The Brunchery at 2552 N Clark St is a Lincoln Park breakfast-and-brunch spot with roots stretching back to Frances’ Deli, which opened on the same corner in 1938. Today, the kitchen mixes that neighborhood-deli history with oversized brunch plates, house-made sauces, French toast flights, skillets and seafood-forward dishes. Dine-in, takeout and delivery are available, with indoor and outdoor seating reported. First time here? Start with the French Toast Flight; it best captures the restaurant’s playful approach to brunch.
The Brunchery leans toward creative, indulgent brunch rather than a minimalist breakfast menu. Its kitchen says sauces, batters and syrups are made in-house, while the current menu moves from classic skillets and deli sandwiches to bacon flights, shrimp and grits, steak and eggs and several flavored French toasts.
French toast is the clearest signature. Guest feedback repeatedly singles out the flights, while the restaurant itself gives them prominent billing.
Mega French Toast Flight - $17. This is the first-timer order: strawberry shortcake, lemon zest, blueberry crunch, caramel apple and a rotating fifth flavor. Expect soft brioche, fruit-forward batters and contrasting toppings ranging from granola to candied walnuts. Share it if you want to explore several sweet flavors without choosing one full stack.
Jerk Shrimp & Purple Grits - $28. Three jumbo shrimp sit over slow-cooked heirloom grits with white cheddar and lobster bouillon. Choose this when you want something savory and seafood-focused; the creamy grits and jerk seasoning make it a much bolder brunch order than pancakes or eggs.
Corned Beef Skillet - $19. Fresh corned beef comes with seasoned potatoes, onions, peppers and two eggs. This suits diners who prefer the restaurant’s deli roots over its sweeter brunch creations, and customers frequently praise this skillet.
Cluck-N-Gaufre - $19. The restaurant’s chicken-and-waffle plate pairs a sweet potato waffle with hand-battered fried chicken and nutmeg hot sauce. Pick it when you want sweet, savory and crisp textures on the same plate.
Bacon Flight - $10. Five different cuts, types and flavors of bacon make this a better sharing starter than a standard side order.
Customers consistently praise the large portions, creative menu, French toast flights, cocktails and attentive service. The cozy room and upbeat music also make it popular for brunch dates and groups.
The main tradeoffs are space and consistency. Reviews describe a compact dining room that can feel crowded and loud when busy, and some diners report individual dishes falling short despite strong overall experiences. Larger parties may also face longer waits.
Yes, if you want brunch to feel like the main event. The Brunchery makes the most sense for diners who enjoy generous portions, playful sweet-and-savory combinations and an energetic room. Come hungry and order a signature flight or one of the more distinctive savory plates. Skip it if you want a quiet, quick breakfast in a spacious dining room.
Does The Brunchery offer takeout and delivery?
Yes. Both are offered directly through the restaurant’s online ordering system.
Does The Brunchery have outdoor seating?
Yes. Recent diner reports confirm both indoor and outdoor seating.
Does The Brunchery serve seafood?
Yes. Current options include Jerk Shrimp & Purple Grits, catfish, cod and Atlantic salmon dishes.
Is there a kids’ menu?
Yes. The current menu includes pancakes, French toast, chicken tenders, grilled cheese, burgers and mac and cheese for children 12 and under.
Monday 09:00 AM - 03:00 PM
Tuesday 09:00 AM - 03:00 PM
Wednesday 09:00 AM - 03:00 PM
Thursday 09:00 AM - 03:00 PM
Friday 09:00 AM - 03:00 PM
Saturday 09:00 AM - 03:00 PM
Sunday 09:00 AM - 03:00 PM
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