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La Catedral Cafe - Chicago
Master Critic Reviews (2 Lists)
La Catedral Cafe - Chicago
7.7
A Mexican breakfast-and-coffee stop built around straightforward plates and a grab-and-go rhythm, especially useful when you want something hearty without a long sit-down. The best results come from ordering one main plate and one drink, then keeping the rest minimal.
Must-Try Dishes:
Chilaquiles, Breakfast torta, Cafe de olla
Scores:
Value: 8.2
Service: 7.4
Consistency: 7.6
Food Quality: 7.8
Atmosphere: 6.6
Cultural Relevance: 7.4
What makes it special: Hearty Mexican breakfast plates in a fast, no-fuss format.
Who should go: Anyone craving a quick, filling breakfast
When to visit: Early mornings to beat the rush
What to order: Chilaquiles, breakfast torta, cafe de olla
Insider tip: Pick one centerpiece dish—extra sides dilute value more than they add.
Logistics & Planning
Parking: Street parking is the primary option; availability is generally manageable in the morning but tightens during peak breakfast hours.
Dress code: Casual—work clothes, hoodies, and jeans are all common and appropriate.
Noise level: Moderate—order-at-the-counter energy with kitchen noise, but still fine for casual conversation.
Weekend wait: Not applicable—this is a breakfast-focused spot and does not operate as a dinner destination.
Weekday lunch: Short wait or no wait; lines move quickly due to counter-service flow.
Dietary Options
Vegetarian options: Yes—vegetarian chilaquiles and egg-based plates are available.
Vegan options: Limited—possible with modifications, but not a dedicated vegan menu.
Gluten-free options: Limited—corn-based items may work, but cross-contact is likely.
Good to Know
Is this good for a first date? Not ideal for a traditional first date—this is more of a quick, functional breakfast stop than a linger-and-talk setting.
Can I get a table without a reservation? Yes—there are no reservations and turnover is fast; seating is first come, first served.
Is it kid-friendly? Yes—simple plates, quick service, and flexible seating make it easy for kids, though there are no dedicated kid amenities.
Best For
Better for: Quick, filling Mexican breakfast plates when you want speed, value, and no-frills execution.
Skip if: You’re looking for a relaxed brunch, a polished dining room, or a long sit-down experience.
La Catedral Cafe - Chicago
7.7
A Guadalajara-leaning Mexican brunch room known for chilaquiles builds and sweet-leaning coffee drinks in a big, decorative space that works well for groups. It lands best when you choose one main plate and one drink, then skip piling on extras so the core flavors stay clean.
Must-Try Dishes:
Chilaquiles, Cafe de olla, Strawberry French toast
Scores:
Value: 6.8
Service: 7.6
Consistency: 7.7
Food Quality: 7.9
Atmosphere: 8.3
Cultural Relevance: 7.5
What makes it special: Big, group-friendly Mexican brunch built around chilaquiles and coffee drinks.
Who should go: Groups who want a sit-down Mexican brunch
When to visit: Earlier mornings to avoid peak waits
What to order: Chilaquiles, cafe de olla, one sweet plate
Insider tip: Pick one chilaquiles style and stick with it—adds dilute the main.
Logistics & Planning
Parking: Mostly street parking on surrounding blocks; availability varies and fills quickly on weekends.
Dress code: Casual to smart-casual—jeans and sneakers are common; dressier outfits won’t feel out of place.
Noise level: Moderate to lively—conversation is easy at off-peak times but gets louder with full brunch crowds.
Weekend wait: 30–60 minutes during peak weekend brunch hours without a reservation.
Weekday lunch: Little to no wait on weekdays, especially earlier in the morning.
Dietary Options
Vegetarian options: Yes—vegetarian chilaquiles and egg-based plates are available.
Vegan options: Limited—possible with modifications, but not a dedicated focus.
Gluten-free options: Limited—corn-based dishes may work, but cross-contact is possible.
Good to Know
Is this good for a first date? Better for a casual or daytime first date than an intimate one—the room is large and lively, which can dilute a one-on-one vibe.
Can I get a table without a reservation? Yes, especially on weekdays or early mornings; weekends can mean a noticeable wait if you arrive mid-morning.
Is it kid-friendly? Yes—families and kids are common, and the menu is approachable for younger diners.
Best For
Better for: Group-friendly Mexican brunch with generous portions, decorative setting, and customizable chilaquiles.
Skip if: You want a quiet, intimate brunch or a tightly focused, chef-driven menu—simpler cafes or smaller dining rooms will suit that better.
Hours
Monday7am - 3pm
Tuesday7am - 3pm
Wednesday7am - 3pm
Thursday7am - 3pm
Friday7am - 3pm
Saturday7am - 3pm
Sunday7am - 3pm