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Boulevard Bistro
Master Critic Reviews (2 Lists)
Boulevard Bistro
8.0
Boulevard Bistro is a compact Western Avenue diner where skillets, benedicts, and gluten-free waffles share space with housemade soups. Service is friendly but efficient, making it a go-to for sit-down breakfasts that still move quickly.
Must-Try Dishes:
Steak Skillet, Gluten-Free Waffle, Sourdough Toast Plate
Scores:
Value: 8.3
Service: 7.9
Consistency: 7.7
Food Quality: 8.1
Atmosphere: 7
Cultural Relevance: 6.1
What makes it special: Compact neighborhood bistro with from-scratch soups and flexible breakfast plates.
Who should go: Gluten-free diners and classic skillet fans alike.
When to visit: Late mornings for steady flow without peak crowds.
What to order: Steak skillet, gluten-free waffle, sourdough toast.
Insider tip: Regulars lean on the rotating soup board even at breakfast.
Logistics & Planning
Parking: Street parking along Western Ave and nearby side streets; usually manageable on weekdays but plan a few extra minutes on weekend brunch rushes. No valet.
Dress code: Casual — jeans, hoodies, and everyday wear are totally fine.
Noise level: Moderate — easy to hold a conversation at most tables, though it can get lively during peak brunch hours.
Weekend wait: Not applicable — breakfast and brunch–focused; expect 20–40 minutes during peak weekend brunch instead.
Weekday lunch: Typically little to no wait, with steady but fast-moving turnover.
Dietary Options
Vegetarian options: Yes — several omelets, skillets, and breakfast plates can be made meatless.
Vegan options: Limited — a few items can be modified, but menus lean egg- and dairy-forward.
Gluten-free options: Yes — gluten-free waffles and substitutions are available; confirm prep details with your server.
Good to Know
Is this good for a first date? Better for a casual, low-pressure breakfast or daytime meet-up than a romantic outing — relaxed service and cozy booths keep it comfortable and conversation-friendly.
Can I get a table without a reservation? Yes — it’s walk-in friendly. Arrive slightly off-peak on weekends to avoid the brunch rush, or join the waitlist on arrival during busy periods.
Is it kid-friendly? Yes — family-friendly atmosphere with approachable plates and quick service; best for toddlers through school-age kids during earlier hours.
Best For
Better for: Quick, sit-down breakfasts with friendly service, customizable skillets, and gluten-free options that don’t slow the pace.
Skip if: You’re looking for trend-driven brunch, craft coffee programs, or a lingering, high-energy social scene.
Boulevard Bistro
7.8
Boulevard Bistro is a corner diner-style restaurant turning out all-day breakfasts, skillets, and benedicts at the Western and Diversey junction. It leans classic rather than experimental, with reliable execution and a menu that suits both everyday brunch and low-key meetups.
Must-Try Dishes:
Chilaquiles Verdes, Bistro Skillet, Salmon Platter
Scores:
Value: 8.2
Service: 7.8
Consistency: 7.6
Food Quality: 7.9
Atmosphere: 6.4
Cultural Relevance: 6
What makes it special: All-day breakfast bistro where skillets, benedicts, and chilaquiles cover most brunch cravings.
Who should go: Regular brunchers wanting dependable plates near Western Avenue.
When to visit: Late mornings; early arrivals usually avoid a wait on weekends.
What to order: Chilaquiles Verdes, Bistro Skillet, and the Salmon Platter.
Insider tip: Check the soup of the day—regulars treat it as a bonus course with brunch.
Logistics & Planning
Parking: Metered parking along Western and Diversey with easier availability on side streets; expect competition during peak brunch hours
Dress code: Casual and comfortable — jeans, sneakers, and weekend wear are common
Noise level: Moderate — lively brunch bustle, but conversation at the table is generally manageable
Weekend wait: Not a major dinner destination — typically little to no wait in the evenings
Weekday lunch: Usually seated right away outside of peak midday brunch rush
Dietary Options
Vegetarian options: Yes — several omelets, skillets, and breakfast plates can be made vegetarian
Vegan options: Limited — a few modifiable items, but menu leans egg- and dairy-forward
Gluten-free options: Some items can be adapted (e.g., no toast, substitute potatoes), but no dedicated gluten-free prep area
Good to Know
Is this good for a first date? Better for casual, low-pressure meetups than romantic occasions — it feels relaxed, friendly, and practical rather than intimate.
Can I get a table without a reservation? Yes — it’s primarily walk-in; arrive before peak late-morning rush on weekends to minimize waits.
Is it kid-friendly? Yes — family-friendly atmosphere, high chairs available, flexible breakfast plates that work well for younger diners.
Best For
Better for: Dependable, classic brunch plates and generous portions in a low-key neighborhood setting
Skip if: You’re seeking trend-driven brunch, craft cocktails, or a scene-heavy dining room
Hours
Monday7am - 3pm
Tuesday7am - 3pm
Wednesday7am - 3pm
Thursday7am - 3pm
Friday7am - 3pm
Saturday7am - 3pm
Sunday7am - 3pm