The Chicago Traveler

Sloppy Jo’s Lunchroom

by Matt B on July 11th, 2007

Ah, the lunchroom of youth. I remember escaping from the classroom with my metallic lunchbox in hand, not always sure what was inside but positive that it would be simple and tasty. If you and/or your kids need a lunchroom break, stop by Sloppy Jo’s Lunchroom in Highland Park.

There’s no scary lunch lady doling out unidentifiable goo here. Instead, you’ll find a nostalgia-friendly menu which includes sloppy joes (of course), corn dogs, tuna salad sandwiches, and hot dogs. You can even get a Frito pie or a Fluffernutter sandwich (peanut butter and marshmallow Fluff). Sides like chips and tater tots complete the lunchroom experience. And there’s nothing on the menu that costs more than four dollars, so there’ll be plenty of allowance money left to get a cup of soup in the winter or an ice cream cone during the summer. The restaurant also offers a variety of regional, nostalgic candies, like Sky Bars, Cherry Mashes, Banana Planks, and Chuckles.

Don’t play with your food! Play with the toys instead. Grab an Etch-A-Sketch while you wait for your order, or bring along your iPod and attach it to the docking station kiosk. What’s better than a jukebox with all your favorite music on it? Sloppy Jo’s even offers free wifi.

With all these candies and gadgets, where was this lunchroom when I was a kid?

Photo credit: (c/o Flickr) mikehipp

Sloppy Jo’s Lunchroom ($): 733 Saint Johns Avenue (Highland Park); 847-266-TOTS (8687)
Mon: 11:00 a.m. - 4:00 p.m.
Tues - Sat: 11:00 a.m. - 8:00 p.m.
Street parking difficult
Public trans: Metra train Union-Pacific North Line (Ravinia)
http://www.sloppyjos.com/

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POSTED IN: Restaurants