19 Eateries That Make Uptown Normal Anything But Normal

Over past few year, Uptown Normal has become home to many a hip restaurants. Here's what you can find by taking a walk off of Illinois State University's campus today.

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While we are sure that you'll love everything about Normal (including the people), there is a special place in our hearts for the restaurants in Uptown Normal. In no particular order, here they are in all of their glory.

1. Sugar Mama's Bakery

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Cupcakes. Cupcakes everywhere. And we aren't even mad.

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2. D.P. Dough

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D.P. Dough is such an Illinois State tradition that they even named a 'zone after our very own Reggie Redbird!

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3. Firehouse Pizza and Pub

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Glorious, glorious pizza and garlic bread.

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4. Crepe Geeks

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You've never experienced true French crepes until you watch them being made.

5. The Rock

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Greek never tasted so Normal (in a good way, of course).

The gyros are a must try.

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6. La Bamba

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Burritos as big as your head (literally).

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AND sushi. Don't ask, just let it happen.

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7. It's Poppin' Gourmet Popcorn

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Poppin' in more ways than one (do people still say "poppin'"?).

8. Coffee Hound

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$1 off any drink on Tuesdays? Sign me up.

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9. Emack & Bolio's Gourmet Ice Cream

Completing the "Emack Attack" by eating a scoop of every single flavor with your friend is the definition of "relationship goals."

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10. Merry Ann's Diner

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Love breakfast or diner food? Merry Ann's has you covered 24 hours a day.

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11. Pub II

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An Illinois State landmark known for their cheese balls.

Future generations will be able to recite epic poems about these tasty treats.

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Pub II is also the home of State Farm's khakied-hero, Jake.

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...and the official home of his khakis.

12. Garlic Press

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Cool, quaint, and different. The Garlic Press is your go-to for a unique cafe experience.

Did we mention that everything is oh, so good too?

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13. Coffee House & Deli

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What's better than a place that serves real coffee and real food?

Nothing. The answer is nothing.

Bonus: Check out their vegan options!

14. Medici

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A classy joint that's perfect for date night. Or a special night. Or, let's be honest, any night.

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And how many other restaurants have a tree inside?

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15. Windy City Wieners

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If you ever need a taste of Sweet Home Chicago, Windy City has your hot dog, Italian beef, and Polish sausage needs covered.

16. Lunker's

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Your go-to bar for fish-frys...

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...and for karaoke.

17. Anand India

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This newcomer to Uptown makes us wish that it had been there for years. Even if you don't recognize anything on the menu, I'm sure you'll love whatever you try (we recommend the Chicken Shahi Korma).

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18. Maggie Miley's Irish Pub

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Maggie's is the perfect place to connect with your Irish roots with some corn beef and cabbage...

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...and you can catch the best soccer matches with your friends.

19. Brewe-Ha's

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$2 burger baskets on Tuesdays = burgers for days.

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Now you know why we're pretty sure we inspired Bruno Mars. You're welcome.