The Best Brunch Spots In Uptown Chicago

A center of jazz and art deco architecture, Uptown Chicago remains one of the city’s largest cultural centers. With elaborate movie palaces converted into concert venues and chic women’s boutiques in Andersonville, this trendy area recalls Chicago’s heyday during the Roaring 20s. If you’re hungry after a night of salsa dancing at the Aragon Ballroom or seeing a show at Neo-Futurarium, here is a list of the 10 best brunch spots in Uptown.

Tiztal Cafe

Cafe, Restaurant, Mexican, Vegetarian, Coffee, Tea

This four-year-old brunch spot focuses on dishes with a Mexican flair. From chilaquiles to chorizo, Tiztal Cafe also offers a juice bar, an extensive selection of shakes and a wide variety of vegan and vegetarian dishes. Most notably, it is the home of the ‘oatmeal shake’, which is just one example of the nutritious and energizing breakfast fare this restaurant has to offer.

m.henry

Cafe, American

This organic brunch spot uses only the freshest ingredients to create the best possible take on the traditional Americana brunch. From quiche to lemon-raspberry brioche French toast to Florentine shrimp and crab cake bennie, m.henry offers delicious and creative dishes in a simple yet homey spot on Clark Street. Many of the dishes also give a nod towards Tex-Mex, with dishes such as huevos borrachos and the latina omeletta. Peach & blackberry French toast, m. henry | © Lauren/Flickr

Bar, Restaurant, American, Vegan, Vegetarian, Gluten-free

The art on the walls and the amazing Art Deco space would give the impression of Tweet being an art gallery if it weren’t for the spectacular and varied brunch offerings. Tweet fuses dishes of Scandinavian, Latin-American, and American origins to create a unique and scrumptious dining experience. Try the Lox Platter or the oatmeal à la Jim Faulkner, or indulge in the many gluten free and vegan options.

Inspiration Kitchens

Restaurant, American, Vegan, Vegetarian, Gluten-free

Brunch at Inspiration Kitchens is one of the best in all of Chicago, with chorizo croquettes and chicken waffles to give the traditional brunch a unique twist. What’s even more exceptional about this restaurant, aside from the top-notch food and service, is that it trains those who were homeless or in poverty to becoming self-sufficient workers in the restaurant industry. What could be better than eating quiche knowing you’re supporting a good cause on a Sunday morning?

The Bongo Room

This local chain of well known hipster haunts, with a prominent Uptown establishment, is famous for its breakfast cocktails, build-your-own omelets, and seemingly limitless French toast toppings. Order a white chocolate pretzel pancake or opt for an elegantly presented side of fruit. More savory dishes, such as the poached shrimp salad or a chorizo avocado potato omelet, also abound.

The Golden House Restaurant & Pancake House

Diner, Restaurant, American, Vegetarian, Vegan

With wood paneled walls and red vinyl booths, this diner channels a classic Americana look while offering affordable, delicious brunch options. Golden House Restaurant and Pancake House is a well-kept Uptown secret with its enormous breakfast combos and many different pancake offerings. What it lacks in frills, Golden House makes up for in hefty portions and friendly service.

Magnolia Cafe

Cafe, Restaurant, American, Gluten-free

Usually a formal dinner establishment, Magnolia Cafe relaxes on Sunday mornings and offers a casual, delicious brunch. Specializing in meats, such as gluten-free crab cakes and smoked salmon, this restaurant also has bottomless mimosas and excellent Bloody Marys.