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R.J. Grunts
ZipPicks Awards
Best French Fries in Lincoln Park
Best Outdoor Dining Restaurants in Lincoln Park
Best Happy Hour in Lincoln Park
Best Family Friendly Restaurants in Lincoln Park
Master Critic Review
R.J. Grunts
8.2
Vibes:
Comfort Food Classics
Family Friendly Favorites
Group Dining Gatherings
Birthday & Celebration Central
Open since 1971 across from the Lincoln Park Zoo, R.J. Grunts is a Lettuce Entertain You original where cottage fries, French fries, and shoestring sweet potato fries anchor a retro burger-and-salad-bar menu. Families and longtime regulars treat the various fry options as required sides, often drenched in Merkts cheddar or paired with chili.
Must-Try Dishes:
Cottage Fries, Sweet Potato Fries, Chili Cheese Fries
Scores:
Value: 8.3
Service: 8.1
Consistency: 8.7
Food Quality: 8.6
Atmosphere: 6.4
Cultural Relevance: 8.4
What makes it special: A 1970s-era institution where cottage fries and sweet potato fries are as iconic as the burgers.
Who should go: Families and nostalgia-seekers who want fries with history.
When to visit: Weekday lunches or early dinners before zoo and weekend rush.
What to order: Cottage Fries, Sweet Potato Fries, chili cheese fries with a Gruntburger.
Insider tip: Order cottage fries and a side of Merkts cheddar to build your own loaded cheese fries.