Celebrating Valentine’s Day Weekend in the Champaign-Urbana Area
Valentine’s Day is just around the corner, and the Champaign-Urbana area is brimming with dining options and Valentine's Day-themed activities to make your celebration special. Whether you're on a first date, celebrating years of love, toasting to friendship, or just going at it solo, there are plenty of opportunities to embrace the holiday in a plethora of ways. Here’s a guide to help you plan the perfect Valentine’s Day in the Champaign-Urbana area!
Valentine's day Dining Options
Due to the spirit of Valentine's Day, it is recommended to call restaurants in advance or check online for reservations.
Chophouse on Main
Chophouse on Main located in Mahomet offers the best of both worlds: Exceptional cuisine with two unique dining experiences. Their first floor offers a more traditional, upscale feel where the second floor is more family-friendly, coupled with a sports bar—perfect for long-standing couples, first dates, or for the whole family! Their Valentine’s Day Special includes dishes like Chicken Parmesan served with linguine & a vodka sauce, and Cherry Bourbon Lamb Chops with fingerling potatoes & garlic-oil-fried brussel sprouts.
As of February 10, Friday’s reservations are limited, but you can reserve with several time slots for Saturday here.
ET’s Downtown Rantoul
Burgers, BBQ, beer, and maybe a little Bourbon, ET’s is an excellent choice for a first date or for those who prefer a more casual, comfortable setting. Classic American fare is the name of the game here, with appetizers like Pulled Pork Nachos, a delectable Veggie Burger (brown rice, quinoa, bulgur roasted corn, black beans, mushrooms, and roasted red peppers) and a rotating line up of house-made desserts. You can check out their daily menu and specials here.
Hamilton Walker’s
Known for its chic old Hollywood vibe and upscale dining, there’s no denying that a reservation at Hamilton Walker’s encapsulates the perfect Valentine’s date night. The menu—created from the finest premium aged meats, freshest seafood, and hand-selected produce offers a superior dining experience.
As of February 10, while Friday the 14th and Saturday the 15th are booked for dinner, you can secure a dinner spot on Sunday the 16th here.
Nando Milano Trattoria
Where tradition meets elegance, Nando’s is known as an elevated date spot with its intimate lighting, robust wine selections, and romantic atmosphere. With a focus on authentic, handcrafted dishes, each plate tells a story of Italy’s rich culinary heritage.
As of February 10, while Friday the 14th is booked for reservations, you can secure a spot on Saturday and Sunday here.
Naya Indian Cuisine
Love is in the air, and Naya Cuisine is setting the perfect scene for a romantic evening! Treat your special someone to a delicious, intimate dinner with two dishes of your choice, coupled with lassi (Sweet/Mango), and Naan (Garlic or Plain)! Elevate your dining experience by ordering a bottle of Belaire Champagne.
Can’t make it for Valentine’s Day? Have no fear! This Naya Cuisine special will be available for the entire month of February.
The Wheelhouse
Farm fresh, local eats. The Wheelhouse’s bread and butter (no pun intended) is their farm-to-table philosophy, supporting organic farming, sustainable agriculture, and community-supported agriculture for an exceptional dining experience. Treat your sweetie with a variety of dishes such as the Blue Hopi Grits and Shrimp (blue Hopi Corn Grits & Shrimp with bacon, Poblano Peppers, pickled corn and lemon cream), the Cuban Rueben, and much more.
Sun Singer Restaurant and Wine Bar
Combining the concepts of retail, a wine bar cafe, and a gourmet deli, Sun Singer offers over 30 wines by the glass from around the world, coupled with an elevated dining menu perfect for your romantic weekend! Speaking of, Sun Singer is rolling out a special Valentine’s Day menu for February 14 and 15. Dishes include Pork Belly brochettes, Lemon Ricotta Ravioli, a gluten-free chocolate torte, and much more. Did we mention they’re also kicking off Oyster Week?
Check out their Valentine’s Day Menu here:
For Oyster Week, click here:
Silvercreek
For the past 30+ years, Silvercreek has been regarded by locals as a premier spot to host your special occasion. From the glittering glass greenhouse on the lower level to the stunning antique collections on display in the main dining room, Silvercreek is the perfect backdrop for Valentine’s Day Weekend. On February 14–16, enjoy a special dinner menu such as Dijon-Crusted Salmon, Chicken Cordon Bleu, Herb-Crusted Pork Chops, Blackened Mahi-Mahi, and much more. Gluten-free and vegetarian options are also available!
Be sure to secure your reservation online or by giving them a call at 217-328-3402. As of February 10, there are currently no reservations available between 5:00 pm–9:00 pm on Friday 2/14.
Timpones
Located near the University of Illinois Campus, Timpones celebrates the simple pleasures of Italian cooking in a welcoming, sophisticated and intimate dining room. Specialties include dishes like grilled swordfish and pan-seared rare Ahi tuna, gourmet pizzas, pasta and desserts made in-house each day, with a diverse wine selection and quality dining at reasonable prices.
Check out their menu here.
Special Valentine’s Day Events
Enhance your celebration (or revolt against it) by attending one of these special events!
Project READ: Valentine’s Day Social
When: February 12, 3:30 PM–5:30 PM
Where: Urbana Free Library | 210 W Green St, Urbana
Galentine’s Candle Party
When: February 12, 6:00 PM–8:00 PM
Where: Alto Vineyards | 4210 N Duncan Rd, Champaign
Yellow and Co. Valentine’s Day Show with Comedian Bob Zany
When: February 14, 7:30 PM–9:00 PM
Where: Yellow & Company | 1830 Patton Dr, Mahomet
Valentine’s Day Cooking Class & Wine Tasting with Grovestone
When: February 14, 6:30 PM–8:00 PM
Where: Grovestone | 1707 W Kirby Ave, Champaign
Lit Friends and Valentines Social
When: February 14, 6:30–8:30 PM
Where: Literary Book Bar | 122 N Neil St, Champaign
Love is a Drag - Valentine’s Day Drag Show
When: February 14, 10:00 PM
Where: The Axe Bar | 114 S Neil St, Champaign
Anti-Valentine’s Day at Bunny’s Tavern
When: February 14, 10:00 PM
Where: Bunny's Tavern | 419 N Neil St
Valentine’s Dinner for Two at Allerton Park & Retreat Center
When: February 15, 6:30 PM
Where: Allerton Park and Retreat Center | 515 Old Timber Rd, Monticello
Send a Quantum Valentine
When: February 15, 1:00 PM–2:30 PM
Where: Urbana Free Library | 210 W Green St
Kids Valentine’s Crafts at Literary Book Bar
When: February 15, 4:00 PM–5:00 PM
Where: Literary Book Bar | 122 N Neil St
Tainted Love - An Anti-Valentine’s Day Market
When: February 16, 11:00 AM
Where: Anthem | 320 N Neil St