The Neon Bison

Wednesday my daughter and I made our 4th visit here. We arrived around 4pm - were warmly welcomed and served by Ricki. I had the chicken breast sandwich - fantastic. We each had a couple of their signature cocktails - also fantastic. I cannot say enough good things about the Neon Bison - great food, great service, great decor and atmosphere. We will absolutely visit again.

WILL NOT BE BACK. We stopped in for dinner, wanting to try something new in Peoria. We love trying new local spots and always base our decisions on Google ratings. A 4.7 Google rating and appealing online menu influenced our decision. First, very lackluster from the street. We arrived at 4:30 on a Friday night, a few people sitting at the bar, no one in the restaurant, and 2 tall ladders in the middle of the restaurant- quite possibly there to take down Christmas decor…??? Second, We were greeted immediately- before we even stepped over the threshold. I didn’t even know if the greeting was to us. Odd, but Okay. Different, but always a good to be welcomed. Third, Our server came over right away. She was friendly and accommodating. She grabbed two beers and a lemonade for us. Two of us ordered Busch Light drafts. My husband’s beer was seriously under poured. He asked that our server take it back to fill it. This is where things really went awry- the bartender brings his beer back, without topping it off and schools us on "how a beer should be poured. ❌ 1) if you under-pour a beer, top it off. 2) don’t school a guest (customer!) There’s a 50/50 chance you aren’t the smartest bartender in the room. FYI- There is a rule for pouring a beer, but that’s when you allow for an inch of head (foam)- not acceptable when serving flat beer. 3) we asked about the Turkey burnt ends on the menu listed online- they ARE NOT on the physical menu, but when we asked we learned they could be served as a side. ‍♀️ Lastly, There are many other discrepancies from their online menu options to their physical menu. We were excited to try, but this place failed miserably. Maybe the place as a music venue is the real MVP…?? I don’t know. Go down 2 doors to the next restaurant/pub. Much better ambiance and a bartender who can pour a beer! (See pics!) Anyone can have an off night, but true hospitality trumps all else. Big disappointment!

Food was okay overall. The bison burger came out soggy and slightly cold which was disappointing. The cornbread didn’t taste homemade, more like a pre-made mix, and the honey tasted artificial. The decorations and interior design came across as tacky which took away from the ambiance. That said, the service was great! Our waitress was very knowledgeable and attentive, which helped the experience.

Im a season ticket holder to broadway in Peoria so when I was in town for Hadestown on Wednesday I had to stop by the Neon Bison! The food, drinks, and service are always top tier every time. Ricki greeted us the second we walked in and was friendly the whole time we were there. Service was quick and food was tasty. Will be coming here every time I’m in town for a show!

Absolutely loved this place. Neon Bison has such a great vibe—fun, welcoming, and the atmosphere alone makes you want to stay awhile. The food was seriously so good, and everything felt thoughtfully done. Huge shoutout to our bartender, Kim, who was AMAZING. Friendly, attentive, and clearly knows her stuff—she made the experience even better. You can tell she genuinely enjoys what she does, and it shows. Can’t wait to come back. Highly recommend if you want great food, great drinks, and an incredible atmosphere.

Enjoyed the evening with Damon Johnson (Brother Cane/Lynyrd Skynryrd/Alice Cooper/John Waite). Servers were attentive and friendly. Food was very good but Mac n Cheese was a little disappointing. More cheese sauce than cheese. Overall a nice venue that is supporting live music, diverse pub style menu and easy to find on Main Street in downtown Peoria!

Great spot in downtown Peoria that serves breakfast ALL DAY! The establishment was clean and the server was friendly and offered recommendations. They did mess up our order but it wasn't an issue at the end of the day. I'd definitely come back.