Champaign-Urbana Places To Watch the World Series

Yes, it’s true: the CUBS ARE IN THE WORLD SERIES. (Sorry if I just yelled that, but when something happens for the first time since 1945, it’s hard not to shout it from the rooftops.)

So what does that mean for Cubs fans in Central Illinois? Well, some of us might want to know where to watch these games outside of our house. Unlike the earlier series, these games will actually be on “free” over-the-air TV. But many people prefer to watch in public with other fans. Be advised: we anticipate restaurants and bars will be a little extra crowded this week, so factor that into your choices.

So without further ado, a few suggestions (in no particular order) that are a little more kid-friendly than some others:

* Old Chicago, Champaign (by Market Place Shopping Center). Well, we couldn’t fail to mention this place – for obvious reasons. Our readers love it here. We’re not sure if they still have a Tuesday pizza special or not, call first. Fly the W!

* Guido’s, downtown Champaign: Plenty of TVs and plenty of food options even the kiddos will like.

* Buffalo Wild Wings, Savoy and Champaign locations. This comes with a warning that it’s the place to be if you want lots of hooting and hollering. Also: tablets for kids, which have their pros – and cons.

* Jupiter’s at the Crossing (Champaign). The best of both worlds – arcade games for the kids, while the grown-ups watch THE GAME. Tempting. Now I want some BBQ pizza.

* The Hub, Champaign (West side of campus, First and Healey). This place is brand new and (warning) we haven’t had a chance to go yet, but it got our attention with claims of having the largest TV in Illinois. We do need a review of the mac and cheese (which looks delicious).

* Black Dog, downtown Urbana or Champaign. Whether you prefer an intimate setting (Urbana) or the new (Champaign) you can’t go wrong with a visit to Black Dog. Lots of TVs, but not overwhelming if some of your party is there more for the eating than the watching. The wait might be long, but the service is some of the best in town.