Family Guide To Chicago Brunches
Have you ever woken up on a Saturday morning craving a delicious brunch where you could comfortably show up with two kids in tow? Then check out these Chicago, family-friendly brunch hotspots! Clever names seem to be the key when looking for a great family brunch. Whether you choose to "Tweet" about the yummy "Wishbone" or have an "Eggsperience" in the "Bongo Room," you really can have a great brunch in Chicago as a family.
Tweet
5020 N. Sheridan Road
Chicago, IL 60640
(773) 728-5576
Open for Brunch: Saturday & Sunday 9 a.m. to 3 p.m.
Mon, Wed -Fri - 9 a.m. to 3 p.m.; Closed Tuesdays
Price: $10-$20
www.tweet.biz
A brunch to Tweet about:
A small Uptown secret is that the sister to the bar Big Chicks, known as "Tweet," serves up a fabulous brunch. You can dine under colorful umbrellas on one of the two patios, or inside the quaint restaurant. Actually, the word has spread, and if you wait too late in the morning you might be waiting for a table, especially outside. Try the classic Eggs Benedict or my favorite the Biscuits and Gravy. The kids can get just one or two pancakes or French toast too. There is not much room for stroller parking inside, but they will help you find a spot for your buggy. Remember to stop by the ATM before you nest, because Tweet accepts Cash only. Crayons and coloring books should keep the kids busy, while you enjoy your coffee or chai and chocolate chip cornbread while waiting for your delicious, fresh, organic food. There's parking behind the restaurant, but it's definitely limited. So when your kids wake you in the early morning, give yourself something to Tweet about and brunch in Uptown!
Wishbone
3300 N. Lincoln Avenue
Chicago, IL 60657
(773) 549-2663
and
1001 W. Washington Blvd.
(312) 850-2663
Both locations open for Brunch
Saturday and Sunday 8 a.m. – 3 p.m.
Price: $10-$20
www.wishbonechicago.com
Reconstructed Breakfast?!
They call it "Southern Reconstruction" cooking, and I call it great. For a classic Chicago family brunch, take the family to Wishbone in Lakeview or the West Loop. The lines can be long, but kids abound and the food will keep you wishing you had more. A separate children's menu complete with "mouse" pancakes is available, but you will have to pay more for real maple syrup - at least if you have kids like I do. Are you craving grits? Look no further. Beef brisket hash? They've got it. Don't miss my favorite, the southern eggs benedict, where gravy replaces the classic hollandaise. And for you ordinary mid-westerners they also have more traditional brunch offerings. So head to Wishbone and put some South in your family's mouth.
The Bongo Room
1152 S. Wabash Street
Chicago, IL 60605
(312) 291-0100
and
1470 N. Milwaukee
Chicago, IL 60642
(773) 489-0690
Brunch available on Saturday and Sunday only 9 a.m. to 2 p.m.
Price: $20-$30
www.thebongoroom.com
Towering French Toast
If you're looking for a more upscale brunch, head to the Bongo Room. You won't find any drums, but you will find delicious, creative food for you and your family. It is no wonder they have locations in Wicker Park and the South Loop, because the menu is seasonal, brief and very interesting. My kids have no problem eating the chocolate tower French toast, but the kitchen will happily take special orders to make plain pancakes or French toast. Again, prepare for a long wait if you don't come early enough, but you will be surrounded by other families with kids. No matter what, leave the keys at home and enjoy one of the many brunch bar beverages: available at the Wicker Park location only. If you are a Bloody Mary family you certainly won't be short on choices. And while you imbibe the under 21 set can take delight in a fresh squeezed juice or hot chocolate milk.
Eggsperience Pancakes and Cafe
35 W. Ontario
(312) 870-6773
Chicago, IL 60654
Hours: Open 24 hours Daily
Price: $12-$20
www.eggsperiencecafe.com
How long does it take to make a pancake?
The famous oven baked apple pancakes will require an extra 20-30 minutes of time to prepare, but you won't be disappointed. The extra large pancake is layered with fresh apples and topped with a gooey cinnamon glaze. If your kids have a sweet tooth - get one for the table to share. This very casual 24/7 eatery is super family-friendly. It offers what I consider classic breakfast food, at reasonable prices, prepared very well. You can order eggs just about any way you would like. If you're headed downtown for some shopping with the family this weekend, be sure to stop in for a wonderful Eggsperience, no matter what time of day it is.
