There is a particular kind of quiet that settles over a good brunch room — the gentle clatter of cutlery, the hiss of the espresso machine, the soft pop of a champagne cork.
Set in Chicago, IL, State and Lake Chicago Tavern has carved out a corner of the city's weekend brunch scene with a personality of its own. The room comfortably seats a mix of solo diners working through a coffee and a newspaper, couples splitting a stack of pancakes, and friend groups settling in for a slow, three-hour Saturday.
Avocado toast at a place like this is not a meme — it's smashed in front of you, seasoned with flaky salt, lime, and chili crisp, and built on a slab of grilled sourdough.
Menu highlights
Here is a snapshot of the kinds of brunch dishes you can expect to find on the menu at State and Lake Chicago Tavern. Specials rotate weekly with what's in season — check the chalkboard at the host stand when you arrive.
- Huevos rancheros with corn tortillas, refried beans, and salsa verde
- Croque madame with béchamel, gruyère, and a fried egg
- Bottomless mimosa flight (90-minute limit, weekends only)
- Fresh-squeezed grapefruit juice and seasonal cold-pressed juices
- Eggs Benedict with house-made hollandaise on a toasted English muffin
- Smoked salmon plate with cream cheese, capers, red onion, and a toasted bagel
- Shakshuka with feta, herbs, and warm pita
- Country-style biscuits and sausage gravy
Light streams in through tall windows, jazz plays at a sensible volume, and the espresso machine hums in the background like a third instrument.
The eggs Benedict here is a study in restraint: a properly toasted English muffin, paper-thin Canadian bacon, and a hollandaise that's lemony enough to cut through the richness.
Their breakfast cocktails are no joke. The bloody mary comes garnished with everything but the kitchen sink, and the bottomless mimosa option has a strict 90-minute window.
Like a lot of the best brunch spots in Chicago, State and Lake Chicago Tavern is at its most magical on weekend mornings, when the kitchen is firing on all burners and the room slowly fills with the kind of low, happy hum that only good food and unhurried company can produce. By the time you walk out, you'll already be planning a return visit — and probably a long walk to work off the second cup of coffee.
Tips from the regulars
- Vegetarian and gluten-free diners have real options, not just sad fruit cups.
- Tip generously — the brunch shift is the toughest in any restaurant, and the staff here keeps it warm even at peak rush.
- Save room: the pastry case at the front is part of the experience.
- Best time to go: arrive before 9:30 a.m. on weekends to skip the worst of the wait at State and Lake Chicago Tavern.
- Best for: groups of 2 to 4 — larger parties may want to call ahead.
Hours
Specific opening hours rotate seasonally — call ahead to confirm, especially around holidays. Most weekend brunch service runs from late morning through early afternoon.
Frequently asked questions
What time does State and Lake Chicago Tavern open for brunch?
Specific hours rotate seasonally, but State and Lake Chicago Tavern typically opens for brunch service in the morning and serves through early afternoon. Call ahead on holidays.
Does State and Lake Chicago Tavern take reservations?
Most brunch spots in Chicago are walk-in friendly, with a wait list during peak hours. Larger parties (5+) should call ahead to ask about a reservation.
Is State and Lake Chicago Tavern kid-friendly?
Yes — State and Lake Chicago Tavern welcomes families. Most brunch menus include simple kid-friendly options like pancakes, scrambled eggs, and fresh fruit. Highchairs are usually available.
What kind of cuisine does State and Lake Chicago Tavern serve?
It's classified under american — broadly an American-style brunch experience with regional touches you'd expect in Chicago.
Is there outdoor seating at State and Lake Chicago Tavern?
Outdoor seating is not always confirmed. We recommend calling ahead during nice weather.
Location
Located at 201 North State Street. Coordinates: 41.8862, -87.6277. Use the address above with your preferred maps application for turn-by-turn directions.