When asking yourself about something to do near me in Chicago with a group of friends or family, consider
The Fat Shallot
Why The Fat Shallot is a fun option when searching for things to do near me with friends and family
The Fat Shallot is a vibrant and inviting casual American restaurant known for its creative and delicious sandwiches that combine classic flavors with a modern twist. Perfectly situated with an outdoor patio, it offers a welcoming atmosphere for friends to gather for lunch or dinner. This eatery stands out for its commitment to quality and flavor, highlighted by signature sandwiches like the BLT with truffle aioli, gourmet grilled cheese, buffalo chicken, and mouthwatering hamburgers. Beyond the dining room, The Fat Shallot also operates a popular food truck across Chicago, bringing their made-to-order sandwiches and sides directly to neighborhoods and events. Founded by husband-and-wife duo Sam Barron and Sarah Weitz, who share an adventurous culinary background that spans from Michelin-starred kitchens in Spain to street food tours in Asia and professional cooking stints in New Orleans, the restaurant exudes passion and expertise in every dish. Their dedication to fantastic ingredients and unforgettable flavors makes The Fat Shallot a top choice for a casual yet refined meal with friends, whether dining at their Lincoln Park location or enjoying their offerings at various city spots via the food truck.
Here's what people think of The Fat Shallot
As of recent, The Fat Shallot holds a 4.4-star rating based on 27 reviews.
Customer reviews for The Fat Shallot highlight a strong appreciation for the high quality and unique flavors of its sandwiches. Many patrons rave about the expertly crafted corned beef, which they consider unmatched in quality. The potato salad and coleslaw also receive frequent praise for their fresh and satisfying taste, contributing to a complete meal experience. Positive reviews often note the attentive service, enjoyable patio setting, and wide variety of innovative sandwich options that cater to different tastes. However, some negative feedback points to occasional wait times during peak hours and mixed experiences with consistency in service speed. A few customers have mentioned that the kitchen closing earlier than the restaurant’s open hours can lead to limited menu availability late in the evening. Overall, the majority of reviews affirm that The Fat Shallot delivers delicious food with a friendly atmosphere, making it a favorite spot for locals and visitors alike. Its growing popularity, including the food truck's presence around Chicago, underscores its reputation as a dependable and tasty dining destination.
Highlights from reviewers (Most Relevant)
Hector Gonzalez
The food and service at The Fat Shallot has constantly been amazing. They are attentive, and the food is delicious. I highly recommend the spicy sesame fries. The food might take a little long, but that's only because it's all made fresh and on the spot.
Jay
The ladies at this location make every visit absolutely exceptional. The food is always high quality and delicious. If you are looking for the best in the Merch Mart Food Hall… this is it.
Grace Houser
I’ve been coming here a lot for lunch recently and it hits every time! Lately I’ve been ordering the grilled cheese and tomato bisque. The perfect cozy meal for winter
Avi H
Decent place for a sandwich. Got the Buffalo Chicken Sandwich- fairly basic, but very tasty and indulgent - the Challah bread makes it. Probably will try other sandwiches here down the road.
Cielo Varcel
I order here frequently and everything is always sloppy or forgotten. The sandwich doesn’t have the same amount of arugula each time, or the same amount of aioli or cucumbers. The sandwiches have sauce all over the bun and are falling apart. The tomato soup lids are never on correctly so it spills on the inside of the bag or box they put it in. Not to mention at least 3 times they forgot my drink.
How to reach The Fat Shallot
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Website: None
Why The Fat Shallot may become Your Favorite Meetup Place for Catching Up, Celebrating or Just Hanging Out
Why rally at The Fat Shallot with your friends? The Fat Shallot is an ideal spot to gather with friends or family because it perfectly combines a cozy, welcoming vibe with top-tier, flavorful food that everyone will enjoy. Located in Chicago’s Lincoln Park, this restaurant grew from a beloved food truck to a brick-and-mortar gem, reflecting its strong reputation and local love. Its menu is concise but exceptional, specializing in elevated sandwiches like their famous crispy buffalo chicken and perfectly crafted Reuben with housemade corned beef, making it a crowd-pleaser for all tastes. The setting is intimate but comfortable, encouraging conversation and laughs over shared plates and crafted drinks like their unique gin and tonic slushy or a refreshing Adult Arnold Palmer. Whether you’re in for a quick bite or a casual dinner catch-up, The Fat Shallot creates an inviting atmosphere where the focus is on great food, good company, and a casual, friendly vibe that’s tailor-made for group meetups.
What activities can you enjoy at The Fat Shallot with a group?
The primary activity at The Fat Shallot is enjoying a delicious meal together, given their menu’s strong emphasis on sandwiches that elevate classic comfort food. The options are perfect for a group because everyone can customize their experience; from grilled cheese lovers to fans of savory Reuben sandwiches or the spicy tang of buffalo chicken wings in sandwich form. Beyond the food, The Fat Shallot also offers a modest selection of drinks with creative takes on classic cocktails, providing a fun way to celebrate or relax with friends. The space is small but welcoming, with tables and counter seats that make socializing easy and intimate, great for conversations that flow naturally when you’re in a cozy environment. For those who prefer, takeout is an option that allows groups to bring the experience home, making get-togethers flexible and accommodating. The vibe works equally well for lunch meetups, casual dinners, or grabbing something quick before heading out to explore the neighborhood, adding versatility to how groups can enjoy their time here.
Why is The Fat Shallot perfect for a group meetup or family gathering?
The Fat Shallot stands out as a great place for group meetups because of its combination of quality food, convenience, and warmth in its dining atmosphere. Even though the dining space is compact, it’s efficiently arranged to accommodate groups comfortably without losing the intimate vibe that encourages connection. The simplicity of their menu — focused on a handful of well-crafted sandwiches, sides like crisply prepared fries, and soups such as the rich tomato bisque — makes ordering as a group simple and satisfying, with something that will appeal to a variety of tastes and dietary preferences. The presence of creative cocktails and unique drink offerings also makes it an enjoyable spot for adults seeking to unwind and celebrate. Moreover, the restaurant’s origins as a food truck reflect its flexibility and focus on approachable, high-quality food, meaning it’s perfect for casual, relaxed gatherings who want to enjoy hearty, satisfying meals without fuss. For families or friends who want a laid-back spot with exceptional food and friendly service, The Fat Shallot delivers on all counts.
How does The Fat Shallot’s food menu cater to different tastes in a group?
The Fat Shallot has refined the classic American sandwich concept with a menu that delights both traditional and adventurous eaters, making it ideal for groups with diverse preferences. Their grilled cheese sandwich, for instance, elevates a childhood staple with Muenster cheese, sautéed spinach, caramelized onions, and bacon, served on sourdough bread — it’s comfort food with a gourmet twist that appeals to all ages. For those craving something heartier or with a bit of tang, the Reuben sandwich features housemade corned beef paired with Swiss cheese, Russian dressing, and coleslaw on marble rye, offering a rich, satisfying choice. If heat is more your group’s style, the crispy buffalo chicken sandwich with blue cheese aioli and a shaved celery salad provides just the right kick balanced by creamy dressing. Meanwhile, the turkey sandwich with avocado and basil aioli caters to those wanting a fresher, lighter option. On top of these, sides like their bacon dill potato salad and tomato bisque soup provide shared plates that complement the main eats, ensuring every palate is pleased.
What makes the atmosphere at The Fat Shallot conducive to socializing in groups?
Despite its compact size, The Fat Shallot achieves a warm and inviting atmosphere that encourages social interaction and group enjoyment. The small, carefully designed space fosters a sense of intimacy where friends and family can gather closely and converse easily, making it feel like a cozy neighborhood spot rather than a crowded eatery. Natural lighting, tasteful décor, and a casual vibe contribute to a relaxed environment that lets guests focus on camaraderie and the joy of shared meals. The presence of counter seating near the cashier can be ideal for smaller gatherings or for those who enjoy a more casual dining experience while observing the light bustle of the restaurant. This kind of setting is perfect for informal celebrations, post-work hangouts, or weekend catch-ups where the emphasis is on connection, food, and comfort. In addition, the staff is known for friendly, attentive service, which further enhances the welcoming atmosphere and makes group gatherings smooth and pleasant.
Can The Fat Shallot accommodate larger parties or special events?
While The Fat Shallot’s physical dining area is relatively small, their origins as a food truck and expertise in catering options make them very flexible for hosting larger groups or special events. The owners, a passionate husband-and-wife team, have extensive experience with pop-up dinners, private parties, and catering, which means they’re well equipped to provide tailor-made experiences beyond just their Lincoln Park location. Groups planning a meetup with a significant number of attendees can tap into The Fat Shallot’s catering services that bring their beloved sandwiches and sides directly to events, whether it’s a casual picnic, a corporate gathering, or a neighborhood celebration. This means you don’t have to be limited by seating capacity to enjoy their flavorful food and unique menu offerings. Furthermore, their presence in different locations and participation in food halls adds options for diverse venues and occasions. For groups wanting a relaxed but special food experience, The Fat Shallot’s catering and flexible food truck options make it an excellent choice to rally around with friends or family.
What do customers say about The Fat Shallot as a group dining destination?
Reviews from diners underscore The Fat Shallot’s reputation for delivering delicious, imaginative sandwiches in a friendly atmosphere perfect for groups. Many customers highlight the grilled cheese as “the best they’ve ever had,” noting how it combines comfort with an unexpected depth of flavor that appeals to all ages — a winning factor for families dining out. The buffalo chicken and Reuben also come highly recommended as standout choices that are filling and satisfying. People appreciate the cozy space that facilitates easy conversations and group interactions without feeling cramped. The quality of ingredients and thoughtful menu design receive consistent praise, making it a reliable choice for casual gatherings. While the space is not large, many reviews reflect the idea that the food and ambiance more than make up for it, creating memorable meals worth returning for with friends and loved ones. All these factors contribute to a strong overall rating of 4.4, signaling consistent satisfaction among patrons.
How does The Fat Shallot stand out compared to other nearby dining options for groups?
In a bustling city like Chicago, where dining options abound, The Fat Shallot distinguishes itself by focusing on a simple but expertly executed menu combined with a unique story and sincere hospitality. Unlike larger or more formal restaurants, it offers a laid-back, approachable vibe rooted in its food truck origins, which means guests are guaranteed authentic, unpretentious meals that put flavor first. The menu’s focus on sandwiches may seem narrow, but each item is crafted with attention to quality ingredients and balanced flavors, making your group’s dining choices straightforward and satisfying. The intimate size means you won’t find noisy, chaotic scenes, but rather a relaxed environment where socializing is effortless. Its location in the vibrant Lincoln Park neighborhood also offers easy access and a charming urban backdrop for pre- or post-meal activities with friends or family. For groups seeking a casual yet memorable meetup spot with food that impresses every time, The Fat Shallot offers an unmatched blend of quality, convenience, and warmth.
What other benefits do groups enjoy when choosing The Fat Shallot for their meetup?
Choosing The Fat Shallot for a group gathering comes with several conveniences and enjoyments that enhance the overall experience. The menu’s limited but focused selections streamline decision-making, which can otherwise slow down larger groups, making ordering simple and fast. The restaurant’s hours from Tuesday through Sunday offer flexibility for lunch, dinner, or weekend get-togethers. For groups with varied schedules or plans, takeout and catering options allow The Fat Shallot’s delicious food to be enjoyed beyond the restaurant setting, perfect for picnics, park meetups, or home celebrations. The friendly service and staff attentiveness ensure that group needs and accommodations are handled smoothly, adding to the ease and pleasure of meeting here. Moreover, the unique cocktails on offer add a celebratory note to any meetup, creating an opportunity to toast to friendship and family in a relaxed setting. These benefits make The Fat Shallot not only a place to eat but a place to gather and connect through shared food experiences.