We visited the waffle lounge on a Sunday. When we first got there, they told us it would be about a 15 minute wait it ended up being about 25 to 30 minutes. Once we were seated, they provided us with water. We looked at the menu. I was really hungry so I was ready to order. I ordered the shrimp and grits as well as the red velvet waffles. The shrimp grits had great flavor was seasoned very well. The Red Velvet waffles were not like I've had before. I can't really explain it, but I did not enjoy the flavor. Overall, I definitely recommend people trying. The waitress was nice. read more

The Waffle Lounge - Breakfast & Brunch Near Me - Chicago, Illinois

Visited The Waffle Lounge today for breakfast with a group of friends who wanted to patronize a black restaurant on MLK Day. We are Black and want to support our community economically. We had 8 people so it took a little time to be seated and the restaurant was busy. Once we were seated the server informed us that two of their servers had called off today and that it would take a little time for service. We were fine with that and asked the server to bring us 8 cups of coffee and we would be happy to accommodate the service gaps. After 30 minutes we still did not have coffee and had to ask a couple more times before it finally arrived. Another 10 minutes later the server arrived to take our order. At that point we were informed there was no pot roast, or Ribeye steak available for two of the dishes on the menu - the grits flight and the grandpa breakfast. So we made due with regular breakfast and I order the maple fried chicken and cinnamon waffle. When my dish arrived- 10 minutes after everyone else was served, the waffle was over cooked to the point it crumbled when I cut into it and cold. The chicken was fried nicely. I asked everyone else at our table how was their food and they said it was ok but cold. After our bill arrived for $228 or $237 if you use a credit/debit card, we settled up and gave the server cash to cover the bill. The server returned 5 minutes later to informed us she forgot to put the coffee on the bill and proceeded to present us with another bill for an additional $30. Now I don't mind paying for what I ordered but I don't care for asking for money after I settle the bill. Especially since we were so patient during the elongated service time. It would have been in good faith to take off the coffee charge as a little thank you. Not sure this place is ready for prime time. I will never return. Here's my rating by category: * Ambiance - 5 Stars * Attitude / Persona - 1 Star - because the Owner/Manager was indifferent when we gave our feedback about the coffee incident. * Service - 3 stars * Food - 1 star - food is not good if it is cold. read more

Five Stars, No Hesitation If you're looking for a Chicago breakfast spot that feels special before you even walk through the door, let me put you on to Waffle Lounge. After a workout, I decided to treat my sister in law and my cousin to breakfast. We tossed around the usual Chicago breakfast staples, but someone said, "Let's try something new," and just like that we headed to 74th and State. I'd been seeing Waffle Lounge ads online for a few months, so I was already excited to finally check it out. The first thing that hits you is the exterior. Even with the cold cutting our admiration short, it was clear a lot of thought went into the look. From the ample off street parking to the outdoor dining area, the woodgrain walls, and the WL branded doors, the place looks polished and intentional. Real talk, it wouldn't feel out of place at all in Fulton Market. Inside, it somehow gets even better. The decor is beautiful without feeling stuffy, the atmosphere is warm and inviting, and the staff was genuinely friendly. For a Saturday morning, being seated within about 15 minutes felt like a win. While we waited for our food, we had time to talk, laugh, and really take in the details the owner put into the space. Simply spectacular. Now let's talk food, because listen. I ordered the braised short ribs and grits, my sister in law went with the blueberry lemon waffles, and my cousin chose the chicken and waffles. The food came out fast and still piping hot. That's always a good sign. I fancy myself a bit of a grits expert. I make it a mission to try them anywhere that does savory additions. I'm telling you straight, aside from some low country shrimp and grits I had in South Carolina, these might be the best grits I've ever had. The beef was tender and perfectly seasoned, the gravy was smooth and rich without being greasy, and the grits were just thick enough to eat with a fork but still creamy. That balance matters. My family stopped talking and just ate. Plates were cleaned. That quiet table moment tells you everything you need to know. To top it all off, the owner, Rami, stopped by our table to thank us for coming. That personal touch sealed the deal for me. Food gets a 5 out of 5. The price point is a definite plus. The vibe, the service, the presentation, all on point. If you haven't tried Waffle Lounge yet, do yourself a favor and go now. You'll leave full, happy, and already planning your return. Stop playing with yourself and get over there. read more

Customer service is good. Very friendly and helpful. Food is great. Love the food choices especially the one that serves up to 4. Waffles and potatoes were awesome. Bottomline I loved everything about the Waffle Lounge. read more

I rarely eat ALL my food but it was 10/10! Awesome brunch spot super chill, clean, positive vibes. Great service will definitely be back. Ordered the strawberry waffle and loaded grits. Hibiscus lemonade 10/10 read more

Stopped by The Waffle Lounge and really enjoyed the experience. I ordered The Grandma, which came with scrambled eggs, hash browns, and sausage patties--simple, classic, and done right. Everything was cooked well, the eggs were fluffy, the hash browns had a nice crisp, and the sausage was flavorful. The decor is modern, clean, and inviting, making it a great spot to sit down and enjoy breakfast or brunch. Overall, solid food, great atmosphere, and definitely a place I'd come back to. Highly recommend if you're in the mood for a comforting breakfast in a stylish setting. read more

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The food was good. My favorite were the waffles. The Grit Flight just okay. I will absolutely return to try something new. I had a chance to conversation with the owner, she's really nice. I loved it. And it's cute inside. They do charge the 3% for using a debit card but that's the times we are in now. And there is parking in the lot off the street. read more

The Waffle Lounge - Grit Flight - Breakfast & Brunch Near Me - Chicago, Illinois

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This automatically had a plus when I discovered there was an onsite parking lot and plenty street parking. Went on a Sunday afternoon so it was an average wait time. Hostess and owner were very nice and accommodating. Shantal was our server and she was great. Food cones out as it's ready. A recorded or streamed DJ provided nice ambiance. Food just need a tad bit of salt (and I don't add salt to my food like that) and it would've been great. It's only been open month and we need more nice places like this to patronize. They're getting 4 stars just because there are a few timing issues as far as expediting read more

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I upgraded only because our waitress Chantal was absolutely incredible. The food is simply just okay and a bit overpriced for the quality, and they still cannot seem to figure out how to cook an order so that all dishes come out together and hot. The owner is so nice and attentive but remains way too focused on her social media presence--she still apparently doesn't even know she has a few less than flattering reviews on Yelp--and doesn't respond to the website "contact us" form or her emails. They added tables since my last visit so now when the table next to us sneezed (rudely without covering himself) we caught his spray on our food! Finally, the music remains way too loud for breakfast , but if you only read what your friends say on social media you won't ever change that! My last and final review. I give them another year and it's a wrap. read more

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I had an amazing meal and listened to some great live music. The hot chicken and waffles were absolutely delicious. I also had cheese grits, eggs and bacon all delicious. read more

The Waffle Lounge - Hot chicken and waffles - Breakfast & Brunch Near Me - Chicago, Illinois

Phenomenal food and service. Probably the cleanest restaurant I've been to in a while. It was busy...30 minute wait. It was also a holiday, and we didn't have reservations. It was totally worth the wait. The grit flight was amazing. And the chicken and waffles also. Grits or waffles you can't go wrong--unless you just don't go. read more

The Waffle Lounge - Breakfast & Brunch Near Me - Chicago, Illinois

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I gave it a 4 because the service was a bit slow, BUT they turned it around real quick. The wait I a bit and the front door end needs some more organization . Ok enough of that part but the food was good and I'm hard to please!!! I'm coming back with my family next time. read more

The Waffle Lounge - Breakfast & Brunch Near Me - Chicago, Illinois

Tried this new spot for breakfast/brunch. The decor was so cute!! It was much bigger on the inside than it looks, they have 2 sides. They were busy but we got waited on pretty quickly. The staff were really nice and attentive to the guests. The food was ok but presentation was great! I would have liked if they served mimosas though! I'll have to try it at least one more time to give a more thorough review. I would recommend you trying for yourself though, I wasn't disappointed. read more

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We took my mom here for brunch to celebrate her birthday. Although we had a reservation we still had to wait a long time to be seated. It worked out though because we were able to eat in the private dining room. The food was decent. The waffles were of course the star of the meal. The cheese grits were pretty tasty too. What made this stand out was the server and how patient and attentive she was throughout the meal. I'm not sure if I'll be back. But if I do I'll make sure to not go on the weekend and see if it's less busy. read more

Great way to start my weekend. Had the classic waffle with crispy bacon. Made exactly as I like. Sat at the bar and was in and out in a jiffy. Fast friendly service. I'll be back. read more

The Waffle Lounge - At The Bar - Breakfast & Brunch Near Me - Chicago, Illinois

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Is there a long wait, yes. Is there a parking lot, yes. Do they accept reservations, no. Came on a Sunday to meet a friend at 1p, they told us an hour but since we were catching up time went by swiftly. The venue in itself is small, but nice and elegant. Not sure why on this day the bar area was closed, but then I heard our server say there are only two cooks. This will pose plenty of problems now and in the future. Food came out relatively quick, it was ok. I was dying for the peach cobbler waffles but they were very soft and not hot. Eggs were ok and the "thick cut" bacon was not the case. It's weird how the bill is done with all the added fees so they mentioned if you don't pay cash then they divvy up the cost adding add'l money per item. Example $15 corking fee now $15.65, $3 eggs now $3.50, my $14 meal now $14.60 and my $5.50 bacon became $6. I think that's weird. Anyhow, the hostess was nice despite the many complaints, the patrons waiting impatiently, and assisting the large number of people that turned around not wanting to wait 1.5 hours, etc. I say to be safe arrive at 2p, you should be seated quickly...place was basically empty by that time. Also, if you're going to look at my wine bottle then immediately point out that I'll be charged $15, then I'm going to immediately need you to bring over everything that comes with it, I should not have to ask for it. Overall, it was a nice experience, I may go back am interested in the coffee flights. read more

The Waffle Lounge - Peach cobbler waffles w/side of eggs - Breakfast & Brunch Near Me - Chicago, Illinois

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The food was decent, though a bit pricey for what you get and you have to add sides as a la carte. That said, the setup and ambiance were really nice, and the food was well presented. What really stood out was the staff friendly, attentive, and welcoming. The lines can get pretty long so there may be a wait. It's definitely worth going at least once for the variety of waffles they offer, especially their waffle and grits flight, which is a fun option to try multiple flavors in one sitting. read more

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Great food and excellent service! The peach cobbler waffles are my fave! Check them out!

We visited this cute restaurant yesterday and the house-made lemonade was an absolute standout-- I'm still thinking about it seriously, give the maker a raise! The grit flight was a unique, and absolutely delicious definitely a highlight. We had the blueberry lemon waffle fye!!! While the potato could have been served warmer and the steak was just okay, the overall experience was great. I'll definitely be back for more waffles and grits! Shoutout to our waitress for being so nice!!! read more

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Owner rude very off putting. I had a disappointing experience here. The owner was rude and unwelcoming, which made the visit uncomfortable--especially early in the morning. I didn't enjoy my food and wanted to return it, but didn't feel comfortable doing so given the interaction. I ended up throwing half of it away. Overall, very off-putting service. very unwelcoming experience. read more

The service was so amazing!!! We love that it matched how incredibly good the food was too. It made the experience that much more superb. We will definitely be back. They are BYOB and we got to meet the beautiful Chef Taylor. The restaurant is gorgeous, clean and fun at the same time. read more

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I'm not really good at TikTok and video posts, but I am definitely a bona fide foodie and can give a detailed, long-winded review for worthy cuisines. There are brunch spots, and then there are experiences. Waffle Lounge firmly belongs to the latter. From the moment you walk in, the atmosphere sets the tone. The ambiance strikes a thoughtful balance between lively and comfortable, with an energy that feels curated rather than chaotic. It is the kind of place where conversation flows easily, laughter rises naturally, and the staff greets you with a warmth that feels genuine rather than rehearsed. Hospitality here is not an afterthought. It is part of the brand's DNA. What truly distinguishes Waffle Lounge, however, is the food. The waffle flight is a standout concept executed with both imagination and technical finesse. Featuring blueberry, apple, strawberry, and peach cobbler selections, each waffle arrives with its own personality and flavor profile. The blueberry delivers bright, balanced sweetness; the apple offers a comforting, spiced depth; the strawberry brings a fresh, vibrant finish; and the peach cobbler waffle evokes a warm, nostalgic richness that feels almost indulgent. Together, they transform a simple brunch staple into a curated tasting experience. The grits flight is equally compelling and thoughtfully composed. Creamy, buttered grits serve as the foundation, providing a velvety canvas for bold accompaniments. The Creole shrimp introduce a savory, seasoned complexity with just the right touch of spice, while the braised short ribs offer tender, slow-cooked depth that melts effortlessly into each bite. The layering of textures and flavors elevates this Southern classic into something both comforting and refined. Even the classic sides command attention. The thick-cut bacon is expertly prepared with the ideal balance of crispness and smoky richness, and the potatoes are seasoned with precision, each bite delivering warmth and flavor without overpowering the plate. Perhaps most impressive is the value. In a city like Chicago, where dining costs can escalate quickly, Waffle Lounge delivers quality, creativity, and ambiance at prices that remain refreshingly reasonable. Waffle Lounge is not merely a place to eat. It is a well-crafted culinary experience that lingers long after the table is cleared. read more

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To begin I would just like to say that my review is just based off my overall experience. I tried this place because of people online but I see if you are not an "influencer" your food may come out looking and tasting different. That's why I try places for myself. They redid the place beautifully it looks nice outside and inside. Great patio area for the spring /summertime can open the windows it looks like during that time. My friend and I got there around the time they opened and everyone start trickling in after us. The first thing I order was a hot chocolate when the waiter came over to sit down silverware and water. He informed me he needed to warm up the milk. My friend ordered tea and when he came back with her tea we ordered our meals. I got the grits flight with turkey bacon and my friend order what is called the grandma it comes with a meat, eggs, grits or potatoes, and 2 mini waffles. Unfortunately she did not receive potatoes or grits with her meal. I will say the gentleman gave us a discount for that because we didn't realize until we were almost finished and ready to go. She didn't tell me until we left her eggs were cold because she knew I would sent them back, because she hates sending food back. As far as the flight......I received 1 small chunk of meat that was bland and tough and I don't know how because the gravy was actually good. The flavor in the shrimp and grits and the loaded grits were good. The toppings on the peach cobbler and apple waffles were good but the waffles themselves were flavorless. They need to add some vanilla or cinnamon to the batter. Overall everything was mediocre. I only wanted the hot chocolate because it looked so good on the videos to finally receive it when we asked for the check. So I asked for it to go, without all the extras. read more

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Spent more time on aesthetics, then quality and amount of food given. All cutlery, and plating are too small. More suitable for small children. Forgot to take a pic, because food was consumed quickly. read more

Overall, this place was pretty good. I got the red velvet waffles, and they were very filling--I felt full after just two waffles. I went around 12 o'clock and hadn't eaten all day, so that definitely says something. I also tried the strawberry waffle, but I didn't like it as much because it tasted a bit artificial to me. The blueberry waffles were just okay. The breakfast potatoes were fine too, but they could've been crispier. Nothing was bad overall, just a few things that could be better. I'd still say it was a decent experience. Also our server Kayla was so nice and thoughtful. She gave us a great service. read more

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Waffles are good. Wait time was about 1 1/2 hours. We arrived at 1:00pm without a reservation for a party of 5 on Sunday. They don't take reservations for groups under 5, which is crazy to me. The place is small and should take reservations for that reason. The decor is lovely. Hopefully they will consider putting tables outside weather permitting. I will definitely go back and try the other items. read more

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I ate here with three others and the service was great and friendly, the food was very good. I will definitely come back again. I would have taken a pic of my food, but I smashed it too quick. read more

Have been there two times. Appreciate free parking and plenty of spaces even during busy hours. The wait staff was friendly and helpful. The turnaround time from ordering to serving was fine. This is a place where you can appreciate time enough to have a good conversation while you wait. It's not an eat and run place. It's an expereience. The ambiance is very nice. Food was delicious and presentation is creative and very appealing, Great to have a well run, esthetically pleasing Black owned restaurant in the neighborhood. One suggestion is adding reservations for parties less than 5. This is especially important for customers who are seniors or disabled. read more

I enjoyed this place today with family service was great the vibes in the building was on point. I will return with more family an friends. The food could have a little more seasoning for me but was good read more

I visited the restaurant with my parents on a busy Sunday morning, the weekend before Christmas. It took awhile to be seated, but with no reservations allowed, the wait was to be expected, although the system for checking people in needs to be revamped. The service was slow and the food delivery slow as well, but there were a lot of people. Overall, the food was tasty. We got two grit flights and one waffle flight with a side of grilled chicken. The grit flights were flavorful, but unfortunately mostly grits with minimal meat topping. The waffles were tasty and the chicken was well seasoned. My biggest issue came with the bill. We were up-charged for every item on our bill. When confronted, the manager claimed to not know how that happened. Based on that, although the food was tasty, we won't return. Make sure you check your bill, seems they're banking on people not checking. read more

the food was good especially the grits and the steak my friend had was tender but the portions are very small for all of the money they ask for and i think the bacon should be thick cut and the sausages should be bigger but other than that i like it read more

Food. Service. Ambiance. They were all great. The service was kind & polite. There was a party-like atmosphere. Very lively and inviting. Besides all that the food was soooo GOOD!!! read more

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The food was Amazing. I had the chicken and waffle with a side of loaded Grits. I not one for cheese in grits but it was good. The house syrup was a bit spicy but it works. The was slow but I can't complain. The owner was able to seat me and 11 of my family members and she had 3 parties going on. The ambience was great old school R&B playing to the live DJ. BYOB people and enjoy. See you next time read more

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I decided to try the Waffle Lounge after church service. I ordered the waffle flight and a side of bacon. The food was good and the service was - Meh The ambience was beautiful, but the service wasn't great. I noticed the owner went and talked to individuals that were known. However, I was never greeted or asked if I needed anything. I actually was going to get an order to go, but decided I would spend my money where I feel wanted or thanked for patronage. I truly hope this feedback is taken to heart so that you don't miss money on the table. You can have a great restaurant that is needed in the community. read more

I wish I'd taken photos of my dish. I read that the service hear wand bad, but it was recommended by a friend who mentioned that they had vegan items. They had only the vegan sausage patty on the menu, but the chef made me a scramble with crumble patty and it was top tier and well-seasoned. The server and host checked on me to ensure that I liked my meal. The coffee was great and they had a vegan oat milk as well as dairy creamer. My companion had the waffle flight and loved it. It was pretty packed, but our server was attentive. read more

Every menu item I had on April 19, 2026 was absolutely delicious. I had the croquettes, grits, small waffles and eggs. My party of four was thoroughly satisfied. We will be sure to bring our own bottle for mimosas next time. This is a destination brunch spot. The service was personable too. From the parking lot to the table and back, the whole experience was very nice. read more

The food was Excellent I will definitely be patronizing this establishment again. That chicken breast was fire!

Disappointing!. Blueberry waffles and shrimp grits. Yes flavorful however my grits were soupy and 5 med size shrimp with the tail still on. For 22.50 for grits the tails needed to be removed. Not to mention there was a piece of hair in the blueberry sauce. Yes.i received a new order.. very pricey!​ read more

I have dined at this restaurant twice. The first time we went on a Sunday and waited over an hour to sit. We were told when we sat down that they were out of grits. We ordered coffee but never received it because again they were out. There was also a long wait to get our food but the food was good the first time. Our server was amazing but the owner who comes out at time needs some Customer Service training. The second time we went on a Monday. The restaurant wasn't crowded. We stood at the front for 25 mins with multiple employees walking by before the hostess(I believe is the owner) came over an acknowledged us. Once seated the waitress asked if we wanted coffee but forgot to bring it. Once reminded she brought the coffee with Hazelnut creamer. She never asked if we wanted Hazelnut. My cousin has a nut allergy. It was about 20 more mins before she came back to take our order. I had the Grandma with chicken as my meat. Per the waitress there was an up charge of $6 for chicken. She advised it would be a boneless chicken breast. When the food came I had 2 pieces of chicken cut into small strips not a chicken breast. When I asked the waitress about it she replied rudely and said that's just how ours is. She did not come back to our table until it was time for the check. She walked by our table multiple times but never asked if we needed anything, how our food was, not even to refill coffee/water or bring napkins. The food on this day was absolutely TERRIBLE, TERRIBLE, TERRIBLE. The chicken had no seasoning on it and was fried so hard it was tough and dry. The potatoes had took much garlic salt, the grits were dry and clumpy($24 for a grits flight which is 3 very small cups of grits). I will NOT patronize this restaurant again. read more

I have one word to describe this restaurant ( Amazing ). I am a former Chicago native that has lived in Atlanta for now 32 years. I am also a chef known to many as chef Kamal so when I tell you that I was simply amaze by the Waffle lounge restaurant staff and the food. I ask my sister to pick a restaurant that I could celebrate my partner birthday on January 31,2026 . So little sister knows her older brother is a food snob! So she knows to scope it out and give big brother the 911 on the food before suggesting that we eat there. Well all I need to say is Chicago has a new star restaurant with the waffle lounge and I will definitely be letting all my friends know to visit this new star restaurant called the waffle lounge if visiting the chicago area. An thanks to our amazing waitress and the owner for their happy birthday tribute to my partner Daniel. read more