Favorite Breakfasts in Chicago That Are So Good You Won't Forget

3325 N Southport Ave, Chicago

(773) 819-7673

We absolutely loved the food at Little Goat Diner for breakfast. The chili crunch chicken and dumplings were incredible, offering a warm, comforting meal. It's such a fun place to share plates and try lots of the delicious menu items. My wife and I make it a point to stop by whenever we're in Chicago, and this place amazes us time after time. Today, I had the blue plate special with the Crabby Crunch omelette, and WOW, it was by far the best omelette I've ever had. This place operates like a well-organized machine, and I’m sure the folks in the kitchen have no idea how much their creations make our day. Little Goat Diner is an absolutely phenomenal diner right in the heart of Chicago. The variety of dishes is impressive. I also tried the double burger, which was exceptionally delicious—one of the best I've had. The rich flavors and fresh ingredients made every bite a delight. One standout part of their cuisine is the generous use of peppers, which adds a nice kick to many dishes, although it might be a bit much for those with sensitive stomachs. Personally, it was easy to adjust by removing the peppers, and the meal remained perfect. The service was friendly and attentive, which enhanced the whole dining experience. The ambiance is cozy and inviting, making it a perfect spot for a casual meal with friends or family. If you’re in Chicago, this diner is a must-visit! Thank you, Little Goat Diner! The Kimchi Bloody Marys are a revelation, and the corned beef hash is the best I’ve ever had. Even the fry pie was so good that I made room for it, and I'm glad I did. Plus, hats off to Preston, our outstanding server.

909 W Belmont Ave, Chicago

(773) 348-2378

Ann Sather Restaurant is a fantastic breakfast spot in Chicago. Their cinnamon rolls, especially the pecan rolls, are absolutely magnificent and perfect for a Sunday morning pick-up. They're easy to reheat, and I recommend asking for extra icing due to their generous size. They're way more cost-effective and satisfying than anything you'd get from a grocery store. The breakfast experience here is wonderful—not only is the food filling and flavorful, but I got a lot of it for just 15 bucks. The staff was friendly and efficient, making the visit even better. The decor has an old-school charm that fits the restaurant perfectly. Don't miss out on their lingonberry jam—it's superb, and you really do need it. I stumbled upon this place on my way to a coffee shop, and I'm so glad I did. The male owner is knowledgeable and full of interesting stories. Although the other breakfast items weren't as spectacular as the cinnamon rolls, they were still enjoyable. The eggs and potatoes with onions were great, although the coffee being served in a plastic cup felt a bit odd to me. Overall, I totally recommend Ann Sather for anyone looking for a delightful and affordable breakfast experience. Make sure to order those cinnamon rolls!

1800 W Grand Ave, Chicago

(312) 997-2400

I was visiting Chicago from Pittsburgh for a few days, and I always try to eat where the locals do. I absolutely loved my experience at Breakfast House in Chicago! It's such a cute little spot. My server was incredibly kind, and the food was excellent. I got a seat right next to the window, which was perfect for people-watching as I enjoyed my breakfast. I highly recommend it! My twin sister and I had the day off, and we were on the hunt for a great breakfast nook—and we found it! The place is cozy inside with plenty of outdoor seating. We were seated immediately when there was space available. The staff were beyond kind, and the food was fantastic. We had coffee, hard scrambled eggs with cheddar, Virginia ham on the grill, pancakes, and, best of all, corn cakes. All that for about $47, excluding a generous tip for our wonderful waitress. We're definitely coming back! In another visit with my party, we were seated right away, and I tried the traditional Benedict. The potatoes were even more delicious than they looked! The food was tasty, and the staff were amazing. Our server, Santiago, was constantly checking on us and was very outgoing. What an amazing experience!

130 E Randolph St, Chicago

(312) 938-9777

Amazing. The pancakes were truly the best I've ever had, especially the signature berry ones. I also tried the ham and cheese scrambled eggs and an espresso smoothie—everything was so good! Service was quick, and despite the crowd, we only waited a few minutes for a table. The atmosphere was great, and the portions were large. I ordered some seasonal pancakes that were fantastic, and the bacon was cooked perfectly. It was busy, but we were seated promptly, and they were very accommodating for allergens and gluten sensitivity. We had a wonderful breakfast on a weekday, and we were lucky to be seated outdoors with no wait. The lattes were tall and delicious, with unlimited coffee refills. Our favorite dish was the crepes, especially the banana cream pie flavor—yum! This place brought back memories of a breakfast spot we loved in the Chicago suburbs, where you could customize your meals with a mix of sweet and savory. Wildberry did not disappoint; they offer a variety of options where you can choose your dream breakfast combination. The pancakes and crepes were excellent, and I had the cauliflower hash, which was healthy and flavorful. One of us tried the chicken sandwich and loved it. Highly recommend Wildberry Pancakes & Cafe to anyone in downtown Chicago looking for a great breakfast spot. The food was incredible, the service was fast, and the options were endless. Definitely a must-visit!

196 E Pearson St, Chicago

(312) 470-0590

What a nice place to get breakfast! I brought my family here while they were visiting from France, and they were thrilled with the special avocado BLT toast and classic eggs Benedict. We were seated quickly at 10am on a Tuesday, but I noticed the place started to fill up fast. Wildberry Pancakes and Cafe is popular for a reason! The food was beyond delicious, with amazing flavor combinations and portions big enough to share, making it ideal for family outings or meals with friends. The variety on the menu caters to every craving, and the staff was attentive and friendly, enhancing the experience. The venue was spotless and well-kept, adding to the charm. This was our second visit, and once again, it didn't disappoint. The coffee stood out as one of the best I've ever had, which is a big deal for me. Every breakfast we've tried has been fantastic. This time, we had to leave for the hospital before finishing our order, but the young lady serving us quickly packed everything to go without any fuss. The service here is great, and the food is even better. I had pancakes with berries and a seasonal coffee blend—high-quality diner-like pancakes with a generous serving of mixed berries. Wildberry is definitely a must-visit, whether you're with family or friends. It’s a perfect spot for a peaceful, delicious breakfast with a cup of coffee. Highly recommend!

22 E Bellevue Pl, Chicago

(312) 642-7917

I saw this breakfast place online and instantly knew the food was going to be good. We went and waited in line for 15-20 minutes. It smelled amazing, so the wait felt longer than it actually was. Once we sat down, I ordered eggs, bacon, and pancakes. The eggs were fresh and good. The bacon was nice and crispy. The pancakes were awesome, nicely griddled, and a bit sweet, but what do you expect? I had their fresh orange juice, and I think it might be the best glass of orange juice I've ever tasted. We were recommended this restaurant while we were in town by a friend, and after having gone, I would recommend it as well. Great service, excellent food, and just a great place to eat. We also ordered chocolate pancakes, Reuben hash, 49er pancakes, pigs in the blanket, and shared the apple pancakes as a table. Everyone said the food was excellent. The apple pancakes are a must, even though they might be too much for one person. They're super sweet but really good! We sat outside because it was a nice day. The staff was super fast and nice. They took our order right away, and the food came out quickly. Just note that the apple pancakes take about 20 minutes to prepare, so plan for that if you order them. This historic breakfast eatery in downtown Chicago is definitely worth a visit. Whether you’re a tourist or a local, we all need our proper breakfast fuel for a great day on the town. They have an extensive breakfast menu with all kinds of ‘cakes and waffles. I opted for the 4-egg Mexican omelette with a side of the famous ‘cakes, and they delivered extremely well on this dish. They accept credit cards but charge a 3% fee if you don’t pay cash. Overall, this is an excellent breakfast spot, and it's great to see an American business still thriving after nearly 100 years.

565 W Jackson Blvd, Chicago

(312) 939-3111

Lou Mitchell’s in Chicago is an amazing place for breakfast. I had the mushroom omelette with raisin toast, and my wife tried the Maple Pecan waffle. Both were fantastic. The omelette was perfectly fluffy, and the raisin toast added a nice sweet touch. The waffle was crisp and had a great pecan crunch. The diner has a classic and welcoming vibe, truly feeling like a part of Chicago's history. The staff is super friendly, making the experience even better. It's a busy spot, so there might be a wait, but it's definitely worth it. Best breakfast ever! The coffee is quite good—definitely had a couple of cups while there. One of the highlights was the great service. Right after sitting down, we were greeted with water, and our server brought a donut hole and orange slice while taking our drink order—a warm welcome that made me smile. I also had the silver dollar pancakes, which were light and fluffy, though I couldn't quite finish them. Loved the chicken sausage omelette with added potatoes. Plus, they serve soft serve once you're done eating. The atmosphere is lively and bustling—exactly what you'd want from a busy breakfast diner. Highly recommend checking it out if you're in Chicago.

3348 W Bryn Mawr Ave, Chicago

(872) 208-7079

I stopped by Bryn Mawr Breakfast Club for breakfast and was immediately impressed by the quick seating and attentive service. My server was incredibly friendly, which set a positive tone for the meal. The food arrived quickly, and I was blown away by the kiwi and blackberry French toast. It sounded like a unique combo, but it was absolutely delicious and left me wanting more. The menu is phenomenal, clearly curated with care, and the freshness of the dishes was undeniable. What a treat! I also loved the cozy, welcoming atmosphere—it feels like a hidden gem that could easily be missed if you're not looking for it. Visiting on a Tuesday for a late breakfast, I found the inviting atmosphere and excellent service perfectly matched the glowing reviews I'd read. If you enjoy the custard-like texture of bread pudding, definitely try the bread pudding French toast—it's a game-changer. While some dishes needed a bit more balance, like the skirt steak skillet and chicken and waffles, there were still highlights worth the visit. Considering all aspects, I would certainly return. This little spot has a lot to offer, and I can't wait to explore more of their menu. If someone suggests meeting at Bryn Mawr, I'd gladly join them for another round of their delicious offerings.

1120 S Michigan Ave, Chicago

(312) 789-9655

Breakfast at Yolk - South Loop in Chicago was fantastic! I've been here several times, and each visit never disappoints. The biscuits and gravy topped with eggs were my go-to, with sides like delicious red potatoes and cheesy grits. The biscuits tasted homemade, and the gravy had just the right balance without being too salty. A coworker got a dish that was also very good, though I can't recall its name—taking a picture might be your best bet to figure it out! The service was consistently great, with friendly staff and a clean, casual atmosphere. Over the years, Yolk has become a staple in my brunch routine. The Ironman omelette and fluffy, sweet pancakes are favorites. While the place can be a bit loud and busy, it's perfect for family or friends. The menu offers many exciting twists on classic breakfast dishes. I enjoyed the banana bread French toast with peanut butter, and my husband loved the Nutty Monkey pancakes. The coffee was smooth and not industrial-tasting, adding to the overall great experience. With big, filling portion sizes and a helpful waitress, I highly recommend Yolk if you're in the South Loop. It's a must-visit spot for a satisfying breakfast or brunch. Thanks very much! 🙏

220 E Illinois St, Chicago

(312) 392-2570

This is hands down the best café I’ve ever been to in Chicago. We visited every day during our five-day stay, and each experience was just as amazing as the last. The staff not only remembered us but also made each visit feel special. We’ve had different servers each day, and every single one of them was fantastic. The hot chocolate is rich with flavor, and every dish I tried was incredible. From avocado toast to the ultimate skillet, the food was consistently tasty and satisfying. Unlimited soda refills were a nice bonus too. I enjoyed the avocado toast and ultimate skillet so much that I ordered them twice! If you’re visiting Chicago, I can’t recommend this place enough. Sometimes there’s a bit of a wait for a table, but it’s absolutely worth it. Egg Harbor Cafe has become my go-to spot for comfort, especially after a workout when I stop by for brunch and some relaxation. The host is warm, and the overall atmosphere is cozy and welcoming. Every visit offers a chance to try something new, and the cafe never disappoints. My personal favorite remains the bacon avocado omelette, the first dish I ever tried there. Initially, I was drawn by the positive reviews, and I wasn’t let down. The location is appealing, and the service is excellent. This place is definitely worth checking out if you’re looking for a satisfying breakfast or brunch spot in Chicago.

1381 W Hubbard St, Chicago

(312) 666-2372

The Breakfast Club and Grill is a fantastic spot for breakfast in Chicago. The food is simply amazing, with big portions and fair prices. It's clear that this place is family-owned, and the staff is very friendly. The outdoor seating is a great option, especially on a nice day, as it's peaceful and located on a quiet street. I ordered a breakfast skillet with chorizo and a side of cheese grits. The skillet was good, though the cheese grits weren't my favorite. However, I'm excited to return and try the waffles, which look incredible. The homey vibe and extensive breakfast menu make it a standout choice. Everything we tried, from the stuffed French toast to omelets and sandwiches, was very good. Although the service was a bit slow and I had to ask for water and sauce a few times, I understand it was a busy day. The staff was attentive and kind despite the rush. The service hiccup aside, this place is definitely worth checking out. It's a spot we love visiting with friends and family, and it's nice to see how attentive and kind the staff always is. Highly recommended for anyone looking for a delicious breakfast in an inviting atmosphere!

10437 S Western Ave, Chicago

(773) 445-6100

I really like The Original Pancake House in Beverly for breakfast in Chicago. It's always clean, and the service is usually good. Even if they might run out of something from time to time, it's definitely a place worth returning to. I love having my grits and omelet mixed together on the same plate—it's so delicious! This spot offers a quintessential American breakfast experience with scrambled eggs, hash browns, and pancakes. It's simple yet satisfying, and I strongly recommend it to anyone looking for a genuine breakfast outing. Make sure to get a booth and order some coffee; they even have mugs for sale. The service, atmosphere, and price make it a solid choice. Despite a hiccup where there was no one at the entrance for a bit, and a brief wait, the overall experience was positive. The staff may not have had the best product knowledge, but they tried their best. I initially faced some issues with my order—a veggie skillet with pancakes wasn't prepared as expected after a couple of attempts, but the staff did their best to resolve it. Even with these minor setbacks, the flavors and authenticity of the dishes make up for it. It's a friendly place, and although there was no managerial gesture to amend the mix-up, I still appreciated the effort from the team. I'll stick with this location and maybe try Oak Lawn next time. Overall, it's a good breakfast spot, and I'd give it another chance.

42 E Superior St, Chicago

(312) 930-4242

Sunny Side Up Breakfast & Lunch is a gem tucked away in a charming, renovated house in Chicago. The multi-floor seating across three levels provides a cozy, antique atmosphere that's both fascinating and unique. The menu is straightforward and manageable, allowing each dish to shine with flavor and quality. Service here is remarkable—Alejandra, our server, was friendly, knowledgeable, and attentive, making our visit even more enjoyable. The margherita omelette with a side of potatoes was delicious, and the bacon avocado Benedict, once the avocado was added, was a standout. Simple ingredients done right. The chilaquiles breakfast platter was flavorful and satisfying, though next time I'd opt for no sour cream. While the quaint setting makes for an intimate dining experience, the small tables can feel a bit cramped, especially during busy times. Despite that, the location is a convenient stroll in downtown Chicago, perfect for working up an appetite before breakfast. Be sure to arrive early, especially on weekends, to avoid long waits. Restrooms are upstairs, accessible via a narrow spiral staircase, so keep that in mind if you have mobility concerns. The inclusion of gratuity in the bill is a thoughtful touch, ensuring the hardworking staff receive fair compensation without the need for diners to calculate tips. Overall, Sunny Side Up offers a delightful breakfast experience with excellent food and top-notch service. A must-visit spot for both locals and visitors alike.

5310 N Milwaukee Ave, Chicago

(773) 775-1333

I had a great experience at Elly's Brunch & Cafe in Jefferson Park. I came in with a large group, and we were accommodated without any issues, which was impressive. The service was super friendly and surprisingly quick, even with all of us. The food was delicious, and everyone in my group seemed to really enjoy their meals. I personally ordered pancakes with strawberries, a side of hash browns, and bacon. The pancakes were perfectly fluffy and airy, the hash browns were tasty without being too greasy, and the bacon was just right. My mom actually suggested this spot for breakfast since I hadn't been there before, and she was absolutely right about it being great. She had the Spartan omelet, and we, of course, enjoyed some coffee. The atmosphere added to the whole experience, with exceptional service making it even better. Another visit was with my two grandchildren, where I found the perfect breakfast once again. I also tried the jalapeño burger, and while the jalapeños packed more of a punch than expected, it was delicious. The soup was a larger serving than anticipated and tasted amazing, offering good value for the price. Plus, the Chai tea latte was top-notch. Overall, I really enjoyed my time dining here and will definitely be back whenever I'm in town to see my mom. If you're looking for a good breakfast, come on over to Elly's. Just tell them Joe sent you, and they'll know who you're talking about with a smile!

2971 N Lincoln Ave, Chicago

(773) 528-1413

I can't recommend Golden Apple Grille & Breakfast House enough for breakfast. While I'd give it a full 5 stars, I know some people might think I'm exaggerating, but it truly was perfect. Everything was made exactly to my liking, the prices were reasonable, and the service was outstanding. The place was busy, just like Batter and Berries where we didn't want to wait an hour, but we were seated right away. An elderly man who seated us was incredibly friendly, and our server was attentive and responsive. When my date thought her meal included pancakes, our server swiftly brought some to our table even though it wasn't part of the order. We were constantly checked on to ensure everything was okay, and honestly, everything was better than okay. It's easy to see why this place has thrived for over 50 years. It's open 24 hours, which is super convenient. I first heard about this place through UberEats, but I'm glad I decided to dine in. I got to choose a comfortable spot to sit, and Sheila, our server, made us feel welcome and took our orders calmly. The breakfast was amazing. The pancakes with powdered sugar were delicious, and they made my eggs over hard perfectly. The bacon was crispy in every bite. The whole experience was seamless from start to finish. I left a generous tip to show my appreciation because running a 24/7 restaurant can't be easy. I'll definitely be back for another enjoyable breakfast. The food looked great in pictures, but it tasted even better. Overall, it's a fantastic spot with attentive staff and great food.

2406 W Diversey Ave, Chicago

(773) 252-8903

Golden Nugget Pancake House in Chicago is my go-to spot for a satisfying meal. I first stopped by on a whim and was totally blown away. Now, it's a monthly ritual for me. Their menu is extensive, featuring everything from breakfast staples to a full Mexican menu, Italian options, and classic diner fare. Whenever I’m there, no matter the hour, the food is always exceptional and the staff is genuinely friendly. The pumpkin pancakes are a standout, tasting like delicious pumpkin bread. I also love their chicken egg Benedict with hash browns; it's absolutely yummy. On another occasion, I ordered a Chicken Crusted Parmesan through DoorDash, and it was so incredible that it brought me to tears. Hands down, their chef deserves all the praise. The portion sizes are generous, so much so that I often have leftovers to enjoy later. Their omelettes are packed with eggs, making them a great choice over the skillets if you’re looking for a protein boost. The spaghetti and meatballs are a comforting, homemade delight, and I can't get enough of the cinnamon swirl pancakes which feel like a dessert treat. Even their homemade soup offers a cozy, delicious side option. Overall, Golden Nugget does everything flawlessly and is a must-visit diner in Chicago. Whether you're craving breakfast at any hour or a hearty dinner, this place has it all. The food’s consistently great and the service is always kind, making each visit a memorable experience. I can't recommend it highly enough!

334 W Chicago Ave, Chicago

(872) 259-9602

I stumbled upon Griddle 24 in Chicago and absolutely loved it! This spot offers inexpensive, high-quality food with a "Cheers" atmosphere. Watching the manager interact with everyone was a treat. Even though we cheated on our diet, it was so worth it! We needed a place for a late dinner and found this gem with an extensive menu. We opted for breakfast at night and were thrilled with the selection. Although the roast beef sandwich was disappointing in presentation, the chicken and potato soups were delicious. The diner has a 24-hour service with a fantastic variety of breakfast and dinner options. Its interior boasts a cool '50s vibe with a modern twist, and everything is super clean. The staff were incredibly friendly, and even when we visited at 5 am, getting a table was no problem. The hash and biscuits & gravy were especially noteworthy—the biscuits stayed crisp and didn’t get soggy. If you're in need of a late-night or early-morning meal, this place is worth checking out. The team, from hosts to cooks, was amazing. They were incredibly kind to my son and me, making us feel right at home. We ended up having breakfast here every morning during our stay. I'll definitely be back next time I'm in town, as it's rare to have such a warm and welcoming experience.

6 E Chestnut St, Chicago

(312) 943-4373

Tempo Cafe in Chicago is a fantastic spot for breakfast, especially if you're with family and kids. The booth seats and cushioned tables make it a comfortable place to sit and enjoy a meal. The staff is incredibly sweet and welcoming, which sets a friendly tone for the visit. The veggie skillet was a highlight, with fluffy eggs and a generous helping of fresh vegetables. I appreciated that it was flavorful without being overly salty. I also opted for the home fries for a small extra charge, and they were perfectly cooked—crispy on the outside and soft on the inside. The fresh sesame-bordered bread served with their own orange marmalade was delightful; the sesame seeds added a wonderful texture and flavor. The decor is warm and inviting, with lots of natural light thanks to the ample windows. Located at the corner of State and Chestnut, it's a convenient spot. The patio seating is a nice option, though be prepared for the occasional pesky bee if you dine outside. The service was excellent, and the food quality was impressive overall. Even though we had a small hiccup with the hostess, the rest of the staff more than made up for it with their friendliness and effort to accommodate us. I particularly enjoyed the Patty Melt, which I would easily recommend. Despite some minor issues, Tempo Cafe offers a pleasant dining experience and is definitely worth a return visit.

5100 W North Ave, Chicago

While searching for a dining spot, I stumbled upon G & N, a timeless restaurant that's reasonably priced. Despite a couple of hiccups, my experience was overwhelmingly positive, especially given the quality and value of the food. On my first visit, I decided to try the patty melt, and the freshness of the ingredients truly stood out, leaving me satisfied. It's worth noting that they only accept cash, which was the only drawback for me. The dine-in area is closed, so they only offer window service—ordering ahead or waiting in your car is advised. I've been a regular here for breakfast omelets for over three decades, with the Denver omelet being my absolute favorite. It's large enough to share, but honestly, I've never wanted to. The hash browns are the best I've had, perfectly crispy and flavorful. What stands out the most is the friendliness and professionalism of the staff. They work very hard and handle any issues with grace and efficiency. Despite a few misses, like the French toast not being quite to my taste and a mix-up with scrambled eggs, the positives far outweigh the negatives. The prices are reasonable, and the portions are generous, making it a staple breakfast spot that's hard to beat in Chicago.

500 S Dearborn St, Chicago

(312) 834-0500

We had breakfast at Meli Cafe and it was truly delicious. The atmosphere is quaint and simply elegant, which made for a pleasant dining experience. The symphony crepes were amazing, even without the pecans, and paired perfectly with a glass of milk. My husband enjoyed "eggs your way" with sausage links and sourdough bread, and the jam served with his toast was particularly noteworthy. I tried the Irish Benedict, and it was hands down the best eggs Benedict I’ve ever had. The homemade-tasting English muffins and delicious corned beef really elevated the dish. Although the hash browns were soggy and mushy, the overall quality of the food more than made up for it. Service was just okay. My friend had to ask three times for extra maple syrup, which never came, suggesting a bit of a team disconnect. It didn’t detract too much from the experience, but it’s an area they could improve. We also ordered a smoothie, which was more liquidy than expected. Despite these small hiccups, the food was outstanding, and we’d definitely come back just for that. The location is convenient, and although the wait on a Sunday was about 20 minutes, it was worth it. Overall, Meli Cafe is a delightful spot for breakfast in Chicago.