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Handlebar
Master Critic Review
Handlebar
8.8
Handlebar is a longtime vegetarian and vegan comfort-food bar in Wicker Park, serving from-scratch plates, cocktails, and brunch on a busy back patio. Since 2003 it’s been a go-to for seitan “chicken,” scrambles, and fried snacks that work for both vegans and omnivores.
Must-Try Dishes:
Pepita Scramble, Nashville Hot Mushroom Sandwich, Fried Pickles
Scores:
Value: 8.1
Service: 8
Consistency: 9
Food Quality: 9.2
Atmosphere: 7.2
Cultural Relevance: 8.8
What makes it special: Neighborhood vegetarian bar turning out from-scratch comfort food and strong drinks since 2003.
Who should go: Vegetarians and friends craving hearty comfort food with drinks.
When to visit: Weekend brunch or warm evenings on the back patio.
What to order: Pepita Scramble, Nashville Hot Mushroom Sandwich, fried pickles.
Insider tip: Go early or join the waitlist; the small dining room and patio fill quickly.
Logistics & Planning
Parking: Street parking only on surrounding residential blocks; can be competitive during peak brunch and dinner hours.
Dress code: Casual — jeans, sneakers, and relaxed daytime wear are common.
Noise level: Moderate to lively — conversation is possible indoors but clearest on the patio.
Weekend wait: 30–60 minutes typical during peak hours, especially in warm weather.
Weekday lunch: Usually little to no wait, except on sunny patio days.
Dietary Options
Vegetarian options: Yes — fully vegetarian menu with a wide range of entrées and brunch plates.
Vegan options: Yes — several clearly marked vegan dishes plus modifiable items; ask servers for swaps.
Gluten-free options: Limited — some dishes can be modified, but cross-contact is possible and there is no separate prep area.
Good to Know
Is this good for a first date? Yes for casual dates — the patio and drinks make it relaxed and low-pressure, but the vibe is more laid-back than romantic.
Can I get a table without a reservation? Yes — it’s walk-in only; join the waitlist early on weekends or aim for off-peak times to reduce the wait.
Is it kid-friendly? Generally yes for older kids and daytime visits; space is tight indoors and there are no dedicated kids’ menus or high-chair heavy seating.
Best For
Better for: Hearty vegetarian comfort food, brunch with drinks, and a lively neighborhood patio that works for mixed vegan/omnivore groups.
Skip if: You want quiet fine dining, fully gluten-free kitchens, or short waits during peak weekend brunch hours.
Hours
Monday10am - 12am
Tuesday10am - 12am
Wednesday10am - 12am
Thursday10am - 12am
Friday10am - 12am
Saturday9am - 12am
Sunday9am - 12am