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Welcome to Reality Bites

At "Reality Bites," we celebrate a unique blend of contemporary flavors in a vibrant atmosphere. Nestled in Bloomington, IL, our tapas bar offers a delightful selection ranging from savory Santa Fe eggrolls to fresh caprese skewers. Our menu caters to diverse dietary preferences, featuring vegan and vegetarian options. Guests can enjoy a relaxed dining experience with outdoor seating and a full bar, perfect for casual meet-ups or festive gatherings. The welcoming ambiance, complemented by attentive staff, makes it an ideal spot for food lovers seeking both creativity and comfort in their meals. Join us for a culinary journey that captures the essence of modern American dining.

Reality Bites: Reviews & Ratings

CJ And S H.
CJ And S H.

Great Food, and Awesome service with a long tenured youthful staff that is friendly. The atmosphere is one of Bloomington's best. Not a huge menu but excellent food and variety. A regular visit for us. The owner is there on weekends helping to assure great service!! Try it if you're in town for a visit. We travel extensively and I'm pretty picky in posting reviews! Great for a date.

Rhonda S.
Rhonda S.

The seared ahi tuna was delicious especially the dipping sauce. The tacos are perfect for sharing. The shrimp was good but I preferred the fish tacos more. Very cool interior and a welcoming atmosphere. Loved the Halloween skeletons decor at the front of the restaurant. The menu is very different and we were excited to try this place. The only strange thing at the end was my brother left the server a cash tip which included some $2 bills. She came back and told us "we don't accept $2 bills." Excuse me? It is legal US currency. It was also meant to be part of her tip. So there went some of her tip.

David B.
David B.

I drove in from Urbana and my brother and his wife drove down from Peoria and we met in Bloomington for lunch. What a great relaxing spot to catch up with each other. We started with the Italian beef egg rolls which were unique and crispy with just the right amount of jardinera. I had an amazing shrimp pasta and my brother and his wife really enjoyed their meals. The service was good although the server could have been a little more attentive on drink refills. Would definitely go back.

Luke W.
Luke W.

The low ratings make no sense. This is my new favorite hot spot in the Bloomington area. Amazing atmosphere and date night vibes, simple and well thought out menu, vibrant collection of enticing eats and drinks, and in tune staff, I first noticed a higher class aura than expected. The dirty downtown drags all down. Frontman asked if I had a reservation, worked out well as I didn't anyway, was seated and awaited my buddy celebrating his cake day. I quickly sampled two brews and went with a delightful salty fresh beer. There were gorgeous cocktails too but have to note all quite light and sugar forward. They really need some balanced and more raw options. Wished we were more hungry, skipped appetizers, straight to sharing a burger and wow what a fix it was! The Butch. burger tingled all tasted with that meat crowned with pineapple. Few burgers have done so much for me. My buddy's Ex Boyfriend cocktail was perfect for the pink diabetes. Easy to drink and quickly disappeared, wondered around the dessert menu a second, we went for the pumpkin cheesecake. And again what an amazing treat, I had plenty of amazing cheesecakes in my time but this trounced most of them. This is one gorgeous food spot. I cannot wait to come back!

Location

  • Reality Bites
    414 N Main St Bloomington, IL 61701 United States Hotline: (309) 828-1300

Welcome to Reality Bites, a vibrant tapas bar located at 414 N Main St, Bloomington, IL. This trendy establishment stands out in the local dining scene as a must-visit for anyone looking to explore modern American cuisine in a lively atmosphere. Known for its eclectic menu and spirited vibe, Reality Bites invites diners to indulge in a unique culinary experience, perfect for everything from casual outings to special occasions.

Upon stepping inside, you’re greeted by an energetic ambiance, complemented by friendly service from a young and enthusiastic staff. Many patrons have noted the “awesome service” and warm atmosphere that make Reality Bites feel special. Whether you're celebrating a birthday or enjoying a cozy dinner date, the inviting decor and lively crowd provide the perfect backdrop for memorable moments.

The menu at Reality Bites is a delectable journey through small plates, offering vegan and vegetarian options alongside mouthwatering meat dishes. Some standout items include:

  • Santa Fe Eggrolls: A hearty blend of chicken, cheese, and vegetables wrapped in crispy tortillas, served with a spicy chipotle aioli for that perfect kick.
  • Jalapeno Bacon Wrapped Shrimp Skewers: Fresh shrimp enveloped in savory bacon, bursting with flavor that is sure to please.
  • Emma Ann's Salad: A refreshing mix of dried cranberries, roasted fuji apples, and candied walnuts topped with goat cheese—ideal for a light yet satisfying option.
  • Shrimp Pasta: Raved about by diners, it's a creamy dish that highlights the kitchen's ability to offer comfort food with a twist.

While the menu is concise, it is thoughtfully curated, showcasing a range of flavors and inventive combinations. Cheers to their extensive drink menu, featuring a full bar that complements the tapas perfectly, making it a hotspot for gatherings and celebrations.

Reality Bites also caters to diverse needs with amenities such as outdoor seating and takeout options, ensuring that every guest finds a place that suits their dining style. Whether you're stopping in for a quick bite or planning a group outing, the friendly staff is always eager to enhance your experience.

In summary, Reality Bites is more than just a restaurant; it's a culinary adventure that blends taste with community spirit. With its creative tapas, engaging atmosphere, and attentive service, it’s no wonder that many set aside time to return. So whether you're a local or just passing through, make sure to indulge in the reality of flavors that await you at Reality Bites—your taste buds will thank you!