Sepelas Restaurant — Restaurant in Urbana

Best food I’ve had in Urbana — hands down.

Sepelas is a hidden gem just a little off the UIUC campus, and honestly, I wish I’d found it sooner. I’ve eaten at a lot of places around town, but nothing compares to the flavors, care, and authenticity here. This isn’t just a meal — it’s an experience.

I ordered:

Egusi (rich and savory stew)

Grilled Thomson Fish (incredible flavor, perfectly cooked)

Goat (tender, deeply seasoned)

Fufu and Kwanga (both amazing with the stews)

Beignut (delicious fried dough — not too sweet, just right)

Ginger Juice (spicy, refreshing, and dangerously good)

Every single item was amazing. No misses, no filler. Just real, deeply flavorful Congolese food made with love. The staff is welcoming, and the kitchen absolutely knows what they’re doing. You can tell it’s homemade — bold, comforting, and unforgettable.

UIUC students: you need to check this place out. It’s affordable, filling, and seriously some of the best food you’ll get in town.

Highly recommend. Will be...

I ordered takeout from Sepelas Restaurant, and even though I placed my order just 10 minutes before closing, they kindly accepted it without hesitation. When I went to pick it up, the manager was extremely friendly and generous. The food took a little extra time to prepare, and I felt very sorry for keeping them past closing, but they remained so welcoming the entire time. This was my very first experience trying African food, and I couldn’t have asked for a better introduction. I ordered Egusi soup, Pondu, and fufu, and each dish was absolutely delicious, rich in flavor, and very satisfying. I truly enjoyed every part of this meal and can’t wait to come back, hopefully to dine in next time. I highly recommend Sepelas if you’re looking to experience authentic and flavorful...

Whoever prepared the food really understands culinary. The food was so good. I had grilled fish and even chewed the tail. I had spinach stew and egusi as well. The apinach stew waa very different than I’ve had it but it was wspectacular!!!! The chicken in the egusi was tender and so delicious and the egusi was marvelous. I quenched my thirst with ginger drink. It wasn’t too sweet and was perfectly made. The prices were extremely cheap. Too cheap in my opinion for the quality of the food. Everything was fresh and taste like it had been made within the hour. This restaurant is a...