Chowin’ downstate
ByChowin’ downstate in Bloomington, Normal
Not sure what it is, but Bloomington/Normal has a great vibe. Maybe it because it is both a college town and a magnet for corporate headquarters like State Farm Insurance, whatever the case, I never run out of places to eat when I am down.
A chain standout is Destihl. Destihl is a great place to bring a date, meet a friend or hang with co-workers. Food is good, décor attractive, bar is inviting and the staff is really on the ball. And, Destihl has probably the best restrooms in town.
A Renees Wine Bar is a great place for a date or a for a girls’ night. The wine bar is an add-on from the wine shop that has been there for a while. You can order from the menu or buy a bottle in the attached wine shop and pay a corkage fee in the cafe. The décor is super-cool, Neighborhood Thrift down the street helped them furnish the place!
Reality Bites near the college has a great selection of draft beers and some really good table bread. Everyone seems to like the fish tacos. Parking is rough right now due to construction but that will change.
Schooner’s is totally local but worth a stop. The beer garden is as laid back as can be. Cash only is an inconvenience, but the onion rings are so worth it.
Swingers Grille is the standby. Located in the lower level of the All Seasons Entertainment Center, Swingers has ample parking, isn’t far off the expressway, has live entertainment on the weekends and offers a menu for most tastes. It is definitely the place to go after graduation.
Destihl, 318 S Towanda Ave., Normal, IL 61761 (309)862-2337 www.destihl.com
A Renee’s, 306 N Center St, Bloomington, IL (309)827-3524 www.arenee.com
Reality Bites, 414 N Main St., Bloomington, IL (309) 828-1300 www.realitybitesinc.com
Schooner’s, 810 E Grove St., Bloomington, IL (309)829-6841
Swinger’s Grille, 1304 Cross creek Drive, Normal, IL (309)829-5777 www.swingersgrille.com
