Check Out These 4 New Brunch Options in Chicago

A bunch of restaurants new and old have added brunch service to their repertoires this season. From a hot new Old Town steakhouse to a seasoned Gold Coast staple, here are four spots you should be brunching this summer: 

 

One of the hottest openings of the year so far, SteakBar just added brunch to its stylings, making it easier to maximize your time at Old Town sexiest newcomer. In line with its lunch, dinner, and drinks menus, the weekend brunch portfolio focuses on elevated takes on iconic breakfast flavors, including a scramble made with creme fraiche, avocado, and chives; chilaquiles with salsa verde, crema, queso fresco, and cilantro; and avocado toast with cherry tomatoes and radishes atop toasted multi-grain. Then of course there’s the requisite steak and eggs, here made with skirt steak, roasted tomato, and sunny-side up eggs. Brunch is now served weekends from 11:00 a.m. until 3:00 p.m. 

Perched high atop the Hyatt Centric in the Loop, AIRE is one of the trendiest spots to hang out during the summer months, what with its stunning views from the 24th floor. Now there’s more reason to swoon over the rooftop bar, with the addition of a liquid brunch on Sundays. Available from 11:00 a.m. until 6:00 p.m. on Sundays, the potable affair features a menu of cocktails, wine, and beer. There’s bottomless mimosas available, along with a menu of pastries, salads, and other shareable dishes. The cost for liquid brunch is $45, which features unlimited mimosas and a spread of sweet and savory food. 

In other drinkable brunch news, Gold Coast mainstay Carmine’s just upgraded its weekend offerings with a new Bellini Brunch on Saturdays and Sundays. From 9:00 a.m. until 3:00 p.m., guests can choose from passion fruit, mango, or traditional peach for their bellini. There’s also red and white sangria pitchers on hand. 

Head down to the South Loop for another new brunch menu at Belly Up Smokehouse & Saloon. Now served Saturdays and Sundays from 10:00 a.m. until 3:00 p.m., the meaty menu contains items like smoked brisket hash, chicken & waffles, pork & grits, and a Southern Benedict with choice of meat (including hot link, pulled chicken, and brisket), hash browns or cheesy grits, and toast. Beer and brunch cocktails round out the morning menus. 

- Matt Kirouac