Tab's Cafe

400 State St, Alton, IL 62002, United States
+1 618-468-1144
$$$ Cafe
(99 Reviews)
Price Range $10–20

Welcome to Tab's Cafe, an enchanting hidden gem nestled at 400 State St, Alton, IL. This cozy café brings a delightful blend of blues and jazz music to your dining experience, all while serving up an array of delectable comfort foods that will leave your taste buds singing.

From the moment you step inside, you're greeted by a charming and rustic atmosphere, complete with self-serve coffee stations and tables featuring unique resin designs. The laid-back vibe makes it the perfect spot to unwind, whether you're enjoying a leisurely breakfast or grabbing a quick lunch after a stroll.

Speaking of breakfast, Tab's Cafe excels in crafting a morning menu that invites you to indulge. Picture this: tender French Toast, perfectly golden and fluffy, served with your choice of eggs and mouth-watering bacon or sausage – a heavenly start to your day for just $14.99. Perhaps you prefer a heartier option? Their Steak & Egg on Bagel and the classic Egg Breakfast are sure to satisfy your hunger and keep you fueled for the day ahead.

Lunch options are equally enticing. The Tab's Double Burger features two juicy beef patties that come with a side of golden fries for $14.99, while the mouth-watering Philly Cheesesteak is a homage to its East Coast roots and is served with fries for $17.99. And let’s not forget about the crowd-pleasing Fried Chicken Combos, available in multiple flavors like original, spicy, and BBQ – a comforting classic that’s sure to hit the spot for just $9.99.

Don't just take our word for it; customers rave about their experiences at Tab's Cafe. Marva Mitchell describes it as a "true hidden gem," praising the perfectly seasoned food and attentive service. Star Myst appreciates the relaxed atmosphere and unique decor, while Ebony Buckner passionately advocates for the café, emphasizing its fantastic food and friendly environment. And Rob Kirbach claims it boasts “the best Philly cheesesteak” he's had outside of Philadelphia. These heartfelt reviews illustrate the essence of Tab's Cafe – where good food meets genuine hospitality.

So, if you find yourself in Alton, don't miss out on this delightful spot. Tab's Cafe is not just a place to eat; it's a vibrant hub of flavors, warmth, and community that you will want to return to again and again.

Accessibility
Has wheelchair-accessible car park
Has wheelchair-accessible seating
Has wheelchair-accessible toilet
Service options
Offers kerbside pickup
Offers delivery
Offers takeaway
Serves dine-in
Highlights
Serves great coffee
Has live performances
Popular for
Popular for breakfast
Popular for lunch
Good for solo dining
Offerings
Serves coffee
Serves comfort food
Quick bite
Dining options
Serves breakfast
Serves brunch
Serves lunch
Serves dessert
Has seating
Amenities
Has toilet
Atmosphere
Casual
Cosy
Crowd
Popular with tourists
Planning
Accepts 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
Openings Hours
Checking

Monday

Closed

Tuesday

10:00 AM - 5:00 PM

Wednesday

10:00 AM - 4:00 PM

Thursday

10:00 AM - 5:00 PM

Friday

10:00 AM - 5:00 PM

Saturday

10:00 AM - 5:00 PM

Sunday

Closed

99 Reviews
marva mitchell

18 Aug 2025

This place is a true hidden gem. The wait was so worth it . The food was phenomenal, it was hot , chicken seasoned to perfection , waffles cooked throughout not doughy and exactly how I ordered . I believe it will flourish and perhaps sooner then later will need a bigger space . The waitress never got stressed or overwhelmed just served with a beautiful smile and didn’t return to many times but made sure everything was all alright.

Star Myst

12 Aug 2025

Very Friendly and local business! Really laid back and calm with blues and jazz themed atmosphere along with a clean and rustic vibe. The tables have a really neat resin design on most of them and they have a little arcade machine too. A nice place to go to when you're out on a walk or trying to find something relaxing. Fantastic food!!

Dawn Cherie

02 Aug 2025

Super cute place with such an amazing vibe. Love the music and the Vintage Music flyers / posters!!! I had the the loaded french fries and oh my goodness talk about amazing. Fries seasonded perfectly with ranch, cheese, bacon pcs and chicken bites. 2 people could definitely enjoy it together

Ebony Buckner

27 Jul 2025

THE FOOD IS AMAZING I love the French toast!!!!!!!!!!!!!My son likes the chicken and waffles, And my husband loves the Philly cheese steak,But The most important thing for me is the good customer serviceSo if your looking for”Good Food”A good atmosphere” And “ good friendly people”THEN THIS IS THE PLACE TO COMEThank you Tabs Cafe for coming to Alton we neededddddd you here

Ms. Monica

20 Jul 2025

This is a mom & pop type diner. Nice blues and oldies music playing. Self-serve coffee area. I ordered waffles, scrambled eggs, bacon & extra bacon. Everything was good, but my bacon was cooked a little too hard where it crumbled up. We also ordered hashbrowns, turkey sausage and cream of wheat. Great customer service, friendly people and clean.

Rob Kirbach

22 Jun 2025

Best Phili cheese steak I've ever had outside of Philadelphia. Neat little place with blues music playing and a real easy-going vibe. This just became one of my favorite spots. I'll definitely be going back.

M N

18 Jun 2025

Food and service was great.... the chicken was seasoned just right and it was fresh and succulent!! Will definitely be coming back!!

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