The Best Brunch Spots In Hyde Park, Chicago

The University of Chicago, located in the Hyde Park neighborhood.
The University of Chicago, located in the Hyde Park neighborhood. | © James Byard / Alamy Stock Photo
Samantha Looney

While Hyde Park is not universally known for its dining options, the neighborhood has been making a name for itself in the Chicago’s food world lately. Whether you’re heading to class at the University of Chicago or looking for a place to grab something to eat before you stop by President Obama’s house, here is a list of the best brunch and breakfast spots in the neighborhood.

Plein Air Café

Whether you’re on your way to morning classes or simply want to grab a cappuccino while catching up on your emails, Plein Air Café is the perfect place to eat breakfast. In this contemporary cafe, you will feel like you stepped into a West Elm Catalog. The restaurant is named after the style of painting ‘Plein Air’ (or outdoor painting), and the sense of community and minimalist aesthetics will leave you feeling inspired. While you can never go wrong with the traditional croissant, try the house-made biscuit sandwich or the stuffed French toast.

Valois

In this cafeteria-style restaurant, you can ‘see your food’ (as the sign out front advertises) cooked right in front of you. The traditional eggs, bacon, and hash browns or short stack pancake breakfast come at a reasonable prices — the perfect Saturday morning comfort food. There is even a special menu where you can choose from a list of President Obama’s favorites.

Salonica

Located near the University of Chicago and the Museum of Science and Industry, Salonica is a diner-style, family-owned restaurant that specializes in Greek and American food. You don’t have to worry about sleeping in past breakfast time, because Salonica serves breakfast all day; enjoy a waffle or breakfast burrito any time you want.

Medici on 57th

Originally a coffeehouse and gallery, Medici on 57th has kept its artistic charm and turned itself into the largest restaurant in Hyde Park. From the cinnamon roll French toast to the sweet potato pancakes to the fresh fruit smoothies, you will be planning your next visit before the bill comes. Medici also delivers within the Hyde Park and Kenwood neighborhoods, so you don’t even have to get out of bed to enjoy your morning croissant.

Bonjour Café Bakery

Fortunately, you don’t have to take a 10-hour flight to get a French croissant. Bonjour Café Bakery is the perfect place to grab a chocolate croissant on the go or sit, relax, and enjoy a warm quiche. This cafe has both indoor and outdoor seating, making this the perfect place to enjoy warm weather with fresh pastries.

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