Along the southern shores of Lake Michigan, many of Chicago’s best restaurants serve stunning water views alongside mimosas and eggs Benedict, either from lakeside locations or lofty rooftop lounges.
Lake Michigan gets its name from the word Michi Gami, meaning “large lake,” and is the only one of the five Great Lakes that is located entirely within the United States. The Lake is home to a wide range of wildlife and has earned a reputation for being one of the most beautiful of the Great Lakes as well as the most visited. With its crystal-clear waters, sandy stretches of beachfront, and wilderness all around you, it is the perfect place to escape for brunch with a stunning backdrop.
There’s no better way to start the day in Chicago than with delicious food, quality cocktails, and breathtaking lake vistas. Get your brunch on while enjoying the view at these nine top brunch spots around Chicago.
1 City Cruises Lake Michigan brunch cruise
If you’re looking for the best brunch in Chicago with a view, Lake Michigan itself is the place to be. You can go for a scenic lake cruise and enjoy brunch at the same time on the City Cruises Signature Sunday Brunch Cruise, which includes a brunch buffet, bottomless mimosas, DJ music, and views of the Chicago skyline. Spend your afternoon in an unforgettable way with friends and family while relaxing aboard a two-hour cruise with stunning views of the city like you’ve never seen before. Don’t forget your camera for Instagram-worthy photos.
2 Cindy’s Rooftop
Located across from Millennium Park, Cindy’s Rooftop offers brunch-goers fantastic views of the park, the Art Institute of Chicago, and Lake Michigan from its open-air terrace and sun-filled indoor glass atrium.
The seasonal New American brunch fare includes classics like buttermilk pancakes and oysters, as well as fun new options like chicken katsu sandwiches to pair with DIY mimosas or Bloody Marys.
3 The Lakefront Restaurant at Theater on the Lake
You can get double-whammy views of the lake and the Chicago skyline from the chic Lakefront Restaurant near Fullerton Beach in Lincoln Park.
Situated inside the historic Theater on the Lake building, the hearty Midwestern weekend brunch gives a fun, breakfasty twist to non-breakfast foods, like brunch burgers and breakfast nachos. The lakefront location and budget-friendly options make this a great option for families who want to spend a day in the park.
4 Shore Club Chicago
With a Mediterranean-style brunch featuring small plates like salmon ceviche and mains like lobster Benedict, Shore Club Chicago is steps away from the white-sand expanse of North Avenue Beach. The airy restaurant has indoor waterfront dining, and after brunch, you can relax in a lounge chair at the Oasis Shore Club or enjoy cold drinks or a flight of refreshing frozen cocktails on the patio.
All the attractions of Lincoln Park, including the North Pond, South Pond, and Lincoln Park Zoo, are a short walk away on the other side of North Lake Shore Drive.
5 Offshore Rooftop
Reaching out into the waters of Lake Michigan at the end of Grand Avenue, Navy Pier is a Chicago institution. Offshore Rooftop is located at the far east end of the pier and offers panoramic lake and skyline views.
Choose between an indoor glass atrium and an outdoor terrace to enjoy classic brunch options, such as avocado toast and bottomless mimosas, with Navy Pier’s fun activities and lovely city beaches, like Ohio Street Beach, Oak Street Beach, Montrose Beach, and North Avenue Beach, just steps away.
6 NoMi
Named after its location along North Michigan Avenue, this upscale restaurant in the Park Hyatt Hotel offers a mix of lake and city views from its indoor and outdoor dining areas.
With fancy, high-end mains (think: steak and eggs and a seafood tower), the food at NoMi is complemented by the unbeatable front-row seats to the historic Water Tower.
7 LH Rooftop
Combining views of the lake, the Chicago River, and the architecturally diverse buildings of downtown Chicago, LH Rooftop makes for one epic brunch spot.
This rooftop restaurant and lounge, which includes stylish indoor and outdoor dining, is a popular spot for weekend brunch, on account of both the awesome view and the innovative brunch fare like lobster biscuits and gravy and Bananas Foster French toast.
8 I O Godfrey
Enjoy brunch and incredible top-of-the-world views from the hip, modern | O Godfrey rooftop lounge year-round—the only rooftop eatery in Chicago open, regardless of the season.
The decadent brunch menu features healthy and comfort-food options ranging from parfaits to beignets and a creative brunch-cocktail menu with mimosas and frosé all day—the ultimate refreshment on a summer weekend.
9 VU Rooftop Bar
Find lovely floral aesthetics, contemporary design, fun food like shareable biscuit boards, and an unbelievable “v-u” of Chicago and the lake at VU Rooftop Bar, where you can opt for indoor or open-air dining on its two terraces.
Brunch in style at these lake-view Chicago restaurants
From laidback waterfront restaurants to cool rooftop lounges, you’ll find a wide range of brunch options around Chicago that also come with beautiful views of the lake.
In addition to the Sunday brunch cruise, City Cruises also has lunch, dinner, and sightseeing options such as Architectural Brunch Cruises where you can enjoy delicious food and beautiful city views.
Chicago, along Lake Michigan, offers 28 miles of shoreline and beaches, offering year-round beauty and enjoyment to visitors and locals alike. There is something for all to explore on this stunning stretch of water. Having this beautiful lakefront allows residents and tourists to experience the best of both city and the outdoors. You cannot go wrong with brunch overlooking Lake Michigan or from Lake Michigan!
FAQs – Chicago Brunch with a View
What is the most popular brunch time?
Most people eat brunch between 10 am and 2 pm. It is the perfect time to enjoy breakfast items while also enjoying some lunch items.
What should you wear to brunch?
This all depends on the location, but most brunches are casual. Dress according to the weather as most brunch settings can be outside.
What are typical brunch menu items?
The most common brunch menu items include eggs, French toast, pancakes, waffles, and other bread-based dishes. You can expect sandwiches, salads, and fruit as well.
Where is the best spot for brunch in Chicago with a view?
Chicago is overflowing with brunch spots, offering a wide variety of weekend eats from classic sweet tooth items to meat and potato feasts all while enjoying a view of Lake Michigan.
Are there brunch cruises on Lake Michigan?
Yes. You can spend your afternoon on Lake Michigan with dining, picturesque views, and live music all from controlled interiors or open-air rooftop decks. City Cruises has several options to choose from for a day out on the water.
Which brunch spots in Chicago offer the best views of Lake Michigan?
Chicago’s brunch scene boasts an array of venues with panoramic lake views. Cindy’s Rooftop offers a picturesque perspective of Millennium Park, the Art Institute, and the vast expanse of Lake Michigan. However, for a truly unique experience, consider hopping aboard City Cruises. Not only will you indulge in a scrumptious brunch, but you’ll also be treated to unparalleled views of Chicago’s skyline right from the water.
Are there any hidden gem brunch spots in Chicago with scenic views?
Beyond the big names, Chicago is dotted with lesser-known brunch locales with captivating scenery. Promontory Point in Hyde Park is perfect for those seeking a more tranquil setting with its breathtaking lakefront sights, ideal for a laid-back brunch picnic. And North Pond in Lincoln Park offers a delectable menu accompanied by stunning reflections of the city’s skyline on the pond’s surface.
What are the best waterfront patios for brunch in Chicago?
When it comes to waterfront brunch spots in Chicago, the options are both diverse and delightful. The River Roast along the Chicago River is known for its mouthwatering menu and mesmerizing water views. But if you’re aiming to dine right on the water, City Cruises takes the experience up a notch, offering an exquisite brunch setting as you gently glide across the lake’s serene surface.
Is there a brunch cruise available on Lake Michigan?
City Cruises offers a brunch cruise on Lake Michigan, treating guests to both a delectable buffet spread and 360-degree views of Chicago’s iconic skyline, all from the tranquil waters of the lake. You can also do brunch on the Chicago River with City Cruises!
How early should I book a reservation for a lakeside brunch in Chicago?
Given the high demand for lakeside brunch spots, particularly during the summer weekends, it’s recommended to secure your reservation at least a week in advance. Prime locations with exceptional views, especially those like City Cruises, can get fully booked pretty quickly. It’s always better to plan ahead!
Original post date: September 24, 2022