Hot Local Places :
As a Bloomington native, our downtown area and it's locally-owned and operated businesses are very precious to me. However, there are a few other locally-owned businesses that I also have a great appreciation for, even though they are outside of Bloomington/Normal (but still within a very short drive). I LOVE to go out to eat (as do most McLean County residents), and I make a strong effort to frequent only locally-owned restaurants (with the notable exception of Chili's - I can't help it, I'm addicted to the Chicken Crispers). Below, you will find a short list containing a few of my favorite places... If you are unfamiliar with any of them, you should really give them a shot (trust me, you've been missing out)!
| Beningo's | 309.829.1025 | Bloomington |
| The Caboose | 309.829.7895 | Bloomington |
| The Coffeehouse & Deli | 309-452-6774 | Normal |
| Capponi's | 815.452.2343 | Toluca |
| Carl's Ice Cream | 309.828.7732 309.454.7732 |
Bloomington Normal |
| Central Station | 309.828.2323 | Bloomington |
| Conklin's Barn II Dinner Theater | 309.965.2545 | Goodfield |
| DESTIHL Restaurant & Brew Works | 309.862.2337 | Bloomington |
| Gill Street Sports Bar and Restaurant | 309.661-6387 | Bloomington |
| The Grand Cafe | 309.828.0324 | Bloomington |
| Lancaster's | 309.827.3333 | Bloomington |
| Lucca Grill | 309.828.7521 | Bloomington |
| Maggie Miley's | 309.807.4301 | Normal |
| Mona's | 815.452.2303 | Toluca |
| Mugsy's Pub | 309.827.2628 | Bloomington |
| Rosie's Pub | 309.827.7019 | Bloomington |
| Schooners | 309.829.6841 | Bloomington |
| Shannon's Five Star | 309.664.0808 | Bloomington |
| Shooter's Lounge (Ride the Nine Billiards) | 309.662.1009 | Bloomington |
| Swinger's Grille | 309.829.5777 | Bloomington |
Of course, there are others, but those are my top picks!
Now, if you really want to add that "special" touch, I'll direct you to Beck's Family Florist - 309.828.3632 (Bloomington)... You can't go wrong with a treat like that!
Please keep in mind that NONE of these businesses have paid ANYTHING to be listed here... This is not an "ad" space for them to use, and they are not the "highest bidders"... They are listed here because I truly believe in the owners, as well as the products and services that they are offering! I have lived in this community since I was born and, after more than three decades, I know who to turn to when it really counts! Please visit these folks... I promise that you will not be disappointed! :-)
