Avocado toast. It's more than just breakfast; it's a culinary experience. And in Lincoln Square, Chicago, a neighborhood brimming with diverse culinary offerings, finding the perfect avocado toast can be an adventure. This guide highlights ten exceptional spots offering unique takes on this beloved dish, ensuring your next avocado toast craving is met with pure satisfaction. We'll explore what makes each location special, highlighting factors like ingredient quality, presentation, and overall dining experience.
Top 10 Avocado Toast Havens in Lincoln Square
This list isn't ranked—each location offers a unique and delicious experience. Your personal preference will ultimately dictate your favorite.
1. The Cozy Corner Cafe: Classic Avocado Toast Perfection
The Cozy Corner Cafe keeps it simple, focusing on high-quality ingredients. Their avocado toast features perfectly ripe Haas avocados, smashed and spread generously on toasted multigrain bread. A sprinkle of flaky sea salt and a squeeze of fresh lime juice elevate this classic to new heights. They offer add-ons like everything bagel seasoning or a fried egg for an extra layer of flavor.
What makes it special: Emphasis on fresh, high-quality ingredients and simple execution.
2. Lincoln Square Greens: The Vegetarian's Delight
For vegetarians and vegans, Lincoln Square Greens is a must-visit. Their avocado toast is a masterpiece of texture and flavor. They use sourdough bread, perfectly toasted, topped with creamy avocado, sprouts, microgreens, and a drizzle of a balsamic glaze. It's a light, refreshing, and incredibly satisfying option.
What makes it special: Creative vegetarian-friendly toppings and a focus on fresh, organic ingredients.
3. The Little Goat Diner: Gourmet Avocado Toast Experience
Stephanie Izard's Little Goat Diner offers a more upscale, gourmet take on avocado toast. Expect unexpected flavor combinations and innovative presentations. Past iterations have included additions like pickled onions, chili flakes, and even a soft-boiled egg with a sprinkle of everything bagel seasoning. This spot is best for those who want to venture beyond the traditional.
What makes it special: Innovative flavor combinations and gourmet presentation.
4. Cafe Ba-Ba-Reeba!: Spanish Flair with Avocado Toast
Cafe Ba-Ba-Reeba! offers a unique twist, incorporating Spanish flavors into their avocado toast. Expect perfectly ripe avocado on crusty bread, maybe with manchego cheese, serrano ham, or piquillo peppers, offering a taste of Spain in the heart of Lincoln Square.
What makes it special: A unique Spanish-inspired take on a classic dish.
5. Arami: Modern Asian Fusion Avocado Toast
Arami, known for its modern Asian fusion cuisine, provides a unique spin on the avocado toast trend. They might incorporate elements like kimchi, gochujang mayo, or sesame seeds, creating a vibrant and flavorful experience. This is a must-try for adventurous eaters.
What makes it special: Creative Asian-inspired flavors and innovative presentation.
6. La Colombe Coffee Roasters: The Perfect Coffee Pair
While primarily a coffee shop, La Colombe offers a solid avocado toast. They focus on fresh, high-quality ingredients and pair it perfectly with their expertly brewed coffee. This is ideal for a relaxed brunch or a quick bite.
What makes it special: A reliable, simple avocado toast paired with exceptional coffee.
7. My Little Gem: A Taste of the Mediterranean
My Little Gem transports you to the Mediterranean with its avocado toast. They often incorporate feta cheese, olives, and a drizzle of olive oil, offering a taste of the sun-drenched shores. This option is perfect for those who enjoy Mediterranean flavors.
What makes it special: Mediterranean-inspired toppings and flavors.
8. Summer House Santa Monica: California-Style Avocado Toast
Summer House Santa Monica brings the California vibe to Lincoln Square. Their avocado toast might feature a side of perfectly crispy bacon or a sunny-side-up egg, providing a taste of West Coast cuisine in Chicago.
What makes it special: A California-inspired twist on avocado toast.
9. The Brownstone: A Neighborhood Favorite
The Brownstone, a beloved Lincoln Square staple, offers a reliable and consistently delicious avocado toast. Expect perfectly ripe avocado on toasted bread, with simple yet satisfying toppings. This is a great choice if you're seeking a comfortable and familiar experience.
What makes it special: Consistently delicious, classic preparation.
10. Wildberry Pancakes & Cafe: Sweet & Savory Combination
Wildberry Pancakes & Cafe is known for its decadent pancakes, but their avocado toast is a surprisingly delicious savory option. They may add a touch of sweetness to balance the flavors, creating an interesting sweet and savory combination.
What makes it special: An unexpected sweet and savory combination.
Finding Your Perfect Avocado Toast Match in Lincoln Square
This list provides a starting point for your avocado toast adventure in Lincoln Square. Each establishment offers a distinct culinary experience, so exploring different options is highly recommended. Remember to check menus and availability as offerings can change seasonally. Happy toasting!
