ZipPicks Awards
Best Brunch in Harwood Heights
Master Critic Review
Elly's Brunch & Cafe (Cumberland Ave.)
8.3
A high-volume brunch shop built for classic American breakfast cravings and efficient daytime pacing. The strongest plays are their skillet-and-egg lane and sweet-leaning specialties, ordered with one coffee and one juice so the table stays focused and service stays fast.
Must-Try Dishes:
Dutch baby, Chilaquiles verdes, Steak skillet
Scores:
Value: 8
Service: 8.2
Consistency: 8.6
Food Quality: 8.7
Atmosphere: 7.2
Cultural Relevance: 8.2
What makes it special: A big-menu brunch specialist that moves volume without losing the basics.
Who should go: Families and brunch regulars who want a full menu
When to visit: Weekday mornings or right at open on weekends
What to order: Dutch baby, chilaquiles verdes, steak skillet
Insider tip: Keep it to one sweet and one savory for the cleanest, fastest ticket.
Logistics & Planning
Parking: Mostly easy suburban parking in nearby shared lots along Cumberland Ave, plus some street parking; busiest weekend brunch hours fill up closest spots fast—park one row deeper and walk in.
Dress code: Casual daytime (jeans, hoodies, sneakers all normal).
Noise level: Moderate-to-lively—fine for group conversation, but it can get loud during peak weekend brunch.
Weekend wait: Not applicable—this is a brunch/breakfast-lunch spot (peak waits are weekend mornings: ~30–60 min).
Weekday lunch: Usually 0–15 min; small rush around noon but turnover is quick.
Dietary Options
Vegetarian options: Yes—solid vegetarian-friendly brunch options (egg-based plates, pancakes/French toast, some meatless skillet/omelet builds).
Vegan options: Limited—possible with modifications (oatmeal/fruit-forward choices; request no dairy/eggs where relevant), but it’s not a vegan-first menu.
Gluten-free options: Some options and easy modifications (omelets/skillets without toast, bowls, fruit sides), but confirm cross-contact risk if you’re highly sensitive.
Best For
Better for: Classic American brunch variety, big portions, and efficient service in a high-volume setting—especially skillets, egg plates, and sweet-leaning specialties when you want reliable comfort food fast.
Consider Alternatives If: You want a quiet, romantic brunch, creative chef-driven plates, or strong vegan/gluten-free assurances—choose a smaller specialty café or a more dietary-focused kitchen instead.