Gregory Ellis and Steven Fladung, both Charlie Trotter’s vets, are behind this neighborhood-y Lincoln Park gem, a jam-packed destination for contemporary breakfast, lunch and brunch. The dining room---all done up in salvaged wood and funky glass fixtures---is hip without being overwrought. And the food? Well, it’s certainly beyond the everyday. Not to be missed are the savory maple-bacon donuts and the house-made “Pop Tarts” (try the pear with lemon-thyme icing instead of the more gimmicky foie gras). But stiff competition comes in the form of fluffy, vegetable-packed quiche alongside lightly dressed salad. Likewise the pork belly sandwich, a knife and fork number on pillow-like biscuits with a yolky sunny-side egg, pickled onions and killer house-made tots on the side. Lunch, which pleasingly is served all day, ranges from hearty couscous with roasted butternut squash to a fancy Cuban sandwich with pulled pork and pork belly. Don’t overlook the cocktails, though. Seasonal and creative, they’re made with small-batch spirits. Alternatively, expect local brews and boutique wines.
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