Our Reviews
Hear from our Guests & Friends!
At The Red Onion, every meal is about more than what’s on the plate. It’s about gathering around the table, sharing a good conversation, and creating the kind of memories that bring us together.
Over the years, our guests have shared their experiences with us — from first-time visitors discovering our little corner of Southern Illinois, to longtime friends who have made The Red Onion part of their family traditions. We’re grateful for every visit and recommendation that helps new guests find their way to our table.
From Our Customers
Our guests continue to share what makes The Red Onion special — good prices, homestyle cooking, and a welcoming atmosphere that feels like home. See why so many guests say: “It’s Worth the Drive!”
Here are a few of our favorite & most special reviews shared from our guests on Google from the past year. See more on Google & Yelp!
The Red Onion in the News
Our story has traveled beyond Equality, with regional publications sharing what guests already know — great food, friendly faces, and a destination worth the drive.
“Red Onion in Equality, Illinois, is a great weekend destination.”
“The Red Onion Restaurant in Equality has become a destination for travelers and locals who enjoy good food.… If your restaurant has a motto of ‘The food is worth the drive,’ the offerings better live up to the hype. If the line of people found waiting for a table on weekends is any indication, there are a lot of customers making the drive to The Red Onion in Equality.“
“It’s another Saturday evening in the normally quiet southeastern Illinois community of Equality, but there is a large congregation of people … from all over Illinois, Indiana, Kentucky and other states … waiting to eat at The Red Onion, a café in the Gallatin County town of about 600.”
Visit the Red Onion
Ready to check it out for yourself? Come visit the Red Onion!
“This is one of those hidden gems. We travel an hour and 15 minutes from where we live just to eat at the Red Onion, it’s that good. The 2 inch smoked pork chop is the best I’ve ever had. There are murals of Garden of the Gods on walls surrounding booths, including Camel Rock.” – Patrick G., April 2026
“What a wonderful place to eat , relax and refill your tea glass. A gem well worth the finding. Now your pinned on the map.. You’ve got to experience this place….” – Ken A., July 2026
“Haven’t been back since new ownership, glad we finally did!! Food was amazing. We got a large juicy double cheese burger & a 8oz sirloin. Best restaurant steak I’ve ever had- and I’m a tough critic. We will be back!” Shelby W., March 2026
“Fantastic restaurant resting in this small town!! Stopped by for dinner after a hike at Garden of the Gods. Service was great, server was attentive and kind. Food was delicious. Ruben, Philly steak and Apple Pecan were all on point. Keep up the stellar chow!!” – Justin A., May 2026
“If you don’t know where this place is you were missing out! This restaurant sits in a small town but worth every mile you will drive to get there! We have tried several dishes and every one of them are delicious and top notch! I recommend the 2-in pork chop, broccoli casserole, and the sweet potato casserole! Don’t leave without trying one of their desserts, you’ll be disappointed if you do!” – Morris D., December 2025
“If I could give 10 stars I would. We got married in the park and showed up with a group of 25 people on short notice they made sure to accommodate us. The staff was great especially the hostess Connie. The food was fantastic if youre ever in the area be sure to stop in and enjoy some of the best food we have had in southern illinois. We will definitely be back anytime were in the area.”- Shalena, October 2025