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bacaro Reviews List
bacaro
Opened in 2001, bacaro sets the standard for fine dining in the Champaign-Urbana area. The contemporary and minimal interior features a sleek full service wine bar and lounge. In addition, a semi-private back room can accommodate larger parties. Chefs Thad Morrow and Drew Starkey work with over 12 local and sustainably driven farms, and the eclectic menu reflects the cultivation of these partnerships. Bacaro's "Market Monday", a weekly prix fixe dinner menu inspired by the local Farmer's Market, invites guests to enjoy the tastes and flavors of the season. The knowledgeable and polite staff can guide any guest through the menu and the extensive wine list.
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150 Current Reviews
Summary of Diner Ratings & Reviews
Overall
(Outstanding)
4.6
/
5
Rating Breakdown 150 reviews
5 stars
(102)
4 stars
(37)
3 stars
(7)
2 stars
(2)
1 star
(2)
Food
(Outstanding)
4.6
/
5
Service
(Outstanding)
4.5
/
5
Ambiance
(Outstanding)
4.4
/
5
Noise Level
Moderate
Filter Reviews By:
Diners classify this restaurant as:
- fit for foodies(116)
- special occasion(114)
- notable wine list(109)
- romantic(97)
- neighborhood gem(60)
- hot spot(44)
bacaro Reviews List
Review 1 for bacaro
Overall rating
(Outstanding)
5
/
5
Superb meal.
Food
(Outstanding)
5
/
5
Service
(Outstanding)
5
/
5
Ambiance
(Outstanding)
5
/
5
Noise Level
Moderate
"Absolutely delicious meal. If you are in Champaign, this is the place to be."
Dined on 5/15/2013
Special Features: fit for foodies, good for groups, vibrant bar scene, notable wine list, romantic, late-night find, neighborhood gem, hot spot, special occasion
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Review 2 for bacaro
Overall rating
(Very Good)
4
/
5
Great experience
Food
(Outstanding)
5
/
5
Service
(Outstanding)
5
/
5
Ambiance
(Very Good)
4
/
5
Noise Level
Quiet
"We shared two entrees, pasta carbonara and then salmon. Both were very good, with fresh flavors. The wine list is very international which made it harder for me to choose wine, that's the only reason I gave it 4 starts and not 5. That's probably more my issue than theirs."
Dined on 5/12/2013
Special Features: fit for foodies, neighborhood gem, special occasion
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Review 3 for bacaro
Overall rating
(Very Good)
4
/
5
Food
(Very Good)
4
/
5
Service
(Very Good)
4
/
5
Ambiance
(Good)
3
/
5
Noise Level
Moderate
"I took my mom here for her Mother's Day and birthday celebration. It was the first time we had been here and it was well worth the trip. The food and service were very good. I would definitely go back and recommend to others."
Dined on 5/12/2013
Special Features: fit for foodies, good for groups, notable wine list, romantic, neighborhood gem
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Review 4 for bacaro
Overall rating
(Very Good)
4
/
5
Food
(Outstanding)
5
/
5
Service
(Outstanding)
5
/
5
Ambiance
(Very Good)
4
/
5
Noise Level
Energetic
"Food was excellent, the menu offered unique items,
however, somewhat pricey for the amount of food on your plate. Ambiance was nice and service was good. Due to the prices, I would recommend this place for special occasions."
however, somewhat pricey for the amount of food on your plate. Ambiance was nice and service was good. Due to the prices, I would recommend this place for special occasions."
Dined on 5/12/2013
Special Features: fit for foodies, notable wine list, romantic, neighborhood gem, special occasion
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Review 5 for bacaro
Overall rating
(Outstanding)
5
/
5
Best food in town by a mile.
Food
(Outstanding)
5
/
5
Service
(Outstanding)
5
/
5
Ambiance
(Outstanding)
5
/
5
Noise Level
Moderate
"Never disappointed. Every meal is a joy. The wine list is superb."
Dined on 5/12/2013
Special Features: fit for foodies, good for groups, vibrant bar scene, notable wine list, romantic, late-night find, hot spot, special occasion
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Review 6 for bacaro
Overall rating
(Outstanding)
5
/
5
Another great meal at Bacaro!
Food
(Outstanding)
5
/
5
Service
(Very Good)
4
/
5
Ambiance
(Outstanding)
5
/
5
Noise Level
Moderate
"Bacaro is a real gem in downtown champaign. The food is always delicious and I've tried many different thing son their various menus. Portions are small but you leave full and not bloated, every dish has an incredible amount of flavor to it, and the wine list is long and varied! Although on the pricier side for the Champaign-Urbana area, this place is well worth the money. I've had spotty service once but every other time the staff was very attentive, friendly, and helpful. Treat yourselves to this great little place to eat!"
Dined on 5/10/2013
Special Features: fit for foodies, good for groups, notable wine list, romantic, neighborhood gem, special occasion
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Review 7 for bacaro
Overall rating
(Outstanding)
5
/
5
Dining Experience
Food
(Outstanding)
5
/
5
Service
(Very Good)
4
/
5
Ambiance
(Very Good)
4
/
5
Noise Level
Moderate
"Delicious, unique menu! We tried four different entrees and all of them were outstanding."
Dined on 5/11/2013
Special Features: special occasion
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Review 8 for bacaro
Overall rating
(Very Good)
4
/
5
Best restaurant in Champaign Urbana
Food
(Outstanding)
5
/
5
Service
(Very Good)
4
/
5
Ambiance
(Very Good)
4
/
5
Noise Level
Moderate
"The title says it all. It is easily the best restaurant. The menu features ingredients from local farms and changes regularly. The wine list is excellent and has a good mix of price points. Reservations are a good idea."
Dined on 5/10/2013
Special Features: fit for foodies, good for groups, romantic, neighborhood gem, notable wine list, special occasion
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Review 9 for bacaro
Overall rating
(Outstanding)
5
/
5
Still the best of the best.
Food
(Outstanding)
5
/
5
Service
(Good)
3
/
5
Ambiance
(Very Good)
4
/
5
Noise Level
Moderate
"If you're looking for an exquisite dining experience, this is the place. Everything is perfection."
Dined on 5/07/2013
Special Features: fit for foodies, notable wine list, neighborhood gem, special occasion
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Review 10 for bacaro
Overall rating
(Very Good)
4
/
5
Unexpected pleasure
Food
(Very Good)
4
/
5
Service
(Very Good)
4
/
5
Ambiance
(Very Good)
4
/
5
Noise Level
Moderate
"We hadn't visited this restaurant in a long time and were pleasantly surprised at the ambience, food choices and quality. Menu reflects local food availability with interesting choices and imaginative preparation. Items on menu included sauteed morels (small servin but delicious), rabbit in the risotto, goat with gnochi. Caution--lots of pork products (locally raised) and not much for vegetarians. Servings are We went on a Sunday night and the restaurant was full--so reservations are wise. Interesting wine list and half price on some wines on Sunday, I think."
Dined on 5/05/2013
Special Features: fit for foodies, notable wine list, neighborhood gem, special occasion
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Review 11 for bacaro
Overall rating
(Outstanding)
5
/
5
This resturant is a gem in
Food
(Very Good)
4
/
5
Service
(Outstanding)
5
/
5
Ambiance
(Very Good)
4
/
5
Noise Level
Moderate
"This resturant is a gem in central illinois. Our waiter was helpful and knew the menu.
Friendly wait satff and attentive without being overbearing. Food was a delight, well prepared and creative.
We would definatly go back."
Friendly wait satff and attentive without being overbearing. Food was a delight, well prepared and creative.
We would definatly go back."
Dined on 04/27/2013
2013
Special Features: fit for foodies, special occasion
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Review 12 for bacaro
Overall rating
(Outstanding)
5
/
5
Our experience was great as
Food
(Outstanding)
5
/
5
Service
(Outstanding)
5
/
5
Ambiance
(Outstanding)
5
/
5
Noise Level
Quiet
"Our experience was great as was the food. Waitress Breanne was wonderful"
Dined on 04/20/2013
2013
Special Features: fit for foodies, neighborhood gem, notable wine list, romantic, special occasion, hot spot
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Review 13 for bacaro
Overall rating
(Good)
3
/
5
Everything was stellar...and
Food
(Outstanding)
5
/
5
Service
(Poor)
1
/
5
Ambiance
(Very Good)
4
/
5
Noise Level
Moderate
"Everything was stellar...and deserving of 5 stars...what prevented 5 stars was our waitress who was absent most of the time. We had to seek her out more than a handful of times to refill our water and our wine glasses..Actually took our wine away from the table and we had to locate her for refills. completely unacceptable if you ask me. Perhaps it was due that we were seated in the wine bar and away from the main dining room...but that shouldn't be an excuse when you are paying these prices for the quality experience."
Dined on 04/20/2013
2008
Special Features: vibrant bar scene, fit for foodies, notable wine list, special occasion, hot spot
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Review 14 for bacaro
Overall rating
(Outstanding)
5
/
5
Bacaro is one of the greatest
Food
(Outstanding)
5
/
5
Service
(Outstanding)
5
/
5
Ambiance
(Outstanding)
5
/
5
Noise Level
Moderate
"Bacaro is one of the greatest assets of Champaign Urbana. Small towns with great gastronomic value."
Dined on 04/19/2013
2007
Special Features: fit for foodies, neighborhood gem, notable wine list
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Review 15 for bacaro
Overall rating
(Outstanding)
5
/
5
Friday Night Energy!
Food
(Very Good)
4
/
5
Service
(Outstanding)
5
/
5
Ambiance
(Outstanding)
5
/
5
Noise Level
Energetic
"Loved the Friday night energy at the bar! The scallops we ordered were prepared to perfection and the grouper had amazing flavor. Our server, April, did a superb job of making the evening a first class experience and I would recommend this hot spot to anyone that appreciates great food and amazing wine choices.
Thank you to Thad and his team for a great night!"
Thank you to Thad and his team for a great night!"
Dined on 04/19/2013
2013
Special Features: fit for foodies, neighborhood gem, notable wine list, romantic, special occasion, hot spot
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Review 16 for bacaro
Overall rating
(Outstanding)
5
/
5
Were expecting me and had
Food
(Outstanding)
5
/
5
Service
(Outstanding)
5
/
5
Ambiance
(Very Good)
4
/
5
Noise Level
Moderate
"Were expecting me and had a great table waiting. Dining partner described the food as 'palate friendly'. Server was sophisticated, pleasant and knowledgeable about food and wine/drinks."
Dined on 04/20/2013
2013
Special Features: fit for foodies, neighborhood gem, notable wine list, romantic
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Review 17 for bacaro
Overall rating
(Outstanding)
5
/
5
Once again Bacaro confirmed
Food
(Outstanding)
5
/
5
Service
(Outstanding)
5
/
5
Ambiance
(Outstanding)
5
/
5
Noise Level
Moderate
"Once again Bacaro confirmed itself as the best place to eat in central Illinois. The current menu is loaded with wonderful choices. We had one of the best assortment of cheese I have ever had in a restaurant. We shared a risotto with rabbit and for entrees had pork tenderloin wrapped with spicy coppa and spaghetti carbonnara with pork belly and english peas. Everything was wonderful."
Dined on 04/20/2013
2004
Special Features: fit for foodies, neighborhood gem, notable wine list, romantic, special occasion, hot spot
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Review 18 for bacaro
Overall rating
(Outstanding)
5
/
5
Simply the Best
Food
(Outstanding)
5
/
5
Service
(Outstanding)
5
/
5
Ambiance
(Outstanding)
5
/
5
Noise Level
Energetic
"I have never had a bad meal at this gem. The Monday tasting menu is a favorite-excellent quality, perfect portions, great presentation. I truly believe this might be the best downstate restaurant-definitely East Central Illinois's best."
Dined on 04/15/2013
2011
Special Features: fit for foodies, neighborhood gem, notable wine list, romantic, special occasion
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Review 19 for bacaro
Overall rating
(Very Good)
4
/
5
Very good food but small portions
Food
(Outstanding)
5
/
5
Service
(Very Good)
4
/
5
Ambiance
(Good)
3
/
5
Noise Level
Moderate
"Very good food but small portions and way overpriced! Not sure we would go back because it is just too expensive."
Dined on 04/13/2013
2012
Special Features: special occasion
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Review 20 for bacaro
Overall rating
(Very Good)
4
/
5
Our meal was fabulous! Great
Food
(Outstanding)
5
/
5
Service
(Outstanding)
5
/
5
Ambiance
(Fair)
2
/
5
Noise Level
Quiet
"Our meal was fabulous! Great food and our waitress Brie was excellent! One complaint. Too dark. A small light over each table would be great!"
Dined on 04/07/2013
2013
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Review 21 for bacaro
Overall rating
(Outstanding)
5
/
5
Happy Anniversary!
Food
(Outstanding)
5
/
5
Service
(Outstanding)
5
/
5
Ambiance
(Outstanding)
5
/
5
Noise Level
Moderate
"Again Bacaro continues to impress me. My wife and I celebrated our 4th wedding anniversary here--as we have every year since our first date. The Tasting Menu and Paired Wine selections were fantastic--well portioned, excellent flavor and thematic. The ambiance is perfect for that special occasion and a romantic dinner... as well as a trendy night out of food with friends. Service is excellent. Just the right amount of interaction and communication. My wife and I commented that the service is excellent."
Dined on 04/03/2013
2010
Special Features: fit for foodies, neighborhood gem, notable wine list, romantic, special occasion
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Review 22 for bacaro
Overall rating
(Fair)
2
/
5
Very disappointed in the food
Food
(Poor)
1
/
5
Service
(Outstanding)
5
/
5
Ambiance
(Very Good)
4
/
5
Noise Level
Quiet
"Very disappointed in the food - very bland. Expensive tasting menu, definitely not worth it."
Dined on 04/01/2013
2013
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Review 23 for bacaro
Overall rating
(Outstanding)
5
/
5
Big Thumbs Up for Market Mondays
Food
(Outstanding)
5
/
5
Service
(Very Good)
4
/
5
Ambiance
(Outstanding)
5
/
5
Noise Level
Quiet
"I'd been wanting to try the Vegetarian Market Monday menu for a while, so when Monday fell on my birthday, and it was a veggie Monday at that, I was excited. I was not disappointed. All courses were brilliant [loved the Cauliflower "steak"] and the wine pairings were superb. Thad has a knowledgeable staff, and they work well together on these menus and wine accompaniments. Always my go-to restaurant for special, and not-so-special, occasions."
Dined on 04/01/2013
2013
Special Features: fit for foodies, good for groups, notable wine list, special occasion
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Review 24 for bacaro
Overall rating
(Very Good)
4
/
5
Wine list was extensive, but
Food
(Very Good)
4
/
5
Service
(Very Good)
4
/
5
Ambiance
(Very Good)
4
/
5
Noise Level
Quiet
"Wine list was extensive, but not a lot of options by the glass. Soup and dessert (Pumpkin cake) were good, but not great. Entree's were fabulous and service attentive. Our first visit, we will go back."
Dined on 03/29/2013
2008
Special Features: neighborhood gem
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Review 25 for bacaro
Overall rating
(Outstanding)
5
/
5
The quality of the food was
Food
(Outstanding)
5
/
5
Service
(Very Good)
4
/
5
Ambiance
(Very Good)
4
/
5
Noise Level
Moderate
"The quality of the food was superb as usual."
Dined on 03/29/2013
2010
Special Features: fit for foodies, neighborhood gem, notable wine list, special occasion
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Review 26 for bacaro
Overall rating
(Outstanding)
5
/
5
Thanks for another wonderful
Food
(Outstanding)
5
/
5
Service
(Outstanding)
5
/
5
Ambiance
(Very Good)
4
/
5
Noise Level
Moderate
"Thanks for another wonderful dinner."
Dined on 03/29/2013
2013
Special Features: fit for foodies, good for groups, notable wine list, romantic, special occasion
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Review 27 for bacaro
Overall rating
(Very Good)
4
/
5
We love Bacaro. We went on
Food
(Very Good)
4
/
5
Service
(Outstanding)
5
/
5
Ambiance
(Outstanding)
5
/
5
Noise Level
Moderate
"We love Bacaro. We went on a Market Monday. It was excellent, but of course, the difference between 4 or 5 Stars is strictly how the fixed menu hits your particular palette. Most of this particular menu was fantastic, but it is no reflection if some items are not your normal sweet spot. That being said, Bacaro is a fantastic place and the experience is always a wonderful respite from the wear & tear of daily life. Go and go now and go often!"
Dined on 03/25/2013
2011
Special Features: fit for foodies, neighborhood gem, notable wine list
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Review 28 for bacaro
Overall rating
(Outstanding)
5
/
5
Piedmont in Champaign. Great
Food
(Outstanding)
5
/
5
Service
(Outstanding)
5
/
5
Ambiance
(Outstanding)
5
/
5
Noise Level
Moderate
"Piedmont in Champaign. Great Italian wine and food."
Dined on 03/25/2013
2008
Special Features: fit for foodies, good for groups, late-night find, notable wine list, romantic, special occasion
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Review 29 for bacaro
Overall rating
(Outstanding)
5
/
5
Food and wine are wonderful.
Food
(Outstanding)
5
/
5
Service
(Very Good)
4
/
5
Ambiance
(Good)
3
/
5
Noise Level
Moderate
"Food and wine are wonderful. If there were a bit more light in the dining room it would not be a bad thing. The food is well presente buy difficult to see."
Dined on 03/21/2013
2013
Special Features: fit for foodies, late-night find, notable wine list
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Review 30 for bacaro
Overall rating
(Outstanding)
5
/
5
Terrific food!! This would
Food
(Outstanding)
5
/
5
Service
(Outstanding)
5
/
5
Ambiance
(Outstanding)
5
/
5
Noise Level
Moderate
"Terrific food!! This would be a fantastic restaurant in ANY city...all the more special that it's in Chambana. Elegant ambiance, the best service I have had in my four visits there. First time did not do the tasting menu."
Dined on 03/02/2013
2007
Special Features: fit for foodies, neighborhood gem, romantic, special occasion, hot spot
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Review 31 for bacaro
Overall rating
(Outstanding)
5
/
5
Bacaro continues to be our
Food
(Outstanding)
5
/
5
Service
(Outstanding)
5
/
5
Ambiance
(Outstanding)
5
/
5
Noise Level
Moderate
"Bacaro continues to be our favorite place to dine in Champaign. The food is consistently delicious and interesting, the wines are beautiful, the service impeccable. They also have a fun cocktail menu and extensive selection of spirits. For a nice evening out, or a special occasion, it's an excellent choice if you want high quality food with the special touch the servers always bring to each meal."
Dined on 03/16/2013
2010
Special Features: fit for foodies, neighborhood gem, notable wine list, romantic
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Review 32 for bacaro
Overall rating
(Very Good)
4
/
5
Great food and service. Tin
Food
(Outstanding)
5
/
5
Service
(Very Good)
4
/
5
Ambiance
(Fair)
2
/
5
Noise Level
Energetic
"Great food and service. Tin ceiling causes the restaurant to be a little noisy, but I guess that's part of the ambience.
Only major problem: it's WAY too dark. At most tables, at least one person was using a cell phone light to read the menu."
Only major problem: it's WAY too dark. At most tables, at least one person was using a cell phone light to read the menu."
Dined on 03/15/2013
2004
Special Features: fit for foodies, notable wine list
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Review 33 for bacaro
Overall rating
(Outstanding)
5
/
5
Excellent food, great atmosphere
Food
(Outstanding)
5
/
5
Service
(Very Good)
4
/
5
Ambiance
(Outstanding)
5
/
5
Noise Level
Quiet
"The food was original, delicious, well presented and with appropriately sized portions. We felt full after our meal, but not stuffed, which is a rare but welcome compromise to find. If anything, the cheese plate was a bit lacking in taste diversity. The service was very good: knowledgable, helpful, and friendly, although a bit slow. This wasn't a problem for most of the meal when paired with the romantic atmosphere as it gave us time to talk and enjoy ourselves, however having to wait almost 15 minutes for the check once we asked for it was somewhat irritating. Bacaro was the place I've enjoyed most out of all Champaign-Urbana restaurants and is perfect for a special occasion, especially a romantic one."
Dined on 03/13/2013
2011
Special Features: fit for foodies, notable wine list, romantic, special occasion
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Review 34 for bacaro
Overall rating
(Outstanding)
5
/
5
Great food, well-prepared staff
Food
(Outstanding)
5
/
5
Service
(Outstanding)
5
/
5
Ambiance
(Very Good)
4
/
5
Noise Level
Quiet
"This is our favorite fine dining restaurant in the area--the one we use for special occasions like anniversaries and birthdays. The food is always inventively prepared, fresh, and largely locally-sourced. We had the grouper and pork shoulder this week and both were outstanding. Probably the major "hit" of the evening was the flatbread appetizer; not to be missed.
My wife and I commented on two things during dinner:
The waitstaff is (always) outstanding and obviously well-briefed on the details of each dish. We were amazed when our server immediately identified the beluga lentils on my plate when I asked.
Secondly, we appreciate the fact that the restaurant is quiet enough to hold a conversation easily.
Great place--try it!"
Dined on 03/08/2013
2010
Special Features: fit for foodies, good for groups, notable wine list, romantic, special occasion
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Review 35 for bacaro
Overall rating
(Outstanding)
5
/
5
Bacaro has recently changed
Food
(Outstanding)
5
/
5
Service
(Outstanding)
5
/
5
Ambiance
(Outstanding)
5
/
5
Noise Level
Moderate
"Bacaro has recently changed its menu, and again they have a winner. We ordered the scallops and the grouper, and both were excellent! We look forward to returning and trying their tasting menu. We usually go for special occasions, because it is not unexpensive; however, they do have moderately priced entrees, including a seafood risotto which looked delicious, so we may try to go more often."
Dined on 03/08/2013
2009
Special Features: fit for foodies, notable wine list, romantic, special occasion
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Review 36 for bacaro
Overall rating
(Poor)
1
/
5
Disappointing
Food
(Poor)
1
/
5
Service
(Fair)
2
/
5
Ambiance
(Good)
3
/
5
Noise Level
Quiet
"Food was atrocious- not at all what you expect for $30 entrees and $10 appetizers. Duck was excessively salty and not warm when served, and grouper was undercooked and, well, soggy. They really blew what was meant to be a special, romantic evening."
Dined on 03/01/2013
2013
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Review 37 for bacaro
Overall rating
(Good)
3
/
5
The food was outstanding we
Food
(Very Good)
4
/
5
Service
(Outstanding)
5
/
5
Ambiance
(Outstanding)
5
/
5
Noise Level
Energetic
"The food was outstanding we went with another couple and everyone loved what they ordered. We were a little surprised though because the menu we pulled from the website was different in two ways. What was shown on the website differed then what was on the menu and the pricing for the dinners was much higher than what was selected on the website, too. For Champaigne we felt for the portion sizes of the dinners either more should have been provided for the entrees or the costs should have been less. We had a great experience but again due to the costs I don't know if I would select this resturant the next time I am in the area."
Dined on 03/02/2013
2011
Special Features: vibrant bar scene, notable wine list, special occasion, hot spot
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Review 38 for bacaro
Overall rating
(Good)
3
/
5
We ordered a cheese plate,
Food
(Good)
3
/
5
Service
(Good)
3
/
5
Ambiance
(Very Good)
4
/
5
Noise Level
Quiet
"We ordered a cheese plate, soup, flatbread and shared the duck. The duck was fantastic, cheese plate and flatbread delicious. The soup was warm and lacked flavor. The waitress was kind and attentive but reached across my dates plate as he was finishing up his flatbread and cleared that plate literally as he was taking his last bite. Just a bit awkward. Overall a win, with just a few notable issues."
Dined on 03/02/2013
2008
Special Features: fit for foodies, notable wine list, special occasion
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Review 39 for bacaro
Overall rating
(Very Good)
4
/
5
The steak was absolutely phenomenal
Food
(Outstanding)
5
/
5
Service
(Outstanding)
5
/
5
Ambiance
(Outstanding)
5
/
5
Noise Level
Quiet
"The steak was absolutely phenomenal! We all ordered different meals and we all loved it. Very quiet dining and intimate setting so you can enjoy each others company. Staff was very polite and knowledgeable about the menu and was able to answer every question we had asked. Only downside was parking. Had to walk a few blocks to eat but was well worth it
Highly recommend and will return."
Highly recommend and will return."
Dined on 03/02/2013
2013
Special Features: fit for foodies, notable wine list, romantic, special occasion
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Review 40 for bacaro
Overall rating
(Very Good)
4
/
5
We brought our U of I student
Food
(Very Good)
4
/
5
Service
(Outstanding)
5
/
5
Ambiance
(Very Good)
4
/
5
Noise Level
Quiet
"We brought our U of I student there and the food was excellent. The waitress was so helpful. She made it a very pleasant evening. My son's steak was too well done and she gave him a salad while he waited for it to be redone. I would highly recommend Bacaro. Portions are small so some men may need to add an appetizer and dessert. It was plenty for me."
Dined on 02/22/2013
2006
Special Features: fit for foodies, neighborhood gem, special occasion
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Review 41 for bacaro
Overall rating
(Outstanding)
5
/
5
The only place in town you
Food
(Outstanding)
5
/
5
Service
(Outstanding)
5
/
5
Ambiance
(Outstanding)
5
/
5
Noise Level
Moderate
"The only place in town you should even think of eating fish. They make everyone elses's fish taste like Long John Silver."
Dined on 02/26/2013
2008
Special Features: vibrant bar scene, fit for foodies, good for groups, late-night find, notable wine list, romantic, special occasion, hot spot
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Review 42 for bacaro
Overall rating
(Outstanding)
5
/
5
Finest "fine dining" in Champaign
Food
(Outstanding)
5
/
5
Service
(Outstanding)
5
/
5
Ambiance
(Outstanding)
5
/
5
Noise Level
Quiet
"This was our first experience dining at bacaro, and now our only regret is that it took us so long to finally go! The overall atmosphere was great. It is darker than your average restaurant which gave it a quiet, personal feel. This also helps b/c there are two sides to bacaro and the wine bar side would feel decidedly less intimate otherwise. The staff and service were spot on, friendly, helpful, there when needed and to check in but not too much. Of course the primary reason we have our favorites in CU is good food, and bacaro is EXCEPTIONAL. I'm not sure how much the menu changes, but our "analysis" would conclude that you can't go wrong with any selection. All 4 items left us wanting more. We will absolutely be back! Thanks, bacaro!!!"
Dined on 02/24/2013
2013
Special Features: fit for foodies, notable wine list, romantic, special occasion
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Review 43 for bacaro
Overall rating
(Outstanding)
5
/
5
What a gem in Champaign, glad
Food
(Outstanding)
5
/
5
Service
(Outstanding)
5
/
5
Ambiance
(Outstanding)
5
/
5
Noise Level
Energetic
"What a gem in Champaign, glad you're there."
Dined on 02/23/2013
2007
Special Features: fit for foodies, romantic, special occasion, hot spot
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Review 44 for bacaro
Overall rating
(Outstanding)
5
/
5
Great Champaign, Illinois dining
Food
(Outstanding)
5
/
5
Service
(Outstanding)
5
/
5
Ambiance
(Outstanding)
5
/
5
Noise Level
Quiet
"I was in Champaign-Urbana for a conference. I ate here last time I was here and was blown away by the great dining and wine experience in this small city. I came back a second time for my second conference and found the food, wine, ambiance, service just wonderful. I am surprised at the quality of the food and the wine lise for a town not known for its culinary scene. I will always return here when I am in town.
Mike Ruggeri"
Dined on 02/22/2013
2007
Special Features: fit for foodies, notable wine list, romantic, hot spot
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Review 45 for bacaro
Overall rating
(Outstanding)
5
/
5
Everytime we eat here, the
Food
(Outstanding)
5
/
5
Service
(Outstanding)
5
/
5
Ambiance
(Very Good)
4
/
5
Noise Level
Quiet
"Everytime we eat here, the food is fantastic. Don't ever get rid of the Risotto!"
Dined on 02/15/2013
2013
Special Features: fit for foodies, neighborhood gem, romantic, special occasion
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Review 46 for bacaro
Overall rating
(Outstanding)
5
/
5
Best food in Champaign-Urbana
Food
(Outstanding)
5
/
5
Service
(Very Good)
4
/
5
Ambiance
(Very Good)
4
/
5
Noise Level
Moderate
"This is hands down the best retaurant in Champaign-Urbana, maybe Central Illinois. We're impressed every time we visit."
Dined on 02/15/2013
2007
Special Features: fit for foodies, late-night find, notable wine list, romantic, special occasion, hot spot
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Review 47 for bacaro
Overall rating
(Very Good)
4
/
5
Champaign's best fine dining
Food
(Very Good)
4
/
5
Service
(Very Good)
4
/
5
Ambiance
(Very Good)
4
/
5
Noise Level
Moderate
"We were very impressed with the first two courses on the tasting menu, particularly the cauliflower puree panna cotta. Inspired! The other courses were quite good but not exceptional. The wines that accompanied the tasting courses were surprisingly good - I suppose we shouldn't have been surprised, but have you had wine elsewhere in this town? The set-up of our table was such that we were looking out onto the street rather than at each other. The noise level around us was moderate but muffled. We had intended to order from the menu rather than having the tasting but thought that the combinations were a bit odd - perhaps because it's the dead of winter. My preferred restaurant in Champaign for fine food."
Dined on 02/16/2013
2013
Special Features: fit for foodies, neighborhood gem, notable wine list, special occasion
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Review 48 for bacaro
Overall rating
(Very Good)
4
/
5
The menu isnt lengthy but
Food
(Outstanding)
5
/
5
Service
(Very Good)
4
/
5
Ambiance
(Very Good)
4
/
5
Noise Level
Quiet
"The menu isnt lengthy but what they did have was appealing and it made it hard to make a decision on what to eat.
Desert portions are a bit on the small side but it makes sense when compared to the price
The food was spaced well (appetizer to entrees to desert) and the food was tasty.
If you are a budding foodie...you will like this place"
Dined on 02/14/2013
2012
Special Features: fit for foodies, romantic, special occasion
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Review 49 for bacaro
Overall rating
(Outstanding)
5
/
5
A very beautiful classy restaurant.
Food
(Outstanding)
5
/
5
Service
(Very Good)
4
/
5
Ambiance
(Outstanding)
5
/
5
Noise Level
Quiet
"A very beautiful classy restaurant. A bit pricey, but the overall quality of the meal was outstanding. Service was good, the only minor complaint I had was the layout seemed a bit too cramped with other patrons a bit too close. I would definitely recommend Bacaro for a special occasion, excellent food, good service, classy atmosphere."
Dined on 02/12/2013
2013
Special Features: fit for foodies, notable wine list, romantic, special occasion
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Review 50 for bacaro
Overall rating
(Outstanding)
5
/
5
I went to bacaro for a (early)
Food
(Outstanding)
5
/
5
Service
(Outstanding)
5
/
5
Ambiance
(Outstanding)
5
/
5
Noise Level
Moderate
"I went to bacaro for a (early) Valentine's Day date with my girlfriend. We're both pretty picky when it comes to restaurants and were both really into food. I'm pleased to say that this dinner is probably the single best food experience either of us has ever had.
We asked to split both our dishes, and it was easily the best experience either of us had with splitting. Each dish was brought out individually with two plates and the next dish wasn't brought out until we had finished the first one. Painless and delicious!"
Dined on 02/12/2013
2013
Special Features: fit for foodies, neighborhood gem, romantic, special occasion
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