Introduction
Edgewater isn’t just a picturesque waterfront neighborhood with stunning views of Lake Michigan. It’s a thriving culinary destination brimming with flavors, aromas, and dining experiences that cater to every palate and budget. From cozy breakfast nooks to sophisticated dinner destinations, Edgewater offers a diverse range of options that are sure to satisfy even the most discerning foodie. Whether you’re a long-time resident or a visitor exploring the neighborhood’s charms, this guide will lead you to the very best food Edgewater has to offer. Prepare your taste buds for an unforgettable culinary journey through Edgewater’s vibrant restaurant scene.
This article will explore the best food Edgewater has, covering breakfast, lunch, dinner, international cuisine, and desserts. Get ready to discover your new favorite spots in this dynamic neighborhood!
Morning Delights: Breakfast and Brunch Havens
Edgewater residents know that a good day starts with a great breakfast or brunch. The neighborhood boasts several cafes and restaurants that excel at providing delicious morning fare. These spots are perfect for a quick bite before work, a leisurely weekend brunch with friends, or a cozy solo meal with a good book.
Taste of Heaven
First up is Taste of Heaven, a local favorite known for its homemade pastries and hearty breakfast plates. The aroma of freshly baked croissants and brewing coffee wafts through the air, creating a warm and inviting atmosphere. What makes Taste of Heaven the best? It’s the attention to detail. From the perfectly flaky crust on their quiche to the fluffy pancakes served with real maple syrup, every dish is crafted with love and care. We recommend trying their signature Benedicts or indulging in a slice of their decadent coffee cake. You’ll find Taste of Heaven on North Broadway, ready to start your day off right.
Ann Sather Restaurant
Next, we have Ann Sather Restaurant, an Edgewater institution famous for its Swedish pancakes and comforting breakfast classics. Stepping into Ann Sather is like stepping back in time, with its cozy interior and friendly atmosphere. What truly sets Ann Sather apart is its commitment to tradition. Their Swedish pancakes are made from a time-honored recipe and served with lingonberries and butter, a delightful combination of sweet and tart. Beyond the pancakes, you’ll find a full menu of breakfast staples, from omelets and scrambles to French toast and waffles. Ann Sather is located on West Belmont, offering a taste of Sweden in the heart of Edgewater.
M. Henry
Another great option for breakfast is M. Henry. Their focus on fresh, seasonal ingredients makes them one of the best food Edgewater offers. Every dish is made with care, and you can tell the difference. Located on North Clark Street, the restaurant boasts a delicious menu featuring various breakfast dishes, from pancakes to eggs and more.
For those mornings when you’re short on time, Edgewater also has some fantastic quick breakfast options. Several coffee shops offer pastries, breakfast sandwiches, and other grab-and-go items. Check out the local coffee shops for a quick and satisfying start to your day.
Lunchtime Adventures: Casual Eats and Quick Bites
When lunchtime rolls around, Edgewater offers a plethora of options for a quick and satisfying meal. Whether you’re craving a hearty sandwich, a fresh salad, or a slice of pizza, you’ll find something to tempt your taste buds.
Independent Spirits
Let’s start with Independent Spirits, a beloved local sandwich shop known for its creative and delicious creations. What makes Independent Spirits stand out is its commitment to quality ingredients and inventive flavor combinations. Their sandwiches are made with fresh, locally sourced bread and filled with premium meats, cheeses, and vegetables. You’ll find unique combinations and classics. They are located on North Clark Street and are a perfect destination for lunch.
That Little Mexican Cafe
Next up is That Little Mexican Cafe, which is located on North Broadway Street and offers the best food Edgewater has for Mexican cuisine. They boast a wide variety of Mexican foods, from tacos to enchiladas.
Gino’s East
For pizza lovers, Gino’s East is a must-visit. This Chicago institution is famous for its deep-dish pizza, a true culinary masterpiece. Gino’s East uses a secret recipe for its dough and a blend of high-quality cheeses and toppings, ensuring a pizza that is both delicious and satisfying. In addition to deep-dish pizza, Gino’s East also offers a selection of thin-crust pizzas, appetizers, and salads. It can be found on North Broadway Street, and is a great place to have lunch or dinner.
These are just a few of the many great lunch options in Edgewater. With its diverse culinary scene, you’re sure to find something to satisfy your cravings.
Dinner Delights: From Casual to Fine Dining
As the sun sets, Edgewater transforms into a vibrant dining destination with options to suit every taste and occasion. Whether you’re looking for a casual meal with friends, a romantic dinner for two, or a special occasion celebration, Edgewater’s restaurants offer a memorable experience.
Uncommon Ground
One standout is Uncommon Ground, an organic restaurant that focuses on sustainability. This restaurant offers the best food Edgewater has to offer with its focus on environmental friendliness. The menu features a variety of dishes made with organic and locally sourced ingredients. They boast a rooftop farm where they gather many of their ingredients from. Check out this great location on West Devon Avenue.
Calo Ristorante
For those craving Italian flavors, Calo Ristorante is a long-standing Edgewater favorite. Calo is known for its classic Italian dishes, warm atmosphere, and attentive service. What truly sets Calo apart is its commitment to quality ingredients and traditional cooking methods. Their pasta is made fresh daily, and their sauces are simmered for hours to develop rich and complex flavors. We recommend trying their signature osso buco or indulging in their homemade tiramisu. Calo Ristorante is located on North Clark Street, a great spot for those that crave Italian food.
Around the World: Exploring International Flavors
Edgewater’s culinary scene is a melting pot of international flavors, reflecting the neighborhood’s diverse population. Whether you’re craving Thai noodles, Ethiopian stews, or authentic Mexican tacos, you’ll find a restaurant in Edgewater that can transport you to another part of the world.
Ras Dashen Ethiopian Restaurant
First up is Ras Dashen Ethiopian Restaurant, a hidden gem that offers a true taste of Ethiopia. The restaurant is known for its authentic dishes, warm hospitality, and communal dining experience. The star of the show is the injera, a spongy flatbread that serves as both plate and utensil. You’ll use the injera to scoop up a variety of flavorful stews, lentils, and vegetables. If you are looking for the best food Edgewater has for international cuisine, look no further than this great restaurant on North Broadway Street.
Hunan Spring
Next, we have Hunan Spring, a Chinese restaurant that has stood the test of time, located on West Granville Avenue. They are known for their exceptional food, that offers a comforting and savory taste. The best food Edgewater has to offer can be found at this restaurant.
La Cocinita
If you like Mexican, La Cocinita is a must-visit. This authentic taqueria serves a variety of tacos, burritos, and quesadillas filled with flavorful meats, salsas, and toppings. It’s a great destination to try and is located on West Granville Avenue.
Sweet Endings: Dessert Destinations
No meal is complete without a sweet ending, and Edgewater has plenty of options to satisfy your sweet tooth. From classic ice cream parlors to decadent bakeries, you’ll find a dessert destination to suit your cravings.
George’s Ice Cream & Sweets
First on our list is George’s Ice Cream & Sweets, a local favorite known for its homemade ice cream and friendly service. George’s offers a variety of classic and creative flavors, from vanilla and chocolate to salted caramel and lavender honey. Their ice cream is made with high-quality ingredients and churned in small batches, ensuring a smooth and creamy texture. George’s Ice Cream & Sweets is located on North Clark Street.
Bennison’s Bakery
Another great spot is Bennison’s Bakery, located on Davis Street, which is famous for cakes. They make some of the best food Edgewater has to offer for dessert!
Cocoa Chili
For those seeking something unique, Cocoa Chili offers a variety of chocolate treats. From decadent truffles to spicy chili chocolates, you’ll find something to tantalize your taste buds. This great spot for chocolate is located on North Broadway Street.
Conclusion
Edgewater’s vibrant food scene is a testament to the neighborhood’s diversity, creativity, and passion for culinary excellence. From cozy breakfast spots to elegant dinner destinations, Edgewater offers a dining experience for every taste and occasion. This guide has highlighted some of the best food Edgewater has to offer, but there’s still so much more to explore. So, get out there, try new restaurants, and discover your own hidden gems in this dynamic and delicious neighborhood. Let your culinary adventures in Edgewater begin! Don’t forget to support local businesses and let them know what you love. Happy eating!
