Rhythm Kitchen Music Cafe

305 Southwest Water Street, Peoria, IL 61602, United States
+1 309-676-9668
$$$ American restaurant
(761 Reviews)
Price Range $10–20

Welcome to Rhythm Kitchen Music Cafe, a hidden gem located on the picturesque waterfront of Peoria, IL. This vibrant American restaurant not only serves up a delectable array of dishes but also offers a unique dining experience filled with melodies and warmth. As you step into Rhythm Kitchen, you’ll find yourself enveloped in an inviting atmosphere, perfect for a cozy dinner or a lively gathering with friends.

The cuisine at Rhythm Kitchen is a delightful fusion of flavors. Dive into their Spicy Mexican Chicken Salad—grilled chicken seasoned to perfection, mingling with colorful bell peppers, onions, and corn atop a fresh bed of greens, all balanced beautifully with a spicy dressing and crunchy tortilla chips. For vegetarian diners, the Chickpea Burger is a must-try: a house-made veggie patty complemented by refreshing greens and served with curried ketchup and spicy sriracha mayo, all wrapped in an “everything bun.”

But let’s not overlook the enticing entrees! The Jamaican Jerk Chicken is a standout, featuring tender grilled chicken steeped in bold spices, served over a savory sauté of rice, sweet potatoes, and even bananas—offering a sweet touch that harmonizes perfectly with the savory. Then there’s the Grilled Ahi Tuna, a thick, ruby-red steak grilled to perfection and beautifully plated on garlic toast, ready to melt in your mouth. Pair these dishes with one of Rhythm Kitchen’s refreshing mocktails, and you’ve set the stage for a memorable culinary experience.

Many who walk through the doors rave about the impeccable service that makes you feel like a VIP. Customers like Matthew McHooven and Richard Johnson have shared their experiences, praising not just the food but the warm ambiance and attentive staff. Naomi Shea, a loyal patron since college days, relishes the consistency of the food and even makes it a point to enjoy desserts, a staple that people cannot resist!

Moreover, Rhythm Kitchen is known for its lively vibe—featuring live music every Tuesday from 6 PM to 8 PM, which transforms your dining experience into a delightful evening filled with enchanting sounds. Whether you’re settling in for dinner or catching up with friends over drinks, the exposed atmosphere and artistic décor make it a place you’ll want to linger.

For those visiting Peoria, don’t miss the chance to enjoy a meal at Rhythm Kitchen Music Cafe. With its exquisite menu, friendly service, and inviting atmosphere, it’s not just a meal; it’s a celebration of food and music that keeps patrons coming back for more. Experience the rhythm of good food and great vibes today!

Accessibility
Has wheelchair-accessible car park
Has wheelchair-accessible entrance
Has wheelchair-accessible seating
Has wheelchair-accessible toilet
Service options
Offers delivery
On-site services available
Offers takeaway
Serves dine-in
Highlights
Has fast service
Has great beer selection
Serves great cocktails
Serves great dessert
Has great tea selection
Has great wine list
Popular for
Popular for dinner
Good for solo dining
Offerings
Serves alcohol
Serves beer
Serves cocktails
Serves coffee
Serves comfort food
Serves food
Serves healthy options
Quick bite
Serves spirits
Serves vegan dishes
Serves vegetarian dishes
Serves wine
Dining options
Serves dinner
Serves dessert
Has seating
Amenities
Has bar on site
Has gender-neutral toilets
Has toilet
Has Wi-Fi
Free Wi-Fi
Atmosphere
Casual
Cosy
Historic
Trendy
Crowd
Family friendly
Good for groups
LGBTQ+ friendly
Popular with tourists
Transgender safe space
Popular with university students
Planning
Doesn't accept reservations
Payments
Accepts credit cards
Accepts debit cards
Accepts NFC mobile payments
Credit cards
Children
Good for kids
High chairs available
Has kids' menu
Parking
Free of charge street parking
Free parking lot
Plenty of parking
Pets
Dogs allowed outside
Openings Hours
Checking

Monday

Closed

Tuesday

05:00 PM - 09:00 PM

Wednesday

05:00 PM - 09:00 PM

Thursday

05:00 PM - 09:00 PM

Friday

05:00 PM - 10:00 PM

Saturday

05:00 PM - 10:00 PM

Sunday

Closed

761 Reviews
Matthew McHooven

29 Aug 2025

Wow! This had high ratings and I expected it to be pretty good, but they went well beyond my expectations!!! All the food was perfectly seasoned and super juicy (the meat) and the service was excellent Awesome mocktails helped make the meal even more enjoyable, but the bread pudding for dessert won my heart over!!

Richard Johnson

14 Aug 2025

We were greeted warmly as soon as we arrived and treated like VIPs. The lighting is dark and the seating is open. Sound carried well but didn't make conversation difficult for us. The menu had a lot of great options. While mine was good the other 3 people at my table absolutely raved about their food. My dessert was amazing and I would go back just for that. Between the service, entrees, dessert, and atmosphere this is a will-return for sure.

Naomi Shea

02 Jul 2025

I have loved RK since I was in college in the late 90’s. I’m happy it’s still going and it’s nice to see familiar faces when I go back to Peoria to visit. The food is consistently good, the servings are sensibly sized and the prices are reasonable. Always room for one of their delicious desserts. The servers are always friendly and I enjoy getting a table by the kitchen to watch the food being prepared. By now, I’ve had just about every menu item and I’ve never been disappointed. Please never go away.

Jen Benningfield

27 Jun 2025

One of my favorite restaurants in Peoria. They have live music every Tuesday from 6 to 8 PM. Their service is impeccable. Their food is the best in town. Wide drink selection that’s very reasonable. I wish I could go here more often and try everything on the menu.

Eric Larsen

27 Jun 2025

What are great find while traveling through town. Our meals were excellent and can’t say enough about the friendly service. Would definitely recommend and stop back again.

Buz Robinson

18 Jun 2025

Like a trip to da bottom...atmosphere exceptional...the staff quite involved and knowledgeable. Food ...the barbeque shrimps straight smakin...the hurricane put a lil something something on me...down on the water front...outstanding location... artist has artwork displayed on the restaurant walls and for sale.

Vincent Allen

17 Jun 2025

This was my second visit, consistently great both times. Very busy night, full house but we were able to have a seat at the bar. Service was great, everything was delicious--we recommend the bread pudding! Already looking forward to coming back.

Benjamin “Ben” Hoffman

08 Jun 2025

Really cool and unique atmosphere. Great service and staff!! Awesome view of the kitchen too!! Good pricing on the specials had the chili and 4 cheese grilled cheese if your wanting to save money

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