Where are the Best French Fries in Chicago, Illinois?
The Local Option sort of reminds me of Toon’s on Southport – sans the shuffleboard table but plus excellent food and an actual beer selection. If I lived any closer to this neighborhood j0int, my waistline would be in even more trouble than it is. The Local Option serves delicious burgers/sandwiches, great Cajun style seafood (yes, seafood) dishes, even better french fries (I will rarely compliment a restaurant’s french fries), and an extensive beer selection (I counted over 60 different drafts/bottles to choose from). The jukebox was down but Hendrix was played for the half full crowd that was looking to unwind in a chill atmosphere on a Wednesday night. Perfect!Pros + Try a Seafood Po Boy, French Fries, Cheeseburger, Ambience, Beer Selection
I am in Chicago for the weekend and decided to stop at as many vegan friendly places as possible. Last night my husband and I stopped the Pick Me Up Cafe in which I ordered the vegan french toast. It was GREAT!!! At first I was weary about ordering it because it was rather pricey, but the portion size was enormous, leaving enough for the next morning’s breakfast. They even included a side of vegan butter.
I’ve been to the park grill for lunch a number of times now. The service can range from just ok to quite bad, with some servers bordering on snooty and others being reasonably gracious but just not totally competent. They are almost always busy as well, so catching someone’s attention is difficult, and the waiters are not very good about stopping by to inquire about needs. Understandably this is also a huge tourist draw which might be the reason the service is sometimes not great, I’ve noticed that mentioning you’re a local is pretty helpful. That said, while the food isn’t super creative it is usually well prepared and fresh. If you want to sit outside and watch the crowds in Millennium Park while enjoying a nice salad or burger (which they have so far managed never to overcook!) and glass of wine this is the place for you. Also if they have them, try the squash blossoms which were served with a very nice goat cheese sauce. If you don’t have reservations and want outdoor seating show
Great place, great food, great service and all at reasonable prices! Daily specials (2 for 1 pricing, $10.00 and $12.00 entree night, Cheap Hamburger Night, 1/2 price wine list night, etc.) I’m here at least once a week and sometimes 3 nights and they have such a varied menu, I never get tired of going there. They DO take reservations for the day you’re going there. Pete and Dan know the regulars by name and they welcome dogs on the outside patio (the enclosed patio is off-limits to dogs) during the spring, summer and fall, weather permitting. I love the butt steak (tender!!) and the bleu cheese Jury Melt. Excellent fish and great wines at reasonable prices. I’ve dragged all my friends and half of my condo building there and they all love it. If you haven’t been there, you’ve got to try it. CanaryPros + Best combination of food, service and atmosphere…at a reasonable priceCons – Sometimes there is a long wait if you haven’t called ahead to be put on the list.
