Savor the City's Flavor: Your Essential Guide to Brunch Chicago Hotspots for 2024
Brunch in Chicago is more than a meal; it’s a lifestyle. That’s why “brunch Chicago” is the perfect way to kick off a lazy weekend, catch up with friends, or indulge in a little self-care. From classic brunch spots serving up timeless dishes to trendy eateries offering a fresh twist on the beloved weekend meal, Chicago has it all, plus 5 Reasons Chicago is a great place to move!
Key Takeaways
Chicago’s brunch scene is diverse, offering classic comfort foods at spots like Lou Mitchell’s, Daley’s, and The Bongo Room as well as luxurious options with striking views at places like Maple & Ash, Travelle, and LH Rooftop.
International flavors shine through in brunch menus across the city with Tzuco’s Mexican-inspired fare, Kasama’s Filipino influences, and Pochos’ Latin American twists on breakfast classics.
Brunch in Chicago caters to all lifestyles and preferences, including health-conscious choices at m.henry and Chicago Diner, family-friendly spots like Batter & Berries, and pet-friendly patios such as Gemini.
Classic Chicago Brunch Destinations
Chicago’s brunch culture is steeped in tradition, from the time-honored dishes on every menu to the cozy, inviting atmosphere of its classic brunch spots. We will navigate through the culinary offerings of some of the city’s most cherished establishments: Lou Mitchell’s, Daley’s, and The Bongo Room. These are just a few examples of the amazing brunch spots in Chicago that you can explore.
Lou Mitchell's
Lou Mitchell’s is a brunch institution that’s been serving up delicious dishes like meltaway pancakes and hot skillet omelettes for nearly a century. This iconic brunch destination is a testament to the timeless appeal of a well-cooked meal, with the line often extending out the door and along Lou Mitchell Way well into the afternoon.
Lou Mitchell’s demonstrates the lasting appeal of traditional brunch dishes, affirming that the classic methods often yield the best results.
Daley's
Entering Daley’s is akin to a journey into the past. This beloved brunch spot has been serving up brunch staples like Belgian waffles and omelets since it first opened its doors in 1892, making it Chicago’s oldest restaurant and a top brunch spot.
Nestled right at the Woodlawn Station, Daley’s offers a tantalizing weekend brunch menu that includes their famous Belgian waffles, unbeatable sandwiches, and homemade sweet potato pie.
The Bongo Room
The Bongo Room is an ideal choice for those seeking a relaxed café experience. This popular brunch place in Wicker Park, which started as a cool artist cafe in 1993, offers a unique array of one-of-a-kind breakfast dishes, including meat-free burritos, croissant sandwiches, and the indulgent Lobster Benedict.
The Lobster Benedict, in particular, is something special, featuring poached eggs, crispy bacon, and a delicious pesto hollandaise sauce that makes it a truly indulgent brunch option, similar to the popular crab cake benedict.
Elevated Brunch Experiences
For those desiring a more refined setting, the city offers numerous high-end brunch experiences that exceed the standard weekend offerings. Maple & Ash, Travelle at The Langham, and LH Rooftop are not only known for their luxurious dishes and stunning views but also for their exceptional service and inviting atmospheres.
Maple & Ash
Maple and Ash Brunch Menu-Ben Lalez Team
Maple & Ash elevates brunch to an unprecedented level of luxury, with dishes such as truffled omelet, king crab benedict, and lobster avocado toast. This posh brunch spot lets you indulge in a 175-dollar brunch tasting menu that truly showcases its rich dining experience.
The luxurious and beautiful brunch vibe at Maple & Ash ensures an amazing dining experience, making every weekend a special occasion.
Travelle at The Langham
Treat yourself to a luxurious brunch experience at Travelle at The Langham, where you can also indulge in exquisite Italian fare. Offering a classy dining environment on the second floor of the Langham Hotel, this brunch spot serves upscale dishes like an avocado tartine and the signature wagyu burger topped with garlic aioli, onion jam, and Hook’s white cheddar.
Sip on fancy cocktails like the Monet-inspired Water Lily Pond with cucumber-mint vodka, elderflower liqueur, and prosecco, making for a complex yet refreshing brunch experience.
LH Rooftop
Perched atop LondonHouse Chicago, LH Rooftop offers breathtaking views of the skyline as you enjoy brunch dishes like a banana split parfait and chicken and waffles with hot sauce and maple syrup. The rooftop setting creates an elevated brunch experience, complete with a visually stunning and tasty espresso martini that is a must-try.
International Flavors
The brunch scene in Chicago isn’t confined to pancakes and eggs benedict. The city is a melting pot of cultures, and this diversity is reflected in its international brunch spots. Let’s travel the world through the flavors of:
Tzuco, offering unique dishes inspired by Mexican cuisine
Kasama, serving Filipino-inspired brunch dishes
Pochos, with a menu influenced by Latin American flavors
Tzuco
Tzuco provides a distinctive dining experience, blending Mexican and international cuisines. From its ‘meltaway’ pancakes to its hot skillet omelettes, the brunch menu is as diverse as the city itself. And, if you have a sweet tooth, don’t miss out on the delicious dessert options like Horchata tres leches and blueberry pie.
Kasama
Kasama is popular for brunch, owing to its impressive Filipino-inspired menu. Sample both sweet and savory favorites:
Chocolate Croissant
Ham and Cheese Danish
Mushroom Adobo
Ube Basque Cake
Filipino Breakfast Combo
With such a wide variety of flavors, Kasama offers a unique brunch experience that sets it apart from other brunch spots.
Pochos
Pochos presents a relaxed ambiance with a menu that offers an original spin on classic dishes. This brunch spot is perfect for those seeking a unique dining experience. Some popular dishes include:
Chilaquiles
Huevos Rancheros
Breakfast Burrito
Avocado Toast
The combination of traditional Mexican cuisine with a modern twist makes Pochos a must-visit brunch spot in Chicago.
Health-Conscious Brunches
Healthy Chicago Brunch Options Ben Lalez Team
Despite the city’s reputation for deep-dish pizza and hot dogs, it’s invigorating to witness the rise in health-focused brunch venues. Whether you’re a vegetarian, vegan, or just looking to enjoy a nutritious meal, m.henry, Chicago Diner, and Nana have got you covered.
m.henry
m.henry provides a distinctive brunch experience, merging delicious food with a dedication to health and sustainability. They serve breakfast all day, using seasonal, locally grown, and organic ingredients to create a variety of delicious dishes, such as thick blackberry pancakes, breakfast sandwiches like a fried egg sandwich with Gorgonzola and bacon, and the Vegan Epiphany tofu scramble.
Chicago Diner (Lakeview and Logan Square)
Chicago Diner is a haven for vegetarians and vegans, but it also caters to those who simply want to enjoy a health-conscious meal. With dishes like:
Eggs Benedict
Steak & Eggs made with seitan
Biscuit & Gravy with seitan
Breakfast Combo that works for different diets, including egg sandwiches
There’s something for everyone at this brunch spot, making it one of the best brunch restaurants in town.
Nana
Nana is a family-owned restaurant known for its organic, locally-sourced ingredients. Their unique brunch menu includes traditional dishes with a Latin twist, ensuring you can enjoy a delicious meal without compromising on your health.
Boozy Brunches
Le Sud-Ben Lalez Team-Real Estate Agent Chicago
Brunch isn’t quite complete without a touch of fizz. For fans of a spirited brunch, Le Sud Mediterranean Kitchen, avec River North, and Beatnik provide unlimited mimosas and inventive cocktails, ensuring a merry mood throughout the meal.
Le Sud Mediterranean Kitchen
Le Sud Mediterranean Kitchen, a modern French restaurant, elevates the spirited brunch, offering bottomless mimosas and bellinis for $25, paired with decadent dishes such as French toast tiramisu and lobster Florentine. This spot is perfect for those looking to indulge in a leisurely, luxurious brunch.
avec River North
avec River North provides a distinctive brunch experience inspired by Mediterranean cuisine, complemented by their signature bloody marys. Whether you’re a fan of classics like the Bloody Mary or prefer something a bit more adventurous, avec River North’s cocktail list has something to suit every palate.
Beatnik
Beatnik presents a globally-inspired brunch menu within a tropical setting, enhanced by the presence of live DJ and percussionist performances. The creatively crafted cocktails perfectly complement the exotic dishes, making for a truly unique brunch experience.
Family-Friendly Spots
Brunch is a meal ideally savored in the company of loved ones, and Chicago’s family-oriented brunch venues ensure a pleasing experience for all. When you eat brunch at Batter & Berries, Yolk, and Little Goat Diner, you can expect a fun and delicious experience that’s sure to please both the young and the young at heart.
Batter & Berries
Batter & Berries, a family-friendly brunch venue, is well-known for its French toast flight, including the delicious brioche french toast, and substantial omelets. The vibrant atmosphere and delightful menu make it a hit with kids and adults alike, ensuring a fun-filled weekend brunch for the whole family.
Yolk
South Loop:
1120 S. Michigan Avenue
Chicago, IL 60605
Phone: 312-789-YOLK (9655)
Streeterville:
355 E. Ohio Street (corner of Grand & McClurg)
Chicago, IL 60611
Phone: 312-822-YOLK (9655)
Marina City
340 N. State Street
Chicago, IL 60654
Phone: 312-477-7676
Wicker Park
1819 W. Division Street
Chicago, IL 60622
Phone: 773-382-3447
Oak Park
7301 W. North Avenue
River Forest, IL 60305
Phone: 708-771-2047
Burr Ridge
595 Village Center Drive
Burr Ridge, IL
Phone: 847-231-9655
Yolk, a family-friendly chain with six locations (South Loop, Wicker Park, Burr Ridge, Oak Oak Park, Marina City, and Streeterville), provides exceptional brunch options throughout Chicago. With reliable service and a diverse menu, Yolk ensures that everyone in the family, from the pickiest of eaters to the most adventurous, will find something to enjoy.
Little Goat Diner
Little Goat Diner, a family favorite in Chicago, offers breakfast options throughout the day in a cozy environment. It’s a place where kids can enjoy their favorite breakfast treats while parents indulge in more gourmet options, making it a perfect spot for a family brunch outing.
Pet-Friendly Patios
Pet Friendly Brunch Spots in Chicago-Ben Lalez Team
For pet owners, a brunch experience isn’t quite fulfilled without the company of their furry companions. Luckily, Chicago is home to several pet-friendly patios like Gemini, Farm Bar, and Pilsen Yards, where you can enjoy delicious brunch dishes and a welcoming atmosphere.
Gemini-Lincoln Park
Gemini, a dog-friendly bistro in Lincoln Park, serves American brunch classics and unlimited cocktails on their semi-covered patio. Your furry friend can relax by your side as you enjoy a leisurely brunch in a vibrant neighborhood setting.
Farm Bar (Lake View and Ravenswood)
Farm Bar Lakeview
1300 W Wellington Ave
Chicago, IL 60657
Farm Bar Ravenswood
1970 West Montrose
Chicago, IL 60613
Farm Bar, ideal for outdoor dining on their pet-friendly patio, presents a locally-sourced brunch menu featuring dishes such as chicken and waffles, and shrimp and grits. With fresh food and a welcoming atmosphere, it’s a great spot to enjoy brunch with your four-legged friend by your side.
Pilsen Yards
Pilsen Yards features a sheltered outdoor patio, creating an ideal setting for a brunch date with your pet. With heated cement floors and overhead heaters, it’s a cozy spot to enjoy brunch, even when the weather outside is a bit chilly.
Weekend Brunch Buffets
For those with a desire for indulgence, weekend brunch buffets present a variety of dishes to cater to all tastes. Nellie’s and The Dearborn are two brunch spots known for their expansive buffet options, from savory to sweet.
Nellie's
Nellie’s, nestled in Humboldt Park, presents a weekend brunch buffet that includes traditional American breakfast and Puerto Rican dishes, providing a distinctive experience. You can dig into all sorts of yummy dishes like fried chicken, biscuits and gravy, shrimp and grits, and macaroni and cheese.
The Dearborn
The Dearborn offers a lavish brunch menu, featuring options such as crispy pizza and customizable donuts, making it an ideal choice for a weekend delight. It’s an ideal choice for those looking to indulge in a variety of different dishes in one brunch sitting.
Summary
From the classic brunch spots that have stood the test of time to the trendy eateries redefining the brunch scene, Chicago’s brunch offerings are as diverse as the city itself. Whether you’re a foodie looking to sample unique dishes, a health-conscious eater in search of nutritious options, or a pet owner seeking a spot for a leisurely brunch with your furry friend, the Windy City has something for everyone. So next time you’re deciding where to brunch in Chicago, why not try something new?
Frequently Asked Questions
What are some classic brunch spots in Chicago?
Check out Lou Mitchell's, Daley's, and The Bongo Room for classic brunch spots in Chicago, where you can enjoy timeless dishes and a cozy atmosphere.
Where can I have an elevated brunch experience in Chicago?
You can have an elevated brunch experience at Maple & Ash, Travelle at The Langham, and LH Rooftop for luxurious dishes and stunning views in Chicago. Enjoy!
Are there any international brunch spots in Chicago?
Yes, you can try Tzuco, Kasama, and Pochos for a taste of international brunch in Chicago. Enjoy!
Are there any health-conscious brunch spots in Chicago?
Check out m.henry, Chicago Diner, and Nana for some delicious and nutritious brunch options in Chicago. Enjoy!
Are there any pet-friendly brunch spots in Chicago?
Check out Gemini, Farm Bar, and Pilsen Yards for pet-friendly brunch spots in Chicago. Enjoy a great meal with your furry friend!
