Blue Dog Inn to be
honored with “Enjoy Illinois: Delicious Destination”
Award
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[February 03, 2015]
LINCOLN - Lincoln, IL – The Illinois
Office of Tourism (IOT) and Logan County Tourism Bureau today announced
Blue Dog Inn, located in Lincoln, is a recipient of an “Enjoy Illinois:
Delicious Destination” award, which honors local food establishments
around the state that are beloved destinations for visitors and locals
alike.
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The Blue Dog Inn is among a select group of Illinois establishments
to receive the unique designation from the tourism bureau. All award
winners will receive a certificate from the state and a window cling
to inform diners of the state designation.
“From family-owned restaurants with long and storied histories to
the hottest new cuisines in the world, Illinois has emerged as a
premier culinary destination for both domestic and international
visitors,” said Jen Hoelzle, Illinois State Travel Director. “The
‘Enjoy Illinois: Delicious Destination’ award honors those
restaurants that are authentically Illinois, making a trip to the
state unforgettable.”
Located in the Historic District of Lincoln Illinois, the Blue Dog
Inn was opened by Susie Fuher in 1979. Primarily a pub at opening,
it evolved over a period of time into a full service restaurant with
an extensive menu becoming well known for the Horseshoes and Coney
Dogs. John and Barb Blackburn purchased the property April 2009.
Beginning in 2013 they embarked on a complete remodel of the
adjacent building creating a new dining room and new and larger
kitchen. This project was completed August of 2013. While the menu
has remained consistent over the years the Blackburn’s have added
some additional items such as ribs, additional daily specials and
sandwiches. Through all of the many changes since 1979 the one
consistent quality of the restaurant has been the dedication and
professionalism of the staff and their desire for everyone to enjoy
the atmosphere and quality of food prepared and served by them.
“The Blue Dog Inn has a classic but fun atmosphere with their dog
theme and the interesting and historical architecture. Beautiful ten
ceiling, dark wood trim and large antique bar all create a unique
dining experience. The Blue Dog is a favorite among locals and
travelers.” says Sarah Wallick Director of Tourism.
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Many travelers come to Illinois because of the state’s flourishing
restaurant scene. According to a 2013 D.K. Shifflet & Associates
Study, nearly one third of leisure travelers to Illinois reported
participating in a unique “culinary experience” as a key part of
their vacation, proving culinary offerings are a key motivator for
travel. Illinois Office of Tourism celebrates restaurants that are
authentically Illinois, attracting visitors and locals to state’s
diverse communities.
To be considered for an award, restaurants must be nominated by a
Convention & Visitors Bureau, community member or Enjoy Illinois
social media fan. The nominee must be a one-of-a-kind restaurant
that is authentic to Illinois and an established part of its
community. Only restaurants located in Illinois will be considered
for the “Enjoy Illinois: Delicious Destination” award, which is
chosen by IOT.
For more information about the state’s culinary offerings and “Enjoy
Illinois: Delicious Destination” awards, visit EnjoyIllinois.com or
Facebook.com/EnjoyIllinois.
The Blue Dog will be receiving their certificate on February 6th at
10:30 am. The community is invited to attend the ceremony.
[Sarah Wallick, Logan County Tourism
Bureau]
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