When you think of downtown Champaign you can't help but think of The Esquire Lounge at the corner of University and Walnut.

But this isn't the same Esquire Lounge that started in 1975. Many expansions have happened since then. The latest addition (a couple years ago) came with four pool tables and a second bar to the location. The current size of The Esquire Lounge can accommodate intimate couples and large parties equally - inside and outside.

The Esquire Lounge is "an old fashioned watering hole with good food," as described by managing partner Pedro Heller.

That good food includes lunch specials Mon-Fri 11am-2pm.

Wed - Italian Beef

Thu - BBQ Pork Sandwich

Fri - Fish Sandwich

Stone baked, 10 inch personal pizzas start at $5.25 for a basic cheese pizza. The specialty pizzas (Greek, Bleu Pear, Chicken BBQ, Pesto, Chicken Alfredo, Garden, White Garlic) go for $7.25 each.

The drinks at this watering hole vary widely between Miller High Life ($1.50/pint $4.75/pitcher) and various imports and domestic premiums ($3.50/pint $12.25/pitcher).

Food: sandwiches, Burgers, Fried Appetizers, Specialty Pizzas

Smoking allowed? Yes, Separate area in the pool table section is no smoking

Heated smoking area? Yes

Smoking porch? No

Outdoor seating? Yes, Plenty of tables along Walnut St. or on the south patio

Occasional live music? Yes, Only for special occasions like holidays

Jukebox? Yes, CD Jukebox

Number of TVs 9, 3 Large Widescreen TVs

WIFI? Yes, The network name is "esquirelounge"

Games: Pool tables, Darts, Video games, Pinball

Payment Options:
Mastercard, Visa, No Check

Business hours:

• Sunday: 11:00 AM to 2:00 AM
• Monday: 11:00 AM to 2:00 AM
• Tuesday: 11:00 AM to 2:00 AM
• Wednesday: 11:00 AM to 2:00 AM
• Thursday: 11:00 AM to 2:00 AM
• Friday: 11:00 AM to 2:00 AM
• Saturday: 11:00 AM to 2:00 AM