In my last post, I listed many local restaurants with which I am acquainted that are a part of the Capital City Takeout Challenge.
Since then, the list of participating restaurants has expanded somewhat, so naturally, I figured it would behoove me to mention a few more.
Some of the establishments on this list have tried to come up with creative methods of combating the approaching wintry weather. The Fire Marshal, however, has had some things to say about open flames in tents, so this is a developing story as of 6:20 AM on December 10.
In any case, here are seven more local restaurants that I can recommend. Remember, the Capital City Takeout Challenge ends December 18, so if you haven’t started yet, better get on it!
Mekong Cafe
1308 S. 2nd St. Springfield, IL
Takeout Only
217-391-2511
http://restaurantportals.com/MekongCafe/
These folks have had a heck of a time this year. First, the COVID lockdown in March that affected everyone. Then, just four weeks later, some buttmunch was flying down 2nd Street and ran into a car, knocking it into the Mekong Cafe building. Then, after they repaired THAT hole, the restaurant was vandalized at the end of May during the BLM protests. A family emergency in September closed them down once again, however briefly. But they’re still standing. Let’s help them keep it that way!
Sweet Basil Cafe
4241 Conestoga Dr. Springfield, IL
Takeout, Heated tent (?)
217-679-2967
http://www.SweetBasilCafes.com/
This megadiner had only been open a week when the second lockdown went into effect. They are known for HUMONGOUS portions and one of the most encyclopedic menus I have ever seen. We ate there three times the first week. Pretty much whatever food you’re craving, they’ve got it. Unless they can resolve the heated tent issue, however, they may have to go back to takeout only. Sangamon County isn’t messing around this time and has pulled the licenses of several restaurants that violate the COVID order, shutting one down completely.
La Fiesta
Two locations in Springfield. Pic below from 106 N. 5th St. Auburn, IL
Takeout. Outdoor seating, weather permitting
217-925-2200
LRF featured La Fiesta in Part 2 of this series. The Auburn location has been our go-to for takeout. They provide several new picnic tables for outdoor seating as well, though after today’s 60-degree forecast, I fear our run of good weather will be coming to an end.
Still, when Spring comes, and we’re HOPEFULLY done with all this COVID stuff, I hope places keep the outdoor dining thing. It does something for the sense of community when you see all these people outside enjoying themselves. The Auburn square hasn’t been this lively in the 23 years that I’ve lived here, and La Fiesta is a big part of that.
Chatham Cafe
414 N. Main Plaza Chatham, IL
Takeout only
217-697-1101
Chatham Cafe has had outdoor dining for a while; however, they have the misfortune of being a west-facing business. This means sun in your face at dinner time. They do a robust takeout business though, and being the only diner in Chatham, they do have a solid local following.
Finley’s Tap House
3236 Ginger Creek Drive Springfield, IL
Heated deck, plus inside dining with open windows
217-572-1996
http://www.FinleysTapHouse.com/
Another repeater from Part 2, I wanted to mention Finley’s again for their outside-the-box thinking on seating. We ate there just last night, and were able to sit inside, because the bar side of their dining area has windows that open out to the patio. Apparently, the level of ventilation appeased the public health department to where they allowed limited indoor seating (although Finley’s is strict with contact tracing, just to be on the safe side).
They have put up canvas on the outside to block the wind, but left the top open so that they can have a couple of their patio heaters running inside the canvas, but outside the building (no carbon monoxide issues). Also, they have portable space heaters by each of the tables next to an open window. It isn’t perfect, but it’s pretty darn good. So is the food.
Hunan
1333 W. Wabash Jerome, IL
Takeout Only
217-726-5670
Since Hunan relocated down the street, they have rebranded themselves a bit. (OK, more than a bit.) It sounds like it ought to be a basic Chinese restaurant, and they certainly do have that cuisine. But they are also known for sushi, and now they have even gotten into the Cajun seafood boil craze. Springfield currently has three places featuring crab, etc. boils with a fourth on the way. I haven’t jumped on this bandwagon yet, but plan to soon. Stay tuned!
Krekel’s Custard
Various locations in Macon and Sangamon County. Pic Below from 310 Carroll St. Pawnee, IL
Takeout with walk-up window
217-625-4952
https://www.krekelscustard.com/
Krekel’s started in Decatur, IL way back in 1949. They now have seven locations where they serve up burgers, shakes, and fries that have remained basically unchanged since then. If you’re in Central Illinois, chances are you have encountered their unique marketing tool, the car with the chicken on top.
The fight to save Illinois restaurants is a long way from over, and it certainly won’t end on December 18 when the takeout challenge does.
So, go out and getcha some! Oh, and don’t forget to wear your mask!
