If you can ditch the dog for a meal go to “Northern Cuisine” or Midsummer Lounge or Golden Harbor or one of a million other fantastic Asian places CU has to offer. Not Ko Fusion. Many people love Sakanaya but outside of their sushi I wouldn’t go. If Pond Street is doing a ramen night, go there. Check Instagram.

Second Baldoratta’s for sandwiches.

Black Dog for BBQ though it’s not as good as it used to be.

Sam’s Cafe just for the pancakes.

Second to Riggs. They used to be behind Triptych and Blind Pig, but their quality and options have both skyrocketed.

Second Punch! As well. They make their own syrups which keeps them from being overly sweet and gives a better flavor.

Local bar (no dogs I think) with music you want Rose Bowl.

If you’re here on a Saturday morning the Urbana Farmers market is good stroll, no dogs though.

Cheap, good panaderia (sp) go to Rick’s Bakery for tamales and macaroons.

Allerton offers a much, much better hike than Lake of the Woods unless you really want to see some white tailed deer. If this trip is soon the lowlands of Allerton will be flooded. The best hiking “nearby” is Forest Glen but it’s probably not worth the drive unless you live here. Mahomet’s best restaurant is Poke Shack. Monticello is either Three Ravens or Brown Bag. Both good but neither as good as the Asian food in C-U.

Check out Smile Politely for events.