Best of 13 lunch restaurants in Irving Park
Irving Park, a charming Chicago neighborhood, is home to a variety of lunch restaurants that cater to diverse tastes. Whether you're in the mood for classic American fare, Asian cuisine, or Italian dishes, there's a lunch restaurant in Irving Park that will satisfy your cravings. These eateries provide a perfect midday break, offering delicious food and a cozy atmosphere, making them a must-visit for locals and tourists alike. Come and explore the lunch restaurants in Irving Park.
- 1. Harding Cafe
- 2. Shokran
- 3. Breakfast House & Coffee Bar in Irving Park
- 4. Buona Terra Ristorante
- 5. Big League Burgers
- 6. Easy Street Pizza & Patio
- 7. Cafe Beograd
- 8. Alps Pancake House
- 9. Mirabella Italian Cuisine & Bar
- 10. D'Candela Restaurant
- 11. Taqueria El Primo
- 12. Zebda in Irving Park
- 13. Patino's Grill
1. Harding Cafe
Community-focused, family-friendly, and supports local businesses.

Our first dining experience at this restaurant was a positive one. The corn chowder stood out for its savory flavor, while the chicken avocado sandwich was incredibly satisfying. The hand-cut French fries were a hit, providing a perfect balance of crispness and softness.
Harding Cafe is a clean and inviting establishment known for its excellent breakfast dishes. The Spanish Omelette and peach pancakes are customer favorites. The laid-back atmosphere, complemented by classy yet unobtrusive decor, makes for a comfortable and enjoyable dining experience. The exceptional service and charming bar area contribute to the overall appeal of the cafe.
TOPICS
- American Cuisine
- Breakfast
- Downtown Spots
- Suburban
2. Shokran
Authentic Moroccan cuisine in a warm atmosphere

Shokran is a Moroccan restaurant that truly deserves 5 stars. The reviewer and their wife recently returned from a trip to Morocco and were excited to try the local cuisine. They were not disappointed with their experience at Shokran. The Chicken Bastilla appetizer, which features chicken inside filo pastry, was very well seasoned and flavorful. The spicy Merguez sausage was also a hit. The reviewer's wife enjoyed the traditional harira soup and the well-seasoned kefta kebab. The knowledgeable waitstaff helped explain the different seasonings used in the dishes and were happy to discuss Moroccan culture and geography.
Shokran has a welcoming and friendly atmosphere with several Moroccan-themed eating areas. The portions are generous and the food is served hot. Guests have praised the solid and outstanding service. The reviewer and their wife had a very pleasant evening at Shokran and highly recommend it to others.
TOPICS
- Fusion Cuisine
- Vegetarian Options
- Mid-Range
- Hidden Gems
3. Breakfast House & Coffee Bar in Irving Park
Features local coffee roasters and organic ingredients.

Breakfast House & Coffee Bar is a restaurant in the Irving Park neighborhood known for its friendly, attentive, and efficient service. The staff has been praised for their diligent use of masks during the COVID-19 pandemic. The restaurant has a nice atmosphere with a relaxing vibe, making it a perfect spot for a enjoyable meal.
My wife and I discovered this hidden gem by chance, as it is not a well-known establishment or included in any breakfast top ten lists we have seen. However, it certainly deserves a spot on those lists based on the quality of our experience. As soon as we walked in the door, we were greeted with exceptional service and a sensational atmosphere that made for a memorable morning.
TOPICS
- American Cuisine
- Vegetarian Options
- Budget-Friendly Eats
- Downtown Spots
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4. Buona Terra Ristorante
Family-owned, Executive chef with 30 years of experience, Fine dining experience

Buona Terra Ristorante is a restaurant that offers wonderful and attentive service. The staff are known for being friendly and providing great attention to detail. They are a key part of the positive atmosphere and overall dining experience.
The restaurant is also known for its delicious food. Popular dishes include calamari, Green Goddess Pizza, and various pastas. These dishes showcase the restaurant's culinary expertise and commitment to providing high-quality meals. In addition to the food, Buona Terra Ristorante also offers noteworthy drink options, such as the Irving Park cocktail and an extensive wine list. These options add to the dining experience and give guests a well-rounded and enjoyable meal.
TOPICS
- Italian Cuisine
- Personal Celebrations
- Mid-Range
5. Big League Burgers
Offers vegan and gluten-free options, homemade sauces, and milkshakes

The burger and Sweet Potato Fries at this establishment were delicious. I also ordered the American Gyros and, after trying the Greek Gyros as well, found that I preferred the American version. The Grand Slam Nacho was another tasty choice, with a generous portion size. The food arrived quickly and was highly enjoyable.
This place is known for its great food, with a particular standout being the Cubs-themed decor. Its consistent quality extends from the appetizers to the burgers and shakes. The Cherry Carey at the small bar is a must-try. Overall, I highly recommend this restaurant for anyone in the area.
TOPICS
- American Cuisine
- Downtown Spots
- Cheap Eats
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6. Easy Street Pizza & Patio
Spacious patio, family-friendly atmosphere, offers catering and delivery

The restaurant offers a fantastic lunch experience. The thin crust pizza is a standout menu item, highly recommended for trying. The quality of service is excellent, contributing to an enjoyable meal.
As a perfect lunch destination, the restaurant offers delicious buffalo chicken pizza. Additionally, the outdoor seating provides a nice setting for dining. Overall, the combination of great food and ambiance makes for a satisfying lunch experience.
TOPICS
- American Cuisine
- Mid-Range
- Downtown Spots
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7. Cafe Beograd
Authentic Balkan cuisine in a cozy and friendly atmosphere.

Serbian cuisine is known for its delicious, authentic, and filling dishes. The food stands out for its well-grilled options, fresh bread, and diverse menu. Meat platters, sandwiches, crepes, and cakes are just a few of the many choices available. Whether you dine indoors or outdoors, the service is excellent, adding to the overall positive dining experience.
The Serbian menu offers a variety of well-grilled dishes and freshly baked bread. From meat platters to sandwiches, crepes, and cakes, there's something for everyone. The food is delicious and authentic, providing a satisfying meal for diners. The restaurant's service is also noteworthy, with both indoor and outdoor dining options available. Whether you're looking for a casual meal or a more formal dining experience, the Serbian restaurant delivers on all fronts.
TOPICS
- Social Gatherings
- Asian Cuisine
- Hidden Gems
8. Alps Pancake House
Offers gluten-free and vegan options.

Alps Pancake House is known for its delicious food, served in a clean and friendly atmosphere. The menu features classic dishes such as skirt steak, New York strip steak, chicken and waffles, and chicken kabobs. Prices are reasonable, making it an affordable option for a meal out. The staff is super friendly and respectful, ensuring a great dining experience. It's a comfortable spot to enjoy breakfast or lunch with a cup of coffee and good company.
The original Alps Pancake House is well-known for its great service and friendly staff who are always ready to help. Visitors appreciate the cozy atmosphere and terrific decor, which adds to the overall dining experience. One of the standout features of this restaurant is its democratic prices, making it accessible for all to enjoy. Whether you're looking for a quick breakfast or a leisurely lunch, Alps Pancake House is the perfect spot.
TOPICS
- Breakfast
- Dinner
- American Cuisine
- Downtown Spots
9. Mirabella Italian Cuisine & Bar
Family-owned and operated, extensive wine list, outdoor seating.

I had a satisfying lunch experience at Mirabella Italian Cuisine & Bar. The Broiled New York Strip steak stood out as a highlight, with its excellent preparation ensuring a mouthwatering meal. Besides the food, the service was commendable, contributing to an enjoyable dining experience.
TOPICS
- Social Gatherings
- Italian Cuisine
- Mid-Range
- Hidden Gems
10. D'Candela Restaurant
Family-owned restaurant offering homemade recipes and fresh ingredients

D'Candela Restaurant provides an exceptional Peruvian dining experience, known for its delicious food filled with amazing flavors, generous portions, and authentic Peruvian flair. Notable dishes include a savory steak and rice, the exquisite Pollo a la brasa, and the tasty mixed jelly. During a two-year search for Rotisserie Chicken in the Peruvian style, D'Candela stood out as a promising option, and it did not disappoint. The restaurant has a quaint atmosphere with about 12 tables, lively Spanish music, and Peruvian artwork adorning the walls.
Upon entering D'Candela, one is greeted with a cozy ambiance, complete with around a dozen tables, cheerful Spanish music, and vibrant paintings depicting Peruvian culture. The sought-after Rotisserie Chicken, Peruvian style, finally made an appearance, delighting the diner and culminating their two-year search. The menu showcases other impressive offerings, such as flavorful steak and rice, mouthwatering Pollo a la brasa, and delightful mixed jelly.
TOPICS
- Mexican Cuisine
- Affordable Nightlife
- Downtown Spots
11. Taqueria El Primo
Freshly made tortillas, Authentic Mexican recipes, Local favorite

The food at this location is described as delicious, featuring a variety of options to choose from. Tacos, enchiladas verdes, chicken torta with avocado, and pozole are just a few of the tasty dishes available. Fresh and flavorful ingredients are used to create these meals, making for a satisfying dining experience.
The service at this establishment is highly rated, with staff being described as friendly, fast, and attentive. Customers praise the staff for their helpfulness and the speed at which they receive their orders. This combination of delicious food and great service makes for a positive dining experience.
TOPICS
- Chinese Cuisine
- Vegan Options
- Budget-Friendly Eats
- Lunch
12. Zebda in Irving Park
Middle Eastern cuisine with vegan and vegetarian options available.

The Kifta pizza is a unique and popular item on the menu, known for its delicious combination of flavors and textures. The pizza is topped with crumbled kifta meat, which is carefully cooked to provide a tasty and crunchy experience. The addition of green and red peppers, potatoes, and feta cheese to the pizza adds a wholesome and hearty element, making it a satisfying choice for customers. The pizza is baked on a thin crust, which adds to its appeal and helps to set it apart from other pizza options.
The soup is another well-loved menu item, known for its wholesome and hearty qualities. Customers consistently choose the soup as a satisfying and nourishing option. Its popularity is likely due to its ability to provide comfort and warmth, making it an ideal choice for those looking for a wholesome and filling meal. The soup is a reliable and satisfying option, and its popularity is a testament to its ability to deliver on taste and quality.
TOPICS
- Asian Cuisine
- Vegetarian Options
- Budget-Friendly Eats
13. Patino's Grill
Family-owned and operated since 1973, known for their famous grilled sandwiches

Patino's Grill is a great place to go for a delicious meal. They offer nicely cooked hamburgers, Chicago pizza, and beef. The atmosphere is intimate and comfortable, making it a perfect spot to unwind after a long day of work. The staff at Patino's Grill are known for being cool and providing enjoyable service. Many customers have found the prices to be fair.
One customer raved about the hamburger, calling it the best they've ever had. Overall, Patino's Grill is a great choice for anyone looking for a tasty meal and excellent service. Whether you're in the mood for a juicy hamburger or a delicious slice of Chicago pizza, Patino's Grill has got you covered.
TOPICS
- American Cuisine
- Budget-Friendly Eats