• Your Freeport Destination for Great Food, Drinks, & Events!

American Restaurant in Freeport, IL

At Big O’s on the hollow, we’re more than just a place to grab a bite — we’re a destination for friends, family, and neighbors to gather around the table. Located at 1931 IL-75 E in Freeport, IL, our restaurant brings together hearty flavors, fresh ingredients, and a welcoming atmosphere that reflects the warmth of the community we serve. So whether you’re joining us for a casual lunch, an evening cocktail, or a Friday night fish fry, you’ll quickly see why so many locals have made us their go-to spot for American food in Freeport, IL.

From flame-grilled burgers to house-smoked brisket and hand-cut ribeye steaks, our menu is built on bold flavors and crafted with care. Pair your meal with a creative cocktail or a local brew from our bar, and you’ll find that every visit is an experience worth savoring.

A Taste of America, Done Our Way

When it comes to American cuisine, we believe in striking the perfect balance between comfort food and elevated dining. Our diverse menu is designed to satisfy every craving while showcasing our commitment to quality.

  • Juicy Flame-Grilled Burgers: Always fresh, never frozen, and customizable to your taste.
  • House-Smoked Brisket: A fan favorite, especially when paired with our beer cheese mac.
  • Hand-Cut Ribeye Steaks: Cooked to perfection and bursting with flavor.
  • Creative Starters & Sides: Shareable appetizers, fresh salads, and indulgent sides that round out your meal.

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Our Bar

What pairs better with a great meal than a perfectly mixed drink or an ice-cold beer? Our full-service bar offers everything from classic cocktails to seasonal specialties, along with a rotating selection of beers that cater to every taste. Whether you’re stopping in after work or kicking off your weekend with friends, our bar is the ideal spot to relax and enjoy good company.

Our Menu

Catering

Planning an event in Freeport or the surrounding area? Our catering service makes it easy to serve your guests the food they love, without the stress of cooking. At Big O’s on the hollow, we know that every event is unique, and we customize our catering options to fit your vision and budget.

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Private Event Room

In addition to our restaurant and catering services, we’re proud to offer a private event room for guests who want to host their celebrations here with us. Our spacious event room provides a warm and inviting atmosphere, perfect for birthdays, anniversaries, rehearsal dinners, and more.

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What Sets Us Apart

At Big O’s on the hollow, we’re not just another restaurant in Freeport, IL. Here’s what makes us different:

  • A menu packed with unique American-style dishes, from smoked brisket to hand-cut ribeyes.
  • Our Famous Fish Fry, consistently voted “Best of the Region.”
  • A full-service bar with cocktails and beers that keep our guests coming back.
  • Catering services that bring our food to your event.
  • A private event room for hosting celebrations in style.
  • Online ordering through Clover Online Ordering and DoorDash for easy pick-up or delivery.

We’ve built our reputation by delivering consistent quality, friendly service, and a dining experience that feels like home — because to us, our customers are family.

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What Our Customers Are Saying


Rating Stars

Deb W.

Celebrated husbands 75th Birthday, food was excellent and special dietary needs were accommodated, no problem our server said. Service was outstanding, atmosphere was fun. Thanks to the entire staff for a great time.

Rating Stars

Kim D.

We had the fish last Friday night and it was delicious, hot & we liked the side options for dietary choices! Great job by servers too! Thank you.

Rating Stars

Ben S.

Our first time here, we had appetizers and drinks on the patio. The atmosphere was great and so was the food. Big shout out to Callie, she was very friendly and attentive. We will definitely be back.

Serving Freeport & Beyond

Our roots are right here in Freeport, IL, but our reach extends to the surrounding communities of Stephenson County and beyond. Whether you’re a local regular or just passing through, you’ll find that Big O’s on the hollow embodies the spirit of Midwest hospitality — delicious food, generous portions, and a warm, welcoming atmosphere.

From Friday fish fry nights that pack the house to private events that bring families together, we’ve become a gathering place for our community. It’s a tradition we’re proud to continue and one we look forward to sharing with you.

Cedarville, IL / Baileyville, IL / Dakota, IL / Pearl City, IL / Lanark, IL / Stockton, IL / Pecatonica, IL / Rockford, IL / Monroe, WI / Lena, IL / Orangeville, IL / Winnebago, IL / Foreston, IL

Come Discover Why We’re “Best of the Region”

At Big O’s on the hollow, we’ve worked hard to become a trusted favorite for American food in Freeport, IL. Owned by Kevin O’Brien and fueled by a team that cares deeply about quality and service, we’ve created a restaurant that’s as versatile as it is welcoming. Dine with us in our spacious restaurant, relax at the bar with a cocktail, let us cater your next event, or reserve our private room for a special occasion. No matter how you experience Big O’s, you’ll see why so many people consistently vote us “Best of the Region.”

So the next time you’re craving a flame-grilled burger, a perfectly seared ribeye, or our Famous Fish Fry, we invite you to pull up a chair at Big O’s on the hollow. We’re here to serve great food, create memorable experiences, and celebrate the community we call home.

A Place to Gather, Eat, & Celebrate

At Big O’s on the hollow, we believe dining is about more than food — it’s about connection. That’s why our restaurant, bar, catering, and event services are all built around the idea of bringing people together. From everyday dinners to milestone celebrations, we’re honored to be a part of your story here in Freeport. So if you’re looking for a restaurant in Freeport, IL, that delivers outstanding meals, welcoming service, and options for every occasion, well, you’ve just found it. Your table is waiting — come see why Big O’s on the hollow has become a beloved gathering spot for our community.

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