Beautiful Restaurant in Hype Park a Breakfast Brunch. Made my reservation on Wednesday prior to Mother's Day. My guest and I arrived at 5pm my name was not on the guest, list. Spoke with the manager and was told I may have been speaking with AI, I didn't even receive a confirmation. This was very, very, disappointing thinking everything was set up for us, we ended up setting at the bar. WHATTTTT read more

Tejuna Sanders was super awesome! He was very knowledgeable in all his cocktails he made the experience 5stars not only that the food was the icing on the cake! Please stop by when ever you're in Chicago 5 STARS ALL ACROSS THE BOARD! read more

Check them out! They opened during restaurant week which was super BOLD but so were their flavors! Black owned establishment - as the owner's father put it "By us, for us" (he stopped by us to say hello which was a good touch.) We of course took advantage of their restaurant week menu - see picture - and it was a good deal! What I ordered: Smoked Salmon Deviled Eggs, Pot Roast + Jalapeño Cheddar Grits, Butter Roll (not pictured) - I added a photo of my friend's appetizer of the chicken in waffles. Tip: Download @inkind_hospitality App for $20 off a $60 purchase when you pay your bill on there! The owners father also told us his daughter decorated it on her own and I just LOVE the mint green color in there and that pearl chandelier is gorgeous! Nice cool tone to go with a good brunch. I want to be honest about my wait time though everything else was great. As I said, it was bold opening up during restaurant week, but hats off to them. I walked in and had a reservation and was told that I'd have to wait around 30min to be seated or my friends and I could be seated immediately at the bar since there were 3 open seats available. That sucked a little being that we had a reservation so would like to see improvement there. Otherwise great! read more

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We had a reservation, which apparently was more of a suggestion, since we still waited 15 minutes for a table. Once seated, it took another 10 minutes for a waitress to acknowledge we existed and take drink orders. Appetizers arrived in 30 minutes, entrees in nearly 50. And after all that waiting, they still managed to mess up the order. The restaurant was full when we arrived, but as our meal dragged on, tables kept clearing out around us, so the slow pace became harder and harder to justify. The couple next to us clearly reached their limit and walked out before their food ever showed up. Smart move on their part. I wish I'd followed them. The hardest part is going in with high expectations after seeing all the hype on TikTok and social media. Whatever restaurant those reviewers ate at, it was not the one we experienced. read more

Our experience at Dawn AM Eatery turned out to be amazing because of our exceptional server, Jacob. He took us from the beginning to the end while surpassing our expectations and making us dinner unforgettable. He was attentive without being intrusive, he gave nice suggestions, and he was always right there when we needed help. Jacob was friendly and sincere. He treated us as if we were important guests, not just another group. Everything was perfect, from keeping our drinks full to making sure we got our food right. His service took a lovely dining experience and made it even better. read more

Ordered for delivery, though.I'm only a few blocks from the restaurant.I am disabled. $69 for shrimp and grids, biscuits and uce tea and 2 juices got refu d for missing juice re biscuits; you could choose flavor eg lemon poppy They did not include my cgou es Tried to ear ones d burned my mouth;, jalaleno. Too costly a s completely ruined my meal. No more read more

Was nearby w friends at the Japanese Garden, so we searched for brunch spots nearby and this one kept popping up. We made a reservation before making the 15 minute walk and we were really excited to try this restaurant. Unfortunately, it was underwhelming. The food was average at best except, except the biscuit used for my breakfast sandwich. The bacon and eggs were not good. The bacon was not cooked long enough and kinda tasted like it just came from the pig that morning. The taste was yucky so i ate the biscuit w jelly so i wouldn't be starving. My friend ordered the fried catfish and jalapeno grits w greens. Neither item was anything special. The greens had a strange and nasty taste and the grits were not good, even though folks raved about them online. Will say this, the other patrons and servers were all friendly. Oh. And the restaurant is bright and airy. I might return to try lunch/dinner next time i am in town. Oh and the bathroom key hanging from a wood stick was very odd. read more

Dawn AM Eatery - Looks are deceiving. None of these items were good. - Southern Near Me - Chicago, Illinois

We came here on a Friday, 1pm reservation, after visiting the Obama Presidential Center. We both loved our food and thought it was outstanding-5* However, we would never return because of how long it took to receive our lunch-Zero * I had read other reviews that stated the kitchen was slow but this was too much. I know everything is made to order but how about hiring another cook and a few more waitresses. It took 15 min for a waitress to greet us and take our order. We ordered the Biscuit Basket along with lunch entrees. It took 35 min for the Biscuits to arrive at our table, after ordering. Then another 20 min to get our Catfish and Chicken/Cornbread Waffle order. We kind of lost our appetite from waiting so long. Another problem was that she never brought out our Birthday celebration dessert. Didn't say anything because we just wanted to get out of there. Pricey at $70, no drinks, including tip. We still left a 20% tip because the waitress was so sweet and friendly. She was just overwhelmed. read more

I've been to Dawn twice, and both times I ordered the blackened catfish -- it was absolutely delicious. Perfectly seasoned and cooked just right. I also really love their greens. They're a bit spicy, made with a mixture of greens, and they are amazing. The grits are tasty too and pair perfectly with the meal. The first time I went, I had a reservation around noon but still had to wait about 20 minutes. The second time I visited around 4 PM, there was no wait at all and the place was almost empty. Overall, the food is consistently great, and I'll definitely be back for that catfish again! read more

I've been to Dawn twice on separate occasions while visiting Chicago. The service was good and the front desk staff were very friendly. Both times, I had the fried catch fish and jalapeño cheddar grits. 10/10 for both! I wasn't a fan of the greens. I've also tried the yams, which are a 10/10! Bottomless mimosas during brunch were also a hit the first time I visited. I love that this restaurant is black owned as well. Very nice atmosphere and ambiance as well! read more

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We had reservations for 4:00 we waited for 1 hour for the waitress to take our hour order. We waited another hour to get hour food. I looked around other customers were waiting a long time as well. The food was not worth the wait. The fried catfish was hard, dry and cold, the macaroni was soupy and the greens decent, but you only got about two tablespoons o greens, I sent my food back and only paid for the greens. Never ever going back there again. read more

Great extensive menu. Came here for brunch and it was so yummy. Make sure all of your party arrives at the same time so they can seat you. There is a time limit of 90mins on the weekend. Not sure if that increases with a larger group size. I'll be back. Recommend to all! read more

Good food, friendly atmosphere with lots of loud conversation from bouncy acoustics. The staff was friendly. Service was a little stretched with a full restaurant, but the food and drinks were overall well done. The compound butters with the biscuit appetizer were terrific. The chicken and cornbread French toast was great. The Southern plate (fried chicken) with mac and cheese as the side was really good. The salmon Nicoise salad was overall good but the salmon was a little over cooked. The gumbo needed a darker roux, gumbo file, and more flavor, could have done well with a baguette instead of crackers. Casual dress is fine but most people were dressed nicer than our sweaty tourist clothes. Definitely recommend this as a lunch or dinner stop. read more

The food is absolutely delicious! Everything is fresh, hot, and seasoned perfectly. The ambiance and service are both top-tier. Your food may take a little while to come out, but that's because it's being prepared fresh to order -- and that freshness is what makes every bite worth the wait. A wonderful dining experience! read more

Good atmosphere. Parking sucks. Good food and customer service. My waiter Z was on point. Polite and friendly. They ran out of deviled eggs but I would still recommend. I suggest reservations unless you want to eat at the bar. Outside seating is also an option. They really need to do something about the crowds by the front door though. The space for waiting to come inside is a nightmare . Overall though it's a vibe. read more

This place was nice. Let's start with black women owned businesses. This is one. Location: The place is not hard to find. It's nestled in the Hyde Park community, near the Museum of Science & Industry. Nonetheless, there is parking available in the building across the street. Ambiance: When you enter the restaurant (from the building's circle drive), you will find a swanky, pleasingly warm aesthetic, that is welcoming. The natural light from the abundance of windows keeps the place airy. This is a great place for a couple (of friends, family, spouses, or potentials). Small party recommended. The decor and colors are soft, yet make a statement. Service: It may be best to make reservations. This place is jumping with patrons. We had no reservations, so a short wait was necessary. The host staff is very accommodating. The wait staff was in no hurry, which didn't go well when we spilled water. Nonetheless, the food didn't take long. Food: Chef's kiss. We enjoyed the fried oyster mushrooms. The biscuits were amazing (made me miss my grandmother). I had a beef roast over grits. Yummy. I can't remember what else we had, but I remember how it made us feel: Satisfied. I'll definitely be back soon ...and invite others. read more

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The food was delicious. The catfish was seasoned well. The jalapeño grits were creamy. The hash browns were good. Our only problem was we sat outside and bee's were everywhere. We hardly could enjoy our meal due to the attack of the bee's. Next time I'll definitely sit inside. The server was friendly. He was able to manage our large party. read more

Dawn AM Eatery - Fried Catfish, Sweet and Savory Hash Jalapeno Cheddar Grits - Southern Near Me - Chicago, Illinois

This was actually my second time visiting here. The first time was on my birthday in the day of my daughter's college graduation, which we did. Brunch service was extremely slow?And I definitely had to I voice my concerns when it came to my meal, which was one of the last to come out in a large party. This visit, the service was definitely better and we got our food. In a more timely manner. Those biscuits are always a hit ten out of ten um, and the grits must get the grits.They are absolutely phenomenal! read more

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The ambience and food is amazing. However they definitely need more servers especially in the peak times. The menu's need to be replaced because some of the words have been wiped off when cleaning. read more

The waitress Nikia was nice however my party watched her bring 5 other parties meals who came after us their food as we waited for ours. I sat for 45 minutes waiting on my drink then another 35 minutes before I just cancelled the order and left. Every time I come here the wait is extremely long. read more

We absolutely loved our visit here. The decor and ambiance was very nice. We sat outside and ordered as a group. It didn't take too long for the food to start coming out. What deliciousness it was! Check out the photos! If you come here, make a reservation first or you will have to wait a while. Figure out what you want so your order can get out in right away. Our server was great and we will definitely return here again. Thank you read more

The food, especially the deviled eggs, was delicious. The service was good and the portions are decent.

Everything was so good. From the food, to the service, to the decor, I was definitely impressed. We tried a little bit of everything. I got the shrimp and jalapeño grits (so so good and I don't even usually like grits) I do wish they had a coffee menu, or maybe they do and they just didn't bring it to the table but I just asked the waiter about the iced coffee options & he was happy to explain. There was a full bar, but we weren't given a drink menu so I'm not sure about their cocktail options. They did mess up our to-go order but were super accommodating when we called them about it. Overall, I'd definitely come back! read more

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It was my first time dining at this establishment. I decided to order the blackened catfish, jalapeño cheddar grits, and mac and cheese. I visited on a Sunday during the brunch hours, and it was quite crowded both inside and outside the restaurant. I chose to sit at the bar and ordered an iced tea with whiskey, which was very enjoyable. However, I must say that the catfish was rather bland and lacked flavor, although the grits and mac and cheese were quite good. The ambiance was nice and had a mixed crowd. The views are good as well. read more

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This is a great neighborhood black-owned restaurant.Black owned restaurants are important for supporting and uplifting the black community. By patronizing these businesses, you are not only enjoying delicious food, but also contributing to the economic growth and success of black entrepreneurs. Additionally, black owned restaurants often offer unique and diverse cultural experiences that can enrich and educate customers. You will not be disappointed by the friendly staff, delicious food and great ambiance. read more

Going back to Dawn with two friends who had not been there before was a great experience for all of us. Still loving the strand of pearls chandelier. The hostess was welcoming and helpful. Our server Khadijat was exceptional. Very friendly, knowledgeable about the food & drink items. We each ordered different selections and she was able to repeat back what we ordered, without missing a beat!!She even knew and recommended the vegetarian items for me! The food & drinks were well presented, and prepared to perfection. The fried green tomatoes, jalapeño grits, and biscuits are fan favorites. Chef and kitchen staff keep doing what you do! We had an amazing experience. read more

Dawn AM Eatery - Khadijat you are a star!! - Southern Near Me - Chicago, Illinois

I came here for brunch on 8/29 at 12:30 p.m. with colleagues. The restaurant handled our larger group, and the food and drinks were excellent--but what happened outside completely overshadowed that. While waiting, I saw a Benz truck hit my car trying to parallel park. I went outside, and the driver--who I later confirmed with multiple employees was the owner--rolled down her window and immediately denied it, even though others inside saw it. There was no visible damage, so I wasn't looking for free food, but a simple acknowledgment or apology would have gone a long way. Instead, she dismissed me completely. As a Black woman who tries to support Black-owned businesses, this was extremely disappointing. Customer experience isn't just about food--it's about how ownership represents the restaurant. I hope the owner does better by her customers in the future. read more

Dawn AM Eatery - Potroast Jalapeño cheddar grits, French toast - Southern Near Me - Chicago, Illinois

What a cozy, inviting spot in Hyde Park. We were in a slight rush, so we just opted to get the lemon raspberry waffle, but made gluten-free. It took about 20 minutes to come out, but the result was very satisfying. It came with butter and maple syrup. Pleasant lemon flavor, with raspberries sprinkled on top. Service was a bit slow, being in the morning, but everything worked out. read more

The food, hospitality, atmosphere, location, the variety of food, the service all above board, excellent! Be sure to make a reservation!!!

All were great at this fabulous new breakfast/brunch eatery. Will be going again soon! Service and ambiance first class for a great morning breakfast. read more

Everything was absolutely amazing. Very flavorful, fresh and great service. Bacon flight and fried tomatoes was my fav! read more

Visited Dawn Eatery on a slow Thursday evening (6pm) and had a pleasant evening. Dawn currently does not have reservations, and because of the time we visited we were able to get a seat right away. If you are visiting on a weekend or morning I recommend visiting early and carving out some time for a wait. Bright, airy, and open Dawn is a cute spot! We were greeted immediately by our server Brianna who was sweet, and was very knowledgeable about the menu. She kept it real with us about the menu and offered a lot of her favorites. While not her fault there were some mix ups regarding what was in stock and multiple times we got word from the kitchen that some of the things were not in stock but later they said they were? Unsure but it did not tremendously impact our visit. Dawn has an extensive menu filled with yummy all-day breakfast/brunch options. My friend and I started with (alcoholic) drinks which were tasty and also strong. They have mimosas as well as a full bar as well. For starters, we ordered the fried green tomato. These were a bit thin but were still tasty. Fried to perfection where the tomato inside was slimy which was great! The tomatoes were topped with a tasty remoulade and feta which was a tasty touch. For entrees we ordered the Chicken and Cornbread French Toast. So so yummy, you got a good portion of chicken that was fried hard with great seasoning and bold start on top of cornbread that had the taste and feel of french toast. This was topped with caramelized peach compote, a menu highlight for sure. Additionally, we had the pot roast and jalepeño grits. OMG amazing. I do think this is a bit heavy for breakfast or brunch but was perfect for our dinner experience. The creamiest grits that almost had a consistency of mashed potatoes topped with very tender pot roast and a very flavorful gravy. They did their big one with this one. Overall, our experience at Dawn was good, service was well intentioned but at times slow or misinformed. I am eager to get back! read more

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this restaurant is ok, It's a bit pricy for breakfast for me and the food was just ok

Horrible service when you either checkin with reservations or simply walk in to wait and be seated. The wait time once you sit down for food is terrible. And food is beginning to become subpar. Dawn get it together before you're a blast from the past like others. read more

Absolutely recommend this restuarant, the food is amazingly delicious. My first visit i indulged in the banana pudding pancakes and tried a spell on you without the avocado alcohol beverage and OH MY GOD..... phenomenal. The service was great everything you'll expect on a weekend. Now my second visit i indulged in the pot roast grits and CHILLE it's something to write home about, also the biscuit basket with the strawberry and pepper butter and honey butter. This visit i tried the Spell on you with the avocado puree and thanks to my waitress Kayla i'm glad i did, the drink was more magnificent. read more

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Regretfully, came for a quick lunch on my birthday. Since we had a bad experience the manager decided to give us $1.80 discount. That's not a typo. The place looks cute. The food was terrible. They don't use real eggs. The catfish seemed to be reheated from yesterday and taste like grease. Maybe they think hot sauce is a seasoning to cover the bland taste.. Also, ordered sweet and savory hash browns that were neither sweet nor savory. Again, not even seasoned with a dash of salt. I asked if they had fresh juice. I was told "Yes, lemonade and tea" The only people that could possibly think this is even half decent must've grew up on sandwiches. The server said the manager gave us a discount to compensate for the bad food. It w was $1.80 off. It was so offensive I asked her to add it back. They will never see me again read more

Dawn AM Eatery - Terrible food - Southern Near Me - Chicago, Illinois

The door to the restaurant is near the opening to the apt complex next door. I wish there was signage to show patrons exactly where the entrance is located. I really enjoyed this place. They do brunch all day. I sat right away because I sat at the bar. They only have a sign on the door that you can't enter. The service was fast and efficient. The bartender was Ty'asia and she is great at what she does. I enjoyed all of my food. I recommend the jalapeno grits and pot roast. It was creamy. I would've enjoyed a bit of spice with the grits, I didn't taste any. I also had a side of chicken. It was fried to perfection but missing seasoning. The hot sauce that came with helped with the flavor. read more

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Tejuna is the best server-barista-bartender You must go for the experience at the bar You must eat at the bar for this experience The food and drinks are goo read more

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The food was amazing and great service The salmon croquettes were outstanding The bacon flight was delicious, with hot honey being my favorite read more

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It's pretty great. Came out for an impromptu visit after church on an Easter Sunday with no reservation. Bad idea. Very bad idea. You must make a reservation even if you are eating by yourself. Why? Because they do not handle walk ins very well at this establishment and are pushing everyone to do a reservation. We waited 45 minutes and while in the waiting our table was given to someone else. I was pretty frustrated because we were party of 2 people and there were tables available for us to sit. We finally got a table after the long wait and I must say the food didn't disappoint and that's why I'm giving 4 stars instead of 3. Baby, them shrimp and grits took me back to the bayou! They were hitting! I also ordered a biscuit which was yummy but I may skip next time since it comes with regular butter. Our server was absolutely lovely and made great recommendations. Service was a bit slow, especially since it wasn't that busy. I saw our server managing quite a few tables but others servers weren't. I would go back for a visit but not without a reservation. read more