When asking yourself about something to do near me in Chicago with a group of friends or family, consider
Ann Sather Restaurant & Catering
Why Ann Sather Restaurant & Catering is a fun option when searching for things to do near me with friends and family
Ann Sather Restaurant & Catering is a cherished Chicago institution known for its warm hospitality and delicious Scandinavian-inspired cuisine. Founded in 1945 by Ann Sather, the restaurant has a rich legacy of serving hearty, homemade meals that make it a fantastic place to gather with friends for breakfast or lunch. Its inviting diner atmosphere blends traditional Swedish fare with American favorites, providing a comforting and welcoming backdrop perfect for social meetups. Highlights include their famously indulgent cinnamon rolls, praised by culinary personalities and food lovers alike as a must-try treat. The menu also features Swedish staples such as potato sausage, Swedish pancakes with lingonberries, and meatballs, alongside classic breakfast staples like omelets and benedicts. Open daily from early morning until mid-afternoon, Ann Sather offers both table service and takeout, making it convenient for casual brunches or relaxed gatherings. The option to bring your own beverages adds an extra layer of enjoyment for groups wanting to celebrate over mimosas or Bloody Marys. With locations in Lakeview and Edgewater, this well-loved restaurant continues to maintain the spirit of generous homemade meals and genuine care for its guests, making it an excellent and enduring spot to connect with friends over great food.
Here's what people think of Ann Sather Restaurant & Catering
As of recent, Ann Sather Restaurant & Catering holds a 4.5-star rating based on 750 reviews.
User reviews of Ann Sather Restaurant & Catering overwhelmingly highlight the restaurant's warm atmosphere and outstanding cinnamon rolls, which many describe as the best in Chicago. Reviewers appreciate the blend of Swedish and American comfort food, making it a unique yet approachable place for breakfast and brunch. Positive reviews frequently mention the friendly service, cozy diner setting, and generous portions that foster a welcoming environment ideal for groups and casual meetups. Patrons particularly love the Swedish pancakes and the classic breakfast dishes, which complement the standout cinnamon rolls. However, some negative reviews note that while the cinnamon rolls and a few Swedish specialties shine, other menu items such as omelets, wraps, and benedicts can be underwhelming and just average in taste. A few guests have commented on occasional inconsistencies in service speed or dining area crowding, especially during peak hours. Additionally, there was an incident in 2021 where the restaurant was fined for violating indoor dining restrictions amid the COVID-19 pandemic, although this did not appear to tarnish its reputation significantly. In conclusion, the overall sentiment from reviewers positions Ann Sather as a beloved neighborhood spot where the cinnamon rolls and Swedish staples are worth the visit, and the friendly, homestyle ambiance makes it a great place to meet friends despite some minor menu and service critiques.
Highlights from reviewers (Most Relevant)
Bill Wang
A bustling brunch spot known for its massive, hearty cinnamon rolls - they come as sides but could easily be a meal on their own! I had the V4 omelet, packed with veggies and topped with melty cheese, while the bacon cheddar potato pancake was rich and tasty, if a bit on the oily side. A cozy neighborhood staple that always delivers a satisfying brunch experience.
Justin Jose
This place had such good reviews so I decided to order take out. I ordered a corned beef hash and I was completely shocked when I got home. What a pathetic portion. I ordered an ENTREE not a SIDE. Can anyone please explain to me how this is $17 dollars worth of food? This place is pathetic.
Stephen Dowd
Have only been once but was EXTREMELY impressed by the quality of the food and the fast and friendly service. The menu has a lot of choices and I completely overlooked the separate card on the table with the extra specials. No matter, the steak and eggs were great (3 thick, tender slabs), OJ was fresh, and side options were great. I went with the tomatoes slices and the cottage cheese. My wife loved the cinnamon rolls and breakfast wrap. Unfortunately I'm just visiting from the SF Bat Area but will recommend this place to my niece who just moved here.
Vanessa Garagnani
Wow. The cage looks basic but the flavors are so much more. The Swedish sampler was more than expected, the pancakes and sausage, swedish meatball, and lingonberry sauce was excellent. My plate was the 2 eggs and meatballs. The Sweet potato coconut muffin was excellent and even my no veggie husband wanted more. Portions are large so keep that in mind when ordering. Loved it!
LLG
This was such a treat to experience with my Uncle, after so many years of missing out on being on this side of town. The host-Riley made this that much more pleasant! Riley, Kesha from the southside (Beverly area) thanks you again, for such great hospitality!
How to reach Ann Sather Restaurant & Catering
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Why Ann Sather Restaurant & Catering may become Your Favorite Meetup Place for Catching Up, Celebrating or Just Hanging Out
Why rally at Ann Sather Restaurant & Catering with your friends? This charming Chicago eatery, lauded with a solid 4.5-star rating from over 750 reviews, offers a warm, inviting atmosphere perfect for a group gathering. Established nearly 70 years ago, Ann Sather has built its reputation on generous homemade meals and friendly hospitality that make it an ideal place to meet and connect. Whether you're catching up over a leisurely weekend brunch or starting a day of city exploration with a hearty breakfast, this restaurant offers both comfort and quality that appeal to all ages. Notably famous for its legendary cinnamon rolls—celebrated on Food Network and Cooking Channel shows—Ann Sather adds a special touch to any meetup by serving dishes that are both satisfying and memorable. Its cozy dining environment encourages conversation and camaraderie, making it much more than just a place to eat; it's a place where friendships can be renewed and good times shared.
What activities can you enjoy at Ann Sather Restaurant & Catering? While this venue specializes primarily in breakfast and lunch menus, its offerings inspire more than just eating—they create a social experience. Your group can indulge in a diverse menu featuring Scandinavian and American dishes, ensuring there's something for everyone's palate. This familiar yet unique blend encourages food aficionados and casual diners alike to discuss flavors and share tastes, fostering a lively dining environment. The restaurant provides full table service, so your group can comfortably enjoy a relaxed meal without the hassle of ordering at a counter. The option for takeout and catering expands the social potential further, as you can bring the renowned Ann Sather flavors to your own home or event, making it perfect for larger gatherings or celebrations with friends and family. Moreover, the staff's warm hospitality amplifies the experience, making everyone feel welcomed and valued.
Why is Ann Sather Restaurant an ideal spot for a group meetup? One of the standout features is its accessibility and accommodating space designed to comfortably host parties of various sizes. With wheelchair-accessible facilities and seating options suitable for families, highchairs are available to support bringing along even the youngest members of your group. The dining ambiance is casual yet polished, allowing for either informal chats or more festive occasions such as birthday meetups or reunion brunches. Ann Sather’s convenient location in Chicago’s Lake View neighborhood means it’s easy for everyone to reach, supported by nearby parking and public transit access. The restaurant is open daily from early morning until mid-afternoon, which is ideal for morning or early afternoon meetups without rushing, allowing your group to savor the experience fully.
How does the menu at Ann Sather cater to diverse dietary preferences? This restaurant excels at making everyone feel included in the meal, featuring vegetarian, vegan, and gluten-free options carefully integrated into their offerings. This thoughtful approach means your group can confidently invite friends with various dietary restrictions and preferences without worry. Signature dishes including their Swedish specialties highlight unique culinary traditions while the American breakfast and lunch classics provide comfort favorites. Their famous cinnamon rolls offer a sweet finish that everyone can enjoy, celebrated widely for their fluffy, buttery excellence. With table service, meal customization where possible, and attentive staff ready to accommodate special dietary requests, Ann Sather ensures that your group’s diverse tastes are well met.
What is the overall experience like when meeting at Ann Sather Restaurant? Patrons consistently praise Ann Sather for its combination of authentic food, efficient service, and cozy ambiance. The restaurant's dedication to maintaining nearly seven decades of tradition is evident in the atmosphere—friendly, warm, and welcoming. This environment naturally encourages groups to linger over meals, engage in meaningful conversations, and create memories. The blend of Swedish culinary heritage with all-American breakfast and lunch favorites caters to a wide audience, making it equally suitable for a weekend family brunch or a casual catch-up with friends. Furthermore, the option to utilize their catering services invites groups to enjoy the Ann Sather experience beyond the restaurant walls, offering flexibility for private events and celebrations. All these facets together make hosting a meetup here a genuinely enjoyable and convenient choice.
In summary, Ann Sather Restaurant & Catering is a stellar choice for anyone looking to gather with friends or family in Chicago. The marriage of inviting hospitality, an extensive and diverse menu, flexible dining options, and a welcoming environment forms a perfect backdrop for both casual and special occasions. Whether seated around a table sharing their famous cinnamon rolls or bringing the feast to your own home through catering, Ann Sather fosters a charm and warmth hard to find elsewhere. It’s this blend of tradition, taste, and togetherness that makes Ann Sather a top contender for your next group meetup or celebration.