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About
Effingham Food Express
Welcome to Effingham Food Express, a hidden gem nestled at 2400 N 3rd St, Effingham, IL. If you're in the mood for delicious Japanese cuisine that surprises and delights, this roadside diner is a must-visit.
Effingham Food Express offers a diverse menu featuring classic favorites such as Egg Rolls ($2.95), Fried Shrimp ($7.95), and mouthwatering Chicken Hibachi. For those craving a taste of the sea, the Fried Calamari ($6.50) and Scallops ($10.25) stand out as crowd-pleasers.
The ambiance may not scream fine dining, but don’t let the humble exterior deter you. As customer Peter Weaver points out, the freshness of their dishes is apparent, with made-to-order noodle bowls that burst with flavor. He emphasizes the kindness of the owners and the comforting feeling that your food is crafted with care, making every visit feel special.
Many diners rave about the value you receive here. Keith Scheffler notes the generous portions that make it a family favorite, while Beverly Colar-Credelle found unexpected delight in the California Rolls and Ramen Noodles during a spontaneous stop. It’s the kind of place that leaves you eager to return.
As you explore their offerings, don’t miss out on the Spicy Miso or the Poke Bowl, both of which have garnered glowing reviews for their vibrant flavors and fresh ingredients. Keith Limes especially enjoyed the attention to detail in their takeout, with broth served on the side, ensuring every bite is customizable to your taste.
Finally, while the curb appeal leaves something to be desired—as noted by Carolyn Grace—the quality of food served at Effingham Food Express makes it well worth the visit. It’s a spot where diners experience a sincere passion for Japanese cuisine, and you'll walk away feeling satisfied and eager to share your find with others.
If you’re on a road trip or simply passing through, make sure to swing by Effingham Food Express. Your palate deserves this flavorful adventure!
People talk
Our Guestbook
“ First, if you are reading this review, know that the answer is actually yes, you really should eat here. With so many positive reviews I worried it was a joke, but the place is real and remarkably good for a roadside diner in Effingham. Had noodle bowls and they were fresh and delicious. Didnt try the seafood, well, because Im from New Orleans, but will eat here again on the way back. The owners were very kind and the wait for food was just long enough to know they made it fresh. I hope these folks do very well. Note its true, the parking and curb appeal makes you wonder, but they are working hard to make the place work well. Try it! ”
“ It was a quick impromptu stop, while driving from St Louis, MO to Indiana. We stumbled upon Effingham Food Express and enjoyed California Rolls, Chicken Hibachi and Ramen Noodles in Chicken broth. ”
“ Awesome food great variety! Everyone in my family likes the food. Its a great value with large portions. We dont live nearby, but try to stop every time we drive through Illinois. Cant wait to be back! ”
“ I had the Spicy Miso, my wife had the Poke Bowl, we shared the fried dumplings. The food was great the service was friendly, quick and fresh. My broth was on the side for the Spicy Miso since it was takeout. ”
“ Dont be scared away by the tiny building in a run down parking lot. This place is an absolute gem. Delicious, quick service food served freshly made. Even my picky eater enjoyed her poke bowl. Great place to stop if youre on a road trip. ”
“ Delicious. I got the tonkatsu ramen while driving through. Not busy late on a Sat. Was a little hard to find in the dark... you have to turn down the road and drive behind the liquor store. Definitely a gem of a restaurant. ”
“ I may be a landlocked girl from KS, but this holeinthewall blew my mind! DONT LET THE APPEARANCE FOOL YOU. The trip it takes to get to the front door was as worth it as Harold and Kumar finding White Castle. My wife and I have recently made it a goal to search for the best Ramen places along our travel routes. We first tried to reserve a seat and google was like nah, just roll up. When we pulled up, there was one guy inside eating and we thought uh oh. So I sought the advice of Google Reviews and noticed EVERYONE LOVED IT. And urged everyone to take the Test Of Courage on a sketchy building. We ordered 2 Tonkastu Ramen and Buckeye Roll and took it back to our hotel room. We slammed the sushi in the fridge and poured our broth over the noodles. We were so hungry, the noodles barely had time to loosen before we were like GET IN ME!! for any of you anime fans yup, looking at you Naruto fans Choji wouldve approved. 1010 recommend. Dine in, take out, Its ABSOLUTELY WORTH IT. ”
“ Love the poke bowls! The eel is delicious. Sushi rolls arent quite filling on their own, be sure to get a side if you only order a roll. Ramen is really yummy and good on its own. ”