Two new options for food and drink get set to open in Downtown Urbana, while a Champaign institution is set to close for the time being.In Urbana a first of its kind in CU concept is set to open soon. Broadway Food Hall is set to open its doors some time in the fall. The restaurant at 401 N. Broadway in Urbana, will reportedly feature 5 different food concepts in a cafeteria like setting. The building is located near the new Boneyard creek walkway and the Station Theatre.

Also in Downtown Urbana, the people behind The Canopy Club and Crane Alley are launching a new bar next to the latter establishment. Blackbird will open up in the former Lord & Lacy BBQ building at 119 W. Main st. The bar will feature live music and a cozy beer garden. The restaurant is planning a grand opening party for next Friday June 30th.

And finally, a sad sight for many, Champaign’s iconic Chester Street Bar has closed its doors for the time being. A flurry of Facebook posts by both patrons and employees have indicated that the bar is closed as a new, yet unconfirmed, owner takes over. The bar was a home to the Champaign-Urbana LGBTQ community was also one of Champaign’s preeminent dance venues. The direction for the new bar is unknown at this time.