Friday, February 24th
Go out for Iassoni gobi, Himalayan Chimney, 11 a.m. to 3 p.m. + 5 to 10 p.m., $9.99
In her review this week, Rashmi called the lassoni gobi at Himalayan Chimney “the reigning king” of appetizers with its crispy cauliflower and garlic sauce. I also love this spicy appetizer. Everyone that I know who has ever tried this dish loves it, so if you haven’t tried it, this weekend is a good time for lassoni gobi. (AB)
Go see The Royale, Krannert Center for the Performing Arts, 7:30 p.m., $10-25
This Illinois Theatre production tells the story of Jay “The Sport” Jackson as he strive for boxing greatness in the midst of racial segregation. The fictional narrative is loosely based on the life of Jack Johnson, the first African American heavyweight champion. The play runs through March 4th, so there are plenty of opportunities to see it. Purchase tickets at the Krannert Center website. (JM)
Celebrate the arts at Untitled, Orpheum Theatre, 352 N Neil St, Champaign, 7:30 to 11:30 p.m., single ticket $55; two for $100
40 North’s annual fundraiser is this weekend in the renovated Orpheum Theatre. This year’s theme is The Beatles, which offers plenty of inspiration. This is 40 North’s only fundraiser, so if you can support local arts makers and supporters, please do. (JH)
Saturday, February 25th
Get some cheese curds, Seven Saints, 11 a.m. to midnight, $14.99
We love cheese curds, don’t we? Carl said these cheese curds are the best cheese curds he’s ever had in yesterday’s review of Seven Saints. The Champaign restaurant uses locally sourced cheese, hand-batters the curds in house, and fries the app to order. These cheese curds are really good especially on a cold Saturday night. (AB)
Hear from Ekta Garg, The Literary, 5 p.m., free
Champaign based author Ekta Garg will be discussing her latest book, In the Heart of the Linden Wood at The Literary. The is the second novel for the book reviewer, editor, and blogger. Seems like a good first stop for your Saturday evening. (JM)
Check out Modern Drugs and Curb Service, Loose Cobra, 9 p.m., $10
Modern Drugs — Ryan Groff, Alan Honeycutt, Mallory Simonds, Cara Maurizi, Jim Standerfer, Jonas Standerfer — are performing their indie pop / power pop songs around 10 p.m., after Curb Service’s 9 p.m. performance. It should be fun, especially since Modern Drugs are just about finished with their new album. (JH)
Sunday, February 26th
Experience Nikkeijin Illinois, Spurlock Museum, 12 to 4 p.m., free
This new exhibit opened last weekend, and it showcases the experiences of Japanese American students and faculty from the University of Illinois, in the context of World War II. Read our article from this week, then make some time to take in these important stories. (JM)
Attend a candidate forum, Champaign Public Library, 1:30 to 5:30 p.m., free
Yes, it’s election time again. Early voting began this week for the consolidated election on April 4th. This is an opportunity to hear from candidates for Champaign Mayor, Champaign City Council, and Unit 4 School Board. There will also be Parkland Trustee candidates there for an informal meet and greet. These election may not be as flashy, but they are important. (JM)
Take in the Lviv National Philharmonic Orchestra of Ukraine, Krannert Center for the Performing Arts, 7:30 p.m., $48
There are still plenty of tickets left to see this orchestra. Reviews of recent shows have been excellent. The show is about two hours with a 20 minute intermission. And while you’re at KCPA, check out the opening reception of Resilience: The Heart of Ukraine. (JH)
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