Comparing Orange and Oranges

Orange, the popular brunch spot, recently opened their third northside location at Clark & Fullerton. Now, Lincoln Park residents can enjoy the same citrus-infused brunch that Lakeview and Roscoe Village residents have enjoy for years. Located walking distance from Lincoln Park Zoo and the lake, this is the perfect spot to dine before a trip to the zoo or a after a jog along the lakefront.

As the name implies, you'll find a array of orange-flavored goodies from freshly squeezed orange juice, orange-flavored coffee, and orange-rosemary french toast. Not to be missed, cinnamon roll pancakes and jelly doughnut pancakes, which are filled with homemade jelly and topped with citrus butter. Can't decide on which to order? Try their pancake flight, a weekly changing theme of pancakes. You'll get a four types of dollar-sized pancakes, each with a common theme such as this week's South American selections with guava, raspberry, passion fruit, and dulce de leche fillings.

For the sushi lover in you, Orange is also home to Frushi which is fruit served inside a flavored rice roll. If you're in the mood for eggs, try their Dr. Seuss-inspired green eggs and ham. It's a yummy blend of scrambled eggs with basil pesto, diced ham, roasted tomatoes, and mozzarella. And your kids will love the Fruity Pebbles babycakes - mini pancakes made with the popular cereal.

So which Orange is best for you? The newest location is by far the largest with seating for seventy people. The restaurant occupies two stores fronts, so twice as many people get a window view. Feel free to bring a bottle of wine or champagne, the restaurant is currently BYOB as they await their liquor license.

While the Lincoln Park location is the newest location, the Roscoe Village outpost at 2011 W. Roscoe is the only one with a liquor license. Here you can enjoy champagne or a mimosa, or their champagne flight for $11.95 which is three glasses of champagne with your choice of three juices: orange, strawberry, pineapple, or pear. Come early if you're looking for al fresco dining and you'll be lucky to nab one of just sixteen seats outside. On Saturday and Sunday afternoon, you can enjoy people-watching in this family-friendly neighborhood filled just as strollers as adults.

The original Lakeview location at 3231 N. Clark probably is still the most popular. Their biggest draw is its proximity to Wrigley Field and Clark & Belmont shopping area. You can either stop here before a game or before doing some shopping. With seating for fifty people, you'll usually find a line of people outside waiting for a table. You're best bet is to put your name down before going shopping or come at an off peak time to not wait in line.

Rumor also has it, that they will opening a fourth location in the River West area near the Funky Buddha Lounge since purchasing the bar last year. No matter which location you choose, each has a variety of tasty treats for you to enjoy. And of course I have to say this, with all these the delicious egg dishes and sweet pancake treats, it'll make you say "Orange you glad we came here".