ZipPicks Awards
Best Hidden Gem Restaurants in Lincoln Square
Master Critic Review
Bryn Mawr Breakfast Club
7.7
A compact, neighborhood breakfast room that mixes classic brunch comfort with a few left-field touches, best enjoyed when you keep the order focused. Go one sweet-leaning plate, one savory benedict, and one shareable pancake-style item for the table.
Must-Try Dishes:
Fried chicken and waffle, Lemon crab cakes Benedict, Pajun pancake
Scores:
Value: 7.8
Service: 7.6
Consistency: 7.6
Food Quality: 7.9
Atmosphere: 6.4
Cultural Relevance: 6.9
What makes it special: Small-room brunch with a menu that rewards mixing sweet and savory.
Who should go: Brunch crews and weekend breakfast hunters
When to visit: Weekday mornings to dodge the rush
What to order: Chicken & waffle, crab cakes Benedict, pajun pancake
Insider tip: Go early—tables turn slower once the weekend line starts.
Logistics & Planning
Parking: Metered street parking along Bryn Mawr and nearby side streets; manageable on weekdays, competitive on weekends during brunch hours.
Dress code: Casual neighborhood brunch—jeans, sneakers, and relaxed weekend wear are standard.
Noise level: Moderate to lively during peak brunch; conversation is easy at the table but the room fills with energy when busy.
Weekend wait: N/A – breakfast and brunch service only.
Weekday lunch: Typically no wait or a short 5–10 minute wait on weekdays.
Dietary Options
Vegetarian options: Yes – multiple egg-based and sweet breakfast options work well for vegetarians.
Vegan options: Limited – a few items can be modified, but the menu is not vegan-focused.
Gluten-free options: Limited – some naturally gluten-free plates, but no dedicated gluten-free program.
Good to Know
Is this good for a first date? Yes, if you’re aiming for low-pressure and casual—short menu reads, quick service, and daytime energy keep things easy, though it’s not intimate or quiet.
Can I get a table without a reservation? Yes—this spot runs mostly on walk-ins. Go early on weekends or stick to weekdays for the smoothest entry.
Is it kid-friendly? Very—sweet breakfast plates, flexible ordering, and a casual room make it workable for families with younger kids.
Best For
Better for: Focused, comfort-driven brunch with both sweet and savory hits in a small, neighborhood-scale room.
Consider Alternatives If: You want a quiet, lingering brunch or a destination-style brunch with cocktails and a big dining room.