Reviews of Lou Mitchell's (Restaurant)

Viviana Shanks

Amazing spot to start our Journey through Route 66! The welcome was fantastic with a donut hole and the service was beyond excellent. Food was amazing and your plate would be full and tasty. I had the pancakes and my husband the French toast with reduced berries and it was extremely good. I would recommend this restaurant, breakfast or just to enjoy deliciousness

Pat Diaz

Here with business colleagues at lunch time. This is an amazing historic restaurant. We were seated at a long table in the middle of the restaurant. Some of us had not had breakfast so it was great that our group could choose between the two. I had an omelette, served in a hot skillet placed on a board and brought to the table. It was very tasty. Service was excellent as they kept my coffee cup full all the time. Prices were very reasonable as the omelettes were all $12.99. Love this place.

Markus Neumann

Phenomenal breakfast place Chicago style. Friendly waitress Danielle helped us select our food, which was great. Bring a sweater, the airco is quite cold.

Brazda25

This place is the bee’s knees. Our server Jesus was a cool cat. Get the chicken and waffles!!!!! Hospitality was on point.

Erik Gonzalez

Cool to check out because of the history but I'm assuming the menu and its recipes haven't changed much. Old school breakfast, healthy portions, borderline friendly staff. Good coffee though. Parking can be a challenge depending on what time you visit this establishment. Dont feel the urge or want to return. one and done for me. Enjoy!

mike ggg

A fabulous restaurant with excellent seating opportunities. I sat outside on the street and had an excellent view of the Sears Tower. I had the French toast with eggs, and the French toast was large and soft and the eggs billowy and delicious. I highly recommend it, although the price was much higher than I expected for a diner / breakfast restaurant

Maddie Conway

Amazing breakfast, my omelette was divine. You definitely want a pancake on the side though, even though it comes with toast. Everything about this place is wonderful & doesn't change in a good way. (Even the donut holes and Milk Duds). Service was friendly & our glasses/coffee cups were always full. Don't skip this place but come on the early side so you don't have to wait!

Brennan Jantzen

The food was excellent and the service was wonderful! The mushroom omelette was delicious, especially with the potatoes mixed in. The orange marmalade they keep at the table was also SUPER good with their toast. I can’t emphasize how wonderful the experience was.

Brennan Walter

Lou Mitchell's is a Chicago standard, and maintains it's excellent reputation with awesome food served quickly at affordable prices. You really can't go wrong here. My favorite is their patty melt, but all the breakfast items and skillets are good too. You will also never wait long for service. Overall a top notch establishment that's not pretentious at all.

Daniel Donis

Excellent food and great service.

Karen King

No wait, donut hole and a smile at the door. We went twice during a recent visit to Chicago. First waitress, Cecilia, was fantastic. Waitress on second visit—not so much. Jam and jelly are usually at the table in open saucers. Ours were missing. She brought the two saucers to our table stacked on top of each other, pulled the top one off of the one underneath it, and was about to put both on our table when we objected. Why would we want to use something that had a dirty dish sitting in it? Several times during both visits, random waitstaff came to our table and reached over our food to switch out our salt, pepper. Management should tell staff to complete side work when people are not eating. Food was a saving grace. If you're visiting from out of town, keep in mind that you get two eggs for every one you order.

Steve Oldfield

Great atmosphere, history, waiters and hostesses. And the food is good. It's pretty pricey but worth it.

Michelle Bommezijn

Great start with the best food if you start the route 66 in Chicago!!!

Peter van Beek

Everything you’d want from a diner: friendly wait staff, endless food options and a coffee mug that’s never less than half full. Standard booths and tables but also low counter top seating which makes you feel in the middle of it all- great if you’re dining for one or two. The menu is overwhelming (in a good way) but I landed at an egg sandwich and lemon pie which were both spot on. You won’t be disappointed if you stop by Lou’s.

Milton Araujo

Great food. Pricey

WILL GODINEZ

Very good breakfast spot, they boast about the coffee which is overrated, fresh juice and full menu with great pancakes and jam. Very OVER PRICED, so be prepared. Breakfast counter service and large tables for big groups. No parking and small outdoor patio.

Yolanda Compean-Ruiz

Everytime we go we are never disappointed with the food or the service

Don Palomino

Good food! Servers are nice

Benjamin Nisonger

Such a wonderful breakfast spot. Walked in and were immediately sweating even though place was packed. Drinks and food came out right away and the food was delicious!!!!

Jordan Spenneberg

Excellent service, even better food. Large portions and priced appropriately

jim M

Fast friendly service at an ageless dinner

Bill Perkins

Among the places not to miss in Chicago includes Lou Mitchell's. A variety of classic diner choices with specials making ordering decisions challenging...but fun! A short walk to Union Station and Olgivie Transportation Center makes this visit an easy decision...and fun!

Maddie Schafer

An average breakfast place. Food was good and priced as you'd expect ($10-12 for breakfast entree). The donut hole when you sit down was a nice added bonus, but definitely not the best breakfast in the country as they claim to be.

Derrick Bey

Good food. Good people. Crowded in the morning.

Todd Sander

This place will be our downtown breakfast stop from now on. Fresh baked goods, perfectly cooked food and a lot of it. Egg dishes were a winner and kids liked the pancakes. Hash was outstanding. Which is important when taking your kids. Great service, too. Always crowded. Accept a seat at the bar if offered. Also, you might see a celebrity or two if you keep your eyes open.

Lauren Molby

Omg well worth the money and the food is amazing..friendly staff! Free donut holes and milk duds too!! We will definitely be back!!

Harrison Hopkins

My family had a few hours of delay in Chicago so we decided to explore, and find a nice place to eat. The place we settled on, was an amazing breakfast diner called Lou Mitchell's, and it was GREAT! When we walked in, they gave my entire family a small doughnut and a fun-sized pack of milk-duds, and then we seated. We had a very kind waitress, who took our orders and brought us waters along with our drinks. Then, we ordered some BREAKFAST FOOD! Eggs, Bacon, Potatoes, everything we had was tasty, but my personal favorite was the Waffle that we had. It was a Pecan Bacon Waffle, and it was AMAZING. I was totally in love with it, I would happily eat it again if I was back in Chicago. So yea, if you like breakfast then Lou Mitchell's is a great place for you!

dan stepel

A restaurant worthy of the title "Icon". Have a look at the menu and order whatever strikes your fancy..it is all great and a great value for your money.

David Shively

Wow was I so dissapointed. I love diners and breakfast and I thought this would be a top pick for our trip. We had no wait to get in but felt rushed the whole time. Our waitress forgot so much it was almost comical. Neither of my kids got the drinks they requested. My wife didn't get her coffee until we were almost done. I got one refill that required me to ask. Its a 3.25 coffee and you get like 6 ounces and have to ask for a refill! My kids did get an extra order of sausage that we didnt request. My wife and I both had the eggs benedict and it was not good at all. The eggs were almost hard boiled, the hollandaise bland and the english muffins were neither toasted well or warm. The potatoes were not cripsy or flavorful and no condiments were offered. The sausage was good and the milk dud pancakes my son said were "ok" he eats well but didnt care to finish them. I would totally pass and think this place is riding on a name but not delivering.

Oliver Ewert

Very generous portions, Gluten Free pancakes with cooked fruit were excellent!

Brandon Kerlee

Great breakfast spot. The free donut at the door is lovely, and the apple and cheese omelet is divine. Packed!

Carolyn Wildon

Great food & friendly staff. Great start to our Route 66 journey.

Miloje Subotic

Soft and large scrambled eggs. Large delicious breakfast suasages. Tasty toasts are served here. It is very difficult to go wrong here.

Susan Richerson

Close seating, very loud and lots of traffic/commotion. Food was good and plenty of it. I had a ham and cheese omelet, could only finish half. Co worker had French toast and it looked delicious.

David Enrique Sada Moreno

Lots of options on the menu! Great place to have a hearty breakfast. Omelettes are really fluffy and tasty!

Diego Henrique Duarte Bezerra

I went to brunch on a full Sunday. The service was pretty fast and food was tasty. Fair portions.

Christine McWilliams

Love Louis Mitchell's! Great customer service, good food and the ambience of an "old time" dinner is a great part of Lou's charm. I love the warm doughnut hole as you arrive, it's a warm welcome on a cold Chicago morning.

John Thompson

Great food and fast service!

Linda Campos

This is a classic diner. My family went for breakfast and everyone raved about their food. I had eggs, sausage, potatoes and toast. Everything prepared perfectly! There is outdoor and indoor seating although it is kind of tight. Our waitress was great. We will definitely go back.

Dalt Brewsher

Amazing spot to start our Journey through Route 66! The welcome was fantastic with a donut hole and the service was beyond excellent. Food was amazing and your plate would be full and tasty. I had the pancakes and my husband the French toast with reduced berries and it was extremely good. I would recommend this restaurant, breakfast or just to enjoy deliciousness

Jeff Mackesey

All Amtrak passengers killing time at Union Station should know about this wonderful restaurant. Abundant portions of great tasting food and an authentic big city vibe made this an excellent lunch before catching our train out of Chicago. The availabilities of delightful Grecian delicacies make this place well worth any wait, especially if you just have time to kill anyways. Your reward will be a heaping plate of delicious food at a renowned local establishment. Stopping by here will be a staple of my future trips to Chicago.

Brad Kosar

Classic Chicago breakfast joint. So much history wrapped in this restaurant and the breakfast is pretty darn good! There is typically a line to get in on the weekends but it moves quickly. The hostess is 91 and has been working there for 50 years...she will offer you a donut hole while you wait in line. The omelettes and pancakes are great. The donuts are unbelievably good. Good news is they now accept credit cards.

Shea Gordon

Just really not good. Coffee was undrinkable even after adding a bunch of cream and sugar. Took quite a while for a server to come to our booth. Everything was just... off-putting.

Charles Boyle

Classic diner style old school breakfast. Served in an iron skillet...proper!

Sarah Freese

Very cramped. But tourist season was in full swing. Awesome food great service.

Kimberly Griffin

This is a super busy spot for a nice breakfast. The one thing that gave this place a 5 star for me is Evette! She is absolutely amazing! Very kind and somehow managed to get us our food in 5 mins even though we came later than the rest of our party. She is very attentive and just an absolute jewel! I would come back just for her service alone.

陳冠宇

One of the best breakfast restaurants in chicago which serves best bread. Btw waffle is nice too.

Louisa Mills

What a Café and the great starting point for Route 66!

C Fair

Great friendly service, good food, huge portions. Go, you will be delighted by this classic.

Luke Duggan

Lou Mitchell's is a classic diner experience. The history of this place is literally on the walls. At the very beginning of route 66. House makes the donuts and other pastries. Skillets, pancakes, waffles. This place is a downtown staple and is one of the only diners in the area.

Galen Acevedo

Not really impressed with the food, or service for that matter. The "meltaway pancakes" did no such thing; they were kind of tough just trying to cut them up for my son, and I had to work to get them down myself. I ordered 1 egg scrambled and instead got an omelet. I asked our waitress about it and she said that it was one egg, but they're huge eggs... I guess they use ostrich eggs here. At least she kept my coffee refilled, even when I didn't want any more.

Rachel Jordan

Got breakfast to go before a cubbie game and Gino and the crew took good care of me - and breakfast was good. Packed house and all ! Come through ! Casual, warm atmosphere.

Alice H

Out of towners here looking for that all-American experience, and we found it at Lou Mitchell’s. From the complimentary doughnut holes on arrival to the bustling service and giant portions, this place has character by the bucketload. Lovely place.

Daren Lee

Good food -Fresh baked products in oversized portions

Jim Duval

Read about this place on Facebook. I have to admit the food is Excellent, and the service is impeccable! I definitely will come back for Breakfast during my stay in Chicago and in future visits!

Peter White

Classic diner style breakfasts and friendly service despite being super busy with a line forming outside the door on weekends. Recommended!

Antony Jose

Love this place. I would recommend this as must be place even though I do not want to as it's already very busy.

Bob Geary

Great food and very cool atmosphere

Tara Chattoraj

Omelette and potatoes were decidedly bland, pancakes were dry. Did not get a chance to try other foods - perhaps those were better. Service was good.

Jeff Clough

It's just a notch above Waffle House, but WAY more expensive. Skip this stop on your Chicago tour.

John Dwyer

Cute diner in the west loop, I had the French toast which was delicious. Quick service and decent prices for downtown. Big plus is they accept credit cards.

Jolt Hammer

Great diner. Lots of homemade baked goods and tasty meals. A fun experience.

David Sherman

This is a place to have breakfast when you're visiting Chicago. Great ambiance and wonderful food. Donut holes while you're waiting in line. Fresh orange juice with an amazing breakfast. Don't think about it, just go eat here. I only review the best-of-the-best. My advice? Take it and don't look back, it'll be the best decision you've made in a long time. Share and like.

Dan Sheeler

Classic diner fare... Delicious and busy! Be prepared to chat with the locals as the seating is set up to maximize the space. Both the BLT and corned beef hash are not to be missed!

Leira Renrag

We were given a donut hole upon entry that was out amazing. Nicely speaking I wish I took a photo of the food but it was gone before i had a chance to do so. Their fluffy omelets are out of this world but dont take my world for it try it and thank me later

Sean Naamani

Ok all I can say is that I made it a point to stop in Chicago on the way to Milwaukee to eat at Lou Mitchell's and I can attest to the fact that this is one of the best diners in the country. It's up there with the Waverly Diner in NYC and anything in Jersey. I had a fresh, beautiful, tasty vegetarian Greek Feta Omelet with tomato, onion, and green peppers. They came with a side of home fries, which were sliced instead of cubed, which was different, but just as great, as well as Greek Toast with Sesame seeds). Did I mention that the portions are huge? Definitely worth a try.

lance White

Service was great. Everyone there seems to love their job and love what they serve. I deducted 1 star because it is a bit pricey but the quality is good. Good location if you're in the area already and want a nice fulfilling meal.

Patricia Ross

Great food and service. The wait was short, about 15 minutes. When we arrived the NFL commissioner was there making a presentation to some Vets involved in the Wounded Warriors Project. He bought breakfast for the entire restaurant. A very tasty meal indeed!

Jasmine N

As the starting point of US Route 66, it's an historic landmark. The food is also pretty good. The bread is fantastic. It's a diner style place that's well known, touristic, and somehow manages to give you the feel of walking into an intimate family diner. We enjoyed our experience.

Ren Olive

Thoroughly enjoyed the food and service here, as well as the atmosphere. It’s like a 50/70s breakfast diner with all the charm but with actual grit and not the corny reproduction. This place is real, and the food is real good!

adrie taylor

Loved the old quaint atmosphere and good food

Vincent Rizzo

Hand made meat loaf at 10:45 in the morning good stuff., fast service, good coffee, homemade bread and jelly. No complaints

Jasmine

Super cheap delicious food. They gave me donut holes when I got there and ice cream before I left. The waitress was super friendly and the hostess super helpful. I will definitely go again next time I'm in Chicago.

Lacy Vardeman

We loved it! There was a bit of a wait, but well worth it especially on a weekend. I would definitely stop by for breakfast yet again when we are in town again. We loved the enormous doughnut holes while waiting and then chocolate doughnuts as appetizers.

William Shifko

Great breakfast! Very near the train station.

Cheryl Ward-Kaiser

Best breakfast EVER! Great food and terrific Service. Couldn't come to Chicago and not eat at Lou's. Ham and eggs...biscuits and gravy..yum!!!

Chris

Fantastic breakfast here after a morning run. We were promptly seated at the bench and the service was quick and friendly. We were able to customize our order, and the food came quick. Thank you.

Hannah Mapes

This place is super cute and very diner-like. We were able to walk here from Grand Central station after our train arrived and we were waiting for our next train to leave. We were seated immediately at a long community table. All the food looked delicious and tasted just as good. The only reason I'm not giving 5 stars is that the staff acted like everyone was an inconvenience. None of them smiled or seemed to go out of their way to be helpful and make you feel welcome. Very good place to eat, especially if you're getting on or off of a train.

Brett Gaines

Talk about a legit diner. My friend and I stopped here while we were waiting for our train to leave from Chicago. We found Lou Mitchell's randomly and did not regret our decision to check it out. I love breakfast food and got the bacon pecan waffles

Heather Kuelker

The service was fast and very friendly. Food was delicious! Very cozy.

Harish Adhikesavan

Best bfast place in chicago. One of the best coffees I ever had. The hot chocolate is yummyy. The best.

Albert G

This place was a wonderful welcome into Chicago. We were given delicious doughnut holes while we were waiting to be seated. Despite the big crowd on Saturday morning, we were seated quickly and our orders were taken and sent out quickly as well. The portions for the egg breakfast are amazing and the taste was warm, savory contrast to the cold weather outside. I would wholeheartedly recommend this place to anyone who is coming into Chicago for the first time and needs a quality breakfast!

James Graham

With delicious food and friendly staff this classic American diner is the real deal. Do not miss out!

Anil Upadhyay

Old school diner with good service. Come early to avoid lines.

Kyle Burns

Top 5 restaurant I have been to. Very experienced and efficient staff. The food is da bomb. The best way to spend a day in Chicago starts with this place and get on the red line to Wrigley to enjoy a Cubs game.

Lawson Stroble

I had been visiting Chicago to go to Lollaplooza. I was with a friend and one afternoon we decided to get lunch here. We entered the front and the host was very kind and sat us down. This was my first time being here, so the great atmosphere of the diner was something I enjoyed very much. Our waiter appeared competent and I was very excited to eat. We first ordered tea and milkshakes and those items came out very fast, also tasted great. However, when we ordered our food some time had passed and our waiter came back explaining to us there was a problem in the kitchen and that the food we ordered would take some more time. My friend and I both worked at restaurants and knew this was code for either I screwed up and forgot to place the order or their is a serious problem in the kitchen. Since we could see the kitchen and I can assure you there was no serious problem in the kitchen. In the end we waited there for 40 minutes. Since we had a train to catch we left cash on the table and left spending a total of over hour there and getting no food. It is a real shame the place looks great but the service was terrible here.

Heidi Mangione

In a city filled with food of all sorts, Lou Mitchell's made me feel at home. The service was quick, atmosphere was totally my style - classic, hometown diner. The food was delicious. You should try it!

Amanda Glisch

Food was amazing reminded me of like a little 1920s diner you see in the movies. Food and service we're both top notch most definitely will be back next time I am in Chicago!!

Warren Haseley

Greatest breakfast place ever! Wait staff, quality, portions - can't get any better.

Ryan Oshlo

This place is an iconic diner with a very large menu. Great food and service. Its a cozy place, but they do have some sidewalk dining as well. Lots of history in here. Pretty close to union station and the sears tower.

M Djsjyp

Truly amazing coffee. Loved the waffle and wings and the salmon Benedict dishes. A bit expensive but worth it. Excellent service.

Mike Smiths

Love love love true bliss. Sit at the counter and have a good time. I recommend the corn beef hash and the pecan roll. PS take advantage of the free doughnuts upon arrival

Margie Garcia

Great place. Old school vibe. Fresh homemade pastries, I only tried the Danish because that all I had room for ( very generous serving size). The staff is friendly and helpful. Carry out offered, they are pretty quick. They have a 15 min parking outside as a courtesy for carry out customers because they are located on a very busy street. Word to the wise u will get a ticket if not careful. I leave my emergency lights flashing and run in for my order. Never had to wait longer..as long as u call ahead. They do get very busy early morning and lunch time.

Bob Means

Full menu, tasty food, quick service, and friendly staff.

Blake Trenary

One of the best breakfast places I've been too. Friendly staff keeps your coffee and beverages filled, and the food comes out fast and hot. Fluffiest eggs I've ever had

Roger Korf

Every time we come to Chicago we stop Lou Mitchell's for breakfast. Great breakfast and very friendly and effecient staff.

Matt Monk

This place is amazing. Eggs and pancakes so fluffy and great tasting. There own brand coffee hit the spot. Best breakfast in Chicago.

Shae Hughes

Amazing place! We were visiting Chicago from Michigan and saw the place while walking around. We got there about 1030am, it was busy but we (party of 2) got seated in under 5 min. The staff were all super friendly and attentive. Our waitress, Mary Lou was super positive and welcoming. The food was hot and fresh and was at our table in less than 10 min of ordering. To top it all off, they give out small cups of ice cream at the end of the meal!! Can't wait to visit again!

Charlie Schafer

It's a solid breakfast place, but nothing really special about it. A nice little surprise was the donut whole you pretty much get as a little appetizer for free. The coffee was decent, not spectacular. I ordered chocolate chip pancakes and they were about average. Service was alright, not the best. The reason I'm giving it 4/5 and not 3/5 is because I personally really like breakfast. If you enjoy breakfast and want a solid, not incredible, experience I recommend Lou Mitchell's.

LeRoy Finnigan

Above average food and coffee. Prices are like many others in Chicago. Iconic status does make it a little more special.

Nick Musser

Awesome food. Great service.

Jason Koplin

Excellent service. Very thoughtful from the moment you enter the front door to the small cup of ice cream to finish off the meal. Wonderful place to have a meal.

Joshua Ajjarapu

Classic Chicago diner. Went for breakfast early Sunday morning. Was not disappointed. Got plain pancakes and biscuits with gravy. Was all very good. Great, friendly staff. Street parking was a cinch. No wait times. Classic diner feel in a good way.

Dan Foster

I like it here, great food & service. the staff was very friendly and attentive. I preferred this place for breakfast.

clifford schrader

First off Lou Mitchell's is a national treasure. If you haven't been your missing out. It's an experience that is matched by none. A real trip through time. The food is great. I dont have enough good things to say!! Go here.

Arthur Riepenhoff

Best place for breakfast. Chad was so nice and always smiling. Pecan waffle was sooooo good.

Rebecca Tobin

So cute. We walked about 2 miles because the pictures looked good, we were not disappointed.

The Nic & Chris Street Chronicles Taylor

Good food and the Waitress was nice.

Lorena Muñoz

Nice 66 route restaurant. Delicious breakfast and nice service...

Evik James

We got off an Amtrak at 6 am on a Monday morning and looked for the best breakfast in Chicago. We arrived at Lou Mitchell's. Wow! The service was great and the food was delicious. We felt right at home. This place has a great reputation. I wasn't disappointed.

Walter Oles

Great as always. Had the cornbeef hash today. Wonderful.

Gregory Madden

Great Greek toast and orange juice, the fluffy omlettes are as good as I remember, and quick efficient service to top it off!

Steve Guidos

Huge portions, good food, a little pricey

Ashley Carnesecchi

very inviting atmosphere, stellar food, kindest staff ever

Cesar Swift

Food is mouthwatering. I tried their burger and fries, both were good in taste. Fries were very crispy. I’m really in love with this place. Not only the food makes you fall for this place, but also the amazingly helpful and polite staff does that.

Laura C Lin

Great diner food. Not too expensive.

Den in

Good down home food. Offering gluten free pancakes and really soft and crunchy donut holes. Enjoyed the wings and waffles. Chicken may have benefited from more seasoning, however.

Laura Patterson

Enjoyed great breakfast in advance of conference. Friendly wait staff, our luggage was not a problem and great food. Who could ask for more

Elana Podvalniuk

I come here every time we are in Chicago! Amazing!

Sunny wray

Wow, I really loved this place. The service was excellent, the food was special and delicious. They started with a donut hole at the door, milk duds at your table, and homemade icecream after your meal. I had the cornbeef hash and eggs. So great, huge portion. Fluffy eggs, homemade bread made there for the toast, with real grape preserves. This is the real deal, been around since the 1920s and obviously they still care about their customers. I will go back, LOVED IT.

Andrew Kutylo

What a classic. I ate here with some of my boys on my wedding day. The food was great. The service was great. Perfect diner scene. It's a must. Get the donut holes at the end. Open the donut hole up, put some ice cream in it, and dunk it in your coffee. Enjoy!

Dude Man

Excellent breakfast on route 66!!! The donuts, breakfast, and coffee are awesome!

David Kennedy

We went for brunch time before our train left Chicago. It was the perfect diner! Greeted at the door by a wonderful lady handing gifts of donut wholes with powdered sugar. Fantastic! The food was good and hearty and hot. The rye bread is delicious. The service was good and friendly. Can’t go wrong here. We went back to get some to go sandwiches for the train, but they closed at 3:00pm so we missed out there. Next time!

Peter Darch

Lou Mitchell's is a fantastic classic breakfast diner. It's a no frills spot, but it stands out for it's exceptional service, charming atmosphere, and great food served in large portions. On weekend mornings, there is often a short wait, but free homemade powdered sugar donut holes are handed out as you wait. I usually order a salami and giardiniera omelette which comes in a skillet with great breakfast potatoes. At the end of the meal, the waitresses may offer a small scoop of soft serve vanilla ice cream - which I can never turn down. Lou Mitchell's will not disappoint anyone looking for a classic diner breakfast experience in Chicago.

Julieta Campos

Staple- mediocre food and shotty service. Definitely resting on laurels

Joseph Kuzdal

Sometimes a rlpretty good wait, but love the fresh donut holes at the door! Best breakfast food around and the service is great. Reasonable prices breakfast, maybe a little on the high side, but worth it.

Sreenivas Pondicherry

This was my first time even though I lived in Chicago since 2001. I remember the fresh, warm and inviting aromas from their kitchen as I walk by their restaurant every morning on my way to the Union station. Tempted many a time and finally went with my son. I was welcomed with a smile and a donuy, settled down to a 2 seater. Food was just amazingly yummy. You can have breakfast and not be hungry till dinner. Friendly staff, full of humor and wit to make it a lovely morning.

Steve Pollock

Great breakfast. Veggie omelette. Fluffy & delicious. Great service, definitely the diner/old Chicago vibe I was looking for.

Manon Klaassen

Had a nice breakfast and it's cool to know it's been a filming location for quite some known movies

Martin Vazquez

Mitic place, great food and Anhielo is top!!!

Wendie Schlattman

Love the food all home made, but so much, i will be back

Tiffany D

I patronized Lou Mitchell’s restaurant in Chicago for my birthday. I looked up reviews and decided this was great place to visit. Unfortunately, my experience did not reflect any positive reviews that I saw. If you are African American this is not location that you would want to patronize unless you want to be ignored and sit at the table for 40 minutes before someone notices you!!!!! I will never come back here again and I would not recommend this restaurant to anyone!!!!! These people as a team are unprofessional and uninviting and they defy the key principles of customer service! My mom who is physically disabled, whom I dropped off to find a park, stated that she was not greeted by staff. The lady at the front desk asked her “how many?” She then walked her to her table and that was it. I came into the restaurant around 10:16am. When I walked in the cashier walked me to my table and that was the end of the attention from restaurant staff for a while. We were not assigned a waitress or given attention to until 30-40 minutes later. Someone did bring water/coffee and eventually the cashier after 15 minutes brought us a piece of orange and a prune in a small bowl. After writing with no attention given to us regarding our order, I got up to address the cashier Salena inquiring about who our waiter/waitress would be. She stated that she will see about it. We waited another 15 minutes until this lady with short black hair I‘m assuming she’s the manager came and said to us “We can’t take pictures” This is an activity we engaged in while trying to sit and wait patiently. Also, staff took pictures of patrons sitting at a table behind us. She then stated she was just kidding and then learned it was my birthday. She learned we didn’t have a server and went to get someone. After some minutes passed, I heard a commotion of chatter to my right. It was the manager lady and 2 waitresses bickering. She told them “I don’t care who takes the table, but somebody needs to!” They were all looking at us and she was directing their attention to us. It was very clear they were not interested in serving us. Their faces had looks of disgust when they were told to serve us. I felt uncomfortable and it was at that moment I should have gotten up and left, but stupidly I stayed. We were assigned the youngest waitress who was bickering. Her names is Lili. This restaurant was NOT welcoming and cared nothing about me and my family patronizing them. There were no smiles. After she took our order and came with our food, she did not return to ask us if we were ok or if we needed anything. The last time she came over is to ask us if we wanted boxes. I would like to say that I try not to attribute my bad experiences to race, but in this case, I noticed the White patrons had waitresses who were very attentive and who came back and forth to the table and this include one of the waitresses who was bickering against our table. So, I’m not sure what the problem was but we did tip our waitress more than enough even though it wasn’t deserved! Also, the food was average don’t understand what the hype is all about. We also asked for separate checks when we ordered and after she brought boxes the lady never brought them so after waiting a while, we went to pay up front and handle the business transactions at the counter. P.S. To the staff at Lou Mitchell’s, if you are going to have the nerve to have a stack of free bibles and “God is Love” materials at the front counter, your restaurant’s behavior and attitude towards customers should reflect that no matter the race, age, etc. Give me a favor and stop distributing these materials until you are ready to show love and concern to every patron. Also, please refrain from arguing in front of patrons about who is going to take the table!!! We deserve a refund!!!

nobearings1

Walking into the restaurant I was immediately greeted by a kind woman who offered me a free powdered sugar donut. At sat down at the table top counter and was greeted by a kind server. My food came out hot, fresh, and exactly how I ordered it. I never felt rushed and the staff was definitely attentive to my needs. I hope to come back here for breakfast next time I'm in town.

Tabitha Roberts

A preferred place for breakfast. i like it here, great food & service. the staff was very friendly and attentive. the bill was fair for the quality of food. i see why this place has a lot of good reviews.

Elisabeth Swartz

I had the pot roast. I was expecting it to be more like pulled pork in some beef gravy but it was a little dry. If I didn't put the gravy on it that they served with it , I would not have liked it at all. Service was good. I guess they're known for their breakfast.

Nita Price

The food was absolutely delicious!! Impeccable service! Love the restaurant's Famous Route 66 decor!!!! Outstanding dining experience!! Today they were filming a movie or a show! It was very entertaining!

Ceri Lewis

Had a great breakfast here. Very popular for tourists and locals and you can see why. Food was great!

Marisha Humphries

Loved the coffee. Pancakes were good.

Saeed Alrahma

We came on a Saturday morning. There was about 20-30 minutes late (the line moves fast). The ambiance inside is okay. It's route 66 themed but nothing stood out to me. The food tasted like it was made in a rush. The waiters were all in a rush too. I didn't enjoy my experience there at all. The omelet was acceptable and the pancakes had 4 slices of banana and chocolate chip on the top on one side for a stack of 3.

Epup Mack

Nice place with good service. Classic American feel.

Eleanore Dias

My boyfriend has been going to Lou's for over 10 years. Needless to say, it is his favorite restaurant. Two years ago when we began our long distance relationship, he introduced me to it, and it's been our most preferred date spot for breakfast and brunch in Chicago. Coffee is excellent, breakfast is delicious, and the atmosphere is warm, loving, and friendly! My go-to is the Greek Sausage special, and my bf enjoys the Smoked salmon and onion omelette.

Fabiola Villanueva

The best pancakes I ever had the butter is so good! Wonderful benedictine eggs. Love this place.

Matteo Bocci

This place is an institution in the city. I have first visited this breakfast place in 2009 and was captivated by the fantastic home feeling despite the spaciousness of the interiors. We were greeted warmly and offered their famous donut holes (make sure to buy some!) The staff is making you feel like home and makes everything look effortless and smooth. My eggs Benedict were among the best I have ever had, as well as the blueberry muffin I took home with me. This place serves traditional (maybe not the healthiest choice) American breakfast. Iconic.

Jacob Carson

Food is pretty mediocre, and overpriced. Way better off going to any other breakfast place. Enjoyed free donut holes though

Rolf Phelps

I am willing to wait on Sunday mornings to get a table here for brunch. I love how they service people here. The portions are good sized and they know what they are doing with eggs, bacon, sausage, etc.

Sam Montag

The food is average and the service is meh, especially for the prices they charge. I got a waffle today and my first thought was, "I've made better at home and I can't even cook that well." This used to be our go-to place for brunch on the weekends, but the last few years it has gone downhill.

Karen Moore

Delicious, large portions! Feels good and comfy!

J HERMANN

Best eggs and French toast I've ever had

Dina A

One of the best classic American diners downtown. They offer donuts as you walk in and the menu is full of delicious breakfast food. I haven't had anything from the lunch menu but I'm sure it's good. They really know how to pack people in without being too crowded. Service is quick and friendly.

Ken Alden

Incredible restaurant. A must stop if you're hungry and in the area. We were early for a train and it's just a few minutes away from Union station.

Juan Monroy

Breakfast is awesome!! Omelettes are outstanding (apple with cinnamon and cheddar cheese the best).

Jeff Gibson

Simply iconic. Absolutely love this place for breakfast in Chicago. Highly recommended.

Nikki Kozik

The best service we have ever had during a running experience! All of the staff had been attentive. And the food was absolutely delicious. The fluffiest eggs and the sweetest syrup!

FoolHive

Free donut holes? Free coffee? Amazing staff and amazing food? Thassa 5 star right there

elisabeth oh

A Chicago Staple! Didn't 'The Break up' film a scene in here? I enjoy the ketch trivia at the tables, and the true diner ambience. There are servers who have been working there for years! I love watching them say hello to the regulars. This diner offers a great mix of seating; including shared tables and diner stools. True to advertised, they offer a pretty good cup of coffee. I love that their breakfast platters are served in frying pans and their round, potato chip like hash browns. Their menu always gives you one extra egg: so one egg is really two, two eggs are three, three are four etc., etc. A great spot to both, bring a client for lunch, or to grab brunch over the weekend with less of a wait compared to other places around the West Loop. And yes, they give doughnut holes in line and milk duds to children and women. Fun. Just a note, parking can be a little rough, there's a paid lot within the same block just to the east/a little south.

Flawed Chick

Very Chicago! Love it! Food is great. Had breakkfast BLT.

Cindy Clough

What a great diner! Wonderful good, large portions, fast service! It was worth the wait in line!

Maria Andara

My husband and I enjoy eating breakfast in diners. This is one of out favorite ones. They serve delicious donuts when you enter. Although there serve lots of customers, they pay individual attention to each customer