Part 2 of the Spring Into Local Bucket List Series
Presented by the Champaign Center Partnership
Spring in Champaign means patios, new flavors, and taking time to truly enjoy a good meal or drink with the people (and pets!) you love. Whether you’re dining out, sipping something local, or treating yourself to something sweet, this list is your guide to making the most of the season through food and drink.
Here are some delicious ways to eat, sip, and savor your way through Champaign this spring:
Step into timeless elegance at Hamilton Walker’s, where classic cocktails, premium steaks, and a sophisticated downtown setting make every visit feel like a special occasion. Or gather at Seven Saints, where expertly crafted cocktails, gourmet sliders, and a vibrant atmosphere promise an unforgettable experience. Whether it’s a solo dinner, date night, or celebration, these are perfect spots to kick off the season in style.
Hamilton Walker’s and Seven Saints are located in Downtown Champaign and are proud members of Champaign Center Partnership.
2. Try something new at Tenkyu, Sticky Rice, or Forage Kitchen
Expand your palate this spring with globally inspired local eats. Grab fresh sushi at Tenkyu, indulge in some pho from Sticky Rice or explore seasonally inspired dishes at Forage Kitchen, where healthy meets flavorful.
Tenkyu is located in Downtown Champaign and is a proud member of Champaign Center Partnership
Sticky Rice is located in Downtown Champaign and is a proud member of Champaign Center Partnership.
Forage Kitchen is located in Champaign’s Campustown and is a proud member of Champaign Center Partnership.
3. Soak up the sunshine on the patios at Bentley’s Pub, Punch! or Guido’s
As soon as the warm weather hits, Champaign’s patios come alive. Enjoy your favorite drink or a casual meal outdoors at spots like Punch! Bar & Lounge, Bentley’s Pub or Guido’s Bar and Grill. Pro tip: bring a friend and stay for golden hour.
Bentley’s, Punch! Bar & Lounge and Guido’s are located in Downtown Champaign and are proud members of Champaign Center Partnership.
4. Grab drinks with friends at Pour Bros., Watson's Shack & Rail, or Barrelhouse 34
Looking for the perfect happy hour hangout? Pour Bros. offers pour-your-own craft taps, Watson’s Shack & Rail has seasonal slush flights to fit your vibe for the season, and Barrelhouse 34 delivers a laid-back vibe with rooftop views. Cheers to spring!
Pour Bros, Watson’s Shack & Rail and Barrelhouse 34 are all located in Downtown Champaign and are proud members of Champaign Center Partnership
Savor bold flavors with a hot bowl of ramen at SUSURU RAMEN, or go crispy and satisfying with a Korean fried chicken combo from bb.q Chicken. These comfort foods are perfect for cool spring nights.
SUSURU RAMEN and bb.q Chicken is located in Champaign’s Campustown and are all proud members of Champaign Center Partnership.
Pick up crusty loaves, baguettes, or sandwich rolls made by Central Illinois Bakehouse at your favorite local grocer. Pair them with cheese, fruit, and a blanket, and you’ve got the perfect spring picnic.
Central Illinois Bakehouse is located in Champaign’s Midtown and is a proud member of Champaign Center Partnership
Stop by Suzu’s Bakery and let your sweet tooth choose: matcha rolls, seasonal tarts, mochi cake, and more. Whether you’re treating a friend or indulging yourself, dessert from Suzu’s is always a good idea.
Suzu’s Bakery is located in Downtown Champaign and is a proud member of Champaign Center Partnership.
This downtown market is a hidden gem. Martinelli’s Market: Bakery & Deli serves up fresh sandwiches, locally sourced snacks, and grab-and-go favorites that are perfect for your lunch break or springtime errand run.
Martinelli’s Market: Bakery & Deli is located in Downtown Champaign is a proud member of Champaign Center Partnership.
9. Grab late-night food at Legend’s Bar & Grill or Murphy’s Pub
When the evening runs long, these Campustown staples deliver. Legend’s offers bar bites in a sports-lounge setting, while Murphy’s Pub pairs classic pub fare with that unmistakable U of I vibe.
Legend’s and Murphy’s are located in Champaign’s Campustown and are proud members of Champaign Center Partnership.
Finally, a place where you AND your dog can both have a night out. Hounds Rest is a casual, dog-welcoming bar where locals gather for drinks, conversation, and canine cuddles. Great for spring evenings with your four-legged BFF.
Hounds Rest is located in Downtown Champaign and is a proud member of Champaign Center Partnership.
Welcome the warmer weather with good friends, great food, and a seat on the iconic Esquire Lounge patio. Whether you’re grabbing a casual lunch, unwinding after work, or catching a weekend game, Esquire serves up comfort food classics, local beers, and a relaxed, welcoming vibe that feels like home.
Don’t miss their legendary cheese balls—and definitely don’t forget the patio season vibes.
Esquire Lounge is located in Downtown Champaign and is a proud member of Champaign Center Partnership.
Spring is on the menu at Big Grove Tavern, where locally sourced ingredients meet creative, seasonal dishes. Whether you’re brunching with friends, planning a date night, or enjoying happy hour on the patio, Big Grove offers elevated comfort food in a warm, stylish setting. Pair your meal with a craft cocktail or local brew, and toast to new beginnings.
Fresh air, fresh food, and community vibes—it’s what spring in Downtown Champaign is all about.
Big Grove Tavern is located in Downtown Champaign and is a proud member of Champaign Center Partnership.
13. Spice up your spring with bold flavors from Maize Grille & La Bahia
Celebrate the season with vibrant, authentic Mexican cuisine from two of Downtown Champaign’s favorites—Maize Mexican Grille and La Bahia. Whether you’re grabbing street tacos and aguas frescas at Maize or sitting down for coastal-inspired dishes and cocktails at La Bahia, you’re in for a flavor-packed experience rooted in tradition and hospitality.
Both spots bring the warmth, spice, and soul of Mexico right to the heart of downtown—perfect for patio dining, date nights, or spontaneous lunches with friends.
Maize Mexican Grille and La Bahia are located in Downtown Champaign and are proud members of Champaign Center Partnership.
🌼 Ready for More Spring Adventures?
Head over to Part 3: Celebrate Local Arts, Culture & Community, where we’ll dive into Champaign’s creative side and share ways to experience the city through museums, music, and more!