Quick answer
Chicago brunch typically costs $15–$30 per person, with The Publican, consistently ranked #1, being the essential stop for its European beer hall experience. For Southern comfort food, Luella's Southern Kitchen is a top pick, while Maple & Ash offers a splurge-worthy experience exceeding $200. Reservations are strongly recommended on weekends for popular spots.
- Best overall
- The Publican
- Top pick
- The Publican
Top verdicts
- The Publican: Reservations open ~30 days out and the prime weekend slots disappear in minutes; if you miss them, the bar seats are first-come and turn over fast at 10am open.
- Lula Cafe: No reservations on weekends — put your name in early, walk to Logan Square's farmers market or Boulevard, and they'll text you when the table's ready.
- Tweet: Sundays are wild; weekday brunch is the sleeper move if your schedule allows it.
Chicago brunch typically costs $15–$30 per person, ranging from budget spots like Tweet under $18 to splurge experiences at Maple & Ash exceeding $200. The Publican, consistently ranked #1 across multiple best-of lists, is the essential stop — but arrive early on weekends or book ahead.
Area map
All 12 spots at a glance
| # | Name | Style | Price | Area |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | The Publican | european-beer-hall | mid | 837 W Fulton Market, Fulton Market |
| 2 | Lula Cafe | farm-to-table | mid | 2537 N Kedzie Blvd, Logan Square |
| 3 | Tweet | american-brunch | mid | 5020 N Sheridan Rd, Uptown |
| 4 | Batter & Berries | brunch-&-waffles | mid | 2748 N Lincoln Ave, Lincoln Park |
| 5 | Big Jones | southern | mid | 5347 N Clark St, Andersonville |
| 6 | m.henry | creative-brunch | mid | 5707 N Clark St, Andersonville |
| 7 | Maple & Ash | upscale-steakhouse | mid | 8 W Maple St, Gold Coast |
| 8 | Superkhana International | modern-indian | mid | 3059 W Diversey Ave, Logan Square |
| 9 | Obélix | french-bistro | mid | 700 N Sedgwick St, Old Town |
| 10 | Tzuco | french-mexican | mid | 720 N State St, River North |
| 11 | Luella's Southern Kitchen | southern-comfort | mid | 4114 N Kedzie Ave, Irving Park |
| 12 | Dolo Restaurant and Bar | chinese-dim-sum | mid | 2222 S Archer Ave, Chinatown |
1The Publican
European Beer HallQuick comparison
- Best for
- An anchor brunch in Fulton Market
- Strengths
- Known for European Beer Hall · 837 W Fulton Market, Fulton Market
- Price / value
- $$$
- Why it made the list
- Paul Kahan's Fulton Market beer hall has held the unofficial 'best brunch in Chicago' title for years — communal oak tables, an oyster program that rivals dedicated raw bars, and a brunch menu built around heritage-pork dishes that no neighborhood spot can match. 4.5 stars across nearly 3,000 reviews.
- What to order
- The pork belly Benedict and a half-dozen oysters — the heritage-pork program is the whole point of eating here, and Publican's oysters are some of the best in the Midwest.
2Lula Cafe
Farm-to-TableQuick comparison
- Best for
- Seasonal Logan Square farm-to-table brunch
- Strengths
- Known for Farm-to-Table · 2537 N Kedzie Blvd, Logan Square
- Price / value
- $$
- Why it made the list
- Logan Square's pioneering farm-to-table cafe — Jason Hammel's seasonal menu changes constantly, the dining room is a neighborhood institution after 25+ years, and a 4.7 rating across 3,500 reviews is exceptional for a brunch this volume.
- What to order
- The Farm Breakfast — eggs, hash, greens, sourdough — sourced from Midwest farms; Lula's whole reputation rests on these plates.
3Tweet
American BrunchQuick comparison
- Best for
- Casual Uptown scratch-kitchen brunch
- Strengths
- Known for American Brunch · 5020 N Sheridan Rd, Uptown
- Price / value
- $$
- Why it made the list
- Uptown's longstanding scratch-kitchen brunch — owner Michelle Fire's menu draws on Cajun, Southern, and vegetarian traditions, and the 4.7 rating across 2,200 reviews is rare territory for a place this casual.
- What to order
- The huevos rancheros or the chilaquiles — the kitchen leans hard on the Cajun-Mexican corner of the menu and that's where it's strongest.
4Batter & Berries
Brunch & WafflesQuick comparison
- Best for
- Pancake-and-French-toast specialists
- Strengths
- Known for Brunch & Waffles · 2748 N Lincoln Ave, Lincoln Park
- Price / value
- $$
- Why it made the list
- The Lincoln Park brunch with the line — Batter & Berries built a Chicago reputation around its flight of pancakes and crunchy-on-the-outside, custardy-inside French toast. 4,900+ reviews at 4.5 stars tells you exactly how repeatable the food is.
- What to order
- The French toast flight — three flavors on one plate is the menu hero and the reason out-of-towners line up for it.
🕐 Opening hours
5Big Jones
SouthernQuick comparison
- Best for
- Researched Southern brunch in Andersonville
- Strengths
- Known for Southern · 5347 N Clark St, Andersonville
- Price / value
- $$
- Why it made the list
- Andersonville's Southern-heirloom kitchen — Paul Fehribach cooks from antebellum and post-Civil War Southern cookbooks, smokes meats in-house, and the brunch menu reflects research most Chicago restaurants don't bother with.
- What to order
- Shrimp and grits done in the Lowcountry style with the heritage-corn polenta — this is the dish Big Jones has spent years getting right.
6m.henry
Creative BrunchQuick comparison
- Best for
- Creative pancake-and-egg brunch
- Strengths
- Known for Creative Brunch · 5707 N Clark St, Andersonville
- Price / value
- $$
- Why it made the list
- Andersonville's creative-brunch standby — m.henry leans into seasonal pancake stacks, French toast, and savory egg dishes with more invention than the standard diner playbook. 4.6 stars across 1,800 reviews keeps it on every Chicago shortlist.
- What to order
- Whichever seasonal pancake or French toast special is on the chalkboard — the rotating creations are why locals keep coming back.
7Maple & Ash
Upscale SteakhouseQuick comparison
- Best for
- A blow-the-budget Gold Coast brunch
- Strengths
- Known for Upscale Steakhouse · 8 W Maple St, Gold Coast
- Price / value
- $$$$
- Why it made the list
- The splurge — Maple & Ash's Gold Coast steakhouse pivots to a $$$$$ brunch on weekends with bottle service, caviar, and the same wood-fired meats that made the dining room famous. Not for everyone, but the only entry on this list that fits an expense-account or birthday-blowout brief.
- What to order
- The steak-and-eggs with bone-in ribeye, plus the famed I Don't Give A F*@k Menu if you're committing to the experience.
8Superkhana International
Modern IndianQuick comparison
- Best for
- Inventive Indian-American brunch
- Strengths
- Known for Modern Indian · 3059 W Diversey Ave, Logan Square
- Price / value
- $$
- Why it made the list
- Logan Square's modern Indian kitchen runs a brunch that locals fight to get into — Yoshi Yamada and Zoe Schor's roti pizzas and Indian-American mashups are unlike anything else in the city, and the 4.5 across 540 reviews understates how good it is in person.
- What to order
- The roti pizza is the signature; pair it with one of the egg-and-saag plates for a proper brunch.
🕐 Opening hours
9Obélix
French BistroQuick comparison
- Best for
- Proper French-bistro brunch in Old Town
- Strengths
- Known for French Bistro · 700 N Sedgwick St, Old Town
- Price / value
- $$$
- Why it made the list
- An Old Town French bistro from the Galit team — full bistro execution at brunch (croque madame, omelettes, frites) in a room that actually feels like Paris rather than a Chicago approximation. 4.5 stars across 700 reviews on a relatively new opening.
- What to order
- The croque madame or the steak frites brunch — Obélix's kitchen does classical French technique properly, and that's where the menu shines.
10Tzuco
French-MexicanQuick comparison
- Best for
- French-Mexican brunch from a Michelin chef
- Strengths
- Known for French-Mexican · 720 N State St, River North
- Price / value
- $$$
- Why it made the list
- Carlos Gaytán's River North dining room — the chef who became the first Mexican-born to earn a Michelin star runs a French-Mexican brunch that splits the difference between the two cuisines without compromising either.
- What to order
- The chilaquiles or the brioche French toast with cajeta — both showcase the French-Mexican angle without forcing the fusion.
🕐 Opening hours
11Luella's Southern Kitchen
Southern ComfortQuick comparison
- Best for
- Southern brunch in Irving Park
- Strengths
- Known for Southern Comfort · 4114 N Kedzie Ave, Irving Park
- Price / value
- $$
- Why it made the list
- Chef Darnell Reed's Irving Park Southern kitchen — Reed's grandmother Luella's recipes plus modern technique, brunch built around shrimp and grits, fried chicken, and chicken and waffles. The 4.4 rating across 1,800 reviews is consistent for a neighborhood Southern spot.
- What to order
- The chicken and waffles or the shrimp and grits — these are the recipes the restaurant is named for and they earn the menu space.
12Dolo Restaurant and Bar
Chinese Dim SumQuick comparison
- Best for
- Weekend dim sum in Chinatown
- Strengths
- Known for Chinese Dim Sum · 2222 S Archer Ave, Chinatown
- Price / value
- $$
- Why it made the list
- Chinatown's go-to weekend dim sum — Dolo runs cart service on Saturdays and Sundays with steamed buns, dumplings, and turnip cake straight from the kitchen. The 4.3 rating across 1,250 reviews is solid for a dim sum room with this much volume.
- What to order
- Build a table from the carts as they come — har gow, siu mai, and the salt-and-pepper squid are the dishes Chicago dim sum regulars wave down twice.
Frequently asked questions
What is the best brunch in Chicago?
Based on cross-referencing Reddit, Eater Chicago, TimeOut, and The Infatuation, the most consistently recommended spots are The Publican (legendary maple-braised bacon and waffles in Fulton Market), Lula Cafe (farm-to-table pioneer in Logan Square), and Tweet (Uptown's beloved eggs benedict specialist with 4.7 stars). Each appears on multiple best-of lists with enthusiastic Reddit endorsements.
How much does brunch cost in Chicago?
A typical Chicago brunch runs $15–$30 per person before drinks. Budget-friendly spots like Tweet and m.henry keep dishes under $18. Mid-range favorites like Batter & Berries and Big Jones average $18–$26. Upscale spots like Maple & Ash can hit $50–$200+ with their IDGAF tasting menu. Bottomless brunch deals typically add $20–$30.
Do I need reservations for brunch in Chicago?
For popular spots, reservations are strongly recommended on weekends. The Publican, Lula Cafe, and Maple & Ash take reservations via OpenTable or Resy. Beloved spots like Tweet, Batter & Berries, and m.henry are walk-in only — arrive before 9 AM on weekends to avoid 45-minute+ waits.
What are the best chicken and waffles in Chicago?
Luella's Southern Kitchen is the top pick — chef Darnell Reed's Southern comfort food is legendary. Batter & Berries serves excellent waffle flights. The Publican's chicken schnitzel with their signature waffle and honey butter is an upscale alternative.
Where should I go for brunch on the North Side?
The North Side has Chicago's densest brunch concentration. In Andersonville: m.henry and Big Jones are blocks apart. Uptown has Tweet (4.7 stars, free cake). Lincoln Park has Batter & Berries. Logan Square has Lula Cafe and Superkhana International. All worth a CTA trip.
What is the most unique brunch in Chicago?
Superkhana International in Logan Square offers Indian-inspired brunch unlike anything else — uttapam griddle cakes with coconut chutney, French toast with gajar halwa, and a cumin-tequila Bloody Mary. Tzuco combines French technique with Mexican flavors. Dolo's Chinatown dim sum feast is a completely different experience.
What is the best weekend brunch in Chicago?
The Publican's Saturday-Sunday brunch (9 AM–2 PM) is the gold standard — maple-braised bacon, crab scrambled eggs, and an outstanding beer selection. Lula Cafe serves brunch daily except Tuesday. For a special occasion, Maple & Ash's Sunday brunch with seafood towers and champagne is unmatched.
What's the most unique brunch experience in Chicago?
For an unparalleled culinary adventure, <a href="#superkhana-international"><strong>Superkhana International</strong></a> offers modern Indian-inspired dishes unlike anything else, with inventive griddle cakes and curries. Alternatively, <a href="#dolo-restaurant-and-bar"><strong>Dolo Restaurant and Bar</strong></a> provides an authentic dim sum experience, perfect for communal dining and sampling a wide array of Chinese delicacies.
Where can I find the best French toast or waffles for brunch in Chicago?
The undisputed champion for French toast is <a href="#batter-berries"><strong>Batter & Berries</strong></a> in Lincoln Park, famous for its iconic four-flavor French Toast Flight that features unique combinations. If you're craving exceptional waffles, <a href="#luellas-southern-kitchen"><strong>Luella's Southern Kitchen</strong></a> is legendary for its crispy, savory chicken and waffles, a true Southern comfort classic.
Which Chicago brunch spots are best for a special occasion or fancy meal?
For a truly lavish celebration, <a href="#maple-ash"><strong>Maple & Ash</strong></a> delivers an opulent steakhouse brunch with fire-roasted seafood towers and premium ingredients. <a href="#obelix"><strong>Obélix</strong></a> offers a sophisticated French bistro indulgence, perfect for a romantic or upscale gathering, while <a href="#tzuco"><strong>Tzuco</strong></a> blends French technique with Mexican soul for a breathtaking, elegant experience.
What are the best Southern-style brunches in Chicago?
For authentic Southern comfort, look no further than <a href="#luellas-southern-kitchen"><strong>Luella's Southern Kitchen</strong></a>, where Chef Darnell Reed's legendary chicken and waffles are a must-try. Another outstanding option is <a href="#big-jones"><strong>Big Jones</strong></a> in Andersonville, which offers historically-rooted Southern fine dining, showcasing the rich culinary traditions of the American South.
Which neighborhoods are known for great brunch in Chicago?
Logan Square is a brunch hotspot, home to pioneers like <a href="#lula-cafe"><strong>Lula Cafe</strong></a> and the creative <a href="#superkhana-international"><strong>Superkhana International</strong></a>. Andersonville boasts a vibrant scene with Southern gem <a href="#big-jones"><strong>Big Jones</strong></a> and the inventive <a href="#m-henry"><strong>m.henry</strong></a>. Fulton Market, with <a href="#the-publican"><strong>The Publican</strong></a>, also offers high-energy, upscale brunch experiences.
How early should I arrive for brunch on a weekend in Chicago to avoid long waits?
To minimize wait times at popular Chicago brunch spots, especially on weekends, it's generally best to arrive right when they open or within the first 30 minutes. For places that don't take reservations, like <a href="#batter-berries"><strong>Batter & Berries</strong></a>, arriving before 9:00 AM can significantly reduce your wait. Alternatively, consider a late brunch, arriving after 1:00 PM, when the initial rush begins to subside.
What are the best brunch spots in Chicago for large groups or celebrations?
For large groups or special celebrations, several Chicago brunch spots can accommodate. <a href="#maple-and-ash"><strong>Maple & Ash</strong></a> offers an extravagant atmosphere perfect for a big splash. <a href="#the-publican"><strong>The Publican</strong></a>'s communal tables and lively environment are great for bigger parties, as is the shared-plate experience at <a href="#dolo-restaurant-and-bar"><strong>Dolo Restaurant and Bar</strong></a> for dim sum. Always call ahead for reservations and to discuss group seating options.
Are there any Chicago brunch spots known for unique or international flavors?
Absolutely! Chicago's brunch scene is wonderfully diverse. For modern Indian-inspired dishes, you can't miss <a href="#superkhana-international"><strong>Superkhana International</strong></a>. <a href="#tzuco"><strong>Tzuco</strong></a> offers a sophisticated blend of French and Mexican cuisine, while <a href="#dolo-restaurant-and-bar"><strong>Dolo Restaurant and Bar</strong></a> provides an authentic Chinese dim sum brunch experience. For French elegance, <a href="#obelix"><strong>Obélix</strong></a> is a perfect choice.
Which Chicago brunch spots are best for a casual, laid-back weekend meal?
If you're looking for a relaxed vibe without sacrificing quality, consider <a href="#tweet"><strong>Tweet</strong></a> in Uptown for its consistent American brunch and cozy atmosphere. <a href="#luellas-southern-kitchen"><strong>Luella's Southern Kitchen</strong></a> offers a comfortable setting for enjoying hearty Southern comfort food. Many neighborhood gems like these prioritize a friendly, unpretentious dining experience perfect for a leisurely weekend.
What's the most iconic brunch dish to try in Chicago?
While Chicago offers many iconic brunch dishes, the French Toast Flight at <a href="#batter-and-berries"><strong>Batter & Berries</strong></a> is arguably one of the most famous and highly sought-after. It features four different flavored French toast options, making it a truly unique and memorable experience that locals and visitors alike rave about. The chicken and waffles at <a href="#luellas-southern-kitchen"><strong>Luella's Southern Kitchen</strong></a> are also legendary.
Are there good brunch options in Chicago for vegetarians or those with dietary restrictions?
Most Chicago brunch spots are accustomed to dietary needs. <a href="#lula-cafe"><strong>Lula Cafe</strong></a> is known for its seasonal, farm-to-table menu that often includes excellent vegetarian and vegan options. <a href="#m-henry"><strong>m.henry</strong></a> also offers creative dishes that can often be adapted. When making reservations or ordering, it's always best to inform your server about any specific dietary restrictions to ensure a safe and enjoyable meal.
Which Chicago neighborhoods are best known for their brunch scene?
Several Chicago neighborhoods are brunch hotspots. Logan Square, home to pioneers like <a href="#lula-cafe"><strong>Lula Cafe</strong></a> and the adventurous <a href="#superkhana-international"><strong>Superkhana International</strong></a>, is a vibrant hub. Andersonville, with <a href="#big-jones"><strong>Big Jones</strong></a> and <a href="#m-henry"><strong>m-henry</strong></a>, offers a charming, diverse selection. Fulton Market and the Gold Coast also boast high-end options like <a href="#the-publican"><strong>The Publican</strong></a> and <a href="#maple-and-ash"><strong>Maple & Ash</strong></a>, making them top destinations for a memorable brunch.
What's the best French toast in Chicago?
Without a doubt, the undisputed champion for French toast is <a href="#batter-berries"><strong>Batter & Berries</strong></a>, famed for its iconic Four-Flavor French Toast Flight, featuring innovative rotating flavors. Another excellent contender for a creative twist is <a href="#m-henry"><strong>m.henry</strong></a>, whose cinnamon roll French toast is a beloved favorite among Andersonville regulars.
Which Chicago brunch spots are great for a group celebration?
For an extravagant group celebration, <a href="#maple-ash"><strong>Maple & Ash</strong></a> offers a luxurious setting with impressive seafood towers perfect for sharing. <a href="#the-publican"><strong>The Publican</strong></a> provides a lively, communal atmosphere in its European beer hall, ideal for a boisterous gathering with friends over oysters and pork. For a unique group experience, consider the shared plates of dim sum at <a href="#dolo-restaurant-and-bar"><strong>Dolo Restaurant and Bar</strong></a>.
Where can I find unique international brunch experiences in Chicago?
Explore modern Indian-inspired dishes unlike anything else at <a href="#superkhana-international"><strong>Superkhana International</strong></a> in Logan Square, known for its creative uttapam griddle cakes. For a sophisticated French-Mexican fusion, Chef Carlos Gaytán's <a href="#tzuco"><strong>Tzuco</strong></a> delivers breathtaking flavors. If you're craving traditional Chinese fare, <a href="#dolo-restaurant-and-bar"><strong>Dolo Restaurant and Bar</strong></a> offers an authentic dim sum brunch experience.
Are there any must-try savory brunch dishes in Chicago?
For outstanding savory options, the historically-rooted Southern cooking at <a href="#big-jones"><strong>Big Jones</strong></a> yields incredible fried chicken and biscuits. <a href="#the-publican"><strong>The Publican</strong></a>, true to its European beer hall roots, excels with savory pork belly and oysters. For classic Southern comfort, the legendary chicken and waffles at <a href="#luellas-southern-kitchen"><strong>Luella's Southern Kitchen</strong></a> are an absolute must-try.
Which Chicago neighborhoods are known for their brunch scenes?
Chicago boasts several vibrant brunch neighborhoods. Logan Square is a hotbed, home to pioneers like <a href="#lula-cafe"><strong>Lula Cafe</strong></a> and innovators like <a href="#superkhana-international"><strong>Superkhana International</strong></a>. Andersonville is another fantastic choice, featuring gems like <a href="#big-jones"><strong>Big Jones</strong></a> and <a href="#m-henry"><strong>m.henry</strong></a>, while the Fulton Market District hosts powerhouses like <a href="#the-publican"><strong>The Publican</strong></a>.
How early should I arrive to avoid long waits at popular Chicago brunch spots?
To minimize wait times, especially on weekends, plan to arrive either right at opening or towards the end of the brunch service, typically after 1:30 PM. For highly sought-after spots like <a href="#batter-berries"><strong>Batter & Berries</strong></a> or <a href="#tweet"><strong>Tweet</strong></a>, arriving 15-30 minutes before opening can make a significant difference. Even better, make a reservation if the venue allows it.
What are the best brunch spots in Chicago for large groups?
For large groups, <a href="#the-publican"><strong>The Publican</strong></a> offers a spacious European beer hall setting, perfect for communal dining. <a href="#dolo-restaurant-and-bar"><strong>Dolo Restaurant and Bar</strong></a> provides a lively dim sum experience well-suited for sharing many dishes. Also consider <a href="#maple-and-ash"><strong>Maple & Ash</strong></a> for a truly extravagant group celebration, though reservations are essential.
Which Chicago brunch spots have outdoor seating options?
While availability can be seasonal, many Chicago brunch spots offer outdoor patios or sidewalk seating. <a href="#lula-cafe"><strong>Lula Cafe</strong></a> often has popular outdoor tables, as does <a href="#the-publican"><strong>The Publican</strong></a> in the bustling Fulton Market. It's always best to call ahead or check their website for current outdoor dining availability and reservation policies.
Are there any BYOB brunch spots in Chicago?
BYOB (Bring Your Own Bottle) options for brunch in Chicago can be limited, especially at larger, more established restaurants that hold liquor licenses. Smaller, neighborhood cafes might offer this, but none of the popular picks on this list are explicitly BYOB. Always confirm directly with the restaurant before planning to bring your own alcohol.
What are the must-try brunch dishes in Chicago?
Chicago's brunch scene boasts many iconic dishes! You absolutely must try the legendary French Toast Flight at <a href="#batter-and-berries"><strong>Batter & Berries</strong></a>, the acclaimed Chicken and Waffles at <a href="#luellas-southern-kitchen"><strong>Luella's Southern Kitchen</strong></a>, or the innovative seasonal dishes at <a href="#lula-cafe"><strong>Lula Cafe</strong></a>. For something unique, don't miss the uttapam griddle cakes at <a href="#superkhana-international"><strong>Superkhana International</strong></a>.
Which Chicago brunch spots are best for celebrating a special occasion?
For a truly memorable celebration, <a href="#maple-and-ash"><strong>Maple & Ash</strong></a> delivers an over-the-top, luxurious experience. <a href="#obelix"><strong>Obélix</strong></a> offers a sophisticated and indulgent French bistro ambiance perfect for romantic milestones. <a href="#tzuco"><strong>Tzuco</strong></a>'s breathtaking atmosphere and refined French-Mexican cuisine also make it an excellent choice for special moments.
What's the typical wait time for popular brunch places in Chicago?
Wait times for popular brunch spots in Chicago can range from 30 minutes to over two hours, especially on weekend mornings. Places like <a href="#batter-and-berries"><strong>Batter & Berries</strong></a> and <a href="#tweet"><strong>Tweet</strong></a> are known for significant queues. To minimize waiting, arrive right when they open, visit on a weekday, or make reservations well in advance if available.