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New Yorkers 1st Choice
Guide to Lincoln Square

American food

A classic American meal that feels like a genuine neighborhood staple rather than a generic chain experience.

Based on 665 Opinions
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Updated April 2026
01
Las Maria's Breakfast Club image 1
Las Maria's Breakfast Club image 2
Las Maria's Breakfast Club image 3
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Breakfast restaurant

Cozy neighborhood breakfast spot with charming decor and a warm, welcoming atmosphere. Features a kids' activity section that keeps children entertained. Known for friendly service and a relaxed, down-to-earth vibe.

Food features delicious, flavorful dishes that feel like home cooking. The meals are consistently fresh and exceptional.

Hash browns come in a light, savory style that stands out. The menu features hearty options like a patty melt with feta, biscuits and gravy, and a steak and eggs dish with tender, juicy steak.

People are saying

"The food here is delicious and generously portioned."

"The breakfast service here is so warm and friendly."

"I found the American food here to be really good."

Good to know

1

Expect a wait time of 20-30 minutes during weekend brunch hours.

2

Credit cards and mobile payments are accepted; cash is also welcome.

3

Parking is available on the street, but it can be limited during busy times.

02
Cluck'N Wings image 1
Chicken restaurant

Chicken restaurant combines elegant lighting with a cozy, welcoming atmosphere that balances comfort and luxury. A chic, rustic minimalist decor complements a patio with cooling mist, offering a calm yet vibrant space for casual or refined dining.

Food features amazing seasoned fries and very tasty dishes that are well priced. The menu offers excellent food suitable for family meals.

Chicken wings have crispy breading and stay moist inside with bold sauces. Fried chicken sandwiches and wraps come loaded and taste extremely delicious.

People are saying

"These burgers are juicy, flavorful, and carefully stacked."

"The chicken food is perfectly crispy and juicy."

"This American food is so flavorful and perfectly crispy."

Good to know

1

The restaurant offers a full halal menu for all dishes.

2

Kids' meals are available for younger diners.

3

Expect a wait time of about 15 minutes for food after ordering.

03
Budacki's Drive In image 1
Hot dog restaurant

Classic 1950s drive-in with outdoor picnic tables and a friendly, chill vibe. Freshly painted walls and a mural create a welcoming atmosphere that feels like a neighborhood hangout. Small indoor seating gives way to a relaxed outdoor experience with movies playing during warm weather.

Food comes out fresh and quickly with a taste that stays consistent over decades. Expect authentic street-style fast food that captures a classic neighborhood vibe.

Hot dogs stand out with a classic Chicago style and a $4.50 combo with fries. The menu also features buffalo wings, cheese fries, and a variety of American favorites like cheeseburgers, corn dogs, and milkshakes.

People are saying

"You have to try the amazing American Food, especially the hot dogs."

"You have to try the gyro cheeseburger; it's delicious."

"The food here is amazing, tasty, and really good."

Good to know

1

Budacki's Drive In requires cash payment for small orders.

2

Prices are reasonable, with five large wings and fries costing around $16.

3

You can call ahead to place your order for pickup.

04
Bryn Mawr Breakfast Club image 1
Breakfast restaurant

Spacious breakfast restaurant with three separate levels and eclectic, cozy decor creates a warm, fun atmosphere. Noise level rises with crowds, making conversation sometimes challenging. Popular for brunch, it offers a full bar with standout micheladas and bloody Marys.

Food comes out fresh and hot, served promptly after cooking. Breakfast options like cinnamon roll pancakes and the carnitas skillet stand out for their flavor and quality.

Biscuits and gravy come highly recommended. The menu features steak skillet with Gorgonzola, fried chicken and waffles, and steak and eggs all prepared well.

People are saying

"The food here is really good and tasty."

"The brunch here is creative, with bold and flavorful infusions."

"I ordered the biscuits and gravy because it was popular."

Good to know

1

Reservations are not required, but calling ahead can help avoid long waits.

2

Expect a 10-15 minute wait during busy brunch hours on weekends.

3

Credit cards are accepted, but a 3.5% surcharge applies to card payments.

05
Daily Bar & Grill image 1

Spacious outdoor patio with a large shaded tree creates a relaxed and pleasant setting. Lively but not loud atmosphere attracts groups of friends and families, offering a cozy neighborhood tavern vibe. Vintage rock music and multiple TVs add to the casual, friendly energy.

Delicious food stands out here, especially the upgraded fish in the fish and chips. Service often matches or exceeds the quality of the food, making for a solid dining experience.

Buffalo wings stand out as a key offering here. The menu also features a black and blue hamburger, patty melts, and a tasty chicken wrap.

People are saying

"The food here is delicious and tasty."

"You've gotta try the burgers and wings; they're excellent."

"The outdoor space is spacious and shaded by a big tree."

Good to know

1

Expect generous portion sizes; come hungry to enjoy the food.

2

Free parking is available in the lot down on Lincoln on Sundays.

3

The bar has a full menu with reasonable prices for food and drinks.

06
Slim's image 1
Hamburger restaurant

Small dining space with vintage gaming station and touch screen kiosk creates a cozy, casual vibe with relaxing energy. Entertainment options include a game console, chess board, and flat screen TV. Atmosphere feels unique and inviting without being loud.

Food comes out fresh and fast, showing the chefs care about loyal customers. Dishes are consistently delicious and high quality with no rush during service.

Hot dogs stand out, especially the Chicago style and halal options. The menu also features a double cheeseburger with fries, chicken po boy, and a fried chicken sandwich known for its flavor.

People are saying

"I found the burgers here to be the best in the area."

"The food here is just so dang good."

"This American food, especially the burger, is fresh and fantastic."

Good to know

1

Slim's offers both indoor and outdoor seating.

2

The food is usually ready within 5 minutes of ordering.

3

You can get 2 gyros for the price of one all day long.

07
Wolcott Tap image 1
Restaurant

Cozy neighborhood pub with lively atmosphere and dark wood interior. Offers a great patio for outdoor seating and a solid beer selection featuring local brews. Popular spot with a warm, welcoming vibe that balances noise and comfort.

Food here is expensive but tasty, with amazing bar food and remarkable sandwiches and burgers. The beer list includes some nice local options.

Biscuits and gravy come out rich and hearty. Mac and cheese bites offer a crispy, cheesy snack. Nachos stack up with plenty of toppings. Grilled cheese uses thick bread, much thicker than Texas toast.

People are saying

"The food here is great, especially the crispy tots."

"The bar food here is pretty typical, but the fries are oddly shaped and good."

"The American food here, like the nachos and mac and cheese bites, is really good."

Good to know

1

Most beers are served in 9oz pours, which can be more expensive per ounce.

2

Food portions vary significantly; burgers are large while appetizers can be small.

3

The restaurant is kid-friendly, with many tables prepared for children.

08
TEACAGO image 1
Bubble tea store

Fish tanks and neon signs create a retro vibe with a Chicago-themed decor featuring a mural of the skyline. The atmosphere stays chill and cozy, with music videos playing and both indoor and outdoor seating available. A wide variety of customizable bubble tea flavors and snacks like popcorn chicken add to the welcoming, local feel.

Food features handmade quality with items like popcorn chicken and egg rolls. The menu includes Vietnamese coffee with coffee jelly and sea salt alongside delicious boba drinks.

Fried chicken wings stand out with their insanely good flavor and crispiness. The menu also includes fries and Crab Rangoon, pairing well with larger cream Brule brown sugar milk tea.

People are saying

"I had the most authentic Vietnamese coffee I've ever tasted."

"I found the food here to be amazing and delicious."

"I loved the delicious drinks and snacks here."

Good to know

1

TEACAGO offers a wide variety of flavors and types of boba.

2

There is free parking available at TEACAGO.

3

I received a 10% discount for saying I would leave a review.

09
The Budlong Southern Chicken image 1

Casual chicken spot with tasteful music and an attractive decorative window showcasing food. Atmosphere feels just right, blending clean, inviting facilities with a great vibe. Known for fresh, hot southern-style fried chicken and carefully crafted sandwiches with balanced spice.

Food comes out fresh and exceptionally tasty with consistently amazing flavors. Staff are friendly and professional, enhancing the overall dining experience.

Southern-style fried chicken stands out with crispy, moist chicken breasts and Nashville hot chicken tenders offering a spicy kick. Sides like fried cornbread and large servings of mac and cheese complement the hearty sandwiches well.

People are saying

"I found the chicken sandwich to be super crispy and juicy."

"The food here is great, especially the crispy chicken."

"This American food has the best crispy, moist fried chicken."

Good to know

1

The combo meal with fries and a drink costs $14 after tax.

2

For approximately $16, you can get an 18-piece meal with sides.

3

There is plenty of parking available on Western.

10
Bayan Ko Diner image 1

Diner offers a cozy, homey vibe with charming decor featuring dark wood and plant motifs. Seating is close together, creating an intimate but sometimes cramped atmosphere, with an upstairs patio providing outdoor, dog-friendly space. Music leans toward fabulous R&B, enhancing the relaxed, casual mood.

Ropa vieja stands out as a highlight, matching Cuban food quality from Miami. Plates like black beans, maduros, and garlic rice come in generous portions with reasonable prices.

Sweet and savory flavors come through in the Ube Pancakes and Shrimp & Grits. Tender brisket appears in the Cubano and Ropa Vieja, adding rich taste to the dishes.

People are saying

"I thought the brunch here was amazing, especially the Cubano burrito."

"The lumpia and Cubano burrito are amazing food must-tries."

"The American Food pancakes were so light and fluffy."

Good to know

1

Reservations are recommended, especially on busy weekends.

2

The diner is BYOB, allowing guests to bring their own alcohol.

3

Brunch is served daily from 9am to 3pm, except on Tuesdays.

11
Platform 47 image 1
Bar & grill

Large space combines cozy atmosphere with thoughtful details like cast iron dishware and a fireplace. Energy shifts from relaxed dining to lively gatherings, supported by a patio with music and a private event area. Crowd enjoys elevated comfort foods and a variety of well-crafted cocktails in a setting that balances casual and refined.

Food includes a great variety of comfort bar food and entrees with delicious wings and other dishes. Cocktails and drinks complement the excellent food well.

Chicken wings come with a crispy, flavorful batter. Fresh, hot dishes include shrimp tempura, nachos, and cheese curds with a well-made batter.

People are saying

"The bar staff here makes you feel like family."

"The food here is super friendly and welcoming."

"The American Food here has the most welcoming staff."

Good to know

1

Happy hour offers great deals on drinks and appetizers.

2

The private room accommodates up to 40 people for events.

3

Platform 47 has a diverse draft menu for beer lovers.

12
Quick Bite Carry Outs image 1
Takeout Restaurant

Takeout spot with extended counter seating and a fried oil aroma sets a casual, friendly vibe. Known for affordable prices and generous portions, it draws a crowd seeking classic Chicago-style burgers, gyros, and hot dogs. Food preparation emphasizes freshness and flavor, especially in gyros and Italian beef.

Fresh, superior quick food includes hot dogs, burgers, chicken sandwiches, and mozzarella sticks. Staff take time to prepare orders rapidly and with care.

Juicy hamburgers come with consistent flavor and quality. Hot dogs offer the best deals and stand out as the most affordable option around.

People are saying

"I found the food here to be superior and fresh."

"This fast food is delicious, I thought it was fantastic."

"I found the hot dogs here to be the best deal."

Good to know

1

They are cash only, so bring cash for your order.

2

The cost for items is around 90 pesos.

3

Portions are huge, making it a good value.

13
Halal Smash Burger and Phillies (Western Avenue) image 1

Small spot with a dive bar vibe and retro decor offers a chill atmosphere that feels both cozy and inviting. Benches provide comfort while captivating films play on TV, adding to the laid-back energy. The place draws a neighborhood crowd looking for casual dining with a local feel.

Food features delicious burgers and chicken with fresh, high quality ingredients served quickly. Staff prepare and serve with care, often adding extra portions, making the meals tasty and reasonably priced.

Burgers feature fresh brisket and come in varieties like bacon cheeseburger with turkey bacon and cheez sriracha burger. Philly cheesesteak sandwiches taste great but sometimes run out of bread.

People are saying

"I thought the burgers here were the best I had."

"I found the food amazing, especially the burgers."

"I wished they'd make a punch card for the American Food hamburgers."

Good to know

1

The restaurant is open until 3:00 a.m.

2

Parking is limited; side parking requires permits.

3

The menu offers many options with good portion sizes.

14
Willow Cafรฉ and Bistro image 1

Outdoor patio on a leafy square offers natural light and a relaxed, community-focused vibe. Indoor space feels small but charming with a warm, inviting atmosphere suitable for multigenerational groups. The cafรฉ balances a cozy ambiance with lively yet comfortable energy.

Food features phenomenal taste with delicious pastries and teas standing out. The overall menu delivers great flavors consistently.

Biscuits and gravy stand out as a solid choice. Steak and eggs feature distinctive seasoning that enhances flavor. Mac and cheese lacks balance, focusing more on pasta than cheese.

People are saying

"The patio is a cute, cozy outdoor space, perfect for brunch."

"The food here is phenomenal, truly great."

"The American Food here is served by super friendly people."

Good to know

1

Expect busy patio seating during weekends around brunch time, especially in nice weather.

2

Parking in the area can be hard to find; allow at least 15 minutes before your reservation.

3

The Bistro area opens at 10am, so plan accordingly if you arrive early.

15
Wild Goose Bar & Grill image 1

Spacious sports bar with multiple TVs everywhere and a new patio for outdoor seating. Atmosphere ranges from casual and welcoming to lively during games, attracting a neighborhood crowd. Affordable, well-liked beer and standout food like excellent wings and notable steak salad add to the experience.

Food offers great taste and reasonable prices with consistent quality. Service complements the delicious dishes well.

Chicken wings come full of meat and stay perfectly crispy. The wild fries come with cheese sauce, ranch, and Cajun seasoning. They handle special orders like an extra hot dog with care.

People are saying

"I found the food to be great and reasonably priced."

"The wings here are amazing while watching live sports."

"I thought the American Food wings were full of meat and perfectly crispy."

Good to know

1

Expect busy times during major sports events, but no reservations are needed.

2

Daily specials offer discounts on food and drinks.

3

The bar has plenty of TVs for watching sports, especially Michigan State games.

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Lincoln Square, Chicago

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