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Bungalow by Middle Brow

2840 W Armitage Ave, Chicago, IL 60647
$$$

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Master Critic Reviews (2 Lists)

Bungalow by Middle Brow 8.5
Logan Square
Bungalow by Middle Brow is a bakery-brewery hybrid where long-fermented sourdough pan pizzas share space with house beers and natural wines. National press and local regulars treat it as both a casual neighborhood hang and one of the city’s more thoughtful approaches to dough, fermentation, and toppings.
Must-Try Dishes: Mushroom Pizza, Hot Honey Pizza, The Big Salad
Scores:
Value: 7 Service: 7.8 Consistency: 8.4 Food Quality: 9.1 Atmosphere: 8.9 Cultural Relevance: 9
What makes it special: A sourdough-driven pan-pizza program inside a brewery-bakery that’s earned national best-pizza attention.
Who should go: Natural-wine fans and pizza lovers who care about dough.
When to visit: Early evenings for easier tables and relaxed patio energy.
What to order: Mushroom Pizza, Hot Honey Pizza, The Big Salad.
Insider tip: Treat it as a slow meal: start with a salad and beer, then share one or two pizzas rather than over-ordering.
Logistics & Planning
Parking: Street parking on nearby residential blocks; can be limited during peak dinner hours, especially on weekends. No valet.
Dress code: Casual and relaxed — jeans, sweaters, and patio-friendly layers are common.
Noise level: Moderate indoors with a lively buzz; patio seating is generally quieter and better for conversation.
Weekend wait: 30–60 minutes during peak evening hours, especially in good weather when the patio is busy.
Weekday lunch: Typically little to no wait when daytime service is offered; short queues possible during bakery rush periods.
Dietary Options
Vegetarian options: Yes — several pizzas and salads are naturally vegetarian, with rotating seasonal toppings.
Vegan options: Limited — some items can be modified (cheese-free pizzas, salads), but there isn’t a fully dedicated vegan menu.
Gluten-free options: Not ideal for strict gluten-free dining — no gluten-free crust, and the bakery-brewery setup means cross-contact is unavoidable.
Good to Know
Is this good for a first date? Yes — the patio and cozy indoor space feel relaxed and informal, making it a comfortable first-date setting if you’re looking for conversation over pizza, beer, and natural wine rather than a formal dining room.
Can I get a table without a reservation? Usually, yes — most visits are first-come, first-served. Arriving early evening or off-peak increases your chances of getting a table without a long wait.
Is it kid-friendly? Generally yes for older kids and families who are comfortable with a casual, brewery-style environment. Outdoor seating works best with strollers; there are no dedicated play areas or kids’ menus.
Best For
Better for: Thoughtful sourdough pan pizza, natural wine and house beer pairings, and a relaxed patio hang that leans neighborhood-casual rather than high-volume slice-shop energy.
Skip if: You want traditional thin-slice pizza, fast counter-service turnover, late-night hours, or strict gluten-free options.
Bungalow by Middle Brow 8.4
Logan Square
Bungalow by Middle Brow is a sourdough-focused brewpub and bakery where naturally leavened pizzas, salads, and breads meet a patio that welcomes both kids and dogs. The room feels casual but intentional, and rotating beers, natural wines, and seasonal toppings reward repeat visits.
Must-Try Dishes: Mushroom Pizza on sourdough crust, Hot Honey Pizza, The Big Salad
Scores:
Value: 7.4 Service: 6.7 Consistency: 8.1 Food Quality: 8.8 Atmosphere: 8.6 Cultural Relevance: 8.2
What makes it special: A sourdough-driven brewery, bakery, and pizzeria with an easygoing dog-friendly patio.
Who should go: Pizza and beer fans who appreciate thoughtful sourdough and patios.
When to visit: Early evening or weekend brunch when the oven’s in full swing.
What to order: Mushroom sourdough pizza, hot honey pie, and The Big Salad.
Insider tip: Order at the counter, claim a patio table, and let your dog sprawl while the pies bake.
Logistics & Planning
Parking: Street parking on neighborhood side streets; usually available but can be competitive during peak patio hours — allow extra time or consider rideshare.
Dress code: Casual and patio-friendly; jeans, sneakers, and layered outerwear are common.
Noise level: Moderate — easy conversation on most patio tables; indoors can feel livelier during busy evenings.
Weekend wait: 30–60 minutes on warm-weather evenings when the patio is full; counter service means you’ll queue to order first.
Weekday lunch: Typically little to no wait, especially outside peak brunch days.
Dietary Options
Vegetarian options: Yes — multiple salads, vegetable-focused pizzas, and rotating seasonal items.
Vegan options: Limited — some salads and sides can be modified; pizzas generally require substitutions.
Gluten-free options: Limited — menu is built around sourdough; no dedicated gluten-free dough and cross-contact is likely.
Good to Know
Is this good for a first date? Yes if you want relaxed, creative food in a low-pressure setting — the patio feels warm and casual, but it’s more laid-back than candlelit or formal.
Can I get a table without a reservation? Yes — seating is mostly first-come counter service. Arrive early for patio space on nice evenings; otherwise expect to wait for an open table after ordering.
Is it kid-friendly? Yes — families are common on the patio and the vibe is informal. Best for toddlers and up; bring layers and snacks if you’re visiting during busier dinner hours.
Best For
Better for: Dog-friendly outdoor meals, creative sourdough pizzas, and casual brewery energy where groups can linger without formal service.
Skip if: You want traditional thin-crust or gluten-free pizza, full table service, or a quiet white-tablecloth date-night atmosphere.