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These are the best brunch spots in Chicago for French toast, Bloody Marys, and Benedicts.

Irene's Chicago

Chicago’s best chefs never cease to amaze with their ability to alchemize simple ingredients—eggs, milk, cheese, and flour—into mouth-watering spreads that motivate even the most miserable hangover-sufferer out of bed for a plate of nourishment. Whether you want to put your feet up by the river and enjoy some shrimp and grits in the sun or gather your crew for a Sunday brunch at a hidden neighborhood gem, here are the 15 best brunch spots in Chicago.

Chicago’s best chefs never cease to amaze with their ability to alchemize simple ingredients—eggs, milk, cheese, and flour—into mouth-watering spreads that motivate even the most miserable hangover-sufferer out of bed for a plate of nourishment. Whether you want to put your feet up by the river and enjoy some shrimp and grits in the sun or gather your crew for a Sunday brunch at a hidden neighborhood gem, here are the 15 best brunch spots in Chicago.

Irene's sprung open in 2022 with a welcome <a href="https://chicago.eater.com/2022/10/17/23403336/irenes-diner-north-center-press-room" target="_blank">departure from the “greasy spoon”</a> genre of diners. Offering unpretentious, upscale takes on brunch staples, <a href="https://www.ireneschicago.com/menus" target="_blank">Irene’s menu</a> focuses on flavorful, fresh, high-quality ingredients. (For example, the crab cake Benedict is built upon a crab cake that even impresses those of us raised in Maryland.) Remote workers can post up and enjoy free wifi alongside the <a href="https://www.instagram.com/p/Coh5rS8raDp/" target="_blank">Nine to Fiver Combo</a> (offered on weekdays from 10 am to 1 pm) with unlimited coffee along with either a <a href="https://www.slagelfamilyfarm.com/" target="_blank">Slagel Farm</a><a href="https://www.instagram.com/p/ClRhQtGP4gl/" target="_blank">burger</a> or <a href="https://www.instagram.com/p/Cpk-TtWppC2/" target="_blank">breakfast burrito</a> for just $15. <a href="https://www.instagram.com/p/Cqsrb_LtAKz/" target="_blank">High tea</a> service includes a tiered tea tower stacked with seasonal jams, buttery scones, house-made bagels, thin-sliced lox and prosciutto, and more delights—capped off by a selection of rare and unique teas. Go for the 2012 Vintage Hot Chocolate Pu-erh, a tea fermented for over five years with fresh cacao nibs and vanilla. How to book: Walk in, or <a href="https://www.toasttab.com/irenes-2012-w-irving-park-road/v3/?mode=fulfillment" target="_blank">order online for pickup and delivery here</a>.

Irene’s

Savanna is a Chicago brunch go-to for a reason. Its <a href="https://www.savannachicago.com/menu" target="_blank">Ecuadorian fusion cuisine</a> is delicious, and the beautiful plating is always worthy of a photo. It’s hard to top, even when stacked up against some of the most expensive brunch spots in the city. Be sure to order the <a href="https://www.instagram.com/p/CqvGak_NzQU/" target="_blank">llapingacho Benedict</a>, a signature dish that combines traditional Ecuadorian potato cakes with grilled tomatoes, perfectly spiced pork chorizo, a runny poached egg, and a smoky house-made chipotle hollandaise sauce. Don’t overlook <a href="https://www.instagram.com/p/CpnGvEFtHQy/" target="_blank">freshly squeezed juices and smoothies</a> either—they’re all refreshing, balanced, and perfect for nursing that nasty hangover. How to book: Walk in, or order online <a href="https://www.savannachicago.com/" target="_blank">here</a> for pickup and delivery.

Savanna Restaurant

This cozy, sun-drenched bistro slipped into some pretty big shoes when it took over the California Avenue space that formerly housed industry-favorite <a href="https://www.thrillist.com/venues/eat/chicago/restaurants/cafe-marie-jeanne">Cafe Marie-Jeanne</a>, which sadly <a href="https://chicago.eater.com/2022/7/11/23204308/cafe-marie-jeanne-pop-up-uncle-bunny-long-room" target="_blank">shuttered</a> in 2020. Thankfully, the Segnatore team does not disappoint, with a solid roster of Italian fare accented by cheffy twists. <a href="https://www.segnatore.com/brunch-menu" target="_blank">Brunch</a> here means Amaro Smoked Salmon on toast with roasted onion crema and pickles, smoked tri-tip hash, and a <a href="https://www.instagram.com/p/Ch-Xv6ypH3c/?hl=en" target="_blank">Freestyle “Lasagna”</a> featuring garlic mafaldine, mushroom bolognese, and whipped ricotta (add the egg—it’s worth the upcharge.) Follow the restaurant’s advice and get “spritz-faced” with one or two effervescent selections off the enticing&nbsp;<a href="https://www.instagram.com/p/CleVvYZpCYW/?hl=en" target="_blank">cocktail</a> menu. How to book: Make reservations via <a href="https://www.segnatore.com/reservations" target="_blank">Resy</a>.

Segnatore Chicago

Segnatore

This <a href="https://www.apoloniachicago.com/" target="_blank">Mediterranean showstopper</a> from the team behind Pilsen’s critically acclaimed <a href="https://www.skyrestaurantchicago.com/" target="_blank">S.K.Y.</a> has firmly established itself as the best <a href="https://www.apoloniachicago.com/_files/ugd/9525c9_cbc7f6905d2b4fdf8aa9fdf1077f37ad.pdf" target="_blank">brunch</a> peddler in the South Loop. The kitchen’s global influences show their stripes via a concise-yet-sophisticated <a href="https://www.apoloniachicago.com/_files/ugd/9525c9_cbc7f6905d2b4fdf8aa9fdf1077f37ad.pdf" target="_blank">morning spread</a>, with standouts like Softly Scrambled Eggs with boursin and arugula, housemade Bucatini Carbonara, <a href="https://www.instagram.com/p/CYMgHh6pyau/?hl=en" target="_blank">Steak and Eggs in Purgatory</a> with fiery Calabrian chile, and Deviled Eggs Florentine leading the charge. Save room for Banana Budino Cake alongside signature espresso drinks courtesy of <a href="https://sparrowcoffee.com/" target="_blank">Sparrow Coffee</a>. How to book: Make reservations via <a href="https://resy.com/cities/chi/apolonia?date=2023-04-14&amp;seats=2" target="_blank">Resy</a>.

Apolonia Chicago

Apolonia

When you're craving some righteous Southern dishes, chef Darnell Reed’s brunch is a no-brainer. The <a href="https://www.luellassouthernkitchen.com/menus" target="_blank">menu</a> at this <a href="https://chicagoreader.com/best-of-chicago/2022-food-drink-poll-winners/" target="_blank">award-winning soul food</a> spot is packed with delightful selections, like tongue-tingling <a href="https://www.instagram.com/p/CoFgoYoOKKk/?hl=en" target="_blank">Nashville Hot Chicken and Waffles</a>, steamy and smooth <a href="https://www.instagram.com/p/Cb-AaSgLhU4/?hl=en" target="_blank">Shrimp and Grits</a> with New Orleans-style barbecue shrimp and cream cheese, and perfect, flaky, buttery <a href="https://www.instagram.com/p/CSjGTHcr1lP/?hl=en" target="_blank">biscuits</a>. Without a doubt, this family-friendly soul food specialist knows what’s up. How to book: Stop by for first come, first served seating or order takeout via <a href="https://direct.chownow.com/order/26287/locations/38934?add_cn_ordering_class=true" target="_blank">ChowNow</a>.

Luella's Southern Kitchen

Luella’s Southern Kitchen

Sodas, shakes, floats, and pies have always been the main attractions at this retro soda fountain and bakery, but the mouth-watering sandwiches and quiches offered on the all-day <a href="https://www.spinningj.com/menu" target="_blank">menu</a>&nbsp;are equally enticing.&nbsp;Highlights include the Smoked Trout Bialy with cream cheese and spicy giardiniera, as well as a cheesy white cheddar scrambled egg smeared with olive pesto and pressed between two pieces of crispy polenta. Classics like BLTs, egg sandwiches, grilled cheese, and tuna melts are also on hand for those sticking to what they know. How to book: Stop by for first come, first served seating or <a href="https://www.spinningj.com/s/order" target="_blank">order takeout online</a>.

Spinning J

Spinning J Bakery and Soda Fountain

Buttermilk biscuits slathered in butter whipped with duck fat; sopes layered with chile-braised duck, salsa verde, and eggs; smoked salmon on toast with curried avocado, spiced mango, and a crisp radish—these unfathomably tasty dishes represent a mere fraction of this <a href="https://theduckinnchicago.com/" target="_blank">famed Bridgeport gastropub’s</a> totally bonkers <a href="https://theduckinnchicago.com/menus/#tab-2stacks_in_739" target="_blank">Sunday brunch</a> offerings. Don’t discount the Croque Ma’Spam though, made with a house version of Spam. A whopping three different Chicago-style <a href="https://www.instagram.com/p/ChU2NbkLBm4/?hl=en" target="_blank">hot dog</a> variations add to the mouthwatering madness. How to book: Book via <a href="https://theduckinnchicago.com/" target="_blank">Resy on their official website</a>.

The Duck Inn 

Take a bite out of the Big Easy courtesy of this festive Wicker Park <a href="https://www.instagram.com/p/CcETWGtJwez/?hl=en" target="_blank">Michelin Bib Gourmand</a> recipient. New Orleans native and chef Brian Jupiter’s weekend extravaganza showcases his deep love for Louisiana cuisine with <a href="https://www.inamaetavern.com/menu#menu=brunch-menu-extended" target="_blank">dishes</a> like <a href="https://www.instagram.com/p/ClJkFE9pSTh/?hl=en" target="_blank">Crispy Chicken Wings and Salted Praline Pancakes</a>;&nbsp;<a href="https://www.instagram.com/p/ClbpOUtr52t/?hl=en" target="_blank">Shrimp and Grits</a> with parmesan, corn, and scallions; and a Grand Slam Platter stacked with eggs, alligator sausage, fruit, and homestyle grits. You almost feel bad for Denny’s. How to book: Reserve via <a href="https://www.exploretock.com/inamae" target="_blank">Tock</a> or order takeout and delivery <a href="https://www.inamaetavern.com/order#menu?location=wicker-park-chicago" target="_blank">here</a>.

Ina Mae Tavern & Packaged Goods

Kick back and soak up the <a href="https://www.instagram.com/p/CqdbEbwLhzT/" target="_blank">BoHo lounge vibes</a> at this greenery-strewn <a href="https://www.beatnikontheriver.com/" target="_blank">eatery</a> where updated takes on international fixtures and sweeping waterfront views woo boisterous brunch crowds on the regular. Expect colorful shareables like Kampachi Crudo with pickled fresno, garlic shoyu, and tempura crunch; the perfect Cubano Breakfast Sandwich with braised pork, mortadella, dijonaise, pickles, and egg; and steamy Shakshuka with fire-roasted peppers, spicy tomatoes, poached eggs, and naan for dipping. Grab a couple orders of Za’atar Fries for the table, sip a Cocoquito, and enjoy the warm breeze. How to book: Make reservations via <a href="https://resy.com/cities/chi/beatnik-on-the-river?date=2023-04-14&amp;seats=2" target="_blank">Resy</a>.

Beatnik on the River

Beatnik On The River

Take your <a href="https://www.cabrachicago.com/brunch" target="_blank">brunch</a> poolside at all-star chef <a href="https://www.cabrachicago.com/" target="_blank">Stephanie Izard’s vibrant Peruvian-leaning oasis</a> perched atop the West Loop’s ever-hip Hoxton Hotel. Perfect ceviche, addictive <a href="https://www.instagram.com/p/CqqiOyJMhAU/" target="_blank">Avocado Dip</a> served with a spread of yuzu-tomato, taro, and sweet potato chips, <a href="https://www.instagram.com/p/CmpvRPMtoaE/" target="_blank">Goat Empanadas</a> with Huacatay mayo, and hangover-blasting Salchipapas piled high with thick-cut frites, fried chorizo, amarillo mayo, and poached eggs will have your head spinning before a second round of Spring Showers Bring Elderflowers cocktails (Broker’s gin, St. Germain, fenugreek, lemon, and cava) handily cools things down. How to book: Reserve on <a href="https://www.cabrachicago.com/reservation" target="_blank">Cabra’s website</a>.

Cabra

This <a href="https://www.lulacafe.com/" target="_blank">perennial favorite</a> in Logan Square serves <a href="https://www.lulacafe.com/menus/#brunch-and-lunch" target="_blank">brunch specialties</a> like the Classic Lula Breakfast Burrito, a perfectly-folded Nettle and Ricotta Omelet, and Pork Belly and Grits rich with manchego cheese. Specialty blends from Metric coffee and bounty of easy-drinking special cocktails sweeten the deal. How to book: Reserve via <a href="https://resy.com/cities/chi/lula-cafe?date=2023-04-14&amp;seats=2" target="_blank">Resy</a>.

Lula Cafe

Lula Café

<a href="https://www.thrillist.com/lifestyle/chicago/things-to-do-chicago-ukrainian-village">This Ukrainian Village gem</a> serves an ambitious <a href="https://www.kasamachicago.com/menus" target="_blank">all-day menu</a> of cheffed-up Filipino comforts like a <a href="https://www.instagram.com/p/CDeawMkjGRA/" target="_blank">Filipino Breakfast</a> with housemade longganisa sausage with garlic rice and fried eggs, and plump pork-stuffed Lumpia Shanghai. Only on the weekends, the kitchen adds <a href="https://www.instagram.com/p/CnIdrvJLj8-/" target="_blank">Corned Beef Breakfast</a> and Pork Belly Adobo to the offerings. Throw in some locally roasted coffee, handpicked natural wines, and picturesque sidewalk seating and you’ve got yourself one quality Sunday hang. How to book: Stop by for first come, first served seating, order takeout via <a href="https://www.toasttab.com/kasama-1001-north-winchester-avenue/v3" target="_blank">Toast</a>, or get delivery via <a href="https://www.exploretock.com/kasama/" target="_blank">Tock</a>.

Kasama

Robust Lebanese flavors breathe new life into expertly prepared Mexican fare at this sunny spot splashed with pastel hues. Brunch, of course, is prime time at <a href="https://www.evetteschicago.com/" target="_blank">Evette’s</a>, a never-ending cascade of belly-warmers like the inimitable <a href="https://www.instagram.com/p/CR92er-rBQd/" target="_blank">Hash Brown Sandwich</a> (two waffle hash browns slathered with chipotle mayo, salsa verde, gooey cheese, and bacon) alongside dantier offerings like the <a href="https://www.instagram.com/p/CPJahMoh22t/" target="_blank">Pretty Salad</a>, where pomegranates, onions, carrots, cucumbers, feta, and pita perch atop a bed of crunchy romaine. How to book: Stop by for first come, first served seating or <a href="https://evettes.square.site/" target="_blank">order takeout and delivery online</a>.

Evette's Chicago

Evette’s

The <a href="https://www.instagram.com/p/CqxnUQJLaUg/?hl=en" target="_blank">welcoming patio</a> at Pilsen Yards sets a charming tone with a mass of exposed brick, soft lighting, and rustic exposed beams while the poured cement floor radiates heat beneath diners’ feet. Cozy <a href="https://static1.squarespace.com/static/5f3565c422b73529eeeb6be2/t/640ba20399bcbb4ca2787c40/1678483971881/PY+BRUNCH+%2B+Spirits+WEB+SCROLL+3.10.23.pdf" target="_blank">menu</a> options abound: Concha Toast jazzed up with tres leches cream and strawberry-mezcal compote, <a href="https://www.instagram.com/p/CbDAqWPLnib/?hl=en" target="_blank">Flautas and Eggs</a> with chicken tinga and salsa cruda, and Steak and Eggs topped with snappy chimichurri.

Real ones know: It doesn’t get much better than a big ol’ order of Salmon Croquettes from this inviting <a href="https://www.thrillist.com/travel/chicago/exploring-south-side-chicago">South Side legend</a>. Bursting with wild-caught salmon, the crisp, flaky, heavenly medallions come cradled in a pool of warm cheese grits, just as the brunch gods—and every Southern grandma—intended. Everything else, from fluffy 7-Up Pancakes drizzled with tangy lemon cream cheese frosting to decadent Shrimp and Grits with garlic cream sauce and bacon, is icing on the proverbial cake.

Peach's Restaurant

<a href="https://www.thrillist.com/authors/meredith-heil" target="_blank">Meredith Heil</a>&nbsp;is a former freelancer, former-former Staff Writer, and current Senior Cities Editor at Thrillist. When she comes back like Jordan, wearin' the 4-5, it ain't to play games with you.

<a href="https://www.thrillist.com/authors/elanor-bock">Elanor Bock</a> is a Chicago born, New York-based professional dancer, writer, and renaissance woman, excelling at philosophy, mathematics, outdoor adventuring, and balancing six martinis on a tray in a crowded bar. Like her dog Oli, she is highly motivated by treats.

<a href="https://www.thrillist.com/authors/sam-greszes" target="_blank">Sam Greszes</a>&nbsp;is a contributor for Thrillist.

Find the best spots daily to eat and drink in hipster neighborhoods. Hit the roof, drink a beer and eat delicious at top-tier restaurants. Plan your nightlife adventure with maps and reviews of unknown micro-brews, rooftop parties, and independent drink.

Best Restaurants & Bars - Places to Eat & Drink - Thrillist

Breakfast

The Absolute Best Brunch Spots in Chicago Right Now

Best Brunch in Chicago: Good Brunch Spots to Order for Delivery and Pickup

Kick off the weekend with cheffy French Toast, Italian comforts, and all the Bloody Marys.

Chicago’s best chefs never cease to amaze with their ability to alchemize simple ingredients—eggs, milk, cheese, and flour—into mouth-watering spreads that motivate even the most miserable hangover-sufferer out of bed for a plate of nourishment.

Pilsen Yards

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