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FARE - Franklin St.
Master Critic Review
FARE - Franklin St.
7.7
FARE - Franklin St. is a compact, counter-service New American café focused on bowls, veggie-forward sides, and gluten-free baked goods built around seasonal ingredients. It’s a favorite for Loop lunchers who want something lighter and customizable without leaving the office grid.
Must-Try Dishes:
Smoky Chicken Bowl, Craft Your Own Bowl, Harissa Sweet Potato Side
Scores:
Value: 8.3
Service: 7.7
Consistency: 7.4
Food Quality: 8.1
Atmosphere: 6.5
Cultural Relevance: 6.1
What makes it special: A tight, health-focused counter where seasonal bowls and sides lean gluten-free and plant-forward without feeling austere.
Who should go: Daytime diners chasing lighter, build-your-own Loop lunches.
When to visit: Right at opening or late lunch to skip peak line congestion.
What to order: Smoky Chicken Bowl, Craft Your Own Bowl, Harissa Sweet Potato Side.
Insider tip: Use the smaller veggie sides—like harissa sweet potatoes—to turn a basic bowl into a more filling, mix-and-match plate.
Logistics & Planning
Parking: No dedicated parking; paid garages and metered street parking nearby, but street spots are limited during business hours.
Dress code: Casual and office-friendly — gym wear and business-casual are both common.
Noise level: Low to moderate — generally easy to hold a conversation except during peak lunch rush.
Weekend wait: Not a dinner destination — hours are primarily daytime; no typical weekend dinner service or crowds.
Weekday lunch: Peak lines during core lunch hours (11:45am–1:15pm), but counter service usually moves in 5–10 minutes.
Dietary Options
Vegetarian options: Yes — multiple plant-forward bowls and build-your-own combinations work well for vegetarians.
Vegan options: Yes — several vegan and easily-veganizable options, especially in the build-your-own format.
Gluten-free options: Strong gluten-free coverage — many items are gluten-free or labeled as such, though guests with medical sensitivity should confirm cross-contact.
Good to Know
Is this good for a first date? Not ideal for a first date — it’s counter-service, fast-casual, and oriented toward quick lunches rather than lingering conversation.
Can I get a table without a reservation? Yes — reservations aren’t used; seating is first-come counter-service. Arrive slightly before peak lunch if you want a seat without hovering.
Is it kid-friendly? Generally yes for older kids and teens who can navigate counter-service; limited space and no kids’ menu or high chairs.
Best For
Better for: Health-focused, customizable bowls and lighter lunches with clear dietary labeling in a quick, efficient Loop setting.
Skip if: You want a sit-down meal, dinner service, large-group seating, or a leisurely, atmosphere-driven experience.
Hours
Monday7am - 4pm
Tuesday7am - 4pm
Wednesday7am - 4pm
Thursday7am - 4pm
Friday7am - 3pm
SaturdayClosed
SundayClosed