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Edelweiss Restaurant
Category: Restaurants German German [Edit]
7650 W Irving Park Rd(between Ottawa Ave & Overhill Ave)
Norridge, IL 60706
Neighborhood: Dunning
(708) 452-6040
Announcement
Valentine celebration Sat Feb11-18 , Mango, Avocado and Shrimp Bruschetta, and much much more!! Check out our web site for a great menu
Announced 2 days ago- Hours:
Mon-Thu 11 am - 9 pm
Fri 11 am - 10 pm
Sat 12 pm - 10 pm
Sun 12 pm - 9 pm
- Good for Groups:
- Yes
- Accepts Credit Cards:
- Yes
- Parking:
- Street, Private Lot
- Attire:
- Casual
- Price Range:
-
$$
- Good for Kids:
- Yes
- Takes Reservations:
- Yes
- Delivery:
- No
- Take-out:
- Yes
- Waiter Service:
- Yes
- Outdoor Seating:
- No
- Wi-Fi:
- No
- Good For:
- Dinner
- Alcohol:
- Full Bar
- Noise Level:
- Average
- Ambience:
- Casual
- Has TV:
- Yes
- Caters:
- Yes
- Wheelchair Accessible:
- Yes
60 reviews for Edelweiss Restaurant
Review Highlights
"The red cabbage with the entree was fantastic."
(in 9 reviews)
"The live music was great."
(in 8 reviews)
"I really enjoyed the Pork shank , my go to German dish."
(in 5 reviews)
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60 reviews in English
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Review from Joe Y.
Palatine, IL
12/30/2011
Nice Bavarian ambiance.
Schnitzel is perfectly crisp with choice of sides - don't miss the sweet red cabbage. Served with the most delicious lingonberry preserves.
The chicken Kiev is fantastic-what a find! Wild rice is a surprisingly wonderful side-try it, you won't regret it.
The beer is as fresh and awesome as you will find anywhere in Chicago.
With all of the mediocrity that hast crept into the German dining scene over the past decade (it's no wonder so many have closed) it's nice to find one that is still doing things the way they should be done. Properly prepared and good quality.
They wait-staff is also very nice. They attend to your every need.
Oh yes, and the complimentary schnapps after the meal is a nice touch! -
Review from Lena M.
Chicago, IL
2/4/2012
We ordered Forest Mushrooms with no goat cheese. They gave me stuffed mushrooms with crab meat, which I bit into by mistake. I don't eat meat. TERRIBLE customer service afterwards.They never apologized. I kept asking what I had just bit into, & it took 10 minutes for someone to tell me what it was.
The bartender could not speak English very well. I ordered a GLASS of Bogle Vineyard Chardonnay, she thought I wanted a bottle. Glass of Bogle does not = bottle, but the name of the vineyard does sound similar. I could see how the mistake could happen, but it was the way they handled it which upset me. She called over the "manager," & they then spoke about it in another language. They were laughing, never apologized, then continued to insist I had ordered the bottle, but they were going to let it go this time. What does it matter if she opened a bottle of white wine by accident if they serve it by the glass anyway? Again, no apology, but I was actually scolded by the angry bartender like a child.
I tried to talk to them about their mistakes. They thought the entire scenario was hysterically funny. They then tried to steal $20 from inside my bill. I had asked her to apply the cash, & put the rest on the credit card. They put it all on the card, & the $20 was gone. At first, she pretended they never got it, then another bill was given to us, adjusted.
I live close by, & have been there many times when Josephine is behind the bar. I had always been treated with respect & friendly service. I don't know who this crew is that was there tonight, but I hope the owner fixes the problem before this happens to other guests. -
Review from paul s.
Chicago, IL
11/19/2011
Great restaurant
parking is a little limited but worth the trip
the food is great and the staff were great, cracking jokes, refilling our water multiple times and showing genuine concern we had a good meal.
I was reading about the new hofbrauhaus to be built in rosemont and it made me yearn to go here again. -
Review from Rich B.
Ottawa, IL
2/6/2012
On a recent Saturday night in February, the weather was bad but the spirit of Edelweiss was a touch of springtime. The atmosphere was great, servers and management great, and the food was of style, well priced and delicious. What a great evening. I hated to exist the door and return to the real world. What a great treat to put you into a pleasant enviornment with great food.
Rich B -
Review from Carl D.
Brookfield, IL
12/23/2011
Went there recently with a large party of 10. The only negative was that parking can be a little tight. The German food was great! I had the Edelweiss Platter which I highly recommend..pork,sausage,veal,kraut,potatoes..yum yum! Also a great selection of German as well as other import beers. Our waitress was great. She really had everything under control for such a large party and put up with our joking!
Prices are not cheap but you get what you pay for...and it was well worth it. I would highly recommend this place. I'll be back. -
Review from Diana R.
11/17/2011
In the spirit of waiting for Oktoberfest 2012 in Munich, I got the urge to munch on weinerschnitzel. So came here on a Saturday night. The place was packed and full of life. The decor was traditional German pub style and there was an older man singing and playing the accordion. He took requests and people were even dancing to his music.
Small painted plates were hung on the wall and there were string lights everywhere.
Of course, I ordered my weinerschnitzel and it surprisingly came with a side of brussel sprouts (my favorite!) and mashed potatoes! Mmm such a good meal. Followed by apple strudel and ice cream. I was very full by the time I left. Overall a good meal but a little pricey. My plate cost about $18 minus dessert.
All that was missing was my Dirndl. Next time! -
Review from Gail c.
10/26/2011
Solid German fare on the northwest side of Chicago
I had the potato pancakes for an appetizer and the saurbraten for dinner. They were melt in your mouth terrific. The dessert was so-so.(Black Forest cake)
The staff is very attentive, and got free shots! Who can complain about that?
The only complaint is, this is a bit pricey. -
Review from Rob W.
10/20/2011
Last time I was at Edelweiss was more than 10 years ago, but I'm constantly reminded of the place by the WGN News team when they do a remote from the place during Oktoberfest. I was nearby and decided to stop in.
I arrived around 12;30 on a Wed afternoon and found there to be a decent sized lunch crowd. I was seated immediately, though service was slightly slow or inconsistent while I was there (but always polite!). I think they were a little short on staff.
Nonetheless, when it was time to order, I opted fo rpotato pancakes as an appetizer and Schweine Schnitzel (breaded pork) for the entree. The potato pancakes were outstanding - some of the best I've ever had. A mushroom soup that came with the appetizer was quite good too. I enjoyed the schnitzel, though a little sauce or gravy with it would have been nice. Even more son with the spaetzle - it was kind of dry. The red cabbage with the entree was fantastic.
Compared to say Mader's in MKE, the order was slightly smaller and maybe not quite as good - but given the price, a MUCH better value! I hope to return in the near future - not enough good German places left in Chicago! -
Review from Scott K.
Wood Dale, IL
11/16/2011
I've eaten at my share of German restaurants but Edeleweiss is one of the best if not "THE" best. The food is not only authentic & fresh but literally feels and tastes like you are over on The Continent eating it.
The service is always excellent --the Kosch family (who own the place) are a great bunch and going out of their way to make sure one's visit is the ultimate eating experience in German/Austrian cuisine.
I have been there many times..and will contunue to frequent the place--will also be there this Thursday for Hunter's fest...Various Venison dishes, Rabbit, Elk etc...bring your appetite people--you will not be sorry
Super Scott
Wood Dale IL -
Review from Rich B.
Elmwood Park, IL
Updated - 12/11/2011
We went to Edelweiss last night. Ordered the Chicken Kiev off of their Holiday Menu. I must say, I never have had a REAL chicken Kiev, til last night. The Kiev was very tender, the vegetables were steam cooked, and the Haufbrau beer was very delicious. I think we may be back again before the end of 2011.
1 Previous Review: Show all »
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8/24/2011
Though its been some time I've been here, but from my experience coming here, it was a good one. I… Read more »
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Review from jane a.
Franklin Park, IL
11/10/2011
I used to always dine at this restaurant over 7 years ago. I recently came back to eat here and I have to say things have declined. The schnitzel I had was very dry and the potatoes were watery. I will try again.
But what I have to say and I agree with another reviewer is that the staff is mean. The time I was dining, I was waiting to be seated. There was a woman who was asking questions and asking the manager. I have to say the manager was downright mean and nasty to the woman. There is no need to be that mean to anyone in the world. This restaurant really has to revisit what being friendly is and how it is necessary to work with people, regardless if they are diners or not. -
Review from Ed K.
I was on my way to a wedding in the NE part of Chicago and looking for a place to grab a quick lunch. Well stopping at a German sit down restaurant doesn't really fit the definition of 'fast' but when visions of sausage and wienerschnitzel started dancing thru my head, I thought 'why not' and pulled over.
This is a quaint but spacious neighborhood restaurant with a very bavarian feel and decor, down to the German accented hostess. Plus points to having a full bar area and full dining room area. I settled to a little table by the window and ordered a Leberkase which is a baked bavarian veal loaf topped with fried egg and onions. All their house specialities come with choice of two sides and I opted for the German potato salad and sauerkraut, both I found quite nice. In addition to a complimentary side salad, lunch came out to approx $13 which was a good value for what felt like home-cooked comfort German food.
Service was friendly and casual which i would expect and this place seems well suited for larger dining parties and if you love beer...ho boy, I say try ordered the infamous BOOT of beer. Just watch the movie Beerfest first to learn how to properly drink that thing. -
Review from Johnny B.
Arlington Heights, IL
5/22/2011
I am a fan of Edelweiss from years back. So after a drive with my latest honey, she said how about German food. She said how great the brats are at Cellular Field. (Yuuccchhhhh). I said, Yes dear. It was mid afternoon on Saturday. Lunch menu looked great. I/we didn't want a big lunch so we each chose a version of the homemade sausage lunch. She tried the bratwurst & I the knockwurst. This was the best of the wurst! It came with sides of Spaetzle (GREAT!) and sauerkraut (Excellent). People who do not like Kraut must have German Kraut or Polish Kapusta. They would all change their minds. Honey had mashed Potatoes. Soup or salad is included! We both ate well the next day with our leftovers. Good, abundant food, good service, and great Real German food. Both sausages hit the mark.
JohnnyChitown -
Review from Dave Z.
Des Plaines, IL
8/13/2011
They were easily accommodating when added one person to our group. They have a big restaurant. The on tap beer menu is enough to please most.
I had one of the house specialties: Kassler Rippchen with sauerkraut. it was tastily smokey and thick.
Will be going back again and making up for all the times I have passed by here. -
Review from Diana C.
Oswego, IL
11/16/2011
Went to this amazing restaurant last weekend! Met some friends that i haven't seen in 25 years and had a blast! The food was delicious and the beer was out of this world! Plenty of choices too! I can't wait to go back!
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Review from Adam N.
Chicago, IL
4/2/2011
GET THE LITER !!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!
What can I say that the other reviews haven't said yet. I've been going there for about 3 years now on and off when ever Im in the area. The food is amazing to say the least. If you go there you have to try their imports. Forget about the domestic beer IMPORT IMPORT IMPORT. When you do order your beer get the LITER, don't get the half, get the LITER you'll be glad you did. The prices are very reasonable for this place. If you do go I recommend go for OCTOBERFEST. The selection they have is amazing during that time. Over all anytime you go you'll enjoy it -
Review from D. C.
Harwood Heights, IL
4/9/2011
This place is like my own little piece of Epcot Germany within quick driving distance. Combined with the fact I apparently really love German food and music, this place is full of win in my book.
While kind of tacky on the inside, it's also very cozy. I can only imagine how great this place would be on a cold, wintry Chicago night. The live music was a bonus (for me, at least) and just rounded out the whole theme.
I thought the food was great. Since I love a good schnitzel, I couldn't resist getting the Weinerschnitzel while the man had the Edelweiss Platter. We both took a good amount of leftovers home despite thoroughly stuffing ourselves at the restaurant. Everything was delicious but as lovers of a good strong sauerkraut, we both thought theirs was just a bit too mild for our tastes. A bit pricey, but I think you can easily get two meals out of many of their dinner offerings.
Service was pretty average. Our waitress was nice, but strangely not very knowledgeable about their beers beyond the basics. Never once felt rushed, though.
Can't wait to go back! -
Review from georgia z.
Chicago, IL
11/13/2011
Met a friend there Thursday night for a beer & bite. Much to my horrifying dismay no sooner were we into our meal at the bar, I looked down to see a MOUSE under my bar stool brazenly looking up at me!!! I didn't want to make a scene so I told the bartender as calmly as I could. Her response "yeah...we have a lot of mice around because of the nearby cemetary but they really shouldn't be inside here". REALLY? I could no longer eat afraid of what lurked in the kitchen. She had the nerve to bring us our check....not even comping the food we couldn't eat. One can only hope this place gets a CITY INSPECTION soon!
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Review from Robert K.
Thousand Oaks, CA
Updated - 9/27/2010 1 Check-in Here
Whenever I'm staying in Rosemont near O'Hare, I try to grab a cab and get in one meal here. Most of the year it is easy to get a table, if not they'll serve you at the bar. The beers on tap are wonderful with a great mix of true german local and regional classic beers, plus some favorites from neighboring countries.
This past week was part of their Oktoberfest period, so they were decked out with Bavarian trimmings, live music, and the crowds were a bit thick but they still got us seated within 15 minutes (time enough to knock off one Warsteiner).
As usual, I ordered my favorite dish, Schweinshaxe, and Gulash soup to start. If you like pork and don't mind working a bit, there is nothing like a 3 lb pork shank, deep fried with the fat still on to seal in the treasure. Cut away the now crispy fat and the most tender, flavorful meat awaits!Listed in: Noch Ein Mal Bitte!
1 Previous Review: Show all »
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7/27/2010
Great beers and wonderful food. Usually I'm in Chicago on business and stay near O'Hare. This time… Read more »
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Review from Lorna S.
Cook, IL
Updated - 12/13/2010 1 Check-in Here
Edelweiss...aaahhhhh, makes me think of one of my favorite movies...and of course the song.
We went here for a birthday dinner (not mine), and it was decorated beautifully. Christmas garland, lights, and hanging ornaments everywhere. It was warm and cozy, just what I needed in this cold weather.
Now for the important stuff...THE FOOD! I had the Fillet Mignon with crispy onion straws on top, German fried potatoes, and brussel sprouts. This was one of the best dinners I've had recently. The fillet was cooked to perfection, and was juicy as all get out. To drink... Spaten (beer) one of my all-time favorites. The waitress also brought us a shot of what she called "Happy Juice". YUMMY!!! The actual name is "Apfel Flimm". An apple corn, yummy for your tummy treat. Have this shot when you go, I insist!!!
I definitely recommend Edelweiss for any occasion. Warm, cozy, yummy!1 Previous Review: Show all »
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12/3/2009
Of course, the name of this restaurant makes me think of the song. If you can imagine me singing it… Read more »
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Review from Courtney I.
Chicago, IL
6/17/2010
Alright look, you want German food, go here. Dont waste your time elsewhere in the city. I've tried "the others" but keep coming back to Edelweiss.
Lots of good beer options, the lunch menu is GREAT...try the lemon chicken, I promise you will love it! The Rindsrouladen and Huhnerschnitzel can't be beat. Oh and have I mentioned the deserts yet? They have cinnamon ice cream with crepes. Seriously, how awesome is that?
p.s. not to sound weird or anything, but the ranch dressing for the salad is delicious. For real. Try it for yourself. -
Review from Alexis O.
Chicago, IL
3/22/2010
Not impressed.
My husband and I wanted to try something different so we ended up here. When we first walked in we saw the white tablecloths which made us think we were a bit under-dressed in jeans. The place itself is cute, kind of like Disney's Epcot Center, so we were excited to be there.
However, the service and food was way below par. The server rushed us throughout the meal even though he only had one other table at the same time as us. He didn't care to explain anything and practically threw our plates in front of us and walked away.
I tried the combination plate, the Edelweiss Platter and my husband had the Wurstplatte. He was satisfied with his mediocre sausages, but my plate looked like a blind person tossed the food on the plate and hoped most of it would stick. Ever heard of presentation? Well don't expect it here.
The meat was no big deal - barely had any flavor; the sauerkraut was too sour, the spatzle completely tasteless. I love to try new things, but we will not be back.
If you're in the mood for European food, I recommend going to the Polish Buffet close by called the Jolly Inn on Irving Park and Narragansett. It's a lot cheaper, and the food is traditional, yummy comfort food. -
Review from Eenie J.
Chicago, IL
8/24/2009
I was surprised to find out that I really liked this restaurant.
I think part of the reason why is that I really didn't have much in regards to expectations for this restaurant. From the outside, I thought it was just goign to be a bar/pubish type place with pubish type food.
First, I had a $25 gift certificate from http://restaurant.com. If I did not have that gc, I wouldn't have went. There were three of us that went. What drew me to the place was simply that every time we passed the place on Irving Park, my husband and I would start singing the song Edelweiss. So I thought "we have GOT to finally go!"
So we went last Friday night with a friend. First of all, when we came into the restaurant, you first enter the bar area, which is dark and loud and a typical bar scene. But the restaurant area was a totallhy different world. Very cute, lit up, etc. There was a party of about 10 people and one couple (who looked like they had been there a while) in the restaurant. Also, a man sang while playing the accordian. Later on in the evening we gave him a fat tip as he was very charming as he played. Ha, who am I to lie, he kept winking at me and it cracked me up.
Anyhoo, on that night, the service was outstanding. Maybe it was because there were only three parties there. However, our waitress had no attitude at all and was very accomodating. They bring out a bread basket filled with different types of bread. I really liked the bread that looks like a bread stick, but is somewhat like a pretzel. It was soft and warm and yummy. We ran out of those and brought us a basket full of them.
On to the food. My husband ordered the pork loin and a 1/2 liter beer. I can't remember which one. Our friend ordered the Edelweiss Platter which was a sampling of different German food and a 1 liter mug of BBK Oktoberfest beer. I had a coke and the duck. It was absolutely the BEST DUCK I'VE EVER HAD. Honestly and I love duck. The duck wasn't cooked in any way I'd ever had. But I've only had duck in asian restaurants. This duck's skin was crisp and was almost like a chicharron. The duck was sooo juicy, not dry at all. I absolutely loved it. The dishes came with two sides. I had the spatzle (sp), which the waitress described as a twisty pasta and I had the bread pudding. I loved both. The spatzle didn't really have any taste,, but I liked the texture. The bread pudding was yummy.
As for the other people, my husband's dish was not memorable. It was like any pork loin. He also had the spatzle but had the German Fries instead of my bread pudding. The German fries weren't very memoriable either. I guess what I ordered beat my husband's order.
As for our friend, I'm not really sure how good his food was because I didn't taste it. He seemed to like it however. So I cannot really give a comment there.
I did forget to mention our appetizer. We ordered the German potato pancake. My husband and our friend liked it, but could only eat a slice because it had an oily aftertaste. I didn't really like it, but I did enjoy the sauces which where applesauce, ligonberry jelly, and sour cream.
Overall, we had a good time and the food had high points and average points. I will defintitely come back.
Overall our tab was about $70 including the beers and the gratuity and the gc. -
Review from Chris W.
Chicago, IL
5/29/2009
There are three things to talk about at Edelweiss that you should know.
Atmosphere: It's REALLY cute. In fact it's a great date or family get together spot and doesn't smell TOO strongly of German food (which can be rather crazy smelling). It's themed to make you feel like you've stepped into an Epcot version of Germany, they also have live music.
Service: Rude, curt, intrusive. I'd never go back because of it.
Food: It's expensive (you can tell by the fact that they have SALMON as an appetizer), not really for a great casual dine, but if you're celebrating a birthday or special event it's lovely. They have authentic German food which, is VERY fatty (I'd hate to be on Alli and eat here). Baked Forest Mushrooms are a great appetizer. If you want to stay on the safe side get a Bratwurst or Sauerbraten for your entree, but if you're looking to be adventurous the Rindsrouladen. -
Review from Bill S.
1/30/2009
I'm a New Yorker. I expect things to be at least better than Applebees when I go out for authentic food.
When I'm not in my city, I do watch my P's & Q's. However, when the wait staff is rude and the food is funky, well guess what beeyach? I'm gonna yelp!
I never had German food before. I ask the waitress and she tells me something like sausage? I'm Italian, I'm expecting "sausage" and out comes this dish that has a pure white link on it. The texture is like eating a sausage filled with tofu. No flavor, no texture, nada. with cabbage no less.
The kicker was, my Chicago buddy and I order some German beers. The waitress comes back with two different mugs. I asked her what's the difference in the beers? I thinking maybe ones a lager, ones a pilsner?
She gets snappy with me saying they are both the same beer, don't be such a baby? WTF? Are you kidding me?
The decor is like a old bowling alley from the 70's. Its all brown wooden planks and the dishes & glasses look like they're also 35 years old.
Now my Chicago buddy loves this place so I'll give it two stars.
But the waitress gets my scathing Yelp review.
NYBULLY -
Review from Pam D.
Updated - 11/26/2009
We came here tonite for Thanksgiving dinner. The place was packed. We had the 5:30 seating which happened to be the last one of the day, so over the course of eating, things mellowed out. They had a limited menu with about 8 entrees and some appetizers. Mom had the traditional turkey dinner. It was fine, though she said the turkey was a little bland. The sides were very good. Now, I must admit, she brought home leftovers (as did I) and we gave Annika our little Bichon a piece of the turkey for her Thanksgiving dinner and she thought it was wonderful, so the turkey gets mixed reviews :))
I had the duck in cherry sauce. It was so yummmmmm. I took my leftovers home and plan on picking on the carcass later tonite while watching TV. Sounds like a perfect plan to me. Chris had the rindsrouladen, which is thinly sliced beef rolled with pickles and onions and seasonings and served with a red wine sauce. It was fabulous. I may order that next time.
I had a glass of German Gluhwein, which is very similar to Swedish glogg. Was served warm, but is not as sweet and I missed the raisins, but it still hit the spot on a cold and rainy night.
All in all, this was a really nice alternative to staying home and cooking. Works for me!! Actually, NO work for me!!!!!!Listed in: Great Places for us Cranky Old…
1 Previous Review: Show all »
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10/8/2009
I have been to Edelweiss a few times over the years and have always enjoyed good food and fun times.… Read more »
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Review from Randell S.
Sonoma, CA
7/3/2011
Very good food and excellent service. We were a group of 16. Every one ordere a different item and alll were served correctly and on time. No long waits for the last person to be served. They can handle a reservation.
Will go back! -
Review from John B.
Cissna Park, IL
5/5/2011
Visited on Sunday on our way back from Fabriganza at Troy in Chicago. Been here handful of times. Love the beer choices; wonderful bread basket with pretzel bread and many others; sampler platter is a great value with lots to take home; Live music that evening so I guess we're lucky.
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Review from Dusty P.
Chicago, IL
9/3/2008
Food: Although, I am half German, I have decided that German cuisine is one of my least favorites. That said, I would still go back to Edelweiss when I'm craving schnitzel (the schwineschnitzel is worth ordering) and strudel, but I'll stay away from the Hackpeter next time. The red cabbage was a little syrupy sweet for my taste; it reminded me of something just poured from a jar. I agree the spaetzle was tasteless, but I did enjoy most of the sausages on my friend's sausage plate. So, I guess this is a great place for carnivores? The dessert fruit beers are worth sticking around for too.
Atmosphere: This is part of the reason why I would go back. Personally, I loved that it was filled with older men and women, all of whom knew how to polka to the live band- that's putting some authentic culture into the restaurant. There's so much detail in the decor; it's easy to get lost in the atmosphere and think you've been whisked away to Germany.
Parking: I believe they offered valet, but my friend and I didn't know that when we got there. We instead parked at the Community Center a block away - it was cold and icy and I was in heels. I think we'll use valet next time.
Price: Reasonably priced considering the portion size. My friend and I spent quite a bit, wanting to try a little of everything. Now that we have a better idea of what we like and dislike, we could undoubtedly budget our meal better. My advice is to research German food before you go.
Service: Our service was fantastic. Even though the place was busy for a Saturday night, we never felt rushed; instead, our server took his time explaining different dishes to us, recommending beers we might like based on our conversation, and making sure everything was up to our standards. I might go back more for the service and atmosphere than the food itself - but that's just a personal bias against German food. -
Review from Laura A.
Chicago, IL
1/14/2011
Pretty much any German food is good, in my book. Edelweiss is awesome. The decor is a bit strange, but charming and comfortable. Food is consistently good. Schnitzel is delicious. The giant pork shank is tasty as well, but enough to feed a family of 4. Sides are all lovely. My favorite is the red cabbage. It's pretty much like sauerkraut, but with apple flavor and slightly sweet. I don't care much for sauerkraut, but love their red cabbage. Have not tried the weekend Prime Rib or the Friday Fish Fry. They have a very decent beer selection, but not to the point of being overwhelming. The live oom-pah music is always fun. Highly recommended.
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Review from Mark M.
Wilmette, IL
5/25/2011
Get the wienerschnitzel, the spaetzle and red cabbage is awesome, the interior just needs to be redone but good experience overall
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Review from Jack P.
11/10/2010
To the tune of "My Favorite Things:"
Schnitzel und Spaetzle
Roualden und Strudel
Squeaky red cabbage to
toss with my noodles
Big rolled-up pork roasts
all tied up with string
These are a few of my favorite things.
Well, at least in autumn and winter. 'Tis the season for hitting up the German spots, and I took the opportunity to lunch at this old Chicago neighborhood bar and restaurant, located way out west and almost to O'Hare. What struck me at first was while it has apparently been around a long time, it doesn't share the permanent feel of a Laschet's Inn or the Chicago Brauhaus. It reminds me of a Hollwyood set some director may have ordered up for a movie about Chicago. My dining companion and I both had Schnitzels, he the veal, I the chicken. We started with a wonderful appetizer plate of smoked salmon, toast points, cream cheese and capers. (I tried convincing my partner that capers were harvested from the sea like scallops, but he would have none of it.) Soup or salad came with entrees, so he had liver dumpling and I had the pea soup. They were both very fresh and as if they were made by mom. Speaking of which, our waitress could not have been more attentive or mom-like with her service, anticipating our every little need and making certain everything was satisfactory. All of our food was good and comforting enough, as one might expect in a German joint. Nothing out of the ordinary, just good vittles.
back to the song now;
when the cold bites,
when the wind stings
when I'm feeling sad
I'll simply remember
there's places like this
and thennnn...I won't feel so baaaddd!Listed in: Old Lady Places, Comfort Food, German
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Review from Jean C.
1/4/2008
Edelweiss is one of those places your mom warned you about when she told you "Never eat anything bigger than your head." The first time I ever went there, one of my dining companions ordered the pork shank and got what looked like the better part of the pig's leg on a plate. Most of the dishes are similarly super-sized, and can easily be shared, which is not a bad thing considering that it's a bit pricey. But the food, big though it may be, is also delicious! I've never had anything there that I didn't enjoy, and am particularly taken with the appetizers and desserts.
Edelweiss is a boisterous place with live music and a dance floor. Granted, the music is sometimes a bit much, but watching people on the dance floor never gets old, especially when the band is playing a polka. Service is excellent, and the staff is very accommodating. The only reason I don't give it five stars is because parking in that area is horrific. They always seem to be jammed, and their parking lot is barely big enough for a place half that size. Most of the spots on the side streets are either taken or designated for residents, so be prepared for the possibility of a bit of a hike back to your car, with a very full stomach. Ehn. -
Review from Al D.
Chicago, IL
10/16/2008
I used to be a regular here, especially on weeknights when it wasn't too crowded. It's still a great spot to meet friends at, and Oktoberfest is still alot of fun here.
Place reminds me of a trip to Bavaria, and some people might consider it too archaic and folksy, but not I.
Their food is very good, but I have to give four stars because the menu has been downsized and the prices jacked-up. What was three full potato pancakes are now halves, and for a price that is 30% higher. The lower-priced items have been removed, thus leaving non-Oktoberfest diners with high-priced entrees.
It's still fun though, and God-forbid you might see some "old people" who clear out at 6 pm, leaving the place to the youngin'. -
Review from Randy G.
Harwood Heights, IL
4/19/2011 1 Check-in Here
Food is good.Servers need to be more friendly. Fish on Fridays is a good deal. I love the coleslaw.
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Review from Patty B.
Chicago, IL
3/24/2008
In Chicago, the 3 German restaurants that I hit are: Chicago Brahaus, Mirabell's, and Edelweiss. Of the 3 - Edelweiss is my favorite. Quaint atmosphere, good music (when the band is on), great beer, and the food is AMAZING. One thing I miss on their menu (which has recently been revamped) is the wurstsalat. Great mix of sausages and cheese. They have other plates like this - but not the same.
I always go away with a full belly.
Definately understand the review about Sunday afternoon and the crowd - but try a Friday or Saturday night and you'll have a better time! -
Review from Dan F.
Park Ridge, IL
10/9/2010
I had dinner at Edelweiss last night with my family. I had a great time there. Having been stationed in the Army years ago, I have a soft spot for German food and culture, so naturally I had to find a place for Octoberfest. Big plus for the atmosphere. There was a very fun Oompah band playing a range of German pub songs. I enjoyed the whole vibe with the music and decor.
You might ask why only 3 stars. The food is the answer. I had the Jaegerschnitzel with spaetzle which was disappointing. Paper thin cuts of breaded pork with a thin gravy and 7 mushrooms total (they looked canned too). The Spaetzel was very finely made, but good enough.
My children split the Weinerschnitzel. It was dry and rather bland. On the plus side, my wife had the pork medallions that she thought were terrific. The fries were very good. I have to compliment the Goulashsuppe that I had as an appetizer. It was hearty, thick and very good.
As for the service, the waitresses were very busy so we had to wait some. The busboys were very efficient though. The place is pretty big, so large parties should be fine.
They have a decent selection of German beers. I had the Spater which was very good indeed. As I was about to leave I saw that they had a sampler of four small beers that I wish I had ordered, but maybe next time.
I won't rush back, but I'll return. Give it a try, it's worth it for the atmosphere, beer and some parts of their menu.
Parking is a challenge, but not impossible. Make reservations well in advance during Octoberfest. -
Review from Eriko K.
Skokie, IL
12/5/2010
Sorry for completing this review months later -- were there back in August. Went for lunch; we wanted to eat German food near O'Hare Airport. I enjoyed the food and the quaint decor. Service-wise, two members of our party of three were still eating when the server asked us if we needed boxes to pack our leftovers. Later we mentioned to the server that we felt rushed and she said "well, it's my job." The food was nice, but I guess I won't be going back there with my parents, who dine out a lot and are pretty discriminating about service.
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Review from Noel I.
St Petersburg, FL
11/26/2010
A wonderful, cozy and entertaining and above all, delicious restaurant!
The german food there was better than I had in Germany! The schnitzel and wursts are perfect. The duck melts in your mouth! Best I've had outside of a good peking-style. The side are also memorable. Sweet and sightly sour braised red cabbage and tender spaetzle accompany most entrees. The service there is amazing. Marian was our server and she has a wonderful personality and we never felt rushed. In fact when we were ready to leave she encouraged us to stay, finish our beers and enjoy the music! The atmosphere is warm and joyful but we only saw the one-man-band which was OK.
It's a nice place to bring family and I hear they have a "hunter's feast" for a limited time every year where they serve Elk, Wild Boar and such. I'm also glad they have a couple vegetarian options but I'd love to see more of that. German food is more than just meat!
The beer is great and you can get a stein or a boot! Also, don't be afraid to share plates, the portions are big and just ask the server if they're worth sharing (don't forget to leave a nice tip!)
I'll go back again and again for the best German food in the midwest -
Review from Chuck C.
Tampa, FL
3/7/2011
BLESS MY HOMELAND FOR EVER! I have not had a better a Bratwurst since my Army days on the River Rhine! Talk about a perfect place for a south shore bachelor like me to go to meet some sweet young Norridge Frauleins. Oh and try the cheese soup it is "toll"!
