Southport Grocery
Ramon Gomez, The Gwen Hotel
One of my favorite spots for brunch is Southport Grocery. This grocery store-meets-brunch nook is a gem on Southport Corridor. Their cupcake pancakes and stuffed French toast are must-try sweet options, and the breakfast sandwich is a perfect combination of savory and sweet flavors.
The Lunchroom at Space 519
Laurel Gray, Ritz-Carlton Chicago
I am always recommending The Lunchroom at Space 519 – an eclectic and stylish cafe within a boutique concept. Try Chef Doug’s Gold Coast Tuna Melt or the Multigrain Blueberry Pancakes with salted farm butter. Bonus: the walk-up coffee counter serves local favorite Metric that you don’t want to miss.
Lakefront Restaurant
Judson Corrie, Waldorf-Astoria Hotel
The Lakefront Restaurant is many things to many visitors, be it event space, concert venue, dining hall, but a favorite iteration is their brunch. They are open about their love of drinks on the patio, taking in the entirety of Lake Michigan, but with Chef Cleetus Friedman in the kitchen you know the menu will be hearty and inspired.
Tuko Cantina
Luis Torres, The Trump Hotel
Tuko Cantina in Bucktown brings a unique Mexican flavor to the brunch game. The place itself looks like something out of a Tarantino movie and plenty of mezcal to go with it. Their Elote burger and Churros sundae seem to be a hit amongst locals. Their sidewalk patio will make it a must do this coming summer.
Kit Kat Lounge
Jonathan Rettemnier, Corporate Concierge Services
One of my all-time favorite places for a great summer brunch is the Kit Kat Lounge located in the Boystown neighborhood. Bottomless mimosas, bellinis, and Bloody Marys paired with some of Chicago’s top drag queen talent will no doubt lead to a memorable Sunday Funday!