Wednesday, June 3, 2009

European Brunch in Lincoln Square
















During the summer months, Lincoln Square might be more known for their beer fests than their brunch spots. The neighborhood hosts two of Chicagoland's largest beer fests, Mayfest and The German-American Fest. While most festival-goers probably don't get a chance to venture far from the festivities, this colorful Chicagoland neighborhood is not to be missed.

Lincoln Square is host to over three hundred local businesses, with a wide variety of European bakeries, cafes, and restaurants. One of the most unique places is Pannenkoeken Cafe, a mother and daughter-run breakfast and brunch spot. Before you Google it, a pannenkoeken is a traditional Dutch pancake very similar to a crepe. Currently, there are twelve different varieties of pannenkoekens on the menu ranging from bacon and Havarti cheese to chocolate and toasted hazelnuts. This seven table cafe is undoubtedly European, with the exception of some traditional choices such as omelets, oatmeal, and French toast. Pannenkoeken Cafe is located at 4757 N. Western, but make sure to stop by the ATM first, it's cash only. Also, don't expect to see a mimosa or bloody Mary on the menu, no liquor is served. Pannenkoeken Cafe is open 8am to 3pm on Saturday and Sundays, closed on Tuesdays and open 7am to 3pm every other day of the week.

If you're looking for the ultimate in Lincoln Square experiences head over to Cafe Selmarie. This family-run restaurant and bakery has been a neighborhood staple for over twenty- five years. Fans of this cafe can pick up a dessert from the bakery, enjoy an al fresco brunch, or dine inside the restaurant. Known for their savory sweets, Cafe Selmarie boasts slightly different brunch menus on Saturdays and Sundays. On Saturdays, the menu offers brioche French toast, smoked salmon scramble, a breakfast burrito, corned beef hash, and a salmon club sandwich. On Sundays, you can enjoy chilaquiles casserole, Quiche Lorraine, red, white and blueberry griddlecakes, smoked salmon bagels, or steak and eggs. Saturday brunch is served 8am till 4pm and Sunday from 9am till 3pm. Cafe Selmarie is located at 4729 N. Lincoln.

If a traditional brunch buffet is calling you, then head over to Pizza D.O.C. for their Sunday special. You'll find a hearty variety of Italian and brunch favorites like pizza (of course), omelets, waffles, rosemary potatoes, sausage, bacon, poached salmon, salad, pastas, and a variety of pastries. Brunch costs $15.99 for adults and $7.99 for kids and is available Sundays only, from 11:30am to 3:00pm, call 773-784-8777 for reservations. Pizza D.O.C. is located at 2251 W. Lawrence.

If you are in Lincoln Square during the week, check out their Farmers Market every Tuesday starting June 9th from 7am till 2pm. Also, check out their Summer Concert in the Square every Thursday starting June 11th at 7:30pm in Giddings Plaza next door to Cafe Selmarie.
For more information on the restaurants, check out their websites http://www.pannenkoekencafe.com/ http://www.cafeselmarie.com/ and http://www.mypizzadoc.com/ for daily specials and menus. Also check out http://www.lincolnsquare.org/ for more information on festivals and events taking place in Lincoln Square.

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