Cancel

    Open app

    Search

    Irene's

    4.1 (86 reviews)
    Closed 8:00 am - 2:00 pm
    Updated 1 week ago

    Irene's Photos

    Business Info

    You might also consider

    Recommended Reviews - Irene's

    Your trust is our priority, so businesses can't pay to alter or remove their reviews. Learn more about reviews.
    Yelp app icon
    Browse more easily on the app
    Review Feed Illustration

    Reviews With Photos

    biscuits & gravy

    We were glad to see Irene's reopen after the fire. This was our 2nd visit. The first since reopening. Our food was underwhelming. We had the shakshuka and the biscuits and gravy. The toast was burned all along the top crust & inedible. This bread was to sop up the sauce my 2 poached eggs were in. The biscuits had a hard outer crust and the gravy an unusual color similar to dijon mustard. It looked odd but tasted pretty good. Our coffee was just barely warm. Service was fine with no issues. In the end, our breakfast came to nearly $58 which included an automatic 20% gratuity. 2 hours later after my 2 eggs in tomato sauce (albeit tasty) and a slice of toast, I was starving. We will not be back. It's too bad because Irene's is literally down the street from me and I love a good breakfast. The rave reviews baffle us. We were as underwhelmed as our first try before the reopening. Disappointing & pricey.

    Smoked Salmon Benedict
    Victoria S.

    The waiter was very pleasant and attentive. He did take a while to come but it was very busy. The atmosphere resembled any other diner, there wasn't anything particularly special about it. The smoked salmon Benedict was very good and the peach tea really made it a pleasant meal.

    Chicken and Waffle
    Brie G.

    I enjoyed our brunch experience at Irene's. We had a group of 5 so I'm appreciative that they're on Open Table to allow reservations. I was able to park in a paid spot right in front of the restaurant; couldn't be easier. Service was good and all the food that came out looked really good. I enjoyed my turkey sausage skillet. The flavors were good and not something I can get everywhere by any means.

    Mimosa for the table plus an espresso martini- so good!
    Katie E.

    Came here for brunch for the first time with two of my girlfriends a couple weekends ago, and Irene's did not disappoint!! We weren't sure if they had alcohol as an option since it seemed mostly like a diner, but we were happily surprised with the drink options! We ended up getting the 'mimosa for the table' which came with a bottle of bubbles, orange juice and grapefruit juice. Our other friend ordered an espresso martini and an irish coffee. To eat, we split the Basket of Breads and Spreads, and we loved the jams that came with it! I'm not a bagel fan but I did like the banana bread and biscuit! To eat, I had the avocado toast, and one of my friends had the ham n' cheese croissant. I always am a sucker for homemade hot sauce with my breakfast food, and really enjoyed the one that Irene's offered. We loved the food! Our waitress was SO amazing too, I wish we grabbed her name! So attentive, friendly, we could have chatted with her all day! So glad we decided to check out Irene's, we will definitely be back! :)

    Greek omelet
    Emily B.

    This is the best iteration of breakfast joint that has been in this location. The breakfast sausages are homemade and amazing, the food is fantastic, the jam was outstanding. The service was friendly and fantastic, and our coffees were always full. They have a lovely stroller parking area and, generally I can't wait to go back. You should go too.

    Carrot Cake Pancakes
    Stacy H.

    Came here on a Saturday morning around 8:30 and there was plenty of seating available. I ordered the carrot cake pancakes and my husband ordered the chorizo skillet with the multigrain sourdough. Gotta have that sweet/savory balance! Both were delicious! The pancakes were still warm, had a good amount of carrots, and surprisingly didn't taste overly sweet. The skillet felt hearty, not greasy like other chorizos I've had. And I appreciate that they put a half of a whole avocado. My only qualm with the food overall is how they cook the eggs. The whites of their poached eggs seemed raw so definitely ask for medium poached. Overall, I love the modern diner feel. The service was great. And the food was tasty. Definitely will be back to try other menu items!

    Slice Key Lime
    Nicki C.

    First time at Irene's and I will be back! Ordered the chorizo skillet, the chorizo is made in house and it's super tasty! The half of an avocado stole my heart and it was ripe! The skillet was a perfect size and the meat to potato ratio was perfect. I hate skillets that have more potato than the meat. Same goes for the meat lovers skillet, lots of meat and right amount of potatoes. Ordered the homemade sourdough bread with my skillet as there's big loaves at the front and it looks tasty! However these two pieces were suuuper toasty and cut up my gums. Not sure if the bread was out for too long and then toasted that made it hard but it was fun to dip. I just ate the center with the fresh raspberry jam, that fresh ham was amazing! Ordered a key lime pie to tie up our brunch. The pie is from bang bang pies and it's the best!!

    Turkey Sausage Skillet
    Ploy N.

    Super cute and cozy brunch spot! The interior was gorgeous and modern, really makes you want to spend all day there. They weren't super busy on a Saturday either. Their menu was a little more complex and elevated than your typical diner brunch spot with little twists here and there on classic items. We shared the Short Ribs Grilled Cheese and the Turkey Skillet between two people. I liked the Skillet alright, full of ground turkey that paired well with sweet potatoes and their maple sauce served with a side of the homemade wheat sourdough. A little sweet, a little salty. Made for a very hearty and nourishing dish. The Grilled Cheese, on the other hand, was a miss. The short rib itself was very tender and flavorful. However, they used thick slices of bread that were toasted very well so that was a bit of a miss opportunity. We felt like the dish would be much better made into a panini. The fries were crispy but a tad too salty as well. I think overall we went in really wanting to love this place but the food was rather lackluster, making the whole experience a little forgettable. The dishes all sound very promising; the ideas are there. The place definitely have potential to be a hit, with some adjustment on the execution of the dishes.

    Ham n Cheese Croissant
    Lisa C.

    I really wanted to like this place but...the food was disappointing. I'll start off with the strengths - good service. We never ran out of water and it didn't take someone long to take our order. The ambiance is cute. It's definitely what they say, a nicer diner. The booths are comfy and the plates they serve the dishes on are adorable. The food...was solidly just ok. I had the carrot cake pancakes and I couldn't taste the nutmeg. The pancake was nice and fluffy and I did like the shredded carrot in them but I found the sunflower seeds on top just overpowered everything and the flavor combo did not work for me. So all in all, they just taste like shredded carrot pancakes with cream cheese on them along with sunflower seeds. It was missing the cake part of the carrot cake taste. My partner had the ham and cheese croissant. He got it with potatoes. I'll definitely say I stole some of his potatoes and they were delicious, but he said the ham and cheese croissant was just too much. It was nothing spectacular and was trying to be too many things it wasn't. On the upside, it is a lot of food if you're going for quantity over quality...

    Mascarpone Waffle
    Justin R.

    One fatal flaw made this promising waffle a slog to get through. I ordered the Mascarpone Waffle: a waffle that has mascarpone baked into the batter, a drizzle of Nutella, and topped with an orange peel. I must say that the presentation of the dish was superb and hyped me up for what I thought would be a delicious breakfast. Unfortunately, this lacked key aspects that make waffles so enjoyable: being light and fluffy. Instead, the consistency is way more dense and heavy on the stomach, which is not usually a feeling I chase after for breakfast, at least not ever in my waffles. The flavor profile was interesting and definitely a lot more refined-- not something that everyone will be into, but not offensive nor amazing. I think had the breading itself been lighter and airier, the flavors would've popped much more due to their already strong presence. Irene's is a cute location, though probably something you'll typically come to expect for brunch spots. It has a cozy vibe that encourages you to stay long and stay comfortably. For a Saturday it wasn't very busy either, so the service staff were decently attentive. All in all, this is not a location I would come back to due to the lackluster food (of which my group all did not have that good of an experience). Go back to the drawing board with this particular dish and you potentially have a winner on your hands.

    Denver Omelette
    Ken R.

    Had a chance to try this place with family and friends as a large party on a Saturday morning. The service was top notch and the food was good. I had a Denver omelette with potatoes and a pancake, and some fresh squeezed OJ. Wasn't a fan of the potatoes, but others at the table were. The omelette was hardy and full of the typical ingredients you'd expect. The pancake was tasty, especially when paired with true maple syrup. Pricing was decent, but not cheap. Overall a decent place and experience.

    Ashley A.

    I am obsessed with this spot! Between the amazing service, adorable serving plates and homemade bread this spot is a definite gem! You go in and know it's a great spot because the line and just overall environment. Not to mention the amazing smells you get experience as soon as you walk inside.

    Buttermilk Pancakes
    Abbie P.

    I've lived in Chicago for 5 years and i'm so mad I didn't go to this place sooner!! Went for brunch on a Saturday around 1:30 and was sat immediately in a cozy booth by the window. Our waiter was so helpful and gave us his recs (breakfast burrito, pancake). We ended up ordering the turkey sausage scramble, breakfast burrito and a side pancake. All of which are now some of my favorites in the city. This place may look unassuming on the outside but don't sleep on it. Can't wait to go back and devour a pancake.

    Ham and cheese croissant sandwich

    See all

    4 years ago

    This place is excellent - great quality and selection. The orange juice is a must try and the Crab Cake Benedict was top-notch!

    Helpful 1
    Thanks 0
    Love this 0
    Oh no 0

    4 years ago

    Helpful 0
    Thanks 0
    Love this 0
    Oh no 0

    2 years ago

    Helpful 0
    Thanks 0
    Love this 0
    Oh no 0

    4 years ago

    Helpful 0
    Thanks 0
    Love this 0
    Oh no 0

    4 years ago

    Helpful 1
    Thanks 0
    Love this 1
    Oh no 0

    Page 3 of 3

    Irene's Reviews in Other Languages

    Ask the Community - Irene's

    You might also consider

    Verify this business for free

    People searched for Diners 46,325 times last month within 15 miles of this business.

    Verify this business

    Lou Mitchell's

    Lou Mitchell's

    3.9
    (1.3k reviews)
    5.6 mi
    $$

    What an AMAZING experience! We made a last-minute decision to stop in for breakfast, and we are SO…read moreglad we did! From the moment we arrived, our server Alexandria was absolutely fantastic. She was incredibly attentive, so friendly, and genuinely made the experience feel special. The restaurant itself is such a cool spot you can really feel the history and energy of the place. Everyone sitting together at the long tables, the vibrant atmosphere, and all the people around you make it feel so alive! And the food... WOW! We had the Nova Scotia salmon and egg omelette, their amazing fluffy French toast, and fresh-squeezed orange juice that was RIDICULOUSLY good! We're so grateful we stumbled upon this place. What a great find! If you're considering going, GO--you will absolutely not be disappointed!

    Lou Mitchell's is one of those classic Chicago spots that feels like stepping back in time. We…read morearrived around 9:30 a.m. on a Saturday and were greeted by a pretty long line, but it moved efficiently and we were seated within about 30 minutes. They were a bit short-staffed that morning, so service was slower than usual, but we weren't in a hurry and the staff remained friendly throughout. I ordered the daily special French toast, added fruit and pecans, plus a side of bacon. The French toast was absolutely massive and could easily be shared. My only complaint was the $3.75 charge for pecans, which felt a little steep for the amount included. Overall, the food was good, the diner atmosphere was exactly what I was hoping for, and there's something special about dining in such a historic Chicago institution. If you're visiting the city and don't mind a bit of a wait, Lou Mitchell's is worth experiencing at least once.

    Photos
    Inside
    Inside
    Grilled Thick French Toast
    Grilled Thick French Toast
    Old comics

    See all

    Old comics
    Golden House Restaurant & Pancake House

    Golden House Restaurant & Pancake House

    4.1
    (352 reviews)
    1.4 mi
    $

    My husband and I recently visited for breakfast, and we absolutely loved it! The atmosphere was so…read morecute and charming, and as a Shameless fan, it was especially fun knowing this was the spot where Fiona worked on the show. Everything we ordered was delicious. I had the corned beef hash, which was perfectly cooked and full of flavor, while my husband ordered the Mexican omelet with taco meat, and he couldn't stop talking about how good it was. We also enjoyed an iced coffee and a chocolate shake, both of which were fantastic. Of course, we couldn't resist trying a few extras, so we ordered the chocolate-covered pancakes and potato pancakes for the table. Both were incredible and the perfect addition to our meal. Between the delicious food, cozy atmosphere, and friendly service, this was such a great experience. We will definitely be back the next time we're craving an amazing breakfast or brunch. Highly recommend!

    You want to know what's really cool about Golden House Restaurant and Pancake House? The condition…read moreof the vinyl! I would assume a place where the newest thing since the 1980s is the security camera would have vinyl with more cracks and patina than my trusty old leather jacket! But no, it's in fantastic shape. Especially given that, the vibe in here is awesome! It's like stepping through a time-portal. For food, I ordered an old favorite: Pigs in Blankets. The food came out fast, though, to be fair, there was only one other person dining in at the time. The sausage links were crisp, and the pancakes were lightly sweet and fluffy. All in all, great! While perhaps not enough to summon the Michelin Guide inspectors, it was better than the average greasy spoon. Finally, I really appreciate that the prices are reasonable, and that there is parking! Final verdict: I've had a small handful of spectacular breakfasts. I've also had criminal breakfasts, where two unsalted eggs, two bacon strips, and a tablespoon of potatoes costs $14.95. Golden House Restaurant & Pancake House finds itself in that sweet spot in between - it is neither a spectacular spot (often have prices to boot), nor is it an overpriced, underwhelming greasy spoon that stays in business thanks to regulars who have been coming for decades and don't want anything better.

    Photos
    Golden House Restaurant & Pancake House
    1-1-1-1 Special @ Golden House Restaurant & Pancake House. Chicago, IL  Breakfast Lunch Brunch . UPTOWN Legend . Cool!
    1-1-1-1 Special @ Golden House Restaurant & Pancake House. Chicago, IL Breakfast Lunch Brunch . UPTOWN Legend . Cool!
    Golden House Restaurant & Pancake House. 4744 N Broadway, Chicago, IL  Breakfast Lunch Brunch . UPTOWN Legend . Cool!

    See all

    Golden House Restaurant & Pancake House. 4744 N Broadway, Chicago, IL Breakfast Lunch Brunch . UPTOWN Legend . Cool!
    Sam & George's

    Sam & George's

    4.2
    (613 reviews)
    1.5 mi
    $$

    Tied for my favorite diner in America only with my childhood diner in MA…read more S&G's family friendly environment is why I will always come back. Frances and another amazing woman (I caught her name but I am now forgetting, sorry!) always greet my kids with a smile and conversation. The entire staff is incredibly kind especially Mimi. A quick story: my toddler was getting restless and I do my best to respect other patrons so I took him outside briefly. When we came back he was still restless but Frances walked him behind the bar and got him some additional coloring books. They are incredibly busy but they will go above and beyond to make you feel comfortable. The food is awesome as well. So many great options and it's quick to your table but not rushed. And even if you don't have kids, this is a great spot. I can't recommend Sam & George's enough Easily my favorite diner because of the people!

    Food: 4.0/5. Ambiance & Service: 4.8/5…read more "Just good food," as their slogan promises - and they deliver. I always order the Denver omelet, and it's consistently prepared the way I like it. Nothing on the menu is especially show-stopping, but the food is reliably solid, classic diner fare. What truly makes S&G one of my favorites is the diner itself. It's a warm, family-run spot with the same familiar faces behind the counter, and you can feel how deeply rooted it is in the community. It's probably the most community-connected restaurant I know in Chicago

    Photos
    Sam & George's
    Grilled Cheese Sandwich
    Grilled Cheese Sandwich
    Outside

    See all

    Outside
    Park View Diner

    Park View Diner

    4.4
    (105 reviews)
    6.8 mi
    $

    Extremely friendly place with very good food and an excellent vibe! This is a true neighborhood…read moregem, crowded with a diverse group of folks sitting around the counter on colorful, comfortable, cushioned stools. The owner spontaneously spent time with us, explaining everything on the menu-- so friendly and helpful. My simple scrambled eggs with beans and rice was delicious with their very fresh housemade spicy and chunky hot sauce. My son's French toast was perfect. My husband's chilaquiles was incredible (and huge), and note, they have three different styles of chilaquiles, with vegetarian options. They have three varieties of agua fresca-- we didn't try them, but they looked amazing. American and Mexican classic dishes, including Chicago Dogs, chili relleno, etc. We'll be back!

    You can't get good Mexican food in Chic....wait a minute !! Yes you can ! We stopped by this…read moreadorable little diner today and was greeted by the sweetest lady who introduced herself as the owner ! She kindly greeted this Houstonian and brought us some delicious coffee! A funny and very courteous gentleman took or order and continued to provide great chatter ! Then he brought out my "small" bowl of menudo -which wasn't that small and loaded with hominy and tripe! The taste before I made it my own was delightful! I tend to over do it with the limes and onions but even without it was nom nom ! The asada taco meat was seasoned so deliciously! The flour tortillas seemed to melt in my mouth! My friend ordered the chilaquiles and the order was HUGE! So she gave me like a quarter of it and the homemade chips and meat were amazing !! Even the sweet cook came and chatted and was so kind and we thanked her for a delicious meal !! I go home tomorrow but not before we stop here for another meal!

    Photos
    Park View Diner
    Chilaquiles w/ steak and over and easy eggs
    Chilaquiles w/ steak and over and easy eggs
    Park View Diner

    See all

    Irene's - diners - Updated August 2026

    Loading...
    Loading...
    Loading...