Best Diners in Pilsen

"Ask any vegetarian or vegan in the city of their top restaurant choices and it’s likely Chicago Diner will be one of the first names on their lips. Whilst a motto boasts that The Chicago Diner has been “Meat free since ’83” its reputation is such that The Chicago Diner is loved by meat-eaters and non-meat-eaters all over the city. A large menu offers anything ranging from pancakes to black bean veggie burgers but it’s what they can do with seitan and tofu that will really blow your mind, and your taste buds."

"They’ve been serving up vegan meatloaf, vegan gyros, vegan country fried steak, and more for over 25 years. You absolutely will not find meat anywhere on this menu. This is exactly the old-school diner atmosphere and menu that Americans have adored for decades."

"The fried egg salad on an everything bagel–seasoned crumpet is reason enough to visit Little Goat Diner. Owned by Stephanie Izard, who also runs Girl and the Goat and Duck Duck Goat, Little Goat is one of the best places in town for an unfussy yet deeply thoughtful meal. With elevated diner classics (a kimchi-slathered Reuben, a goat burger, a sundae dripping with apple cider vinegar caramel), and mainstays like corned beef hash and cinnamon buns, it’s an ideal spot to bring families made up of both picky and adventurous eaters."

"This carbo-loaded attachment to Stephanie Izard's Little Goat Diner sells some seriously decadent goods, like "fat bread" (smoked duck fat, pickled mustard seed, and beer), crusty tortone made with garlic and mashed potatoes, onion rye bagels with kimchi cream cheese, and don't-knock-it-'til-you've-tried-it chocolate, peanut butter, and Cheez-It cake."

"Stephanie Izard’s West Loop diner was always family friendly, but it’s become especially welcoming since Izard since had her son, Ernie. There are plenty of kid-friendly dishes, but the kids’ menu calls out favorites like pancakes and grilled cheese with harvati and American cheeses."

"It doesn’t get more old school than the experience at one of Chicago’s oldest restaurants. Nearly a century since opening, Lou Mitchell’s continues to operate like a well-oiled machine. Guests are treated to complimentary Milk Duds and donut holes upon arrival before sitting down to fluffy pancakes, jumbo omelets, fresh eggs, homemade pastries, and cups of the self-proclaimed “world’s finest coffee."

"Opened by “Uncle” Lou Mitchell in 1923, this West Loop staple claims it’s cracked enough farm-fresh eggs over the years to wrap at least a few times around the world. Beyond the omelets, skillets and pancakes, the best part might be the complimentary homemade doughnut hole you get when you walk in. Oh, and women and children receive mini boxes of Milk Duds—don’t ask why, just smile and chew."

"A photo posted by Paige (@paige_sheridan) on Jul 31, 2016 at 10:19am PDT. Lou Mitchell's is one of the most well-known diners in the city, and for good reason. It's always crowded on weekends, so customers are offered free, freshly made doughnut holes while they wait (you'll probably end up buying a few to bring home as well)."

"A photo posted by Infatuation Chicago (@infatuation_chi) on Oct 28, 2016 at 9:17am PDT. Uncle Mike's Place may look like a fancy breakfast spot, but it's actually a Filipino-inspired diner. Save yourself the time of reading through their extensive menu and just order one of their Filipino breakfast plates, which come with your choice of meat, two eggs, garlic fried rice, and lugao (Filipino porridge), all for under $10."

"First-timers may come to Uncle Mike’s Place on the hunt for the perfect omelet or patty melt, but they quickly learn there’s much more to savor. The cozy family-run restaurant has a full menu of Filipino-American fare. Warm up with a bowl of lugao (chicken rice soup), try some tocino (Filipino bacon) with your eggs or go whole-hog with a side of spicy fried Spam."

"Instead of the usual bacon and sausage, opt for Spam and longaniza in the morning. This Filipino diner mixes things up with Southeast Asian favorites such as bangus (milkfish), marinated skirt steak, and bone-in pork chop. Don’t fret if those sound a little too hearty though, patrons can still order an omelet or short stack."

"Nestled inside two converted streetcars, this 24-hour gem will satisfy your cravings for both retro kitsch and greasy food. (It’s a favorite among Lakeview’s late-night bar crowd.) The specialty is the “slinger,” a plate piled with two burger patties, hash browns, two eggs, and chili, but you can also get a simpler meal of buttered toast and eggs any way."

"Restaurants American Lake View. There are no seats here—just stools. There’s barely a menu, either."

"A post shared by elly’s (@ellysbrunchcafe) on Nov 18, 2019 at 5:02pm PST. Do not come here if you don’t plan on ordering the oven-baked pancakes. That’s not to say there’s no other reason to visit—it’s to say you’d have regrets for daaays."

"Il Culaccino – Chicago Italian Restaurant has a full-service restaurant, bar, outdoor patio, and offer carryout, private events, and catering. A part of Franco’s Restaurant Group, IL Culaccino’s idea includes a luxurious casual dining restaurant, full-service bar, outdoor patio, and a vast list of fine and award-winning wines. Il Culaccino offers catering and private events."

"The Newberry Library is an independent research library in Chicago's Washington Square. Since 1887, the library has welcomed members of the public for free. The Newberry Library's collection focuses on the humanities, with a special emphasis on topics like the history of Western Europe and the Americas, maps, travel, and music."

"In addition to perusing rare books and manuscripts at the Newberry Library, visitors can experience free exhibitions as well as public programs. Don’t miss this often overlooked gem!"

"With charming views of Lake Michigan, Homestead on the Roof is an innovative restaurant merging farm-to-table and high-dining experiences. Enjoy elegant chef-driven dishes, sip on cocktails and sample standout desserts, all while enjoying the view of the lake and the rooftop farm that produces the food you’re eating. Homestead on the Roof is a unique Chicago destination that is romantic, charming and sure to become your new favorite date spot."

"A post shared by Homestead On The Roof (@homesteadontheroof) on Aug 1, 2018 at 11:16am PDT. Enclosed in the rooftop garden, the concept of Homestead on the Roof is a sort of urban farm-to-table experience. Inspired by local flavors, many of the ingredients used in their dishes come straight from the garden that is literally just a few steps away."

"An approachable joint with homemade pasta specialties and live jazz This cozy, neighborhood-y spot offers upscale food in a decidedly casual setting: a juxtaposition we’re all about. Whether you’re here for a date night or just a good meal out with friends, it’s great for savory, slow-cooked veal osso buco with red sauce atop a mini meat lasagna, linguini tossed with clams and garlic in a white wine sauce, lobster-stuffed ravioli, and comforting minestrone. Live jazz music on Tuesday evenings makes it a go-to for an intimate weekday night out."

"Davanti Enoteca is a small plate Italian restaurant with locations in Chicago and in San Diego. The Focaccia Di Recco (flatbread filled with ricotta and topped with honeycomb) might be the greatest thing on the menu. They also serve Glazed & Infused doughnuts, which are another Chi-Town fave."

"Davanti Enoteca is an Italian restaurant that is located in the southwestern suburbs of Chicago. This restaurant offers a streamlined menu with dishes that pack a punch— from the Truffle Egg Toast to the Della Terra pizza, diners can expect interesting flavor combinations here."

"Whether you want to get your hands dirty in the kitchen or have your meal prepped and ready to eat, Siena Tavern's Scratch Market has you covered. Order the at-home fresh pasta or ..."