The Ariston Cafe along Route 66 in Litchfield, Illinois, recently received the Centennial Award from the Illinois State Historical Society.
This honor celebrates the restaurant’s century-long commitment to serving the community and preserving a unique piece of Illinois heritage, according to The Journal-News.
Jeff Dunn of the Illinois State Historical Society presented the award.
The restaurant’s co-owner, Will Law, accepted the award on behalf of the Ariston, expressing gratitude for the recognition of the cafe’s legacy, which generations of customers and travelers have treasured.
The Ariston is one of 17 organizations and businesses to receive the honor in 2024.
The restaurant earlier this summer marked a century in business.
The Ariston first was established along Illinois Highway 4, an early alignment of Route 66, in downtown Carlinville. Then it moved east to the new alignment of Route 66 in Litchfield.
(Image of the Ariston Cafe in Litchfield, Illinois, by BadGuysEqualXPS via Flickr)