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Tempo Cafe
Master Critic Review
Tempo Cafe
8.3
A Gold Coast staple since the early 1980s, Tempo Cafe is a big-menu diner where bagels show up in classic Nova lox plates and as supporting players to enormous skillets and omelettes. Locals lean on it for reliable, late-running breakfasts and straightforward lox-on-bagel setups before shopping the Mag Mile.
Must-Try Dishes:
Nova lox on a bagel platter, Bagel with cream cheese and capers, Poor Man’s Skillet with a bagel on the side
Scores:
Value: 8.8
Service: 7.8
Consistency: 8.6
Food Quality: 8.2
Atmosphere: 6.4
Cultural Relevance: 8.3
What makes it special: Long-running diner where classic lox and bagel plates come with big portions and all-day breakfast energy.
Who should go: Bagel-and-lox fans who like old-school diner vibes.
When to visit: Early mornings or off-peak afternoons to avoid long weekend waits.
What to order: Nova lox bagel platter, bagel with cream cheese and capers, Poor Man’s Skillet.
Insider tip: Call ahead for takeout on busy weekends; a lox plate with a bagel travels better than most skillet orders.
Logistics & Planning
Parking: Limited street parking in the neighborhood; metered spots nearby and paid garages along State St. and the Mag Mile are the most reliable options.
Dress code: Casual — diners wear everything from workout gear to jeans and sweaters.
Noise level: Moderate — classic diner bustle, but conversation is generally manageable at most tables.
Weekend wait: Typically no wait — breakfast and brunch hours are the busiest.
Weekday lunch: Short wait or seated quickly outside of peak midday rush.
Dietary Options
Vegetarian options: Yes — plenty of egg dishes, pancakes, omelettes, salads, and bagel plates.
Vegan options: Limited — some sides and toast-based options; most mains include eggs or dairy.
Gluten-free options: Limited — bagels and most breakfast breads contain gluten; no dedicated gluten-free prep area.
Good to Know
Is this good for a first date? Better for casual daytime meetups than romantic dates — it’s lively, comfortable, and practical if you want an easy, low-pressure brunch or breakfast.
Can I get a table without a reservation? Yes — it’s walk-in only. Expect waits during peak weekend brunch; arriving early morning or mid-afternoon helps avoid lines.
Is it kid-friendly? Yes — large booths, friendly staff, and a wide menu make it good for families; bring toddlers earlier in the day before peak brunch crowds.
Best For
Better for: Big-portion breakfast plates, reliable lox-and-bagel platters, and classic Chicago diner atmosphere that runs late into the day.
Skip if: You’re looking for artisanal bagels, specialty coffee, or a quiet, design-forward brunch setting — smaller bakeries or cafe-style brunch spots will be a better fit.