Ace Drive-In
A step back in time to the golden age of diners, Ace Drive-In serves up classic comfort food and legendary root beer with a side of nostalgia.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Blue hour photography, calmer galleries
Ace Drive-In
Highlights
Must-see attractions
A step back in time to the golden age of diners, Ace Drive-In serves up classic comfort food and legendary root beer with a side of nostalgia.
Thursday Night Cruise-In
Enjoy classic cars on display during Thursday night cruise-ins for a unique dining experience.
Cash is King
Be prepared as Ace Drive-In is cash only. Tipping your waitress is also appreciated!
Quick Facts
Cuisine
American
Price
Mid-range
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
Nostalgic Drive-In Experience
Step back in time at this classic drive-in, complete with car-hop service and a retro vibe. A true blast from the past!
Iconic Root Beer
Famous for its homemade root beer served in ice-cold frosty mugs. A must-try that keeps customers coming back!
Classic Comfort Food
Indulge in hearty favorites like hoagies, triple cheeseburgers, and Chicago dogs, all served with that signature drive-in flair.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
Thursday Night Cruise-In
Enjoy classic cars on display during Thursday night cruise-ins for a unique dining experience.
Cash is King
Be prepared as Ace Drive-In is cash only. Tipping your waitress is also appreciated!
Don't Forget the Root Beer!
The homemade root beer is a standout. Consider buying a quart or gallon to take home.
Outdoor Seating Options
Dine in your car with car-hop service or opt for the picnic tables for an al fresco meal.
Tips
from all over the internet
Thursday Night Cruise-In
Enjoy classic cars on display during Thursday night cruise-ins for a unique dining experience.
Cash is King
Be prepared as Ace Drive-In is cash only. Tipping your waitress is also appreciated!
Don't Forget the Root Beer!
The homemade root beer is a standout. Consider buying a quart or gallon to take home.
Outdoor Seating Options
Dine in your car with car-hop service or opt for the picnic tables for an al fresco meal.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Ace Drive-In offers a beloved nostalgic experience with a loyal following, particularly for its homemade root beer and classic comfort food. While many praise the friendly service and unique atmosphere, some find the food quality has declined or express frustration with the cash-only policy.
"Outta town stopped for lunch. Good local spot. French Fries are really great justamountof salt. Rootbeer is a glass mug cold. Burgers are good at great prices. Food is well priced. Customer service is 5 stars. Chrissy gave fantastic service very friendly fast and frequent. I ordered numerous things, and she brought them all with a smile. She is a great worker! Would eat here any day over a fast food chain."
Rustan Porter
"My first time here. Summer is here, and I have to take advantage of it and go out to eat at places like this. The trees provide great shade so the sun doesn't shine through, the waitresses are patient, and the food came very quickly."
Tefi Camacho
"Had a great experience here! The waitress was patient as we debated what to get. Though the food was simple, it was really good. The root beer was definitely noteworthy."
Jennifer R
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
Yes, Ace Drive-In operates on a cash-only basis. It's recommended to have cash on hand for your order and to tip your car hop.
The homemade root beer is highly recommended, often served in ice-cold mugs. Classic comfort foods like hoagies and cheeseburgers are also popular choices.
Thursday nights are special for cruise night featuring classic cars. Summer evenings can be busy but offer a classic drive-in experience.
While it's a drive-in, there is an indoor seating area available for those who prefer not to dine in their cars or at picnic tables.
The provided tips mention that there is no bathroom available on-site, so be mindful of this.
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Five Joliet Food Joints That Bring Back All the Memories | by jeff mores
The heartbeat of the glory days of diners and drive-ins beats on to this day at Ace Drive-In in Joliet, IL. This photo of the window tray and giant mugs of homemade root beer bring back all the memories of going to Ace Drive-In with my family when I was a kid. Ace Drive-In, located at Route 30 and Ingalls Avenue, has been a culinary tradition in Joliet since 1949.
Social
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