So I've heard of this "John's Place" in Lincoln Park, although the name makes "Sarah Plain and Tall" look like Cher. Anyway, when I saw it was opening a new location right down the street from me, I figured we'd give it a shot. The staff was super friendly; although it wasn't super crowded, I got the feeling they would be just as friendly under pressure. The drink selection was fine, just the right amount of beers and wines. I heard the menu was "eclectic" and, while the appetizers were (we had some scrumptious baked goat cheese), the entree menu was pretty typical and a little small, with standards like tilapia and chicken parmesan, all reasonably priced. My fiancee got the soup and I went with the chicken parmesan. The food took a while (the bread while we waited, however, was delicious, if expectedly so) and I got just a little worried when a table seated after us got served first. Our waitress came over to us a couple minutes later to let us know our ticket was lost and she apologized kindly for the delay. Honestly, at that point, I didn't feel like it was long at all, especially as it was still only about a tenth of the wait for food at, say, Turquoise Cafe. Our food came out just a few minutes later and I think I understood the "eclectic". It wasn't that chicken parmesan is eclectic, but the way they prepared and presented it was. More like "food done eclectically". Either way, it was perfectly crusted and the noodles were great, albeit a tad too much tomato, but that could just be me, tomatoes being my Kryptonite. Anyway, when the final bill came, my eyes literally bugged out of my face ala Tom and Jerry, but in a good way, because it was way cheaper than I thought it would be. That quality of food and service would be twice as much anywhere else in the city. Of course, we didn't get drinks, so that might have helped. But, still, for fine food, a well-priced menu, and a wonderful staff, give John's Place a whirl. My only concern is that, like the name, it may come across as forgettable. But, even if it's not unique, it's definitely one of the best "typical" restaurants out there. read more

A serious stable. Chop salad was amazing, so was the shrimp and quinoa salad, and soups. Seriously, what isn't good here? The burger was solid. It's nothing too fancy, just good food and comfortable and tasty interior. read more

Just ordered take out from them tonight, by far the best quarantine to go order we've had so far! We had the fish tacos, cobb salad, and mac&cheese. Everything was excellent. Makes me regret not going there more often when we lived around the corner. read more

Great spot for locals. The food and service is always good, but there is nothing memorable about John's Place.

Great service. Freindly and clean. Presentation of the food was not awesome. But what really got me was the price. 15 dollar fish tacos? 12 dollar salads with iceberg lettuce. Thanks but no thanks. read more

Well run neighborhood restaurant. Food has always been quality and the service tremendous. We love stopping in here or ordering take out every few weeks. Have not had a disappointing experience yet! read more

Well I have been here only once and that was enough for me to not return. The food was ok for lunch but it was over run by unruly kids with parents/nannies who could careless. The other day we were looking for a lunch spot to discuss an upcoming trip, as we walked by my boss said...how about this place. My response was for him to feel free but I refused to go in there. I know people have to make $$$ but I don't have to spend my $$$ and deal with a clientele I could careless for. Oh well. read more

I wanted to give this place 3.5 stars, but I've bumped it up to four because of the fantastic atmosphere. It will quickly become a favorite of the neighborhood. The reason for the 1/2 star deduction - the broccoli. It was just steamed and I really wanted something a bit more flavorful. (My wife, who unlike myself enjoys vegetables, thought they were fine) However, the rest of the experience was great. The Carne Asada was absolutely delicious - the steak was cooked perfectly and the chipotle mashed potatoes were amazing. Both made me cry because of taste and spice. We ordered the Cornmeal Calamari for an appetizer and they were really good. I'm not sure what cornmeal does to the flavor or texture compared to other fried calamari, but we (mostly I) finished the entire plate. My wife thought the vegetable pot stickers were OK and her talapia was good. To finish it, their apple tart dessert was fantastic. This is definitely a place we'd recommend and a place we'll be back to for a great meal in a friendly, comfortable atmosphere. read more

I really want to love this place. However, it's not my favorite in the neighborhood. I think John's has a lot of potential however the atmospher, and food is lacking. I will give major kudos for the chili, it has to be the best in the city and I'll give it three stars for it. read more

As a family, we have been going to John's Place on Roscoe since it opened, years ago. It was a nice, family friendly place, with decent food. I just came back from a dinner with my son and was very, very disappointing. Prices have gone up considerably but the quality of food and service has gone down. Here are couple of things that made the experience not so great: *The restaurant was full of smoke from the kitchen. *My $15 Baja Tacos were 3 Tacos and a cup of Instant Spanish Rice. Taco's could have been good if the cabbage inside did not taste like soap. I still have a soapy aftertaste in my mouth. Even my son commented that his food (plain pasta) tasted funny. Hope we don't get sick. *They usually offer bread basket with butter, but tonight somehow they forgot (although the restaurant was not full.) So for me, "So Long John's Place". We will not be coming back anytime soon. read more

Might be unfair to review a place based on 1 dish but the Drunken Chicken looked so good on the menu and was a definite miss. It was not very flavorful OR juicy. Needed to use hot sauce to flavor it up...never a good sign. I love goat cheese and love mashed potatoes, but the goat cheese mashed potatoes were also not too great. I might be back to try something else. Service was very good. read more

Crab and Shrimp Roll. That's all I need to say. Better than any lobster roll I have ever had. Big chunks of crab and fresh quality tender shrimp in a tasty but not overpowering dressing on a perfect, buttered toasted roll. I want one right now! Amazing slaw as well and great pickles (asked for more and were happy to oblige). Lovely to sit outside and great, friendly service. Had a great time with the best food item in recent memory! read more

Today was the first time I had dined at John's place with my girlfriend. We went for breakfast. It wasn't super busy and we were sat right away. The restaurant has a clean atmosphere and the booths were comfortable. The service was great! Very prompt and not too chatty. I had the breakfast burrito, which was very good!! My girlfriend got the pumpkin pancakes and were super tasty! They were nice and spicy (not hot-spicy of course but pumpkin food spicy). They came with a maple/pecan/syrup butter that was kickin!! The portions here are smaller than most places so the prices may be a bit high. The total for two breakfast plates and two coffees was around $24. This being the only drawback of the experience. Good food, atmosphere, and service... we will be sure to stop in again. read more

John's is still pretty good food however I think it's incredibly overpriced for what you get. For example, the Roscoe omelette, which is spinach, tomato, green onion and mushrooms with a goat cheese fondue across the top is $11. If you want this made with only egg whites it's $13. This comes with a small serving of potatoes and toast. This is in line with pricing at restaurants on the Mag mile or Bib Gourmand appointed establishments and because it's up in a quiet neighborhood it doesn't warrant these price points. read more

obviously this place has changed. slow kitchen. disorganized service. less than ordinary food. move on.

I went here with my girlfriend and ordered some type of chicken salad for $10.99. I was expecting a GREAT salad for that price but to my surprise, the salad was a Dole salad you get at Jewel and pre-cooked cold dry chicken. You may ask...how do I know it was Dole...well the lettuce was poor, there was shredded cabbage and carrotts in eat...definitely a Dole salad. I would NOT recommend this place!!!! read more

Eating breakfast on my frequent trips to chicago always make me long for earlier mornings and better options here in LA. Last weekend, my friends and I made a quick breakfast stop at John's since it's right in the neighborhood and seemed like a good new option. Service was efficient yet patient considering we were taking up a 4 topper on a busy Saturday morning, waiting a half hour for our 4th to join us. Everyone else seemed happy with their egg white omelet, scrambles, etc. But I was definitely in love with their banana french toast. Carmelized bananas on challah french toast?! Fahgedaboudit!!!!! read more

Great place for a quick bite they have a good selection of breakfast and lunch items, soup items change daily and they make a mean chili. Keep in mind that you are in Roscoe Village and every time (day and evening) that I have visited there are always families with children in the restaurant. read more

I'm visiting a friend in the area and he took me here for brunch this morning. I was really happy to see they had bellini's. I have had better, but I still enjoyed it. I also ordered the chocolate chip and banana pancakes. They actually use real bananas. And they are mixed into the batter, not sliced and put on top. Really good. My friend ordered the pumpkin pancakes. We also ordered a side of potatoes and a fruit plate. Aside from the bellini, everything was perfect. read more

Ordered this to go. Got a BBQ pulled pork sammy which was incredible. One of the best sandwiches I've had. Also got some curds which were cold but whatever. Lady got a salad which I think she liked but I'm not sure...didn't ask. Overall solid read more

Their hours as posted online and on the door are weekday lunch from 11-3. I showed up at 2:30 for a late lunch and was told the kitchen was closed. I wonder if the owner knows what's going on. read more

We live in Roscoe and have probably eaten here 30 times and food is always consistently good, which says something. Kid friendly as well, which is sort of a must in this neighborhood now. Al fresco is a lot of fun there, and you can sit and have a beer outside while waiting for your carry out order. Some of our favorite items include the cowboy burger, torta de pollo, chopped shrimp salad. read more

I had been meaning to try this place for a long time and recently made my way in. The atmosphere is nice and the service is prompt and friendly.. I actually had the pleasure of meeting John while was in there. We talked sports and about the neighborhood. So far I have had the burger (good stuff) and the chilaquiles (loved salsa on my eggs). This is a very neighborhoody place and has a very friendly feel. Good job John! read more

Enjoyed my first time here . My friend had the Johns Scramble and really enjoyed it. French toast with cinnamon was also good, but the butter had a layer to it so the separation was just a bit unappetizing. I think I had the cowboy and thought it was a good burger - not the best, but a good burger. Overall, it met my expectations, and I did like the challah french toast. It didn't blow me away, but it was decent. A bit pricey for burgers and salad though in my opinion. read more

I am a resident of Roscoe Village and have been to John's Place twice. I have to say the customer service was outstanding. The food was traditional breakfast food but what makes or breaks these places are the customer service. It may be possible that the waiters were very attentive because the owner was in the restaurant but nonetheless it was a very pleasant experience. read more

My girl and I were here for brunch yesterday. We were excited to have their Shrimp and Grits, since I really liked them the last visit. We both ordered the same thing, but we've err very disappointed. I don't get it? The shrimp were still good sized, but the quality was different, definitely a change for the worst. The grits were lumpy and lacked flavor and the eggs had a strong vinegar taste, from being pouched. There also was no sauce, but last time the sauce was really good? It was a big disappointment from what I had eaten on the last visit. Bummer! read more

This place was cute and casual. We sat outside, and the service was really great. Our server was very nice and attentive. I thought the food was a bit over priced for what it was, we paid about $50 for two salads and one glass of wine a piece, and it was bar food at best. Not bad quality, just not worth 15$ a pop. However, it's still a great casual place to eat with nice service and a cute patio. Haven't tried brunch yet but heard that's great ! read more

Ok, so the chilaquiles were not, technically, the same as you get in Mexico. So different, in fact, that I almost told the waitress that there must have been a mistake. Then I took a bite, and yes. They are *chilaquiles* of a sort. Kind of a gourmet version, but as it turns out, quite good. Overall I was happy with the place, loved my food and would go back again. But not on the same day as the Halloween Parade. Because when it ends, all the parents are tired and want to have a drink, and all their kids are hopped up on sugar, and they all decide to go to John's Place. The owner ( I assume, ro at least the manager) thanked us as we left, with a kind of "Sorry about all the kids" look on his face, so I will return. read more

Above average burger! But more importantly the water was fresh, refilled often and well iced.

I've come here several times for breakfast on the weekends since moving to the neighborhood, and have always had great service and a great meal. But this morning I was really disappointed! I went this morning with a friend and we were promptly seated. Oyster Fest was today, and the restaurant was slow in terms of customers, but the staff seems busy in preparation for it. We quickly placed our order with our server, and then we didn't see her again for the next 25 to 30 minutes. After we realized how long we had waited for our food, we flagged down a manager, and he went to go check on our order. Our server came back, instead of the manager, and said that our ticket had been lost and the kitchen was working on it now. We weren't very happy and decided to walk over to Kitsch'n instead. Having been a server before, I feel like our server should have known that our ticket has been lost well before we inquired about our meal, because she should have been wondering what was taking so long as well. Seems like our server forgot about us! read more

Trying to enjoy a meal out at John's Place is a natural form of birth control, because walking out of here you will be so fed up with the antics of children you'll question whether you ever want to see one again. Would you like to dine in an upscale day care? Because that's what eating at this place is like. Maybe this isn't fair since the establishment's owner can't really control their client's children, but then again I've eaten at other restaurants on Roscoe where the kids at least stay seated. This is where tired mom's go to have a nice meal and maybe a glass of wine while they gab with their girlfriend while their children do laps around the tables and/or stand up in the booths to turn and stare at you unblinkingly while you try to choke down your delicious $2 Wednesday tacos and get the hell out of there and get to your own peaceful livingroom. If the whole place wasn't ruined with child infestation, I would give this place 4 stars for good food, good wine, and an incredibly patient and sweet staff...but I'm including ambiance and the experience as a whole based on the 3 times I've been here. read more

I met a couple of girlfriends and their kids at John's Place today for lunch, and it was the perfect destination to go with little ones. Good kids menu, crayons and an activity placemat to keep the little ones occupied, plentiful high chairs, and plastic cups with lids and straws make it very kid-friendly, and it shows in the crowd. The grown-up menu had a number of options, and we all enjoyed our meals (fish tacos, curried chicken salad sandwich, and hamburger). The service was friendly, and they were happy to let us hang out and catch up. It was relaxed, but not so much so that we had to freak out when one of the kids started to melt down a little. read more

tuff crowd...the food is pretty good, i mean my girlfriend with her vegetarianism is a bitch to satisfy and she swears by their tofu sandwich. I haven't exactly been like "God damn" but that never happens, most places have the same take on most other places menus...John's place isn't the exception, it isn't blazing culinary trails but it's worth a date night visit, especially if you have a vegetarian to feed. read more

The food was ok, as in just ok. There wasn't much atmosphere, It's the kind of place that brings the neighborhood down restaurant-wise because it's just so blahh. It's not that it's awful, it's just that Roscoe has lots of better choices. I would go to any other restaurant on Roscoe before going back here. read more

my bf and I have been here two times and we will be back again! The only complaint i have is their pb&j pancakes. They werent good at all...dry, dull...plain ol' disappointing. I did however have their roscoe burger which was delicious. I walked away a very happy girl that evening! The scramble with sausage, peppers, onions and mushrooms was also delicious! The soup has been great both times as well. service was great the first time and not so great the second time. Which is odd because it was slow the second time we went. Being a server myself, I am very understanding, but this was ridiculous. The bus boys stood around while we needed coffees filled several times. I think the server was very new, so understandable. read more

I moved a few blocks away from here about a month ago and I think this will be my new weekend brunch spot! Came here on a Saturday morning and the staff was extremely friendly! The food came out quickly and the waitress was quick to refill my coffee. We ordered the doughnuts and two entrees and everything was cooked to perfection! They also have a Mexican section of their brunch menu which looks enticing for the next time. There is also a beautiful patio to sit on during the summer. Nothing crazy or fancy but a good quality overall brunch. Bacon - 5 stars Eggs - 3 stars (a little bit runny) Potatoes - 5 stars Coffee - 5 stars Doughnuts - 4 stars Service - 5 stars read more

Great dishes & good service. Try the blondie bar for dessert. I love the $4 glass of wine nights! Burgers are good. I agree with the Johnny A's posting about there being too many mom's with kids/strollers, etc. A bit much. read more

I came here recently on a warm day with my son, in a stroller, and my friend and her son, also in a stroller. We sat on the patio for lunch and very much enjoyed our food. I had the apple, spinach, and goat cheese salad with salmon, and it was delicious. It had a family-friendly atmosphere and service was good. I would return for sure. read more

Cute neighborhood spot! It was brunch-o'clock on a Sunday, and it was busy, but no wait! Definitely a lot of breeders - babies/toddlers galore, but it was still comfortable. I had a craving for a turkey burger, but didn't want to go to a pub this particular day and John's Place satisfied my craving! The turkey burger was juicy and well spiced. The sweet potato fries were really good too. My hubby got a regular burger and said it was really good, better than he expected. Only thing that could have made the burgers better - pretzel buns! The bread was okay but not pretzel bun good :) I would happily come back here for brunch or lunch. Nice relaxed atmosphere with a neighborhood feel. Delivers with good food and service too. read more

One of my favorites in Roscoe Village. The Roscoe burger is top notch. Extremely kid friendly, inside the diner and at the outside eating areas, even on the Roscoe Village scale of kid friendly spots. read more