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Protein Bar & Kitchen
Master Critic Review
Protein Bar & Kitchen
7.8
Protein Bar & Kitchen’s Franklin & Adams outpost is a fast-casual staple for calorie-counted bowls, salads, wraps, and acai that skew higher protein and macro-driven. Loop workers treat it as a dependable, build-your-own option when they need something quick, healthy-leaning, and close to the Willis Tower.
Must-Try Dishes:
Mexicali Bowl, Triple Berry Acai Bowl, Chicago Med Bowl
Scores:
Value: 8.5
Service: 7.4
Consistency: 8.2
Food Quality: 7.8
Atmosphere: 6.4
Cultural Relevance: 7.6
What makes it special: A high-throughput healthy counter spot where macro-focused bowls and smoothies are built for downtown office life.
Who should go: Gym-goers and office workers wanting fast, customizable healthy meals.
When to visit: Early lunch or mid-afternoon to avoid peak kiosk lines.
What to order: Mexicali Bowl, Chicago Med Bowl, Triple Berry Acai Bowl.
Insider tip: Mobile-order ahead and grab a window seat facing the Willis Tower if you want a quick solo lunch without fighting the rush.
Logistics & Planning
Parking: Street parking is limited in the Loop; most guests use nearby paid garages or metered curb spots when available.
Dress code: Casual and office-casual — gym clothes and work attire are both common.
Noise level: Low to moderate — generally easy to hold a conversation, especially outside the peak lunch rush.
Weekend wait: Primarily a weekday spot; weekend hours may be limited and, when open, there is typically no wait.
Weekday lunch: 5–10 minutes during peak lunch rush; little to no wait outside noon hour.
Dietary Options
Vegetarian options: Yes — several bowls, salads, and smoothies can be ordered vegetarian or customized easily.
Vegan options: Yes — many items can be made vegan with plant-based proteins and dairy-free swaps.
Gluten-free options: Yes — a number of bowls and salads can be prepared gluten-conscious on request, though the kitchen is a shared prep environment.
Good to Know
Is this good for a first date? Not ideal for a traditional first date — it’s counter-service, fast, and functional, better suited to quick casual meetups than a lingered meal.
Can I get a table without a reservation? Yes — it’s walk-in, counter-service only; seating is first-come and usually turns over quickly even at lunch.
Is it kid-friendly? Generally yes for older kids and teens who like customizable bowls and wraps; there’s no kids’ menu or high-chair style amenities.
Best For
Better for: Fast, macro-focused meals with calorie and protein transparency, quick solo lunches, and post-gym or office-break fueling.
Skip if: You’re looking for a leisurely sit-down meal, alcohol or table service, or indulgent comfort food over health-leaning options.