Everyone has opinions when it comes to the bars on campus. I'm not one to discriminate when it comes to bars, but there are many people who have a favorite or even a bar that they “will never step foot in again." You might be a get-hammered-at-Kam's kind of guy or even a more relaxed Ride the Rail Legend's goer, but we can all agree that Champaign has some of the best college town bars in the nation. Back by popular request from my last article, in which Yelp users reviewed restaurants in the Champaign-Urbana community (if you missed it, you can check it out here - Champaign Does Yelp), see what Yelpers have to say about the fabulous establishments that are the bars of Champaign.
The Loyal Bro – Kam's
“Kams represents everything that college represents; debauchery, dirt cheap drinks, and FUN. To the people who gave shitty reviews on Kams, do us all a favor and don't come back because we didn't want you there in the first place! Go hang out at the Undergrad library, or better yet the Union cafeteria on a Friday night...now those people know how to party! Ever wonder why you can't get laid? Because you are a NERD" Source
The Fun Upperclassman – It's Brothers Bar & Grill
“When I was a senior, I believed wholeheartedly that Brothers was the most ridiculously awesome bar in Campustown. I still believe this, even though I seriously have no idea why. I love it because it caters to the older students - I never even used to go when I was under 21, because they'd just snatch the beer right out of your hand (jerks). The music was always the best - a great combination of whatever was popular on the radio at the time, and all those hilarious 80s/90s songs that you never thought you'd hear again. There was no dance floor - the whole FLOOR could be a dance floor if you staked out your claim early enough. You could creepily watch people from the top floor; it was a great place to spy on your ex, or that random hookup from freshman year. I've munched on their mozzarella sticks, failed miserably at their pool tables, and closed out the bar more times than I could ever count - especially senior year. Always will have a place in my heart!" Source
The One Who's Not a Fan – The Red Lion
“Eeeeeeewwwwwwwwwwwwwwwwww" Source
The Die-Hard Fan – Joe's Brewery
“Oh my god. Where can I start with this place? It is the greatest creation ever. This bar alone has changed humanity. I had the craziest adventure of my life at this establishment." Source
The One who Enjoys the Simple Things in Life – Murphy's Pub
“Decent drinks + chill atmosphere + Irish Nachos (oh God yes) + lack of sketchy people grinding on you = WIN." Source
The Tailgater – Legends
“Love it love it. Went here, hungover, on a Sunday in hopes of watching a game - and nursing the hangover. I had a delicious chicken wrap with french fries. I liked the all-wood interior, gave the place a nice feel to it. They also have a few games in the back...I think I saw Buck Hunter?
Whenever I return to UofI to party, I'll definitely hit this up in the evening to see how it is then." Source
The Mug Club Member – Illini Inn
“What the Inn lacks in amenities, it more than makes up with it's ambiance. This is no Joe's, Legends, or Brothers. While Ed is correct that lately, it seems like there's more patrons wearing vertical striped oxford shirts and square toed shoes on their way to Brother's, they don't tend to stick around too long. If you get there early, you can grab a table, toss some darts, and get your songs played on the internet jukebox.
Most of the bartenders are polite, patient, and fun. However, there's one beast of a woman who enjoys berating people who aren't the fastest Mug Club pledges... but hey, you asked for it anyway.
If you come to visit Champaign, you simply MUST join the 60,000 member mug club, and take in some of the history at the Inn... It's a Champaign institution." Source
