Top 19 lunch restaurants in River North
River North, a vibrant Chicago neighborhood, is known for its diverse dining scene. When it comes to lunchtime, the area offers a plethora of options for locals and visitors alike. From trendy bistros to classic delis, lunch restaurants in River North serve up delectable dishes, ensuring a satisfying midday meal. Experience a range of cuisines and atmospheres at these River North lunch hotspots.
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- 1. Beatrix
- 2. Tanta Chicago
- 3. The Smith
- 4. Ema
- 5. Doc B's Restaurant (River North) in River North
- 6. River Roast in River North
- 7. Siena Tavern
- 8. The Hampton Social - River North
- 9. Bavette's Bar & Boeuf in River North
- 10. The Kitchen American Bistro
- 11. Mercadito
- 12. RPM Italian
- 13. Il Porcellino
- 14. RPM Steak
- 15. River North Bistro
- 16. avec River North
- 17. Protein Bar & Kitchen
- 18. XOCO
- 19. Yardbird Table & Bar
1. Beatrix
Health-conscious options, in-house bakery, artisanal coffee menu.
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The food at this establishment is consistently described as delicious, with a wide variety of vegetarian options to choose from. Breakfast and brunch offerings are also popular choices among customers. Specific menu items that received high praise include the prime burger, which was cooked to perfection, and the lemon and garlic chicken which exceeded expectations. The feta appetizer is also recommended.
Service at this restaurant is a mixed bag. Some customers describe it as slow, but friendly, efficient, attentive, and pleasant. However, other customers report poor service, with servers ignoring tables or taking too long to serve. This inconsistency in service is an area that the restaurant could work to improve in order to ensure a positive dining experience for all customers.
The food at this establishment is consistently described as delicious, with a wide variety of vegetarian options to choose from. Breakfast and brunch offerings are also popular choices among customers. Specific menu items that received high praise include the prime burger, which was cooked to perfection, and the lemon and garlic chicken which exceeded expectations. The feta appetizer is also recommended.
Service at this restaurant is a mixed bag. Some customers describe it as slow, but friendly, efficient, attentive, and pleasant. However, other customers report poor service, with servers ignoring tables or taking too long to serve. This inconsistency in service is an area that the restaurant could work to improve in order to ensure a positive dining experience for all customers.
TOPICS
- American Cuisine
- Vegetarian Options
- Downtown Spots
- Lunch
2. Tanta Chicago
Authentic Egyptian cuisine in the heart of Chicago
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Tanta, a Peruvian restaurant, offers a menu that features regional specialties like anticuchos and cebiches, as well as influences from Peru's largest immigrant populations. The food is not only delicious but also visually stunning, with vibrant colors artfully arranged on earth-toned dishware. The rooftop bar is a popular destination, especially in the summer months.
During Restaurant Week 2020, I had the opportunity to try a luncheon at Tanta. Each of the three courses was presented beautifully and tasted wonderful. The ceviche stood out with its unique preparation, featuring sliced mahi mahi in a flavorful juice. The short rib was tender and plentiful, making it a satisfying entree. The dessert was an unexpected combination of tart and sweet flavors. The service was top-notch, with a knowledgeable and friendly server who provided excellent care throughout the meal. I highly recommend Tanta for a delicious and enjoyable dining experience.
Tanta, a Peruvian restaurant, offers a menu that features regional specialties like anticuchos and cebiches, as well as influences from Peru's largest immigrant populations. The food is not only delicious but also visually stunning, with vibrant colors artfully arranged on earth-toned dishware. The rooftop bar is a popular destination, especially in the summer months.
During Restaurant Week 2020, I had the opportunity to try a luncheon at Tanta. Each of the three courses was presented beautifully and tasted wonderful. The ceviche stood out with its unique preparation, featuring sliced mahi mahi in a flavorful juice. The short rib was tender and plentiful, making it a satisfying entree. The dessert was an unexpected combination of tart and sweet flavors. The service was top-notch, with a knowledgeable and friendly server who provided excellent care throughout the meal. I highly recommend Tanta for a delicious and enjoyable dining experience.
TOPICS
- Mediterranean Cuisine
- Vegetarian Options
- Budget-Friendly Eats
3. The Smith
Features a rooftop bar and lounge with city views.
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The customer service at this establishment is truly exceptional, providing a welcoming atmosphere for all guests. The food and drinks offered have received high praise, not only for their quality and taste but also for the appealing ambiance they create.
A diverse range of dishes is available, with some top picks being the Ranchero scramble and Benedict Johnny from the breakfast menu, as well as the Smith burger for those looking for a hearty sandwich option. For dessert, the indulgent sticky toffee pudding and s'mores in a jar should not be missed, making for an unforgettable dining experience.
The customer service at this establishment is truly exceptional, providing a welcoming atmosphere for all guests. The food and drinks offered have received high praise, not only for their quality and taste but also for the appealing ambiance they create.
A diverse range of dishes is available, with some top picks being the Ranchero scramble and Benedict Johnny from the breakfast menu, as well as the Smith burger for those looking for a hearty sandwich option. For dessert, the indulgent sticky toffee pudding and s'mores in a jar should not be missed, making for an unforgettable dining experience.
TOPICS
- Social Gatherings
- American Cuisine
- Mid-Range
- Hidden Gems
4. Ema
Authentic Japanese cuisine in the heart of Chicago
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The Greek salad with chicken and cold mezze are highly rated dishes at Ēma, along with their lamb hummus. Diners can expect excellent service, with friendly and attentive staff.
Ēma is a restaurant that puts a California spin on Mediterranean small plates. The menu features a variety of lighter Mediterranean dishes, such as hummus, feta and olives, falafel, and grilled octopus.
The Greek salad with chicken and cold mezze are highly rated dishes at Ēma, along with their lamb hummus. Diners can expect excellent service, with friendly and attentive staff.
Ēma is a restaurant that puts a California spin on Mediterranean small plates. The menu features a variety of lighter Mediterranean dishes, such as hummus, feta and olives, falafel, and grilled octopus.
TOPICS
- Social Gatherings
- Vegan Options
- Mediterranean Cuisine
5. Doc B's Restaurant (River North) in River North
Upscale American seafood, River views, Stylish interior
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The burgers at the establishment were well-seasoned and cooked to the right temperature, resulting in a satisfying and flavorful meal. A notable addition to the meal was the chicken noodle soup, which was a delightful and comforting treat. The visit was overall enjoyable and left a positive impression.
Furthermore, the service at this place was commendable, adding to the overall excellent dining experience. The food was not only delicious but also prepared with great care, making it a highly recommended spot for anyone looking for a great meal.
The burgers at the establishment were well-seasoned and cooked to the right temperature, resulting in a satisfying and flavorful meal. A notable addition to the meal was the chicken noodle soup, which was a delightful and comforting treat. The visit was overall enjoyable and left a positive impression.
Furthermore, the service at this place was commendable, adding to the overall excellent dining experience. The food was not only delicious but also prepared with great care, making it a highly recommended spot for anyone looking for a great meal.
TOPICS
- American Cuisine
- Mid-Range
- Downtown Spots
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6. River Roast in River North
Spacious patio with river views, All dishes are made from scratch
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The whole roasted chicken and slow-roasted beef are must-try dishes at this dining establishment. The culinary experience is enhanced by the scenic riverside view, making it a great place to dine. On the other hand, although the brunch menu is highly rated, there were some issues with the 'roast beef' dish.
The 'roast beef' dish on the brunch menu caused confusion among diners. The ambiguity in its description may have led to mismatched expectations, potentially detracting from the overall brunch experience. Despite this, the other menu items, particularly the roasted chicken and slow-roasted beef, continue to receive positive feedback.
The whole roasted chicken and slow-roasted beef are must-try dishes at this dining establishment. The culinary experience is enhanced by the scenic riverside view, making it a great place to dine. On the other hand, although the brunch menu is highly rated, there were some issues with the 'roast beef' dish.
The 'roast beef' dish on the brunch menu caused confusion among diners. The ambiguity in its description may have led to mismatched expectations, potentially detracting from the overall brunch experience. Despite this, the other menu items, particularly the roasted chicken and slow-roasted beef, continue to receive positive feedback.
TOPICS
- Social Gatherings
- American Cuisine
- Waterfront
- Dinner
7. Siena Tavern
Features a lively atmosphere with an open kitchen and beautiful decor
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I ordered the 'Forget About It' tasting menu and was impressed with each dish. The Bruschetta and Wagyu beef meatball appetizers were delicious, followed by a rich and creamy Carbonara pasta. The brick chicken diavolo entrée did not disappoint, and the meal concluded with tasty Bomboloni (Italian donuts) for dessert. The portion size for each dish was generous, and the tasting menu was a steal at around $75, as ordering each dish separately would have cost $110.
The food on the 'Forget About It' tasting menu was incredible, with the gnocchi being a standout dish. The Wagyu beef meatball is another must-try. Our server, Josh, was very friendly and made excellent recommendations for our meal. He provided great service and made us feel welcome. We were very pleased with our experience and look forward to visiting again when we're in Chicago next.
I ordered the 'Forget About It' tasting menu and was impressed with each dish. The Bruschetta and Wagyu beef meatball appetizers were delicious, followed by a rich and creamy Carbonara pasta. The brick chicken diavolo entrée did not disappoint, and the meal concluded with tasty Bomboloni (Italian donuts) for dessert. The portion size for each dish was generous, and the tasting menu was a steal at around $75, as ordering each dish separately would have cost $110.
The food on the 'Forget About It' tasting menu was incredible, with the gnocchi being a standout dish. The Wagyu beef meatball is another must-try. Our server, Josh, was very friendly and made excellent recommendations for our meal. He provided great service and made us feel welcome. We were very pleased with our experience and look forward to visiting again when we're in Chicago next.
TOPICS
- Personal Celebrations
- Italian Cuisine
- Mid-Range
8. The Hampton Social - River North
Instagrammable atmosphere with a lively bar scene and popular for brunch.
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The crab cake was fresh and delightful, offering a delicious start to the meal. The lobster was also a standout, boasting an abundance of fresh lobster that enhanced the overall taste. Adding to the ambiance was live music, which created a enjoyable atmosphere during lunch.
Eggs Benedict were cooked to perfection, making for a satisfying dish. The restaurant was accommodating, willingly substituting a generous amount of perfectly ripe avocado for the meat. The spacious dining room was tastefully decorated, reflecting the Hamptons theme and providing a comfortable setting for dining.
The crab cake was fresh and delightful, offering a delicious start to the meal. The lobster was also a standout, boasting an abundance of fresh lobster that enhanced the overall taste. Adding to the ambiance was live music, which created a enjoyable atmosphere during lunch.
Eggs Benedict were cooked to perfection, making for a satisfying dish. The restaurant was accommodating, willingly substituting a generous amount of perfectly ripe avocado for the meat. The spacious dining room was tastefully decorated, reflecting the Hamptons theme and providing a comfortable setting for dining.
TOPICS
- Rooftop
- Mediterranean Cuisine
- Vegetarian Options
- Affordable Nightlife
9. Bavette's Bar & Boeuf in River North
Prohibition-era atmosphere with live jazz music in the evenings.
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This establishment offers a superior dining experience. To begin, visit the downstairs bar, known as Zach's, which sets the tone for the quality service and ambiance you can expect. The main dining area provides an exceptional meal, including highly recommended lamb chops. It is highly recommended to make a reservation before arriving.
The restaurant boasts a trendy yet unpretentious atmosphere, blending rustic elements with chic decor. The service is attentive, yet unobtrusive, adding to the overall positive dining experience. All dishes and cocktails tried were enjoyable and are recommended. This place is not to be missed, so make sure to book a table and try it out for yourself.
This establishment offers a superior dining experience. To begin, visit the downstairs bar, known as Zach's, which sets the tone for the quality service and ambiance you can expect. The main dining area provides an exceptional meal, including highly recommended lamb chops. It is highly recommended to make a reservation before arriving.
The restaurant boasts a trendy yet unpretentious atmosphere, blending rustic elements with chic decor. The service is attentive, yet unobtrusive, adding to the overall positive dining experience. All dishes and cocktails tried were enjoyable and are recommended. This place is not to be missed, so make sure to book a table and try it out for yourself.
TOPICS
- American Cuisine
- Social Gatherings
- Downtown Spots
- Mid-Range
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10. The Kitchen American Bistro
Features a rooftop bar with great city views
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The food at this establishment has received high praise from many customers for its delicious taste, generous portions, and attractive presentation. Although there were a few dishes that did not meet expectations, the overall opinion of the food is positive.
Customers have also highly rated the service at this establishment. They have commended the staff for their politeness, attentiveness, and friendliness. Some customers have even mentioned that the service was faster than expected and exceptional.
The food at this establishment has received high praise from many customers for its delicious taste, generous portions, and attractive presentation. Although there were a few dishes that did not meet expectations, the overall opinion of the food is positive.
Customers have also highly rated the service at this establishment. They have commended the staff for their politeness, attentiveness, and friendliness. Some customers have even mentioned that the service was faster than expected and exceptional.
TOPICS
- Social Gatherings
- Mediterranean Cuisine
- Mid-Range
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11. Mercadito
Upscale street food with a lively atmosphere
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The restaurant specializes in Mexican cuisine, offering authentic flavors with a modern twist. Their food and drinks are exceptional, with a focus on using fresh ingredients. One highly recommended drink is the Pepino el Pyu, which is a customer favorite.
Upon arriving for lunch, we were initially disappointed with the service. We were left waiting for almost 10 minutes without any acknowledgment or attention from the restaurant staff.
The restaurant specializes in Mexican cuisine, offering authentic flavors with a modern twist. Their food and drinks are exceptional, with a focus on using fresh ingredients. One highly recommended drink is the Pepino el Pyu, which is a customer favorite.
Upon arriving for lunch, we were initially disappointed with the service. We were left waiting for almost 10 minutes without any acknowledgment or attention from the restaurant staff.
TOPICS
- Mexican Cuisine
- Affordable Nightlife
- Downtown Spots
12. RPM Italian
Stylish ambiance with al fresco dining option.
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The Italian cuisine served at this establishment is generally regarded as dependable and elevated, offering a dining experience that has been described with a mix of positive and negative comments. On the one hand, some reviewers have praised the food for its excellent flavor and wonderful taste. However, there have been a few isolated incidents where pasta was found to be cold or even had pieces of plastic in it, which is certainly cause for concern.
In terms of service, the majority of reviewers have reported generally positive experiences. Many have described the service as good, with some even going so far as to call it superb or 5-star. Unfortunately, there have been a few instances where customers have experienced slow or un-attentive service, which can be a frustrating and disappointing experience for anyone. Overall, while there are certainly some areas for improvement, the restaurant generally seems to be well-regarded by its patrons.
The Italian cuisine served at this establishment is generally regarded as dependable and elevated, offering a dining experience that has been described with a mix of positive and negative comments. On the one hand, some reviewers have praised the food for its excellent flavor and wonderful taste. However, there have been a few isolated incidents where pasta was found to be cold or even had pieces of plastic in it, which is certainly cause for concern.
In terms of service, the majority of reviewers have reported generally positive experiences. Many have described the service as good, with some even going so far as to call it superb or 5-star. Unfortunately, there have been a few instances where customers have experienced slow or un-attentive service, which can be a frustrating and disappointing experience for anyone. Overall, while there are certainly some areas for improvement, the restaurant generally seems to be well-regarded by its patrons.
TOPICS
- Italian Cuisine
- Social Gatherings
- High-End
- Downtown Spots
13. Il Porcellino
Authentic Tuscan-inspired cuisine in a cozy atmosphere.
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The dinner before the marathon was a great experience, with food that stood out as exceptional. The service was top-notch, making the overall atmosphere of the restaurant warm and inviting. The staff was attentive and catered to every need, ensuring that the meal was enjoyable from start to finish.
Based on the outstanding food and service, there is a strong desire to return to the restaurant again. The exceptional quality of the meal and the level of care taken to ensure a positive dining experience left a lasting impression. The restaurant is highly recommended for anyone looking for a memorable meal.
The dinner before the marathon was a great experience, with food that stood out as exceptional. The service was top-notch, making the overall atmosphere of the restaurant warm and inviting. The staff was attentive and catered to every need, ensuring that the meal was enjoyable from start to finish.
Based on the outstanding food and service, there is a strong desire to return to the restaurant again. The exceptional quality of the meal and the level of care taken to ensure a positive dining experience left a lasting impression. The restaurant is highly recommended for anyone looking for a memorable meal.
TOPICS
- Celebrations
- Italian Cuisine
- Mid-Range
- Downtown Spots
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14. RPM Steak
AAA Four Diamond Restaurant, Extensive wine list,Live music on weekends
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RPM Steakhouse in Chicago offers an outstanding dining experience. The service is top-notch, with waitstaff who are knowledgeable, professional, and passionate about delivering excellent service. Our waiter, Anne, was particularly impressive, providing us with personalized recommendations that resulted in an unforgettable meal.
The cocktails and food at RPM Steakhouse are both excellent. The cocktails are thoughtfully crafted, and the steak is the best I have ever had. Every recommendation made by our waiter was delicious, and we will definitely be returning for another incredible dining experience. Whether you're a first-time visitor to Chicago or a local looking for an exceptional meal, RPM Steakhouse is the place to be.
RPM Steakhouse in Chicago offers an outstanding dining experience. The service is top-notch, with waitstaff who are knowledgeable, professional, and passionate about delivering excellent service. Our waiter, Anne, was particularly impressive, providing us with personalized recommendations that resulted in an unforgettable meal.
The cocktails and food at RPM Steakhouse are both excellent. The cocktails are thoughtfully crafted, and the steak is the best I have ever had. Every recommendation made by our waiter was delicious, and we will definitely be returning for another incredible dining experience. Whether you're a first-time visitor to Chicago or a local looking for an exceptional meal, RPM Steakhouse is the place to be.
TOPICS
- American Cuisine
- Gluten-Free
- Mid-Range
15. River North Bistro
Cozy atmosphere, friendly staff, and great for groups
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The restaurant, which is attached to the Eurostars hotel, provided exceptional service during my two meals there. The food was outstanding, especially the tender and flavorful truffle chicken. The restaurant successfully surpassed my expectations, making it a great location to try for bottomless mimosas.
I highly recommend this restaurant for its delicious food and excellent service. The bottomless mimosas were a big hit, and I will surely visit again. The truffle chicken stood out as a favorite dish, and I couldn't get enough of their tasty mimosas. This restaurant is a fantastic find, earning a perfect score of 10/10.
The restaurant, which is attached to the Eurostars hotel, provided exceptional service during my two meals there. The food was outstanding, especially the tender and flavorful truffle chicken. The restaurant successfully surpassed my expectations, making it a great location to try for bottomless mimosas.
I highly recommend this restaurant for its delicious food and excellent service. The bottomless mimosas were a big hit, and I will surely visit again. The truffle chicken stood out as a favorite dish, and I couldn't get enough of their tasty mimosas. This restaurant is a fantastic find, earning a perfect score of 10/10.
TOPICS
- Social Gatherings
- Italian Cuisine
- Vegetarian Options
- Cheap Eats
16. avec River North
Emphasis on locally sourced and sustainable ingredients, Cozy yet modern atmosphere
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River North offers a bright and airy atmosphere with delicious dishes that are sure to impress. The deluxe focaccia, roasted whole fish, and rigatoni are notable menu items. A recent diner who ate alone at the bar indulged in an excessive amount of food and has no regrets, rating every dish at least an 8 out of 10.
The short rib hummus was the star of the meal, a must-try for any visitor. The diner highly recommends ordering this dish, as it was the standout option of the night. While dining alone, the diner was able to savor every bite of the delicious food and highly encourages others to try the various menu options at River North.
River North offers a bright and airy atmosphere with delicious dishes that are sure to impress. The deluxe focaccia, roasted whole fish, and rigatoni are notable menu items. A recent diner who ate alone at the bar indulged in an excessive amount of food and has no regrets, rating every dish at least an 8 out of 10.
The short rib hummus was the star of the meal, a must-try for any visitor. The diner highly recommends ordering this dish, as it was the standout option of the night. While dining alone, the diner was able to savor every bite of the delicious food and highly encourages others to try the various menu options at River North.
TOPICS
- Mediterranean Cuisine
- Mid-Range
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17. Protein Bar & Kitchen
Sustainable, locally-sourced ingredients, gluten-free and vegan options
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The service at this establishment is quick and welcoming, with prices that are moderately priced. The menu offers a range of fresh and delicious food options, such as the breakfast Mexicali bowl, spicy Korean dish, vegan quinoa burrito, and avocado smoothie.
During my visits, I have particularly enjoyed the Pancake in a Bowl for breakfast and the Vegan Bar-rito for lunch. I highly recommend the Vegan Bar-rito to anyone, as it is both flavorful and satisfying without leaving you with a heavy or guilty feeling. Additionally, the smoothies served here are excellent and sure to please.
The service at this establishment is quick and welcoming, with prices that are moderately priced. The menu offers a range of fresh and delicious food options, such as the breakfast Mexicali bowl, spicy Korean dish, vegan quinoa burrito, and avocado smoothie.
During my visits, I have particularly enjoyed the Pancake in a Bowl for breakfast and the Vegan Bar-rito for lunch. I highly recommend the Vegan Bar-rito to anyone, as it is both flavorful and satisfying without leaving you with a heavy or guilty feeling. Additionally, the smoothies served here are excellent and sure to please.
TOPICS
- Vegan Options
- American Cuisine
- Budget-Friendly Eats
18. XOCO
Features a sustainable and eco-friendly approach to dining
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I ordered takeout from the restaurant and was impressed with the level of service provided, even though I was not dining in. The staff checked on me while I waited for my rideshare, offering water and seating outside. The pork and verdolagas seasonal torta that I ordered was delicious, with fresh and flavorful ingredients. The bread used in the sandwich was particularly noteworthy.
My previous experiences with Rick Bayless' establishments have always been positive, and this time was no different. My lunch was enjoyable and satisfying. The quality of the food at this location lived up to the high standards I have come to expect from Rick Bayless' restaurants.
I ordered takeout from the restaurant and was impressed with the level of service provided, even though I was not dining in. The staff checked on me while I waited for my rideshare, offering water and seating outside. The pork and verdolagas seasonal torta that I ordered was delicious, with fresh and flavorful ingredients. The bread used in the sandwich was particularly noteworthy.
My previous experiences with Rick Bayless' establishments have always been positive, and this time was no different. My lunch was enjoyable and satisfying. The quality of the food at this location lived up to the high standards I have come to expect from Rick Bayless' restaurants.
TOPICS
- Mexican Cuisine
- Budget-Friendly Eats
- Downtown Spots
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19. Yardbird Table & Bar
Southern-style comfort food with a modern twist
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The service at this establishment is generally described as good, with guests noting its fast and personable nature. Some guests even go so far as to call the service exceptional or of great quality.
The brunch offered is a highlight, with one standout dish being the cinnamon roll. This particular cinnamon roll is described as gigantic and delicious, with one guest mentioning that they were glad they shared it with others in their party.
The service at this establishment is generally described as good, with guests noting its fast and personable nature. Some guests even go so far as to call the service exceptional or of great quality.
The brunch offered is a highlight, with one standout dish being the cinnamon roll. This particular cinnamon roll is described as gigantic and delicious, with one guest mentioning that they were glad they shared it with others in their party.
TOPICS
- Social Gatherings
- American Cuisine
- Downtown Spots
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