When asking yourself about something to do near me in Chicago with a group of friends or family, consider
Little Goat Diner
Why Little Goat Diner is a fun option when searching for things to do near me with friends and family
Little Goat Diner is a beloved neighborhood restaurant located in Chicago's vibrant Southport Corridor, helmed by award-winning Chef Stephanie Izard. Known for her inventive approach to American cuisine, Chef Izard brings a creative twist to classic all-day breakfast, brunch, lunch, and dinner favorites. The diner atmosphere is lively and nostalgic, featuring cozy booths and a welcoming vibe perfect for gatherings with friends and family. Whether stopping by for a weekend brunch, a coffee catch-up, or a casual dinner, Little Goat Diner offers a variety of delicious globally inspired dishes. The diner also caters to families, with kids eating free every Tuesday from 4-7 PM. With a friendly staff that welcomes walk-ins and strives to seat guests promptly, Little Goat Diner is a great spot to enjoy comfort food with a culinary edge in a relaxed setting.
Here's what people think of Little Goat Diner
As of recent, Little Goat Diner holds a 4.7-star rating based on 9236 reviews.
Reviews for Little Goat Diner are overwhelmingly positive, with diners praising the inventive, flavorful dishes and the friendly, attentive service. Many reviewers highlight the all-day breakfast options, the nostalgic diner ambiance, and the creative flair Chef Izard brings to traditional American fare. Positive reviews often mention the lively atmosphere that makes it an ideal spot for casual meetups with friends or family occasions. However, some negative reviews note occasional long waits or a small dining space that can make seating four or larger groups challenging. A few diners expressed disappointment with pricing or specific menu items that did not meet their expectations. Overall, the positive feedback regarding food quality, atmosphere, and family-friendly policies far outweighs the negatives, making Little Goat Diner a popular and well-regarded destination in Chicago's restaurant scene.
Highlights from reviewers (Most Relevant)
Marissa WT
Had friends visiting from KC, so we grabbed a table at the Little Goat Diner and it was a 10/10 experience from start to finish. From creative drinks to delicious food and a warm, welcoming staff, everything was spot-on. Our waitress radiated such great energy, which made it even better. I ordered the Chili Crunch Chicken & Dumplings (incredible), while my husband went for the chocolate chip pancakes. Our friends had the Chicken & Dumplings and the Shrimp Salad—both full of bold, unforgettable flavors. Everything we tried was outstanding. Already counting down the days until our next visit!
Mary Cox
I loved the service and the atmosphere! The egg biscuit had way too many flavors going on. The hash browns tasted good, but they were sitting in a lot of grease! Every time I took a bite, I was afraid I was going to drip oil on my shirt. The total, which included an iced mocha latte, was $41 without the tip. That is a lot to pay for breakfast for one person!
Joann Kerschner
Went for the first time over the weekend. My son was visiting from out of state and is in culinary business and he wanted to try this place out. My son really enjoyed his meal; he had the chili crunch chicken and dumplings. We also had the chili crunch cheese fries, crab dip, chili crunch burger and a new pork dish that was on menu. All the food was excellent except the crab dip (we are from Maryland) and well that speaks for itself. We tried the fry pie for dessert and liked the combination of chocolate and salt from the fries! I personally did not care for my cocktail The Goat from Impanema. The service was outstanding and very professional. Atmosphere was a cute modern diner vibe!
Sbpb
We found out about this place from a food show on TV—the dishes looked super juicy and appetizing, so we had to check it out. It did not disappoint! The place is lively and full of energy, located near the downtown area with a great vibe. The menu isn’t huge, but it’s full of fun, creative options that make you want to try everything. We started with the Espresso Milkshake—absolutely delicious! If you’re a fan of iced coffee, this is a must-try. It has that smooth coffee flavor, with little chocolate crumbles that taste like cake—such a great combo. We also had the Patty Melt with some hash browns and wow. Just looking at it made our mouths water, and the taste was even better. We’ve had patty melts before, but this one was on a whole other level—juicy, flavorful, unforgettable. I personally tried the Chili Crowned Chicken Dumplings—something I was super curious about after seeing it on TV. It comes in a broth that’s packed with veggies and layered flavors. It’s spicy, crunchy, rich… a true explosion of taste! The shredded chicken inside ties everything together perfectly. It’s like a comforting soup with a twist. Overall, I absolutely loved it here. The prices are slightly on the higher side, but totally worth it. You feel like you’re treating yourself, and every bite is worth the splurge. We’ll definitely be back—my husband and I are already planning to try more from the menu. Highly recommend this spot—10 out of 10!
Michael Filia
We had Bill as our server yesterday and Mollie today. Both were friendly and made great suggestions. Carly, the GM, fit us in for a breakfast reservation. She was super nice and accommodating. Great spot! Food was amazing.
How to reach Little Goat Diner
None
Website: None
Why Little Goat Diner may become Your Favorite Meetup Place for Catching Up, Celebrating or Just Hanging Out
Why rally at Little Goat Diner with your friends? When planning a meetup spot for friends or family, the vibe and experience are just as important as the food—and Little Goat Diner hits a sweet spot in both these areas. With a strong 4.7-star rating from over 9,000 reviewers, this diner brings a cozy yet creative atmosphere that invites lively conversation and shared moments. Its roots as a sister restaurant to the acclaimed Girl & The Goat add prestige, while the menu’s globally inspired twists on classic diner fare lend a unique culinary conversation starter for your group. The diner ambiance—complete with spinning stools and nostalgic diner decor—offers a casual, approachable space that feels welcoming for groups of all sizes. Whether you’re catching up over an all-day breakfast or enjoying a creative sandwich, Little Goat balances comfort food familiarity with enough gourmet surprises to keep things interesting. This combination makes it an ideal rallying point for friends looking to share great food, good vibes, and memorable moments around a dialed-in menu that caters to a variety of tastes without overwhelming the palate.
What activities can you enjoy at Little Goat Diner during a group meetup? Aside from indulging in a flavorful meal, Little Goat provides a vibrant dining experience where the main activity is socializing over creative dishes designed to spark discussion. The feel of the diner itself encourages hanging around; the counter seating with spinning stools offers an interactive way to watch the kitchen team in action, making it perfect for groups who enjoy seeing their food prepared live. For groups that love trying a variety of dishes, the menu’s range—from breakfast all day, classic sandwiches, to inventive shakes—supports a communal style of dining where plates can be shared and sampled. Every dish offers a talking point, whether it’s the indulgent Fat Elvis pancakes or the unique Tonkatsu sandwich, which blends crispy pork with savory and sweet accents. Additionally, the diner’s location in lively Chicago neighborhoods often means you can complement your meal with a nearby stroll or visit to local shops, extending the meetup beyond just the meal itself. The overall ambiance, combined with diverse, shareable dishes, makes Little Goat a practical and enjoyable setting for reconnecting over good food and friendly chatter.
How does the menu at Little Goat Diner cater to groups? The menu is thoughtfully designed with a wide assortment of options that appeal to different taste preferences, which is key when dining with friends and family. Breakfast enthusiasts will appreciate favorites like the “Fat Elvis” pancakes—light and fluffy with peanut butter, bananas, and bacon—that strike a perfect balance between indulgence and comfort. Those looking for savory options can enjoy hearty plates like the smoked corned beef hash or the crispy tonkatsu sandwich, each offering distinct flavors that appeal to meat lovers and adventurous eaters alike. For classic diner fans, options like the patty melt and All-American burger provide familiar comfort, elevated slightly with gourmet touches. The diversity extends to sides and accompaniments; the diner’s fries, seasoned with a unique grilleville spice, are a must-have and often a crowd-pleaser. Importantly, many dishes lend themselves well to sharing. Whether debating which creative pancake to try or sampling the signature homemade hot sauces with eggs, the menu encourages communal eating that enhances the group experience and fosters interaction around the table.
What makes the atmosphere at Little Goat Diner ideal for social gatherings? The diner atmosphere expertly blends nostalgia with a modern twist, creating an inviting environment that is both casual and distinctive. The space features classic diner elements like a counter lined with spinning stools and laminated menus printed with playful, retro names—setting an easy-going tone from the moment your group steps in. Despite its smaller size in the Lakeview location, the ambiance remains vibrant and bustling, ideal for groups who thrive on energetic yet comfortable spaces. The décor, inspired by goats and whimsical design elements, adds a quirky charm that serves as a lighthearted backdrop for conversations and laughter. Staff are known for being friendly and attentive, enhancing the welcoming feeling and ensuring that groups receive the right balance of service and autonomy. This type of atmosphere makes Little Goat Diner not just a place to eat, but a venue for shared experiences, where friends and families can relax, linger, and make memories over meals that reflect the diner’s creative culinary spirit.
Why is Little Goat Diner a practical choice for large meetups or special occasions? Beyond the food and ambiance, Little Goat Diner’s practical features cater well to groups looking for a convenient, enjoyable dining spot. The all-day breakfast and lunch service means your group has flexible timing options—whether it’s a morning brunch, mid-afternoon gathering, or early evening meet. This flexibility is particularly useful when organizing meetups with varied schedules. The diner’s layout supports both intimate friends groups and slightly larger parties, with cozy seating arrangements that facilitate easy conversation. Additionally, the menu pricing, while on the higher side compared to typical diners, reflects the quality ingredients and inventive preparations, making it a worthwhile splurge for celebratory occasions or special meetups where you want to impress without formalizing the setting. The availability of sharable dishes and sides means even groups with diverse appetites can dine together without anyone feeling left out. Given its reputation and culinary pedigree, Little Goat also adds a touch of excitement and exclusivity to your gathering—impressing guests who appreciate both classic comfort food and gourmet innovation.
What unique food highlights make Little Goat Diner a menu favorite for groups? Several dishes stand out for their creativity and crowd appeal, making them ideal for sharing and sparking conversation at group meals. The “Fat Elvis” pancakes are an iconic favorite, balancing peanut butter and banana with smoky bacon for a sweet-savory kick that’s light and satisfying. The tonkatsu sandwich is praised for its crispy pork cutlet and savory-sweet sauce combination, paired with a refreshing veggie slaw—a dish that offers a messily joyful eating experience that can bond friends over shared laughs. Classic sandwiches like the patty melt lift traditional diner fare with caramelized onions and special sauce, perfect for those who appreciate comfort food with a twist. For side dishes, the signature fries seasoned with the Grilleville spice stand out as an addictive accompaniment that disappears quickly, prompting repeat orders during group dining. Unique shakes, such as the smoked pork & toffee crunch shake, provide the perfect dessert or indulgent treat to round out your meal. These dishes showcase Little Goat’s playful approach to diner classics, offering variety and bold flavors that elevate any group gathering.
How does Little Goat Diner balance creativity with comfort in its food offerings? Little Goat Diner walks a fine line between avant-garde and familiar, aiming to entice adventurous eaters while satisfying those seeking traditional comfort. The menu uses classic diner templates—pancakes, sandwiches, hash browns—but elevates them with unexpected flavor combinations and high-quality ingredients. Some dishes are simple and focused, like the patty melt or Fat Elvis pancakes, winning praise for their well-balanced flavors and satisfying textures. Others incorporate more globally inspired elements that can occasionally feel a bit complex, such as the Sichuan sausage with blackberries or chilli garlic chive sauce, which may divide opinions among diners. Overall, this creative ambition keeps the dining experience fresh and intriguing, encouraging groups to explore beyond the usual diner fare. The diner atmosphere supports this balance by keeping the setting casual, so trying something inventive doesn’t feel intimidating. This combination of creativity plus comfort provides a platform for shared discovery, making meetups at Little Goat both comforting and exciting.
What additional benefits does Little Goat Diner offer that enhance group meetups? In addition to its culinary and atmospheric strengths, Little Goat Diner provides a few extra touches that make hosting friends or family here enjoyable and hassle-free. The staff’s welcoming demeanor and attentive service help ensure your group feels taken care of without being rushed, allowing plenty of time for catching up. The location in Chicago’s vibrant neighborhoods means easy accessibility by public transit or car, with nearby parking options that simplify logistics for groups. The all-day breakfast model eliminates the stress of timing everyone’s arrival perfectly, while the diner’s popularity ensures a lively energy on site that adds to the social buzz. For those who decide to linger, the nearby bakery and sweets shop complement the meal with dessert options that can be taken to go or enjoyed after dining. These thoughtful conveniences, combined with top-notch food and vibe, create a complete venue package that makes Little Goat Diner a standout choice for friends or family gatherings.