Neil St Blues

Hands down my favorite bar in town!! Great cocktails, good selection of wine and warm, friendly…read moreservice always. Top notch bar food too, every food item in the menu and they were all delicious!!

Punch might be the best bar in all of Champaign. Im a little surprised that this is the first time…read moreI'm reviewing it as it's a "go to" for every visit. To describe the drinks would be impossible, but they constantly rotate craft cocktails that are still hand mixed and bartender inspired. The joy of this place are the bartenders which are outstanding. Some of the best in Champaign. They've recently expanded their snack menu and that makes it even better! They have a pretty extensive beer and wine menu, but cocktails are where they're at. Stop on by!

Inside

BOURBON BBQ CHICKEN FLATBREAD

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Bentley's Pub

4.1(27 reviews)

My friend visiting from California who I rarely see dropped their entire drink on the counter which…read morewas the modest of honest mistakes. Not even a shot was given for the friendly sportsmanship, unless $$$. Will not return but ok I guess.

I was so grateful this place was open late! I was surprised to see that not all bars in a college…read moretown are open to 2 on a weekend! My cousin, friend, sister and I were trying to find a place to have some drinks after my cousin's daughter's wedding and someone told us about this place a couple blocks down from our hotel. We walked in the freezing rain/snow and were so happy to get inside this warm bar. The bouncer at the door and the bartender were both very friendly and the service was quick. Prices were reasonable too. We found a table and all were able to have a couple of drinks before they closed. The vibe in this place was fun too!

Robert Palmer - Blueberry shrub, Deep Eddy lemon, Starry, and soda water

The Ronnie - House-infused strawberry rum and Red Bull

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The Ronnie - House-infused strawberry rum and Red Bull

Seven Saints

4.1(623 reviews)

0.2 mi

They accommodated our group of 15! The server did an amazing job. I don't know her name, but she…read morewas fantastic. Food is outstanding. Hubby had shrimp tacos, son had sliders, i had one of their amazing salads (BLT). Sangria was also great. Definitely would come back again! Such a cute restaurant in prime location.

Their sweet potato fries are FUCKING spectacular. Their sandwhich / sliders assortment is also…read moresomething that is super cool - they have, like, 14 different sandwhiches / burgers on their menu, all with different items? I don't even LIKE sliders, but this put me on! You can have many different smaller burgers for the same stomach space as a regular burger... its genius The ambiance of the bar is something that I love as well - whether you go here for a date or just to chit chat with your homies, the dim lighting makes this feel like a speakeasy, but the server's (who clearly work very hard, so props!) move around with such delicate urgency it makes you feel as though this place is the spot everyone wants to be at. Loved the food and the environment.

Bar area

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The bar area in Seven Saints

The Axe Bar

4.3(8 reviews)

0.2 mi

This is really fun! If you're looking for something unique to do this is definitely the place to…read morego! Service was basic, but it was good. It was a basic average bar vibe. We didn't eat anything

Love the Axe Bar!! Karaoke on Tuesdays and Fridays is always lit, and the staff as a whole always…read moremake it feel like home! The mac n cheese bites are my favorite, and the cocktails the staff comes up with (non-alcoholic included) always blow me away!! 10/10 would recommend always. Axe bar for life!

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Lloyd's Drinking Parlor

3.7(3 reviews)

2.0 mi

Nice comfortable place, like an old style lounge. Good quality drinks, but expensive.read more

I wanted to like this place so badly, I had heard such wonderful things about it but honestly I was…read moreleft wanting more. Granted I recognize this is a hotel bar, but I also believe hotel bars can be nice cocktail lounges. The first thing is the lounge itself, the chairs are so uncomfortable and the bar chairs are soooo short. I am 5'9 and sitting at the bar was comical lol so that alone was just something of note. I will say the bar tender was plenty nice and clearly very educated about the drinks on the menu. I had two cocktails while I was there, the Mai tai was very good! The other one was just okay but the name escapes me now. All in all if I was an out of towner who wanted a drink in the lobby I think this place is plenty nice. But as someone who lives there I'm not sure I would request this

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Poet's pearls (seafood ravioli)

The Literary

4.5(61 reviews)

Such an incredible store with the best vibe. Food is always amazing, and generous portions…read more It is so fun to wander around and look at books and goodies while you wait for food. Employees are always amazing. They always have fun seasonal tables and curated gifts for people who love books and stationary.

Cute bookstore/restaurant. Loved the food and drinks. I had the pistachio oat shaken espresso and…read moreavocado toast. 10/10! My husband had the drip coffee and Not So NYC breakfast sandwich with hashbrowns. So much flavor! 10/10

Not-So-NYC Breakfast Sandwich ($12) - bacon, egg, cheese, kimchi aioli, arugula. Served with hash browns. The bagel is really soft.

Vibe

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Cocktail

Barrelhouse 34

3.4(66 reviews)

Atmosphere on a Thursday night: PACKED AND AMAZING!…read more Tons of fun drink options. Lots of wood, very nice

Went on Thursday night with a group of friends for $8 barrels and they are large! I don't like to…read moretaste any alcohol in my drink so I asked for sour mix and the bar back added it and was friendly. The aesthetic inside was okay; the lights made it very red but they were on theme with the wood. It also wasn't too packed when we got there and got a table for our group after a little bit. I had a good time!

Moscow Mules

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Pour Bros Taproom

4.2(33 reviews)

0.2 mi

Found the location of this small chain of pour it yourself beers in Champaign. It has a few other…read morelocations in college towns in the state. Pour Bros is a great way to get a sample of beers from around here and worldwide. Get as little or as much as you would like to get. The price varies. Coming here a few times it's like there's always something else you can get. It's got shit tons of beers along the wall you can fill up on your own. The first thing is to get a card so you can activate taps. Every beer is at a price. It's per ounce and it adds up. Best one we got of these was the Wake Brewery selection Frost Hammer. It's $0.80 an ounce, which is one of the more expensive ones. Can bring food in here. They also have free popcorn. Have to know there's no special events before going or you will have to pay a cover. It's located on University at Market. There's not really any food but you can bring in stuff.

What a fun cool place to go to. Typical tap room where you get to try your own samples. They had a…read morestout that literally knocked me off my feet. A couple yummy meads-it was trivia night so it was packed. Great vibe, great staff, would definitely recommend.

Beers

Beer board in front of the self-pour wall

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Wake Frost Hammer And Popcorn

Collective Pour

4.5(26 reviews)

Bartender Grif took good care of us. Good service. Food was excellent…read more Will come back I Recommend the Bacon burger

Definitely a great addition to the downtown area. Location is perfect. Service was excellent. Brew…read moreselection is great and who doesn't love Smith Burger right there for your cravings. Space is quaint and perfect.

Regular & Late Night Food choices

Some of the beers

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I'm probably the only person in here who ordered a glass of wine. They have a gazillion beers on tap.

Tumble Inn Tavern

4.3(23 reviews)

0.4 mi

I love this bar. First of all, it has a great name. The beers are cheap, the bar seems pretty old…read moreschool, and the service is quick and friendly. This is a place I could spend hours in watching a game or hanging with friends. They also sell really cool shirts as well which is a huge plus Cash only. Highly recommend.

Definitely a great spot to stop for a cold beer. Dive bar at its best. Very friendly bartender…read more Will return if I'm back in town

Classic Dive Bar

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13 reviews that are not currently recommended

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4Seez P.

3 months ago

My husband Charles and I recently attended a retirement party at Neil St. Blues, and it was our very first time there-and let me just say, it will NOT be our last! From the host, to the waitresses, to the manager Gail-EVERYONE was absolutely fantastic. The customer service was truly extraordinary. We had the pleasure of meeting Gail, and she is just as sweet as can be. Now let's talk about the food...simply DELICIOUS! I normally don't finish everything on my plate, but this time-yes I did! That food was AMAZING. I even went back for a to-go box. Compliments to the cook(s), because the presentation was just as beautiful as the taste-everything was point on. The atmosphere was warm and pleasant, and everyone we met at the party was so very nice, a special thank you to Lester & Stephanie for inviting Charles and me-we wouldn't have missed such a well-deserved celebration for anything. We are new to the area, and we are so happy the Potts introduced us to this gem. Neil St. Blues is truly a one-of-a-kind restaurant. We will definitely be back to explore more of the menu! If you're looking for something to truly fulfill your taste buds-this is the place to go. Trust me, in time, they'll know our names in there. Highly recommend! read more

Mary H.

2 years ago

The dining experience was absolutely exceptional! From the moment we arrived, the service was top-notch--every team member, from the welcoming hostess to Shantel, who attentively cleared our table, contributed to the warm and polished atmosphere. We kicked off our meal with an array of appetizers: tender frog legs, crispy fried green tomatoes, golden hush puppies, and decadent charbroiled oysters. Each dish was a flavorful delight, setting the stage for what was to come. For our main courses, we indulged in smothered oxtails (rich and falling-off-the-bone), succulent ribs, crispy fried chicken, perfectly golden fried catfish, and plump, juicy shrimp. Every bite was a testament to the kitchen's mastery--seasoned flawlessly and cooked to perfection. The lively yet relaxed ambiance made our Saturday afternoon visit even more enjoyable. Whether you're a local or just passing through, this gem is a must-visit. Prepare for a memorable feast that will leave you eager to return! read more

Dustin T.

2 years ago

We got the Rib Tips, Fried Green Tomatoes, Shrimp and Grits, Oxtail, Fried Alligator Po Boy, and the Grilled Catfish Regular. All were amazing, but I want to shout out a few things. The Po Boy, so tender and crispy, and the pickles, tomatoes and slaw really cut through the meat - perfect. The Oxtail was tender and flavourful, and the grits is amazing on its on but the shrimp just makes it so much better. The collards greens and candied yams are so flavourful, bitter and sweet, and pair well with all the mains in exciting ways. The live music was awesome throughout, though you may have to speak up a bit through the meal. If you are coming with 4 or 5 people, divide and conquer. I recommend all these dishes and the restaurant highly. read more

D. R.

11 months ago

Neil St Blues was amazing! Me and my family went to this great establishment, and enjoyed the great pleasing and tasty food. The atmosphere was comfortable and very friendly. After we were done eating and soaking in the atmosphere; the owner came out, and introduced herself. Her name was Mrs. Gail, she was very very nice, and makes you fill like family. She told us that she was struggling getting some business, and needs some business, so please help her and her establishment out. I definitely recommend this place to hit up when your in Champaign, and help out Mrs. Gail and her establishment. read more

Twila D.

7 months ago

Great service and the food is amazing not to mention the desert .First time I visited it was my birthday and the waiter was so helpful and friendly she also accommodated my daughter like and dislike for the preparation of her meal.The slot machines was nice and clean and so was the establishment I'm spending my Valentines Day Dinner with my soon to be Husband. read more

Wanda A.

8 months ago

The food was great and our family enjoyed the visit and the food. They accommodations for 20-25 people was not a problem for our server. All of our orders were delivered hot and correct. She did an amazing job. The ambiance was very nice . Thank you so very much for your service Ms. Adams and Family read more

Kandra M.

9 months ago

Neil Street Blues Restaurant is wonderful. The soul food is delicious and the staff is very attentive and welcoming! It's a bonus when there is blues music!! Be sure to try this great restaurant. You will be amazed! read more

Sally S.

7 years ago

I have been here 3 times and enjoyed it thoroughly. The food and service are both wonderful. My favorites are the hush puppies, crab cakes, and catfish tacos. read more

Jonathon T.

4 years ago

Great food! Bad service. we have been eating here for years. Today mY have been a bad day for them!!!!! come for the food and ambiance, not the service! read more

Kimberly W.

10 months ago

Greens was a little too salty for me but still good. Waitress was outstanding Neil St is definitely a vibe.

John W.

3 years ago

Don't care for white ppl. Racist employees. I went to Big Grove, better food and more welcoming.

Bri M.

6 years ago

Great food and excellent service. I've been very happy with my experience each time I've visited.

Lynne L.

3 years ago

Great food and service. Staff was very friendly. Great ambiance I would visit again! read more

Neil St Blues - cocktailbars - Updated September 2026

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