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Toast It IZ
Master Critic Review
Toast It IZ
7.6
Toast It IZ is a River North brunch-and-cocktail lounge where fries show up alongside salmon burgers, Western-style burgers, and kids’ plates. The focus is bold comfort food and drinks, but the fry program is strong enough to matter if you want something crisp and salty with your brunch.
Must-Try Dishes:
French Fries, Salmon Burger It Iz with Fries, Western Beef Burger with Fries
Scores:
Value: 7.1
Service: 6.3
Consistency: 7
Food Quality: 7.8
Atmosphere: 8.4
Cultural Relevance: 6.5
What makes it special: Lively brunch lounge where burgers-and-fries plates share space with cocktails and sweets.
Who should go: Brunch groups wanting fries with cocktails and comfort food.
When to visit: Late-morning and early afternoon brunch windows for full menu.
What to order: French fries, salmon burger with fries, Western beef burger with fries.
Insider tip: Plan extra time on weekends—lines can build, but bar seats often open first for quick fry-and-cocktail orders.
Logistics & Planning
Parking: Street parking is limited in River North; expect metered spots or nearby paid garages, especially during peak brunch hours.
Dress code: Trendy casual to smart casual — jeans are fine, but most guests lean slightly dressy for brunch outings.
Noise level: Moderate to loud during peak brunch; conversation is possible at smaller tables but bar and lounge areas can be lively.
Weekend wait: Typically minimal — the space is more brunch-focused, but expect short waits if late-afternoon service is busy.
Weekday lunch: Generally no wait, though small spikes can occur around midday brunch traffic.
Dietary Options
Vegetarian options: Yes — select burgers, sides, and brunch plates can be ordered meat-free, but options are limited.
Vegan options: Limited — most plates include dairy or sauces; fries may be the most reliable vegan-friendly item (confirm preparation on arrival).
Gluten-free options: Partial accommodation — some proteins and fries may work for gluten-sensitive diners, but there is no dedicated gluten-free prep area.
Good to Know
Is this good for a first date? Yes for casual daytime or brunch dates where energy and cocktails are part of the plan; it’s less ideal if you want a quiet, intimate setting.
Can I get a table without a reservation? Often yes — walk-ins are common, but expect waits during peak weekend brunch; bar seating is usually the fastest fallback for fries and drinks.
Is it kid-friendly? Somewhat — there are kid-friendly plates and casual seating, but the vibe skews adult and social during brunch rush.
Best For
Better for: Groups planning a social, cocktail-forward brunch where fries and comfort plates are part of a larger spread.
Skip if: You want a quiet meal, a fry-specialist destination, or extensive vegan/gluten-free options.