Chicago Neighborhoods: Exploring Eats in Lincoln Park

Next up in the Chicago Neighborhood series – Lincoln Park!

Let me just start off with saying that Lincoln Park is a very large neighborhood. If you want to fully explore it, it will take you more than an afternoon. I’m still exploring it, so this post is focusing on my favorite spots for food from what I’ve seen thus far!

A Hearty Breakfast: Toast

There is more than one Toast in Chicago, but the Lincoln Park location is the original. Opened in 1995, this cozy restaurant has been doing simple and delicious breakfast for years. The staff is friendly and helpful. If you’re not sure what to get, try the Lorraine Omelet while you enjoy a mimosa or indulge in stacks of pancakes with fresh fruit. If you’re coming on the weekends, expect a wait.

A Not-So-Typical Hot Dog: Frank ‘N’ Dawgs

This is not your average hot dog shop. Frank ‘N’ Dawgs has a diverse menu and everything is delicious. They hand make all their sausages and you really only need one to fill you up – they’re hearty! My favorite is the Reuben Pulaski. Be sure to check the hours!

Worth the Walk Bakery: Floriole Cafe and Bakery

I tend to visit a lot of bakeries, but this one really impressed me. The pastries, bread, and everything else are just beautifully presented along with absolutely delicious. Plus, there’s a counter in the back where you can watch the staff bake and prepare food, which has always been fascinating to me. Try the Fruit Tart or the Chocolate Pot de Creme.

Off The Beaten Path Coffee Shop: City Grounds

CityGrounds is an unassuming coffee shop on the outside, but don’t be fooled. This place serves up some delicious coffee. Enjoy the patio outside or find a quiet spot in either the upper or main levels. A relaxed atmosphere welcomes serious studying along with meaningful conversation.

BYOB Dinner: Rickshaw Republic

Rickshaw specializes in Indonesian street food that would typically be sold in market stalls and by peddlers. If you’ve never let yourself experience Indonesian or Filipino food, or even less typical Chinese cuisine, you absolutely must. Everything is authentic and reasonably priced. It’s also all delicious, but you need to have some lumpia (Indonesian egg rolls) and mie goreng (Indonesian fried noodles). This is definitely a hidden gem of Lincoln Park.

Know of some other fantastic spots in Lincoln I should check out? Want me to feature your neighborhood in Chicago? Show me around!

Lydia Jane

Want to see another neighborhood I’ve explored? Wicker Park

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In a nutshell:

Toast

Hot dogs

Baked goods

Coffee

Indonesian