Alfie's Inn a destination for satisfying fare: Mystery Diner

GLEN ELLYN – After being a fixture for almost 50 years, Alfie's Inn continues to be a popular draw in the region.

I decided to discover for myself why people flock to the Glen Ellyn restaurant, and suffice it to say, Alfie's Inn exceeded my expectations.

The restaurant's medieval decor is a conversation-starter, and the backdrop for a comfortable atmosphere for patrons dropping by for lunch or dinner. After being seated, my dining companion and I started looking over the menu.

It wasn't an easy task, given the restaurant's expansive and tempting bill of fare, which includes such entrees as The Amigo Burger – a half-pounder served with a mixture of sauteed jalapeño peppers and onions; the Down Under Chicken Sandwich – chicken breast topped with two slices of bacon, Swiss and cheddar cheeses; and a roast beef sandwich served with tangy barbecue sauce on the side.

Alfie's also highlights a variety of soups, as well as homemade chili, and the menu extends to baby back ribs, fish and chips, shrimp and steak. An inviting lounge with a full bar rounds out the offerings.

We decided to start with an appetizer, in this case, potato skins. We opted for the half order to avoid getting too full before our entrees arrived.

As advertised, the potato skins were piled high with bacon and melted cheddar cheese. We both added jalapeño peppers for just the right amount of kick. The dish arrived piping hot, a sure comfort to anyone trying to warm up a cold winter's day.

For our entrees, my dining companion decided to order one of the restaurant's signature selections, the Garlic French Dip – thinly sliced roast beef seasoned with garlic and served with a cup of hot beef au jus for dipping.

I opted for Sir Alfie's Loinburger. The burger is promoted as "the one that made us famous." The restaurant is known for its proprietary seasoning and attention to proper prepping of the beef before cooking.

Both entrees arrived just before we had finished our potato skins, a nod to the prompt service. I eagerly bit into my sandwich, savoring every tender morsel of it.

I chose not to add cheese to my burger, because I didn't want it to smother the meat's natural flavors. And believe me, the burger is filled with so much flavor, it stands on its own.

My dining companion also had high praise for her entree, and was pleasantly surprised with the generous portions. So be prepared to take home leftovers.

The Mystery Diner is a newsroom employee at Suburban Life Media. The diner's identity is not revealed to the restaurant staff before or during the meal. Only positive dining experiences will result in published reviews.