Blue Dog Inn to be honored with “Enjoy Illinois: Delicious Destination” Award

[February 04, 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.

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.

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]