Brunch is arguably one of the hottest meal times of the moment (yes, that’s a thing), so don’t expect this not-breakfast-not-yet-lunch favorite fade away anytime soon. Chicago’s endless brunch options, from boozy to healthy and everything in between, are heating up around the city, making it the ideal excuse to kick back and relax with bottomless mimosas or a decked-out Bloody Mary. Start your Saturday and Sunday Funday off on the right feet with the hottest brunch spots in the Windy City.
Ēma
Anjali Pinto
This Mediterranean locale in River North recently made room on its menu for brunch, allowing Chef CJ Jacobson’s West Coast flair to shine through in delicious morning meals. The brunch menu offers lamb kefta and baked eggs, house-cured king salmon and strawberry drop biscuits. Need we say more? 74 W. Illinois St.,312-527-5586, emachicago.com
Honey’s
The latest addition to Chicago’s West Loop, Honey’s, brings a New American-meets-Mediterranean flair to the restaurant capital of the city. Chef Charles Welch places a particular focus on rotisserie cooking, using seasonal ingredients for the freshest possible plates for the restaurant’s two meal times: dinner and brunch. Enjoy creative cocktails alongside short rib pastrami hash, shakshuka and French toast with an American-style twist. 1111 W. Lake St., 312-877-5929, honeyschicago.com
Rhyme or Reason
Nick Fochtman
For an upbeat brunch experience, Rhyme or Reason in Wicker Park features ’70s-era rock decor and funky Motown vibe. The restaurant features live local talent and a DJ booth (vinyl only) for a sociable and delicious experience only available by traveling back in time. Groove while munching on creative dishes, like Edamame Toast, Soul Power Tacos or their Hangover Specials in collaboration with Chef Andrew Berger of Buffalo, NY. If you’re feeling especially off, their out-of-this-world desserts will surely bring you back to life. 1938 W. Division St., 773-687-8240, rhymeorreasonchicago.com
The Publican
William Zbaren for The New York Times
Oysters, pork, and beer. There are few things more delectable than the perfect trio of indulgence on a weekend, especially at a One Off Hospitality restaurant (think: avec, Nico Osteria, Blackbird and Dove’s Luncheonette). Inspired by farmhouse cuisine, The Publican takes the meals to next-level with simple elegance and perfect cooking. Oysters from Washington, Massachusetts and Oregon are some of the Saturday Brunch specialties, but guests can also enjoy some classic dishes, from Carrot Cake to Dutch Baby Pancakes to Pork Schnitzle. 837 W. Fulton Market, 312-733-9555, thepublicanrestaurant.com
Maple & Ash
Maple & Ash
Gold Coast’s contemporary steakhouse is known for their fine dining and glamorous presentation, and now, the luxe locale is adding brunch to the mix. Perhaps one of the most enticing things about this new brunch menu is their beef tenderloin and maple-glazed ham carving stations, alongside omelets, granola and other brunch staples. Though it’s rare for a steakhouse to introduce brunch, we can only imagine how decadent a day dining experience at Maple & Ash can be. 8 W. Maple St., 312-944-8888, mapleandash.com
Beatrix Fulton Market
Christina Slaton
The third installment of the Beatrix family moves into Fulton Market District (the other two Beatrix locations are in Streeterville and River North). The coffeehouse, restaurant and meeting place’s new West Loop location is headlined by Chef Partners John Chiakulas, Rita Dever and Susan Weaver to created a fresh, healthy and tasty menu. Sit back and enjoy a carrot, apple and ginger snap juice, pepper & egg white sandwich or side of brown sugar bacon. 834 W. Fulton Market, 312-733-0370, beatrixchicago.com
Eden in Chicago
Eden
Let flavors of Spain, Greece and Portugal envelope your palette as you enjoy the fresh Mediterranean and American fare Eden has to offer. Chef Devon Quinn whips up classic plates with a tangy touch, such as Sweet Potato & Pork Belly Hash with black garlic romesco, apply and bay labneh, or the Quinoa Cakes with lemon, almond, buttermilk ricotta and caramelized pineapple syrup. No matter which you choose, you can’t go wrong. 1748 W. Lake St., 312-366-2294, edeninchicago.com
Bad Hunter
Anthony Tahlier
The West Loop is at it again, but this time with a veggie-centric option. Bad Hunter, though it does offer chicken and sirloin, among other meat options, focuses on the best quality vegetables and healthy ingredients to make each experience have a lasting impression. Each plate is presented with an artistic edge and features matcha-infused sauces, fresh cucumber kimchi, tempura fried lemons and cashew butter dishes. 802 W. Randolph St., 312-265-1745, badhunter.com
