When asking yourself about something to do near me in Chicago with a group of friends or family, consider
Craveworthy Kitchen at Hayden Hall
Why Craveworthy Kitchen at Hayden Hall is a fun option when searching for things to do near me with friends and family
Craveworthy Kitchen at Hayden Hall is a dynamic 25,000-square-foot food hall located on the second floor of the iconic “Big Red” skyscraper at 333 South Wabash Ave in Chicago’s vibrant South Loop neighborhood. This modern, spacious space offers a welcoming atmosphere with comfortable seating areas and contemporary furnishings, making it an excellent spot for friends, students, professionals, and tourists to gather for a meal or casual meetup. The food hall features a variety of Craveworthy Brands’ culinary concepts under one roof, including Krafted Smashburgers, Lucky Cat Poke Co., Pastizza Pizza + Pasta, Scramblin’ Eds, and The Budlong Southern Chicken, delivering diverse menu options that cater to a wide range of tastes. Its central location amidst top-tier universities like DePaul and Roosevelt, corporate offices, and world-class cultural attractions such as the Art Institute, Grant Park, and the Symphony Orchestra enhances its appeal as a convenient and attractive meeting place in Chicago. Open Monday through Friday from 11 a.m. to 4 p.m., with Scramblin’ Eds opening as early as 8 a.m., Craveworthy Kitchen blends a modern food court experience with high-quality, chef-driven fast-casual brands that reflect Chicago’s vibrant culinary spirit, making it a great destination to enjoy delicious food and socialize in a contemporary setting.
Here's what people think of Craveworthy Kitchen at Hayden Hall
As of recent, Craveworthy Kitchen at Hayden Hall holds a 4.6-star rating based on 18 reviews.
With a strong overall rating of 4.6 from 18 reviews, patrons of Craveworthy Kitchen at Hayden Hall generally express positive impressions of the food hall experience. Positive reviews highlight the quality and variety of food options available from the different Craveworthy Brands concepts, praising the freshness and flavor of dishes such as smashburgers, poke bowls, Southern chicken, and breakfast offerings. Many appreciate the spacious, clean, and modern environment conducive to socializing and casual dining, along with the convenient location in Chicago’s South Loop, which is easily accessible by public transit and close to universities and workplaces. Users also commend the efficiency and friendliness of the staff, contributing to a pleasant overall dining experience. On the other hand, some of the negative feedback focuses on limited operating hours, as the food hall is only open Monday through Friday until 4 p.m., which restricts evening social meetups or weekend visits. A few reviews mention occasional crowding during peak lunch hours or wish for a wider seating selection or more diverse beverage options. In conclusion, while there are minor areas for improvement such as expanded hours and seating capacity, the overwhelmingly positive reviews underscore Craveworthy Kitchen’s role as a quality, convenient, and modern venue that meets the needs of a diverse clientele looking for tasty and varied fast-casual dining options all in one spot.
Highlights from reviewers (Most Relevant)
Addison Schmitt
This is a great find and also within the loop! Plenty of food options and seating. I got the chicken sandwich from Budlong and it was delicious and spicy! Seating and views are elegant and enjoyable with windows overlooking the loop. I can’t wait to go back and try more options. Can highly recommend 100%!!
Gianna Davis
Stopped by Craveworthy Kitchen at Hayden Hall the other day—what a spot! The Budlong's hot chicken sandwich had just the right kick, and those buttery biscuits? Chef's kiss. Also tried Krafted's Mushroom Heaven Smashburger—juicy and loaded with flavor. Spent around $25 total, and it was worth every penny. The vibe inside is chill, plenty of seating, and it's smack dab in the Loop, so super convenient. Definitely adding this to my go-to lunch spots.
Michael Rivera
Stopped by Craveworthy Kitchen at Hayden Hall for lunch — grabbed a Nashville hot chicken sandwich from Budlong and a poke bowl from Lucky Cat, spent about $18. Food was legit—hot chicken had the right kick and poke was fresh AF. Chill Loop food-court vibe with plenty of seating. Solid spot to grab a quick bite downtown!
MiraSolis
You know how Starbucks no longer has a place to sit, lounge and study anymore. Well this place is perfect for that. Found an awesome spot to sit, study and just focus on my book or laptop in the city. They have a coffee shop and different stalls to go grab some food. I like their food selection too. They have a salad bar area, burgers, Mediterranean, chicken spot, poke and bakery spot. I absolutely love this place. Comfortable sitting area, clean, good lighting, nice atmosphere and have plugs in different spots with huge windows for a nice view. They have sit in couches then traditional tables I can have my laptop on. I don’t mind working and sitting here all day…. Taken you’ll need your earbuds cuz the music is a NO go for me.
Carla Halter
Overall Hayden Hall provides a good variety of food options. I took a survey and they will implement my small suggestion. The one thing that can be improved upon further is the time it takes to get your food after you’ve ordered at one of the stations. It does take awhile. Otherwise it’s a nice space.
How to reach Craveworthy Kitchen at Hayden Hall
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Why Craveworthy Kitchen at Hayden Hall may become Your Favorite Meetup Place for Catching Up, Celebrating or Just Hanging Out
Why rally at Craveworthy Kitchen at Hayden Hall with your friends?
Gathering with friends and family is about enjoying memorable moments together, and Craveworthy Kitchen at Hayden Hall offers the perfect environment to do just that. With a strong rating of 4.6 from 18 reviews, this spot has earned a reputation for being a go-to locale for group meetups that combine great food, a lively atmosphere, and convenience in downtown Chicago. Located at 33 S Wabash Ave, the venue is easily accessible, ideal for spontaneous or planned gatherings near the city's pulse. The diversity of culinary options housed within this food hall means every member of your party can find something delicious to enjoy — from southern-style Nashville hot chicken to gourmet burgers and fresh poke bowls. This wide array ensures an inclusive experience that caters to different tastes without compromise. Beyond the food, the vibe at Craveworthy Kitchen is vibrant yet relaxed, lending itself naturally to lively conversations, celebrations, and shared experiences. Whether you’re catching up over lunch or hosting a weekend meetup, this space offers a welcoming canvas to create special memories with your friends.
What activities are available at Craveworthy Kitchen to make your group meetup unforgettable?
Craveworthy Kitchen at Hayden Hall excels not just as a dining destination but as a dynamic social hub perfect for groups. The primary attraction here is its collection of five Craveworthy-owned food brands, each specializing in distinctive, crave-inducing dishes. The Budlong serves up fiery Nashville hot chicken that can accommodate varying heat preferences, ensuring everyone in your group can find their comfort zone between mild and extra spicy. Krafted Burger + Tap offers a gourmet burger experience paired with an excellent selection of craft beers on tap, ideal for a casual, hearty meal with friends. Lucky Cat Poke Co. provides a fresh and healthy twist with customizable poke bowls rich in flavor and variety, perfect for those seeking lighter fare or a seafood option. Pastizza brings authentic, artisanal pizza to the table, offering sharable pizzas that naturally encourage a communal dining atmosphere. Scramblin’ Eds rounds out the culinary lineup with creative breakfast items served all day, catering to groups who appreciate versatility in their mealtime choices. Collectively, these options create an orchestration of tastes and eating experiences that keep everyone engaged, excited, and satisfied.
How does the venue’s setup and atmosphere enhance group gatherings?
The physical and social environment of Craveworthy Kitchen at Hayden Hall is designed to boost comfort and camaraderie. The venue operates primarily during lunch hours on weekdays, offering a quieter, less crowded experience ideal for workday meetups or casual lunches. The modern, airy layout with ample seating accommodates groups of various sizes, lending itself well to sharing food and stories alike. The food hall concept encourages mingling and movement, allowing groups to explore different food stands and compare dishes, which fosters interaction and engagement. The casual vibe means there’s no pressure or strict dining formalities, so groups can relax, linger over their meals, and enjoy the company in an unhurried setting. Additionally, its central Chicago location makes it a natural meeting point for friends coming from different parts of the city or nearby workplaces. This ease of accessibility combined with a lively yet comfortable atmosphere makes Craveworthy Kitchen an attractive spot for anything from casual catch-ups to special celebrations.
What makes Craveworthy Kitchen at Hayden Hall suitable for different group occasions?
Craveworthy Kitchen is versatile enough to suit a variety of group occasions, whether it’s a celebratory gathering, a casual lunch, or a weekend meetup. Its diverse menu options cater to different dietary preferences and appetites, from indulgent southern classics to fresh poke and veggie-friendly pizzas. This diversity ensures that no guest feels left out, an important consideration for group events. The environment's casual but vibrant energy also means the place is great for both loud celebrations and more relaxed hangs, depending on the mood. Because the kitchen operates within the larger Hayden Hall complex, it benefits from being part of a bustling urban center, making it convenient for groups to combine their meal with additional activities like nearby shopping, sightseeing, or attending other city events. Moreover, the presence of craft beers and unique gourmet offerings elevates the dining experience beyond simple fast food, making it feel special without the need for formal reservations or dress codes. This accessibility and variety mean that whether your group consists of college friends, coworkers, or family members, you’ll find Craveworthy Kitchen at Hayden Hall a fitting and enjoyable spot.
Why is the food quality and variety at Craveworthy Kitchen exceptional for groups?
The hallmark of Craveworthy Kitchen’s appeal to groups lies in its combination of high food quality and remarkable variety. Each vendor within the hall focuses on a specific cuisine done exceptionally well. The Budlong's Nashville hot chicken is a highlight, praised for its crispy texture and customizable heat levels, providing a signature southern comfort food experience. Krafted Burger + Tap emphasizes premium ingredients and innovative burger recipes that offer bold flavors and satisfy hearty appetites alongside craft beers to complete the experience. Lucky Cat Poke Co. brings a refreshing and health-conscious option with fresh fish and vibrant toppings, perfect for those seeking flavor without heaviness. Pastizza’s pizzas bring classic Italian flavors to shareable pies, crafted with care and offering numerous topping choices to please all group members. These culinary concepts ensure that everyone at your table can find an item that speaks to their cravings and dietary needs. Beyond taste, the presentation and ingredient quality are polished and thoughtful, reflecting the contemporary food hall’s commitment to excellence. This level of food quality combined with variety makes every group dining experience lively, inclusive, and satisfying.
How do the opening hours and location contribute to a hassle-free meetup?
Operating Monday through Friday from 11:00 AM to 4:00 PM, Craveworthy Kitchen at Hayden Hall fits well into the busy schedules of city residents and workers. These hours blend suit midday meetups, especially lunch breaks or early afternoon gatherings, making it easy to sync group plans during the workweek. Closed on weekends, the venue focuses on the weekday crowd, which often means less noise and more available space — ideal for intimate or professional meetups. Located centrally at 33 S Wabash Ave in Chicago, the hall is straightforward to reach by public transit, walking, or car, lowering the barriers for groups coming from diverse parts of the city or suburbs. The accessibility of Hayden Hall itself — with its connections to other city landmarks and business hubs — also offers convenience should your group want to extend the day with after-meal activities nearby. This combination of practical hours and prime location helps make hosting or joining a group at Craveworthy Kitchen smooth, stress-free, and convenient.
What role does Craveworthy Kitchen at Hayden Hall play in the Chicago dining and social scene?
In Chicago’s rich culinary landscape, Craveworthy Kitchen at Hayden Hall stands out as a compelling food hall concept that merges quality and community. It brings together multiple popular Craveworthy Brands under one roof, creating a microcosm of food culture where diverse palates can be satisfied simultaneously. This setup reflects a modern trend towards casual, yet elevated group dining experiences where choice and quality coexist. Beyond serving great food, it acts as a social convergence point for locals and visitors alike, encouraging sharing, exploration, and conversation. As part of Hayden Hall, it adds value and vibrancy to the downtown area by supporting a collection of smaller culinary businesses while meeting the needs of groups looking for a reliable, tasty, and fun place to eat. Its existence enhances Chicago’s variety of dining options, especially for those wanting to experience several flavors in one friendly, personable setting. For group meetups, this means a venue that feels lively, inclusive, and flexible, positioning Craveworthy Kitchen as a standout choice.
What practical tips can help groups maximize their experience at Craveworthy Kitchen?
To make the most of a meetup at Craveworthy Kitchen, groups should consider arriving during typical lunch hours Monday to Friday to find the venue comfortable and less crowded. Early reservation or planning is advisable for larger groups, especially if your party has special dietary requirements, to ensure smooth ordering and seating. Taking advantage of the multiple food concepts means encouraging everyone to sample different cuisines, turning the meal into a shared tasting adventure. Sharing dishes like pizzas or burger platters fosters interaction and a communal atmosphere. Additionally, pairing meals with craft beers from Krafted Burger + Tap can elevate the social experience for adults in the group. Since the location is in the heart of Chicago, planning additional nearby activities before or after dining can extend the fun and make the meetup more memorable. Being mindful of the venue’s closing hours (4 PM on weekdays) also helps to pace the gathering appropriately.
Overall, Craveworthy Kitchen at Hayden Hall shines as an outstanding destination for group meetups because of its delicious variety, accessible location, flexible environment, and the communal spirit embedded in its food hall design. It balances quality and casualness superbly, making it a smart, enjoyable place to rally and celebrate friendships and family connections.