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The Lanzaga
Master Critic Reviews (2 Lists)
The Lanzaga
8.1
A café-bistro that feels personal and owner-driven, with a breakfast-brunch menu that rewards leaning into their savory plates. It works best as a relaxed sit-down where you order one composed entrée per person and stop.
Must-Try Dishes:
Biscuits and gravy, Breakfast sandwich, Yucca fries
Scores:
Value: 7.2
Service: 8.3
Consistency: 7.7
Food Quality: 8.4
Atmosphere: 8
Cultural Relevance: 7.1
What makes it special: An intimate café-bistro feel with savory breakfast strengths.
Who should go: Couples and small brunch hangs
When to visit: Late morning on weekdays
What to order: Biscuits and gravy, breakfast sandwich, coffee
Insider tip: Commit to the savory lane—one entrée each beats over-ordering sides.
Logistics & Planning
Parking: Metered street parking on nearby side streets; can be tight late mornings on weekends but manageable with a short walk.
Dress code: Casual and polished—jeans, sweaters, and sneakers are all fine.
Noise level: Low to moderate—easy to talk without raising your voice.
Weekend wait: Not applicable—breakfast/brunch focus; expect 20–40 minutes during peak weekend brunch hours.
Weekday lunch: Typically no wait or a short 5–10 minute wait late morning.
Dietary Options
Vegetarian options: Yes—multiple vegetarian-friendly breakfast and brunch plates.
Vegan options: Limited—possible substitutions, but not a fully vegan menu.
Gluten-free options: Limited—some naturally gluten-free items, but no dedicated prep area.
Good to Know
Is this good for a first date? Yes—it's intimate, calm, and feels personal without being stuffy, which makes conversation easy and low-pressure.
Can I get a table without a reservation? Usually yes, especially on weekdays; on weekends, arriving before peak brunch hours improves your chances.
Is it kid-friendly? Better suited for adults and older kids—there’s no kids menu and the vibe leans more café-date than family diner.
Best For
Better for: Savory, composed breakfast plates in a quiet, owner-driven setting that feels more thoughtful than a typical brunch rush spot.
Skip if: You want a loud, boozy brunch scene or a menu built for large groups and sharing.
The Lanzaga
7.8
A Lakeview South American cafe-bistro hybrid that feels fresh and neighborhood-forward, with a menu that leans comforting and personal rather than fussy. It’s best for daytime eating or an early dinner when you want something different from the usual Wrigleyville lanes. The vibe reads warm, modern, and quietly social.
Must-Try Dishes:
Maracucho (plantain-bun sandwich), Yucca fries, Suelta la Sopa
Scores:
Value: 7.6
Service: 8.3
Consistency: 7.4
Food Quality: 8.1
Atmosphere: 7.9
Cultural Relevance: 7.6
What makes it special: South American cafe-bistro that’s new, warm, and menu-driven.
Who should go: Food-curious locals and daytime diners
When to visit: Late morning or early dinner
What to order: Maracucho, yucca fries, Suelta la Sopa
Insider tip: Treat it like one sandwich plus one shared side for the table.
Logistics & Planning
Parking: Metered street parking along side streets; usually manageable mid-morning but tighter after 6pm.
Dress code: Casual to smart-casual — jeans and clean sneakers fit right in.
Noise level: Low to moderate — easy conversation, especially during daytime hours.
Weekend wait: 20–40 minutes at peak times without a reservation
Weekday lunch: Typically no wait or a short line
Dietary Options
Vegetarian options: Yes — several vegetable-forward dishes and sides
Vegan options: Limited — a few items can be modified if you ask
Gluten-free options: Some naturally gluten-free options, but no dedicated prep area
Good to Know
Is this good for a first date? Yes — it’s warm, calm, and different enough to feel thoughtful without being intimidating.
Can I get a table without a reservation? Usually yes, especially during the day or early evening; weekends are easier if you arrive before peak dinner hours.
Is it kid-friendly? Better for older kids who eat adventurously; there’s no kids menu, but the atmosphere is relaxed.
Best For
Better for: Daytime meals, brunch, and relaxed early dinners with a neighborhood feel.
Skip if: You’re looking for a high-energy nightlife scene or a late-night dinner spot.
Hours
Monday7am - 4pm
Tuesday7am - 4pm
Wednesday7am - 9pm
Thursday7am - 9pm
Friday7am - 9pm
Saturday8am - 9pm
Sunday8am - 4pm