The Best Places to Eat in Central Illinois
"Silvercreek in Urbana opened in 1990, but it feels like it’s been around much longer. A cynic would be inclined to point out that’s due in part to the interior, which is wood-paneled to the nth degree, and likely due to the menu, as well, which reads heavy on classics not seen in most places since 1990. But then again, Central Illinois has a way of charming the cynicism out of anyone. The wholesomeness? That’s not a shtick. It is real, as is the local love for this restaurant. Silvercreek feels like it’s been around forever because, even at lunchtime on weekdays, the tables are filled with families of all shapes and sizes, from grandparents to grandkids, with most of them joking to their servers that there’s just no keeping them away. This is a “family restaurant” in the absolute best sense of the term, but also one that doesn’t shy away from strong, sturdy cocktails or a bit of fun in the kitchen. Not to be missed are the shrimp and grits — creamy with cheddar cheese and finished on top with a fiendishly sweet bourbon glaze — which offers a fascinating Midwestern take on something so decidedly not Midwestern and one that will win over even the most cynical food critics in town." - Timothy DePeugh
