When asking yourself about something to do near me in Chicago with a group of friends or family, consider
Wake ‘n Bacon
Why Wake ‘n Bacon is a fun option when searching for things to do near me with friends and family
Wake ‘n Bacon is a standout brunch spot located in Chicago’s vibrant Lakeview neighborhood, known for its airy, flower-laden decor that creates a dreamy, garden-like atmosphere perfect for social gatherings. This venue impresses guests not only with the ambiance but also with an inventive menu that fuses flavors from Latin America, Asia, and classic American comfort foods. Signature dishes such as Ube Pancakes, Bubble Waffles, and unique items like the Spiced Maple Chicken ’n Waffle are both visually stunning and delicious, making every meal memorable. Beyond food, Wake ‘n Bacon offers an expertly crafted cocktail menu featuring house-infused spirits, CBD-infused beverages, and creative mimosa variations that complement the vibrant meals. The restaurant is perfect for brunch enthusiasts, groups of friends, and special celebrations such as birthdays and bridal showers, with a cozy event space that accommodates up to 60 seated guests. Its photo-worthy interiors, spirited energy, and friendly service combine to make Wake ‘n Bacon an ideal place to meet, celebrate, and create lasting memories in Chicago.
Here's what people think of Wake ‘n Bacon
As of recent, Wake ‘n Bacon holds a 4.1-star rating based on 788 reviews.
Customer reviews of Wake ‘n Bacon reveal an overall positive reception, with a 4.1-star rating based on nearly 800 reviews. Many patrons praise the restaurant for its stunning, Instagram-worthy setting filled with floral decorations and a warm, inviting atmosphere that enhances the brunch experience. The innovative menu, blending diverse flavors with comforting vibes, consistently receives commendations, particularly dishes like the chicken stir fry, Ube Pancakes, and the Bacon Flight. Drink selections such as the Liquid Sunshine and Borracha Horchata cocktails are highlighted as flavorful complements to the food. Reviewers also appreciate the attentive, energetic staff and the lively ambiance supported by carefully curated playlists. On the other hand, a few critiques mention occasional service delays and that some dishes or cocktails can be on the pricier side. Additionally, due to its popularity and Instagram fame, the restaurant can get busy, which some diners find impacts the intimacy of the experience. Overall, the positive feedback on food quality, decor, and atmosphere outweighs the negatives, positioning Wake ‘n Bacon as a top destination for unique and lively brunch outings in Chicago.
Highlights from reviewers (Most Relevant)
Sarah Mosteller
Not only is the atmosphere gorgeous... THEY HAVE THE BEST BACON EVER. I loved every single flavor omg. Also, the Turtle Waffle??? SO GOOD. holy shit it was the best breakfast I've ever had. I came to Chicago for the Pride Parade and had a blast, but honestly, the breakfast was more memorable to me. YUM. Can y'all ship your bacon to Missouri, please? lol
Nicole M
Had a brunch here the weekend of Lollapalooza, had a reservation so no trouble there. Full transparency you will definitely need a reservation if planning on coming in on a weekend. The tables are very close together so be prepared for that. This place is decorated very cute, a girls brunch spot to the max for the photos. Servers were all very nice we ordered from the table and they brought it out shortly after. We felt the food was pretty average and truthfully wouldn’t come back again for it, and street parking was a bit difficult to find.
Mark Em
I recently stopped by Wake n Bacon and was pleasantly surprised by the overall experience. The decor immediately sets a welcoming tone with its stylish and contemporary design, and the vibe of the place is truly uplifting—perfect for a casual outing. One of the standout features is the innovative menu system. Instead of a traditional paper menu, they use a QR code for ordering and payment, which adds a modern twist to the dining experience. It’s efficient and minimizes wait times, making the visit feel seamless. Another noteworthy aspect is the attention to cleanliness. All four bathrooms in the establishment were spotlessly clean, which is a testament to the staff's dedication to maintaining a high standard of hygiene. When it comes to the food, I found some dishes to be hits while others were a bit of a miss. The garlic rice was absolutely delicious and complemented the meal perfectly, and the eggs were cooked to perfection. However, the tocino didn’t quite meet expectations—it was just okay. That being said, personal taste plays a role, and I’m admittedly a bit biased. Lastly, the staff deserves a special mention. Their friendly and attentive service made the experience even more enjoyable, and it’s clear that good company is a part of the restaurant’s charm. Overall, Wake n Bacon offers a great mix of modern technology, a vibrant atmosphere, and a friendly environment. It’s a spot worth trying out, especially if you’re looking for a place that takes both aesthetics and service seriously.
Taylor Slaughter
Visiting on a work trip. This place was very good & got us in quickly. Their brunch items were delicious. I recommend the purple haze coffee with CBD added. The CBD helped my back a lot! They have cool decor and their outside seating is actually swings! How neat is that?!
Jamie Tate
Came to this little cute place for brunch before heading back home. The ambiance is super cute and very cozy!! We had a party of four and unfortunately a lot of our dishes were super salty. The strawberry French toast was crazy good! Cocktails were great. Was a little disappointed with services. Once we received our food, no one came to check on us. I’m not sure if that’s how their service works but we had to get up to get a refill on water.
How to reach Wake ‘n Bacon
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Why Wake ‘n Bacon may become Your Favorite Meetup Place for Catching Up, Celebrating or Just Hanging Out
Why rally at Wake ‘n Bacon with your friends?
If you're searching for an ideal spot to gather your friends for a truly memorable meetup, Wake ‘n Bacon in Chicago's Lakeview neighborhood stands out as a premier choice. This vibrant brunch destination offers much more than just food—it presents an experience infused with joy, creativity, and energy that naturally draws groups together. The moment you step into its whimsical space filled with lush hanging flowers and a garden-like atmosphere, it’s clear that this venue is designed to spark connection, conversation, and laughter. Whether you’re celebrating a special occasion or simply catching up after a long week, Wake ‘n Bacon’s combination of artfully crafted dishes, stylish ambiance, and friendly, playlist-powered service makes it the perfect stage for shared memories and social moments. Moreover, with its Instagrammable décor and photogenic plates, your group will be excited not only to eat but to capture the day’s happiness and share it online. The welcoming environment attracts locals and travelers alike, offering a chic yet comfortable vibe that encourages everyone to relax and connect over an indulgent brunch experience.
What activities can you enjoy at Wake ‘n Bacon that make it perfect for a group meetup?
Wake ‘n Bacon excels at blending fantastic food with atmosphere and interactive options that make group gatherings special. The primarily daytime brunch setting, open daily from 8 a.m. to 4 p.m., is ideal for leisurely late breakfasts or early lunches with friends or family. The beautifully decorated dining room designed like a hanging flower garden creates a charming environment that invites guests to linger, laugh, and reconnect. It’s not just about eating; it’s about immersing yourself in a sensory experience that elevates any social event.
Groups of 15 or more can reserve a spot in the primary dining area without needing to book the entire venue, making it an affordable and convenient option for casual to moderately sized excursions. For larger occasions or special celebrations such as showers, micro-weddings, and corporate brunches, the venue offers a chic private-event loft, which allows full customization, including setting personal music playlists, displaying group photos or logos on TVs, and using the photo mirror to insert personalized frames. These customizable elements add a personalized touch that enhances group cohesion and celebration.
The venue also supports a wide variety of tastes and preferences with an inventive menu that fuses Latin, Asian, and American flavors, including vegetarian and gluten-free options. Staple items like the Ube Flap Jack Stack, Spiced Maple Chicken ’n Waffle, and the unique three-style Bacon Flight provide plenty of conversation starters and shared indulgence. The drink menu complements the food with rotating craft mocktails, seasonal coffee flights, and house-infused spirits, offering something appealing for everyone. This diversity ensures that all guests, regardless of dietary preferences, will find something to enjoy together.
Why is Wake ‘n Bacon especially suited for group dining compared to other brunch spots?
What distinguishes Wake ‘n Bacon from countless other brunch spots is its balance between style, substance, and social flexibility. Its location in Lakeview is easily accessible, with nearby parking options including pay-by-app garages and indoor bike racks, facilitating group logistics, an important factor when coordinating multiple attendees. This ease of arrival removes one common barrier to group meetups.
The ambiance plays a pivotal role in making it a top choice. The flowering décor and garden theme not only offer a calming, enchanting setting but also a unique backdrop that turns an ordinary brunch into an experience. For groups, such environments foster a relaxed, joyful mood that encourages extended conversations and photo-taking moments, a valuable asset for close-knit gatherings or reunions.
Wake ‘n Bacon’s staff is frequently praised for genuine warmth and attentive service, often highlighted as “playlist-powered,” meaning that music and mood are carefully curated to enhance the experience without overwhelming conversation. This dedication to atmosphere coupled with efficient service helps keep group dynamics smooth and enjoyable, ensuring no one in the party feels neglected.
Moreover, the restaurant's policy of offering group packages starting at $40 per person makes it accessible for many budgets without compromising quality. This cost-effectiveness is combined with generous portions and a menu designed to delight all palates—a crucial factor when feeding a diverse group. The availability of private-event booking options means groups can enjoy a semi-private experience without the complexity or expense of reserving the whole venue, striking a perfect balance between community and intimacy.
What makes Wake ‘n Bacon’s culinary offerings stand out for groups?
Wake ‘n Bacon’s menu is a celebration of global comfort food influences, artfully fused to create unique dishes that are as delightful to the eye as they are to the palate. This culinary creativity is a key draw for group gatherings, where sharing dishes and trying new flavors become part of the social ritual. The signature three-style Bacon Flight offers an engaging way for bacon lovers to sample different preparations, sparking discussion and shared enjoyment.
The Ube Flap Jack Stack, notable for its vibrant lavender hue, is a signature dish that surprises and pleases guests with its combination of sweetness and texture. Similarly, the Spiced Maple Chicken ’n Waffle combines savory and sweet elements, catering to those who enjoy classic brunch staples with a flavorful twist. For those with dietary restrictions, the menu thoughtfully includes vegetarian and gluten-free options, ensuring inclusivity for all dining companions.
Beverages at Wake ‘n Bacon deserve special mention, with a rotating selection of craft mocktails and house-infused spirits adding sophistication to the brunch experience. Signature drinks such as the Liquid Sunshine mimosa and the smoky Cold Fashioned are perfect complements to the food, elevating the occasion. Seasonal coffee flights provide another attractive option for groups looking to indulge in gourmet coffee tasting as part of their gathering.
This diversity and attention to detail in the menu foster a communal dining experience, where sharing plates and drinks is easy and enjoyable. For groups, this kind of lively, engaging culinary atmosphere enhances cohesiveness and fun, creating moments that go beyond just dining to become social highlights.
How does Wake ‘n Bacon cater to special events and private group gatherings?
Apart from being a fantastic daily brunch location, Wake ‘n Bacon is also a coveted private-event venue capable of transforming your group meetup into something truly special. Their event space spans up to 2,000 square feet and accommodates up to 82 guests, making it suitable for various occasions including birthdays, showers, corporate meetings, or casual reunions.
The venue’s whimsical, garden-like décor lends a touch of magic and an Instagram-worthy aesthetic to any event. Hosts can customize playlists, display images or logos on multiple TVs, and personally design photo mirror frames to personalize the atmosphere in a way that reinforces the purpose and mood of their gathering. These features, combined with a full-service bar offering a wide array of beverages, deliver a seamless celebratory experience that feels both intimate and exclusive.
Affordability and ease of booking are major advantages: groups can secure an area with no necessity to book the entire venue, reducing costs and minimum spend pressures. The availability of various seating layouts allows for flexibility, whether you want a casual buffet, a sit-down meal, or a cocktail reception style. The venue’s dedicated and energetic staff ensures polished service throughout, allowing hosts and guests alike to relax and immerse themselves in their celebration without distraction.
For any group seeking a venue that combines charm, flexibility, and culinary quality, Wake ‘n Bacon presents a winning formula. Whether for a lively group brunch, a milestone celebration, or a corporate gathering with a casual twist, it offers an experience that your guests will remember long after the event concludes.
Why do reviews highlight Wake ‘n Bacon’s appeal for group meetups?
Consistent feedback from guests underlines Wake ‘n Bacon’s appeal as an excellent spot for friends and families to gather. Reviewers often mention the welcoming and cozy atmosphere that perfectly balances style and comfort, creating an environment where groups feel at home yet delighted by the upscale vibe. The staff’s friendliness and attentiveness are noted as key contributors to smooth and enjoyable visits.
Guests especially praise the abundance and creative nature of the food, with many highlighting specific favorites like the Ube pancakes and bacon selections. The gorgeous ambiance, including the floral garden decorations and photo walls, consistently earns accolades as a perfect setting for group photos and social media sharing, making all parties look and feel special.
Groups appreciate the value offered by the pricing and portion sizes, allowing them to indulge without worry. Many reviews mention that Wake ‘n Bacon is "the kind of place you go to in a group to celebrate good food, good company, and great ambiance," underscoring that it’s a venue designed not just for eating, but for community and celebration.
Overall, Wake ‘n Bacon is celebrated not merely as a restaurant but as a place where gatherings come to life, perfectly combining food, atmosphere, and service to create exceptional group experiences.