Restaurants

Fresh Start Cafe

4.7 258 reviews 7:00 AM - 2:00 PM 8202 Forest Hills Rd, Loves Park, IL 61111, United States

Discover this place

At Fresh Start Cafe, located at 8202 Forest Hills Rd, Loves Park, Illinois, a heartwarming culinary experience awaits. Emphasizing comfort food and healthy options, this cozy eatery is a beloved local gem known for its delicious breakfast and lunch offerings. Guests rave about the fresh, homemade biscuits and hearty dishes like the Chicken Cordon Bleu soup, served only on Mondays. The welcoming atmosphere, friendly staff, and wheelchair-accessible facilities make it a perfect spot for groups and solo diners alike. Whether you stop in for a quick bite or leisurely brunch, Fresh Start Cafe promises a satisfying start to your day.

Photos

Amenities & More

Service options

Onsite services
Takeout
Dine-in
Delivery

Highlights

Great coffee
Serves local specialty

Popular for

Breakfast
Lunch
Solo dining

Dining options

Breakfast
Brunch
Lunch
Dessert
Seating
Table service

Amenities

Restroom

Atmosphere

Casual
Cozy
Quiet

Crowd

Groups

Note: Amenity details are aggregated from verified visits, the venue's website and Google. They may change without notice. We recommend confirming key details (pet policy, accessibility, reservations) directly with Fresh Start Cafe before visiting.

Reviews for Fresh Start Cafe

4.7

258 reviews

100%

12%

Review highlights

Based on 258 reviews

Fresh Start Cafe consistently receives praise for its welcoming atmosphere and attentive, friendly staff who go the extra mile to accommodate special requests and provide helpful menu recommendations. Customers appreciate the updated, clean environment, including well-maintained restrooms, contributing to a pleasant dining experience. The menu is noted for its hearty, affordable portions with standout dishes like biscuits and gravy and classic American sides. While the small, cozy space can lead to some noise and occasional wait times during busy periods, guests generally find the wait worthwhile. Overall, Fresh Start Cafe is recognized as a charming, hometown-style diner that delivers both quality food and excellent service, encouraging repeat visits from the local community and newcomers alike.

CHI Picks

Apr 22, 2025

Just moved here and all I have to say is “WOW” Amy was my server and she was AMAZING! Food was excellent and so tasty!! I will be coming every weekend! Eri welcomed and made lots of recommendations on what to order!

Jackie Barker

Apr 20, 2025

What a lovely little diner! The food was delicious and everyone was very friendly. As busy as they were our waitress did a great job of. Checking in and refilling our coffee. Everything was clean including the bathrooms. Will be back!

Briana N

Apr 13, 2025

Stopped in for the first time today to get a skillet to go. Truly surprised by how updated the space is and how friendly the workers are. My server went out of her way to keep my special order as cost effective as possible. 10/10 Will be back again!

Jason Gonzales

Mar 18, 2025

Glad I found this little gem. Nice home town feeling diner. American Fries were great highly recommend very affordable and good sized portions. Will definitely be back!

Holly

Mar 12, 2025

Worth the wait! Biscuits and gravy were amazing. Staff is super nice. It's small so it's kinda loud and if you go on a weekend you'll wait a bit but totally worth it.

John Rogan

Feb 27, 2025

Amy our server and Eri the owner and greeter were fantastic and fun. The food came out quickly and was great! When we come back to Rockford this will be our breakfast stop!

Jon Rose

Jan 18, 2025

Food is always made fresh and delicious. Wait staff is always friendly. Bathrooms are clean and freshly renovated. In fact it appears they are working on renovating the whole place since acquiring it. The Chicken Cordon Bleu soup is wonderful. Can only get it on Mondays. Never a disappointment.

Jamie Thompson

Jan 06, 2025

Absolutely exceptional. We ordered the Gyro Skillet and it was DELICIOUS! It is easy to see that the food here is prepared with care and high standard. Our waitress was lovely and all four of my kids found items on the kids menu they devoured. If you are looking just stop and click directions, you’ll be glad you did!!