A Short Guide to Indian Food in Champaign-Urbana, IL

Central Illinois isn't an area you'd think of when you're craving a curry. However, the University of Illinois attracts a wide range of people from all over the world. This means that, outside of Chicago, Champaign-Urbana is one of the best places in the state to find great Indian food. The campus atmosphere also means that it's available relatively cheaply. If you're hoping to get a great meal without breaking the bank, and want a little something different, Chambana's three Indian restaurants are the perfect choice.

Looking for good vegetarian food, but tired of veggie-burgers and salad? Then East and West, at the corner of Green and Wright streets is a good place to start. The atmosphere is very casual, but the food is delicious and plentiful. During the day, this restaurant offers a vegetarian buffet. If you'd prefer to choose something from the menu, East and West has a selection of curries. Less commonly seen in restaurants are chaats - a kind of potato salad, which East and West has several versions of. Try a tamarind-flavored chaat, or one that includes a fried samosa dumpling. A great place for students, or just the student-at-heart, East and West has good food, short lines, and very low prices.