- Attraction: Maize at the Station
- Location: 100 N Chestnut St, Champaign, IL 61820
- Industry: Mexican Restaurant
- Website: https://www.maizemexicangrill.com/
Some restaurants claim authenticity, but Maize Mexican Grill actually delivers it through corn tortillas pressed fresh for every single order.
Owner Armando Sandoval opened his first location in 2011 after immigrating from Mexico and initially swearing off ever opening a Mexican restaurant.
What changed his mind was simple:
He wanted to create the food he actually craved – authentic dishes representing “a mixture of Mexico City and rural Mexico” rather than the Tex-Mex dominating Champaign at the time.
After their original Green Street location closed in 2024 due to redevelopment, Maize now operates from their larger downtown location at the historic train station plus a spot in the Illini Union.
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Keep Exploring →You’ll taste the difference immediately – this is traditional Mexican cuisine made from scratch daily, featuring organic tortillas and recipes passed down from Sandoval’s family restaurant in Chicago.
Menu Highlights
Handmade Corn Tortillas: Every taco arrives on tortillas pressed moments before serving, creating an incredibly fresh base that elevates each bite. You won’t find flour tortillas here – Sandoval stays true to traditional Mexican preparation methods that prioritize corn over wheat.
Birria Tacos: These trending tacos feature tender, slow-cooked beef in rich consommé that’s perfect for dipping. The meat falls apart beautifully inside those fresh tortillas, creating a messy but absolutely delicious experience that keeps customers coming back.
Al Pastor Burrito: Reviewers consistently describe this marinated pork burrito as “transformative” – the flavors are so bold and authentic that many can’t finish the generous portion in one sitting. The perfectly seasoned meat pairs beautifully with fresh ingredients.
Queso Fundido: This melted cheese dish stands out as something you won’t find at other local Mexican restaurants. The rich, bubbling cheese creates the perfect appetizer for sharing, especially when paired with those famous handmade tortillas.
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Discover MoreCarne Asada: The grilled steak preparation showcases authentic Mexican flavors without heavy seasoning or Americanized additions. You’ll taste the quality of the meat enhanced by traditional preparation methods.
Flautas: These crispy rolled tacos provide great textural contrast to the softer items on the menu. They arrive perfectly golden and packed with flavorful filling that satisfies both texture and taste preferences.
Zucchini Blossom Enchiladas: This unique offering highlights Maize’s commitment to authentic Mexican ingredients that are rare to find elsewhere in the Midwest.
The delicate squash blossoms create a sophisticated vegetarian option.
Tlacoyo: Another authentic Mexican dish that sets Maize apart from typical Mexican restaurants.
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Beverages & Cocktails
Mezcalina: Available only at the downtown location, this beautiful hot pink cocktail combines smoky mezcal with house-steeped hibiscus water, fresh lime juice, and agave nectar. Served in a clay mug with a Tajin rim, it balances floral sweetness with mezcal’s distinctive smokiness.
Fresh Salsas: Made in-house daily, the salsas provide the perfect spice level – flavorful without being overwhelming.
You’ll appreciate how they complement rather than overpower the carefully prepared dishes.
Agua Frescas: These traditional Mexican beverages offer refreshing fruit flavors that pair perfectly with the rich, authentic dishes.
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Discover MoreAtmosphere & Dining Experience
Historic Train Station Setting: The downtown location occupies a beautifully restored train station, creating an atmospheric dining experience that feels both historic and welcoming. The copper-accent tables add warmth to the industrial-chic space.
Outdoor Patio: When weather permits, the back patio provides a lovely dining option, though you might hear some kitchen exhaust fans during busy periods.
The outdoor seating creates a relaxed environment perfect for groups.
Counter Service Style: The original Green Street location featured limited seating with about ten barstools and counter service, creating an intimate, casual atmosphere.
The downtown location offers more spacious seating while maintaining that approachable feel.
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Keep Exploring →Fast Turnaround: Even during busy periods, you’ll receive your order quickly thanks to efficient kitchen operations.
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Other Considerations
Pricing Structure: Expect mid-tier pricing that reflects the quality ingredients and authentic preparation methods.
Tacos typically start around $15 for a three-taco order with rice and beans included. While some find the pricing higher than expected for Champaign, the fresh, organic ingredients and authentic preparation justify the cost.
Parking Situation: The downtown location sits in a busy area with limited parking spaces near the train station. Plan to arrive with a few extra minutes to find street parking, especially during peak dining hours.
Family-Friendly Environment: The restaurant welcomes families and can accommodate larger groups, particularly at the downtown location.
The casual atmosphere works well for both quick lunches and leisurely dinners.
Vegetarian Options: Beyond the typical beans and rice, Maize offers unique vegetarian dishes like squash blossoms and huitlacoche that are difficult to find elsewhere in the Midwest. However vegetarian options aren’t always clearly marked on the menu.
Best Dining Times: Consider visiting during off-peak hours for a more relaxed experience.
The restaurant handles busy periods well but can fill up quickly, especially near the University of Illinois campus.
No Flour Tortillas or Queso: Stay true to your expectations for authentic Mexican cuisine – you won’t find Americanized additions like flour tortillas or typical queso dip. This commitment to tradition is what makes Maize special.
Maize at the Station
📍 100 N Chestnut St, Champaign, IL 61820
