The Barefoot is a family-owned and operated restaurant that has been serving up delicious fish, fried chicken, and an immaculate view of the Illinois River since 1958. It is located at 106 S Water Street in Hardin, IL. The original building was destroyed by the 1973 flood but was rebuilt that same year. Brian Matthews purchased the recipes and menu from the previous owner Judy Herter in 2021 and moved the restaurant to the former Illini Medical Building. Today, The Barefoot is known for its unique atmosphere, unique view of the Joe Paige Drawbridge, and great food.
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Reviews
Brent Norris
A looper’s dream. Easy docking, friendly staff and the best fried fish on the river. I had the fried catfish fritter sandwich. It’s way more than a sandwich. Perfect dinner, drinks and dessert. Sit relax, watch the boats go by on this wide section of the Illinois River. You can watch the lift bridge go up and down for the barges and the prices are super reasonable. Also indulged in a peach daiquiri made from the owners orchard. Ask if there apples are in season.
… moreMary Buettner
We had a group of 15 on Sunday. Called ahead , told them we’d be there in about a hour. They had the table ready! Lexie was our waitress and she absolutely rocked it! Great atmosphere, nice docks! We’ll see y’all again in the fall! We plan to come for breakfast!
… moreWanderingLife
Love the new location and building! Not sure how long ago they moved but we are happy with the choice! The playground next door is the perfect idea for children that don’t want to sit and wait for food! Or maybe they don’t want to wait for everyone to finish visiting. Either way they can play! The deck area is wonderful and provides a nice view of the river and or playground. Food was spot on and everyone loved their choices! I would definately visit again if in the area!
… moreAmber Bowman
We try to stop in when we are in the area. I had the fried chicken special and my husband had the catfish special. Both were cooked to perfection and only cost $23.00 before the tip. The place is clean and the service is good. We will be back for sure.
… moreSean K
Food is top notch!!! I would 100% recommend it!
I’ve had multiple things here and every time it’s great!!!!
Great view also of the river
… moreI’ve had multiple things here and every time it’s great!!!!
Great view also of the river
Midori Grabowski
Had a yummy lunch at barefoot on a Sunday. I ordered a Roquefort salad and catfish fritters (sans bread). The food came out so quickly, our waitress kept our drinks filled, and you can’t beat the prices.
My dad ordered a cheeseburger which he said was enjoyable.
… moreMy dad ordered a cheeseburger which he said was enjoyable.
Becki Wilson
Potato wedges were really good. Got the chicken livers – they were alright. A lot better than right after they opened. But still no nasty to them. Some salt, pepper or maybe a different coating to give some taste to it would be better. They are not like the old Barefoot’s livers- they were excellent!
… moreGregory Olson
We had their Sunday Breakfast Buffet. It was very good. We will come here again.
… moreTJ Nappier
we ate inside, but they have a great place outside too.
staff was very friendly…
Sunday special is family style fried chicken & the fixins…ALL YOU CAN EAT! Sinta was our server.. she was great.
… morestaff was very friendly…
Sunday special is family style fried chicken & the fixins…ALL YOU CAN EAT! Sinta was our server.. she was great.
Brenda Georgewitz
I wasn’t pleased with the daily special, the mashed potatoes were dry and the gravy was cold as was the corn . And the fried chicken was greasy . I ordered a side salad and it cost almost $5.00 for a little bitty bowl . Not going back . I realize they have to pay for the new restaurant but they shouldn’t rip off the public to do so.
… more