El Paraiso

Must try flan. You might have to call in a day ahead, as it flies off the shelves. Small hurdle to get over, this flan is worth every penny and minute of waiting. Also got the Jibarito the other day, a sandwich in between two fried slices of plantain. As someone who cannot digest gluten all too well, I appreciated this dish and recommend you get it too.

We've been looking for a new spot for tacos in Champaign-Urbana. El Paraiso caught our attention because of the abundance of plantain options. With a Gluten-Free family member, the idea of an additional base (beyond corn tortillas) for her to consider is what got us to order for the first time. I'm really not aware of other plantain options in CU, and there's a number of them at El Paraiso. Our Valentines takeout meal was excellent. Fresh Guac and recently fried chips, a number of tasty proteins (we tried steak, pastor and chicken) accompanied by rice, tortillas and plantains. All of it lovingly assembled -- my pork Canastas were plated beautifully despite being to-go. My wife was so happy to have both savory and sweet plantain options, and also really enjoyed the red rice with smoked turkey (arroz con gandules). Our 4yo enjoyed his plain chicken taco, which was well seasoned and still kid-friendly. Can't wait to try the Jibarito next. Really hoping El Paraiso becomes a downtown Urbana staple.