I have been coming here for years and absolutely love this place. It’s great for Wicker Park to have vegetarian options and I think they should have more. The ambience of Handlebar is no frills, but is a divey, rustic aesthetic. They also have a lovely patio in the back when it’s summer, which is super enjoyable. The service here is always good and fast too. I have had the same waiter here for years and he’s always on top of things.
Restaurant Reviews
Café Marie-Jeanne Review: A Rustic French Dream That Transcends French Cuisine
If you want a cozy, intimate, yet exciting dining experience, Café Marie-Jeanne is a perfect option. I absolutely adored everything about this place. It has “traditional” French food but also innovative, contemporary dishes that are made in really unique ways. There was nothing I ate here that I didn’t love.
Monteverde Review: Contemporary Italian Fare with Classic Options
If you want to treat yourself or have something to celebrate and want to venture out of traditional Italian cuisine, Monteverde is an excellent choice. It is pricier being a West Loop restaurant, but you won’t be disappointed with the flavors.
Margeaux Brasserie Review: A Magnificent Taste of Classic Parisian Cuisine
Located within the Waldorf Astoria Chicago, Margeaux Brasserie takes you back to classic Parisian cuisine with a 1920’s style decor. I have had the pleasure of dining here for dinner and brunch. When I first came here, I was here for my dear friend’s birthday celebration. It was the perfect place for two Francophiles. I absolutely adore French restaurants and Brasseries.
Cumin Review: A Mélange of Indian and Nepalese Flavors
Indian food is one of my favorite types of cuisines so I am always in search of delicious Indian food in the West part of Chicago since Devon is a hike. I’ve been to Cumin a few times and it’s never disappointing. I like that there is a lot of space here and it has a romantic, intimate ambience.
Jin Thai Review: Cozy, Authentic Thai Cuisine
Jin Thai is one of my favorite Thai restaurants in Chicago. It is certainly up there for the best Thai food I have had in Chicago and it is a wonderful haven for vegetarians and pescatarians. Jin Thai has very unique Thai dishes that you do not see at most Thai restaurants. It has a quiet, cozy ambience that is relaxing and chill.
Chicago Teachers’ Lounge and Eatery Review: A Neighborhood Spot for Educators and Everyone Else
I am very happy that there is a restaurant/cafe that appreciates educators since they are under-appreciated in our society. Chicago Teacher’s Lounge and Eatery has a very relaxed, unpretentious vibe making it feel like a neighborhood hang-out. Our server was very kind, genuine, and helpful.
Bad Hunter Review: Witty Name, Multifaceted Food
I really love Bad Hunter. I’ve been here a few times and the food has always been delicious. The ambience is gorgeous. I love the plant decor, the non-edison lightbulbs, and the clean, cozy feel to it. I also really enjoy the dried up framed plants hanging in the bathroom. It encompasses what I love when it comes to interior decorating.
Umami Burger Review: An Upcoming Favorite Amongst Vegetarians
Umami Burger is obviously a staple in Wicker Park for meat eaters. But now with their new “Impossible Burger” (their new vegetarian burger that tastes pretty much like a regular hamburger), it will be definitely frequented more by vegetarians. Prior to the debut of their “Impossible Burger”, I had never been to Umami Burger since I don’t eat meat. But I thought now is the time to try this place and I had only heard good things about it.
Mana Food Bar Review: A Sanctuary for Vegetarians
Mana Food Bar is a staple for vegetarians and it has an assortment of unique and eclectic flavors. I love the fact that I can come here and be able to eat everything on the menu, I am not quarantined to a quarter of the menu options. It’s so nice to have all of these delicious options here.