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True Food Kitchen
Master Critic Review
True Food Kitchen
8.3
True Food Kitchen brings a health-forward, seasonal New American menu to a bright River North corner space. Bowls, salads, and pizzas skew vegetable-heavy, drawing office workers and weekend diners who want lighter plates without losing the sense of going out.
Must-Try Dishes:
Edamame dumplings, Butternut squash pizza, Ancient grains bowl
Scores:
Value: 6.2
Service: 7.8
Consistency: 8.5
Food Quality: 8.2
Atmosphere: 8
Cultural Relevance: 8.1
What makes it special: A plant-forward, seasonal New American menu that still feels like a proper sit-down meal.
Who should go: Diners wanting lighter, vegetable-heavy plates in a bright room.
When to visit: Weekday lunches and early dinners before the peak rush.
What to order: Edamame dumplings, ancient grains bowl, butternut squash pizza.
Insider tip: Check seasonal menus—some of the strongest dishes are limited-time items tied to produce.
Logistics & Planning
Parking: Primarily paid garage parking in nearby River North decks; limited metered street parking on surrounding blocks, especially tight during peak dining hours.
Dress code: Casual to smart casual — athleisure and jeans are common, but many guests lean slightly polished for business-lunch and brunch visits.
Noise level: Moderate — lively during peak brunch and dinner but generally conversational at weekday lunch.
Weekend wait: 20–45 minutes without a reservation, longer during prime brunch and early evening windows.
Weekday lunch: Usually minimal wait, though brief peaks around noon are common.
Dietary Options
Vegetarian options: Yes — multiple bowls, salads, and pizzas are naturally vegetarian or easily adaptable.
Vegan options: Good coverage — several clearly marked vegan options with the ability to modify a few additional dishes.
Gluten-free options: Yes — many menu items are available gluten-free and are labeled, with staff accustomed to ingredient guidance (confirm with your server for sensitivities).
Good to Know
Is this good for a first date? Yes — it works well for a low-key, get-to-know-you first date thanks to its bright space, lighter menu, and comfortable conversational noise level.
Can I get a table without a reservation? Often yes — walk-ins are feasible outside peak brunch and weekend dinner; arriving early or opting for bar/communal seating improves your chances.
Is it kid-friendly? Yes — staff is accommodating and the menu has approachable dishes for older kids and tweens; it’s most comfortable for families during daytime and early-evening hours.
Best For
Better for: Lighter, produce-driven plates in a sit-down setting — especially business lunches, health-minded brunches, and mixed-diet groups where customization and substitutions matter.
Skip if: You’re seeking indulgent, steak- or pasta-heavy comfort food, late-night dining energy, or a highly quiet, romantic setting.
Hours
Monday11am - 9pm
Tuesday11am - 9pm
Wednesday11am - 9pm
Thursday11am - 9pm
Friday11am - 10pm
Saturday9:30am - 10pm
Sunday9:30am - 9pm