About The Buzz Cafe in Benton, Illinois

Who We Are

Since 1998, The Buzz Cafe has served as Benton's beloved family-owned gathering place, where genuine Midwest hospitality meets exceptional food and coffee. As the third owner since May 2008, we've built our reputation on quality ingredients, warm service, and deep community connections. Our family-owned and operated café is built around Benton's sense of community and the kind of authentic hospitality that makes southern Illinois special.



What started as a neighborhood coffee stop has grown into a full-service café offering breakfast, lunch, desserts, and local event catering throughout Franklin County.


At The Buzz Cafe, we believe in creating a welcoming space where neighbors become friends and every meal is prepared with care and attention to your individual needs.


See why families across Benton trust The Buzz Cafe for their daily dose of great food and genuine hospitality.

Our Story

We became the proud third owners of The Buzz Cafe in May 2008, taking over a Benton institution that had already been serving the community for a decade. From day one, our vision was to honor the café's legacy while expanding our reach throughout Franklin County and beyond.



Over the years, we've grown through word of mouth and the loyalty of customers from Benton to West Frankfort, Christopher, Herrin, and all the way to the beautiful Rend Lake area. Whether you're grabbing coffee before work or enjoying lunch with family, our café reflects the warmth of small-town Illinois living.


From historic downtown Benton to the scenic roads leading to Rend Lake, we've become a trusted part of daily life for residents across southern Illinois. Our deep roots in Franklin County have led to meaningful partnerships in nearby towns for events, fundraisers, and local gatherings that bring our communities together.


We proudly support local schools, churches, and community initiatives throughout southern Illinois, believing that a strong café helps build a stronger community.


Experience the difference that local ownership and community dedication make.

Why Customers Trust Us

Our amazing staff knows Benton families and businesses personally, treating every order with the same care we'd want for our own loved ones. We focus on quality ingredients, from fresh deli sliders and salads to house-made desserts and specialty teas that keep customers coming back.

Experience: Over 25 years of café tradition with dedicated family ownership since 2008

Our commitment: Known for warm service and genuine attention to dietary needs throughout Franklin County

Local expertise: Serving communities from Mount Vernon to Johnston City, with deep knowledge of southern Illinois preferences

What sets us apart: Wide range of gluten-free menu items and house-made desserts crafted with quality ingredients

Community involvement: Active partnerships supporting local schools, churches, and fundraisers across the region

Your next great meal deserves the personal touch of proven local experts. With decades of café experience and unwavering community commitment, The Buzz Cafe delivers the kind of quality and care that keeps Benton coming back. You can taste the difference that family ownership and local pride make in every bite. Stop in today for breakfast, lunch, or catering services in Benton and throughout Franklin County.