Wakey, Wakey: The Haute 5 Places to Eat Breakfast in Chicago

Being that breakfast for dinner is one of my favorite meals, finding amazing brunch spots is one of my secret passions. There’s nothing better after a long night out on the town to dissect the weekend’s activities over a mimosa. After all, Top Chef did teach us that the mark of a great chef is how perfectly he could cook an egg. Just don’t forget the side of bacon.

Bongo Room

I’ve said it before and I’ll say it again, whether you are craving sweet or savory, there is absolutely no better brunch spot than the Bongo Room. With staples like white chocolate caramel pretzel pancakes and seasonal favorites like banana bacon pancakes, four berry brioche french toast and red velvet pancakes, if your sweet tooth isn’t satisfied here, you’re just doggone out of luck.

1152 S. Wabash Ave. www.thebongoroom.com/

Hot Chocolate

If you haven’t tried Mindy Segal’s Mexican Hot Chocolate with homemade marshmallows (or any hot chocolate there for that matter), this should seriously be your next stop on the delicious dining train. Recently featured on Martha Stuart, her homemade donuts and pastries are to die for. And we all know the way to a woman’s heart is chocolate.

1747 N. Damen. 773.489.1747. http://www.hotchocolatechicago.com/

Rockit

With a gourmet build your own bloody mary bar featuring 40+ accoutrements, how could you not make this a regular part of your weekend rotation? Though the food’s good, you could make a whole meal out of the bar. So model chic too.

22 W. Hubbard St. 312.645.6000. www.rockitbarandgrill.com/

Orange

Made famous by their weekly changing pancake flight and frushi (aka fruit sushi), this innovative brunch spot offers delectable little bites like chai tea French toast and jelly donut pancakes. Obviously the OJ is fresh, as well.

738 N. Clark St. 312.202.0600. http://orangerestaurantchicago.com/

Bull & Bear

Normally a hoppin’ Friday night spot, Bull & Bear’s Pajama Jam (yes, the servers actually wear pjs) is the new see and be seen breakfast haute. With make your own mimosas and a playful take on Pop Tarts, if you feel like getting dolled up for breakfast, B&B’s your best bet. Bonus: they play ’80s cartoons while you dine. Aaah nostalgia.

431 N. Wells St. 312.527.5973. www.bullbearbar.com/