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Home Plate
Master Critic Reviews (2 Lists)
Home Plate
7.9
Neighborhood stalwart (since 1989) serving generous, no-nonsense brunch from early morning on. Dishes lean classic and hearty, with golden pancakes and crispy French toast built for close-ups.
Must-Try Dishes:
Crispy French Toast, Pancakes, Omelets
Scores:
Value: 8.6
Service: 8
Consistency: 8.4
Food Quality: 7.9
Atmosphere: 6.8
Cultural Relevance: 8.3
What makes it special: Long-running, early-opening brunch with big portions and reliability.
Who should go: Early risers and hungry weekend crews
When to visit: Arrive before 9am to skip the line
What to order: Crispy French toast, pancakes, omelet combo
Insider tip: They’re walk-in only; weekdays are fastest.
Logistics & Planning
Parking: Street parking along Lombard and adjacent side streets; easier before 9am but fills quickly on weekends.
Dress code: Casual—athleisure, jeans, and weekend wear all fine.
Noise level: Moderate during peak brunch hours; quieter on weekdays.
Weekend wait: N/A - closes after brunch service.
Weekday lunch: Usually no wait before 10am; 10–15 minutes mid-morning.
Dietary Options
Vegetarian options: Yes - several hearty options like pancakes, French toast, and omelets.
Vegan options: Limited - fruit plates and some sides, but no dedicated vegan menu.
Gluten-free options: Basic substitutions available; no separate prep area.
Good to Know
Is this good for a first date? Only if you’re after a laid-back, no-frills morning; more casual than romantic.
Can I get a table without a reservation? Yes—Home Plate is walk-in only. Arrive early to avoid lines, especially weekends after 9am.
Is it kid-friendly? Very—high chairs available, quick service, and a welcoming staff for families.
Best For
Better for: Big portions, early hours, and classic diner-style brunch comfort.
Skip if: You’re seeking upscale ambiance, craft coffee, or modern brunch plating.
Home Plate
8.1
Marina stalwart since 1989 serving classic American brunch with house scones, benedicts, and potato pancakes. Friendly service and steady execution keep it a go-to for visitors and locals alike.
Must-Try Dishes:
Crab Cake Benedict, House Scones with Jam, Potato Pancakes
Scores:
Value: 8
Service: 8.2
Consistency: 8.6
Food Quality: 8.3
Atmosphere: 7.2
Cultural Relevance: 8.4
What makes it special: Long-running, scone-forward brunch that anchors Lombard mornings.
Who should go: Families and classic brunch fans
When to visit: Weekdays 7–9am for quickest tables
What to order: Crab cake benedict, scones, potato pancakes
Insider tip: They’re walk-in only; split a scone while you wait.
Logistics & Planning
Parking: Metered street parking along Lombard and nearby cross streets; fills quickly after 9am on weekends.
Dress code: Casual and comfortable—jeans, hoodies, and sneakers are common.
Noise level: Moderate during peak brunch hours; quieter early mornings and weekdays.
Weekend wait: Not applicable—closes by mid-afternoon.
Weekday lunch: Usually under 10 minutes; walk right in before 11am.
Dietary Options
Vegetarian options: Yes—multiple options like veggie omelets, pancakes, and avocado toast.
Vegan options: Limited—some modifiable dishes but no dedicated vegan menu.
Gluten-free options: Yes—gluten-free toast and substitutions available upon request, though kitchen is shared.
Good to Know
Is this good for a first date? Not ideal for romance but great for a casual morning meetup—friendly vibe and fast service make it low-pressure.
Can I get a table without a reservation? Yes—walk-in only. Arrive before 9am on weekends or expect a short sidewalk wait with free coffee refills while you wait.
Is it kid-friendly? Very—high chairs available, staff used to families, and menu items like pancakes and hashbrowns suit kids of all ages.
Best For
Better for: Classic, comforting brunch fare served quickly with genuinely friendly service—ideal for families and low-key mornings.
Skip if: You’re seeking upscale brunch cocktails or a trendy atmosphere; try Rose’s Cafe or Camino Alto instead.