First Slice
4664 N Manor Ave, Chicago, IL, 60625
First Slice Menu
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Address :
4664 N Manor Ave
Chicago, IL, 60625 - Phone (773) 267-0169
- Website https://www.firstslice.org
- Click To Get Directions
Opening Hours
- Mon :8:00 am - 6:3
Specialities
- Takes Reservations : No
Delivery : No
Take-out : Yes
Accepts Credit Cards : Yes
Good For : Brunch
Parking : Street
Bike Parking : Yes
Wheelchair Accessible : Yes
Good for Kids : Yes
Good for Groups : Yes
Attire : Casual
Ambience : Casual
Noise Level : Average
Alcohol : No
Outdoor Seating : Yes
Wi-Fi : Free
Has TV : No
Waiter Service : No
Caters : Yes
WE SERVE THE FOLLOWING STATES
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Cristina P.
This location is always well kept and has a variety of choices. Their coffee is good; if you are like me and do not like the taste of hot milk, they do have soy and almond. They also have specials up on their wall everyday. The staff has a lot of positive energy and they make your stay feel like you are in their home. The location is small, cozy and everything a little cafe should be, in my opinion. I have enjoyed myself every time I have stopped by. The Francisco Brown line is right next-door and it does make noise, but nothing to make a big deal about. If you are looking for a small quiet place to eat, drink and use your computer to get work done like me First Slice is your spot. I suggest that you visit before you actually listen to the bad reviewers. Some people are too spoiled. Learn how to appreciate the little things in life. ;) [CPaynes]
(5)Christina Alexa M.
If you love quirky and convenient locations, coffee selections, artisan sandwiches, quiche, salad, soup, pie, juice and friendly interactions, this place is such a treat. I just moved to the neighborhood and was looking for some local coffee and found this! Off the Francisco stop, just walk down the ramp from the platform and it's patio is right at the edge of the ramp. Amazing! Fun for kids who like trains, dog walkers, families, college kids, teens, food bloggers and people looking for some r&r inspiration. Yummy vegetarian food too (:
(5)MARISOL P.
A neighborhood gem right off the L stop and across the street from a park. Great coffee, sandwiches and pies. I need to try their specials on Friday and their Sunday brunch.
(4)emma r.
Best. Breakfast. Burrito. And this is from a picky someone who wouldn't think of reviewing a lowly burrito. But I wandered in during the Ravenswood Manor yard sale marathon on Sunday. Hot, tired and hungry as all get out. You get to choose your own ingredients. Hand made fresh. I choose chorizo, mushroom, and smoked Gouda. You even get hash browns and a side salad. Such a deal. And the best damned burrito I ever ate. Plus good coffee. Way better coffee than that "other" coffee shop near the Rockwell Brown line stop. You know the one. Go here. The end.
(5)Amanda N.
My husband, son, and I do the subscription program and every weekend we pick up our delicious fresh frozen meals for the week. We've been doing this for about 7 months so far and it has changed our lives. We don't live nearby but it's worth the drive. I love to cook, but when we both come home from work during the week we want to enjoy a delicious healthy family meal together without much prep, and this program is perfect for us. Look up the menus and details on their website!
(5)Jaime G.
Super cool little pie and sandwich place in Albany Park. Sure it's even better in the summer with their outdoor patio right next the Brown Linen train. Cozy and esp fun for the kiddos. All sandwiches look good but we tried the Mediterranean quiche and coffee braised beef burrito. Both exceptional. Plus the salad is so simple yet flavorful (anything with arugula is a winner in my book). Then had a slice of the key-lime pie and was tasty as heck too. Also have a nice cup of freshly brewed coffee with soy milk. This is a chain of cafes that are passionate about cooking good food but also help busy families serve good meals at home (they offer a meal plan for purchase) and help fight hunger for those in need. You can learn more at any of their locations and on their website - firstslice.org . If you're in the neighborhood for breakfast lunch or dinner, this is a good pick.
(4)Chel D.
Came in to try the pie and was not impressed at all. I notice most people probably go for the wifi. I didn't get a chance to try the other menu items so I'll probably be back and see how it goes.
(3)Haley C.
This cafe has everything I could want. Amazing pie with a variety of types, affordable at around 3.50 a slice, and a great location. I love that they do a non-profit for the homeless and feed 600 people a week! I don't live anywhere near it but I am wiling to take the brown line up any day for some yummy pie here!!
(5)Marcela R.
I love this place. Great food! The place is very cute and the people that work there they are all very nice. On Sunday they have brunch, their French toast is one of the best ones I ever had.
(5)Matt H.
Great community Cafe! I love this place. We went for the Sunday brunch and we weren't disappointed. I had the breakfast burrito with chorizo and it came out more like a grilled wrap. Very affordable. We ended the meal with a couple slices of pie. Best I have had in a long time. Will be recommending to all my neighborhood friends.
(5)Amy K.
Cute little place, clean environment, small but not crowded. Coffee is solid and reasonably priced. Hot chocolate is good. The only gluten-free baked good is a peanut-butter cookie. which is just okay (doesn't hold together well- eat it with a fork). Nice addition to the neighborhood, and perfectly located for commuters. Fair warning: the CTA brown line rumbles by, and creates a bit of noise. It can also get pretty stuffy inside in the summer. There is outdoor seating, though. There is a bathroom in back, through the kitchen.
(4)Marcelino R.
This place has quickly become my go-to spot for lunch when I don't want to eat anything heavy. They have a wide variety of salads including a chicken curry, which is my personal favorite. They also offer organic eggs and burgers which I have yet to try. Coffee is always fresh and flavorful and the pies of course are really good. I'm not big on the sweets, but I highly recommend the blueberry and peach pie. Atmosphere is pretty chill and they have some outdoor seating as well.
(5)Simone L.
While there are multiple locations of this quaint cafe, this is by far my favorite one. Every employee I've met is welcoming, helpful and sweet. Their pies are to die for. They have classics, such as apple, French silk and chocolate peanut butter as well as seasonal flavored like strawberry rhubarb, pumpkin and blueberry. My two favorite pies are Key Lime (a regular flavor) and pumpkin cheesecake (a fall flavor). The pies are well priced, at about $3.50. I usually also get a large tea (tip: all the tea sizes cost the same, so get the large for the best deal). Their tea list is extensive and I have yet to try one I don't like. Their coffees and other drinks are good but slightly on the pricey side. As far as food goes, I haven't had much there. The quiches are delicious as well as the salads. Most people rave about the Mac & cheese but it's too much for me. I recommend this place to anyone looking for a yummy, reasonably priced and cozy-feeling cafe in the busy city. (Sometimes I don't just recommend, but I drag my friends here. No one has ever complained once they try something!)
(5)Monica W.
The pie is good. Love the lemon bar. The ham and cheese sandwich is a guilty pleasure. They taught me to like salads (lots of good things in them). The food subscription is fabulous!
(5)Katarina X.
Beagle found this place with his little puppy nose and brought us here. No, really... I have pictures to prove it! Some weekend mornings, I am too burnt out to cook. On those days my handsome Boyfriend will suggest a walk and a coffee. Here, our Beagle wanted pie, or maybe quiche, or maybe baked treats... They were all good but what I really, really adored was the duck and mozzarella sandwich- delicious, wonderful textures and I seriously debated getting another. Yes, two sandwiches, all for me. Shut up, it was that delectable. I got a slice of pie and shared it with Boyfriend and Beagle. Boyfriend had the mediterranean quiche with salad and there were no leftovers- which means it was scrumptious. The guy at the counter was cute and sweet- which I appreciate tremendously. Coffee was decent and the outside benches in the sun are wonderful on a bright Spring morning. We will be back. You can't beat the cause- feeding the hungry!
(5)Rebecca B.
Good coffee. Tasty tea. Delicious pie. Friendly people. Cozy atmosphere. What's not to love? The coffee at First Slice is pretty good, and they have a nice selection of teas. I do sometimes stop in just to get a cup of coffee or glass of lemonade, but then I see the pies beckoning to me, so I have to get a slice to go. I mean really, how can you not get a slice of pie when a case of them are just there, staring at you, looking delicious? The cherry pie is kind of amazing, with a lattice crust and juicy, tart cherries. They also make a good pecan pie, which is one of my favorite types of pie. The red wine poached pear pie is scrumptious. But the blueberry pie...oh, the blueberry pie is the stuff that dreams are made of. That is, of course, if you are lucky enough to stop by on the rare occasions that they have blueberry pie. There are a few tried and true classic pies that are always available, but then there are a few rotating flavors in their repertoire, as well. Everything that I have had to eat, not just the pie, has been delicious. The duck and mozzarella sandwich is a personal favorite, with mounds of duck meat piled high on crusty bread and topped with mozzarella, spinach, and sauteed mushrooms. I also crave the curry chicken salad, which is super flavorful. The bacon quiche fills my heart with joy with each bite of fluffy egg/bacon goodness. I am seriously in love with this location of First Slice. It is closer to me than the one on Ravenswood, but it still serves the same delicious food and desserts. And, more importantly, like their sister locations, they are part of a not for profit organization that works to feed the hungry in Chicago. So go ahead and get a second piece of pie. It is for a good cause.
(5)Allison W.
I love to go here on a sunny spring or summer day to get a cup of iced coffee and a slice of pie! They also have a lentil salad there that's fantastic, perfect for a light lunch. The service is friendly and it's right next to the park that I take me son to so it's super convenient!
(4)Leah L.
First I want to say that if I was giving a rating just on the food it would probably be a 5 star. We have been getting their subscriber service for about a year and a half so we have tried a lot of their offerings and have generally been very happy with the food. The reason for the lost two stars is because of management. Every time that I have had to interact with anyone beyond just picking up our food I have felt very uncomfortable and more like an imposition than a customer. I understand that management has recently changed, but my recent interactions with them have not been any better. The people who work the counter are usually friendly, but there are certain people that I would rather turn around than to go in and speak to. I consider that an extension of grumpy management though. If your manager acts like your customers are a burden then you are probably going to act that way too. I hope they find a way to bring more joy and friendliness into the business because they have a great product.
(3)Wesley S.
The First Slice Pie Café on Manor, near the Francisco Brown Line el stop, is an additional location, that joins the one at the Montrose Brown Line el stop. Like, the latter store, the Manor location is part of the non-profit organization that supports food donation and distribution. The web site is worthy of reading. However, you won't find a menu there. The site is all business, the First Slice Pie's business of serving the community. The café has good coffee. It offers some baked goods, and, apparently, it has a pizza night (?). This is the type of space that is ideal for a book club get-together, or for working on your iPad or tablet. There are several tables outdoors. The effect of the patio area is lovely, but the ambiance is marred somewhat by the surprisingly noisy traffic on the street outside. It is not busy, just noisy. The First Slice Pie Café is a great addition to the neighborhood. I plan to visit it more often now that summer is on the horizon.
(3)Jacquie S.
I love this place and my 2 1/2 year old loves this place. The food is delicious and the pie is out of this world. Cherry pie is the best. The staff is always friendly. If you're in the area stop by, you won't be disappointed. I also love that its near a park so after lunch or dinner we can walk over to the park and play for a bit.
(5)Julie I.
I love this place. It's got great food and the staff are super friendly. I highly recommend it.
(5)Brent W.
Very relaxing, homey environment, good cafe, wide array of food optiins that I haven't tried yet. Will be back. Oh come here at the beginning or end of your North Shore Channel trail bike ride!
(5)Helena G.
We didn't taste the pies but we had a good latte! This coffee shop is just next to the metro station, it's located in a peaceful and beautiful neighborhood. It's a nice place with a good vibe and it has a cozy decor. I loved the wooden tables. It was packed with people having lunch.
(3)Kristen Q.
This is hands down one of the best places in chicago. And my family and I, luckily!!!, live next door. This is the real deal local coffee/ food stop place. With some very unique surprises, like their weekly food subscriptions and charity giving.
(5)Emily M.
I live very close to this First Slice location and finally stopped in a few months ago for some after dinner dessert. I tried the mint chocolate chip pie, and it was AMAZING. So deliciously good. Also, their cookies are out of this world. I keep going back for their Couch Potato Cookie. It's chocolate chocolate chip with espresso and it's rolled in crushed potato chips. So. Effing. Good. I'm drooling just thinking about it.
(4)Adam S.
Nice little spot slightly off the beaten path right near the Brown Line Francisco stop
(4)Julia K.
Scrumptious blueberry lemonade! I wandered over to this small, charming cafe after visiting a possible new apartment down the street. If a good-hearted shop like this doesn't make one want to move nearby, I don't know what will.
(4)Carter B.
got a sandwich and pie. the sandwich was really chincy for the price. pie was good but seemed overly sweet.
(2)Jillian D.
since merle's closed, first slice has taken up residence as the francisco brown line coffee stop. the service is fast and friendly. great coffees and tasty scones. haven't had the pies at this locale yet (i've gotten them at lill street and loved them). welcome to the neighborhood! you'll be seeing a lot of me :)
(4)Britini R.
I really had a lovely time eating here and hope to return over and over again. So, like Megan above, I was working long summer hours that meant I was always passing by this cute little storefront when it was closed. Teasing me! Anyways, I finally got a day off, and I'm riding my bike around the neighborhood, about half a block away, when I realize that I'm starving. The woman behind the counter was a peach! She helped me choose what to eat (broccoli and cheddar quiche) and explained the coffee sizes (and refills) to me. The food hit the spot, and the salad was delightful (blueberries!) with a light dressing. Once they get free wi-fi, I don't see how it won't be perfect. Also pretty excited to go back and try dinner. Still not sure what a "70s salad" is, but it sounds tasty. I'm not sure if I have it in me to sign up for their weekly dinner plan, but I like the idea; and I dig the non-profit side.
(5)Hanna D.
First slice is soo cozy! The staff is always super friendly, and the smells that fill my porch from across the tracks in First Slices kitchen are FANTASTIC! Coffee is consistent, & fresh, not just pee in a pot that's been burning for hours. The baked treats are prefect for afternoon snack & their take home dinners are perfect for a quick meal on the way home... And the pie..... Oh the pie! Only quip - not open early enough for my breakfast coffee.
(4)Amy J.
I love this place! Super friendly staff! You've got to try the apricot bran muffins!
(4)Romana Y.
The coffee and food here are great. You can find healthy, quality meals/bites to accompany great Alterra coffee. The prices are very reasonable. The atmosphere is cozy with enough space to spread out and study, or to simply meet a friend(s). There's always an amiable, mellow crowd.
(5)Sophie B.
The best pie ever. Period. Will make you stop your conversation. I have the Key lime and Blueberry cheesecake. They will change your life!!!
(5)Matt V.
Good Pie Good Coffee Good Atmosphere Walking distance from my home big plus. I wanted a cup of coffee and a slice of pie. This place delivered. I will go back.
(4)Katelyn N.
LOVE First Slice! A true hidden neighborhood gem. Favorite pies are the Polka Dot and seasonal Pumpkin Cheesecake. Blueberry Cheesecake is just as tasty! The paninis are all amazing--especially LOVE the Duck & Mozzarella. They have no air conditioning in the summer and it's extra chilly in the winter, but definitely worth it. Just dress appropriately and you'll be fine :)
(5)Courtney R.
I work close by, and have had lunch here with coworkers 3 or 4 times by now. We have never been disappointed. This place is fabulous! First thing to rave about is the blueberry lemonade. It's like you're drinking fresh blueberries through your straw. So good. The cucumber lemonade is great too, but now that I've discovered the blueberry, I can never go back. All lemonades (plain lemon, strawberry, cucumber, and blueberry) are made fresh, batch by batch. I've had the turkey sandwich twice - it's good. Had the duck sandwich as well. It was ok - nothing to go crazy over, but pretty good nonetheless. Friends have had the curry chicken salad, burger, quina salad, and some other things I can't remember. The side salad is fresh and tasty. The service is always super friendly and proficient. The place itself is adorable. We havent' had pie yet, but it always looks so very good and tempting. To top it off is the new found fact that this place is a charity that serves food to the homeless. This puts it over the top for me - I love this place!
(5)Becky B.
I have never been in that area of the city before. So the second I stepped off of the Brown Line to do some apartment searching, I walked into First Slice to ask for directions to my destination. To my surprise, I stumbled upon a quaint little cafe with fresh baked goods and loose leaf tea! I knew I'd be back to experience this local shop considering this may be the future neighborhood I'll be living in. After looking at the apartment, I came back.. as promised! I had a Jasmine Green Tea, as recommended by the sweet barista, and had a tomato soup with a cute little grilled cheese. It was all fantastic! The customer service was great. I then took a FLOURLESS cookie home for dessert. Which was delicious. . The barista also told me that all the baked goods were made in house! I love small businesses! They have so much more quality than a corporate cafe/coffee house. If I do move into the area, which I hope, I will be frequenting this place! YAY!
(5)Megan R.
This place normally is only open from 8am-6pm, so their hours pretty much always include while I am at work/commuting. I hadn't had the chance to try this place (which is actually a non-profit that provides food to families in poverty in food deserts) until this past week. It was somehow open past their normal hours, so I popped in, having been craving quiche all day praying they would have it. They did! They had bacon and sweet onion quiche, and it was great. You can tell the pie crust is homemade (crucial, since I make my own crusts), and it's just the right amount of fluffy egg and awesome bacon. All of their dishes come with a side salad, which is a bunch of fresh greens and seasonal berries/fruits with oil and vinager. I don't like dressings, so I let that go, but sans the dressing it would have been great- very fresh and very tasty. Pies looked good, prices for pie was good, prices for food was alright, but considering it goes back to a non-profit I'm OK with that.
(4)Charlotte S.
Great atmosphere and friendly service. What they lack in speed they make up for in a great attitude. Very relaxed. Not incredibly private as you may end up sharing a long table with other customers but it's very cool. Love the salad combos.
(5)B C.
There are a few things I really enjoy about this place: (1) The location - This is the quintessential local cafe, tucked away among the residential confines of a quiet and friendly neighborhood. Just going to this place is enjoyable because it's conveniently off the beaten track and still just a couple steps from the brown line Francisco stop. If the weather is right, you can cross the street and chill out at Ravenswood Manor Park, surrounded by well-kept brick homes, tall trees, and the occasional passing street level train. (2) The food - They serve excellent pie, and lots of different kinds. I'm a big fan of peanut butter and chocolate pies in general, and this one was especially satisfying, hearty portions and perfect match with a coffee. I haven't had a meal there yet, but the breakfast looked like it was worth another trip back. (3) The setup - Long, spacious tables in front of large, sunny, street-side windows that let in plenty of natural light while you work on homework or other stuff on a weekend morning. (4) Good hours - Coffee shops near Lincoln Square often close up by early afternoon. This place has longer hours, which is nice if you're looking for a place to go after you take the early evening El train home from work.
(4)Alicia K.
Love this little joint right off the Francisco brown line. They have delicious tea - not that McDonald's, no flavor or overly sweet style tea. Legit iced tea. And amazing cookies. The decor is super cute and it would probably be the perfect spot for a writer to churn out some glorious pages.
(5)Laura A.
FANTASTIC PIE!!! Prior to yesterday I had only stopped in occasionally to get a coffee when I take my little guy to the park across the way, but yesterday I was tempted by their peanut butter chocolate pie! Amazingly good! Today (because I guess I felt no need to stay on my diet), I stopped in today. This time I tried the Coffee Toffee pie. CRAZY GOOD! The staff is extra nice too. I cant wait to go back and try another kind of pie!
(5)Cal N.
Great Slice to enjoy!
(4)Nancy H.
My daughter is planning on using First Slice as the caterer for her wedding so we stopped by to check on the food before the tasting. We were very impressed - we both have allergies and our server knew what was safe for each of us. He also knew how to work around our allergies to give us a great meal.. (Between the 2 of us we are gluten free, nut free, and lactose free) We had great service, good food, and a fun conversation with Dana. And First Slice has a cause we can support.
(5)Mike O.
Good food, but repeatedly mediocre customer service at this location. Closes early, annoyed by kids, don't worry we won't be back.
(2)Elyse K.
I found myself in unfamiliar territory in pursuit of a good haircut across the street at Supreme, and stopped by First Slice after for a quick bite. I only got the turkey chili, but my word it was to die for! Possibly the best chili I've ever had when paired with the little toast triangles. Though I only tried one thing, I can tell the whole menu is quality from the ingredients I tasted. Can't wait to go back! It's totally worth the trek up north for me.
(5)Alicia A.
Every person who has ever stared in dismay at their stove at the end of a long day wishing they did not have to cook to achieve a healthy meal without spending a fortune needs to know about the subscriber program at First Slice. It's seriously the most awesome thing ever, and in being a subscriber you're actually contributing to a program that helps the community. Even when i'm not sure what certain items are on the weekly selections, I've come to realize that it's almost always unimportant, because regardless of what it is it's going to be delicious (chicken tinga? wth is that? guess what, doesn't matter! delicious!). Now when it's time to make dinner I have no stress of having to deal with it and no guilt brought on by succumbing to dialing for over-priced take out. And they even accommodate our low-carb needs. Thank you! I feel a little guilty because we've been on the subscriber program for several months and I haven't written a review- tbh I was avoiding it because I didn't want to have to subtract a star for the morose staff I've interacted with. I'm very pleased to note that has changed with the new management- I've definitely seen a huge upswing in the positivity levels at the counter- yay! Oh and to the person who wrote that the salads in the counter creep them out- bummer for you because they're friggin delicious. In particular, curry chicken salad and cucumber chicken salad are utterly delectable. Also, pie. YUM.
(5)Leah H.
Train fans, WHAT A LOCATION! Sit and watch the gates of the brown line at street level from this adorable cafe! We had a grilled cheese we liked so much we ordered another to go. Very friendly service.
(5)Joanne W.
I love having this little pie shoppe just down the street. It's a cute bright little space steps from the Francisco stop. But First Slice is offering up more than just pie. There are a variety of baked goods to be had - scones, cookies, muffins, biscotti. There is also a case with heat & eat items for those nights when you just don't feel like cooking. Finally there is a menu with a little something for everyone - sandwiches, pizza, quiche, salads.. and of course pie! Pie, glorious pie. Chocolate pie. French Silk pie. Fruit pie. Coffee Toffee pie and my favorite - Peanut Butter pie! I've sat outside on a beautiful fall day with a Sprecher soda and a delicious slice of quiche and I've run in, grabbed a sandwich with a slice of pie to enjoy in the comfort of my own home. An enjoyable experience either way. And perhaps the best thing about First Slice is that it's a non for profit devoted to serving the community via youth groups, churches and various other outreach programs. That's right, First Slice is a self funded charity that serves thousands of meals to the needy and homeless. Support this local business who not only serve up some tasty fare but give back to the community. First Slice, First Rate.
(4)Bill K.
Great little neighborhood place! Unique menu items, friendly, knowledgable, helpful staff. My fav from here is the black bean and mushroom tamales! Tasty, comes with a side salad of mixed greens. Give it a try!
(5)Laurie A.
I came here specifically for the pie, and I was not terribly impressed. The French Silk Pie was still frozen when I bit into it. Pies are clearly not made fresh here.
(2)Melanie S.
Love at First Slice. Be still my heart. At long last, First Slice has set up shop just mere steps from the Francisco stop on the Brown Line. I walk by it every day and wondered if it was ever going to open, but yesterday, they officially opened for business. And naturally I couldn't walk by without checking it out. I walked in and was downright giddy. It's a bright, sunny space with big wooden tables and like their other location, they're offering up soups, salads, sandwiches, quiche, and of course, pie. I came away with a slice of Michigan sour cherry pie and one of the biggest lemon bars I've ever seen. It was hard not to try and buy everything, but I had to remind myself that since this place is practically in my backyard, there's no reason I can't come back every day and sample their offerings, which also include chocolate chip cookie bars and snickerdoodles. The lemon bar was one of the biggest and best I've ever had - nice and lemony, and just tart and sweet enough with a perfect crust. And priced at just $2.00, it was a steal. The cherry pie was nice and tart and topped with a lattice crust, which is my preference. As much as I love my sweets, the crowning glory may just be that they also offer fried chicken on their menu, which I was able to take a peek at, and it looked divine. There's a good chance I may just be their best customer since no two things make me happier than sweets and fried chicken in one place. In addition, First Slice offers a shareholder program. As a subscriber, you will receive home-cooked, restaurant-quality meals. Your subscription also directly contributes to funding the same high-quality food to people in need. Individual and family subscriptions are available. One family subscription feeds twenty hungry people for a month. What could be better than eating well and doing good? You can't stop at one slice at First Slice.
(4)August B.
Where to go? The area is mostly residential...sounds like a dilemma, tis. It hath been the untimely emptying of the happy throne and fall of many kings. Alas, I found the perfect place for my pretentious ass. They use all the right key words, organic, sustainable, responsible business practices etc. Most importantly, the food is solid, unspectacular yet exciting. It is a solid four star establishment, perfect place that compliments not only the neighborhood but also your inner hipster.
(4)Anjali P.
First Slice catered our wedding - and it was incredible!!! We hosted a 150 person wedding in the suburbs of Chicago - we were set on using First Slice as our caterer because of their delicious food, their important mission and their reasonable prices. As they have not catered many large weddings in the past, we were a tad apprehensive but..........THEY WERE INCREDIBLE. Sarah Beth was our point of contact, she was SO professional and on top of her game throughout the process. She went out of her way to coordinate with the venue and our wedding planner to ensure everything went smoothly. On the day of, the food service was smooth, the food was hot, plentiful, and DELICIOUS. We had rave reviews from our guests - this is not your average, boring wedding food. And let's not forget about the pie! Who needs wedding cake, when you can have fresh, wonderful pie?? Not only that, but on our wedding day we did not really get a chance to eat much (read: anything). Sarah Beth made sure to pack us leftovers - so appreciated and needed the few days following the wedding! ALSO, we learned after the wedding, that one of the First Slice servers ended up helping out behind the bar because one of our bartenders (not through First Slice) did not show up - instead of a disaster, First Slice made it all work. We are SO thankful to First Slice, and especially Sarah Beth - our wedding would NOT have been the same without you! If you are getting married, seriously consider using First Slice as your caterer, you will not be disappointed!!
(5)atrack b.
I've been here twice. Both times I had tasty pie, and the person taking care of me was pretty nice. From my experience, the cream pies, the apple pie, and the cookies are standouts. Now that I'm in the neighborhood, I anticipate going back a lot more.
(4)Jennifer Q.
Great employees, great people, great vibe! People here are extremely helpful and they have great food. I would totally recommend the chicken and guacamole sandwich! Also, the place has free WiFi, so its a pretty good place to chill and relax, or even do some quick homework. oh! Of course the pies are GREAT!
(4)Sam F.
A stellar weekend brunch spot for 1-2 people - staff was a bit slammed on a monday but the food came out great. Really amazing pie. Coffee was solid carafe black. Cool little seating area outside, literally 10 feet from the train crossing. Great neighborhood spot!
(4)David M.
This was my second visit to first slice and I will be back again soon. The pie is to die for (if you like gooey peanut butter pie you must try theirs!). The staff is super friendly and I love their social mission. My wife has fallen in love with with their polka dot pie that has a cheesecake texture and a light almond flavor as well.
(5)Marie C.
Friendly service and delicious sandwiches. Had the Chicago Style Vegetarian which they made vegan for me by eliminating the cheese. Great neighborhood spot to relax in.
(5)Rosa J.
Rosa J.'s weekend may be involved with "crowd controlling," "baby-sitting," and "sanctioning"...and yes, those are some of my responsibilities as a retail professional. However, no matter what she does for living by day, she will always be a Chicago foodie. This morning I took a walk, with hubby, to the east end of Albany Park on Manor Ave. by CTA Francisco Brown Line station. I've been a resident of Albany Park for two (2) years and have never visited "First Slice." First Slice is a cafe that serves classic western-style quick bites for breakfast and lunch, quality-brew coffee, and of course, gourmet pies. I've been to many cafes in Chicago that are more hipsters-friendly or catered to workers who would only hang out with their PC or Mac. "First Slice" is totally welcoming for the entire family. In fact, I saw many little neighborhood kids patronizing. One (1) of the sweet boys, surprisingly, picked out a bottle of grapefruit juice and helped mama with the door. What a gentleman at such tender age! And he's going to be a foodie in the next generation since he knows his "fruit." Ok, look forward to seeing you at the Yelp Elite event in the year of...2035 (when I turn 50)! Anyways, sorry for digressing. I now have to talk about the Mediterranean quiche and the Chicago veggie sandwich we ordered. The young lady was very personable and helpful for suggesting items on the menu, since their menu was pretty extensive. All the ingredients they used were very fresh. They quiche was seasoned nicely; it had a good texture and wasn't "crusty" because it was made-to-order. On the other hand, the choice of cheese for their Chicago veggie sandwich was brilliant! They used the medium-aged cheddar, which complemented the spinach and onion very well. I almost wanted to order another kind of sandwich, but I knew I would have a plenty of opportunities since I live nearby and I enjoy taking a walk meandering "MY" neighborhood. There was one that would tickle your fancy: "Duck & Mozzarella" sandwich! What would that taste like? I hope it would taste "crack-lissimo." Well, if that wasn't funny, I apologized for trying too hard. Unfortunately, I no longer take the brown line to commute to work. Otherwise, I would pop in here more frequently. I'm not a huge "pie" person, but they complete my equation with other items that are wholesome and healthy. Overall, "First Slice" has left me a great first impression, so I will be back when I can.
(4)Kate T.
My friends and I stopped by on the last day of our road trip. We rented an air bnb down the street and happened upon First Slice when walking to catch the brown line. The staff is super friendly plus the decor & dinnerware are charming. I had the Mediterranean quiche and raspberry cheesecake pie. Both were ridiculously delicious and well worth the price! I'll be back next time I'm in Chicago!!
(5)Lex B.
First almost 70 degree day of the year, so of course I find myself outside (duh!). Took my little Maltese, Kai, to the dog park. Which was awesome, but I found myself very hungry. And since Pi Day (3.14) just passed and I didn't have any, I look for the closest pie place around. Got the food to go, so I could sit outside with Kai. I tried the turkey chili and the chicken/guacamole sandwich. The sandwich was okay, but I really enjoyed the turkey chili! The peanut butter and chocolate pie was to die forrrrrrr. I'm pretty sure it had oreo crust, and that made it even more amazing. The only reason I don't give the place 4 stars is because the guy behind the counter was kind of rude to me. I didn't understand his question, and he got snippy with me. But...like I said, the pie was amazing! And who doesn't want a slice of pie sometimes.
(3)Faye B.
This place really is more 4 1/2 stars. Be forewarned that the space really is quite small. It steps from the Brown Line Francisco stop. Truly a little café that offers everything from soups, sandwiches, wraps, and best of all pie. Of course we decided to go on Pi Day so it couldn't possibly accommodate all the foot traffic this place would bring in because they sell pie. So glad we tried this new pie place out because it is definitely a hidden gem and a cute local spot for those that live in the neighborhood. We weren't too turned off about the small space because they are so close to a park and it happened to be a nice day. My husband and I opted to share a sandwich (which comes with a side salad and some chips), tried their lemonade, and each had a slice of pie of course! Everything was delicious! We got a ham sandwich with cheddar cheese. This was no run of the mill regular sandwich. It was cut into halves and was the perfect cross of Panini with oooey gooey melted cheddar. It expertly hid some tasty mustard and red onion as well. Their lemonade was just the right combo of drink and wasn't too tart. My husband got a chocolate peanut butter slice and I opted for my favorite, key lime pie. How can you go wrong with key lime that has an inch of whipped cream with the perfect amount of tart custard? The graham crust was heavenly, decadent, but not too rich. Now, the chocolate peanut butter on the other hand is a knockout. I snagged a couple of bites and they were outstanding. Creamy and rich with a chocolate graham crust and a thin layer of what looks like chocolate ganache. It is the ratio of chocolate to peanut butter. Can't wait to go back! Couldn't think of a better way to celebrate Pi Day!
(4)Bill M.
This First Slice Pie Café location is really close to the Francisco stop on the Brown Line. I have been here twice and it is a good spot to meet friends if you are in the area. I have had the chocolate peanut butter pie and the hot chocolate here, and both are fine if not crave-worthy. Service is quick and pleasant enough, although one time I did see a line forming around lunchtime. Whether you come solo or with family, you should feel cozy here.
(3)Alf O.
This coffee shop is rad, and so are the people who work here. Nice location, and nice crowd inside.
(5)Rebeca M.
Cute little cafe. Stopped in with a friend, orders the sweet onion quiche and chicken cucumber wrap. Both were super delish. The quiche was to die for, hot and cheesy.. Great selection of teas and coffee as well. The pies looked amazing but I had to pass..
(4)Leah H.
Train fans, WHAT A LOCATION! Sit and watch the gates of the brown line at street level from this adorable cafe! We had a grilled cheese we liked so much we ordered another to go. Very friendly service.
(5)Hanna D.
First slice is soo cozy! The staff is always super friendly, and the smells that fill my porch from across the tracks in First Slices kitchen are FANTASTIC! Coffee is consistent, & fresh, not just pee in a pot that's been burning for hours. The baked treats are prefect for afternoon snack & their take home dinners are perfect for a quick meal on the way home... And the pie..... Oh the pie! Only quip - not open early enough for my breakfast coffee.
(4)Amy J.
I love this place! Super friendly staff! You've got to try the apricot bran muffins!
(4)Laura A.
FANTASTIC PIE!!! Prior to yesterday I had only stopped in occasionally to get a coffee when I take my little guy to the park across the way, but yesterday I was tempted by their peanut butter chocolate pie! Amazingly good! Today (because I guess I felt no need to stay on my diet), I stopped in today. This time I tried the Coffee Toffee pie. CRAZY GOOD! The staff is extra nice too. I cant wait to go back and try another kind of pie!
(5)Cal N.
Great Slice to enjoy!
(4)Julia K.
Scrumptious blueberry lemonade! I wandered over to this small, charming cafe after visiting a possible new apartment down the street. If a good-hearted shop like this doesn't make one want to move nearby, I don't know what will.
(4)Carter B.
got a sandwich and pie. the sandwich was really chincy for the price. pie was good but seemed overly sweet.
(2)Jillian D.
since merle's closed, first slice has taken up residence as the francisco brown line coffee stop. the service is fast and friendly. great coffees and tasty scones. haven't had the pies at this locale yet (i've gotten them at lill street and loved them). welcome to the neighborhood! you'll be seeing a lot of me :)
(4)Emily M.
I live very close to this First Slice location and finally stopped in a few months ago for some after dinner dessert. I tried the mint chocolate chip pie, and it was AMAZING. So deliciously good. Also, their cookies are out of this world. I keep going back for their Couch Potato Cookie. It's chocolate chocolate chip with espresso and it's rolled in crushed potato chips. So. Effing. Good. I'm drooling just thinking about it.
(4)Adam S.
Nice little spot slightly off the beaten path right near the Brown Line Francisco stop
(4)Katelyn N.
LOVE First Slice! A true hidden neighborhood gem. Favorite pies are the Polka Dot and seasonal Pumpkin Cheesecake. Blueberry Cheesecake is just as tasty! The paninis are all amazing--especially LOVE the Duck & Mozzarella. They have no air conditioning in the summer and it's extra chilly in the winter, but definitely worth it. Just dress appropriately and you'll be fine :)
(5)Megan R.
This place normally is only open from 8am-6pm, so their hours pretty much always include while I am at work/commuting. I hadn't had the chance to try this place (which is actually a non-profit that provides food to families in poverty in food deserts) until this past week. It was somehow open past their normal hours, so I popped in, having been craving quiche all day praying they would have it. They did! They had bacon and sweet onion quiche, and it was great. You can tell the pie crust is homemade (crucial, since I make my own crusts), and it's just the right amount of fluffy egg and awesome bacon. All of their dishes come with a side salad, which is a bunch of fresh greens and seasonal berries/fruits with oil and vinager. I don't like dressings, so I let that go, but sans the dressing it would have been great- very fresh and very tasty. Pies looked good, prices for pie was good, prices for food was alright, but considering it goes back to a non-profit I'm OK with that.
(4)Charlotte S.
Great atmosphere and friendly service. What they lack in speed they make up for in a great attitude. Very relaxed. Not incredibly private as you may end up sharing a long table with other customers but it's very cool. Love the salad combos.
(5)B C.
There are a few things I really enjoy about this place: (1) The location - This is the quintessential local cafe, tucked away among the residential confines of a quiet and friendly neighborhood. Just going to this place is enjoyable because it's conveniently off the beaten track and still just a couple steps from the brown line Francisco stop. If the weather is right, you can cross the street and chill out at Ravenswood Manor Park, surrounded by well-kept brick homes, tall trees, and the occasional passing street level train. (2) The food - They serve excellent pie, and lots of different kinds. I'm a big fan of peanut butter and chocolate pies in general, and this one was especially satisfying, hearty portions and perfect match with a coffee. I haven't had a meal there yet, but the breakfast looked like it was worth another trip back. (3) The setup - Long, spacious tables in front of large, sunny, street-side windows that let in plenty of natural light while you work on homework or other stuff on a weekend morning. (4) Good hours - Coffee shops near Lincoln Square often close up by early afternoon. This place has longer hours, which is nice if you're looking for a place to go after you take the early evening El train home from work.
(4)Alicia K.
Love this little joint right off the Francisco brown line. They have delicious tea - not that McDonald's, no flavor or overly sweet style tea. Legit iced tea. And amazing cookies. The decor is super cute and it would probably be the perfect spot for a writer to churn out some glorious pages.
(5)Jaime G.
Super cool little pie and sandwich place in Albany Park. Sure it's even better in the summer with their outdoor patio right next the Brown Linen train. Cozy and esp fun for the kiddos. All sandwiches look good but we tried the Mediterranean quiche and coffee braised beef burrito. Both exceptional. Plus the salad is so simple yet flavorful (anything with arugula is a winner in my book). Then had a slice of the key-lime pie and was tasty as heck too. Also have a nice cup of freshly brewed coffee with soy milk. This is a chain of cafes that are passionate about cooking good food but also help busy families serve good meals at home (they offer a meal plan for purchase) and help fight hunger for those in need. You can learn more at any of their locations and on their website - firstslice.org . If you're in the neighborhood for breakfast lunch or dinner, this is a good pick.
(4)Chel D.
Came in to try the pie and was not impressed at all. I notice most people probably go for the wifi. I didn't get a chance to try the other menu items so I'll probably be back and see how it goes.
(3)Haley C.
This cafe has everything I could want. Amazing pie with a variety of types, affordable at around 3.50 a slice, and a great location. I love that they do a non-profit for the homeless and feed 600 people a week! I don't live anywhere near it but I am wiling to take the brown line up any day for some yummy pie here!!
(5)Marcela R.
I love this place. Great food! The place is very cute and the people that work there they are all very nice. On Sunday they have brunch, their French toast is one of the best ones I ever had.
(5)Matt H.
Great community Cafe! I love this place. We went for the Sunday brunch and we weren't disappointed. I had the breakfast burrito with chorizo and it came out more like a grilled wrap. Very affordable. We ended the meal with a couple slices of pie. Best I have had in a long time. Will be recommending to all my neighborhood friends.
(5)Amy K.
Cute little place, clean environment, small but not crowded. Coffee is solid and reasonably priced. Hot chocolate is good. The only gluten-free baked good is a peanut-butter cookie. which is just okay (doesn't hold together well- eat it with a fork). Nice addition to the neighborhood, and perfectly located for commuters. Fair warning: the CTA brown line rumbles by, and creates a bit of noise. It can also get pretty stuffy inside in the summer. There is outdoor seating, though. There is a bathroom in back, through the kitchen.
(4)Marcelino R.
This place has quickly become my go-to spot for lunch when I don't want to eat anything heavy. They have a wide variety of salads including a chicken curry, which is my personal favorite. They also offer organic eggs and burgers which I have yet to try. Coffee is always fresh and flavorful and the pies of course are really good. I'm not big on the sweets, but I highly recommend the blueberry and peach pie. Atmosphere is pretty chill and they have some outdoor seating as well.
(5)Courtney R.
I work close by, and have had lunch here with coworkers 3 or 4 times by now. We have never been disappointed. This place is fabulous! First thing to rave about is the blueberry lemonade. It's like you're drinking fresh blueberries through your straw. So good. The cucumber lemonade is great too, but now that I've discovered the blueberry, I can never go back. All lemonades (plain lemon, strawberry, cucumber, and blueberry) are made fresh, batch by batch. I've had the turkey sandwich twice - it's good. Had the duck sandwich as well. It was ok - nothing to go crazy over, but pretty good nonetheless. Friends have had the curry chicken salad, burger, quina salad, and some other things I can't remember. The side salad is fresh and tasty. The service is always super friendly and proficient. The place itself is adorable. We havent' had pie yet, but it always looks so very good and tempting. To top it off is the new found fact that this place is a charity that serves food to the homeless. This puts it over the top for me - I love this place!
(5)Becky B.
I have never been in that area of the city before. So the second I stepped off of the Brown Line to do some apartment searching, I walked into First Slice to ask for directions to my destination. To my surprise, I stumbled upon a quaint little cafe with fresh baked goods and loose leaf tea! I knew I'd be back to experience this local shop considering this may be the future neighborhood I'll be living in. After looking at the apartment, I came back.. as promised! I had a Jasmine Green Tea, as recommended by the sweet barista, and had a tomato soup with a cute little grilled cheese. It was all fantastic! The customer service was great. I then took a FLOURLESS cookie home for dessert. Which was delicious. . The barista also told me that all the baked goods were made in house! I love small businesses! They have so much more quality than a corporate cafe/coffee house. If I do move into the area, which I hope, I will be frequenting this place! YAY!
(5)Romana Y.
The coffee and food here are great. You can find healthy, quality meals/bites to accompany great Alterra coffee. The prices are very reasonable. The atmosphere is cozy with enough space to spread out and study, or to simply meet a friend(s). There's always an amiable, mellow crowd.
(5)Sophie B.
The best pie ever. Period. Will make you stop your conversation. I have the Key lime and Blueberry cheesecake. They will change your life!!!
(5)Matt V.
Good Pie Good Coffee Good Atmosphere Walking distance from my home big plus. I wanted a cup of coffee and a slice of pie. This place delivered. I will go back.
(4)Sam F.
A stellar weekend brunch spot for 1-2 people - staff was a bit slammed on a monday but the food came out great. Really amazing pie. Coffee was solid carafe black. Cool little seating area outside, literally 10 feet from the train crossing. Great neighborhood spot!
(4)David M.
This was my second visit to first slice and I will be back again soon. The pie is to die for (if you like gooey peanut butter pie you must try theirs!). The staff is super friendly and I love their social mission. My wife has fallen in love with with their polka dot pie that has a cheesecake texture and a light almond flavor as well.
(5)Marie C.
Friendly service and delicious sandwiches. Had the Chicago Style Vegetarian which they made vegan for me by eliminating the cheese. Great neighborhood spot to relax in.
(5)Anjali P.
First Slice catered our wedding - and it was incredible!!! We hosted a 150 person wedding in the suburbs of Chicago - we were set on using First Slice as our caterer because of their delicious food, their important mission and their reasonable prices. As they have not catered many large weddings in the past, we were a tad apprehensive but..........THEY WERE INCREDIBLE. Sarah Beth was our point of contact, she was SO professional and on top of her game throughout the process. She went out of her way to coordinate with the venue and our wedding planner to ensure everything went smoothly. On the day of, the food service was smooth, the food was hot, plentiful, and DELICIOUS. We had rave reviews from our guests - this is not your average, boring wedding food. And let's not forget about the pie! Who needs wedding cake, when you can have fresh, wonderful pie?? Not only that, but on our wedding day we did not really get a chance to eat much (read: anything). Sarah Beth made sure to pack us leftovers - so appreciated and needed the few days following the wedding! ALSO, we learned after the wedding, that one of the First Slice servers ended up helping out behind the bar because one of our bartenders (not through First Slice) did not show up - instead of a disaster, First Slice made it all work. We are SO thankful to First Slice, and especially Sarah Beth - our wedding would NOT have been the same without you! If you are getting married, seriously consider using First Slice as your caterer, you will not be disappointed!!
(5)atrack b.
I've been here twice. Both times I had tasty pie, and the person taking care of me was pretty nice. From my experience, the cream pies, the apple pie, and the cookies are standouts. Now that I'm in the neighborhood, I anticipate going back a lot more.
(4)Jennifer Q.
Great employees, great people, great vibe! People here are extremely helpful and they have great food. I would totally recommend the chicken and guacamole sandwich! Also, the place has free WiFi, so its a pretty good place to chill and relax, or even do some quick homework. oh! Of course the pies are GREAT!
(4)Nancy H.
My daughter is planning on using First Slice as the caterer for her wedding so we stopped by to check on the food before the tasting. We were very impressed - we both have allergies and our server knew what was safe for each of us. He also knew how to work around our allergies to give us a great meal.. (Between the 2 of us we are gluten free, nut free, and lactose free) We had great service, good food, and a fun conversation with Dana. And First Slice has a cause we can support.
(5)Mike O.
Good food, but repeatedly mediocre customer service at this location. Closes early, annoyed by kids, don't worry we won't be back.
(2)Elyse K.
I found myself in unfamiliar territory in pursuit of a good haircut across the street at Supreme, and stopped by First Slice after for a quick bite. I only got the turkey chili, but my word it was to die for! Possibly the best chili I've ever had when paired with the little toast triangles. Though I only tried one thing, I can tell the whole menu is quality from the ingredients I tasted. Can't wait to go back! It's totally worth the trek up north for me.
(5)Rosa J.
Rosa J.'s weekend may be involved with "crowd controlling," "baby-sitting," and "sanctioning"...and yes, those are some of my responsibilities as a retail professional. However, no matter what she does for living by day, she will always be a Chicago foodie. This morning I took a walk, with hubby, to the east end of Albany Park on Manor Ave. by CTA Francisco Brown Line station. I've been a resident of Albany Park for two (2) years and have never visited "First Slice." First Slice is a cafe that serves classic western-style quick bites for breakfast and lunch, quality-brew coffee, and of course, gourmet pies. I've been to many cafes in Chicago that are more hipsters-friendly or catered to workers who would only hang out with their PC or Mac. "First Slice" is totally welcoming for the entire family. In fact, I saw many little neighborhood kids patronizing. One (1) of the sweet boys, surprisingly, picked out a bottle of grapefruit juice and helped mama with the door. What a gentleman at such tender age! And he's going to be a foodie in the next generation since he knows his "fruit." Ok, look forward to seeing you at the Yelp Elite event in the year of...2035 (when I turn 50)! Anyways, sorry for digressing. I now have to talk about the Mediterranean quiche and the Chicago veggie sandwich we ordered. The young lady was very personable and helpful for suggesting items on the menu, since their menu was pretty extensive. All the ingredients they used were very fresh. They quiche was seasoned nicely; it had a good texture and wasn't "crusty" because it was made-to-order. On the other hand, the choice of cheese for their Chicago veggie sandwich was brilliant! They used the medium-aged cheddar, which complemented the spinach and onion very well. I almost wanted to order another kind of sandwich, but I knew I would have a plenty of opportunities since I live nearby and I enjoy taking a walk meandering "MY" neighborhood. There was one that would tickle your fancy: "Duck & Mozzarella" sandwich! What would that taste like? I hope it would taste "crack-lissimo." Well, if that wasn't funny, I apologized for trying too hard. Unfortunately, I no longer take the brown line to commute to work. Otherwise, I would pop in here more frequently. I'm not a huge "pie" person, but they complete my equation with other items that are wholesome and healthy. Overall, "First Slice" has left me a great first impression, so I will be back when I can.
(4)Kate T.
My friends and I stopped by on the last day of our road trip. We rented an air bnb down the street and happened upon First Slice when walking to catch the brown line. The staff is super friendly plus the decor & dinnerware are charming. I had the Mediterranean quiche and raspberry cheesecake pie. Both were ridiculously delicious and well worth the price! I'll be back next time I'm in Chicago!!
(5)Lex B.
First almost 70 degree day of the year, so of course I find myself outside (duh!). Took my little Maltese, Kai, to the dog park. Which was awesome, but I found myself very hungry. And since Pi Day (3.14) just passed and I didn't have any, I look for the closest pie place around. Got the food to go, so I could sit outside with Kai. I tried the turkey chili and the chicken/guacamole sandwich. The sandwich was okay, but I really enjoyed the turkey chili! The peanut butter and chocolate pie was to die forrrrrrr. I'm pretty sure it had oreo crust, and that made it even more amazing. The only reason I don't give the place 4 stars is because the guy behind the counter was kind of rude to me. I didn't understand his question, and he got snippy with me. But...like I said, the pie was amazing! And who doesn't want a slice of pie sometimes.
(3)Faye B.
This place really is more 4 1/2 stars. Be forewarned that the space really is quite small. It steps from the Brown Line Francisco stop. Truly a little café that offers everything from soups, sandwiches, wraps, and best of all pie. Of course we decided to go on Pi Day so it couldn't possibly accommodate all the foot traffic this place would bring in because they sell pie. So glad we tried this new pie place out because it is definitely a hidden gem and a cute local spot for those that live in the neighborhood. We weren't too turned off about the small space because they are so close to a park and it happened to be a nice day. My husband and I opted to share a sandwich (which comes with a side salad and some chips), tried their lemonade, and each had a slice of pie of course! Everything was delicious! We got a ham sandwich with cheddar cheese. This was no run of the mill regular sandwich. It was cut into halves and was the perfect cross of Panini with oooey gooey melted cheddar. It expertly hid some tasty mustard and red onion as well. Their lemonade was just the right combo of drink and wasn't too tart. My husband got a chocolate peanut butter slice and I opted for my favorite, key lime pie. How can you go wrong with key lime that has an inch of whipped cream with the perfect amount of tart custard? The graham crust was heavenly, decadent, but not too rich. Now, the chocolate peanut butter on the other hand is a knockout. I snagged a couple of bites and they were outstanding. Creamy and rich with a chocolate graham crust and a thin layer of what looks like chocolate ganache. It is the ratio of chocolate to peanut butter. Can't wait to go back! Couldn't think of a better way to celebrate Pi Day!
(4)Bill M.
This First Slice Pie Café location is really close to the Francisco stop on the Brown Line. I have been here twice and it is a good spot to meet friends if you are in the area. I have had the chocolate peanut butter pie and the hot chocolate here, and both are fine if not crave-worthy. Service is quick and pleasant enough, although one time I did see a line forming around lunchtime. Whether you come solo or with family, you should feel cozy here.
(3)Alf O.
This coffee shop is rad, and so are the people who work here. Nice location, and nice crowd inside.
(5)Rebeca M.
Cute little cafe. Stopped in with a friend, orders the sweet onion quiche and chicken cucumber wrap. Both were super delish. The quiche was to die for, hot and cheesy.. Great selection of teas and coffee as well. The pies looked amazing but I had to pass..
(4)Cristina P.
This location is always well kept and has a variety of choices. Their coffee is good; if you are like me and do not like the taste of hot milk, they do have soy and almond. They also have specials up on their wall everyday. The staff has a lot of positive energy and they make your stay feel like you are in their home. The location is small, cozy and everything a little cafe should be, in my opinion. I have enjoyed myself every time I have stopped by. The Francisco Brown line is right next-door and it does make noise, but nothing to make a big deal about. If you are looking for a small quiet place to eat, drink and use your computer to get work done like me First Slice is your spot. I suggest that you visit before you actually listen to the bad reviewers. Some people are too spoiled. Learn how to appreciate the little things in life. ;) [CPaynes]
(5)Christina Alexa M.
If you love quirky and convenient locations, coffee selections, artisan sandwiches, quiche, salad, soup, pie, juice and friendly interactions, this place is such a treat. I just moved to the neighborhood and was looking for some local coffee and found this! Off the Francisco stop, just walk down the ramp from the platform and it's patio is right at the edge of the ramp. Amazing! Fun for kids who like trains, dog walkers, families, college kids, teens, food bloggers and people looking for some r&r inspiration. Yummy vegetarian food too (:
(5)MARISOL P.
A neighborhood gem right off the L stop and across the street from a park. Great coffee, sandwiches and pies. I need to try their specials on Friday and their Sunday brunch.
(4)emma r.
Best. Breakfast. Burrito. And this is from a picky someone who wouldn't think of reviewing a lowly burrito. But I wandered in during the Ravenswood Manor yard sale marathon on Sunday. Hot, tired and hungry as all get out. You get to choose your own ingredients. Hand made fresh. I choose chorizo, mushroom, and smoked Gouda. You even get hash browns and a side salad. Such a deal. And the best damned burrito I ever ate. Plus good coffee. Way better coffee than that "other" coffee shop near the Rockwell Brown line stop. You know the one. Go here. The end.
(5)Amanda N.
My husband, son, and I do the subscription program and every weekend we pick up our delicious fresh frozen meals for the week. We've been doing this for about 7 months so far and it has changed our lives. We don't live nearby but it's worth the drive. I love to cook, but when we both come home from work during the week we want to enjoy a delicious healthy family meal together without much prep, and this program is perfect for us. Look up the menus and details on their website!
(5)Simone L.
While there are multiple locations of this quaint cafe, this is by far my favorite one. Every employee I've met is welcoming, helpful and sweet. Their pies are to die for. They have classics, such as apple, French silk and chocolate peanut butter as well as seasonal flavored like strawberry rhubarb, pumpkin and blueberry. My two favorite pies are Key Lime (a regular flavor) and pumpkin cheesecake (a fall flavor). The pies are well priced, at about $3.50. I usually also get a large tea (tip: all the tea sizes cost the same, so get the large for the best deal). Their tea list is extensive and I have yet to try one I don't like. Their coffees and other drinks are good but slightly on the pricey side. As far as food goes, I haven't had much there. The quiches are delicious as well as the salads. Most people rave about the Mac & cheese but it's too much for me. I recommend this place to anyone looking for a yummy, reasonably priced and cozy-feeling cafe in the busy city. (Sometimes I don't just recommend, but I drag my friends here. No one has ever complained once they try something!)
(5)Monica W.
The pie is good. Love the lemon bar. The ham and cheese sandwich is a guilty pleasure. They taught me to like salads (lots of good things in them). The food subscription is fabulous!
(5)Katarina X.
Beagle found this place with his little puppy nose and brought us here. No, really... I have pictures to prove it! Some weekend mornings, I am too burnt out to cook. On those days my handsome Boyfriend will suggest a walk and a coffee. Here, our Beagle wanted pie, or maybe quiche, or maybe baked treats... They were all good but what I really, really adored was the duck and mozzarella sandwich- delicious, wonderful textures and I seriously debated getting another. Yes, two sandwiches, all for me. Shut up, it was that delectable. I got a slice of pie and shared it with Boyfriend and Beagle. Boyfriend had the mediterranean quiche with salad and there were no leftovers- which means it was scrumptious. The guy at the counter was cute and sweet- which I appreciate tremendously. Coffee was decent and the outside benches in the sun are wonderful on a bright Spring morning. We will be back. You can't beat the cause- feeding the hungry!
(5)Rebecca B.
Good coffee. Tasty tea. Delicious pie. Friendly people. Cozy atmosphere. What's not to love? The coffee at First Slice is pretty good, and they have a nice selection of teas. I do sometimes stop in just to get a cup of coffee or glass of lemonade, but then I see the pies beckoning to me, so I have to get a slice to go. I mean really, how can you not get a slice of pie when a case of them are just there, staring at you, looking delicious? The cherry pie is kind of amazing, with a lattice crust and juicy, tart cherries. They also make a good pecan pie, which is one of my favorite types of pie. The red wine poached pear pie is scrumptious. But the blueberry pie...oh, the blueberry pie is the stuff that dreams are made of. That is, of course, if you are lucky enough to stop by on the rare occasions that they have blueberry pie. There are a few tried and true classic pies that are always available, but then there are a few rotating flavors in their repertoire, as well. Everything that I have had to eat, not just the pie, has been delicious. The duck and mozzarella sandwich is a personal favorite, with mounds of duck meat piled high on crusty bread and topped with mozzarella, spinach, and sauteed mushrooms. I also crave the curry chicken salad, which is super flavorful. The bacon quiche fills my heart with joy with each bite of fluffy egg/bacon goodness. I am seriously in love with this location of First Slice. It is closer to me than the one on Ravenswood, but it still serves the same delicious food and desserts. And, more importantly, like their sister locations, they are part of a not for profit organization that works to feed the hungry in Chicago. So go ahead and get a second piece of pie. It is for a good cause.
(5)Allison W.
I love to go here on a sunny spring or summer day to get a cup of iced coffee and a slice of pie! They also have a lentil salad there that's fantastic, perfect for a light lunch. The service is friendly and it's right next to the park that I take me son to so it's super convenient!
(4)Alicia A.
Every person who has ever stared in dismay at their stove at the end of a long day wishing they did not have to cook to achieve a healthy meal without spending a fortune needs to know about the subscriber program at First Slice. It's seriously the most awesome thing ever, and in being a subscriber you're actually contributing to a program that helps the community. Even when i'm not sure what certain items are on the weekly selections, I've come to realize that it's almost always unimportant, because regardless of what it is it's going to be delicious (chicken tinga? wth is that? guess what, doesn't matter! delicious!). Now when it's time to make dinner I have no stress of having to deal with it and no guilt brought on by succumbing to dialing for over-priced take out. And they even accommodate our low-carb needs. Thank you! I feel a little guilty because we've been on the subscriber program for several months and I haven't written a review- tbh I was avoiding it because I didn't want to have to subtract a star for the morose staff I've interacted with. I'm very pleased to note that has changed with the new management- I've definitely seen a huge upswing in the positivity levels at the counter- yay! Oh and to the person who wrote that the salads in the counter creep them out- bummer for you because they're friggin delicious. In particular, curry chicken salad and cucumber chicken salad are utterly delectable. Also, pie. YUM.
(5)Joanne W.
I love having this little pie shoppe just down the street. It's a cute bright little space steps from the Francisco stop. But First Slice is offering up more than just pie. There are a variety of baked goods to be had - scones, cookies, muffins, biscotti. There is also a case with heat & eat items for those nights when you just don't feel like cooking. Finally there is a menu with a little something for everyone - sandwiches, pizza, quiche, salads.. and of course pie! Pie, glorious pie. Chocolate pie. French Silk pie. Fruit pie. Coffee Toffee pie and my favorite - Peanut Butter pie! I've sat outside on a beautiful fall day with a Sprecher soda and a delicious slice of quiche and I've run in, grabbed a sandwich with a slice of pie to enjoy in the comfort of my own home. An enjoyable experience either way. And perhaps the best thing about First Slice is that it's a non for profit devoted to serving the community via youth groups, churches and various other outreach programs. That's right, First Slice is a self funded charity that serves thousands of meals to the needy and homeless. Support this local business who not only serve up some tasty fare but give back to the community. First Slice, First Rate.
(4)Bill K.
Great little neighborhood place! Unique menu items, friendly, knowledgable, helpful staff. My fav from here is the black bean and mushroom tamales! Tasty, comes with a side salad of mixed greens. Give it a try!
(5)Laurie A.
I came here specifically for the pie, and I was not terribly impressed. The French Silk Pie was still frozen when I bit into it. Pies are clearly not made fresh here.
(2)Leah L.
First I want to say that if I was giving a rating just on the food it would probably be a 5 star. We have been getting their subscriber service for about a year and a half so we have tried a lot of their offerings and have generally been very happy with the food. The reason for the lost two stars is because of management. Every time that I have had to interact with anyone beyond just picking up our food I have felt very uncomfortable and more like an imposition than a customer. I understand that management has recently changed, but my recent interactions with them have not been any better. The people who work the counter are usually friendly, but there are certain people that I would rather turn around than to go in and speak to. I consider that an extension of grumpy management though. If your manager acts like your customers are a burden then you are probably going to act that way too. I hope they find a way to bring more joy and friendliness into the business because they have a great product.
(3)Wesley S.
The First Slice Pie Café on Manor, near the Francisco Brown Line el stop, is an additional location, that joins the one at the Montrose Brown Line el stop. Like, the latter store, the Manor location is part of the non-profit organization that supports food donation and distribution. The web site is worthy of reading. However, you won't find a menu there. The site is all business, the First Slice Pie's business of serving the community. The café has good coffee. It offers some baked goods, and, apparently, it has a pizza night (?). This is the type of space that is ideal for a book club get-together, or for working on your iPad or tablet. There are several tables outdoors. The effect of the patio area is lovely, but the ambiance is marred somewhat by the surprisingly noisy traffic on the street outside. It is not busy, just noisy. The First Slice Pie Café is a great addition to the neighborhood. I plan to visit it more often now that summer is on the horizon.
(3)Jacquie S.
I love this place and my 2 1/2 year old loves this place. The food is delicious and the pie is out of this world. Cherry pie is the best. The staff is always friendly. If you're in the area stop by, you won't be disappointed. I also love that its near a park so after lunch or dinner we can walk over to the park and play for a bit.
(5)Julie I.
I love this place. It's got great food and the staff are super friendly. I highly recommend it.
(5)Brent W.
Very relaxing, homey environment, good cafe, wide array of food optiins that I haven't tried yet. Will be back. Oh come here at the beginning or end of your North Shore Channel trail bike ride!
(5)Helena G.
We didn't taste the pies but we had a good latte! This coffee shop is just next to the metro station, it's located in a peaceful and beautiful neighborhood. It's a nice place with a good vibe and it has a cozy decor. I loved the wooden tables. It was packed with people having lunch.
(3)Kristen Q.
This is hands down one of the best places in chicago. And my family and I, luckily!!!, live next door. This is the real deal local coffee/ food stop place. With some very unique surprises, like their weekly food subscriptions and charity giving.
(5)Melanie S.
Love at First Slice. Be still my heart. At long last, First Slice has set up shop just mere steps from the Francisco stop on the Brown Line. I walk by it every day and wondered if it was ever going to open, but yesterday, they officially opened for business. And naturally I couldn't walk by without checking it out. I walked in and was downright giddy. It's a bright, sunny space with big wooden tables and like their other location, they're offering up soups, salads, sandwiches, quiche, and of course, pie. I came away with a slice of Michigan sour cherry pie and one of the biggest lemon bars I've ever seen. It was hard not to try and buy everything, but I had to remind myself that since this place is practically in my backyard, there's no reason I can't come back every day and sample their offerings, which also include chocolate chip cookie bars and snickerdoodles. The lemon bar was one of the biggest and best I've ever had - nice and lemony, and just tart and sweet enough with a perfect crust. And priced at just $2.00, it was a steal. The cherry pie was nice and tart and topped with a lattice crust, which is my preference. As much as I love my sweets, the crowning glory may just be that they also offer fried chicken on their menu, which I was able to take a peek at, and it looked divine. There's a good chance I may just be their best customer since no two things make me happier than sweets and fried chicken in one place. In addition, First Slice offers a shareholder program. As a subscriber, you will receive home-cooked, restaurant-quality meals. Your subscription also directly contributes to funding the same high-quality food to people in need. Individual and family subscriptions are available. One family subscription feeds twenty hungry people for a month. What could be better than eating well and doing good? You can't stop at one slice at First Slice.
(4)August B.
Where to go? The area is mostly residential...sounds like a dilemma, tis. It hath been the untimely emptying of the happy throne and fall of many kings. Alas, I found the perfect place for my pretentious ass. They use all the right key words, organic, sustainable, responsible business practices etc. Most importantly, the food is solid, unspectacular yet exciting. It is a solid four star establishment, perfect place that compliments not only the neighborhood but also your inner hipster.
(4)Britini R.
I really had a lovely time eating here and hope to return over and over again. So, like Megan above, I was working long summer hours that meant I was always passing by this cute little storefront when it was closed. Teasing me! Anyways, I finally got a day off, and I'm riding my bike around the neighborhood, about half a block away, when I realize that I'm starving. The woman behind the counter was a peach! She helped me choose what to eat (broccoli and cheddar quiche) and explained the coffee sizes (and refills) to me. The food hit the spot, and the salad was delightful (blueberries!) with a light dressing. Once they get free wi-fi, I don't see how it won't be perfect. Also pretty excited to go back and try dinner. Still not sure what a "70s salad" is, but it sounds tasty. I'm not sure if I have it in me to sign up for their weekly dinner plan, but I like the idea; and I dig the non-profit side.
(5)Sam F.
A stellar weekend brunch spot for 1-2 people - staff was a bit slammed on a monday but the food came out great. Really amazing pie. Coffee was solid carafe black. Cool little seating area outside, literally 10 feet from the train crossing. Great neighborhood spot!
(4)atrack b.
I've been here twice. Both times I had tasty pie, and the person taking care of me was pretty nice. From my experience, the cream pies, the apple pie, and the cookies are standouts. Now that I'm in the neighborhood, I anticipate going back a lot more.
(4)Jennifer Q.
Great employees, great people, great vibe! People here are extremely helpful and they have great food. I would totally recommend the chicken and guacamole sandwich! Also, the place has free WiFi, so its a pretty good place to chill and relax, or even do some quick homework. oh! Of course the pies are GREAT!
(4)Nancy H.
My daughter is planning on using First Slice as the caterer for her wedding so we stopped by to check on the food before the tasting. We were very impressed - we both have allergies and our server knew what was safe for each of us. He also knew how to work around our allergies to give us a great meal.. (Between the 2 of us we are gluten free, nut free, and lactose free) We had great service, good food, and a fun conversation with Dana. And First Slice has a cause we can support.
(5)Mike O.
Good food, but repeatedly mediocre customer service at this location. Closes early, annoyed by kids, don't worry we won't be back.
(2)Elyse K.
I found myself in unfamiliar territory in pursuit of a good haircut across the street at Supreme, and stopped by First Slice after for a quick bite. I only got the turkey chili, but my word it was to die for! Possibly the best chili I've ever had when paired with the little toast triangles. Though I only tried one thing, I can tell the whole menu is quality from the ingredients I tasted. Can't wait to go back! It's totally worth the trek up north for me.
(5)Anjali P.
First Slice catered our wedding - and it was incredible!!! We hosted a 150 person wedding in the suburbs of Chicago - we were set on using First Slice as our caterer because of their delicious food, their important mission and their reasonable prices. As they have not catered many large weddings in the past, we were a tad apprehensive but..........THEY WERE INCREDIBLE. Sarah Beth was our point of contact, she was SO professional and on top of her game throughout the process. She went out of her way to coordinate with the venue and our wedding planner to ensure everything went smoothly. On the day of, the food service was smooth, the food was hot, plentiful, and DELICIOUS. We had rave reviews from our guests - this is not your average, boring wedding food. And let's not forget about the pie! Who needs wedding cake, when you can have fresh, wonderful pie?? Not only that, but on our wedding day we did not really get a chance to eat much (read: anything). Sarah Beth made sure to pack us leftovers - so appreciated and needed the few days following the wedding! ALSO, we learned after the wedding, that one of the First Slice servers ended up helping out behind the bar because one of our bartenders (not through First Slice) did not show up - instead of a disaster, First Slice made it all work. We are SO thankful to First Slice, and especially Sarah Beth - our wedding would NOT have been the same without you! If you are getting married, seriously consider using First Slice as your caterer, you will not be disappointed!!
(5)Lex B.
First almost 70 degree day of the year, so of course I find myself outside (duh!). Took my little Maltese, Kai, to the dog park. Which was awesome, but I found myself very hungry. And since Pi Day (3.14) just passed and I didn't have any, I look for the closest pie place around. Got the food to go, so I could sit outside with Kai. I tried the turkey chili and the chicken/guacamole sandwich. The sandwich was okay, but I really enjoyed the turkey chili! The peanut butter and chocolate pie was to die forrrrrrr. I'm pretty sure it had oreo crust, and that made it even more amazing. The only reason I don't give the place 4 stars is because the guy behind the counter was kind of rude to me. I didn't understand his question, and he got snippy with me. But...like I said, the pie was amazing! And who doesn't want a slice of pie sometimes.
(3)Faye B.
This place really is more 4 1/2 stars. Be forewarned that the space really is quite small. It steps from the Brown Line Francisco stop. Truly a little café that offers everything from soups, sandwiches, wraps, and best of all pie. Of course we decided to go on Pi Day so it couldn't possibly accommodate all the foot traffic this place would bring in because they sell pie. So glad we tried this new pie place out because it is definitely a hidden gem and a cute local spot for those that live in the neighborhood. We weren't too turned off about the small space because they are so close to a park and it happened to be a nice day. My husband and I opted to share a sandwich (which comes with a side salad and some chips), tried their lemonade, and each had a slice of pie of course! Everything was delicious! We got a ham sandwich with cheddar cheese. This was no run of the mill regular sandwich. It was cut into halves and was the perfect cross of Panini with oooey gooey melted cheddar. It expertly hid some tasty mustard and red onion as well. Their lemonade was just the right combo of drink and wasn't too tart. My husband got a chocolate peanut butter slice and I opted for my favorite, key lime pie. How can you go wrong with key lime that has an inch of whipped cream with the perfect amount of tart custard? The graham crust was heavenly, decadent, but not too rich. Now, the chocolate peanut butter on the other hand is a knockout. I snagged a couple of bites and they were outstanding. Creamy and rich with a chocolate graham crust and a thin layer of what looks like chocolate ganache. It is the ratio of chocolate to peanut butter. Can't wait to go back! Couldn't think of a better way to celebrate Pi Day!
(4)Bill M.
This First Slice Pie Café location is really close to the Francisco stop on the Brown Line. I have been here twice and it is a good spot to meet friends if you are in the area. I have had the chocolate peanut butter pie and the hot chocolate here, and both are fine if not crave-worthy. Service is quick and pleasant enough, although one time I did see a line forming around lunchtime. Whether you come solo or with family, you should feel cozy here.
(3)Alf O.
This coffee shop is rad, and so are the people who work here. Nice location, and nice crowd inside.
(5)Rebeca M.
Cute little cafe. Stopped in with a friend, orders the sweet onion quiche and chicken cucumber wrap. Both were super delish. The quiche was to die for, hot and cheesy.. Great selection of teas and coffee as well. The pies looked amazing but I had to pass..
(4)Rosa J.
Rosa J.'s weekend may be involved with "crowd controlling," "baby-sitting," and "sanctioning"...and yes, those are some of my responsibilities as a retail professional. However, no matter what she does for living by day, she will always be a Chicago foodie. This morning I took a walk, with hubby, to the east end of Albany Park on Manor Ave. by CTA Francisco Brown Line station. I've been a resident of Albany Park for two (2) years and have never visited "First Slice." First Slice is a cafe that serves classic western-style quick bites for breakfast and lunch, quality-brew coffee, and of course, gourmet pies. I've been to many cafes in Chicago that are more hipsters-friendly or catered to workers who would only hang out with their PC or Mac. "First Slice" is totally welcoming for the entire family. In fact, I saw many little neighborhood kids patronizing. One (1) of the sweet boys, surprisingly, picked out a bottle of grapefruit juice and helped mama with the door. What a gentleman at such tender age! And he's going to be a foodie in the next generation since he knows his "fruit." Ok, look forward to seeing you at the Yelp Elite event in the year of...2035 (when I turn 50)! Anyways, sorry for digressing. I now have to talk about the Mediterranean quiche and the Chicago veggie sandwich we ordered. The young lady was very personable and helpful for suggesting items on the menu, since their menu was pretty extensive. All the ingredients they used were very fresh. They quiche was seasoned nicely; it had a good texture and wasn't "crusty" because it was made-to-order. On the other hand, the choice of cheese for their Chicago veggie sandwich was brilliant! They used the medium-aged cheddar, which complemented the spinach and onion very well. I almost wanted to order another kind of sandwich, but I knew I would have a plenty of opportunities since I live nearby and I enjoy taking a walk meandering "MY" neighborhood. There was one that would tickle your fancy: "Duck & Mozzarella" sandwich! What would that taste like? I hope it would taste "crack-lissimo." Well, if that wasn't funny, I apologized for trying too hard. Unfortunately, I no longer take the brown line to commute to work. Otherwise, I would pop in here more frequently. I'm not a huge "pie" person, but they complete my equation with other items that are wholesome and healthy. Overall, "First Slice" has left me a great first impression, so I will be back when I can.
(4)Kate T.
My friends and I stopped by on the last day of our road trip. We rented an air bnb down the street and happened upon First Slice when walking to catch the brown line. The staff is super friendly plus the decor & dinnerware are charming. I had the Mediterranean quiche and raspberry cheesecake pie. Both were ridiculously delicious and well worth the price! I'll be back next time I'm in Chicago!!
(5)Hanna D.
First slice is soo cozy! The staff is always super friendly, and the smells that fill my porch from across the tracks in First Slices kitchen are FANTASTIC! Coffee is consistent, & fresh, not just pee in a pot that's been burning for hours. The baked treats are prefect for afternoon snack & their take home dinners are perfect for a quick meal on the way home... And the pie..... Oh the pie! Only quip - not open early enough for my breakfast coffee.
(4)Amy J.
I love this place! Super friendly staff! You've got to try the apricot bran muffins!
(4)Cristina P.
This location is always well kept and has a variety of choices. Their coffee is good; if you are like me and do not like the taste of hot milk, they do have soy and almond. They also have specials up on their wall everyday. The staff has a lot of positive energy and they make your stay feel like you are in their home. The location is small, cozy and everything a little cafe should be, in my opinion. I have enjoyed myself every time I have stopped by. The Francisco Brown line is right next-door and it does make noise, but nothing to make a big deal about. If you are looking for a small quiet place to eat, drink and use your computer to get work done like me First Slice is your spot. I suggest that you visit before you actually listen to the bad reviewers. Some people are too spoiled. Learn how to appreciate the little things in life. ;) [CPaynes]
(5)David M.
This was my second visit to first slice and I will be back again soon. The pie is to die for (if you like gooey peanut butter pie you must try theirs!). The staff is super friendly and I love their social mission. My wife has fallen in love with with their polka dot pie that has a cheesecake texture and a light almond flavor as well.
(5)Marie C.
Friendly service and delicious sandwiches. Had the Chicago Style Vegetarian which they made vegan for me by eliminating the cheese. Great neighborhood spot to relax in.
(5)Christina Alexa M.
If you love quirky and convenient locations, coffee selections, artisan sandwiches, quiche, salad, soup, pie, juice and friendly interactions, this place is such a treat. I just moved to the neighborhood and was looking for some local coffee and found this! Off the Francisco stop, just walk down the ramp from the platform and it's patio is right at the edge of the ramp. Amazing! Fun for kids who like trains, dog walkers, families, college kids, teens, food bloggers and people looking for some r&r inspiration. Yummy vegetarian food too (:
(5)MARISOL P.
A neighborhood gem right off the L stop and across the street from a park. Great coffee, sandwiches and pies. I need to try their specials on Friday and their Sunday brunch.
(4)emma r.
Best. Breakfast. Burrito. And this is from a picky someone who wouldn't think of reviewing a lowly burrito. But I wandered in during the Ravenswood Manor yard sale marathon on Sunday. Hot, tired and hungry as all get out. You get to choose your own ingredients. Hand made fresh. I choose chorizo, mushroom, and smoked Gouda. You even get hash browns and a side salad. Such a deal. And the best damned burrito I ever ate. Plus good coffee. Way better coffee than that "other" coffee shop near the Rockwell Brown line stop. You know the one. Go here. The end.
(5)Amanda N.
My husband, son, and I do the subscription program and every weekend we pick up our delicious fresh frozen meals for the week. We've been doing this for about 7 months so far and it has changed our lives. We don't live nearby but it's worth the drive. I love to cook, but when we both come home from work during the week we want to enjoy a delicious healthy family meal together without much prep, and this program is perfect for us. Look up the menus and details on their website!
(5)Jaime G.
Super cool little pie and sandwich place in Albany Park. Sure it's even better in the summer with their outdoor patio right next the Brown Linen train. Cozy and esp fun for the kiddos. All sandwiches look good but we tried the Mediterranean quiche and coffee braised beef burrito. Both exceptional. Plus the salad is so simple yet flavorful (anything with arugula is a winner in my book). Then had a slice of the key-lime pie and was tasty as heck too. Also have a nice cup of freshly brewed coffee with soy milk. This is a chain of cafes that are passionate about cooking good food but also help busy families serve good meals at home (they offer a meal plan for purchase) and help fight hunger for those in need. You can learn more at any of their locations and on their website - firstslice.org . If you're in the neighborhood for breakfast lunch or dinner, this is a good pick.
(4)Chel D.
Came in to try the pie and was not impressed at all. I notice most people probably go for the wifi. I didn't get a chance to try the other menu items so I'll probably be back and see how it goes.
(3)Haley C.
This cafe has everything I could want. Amazing pie with a variety of types, affordable at around 3.50 a slice, and a great location. I love that they do a non-profit for the homeless and feed 600 people a week! I don't live anywhere near it but I am wiling to take the brown line up any day for some yummy pie here!!
(5)Marcela R.
I love this place. Great food! The place is very cute and the people that work there they are all very nice. On Sunday they have brunch, their French toast is one of the best ones I ever had.
(5)Matt H.
Great community Cafe! I love this place. We went for the Sunday brunch and we weren't disappointed. I had the breakfast burrito with chorizo and it came out more like a grilled wrap. Very affordable. We ended the meal with a couple slices of pie. Best I have had in a long time. Will be recommending to all my neighborhood friends.
(5)Amy K.
Cute little place, clean environment, small but not crowded. Coffee is solid and reasonably priced. Hot chocolate is good. The only gluten-free baked good is a peanut-butter cookie. which is just okay (doesn't hold together well- eat it with a fork). Nice addition to the neighborhood, and perfectly located for commuters. Fair warning: the CTA brown line rumbles by, and creates a bit of noise. It can also get pretty stuffy inside in the summer. There is outdoor seating, though. There is a bathroom in back, through the kitchen.
(4)Marcelino R.
This place has quickly become my go-to spot for lunch when I don't want to eat anything heavy. They have a wide variety of salads including a chicken curry, which is my personal favorite. They also offer organic eggs and burgers which I have yet to try. Coffee is always fresh and flavorful and the pies of course are really good. I'm not big on the sweets, but I highly recommend the blueberry and peach pie. Atmosphere is pretty chill and they have some outdoor seating as well.
(5)Simone L.
While there are multiple locations of this quaint cafe, this is by far my favorite one. Every employee I've met is welcoming, helpful and sweet. Their pies are to die for. They have classics, such as apple, French silk and chocolate peanut butter as well as seasonal flavored like strawberry rhubarb, pumpkin and blueberry. My two favorite pies are Key Lime (a regular flavor) and pumpkin cheesecake (a fall flavor). The pies are well priced, at about $3.50. I usually also get a large tea (tip: all the tea sizes cost the same, so get the large for the best deal). Their tea list is extensive and I have yet to try one I don't like. Their coffees and other drinks are good but slightly on the pricey side. As far as food goes, I haven't had much there. The quiches are delicious as well as the salads. Most people rave about the Mac & cheese but it's too much for me. I recommend this place to anyone looking for a yummy, reasonably priced and cozy-feeling cafe in the busy city. (Sometimes I don't just recommend, but I drag my friends here. No one has ever complained once they try something!)
(5)Monica W.
The pie is good. Love the lemon bar. The ham and cheese sandwich is a guilty pleasure. They taught me to like salads (lots of good things in them). The food subscription is fabulous!
(5)Katarina X.
Beagle found this place with his little puppy nose and brought us here. No, really... I have pictures to prove it! Some weekend mornings, I am too burnt out to cook. On those days my handsome Boyfriend will suggest a walk and a coffee. Here, our Beagle wanted pie, or maybe quiche, or maybe baked treats... They were all good but what I really, really adored was the duck and mozzarella sandwich- delicious, wonderful textures and I seriously debated getting another. Yes, two sandwiches, all for me. Shut up, it was that delectable. I got a slice of pie and shared it with Boyfriend and Beagle. Boyfriend had the mediterranean quiche with salad and there were no leftovers- which means it was scrumptious. The guy at the counter was cute and sweet- which I appreciate tremendously. Coffee was decent and the outside benches in the sun are wonderful on a bright Spring morning. We will be back. You can't beat the cause- feeding the hungry!
(5)Emily M.
I live very close to this First Slice location and finally stopped in a few months ago for some after dinner dessert. I tried the mint chocolate chip pie, and it was AMAZING. So deliciously good. Also, their cookies are out of this world. I keep going back for their Couch Potato Cookie. It's chocolate chocolate chip with espresso and it's rolled in crushed potato chips. So. Effing. Good. I'm drooling just thinking about it.
(4)Adam S.
Nice little spot slightly off the beaten path right near the Brown Line Francisco stop
(4)Rebecca B.
Good coffee. Tasty tea. Delicious pie. Friendly people. Cozy atmosphere. What's not to love? The coffee at First Slice is pretty good, and they have a nice selection of teas. I do sometimes stop in just to get a cup of coffee or glass of lemonade, but then I see the pies beckoning to me, so I have to get a slice to go. I mean really, how can you not get a slice of pie when a case of them are just there, staring at you, looking delicious? The cherry pie is kind of amazing, with a lattice crust and juicy, tart cherries. They also make a good pecan pie, which is one of my favorite types of pie. The red wine poached pear pie is scrumptious. But the blueberry pie...oh, the blueberry pie is the stuff that dreams are made of. That is, of course, if you are lucky enough to stop by on the rare occasions that they have blueberry pie. There are a few tried and true classic pies that are always available, but then there are a few rotating flavors in their repertoire, as well. Everything that I have had to eat, not just the pie, has been delicious. The duck and mozzarella sandwich is a personal favorite, with mounds of duck meat piled high on crusty bread and topped with mozzarella, spinach, and sauteed mushrooms. I also crave the curry chicken salad, which is super flavorful. The bacon quiche fills my heart with joy with each bite of fluffy egg/bacon goodness. I am seriously in love with this location of First Slice. It is closer to me than the one on Ravenswood, but it still serves the same delicious food and desserts. And, more importantly, like their sister locations, they are part of a not for profit organization that works to feed the hungry in Chicago. So go ahead and get a second piece of pie. It is for a good cause.
(5)Bill K.
Great little neighborhood place! Unique menu items, friendly, knowledgable, helpful staff. My fav from here is the black bean and mushroom tamales! Tasty, comes with a side salad of mixed greens. Give it a try!
(5)Laurie A.
I came here specifically for the pie, and I was not terribly impressed. The French Silk Pie was still frozen when I bit into it. Pies are clearly not made fresh here.
(2)Romana Y.
The coffee and food here are great. You can find healthy, quality meals/bites to accompany great Alterra coffee. The prices are very reasonable. The atmosphere is cozy with enough space to spread out and study, or to simply meet a friend(s). There's always an amiable, mellow crowd.
(5)Sophie B.
The best pie ever. Period. Will make you stop your conversation. I have the Key lime and Blueberry cheesecake. They will change your life!!!
(5)Matt V.
Good Pie Good Coffee Good Atmosphere Walking distance from my home big plus. I wanted a cup of coffee and a slice of pie. This place delivered. I will go back.
(4)Katelyn N.
LOVE First Slice! A true hidden neighborhood gem. Favorite pies are the Polka Dot and seasonal Pumpkin Cheesecake. Blueberry Cheesecake is just as tasty! The paninis are all amazing--especially LOVE the Duck & Mozzarella. They have no air conditioning in the summer and it's extra chilly in the winter, but definitely worth it. Just dress appropriately and you'll be fine :)
(5)Alicia A.
Every person who has ever stared in dismay at their stove at the end of a long day wishing they did not have to cook to achieve a healthy meal without spending a fortune needs to know about the subscriber program at First Slice. It's seriously the most awesome thing ever, and in being a subscriber you're actually contributing to a program that helps the community. Even when i'm not sure what certain items are on the weekly selections, I've come to realize that it's almost always unimportant, because regardless of what it is it's going to be delicious (chicken tinga? wth is that? guess what, doesn't matter! delicious!). Now when it's time to make dinner I have no stress of having to deal with it and no guilt brought on by succumbing to dialing for over-priced take out. And they even accommodate our low-carb needs. Thank you! I feel a little guilty because we've been on the subscriber program for several months and I haven't written a review- tbh I was avoiding it because I didn't want to have to subtract a star for the morose staff I've interacted with. I'm very pleased to note that has changed with the new management- I've definitely seen a huge upswing in the positivity levels at the counter- yay! Oh and to the person who wrote that the salads in the counter creep them out- bummer for you because they're friggin delicious. In particular, curry chicken salad and cucumber chicken salad are utterly delectable. Also, pie. YUM.
(5)Leah H.
Train fans, WHAT A LOCATION! Sit and watch the gates of the brown line at street level from this adorable cafe! We had a grilled cheese we liked so much we ordered another to go. Very friendly service.
(5)Joanne W.
I love having this little pie shoppe just down the street. It's a cute bright little space steps from the Francisco stop. But First Slice is offering up more than just pie. There are a variety of baked goods to be had - scones, cookies, muffins, biscotti. There is also a case with heat & eat items for those nights when you just don't feel like cooking. Finally there is a menu with a little something for everyone - sandwiches, pizza, quiche, salads.. and of course pie! Pie, glorious pie. Chocolate pie. French Silk pie. Fruit pie. Coffee Toffee pie and my favorite - Peanut Butter pie! I've sat outside on a beautiful fall day with a Sprecher soda and a delicious slice of quiche and I've run in, grabbed a sandwich with a slice of pie to enjoy in the comfort of my own home. An enjoyable experience either way. And perhaps the best thing about First Slice is that it's a non for profit devoted to serving the community via youth groups, churches and various other outreach programs. That's right, First Slice is a self funded charity that serves thousands of meals to the needy and homeless. Support this local business who not only serve up some tasty fare but give back to the community. First Slice, First Rate.
(4)Allison W.
I love to go here on a sunny spring or summer day to get a cup of iced coffee and a slice of pie! They also have a lentil salad there that's fantastic, perfect for a light lunch. The service is friendly and it's right next to the park that I take me son to so it's super convenient!
(4)Leah L.
First I want to say that if I was giving a rating just on the food it would probably be a 5 star. We have been getting their subscriber service for about a year and a half so we have tried a lot of their offerings and have generally been very happy with the food. The reason for the lost two stars is because of management. Every time that I have had to interact with anyone beyond just picking up our food I have felt very uncomfortable and more like an imposition than a customer. I understand that management has recently changed, but my recent interactions with them have not been any better. The people who work the counter are usually friendly, but there are certain people that I would rather turn around than to go in and speak to. I consider that an extension of grumpy management though. If your manager acts like your customers are a burden then you are probably going to act that way too. I hope they find a way to bring more joy and friendliness into the business because they have a great product.
(3)Wesley S.
The First Slice Pie Café on Manor, near the Francisco Brown Line el stop, is an additional location, that joins the one at the Montrose Brown Line el stop. Like, the latter store, the Manor location is part of the non-profit organization that supports food donation and distribution. The web site is worthy of reading. However, you won't find a menu there. The site is all business, the First Slice Pie's business of serving the community. The café has good coffee. It offers some baked goods, and, apparently, it has a pizza night (?). This is the type of space that is ideal for a book club get-together, or for working on your iPad or tablet. There are several tables outdoors. The effect of the patio area is lovely, but the ambiance is marred somewhat by the surprisingly noisy traffic on the street outside. It is not busy, just noisy. The First Slice Pie Café is a great addition to the neighborhood. I plan to visit it more often now that summer is on the horizon.
(3)Jacquie S.
I love this place and my 2 1/2 year old loves this place. The food is delicious and the pie is out of this world. Cherry pie is the best. The staff is always friendly. If you're in the area stop by, you won't be disappointed. I also love that its near a park so after lunch or dinner we can walk over to the park and play for a bit.
(5)Julie I.
I love this place. It's got great food and the staff are super friendly. I highly recommend it.
(5)Brent W.
Very relaxing, homey environment, good cafe, wide array of food optiins that I haven't tried yet. Will be back. Oh come here at the beginning or end of your North Shore Channel trail bike ride!
(5)Helena G.
We didn't taste the pies but we had a good latte! This coffee shop is just next to the metro station, it's located in a peaceful and beautiful neighborhood. It's a nice place with a good vibe and it has a cozy decor. I loved the wooden tables. It was packed with people having lunch.
(3)Kristen Q.
This is hands down one of the best places in chicago. And my family and I, luckily!!!, live next door. This is the real deal local coffee/ food stop place. With some very unique surprises, like their weekly food subscriptions and charity giving.
(5)Melanie S.
Love at First Slice. Be still my heart. At long last, First Slice has set up shop just mere steps from the Francisco stop on the Brown Line. I walk by it every day and wondered if it was ever going to open, but yesterday, they officially opened for business. And naturally I couldn't walk by without checking it out. I walked in and was downright giddy. It's a bright, sunny space with big wooden tables and like their other location, they're offering up soups, salads, sandwiches, quiche, and of course, pie. I came away with a slice of Michigan sour cherry pie and one of the biggest lemon bars I've ever seen. It was hard not to try and buy everything, but I had to remind myself that since this place is practically in my backyard, there's no reason I can't come back every day and sample their offerings, which also include chocolate chip cookie bars and snickerdoodles. The lemon bar was one of the biggest and best I've ever had - nice and lemony, and just tart and sweet enough with a perfect crust. And priced at just $2.00, it was a steal. The cherry pie was nice and tart and topped with a lattice crust, which is my preference. As much as I love my sweets, the crowning glory may just be that they also offer fried chicken on their menu, which I was able to take a peek at, and it looked divine. There's a good chance I may just be their best customer since no two things make me happier than sweets and fried chicken in one place. In addition, First Slice offers a shareholder program. As a subscriber, you will receive home-cooked, restaurant-quality meals. Your subscription also directly contributes to funding the same high-quality food to people in need. Individual and family subscriptions are available. One family subscription feeds twenty hungry people for a month. What could be better than eating well and doing good? You can't stop at one slice at First Slice.
(4)August B.
Where to go? The area is mostly residential...sounds like a dilemma, tis. It hath been the untimely emptying of the happy throne and fall of many kings. Alas, I found the perfect place for my pretentious ass. They use all the right key words, organic, sustainable, responsible business practices etc. Most importantly, the food is solid, unspectacular yet exciting. It is a solid four star establishment, perfect place that compliments not only the neighborhood but also your inner hipster.
(4)Britini R.
I really had a lovely time eating here and hope to return over and over again. So, like Megan above, I was working long summer hours that meant I was always passing by this cute little storefront when it was closed. Teasing me! Anyways, I finally got a day off, and I'm riding my bike around the neighborhood, about half a block away, when I realize that I'm starving. The woman behind the counter was a peach! She helped me choose what to eat (broccoli and cheddar quiche) and explained the coffee sizes (and refills) to me. The food hit the spot, and the salad was delightful (blueberries!) with a light dressing. Once they get free wi-fi, I don't see how it won't be perfect. Also pretty excited to go back and try dinner. Still not sure what a "70s salad" is, but it sounds tasty. I'm not sure if I have it in me to sign up for their weekly dinner plan, but I like the idea; and I dig the non-profit side.
(5)Courtney R.
I work close by, and have had lunch here with coworkers 3 or 4 times by now. We have never been disappointed. This place is fabulous! First thing to rave about is the blueberry lemonade. It's like you're drinking fresh blueberries through your straw. So good. The cucumber lemonade is great too, but now that I've discovered the blueberry, I can never go back. All lemonades (plain lemon, strawberry, cucumber, and blueberry) are made fresh, batch by batch. I've had the turkey sandwich twice - it's good. Had the duck sandwich as well. It was ok - nothing to go crazy over, but pretty good nonetheless. Friends have had the curry chicken salad, burger, quina salad, and some other things I can't remember. The side salad is fresh and tasty. The service is always super friendly and proficient. The place itself is adorable. We havent' had pie yet, but it always looks so very good and tempting. To top it off is the new found fact that this place is a charity that serves food to the homeless. This puts it over the top for me - I love this place!
(5)Becky B.
I have never been in that area of the city before. So the second I stepped off of the Brown Line to do some apartment searching, I walked into First Slice to ask for directions to my destination. To my surprise, I stumbled upon a quaint little cafe with fresh baked goods and loose leaf tea! I knew I'd be back to experience this local shop considering this may be the future neighborhood I'll be living in. After looking at the apartment, I came back.. as promised! I had a Jasmine Green Tea, as recommended by the sweet barista, and had a tomato soup with a cute little grilled cheese. It was all fantastic! The customer service was great. I then took a FLOURLESS cookie home for dessert. Which was delicious. . The barista also told me that all the baked goods were made in house! I love small businesses! They have so much more quality than a corporate cafe/coffee house. If I do move into the area, which I hope, I will be frequenting this place! YAY!
(5)Megan R.
This place normally is only open from 8am-6pm, so their hours pretty much always include while I am at work/commuting. I hadn't had the chance to try this place (which is actually a non-profit that provides food to families in poverty in food deserts) until this past week. It was somehow open past their normal hours, so I popped in, having been craving quiche all day praying they would have it. They did! They had bacon and sweet onion quiche, and it was great. You can tell the pie crust is homemade (crucial, since I make my own crusts), and it's just the right amount of fluffy egg and awesome bacon. All of their dishes come with a side salad, which is a bunch of fresh greens and seasonal berries/fruits with oil and vinager. I don't like dressings, so I let that go, but sans the dressing it would have been great- very fresh and very tasty. Pies looked good, prices for pie was good, prices for food was alright, but considering it goes back to a non-profit I'm OK with that.
(4)Charlotte S.
Great atmosphere and friendly service. What they lack in speed they make up for in a great attitude. Very relaxed. Not incredibly private as you may end up sharing a long table with other customers but it's very cool. Love the salad combos.
(5)B C.
There are a few things I really enjoy about this place: (1) The location - This is the quintessential local cafe, tucked away among the residential confines of a quiet and friendly neighborhood. Just going to this place is enjoyable because it's conveniently off the beaten track and still just a couple steps from the brown line Francisco stop. If the weather is right, you can cross the street and chill out at Ravenswood Manor Park, surrounded by well-kept brick homes, tall trees, and the occasional passing street level train. (2) The food - They serve excellent pie, and lots of different kinds. I'm a big fan of peanut butter and chocolate pies in general, and this one was especially satisfying, hearty portions and perfect match with a coffee. I haven't had a meal there yet, but the breakfast looked like it was worth another trip back. (3) The setup - Long, spacious tables in front of large, sunny, street-side windows that let in plenty of natural light while you work on homework or other stuff on a weekend morning. (4) Good hours - Coffee shops near Lincoln Square often close up by early afternoon. This place has longer hours, which is nice if you're looking for a place to go after you take the early evening El train home from work.
(4)Alicia K.
Love this little joint right off the Francisco brown line. They have delicious tea - not that McDonald's, no flavor or overly sweet style tea. Legit iced tea. And amazing cookies. The decor is super cute and it would probably be the perfect spot for a writer to churn out some glorious pages.
(5)Laura A.
FANTASTIC PIE!!! Prior to yesterday I had only stopped in occasionally to get a coffee when I take my little guy to the park across the way, but yesterday I was tempted by their peanut butter chocolate pie! Amazingly good! Today (because I guess I felt no need to stay on my diet), I stopped in today. This time I tried the Coffee Toffee pie. CRAZY GOOD! The staff is extra nice too. I cant wait to go back and try another kind of pie!
(5)Cal N.
Great Slice to enjoy!
(4)Julia K.
Scrumptious blueberry lemonade! I wandered over to this small, charming cafe after visiting a possible new apartment down the street. If a good-hearted shop like this doesn't make one want to move nearby, I don't know what will.
(4)Carter B.
got a sandwich and pie. the sandwich was really chincy for the price. pie was good but seemed overly sweet.
(2)Jillian D.
since merle's closed, first slice has taken up residence as the francisco brown line coffee stop. the service is fast and friendly. great coffees and tasty scones. haven't had the pies at this locale yet (i've gotten them at lill street and loved them). welcome to the neighborhood! you'll be seeing a lot of me :)
(4)