A Foodie's Guide to Champaign, Illinois: Where to Find the Best Eats
Champaign-Urbana is more than just a college town. It's a vibrant hub with a diverse and delicious culinary scene, catering to every taste and budget. Whether you're craving a casual burger, a fine dining experience, or something in between, Champaign has something for you.
Here's a curated list of the best places to eat in Champaign, Illinois, categorized by cuisine:
Burgers & More Casual Fare
- The Blind Pig: This popular gastropub offers a wide selection of craft beers and elevated pub fare, including their famous "Blind Pig Burger" with a crispy fried egg.
- The Cowboy Monkey: A lively spot known for its inventive burgers, mouthwatering fries, and creative cocktails. Don't miss their signature "Cowboy Monkey" burger with pulled pork and BBQ sauce.
- BlackBerry Bistro: A cozy spot with a charming ambiance, serving classic American comfort food like juicy burgers, chicken sandwiches, and crispy fries.
- Jupiter's: A local favorite for its generous portions and delicious burgers. Try their signature "Jupiter's Burger" topped with bacon, cheddar, and a fried onion ring.
Pizza & Italian
- Pzazz: Known for its unique and creative pizza combinations, Pzazz offers a wide range of toppings and crust options.
- Mama's Pizza: A Champaign institution for over 30 years, Mama's Pizza serves up classic New York-style pizza with a generous amount of cheese and sauce.
- Crisp: This modern eatery features a stylish atmosphere and serves up thin-crust pizzas, pasta dishes, and salads.
Asian Cuisine
- Dragon Palace: A reliable choice for authentic Chinese cuisine, featuring a vast menu with classics like Kung Pao chicken and General Tso's chicken.
- Sushi House: A popular spot for fresh and flavorful sushi, with a wide selection of rolls, nigiri, and sashimi.
- Seoul Taco: A unique fusion restaurant that blends Korean and Mexican flavors, serving delicious tacos, burritos, and rice bowls.
Mexican & Latin American
- Los Mariachis: A lively spot with a festive atmosphere, serving traditional Mexican dishes like tacos, burritos, enchiladas, and fajitas.
- El Toro: A popular choice for authentic Mexican food, offering a wide range of dishes, from classic tacos to flavorful mole.
- La Taberna de Santiago: A stylish restaurant serving tapas, paella, and other Spanish dishes.
Sweet Treats
- The Chocolate Shoppe: A local favorite for its wide selection of chocolates, truffles, and other decadent treats.
- Krannert Center for the Performing Arts: Their cafe offers a variety of desserts, including delicious pastries and ice cream.
- Cupitol Coffee: Not only is this spot great for coffee, but they also offer a selection of baked goods, from cupcakes to cookies.
Bonus Tip: Champaign-Urbana is home to the University of Illinois, so be sure to check out the wide variety of restaurants and food trucks located on campus.
Enjoy your culinary journey through Champaign!
