Chicago is located right on the shores of Lake Michigan. Whether you're there to enjoy the array of museums, comedy clubs, theater performances, or the rowdy nightlife in Wrigleyville, there are restaurants at every turn. When it comes to breakfast, there are a variety of downtown options to suit any resident or visitor, whether they want traditional greasy spoon fare or something more upscale.
Located in Hotel Burnham, the Atwood Cafe is conveniently situated just three blocks from Millenium Park. The restaurant features a daily breakfast with options like Greek yogurt with granola and fruit, oatmeal with apples, cinnamon and raisins, or scotch-cured smoked salmon. A variety of egg dishes are also available, including eggs benedict and an egg white frittata with spinach, mushrooms, tomatoes and cheese. For weekend brunch, the choice of champagne cocktails include a bellini, a Parisian mint or a tangerine mimosa. Guests can choose from the "sweet" menu with doughnuts, waffles, pancakes and French toast, or opt for the eggs, corned beef hash quiche, and biscuits and gravy on the "savory" menu. The restaurant is on the upscale side, featuring high-back chairs in front of crisp, white tablecloths and a few delicate chandeliers hanging above.
Atwood Cafe
1 W. Washington St.
Chicago, IL 60602
(312) 368-1900
atwoodcafe.com
The Grand Lux Cafe is a popular location for shoppers since it is situated two stories above the North Michigan Avenue Shops, and across from the Water Tower Mall. This restaurant's breakfast menu may only be available on Saturdays and Sundays, but it's still a can't-miss as far as downtown breakfasts go. A variety of traditional dishes with a twist are served, including the chilaquiles, which is scrambled eggs with peppers, chiles, onions, tomatoes, black beans, avocado and tortilla chips covered in ranchero sauce and pepper-jack cheese. Also offered is the Grand Lux omelet with asparagus, tomatoes, mushrooms, artichokes and Havarti, and the special protein breakfast with scrambled egg whites, chicken, mushrooms, asparagus and tomatoes. Brioche French toast, and fried chicken and waffles are featured as well. In addition to the elegant food, the restaurant has panoramic views of Michigan Avenue and boldly colored, European-inspired decor.
Grand Lux Cafe
600 N. Michigan Ave.
Chicago, IL 60611
(312) 276-2500
grandluxcafe.com
Located one block west of the Willis Tower (formerly the Sears Tower), Lou Mitchell's Restaurant is a favorite for both locals heading to work and tourists arriving at Union Station. This restaurant, whose large neon sign hails to passing vehicles, marks the beginning of the original Route 66. Known for its traditional diner fare, guests can expect affordable dishes and all-American flavors. Though plenty of fried foods are available, the restaurant also offers healthier dishes made with organic produce. The specialty here is the jumbo omelets, with the standard Denver being offered next to an apple and cheese concoction. French toast, Belgian waffles, and pecan or banana pancakes round out the standard fare. Doughnuts, cereals, muffins, sweet rolls are available, as are tomato juice and prunes. Guests can be seated in the diner area, or they can purchase quick items at the front counter.
Lou Mitchell's Restaurant
565 W. Jackson Blvd.
Chicago, IL 60661
(312) 939-3111
loumitchellsrestaurant.com
