Unfortunately economics has forced most of the breakfast places out of business in Chicago. But luckily their are still a few good choices left.
Tempo: Our personal favorite place to go for an everyday breakfast. It is the classic Greek diner for breakfast. Nothing fancy just lots of good food, a huge variety of choices and a decent price. The omelets and skillets are always a good choice. It has a nice outdoor space in the summer. It is often crowded so expect to wait. 6 E. Chestnut, 943-4373, no reservations, $
West Egg: Has very good food, some of which is a bit unusual, my favorite is the grabowski, a Polish sausage with honey mustard, potatoes and eggs. They also offer all of the classics. Like all of the good breakfast places there is often a wait. It has a small not that nice outside area. 620 N. Fairbanks, 280-8366, no reservations, $
The Original Pancake House: The best place to get pancakes and waffles. The Dutch Baby is a great thin pancake which strangely takes good with lemon squeezed on it. It has a small outdoor space. 22 E. Bellevue, 642-7917, no reservation, $ Website
Third Coast: In a great neighborhood it is a locals hangout with almost no tourists. It does not have the extensive menu of most other breakfast places but it does have several good options. I think they have the best bacon any where in the downtown area. You can get breakfast all day. 1260 N. Dearborn, 649-0730, no reservations, no outside space, $ Website
Yolk: A modern version of an old fashion diner. All the dishes I have tried have been very good. The service was good and the staff is made up of 20 somethings rather than the fun but sometimes brusque older staff of other diners. There is a huge variety of offerings. The crepes are good and I enjoyed the huevos rancheros although it was a little bland. 747 N. Wells, 1120 S. Michigan. Website
Nookies: Not far from Lincoln Park Zoo. It is the best option in the Lincoln park neighborhood. Has a small outdoor space. 1746 N. Wells, 337-2454, $ Website