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35th Street Cafe - CLOSED
Categories: Restaurants American (Traditional) Restaurants Breakfast & Brunch Restaurants Sandwiches American (Traditional), Breakfast & Brunch, Sandwiches [Edit]
1735 W 35th St(between Hermitage Ave & Wood St)
Chicago, IL 60609
Neighborhood: McKinley Park
(773) 523-3500
- Good for Kids:
- Yes
- Accepts Credit Cards:
- Yes
- Parking:
- Street
- Attire:
- Casual
- Good for Groups:
- Yes
- Price Range:
-
$
- Takes Reservations:
- No
- Delivery:
- No
- Take-out:
- Yes
- Waiter Service:
- Yes
- Outdoor Seating:
- Yes
- Wi-Fi:
- Paid
- Good For:
- Lunch, Breakfast, Brunch
- Alcohol:
- No
- Noise Level:
- Average
- Ambience:
- Casual
- Has TV:
- Yes
- Caters:
- Yes
- Wheelchair Accessible:
- Yes
About This Business:
Farm fresh, mostly organic delicious American brunch, both classic and new... with menu options for everyone: carnivores, vegetarians, vegans, gluten… read more »
60 reviews for 35th Street Cafe
Review Highlights
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"And the french toast was great." In 12 reviews -
"The staff is very friendly and accommodating." In 5 reviews -
"Did I mention the fresh homemade potato chips." In 3 reviews
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60 reviews in English
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Review from Cheryl W.
Oak Park, IL
1/10/2012
I miss you, 35th Street Cafe! Please come back! :'(
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Review from Maram K.
Chicago, IL
10/17/2011
This place annoys the crap out of me!
I was excited to learn that Bridgeport/McKinley had a spot like this in addition to Nana to offer some variety.
I've come here twice, once when introduced and the second because it was close to all my buddies in McKinley. The first time, we walked in at about 8:30am on a Saturday morning and the place was near empty, except for staff. They had A LOT of staff just standing around. We had like 4 different servers. Normally, it might improve the service but this time, it was the opposite. Our drink order was taken 3 different times (we just had coffee and juice) and our food order twice. We thought it was just some mis-communication, but the severity of it presented itself when our food was brought out TWICE and we still had to ask for drinks. I had a benedict that was decent but I honestly can't think about it over the service.
The second time, we were one of the first tables in, but it was Bears Game Sunday. We got our order in before the place started to fill up. And still, we were sitting around for 45 minutes without food and had to ask for coffee refills twice (they never brought them the first time). Our food came out piece-wise but we had to be rude to each other and eat upon service. We were running late to our next plan for the day and our food was getting cold waiting for our other guests dishes.
Service is what destroys this place. The food is actually pretty good but completely overshadowed but incompetence. -
Review from Diana G.
My friend and I decided to try this place out and we ended up passing it up and having to come back around.
Chips and salsa - Chips were nice and crispy, but looked greasy. The salsa tasted like marinara with a hint of spice to me. Think we thought it was good that it was a bit warm too.
Iced Mocha - I've had better.
Chicken Florentine Panini - I felt it had way too much cheese. Not enough chicken or spinach. I opted for the homemade fries and they were not bad.
Philly Steak Panini - My friend got this and thought it was dry tasting. She got the fries and she thinks they were homemade and ate them all.
OVerall, service was good, but I think there are better cafes out there and probably will not return. -
Review from Charlotte O.
Chicago, IL
5/20/2011
Nice find in the middle of n where in Mc Kinley park. When you walk in you are greeted right away and moved to a seat. I found the decor really really odd. The front of house is really nice and done up but the back is bare. Ah well.
I met Aaron S. here for lunch because he works close by. I was hoping to try some of the more brunchy type items but decided to go with a Ruben sandwich instead, because I had not had one in a while, and I also wanted to try the house made chips.
We didn't have a long wait for our food at all. Aaron ordered fries by accident and when he let the waitress know she put in an order of chips for us. That didn't take long to arrive either. I was pleased by my sandwich, the corned beef was good quality and piled on fairly high in thick slices. It wasn't too fatty not grilzzley at all. They also put on the right amount of sour kraurt and dressing so as not to over power the meat.
The real start were those chips. Crisp seasoned with an almost BBQ tasting flavor. Really really good.
All i all I was a happy camper. I'd would venture back to try their breakfast and their coffee items.Listed in: Bridgeport yo!
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Review from Aaron S.
4/14/2011
Our office recently moved to the area, which thankfully means a 3-minute bus ride to work instead of a 25-minute ordeal getting into the Loop each day, but it's left us bereft of our usual litany of choices for luncheon outings.
Thankfully, somebody reminded me of the 35th St. Cafe that happens to be closeby. I recall hearing good things, and one adventurous day, a group of co-workers and I headed out to see if the rumors were true.
We were greeted quickly and shown to a table. It seems that the place is a relative hotspot judging by the number of lunch-crowd patrons already there.
You all probably know this as one of my regular mantras, but when I try out a new place, I REALLY try it out. I went with the Stuffed French Toast, a side order of bacon, a side order of potato chips (because they are made in-house and supposedly delicious) and what the heck - I'll try a cup of today's French Onion soup.
One co-worker went with some kind of wrap with chips and also tried the French Onion soup. The other was intrigued by the "blackened chicken sandwich" and after hearing me confirm that the chips are handmade, he switched his fries to chips.
The consensus on the sandwich/wrap/soup from the others was relatively positive. I think only the sandwich really got a ringing endorsement, especially for the tasty-looking bun that it was served on.
My stuffed French Toast was exquisite-looking. Lots of berries, some powdered sugar, every slice was thick and filled in the middle with a tasty strawberry cream cheese (though it was so homogenous in color/flavor I suspect Philadelphia, which isn't necessarily a bad thing). I hesitated complaining that I was not provided with any syrup, but after a few bites, I realized I would not be needing it. I also didn't know if it would have been a faux pas to request syrup with this particularly-stylized version of traditional French Toast. Either way, it tasted quite good.
The bacon was standard, maybe a little better than standard. Nice and crispy but in no way burnt or overly-greasy. I usually enjoy some syrup with my bacon, but the sweet sticky fruity goodness on my French Toast was a good pairing and a decent substitute for syrup so I was satisfied overall.
The French Onion soup? I give them credit that it looked and was served in a very traditional style. Like in an "I've seen French Onion soup and it always gets served like that so that's how I'll serve it" kind of way. The cheese was okay, the bread underneath was "meh" and the soup had a good flavor, but I felt like it could have used a little more. Like caramelizing the onions longer would have yielded a MUCH more flavorful soup and better-tasting onions at the bottom of my cup. Or maybe I watch too much Food Network!
And then there were the chips. Here is an actual quote from our lunch:
"I don't know what the heck they've done to these potatoes - but I want THAT done to MY body when I die. Maybe in death, I could be so delicious."
Yes, the chips are good. My only complaint (and it's hard to complain about chips so good) is that there doesn't seem to be a good uniformity in the thickness, resulting in many chips in the butter zone of crunchy salty tasty gloriousness but also a decent-sized amount of chips that are too thick or too thin and falling victim to underdoneness and burntness. For those of you with statistical inclinations, the bell curve is rather wide from a standard deviation standpoint of thickness and corresponding Golden-Brown-and-Deliciousness.
All in all, I'm giving this establishment a 4-star rating. I'll likely be back numerous times now that we've had a taste of those chips and I'm sure it won't take much convincing to grab a group to head over for lunch now and then. Apparently they have cooking classes on Monday nights. I may actually inquire about pricing and the schedule. My girlfriend has already threatened me enough times that she's nominating me to be a contestant on Food Network's "Worst Chefs in America". Maybe the results of a few cooking classes will make her change her tune!
(I hope they teach us how to make those potato chips at home!)Listed in: #35 Bus Friendly, #9 Bus Friendly
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Review from Joanna T.
Chicago, IL
10/23/2011
Not exactly a review, but I tried to go here today and it was boarded up and closed.
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Review from Denise P.
Chicago, IL
Updated - 11/30/2009 1 photo
This place needs 6 stars out of 5 now, turn it up to 11.
They finally realized that people eat breakfast past 1030, especially on weekends....and now breakfast is served til 2pm.
**Angels sing**
So on Saturday mornings, when it is decent out, I walk there (about a mile and a half) and get my french toast with sausage and a coffee. Very good, very reasonable, and one of those places where you don't feel weird for sitting solo.
Next time I come, I want to get brunch. It's $12, goes til 2pm, and they have pancakes/french toast/ bacon/eggs/sausage, all that, I think they may have an omelette station, and last weekend they make crepes. They said they do something different every week, which is cool. Won't get bored. I need to take the boyfriend here because, I'll be honest, he acts like he's not but he's a little stuck up and thinks everything in my 'hood is a dive. That may be sorta accurate...but so what? Now he can go to this "diamond in the rough" and feel right at home :)
Another cool thing - they are closed on Monday nights because they have cooking classes now. Good idea for a hot date.
Last thing - they were making thansgiving meals to go there. You placed an order in advance and they made turkeys/hams/ all the sides and desserts. They were big though (for 6-8 people at least). I suspect they will do a similar thing for Christmas, so I will probably get it and just have leftovers forever bc my fam goes out to eat on Christmas and I don't want to :)Listed in: My favorite places to eat…, Welcome to Fabulous McKinley…
1 Previous Review: Show all »
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1/30/2009
I AM SO EXCITED THAT THERE'S A NEW CAFE IN MY NEIGHBORHOOD!!!!!!!!!!!!
If you're from Logan Square,… Read more »
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Review from Craig R.
7/1/2011
Went here with my nieces and wife on a thursday. We arrived around 10:45 and ordered a mix of breakfast and lunch items. The potato chips are delicious. Overall the food was very well done. You can tell they hand make a lot of items. They have several unique items and a selection of specials that are not what you would think to find in a low key place as this. Our server was excellent and spot on. The place began to fill up with a lunch crowd and if it is any indication the customers seemed to be regulars whom the staff knew. To me that is a great sign - whenever people choose to repeatedly visit a place you know it is good. I will return to this place.
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Review from Jen N.
Chicago, IL
2/9/2009
Anyone who lives in (or has visited) Bridgeport or McKinley Park fully understands the absolute NEED for a place like the 35th Street Cafe. One can only eat so many beef sandwiches and tacos before they simply want to cry.
My boyfriend and I stopped in about noon on a Saturday. I was pleased to see they were pretty busy - a good sign for a new business. The patrons were eclectic, everything thing from business men to the painfully hipster. The space was decorated nicely and it appeared a community group was using the backroom for a meeting - how nice is that?
The staff was so friendly and outgoing. They were really working to make an impression - smart people. Such a nice change of pace from getting food in Bridgeport where the Italian's seem to pride themselves on being as mean as possible. (I will never set foot in Jimmy Johns again, and I may get in a fist fight with the nasty girl at Freddys...) One downside to their staff was that they were pretty unorganized. In time they will get it together. I understand they are new and working out the kinks.
The food was really tasty and affordable. My boyfriend had a panini with a side of fruit - no upcharge for replacing chips which was awesome - and I had soup and a salad. It was all really good... but not as good at the lemon berry mascarpone cake. You see, we had no intentions of eating dessert, but when my boyfriend went up to order he was staring so intently at this piece of cake - and probably drooling on the counter - the staff gave it to him on the house... That was a smart move as I will be buying a whole cake for work next week. It was like magic in my mouth - so freaking good.
Overall, it's such a great addition to the neighborhood. May not be worth the drive down, but if you live in the area you should be here at least once a week. The one downside, which was mentioned in another review, is that on the weekend's breakfast stops too early... It would be awesome if it went until noon or 1pm.Listed in: My Neighborhood: From Best to…
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Review from James V.
Chicago, IL
1/21/2009
Well, just came back from the new "35th Street Cafe" on the corner of 35th & Hermitage and already I'm impressed. Lovely hardwood floors and refinished tin ceilings makes this place very cozy and appealing. Nestled in the McKinley Park neighborhood, which is just starved for more eateries, 35th Street Cafe offers a decently wide menu from Sat/Sun-brunch, Hot Sandwiches, and Paninis, to Wraps, Soups, and Desserts (which are made onsite, no boxed items here).
But how's the food? Well, so far, I've only entertained myself with a homemade lemon tart while my fiancee had the bread pudding. Both were delicious.
If the rest of their food is as good as their desserts, then this place is gonna rock. Its a new year Southwest-siders, give this place a shot! -
Review from D D.
IL
2/19/2009
The 35th Street Cafe opened recently on the southwest corner of 35th & Hermitage and it's a welcome addition to an area overstocked with beef/hotdog spots, taco joints & various fast food chains. The menu varies from breakfast staples like eggs, bacon, pancakes, omelettes, etc. to lunch items like cold sandwiches, paninis & wraps. The have daily soup specials, homemade desserts, cappuccino & espresso. AND, they make fresh homemade potato chips to go with sandwiches! Pricing is very fair - $4.50 to $6 for breakfast ... $3.25 to $7 for sandwiches.
I haven't stopped in for breakfast yet, but so far the grilled panini's, soup, and cold sandwiches have been great. Everything has been fresh, simple & tasty. The space is comfortable, contemporary & not pretentious. I'm figuring the owners are the ones working the counter & kitchen and even though they seem new to the business they're doing a fine job! They've made each of my visits a pleasant and delicious one.
Did I mention the fresh homemade potato chips? Freakin' awesome! -
Review from Terri M.
Chicago, IL
4/16/2009
Like a lot of my fellow Mckinley Parkers, I'm thrilled to have a new cafe in the neighborhood, especially one that serves good food and has friendly staff. I came here for breakfast the other day with a friend I'd just picked up from the airport. I had considered Huck Finn's, but then what was I thinking?! I had been meaning to try this place, and I'm really glad I did.
I had a delicious mushroom, spinach and cheese omelet (from the "pick your own three fillings option) and my friend had the huevos rancheros. I was happy with what I got--a decent-sized but not too humongous (I have a problem with the oversized omelets some places try to force on you) omlette that was not overcooked on the outside (another problem I have with omelets). The eggs came with potatos (home fries) and toast. But the entire time, I was eyeing my friend's choice: those huevos rancheros looked amazing! The scrambled eggs were topped with what looked to be homemade salsa (not that overly-red crap that looks like canned crushed tomatoes) and tiny strips of fried tortillas, not to mention the adorable cup of black beans on the side. This dish one could have with either flour tortillas or toast if on would prefer, no questions asked.
The staff was pleasant and helpful and the prices reasonable--their breakfasts are mostly $5.99, which is very reasonable. They have a nice selection of teas as well as coffee.
I'm thrilled with this new addition to the neighborhood--walking distance from my house. I hope they last--please support them, people! -
Review from Christine H.
Chicago, IL
7/7/2009
3 stars for the sandwich. That's it.
I hope the advent of this cafe inspires others to open up around here, because there are, um, none. Sadly, this place is average for a cafe. Painfully average.
I don't like coffee, so when I go to cafes, I get tea or some espresso soy-latte drink. The tea was good, but it was Stash, which you can get at Jewel (and they probably did too) for about $4 a box. When I go to a cafe, I prefer to drink something I can't easily find at the grocery store. Their other non-coffee cold drink selection was pop, Tropicana drinks, and bottled water. Again, stuff I could find at a convenience store.
The decor was not unique either. Clean, modern, but not unique. Simple, but in a boring way.
But their California wrap and chips were awesome. I ordered the wrap with no mayo and it still had flavor. It included grilled veggies, avocado, lettuce (red leaf, I think) and peppers. Isn't it amazing how something as simple as avocado makes a sandwich taste fancy? The chips were potato slices they also grilled on the steam grill (I hope they weren't just popped out a bag and grilled, but they were tasty nonetheles).
Still, a cafe should first and foremost have top-notch drinks. They weren't bad, but they weren't "drive-here-from-another-part-of-town" great. -
Review from Emily D.
Chicago, IL
2/2/2009
I wish I could give 35th Street 3.5 stars, but I can't. . . so, I'm rounding up to support local business and encourage folks to go. After all, we walked away full and happy and only grumbling about the kinks (and there were many) they have yet to work out.
Two girlfriends and I went for "brunch". It was more like lunch, but not noon yet and we wanted breakfast. We loved the look upon arrival and the clientele was South Siders and that's a-ok in our book. Upon learning one of my companions has peeps in McKinley Park, I had even more affection for the neighborhood.
The woman at the register was visibly discombobulated and it took almost three minutes to place our order when there were only a handful of other folks in the store. It's one of those order at the counter, then sit down. I guess this is to avoid needing more staff? Either way, I'm not sure they were quite sold on the process either. It was more than a little disjointed.
So we were told, "We only serve breakfast until 11, sorry." Ew. Then the "chef" stepped in and said "It's no problem." Better. And we were so happy from there on out, minus the needing to take our coffee mugs away to put more coffee in them, having to ask for water and reminding our "waitress" a few times that we weren't quite ready to be shuffled out.
The food was great, I'll give you that. And so inexpensive. I had stuffed french toast that was TDF (to die for) and my gal pals were equally pleased.
It just opened, so really all is forgiven, and we'll be back. . . but hoping the bumps in the road are few and far between by then! -
Review from Cara N.
Chicago, IL
9/11/2009
Generally, I like the food and the interior. The hubby and I used to go more often, but every time there's a lag and we don't stop in for a while, the woman behind the counter guilts us for not being frequent visitors. It started getting uncomfortable after a while when she would ask us why we don't come in more and we just stopped going in. I think she means well, but there's a fine line between being personal and being overbearing. The final straw was when I went in for coffee this week and she literally applauded and cheered. When I go out to eat, it's nice to exchange a few pleasantries with the staff and enjoy my meal without a multiplicity of questions and hefty slice of Catholic guilt.
Don't get me wrong. I think this cafe has a lot of potential, but has a few kinks to work out (beyond the overly ethusiastic co-owner). Firstly, the ordering process is odd. You aren't sure if it's a restaurant or a coffee shop. I think they may have the best of both worlds, but if you are dining in, I don't think you should have to order at the register (especially if you are tipping). Secondly, I think the back room (banquet room) should accommodate those who want to drink coffee, study, or read (of course, a drink/food minimum could be enforced). Couches and/or comfy chairs would be an excellent touch and would fit with the whole 'cafe' theme.
Overall, the food is good and pretty reasonably priced. The chef is pretty damn good and I like the other owner/investor too. The cafe is BYOB and recently added outdoor patio furniture so you can sit outside. I hope to see a little more development and increased business so we aren't singled out if we dare to return to the cafe. -
Review from Kathleen G.
Chicago, IL
8/28/2010
I got lunch to go at this cafe today, and it was really excellent. The wait staff was very friendly and pointed me towards the specials. The atmosphere is clean and cheerful. My food was ready quickly, and was packaged neatly.
Sadly, I think they close at 3pm most days of the week, but they're great for breakfast and lunch. :) -
Review from Michelle L.
Chicago, IL
10/20/2010
I'll admit it - I think I ordered wrong... The grilled chicken panini was not good at all, chicken strips instead of a flattened grilled breast left me thinking that it was not fresh, and it didn't taste that great either.
In the past I've had the Portland (I think) omelet and it was great... I'll get something else next time and hope that it's better, as this place seems to have potential and is convenient to my work. It's also cute inside, and a refreshing change of place for the Bridgeport area. -
Review from Brandon V.
Chicago, IL
12/20/2009
When i moved to the neighborhood i was a meat eater and absolutely loved the southside grease that is to be had. Right before i stopped eating meat i came here right after they opened. I was relived to have some homestyle food nearby as a healthier change.Panini looked to be my choice for the day so i went with the philly cheese steak panini.Damn good! the meat was nice and tender and the melted cheese topped it off perfectly. i recommend it to all first timers i bring.
So now about a year later im now a regular on the weekends (because of my work week has opposing hours). I usually stroll in mid afternoon after a very long night and order the griled veggie panini with a side of chipotle mayo and ceaser salad. revive myself with a vitamin water,a great sandwich, and usually the odd newspaper laying around. If i make it in on time for breakfast i always get the arizona omelette which is a great meatless southwest style dish which i also praise.
My favorite of this past summer was being able to sit on the sidewalk patio with a nice four pack of good beer and enjoy the sun.
I will be a customer of this excellent neighborhood cafe for as long as i live in the area and most likely still after that. Go enjoy soon. -
Review from Lisa L.
Chicago, IL
2/17/2009
Tried this place a couple weeks ago on the recommendation of another yelper. First off, don't let my three star fool you, this place is worth the visit. My only issue is that it's a young place that has kinks to work out, but I know it'll definitely get there.
When I was there they were out of many of the items on their menu, so they had to cobble together dishes that were similar to the descriptions on the menu. Mind you, these were all tasty, but for anyone who is going to go in and be picky and not understanding about the newness of the place, I can see that as being an issue.
I highly recommend the cream of poblano soup - it was excellent. I had a grilled veggie wrap that needed to be a bit more generous, but was delicious nonetheless - I can see it as being a menu item that needs a bit more work, but it will definitely get there.
I plan on hitting this place up in a month's time or so to see how it's coming along - I'm sure I'll be able to bump this rating to a 4 by then. At any rate, this is a great addition the the MK Park/Bridgeport area; it's nice to see new businesses opening up in the neighborhood at a time when so many are shuttering. -
Review from Rachael T.
Chicago, IL
5/16/2011
I would give this place 0 stars if I could.
FIRST, my Southside friends live in the neighborhood and come here all the time and insist it was a complete off day because the owner was not in, they claim this place is so much better than it was yesterday and that they too were highly disappointed with the service and food quality. I really wanted to check it out since I used to live blocks from here, and was super duper excited to do so. That being said, I will now share 5 reasons or more why this place deserves 0 stars.
First they completely over look us for about 15 minutes while we stand in the door way. We order our food, they forget my fruit cup. I look at my bacon and it is the most disgusting inedible thing I have ever seen in my life!!!!! Potatoes were mush, or extra extra hard. So the eggs were pretty much the only thing I ate, and the fruit when it finally came. Although the fruit was pretty soggy. As SOON as I saw the bacon I asked for new bacon, it looked like a pile of dog crap. New bacon comes, SAME THING. So I wanted to get sausage instead of bacon, which I did, I didn't even ask for a substitute, just a side of sausage and a glass of water please. THEY NEVER CAME BACK AFTER THAT, NOT ONE TIME. And I had waved my hand, stared at them, said HELLO a bunch of times, now you may ask like my friend did "just go up there and say something", if I wanted to get up out of my seat I would have stayed home and made myself breakfast, it's THEIR job as a waitress to to WAIT on me, duh. WHERE IS MY SAUSAGE!!!! AND WATER!!!! So one of the girls that had been waiting on us tried to come over there and drop the check and RUN OFF! I caught her before she could do so and made sure she remembered to take that bacon and sausage off our check.
My friends also had issues with their food. I think it was a chicken special omelet of some kind, and it was disgusting. Chicken tasted like chickeny grossness that had been sitting in a fridge unmarinated for weeks. The bottom of her red velvet chocolate chip pancakes were BURNT really bad!
Next time I go visit McKinley Park I will just be going to Archview. This place was such a disappointment to the MAXXXXXX.
For great specialty breakfast food come out to the Northside where the waitresses are HOT, food is FRESH, and you won't have the stink of URINE in your nose, fyi their bathroom reeks of it. -
Review from Jelly C.
Chicago, IL
Updated - 4/30/2009
It's crazy how inconsistent the food can be. I came here again today to get some quick breakfast and I ordered the exactsame thing, french toast with bacon. The french toast wasn't thoroughly cooked, meaning the mixture they dipped the bread in was still really really soggy. If you make french toast often, you know what I mean. And last time, I had so many pieces of bacon with my order... Today, I only have 2 strips. Bummer. I was so excited about this place too. I have to mention though, the chef that cooked my food last time isn't here....
I'm sort of sad they didn't offer to redo the french toast. I barely touched it. =( booo..1 Previous Review: Show all »
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4/26/2009
Delightful surprise. Just when I thought it was just another cafe serving your average caffeinated… Read more »
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Review from Maria R.
Chicago, IL
6/6/2009
What can I say? Disappointed!
I was so looking forward to trying this new little cafe. I love supporting the mom and pop businesses. I was dying to try this place and hoping to love it. I dragged my husband and little one to this little corner cafe for breakfast. I ordered the huevos rancheros. Not at all what I was hoping. The sauce was cold. I am Mexican so I expected better. The sauce was slightly sweet and cold. This told me it came from a can. Mexican huevos rancheros are never, ever sweet!! The coffee was good, but the food was not what I was hoping. The only good dish we had was the child dish, macaroni, marinara with meatball dish. My daughter enjoyed it. I hope to give this place another try, but probably won't be back to try. -
Review from A. D.
Chicago, IL
Updated - 5/11/2010
So I've been to 35th Street Cafe a whole bunch of other times since my initial review. Everyone is super friendly and the food is very good. The procedure for ordering is still not very clear. Sometimes there are wait-staff taking orders at the tables and sometimes there isn't. The "Order Here" sign is still posted above the counter...so you see the confusion...in particular for new costumers. All the logistics of silverware, napkins and condiments have been pretty much ironed out. The only thing that still needs more attention are the homemade potato chips. Yes, they're yummy but portions and are inconsistent and so is the cooking quality (burnt, soggy or perfection).
PS. I've only been there for breakfast & lunch but I definitely want to try the dinner menu.1 Previous Review: Show all »
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6/19/2009
GREAT FOOD....... SERVICE NEEDS IMPROVEMENT:
*Yummy French toast!
*Tasty southwestern wrap!
… Read more »
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Review from Marissa P.
Chicago, IL
2/7/2010
My boyfriend and I have been making plans to visit this place for a long time, and i'm glad we finally made it in today! A nice sunday afternoon brunch after working all week long is just what the doctor ordered...
We popped in and had the french toast with ham (he got pecans on top, I got strawberries). The hostesses were very warm and friendly as we sat down. We just kicked back and sipped our Filbert root beers and felt right at home. When the food came it was nice and warm and...oh man. Overall a good experience. Totally welcome addition to the neighborhood. Here is hoping to see more of these kind of places pop up! -
Review from Adam K.
7/6/2009
Healthy, great selection, great taste. Recommended.
They got whole wheat pancakes, whole wheat everything if you ask. They raised their prices and their portions got smaller so im knockin 2 stars off my review -
Review from Ernesto D.
Chicago, IL
3/16/2011 2 Check-ins Here
I've been here a number of times for brunch. Each time I've been here the food has been great. The staff is very friendly and accommodating. They make the potato chips fresh!
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Review from Jill S.
Chicago, IL
7/28/2009
Simple menu. Good food. good portions. nice atmosphere. Staff is very friendly. I'll keep going back to make sure it stays in business.
I'm a fan of the Monday special- Meatloaf & Mashed potatoes.'
Has a banquet room in back for small parties. -
Review from Griffin C.
Chicago, IL
10/26/2009
Went there for a sunday brunch w/ my girlfriend. We opt'ed for the buffet. Food & drinks were solid, but not spectacular. Service was above average and VERY friendly. Overall, we loved the place. It was a nice small neighborhood place.....
...until we went to pay. When we got the bill we were very surprised. It was a very expensive meal for what you got. Not that the meal was bad or anything, just didn't have enough options and food to warrant $13 / pp. We will probably be back, but not for the buffet. -
Review from Gerardo M.
Bridgeview, IL
5/13/2011
The food is great, the deserts are amazing, and the level of service is just as good as the food. Great location and great food, you cant beat that.
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Review from Desiree Anne A.
Ewa Beach, HI
It was snowing quiet a bit outside and we were the only ones eating in on a Sunday morning. I thought the interior was cute and simple. They have an extensive menu with special posted on a little white erase board. It felt really nice to be the only ones there. My bf and I shared the asparagus omelet and the french toast with pecans and strawberries. It was delicious! Though they were lacking on the asparagus, it contain a very nice amount of mushroom, garlic, and butter, yum! And the french toast was great. I don't like my french toast too sweet so next time I would go light on the powdered sugar. All in all good experience and would love to try the lunch and dinner menu. We had a wiggly table in the center, but didn't care to move after settling in, but it kinda makes all the difference. Just saying :)
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Review from Roo W.
Chicago, IL
2/16/2009
Absolutely LOVE this place! Living in the neighborhood, I eagerly anticipated its opening and have been in a number of times. The food is wonderful, everyone is so friendly, and the price is definitely right. I'm a huge fan of the very cheap breakfast specials before 9am!
All-round great place that I would recommend to everyone in McKinley Park & Bridgeport! -
Review from Karin M.
Chicago, IL
5/17/2011
My family has been frequenting the 35th Street Cafe since it opened. We love the food...we love the atmosphere (it is appropriate for the neighborhood)...but most of all...we love the staff!
We have two children who we started taking to the Cafe early on so they could "learn" how to behave in a restaurant. The entire staff is so kid friendly that we find it difficult to go anywhere else...as we are most comfortable (all of us) eating at the 35th Street Cafe.
I am a creature of habit...so I always get the BLTA wrap...with chips or fries...both sides are delicious! Most folks love to get the chips...a novelty. My children...they always get pancakes, french toast, or some of the Chef's delicious pasta---plain, of course...just oil and pasta, or butter and past. Everyone is happy.
My husband and I plan all of our weekday professional and personal meetings there. We know that the price is right, the service is consistently friendly, and the owners actually care enough to remember you---get to know you. The atmosphere is generally pretty calm...not too loud...and especially not overtaken by LOUD music to make the place "seem super hip"! It is a lovely environment to gather over a meal for business or pleasure.
The only sad part is that the Chef makes GREAT dinner specials...and they recently switched back to a 7am to 3pm schedule. We will be waiting for the return of the schedule that includes dinner.
Great neighborhood place with community centered, community committed, owners.
Check the place out...you won't be disappointed! Make sure to bring the kids along too.
PS...my husband just mentioned his favorite dish is the buffalo chicken wrap! -
Review from Johnny T.
1/16/2010
I came here to meet a friend I hadn't seen in a couple of years. After this meal, it might be another two before I see her again. Terrible. I was extremely disappointed in almost everything about this place. We decided to meet for brunch and knowing that the buffet shut down a bit early, I thought it made sense to arrive around 10. That was about the only thing that made sense.
I liked the layout and neighborhoodly feel of the restaurant. I really liked the cheery openness of the front room. I did not like the 'where the cast of Flatliners filmed most of their scenes' back room -- complete with drafty freeziness and plastic table top -- where we sat. Yes, we sat in the back. In the front room is color, warmth, furniture, and design. In the back is the bathroom, gray walls, plastic on the table tops, and cold. The menu options looked enticing. Kudos to the copywriter. Before settling on an omelet, I looked at the buffet. Danger Will Robinson! DO NOT pay $13/$12 for the buffet. It was rather pitiful and all-you-can-eat or not, it did not look worth the money. When I was there, I saw eggs (scrambled), sausage links, pancakes, danishes, and fruit (best looking thing up there with berries and lots of color). There may have been one or two other options, but I saw nothing that made me want to order the buffet. Instead, I ordered the omelet with toast and fruit and a glass of orange juice.
My orange juice came with ice. Oh, hay-ell naw! What? Why are you putting big azz ice cubes in my OJ? As my cousin, 'Twan*, says, I was 'too through.' Then, my omelet came. It looked pitiful. I mean, the omelet itself looked fine, but the plate it was on was huge. The omelet was not. And, there was nothing else on the plate. So, imagine a large plate with a small omelet on the side (not even in the middle). The toast came in a separate basket, as did the fruit. When I ordered the fruit, I thought I would get the spoils of the buffet. Nope. I just got the spoil. The bowl looked old. My fruit included no berries. It had no color. It was pineapple and cantaloupe. And, some piece of meat. I think it was sausage (there by accident but nonetheless unappetizing).
I took two buses and a train for this???
*I do not have a cousin named 'Twan. Luckily, no one in my family would do this to a child.Listed in: Breakfast in Chicago (and…
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Review from kiley w.
IL
10/26/2010 1 Check-in Here
I finally had a chance to check it out. Service is great here. I had the stuff french toast. I liked it. Just found out they serve dinner now also. So I will be back to try different breakfast items as well as try the dinner also.
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Review from Elaina J.
Joplin, MO
4/5/2011
This is not the right address
Comment from E G. of 35th Street Cafe 4/11/2011
Hi Elaina I am happy to forward you detailed directions to… More » -
Review from moonshine w.
Chicago, IL
4/2/2011
I really want this place to survive, but the food has been slipping since it opened. I think they have some work study programs for young adults which is awesome but I hope they are not doing all the cooking unsupervised! Which would explain the decline in food quality.
I just went in today for a work meeting but ended up grabbing two desserts, a cupcake and a cheese cake to go since they looked so yummy. When I tore into them 15 minutes later at home, boy...I never had a cupcake so dry and hard. The cheese cake was sorely disappointing as well. I think I paid about $4.00 for each dessert, which made it even the more disappointing. Not fresh at all and I hate parting with my money on bad food.
The last three times the food has been just okay. Had a special chicken sandwich once and it was so meager in portion that I was still hungry. Tiny, thin chicken breast with a little melted cheese and a small bunch of mixed greens on bread that looked to be just your average Jewel bought slice. For $8.00 I want more not a sandwich I can throw together myself at home for less than $1.00.
Before that time, had food to go. Another sandwich, the Chicken Florentine which was good (and my usual item to order) and a side of their fresh chips. Well, the chips must have been sooo fresh out of the oil and packaged right away because when I got it home 5-10 minutes later they were a soggy, limp mess. We called them and told them and we got a replacement of their fries instead.
The staff has changed a lot but are cordial and casual. Never had terrible service and like the casualness of the staff. It is a cute spot that is inviting and a great addition to have in the neighborhood but just because it is within walking distance from home, I am not going to continue to go just because it is close by but the food is GOOD!
Please, please, please improve on the quality and consistency of the food. We want you around, 35th Street Cafe!Comment from E G. of 35th Street Cafe 4/11/2011
Moonshine, We so appreciate the feedback, and will address… More » -
Review from January C.
Chicago, IL
8/25/2010
I've been here a couple times for brunch. The first time I had a breakfast burrito off the menu & last time had the breakfast buffet. There aren't that many places that do breakfast buffets with all the standard fare: eggs, bacon, potatoes, sausage, biscuits & gravy, pancakes, French toast, sweet breads (not the glandular variety), & fruit. It also came with all you can drink lemonade & coffee. My friend recommended the asparagus omelet for next time and also their soup which they make homemade daily. It's a friendly & comfotable neighbohood spot with good food & good prices so I will definitely be a more frequent visitor in the future.
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Review from Jessica G.
Chicago, IL
8/11/2011
been here twice now for lunch... for the area that doesn't really have too many options, this place rocks! i had the special chicken parm sandwhich and the chipotle wrap both really good!
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Review from Lv S.
Chicago, IL
10/18/2010
Yummy food
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Review from Nana h.
Chicago, IL
9/1/2009
For those who live and work in this area, this place is like a small beam of light. There is absolutely NOTHING else that offers decent food, everything else is greasy or fast foodish, They have breakfast! and a varied menu of sandwiches and salads. I think the sandwich I had was above average and the chips were delicious! It's not too expensive and it's somewhat healthy. I hope the neighborhood can support it!
