Foodie Finds in Champaign, Illinois

Top 10 Dining Experiences in Champaign, Illinois

Champaign, Illinois, a vibrant city known for its thriving food scene, offers a myriad of culinary delights that are sure to tantalize your taste buds. Whether you're a local foodie or a traveler looking for the ultimate dining experience, this city has something for everyone. From authentic Mexican cuisine to mouthwatering barbecue and exotic Asian dishes, Champaign is a food lover's paradise. In this article, we will explore ten of the best dining spots in Champaign, along with what you should order to make the most of your experience.

1. Dos Reales Mexican Restaurant
Address: 1407 N Prospect Ave, Champaign, Illinois, 61820
Restaurant URL: [Dos Reales Mexican Restaurant](https://zmenu.com/dos-reales-champaign)
Sample Menu URL: [Dos Reales Mexican Restaurant Sample Menu](

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Dos Reales Mexican Restaurant is a popular spot for those seeking authentic Mexican flavors. Nestled in a cozy corner of Champaign, this restaurant boasts a lively atmosphere and a menu filled with traditional dishes. One must-try dish is their sizzling fajitas, which come with tender grilled meat, sautéed onions and peppers, and warm tortillas. Pair it with their signature margaritas for the ultimate Mexican dining experience.

2. Las Palmas Mexican Grill
Address: 608 W Town Center Blvd, Champaign, Illinois, 61822
Restaurant URL: [Las Palmas Mexican Grill](https://zmenu.com/las-palmas-champaign)
Sample Menu URL: [Las Palmas Mexican Grill Sample Menu](

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For another dose of Mexican cuisine, head to Las Palmas Mexican Grill. This vibrant eatery offers a variety of dishes bursting with bold flavors. Their mouthwatering Enchiladas Suizas, filled with chicken and topped with a creamy sauce and melted cheese, are a crowd favorite. Complete your meal with their refreshing Horchata, a traditional Mexican rice drink that perfectly complements the spicy flavors.

3. Fiesta Cafe
Address: 216 S 1st St, Champaign, Illinois, 61820
Restaurant URL: [Fiesta Cafe](https://zmenu.com/fiesta-cafe-champaign)
Sample Menu URL: [Fiesta Cafe Sample Menu](

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If you're craving authentic and flavorful Tex-Mex cuisine, Fiesta Cafe is the place to be. Located in the heart of Champaign, this cozy eatery offers a warm and inviting atmosphere. Indulge in their sizzling Chimichangas, deep-fried burritos filled with your choice of meat and topped with salsa and guacamole. Don't forget to sample their homemade salsa, made from fresh ingredients and packed with zesty flavors.

4. Black Dog Smoke & Ale House
Address: 320 N Chestnut St, Champaign, Illinois, 61820
Restaurant URL: [Black Dog Smoke & Ale House](https://zmenu.com/black-dog-smoke-and-ale-house-champaign)
Sample Menu URL: [Black Dog Smoke & Ale House Sample Menu](

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For barbecue enthusiasts, Black Dog Smoke & Ale House is a must-visit destination. This award-winning restaurant is famous for its slow-smoked meats and hearty sides. Sink your teeth into their mouthwatering Pulled Pork Sandwich, perfectly tender with a hint of smoky flavor. Pair it with their famous mac and cheese for a true taste of barbecue heaven.

5. Bangkok Thai Restaurant & Pho 911
Address: 410 E Green St, Champaign, Illinois, 61820
Restaurant URL: [Bangkok Thai Restaurant & Pho 911](https://zmenu.com/bangkok-thai-and-pho-911-champaign)
Sample Menu URL: [Bangkok Thai Restaurant & Pho 911 Sample Menu](

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Craving the flavors of Southeast Asia? Look no further than Bangkok Thai Restaurant & Pho 911. This inviting eatery offers an extensive menu of Thai and Vietnamese delicacies. One standout dish is their Pad Thai, a stir-fried noodle dish with a perfect balance of sweet, sour, and savory flavors. Complete your meal with a bowl of their steaming and aromatic Pho, a traditional Vietnamese soup loaded with fresh herbs and tender meats.

6. ChinaTown Buffet
Address: 713 W Marketview Dr, Champaign, Illinois, 61822
Restaurant URL: [ChinaTown Buffet](https://zmenu.com/chinatown-buffet-champaign)
Sample Menu URL: [ChinaTown Buffet Sample Menu](

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For those who prefer a wide variety of options, ChinaTown Buffet is the perfect choice. This all-you-can-eat buffet offers a vast selection of Chinese, Japanese, and American dishes. Start with their delectable General Tso's Chicken, a favorite among many diners. Don't forget to indulge in their freshly made sushi rolls and flavorful Mongolian stir-fry.

7. The Himalayan Chimney
Address: 134 W Church St, Champaign, Illinois, 61820
Restaurant URL: [The Himalayan Chimney](https://zmenu.com/the-himalayan-chimney-champaign)
Sample Menu URL: [The Himalayan Chimney Sample Menu](

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For a taste of the exotic and authentic Nepalese and Indian cuisine, head to The Himalayan Chimney. This cozy restaurant delights guests with its flavorful curries and traditional dishes. Try their Chicken Tikka Masala, tender marinated chicken cooked in a rich and creamy tomato-based sauce. For a vegetarian option, their Vegetable Biryani, a fragrant rice dish packed with aromatic spices and mixed vegetables, is a must-try.

8. ISHI sushi & Kaori’s Oven
Address: 305 Cedar St, Champaign, Illinois, 61820
Restaurant URL: [ISHI sushi & Kaori’s Oven](https://zmenu.com/ishi-sushi-and-kaori-s-oven-champaign)
Sample Menu URL: [ISHI sushi & Kaori’s Oven Sample Menu](

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If you're a fan of Japanese cuisine, look no further than ISHI sushi & Kaori’s Oven. This charming restaurant offers a fusion of traditional Japanese dishes and modern creations. Start your meal with their Fresh Spring Rolls, packed with crispy vegetables and delicate shrimp, accompanied by a tangy dipping sauce. For the main course, their signature ISHI Roll, a unique combination of shrimp tempura, avocado, and spicy crab, will surely satisfy your sushi cravings.

9. Sams Cafe
Address: 115 N Walnut St, Champaign, Illinois, 61820
Restaurant URL: [Sams Cafe](https://zmenu.com/sams-cafe-champaign)
Sample Menu URL: [Sams Cafe Sample Menu](

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For lovers of Korean cuisine, Sams Cafe is the go-to spot in Champaign. This hidden gem offers an array of authentic Korean dishes in a cozy and inviting setting. Try their Bibimbap, a traditional Korean rice bowl topped with an assortment of fresh vegetables, meat, and a sunny-side-up egg. Don't miss out on their flavorful Korean BBQ, where you can grill your own succulent cuts of marinated meats at your table.

10. Maize at the Station
Address: 100 N Chestnut St, Champaign, Illinois, 61820
Restaurant URL: [Maize at the Station](https://zmenu.com/maize-at-the-station-champaign-3)
Sample Menu URL: [Maize at the Station Sample Menu](

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To satisfy your cravings for Latin American cuisine, visit Maize at the Station. Located in the heart of Champaign, this colorful restaurant offers a menu inspired by the flavors of Mexico and Central America. Start your culinary journey with their scrumptious Empanadas, stuffed turnovers filled with various savory fillings. For the main course, their Grilled Steak Tacos, perfectly seasoned and topped with fresh salsa and guacamole, are a must-try.

Conclusion

Champaign, Illinois, is a food lover's paradise, with a diverse culinary scene offering flavors from around the world. From authentic Mexican cuisine to heavenly barbecue, exotic Asian dishes to mouthwatering Nepalese delights, this city has it all. Whether you're a local or a traveler passing through, make sure to visit these ten amazing dining spots and indulge in their signature dishes. With their unique flavors and inviting atmospheres, these restaurants are sure to satisfy even the most discerning foodies.

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