Mas Amigos

Most of the Mexican restaurants in Champaign do Mexican light meaning the mole is mild, like gravy, and the spices cater to middle-aged American tastes. Not Mas Amigos. Their mole is dark and spicy, as is the red and green condiments they’ll bring to your table. You’ll notice from the moment you start with the chips and salsa that this new restaurant wants to get it right. I talked to the owner who’s from Mexico City and he takes pride in using styles from all over Mexico, not just those in the tourist towns. My favorites are vegetarian burritos and cheese enchiladas. And try their guacamole, easily the best in town.

As someone who grew up in Texas, I am addicted to—and yet extremely discriminating about—Mexican food. I would never consider returning to most Mexican restaurants in Champaign-Urbana. But the first time I ate at Mas Amigos, I was hooked. If I could afford it, I would eat there several times a week. But don’t misunderstand: It’s extremely affordable when compared with other restaurants. We have fed all five of our voracious adult children, plus ourselves, including a 20%+ tip, for something like $69.

On those rare occasions when we decide we can afford to eat out, I have NO desire to try anything new. Mas Amigos is my default restaurant. So far as I am concerned, there is no other Mexican food in Champaign-Urbana or even within over a hundred miles from here. In fact, I have little desire to eat at ANY other restaurant in C-U. You can have them all—just give me Mas Amigos’ enchiladas y frijoles y arroz y totopos y salsa and I will be happy! I can’t possibly give a higher recommendation.