CHAMPAIGN, Ill. (Chambana Today) — Champaign-Urbana Area Restaurant Week will celebrate a decade of showcasing the region’s culinary scene when it returns Jan. 30 through Feb. 7.
Hosted by Experience Champaign-Urbana, the 10th annual event features nine days of special menus and dining options for breakfast, lunch, dinner, and dessert at locally owned restaurants throughout Champaign-Urbana and surrounding communities. The event is presented by the University of Illinois Community Credit Union, with additional sponsorship from Fever Tree, Silver Tree Beer & Spirits, Triptych Brewing, and Clanin Creative.
What began 10 years ago with 17 participating restaurants has grown into one of the area’s most anticipated winter events, now approaching more than 60 restaurants offering a wide range of cuisines and price points.
Restaurant Week highlights everything from casual cafés and dessert shops to upscale dining and farm-to-table experiences. This year’s event also includes restaurants outside the Champaign-Urbana area, with participating locations in Rantoul, Mahomet, St. Joseph, Monticello, Tuscola, and Paxton.
Organizers say the event provides an important boost for local restaurants during the slower winter months, generating tens of thousands of website views and increased foot traffic, particularly at the start of the event and on weekends. Diners are encouraged to make reservations where available or consider dining during off-peak hours to avoid long waits.
Menus for participating restaurants will be posted in the coming days at curestaurantweek.org, where diners can browse options and plan their visits. The site and Experience Champaign-Urbana’s Facebook event page will continue to be updated as additional restaurants join the lineup.
As of Jan. 8, participating restaurants include more than 60 establishments, ranging from bakeries, coffee shops, and food trucks to breweries, international cuisine, and classic American dining spots.
More information about Champaign-Urbana Area Restaurant Week, including menus, participating restaurants, and event updates, is available at curestaurantweek.org.