Lou Mitchell's is one of those classic Chicago spots that feels like stepping back in time. We arrived 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. read more

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It was... outdated. Could use a good remodel. Maybe VINTAGE is a kinder word. And I know they got the money to do it cuz... my husband ordered a skillet (and upgraded to pancakes) and I got an omelette (which needed to be sent back cuz it was still runny on the inside). We ordered a coffee and a Diet Coke. Our bill was OVER $70. SEVENTY dollars. I always say I believe in paying good money for good food but the juice just wasn't worth the squeeze. And this is on top of the city parking you have to pay to eat there. It's just craziness. I will say that the toast was pretty delicious. The server was nice enough. The bathrooms were downstairs and needed attention. read more

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I finally waited in line to try Lou Mitchell's, a true Chicago classic that's been around for years, and I can definitely see why it's so popular. One thing that really stood out is that everything is made from scratch, from the bread to the jam, which gives the whole experience a homemade, comforting feel. The portions are very generous, so you're definitely getting your money's worth. On top of that, the service was friendly and impressively quick despite how busy it was. That said, the pancakes personally weren't my favorite. They weren't bad, just not something I'd go back specifically for. Overall, it's a solid spot with great service and quality food. I'd definitely come back to try more of the menu next time. read more

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GO FOR THE EXPERIENCE OF SITTING IN A PIECE OF CHICAGO HISTORY!!! This diner's been here since 1923. Outdoor and indoor seating. Huge menu. Huge portions Delicious fresh squeezed orange juice. Piping hot very mediocre weak coffee. I got the traditional eggs Benedict with steamed spinach. The eggs were poached perfectly with a thick slice of ham. The hollandaise had no taste at all. The spinach was delicious and piping hot. Ask them to toast the English muffin if you order this dish, mine was pretty so soggy. Little breakfast appetizer of a greasy doughnut and a dry orange. All in all breakfast for one at $40 was way too pricey for the quality of food I received read more

Lou Mitchell's - Breakfast & Brunch Near Me - Chicago, Illinois

If you're a local, this is not a quick breakfast before work type of place. Service was slow but friendly enough. The food was super greasy, but that is probably to be expected. I got the scrambled eggs, potatoes and toast which was good. Their coffee was very average to me, so if you like a a medium to dark brew, it's not for you. read more

Lou Mitchell's - Egg Breakfast - 2 Eggs - Breakfast & Brunch Near Me - Chicago, Illinois

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Tourist trap. No, not at all. It's an outstanding value for really really good food and service Also, you get free donut holes. So what is not to love. It's 100 years old and has started many trips down Route 66. It was a midway on our way to San Francisco on the train, and that just felt right. The service is possibly even more efficient than Chic-fil-a which I always thought was impossible. Even if there is a long line get in it. They will move through super fast. There are not enough bathrooms, so plan for that. But while I was waiting for the bathroom the waitress put foil over my meal to keep it warm without being asked. A very thoughtful touch. There is also a place to stow your bags while you are there which is handy. read more

Lou Mitchell's - Interior with a place to stow your bags if you were concerned. - Breakfast & Brunch Near Me - Chicago, Illinois

Went in today, early morning, not busy at all, and I just wanted to purchase some donuts since they claim to be a bakery. Well, when I finally got some attention from one of the of two ladies talking/working in by the Takeout counter, I finally got to order my donuts, from the pretty slim selection. I bought 4 regular donuts and it was almost 20$. Um, yea I get it's downtown and in a heavy tourist area but, really, over four dollars for each regular donut, thats a bit much, considering that service wasn't good either. Sorry but they were not that great. read more

Lou Mitchell's - donuts - Breakfast & Brunch Near Me - Chicago, Illinois

Exactly what you would expect from a breakfast place. I love the fresh squeezed orange juice. Our server was friendly and gave us free ice cream at the end of our meal. It seems very busy but they're very fast. The inside is an old school diner style. read more

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This place is a must visit. Food is fabulous and service outstanding (love Amy). We ordered skillets. When we asked about certain dishes, Amy asked if we wanted to try before ordering. She went the extra mile Of course we took each recommendation and all was delishes. read more

I have been coming here for years and truly everything I have tried from their menu has not disappointed me. It is classic diner food, and the portions are quite generous as well. The service is also spectacular, they are quite attentive. The most interesting thing that I've tried from them is their apple omelet (pictured). I thought it would be just apple slices with the eggs, but it was actually apple pie filling! Definitely interesting, but not bad. Not spectacular either but I would prefer to eat their savory items more than the sweet ones. On the weekends its normal for there to be a line, but it moves quick. The longest I've probably ever waited was 20 minutes. read more

Lou Mitchell's - Breakfast & Brunch Near Me - Chicago, Illinois

Cool spot to start our Rt. 66 roadtrip as it's a must according to all of the Rt. 66 resources. The food and service were good but it was the interior that stole the show. Very busy and touristy. One and done. read more

Lou Mitchell's - Breakfast & Brunch Near Me - Chicago, Illinois

Ok tbh upgrading to 5 stars bc it's 5 stars for a diner, great service, blue soft serves for bears wins, free donut holes, very yummy omelettes & potato skillets, consistent. read more

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food is eh good. Virginia the waitress is a dream, I think I actually love her. the diner atmosphere is always a hit. Love the fast pace

Another visit Another fantastic lunch Service the best Food excellent Ambiance old school (is cool) Price so reasonable If you've been here good visit again If you haven't come down , you'll be glad you did. Not a bad item on the menu read more

Lou Mitchell's - Out front February day - Breakfast & Brunch Near Me - Chicago, Illinois

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At Lou Mitchell's, you'll be sure to find a few things: classic American breakfast fare, a line of people waiting to be seated, and charismatic staff weaving through the vibrant interior. It's a Chicago classic through and through. Both the omelette and the potatoes were well-cooked, with a soft interior to the omelette and a crispy yet tender bite to the potatoes. Being a bit of an expert in breakfast fare, I also ordered a set of chocolate chip pancakes for the table. These were a touch lacking in flavor and texture. but they nonetheless rounded out a very good meal at a Chicago staple. read more

Lou Mitchell's - Spinach Special Omelette - Breakfast & Brunch Near Me - Chicago, Illinois

Classic in every way. The coffee was delicious and was brought out with a donut hole and orange wedge. All orders are served in vintage skillets and those scrambled eggs couldn't be more fluffy if they were injected with air. The bacon was cooked perfectly and there was so much food I could have shared. Personally I wasn't as big of a fan of the sweetness on the wheat toast but the rest of the group loved it. There were other things I wanted to try but I was too full. I will have to go back again. On top of the wonderful breakfast I loved the setting. The diner has stood there for decades and you feel like you re stepping back in time from the second you enter the door until you go back out onto the street. read more

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A true Chicago institution! Shockingly my first time, but wow was I missing out! Such an inviting, old timey diner feel. We went the day after a Bears playoff win and everyone was wearing Bears gear, along with decor all around the diner. They even had blue ice cream with orange sprinkles to celebrate! Our phones did not eat first (we were so hungry and so excited about the food!) so I apologize for the subpar photos. What we ordered: Freshly squeezed OJ: One word - YUM! Mushroom special omelette: The eggs were so fluffy + delicious! Malted bacon + pecan waffle: Love that the pecans were incorporated into the waffle! Plus the housemade syrup - a hit! Reuben: Ginormous + delicious! Meat is piled on along with melty cheese and so much sauerkraut. Loved it! Our server, Alex, was also a delight and really enhanced our experience! 10/10! read more

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LOU MITCHELLS I LOVE YOU!!!!!! The most perfect breakfast spot which such a diner and cozy vibe. Being from NJ I consider myself a diner expert and Lou's is one of the best! The staff treat you like family and are so attentive even when they are always packed! If you're coming here, definitely prepare to wait in line, but it is SO WORTH it. I got the blueberry pancakes with a side of hashbrowns and they were delicious. My partner got their Belgian waffle and it was huge and fluffy! Also got their never ending coffee which was brewed perfectly. Will always come back! read more

Lou Mitchell's - Belgian Malted Waffle - Breakfast & Brunch Near Me - Chicago, Illinois

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Travelling to chicago, then you have to stop by Lou's. Nice old time diner feel to it and staff are very friendly. Food was also amazing. They made their own syrup and it was the perfect sweet and thickness. Overall it is a restaurant that feels warm even thru the chilly winds of chicago read more

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It was really fun visiting this iconic diner! It's a city landmark and has been around over 100 years!!! Wow!!!!!! I love visiting historical places. It definitely has that old school, fun diner ambiance. The coffee is delicious--it's their special blend and has won awards. They serve it with pure cream, which is my favorite. They give out free donut holes to customers but they were out by the time we got there so I'll have to return to experience those. It was packed for Sunday brunch but we didn't have to wait too long for our booth. Excellent service. Everyone was very kind. My mom had silver dollar pancakes and they were huge! So many of them! The bacon was delicious!!! So good!! The portions are very generous here. Huge! I had the smoked salmon Benedict and my boyfriend had the traditional eggs Benedict. We both agreed that our eggs were super salty. Perfectly cooked poached eggs but too salty. I couldn't finish mine because of the salt. But my hash browns were fantastic! I think I just ordered the wrong thing because all the other dishes my family ordered were excellent. There was plenty of food for sharing so I got to try everything. My niece had scrambled eggs and those were not salty. Very fluffy and tasty. She ordered 1 scrambled egg but it looked like she got more eggs than that. Again, generous portions and you'll get your money's worth. I think next time I'll order an omelette. Those looked really good. I really enjoyed their raisin toast. They make their own syrup too and it was so good. I even put some in my coffee. We were given complimentary little cups of soft serve ice cream at the end of the meal. What a nice touch! Very cool experience! Very glad we came here! read more

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We found this place when we were looking on Yelp for breakfast options near our hotel, and it was a quickly walk away. We went on a Friday morning and it was busy (but according to the staff, nowhere near that busy for what they usually see). The ambiance is very old school diner, it's so cute and cozy. When we arrived in from the blistering cold of the Chicago fall, we were quickly sat amongst the rows of tables. It is a tight squeeze in this restaurant, especially once you have been sat. We ordered coffee and our entrees. While we waited, they poured coffee for us and brought over some beignets/donuts. The beignets were good but cold. When we got our food, my breakfast sandwich was also cold. Also good, I just wish it had been warm. My partner enjoyed his omelet, potatoes, and pancake. (I also enjoyed a bite of his pancake). The way the space is set up is fun. You can literally hear every single word of the conversations beside you, so it's not as awkward to make friends with your tablemates. I enjoyed it as a fun way to drink coffee and chat with the wonderful women beside us. Definitely an experience. I would recommend coming for breakfast if you are in the area. read more

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I came here with my husband on a weekend at like 930am and we waited maybe like 20mins before being seated which was pretty quick in my opinion. I know if I come here any later then the line is out the door cause it's usually the case whenever I walk pass here. I love the interior of this place because you actually feel like you're dining at a diner. My husband ordered the corned beef hash and I got the mushroom omelette. I love the quick service and they give you a dessert to end the meal. I got a piece of orange and a small donut hole which were sweet and good! Prices are reasonable given the economy we're in and I thought the portions were fairly generous because I could not finish my food and needed a to-go box. I love the vibe here and cannot wait to come back more often whenever I'm in the mood for breakfast. Overall, very solid American diner just slightly west of the loop. I'm excited to try the pastries next time I am back! read more

Lou Mitchell's - Mushroom Omelette - Breakfast & Brunch Near Me - Chicago, Illinois

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You'll never be able to put your finger on exactly what makes this place great, is it the old timey diner vibe, is it that it's always consistent, is it that they use fresh ingredients and vegetables, is it that all the staff have two heaping helpings of personality, or that it's still locally owned in a sea of franchised restaurants? I presume it's all of them, and sure glad I live nearby. Be back again soon. read more

Lou Mitchell's - Denver Omelette Egg & Meat Breakfast - 2 Egg Breakfast Pancakes - 2 Pancakes - Breakfast & Brunch Near Me - Chicago, Illinois

Early morning flights mean limited breakfast and coffee options in the loop, so Lou Mitchell's was a lifesaver for me. Normally, the long line outside stops me from checking it out but thankfully most people aren't awake at 7am. Not super hungry, I ordered the egg sandwich for something to hold me over during my flight. I promise I'm not picky with my sandwiches, but this one was severely lacking. Everything was overly greasy and under seasoned. Plus maybe a mistake on my part, but the bread wasn't even toasted or warm. Beggars can't be choosers, but in the future I rather risk it. read more

Lou Mitchell's - Breakfast & Brunch Near Me - Chicago, Illinois

After stepping inside Lou Mitchell's, it's evident why it's a Chicago breakfast staple. The quaint restaurant is often filled to capacity, so it's best to go early. They give you a donut hole to start the meal. I ordered the Espaniole Omelette, which was delicious and hearty. You will not get cheated on portions at Lou Mitchell's. My girlfriend ordered the Greek feta cheese omelette, and it was also quite tasty. It's standard breakfast fare, but nothing amazing. Overall, great breakfast spot laden with history. read more

Lou Mitchell's - Greek Feta Cheese Omelette - Breakfast & Brunch Near Me - Chicago, Illinois

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Saw the middling reviews and expected little, but we loved our breakfast. I hadn't been here in over 20 years, and i don't think it's changed at all. Everyone should come here at least once to experience what diners used to be like. Hearken back to the time before our choices for breakfast were pretty much between elaborate, instagramable dessert concoctions and total garbage. It's busy, but not the kind of busy where you feel rushed or can feel a stranger's breath on you. Get a few things and split it. Get the pancakes. Get a Benedict with perfectly poached eggs probably poached by someone who could poach eggs in their sleep. And for the love of all that is holy, get those potatoes. You won't be able to eat it all, and later you'll regret not trying harder eat it all. read more

Lou Mitchell's - That's half an order. Show up hungry. - Breakfast & Brunch Near Me - Chicago, Illinois

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Extremely overrated. I had high hopes when I met my friend for breakfast at Lou Mitchell's on a weekday. There was a long line of people waiting to be seated and for me that is generally a good thing. Visually, I liked the look of the place as I like classic diners and old school restaurants. But when we were being seated my hopes dimmed a little. In the middel of the aisle between a row of booths was a line of two top tables squeezed in, the sides of the tables butting right up against the next table, creating one long table and people were seated opposite who they were dining with. Not necessarily a bad thing, but the space was clearly just too small to accomodate those tables. I cannot tell you how many times someone trying to squeeze by behind me when I was seated bumped my chair or the back of my head. The restaurant was clearing prioritizing volume. I forget what my friend ordered, but he had ordered decaf coffee and it came out cold. It was poured from nearly a full pot. I had ordered biscuits and gravy and a side of Greek sausage, as well as regular coffee. My coffee, poured from a pot about half full, was barely warm. Adding cream just about turned it into an iced coffee. Given the high volume of customers that they had there is absolutely no reason for cold coffee. When the food came out it looked good. I am a huge fan of biscuits and gravy and these looked good. But guess what? They were decidedly Meh. The gravy tasted like it was several days old and the bisucits were dry and not very warm. Okay, at least I had my Greek sausage to save the day. Nope. No saving the day from the loukaniko. Half of the pices were cold in the middle. I barely ate one buiscuit and half of the sausage. I did not take the rest home with me. I had long known of Lou Mitchell's and it took me years to finally make it over there do to odd work schedules and life getting in the way. I really, really, really wish I had kept pushing off visiting. Personally if someone offered me a free meal at Lou Mitchell's or said I had to pay for breakfast someplace else, I am grabbing my wallet and paying for breakfast. Online I see a lot of people suggesting to tourists that this is a must see place. When I have the time I join in the conversations and tell them this is a must flee place. read more

Classic diner food that will fill you up for the day. The menu has a large selection and something for everyone. Service is fast and friendly. Be sure to save room for some sweets. read more

Lou Mitchell's - Traditional Eggs Benedict - Breakfast & Brunch Near Me - Chicago, Illinois

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Had an amazing omelette here today. Perfectly cooked and absolutely gut bustingly huge. Fresh good ingredients. Sliced potatoes are awesome. Crowded old school place. Really worth a shot. Can't wait to try other menu items. read more

Lou Mitchell's - Breakfast & Brunch Near Me - Chicago, Illinois

A classic Chicago breakfast establishment. My only regret is waiting so long to try Lou's. You can tell most of the staff have worked there forever, and they're very friendly. The diner itself is exactly the old school ambiance I love. Standard Chicago breakfast pricing, good portions, and a free donut hole to enjoy with your coffee while you wait for your entree. Fresh ingredients. Need to try lunch here next time. read more

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My partner and I came to Lou Michell's because we've heard from many people that this institution was a must to visit while we're in town. We came on Thursday morning around 11 am and they already ran out of their famous donut holes when I asked to buy some, oh well that's my fault for not coming earlier. We ordered the French toast, and Greek special omelette. The French toast was alright, it was super dry in the middle and it came out tepid.. even with all the maple syrup, it couldn't be saved. We did not finish it. The Greek omelette special was also tepid. I was expecting it to be piping hot, it was barely warm. The middle of the omelette wasn't warm at all, how disappointing. Almost $20 an omelette and it comes out like that? At least the omelette wasn't dry, I give them that. They also ran out of hash browns, so we settled for fries and that was also sad. It wasn't hot, big shocker there. They were leftover fries that were left sitting on the side too long. My waiter also forgot to bring me my side of bread that came with the omelette, never came. I get it, it's busy. This was probably the saddest breakfast spot I've ever been to and I won't recommend this to others who want to visit Chicago. Only reason this is still a two star is because our waiter never left my partner's coffee cup empty. He said the coffee was also very good, the best diner coffee he's had by far. I won't be coming back. read more

Lou Mitchell's - Grilled Thick French Toast - Breakfast & Brunch Near Me - Chicago, Illinois

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This is exactly the type of diner that I was hoping to find here in Chicago. Fast paced, a server that calls me "sweetie", a good cup of drip coffee (not the world's best, but it was good), and great food. The omelettes were excellent, I would recommend not getting cheese on the omelette with gravy. Contrasting flavors that didn't work as well as it sounded in my head. With that said, the preparation was top notch. I'll definitely be back if I revisit Chicago! read more

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A Chicago classic! The portions here are very large and affordable. I enjoyed the sour cream omelette and a hot chocolate to drink. The donut and orange slice they brought out at first were a highlight. Our server was attentive and this place has the best diner vibes. It's very cozy inside. Fun place to take visitors especially if they are coming in to Union Station! read more

Lou Mitchell's - Breakfast & Brunch Near Me - Chicago, Illinois

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Can't go wrong with the iconic breakfast spot in Chicago! Always a great time visiting Lou Mitchell's !!! This place has been around for over 100 years, and it's like travel back in time when you stepped into here. Just be prepared to wait!! It's very busy, esp on the weekends!!! There're street parking around the area! I always go for the egg sandwich, it's one of my favorite!! I love their homemade bread with the sesame seeds for the egg sandwich!! Their French toasts are also amazing!! They also give you complimentary donut holes and orange slices!!! They do have breakfasts and lunch items on their menu, and plenty of options to choose from!!!! Definitely check this place out if you are visiting Chicago, this's a must to add to your list! read more

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Great food, fast service, and very courteous staff. We had a party of 7 and we were seated on Friday morning very quickly despite it being really busy. It was a classic diner experience and the coffee was pretty good. We got commentary donut, orange slice, and soft serve after we were done. This was so satisfying after our long plane ride and everyone in our party agreed it was a very good choice. read more

Lou Mitchell's - Complimentary strawberry soft serve - Breakfast & Brunch Near Me - Chicago, Illinois

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I can't believe my parents and I deprived myself of eating here growing up. Born and raised in the northwest suburbs of Chicago, my family would take frequent trips to the city for all sorts or occasions. As i got older I would do the same with friends especially taking advantage of the metra. Hearing that this restaurant has been around since 1923 is astonishing. Beyond cool to eat at a place of Chicago history. I suggest getting here around opening on weekends to avoid the long line. It is a first come first serve establishment with tons of seating in a small space. The decor is minimal with old wood furnishes and midcentury modern lighting. They offer bar, booth, and table style seating. The main hostest (the other host told us her name is Donna) has been working there for 40 or so years! She was kicking butt and getting people seated. She even had fans from out of the state come eat here just to meet her. It took us less than 20 minutes to get a seat for a party of 3 on a sunday morning with a line out the door. Just an FYI, you could be sat really close to the other tables but it didn't bother me nonetheless. A lady came by real quick with coffee and drinks. The waiter who was AMAZING brought us complimentary donut holes with an orange slice. He was soft spoken, super flexible, very quick and accommodating. I really wish i got his name. Super caring about his customers. The food was on point. Probably one of the best diner type restaurants I have ever ate at. I ordered a denver omelette hobo style which is with potatoes inside and added feta. *chef kiss* There was zero brown on the egg and it was SUPER fluffy. We also tried the pancakes with the house made syrup and orange marmalade. My mom ordered the house made chocolate cake donut. Soooooo good! Wish I could have tried all their made in house baked goods! They have a giant menu at the front with all the baked goods they sell and their own house blend of coffee that you can buy. If you come visit Chicago, you have to come here for breakfast. Your tastebuds depend on it. read more

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OG breakfast spot on Jackson that has been serving patrons since 1923! Service and staff are amazing, bottomless cups of coffee, and really great food. Interior is as "Chicago" as it gets, with a warm and inviting ambiance Pro Tip: grab a seat at the counter and enjoy some great banter with the staff! This place is worth a visit! read more

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Lou Mitchell's has been around forever and for good reason! The food has always been excellent breakfast and comfort food, always delicious, homemade, quick, and in filling portions. Cinnamon rolls are a must-have! They are so fresh, you'll get yours right out of the oven as I had both of mine on this visit. They are that good!! My breakfast mate had an omelette, with bacon and something else, and the order was quite large, cook to order, and cooked perfectly. At my recent visit I ordered fresh squeezed grapefruit interest, and while it was very expensive, it was fresh squeezed and absolutely delicious, and I felt like I was at my parents' home in florida. I've never been here when it's not crowded, this time, we did not have to wait, but just plan that you might have to wait. It'll be well worth it. You'll either get a tiny two-person booth or something teeny bit bigger. You might be able to squeeze a 10-person breakfast party in here. If you can sit at the counter, that's always a great experience. I encourage that. Wait staff here is always very friendly, very attentive and professional! This recent visit was no different! Bathrooms are in the basement, so just be prepared for that if you are not super able-bodied. read more

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Visiting Lou Mitchell's will always be on my checklist if I am in Chicago before 8am. They have a vibe and hospitality there that is unmatched, their food is top 3 if not the best breakfast place I have ever had in my life. I recommend this establishment every chance I get for some amazing breakfast. read more

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SO GOOD! I love feta cheese and spinach so these ingredients in an omelette was ‍! The potatos were crispy, but rye bread was a tad bit too hard. Other than that, solid food and I loved the presentation in a pan! I came here in a hurry given the my initial train was delayed, but my next train was on time. Despite that, I was able to enjoy most of my meal because the food came out relatively quickly despite being very busy! It's quite a cramped space given that it is a diner right outside union statuon, so it a bit difficult to move around. Very solid experience overall read more

Lou Mitchell's - Spinach Special Omelette - Breakfast & Brunch Near Me - Chicago, Illinois