This afternoon we finally made it into Escobar’s on E. Columbia Ave. in Champaign, IL. Escobar’s menu has always caused us to shy away, as non-traditional as it is, but we had a fantastic meal today. We had no problem at all getting a table, as we were there well ahead of the dinner crowd as usual. Sarah started with a spinach and goat cheese salad which had strawberries and walnuts with a chili-mango vinaigrette. I opted for the Baked Brie en croûte with fresh fruit and baguette slices. I was expecting brie to spread on the baguette, but got a large pastry with brie inside. It was much larger than I had expected. This is definitely better shared by two. It was very good, though, as was Sarah’s salad.

For dinner Sarah went with the evening’s special, which was Sturgeon in a tempura batter with a mango red curry sauce, and fried rice. It was delicious and perfectly prepared. I had the Medallions of Filet Mignon in a Vanilla Sauce (and some other reduction they didn’t specify) with Monterey Jack mashed potatoes. The vanilla sauce was not too sweet and it went perfectly with the steak. I also had a glass of Hob Nob 2006 Pinot Noir. It was excellent with and was quite a generous pour. All in all it was one of the best meals we’ve had in quite some time. I don’t think it will be long before we’re back there for another.