How many local restaurants are for sale? More than you might realize.

Don’t panic: the owners on this list plan to stay open until a new buyer takes over, but you might be surprised at the number restaurants for sale in Southern Illinois.

From historic dinners and cafes to bars and burger joints, restaurant owners across the region on the market.

Real Estate Agent John L. Eichenlaub, with Barber Murphy Group, said some owners are ready to retire while others want to move on to different business ventures.

That means there’s no shortage of real estate for the next generation of restaurants owners.

Check out this list of the most iconic places on the market:

Fairview Lounge

Price: $700,000

This Fairview Heights restaurant has five stars on Yelp. Now, the owner Abraham Abdalla and his wife, Lorena are looking for a bigger place with more parking for their business, which includes a gas station with six pumps.

A few years ago, the owners converted part of their convenience store into a restaurant and bar that serves Peruvian food. Customers can fill up their gas tanks, then stop in for a chicken kebab and a cold one.

Ariston Cafe

Price: $975,000

Want to own the oldest restaurant on Route 66?

Located at 413 N. Old Route 66 in Litchfield, this historic restaurant is on the market after more than 90 years of serving locals and tourists.

“Ideally, the owner would like to see the tradition of the Ariston continue,” Eichenlaub said. “But the buyer will ultimately determine the future use.”

The 5,400 square-foot building can seat up to 100 guests. Owner Nick Adam wants to travel Route 66 when the place sells.

“For me to walk out of that door for the last time,” Adam said. “That will be the hardest thing to do.”

Eddie’s Bar and Grill

Price: $475,000

This longtime bar and grill, located at 2900 Nameoki Road in Granite City, is on the market.

The popular hangout is massive, with seating for 156 in the bar and dining room area; two kitchens and equipment; a bar; three pool tables; five gaming machines; walk-in cooler; and separate smoking room with a pool table and seating for 20.

On the second level, there’s another bar, four pool tables and seating for 70.

Sandwich Shop

Price: $279,000

This Collinsville restaurant has been at 216 W. Main St. since 1974. That’s a long run, but now owner Judy Johnson is ready to let it go.

“We’ve all decided it’s been enough,” she said, speaking for herself and her family members who work there. The restaurant, including the name, business and catering service has been on the market for nearly two years now.

Perfect 10 Pub (formerly 4204 Main Street Brewing Co., Alton.)

Price: $275,000

Earlier this year, the 4204 Main Street Brewing Co. restaurant in Alton closed for renovations and reopened as The Perfect 10 Pub & Grill.

Now, the restaurant is for sale.

Located on an outlot of Alton Square Mall, the restaurant can seat up to 200 people inside.

More on the market

Other notable listings being handled by other real estate agents in Belleville include: Big Daddy’s Bar and Grill; Steak N’ Shake; Fischer’s Restaurant; Nanny Lou’s, Stoney’s; the former site for Taco Bell and Big Reggies BBQ; and the former Baskin Robbins.

This story was originally published September 28, 2017 at 3:11 PM with the headline "How many local restaurants are for sale? More than you might realize.."