What should I order at Meli Cafe?
Meli Cafe
Banana Bread French Toast
Mentioned multiple times as incredible, super flavorful, perfectly cooked, spongy inside and crispy outside, and heavenly tasting. Several reviewers highlighted it as a must-try and a favorite item.
Lamb Shakshuka
Praised for great taste and generous portion size, served with pita bread that guests appreciated. Described as comforting and authentic, with some guests willing to return just for this dish.
Salmon Eggs Benedict
Described as phenomenal and perfectly made, with multiple recommendations highlighting it as an excellent choice for brunch.
Symphony Crepes
Noted for being warm, soft, and loaded with fruits. Enjoyed by several guests who mentioned the ability to customize (like removing pecans) and praised the overall taste.
Chicken Chorizo Omelette
Recommended for its delicious flavor and quality ingredients, fitting well with the café’s emphasis on healthy and fresh menu options.
Greek Donuts
Described as amazing and similar to churros, highly recommended by a group who sampled a variety of dishes.
Chocolate Chip Pancakes
Popular with kids and praised for good portion sizes and taste, making it a family-friendly choice.
Sausage Gravy
Called excellent by a reviewer, indicating it is a flavorful and satisfying option.
Chicken and Waffles
Mentioned as amazing with a slightly savory twist, highly enjoyed by a guest group.
Hours
| Monday | 7 AM to 3 PM |
|---|---|
| Tuesday | 7 AM to 3 PM |
| Wednesday | 7 AM to 3 PM |
| Thursday | 7 AM to 3 PM |
| Friday | 7 AM to 3 PM |
| Saturday | 7 AM to 3 PM |
| Sunday | 7 AM to 3 PM |
About Meli Cafe
Breakfast & lunch served with fresh-squeezed juices, handmade marmalades & coffees in a cozy space.
Amenities & services
Service options
- Outdoor seating
- No-contact delivery
- Delivery
- Onsite services
- Takeout
- Dine-in
Highlights
- Fast service
- Great cocktails
- Great coffee
- Great dessert
- Great tea selection
- Great wine list
- Serves local specialty
Popular for
- Breakfast
- Lunch
- Solo dining
Accessibility
- Wheelchair accessible entrance
- Wheelchair accessible restroom
- Wheelchair accessible seating
Offerings
- Alcohol
- Beer
- Cocktails
- Coffee
- Comfort food
- Happy hour drinks
- Hard liquor
- Healthy options
- Organic dishes
- Quick bite
- Vegan options
- Vegetarian options
- Wine
Dining options
- Breakfast
- Brunch
- Lunch
- Dinner
- Catering
- Dessert
- Seating
- Table service
Amenities
- Bar onsite
- Restroom
Atmosphere
- Casual
- Cozy
- Quiet
- Trendy
Crowd
- Groups
- Tourists
Planning
- Accepts reservations
Payments
- Credit cards
- Debit cards
- NFC mobile payments
Children
- Good for kids
- High chairs
- Kids' menu
Parking
- Free street parking
- Paid street parking
Pets
- Dogs allowed outside
Frequently asked questions
What is Meli Cafe known for?
Meli Cafe is especially known for banana bread French toast, crepes, and shakshuka, with reviewers also calling out crispy hash browns and eggs Benedict. People often mention that the food comes out fast and that the portions and flavor make it a strong brunch stop in downtown Chicago.
What dishes are most recommended at Meli Cafe?
Reviewers most often recommend the banana bread French toast, symphony crepes, lamb shakshuka, salmon eggs Benedict, and hash browns. Other frequently praised items include the lox bagel, chicken chorizo omelette, Greek donuts, and breakfast tacos, which are described as fresh, flavorful, and well cooked.
What is the atmosphere like at Meli Cafe?
The vibe is described as cozy, casual, quiet, and trendy, with a calm setting and a nice interior. It seems to suit brunch with friends, solo dining, and groups, especially when you want a relaxed meal in downtown Chicago.
Is Meli Cafe good value, and what is the price range?
The price range is about $20 to $30, and reviewers say the prices are good for downtown Chicago. Several guests felt the portions, like the lump shakshuka that was enough for two, made the meal feel worth the cost.
How long is the wait at Meli Cafe?
Waits are often short, even when the restaurant is busy, and one reviewer was quoted 15 to 20 minutes but waited less than 5. Guests also note quick seating and fast food service, which makes it a practical brunch choice.
Is parking available at Meli Cafe?
Yes. Free street parking, Paid street parking is available.
Does Meli Cafe have vegetarian options?
Yes, Meli Cafe offers vegan options.
Is Meli Cafe kid-friendly?
Yes, Meli Cafe is good for kids.
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