Celebrating one year in the heart of Downtown Champaign, Neil Street Blues has quickly become a local favorite for those seeking an authentic Southern dining experience paired with vibrant live music. Owner Gayle Starks recently shared her insights into the restaurant’s success and vision for the future.
Neil Street Blues was born from a passion for community and a desire to bring the lively nightlife scene of larger cities to Champaign. Starks, inspired by her visits to cities like Indianapolis, Atlanta, and Louisville, noticed a gap in Champaign’s dining and entertainment options. “We could go to nice restaurants to eat, but live music was kind of limited,” Starks explained. This observation sparked the idea for Neil Street Blues, a venue designed to offer a complete “eat, drink, and dance” experience under one roof.
Image: Cozy and inviting interior of Neil Street Blues restaurant in Champaign, Illinois, showcasing its warm ambiance.
Family is at the heart of Neil Street Blues. Starks beams when discussing working with her family, calling it “the best thing ever!” Her mother occasionally lends a hand, her son serves as the general manager, and her daughter contributes in the kitchen. This family affair extends to their staff, whom Starks considers family. She specifically acknowledges Bryan McMullan’s crucial role in managing the late-night operations, vital for a venue open until 2 AM on weekends. This close-knit environment contributes to the welcoming atmosphere that defines Neil Street Blues.
The choice to locate Neil Street Blues in Downtown Champaign was strategic. Starks recognized downtown as a central hub for visitors and aimed to enrich the local restaurant scene with a unique offering. She appreciates the prevalence of independent businesses downtown, contrasting them with chain restaurants that offer a homogenized experience. Neil Street Blues provides a distinct flavor and experience unique to Champaign, adding to the diverse culinary landscape of the area.
Image: Portrait of Gayle Starks, the owner of Neil Street Blues in Champaign, highlighting her entrepreneurial spirit.
When it comes to Southern cuisine, Neil Street Blues delivers authentic flavors that keep customers coming back. Starks enthusiastically lists her menu favorites: BBQ ribs, shrimp and grits, fried catfish, and jambalaya. The restaurant takes pride in homemade desserts, with bread pudding crafted by a chef’s wife, banana pudding by Starks’ daughter, and a signature strawberry shortcake cheesecake made in-house. These personal touches elevate the dining experience at Neil Street Blues.
Neil Street Blues is not just about food; it’s a vibrant entertainment destination. Their robust events calendar is a major draw, especially the festive holiday season celebrations. The restaurant marked its 1-year anniversary with a masquerade ball and hosted a New Year’s Eve bash, establishing itself as a go-to spot for special occasions. Looking ahead, patrons can expect special menus and a consistently lively atmosphere.
Image: Energetic live music performance at Neil Street Blues, showcasing the restaurant’s vibrant nightlife and entertainment.
Supporting local talent is a priority for Neil Street Blues. While they occasionally host touring blues bands from Chicago and even as far as Mississippi, the focus remains on showcasing local musicians. Starks hopes Neil Street Blues can be a launching pad for local artists’ careers. Their Thursday open mic night provides a platform for comedians, singers, and poets. Other popular events include bingo and Latin night, complete with free dance lessons, fostering a fun and inclusive environment.
Looking towards the future, Starks is excited to expand the entertainment offerings at Neil Street Blues in 2020 and beyond. The plan includes introducing live entertainment on weekdays and partnering with local high school jazz bands. Community engagement is also on the agenda, with Wednesday night fundraisers planned for organizations supporting mental health and children’s activities. The recent addition of Chef McGhee, formerly of C&C Kitchen, promises menu updates and further culinary enhancements in the future.
More than just a restaurant and music venue, Neil Street Blues aims to create a family atmosphere where “everyone is family!” Starks emphasizes the importance of Southern hospitality, ensuring every guest feels at home. She also addresses a common misconception: Neil Street Blues is not just a nightlife spot. They are open for lunch seven days a week and offer a popular weekend brunch menu. While the entertainment is a significant draw, the exceptional food is the foundation of the Neil Street Blues experience.
To experience the Southern charm and vibrant atmosphere of Neil Street Blues firsthand, visit them in Downtown Champaign and follow them on Facebook and Instagram @NeilStBlues.
