ton of family memories from this place, and I'm ecstatic I shared my fondness for Marichka's with her.
(5)Deb L.
Joliet. Look out I'm coming home for a visit. Can not wait to go back to old fav's. Merichka's is definitely one of those. Load up on those cholesterol pills. It's hot dogs, poor boys, pizza (deep of course) and Midwestern beef. So miss the food of my youth. God Bless Joliet!!!!!
(5)Debra V.
You will never have a better poorboy than a Meritchka's poorboy! Meritchka's is known for their awesome poorboy. Make it a dinner with a double baked potato and WOW! It's loaded with garlic butterine so this is something that we immensely enjoy once a year as a treat. This place has been in Joliet for many years. I remember going there as a child. Once you have a Meritchka's poorboy, you will never find one that tastes better!
(4)Rachael Z.
This is the restaurant for a waistline-busting, penny-pinching homebody. Because you'll feel like you're at home, spend only a couple of bucks, and have to be rolled out. Merichka's is no fine dining and they don't claim it to be. I haven't read through the reviews, but my guess is there are some negative reviews about the greasy food. If you're coming to Merichka's - guess what?! - it's going to be greasy. So go or don't go, but know there will be grease. You've been warned. And when you go, do yourself a favor and don't go against the grain: get the steak po'boy. Extra garlic sauce on the side, with a twice baked potato. Oh - and try some of the onion rings. The garlic sauce is a greasy garlic mess of caloric deliciousness. The twice baked potato is as big as your head. And for somewhere under $10, you'll have enough onion rings to feed a small army. But the sandwich! Oh the sandwich. My mouth waters thinking about it. The cubed steak is tender like butter (or roasted garlic, in this case) and the pickles are the perfect addition to the taste. If you eat all of it, you may have a problem. So in the case that you do have leftovers, pop them in the broiler and it'll reheat just fine. And remember: this is a diner. It's a fun, low-key place with below average service - don't let it ruin the experience. Be prepared to wait on weekends!
(5)Kevin C.
Good stuff! We've lived in will County for 9 years and never made it to this place until the other night. It was great, a bit outdated as the other posts say but had a good feel about it. It was clean and that matters the most. Big place inside that I was surprised by how much seating was available. We ordered the staple of the menu, poor boy sandwich!! The hype was right.... Amazing sammiches. Garlic butter, great bread, and the meat was not nasty at all. Perfect meal!! I'm not a fan of French fries so I got baked potatoe and that was as you would expect. Also we had a cup of soup and you can tell it's homemade and was great.
(4)Ramone B.
I cannot believe I've never reviewed this place. It has been a long time since I had been to Merichkas and I had a craving for a poorboy. The sandwich by itself is 8 bucks and with fries takes it to 12!? 4 dollars for fries is a bit much. Fries are cheap people! One thing that was lacking from my meal is salt. The fries had no salt or seasoning whatsoever. Very expensive and bland fries. I did however enjoy the combination of pickles with the fries. I totally felt like a pregnant chick eating that but it was kinda good. As for my poorboy- it was good, but not like everyone makes it out to be. The meat itself has really no flavor to it. It's the garlic bread and the pickles that made the poorboy taste better than what it was. Eating my poorboy brought back old memories of when I ate there before. The food was just average then and still is today. Old people love this place. Will I eat at Merichkas again? Yes. It wasn't bad, but I don't get all the raving over bland food. I think it's the old time atmosphere and nostalgic childhood memories that people love about this place but the food simply isn't all that. #SorryBoutIt #GurlBye
(3)Chris S.
Joliet landmark. If you live in the area and haven't eaten here yet then something's wrong. Poor boy is the way to go. Garlic butter is delicious!
(4)Robb B.
Merichka's. Like potica, if you're not from Joliet, you'll never have the true appreciation for it. For those of us local, it's not just food. Merichka's is the place you go after a funeral. It's the place you go after a first communion. It's where the high school newspaper team went for our year-end dinner. Merichka's isn't about the food as much as it's about the reason you're there. The food is great...a piece of chopped steak over-saturated with garlic butter served in a bun that's also soaked in garlic butter. Then there's the pickle and olive tray, the onion rings and salad. These are all items I can still taste in my mouth and I haven't been there in years. Everyone from Joliet has been to Merichka's and Al's in the same weekend (possibly Aurelios / Cemino's too). It's not just a place to love for the food alone, but for the big family parties there. Being a kid and chasing your cousins around the table. Being an adult now, Merichka's is the post-funeral meal (Al's is the post-wake Dinner). I went there after burying my grandma (who was friends with Merichka), my aunt and my father (who used to work there when he was a young man). There's something very comforting about knowing that it'll be there. It's a stable constant in this world. So, for everyone who goes there for the first time expecting a life changing meal, you're going to be disappointed. It doesn't taste like childhood to you. You don't remember being there as a little kid in your Sunday best. You don't remember how the pickles taste exactly the same 30 years later, or how the walls feel like home. You're going there expecting something that can no way be delivered this late in your life. It doesn't remind you of your grandma. Much like potica, Merichka's just tastes awesome if you're from Joliet. If you're not, then go ahead and give it a try buy manage your expectations.
(5)Mike T.
Merichka's is a local landmark. The food never disappoints! If you're a garlic fan, you must have the poorboy sandwich. I order it with american cheese and raw onion...hint. One should also try their onion rings, double baked potatoes, and a salad with Merichka's house dressing. Plan on tasting the garlic the following day! It's a good thing!
(5)George W.
We dropped in without a reservation on a Sunday night. We had to wait around 10 minutes to be seated in a nice, heated foyer area. One seated (kind of reminds you of your mom's place - big tables!), we got our order in quickly. We started with a small order of onion rings, which were supposed to be for 2 or 3 people, and were more like for 4 or 5 people. Unless you are big eaters, you'll leave some behind. The onion rings were very good. I ordered their 10 ounce filet, and my wife went with their poor boy, which was so big, she had to take around half home. Dinner comes with a relish tray and salad, and both were fresh and tasty. We had a good time. The ambiance is a little (okay, a lot) dated. It could use an update, but the food is fine, and the price won't break the bank. No free WIFI if you need that.
(4)Chris B.
Good ole Merichka's... they haven't been around this long for no reason. Get a poor boy with extra garlic butter!
(4)Adam J.
It's a nice little place if you take it for what it is. It's a place that is cheap food, with pretty decent quality served in an environment that reminds me of an old Wisconsin supper club. If you go here expecting Chicago Cut, Mastros or even Jack Gibbons, you'll leave disappointed. But you should have no reasonable expectation of those places. Merichka's is uniquely cool in its own right There are no steaks over $30. They even have bone-in cowboy ribeyes and 28oz porterhouse. Again, the steak is nothing overly exciting or particularly special, but they cook it well and it has good flavor. The wife and I had a really solid dinner and drinks for $62. It's a fun place to go once or twice a year
(4)Katie G.
I always have to eat here while visiting family in Joliet . I dream of coming back and having a poorboy ! The poorboy beef is the best sandwich I have ever eaten !! I can't wait to visit again.
(5)Giles S.
The worst steak sandwich EVER. It isn't really a Poor Boy. Mostly, it isn't good. A tough piece of meat that has been pounded, overcooked and served on an uneventful bun with melted oleo flavored with garlic. Nothing else to even help it along like tomato, lettuce, etc. The meat was the driest piece of meat I can remember since my days in the Army. The house special salad dresssing was not much more than Catalina Dressing. The double baked potato was just OK. A few locals I talked to said that it was very good some years ago but that it hasn't been very good recently and that they have stopped dining there. This is a "been there done that" experience. I won't be back.
(2)Kenny P.
Another great dinner. They said it would be an hour and a half for the wait to be seated but ended up only taking 45mins. I love the poor boy, I get one to go as well.
(5)Bill A.
Always a crowd pleaser. Been going there for 50 years on and off. I never had a disappointment. The steaks are always fresh never frozen. And the garlic butter is to die for.
(5)Elizabeth G.
I grew up going here. Every time my stepfathers parents would come to town, off to Merichkas we would go. The best part about this place is the fried onion ring mushroom combo platter. Huge onion rings. Phenomenal fried mushrooms. People always say to get the poor boy. It's super greasy. You have to be ok with that. No sandwich comes with fries. It is always an additional charge.
(3)Olivia O.
Never seems to fail! My family & I always come here and get the poorboys. Perfectly made and always delicious, service is just as great as the environment. Great place to wind down with family after a big event. One of the Joliet Classics
(5)Ed B.
Been here twice again since my first review. This place is still really good. Granted my knowledge of the menu is limited as all but twice I have had the steak poorboy which is their signature dish. But I am telling you that he quailty and consistency is here and they also have goos soups and great onion rings are among the best I have ever had. Treat yourself!
(4)C M.
Service was on the slow side- it was the dinner rush on a Friday and they were packed- but also really friendly. The steaks- filet and ribeye- were great; pike was just okay. The double-baked potatoes were thick and huge- that's what she said! Look, you can't compare this place to a chain, or a steakhouse downtown... so don't. For where you are and what you're paying, you can't beat the food coma you're sure to end up in!
(4)Courtney H.
A Joliet favorite! You get what you pay for here, nothing more and nothing less. The atmosphere is very old and they've only recently made updates to some aspects of the restaurant. I usually get the Yodel Burger (comes with cheese) which is like a Poorboy but with hamburger meat. It is very greasy, as is anything you order here. I also usually get a house salad with ranch dressing which is pretty good. Salads come with the cracker basket which is my favorite part! Most of the servers are older. Our waitress this past Monday had a little attitude, but nothing too bad. As long as you know it's a local, small business and aren't expecting TOO much this is a fun place to go once in awhile.
(3)Tboo Ted M.
This is one of my favorite old school restaurants that are unique and special. The poor boys are awesome but so are the burgers, chicken and fish. I always go for the poor boys but end up getting something else and am always happy with my choice. Great selection of drinks and a comfortable atmosphere.
(5)Niki R.
Love coming with family. Ethel burger is our favorite. The house french dressing is great too!
(5)Tamara M.
I love this place and only for one reason and one reason only. I only go here for their po boy steak sandwich. you have not lived till you tried it. But you have to order it a special way. You have to get it with cheese and grilled onions. It comes on a garlic butter toasted roll with fires. Its pretty basic but the flavors just explode in your mouth, my mouth is watering as I type this. I think I'm having a foodgasm. The service is friendly and polite and the setting is like really old school like back in the day 1930s type of restaurant. but I don't care I will be back for the po boy sandwich and their onion rings aren't bad either. Its real onions that big enough to share between two or three people. I highly recommend this place if your in the area
(4)Liz R.
This restaurant has satisfied generations of my family members before me and I'm just catching on now... We gladly make the drive out from the Chicago area to indulge in those giant onion rings and p-boy sandwiches. The best part of this place for me is that they aren't trying to be something they're not. The interior is dated and simple and the food is a throwback to a time when transfats, carbs and high fructose corn syrup were not dirty words. So if you're into healthy eating and you're a gluten-free, organic vegan you might find yourself in hell here at Merichka's. With that being said, I'm a "healthy eater" and I make exceptions for places like this. I could bathe in the garlic butter that drips off the poorboys when you bite into them, they're that good. Always order them with cheese and grilled onions. I mean, go big or go home right?
(5)Wesley B.
Good Food. Good Service. Great Times. MUST GET A POORBOY! A friend took me here and here ordered for me a : Poorboy with Onions and Swiss Cheese. Man am I glad he did. It was unforgettable ( You Must Like Garlic Butter). I now do the same I bring people here and order for them since they are new-by's, and everyone is always very happy. I have also had the there Fish which is great some of the best I've had next to fresh caught. All the sides are good. Onions rings are a must. Service is wonderful. You'll Be Happy.
(5)Liz K.
I was hopeful with such great reviews that this place was going to be amazing. It was extremely busy on a Friday night and we went for a private party. I asked everyone around me to rate their food. Everyone said it was OK but nothing to amazing. The chicken caught my eye because the serving was HUGE...everyone had chicken to take home. But everyone around me was disappointed because our friends really raved about this place...Our group also had poorboys and well I just thought it was okay. The mash potatoes were good though just a little cold. Maybe We didn't ordered what everyone else is ordering...but nothing stood out...not even the service (busy night?)
(2)Katie G.
Their poor boys are delicious. It is a little older inside and needs some updating but I normally get carry out so dont go in much.
(4)Rebecca D.
A local landmark, I love going here when I am back in town for a visit and have packed stretch pants! The new sandwich additions look great; my husband enjoyed his chicken po- boy. However, I stick with the standard steak one. Load me up with garlic butterine!!! Their bar is a great place to dine as well, in a different atmosphere than the quaintly-decorated dining room.
(4)Chris B.
Always the same. Great food. Good service. I get a poorboy or 1/4 fried chicken - all white meat. Double baked potato. The onion rings are great. House dressing is a very sweet homemade French dressing. They put lots on so I always ask for it on the side. Cocktails are old school but very good. I think if you didn't come here as a kid you might not "get it" but don't come looking for healthy fare. It is what it is and they have been at it a long time.
(5)Laurie W.
If you don't mind the smell of grease and stale beer, you might like coming here. The food is cheap, but nothing special. Not a place I want to go back to.
(2)Becca M.
Today was my first and last time eating here. I took my mom here for a birthday lunch. Our server was horrible and the food was not amazing either. I asked the waitress to describe the different breads, bun vs garlic bread and which she suggested. She looked at me like I had three heads. I chose the spicy fried poorboy plate. I asked for ranch dressing on my salad, and she had me repeat myself because she thought I said merishka dressing, they don't even sound alike. When the salad came it was swimming in dressing. I asked her the difference between the 3 types of fries they offered, and that seemed to annoy her as well. When she dropped the food off, I asked for ketchup and she forgot to bring it. My sandwich was not spicy at all. She never came back to ask how the food tasted, so I wasn't able to get my sandwich fixed. She instead just dropped off take out boxes and the check without ever checking in. I told her that my sandwich was not spicy but I ate half anyway because I couldn't find her to let her know it was wrong. She looked at me again as though I was an alien and didn't even apologize. $40 for 2 people to eat crappy food was not what we had in mind for a birthday lunch.
(2)Andy D.
ALL THE SERVERS ARE CPR TRAINED,, I REPEAT ALL SERVERS ARE CPR TRAINED....... (probably not) This is the dream I have which justify's me to scarf down there onion rings (best I ever had) and devour there Steak Poorboy. Not a Po-Boy that you'd find in Louisiana, but a totally different creature, one I found that you could duplicate, but never replicate. It's a sandwich of Mona Lisa beauty, but Jennifer Lopez taste. The perfect sandwich, where you say to yourself "I'll cut in half I swear" of course this never happens. It's too good. The Poorboy consists of a soft hockey bun, a tender slab of steak, onions cheese and melted butter, butter, butter. Some how it works, and works to a tee! If I only I could convince my cardiologist.
(5)Anna N.
I have to be honest, the food is not good. You're just getting a bunch of butter and garlic on your bun. The place is old, which makes it historic. But that's really the only good thing I can say. Service is always awful. The apple sauce is served in a container and the double baked potatoes are dry. Seems like they are just living off of people's memories. Oh and the prices are a bit high.
(2)David S.
This restaurant will always have sentimental value to me as it was where my parents ate the night before I was born. From what I was told, after I entered the world, my mother's roommate's family brought in bags of poorboy sandwiches from Merichka's. These days, the poorboy sandwich is still delicious(although smaller than I remember) as is the house dressing. Also, I have yet to try onion rings as good as Merichka's. Thanks for the memories, past and future.
(5)Joshua R.
We had a pretty average/below average experience. Shrimp cocktail and mushroom appetizers were good. Side salads were browning and had huge dollops of dressing forcing you to dig through sludge to get to the salad. My buddy had the pork chop, which looked good, and he confirmed it was a good dish. I had the New York Strip with 3 shrimp. The steak was tasty but the shrimp were caked in hard, bland breading. I joked with the table that I nearly broke my teeth biting into the breading. That was an exaggeration of course, but they were unusually hard. The twice baked potato was cold, and I also got bread and onion rings that I didn't taste (huge portion). My girlfriend got a filet that was overcooked. The second try was much better, but unfortunately took an additional 15 minutes and the rest of the table was finished. I don't think any of this warrants a BAD rating, but as someone that doesn't live in Joliet, I wouldn't re- visit on a return trip.
(3)Rick B.
Merichka's - 4 Stars: a nice little find on the way to Joliet. Poorboy sandwich with garlic butterene and twice baked potatoes - need I say more. I get light butterene (which request sometimes works) ... but the little strip of pounded round steak on an Italian bread roll is just perfect. Service is usually very good, the kitchen sometimes has off moments, but the food is pretty consistent and on the mark. Restaurant has lots of rooms, but since this is such a popular place there can be a wait at prime times. But go ahead and sit on one of the church pews in the waiting room and you'll be glad you did. Good for families and larger parties.
(4)Linda N.
At the races June 27th and met 3 guys from Chicago at the fence and said we had to eat here ! Said if you like steak sandwich then go and don't look at menu just order the steak sandwich that oozes with garlic butterine! So we had the steak sandwich platter came with salad very fresh and choice of potato so we got the twice baked potato! They were so right it was the best ozziest steak sandwich ever and the potato was excellent also and it reheated well at the hotel for lunch the next day. The history of this place is awesome. It is always so hard when on vacation to find non chain restaurants I don't want to eat where I can eat at home. If you live close shame on you if you haven't eaten here once you try it I think you might become a regular I know I would!
(5)Dan L.
This place is the best for one reason. Po' Boys. If you don't like grease and heartburn then GET OUT! In all honesty, I've never tried anything else from here other than this sandwich. I've had it with extra garlic butter. Boy was that a ride. The typical I'd suggest is with pickles and onion.
(5)Clifford S.
3 stars overall, 5 stars for the steak poorboy - it is great. The sandwich is hot, moist, juicy and on garlic bread. Don't wear a tie or a shirt you really like. Other than that, I really can't recommend the restaurant so I gave it 3 stars. Not sure if you can give more than that to a restaurant with only one dish. It's like the song "All Right now" - great song but can you rate Free as a great band. Paul Rogers didn't think so, different story with Bad Company. Merichka's is like Free and the poorboy - a delicious one hit wonder.
(3)Bill S.
Had dinner here for the first time a few nights ago with a big group of family. I think our entire table of 20 ordered the poor boys. I had a poor boy as well and it was delicious! Mushrooms, swiss cheese and their garlic butter soaking through the bread. Delicious! The service was a little slow, but I'm sure that's simply due to the size of our group.
(4)Jeremy L.
At the risk of offending native Joliet residents, Merichka's is just okay. I really like the old-timey feel of the joint, but the food could use some updating. If it weren't for the salad with house dressing and the poorboy, I wouldn't bother. Service is really good, but the food is just okay. Three stars for this Joliet classic, would rate higher if they ever try something new.
(3)N M.
Poor boy and double baked = heaven : ) The staff is also great. They are always friendly, and attentive.
(5)Kathy S.
Recently went there for dinner, the food was great, as always. I recommend the Yodel burger, much like their poor boy, only more tender, the house dressing, and double baked potato. I would give it 5 stars, but they really need some serious remodeling. The decor hasn't changed in 40 yrs.
(4)Rex L.
Lot's of garlic butter on those poor boys. Great historic restaurant. Point Lager on Tap, fantastic onion rings. What's not to like?
(4)TheWindyCity P.
After hearing of Merichka's since the mid-70s, when the son of the original owner (Joe Jr?) broadcast on a Polish station for an hour on weekday evening, I finaly set foot in the door on the way back from Starved Rock. I was surprised to learn it was still around when I saw it on Chicago's Best (Hey! Dis ain't Chicago!!) The steak sandwich was just awesome, and knowing that they're their own butchers tells me it's quality meat. The onion rings were just Godly in their own rite. I posted a photo for you! Loved the "old - school" charm of the place, and the waitress we had was well established, made us feel at home, and made good suggestions.
(5)Matt B.
Best poorboy anywhere!!!
(4)Bobby S.
I love the poorboys!!!!
(4)Dee R.
If you want food that tastes great go here--it's that simple. Their poorboy sandwich is amazing.
(5)Angelica G.
Garlic toasted bun drenched in garlic butter with a moist beef patty, delicious!!!! Definately only go here on your splurge day, cause this ain't no place for watching your girlish figure. But boy is is great! Their house dressing on a simple salad is super good, and so is their double baked mashed potatoes!!!! If you had a bad experience, I recommed you give it another shot, chances are it was just one of those days.
(4)steve k.
Service was fine - This review is about the food. With that said, this place is really awful. It is so many levels below restaurant-quality food. My son had the kid's slider plate - he is a cheeseburger junkie yet wouldnt eat these - the patties were so overcooked and stuck to the bun, just like you would expect from pre-assembled, frozen-section burgers. My wife had the steak poorboy - same junky hamburger meat - no toppings. i had the fish sandwich - it was edible but a ridiculous $16 - the side salad was just bagged lettuce, no tomato, cucumber, or anything - and a seriously small portion. The double baked potato was dry, with no gravy/butter/cream served to make it edible. kids got apple sauce, but they didnt even bother to serve it in a bowl - just gave the single portion pre-packaged containers. As others have mentioned, it is also overpriced. If you are in crest hill and just HAVE to have the Merichka's experience, my suggestion would be to drive a mile west to the Ultra Foods on Larkin, buy a bunch of crappy tv-dinners from the frozen section - microwave them for twice as long as the package recommends, and then eat them out of the cardboard containers... and then flush an extra $40 down the toilet... or in our case an extra $40 plus mandatory 18% tip b/c we had 6 people in our party. one and done.
(1)Ted d.
I go here frequently. The poorboy is the best and the supper club feel exists here. We have had many of the menu items and they are all very good. They also have Pbr on tap. It is a great destination place. Enjoy the garlic butterine on the poorboy it goes great with a 20 Oz. Pbr. Real great stuff!
(5)Rose M.
A really good old-fashioned, family-style restaurant. Casual without the studied sloppiness I've seen in too many chains.The serving staff was great, friendly without being chummy. And then there was the food. If you get a salad, I'd recommend the house dressing. Shrimp dinner with double stuffed baked potato Outstanding! Our first visit, definitely not our last.
(5)Meg S.
Love this place. Great food. Best poorboy you will ever get. My husband and I go for Valentine's Day and our anniversary every year. We live right around the corner and it's amazing that we don't go all the time. The only gripe I have is that it is super old fashioned. It's dark and kind of dreary. The waiting area is actually really nice, you can tell they remodeled it in recent years. Which is what they should do with the rest of the restaurant.
(4)Jr R.
We had my daughter's baptism party there and I have never had anything but good thoughts about this place. In comparison to most restaurants around Chicagoland, the decor is a little dated. Please don't be mistaken though that this little gem is nothing less than fantastic. The poor boy's, twice baked potatoes, and especially the service are grand....I always enjoy well trained, mature servers who are not intrusive but always there when you need them and this is exactly what the staff provides. We had cake for the occasion; the servers even brought utensils, plates, as well as cake cutting utensils without us even having to request. Great place to have a small gathering. I know several people who drive great distances to come to this Merichka's. Even had a guest drive 3 hours to attend because she saw we were dining there. If you don't live in the area have a wild hair to try something different then take a cruise and check this place out. The poor boy's are excellent!
(5)John-Ryan G.
Garlic, Garlic, Grease! Went out here with my favorite lesbo and boy was this place amazing! I got a sandwich that was really greasy and good, as well as the twice-baked potato! Delicious. If you go with friends, treat yourself to the onion rings: they are a real treat. The waitress was this cute old bird who was really nice, and the place is a feast for the eyes... in a retro filthy 1980's kinda way. Oh yeah, they also have High Life. See you there!
(4)Jackie S.
My family has enjoyed Merichka's food for over 50 years! The Poorboy, onion rings and double baked potatoes are the BEST! If you're not a garlic butter fan, just either ask for plain or no garlic butter, or ask for it on the side! Their baked whitefish, steaks, "big salads," and ham dinners are all delicious, too. I've eaten there hundreds, if not a thousand, times over the past 50+ years and have never had a bad meal!! Also, their weekday specials are great. If you check their website, they list their weekday special menu. For example, Patty Melt sandwich, fries, and salad or soup for less than $7.00. And on Thursdays, they have Steak LUNCH specials with potato and salad or soup for less than $10.00! merichkas.com
(5)Jay n.
The best "Poorboy" sandwhich anywhere, hands down. Order it to go....my rating is for the food, not the restaurant. The decor is circa 1959 Joliet, and not much has changed.....
(4)Jazmin S.
Now, I am a fan of old school, classic restaurants so this place is right up my alley. It's not low-fat or healthy by any means, but it is pure comfort food. We went on a sunday afternoon, a little crowded, but the smells made us stay. The kids order mini burgers, my husband the poorboy plate and I got the ribeye steak sandwich with the double baked. It was so good! Perfectly prepared steak, very tender. My husband's poorboy was good too but it just had too much butter for me but it was tasty. This place is like a once a year kind of place, for me anyway.
(4)Angela F.
When my hubby and I think gluttony, we think Merichka's. Whether you love it or hate it, you have to agree there's nothing on this planet like a Merichka's poorboy. You can't go wrong doing it up deluxe style with a twice baked potato and a salad with creamy garlic dressing. Throw in a Dr. Pepper and call me a happy girl...just not too often, because I value my cardiovascular health.
(5)Laurie H.
I've never eaten any other entree than the Poorboy...double baked potato and onion rings. The poorboy sandwiches are the stuff of dreams! Whenever I make the trek, I order extra & put them in the freezer. If I'm feeling especially generous, I buy some and take them with me to Florida for my family. I am quite the popular girl when that happens. If you like garlic...get the poorboy. Mmmmmm...is it wrong to be craving one at 7:00 in the morning?!
(5)Rachael W.
Always good service... always good food. I prefer the yodel burger over their famous poorboys though. Love the double baked potatoes and the house french dressing!!! Onion rings are also great. I haven't really tried anything else!!!
(5)Phil W.
great smmies, & dinners. old school
(4)Geoff H.
This is one of the trifecta of old-school restaurants at which my (large, Joliet-area) extended family occasionally gathers (the other two are White Fence Farm and Al's Steakhouse). If you're expecting haute cuisine, please don't. If you want a 'healthy option', wash down a beta blocker with some pomegranite juice on the way in; they have salad, but it's a wedge of iceberg with some traditional dressings and they also have a veggie burger, LOL. The menu is heavily beef-biased, with a decent seafood selection and a bit of chicken and sandwiches thrown in for variety. Food is tasty, though, prices are OK, the ambience and decor are kind of Swiss chalet-meets-farmhouse, circa 1960 (I wouldn't take a date I was trying to impress, necessarily). I guess I like it most for it's nostalgia value. The poorboy and onion rings are both greasy but excellent....maybe not as phenomenal as everyone says, but consistently yummy. Props both for being able to seat and tolerate my family (usually 12-20 people) and invariably good, friendly service. No attitudes here. Clearly, by the reviews, out-of-towners don't 'get it'. Merichka's is one of those places that you'll like better if you grew up with it.
(4)Jena S.
When Mom called yesterday on the way home from Merichka's I was a bit envious. Family outings have been happening here since my mother was a kid.. back in the days when mom & her 8 sisters & brothers of Munch..alfen... were in pigtails and playing marbles. Flash forward to my generation.. my sister, brother, a set of over a dozen cousins drinking kiddy cocktails (juice with cherry & a little umbrella) pretending we were all growned ups. The breath of the pack of Munchalfens and family friends could scare many a dangerous mongrel away... as the garlic poorboys are a family favorite. It is not for the faint of heart.. literally and figuratively. Add into some humor for good measure... this is the only place I know in the entire radius of Will County where you can get a bucket of pickles. Yes, pickles. Yes bucket. Yes, disgusting in my opinion, but if I was preggers then maybe I'd change my mind (Not right now thank you very much!) and perhaps I'd want some ice cream with it. There are rooms upstairs (an entire floor dedicated to parties) as well as downstairs when you walk in if you make your reservation (and want to have a spooky basement type party or something. Perfect for any cult sacrificing (please not before I go unless you clean up the chicken blood spatter beforehand). It's an old building. I wouldnt say that it's the cleanest looking but its certainly not filthy.. and hell, you're not eating off the floor anyway are you? For fine family fun, consider a little bit of bad breath and some fake cocktails for the kiddos... if it didn't turn me into a complete psycho (ex boyfriends you don't count) it likely won't hurt you much to try... unless you get a bucket of pickles at which case.. i have no liability for, because that's your own damn fault for being a nutcase in the first place ;)
(5)Lindsey D.
My waistline was warned from the very beginning. In fact, it was warned more than once and by more than one person. So when I walked into Merichka's, I planned on being good. I really did. But, when you're only in town for a couple short days and all you've been hearing about for months is a Poor Boy sandwich from Merichka's, how can you even think about a waistline and miss a once in a long shot chance to bite into this "famous" sandwich? That's right, you can't! So I put my waistline on mute, threw my will power to the curb, and dug right in. The Poor Boy sandwich was everything I thought it would be with just a little more butter and a little more garlic. Don't tell anyone, but I could have probably eaten an entire sandwich in one sitting, but I probably would have hated my life and felt sick after. So instead, we shared a Poor Boy and also got some sides as well. Ok, I really threw will power out because for sides we got a twice baked potato and onion rings. Then the gorging began. I ended up only eating about half of my Poor Boy half but it was enough to give me reasoning to count the days until I return to Joilet again. It was delicious...a patty of meat, with cheese oozing on top and situated between a sourdough bun drenched (and I mean drenched) in butter and garlic sauce. Just in case you don't have enough garlic, I was also told to get a side of garlic sauce. My breath smelled like roses after, I swear. The potato and onion rings were excellent as well, but the Poor Boy really left a stamp in my memory. I love the atmosphere here because it's so old school. From the old school wait staff to the old school decorations and furniture, it's just classic. Joilet definitely has a little gem here with this spot and I hope I'll make it back to visit again one of these days (sooner rather than later too!)
(5)Zoran O.
OLD School!!! Since 1933 - not much has changed... and that's a GOOD thing. Best steak poorboy EVER!!! Get cheese on it. And get ready for the garlic butter facial and you will get to know and love for many years. Best - BY FAR - onion rings I have ever had - hand made fresh everyday - amazing. I had a burger once - which was very good and fresh, but I have never adventured into the menu as the Poorboy always reels back in. Also have a cool little flash back little bar when you walk in on the east side parking lot - can see myself having a few with the locals. Small town feel - nostalgic - because it is OLD. Always crave this place.
(5)P R.
Solid effort - nothing spectacular. Service was good. The steak and fries were good - nothing special, but good. The salad was bad - just lettuce, croutons and dressing. Atmosphere was family style.
(3)Ryan I.
Food is too buttery, I feel like I'm going to be sick, didn't finish meal
(2)Mindy Y.
Great food! Best poor boys in the state!
(5)Elizabeth Z.
I went to Joliet on business and asked the locals where to go for great local flavor. While they had been spot on with most suggestions, I have no idea what they were thinking when I was sent here. The service was terrible, the food was disgusting, and there were children running around screaming their lungs out (apparently their parents didn't care to teach their children how to behave). Unless you want to feel your arteries clog as you swallow a "poor boy" or enjoy rowdy kids and rude waitstaff, skip this place!
(1)Jeff G.
my mom went to college at st francis, merichka's has been in my life my whole life. i think some people might dog on the place because it does not hold any fond memories for them. for me, it is comforting to belly up to a steak poorboy with extra garlic butter on the side and dip it in ketchup as i eat. and it was always a fantastic surprise for me when my gramma and her friends would go to the boats. because they would stop by merichka's on their way back to the southside, ring the doorbell and drop off sammies for our whole family. you know it's buttery enough when the butter starts dripping down your hand and forearm as you eat! that sandwich is GOOD!
(4)Melissa M.
How can I have never reviewed Merichka's? I am actually really impressed that it even has 38 reviews. You get the feeling while dining there that the patrons aren't really familiar with Yelp. This place is one of my staples when I come home to visit. My mom has been going here since she was a little girl so obviously, I have been going here since I was a baby. We all order Yodel burgers and get stomachaches after from the "garlic butterine". I mean, anything called butterine just cannot be good for your digestive tract, let's get serious. Love this place.
(4)Rico I.
I gotta say, for all the hype, i was quite let down. Food was bland and unimaginative. Environment? - depressing. Po Boy? awful. Compantion ordered steak - one of the blandest things i have ever tried. There has GOT to be a better steak house near by.
(2)Ursula A.
This was a horrid experience. While in the waiting room the girls at the front desk made fun of my name. Then, after being seated at a corner table in a high traffic area by the banquet hall, it took 50 minutes for our Poor Boys to arrive (no exaggeration). They were dry and tasted like cardboard. The two of us walked out paying over $50 with tip, for 2 sandwiches, 1 onion ring, 1 soup and 2 sodas. We should have walked out after I overheard the girls at the front desk. NEVER AGAIN.
(1)Cristina L.
After spendng $80.00 with tip for 2 poorboys, 2 ice berg lettuce salads with a couple of croutons sprinkled on it, 2 dry double baked potatoes, and a kids meal. I can safely say I will never step foot in this place again. The food is way to over priced for the quality for food your getting. The poorboy was good but not good enough to go back.
(1)Matt P.
Merichkas is one of 3 restaurants that I would actually leave Chicago for, and eat in the Southwestern suburbs. Yes, I realize that makes me a snob, but there is nothing in the suburbs that you can't get in the big city, and get it better. However, the poorboy sandwich is not one of them, and believe me, I have looked (and for that matter, the classic double baked potato). Their onion rings are super good, and they have PBR ... and I think Schlitz.
(5)Carmella P.
I'm part Slovenian, so believe me when I tell you this place is a hoot! You'll never get a better (or bigger) steak poorboy anywhere, especially when consumed with a cold brewski or Mike's. One of a kind tacky ambience and the most uncomfortable chairs you will ever sit in, but all in all, a really fun & funky place to experience. Remember to ask for extra GARLIC BUTTERINE, ha-ha-ha!
(4)Bob K.
I am turning 60 this year and have been coming to Merichka's for 57 years! The steak poorboy, double baked potato and 3 bean salad have been drawing me back ever since the first visit. And for the most part, the place really hasn't changed in any significant way since my first visit. Ask for the "heavy on the garlic butterine" and enjoy. Worry about reducing your cholesterol levels later. This is an old school restaurant that has stuck to its roots in a long time neighborhood. I hope it never changes.
(5)Daniel O.
This is probably my favorite restaurant in Joliet. For me the perfect meal here is the poorboy plate with American cheese, salad with house dressing, and a double baked potato. The house dressing is highly recommended and the double baked potato is hard to beat. The "garlic butterine" smothered poorboy is really unique and excellent. My only caution is to come hungry because this meal is really filling. My family has been going here since the sixties, and whenever a relative visits Joliet it is on the agenda.
(5)Joe H.
Went for the first time after reading glowing reviews. The food is acceptable, but highly overpriced! Chicken Leg Quarter with Cottage Fries plate = $9.95. Wow! Chicken Leg Quarters cost $0.59LB and 5 LBS of potatoes are $1.99. The fabled "Poor Boy" @ $14.95 contains about 4 - 5 ounces of cubed beef round steak. Beef Round Steak can be found for around $2.99 LB divided by 3 (to be generous) = $1.00. Twice baked potatoe = $0.75 ea. Bun = $0.35. Average food cost for restaurants is about 30% of the meal. Do the math. If I am to pay an above average price for a meal, it should be spectacular! Sorry, disapointed.
(2)Ken B.
Merichkas is my choice for a last meal. If I were to die, the steak poorboy with extra garlic butter and monstrous homemade onion rings would be heavenly. Its so simple and incredibly delicious! I've tried the poorboy with cheese and grilled onions but it just seems to take away from the main attraction, the garlic butter soaked bread and cubed steak. The garlic pickles served on the side work well with the buttery goodness.
(5)William K.
This one is easy. 5 stars. Go there and order a poorboy and let your arteries worry about the rest. The only thing better than Merichka's is the way it used to be... back in the day you used to have to wait for a table in the smoking section. He he. I don't think I've ever commented on other peoples' crappy yelp comments before, but jeez. I mean you can order a salad and spend time listening to NPR with the "too much garlic butter" dude... or better yet, snarf down a poorboy once in a while, stink up the joint, and live a little. Huzzah! drinks for all my friends... yow, bill PS - Further confirmation... Ty has puked here.
(5)Julie D.
Been going here as long as I can remember. They are currently updating the place which is well over due. Just dont change the menu. Best poorboy in the midwest. You WILL smell like garlic after you leave, but its soooo worth it,
(5)Mike K.
This place sucks. Service sucks. They never get your order right, and the food is cold every time they bring it to you. There Po' Boys suck.
(1)Katrina B.
this is an outpost of back-in-the-day fine dining, and the reason they're still hopping is that they're cooking those foods just right. clean family style restaurant, checkered tablecloths, and old time favorites like garlic buttered po-boys, cabbage soup, shrimp cocktail, double baked potatoes, and a slice of cheesecake for dessert. perfection!
(4)Brian F.
Wow. I can still taste the garlic from the Poor Boy sandwich and I ate here 2 nights ago. The whole town loves it, but I'm not convinced. Greasy ground beef, a french roll sopping wet with garlic butter...Yuck! I wasn't expecting haute cuisine, but lets be real, this place is a dump.
(2)Johnny T.
I can't believe there isn't any comments towards this place. Yeah, I agree with the other user, Merichka's is the first place I think of in terms of places to eat in Joliet. Its been in the area since the 30's and its probably a crime for anybody who lives in the area that hasn't eaten there (or at least, never got a poorboy) because on any regular evening, it feels like the whole town is there. Any newbie will notice that everyone orders the poorboy. I'm not sure how it got started, but I never hear of anyone getting anything else. They're also equally famous for their onion rings which I liked even though I never enjoyed onion rings before. You'll always hear criticisms about this place, saying that its not the same as before and theres people who can't handle the poorboy since its loaded with so much garlic butter. I've never had a problem with the sandwich but, I did get a stomach ache from their onion rings. Even with reservations, you'll have a delay dining on a Friday/Saturday evening so showing up @ around 8ish is your best bet since they closed at around 9 & there wasn't a line out the door. If you live in the area and haven't been here, just go so that you won't get the "I can't believe you haven't gone there" comment constantly thrown at you from the locals but I wouldn't make a special trip if you live far. Joliet is a big blue-collar town (think of the show Roseanne) and with it comes basic no frill eateries.
(4)Erin D.
The second time we came here and ordered the poorboy, it didn't seem nearly as wonderful... the roll and butter-garlic mix were still great, but I didn't remember the "steak" part being a ground beef patty, so that seemed kinda disappointing. Still tasted good though.
(3)Brian M.
Many many moons ago as a much younger man I had a boss that would buy all of us employees poorboy sandwiches and bring them to work once in a while. I always enjoyed them. As of recently (many years later in fact) I have stopped by a couple of times and simply grabbed a seat at the bar. The poorboy sandwiches are as I remembered them. AWESOME!!! Some people complain about a soggy bun bottom or to much butter. Well, it is garlic butter being generously added to the sandwich and I love it! I also enjoy their home cut cottage fries. This last time I went I decided to have a cup of chili while waiting for my meal. I joked to the bartender that you could use an ice cream scooper to serve the chill and would probably keep a round shape. It was very thick but it was good and I will have it again next time. The bartender was very cool so I can not complain about the service one bit. I really like this place as it gets harder to find old school Mom and Pop places in the area!
(5)Anthony Z.
Total old school Joliet. Things to get include the poorboy with loads of "garlic butterine," onion rings, and the house dressing on the salad. This is a popular working class place. Plan on a bit of a wait. merichkas.com
(5)J B.
A wonderful long time Joliet institution that is not a prison!
(5)Mr G.
Saw this place on Chicago's best and decided to try it out. Sadly to say the steak poorboy that got raved about was a big disappointment. This a steak on the sandwich has been cubed to the point that it was almost crumbly. There was no flavor to the meat it was like eating plain course ground beef. The only thing that gives this sandwich any flavor is the over powering garlic butter spread. I love garlic but this was way too much for even me. The bread was soaked with this butter spread so much that it dripped when you picked up the sandwich. The bread was the right thickness. Not too much bread for the sandwich. Don't expect a sandwich that is consider one of the best in chicagoland. I'd take a good burger over the poorboy any day. Its not a bad sandwich but not one that should be ranked as one of the best. Their fries were nothing exceptional. Just your standard restaurant crinkle cut fries that weren't very crispy. The cottage fires were had no seasoning and cut to thick that you needed to eat them with ketchup otherwise they were too dry. I will give their onion rings 5 stars. These are great. The rings were large and had a great taste. When you bit into them the onion didn't pull out you were able to bite right through it. If your in the area and what to try something different or are a garlic lover. This place is worth a try. It gets 3 stars because it is O.K not bad and not great. You won't spit your food out at this place.
(3)emO k.
Merichka's is the stuff dreams are made of. Amazing poorboys! I want a tub of their garlic butter to eat. Just straight garlic butter. Nothing else. That's how good it is. I'd spread it on my fingers and eat it. THAT'S how good it is. Seriously though, one of the things I miss the most from back home are Merichkas poorboys and Joe's hotdogs. They're both epic.
(5)Shirley T.
had the poor boy and it was great someone in our party had fries, not good i had the double baked potatoe and it was a bit dry even with butter and sourcream had ice water and it sure tasted like rust - yuk not sure if i will be returning not worth the 30 mile + drive just for a poor boy but it was really good and perfect amount of garlic butter yummo another thing big for me - they had no kids menu - sad
(3)Bob J.
I haven't looked at a menu here in years, no reason to. Poorboy plate, American cheese, fries, salad w/house, side of rings, Miller Lite tall. It's not really cheap but so worth it. Love the retro decor.
(5)Gerry B.
I've lived within blocks of Merichka's restaurant for 40years, and their Poor Boys have always been our favorite. I was on a plane some years back, when I overheard two people talking about Merichka's. They lived in Colorado, and every so often, they would fly to Illinois, to visit relatives and eat at Merichka's. They kept saying how much they enjoyed the entire menu, but especially the Poor Boys!!!
(5)Kevin K.
The best sandwich (poor boy) and onion rings I've ever had. I've been coming to Merichka's for almost 40 years, always the same order. Why mess with success?
(5)Jim N.
It's not a bad place, certainly has some charm and history. Food is good, not great, but may be among the best you will find if your circle of choices are limited to the Joliet area...
(3)