Great spot for summer nights with friends. Great lake views, live music, and friendly staff and manager. Food is good too!

Waterfront Cafe is truly a hidden gem. My only regret is that I didn't find out about this place sooner. It's located alongside the water with an abundance amount of outdoor seating (pup friendly!!) Because it is very much so an outdoor patio type of place, they are only open for the summer time. You first place your order inside and grab any seat outside and they bring it right out for you. I've sadly only was able to go twice since I found out about this place but both times were nothing less than perfect. Both times, we ordered the brown butter crab roll, lobster roll, and jerk chicken nachos. Now there are a lot of places that have good views and views but lack food quality and taste but this place certainly has it all. The brown buttered crab is so sweet and the crispy buttered roll.. I don't think there's anything better. I personally prefer the brown buttered crab roll over the lobster. Both rolls are super generous portioned and fresh as well. And to think I couldn't be more blown away, the jerk chicken nachos.. I never had jerk chicken before so I can't say how authentic it is BUT this chicken is the most tender and soft chicken I've ever had.. and the sauce that comes on top.. I'm honestly drooling over it typing out this review! I have nothing but good things to say about this place. Only sad thing is we gotta wait another few seasons to get our hands on this delicious food again!! read more

The Waterfront Cafe - brown butter crab roll x jerk chicken nachos - Sandwiches Near Me - Chicago, Illinois

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Can't beat the views, vibes, and ambiance of this place! Gorgeous spot on the water, transporting you to the beach. A bit hard to find parking, but worth it. Lobster roll was good, but not $28 good, a little dry. Fast service, you order at the counter and they bring it out to your table. read more

The Waterfront Cafe - Lobster Roll - Sandwiches Near Me - Chicago, Illinois

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Great place for a quick bite and a drink eight on the water in Edgewater. Summer hours only, but they stayed open an extra day this year, which was a pleasant surprise. There is nothing bad on the menu. All the seafood is delicious, and the lobster roll is fantastic. They have a limited alcohol list, but it does the trick. Live music on the weekend completed and ambience. read more

This place lived up to the hype. It's a great spot off the lake. The food was delicious. And the vibe was fun. The only down side was the very long line and we were the last to leave. They had pretty much shut everything down and all the critters started to come out, but how can you avoid in a big city ? read more

The Waterfront Cafe - Ice cream - Sandwiches Near Me - Chicago, Illinois

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I'm baaack! I just love the vibes of this place and this time came on a Friday night. The decor of the lights and tiki torches along with live music all on a beachfront is such a vibe. I ordeeed the jerk chicken nachos and shrimp roll for the second time- did not disappoint, again. This time we also ordered the buttered crab roll and I see why it has a star next to it on the menu! So good! read more

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I came here because I had a taste for a lobster roll and wanted to go someplace where the views were nice; and got just that. I will say this place is somewhat in the cut, and I can see how people would miss it if they didn't know what they weee searching for. Once I arrived was able to seat myself to a table for 2 right by the views of the lake. FYI have a QR code to order drinks to be delivered. You have to go inside to order your food though. No big deal, but it would be cool if you could do both. I ordered a lobster roll with a Diet Coke. It didn't take long for the food to arrive. It was delicious, fresh and filling. read more

The Waterfront Cafe - Diet Coke for the homie - Sandwiches Near Me - Chicago, Illinois

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Second time now at Waterfront Cafe; good restaurant with a nice amount of parking outside. Good amount of tables both inside and outside. Extensive menu and food is good. It can be pretty busy at times and service might be slower but all the servers are really kind and considerate read more

The Waterfront Cafe - Truffle Fries - Sandwiches Near Me - Chicago, Illinois

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Outdoor restaurant right on the lake. Beautiful view but all outdoor seating. You ordered your food from a window and the bring it out to you. I got the delicious lobster roll. I need to go back! So fresh and delicious. This place is seasonal so go before the season ends. read more

super solid northside gem - will miss it so much when I move!! Staff is super friendly and the seafood rolls scratch that summer itch for me. Best ones I've had in the city for sure. read more

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The fact that Waterfront has only 3.5 stars average on Yelp is beyond me... it's an easy 5 star experience every time. I bring my boyfriend, my friends, and my family here whenever I can. It's a bit pricey in terms of the menu, but for the vibes of snacking/sipping right by the lake during gorgeous seasonal weather, it's worth it. Not to mention that the food and drinks are actually GOOD. I love the jerk chicken nachos, and the crab roll is heavenly. I also really enjoy their sangria and their watermelon vodka lemonade as alcoholic drink options. Even though I live here, when I come to eat at The Waterfront, I feel like I'm on vacation. read more

What a cute spot on the lake. Wish I had found this gem sooner- makes a great spot to work from, enjoy a book, or meet friends. They have drinks and a restaurant, though I didn't try any of the food. read more

The Waterfront Cafe - Sandwiches Near Me - Chicago, Illinois

This place is wonderful the ambience. It's very relaxing because of the lake and the set up with the canopies make you feel like you are on vacation. They have a band every night. There's one band that plays on Sundays. A husband and wife duo their music is so downbeat if it wasn't for the atmosphere I would not go to their performance depressing. I love animals, but this one guy had a big German Shepherd, jumping in barking at someone else's dog really scared me. Everyone was looking around, hoping someone would come over and tell him to curb his dog or leave.. then another person had a dog digging holes in the ground, where he was able to put his whole head down in the hole. Maybe I'll bring my dog next time and let him have a good time as well.. The service is amazing. As far as the food and drinks, I was not pleased with it comparing to last year. They did not have simple fries with cheese. They couldn't even deep fry a Polish because they don't have a deep fryer.. I bought nachos once and they have pineapples on top pineapples and cheese do not go together I was like ewww lol. read more

The Waterfront Cafe was ok. The view and patio was epic, but the food was pretty basic and expensive. It wasn't bad, but it also wasn't amazing either. It could be better. It was very one dimensional. We both agreed that the flavor wasn't worth returning for. It's a one and done for us. read more

Just a beautiful place on the water, I could sit here all day. Delicious crab roll. #iraeats #iraeats1 read more

The Waterfront Cafe - Brown Butter Crab Roll - Sandwiches Near Me - Chicago, Illinois

This adorable restaurant made me feel like I was dining at a quaint seaside restaurant on the east coast. There is only outdoor seating and it's on a first come first serve basis. You order at the counter and then they bring your order to you. There was some fun jazz music playing, and they often have live performers but we didn't go on a night they did. We ordered a bottle of wine and two starters - the queso and the corn salad. They had a couple other vegetarian options too, such as a tofu salad and a beyond sausage sandwich. I did not love the food. It was fine to have as a snack but was nothing great. Maybe the non-veggie food here, such as the lobster roll or burger, would be better? I would 100% come here again because the location is amazing, and there's no better spot to watch the sunset over the lake on a warm night. Atmosphere is a 5/5! Service was fast. The food was really lacking for me. I would come back for a glass of wine but I wouldn't eat here again. read more

The Waterfront Cafe - wine - Sandwiches Near Me - Chicago, Illinois

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Fantastic place. I've been coming here for years and it has evolved and changed over the years but has always been great. Food is quality and fairly priced, staff is friendly and efficient and the location can't be beat. The live music is a big plus. read more

The views and space here are amazing! I wish they had a little bit of a bigger menu. The corn salad I had was ok

This is an amazing place just for the location on the water. The salads are good and decent beer and wine selection. Spend a lovely afternoon hanging out there. I watched the jets practicing for the air show. read more

Magical café literally right next to Lake Michigan! Good variety of fresh tasty salads, sandwiches, rolls, refreshments, cocktails to enjoy on the lovely spacious outdoor patio. Service very friendly and efficient - they bring your orders out to your table. Cool live music on certain days/times. Relaxing, well kept park right next-door. Free and or meter parking can be found in nearby side streets. Love being able to enjoy this luscious escape with my dog. read more

The Waterfront Cafe - Patio - Sandwiches Near Me - Chicago, Illinois

Bummed to say the least. I brought friends from out of town, excited to dine by the lake. We waited in line for a while and talked through the process, as it was new for most of the group and English is not their first language. A couple in line, named Kirsten and Freddy, made a comment and said, "You don't want to go get a told, that's not cool." I had no clue who this person was, so I introduced myself since she felt it appropriate to interject into my conversation. Moments later, an employee pulled Kirsten and Freddy out of the long line and allowed them to cut. Meanwhile, four of us waited in line, and finally, when we got to the desk to order, we were told we couldn't order if we didn't already have a table. Meanwhile, Kirsten and her partner cut the line and did exactly what she scolded me for. I told the employee, as he cleaned our table and laughed at me, that I was disappointed he encouraged this. I also shared that Kirsten ruined our experience and, because of her hypocritical behavior and his actions, we won't be back. read more

Adorable seasonal cafe right on the lake with the best lobster rolls! The Waterfront Cafe is a summer staple for me. You order inside, then take your drinks and order number to your outdoor table and someone brings over your food (there's no indoor seating available, so make sure to dress for the weather). The lobster rolls are fantastic. I've also tried a couple of their iced teas which I've enjoyed. They even have some canned wine and beers. The seating area is right on the lake and SO cute, especially at sunset. Highly recommend visiting this adorable neighborhood spot this summer for a gorgeous view and fantastic lobster roll! read more

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Must go, lovely staff, amazing location, live music. Truly enjoy the spot. Food is good. Not fancy, but solid. read more

I had NO idea this place existed, but someone invited me here to grab dinner on a nice warm day (Memorial Day) and it was such a beautiful spot. I will say the ordering system was a bit interesting given than only one person could be inside to order at a time, and then they'd ring the bell one it was your turn. It's not that big inside, but still found it weird. Maybe they're still taking COVID precautions? I'm not sure. Anyways, we ordered the jerk beef nachos and I got a beer and my friend got a cocktail. Needless to say, there's quite a lot of seating here and the views are absolutely stunning. They have string lights and lots of trees for shade, and it's also a great people-watching spot since there's a playground next to it as well as a little path just before the rocks at the water. They started playing some music when it got a little later so I'm assuming when it gets dark they do that? I have to say the nachos were pretty standard and nothing really stood out about them. I'd prefer to come back again to try some of the other food items. I don't feel like this is really a place I'd generally go out of my way for to eat per se, but definitely to have a drink any enjoy the views on a warm day. Will certainly be back! read more

I didn't know what to expect. No reservations. Seat yourself, any open table. Order & pay inside and take a number to your table. They'll bring the order once it's ready. I love the beachy atmosphere! You sit under a canopy of trees and cafe lights, looking out onto beautiful Lake Michigan, clouds, sun, water. Just beautiful! Btw, there is no indoor seating; the only thing that's inside is the kitchen and bathrooms. Every order was flavorful and filling. The chicken salad had big chunks of chicken, walnuts, and cranberries. It was not swimming in mayonnaise. My two favorites were the Jerk Chicken Nachos and Blackened Cajun Shrimp Roll. There was plenty to share with the nachos. Just alittle heat added for a very tasty shareable dish. The Blackened Cajun Shrimp Roll also had some heat balanced out with a sweet lemon caper aiol. The New England grilled buttered bun is also an unsung hero of this sandwich. Mmmmm....so good! We also had ordered drinks: piña coladas, margaritas, and cold beers. Bottom line: this is a great outdoor place to pass an afternoon or evening. Very casual, low stress. The views are wonderful. I love the natural surroundings. It makes you think you're at the beach. Just go. You won't have white linen and stemmed goblets, but you'll love it all the same. read more

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Beautiful view and delicious food! I'll definitely be back the next time I visit Chicago. read more

The Waterfront Cafe - Sandwiches Near Me - Chicago, Illinois

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Yummy food right on the water. Strawberry shortcake is a must. Beautiful vibe late at night during the summer.

We had a nice family lunch here, 5 adults and 2 children. Just as others have said, this is a very nice choice for scenic, lakefront, outdoor dining. There is also a convenient cul de sac just 60 yards south of the ordering window where you can drop people off who are less ambulatory (or just don't feel like walking from wherever you park). We came in two different cars, and got in line somewhat separated, but it all came together nicely. We all sat at a large picnic bench. The wait was reasonable for getting the food because we came for a late Sunday lunch, just after 2:00 p.m. The workers were polite and professional. They have a system. We shared appetizers of pesto hummus and chicken nachos. I went with the blackened cajun shrimp roll, which came with a side of chips. Although the shrimp were just your typical baby shrimp you might toss on a salad, I still enjoyed it, mainly because the bun was tasty and fresh. The other orders included roasted corn salad, bagel dogs, a lobster roll, and chicken salads. The kids were happy enough with the bagel dogs, the corn salad and lobster rolls were reported as "not bad", but the chicken salad got two rave reviews. We all enjoyed the appetizers. The guitarist played some nice background music. In summary, it was a solid four stars. It's true that the food is pricey, but we were expecting that, thanks to other reviews. I'd like to add that there is a nice playground just next door. My grandsons enjoyed it, and I enjoyed watching them on a bench, while catching a nice lake breeze. read more

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It's alright. Didn't feel like anything special and food and drinks are a bit up there in price.

Sweet little spot right next to Lake Michigan. Dog friendly. I had the lobster sandwich and my friend had the crab as well as a ham and cheese. Everything is great with lovely atmosphere. read more

We went to this place several times over the last summer. It was great every time. Food is delicious and high quality, drinks are delicious and served quickly. Price is a bit high but due to the location, which adds to the charm, it's understandable. We will be back this summer. read more

The Waterfront Cafe - Jamaican Jerk Chicken Nachos and a Lobster Roll - Sandwiches Near Me - Chicago, Illinois

Amazing views with kind and attentive employees. I ordered the sangria and the Vegan Italian sausage Sammy (I'm not Vegan or Vegetarian). The sangria was very tasty. Now the Sausage Sammy blew my mind how delicious it was. I actually like the sausage better than the meat version. I finished my meal with some French Macarons which were just as delicious as the ones I had in Paris a few months ago. read more

The Waterfront Cafe - Jazz night - Sandwiches Near Me - Chicago, Illinois

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An incredible summer spot. Perfect food with a perfect view of the water, and great house made drink options. Everyone is super friendly too! read more

The Waterfront Cafe - Strawberry Pound Cake - Sandwiches Near Me - Chicago, Illinois

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I love the spot! it's postcard picture perfect. Great service in the owner runs this place with a very high standard. Easily one of the best waterfront locations in the city. A hidden gem read more

My partner and I come here all the time, sometimes with our dog. We started coming last year when we discovered this magical little place on a gorgeous summer evening. Nothing like it exists, at least not on the north side of Chicago, with prime real estate right along the edge of Lake Michigan. We recommend the jerk chicken nachos and the sangria, but you really can't go wrong with anything on their small, but mighty menu. The live music, when you can catch it, livens up a well-decorated patio full of lights strung from here or there, planters, torches, and the breeze gliding in from the lake. read more

Beautiful place to be in Chicago in the Summer. Buy a canned beverage and a sandwich inside then sit next to Lake Michigan and enjoy.

My daughter and I went for drinks a appetizers and were pleasantly surprised on how good the food tasted! Jerk chicken nachos and pesto hummus were excellent! We washed it down with hibiscus margarita's. The staff was friendly and efficient! Nice shaded courtyard right on the lakefront. No parking so take a car service or public transportation. read more

The Waterfront Cafe - Jerk chicken nachos, pesto hummus, hibiscus margarita - Sandwiches Near Me - Chicago, Illinois

Not a fancy place, not a huge menu, not easy to find, may have to walk a few blocks....... But, the beer and wine were cold, the food was good, music was perfect for a 45 minute break while driving north, sounds of the water and a friendly staff. Can't say I was astounded, but can definitely say it was a really nice stop. We enjoyed ourselves :) I will probably avoid sitting next to the only plant with flowers on it next time. Bees were our constant companions. read more

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Apparently I am the last resident of Chicago's north side who did not know about The Waterfront Cafe. That's probably because it's not visible from Sheridan Road. Berger Park is on the corner, and you get to Waterfront Cafe by walking through the park towards the lakefront, so it's well-hidden. At least, that's my excuse, and I'm sticking with it. Parking in the area can be tough. As we started cruising the side streets, my friend, who was driving, implored the goddess of parking to work in our favor. We did find a spot, luckily. My friend told me, though, that there were times she wanted to visit Waterfront Cafe, and didn't, because she just couldn't find a parking place. The setting is incredible. All the tables and picnic benches are directly on the lakeshore. My friend and I took a table alongside the lakefront path. In winter, the high waves would drown anyone sitting in that location. In summer, the only season Waterfront Cafe is open, you get gentle lake breezes, abundant sunlight (unless you're at a table that has an umbrella), and a completely soothing atmosphere. You order your meal standing at a counter, and a server brings it and your beverage out to you. I was afraid that we wouldn't get a table, but even with a long line of patrons waiting to order, there were plenty of tables available. The restaurant does offer beer, wine, sangria, and some mixed drinks. I took advantage of being a passenger that day, instead of the driver, and I had a nice, fairly weak-ass vodka lemonade served in a plastic disposable glass while my friend had ice tea. The menu is small, but broad enough to offer at least one selection to persons with dietary restrictions. My friend and I both had the Impossible (a.k.a. vegan) brat, which came with potato chips and a chocolate chop cookie. We were both happy with our meals and ate everything. Sorry, but because of that, I can't give you a wider review of the food. You'll have to find out for yourself. We enjoyed sitting in the beautiful setting and took our time enjoying our meals and drinks. No one rushed us to leave. We arrived around 12:45, and when we left shortly after 2:00pm, there was no line, and plenty of tables available. Mind you, this was on a weekday. I imagine that the weekends are crazy busy. I did enjoy visiting Waterfront Cafe and would certainly be willing to go again. read more

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Although the worker was a bit harsh when talking to us, the food came out very quickly. We loved the nachos. The location is really nice to sit and talk. Close to University of Loyola! read more

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