Formerly operated as a food truck, Marichuy’s Taqueria in Spring Valley stands out for homemade Mexican favorites at reasonable prices.

Where pizza is concerned, Illinois Valley residents don’t have to travel far. The region abounds with great options close to home. But sometimes it’s worth traveling for a different kind of slice.

When going out to eat, I don’t expect to taste mom’s home cooking, but a recent visit to Softails Bar and Grill in Ladd delivered an unexpected flavor of childhood.