I came here after a good bike ride along the lake shore. A perfect day to have a perfect brunch. The service is fab and do not forget to try the dutch green.
(4)
Tom W.
Was very good, fast and good quality. More light than I would have thought for being in a basement!
(4)
Sarah T.
One of my favorite spots for breakfast in the city and suburbs. I love love love their bacon... I always back sure and get a side. Never really cared for their coffee, but their fresh squeezed orange juice is amazing. Everything I've ordered has been excellent and HOT. I've been to so many breakfast places in the city where the food is cold and this has never happened here. Try it, you won't be disappointed.
(5)
Shawn M.
We had lunch here. It was a great place to eat. All they serve is breakfast and they do it well. A great find. My only complaint was it was a bit pricey, but then again we are a bit cheap. I would definitely return when I am in Chicago.
(4)
P 3.
As far as breakfast places in the city goes, the food here is great. The meat lovers skillet was dynamite and service too. Kind of a weird setting in a basement of a high rise but the food is good.
(4)
Araceli R.
I see the menu I saw the prices and said Haaaa is kind of expensive So we order dollar silver pancakes side HB Scramble eggs & sausage patties & pancakes sm oj for my son Was really good Staff is nice & friendly We will back soon
(3)
Eric F.
This used to be a favorite place to go for breakfast. And it was always crowded. I could give it a high three stars, but I am being generous because it is a 30 year old traditional breakfast spot in Lincoln Park. Now I think it has become less popular, but the food still the same. Coffee is only so so but they gove you real cream. The pancakes however are the best I have ever had. There are four types that stand out for me. 1). The 49er Flap )acks, which are huge and thin, similar to Swedish Pancakes which they also offer here, but better, 2). The Apple Pancake: a signature pancake that is like a huge thick apple fritter cake, only baked instead of fried. You must order this right away because it takes about 40 minutes to cook. Delicious and super filling. 3). The German Pancake, also a signature dish. It is also huge, but thin, with a crunchy deep edge. It is covered in powdered sugar and lemon wedges come with it to squirt all over. This is my favorite. 4). Potato Pancakes, three to an order. These are not Jewish Latkes... they are American Potato Pancakes, which is a mix of potatoes, egg, flour, and sometimes onion. Great with sour cream and apple sauce. The place also has eggs, omelettes, and many other things, including lunch items. But the pancakes are what to go here for. And weekends are best because who wants to be one of three people in a huge room on a weekday.
(4)
Angus W.
This place isn't what it used to be. And by that, I mean this particular location. The food is still really good. I had a combo meal - eggs, bacon, pancakes, hash browns, Lisa had an omelette and pancakes and Trevor had the corn beef hash and pancakes. It was all good except they screwed up my order (I wanted the one with a lot of bacon and the extra egg... but they probably did my waistline a favor by messing that up) The restaurant feels run down, it's dirty (the bathrooms..yikes!) and we had very slow service for a late morning breakfast when they weren't very busy. I had to keep looking for coffee refills. Things that you aren't exposed to at other Original Pancake House locations. We've been going here on and off for almost 30 years and it used to be my favorite breakfast place (along with Walker's up north) I would still go here in a pinch, it's just not special anymore.
(3)
Ronald K.
I usually go there because of their famous apple pancake! Yummy and fluffy! My family loves this pancake and what a great way to get them to eat more fruit!!!
(5)
Melissa C.
49'r flap jacks are the reason I've been eating here for 12 years. Service is quick, food is delish, and I always leave happy. The place is tucked away in the basement of a condo building. It should probably be gutted and remodeled to make it more up to date and clean appearing but I haven't experienced it being actually dirty...it's just so outdated it looks dirty...if that makes sense. Its usually PACKED on the weekends...a testament to the food I'm sure. They have the best 49'er flap jacks and baked apple pancakes I've ever eaten But more than anything I love coming here and talking to Mary. She's super friendly and just awesome in every way. I think she's been working here the whole 12 years we have been coming!
(5)
Lorelei C.
So.. yes.. I feel a little guilty because I pledged my allegiance to another breakfast restaurant last week and I swore I would never want to have breakfast anywhere else ever again. Well..I sure feel like a bit of a fool today because I had the most phenominal pancake ever called the "Dutch Baby" Oven baked and filled with strawberries and bananas and accompanied with strawberry syrup! This Original Pancake House location is so great, located off the corner of Clark/Armitage/Lincoln Park West. Yes.. it feels like you have stepped back into the 70's with it's Interior Design but it is warm, cozy, and comfortable! Nice comfy booths and tables and you can tell that this place is a favorite among many because as frigidly cold as it was in Chicago today this place was filled with families. working people and friends. This is a friendly place that serves up some phenominally good pancakes and my hot chocolate had loads of whipped cream which I loved! Menu prices seem very comparable to other Breakfast Chains but.. this place is so above all the other chains. Just be aware that you have to find on street parking which in this area of Lincoln Park can be quite an ordeal.. And we had a great server and everyone working here was very nice! So.. my Dutch Baby pancake so light and fluffy has turned into one of my top 5 favorites.. And.. yes.. the other breakfast place Is on this list too..:)
(5)
Melissa B.
Took a friend from the UK for her first American breakfast of her trip. We we're not disappointed with the large portion sizes and tasty food. I had the 'famous baked apple' pancakes - it was delicious, I almost finished it. We ate at 10am on a Saturday morning so it was very busy and service was a hit & miss (had to constantly ask for coffee refills, napkins and sweetner) but we'll die back - will just choose a quieter time!
(4)
Lisa F.
Good food...had the waffle & the kids had the chocolate pancakes. The service was great, coffee always delicious and the staff very accommodating (especially with kids). It's become our EARLY Saturday spot bc it's close to home & we love the service (and food).
(4)
John S.
Great breakfast, food was served fast and in a comfortable atmosphere. Great for kids and the elderly. This pancake house is located right off Clark and Armatage in the lower level floor next to a parking garage, so it is easy to miss.
(4)
Sheena W.
Food was okay, the best thing was the apple pancake.
(3)
Jennifer C.
This is one of my favorite restaurants in the world. I've only been to this location once but was happy to see that the menu and service was similar to the others. I've been to this restaurant about 100 times in my life. And I've only ever ordered one thing, the Chocolate Chippies. All I want in life is chocolate chip pancakes with some powered sugar on top. Life is perfect. My kids got the giant apple pancake and thought it was amazing.
(5)
Peter M.
Had the caramel French toast and it was just okay. The bread was thin and it was tough to cut with a fork because it was kind of gummy. The coffee was pretty good and the service was very good
(3)
Carolyn B.
Fast service and great standby classics? Yep, I'll be back. My roommate and I wandered over here before the Green City Market on a Saturday morning and were surprised to find empty tables in the restaurant just before 11am (a rare sight in this city). We snagged a booth and were promptly greeted and served. The menu is quite large, with an array of pancake options, skillets for the savory breakfast folks, some house specialties and more. My roommate ordered the skillet (which was actually just served in a dish), and she said it was good. Bonus: even most of the savory dishes have the option of pancakes on the side. I took the "When in Rome" route and ordered pecan pancakes which were awesome. The place lives up to its name and cooks a mean pancake. I ordered the bacon on the side, and it was thick-cut and well-cooked, everything bacon should be. It's not a brunch place you go for the atmosphere, but the Original Pancake House doesn't try to be anything it's not.
(4)
Rebecca C.
It's the original pancake house. It's affordable and addictive. Can't go wrong with the french toast or pancakes.
(5)
K S.
So I'm updating my review. Place is always crowded on the weekends but our small party of 2 we've never had to wait. Pancakes are my favorite of all the breakfast places I've been. However one compliant , the menu isn't updated or they have ripped me off the last two times I've been here on the bacon lovers combo. It says you get 6 slices..I only received 4. I mean paying $12 for 3 small pancakes 4 pieces of bacon and 3 eggs is pretty pricey.
(3)
Julie N.
Love this place. A proper breakfast diner. Generous portions and helpful, efficient service. My son loves the pancakes, sausages and bacon. I really enjoyed the egg white omelette with veggies. It was very light and fluffy. It's definitely a regular go to place with my youngest boy.
(4)
Cathy F.
We had breakfast here today and the food and service were both excellent! We had coffee, freshly squeezed orange juice, blueberry waffles, pancakes, eggs and sausage links. Everything was delicious. Highly recommend!
(5)
Leslie B.
So delicious and so much food for a very reasonable price! Came here the morning after TBOX, while dying a slow and painful death, in hopes of being brought back to life by breakfast. Original Pancake House did the trick. Nom. Their omelets are gargantuan and awesome. Since they're baked, they come out light and fluffy with tons of toppings spread amongst the eggs. Their omelets come with potatoes AND toast/pancakes. Forget being remotely healthy. Just get the pancakes, you know you want to. The boyfriend upgraded to blueberry pancakes which were fantastic. The pancakes had lots of blueberries inside and came with a blueberry compote...not questionable blueberry syrup, but potentially drinkable compote. Having grown up near an Original Pancake House, I would also recommend the apple pancake. Please be warned, it doesn't look like a pancake...more like an actual cake. It's a LOT for one person, but share it amongst a group and you can have part of this cinnamony, appley goodness.
(5)
Nicole H.
My first experience at this place was in Madison, Wisconsin while staying at the Crawdaddy cove/Madison West. It was so good we ate breakfast there on Saturday and Sunday. My children even finished their entire plates and asked for seconds. Extra bacon was a must. The fresh squeezed Orange juice was awesome. I was saddened coming back into Illinois thinking we were leaving such a wonderful new place behind but ALAS! I discovered multiple locations in the Chicago land area. We have eaten at 3 of then and they are ALL just as good as the first. . . This is our go to place. We try not to eat breakfast anywhere else.
(5)
Michael A.
Fast and great service, omelette was huge and pancakes were delicious. Would recommend anyone who is visiting Chicago and wants great breakfast before a visit to the zoo. Omelets are big enough to share.
(4)
Michelle M.
Always a solid breakfast destination for Lincoln Park/Old Town residents. I have to say that OPH's pancakes are in my top 3, which says a lot because pancakes are my favorite food and I pretty much order them at every breakfast place I go to. Servers here are always so nice and quick to get you what you need! Had to give it 4 stars because every time I'm here, it is always so hot! Turn down the heat, please!
(4)
Stacy S.
Great place for breakfast! I always get the 49er flap jacks, they're heavenly!! Tons I seating inside.
(4)
Margaret D.
Have been coming here for years. One of my favorite standby places. I wanted something breakfasty but it was 1:30pm on a weekday. Knew this place would be open and still serving breakfast so headed here after a long spell. Never disappoints. I've had the dutch baby, the corned beef hash, the spinach crepes, the Hawaiian pancakes, the chocolate chip pancakes, vegetarian omelet, the Swedish pancakes, the apple pancake. I've tried quite a bit of the menu but of everything, I always come home to the 49'ers. You can find all of the menu items at other places serving breakfast, but I haven't yet seen the 49'ers anywhere else. They're thin, chewy and tender. I haven't seen them anywhere else and I've tried making them at home, no dice. They're similar to Swedish pancakes, and they're not. They're sort of similar to crepes, and they're not. I love them. And the coffee, they're known for their good cup of joe. I bought a bag of the beans and brewed it at home, wasn't the same. I've never had anything bad here, chain or not. They also have some long time staff here which is great.
(5)
Jeff W.
The French Toast was quite good. A nice little place for breakfast.
(4)
Ariana S.
Ok- So due to the crazy proximity from my apartment, I have been to the Original Pancake house approximately 597 times so I may be a bit biased here. At the same time, there are many places to choose from and this place has captured my heart, not just because of the ease in transport, but because of the AMAZING food, huge portions, fair prices and friendly waitstaff. Screw the whole foodie thing where people like those bite-size portions and consider it gourmet. Give me an omelette that is bigger than my head and I am a happy girl! Oh-why thank you OPH! HUGE portions (I usually get the chicken fajita omelette because the salsa is to die for) and served with a side of 3 silver dollar pancakes!! Who still does that these days! Make sure to get the fresh-squeezed orange juice. Good place for kids too as they have crayons and balloons. (Too bad 27 year olds don't get to take advantage).
(5)
Katy O.
I grew up going to the Walker Bros Pancake House on Greenbay Rd, so that is what I compare this place to. I will always prefer Walker Bro's dark wood/stained glass atmosphere, but I have to say that the quality of the food is about the same. I am a sweet breakfast fan. I don't like scrambled, poached, fried, hard-boiled or over easy eggs. The only way I'm eating an egg is if it is a party of a cheesy omlette, prefrably with some sort of bacon or sausage mixed in. I gravitate toward the waffle/pancake/french toast section of a menu generally. And when I come here, I go for the famous apple pancake about 80% of the time. The other 20% of the time I wonder why I didn't, not that the pancakes, waffles and blintzes I've ordered weren't very good- they were- it's just hard to beat the apple pancake. They have fresh-squeeze oj- always a nice treat. The menu is large and there is always seating available- I have never had to wait for a table, not even on the weekend. The staff is always friendly, even though they are stuck working in a diner in a basement. You need to allow a little extra time for it to bake, but the apple pancake is worth it. I love this place for when you want a great brunch but don't want to fight crowds at any of the local trendy brunch spots.
(4)
Mariel L.
This is such a cool retro restaurant with downright comfy comfort food. The restaurant is located underneath a residential building, so no you're not going the wrong direction...go towards that tall building across the LPZ. The interior is adorable, with low ceilings and stained glass ceilings. It's like you stepped back into the 60's. The server was super nice and efficient. My sister got the gigantic Apple Pancake. Holy crikeys that's a lot of food. I got the Dutch Garden, which is their popular Dutch Baby filled with tomatoes, mushroom, broccoli and drowned in melty gooey cheese. Amazing. Their bacon was also pretty great; it was thick, more malleable than crispy, and had a higher meat: fat ratio. I would be so spoiled if I lived above this restaurant for sure. I'm sure their other pancakes are equally phenomenal, and I'm glad there are OPHs up here in MN for me to try them!
(4)
Venkat R.
Best Santa Fe omelette ever.. Try the one with egg whites and extra Jalapenos.. Heavenly.. Over the past week I went back to Walker Bros and IHop to see how they score compared to this place.. Absolutely no match!! I am a regular now to this place going in every weekend.
(5)
Jon L.
You know what you're getting into at an Original Pancake House, so I'm not going to dwell on the sinful pancakes or fluffy omelets. The reason to visit this particular franchise are the stellar surroundings. Accessed down a weird side stairway and through a barren concourse that also hosts a shuttered supermarket deep in the bowels of a nondescript 1970s era Lincoln Park condominium building, my favorite branch of the venerable chain offers diners breakfast staples and proprietary specials in a room defined by stained glass, oversize plantings, and acid-induced original-era tile work and upholstery. In an age of sophisticated interiors and increasing visual monotony, a visit to the Lincoln Park Original Pancake House is a delight not only for the tastebuds, but for the eyes and perhaps for the interior designer in all of us.
(5)
Caroline M.
Looking for a no wait Lincoln Park brunch at around 9am? Impossible you say? Pffft! This is not a super fancy brunch place with trendy pancakes covered in creme anglaise, brown sugar, cookie crumbs, and coulis on top. OPH is plain, simple and totally delicious. Our server was super cute and kept the coffee flowing. The french toast was a win. Nothing fancy, just downright good. Order bacon! It was very crisp and tasty (when isn't bacon tasty!?) This place is across the street from the LP Zoo, down in the bottom of a condo building. Keep an eye out otherwise you might zip past it, which you totally don't want to do. PS: parking is probably a total Betch ( youtube.com/watch?v=fPDl… ) so take the #22, #36, or #151 bus.
(4)
Bart S.
Long time fan, grew up in Wilmette and spent a lot of time in line there, and sometimes at the Lincoln Park location..Won't wait in line anymore. Have to know when to go...before 8:30 AM on Sat morning in Lincoln Park no wait. Service was good, food was great. For 4 people the price was 65 bucks with tip..so, that's 16.25 per head, a bit steep, but we got what we wanted including an Apple Pancake for the table...well worth the extra calories and money. All menu items are good, I never had a bad meal here. The downstairs location is grim, the bathroom is down the hall, outside of the actual restaurant, which is kind of odd.
(4)
Laura T.
I was overjoyed to find out that the Original Pancake House serves pancakes made with gluten free flour. They were the best we've tried to date. The service is super friendly and the prices are good. If you have someone in your group who can't have gluten (the restaurant offers a disclaimer saying that the dishes aren't made separately from other food so it is not technically 100 percent gluten-free) this is a great option.
(5)
B K.
What a great little place we have here. You can always count on the Original Pancake House. All of the food is delicious from my favorite the chocolate chip pancakes to the meat skillet or even the lemonade. Everyone is so friendly here and there's usually a table waiting even when it's busy. The only issue is it can be a bit pricey but awesome greasy food is worth it sometimes.
(4)
Rebecca H.
Ahhhh so yummy. HUGE menu, it took me a seriously long time to pick something. I took my family and we all loved everything we ordered, from the strawberry french toast to the buscuits and gravy. The service was fast and a bit on the sarcastic/funny side, which I like. The place is in the basement of an apartment building, which to be honest, kept me from coming here earlier. I was thinking dark, dingy basement pancakes. It was not as bad as I had visioned, they have huge colorful lights that look like skylights. The only negative was that the place was super cramped and our table was tiny for four people and the place could use an update. This can all be overlooked because the food is great.
(4)
Bryan S.
I still love the pancake house but paying close to $60.00 for a family of 4, especially pancakes, is too steep. An employee noted during one holiday weekend when they were full for the one morning that it was the way it always use to be, busy and full. The problem isn't the economy, the problem is ridiculous overpricing.
(3)
Aaron N.
Say it with me...DUUUUUTTTTCH BAAAABBBYY!!! If you like to eat good tasting food and if you are hungry, order this beast of a pancake. Warning: You may not be able to move for 20 minutes after you finish this monster. Overall, this is a great breakfast place and has everything that an Original Pancake House would/should have. One problem, the parking for this restaurant can be kinda tricky and it is in the basement, but if you don't care about those two minor obstacles, enjoy! Booom Baby!
(4)
Kelly C.
This is my favorite breakfast spot. We go probably 2-3x a month and I don't think we have ever been dissatisfied with the food. The portions are ridiculously huge and the prices are very fair. The staff is so sweet and pleasant and very attentive. My favorite pancakes are the pumpkin pancakes right now. Soft, fluffy, melt in your mouth, dont need syrup deliciousness. And the bacon....mmmm thick delicious bacon.
(5)
Kevin G.
If you are going to spend money on breakfast why go here? The servers are not that friendly, the food is not remarkable, and the space is pretty tired. People who are rating this as five stars have very low expectations of what a breakfast out can and should be. We were given tiny little cups for our water (other tables had larger ones) and hardly ever refilled. The coffee was poor. I've been to other franchises of TOPH and been impressed... not so with this one. Quit giving away stars people.
(2)
Kate O.
I came here for brunch the other day with a group of friends and was not impressed. I don't consider myself a germaphobe but I was pretty turned off by the level of cleanliness. (Sticky menus, dirty table, fruit flies). I ordered a ham and cheese omelette and while it was very fluffly, the fact that they forgot one of two ingredients (the cheese) annoyed me. Maybe I am missing out since I didn't try their pancakes that everyone seems to love, but I don't think I will be returning to give them another shot.
(2)
J A.
I'm usually loyal to Nookie's on Wells St., but I wasn't in the mood to wait in a cold cramped vestibule so my breakfast partner and I gave Original Pancake House a chance. First impressions: really feeling the dated decor/color scheme. I love the all of the orange/brown/mustard yellow going on here. If only it had wood paneling. We sat at the counter (very comfortable seating). It was super toasty in here which was great, because it was about a high of 20 outside. We had the option of waiting for a table or taking an immediately available spot at the counter (at about 11AM). I had a vegetarian skillet, he had the much-hyped Dutch Baby. Vegetarian skillet had really fresh veggies, and tasty potatoes- lots of flavor. I liked that it came with a side of pancakes- I wasn't forced to make that difficult decision between ordering a protein-blast or a carb-blast. Best of both worlds. I tried some of the Dutch Baby and it was also very yum. Had to take a star away because the coffee was weak to quite weak. I go to Sunday brunch with the intention of nursing my hangover, and coffee is a really vital part of that equation.
(4)
Dianne S.
Mission: fill my belly after running an embarrassing 5K near LPZ. After dragging my brother & friends from one end of Clark Street to another looking for Nookies (yes, I know it's on Wells but there's a little shortcut of a road called Mnemonee that kept alluding me) we saw a sign for The Original Pancake House & decided it was time to admit defeat. No waiting...which was nice. Credit cards accepted...even better. This place is truly as "original" as advertised. Think old seventies tan boothes with stained glass window lighting (actually pretty cool). One irk about this place...if you're going to use glasses the size of kiddie cups then at least come by often to refill them! Ok, I'm done. I had a half order of chocolate chip pancakes (3 small cakes) with a side of whipped cream. Anybody who knows me knows how much a love whipped cream...so to have a small condiment cup full of it (and I DO mean full...it looked like a cupcake!) was almost enough to bring me to tears! Great pancakes too, not too heavy, just light & airy! My friend ordered a side of bacon (4 slices for $3.99). Bacon was crisp with no chewy, nasty fat to speak of...done just my way! Sweet or savory...The Original Pancake House has something for every taste bud!
(3)
Lauren H.
My eggs and blueberry pancakes were ok, nothing special. Wtf was up with the side of bacon costing $4 for 4 slices though? That was a bit much for what we got. Service was friendly though, and not much of a wait when we were there around noon on Sunday. They take plastic now as well. It is within crawling distance of my house, so would work in a pinch, but I wouldn't make a great effort to come here.
(2)
Katie H.
This place was fantastic. There were so many choices so it was hard to choose, but I ended up getting the Dutch Treat, which was pure heaven. It was huge, but you couldn't not eat the whole thing. They made it fresh which took about 20 minutes, but it was well worth the wait. The smells in the place makes you want to order everything and try it. A definite try! They have something for everyone.
(5)
Joanne C.
Came here last week with my cousin and her fiance. I'll keep this short and sweet: I liked the food here. The service....was ok. She and I sat down first while he went to park the car. We got menus when the guy sat us down but after that nobody came by for at least 10 minutes, not even to give us water. It wasn't busy at all so what gives? I ordered the veggie omelette with a side of salsa, my cousin had the Dutch baby, and her fiance had the corned beef hash with a side of salsa. Yes. The salsa is that good. Ok? =) My omelette was sooo fluffy!!! And it tasted great. The veggies and the cheese combined together...mmmm. The corned beef hash was yummy. It didn't taste like other places at all. Like maybe they used real corned beef and not the canned mushy stuff. Finally the Dutch baby. WOW. Light, fluffy and so tasty with powdered sugar and a squeeze of lemon. The best way I can describe it is a punched-in souffle. That's what it looked like to me. Yum. I will be back. ^_^
(3)
Maria P.
Let me preface this with I've dined at two of their other locations, one in Cincinnati and the other in Brookfield, WI. This location pales in comparison to those locations when it comes to decor and the young, energetic staff. With that being said, this place is hidden on the bottom floor of the building and easily a place you'd pass by if you miss the sign. The food comes out fast and is hot. It's nothing out of the ordinary even though they have a creative menu. This locations seems more like a greasy spoon in comparison to the other locations.
(3)
D W.
This is my favorite breakfast place in Chicago. It is warm, safe, and comfortable. Great service. Friendly waitresses. I like the simple and dated ambiance, the booths, and hidden but convenient location. Delicious coffee, Dutch babies, potato pancakes, eggs, etc... I never tire with this place and enjoy coming back.
(5)
Andrea C.
ill keep it short and sweet: -solid breakfast fare- you can't go wrong if you want pancakes (doi), eggs etc. -perfect spot for after your boot camp class in lincoln park (eat all those calories you just burned!) -yeah, the apple pancakes are a heart attack waiting to happen, but they're darn good the bad: -parking is a nightmare -not the largest place, waits can be monsterous -prices are slightly inflated for the type of food they're serving...but not so much that you shouldn't go
(3)
Silky O.
My erectile dysfunction would immediately be cured if this dungeon of a breakfast place was located in my building! With furnishings straight out of my grandma's moldy home, senior citizen management, and meals that cure osteoprosis, Im a fan! I've made several shaky and severe hangover walks to this underground food fetish layer with great results. Room temperature is a tad bit warm, but that has never stopped me from dominating omelettes and making sausage links feel inferior. Also, sometimes there can be a line, but it moves quickly with an abundance of seating. I recommend the pancakes if the extra weight wont put more pressure on your sciatica! Love Silky
(4)
Aaron S.
My first real OPH experiences were in Glenview at a Walker Brothers location. All I knew was that 1) these OPH places are packed and busy during all hours of operation and 2) it's always worth it for an OPH Apple Pancake (ALWAYS). So during a random trip up to the North Side to pick up medicine at a pharmacy for our pets, I spied a tiny little sign a block or two before my bus stop. Were my eyes deceiving me? Could I have stumbled onto one of these magnificent portals into apple pancake heaven? I grabbed the medicine and backtracked by foot, looking for the sign I thought I had seen. And there it was, "Original Pancake House" with a little arrow beckoning me to investigate. I took the path mentioned and wound up by some non-descriptive doors. Inside was another set of signs with an arrow pointing downward. Really? A basement? And that's where I found it - glimmering faintly in a darkened basement space. Menu hung by the open doors, as I had caught them at 3:15pm on a weekend day where they close at 4pm. Maybe the morning rush is full of patrons who are aware of this place's existence, but at 3pm, the restaurant was almost completely deserted. I asked if they would do a take-out order, and they let me place one for my two apple pancakes (yes, one of them was for my girlfriend - though I contemplated getting three once I did the math). He said it would be 15-20 minutes, so I wandered to the nearby White Hen also in this basement space to kill some time. I ventured back to continue the wait and explore the space they were occupying. The decor is campy and outdated, but rather cozy. The tables are spaced as close together as at the other locations I've been to - I can only imagine it's the usual ruckus when and if they actually get filled up during some busier hours. The magazines strewn on the bar counter near the host station clued me in to how dull and bored they must have been that day. I feel bad knowing it can be that slow at any point in an Original Pancake House's day. Should I spread the news that yes, you can find this hidden gem and get some of the best goddamned pancakes you've ever experienced? Or should I keep this to myself and suffer the hour long trip each way by bus just to find a place where I can get my fill of these delectable treats without having to wait in a line just to sit down? Well, I guess posting a review for the place answers that question. Just make sure you're not in my way if I come back for another fix for some Apple Pancakes. Oh yes, like all OPH I'm sure they do all the side items and whatnot - that's not what I came here for on this day of discovery. Just give me my apple pancakes and let me rush home while they're still nice and hot (and drizzle them with plenty of butter and apple syrup). I'll be back for a full review soon enough. the 4 of 5 stars is because the hosts weren't quite so friendly, likely due to boredom, and my 15-20 minute wait was closer to 25. Also I got to witness a lively conversation between a hostess who was questioning her 15-year-old daughter regarding a party she went to that may or may not have included alcohol. I wish those kinds of shenanigans were available to me when I was 15... Just give me my damned pancakes, lady...
(4)
smriti k.
OOmpa Loompa Oompa Loompa,...Well,this is the song that strikes me as we entered this places situated underground;made me feel tiny.A hidden Pancake house and do not confuse this with IHop,this is not the same.This place has a perfect restaurant and Diner look;well the servers are dressed like the old diner servers while the place with its huge glass painted ceiling and mediocre seating gives it a neat restaurant vibe. Since all of us were starving,we ordered the pancakes with bananas,vegetarian omelet,FLUFFY mushroom egg white omelet and fruits.The pancakes had the perfect consistency and were soft and cute looking mini ones topped with bananas..yumm..and my Fluffy omelet was seriously fluffy!! It was almost like someone pumped up the omelet with some air and it looked like a mini air pillow.Due to the fluffy texture,it didn't have much taste to it.But it was fine.Those who have seen the movie "Despicable me" where the kid says "You are so FLUFFY" looking at a huge unicorn,that was the same reaction i had when i saw my plate :) -Smriti
(4)
Mark B.
Any "Origianl Pancake House" has the best pancakes I have ever had, and this is no exception. I recommend the 2 by 4, pancakes and eggs. Keep it simple and enjoy what this place does best. Save the specalities like the dutch baby and the ridiculous apple pancake for your 2nd and 3rd visits. Every time we've gone it has been busy but little to no wait. I think it is because it is in the basement of a condo building and so it i not very visible from the street. Do yourself a favor and check out this hidden gem!
(5)
Ted P.
It's a bit confusing to find, but once you do, it's a somewhat subterranean breakfast place that's got a few special reasons for going back. The baked pancake options are where it's at. The decor is tired, as was the staff the day we were there, but if you go for the apple pancake or dutch garden, you'll have a good breakfast.
(4)
Patrick C.
I came to eat here on a Friday afternoon, so it was pretty dead. I liked the fact that I could take my time when eating, since most breakfast places are all about turning over tables. That being said, I'm sure this place is a madhouse on the weekends. I ordered the three little pigs and was not disappointed. Sausage links wrapped in great tasting pancakes. You can't really go wrong with that. This place gets major points for being just a half a block away. If you want a good breakfast with not much of an atmosphere to distract you, go to this OPH.
(4)
Donna C.
I live in the building so it is an easy go to place for breakfast. The omelets and pancakes are good. However, THE HASH BROWNS ARE BEYOND HORRiBLE. They have some sort of red seasoning in them that is purely putrid. And they leave a disgusting taste in your mouth. All the other choices are very dependable and reliable.
(2)
Mary T.
This place is great. I love the variety of pancakes, waffles, etc. that they offer. The food always tastes fresh and they don't use that cheap, nasty fruit compote some 'chain' places like to. They have fabulous blueberry pancakes. Some of the simpler items can be a bit pricey, but the food is really good. I also like that they're no longer cash only, that was a big hassle.
(4)
Jessica L.
This place has the best pancakes hands down! It's pricey but worth it. I have never had to wait here (we get up early??). We used to wait in line for 30 minutes at the Original in Royal Oak, MI. And (I will add) I would wait that here as well, we just haven't had to! I always get the pancakes with a side of bacon and my husband Santa Fe omelet (it's so fluffy and spicy!). They could probably stand to update the decor, but hey, it works for them, so what do I know?? THE BEST!
(5)
patrick l.
The food is pretty standard. The service is just okay. The food was nothing to write home about but I only had the quiche. It was the healthiest thing on the menu. I guess the coffee was good and plentiful. Location is in the basement and sort of hard to find if you weren't looking for it.
(3)
Nicki W.
Yes, that's right. I'm a fan of this joint. I think breakfast is the best meal of the day when paired with coffee to jumpstart your senses. The fact that this place is right around the corner is even better. As you know from my previous reviews, I'm a big fan of service, and everytime I've been to this place I have been really impressed with the upbeat and helpful servers. You are greeted right away, sat, brought waters and offered coffee or juice. Once I have my coffee I'm set. The refills keep on coming too which is great. As for the food, I think it's pretty darn great. Their sausage patties are sooo good I'm drooling right now. They are perfectly round which leads me to believe they were most likely frozen before thrown on the griddle but who cares. The pancakes are so fluffy and sweet and the omelets are pretty good as well. Try the crepes if you are in the mood for something sweet. Their orange juice is freshly squeezed so get your paws on some of that. The small is SUPER small..so get the large. The decor is pretty 70's but it reminds me of a cute little diner in a small town. I think it's funny that you have to get buzzed into the bathrooms. I will keep coming back for more.
(4)
Scott B.
This is great restaurant with the most unique breakfast menu in the city. Original Pancake Houses are scattered around the country and Chicago is lucky to have 3...and the Lincoln Park one is the best. The service is excellent. This place has an old style charm that I hope never gets updated. The same menu - but different decor - can be found at the Walker Brother's chain in the north & northwest suburbs. The menu originated at the original Original Pancake House in Portland, Oregon. The coffee is strong but not bitter. If I'm going to spend money on breakfast, which I don't do often, this is the place.
(5)
Eric M.
You can tell the clientele of a place by their hours. OPH is open from 7am until 2pm. I don't think they're main patrons are under the age of 65. Not that there's anything wrong with that. The place is always packed on weekends, so be prepared to wait. The dining area is pretty low key with beige tables and tan chairs. OHP isn't trying to impress anyone with their decor, they do it with the food. The pancakes are HUGE and the corned beef hash is some of the best I've had. The dutch baby (what a name) is so large you could share it with three other people. So don't expect 5 star service, but come with an empty stomach and it will be pleasantly filled.
(3)
Katie H.
I grew up frequenting the OHOP (yeah, that's what kids in the know call it) in Grosse Pointe, MI. This one is the same...yet very different. The menu appears the same, the decor is similar, and the servers are all those super friendly career waitresses. But in the omellette department, this place can't hold a candle to my original OHOP. The omlette here was good, oven baked and all, but it was more like a regular omellette. The omelletes at the GP location are baked in a round pan, so instead of a flat folded over omelette you get this big round fluffy frittatta-like egg souffle. Okay, it's really hard to describe. Nostalgia aside, had I not known what my omellette was lacking, it would have been good. Tasty but not amazing. It's a decent standby for a good breakfast, though a bit on the pricey side (yes, I am referring to you, $4 side of bacon).
(3)
Beth P.
In the basement of a fancy-ish apartment building, you'll find this place bumpin every weekend. They are usually pretty good about keeping the diners in and out- which makes for decent waiting times, but also an "ok, you're done, so get the hell out" attitude towards the end of your meal. A bit pricey for the plainer items, but they do cook a pretty darn good breakfast. Their thick bacon is well done, dutch babies are huge, and potatoes on the rare-side of done. Overall, we are always pleased. ANDDDD they finally started accepting credit instead of cash-only, thank god. A noteworthy negative point is that they are a PEPSI place... Ew. When I'm hungover, I need me a fountain COKE and the impostor just won't do. I'll just have to pick one up from the white hen next door to the pancake house on my way out.
(3)
Lawrence Y.
I have been to an OPH location back home in L.A., and was excited to find that they are out here as well! Finding the place (via driving) was really hard to do, and parking in the area is tough. We parked almost down to Fullerton and just walked. We've never experienced a wait here... The interior of this 'basement' restaurant was interesting and nothing like the one I've been to in L.A. However, the food is always good, good, good! I haven't really had any problems with the service here, and the cashiers have always been friendly as we walked out. Though, it might just be me, but one of the servers does seem a little bit creepy!
(4)
Moise K.
Hangover healer! Close to where I live. Service is good and they have great selection of Omelettes, Pancakes and more.... Service is quick and they even offer free coffee while you wait. Fresh morning fruits and juices. How can you possibly go wrong?
(4)
debra h.
I eat breakfast here almost every day and not only do they have the nicest waitresses in the city, bu they also are happy to make me healthy breakfasts every time I ask. It's a pleasure and a treat to have them in my building and they have the best bacon and pumpkin pancakes around!
(5)
Kevin J.
This is a great place to grab breakfast. Excellent pancakes and decent omelets. I had the santa-fe which consisted of peppers, salsa and jalapenos. It was good but it didn't really STACK up to the quality of their pancakes (PUN INTENDED HARDY HAR HAR!). We have one of these in the DC area and its the exact same thing. I highly recommend their crepes or any of their pancake specialties. A++++ for the service, our server was refilling our coffee and water so fast we didn't even have time to ask. I really appreciate that, especially in the morning when I am fiending for my caffeine fix. Additionally, our server was super nice.
(3)
Rachelle G.
3.5 bumped up to 4. Tucked away in the basement of a condo building, I was brought here by a friend. Walking in, you realize you're in a sort of old school no frills type of pancake house. The wait was less than five minutes, great for Sunday at 11:30. The menu is pretty straightforward and their apple pancake is highly prominent on the menu. I wanted the basics and had the eggs and links with pancakes. It was good but nothing out of this world, just a simple breakfast that hit the spot. I have to admit the links were a bit salty here and there. I was also a little disappointed that hash browns weren't offered. (Although reading the reviews, I see now that they have it, but I couldn't find it on the menu.) Overall, nothing that screams visit me over and over again, but definitely a safe bet for an enjoyable brunch spot. And I do agree with another reviewer about the check being placed on the table during the meal. What if I want dessert or something else?
(4)
Helen N.
I have to preface my review with the fact that I absolutely love The Original Pancake House in Champaign. I lived in Champaign for a long time and I would wake up early on Saturday so I can get to the pancake house for the best coffee, best service, best omelette, and best breakfast of all time... Which brings me to this Original Pancake House, it is in the basement of a condo building - which made it somewhat hard to find. There was no wait and essentially half empty, however, the hostess sat us in between two tables, felt a little tight... as in I knew exactly what the table next to me was doing for the rest of the week. The coffee was good - but they only came to refill once and I had to ask. The pancake was okay and I was disappointed with the oatmeal. I like my oatmeal made with milk (like the one in Champaign) and this one just didn't cut it for me... so sad. My hubby had the eggs benedict and loved it... The service is okay - Maybe I'll give the other pancake houses a try -
(3)
Annie T.
Yummaliciously fluffy pancakes. I'll give it to 'em for that! Otherwise, the rest is mediocre: service, decor, bleh bleh. I also had bites of both the Western Omelette and Western Skillet-- subpar. I'll walk over for brunch again considering it's right across the street from my new place. If it weren't for location, I probably wouldn't be back. Also, please note: You pay at the cash register at the end and they have an OLD SCHOOL cash register. I know it's the Original Pancake House but do they have to use the Original Cash Register as well? It was old, rickety, slow and couldn't split up our check!
(3)
Roger W.
Food Poison Alert or Just Sloppy Prep? I'm a 20 year customer of this place. No more. Not used to ever having a harmful meal, I was half way through before I realized just how slimy, greasy, gut wrenching bad the food actually was. My first guess was new cooks, or cooks from another location. But the clueless cashier denied that as she quickly took the 12 dollars (for watery eggs, greasy bacon and cold pancakes) out of my hand. Upon running home, throwing up and then calming the shakes from this disaster of a meal, I called the place and got "Shantelle" And in the practiced corporate tones of someone who knows how to regularly deliver an apology and show she really doesn't care at the exact same time, offered one of those "faux apologies" more suitable to a politician being led away to jail. She also told me that the cooks were 12 year employees at that location. Curious how they forgot how to do their jobs in a week or two. But too bad. Because if these were the regular cooks, then I could not---for my health--be a regular Shantelle asked me what I wanted and when I asked her what she thought was appropriate, she offered to comp a meal. A terrifying thought, eating that meal again. Without any assurance it would be different. So if 1 free meal there is my only option---I'll find a new place to eat breakfast. As soon as I figure out whether this is: 1. food poisoning, 2. sloppy preparation, 3. people who simply don't care Or maybe some combination of any of these.
(1)
Ariel B.
I absolutely love this place. It's been around for years and it's one of my favorite places for waffles/pancakes. My favorite is the apple pancake, it's just so ooey gooey good. Get it with a side of chicken sausage (that you can split with your boy or girl) and it's heaven. Located in the basement of an apartment/condo building, it can be pretty hard to miss, so make sure to look for the sign. Service can be slow at times, but it's worth the wait for the food. Yummy yummy, always very good. After eating a huge breakfast and rolling out of the door, take a walk in Lincoln Park Zoo, located right across the street.
(5)
Gabe L.
This place is off the beaten path, and I've never had to wait here on the weekends. You can rearrange the letters in "The Original Pancake House" to form "Cooking Euthanasia Helper", and it's true, since you'll be in a massively good food coma afterwards. Try the pecan waffles. They have pecans. The name doesn't lie.
(4)
Megan K.
I tend to champion all things Original Pancake House. Their food is ridiculously delicious, their menu broad (feel free to check out my twelve other Pancake House reviews...). This particular location makes some mean 49ers flapjacks, true thick and meaty OPH bacon, and true thick and meaty OPH coffee. There was no wait on a Sunday morning, which is certainly worth noting. And they take credit cards! So after much deliberation I'm only going to cut back one star for the old school interiors and spotty service. For really good food, I'd say I'm willing to put up with being moved tables after the food has been served, and dumping syrup all over my lap because of a wacky bottle.
(4)
Evan L.
Went here many many years ago. Don't know why but I always liked it for breakfast. For me its a comfortable cozy breakfast place, but looking at the other reviews maybe I just like it because it reminds me of my youth. Great coffee, never waited in line better than LaGrange, Maple St , Lincolnshire or even Wilmette for me.
(4)
vivian c.
i am hesitant to review this restaurant only because i feel it is a hidden gem and don't want lines to form! but it is my far my favorite brunch place in the city. don't miss: buttermilk pancakes (i'm not a pancake person but these are insane), dutch baby (takes 20" but worth it, delicious, puffy, like funnel cake but better and more chic, apple pancake (huge and you will eat a fifth of it), the two by four is a good deal (2 eggs, stack of 4). i've been to the trendy brunch places, waited in line for 45" and paid for overpriced frooshi and $4 OJ. i always wish i'd gone to the original pancake house! keep it on the down low, but this place is the BEST!
(5)
Erin C.
You have to try the apple pancake! It is lovely, but so huge you can share with a friend, or perhaps the next table. I also love love love the chewy, perfect 49ers pancakes. They're delicious. Everyone here seems to be local. Don't come here if you don't like children. I get a kick out of them most of the time, so it isn't a big deal for me. I also love to watch the lincoln park mommies and their daughters with the matching outfits. The omelettes are just ok, but they can come with a side of pancakes, so it's a nice mix of sweet and savory. The wait isn't usually too bad, even on the weekend.
(4)
Ela G.
Ok, so minus the pretty bland ambiance of being below ground with very yellow lighting, I love having brunch here! It never disappoints, from savory to sweet items. Their french toast is so classicly good, if you like those crispy eggy bits on the sides, love that! And their southwestern skillet w/chorizo is amazing. And what about the Dutch Baby! Big enough to feed 3 people, I easily manage to eat one all by myself, and it's worth it. I've never been disappointed with this place.
(5)
Kurt O.
OK, it looks like a dungeon, I agree. It's very hard to find parking. ....and on weekends, the lines are gigantic. But there a good reason for the long lines.....they really do have great food and service. Their coffee is strong and their pancakes are delicious. Try their strawberry syrup. It's convenient for the people who live in the nearby high rise buildings....but people "in the know" also enjoy this hidden little secret place.
(4)
Angela P.
The good: Great food. The (long) line moves really fast. The bad: The service is okay, which might be a stretch. The tables are small and the atmosphere at this location is far worse than the one in Gold Coast.
(3)
Jillian D.
my boyfriend has an ongoing affair. it started long before me. but, you know...i'm okay with it. i mean, who's gonna get between a man and his flapjacks? :) the first time he took me here, i was a little skeptical - you head down into the dark nether regions of this high rise near the park west...to find pancake nirvana! i don't know what goes into their secret recipe, but i've never tasted fluffier pancakes in all my life. for a while, we would head here almost every sunday. we even had "our waiter"! the 49ers are my bf's personal fave. he turned me on to them as well. indescribably delish, they melt in your mouth. if you can tackle it, the apple pancake is decadent. more approachable, the dutch baby delights. and the buckwheat pancakes are equally tempting. they roast their own coffee (or have it roasted especially for them). it's actually strong - unlike other breakfast chains. all this talk of pancakes makes me want some now!! :)
(5)
Ron S.
I've dined here for many years. I'll only go on a weekday. Too many kids on weekends. (don't like noise with pancakes) The food is really good here. Management has been asleep at the wheel for years. Great coffee!
(3)
Quantas G.
Had breakfast at this joint not too long. It was a decent meal worth another visit. They have an extensive menu to satisfy plenty of breakfast eaters palettes. Nothing memorable though. FYI, parking is fend-for-yourself.
(3)
Laura S.
I don't understand the reticence of some of you yelpers in regards to this FABULOUS JOINT! WHAT THE HECK??!!! THIS PLACE has THE BEST pancakes I have EVER TASTED! EVERYTHING is made FROM SCRATCH! The COFFEE is EXCEPTIONAL! Their ooowwwn UNIQUE BLEND! EVERY time my mom and sister come to visit, they ALWAYS want to come HERE--NOWHERE ELSE---my mom always claims that just NOWHERE ELSE is going to be as good! Almost every time she has a Monday off (as she is a school librarian), she goes to one of the Original Pancake Houses with a friend! I have always experienced the MOST attentive and friendly staff, who have refilled my coffee about a million times! My favorite thing is probably the chocolate chip pancakes--ALSO I order the bacon with them---the bacon is SOLID---crispy crunchy with big pepper pieces! YEAH! YOU HAVE TO COME HERE!!!!
(5)
Rachel E.
Yep, big fan. I like the old register and the weirdo 70s decor - isn't that what Chicago diners are all about? And, I'll happily pay an extra few bucks for food that actually tastes good, and oh my - does it! Coffee is superb. And, John the waiter, if you can get him - makes you feel like you've stumbled into the olympics of waitering. Gold medal winning, for sure.
(5)
Niki C.
They do serve pancakes. We went here one Sunday morning & there were little kids in footed pajamas, which made me smile. One of the kids had a cape. Then there were little kids in their Sunday best. They looked jealous of the kids in pajamas. Neither one of them had capes. HOWEVER ... as entertaining as all this is & as nice as our waitress was & even though the morning we went, I was awakened with a beautiful dozen long-stemmed roses from the bf ... they only take cash, the eggs look like, well, processed eggs that you get at places like The Original Pancake House, & get this ... they're only open 7am - 3pm. WHAT IF I NEED SOME ORIGINAL PANCAKES AT 5:45 IN THE P.M.??? Guess I gotta cook 'em at my own house. In footed pjs. & a cape.
(3)
Nick K.
Been to this location once, but I have been to these restaurants in other locations. Their food is so delicioius here and the apple pancake is out of this world. I have also had omelettes which were pretty good as well, but the apple pancake is their specialty.
(5)
Tiff B.
If you want a good, homey type of breakfast-go to Original Pancake House. It's a hundred times better than all of those trendy, overcrowded and overprice brunch spots. Simply put, they make excellent omlettes, pancakes, sausage etc. Regular breakfast food, no weird ingredients. Order the 49er pancakes, you won't regret it. Oh, and the coffee is good too! This is my old standy breakfast spot.
(5)
Mia P.
I love this chain, but not this location. There were fruitflies and the food just wasn't that good. I would definitely recommend a suburb location, but not this one.
(2)
Martin P.
This is my favorite place for breakfast...Yes, I know its a chain but by golly I love the coffee, it is good and strong. The Pancakes are amazing and I love the omelets. The Sausage could be better but the rest of the meats are great! If you like orange juice with your breakfast this stuff tastes like they squeezed it themselves AMAZING! The price and service are glorious too! Try It You'll Like it!
(5)
Martha Z.
This place is just so nostalgic for me. I can remember Sunday mornings with mom and her boyfriend. Even 20 years ago the place seemed pretty retro, it was in the basement of a highrise next to a convience store. I would always get pigs in a blanket. I was such a fussy child. I wouldn't even touch eggs, they freaked me out. My tastes have changed a lot since then. But I still don't mind coming back here for my pigs in a blanket followed up by a trip to the zoo!
(4)
George K.
Reminded me lot of Denny's Restaurant.
(2)
Patricia B.
Have been coming here for years and it is reliable and good. The ingredients used are top notch, as is the coffee. A very nice place to stop in for a very good breakfast, either at the counter or at a table. The rare times the service has been less than great, the management apologizes and vows to do better. They have had busboys who have been there for years, and I always tip a little extra to reward the hard workers who make my little breakfast a nice part of the day.
(4)
Carol J.
I too, love this place. I live next door and always sneak over for breakfast, when I actually eat breakfast. I never look at the menu because I order the same thing, regardless, sausage links and those to die for hash browns. I often dine with my friend who is diabetic and they know enough to bring the sugar free syrup when we sit down. The servers change often but usually they are cheerful and hardworking and probably irritated at wearing the polyester get up but none the less, ready to refill the hot water for my tea or my friends coffee. The one thing that irritates me, and maybe its because I'm in the business, is that they drop the check before you even finish eating. Its not like I expect them to upsell a second serving of snausage but what if I went for some of the yummy fresh squeezed oj after all, or maybe wanted a little fruit to finish off the meat and potatoes thing? I just hate getting my check before I finish my meal, thats all. But maybe that is my issue. They just started accepting credit cards-like this month and the sweet little hostess lady lets me sneak in a sugar free Red Bull as long as I pour it on ice that she promtly provides. Its the check before done that is killing the last star.....and the occaisionally screaming, meltdown having kids, but they are my neighbors so I have to let that go too.
(4)
Robert S.
They take credit cards now! But still, way too crowded, loud, and not the best service, but not horrible I guess. I live next door, so its convenient. Okay food, and I saw a lot of people ordering some weird looking pancake called a dutch baby. Too weird for me. I'll stick to the meat.
(3)
R M.
Tried this place after reading the reviews here. We were truly famished when we came - having gotten lost trying to find the place and walking all around the neighborhood. I was disappointed to find that it was a "chain-ish" restaurant in the basement of a building. We ordered and then waited and waited - we were told that it takes a while to make the Dutch Garden which my partner ordered. But, boy, were we glad we came!! I ordered an omelette - probably THE best omelette I have ever eaten. So fluffy & tasty - amazing!! The Dutch Garden was awesome too. If it were not for the bland decor and basement location, I would definitely give it five stars!!
(4)
Sarah B.
I enjoy the pancakes (go figure), but the service here can be poor and it is often crowded and cramped. There are better places.
(2)
Kristen D.
We frequently come to this place for brunch (granted it's in the basement of the building I live in, so convenience is a factor). It closes at 3pm, they refuse to seat you if your entire party is not present, and they do not allow outside drinks and take cash only as payment (so many rules!!) They get really busy around noonish, but it starts to die down around 1 or later, so that's when I recommend to go. They can have some very good omelets, although I have had undercooked ones here, and it becomes an ordeal to get them to either cook it longer or replace it (you have to go through the manager etc). The last time we went this happened, and I asked it to be replaced with just some scrambled eggs so that it would be quicker. They agreed, but my scrambled eggs came back as undercooked at the omelete. At that point I decided not to say anymore because everyone else was finished eating. Our waitress came by to pick up the finished plates and asked if mine was better. I told the truth, and when we got the check the item was still on there. I was disappointed in the way they handled it, and we haven't been back in months because of it. The spinach crepes are quite good though.
Takes Reservations : No Delivery : No Take-out : Yes Accepts Credit Cards : Yes Good For : Breakfast 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 : No Wi-Fi : No Has TV : No Waiter Service : Yes Caters : No
Anshika A.
I came here after a good bike ride along the lake shore. A perfect day to have a perfect brunch. The service is fab and do not forget to try the dutch green.
(4)Tom W.
Was very good, fast and good quality. More light than I would have thought for being in a basement!
(4)Sarah T.
One of my favorite spots for breakfast in the city and suburbs. I love love love their bacon... I always back sure and get a side. Never really cared for their coffee, but their fresh squeezed orange juice is amazing. Everything I've ordered has been excellent and HOT. I've been to so many breakfast places in the city where the food is cold and this has never happened here. Try it, you won't be disappointed.
(5)Shawn M.
We had lunch here. It was a great place to eat. All they serve is breakfast and they do it well. A great find. My only complaint was it was a bit pricey, but then again we are a bit cheap. I would definitely return when I am in Chicago.
(4)P 3.
As far as breakfast places in the city goes, the food here is great. The meat lovers skillet was dynamite and service too. Kind of a weird setting in a basement of a high rise but the food is good.
(4)Araceli R.
I see the menu I saw the prices and said Haaaa is kind of expensive So we order dollar silver pancakes side HB Scramble eggs & sausage patties & pancakes sm oj for my son Was really good Staff is nice & friendly We will back soon
(3)Eric F.
This used to be a favorite place to go for breakfast. And it was always crowded. I could give it a high three stars, but I am being generous because it is a 30 year old traditional breakfast spot in Lincoln Park. Now I think it has become less popular, but the food still the same. Coffee is only so so but they gove you real cream. The pancakes however are the best I have ever had. There are four types that stand out for me. 1). The 49er Flap )acks, which are huge and thin, similar to Swedish Pancakes which they also offer here, but better, 2). The Apple Pancake: a signature pancake that is like a huge thick apple fritter cake, only baked instead of fried. You must order this right away because it takes about 40 minutes to cook. Delicious and super filling. 3). The German Pancake, also a signature dish. It is also huge, but thin, with a crunchy deep edge. It is covered in powdered sugar and lemon wedges come with it to squirt all over. This is my favorite. 4). Potato Pancakes, three to an order. These are not Jewish Latkes... they are American Potato Pancakes, which is a mix of potatoes, egg, flour, and sometimes onion. Great with sour cream and apple sauce. The place also has eggs, omelettes, and many other things, including lunch items. But the pancakes are what to go here for. And weekends are best because who wants to be one of three people in a huge room on a weekday.
(4)Angus W.
This place isn't what it used to be. And by that, I mean this particular location. The food is still really good. I had a combo meal - eggs, bacon, pancakes, hash browns, Lisa had an omelette and pancakes and Trevor had the corn beef hash and pancakes. It was all good except they screwed up my order (I wanted the one with a lot of bacon and the extra egg... but they probably did my waistline a favor by messing that up) The restaurant feels run down, it's dirty (the bathrooms..yikes!) and we had very slow service for a late morning breakfast when they weren't very busy. I had to keep looking for coffee refills. Things that you aren't exposed to at other Original Pancake House locations. We've been going here on and off for almost 30 years and it used to be my favorite breakfast place (along with Walker's up north) I would still go here in a pinch, it's just not special anymore.
(3)Ronald K.
I usually go there because of their famous apple pancake! Yummy and fluffy! My family loves this pancake and what a great way to get them to eat more fruit!!!
(5)Melissa C.
49'r flap jacks are the reason I've been eating here for 12 years. Service is quick, food is delish, and I always leave happy. The place is tucked away in the basement of a condo building. It should probably be gutted and remodeled to make it more up to date and clean appearing but I haven't experienced it being actually dirty...it's just so outdated it looks dirty...if that makes sense. Its usually PACKED on the weekends...a testament to the food I'm sure. They have the best 49'er flap jacks and baked apple pancakes I've ever eaten But more than anything I love coming here and talking to Mary. She's super friendly and just awesome in every way. I think she's been working here the whole 12 years we have been coming!
(5)Lorelei C.
So.. yes.. I feel a little guilty because I pledged my allegiance to another breakfast restaurant last week and I swore I would never want to have breakfast anywhere else ever again. Well..I sure feel like a bit of a fool today because I had the most phenominal pancake ever called the "Dutch Baby" Oven baked and filled with strawberries and bananas and accompanied with strawberry syrup! This Original Pancake House location is so great, located off the corner of Clark/Armitage/Lincoln Park West. Yes.. it feels like you have stepped back into the 70's with it's Interior Design but it is warm, cozy, and comfortable! Nice comfy booths and tables and you can tell that this place is a favorite among many because as frigidly cold as it was in Chicago today this place was filled with families. working people and friends. This is a friendly place that serves up some phenominally good pancakes and my hot chocolate had loads of whipped cream which I loved! Menu prices seem very comparable to other Breakfast Chains but.. this place is so above all the other chains. Just be aware that you have to find on street parking which in this area of Lincoln Park can be quite an ordeal.. And we had a great server and everyone working here was very nice! So.. my Dutch Baby pancake so light and fluffy has turned into one of my top 5 favorites.. And.. yes.. the other breakfast place Is on this list too..:)
(5)Melissa B.
Took a friend from the UK for her first American breakfast of her trip. We we're not disappointed with the large portion sizes and tasty food. I had the 'famous baked apple' pancakes - it was delicious, I almost finished it. We ate at 10am on a Saturday morning so it was very busy and service was a hit & miss (had to constantly ask for coffee refills, napkins and sweetner) but we'll die back - will just choose a quieter time!
(4)Lisa F.
Good food...had the waffle & the kids had the chocolate pancakes. The service was great, coffee always delicious and the staff very accommodating (especially with kids). It's become our EARLY Saturday spot bc it's close to home & we love the service (and food).
(4)John S.
Great breakfast, food was served fast and in a comfortable atmosphere. Great for kids and the elderly. This pancake house is located right off Clark and Armatage in the lower level floor next to a parking garage, so it is easy to miss.
(4)Sheena W.
Food was okay, the best thing was the apple pancake.
(3)Jennifer C.
This is one of my favorite restaurants in the world. I've only been to this location once but was happy to see that the menu and service was similar to the others. I've been to this restaurant about 100 times in my life. And I've only ever ordered one thing, the Chocolate Chippies. All I want in life is chocolate chip pancakes with some powered sugar on top. Life is perfect. My kids got the giant apple pancake and thought it was amazing.
(5)Peter M.
Had the caramel French toast and it was just okay. The bread was thin and it was tough to cut with a fork because it was kind of gummy. The coffee was pretty good and the service was very good
(3)Carolyn B.
Fast service and great standby classics? Yep, I'll be back. My roommate and I wandered over here before the Green City Market on a Saturday morning and were surprised to find empty tables in the restaurant just before 11am (a rare sight in this city). We snagged a booth and were promptly greeted and served. The menu is quite large, with an array of pancake options, skillets for the savory breakfast folks, some house specialties and more. My roommate ordered the skillet (which was actually just served in a dish), and she said it was good. Bonus: even most of the savory dishes have the option of pancakes on the side. I took the "When in Rome" route and ordered pecan pancakes which were awesome. The place lives up to its name and cooks a mean pancake. I ordered the bacon on the side, and it was thick-cut and well-cooked, everything bacon should be. It's not a brunch place you go for the atmosphere, but the Original Pancake House doesn't try to be anything it's not.
(4)Rebecca C.
It's the original pancake house. It's affordable and addictive. Can't go wrong with the french toast or pancakes.
(5)K S.
So I'm updating my review. Place is always crowded on the weekends but our small party of 2 we've never had to wait. Pancakes are my favorite of all the breakfast places I've been. However one compliant , the menu isn't updated or they have ripped me off the last two times I've been here on the bacon lovers combo. It says you get 6 slices..I only received 4. I mean paying $12 for 3 small pancakes 4 pieces of bacon and 3 eggs is pretty pricey.
(3)Julie N.
Love this place. A proper breakfast diner. Generous portions and helpful, efficient service. My son loves the pancakes, sausages and bacon. I really enjoyed the egg white omelette with veggies. It was very light and fluffy. It's definitely a regular go to place with my youngest boy.
(4)Cathy F.
We had breakfast here today and the food and service were both excellent! We had coffee, freshly squeezed orange juice, blueberry waffles, pancakes, eggs and sausage links. Everything was delicious. Highly recommend!
(5)Leslie B.
So delicious and so much food for a very reasonable price! Came here the morning after TBOX, while dying a slow and painful death, in hopes of being brought back to life by breakfast. Original Pancake House did the trick. Nom. Their omelets are gargantuan and awesome. Since they're baked, they come out light and fluffy with tons of toppings spread amongst the eggs. Their omelets come with potatoes AND toast/pancakes. Forget being remotely healthy. Just get the pancakes, you know you want to. The boyfriend upgraded to blueberry pancakes which were fantastic. The pancakes had lots of blueberries inside and came with a blueberry compote...not questionable blueberry syrup, but potentially drinkable compote. Having grown up near an Original Pancake House, I would also recommend the apple pancake. Please be warned, it doesn't look like a pancake...more like an actual cake. It's a LOT for one person, but share it amongst a group and you can have part of this cinnamony, appley goodness.
(5)Nicole H.
My first experience at this place was in Madison, Wisconsin while staying at the Crawdaddy cove/Madison West. It was so good we ate breakfast there on Saturday and Sunday. My children even finished their entire plates and asked for seconds. Extra bacon was a must. The fresh squeezed Orange juice was awesome. I was saddened coming back into Illinois thinking we were leaving such a wonderful new place behind but ALAS! I discovered multiple locations in the Chicago land area. We have eaten at 3 of then and they are ALL just as good as the first. . . This is our go to place. We try not to eat breakfast anywhere else.
(5)Michael A.
Fast and great service, omelette was huge and pancakes were delicious. Would recommend anyone who is visiting Chicago and wants great breakfast before a visit to the zoo. Omelets are big enough to share.
(4)Michelle M.
Always a solid breakfast destination for Lincoln Park/Old Town residents. I have to say that OPH's pancakes are in my top 3, which says a lot because pancakes are my favorite food and I pretty much order them at every breakfast place I go to. Servers here are always so nice and quick to get you what you need! Had to give it 4 stars because every time I'm here, it is always so hot! Turn down the heat, please!
(4)Stacy S.
Great place for breakfast! I always get the 49er flap jacks, they're heavenly!! Tons I seating inside.
(4)Margaret D.
Have been coming here for years. One of my favorite standby places. I wanted something breakfasty but it was 1:30pm on a weekday. Knew this place would be open and still serving breakfast so headed here after a long spell. Never disappoints. I've had the dutch baby, the corned beef hash, the spinach crepes, the Hawaiian pancakes, the chocolate chip pancakes, vegetarian omelet, the Swedish pancakes, the apple pancake. I've tried quite a bit of the menu but of everything, I always come home to the 49'ers. You can find all of the menu items at other places serving breakfast, but I haven't yet seen the 49'ers anywhere else. They're thin, chewy and tender. I haven't seen them anywhere else and I've tried making them at home, no dice. They're similar to Swedish pancakes, and they're not. They're sort of similar to crepes, and they're not. I love them. And the coffee, they're known for their good cup of joe. I bought a bag of the beans and brewed it at home, wasn't the same. I've never had anything bad here, chain or not. They also have some long time staff here which is great.
(5)Jeff W.
The French Toast was quite good. A nice little place for breakfast.
(4)Ariana S.
Ok- So due to the crazy proximity from my apartment, I have been to the Original Pancake house approximately 597 times so I may be a bit biased here. At the same time, there are many places to choose from and this place has captured my heart, not just because of the ease in transport, but because of the AMAZING food, huge portions, fair prices and friendly waitstaff. Screw the whole foodie thing where people like those bite-size portions and consider it gourmet. Give me an omelette that is bigger than my head and I am a happy girl! Oh-why thank you OPH! HUGE portions (I usually get the chicken fajita omelette because the salsa is to die for) and served with a side of 3 silver dollar pancakes!! Who still does that these days! Make sure to get the fresh-squeezed orange juice. Good place for kids too as they have crayons and balloons. (Too bad 27 year olds don't get to take advantage).
(5)Katy O.
I grew up going to the Walker Bros Pancake House on Greenbay Rd, so that is what I compare this place to. I will always prefer Walker Bro's dark wood/stained glass atmosphere, but I have to say that the quality of the food is about the same. I am a sweet breakfast fan. I don't like scrambled, poached, fried, hard-boiled or over easy eggs. The only way I'm eating an egg is if it is a party of a cheesy omlette, prefrably with some sort of bacon or sausage mixed in. I gravitate toward the waffle/pancake/french toast section of a menu generally. And when I come here, I go for the famous apple pancake about 80% of the time. The other 20% of the time I wonder why I didn't, not that the pancakes, waffles and blintzes I've ordered weren't very good- they were- it's just hard to beat the apple pancake. They have fresh-squeeze oj- always a nice treat. The menu is large and there is always seating available- I have never had to wait for a table, not even on the weekend. The staff is always friendly, even though they are stuck working in a diner in a basement. You need to allow a little extra time for it to bake, but the apple pancake is worth it. I love this place for when you want a great brunch but don't want to fight crowds at any of the local trendy brunch spots.
(4)Mariel L.
This is such a cool retro restaurant with downright comfy comfort food. The restaurant is located underneath a residential building, so no you're not going the wrong direction...go towards that tall building across the LPZ. The interior is adorable, with low ceilings and stained glass ceilings. It's like you stepped back into the 60's. The server was super nice and efficient. My sister got the gigantic Apple Pancake. Holy crikeys that's a lot of food. I got the Dutch Garden, which is their popular Dutch Baby filled with tomatoes, mushroom, broccoli and drowned in melty gooey cheese. Amazing. Their bacon was also pretty great; it was thick, more malleable than crispy, and had a higher meat: fat ratio. I would be so spoiled if I lived above this restaurant for sure. I'm sure their other pancakes are equally phenomenal, and I'm glad there are OPHs up here in MN for me to try them!
(4)Venkat R.
Best Santa Fe omelette ever.. Try the one with egg whites and extra Jalapenos.. Heavenly.. Over the past week I went back to Walker Bros and IHop to see how they score compared to this place.. Absolutely no match!! I am a regular now to this place going in every weekend.
(5)Jon L.
You know what you're getting into at an Original Pancake House, so I'm not going to dwell on the sinful pancakes or fluffy omelets. The reason to visit this particular franchise are the stellar surroundings. Accessed down a weird side stairway and through a barren concourse that also hosts a shuttered supermarket deep in the bowels of a nondescript 1970s era Lincoln Park condominium building, my favorite branch of the venerable chain offers diners breakfast staples and proprietary specials in a room defined by stained glass, oversize plantings, and acid-induced original-era tile work and upholstery. In an age of sophisticated interiors and increasing visual monotony, a visit to the Lincoln Park Original Pancake House is a delight not only for the tastebuds, but for the eyes and perhaps for the interior designer in all of us.
(5)Caroline M.
Looking for a no wait Lincoln Park brunch at around 9am? Impossible you say? Pffft! This is not a super fancy brunch place with trendy pancakes covered in creme anglaise, brown sugar, cookie crumbs, and coulis on top. OPH is plain, simple and totally delicious. Our server was super cute and kept the coffee flowing. The french toast was a win. Nothing fancy, just downright good. Order bacon! It was very crisp and tasty (when isn't bacon tasty!?) This place is across the street from the LP Zoo, down in the bottom of a condo building. Keep an eye out otherwise you might zip past it, which you totally don't want to do. PS: parking is probably a total Betch ( youtube.com/watch?v=fPDl… ) so take the #22, #36, or #151 bus.
(4)Bart S.
Long time fan, grew up in Wilmette and spent a lot of time in line there, and sometimes at the Lincoln Park location..Won't wait in line anymore. Have to know when to go...before 8:30 AM on Sat morning in Lincoln Park no wait. Service was good, food was great. For 4 people the price was 65 bucks with tip..so, that's 16.25 per head, a bit steep, but we got what we wanted including an Apple Pancake for the table...well worth the extra calories and money. All menu items are good, I never had a bad meal here. The downstairs location is grim, the bathroom is down the hall, outside of the actual restaurant, which is kind of odd.
(4)Laura T.
I was overjoyed to find out that the Original Pancake House serves pancakes made with gluten free flour. They were the best we've tried to date. The service is super friendly and the prices are good. If you have someone in your group who can't have gluten (the restaurant offers a disclaimer saying that the dishes aren't made separately from other food so it is not technically 100 percent gluten-free) this is a great option.
(5)B K.
What a great little place we have here. You can always count on the Original Pancake House. All of the food is delicious from my favorite the chocolate chip pancakes to the meat skillet or even the lemonade. Everyone is so friendly here and there's usually a table waiting even when it's busy. The only issue is it can be a bit pricey but awesome greasy food is worth it sometimes.
(4)Rebecca H.
Ahhhh so yummy. HUGE menu, it took me a seriously long time to pick something. I took my family and we all loved everything we ordered, from the strawberry french toast to the buscuits and gravy. The service was fast and a bit on the sarcastic/funny side, which I like. The place is in the basement of an apartment building, which to be honest, kept me from coming here earlier. I was thinking dark, dingy basement pancakes. It was not as bad as I had visioned, they have huge colorful lights that look like skylights. The only negative was that the place was super cramped and our table was tiny for four people and the place could use an update. This can all be overlooked because the food is great.
(4)Bryan S.
I still love the pancake house but paying close to $60.00 for a family of 4, especially pancakes, is too steep. An employee noted during one holiday weekend when they were full for the one morning that it was the way it always use to be, busy and full. The problem isn't the economy, the problem is ridiculous overpricing.
(3)Aaron N.
Say it with me...DUUUUUTTTTCH BAAAABBBYY!!! If you like to eat good tasting food and if you are hungry, order this beast of a pancake. Warning: You may not be able to move for 20 minutes after you finish this monster. Overall, this is a great breakfast place and has everything that an Original Pancake House would/should have. One problem, the parking for this restaurant can be kinda tricky and it is in the basement, but if you don't care about those two minor obstacles, enjoy! Booom Baby!
(4)Kelly C.
This is my favorite breakfast spot. We go probably 2-3x a month and I don't think we have ever been dissatisfied with the food. The portions are ridiculously huge and the prices are very fair. The staff is so sweet and pleasant and very attentive. My favorite pancakes are the pumpkin pancakes right now. Soft, fluffy, melt in your mouth, dont need syrup deliciousness. And the bacon....mmmm thick delicious bacon.
(5)Kevin G.
If you are going to spend money on breakfast why go here? The servers are not that friendly, the food is not remarkable, and the space is pretty tired. People who are rating this as five stars have very low expectations of what a breakfast out can and should be. We were given tiny little cups for our water (other tables had larger ones) and hardly ever refilled. The coffee was poor. I've been to other franchises of TOPH and been impressed... not so with this one. Quit giving away stars people.
(2)Kate O.
I came here for brunch the other day with a group of friends and was not impressed. I don't consider myself a germaphobe but I was pretty turned off by the level of cleanliness. (Sticky menus, dirty table, fruit flies). I ordered a ham and cheese omelette and while it was very fluffly, the fact that they forgot one of two ingredients (the cheese) annoyed me. Maybe I am missing out since I didn't try their pancakes that everyone seems to love, but I don't think I will be returning to give them another shot.
(2)J A.
I'm usually loyal to Nookie's on Wells St., but I wasn't in the mood to wait in a cold cramped vestibule so my breakfast partner and I gave Original Pancake House a chance. First impressions: really feeling the dated decor/color scheme. I love the all of the orange/brown/mustard yellow going on here. If only it had wood paneling. We sat at the counter (very comfortable seating). It was super toasty in here which was great, because it was about a high of 20 outside. We had the option of waiting for a table or taking an immediately available spot at the counter (at about 11AM). I had a vegetarian skillet, he had the much-hyped Dutch Baby. Vegetarian skillet had really fresh veggies, and tasty potatoes- lots of flavor. I liked that it came with a side of pancakes- I wasn't forced to make that difficult decision between ordering a protein-blast or a carb-blast. Best of both worlds. I tried some of the Dutch Baby and it was also very yum. Had to take a star away because the coffee was weak to quite weak. I go to Sunday brunch with the intention of nursing my hangover, and coffee is a really vital part of that equation.
(4)Dianne S.
Mission: fill my belly after running an embarrassing 5K near LPZ. After dragging my brother & friends from one end of Clark Street to another looking for Nookies (yes, I know it's on Wells but there's a little shortcut of a road called Mnemonee that kept alluding me) we saw a sign for The Original Pancake House & decided it was time to admit defeat. No waiting...which was nice. Credit cards accepted...even better. This place is truly as "original" as advertised. Think old seventies tan boothes with stained glass window lighting (actually pretty cool). One irk about this place...if you're going to use glasses the size of kiddie cups then at least come by often to refill them! Ok, I'm done. I had a half order of chocolate chip pancakes (3 small cakes) with a side of whipped cream. Anybody who knows me knows how much a love whipped cream...so to have a small condiment cup full of it (and I DO mean full...it looked like a cupcake!) was almost enough to bring me to tears! Great pancakes too, not too heavy, just light & airy! My friend ordered a side of bacon (4 slices for $3.99). Bacon was crisp with no chewy, nasty fat to speak of...done just my way! Sweet or savory...The Original Pancake House has something for every taste bud!
(3)Lauren H.
My eggs and blueberry pancakes were ok, nothing special. Wtf was up with the side of bacon costing $4 for 4 slices though? That was a bit much for what we got. Service was friendly though, and not much of a wait when we were there around noon on Sunday. They take plastic now as well. It is within crawling distance of my house, so would work in a pinch, but I wouldn't make a great effort to come here.
(2)Katie H.
This place was fantastic. There were so many choices so it was hard to choose, but I ended up getting the Dutch Treat, which was pure heaven. It was huge, but you couldn't not eat the whole thing. They made it fresh which took about 20 minutes, but it was well worth the wait. The smells in the place makes you want to order everything and try it. A definite try! They have something for everyone.
(5)Joanne C.
Came here last week with my cousin and her fiance. I'll keep this short and sweet: I liked the food here. The service....was ok. She and I sat down first while he went to park the car. We got menus when the guy sat us down but after that nobody came by for at least 10 minutes, not even to give us water. It wasn't busy at all so what gives? I ordered the veggie omelette with a side of salsa, my cousin had the Dutch baby, and her fiance had the corned beef hash with a side of salsa. Yes. The salsa is that good. Ok? =) My omelette was sooo fluffy!!! And it tasted great. The veggies and the cheese combined together...mmmm. The corned beef hash was yummy. It didn't taste like other places at all. Like maybe they used real corned beef and not the canned mushy stuff. Finally the Dutch baby. WOW. Light, fluffy and so tasty with powdered sugar and a squeeze of lemon. The best way I can describe it is a punched-in souffle. That's what it looked like to me. Yum. I will be back. ^_^
(3)Maria P.
Let me preface this with I've dined at two of their other locations, one in Cincinnati and the other in Brookfield, WI. This location pales in comparison to those locations when it comes to decor and the young, energetic staff. With that being said, this place is hidden on the bottom floor of the building and easily a place you'd pass by if you miss the sign. The food comes out fast and is hot. It's nothing out of the ordinary even though they have a creative menu. This locations seems more like a greasy spoon in comparison to the other locations.
(3)D W.
This is my favorite breakfast place in Chicago. It is warm, safe, and comfortable. Great service. Friendly waitresses. I like the simple and dated ambiance, the booths, and hidden but convenient location. Delicious coffee, Dutch babies, potato pancakes, eggs, etc... I never tire with this place and enjoy coming back.
(5)Andrea C.
ill keep it short and sweet: -solid breakfast fare- you can't go wrong if you want pancakes (doi), eggs etc. -perfect spot for after your boot camp class in lincoln park (eat all those calories you just burned!) -yeah, the apple pancakes are a heart attack waiting to happen, but they're darn good the bad: -parking is a nightmare -not the largest place, waits can be monsterous -prices are slightly inflated for the type of food they're serving...but not so much that you shouldn't go
(3)Silky O.
My erectile dysfunction would immediately be cured if this dungeon of a breakfast place was located in my building! With furnishings straight out of my grandma's moldy home, senior citizen management, and meals that cure osteoprosis, Im a fan! I've made several shaky and severe hangover walks to this underground food fetish layer with great results. Room temperature is a tad bit warm, but that has never stopped me from dominating omelettes and making sausage links feel inferior. Also, sometimes there can be a line, but it moves quickly with an abundance of seating. I recommend the pancakes if the extra weight wont put more pressure on your sciatica! Love Silky
(4)Aaron S.
My first real OPH experiences were in Glenview at a Walker Brothers location. All I knew was that 1) these OPH places are packed and busy during all hours of operation and 2) it's always worth it for an OPH Apple Pancake (ALWAYS). So during a random trip up to the North Side to pick up medicine at a pharmacy for our pets, I spied a tiny little sign a block or two before my bus stop. Were my eyes deceiving me? Could I have stumbled onto one of these magnificent portals into apple pancake heaven? I grabbed the medicine and backtracked by foot, looking for the sign I thought I had seen. And there it was, "Original Pancake House" with a little arrow beckoning me to investigate. I took the path mentioned and wound up by some non-descriptive doors. Inside was another set of signs with an arrow pointing downward. Really? A basement? And that's where I found it - glimmering faintly in a darkened basement space. Menu hung by the open doors, as I had caught them at 3:15pm on a weekend day where they close at 4pm. Maybe the morning rush is full of patrons who are aware of this place's existence, but at 3pm, the restaurant was almost completely deserted. I asked if they would do a take-out order, and they let me place one for my two apple pancakes (yes, one of them was for my girlfriend - though I contemplated getting three once I did the math). He said it would be 15-20 minutes, so I wandered to the nearby White Hen also in this basement space to kill some time. I ventured back to continue the wait and explore the space they were occupying. The decor is campy and outdated, but rather cozy. The tables are spaced as close together as at the other locations I've been to - I can only imagine it's the usual ruckus when and if they actually get filled up during some busier hours. The magazines strewn on the bar counter near the host station clued me in to how dull and bored they must have been that day. I feel bad knowing it can be that slow at any point in an Original Pancake House's day. Should I spread the news that yes, you can find this hidden gem and get some of the best goddamned pancakes you've ever experienced? Or should I keep this to myself and suffer the hour long trip each way by bus just to find a place where I can get my fill of these delectable treats without having to wait in a line just to sit down? Well, I guess posting a review for the place answers that question. Just make sure you're not in my way if I come back for another fix for some Apple Pancakes. Oh yes, like all OPH I'm sure they do all the side items and whatnot - that's not what I came here for on this day of discovery. Just give me my apple pancakes and let me rush home while they're still nice and hot (and drizzle them with plenty of butter and apple syrup). I'll be back for a full review soon enough. the 4 of 5 stars is because the hosts weren't quite so friendly, likely due to boredom, and my 15-20 minute wait was closer to 25. Also I got to witness a lively conversation between a hostess who was questioning her 15-year-old daughter regarding a party she went to that may or may not have included alcohol. I wish those kinds of shenanigans were available to me when I was 15... Just give me my damned pancakes, lady...
(4)smriti k.
OOmpa Loompa Oompa Loompa,...Well,this is the song that strikes me as we entered this places situated underground;made me feel tiny.A hidden Pancake house and do not confuse this with IHop,this is not the same.This place has a perfect restaurant and Diner look;well the servers are dressed like the old diner servers while the place with its huge glass painted ceiling and mediocre seating gives it a neat restaurant vibe. Since all of us were starving,we ordered the pancakes with bananas,vegetarian omelet,FLUFFY mushroom egg white omelet and fruits.The pancakes had the perfect consistency and were soft and cute looking mini ones topped with bananas..yumm..and my Fluffy omelet was seriously fluffy!! It was almost like someone pumped up the omelet with some air and it looked like a mini air pillow.Due to the fluffy texture,it didn't have much taste to it.But it was fine.Those who have seen the movie "Despicable me" where the kid says "You are so FLUFFY" looking at a huge unicorn,that was the same reaction i had when i saw my plate :) -Smriti
(4)Mark B.
Any "Origianl Pancake House" has the best pancakes I have ever had, and this is no exception. I recommend the 2 by 4, pancakes and eggs. Keep it simple and enjoy what this place does best. Save the specalities like the dutch baby and the ridiculous apple pancake for your 2nd and 3rd visits. Every time we've gone it has been busy but little to no wait. I think it is because it is in the basement of a condo building and so it i not very visible from the street. Do yourself a favor and check out this hidden gem!
(5)Ted P.
It's a bit confusing to find, but once you do, it's a somewhat subterranean breakfast place that's got a few special reasons for going back. The baked pancake options are where it's at. The decor is tired, as was the staff the day we were there, but if you go for the apple pancake or dutch garden, you'll have a good breakfast.
(4)Patrick C.
I came to eat here on a Friday afternoon, so it was pretty dead. I liked the fact that I could take my time when eating, since most breakfast places are all about turning over tables. That being said, I'm sure this place is a madhouse on the weekends. I ordered the three little pigs and was not disappointed. Sausage links wrapped in great tasting pancakes. You can't really go wrong with that. This place gets major points for being just a half a block away. If you want a good breakfast with not much of an atmosphere to distract you, go to this OPH.
(4)Donna C.
I live in the building so it is an easy go to place for breakfast. The omelets and pancakes are good. However, THE HASH BROWNS ARE BEYOND HORRiBLE. They have some sort of red seasoning in them that is purely putrid. And they leave a disgusting taste in your mouth. All the other choices are very dependable and reliable.
(2)Mary T.
This place is great. I love the variety of pancakes, waffles, etc. that they offer. The food always tastes fresh and they don't use that cheap, nasty fruit compote some 'chain' places like to. They have fabulous blueberry pancakes. Some of the simpler items can be a bit pricey, but the food is really good. I also like that they're no longer cash only, that was a big hassle.
(4)Jessica L.
This place has the best pancakes hands down! It's pricey but worth it. I have never had to wait here (we get up early??). We used to wait in line for 30 minutes at the Original in Royal Oak, MI. And (I will add) I would wait that here as well, we just haven't had to! I always get the pancakes with a side of bacon and my husband Santa Fe omelet (it's so fluffy and spicy!). They could probably stand to update the decor, but hey, it works for them, so what do I know?? THE BEST!
(5)patrick l.
The food is pretty standard. The service is just okay. The food was nothing to write home about but I only had the quiche. It was the healthiest thing on the menu. I guess the coffee was good and plentiful. Location is in the basement and sort of hard to find if you weren't looking for it.
(3)Nicki W.
Yes, that's right. I'm a fan of this joint. I think breakfast is the best meal of the day when paired with coffee to jumpstart your senses. The fact that this place is right around the corner is even better. As you know from my previous reviews, I'm a big fan of service, and everytime I've been to this place I have been really impressed with the upbeat and helpful servers. You are greeted right away, sat, brought waters and offered coffee or juice. Once I have my coffee I'm set. The refills keep on coming too which is great. As for the food, I think it's pretty darn great. Their sausage patties are sooo good I'm drooling right now. They are perfectly round which leads me to believe they were most likely frozen before thrown on the griddle but who cares. The pancakes are so fluffy and sweet and the omelets are pretty good as well. Try the crepes if you are in the mood for something sweet. Their orange juice is freshly squeezed so get your paws on some of that. The small is SUPER small..so get the large. The decor is pretty 70's but it reminds me of a cute little diner in a small town. I think it's funny that you have to get buzzed into the bathrooms. I will keep coming back for more.
(4)Scott B.
This is great restaurant with the most unique breakfast menu in the city. Original Pancake Houses are scattered around the country and Chicago is lucky to have 3...and the Lincoln Park one is the best. The service is excellent. This place has an old style charm that I hope never gets updated. The same menu - but different decor - can be found at the Walker Brother's chain in the north & northwest suburbs. The menu originated at the original Original Pancake House in Portland, Oregon. The coffee is strong but not bitter. If I'm going to spend money on breakfast, which I don't do often, this is the place.
(5)Eric M.
You can tell the clientele of a place by their hours. OPH is open from 7am until 2pm. I don't think they're main patrons are under the age of 65. Not that there's anything wrong with that. The place is always packed on weekends, so be prepared to wait. The dining area is pretty low key with beige tables and tan chairs. OHP isn't trying to impress anyone with their decor, they do it with the food. The pancakes are HUGE and the corned beef hash is some of the best I've had. The dutch baby (what a name) is so large you could share it with three other people. So don't expect 5 star service, but come with an empty stomach and it will be pleasantly filled.
(3)Katie H.
I grew up frequenting the OHOP (yeah, that's what kids in the know call it) in Grosse Pointe, MI. This one is the same...yet very different. The menu appears the same, the decor is similar, and the servers are all those super friendly career waitresses. But in the omellette department, this place can't hold a candle to my original OHOP. The omlette here was good, oven baked and all, but it was more like a regular omellette. The omelletes at the GP location are baked in a round pan, so instead of a flat folded over omelette you get this big round fluffy frittatta-like egg souffle. Okay, it's really hard to describe. Nostalgia aside, had I not known what my omellette was lacking, it would have been good. Tasty but not amazing. It's a decent standby for a good breakfast, though a bit on the pricey side (yes, I am referring to you, $4 side of bacon).
(3)Beth P.
In the basement of a fancy-ish apartment building, you'll find this place bumpin every weekend. They are usually pretty good about keeping the diners in and out- which makes for decent waiting times, but also an "ok, you're done, so get the hell out" attitude towards the end of your meal. A bit pricey for the plainer items, but they do cook a pretty darn good breakfast. Their thick bacon is well done, dutch babies are huge, and potatoes on the rare-side of done. Overall, we are always pleased. ANDDDD they finally started accepting credit instead of cash-only, thank god. A noteworthy negative point is that they are a PEPSI place... Ew. When I'm hungover, I need me a fountain COKE and the impostor just won't do. I'll just have to pick one up from the white hen next door to the pancake house on my way out.
(3)Lawrence Y.
I have been to an OPH location back home in L.A., and was excited to find that they are out here as well! Finding the place (via driving) was really hard to do, and parking in the area is tough. We parked almost down to Fullerton and just walked. We've never experienced a wait here... The interior of this 'basement' restaurant was interesting and nothing like the one I've been to in L.A. However, the food is always good, good, good! I haven't really had any problems with the service here, and the cashiers have always been friendly as we walked out. Though, it might just be me, but one of the servers does seem a little bit creepy!
(4)Moise K.
Hangover healer! Close to where I live. Service is good and they have great selection of Omelettes, Pancakes and more.... Service is quick and they even offer free coffee while you wait. Fresh morning fruits and juices. How can you possibly go wrong?
(4)debra h.
I eat breakfast here almost every day and not only do they have the nicest waitresses in the city, bu they also are happy to make me healthy breakfasts every time I ask. It's a pleasure and a treat to have them in my building and they have the best bacon and pumpkin pancakes around!
(5)Kevin J.
This is a great place to grab breakfast. Excellent pancakes and decent omelets. I had the santa-fe which consisted of peppers, salsa and jalapenos. It was good but it didn't really STACK up to the quality of their pancakes (PUN INTENDED HARDY HAR HAR!). We have one of these in the DC area and its the exact same thing. I highly recommend their crepes or any of their pancake specialties. A++++ for the service, our server was refilling our coffee and water so fast we didn't even have time to ask. I really appreciate that, especially in the morning when I am fiending for my caffeine fix. Additionally, our server was super nice.
(3)Rachelle G.
3.5 bumped up to 4. Tucked away in the basement of a condo building, I was brought here by a friend. Walking in, you realize you're in a sort of old school no frills type of pancake house. The wait was less than five minutes, great for Sunday at 11:30. The menu is pretty straightforward and their apple pancake is highly prominent on the menu. I wanted the basics and had the eggs and links with pancakes. It was good but nothing out of this world, just a simple breakfast that hit the spot. I have to admit the links were a bit salty here and there. I was also a little disappointed that hash browns weren't offered. (Although reading the reviews, I see now that they have it, but I couldn't find it on the menu.) Overall, nothing that screams visit me over and over again, but definitely a safe bet for an enjoyable brunch spot. And I do agree with another reviewer about the check being placed on the table during the meal. What if I want dessert or something else?
(4)Helen N.
I have to preface my review with the fact that I absolutely love The Original Pancake House in Champaign. I lived in Champaign for a long time and I would wake up early on Saturday so I can get to the pancake house for the best coffee, best service, best omelette, and best breakfast of all time... Which brings me to this Original Pancake House, it is in the basement of a condo building - which made it somewhat hard to find. There was no wait and essentially half empty, however, the hostess sat us in between two tables, felt a little tight... as in I knew exactly what the table next to me was doing for the rest of the week. The coffee was good - but they only came to refill once and I had to ask. The pancake was okay and I was disappointed with the oatmeal. I like my oatmeal made with milk (like the one in Champaign) and this one just didn't cut it for me... so sad. My hubby had the eggs benedict and loved it... The service is okay - Maybe I'll give the other pancake houses a try -
(3)Annie T.
Yummaliciously fluffy pancakes. I'll give it to 'em for that! Otherwise, the rest is mediocre: service, decor, bleh bleh. I also had bites of both the Western Omelette and Western Skillet-- subpar. I'll walk over for brunch again considering it's right across the street from my new place. If it weren't for location, I probably wouldn't be back. Also, please note: You pay at the cash register at the end and they have an OLD SCHOOL cash register. I know it's the Original Pancake House but do they have to use the Original Cash Register as well? It was old, rickety, slow and couldn't split up our check!
(3)Roger W.
Food Poison Alert or Just Sloppy Prep? I'm a 20 year customer of this place. No more. Not used to ever having a harmful meal, I was half way through before I realized just how slimy, greasy, gut wrenching bad the food actually was. My first guess was new cooks, or cooks from another location. But the clueless cashier denied that as she quickly took the 12 dollars (for watery eggs, greasy bacon and cold pancakes) out of my hand. Upon running home, throwing up and then calming the shakes from this disaster of a meal, I called the place and got "Shantelle" And in the practiced corporate tones of someone who knows how to regularly deliver an apology and show she really doesn't care at the exact same time, offered one of those "faux apologies" more suitable to a politician being led away to jail. She also told me that the cooks were 12 year employees at that location. Curious how they forgot how to do their jobs in a week or two. But too bad. Because if these were the regular cooks, then I could not---for my health--be a regular Shantelle asked me what I wanted and when I asked her what she thought was appropriate, she offered to comp a meal. A terrifying thought, eating that meal again. Without any assurance it would be different. So if 1 free meal there is my only option---I'll find a new place to eat breakfast. As soon as I figure out whether this is: 1. food poisoning, 2. sloppy preparation, 3. people who simply don't care Or maybe some combination of any of these.
(1)Ariel B.
I absolutely love this place. It's been around for years and it's one of my favorite places for waffles/pancakes. My favorite is the apple pancake, it's just so ooey gooey good. Get it with a side of chicken sausage (that you can split with your boy or girl) and it's heaven. Located in the basement of an apartment/condo building, it can be pretty hard to miss, so make sure to look for the sign. Service can be slow at times, but it's worth the wait for the food. Yummy yummy, always very good. After eating a huge breakfast and rolling out of the door, take a walk in Lincoln Park Zoo, located right across the street.
(5)Gabe L.
This place is off the beaten path, and I've never had to wait here on the weekends. You can rearrange the letters in "The Original Pancake House" to form "Cooking Euthanasia Helper", and it's true, since you'll be in a massively good food coma afterwards. Try the pecan waffles. They have pecans. The name doesn't lie.
(4)Megan K.
I tend to champion all things Original Pancake House. Their food is ridiculously delicious, their menu broad (feel free to check out my twelve other Pancake House reviews...). This particular location makes some mean 49ers flapjacks, true thick and meaty OPH bacon, and true thick and meaty OPH coffee. There was no wait on a Sunday morning, which is certainly worth noting. And they take credit cards! So after much deliberation I'm only going to cut back one star for the old school interiors and spotty service. For really good food, I'd say I'm willing to put up with being moved tables after the food has been served, and dumping syrup all over my lap because of a wacky bottle.
(4)Evan L.
Went here many many years ago. Don't know why but I always liked it for breakfast. For me its a comfortable cozy breakfast place, but looking at the other reviews maybe I just like it because it reminds me of my youth. Great coffee, never waited in line better than LaGrange, Maple St , Lincolnshire or even Wilmette for me.
(4)vivian c.
i am hesitant to review this restaurant only because i feel it is a hidden gem and don't want lines to form! but it is my far my favorite brunch place in the city. don't miss: buttermilk pancakes (i'm not a pancake person but these are insane), dutch baby (takes 20" but worth it, delicious, puffy, like funnel cake but better and more chic, apple pancake (huge and you will eat a fifth of it), the two by four is a good deal (2 eggs, stack of 4). i've been to the trendy brunch places, waited in line for 45" and paid for overpriced frooshi and $4 OJ. i always wish i'd gone to the original pancake house! keep it on the down low, but this place is the BEST!
(5)Erin C.
You have to try the apple pancake! It is lovely, but so huge you can share with a friend, or perhaps the next table. I also love love love the chewy, perfect 49ers pancakes. They're delicious. Everyone here seems to be local. Don't come here if you don't like children. I get a kick out of them most of the time, so it isn't a big deal for me. I also love to watch the lincoln park mommies and their daughters with the matching outfits. The omelettes are just ok, but they can come with a side of pancakes, so it's a nice mix of sweet and savory. The wait isn't usually too bad, even on the weekend.
(4)Ela G.
Ok, so minus the pretty bland ambiance of being below ground with very yellow lighting, I love having brunch here! It never disappoints, from savory to sweet items. Their french toast is so classicly good, if you like those crispy eggy bits on the sides, love that! And their southwestern skillet w/chorizo is amazing. And what about the Dutch Baby! Big enough to feed 3 people, I easily manage to eat one all by myself, and it's worth it. I've never been disappointed with this place.
(5)Kurt O.
OK, it looks like a dungeon, I agree. It's very hard to find parking. ....and on weekends, the lines are gigantic. But there a good reason for the long lines.....they really do have great food and service. Their coffee is strong and their pancakes are delicious. Try their strawberry syrup. It's convenient for the people who live in the nearby high rise buildings....but people "in the know" also enjoy this hidden little secret place.
(4)Angela P.
The good: Great food. The (long) line moves really fast. The bad: The service is okay, which might be a stretch. The tables are small and the atmosphere at this location is far worse than the one in Gold Coast.
(3)Jillian D.
my boyfriend has an ongoing affair. it started long before me. but, you know...i'm okay with it. i mean, who's gonna get between a man and his flapjacks? :) the first time he took me here, i was a little skeptical - you head down into the dark nether regions of this high rise near the park west...to find pancake nirvana! i don't know what goes into their secret recipe, but i've never tasted fluffier pancakes in all my life. for a while, we would head here almost every sunday. we even had "our waiter"! the 49ers are my bf's personal fave. he turned me on to them as well. indescribably delish, they melt in your mouth. if you can tackle it, the apple pancake is decadent. more approachable, the dutch baby delights. and the buckwheat pancakes are equally tempting. they roast their own coffee (or have it roasted especially for them). it's actually strong - unlike other breakfast chains. all this talk of pancakes makes me want some now!! :)
(5)Ron S.
I've dined here for many years. I'll only go on a weekday. Too many kids on weekends. (don't like noise with pancakes) The food is really good here. Management has been asleep at the wheel for years. Great coffee!
(3)Quantas G.
Had breakfast at this joint not too long. It was a decent meal worth another visit. They have an extensive menu to satisfy plenty of breakfast eaters palettes. Nothing memorable though. FYI, parking is fend-for-yourself.
(3)Laura S.
I don't understand the reticence of some of you yelpers in regards to this FABULOUS JOINT! WHAT THE HECK??!!! THIS PLACE has THE BEST pancakes I have EVER TASTED! EVERYTHING is made FROM SCRATCH! The COFFEE is EXCEPTIONAL! Their ooowwwn UNIQUE BLEND! EVERY time my mom and sister come to visit, they ALWAYS want to come HERE--NOWHERE ELSE---my mom always claims that just NOWHERE ELSE is going to be as good! Almost every time she has a Monday off (as she is a school librarian), she goes to one of the Original Pancake Houses with a friend! I have always experienced the MOST attentive and friendly staff, who have refilled my coffee about a million times! My favorite thing is probably the chocolate chip pancakes--ALSO I order the bacon with them---the bacon is SOLID---crispy crunchy with big pepper pieces! YEAH! YOU HAVE TO COME HERE!!!!
(5)Rachel E.
Yep, big fan. I like the old register and the weirdo 70s decor - isn't that what Chicago diners are all about? And, I'll happily pay an extra few bucks for food that actually tastes good, and oh my - does it! Coffee is superb. And, John the waiter, if you can get him - makes you feel like you've stumbled into the olympics of waitering. Gold medal winning, for sure.
(5)Niki C.
They do serve pancakes. We went here one Sunday morning & there were little kids in footed pajamas, which made me smile. One of the kids had a cape. Then there were little kids in their Sunday best. They looked jealous of the kids in pajamas. Neither one of them had capes. HOWEVER ... as entertaining as all this is & as nice as our waitress was & even though the morning we went, I was awakened with a beautiful dozen long-stemmed roses from the bf ... they only take cash, the eggs look like, well, processed eggs that you get at places like The Original Pancake House, & get this ... they're only open 7am - 3pm. WHAT IF I NEED SOME ORIGINAL PANCAKES AT 5:45 IN THE P.M.??? Guess I gotta cook 'em at my own house. In footed pjs. & a cape.
(3)Nick K.
Been to this location once, but I have been to these restaurants in other locations. Their food is so delicioius here and the apple pancake is out of this world. I have also had omelettes which were pretty good as well, but the apple pancake is their specialty.
(5)Tiff B.
If you want a good, homey type of breakfast-go to Original Pancake House. It's a hundred times better than all of those trendy, overcrowded and overprice brunch spots. Simply put, they make excellent omlettes, pancakes, sausage etc. Regular breakfast food, no weird ingredients. Order the 49er pancakes, you won't regret it. Oh, and the coffee is good too! This is my old standy breakfast spot.
(5)Mia P.
I love this chain, but not this location. There were fruitflies and the food just wasn't that good. I would definitely recommend a suburb location, but not this one.
(2)Martin P.
This is my favorite place for breakfast...Yes, I know its a chain but by golly I love the coffee, it is good and strong. The Pancakes are amazing and I love the omelets. The Sausage could be better but the rest of the meats are great! If you like orange juice with your breakfast this stuff tastes like they squeezed it themselves AMAZING! The price and service are glorious too! Try It You'll Like it!
(5)Martha Z.
This place is just so nostalgic for me. I can remember Sunday mornings with mom and her boyfriend. Even 20 years ago the place seemed pretty retro, it was in the basement of a highrise next to a convience store. I would always get pigs in a blanket. I was such a fussy child. I wouldn't even touch eggs, they freaked me out. My tastes have changed a lot since then. But I still don't mind coming back here for my pigs in a blanket followed up by a trip to the zoo!
(4)George K.
Reminded me lot of Denny's Restaurant.
(2)Patricia B.
Have been coming here for years and it is reliable and good. The ingredients used are top notch, as is the coffee. A very nice place to stop in for a very good breakfast, either at the counter or at a table. The rare times the service has been less than great, the management apologizes and vows to do better. They have had busboys who have been there for years, and I always tip a little extra to reward the hard workers who make my little breakfast a nice part of the day.
(4)Carol J.
I too, love this place. I live next door and always sneak over for breakfast, when I actually eat breakfast. I never look at the menu because I order the same thing, regardless, sausage links and those to die for hash browns. I often dine with my friend who is diabetic and they know enough to bring the sugar free syrup when we sit down. The servers change often but usually they are cheerful and hardworking and probably irritated at wearing the polyester get up but none the less, ready to refill the hot water for my tea or my friends coffee. The one thing that irritates me, and maybe its because I'm in the business, is that they drop the check before you even finish eating. Its not like I expect them to upsell a second serving of snausage but what if I went for some of the yummy fresh squeezed oj after all, or maybe wanted a little fruit to finish off the meat and potatoes thing? I just hate getting my check before I finish my meal, thats all. But maybe that is my issue. They just started accepting credit cards-like this month and the sweet little hostess lady lets me sneak in a sugar free Red Bull as long as I pour it on ice that she promtly provides. Its the check before done that is killing the last star.....and the occaisionally screaming, meltdown having kids, but they are my neighbors so I have to let that go too.
(4)Robert S.
They take credit cards now! But still, way too crowded, loud, and not the best service, but not horrible I guess. I live next door, so its convenient. Okay food, and I saw a lot of people ordering some weird looking pancake called a dutch baby. Too weird for me. I'll stick to the meat.
(3)R M.
Tried this place after reading the reviews here. We were truly famished when we came - having gotten lost trying to find the place and walking all around the neighborhood. I was disappointed to find that it was a "chain-ish" restaurant in the basement of a building. We ordered and then waited and waited - we were told that it takes a while to make the Dutch Garden which my partner ordered. But, boy, were we glad we came!! I ordered an omelette - probably THE best omelette I have ever eaten. So fluffy & tasty - amazing!! The Dutch Garden was awesome too. If it were not for the bland decor and basement location, I would definitely give it five stars!!
(4)Sarah B.
I enjoy the pancakes (go figure), but the service here can be poor and it is often crowded and cramped. There are better places.
(2)Kristen D.
We frequently come to this place for brunch (granted it's in the basement of the building I live in, so convenience is a factor). It closes at 3pm, they refuse to seat you if your entire party is not present, and they do not allow outside drinks and take cash only as payment (so many rules!!) They get really busy around noonish, but it starts to die down around 1 or later, so that's when I recommend to go. They can have some very good omelets, although I have had undercooked ones here, and it becomes an ordeal to get them to either cook it longer or replace it (you have to go through the manager etc). The last time we went this happened, and I asked it to be replaced with just some scrambled eggs so that it would be quicker. They agreed, but my scrambled eggs came back as undercooked at the omelete. At that point I decided not to say anymore because everyone else was finished eating. Our waitress came by to pick up the finished plates and asked if mine was better. I told the truth, and when we got the check the item was still on there. I was disappointed in the way they handled it, and we haven't been back in months because of it. The spinach crepes are quite good though.
(3)