The best cafes in Southern Illinois

3 cafes we’ve checked and stand behind — with the story on each one. Not a ranking; a record.

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Cafes · 3 places · showing the latest additions first

The Vault Cafe on the Square

Cafes

Relaxed spot in a historic former bank offering cafe fare, such as breakfast plates & sandwiches.

504 Tower Square Plaza Floor 1 (Marion)

“Relaxed spot in a historic former bank offering cafe fare, such as breakfast plates & sandwiches.”

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Harbaugh's Cafe

Cafes

Carbondale staple since 2000, Harbaugh's Cafe stacks the morning wins with fan-favorite Biscuits and Gravy, the corned beef hash locals…

901 S Illinois Ave B (Carbondale)

“Carbondale staple since 2000, Harbaugh's Cafe stacks the morning wins with fan-favorite Biscuits and Gravy, the corned beef hash locals swear by, and local artwork on the walls. Perfect pick this week when you want real-deal breakfast or lunch without overthinking it.”

From the Southern Illinois newsletter, September 6, 2026

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Lost Forest Coffeehouse and Pub

Cafes

Whether your day calls for a dialed-in latte or a cold pint, Lost Forest Coffeehouse and Pub nails both with a chill, community-first vibe…

520 S Illinois Ave (Carbondale) · ✓ checked Aug 26

“Whether your day calls for a dialed-in latte or a cold pint, Lost Forest Coffeehouse and Pub nails both with a chill, community-first vibe that feels like a friend’s living room. Perfect for early caffeine missions, low-key catchups, or decompressing after work right here in Southern Illinois.”

From the Southern Illinois newsletter, September 2, 2026

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