I love most things on the menu at Watson’s Shack & Rail, but my love for the rice bowl ($16) knows no bounds. It’s such a complete meal. You have your grains, greens, and protein all living together in such a delicious way. I prefer mine with pulled spit-roasted chicken, an over-medium egg, and obviously I add pork belly. It’s worth the additional $3. You can also do breaded tenders, tofu, or firecracker or BBQ shrimp ($4 extra for the shrimp).
The heartiness of the rice and chicken, combined with the sticky sweet pork belly, tangy white sauce, and an occasional bite of pickled okra — it’s honestly perfection.
Also, it’s always enough for me to have leftovers to bring home. I am very much looking forward to my lunch today.
Watson’s Shack & Rail
211 N Neil Street
Champaign
M 4 to 9 p.m.
Tu 11 a.m. to 9 p.m.
W-Sa 11 a.m. to 10 p.m.
Su 10 a.m. to 2 p.m., 4 p.m. to 9 p.m.