Skip to main content

Search the middle of everything...

Shedd Aquarium

Mary Lou's Grill

118 S. Illinois Ave., Carbondale, IL 62901

Diners

Popular, cash-only fixture whipping up classic diner fare for breakfast & lunch since 1962.

Mary Lou's Grill is a beloved American diner in Carbondale, IL, known for its nostalgic atmosphere and delicious, generous dishes. With offerings like the famous biscuits and gravy that leave customers longing for more, Mary Lou's Grill provides a throwback dining experience reminiscent of cafes from the 1950s. The menu features a variety of options, from fluffy pancakes to hearty steak sandwiches, all served with friendly and fast service at reasonable prices. The diner's reputation for quality, large portions, and unbeatable prices make it a must-visit spot for anyone in search of a satisfying meal.

Mary Lou’s serves the best biscuits and gravy in town. They have a wide variety of breakfast foods as well as tasty lunch platter! All food is served with 100% love. Cash only at register.

Images

More Information

  • Mon: Closed
  • Tue: 7:00am – 2:00pm
  • Wed: 7:00am – 2:00pm
  • Thu: 7:00am – 2:00pm
  • Fri: 7:00am – 2:00pm
  • Sat: 7:00am – 2:00pm
  • Sun: Closed

How to find us?

Back to Listings

What's happening nearby...

Make Believe at Varsity Theater

Apr 23 – Apr 26

A historic venue for performing and visual arts, live music, entertainment and community events.

Read more about Make Believe at Varsity Theater

Southern Illinois Music Festival

Jun 18 – Jul 04

The 2026 Southern Illinois Music Festival commemorates our great nation’s semi-quincentennial anniversary, as part of “America at 250,” with multiple performances of classical music by three…

Read more about Southern Illinois Music Festival

Fall Farm Crawl

Sep 12 – Sep 13 @ 1PM

Visit local farms. The tour is self-guided, which means that folks can visit whichever farms they choose between 1 and 6 p.m.

Read more about Fall Farm Crawl

You might also be interested...

Harbaugh's Cafe'

Carbondale

Hearty plates of classic breakfast & lunch fare are served at this busy cafe with eclectic decor. We've got the breakfast you're looking for and we…

Read more about Harbaugh's Cafe'

Subscribe to Our Newsletter

Get inspired by top travel stories, gain access to exclusive promotions and contests, and discover even more reasons to #EnjoyIllinois.