Valerie Hall+FollowChampaign-Urbana’s best Christmas eatsHoliday cooking doesn’t have to be stressful this year—Champaign-Urbana restaurants and caterers are stepping up with delicious options for every kind of celebration. Whether you’re craving Indian, Mexican, or classic comfort food, there’s a spot ready to serve or pack up a feast for you. From festive tamales at Maize Mexican Grill to vegetarian delights at Piato Café, and even live music at Rose Bowl Tavern, there’s something for everyone. Who’s planning to dine out or order in this Christmas? Share your favorite local holiday meal traditions or recommendations below! #Food #ChampaignUrbana #ChristmasDining00Share
John Romero+FollowChampaign-Urbana’s thrift shops: Hidden holiday gemsScoring unique holiday gifts doesn’t have to mean breaking the bank or hitting big box stores. Champaign-Urbana’s thrift scene is packed with treasures for every personality—think three floors of cozy reads at Jane Addams, rare records at Exile on Main Street, and mid-century finds at Furniture Lounge. For vintage fashion, Devotion and Resistance Threads both deliver standout style (and even host pop-up markets). The Idea Store is a dream for crafty types, while Crossroads Corner Consignment is perfect for those tricky-to-shop-for folks. Shopping secondhand here isn’t just affordable—it’s a way to give gifts with real local flavor. What’s your favorite thrifted find? #Shopping #ChampaignUrbana #ThriftShopping00Share
rmartinFollowingChampaign-Urbana’s food safety grades revealedNearly every restaurant and kitchen inspected in Champaign-Urbana last week earned a green placard—meaning they’re following health rules and serving up safe food. Only two spots landed a yellow rating, signaling they need to fix a few things before getting back to top marks. These grades are posted right at the door, so you know exactly what you’re walking into. Ever changed your mind about eating somewhere after seeing a yellow or red sign? Let’s talk about how these ratings shape where we choose to eat and what we expect from our local spots. #Health #BodyHealth #ChampaignUrbana00Share
William Vasquez+FollowChampaign-Urbana restaurants ace inspectionsEvery single restaurant and kitchen inspected by the Champaign-Urbana Public Health Department last week earned a green rating—meaning they’re all in solid compliance with health rules. That’s 30 local spots, from Northern Cuisine to Portillo’s, and even food pantries and sorority kitchens, all passing with flying colors. For anyone who loves eating out or grabbing takeout, this is a real win for our community’s health and peace of mind. Have you noticed any changes in your favorite places lately? Let’s talk about which local spots you trust most and why! #Health #BodyHealth #ChampaignUrbana00Share
