Mary Williams+FollowSeafood boil party lights up downtown ChampaignWatson’s Shack & Rail is marking 10 years in downtown Champaign with a Mardi Gras-style seafood boil on February 17! Picture snow crab, shrimp, sausage, potatoes, and corn, plus New Orleans bread and gumbo—all in one epic feast. Even their famous chicken tenders and waffle fries will be on hand. It’s more than just a meal; it’s a celebration of Watson’s journey from its original menu to food trucks and new locations. Who’s grabbing tickets and what’s your favorite Watson’s memory? Let’s toast to a decade of good eats and community! #Food #ChampaignEats #WatsonsAnniversary00Share
Michael Alvarez+FollowChampaign’s first Ethiopian spot draws a crowdBlue Ethiopian Cuisine and Cafe just made local food history in Champaign as the only Ethiopian restaurant in Central Illinois—and the community showed up in a big way. Nearly 150 people packed the family-run spot for its soft opening, sampling unique dishes and giving honest feedback. Owner Bezza Ayalew said guests were patient and open to trying new flavors, making the experience “fantastic.” The big grand opening is set for Saturday, and everyone’s invited. Who’s excited to have a new cuisine in town? What dishes are you hoping to try? Let’s talk about how this adds to Champaign’s food scene! #Food #ChampaignEats #EthiopianCuisine00Share
Annette Jones+FollowBlue Ethiopian Cuisine brings a flavor revolution to ChampaignChampaign just got a major upgrade—Ethiopian food has finally arrived! Blue Ethiopian Cuisine opened its doors downtown, and the buzz is real. The sïga bäyaynätu platter is a feast of tender meats, vibrant veggies, and that addictive housemade ïnjära, all meant to be shared with friends (and eaten with your hands!). The sauces pack a punch, and the homemade cheese is a perfect pairing. Yes, the service is still finding its groove, but after years of waiting, a few extra minutes is a small price for such bold, communal flavors. Who’s already planning their next visit? #Food #ChampaignEats #EthiopianFood00Share
dianefrank+FollowDowntown Champaign gets its first taste of EthiopiaDowntown Champaign is about to get a whole lot more flavorful with the opening of Blue Ethiopian Cuisine & Cafe—the area’s first-ever Ethiopian restaurant. Set in the historic Witt Building, Blue brings not just unique dishes like fresh injera and kitfo, but also an authentic coffee ceremony and handmade decor straight from Ethiopia. Owner Bezza Ayalew sees this as more than a restaurant; it’s a way to share heritage and community. Who’s excited to try something totally new in town? Let’s talk: What dish or experience are you most curious about? #Food #ChampaignEats #EthiopianCuisine00Share
Ryan Horne+FollowRamen week transforms ISHI into a noodle havenISHI is flipping its script next week—ramen takes over the whole menu from Wednesday to Saturday! If you’ve ever dreamed of slurping Chef Ishibashi’s legendary tonkotsu or seafood ramen, this is your chance. And for an extra kick, Chef Benny DelValley is joining the kitchen with his spicy karashibi miso ramen for dinner. The broths are rich, the chashu melts in your mouth, and the eggs are perfectly jammy—no canned corn in sight. It’s walk-in only, so rally your ramen-loving friends and make it a date. Who’s ready to taste the best bowl in Champaign? #Food #RamenWeek #ChampaignEats10Share
Robert Daniels+FollowSmith Burger Co. puts Champaign on the mapSmith Burger Co. is about to shine on the national stage, landing a spot on 'America's Best Restaurants'! This is huge for Champaign food lovers—one of our own is joining the ranks of top local favorites across the country. It’s not just about great burgers; it’s a big win for all the small businesses that make our community unique. Have you tried Smith Burger Co.? What other local spots do you think deserve the spotlight? Let’s celebrate our food scene and share your hidden gems! #Food #ChampaignEats #SupportLocal00Share
Michael Alvarez+FollowDowntown Champaign gets its first taste of EthiopiaDowntown Champaign is about to get a whole lot more flavorful—Blue Ethiopian Cuisine & Cafe is opening this weekend in the historic Witt Building, bringing the area’s first-ever Ethiopian restaurant. Expect injera made from 100% teff, fresh samosas, and even traditional Ethiopian coffee served with ceremony. Owner Bezza Ayalew is passionate about sharing his heritage, flying in authentic moseb baskets and planning to serve housemade tejj (honey wine) soon. This isn’t just a new spot to eat—it’s a chance to experience a vibrant culture right in the heart of our city. Who’s excited to try something totally new? #Food #ChampaignEats #EthiopianCuisine00Share
Michael Morgan+FollowChampaign’s new hibachi truck is here!Samurai Hibachi just rolled into Champaign-Urbana, and it’s already shaking up the local food truck scene. Parked at Hunter’s Haven on Bloomington Road, this spot is serving up hibachi favorites with your choice of five meats, plus tofu and veggie options. Every main comes with fried rice, veggies, and their signature sauce. The menu goes beyond hibachi—think stir-fry noodles, spring rolls, gyoza, and even chicken nuggets and flavored fries. It’s open Monday through Saturday, 3–9 p.m. Who’s checking it out this week? Let’s talk: what’s your go-to food truck order? #Food #ChampaignEats #FoodTruckFinds00Share
Robert Daniels+FollowChampaign’s Chili Bistro brings the spiceChili Bistro is shaking up Champaign’s Chinese food scene with a menu that’s both massive and bold. The pork soup dumplings are a total standout—juicy, savory, and bursting with flavor. If you’re feeling adventurous, the chef’s stir-fried frog legs pack a fiery punch (and yes, the spice warning is real!). While some dishes, like the veggie noodles, missed the mark, the overall experience was memorable thanks to the friendly staff and stylish, comfy setting. Prices are a bit higher than other spots, but the quality and unique dishes make it worth a try. Who’s ready to taste the heat? #Food #ChampaignEats #ChiliBistro00Share
Valerie Hall+FollowMaize on Neil brings back the taco joint vibeChampaign’s favorite taco spot just leveled up—Maize on Neil is open, and it’s got everything we’ve been missing: tons of parking, a drive-through for quick tacos, and the same casual, welcoming vibe that made the original Little Maize a local legend. You can watch tortillas being made right in the open kitchen, grab lunch or dinner to go, or just relax inside with friends. The menu’s all about fresh, handmade food that’s affordable and fast. Who’s excited to make this their new go-to spot? Let’s talk favorite Maize memories and what you’re ordering first! #Food #ChampaignEats #MaizeOnNeil00Share
