Brunch Bites: Mon Ami Gabi and Bar Takito

In this week's batch of brunch bites, the weekend tradition gets a French accent at Mon Ami Gabi and a Latin one at Bar Takito. 

 

There are so many brunch menus in Chicago it's practically bizarre when a restaurant doesn't offer it. Mon Ami Gabi has long, long been a beloved dinner destination for its classic, chic French cuisine in Lincoln Park, and now the restaurant is (finally) ready to add brunch to its repertoire. This is a big get for brunch. Starting January 25, Sunday brunch kicks off with French-accented fare like bacon-filled omelette Lorraine, ham and cheesy croque madame, a beef Bourguigon Benedict with bacon, pearl onions, mushrooms, and hollandaise, creme brûlée French toast, and more. There will also be a roving Champagne cart in action, at the ready for mimosas. 

From French cuisine to contemporary Latin fare, Bar Takito is also rolling out brunch service in the West Loop. The new weekend menu gets underway on January 24, showcasing executive chef David Dworshak's unique handiwork. Dishes include spicy Mexican tortas called pambazos on house telera bread with guajillo sauce, chorizo, potatoes, eggs, crema, and queso fresco; spicy corn pancakes with pork belly, beans, fried eggs, sesame, and smoked queso fresco; Mexican shrimp cocktail with avocado, serrano chilies, cilantro, pomegranate, and tostadas; breakfast tacos in beer tortillas; steak and eggs with cheese arepa; cardamom-spiced coffee cake; and more. 
 
- Matt Kirouac