A delightful brunch scene in Evanston

Last updated: 2025-04-07

Northwestern students and North Shore locals know Evanston’s brunch scene goes beyond typical college town fare. From Cupitol Coffee’s European-inspired morning plates to LeTour’s Mediterranean twists on breakfast classics, the lakeside suburb serves up distinctive morning meals.

Whether craving the creative Mexican breakfast dishes at Frida’s or the hearty sandwiches at Bat 17, Evanston’s diverse brunch spots cater to both quick weekday bites and leisurely weekend gatherings near the Northwestern campus.

Explore these North Shore breakfast gems below!

Bar Siena - North Shore (Skokie)

What to Expect

Italian-inspired breakfast pizza with housemade mozzarella

Description

Bar Siena brings vibrant Italian brunch experience to North Shore, featuring creative dishes like Breakfast Pizza with baked egg, breakfast sausage, and housemade mozzarella. Their brunch menu showcases inventive takes on classic Italian breakfast fare, including Bombo Breakfast Sandwich with scrambled eggs, cherrywood smoked bacon, and fennel sausage. Complemented by craft cocktails like Bloody Mary with caprese skewer and mimosa kits, this casual Italian restaurant offers a sophisticated yet approachable weekend dining experience.

Where: Skokie | More Info: Bar Siena - North Shore

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Bat 17

What to Expect

Award-winning New York deli-style pub cuisine

Description

Bat 17 delivers a New York deli-inspired pub experience in Evanston, specializing in elevated breakfast and brunch fare. Their menu features gourmet sandwiches and hearty breakfast dishes crafted with premium ingredients. Known for award-winning burgers and a sophisticated pub atmosphere, this restaurant transforms classic pub dining into a fine culinary experience with meticulous attention to quality.

Where: Evanston | More Info: Bat 17

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Cupitol Coffee & Eatery

What to Expect

All-day dining concept with in-house bakery and full-service bar

Description

Cupitol Coffee & Eatery offers an all-day brunch experience in Evanston, blending café, bakery, and restaurant concepts. Specializing in fresh, health-conscious dishes, their menu features standout items like avocado toast, artisan pastries, and creative breakfast sandwiches. The venue provides a versatile dining environment with in-house baked goods, full-service bar, and an expansive menu that transitions seamlessly from morning to evening.

Where: Evanston | More Info: Cupitol Coffee & Eatery

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Egg Harbor Cafe

What to Expect

Multigenerational family-owned breakfast restaurant

Description

Egg Harbor Cafe brings a family-owned brunch experience to Evanston, specializing in creative breakfast classics with a modern twist. Their menu features signature dishes like stuffed French toast and hearty skillets, complemented by a warm, welcoming atmosphere. Rooted in a multigenerational tradition since 1985, this location offers Northwestern students and locals a cozy spot to enjoy expertly crafted morning meals and fresh coffee.

Where: Evanston | More Info: Egg Harbor Cafe

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Evanston Corner Bistro

What to Expect

Ground floor bistro in historic downtown Evanston hotel

Description

Nestled in the historic Hilton Orrington, Evanston Corner Bistro delivers contemporary American cuisine with a local twist. Their brunch menu showcases seasonal ingredients from regional producers, featuring innovative dishes that blend classic comfort with modern culinary techniques. Craft beer enthusiasts will appreciate their curated selection of locally brewed beverages, while cocktail lovers can enjoy unique classic interpretations.

Where: Evanston | More Info: Evanston Corner Bistro

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Frida's Breakfast and Lunch

What to Expect

Mexican-inspired breakfast celebrating Frida Kahlo's artistic legacy

Description

Frida's Breakfast and Lunch brings authentic Mexican-inspired brunch to downtown Evanston, celebrating the spirit of Frida Kahlo through vibrant cuisine. Standout dishes include peach and blueberry French toast with vanilla mascarpone and a hearty corned beef skillet. The cozy, locally-loved spot offers extensive breakfast and lunch options with generous portions and friendly service in a charming, casual setting.

Where: Evanston | More Info: Frida's Breakfast and Lunch

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LeTour

What to Expect

French-Moroccan fusion brunch with James Beard chef collaboration

Description

LeTour offers a contemporary French-Moroccan brunch experience in Evanston, featuring innovative cuisine crafted by James Beard Chef Debbie Gold. Their menu blends sophisticated French techniques with vibrant Moroccan flavors, creating unique brunch dishes that challenge traditional morning dining. The restaurant prioritizes hospitality, sustainability, and supporting local culinary talent.

Where: Evanston | More Info: LeTour

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Mensch's Deli

What to Expect

Authentic Jewish deli preserving traditional culinary techniques

Description

Mensch's Deli celebrates authentic Jewish deli cuisine in Evanston, offering classic comfort foods like hand-carved pastrami sandwiches, matzo ball soup, and traditional bagels with house-made schmear. Their menu honors traditional Jewish deli traditions with generous portions and scratch-made recipes that capture the warmth and nostalgia of classic delicatessen dining.

Where: Evanston | More Info: Mensch's Deli

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MidKitchen

What to Expect

Organic, globally-inspired brunch with extensive dietary accommodation

Description

Mid Kitchen serves an innovative brunch experience in downtown Evanston, specializing in organic, fresh cuisine with diverse dietary options. Their menu spans global flavors, featuring standout dishes like Shakshuka and Steak & Eggs alongside creative Avocado Toasts. With multiple vegan and gluten-free selections, this restaurant caters to varied dietary preferences while delivering high-quality, made-from-scratch morning meals.

Where: Evanston | More Info: MidKitchen

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The Hampton Social - Skokie (Skokie)

What to Expect

Coastal cuisine with Hamptons-inspired restaurant design

Description

Coastal-inspired brunch destination in Old Orchard Center featuring seafood-forward Southern-style dishes. Signature brunch offerings include Lobster Benedict and Crab Cake Eggs Benedict, complemented by refreshing craft cocktails. The Hampton Social delivers a breezy, Hamptons-inspired atmosphere with nautical decor and an energetic weekend brunch experience that transports diners to an East Coast seaside locale.

Where: Skokie | More Info: The Hampton Social - Skokie

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