We went to Uncommon Ground for a date night Saturday. When we arrived we grabbed a drink at the bar and then were seated on the patio. The patio is cute and surprisingly quiet. Luckily Uncommon Ground is far enough north that it avoids the Wrigleyville shenanigans. We split the sunrise salad to start. It was plenty big enough to share and had a good mix of fresh ingredients. I ordered the ricotta ravioli, but they were out and I'm glad they were. Instead I had the bbq chicken which was topped with crumbled bacon - how can you go wrong? It also came with cheddar mashed potatoes and caramelized onions. Although I'm usually unimpressed by chicken dishes in restaurants, this was very good and I would order it again. My boyfriend had the steak and enjoyed it as well although he wished it had come with my potatoes instead. Our server was fairly absent. We had to ask another waitress for a box and our check after we waited awhile but never saw our server. It was fine since it was a nice night out and we weren't in a hurry, but still, service was lacking. All in all I think Uncommon Ground is a little pricey, but a nice atmosphere, good food and drinks make it a good date spot. I would definitely go back for dinks and appetizers to enjoy the live music.
(3)
Bobuzzi C.
Everything was fresh & delicious! They grow a lot of their own herbs. There white sangria had a purple shamrock that the waiter told us tasted like a green apple and it really did. That was pretty fun! Tomato sandwich was awesome. It's only on the menu for a limited time when tomatoes are at their best. Burger is also really good. For dessert we had the dark chocolate brownie. Sooooo good. Worth stuffing our face over. When we called ahead for a table a couple hours ahead, they said they don't normally take reservations same day, but they would fit us in a little earlier than we were wanting, BUT when we got there it was basically empty. That was a little confusing. Either way it was a great night and we will be back.
(5)
Christopher Q.
Fail. Kids burger, a burnt chip of meat. Kids chicken fingers, a small chicken breast grilled and sliced. No flavor. Service took forever. My burger tasted good. But the kids meals were terrible and service took forever. Oh and I forgot. The mushroom soup was thick like mud and flavorless. They emphasized ground pepper on top of it. Gee thanks. The long waits , ten minutes to take our kids order, another 10 to take adult orders and then strange long waits for the rest. I had to chase down check. Just ridiculous. Meanwhile lots of employees running all around the place who could care less.
(2)
Nick S.
Have eaten here before food was great. Stopped for a drink on Tuesday, it was not that busy but took forever to take our order at the bar, closing out checks and cleaning the bar were more important even though there was plenty of clear space, and the checks he was closing the customers had already left so no change issue. I've tended bar so I know he wasn't over worked. We were about to walk out when he finally came back.
Uncommon ground is a nice addition to the Wrigleyville area. They offer a unique selection of menu items, where dishes are seasonally based and most of the produce and meats are purchased from local farms. The first time I came to Uncommon I ordered the mac n cheese and my friend ordered the crusted bacon chicken with mash potatoes. Both dishes were equally delicious. They offer a nice selection of craft cocktails and their service is always good.
(4)
Kelly R.
Went for lunch on a Tuesday afternoon. Service was friendly and nice, if a bit slow for the time of day (no one was there!). The tea I had (Flowery something) was awesome and my waitress was on it with the refills. The food didn't deliver at all. I got the chilaquiles ( a staple dish for me ) and a seasonal salad, both recommended by my server. They were miserable. I ate half of each and took the rest "to go". They'll probably live in my fridge for a week then die. I had a very nice time, and the place is quite pretty on the inside, but the food didn't stack up to my expectations. With Southport Market, Julius Meinl and Crosby's Kitchen all within walking distance, I don't anticipate returning to Uncommon Ground. Note: I don't drink, so I can't comment on the quality of their libations. Only their food.
(2)
Liz K.
Yum, yum, yum. 9 am on a hot weekend morning, couldn't have been a better option. It wasn't too crowded, we had essentially the entire inside to ourselves to enjoy the artwork and cool-looking bar, and there war several appealing options. I ended up with the chilaquiles and the bf with the 2 eggs any style with cheddar. I was torn between two options and the waiter said that they were easily his two favorite things on the menu but it was better that I ended up with the chilaquiles because they had more flavor. That promise did not disappoint! My mouth is watering right now just thinking about the spicy sauce that was ladled over the eggs and chorizo. The bf said that the cheddar was a little overwhelming but nevertheless cleaned his plate, breakfast potatoes and all. The price was reasonable and the service was friendly. I can't really see this place as a bar/see myself coming here solely for drinks and music, but I would happily try it again for brunch, lunch, or dinner!
(4)
Nichole F.
I have been to Uncommon Ground four or five times. I am a huge fan! I have sat outside in the summer which is the absolute best, sat on the comfy bench by the windows and sat at a table by a cozy little fire in the winter. The atmosphere rocks! The food, drinks and service also rock. They support local farms and breweries which makes this restaurant even cooler. Yesterday, we split the sweet potato fries, and then I sald the chopped salad with chicken and spicy ranch. So delicious. My husband had the cheeseburger with cheddar with regular fries. The breakfast items also sounded great, stuffed French toast, eggs Benedict and carrot cake pancakes. I will be back to try these!
(5)
Annie N.
Cutest date spot ever - not that I came here for anything romantic, but still - take note! Right when I got out of the car - I saw lights hanging on the patio (it was an exceptionally warm nights), warm lights and decor inside, just enough greens, wall hangings, and exposed bricks to make it all modern yet cozy! Since we had a reservation, we got seated right away. At 7:30pm on a Saturday night, this place was busy, but not unbearable. I was hoping for a spot in the back room near the big window, but we were lead to the right room with a small stage - please note, this place is a lot bigger than it looks. Not a problem, our table was fine. Server was nice, and he seemed really knowledgeable about the menu/food, but he was a little awkward - note: I think he's just a shy person, not that he wasn't comfortable serving. I got to taste the pumpkin ravioli, mac & cheese, and black bean sandwich (which despite the menu's ambiguity did come with fries, which totally made my night). The food was excellent. I didn't expect to like the pumpkin ravioli since I tried something like that before at a different restaurant, but after tasting the small bite, I was sold. Just enough sweetness and creaminess to keep you happy. The mac & cheese has a different (but good) flavor, and my black bean sandwich - which was more like a burger - was excellent. Guys - bring your ladies here for a first/second/third/forever date. It's intimate yet relaxing, casual but chic, cool without pretentiousness, and most importantly, it won't leave a hole in your wallet (which would help especially if the date doesn't work out).
(5)
Stephanie H.
I appreciate the mission statement of the restaurant but it doesn't make up for blah food. The food wasn't bad, but it wasn't great. The cafe drinks weren't bad, but they weren't great. One of my friends sent back a hot chocolate. Seriously. The menu is small, and picky eaters might have trouble here. They don't have the standard eggs, bacon, toast type breakfasts. Our service was fine and the decor is really cute, but for just okay this isn't worth the trip and I certainly would not wait more than 10 minutes for a table.
(3)
Tom C.
Brunch review: We had a great spot on the patio on a beautiful day. The wait at noon on Sunday was about 30 minutes which was good especially considering the cubs were playing. Food: Chilaquiles: Delicious! Very flavorful, great spices in the chorizo, would definitely get again. Fried green tomato benedict: My friend LOVED this dish as much as I loved mine, we split both our dishes and agreed we would order both again. The sides were hashbrowns that were just ok - but we didn't need them anyway because the main dishes were large portions. Drinks: Bloody Mary: Wonderful, spicy, perfect. Blue Berry Mojito: Refreshing on a summer day. Service: Slow, but we were happy about that since we had a lot of catching up to do. I'll be back.
(4)
Damian S.
The jalapeño limeade sounded good from the description, but insure had a bite--not in a hot and peppery way, but almost tasting like spruce or some other evergreen. So that was not my favorite part of the meal. The mac and cheese was very flavorful with the addition of bacon, though very rich and filling...not that that's a bad thing if you're expecting it. The mac and cheese comes with a side of apple-coleslaw which was a very tasty addition to a normal comfort food dish. My friend said the chopped salad was missing onions and tomatoes (it did have sun-dried tomatoes though), but he liked it all the same. Uncommon Ground was a pretty good place to eat overall, especially at 10pm on a Saturday. I don't know if I would wait in the typical dinner and brunch lines for the place, even as tasty as it was.
(3)
Kary K.
I met 3 friends for brunch on a Sunday at 10AM, it wasn't yet busy. However, it took 15 minutes for me to get the chai latte that I ordered. My friends arrived about 5 minutes after I did and it also took them forever to get their drinks. We ordered breakfast at about 10:20 and it did not arrive until 10:50. We weren't in a hurry, but it seems ridiculous given how slow it had been when we first arrived. I had the Chilaquiles and my eggs were lukewarm, which basically meant they'd been sitting around while the other dishes were created. The side potatoes were warm, crisp and tasty. My friends ended up liking their egg sliders. It ended up being ~$25 each. We go out for breakfast once/month to a new place each time and there are plenty of good places. So, considering the slow service and lukewarm food, I wasn't impressed, so won't be returning.
(2)
jesy b.
I really wish I could like this place more. The sustainable, local food thing is right up my hippie alley, but sadly every time I've been for dinner, the service is sorely lacking. Last Saturday, on our way to a show at the Metro, we swung by for a bite. We were seated after a short wait, totally understandable on a weekend night. The waitress came by for drink orders and I put in an appetizer also. I think we saw her twice more throughout the meal, and that's counting the one time my buddy nearly fell out of his chair trying to flag her down. That's not completely accurate. We SAW her. She just didn't see us. Watching every corner of the room, carefully inspecting the walls, checking out the ceilings, this woman did NOT want to look at us any of the dozen times she walked past our table, with its empty plate and glasses. A busboy came to clear our table. Our check was held hostage by the waitress who had better things to do, and our band was about to start up down the street. In general, I don't ask that servers bend over backwards for me, as that seems very uncomfortable, especially while waitressing. And I spent nearly a decade on the serving side of the service industry, so I fully get that you just have those nights from time to time, but the extreme effort taken to avoid looking at us was more than I could take. Despite the pretty good food and solid drink list (double bonus for being the best food in the whole of Wrigley), it will take some serious plying from my bf to get me back here.
(3)
Chad O.
Awesome space for performers, staff was really friendly, drinks were awesome and the food is yummy!
(5)
Adam K.
Bartender is named Tom. Cool engraved bar. Pre fixe menu for under $40 and its all sustainable meats and local organic produce, which makes me feel its ok to chow down on the meats they serve. I like the atmosphere / vibe in this place. Very homey. I have eaten the steak here and would get it again, but their menu is so vast and enticing, I will probably get something else. My friend always gets the grass fed burger.
(4)
johnny b.
blah
(2)
J B.
Yummy
(4)
Kristin M.
I had such an unpleasant experience here yesterday. Right off the bat, I disliked our waitress, Tiana. She was abrupt, cold and clearly thought she was "too cool for school", but deigned to put up with us. Whenever I have bad service my instinct is to be nicer to compensate for their lack of manners. It did nothing to improve her mood. My friend said he's had better service at the Wiener Circle! We were too early for the dinner menu, so we sifted through the choices on the late lunch menu. The pumpkin ravioli was just ok. The vegetarian chili was cold. When I asked if it could be heated up, she snatched it and retorted "I'll just get another one". She brought it back 10 minutes later and said "better"? It was piping hot, but tasted like tomato paste with some beans thrown in. I also ordered the crab cake which was kind of fishy and not very satisfying. It had a nicely browned crust but I just didn't love it. I don't know if I just made bad menu choices or all the food is sub-standard, but I really regretted eating here. I will say the space is cute, but not enough to come back.
(1)
Hannah J.
Five stars to uncommon ground for a cozy coffee experience. I did not order any food but this was a lovely, quiet place to do some work next to the fireplace and have a good cup of coffee for a few hours. The lighting was perfect for a winter evening-- dim but allowing for reading. I felt like I was in a ski lodge :) The service was friendly and attentive.
(5)
Lisa C.
Every time I visit my sister in Chicago, I make it a point to visit Uncommon Ground. The food is fresh, delicious and fun to eat. I enjoyed lunch so much, that we returned for dinner to celebrate our birthdays . Our waiter, Cameron was wonderful and treated us to cake and ice cream. Fantastic local beer on tap. Can order 4oz to sample. Every beer I tried was topnotch. Love this place.
(4)
Erin S.
Holy yuck. Two starts because they claim it's organic, but who knows. Hubs and I often try to venture out to organic places. We happen to be in the area last night so decided to go to uncommon. It's kind of like being in a friend's kitchen when you're in college: grungy, dark, and stinky. Service was awful and food was just as bad. Hubby's pork was rare -- not something you want to mess around with. We'll stick with Publican.
(2)
Eric H.
Good beer Good fries (esp. with the sauces) Good chili (vegetarian) Cool focus on sustainability. #vegetarian review
(4)
Colleen C.
Ok, I rescind my previous remarks...which were likely the result of an ill-fated brekkie date, way back in the day, with a boy named Morty. No amount of pancakes can solve a breakfast date with forced conversation without the aid of copious champagne. Truth. Finally, back for din din... 1. They employ very cute boys. Alex (server). CUTE as a button. Since we sat there for nearly 4 hours, I got many opportunities to notice. Well done! 2. Steve the guitar player. Is Uncommon Ground growing cute men in the garden or something? Holy holy, (organic) guacamole. 3. Sunshine salad (say that fast 5 times) was fresh, if not a wee bit...boring. Probably because I like bacon on my salads, with thick fatty dressing. I should've opted for the chop (yum), but my jeans will thank the SUNSHINE when I can actually zip them up, so hooray. 4. The buzzy bee: espresso, organic honey, and soy milk. Shaken and poured over ice = Frothy, non-dairy, pick-me-up. This will be my new go-to drinky drink when I feel like wittlin' away the day on the patio with some friends. $6, and worth every non-Starbucks penny. 5. It still blows me away that this used to be a little itty bitty coffeeshop. All grown up with mass appeal. $4 Bell's drafts on Mondays, too! Holla! I stand corrected, and have learned never to go on brunch dates until AT LEAST the 5th or 6th date. A coupl'a years will do that to ya, I apologize UC for letting you get caught in my catastrophic dating crossfire ;)
(4)
Edward H.
Great atmosphere, alcohol selection, and locally-sourced food. However, the service was very slow. The food was all right, I would give it 3.5 stars if I could. I ordered Helen's chicken sandwich which was very bland and the chicken was a little pink. The sweet potato fries and Gouda is an interesting restaurant. The sweet potato fries are good--nothing to write home about-- but the Gouda is too bland to truly compliment the sweet potato fries well. A lighter blue cheese would've been better.
(3)
laela l.
Great vibe, beautiful decor, locally-sourced food that supports the Midwest, and delicious food. I still think about that white bean hummus dip and their polenta dish! Also, they have a nice beer and cider selection.
(4)
Beth A.
i first stopped in here yeaaaaars ago...i luv the fireplace and bar up front...and itty bitty local artist music rooms however my #1 reason for luving uc is because they are an economically sustainable business & the care that they put into that venture shines thru in the rest of their establishment recently: i had some of the richest and best tasting mac n cheese (with broc) and a side of cherry slaw (i have never liked slaw of any kind until this delicious concoction hit my lips) while i sipped on their version of an old fashioned...i guess i have a thing for cherries :) they also serve drinks that give back so go ahead and water ur liver for a cause the only detail im not thrilled with is the fact that the cover charge *for the music room* is put on your tab and taxed rather than just takin cash upfront yea the bill can get pricey...but its good n worth it
(5)
Lisa S.
This place was great! Atmosphere was bright and cheerful. I had root vegetable soup and a green tomato sandwich on this whole grain bread that was delicious. The server was quick, pleasant and attentive. I would definitely eat here again. Definitely coming back.
(4)
Nektaria R.
Nice outdoor seating area for hanging out with your buddies after a game or just because you're in the area. I've always sat outside seating area in the warmer months so my review is based on those experiences. Used to come here quite often but since my friends moved out of the area, I really don't feel like going out of my way to visit. The snooty staff was a bit standoffish, then again, I haven't been there since last summer so they may not even be working there any more. Fresh, organic ingredients. Decent wine selection. Good desserts that go well with the fab coffee and tea drinks. Solid entrees. The sweet potato fries though do make my heart skip a beat along with the pizza.
(3)
Erin Q.
I recall this place being pretty good for breakfast so I was pretty disappointed with the Mac and cheese. All 3 of us ordered Mac &cheese on the first chilly night of fall, and unfortunately we all agreed it was Luke warm and flavorless. Terrible compared to most gourmet Mac & Cheese. Will never order again.
(1)
David M.
We arrived with our two daughters, aged 8 and 10, at around 7 and were told it would be a 30 minute wait. After 40 minutes I asked where we were in the queue. They had skipped us. We were seated, and then they seemed to lose track of us. We ended up getting served around 8:40, about 1 hour and 40 minutes after we arrived. They did take 20% off the bill because we'd complained (multiple times through this process). I'd emphasize, it was not busy - there were OPEN TABLES the whole time. But it was unbelievably lousy service. The surprising thing about this is that we were regular customers, coming every couple of weeks. It is close to our house, food OK - it worked. But treating anybody like that, much less a regular customer - you feel completely dissed. They've lost us as customers. I'd stay away from this place, especially if you have kids.
(1)
Leslie G.
I'd rather give 3 1/2 stars, but my last meal here was worth 4, so I'm rounding up. I've been here a handful of times over the past 5 years and have never been disappointed, but some meals have been better than others. For the most part, the dinners I've had here have been great, while the brunches have just been ok. My most recent meal here was for dinner, and it was phenomenal. I had the fried green tomato and heirloom tomato sandwich, which was probably one of the best sandwiches I've ever had. I ordered it with a side salad, but you also have the option of fries. I believe they grow the salad greens on the premises in the planters that enclose the outdoor seating area. I had the s'more for dessert, which was good, but not as good as the entree. It was a thick, chilled chocolate layer surrounded by graham cracker crust and topped with a marshmallow fluff. Beyond the fact that my entree was stellar, I appreciate that Uncommon Ground serves organic food and changes their menu seasonally. I'm sure I'll be back soon--maybe sooner than expected just to get that sandwich again!
(4)
Jack P.
Just had the opportunity to attend another show here, where Rob Reid curates and brings in his favorite acoustic musicians all this month. We had a centrally located table in the back room. There was a nice crowd on a Tuesday evening. The UC staff was plentiful and always there to take a food or drink order. I must have witnessed a half-dozen orders of sweet potato fries w/dipping sauce go by. That thing is a real crowd pleaser. I had their burger which was a bit pricey and nothing to write home about, but fine within the context of a great evening of folk. Some of the best things about attending a show here: -easy parking on Clark -no cover or "minimums" -no tickets or ticket fees -just a reservation gets you a table -suggested donations allow you to decide how much to pay the talent. So the shows are accessible and affordable, and if all you can afford is a cup of tea and a moderate donation, no problemo. True democracy, sustainability and a free market capitalism are hard at work here in this cozy and inclusive spot on Grace Street.
(5)
Kyle T.
Good food, all organic, but just too expensive for me. If you are into eating organic then I would check this place out.
(3)
Florencia B.
This was our first time here. We liked the place but it was noisy. The waiters were very friendly but slow. We ordered chiken sandwitch with salad and a breakfast quesadilla (brunch). The portions were big. It is a nice place for lunch if you are not on a rush. This place also have live music some nights.
(2)
Anahit G.
The pumpking ravioli are out of this world amazing. I hope they are not just a seasonal offering, because I have been dreaming of going back for more. Other than delicious food, the atmosphere is great, and the decorations/lighting provides an almost magical feel to the whole place. Definitely worth a trip.
(5)
Lauren B.
Uncommon ground has an earthy, warm, casual, inviting vibe. Although they are all about the sustainable food theme, its not the in-your-face why-is-your-carbon-footprint-so-big way that other similar places have. If you are looking for a particular night to go, check out the first Thursday of every month for Story Club. Its an open mike story telling event that is super cool! I went this week for the first time and really enjoyed it. Good for all ages as well.
(4)
Virl S.
Fun and eclectic location right by Wrigley Field. Uncommon Ground has been voted the 'Greenest Restaurant in the Nation' the last few years. This is based upon the electricity used, water utilization, source of food (mostly midwest local) and others. Typically crowded at dinner time. Food options are typically on the pricier side as most options are local and organic. I always love their calamari. Their burgers and bacon wrapped meatloaf are spectacular as well. They are known for their handcrafted cocktails. They usually have an excellent rotating list of craft beers on tap as well.
(4)
Anita Y.
It's been years since I've been here, 10 or 12, and it's only gotten better, not to mention bigger, with age. We sat in the familiar "old" section. Cozy, comfortable, quiet, (not too quiet). The entire menu was enticing with creative concoctions. We split the Quesadilla with Goat Cheese and Avocado , and splurged on a side of Sweet Potato Fries. What a great meal! definitely enough for the 2 of us. First cup of coffee was cold. (surprising since it was only 11 in the morning). Our server graciously got me a fresh, hot cup. Service was helpful and pleasant, and friendly. Wish I was still around to enjoy this place more often.
(4)
Nicole W.
Loved the variety of food and drinks here (both with and without alcohol), definitely something for everyone.
(5)
Kyle H.
I used to come to this Uncommon Ground to see music back when seating was an elbow-to-elbow affair, before the renovation. The renovation has made it a beautiful open space in front, with a nice wrap-around bar. I made a reservation, thinking the place would be packed, which the staff seemed to think was cute, since it wasn't busy at all on a weeknight. Seating in the backroom is a little cozy. There was much on the menu I wanted to try, but I went with the bacon-wrapped meatloaf, served with some kind of malnourished albino carrots, and mashed potatoes. The dish was good! My dining partner's salad was chock-full of veggies and looked good as well. Service was excellent, and our waters must have been filled so much we almost floated out of there! We never felt rushed during dinner and had a nice espresso to top it all off. This is a place I would definitely return for a fresh meal served with local organic ingredients, to enjoy some music, or just to have a glass of wine at their nice bar!
(4)
Mitch M.
Uncommon has a great vibe and amazing food. The sweet potato fries & goat cheese fondue appetizer is not to be missed. Everything that arrives at your table is sure to bring a smile to your face.
(5)
Corey R.
Didn't really know what to expect before eating here. I tagged along with some friends who had been here before and enjoyed it. I wasn't starving so I ordered the fried green & fresh heirloom tomato sandwich. i've never had one before. for a tomato sandwich it was amazing. the ingredients were fantastic. i would have never guessed.i also ordered a local craft beer, which was also great. i couldn't have been more satisfied with the experience. both were delicious! everyone at the table (4 of us) also liked their food. i'd def recommend the place.
(4)
Alexandra H.
My favorite place to eat in Lakeview. They grow their own vegetables on the patio. The food is all fresh and organic. I am a vegetarian and they have several choices I can eat. I got the heirloom tomato sandwich, which was soo delicious! The tomatoes were fried, which I did not expect. I recommend going here during the summertime, and sitting outside on the patio, at night. The only downfall was that it's a bit pricey.
(4)
Briana D.
This was not my first time at Uncommon Ground but after the terrible service that I received last night, it will definitely be my last. My boyfriend and I decided to go there to celebrate a special occasion- our anniversary. When we walk in, we were told by the seemingly disgruntled hostess that the wait for two would be 20 minutes. That didn't seem too bad and I glanced at the bar to see if there were any seats that we could sit in while we waited. She gestured to the bar and said we could have a seat. Following instructions, we sat down, ordered a couple of drinks, and waited. 40 minutes later, we were still waiting. I asked my boyfriend to go and check why it was taking so long. He came back and said he was told that she thought we were eating at the bar and if we wanted a table the wait would be another 35 minutes. Now my boyfriend is an incredibly polite Brit so he didn't say anything to the hostess about the absurdity of the situation. However, I was livid (and starving) and decided to try to get some clarification from the woman. When I went to talk to her she basically blamed the situation on us saying that we didn't give her our name. *Since when is it my responsibility to tell a hostess how to do her job?* I mentioned that we merely sat down at the bar as she instructed while we waited for our table. She tried to explain further by saying "What I meant was for you to eat there." How was I supposed to know that? I wanted a table! There was no apology and I was on the verge of tears because I was so angry. I asked to speak with a manager and she said "I am the manager." Great. So not only was she not apologetic, but she was also not willing to do anything to rectify the situation. I walked back to the bar confused and visibly upset. I didn't want to have to wait another 35 minutes for a table so we decided to order there. 5 minutes later the same "manager" shows up and says "We have a table now if you want it." She mumbled something about taking care of our round of drinks and walked away. So we stood up and decided to go the table. It was a nice gesture but felt like too little, too late. Our server greeted us and we ordered another glass of wine and a beer. I had to ask for water as well. He came and took our order and then disappeared for 25 minutes. Our drinks were empty and we were down to our last sip of water. Still no food. Finally, our server came back and apologized for the wait but said that they were backed up in the kitchen. Understandable. Honestly, it would have been fine if we hadn't already been waiting over an hour. But then he walked away without asking if we needed anything else to drink. Huh? 20 minutes later our food finally arrived. It was ok but not worth the overall horrible experience. I liked Uncommon Ground before this ordeal and really just wanted a good meal to celebrate. I am surprised and disappointed that the evening turned out the way that it did. End result: no more Uncommon Ground for us. We don't need the hassle.
(1)
Justin L.
Live Music And Mondays Have 4 dollar Drafts of delicious local beer on tap.
(3)
Lexie V.
I love this place. Definitely one of my 'go-to' spots. The food has always been fantastic and interesting, the beer menu is one of the best, and the service has always been good. My only complaint/suggestion: For the love of god, get your servers new uniforms. Those outfits do not fit the aesthetic and they are flattering on absolutely no one.
(5)
Charles B.
I want to preface this by stating that this review focuses primarily on the food. I am keen on the "Green Consciousness" of Uncommon Ground - it's admirable, but it seems more shtick to me. The food is only decent at best. Any rating over 2 stars I would regard with suspicion. I wish this were not the case because I sought this place out and truly wanted to like it. What I discovered is that most menu items are overpriced for what you get. The food is high priced and not very good. If the consumer is going to pay for more expensive ingredients then make sure the finished product at least tastes good. At Uncommon Ground the value proposition was, sadly, in short supply. That's good for Uncommon Ground (in the short term) but bad for the consumer. There are many better establishments nearby with more reasonable prices and better food. So to sum it up - I shan't return.
(1)
Naum N.
Overall the food was great, though the service on a Sunday evening was a bit tardy and could have been more expedient. Admittedly it seemed like a slow day, though the changing of the wait staff did not help with the time it took to get the main course (~45 mins).
(4)
Bill W.
Fck this place. The service was so shitty that we waited for 25 min before we went to a place called Rockit. Uncommon ground told us no reservations over the phone then asked for one when we got there. We wait b/c they tell us 20 min but half an hour later, they tell us no seating w/o party. Thanks a lot! Should've told us earlier. Know why it's uncommon ground? Cuz no one should ever go there. (edit, this review was intended for the night of 2/3/2012 but i didn't complete the review until today)
(1)
Nick B.
Waitress forgot a meal and included on our bill a 20% tip, not 18% like the menu said. She even charged us for a birthday treat we didn't ask for.
(1)
Tiffany N.
What a hippie-esque restaurant! Decked out with local art on the walls, live music and they use products that leave no or a low carbon footprint, Uncommon Ground is a winner in my book. And their vow is to "use seasonal, locally produced, family farmed & organic products"--how could you NOT love this place? We sat outside on their spacious patio and enjoyed a gorgeous night while perusing their menu. They had a pretty sweet selection of beers as well (all draft no bottles) and many were foreign to me since I'm from out of town. A big thumbs up to Goose Island beer! Seriously-everything looked mouthwatering. It came down to either the mac n cheese or the Capriole Goat Cheese Stuffed Portabella Mushroom Sandwich and in the end the portabella won! This bad boy was loaded with goat cheese, so much that it was oozing it out and who doesn't love anything oozing with goat cheese? I saw they serve brunch along with lunch and dinner, I am definitely intrigued by this and want to stop back again to try it out. Some people noted that their prices are a bit higher, I don't mind paying extra if it is for local products and food. Support your local businesses and farmers!
(5)
Marie W.
Had dinner here on a Tuesday evening. Sweet potato fries with goat cheese fondue and the grilled salmon. All exceptional. Friendly attentive staff. Outside eating area surrounded by their own herb garden. Had to leave before the music started for the night- hear its a good place to hear some great music.
(5)
Andrew H.
I love this place. Simply delicious food and no pretension. Good for any meal. I love the chilaquiles for breakfast. Make sure you order a side of their in house made chicken sausage. They also have delicious dinners. This is one of my go to places to meals with family: even our two little girls. They are very family friendly.
(4)
Alli W.
I will gladly say that everything I've had here, from brunch to dinner, has been delicious. The staff is friendly and it has a nice ambiance to it. However, it is on the pricey side for what I feel like you get for the food and environment, so we do not frequent here as much as we'd like. We had dinner this weekend - one appetizer, two entrees, and two beers and it was $100. Not horrible, but not the staple eatery price we'd be comfortable with to go to regularly. If you haven't been, I highly recommend trying. They have a lot of great options for everyone's different tastes!
(4)
Kerry S.
Great spot for a relaxing meal with tons of flavor. The drink menu has a wide variety of options and we started out with the avocado tempura tacos which were nice. Pork and salmon dishes didn't disappoint, ad we'll definitely be back. Pricing was $2-$5 more expensive than it should've been, but not enough to deter me from leaving a full 5-star review. Service was beyond amazing as well, very impressed!
(5)
Galina M.
Great brunch place! Can sit outside - awesome patio. Great bfast food! Highly recommend!!! We've been to both locations and love them both equally. Just very unique menu and great combinations! Great/fast service. Definitely will be back.
(4)
Jelena Z.
Four words for you: Gunthorp Farm crispy chicken. Seriously, any incarnation of this chicken is sure to win over even the most picky palate. I even dream of it. No, really! This coffeeshop/resto/music venue is one of my favorite places to lounge, linger and relax. And, you'll breathe easier knowing everything is locally-sourced, organic and sustainable in most cases. Like to imbibe? Yeah, me too. Even drinking can be done with a conscience at Uncommon Ground! Check out their signature eco-cocktail, the Agripolitan (like the Metropolitan, only greener), or the super delightful lemon-ginger martini. These go down like candy-- don't say I didn't warn you! Gwyneth Paltrow thinks UG is cool, and so do I. Word.
(5)
Kammie G.
I love that this resto is all organic. I heard it's actually the most sustainable and eco-friendly resto in America. Awesomeness! So why not 5 stars? I was pretty disappointed with the amount of vegetarian options for dinner, there were only 2 I was interested in (vegan farro cakes and the bean burger). While the vegan farro cakes were good, I'm not sure if they were exactly worth the $18. The inside of the place is cute and comfy and their drinks are pretty good - but again, nothing to write home about. Although they do make their own honey! What I also REALLY didn't like about the resto is our waitress. She was giving us attitude the whole time we were there. Seriously, such a bitch. Plus our water was not refilled very often. I had to drink my boyfriend's water cup cause mine hasn't gotten refilled for the last 30 minutes we were there.
(3)
H. Y.
The space is really cool and the food we got was really good and affordable. We got a couple of the dips...would recommend.
(5)
Christina G.
My husband and I went here the Sunday before Valentine's Day for brunch. When we got there, we were seated right away. We ordered the sweet potato fries with goat cheese dipping sauce at 10am because it's just that good and no trip to Uncommon Ground would be complete without them. I had the winter omelette and it was loaded with veggies. I did think they were a little skimpy on the feta though. What's an omelette without cheese? The portion was huge, and the omelette arrived with potatoes on the side, which I wasn't expecting. We also each had a mimosa, which I thought were a little pricey at $8 each. They were mostly champagne with a splash of OJ for the color, so that made up for it. Our server was really sweet and was always there if we needed something. It was the perfect brunch.
(4)
Bethami M.
Originally, I was extremely confused when I walked in. Being an avid yelper, and reading reviews before I enter what are considered to be popular restaurants, I checked the reviews for Uncommon Ground. I was advised during peak brunch times to make a reservation. So 11am sounded like a peak time to me? Anyway, we walk in and there's open tables everywhere. Having heard great things about Uncommon Ground, I wondered why it was so empty at 11. Sitting right away, I was able to place my order for a $5 mimosa, which in this city, I'd say a pretty good deal. Damn good mimosa. We ordered the huevos rancheros and the fall omelette. Hands down BEST huevos rancheros I'd ever had!!! Underneath the eggs and chihuahua cheese was a black bean cake, which turned out to be outstanding, and I don't normally love beans. I also threw on some of the hot sauce at the table, because I like my eggs extra spicy. SOOOOO DELICIOUS! The fall omelette was delicious as well, both of these dishes came with their house potatoes, which were also pretty good. But I give all 5 stars to the huevos rancheros. Still dreaming about those. The service was also very attentive as well, and I wouldn't have known to get the huevos without our server's help. Thanks a bunch!
(5)
Matthew S.
I'll start this review off as did my last visit here started-- pleasant and smooth. Two friends and I recently came here late on a Saturday afternoon (~3) to have lunch and chill out. The place was fairly empty yet they chose to seat us in the way back area. Odd, but fine, because it was quiet and we were able to talk. Problem was, the waiter pretty much forgot about us, or so it seemed because it took about an 1 1/2 for him to take our order, deliver it and never once did he follow up to see if we needed anything or if there were any problems (more on this later). That wouldve been ok, except we did need condiments and to figure out what the heck was on the bottom of a friend's coffee cup (I'll spare you all from what we guessed it was). Once we sought out the waiter, rather than even apologize for whatever that odd colored glob was, or for not bringing out basic condiments when the food was delivered (late).. he sent the manager over, because we were a "problem" table. Hunh? He got very defensive and we explained that it wasn't a big deal, we simply wanted to know what that was.. and weren't expecting a comp. Bizarre reaction. Well, they decided to "show" us... they sat a table of three adults with about 6 kids in that previously quiet room and let them run amok. Yes, amok. Now, I like kids..when they're behaved. I blame the parents and restaurant management.. when no one tells the kids to stay in their seats and use indoor voices. WTF. Lastly, at the end of the ordeal.. they delivered the bill to us. 3 soft drinks, 2 soups, 1 sandwich and two big salads. $84. Again, WTF. NEVER AGAIN!!! Complete and total rip off and stupid, stupid management.
(1)
B C.
This is a great date night spot. I think it has something to do with the soft lighting and extensively described food options. From the look of it outside during the daytime and by the sound of the name, I'd thought it was a coffee shop. It's actually more of a high-side-of-middle range informal dining restaurant. Our server was friendly and very knowledgeable about all the items we asked about and ordered. They had a quaint guitar and vocals duet come in to perform some background music during the latter part of the dinner hour. The prices were higher than we had anticipated, but the food was tastefully put together. The ambiance is really inviting and comfortable, and their porch in the summertime looks like a very relaxing spot with the white Christmas lights strung from the trees overhead.
(4)
Lauren H.
Came here on Easter for a Sunday brunch and our first clue should have been that it was fairly empty. We started with sweet potato fries with goat cheese fondue which I liked. For my entree I had the huevos uncommon which I had been assured was not too spicy (I asked b/c I am a spicewuss) but it was. But it wasn't only spicy, it just didn't taste that great. The accompanying potatoes were way overcooked (a few were even charred to complete blackness) and not flavorful. My friend's cinnamon raisin french toast was overwhelmed by far too many raisins to the point of being comical. Service was lovely, but the food is not enough to return for.
(2)
Caroline P.
Four of us went here on a Friday night. We were seated in the back where bands (eventually) set up. I was glad we were leaving by the time the band started testing for sound because that could have been irritating. It did feel a bit empty though, the only other table had a loud child running around and screaming the entire time. As an appetizer the baked artichoke, goat cheese and pesto dip was a must have-- delicious and perfect for four people. Sweet potato fries were also great. I had the bacon crusted cherry bbq gunthorp chicken breast as my entree and it was wonderful, filling, and delightfully seasonal. One friend had the mac and cheese, which had no complaints, and two others ordered the citrus glazed wild Alaskan salmon. They said the salmon was just not enough food. It was nicely presented but they were both hungry after the meal. Considering how much we spent, they expected to leave full. Drinks and service were fine, do check out the cocktail selections because there were a couple of interesting things on there, but don't order more than 2 drinks or you'll easily be spending more than $50 on your individual ticket. I'll probably go back, and hopefully sit outside if it's nice, but I'll have to be careful about what I order next time.
(3)
Paula B.
I've been to the UG location on Devon and feel the same about both: it's great that you have a sustainable restaurant and support local farmers & such...BUT is it really so difficult to ask for more than 4 vegan options (two of which are a salad & soup of the day)? Farmers carry lots of veggies too, not just "sustainable/happy/organic" meat. they're sweet potato fries are good, but definitely overpriced! and finally- service could be MUCH better, especially for a slow Sunday evening
(2)
Cecilia G.
I read that this place was named the "greenest restaurant in America" and of course I wanted to try it out. We had a friend in town so we went there for dinner. The place looks nice, warm and cozy. We had a reservation but got there a bit early and while we waited we could seat on the couches next to a fireplace - very cabin-like feeling! the wait turned out to be a bit too long but the waitress came to apologize since the people before us at our table were taking forever to get up and go after finishing. Anyway she got us another table - not the greatest location but that's ok. Now onto the food: I love the choice of having local and seasonal ingredients so they had already won me over with that. The dinner was very good, we tried the calamari and the sweet potatoes fries as appetizers - both really great. As entree I had delicious pumpkin ravioli with gorgonzola and hazelnuts.. superb!!! My fiance had the pork chop, also good but not exceptional. Our guest had a bean cake burger and she liked it too. We also tried the creme brulee, which had a strawberry-flavored crunchy crust that was really tasty. The beers were great - all local, they even tell you how many miles away they're brewed! I think they have good prices for the quality they offer: we paid less than $30 each including one beer each. The only thing I regret is that we couldn't enjoy the live music since it was in the other room.. next time!
(4)
Brian S.
Mostly, this review is going to complain about Uncommon Ground's disappointing, overpriced cocktails and overall strategy. But then I will make some praise-sounding noises too to justify the three stars. Promise! The cocktail list at Uncommon Ground reads like a misguided self-help book. It sets up the reader to believe that yes, this is the mixed drink that is going to change my life -- for example, the basil julep. That is the path to holistic happiness and harmony! For sure! And for only $8-$10! But in the end, it's watered-down, flavorless (aside from, in the case of my blood orange margarita, salt and low-grade tequila (so low the name wasn't listed on the menu!)), and cannot help you feel better about yourself or the creator of the drink. I have a cocktail here at least once every two months, and I continue to feel sad. I have been fooled so many times, it's really "shame on the universe." Stick to their great draft beer selection if you are in need of a libation. I noticed one of my favorites, Rockey's Revenge from Tyranena, last Friday. Admittedly, cocktails aren't the focus at Uncommon Ground. It's music. Or wait -- it's coffee (hence the name). Or wait -- is it the locally sourced food? The biggest rooftop garden? It's getting increasingly difficult to know what it is that Uncommon Ground is trying really hard to do well, because they're trying to do so many things well. And as Jesse Spano taught us, trying to be the best at too many things just leads to painful addiction problems and unfortunate film choices later in life. In the end, the food is what shines the most (though the inflated prices are surely paying for more than just locally raised meat and produce; it must be offsetting the many niches Uncommon Ground is unsuccessfully trying to carve). Daniel and I have brunched here several times with mostly positive results. Their hashes are consistently great; the Uncommon Huevos really stands as a unique approach to a ubiquitous dish. Dinner is also great -- Daniel ordered a pork loin with crunchy, wine-soaked onions, fluffy feta, and polenta. Although the pork loin tasted overly brined (it was as though the moisture within the loin were totally unoriginal to the meat itself -- weird but still pretty good) I would still order it again. Since it's the best bet between my house and Andersonville okay, I haven't tried Vines, but ... I mean, just shoot me in the mouth first please), I will by default return to Uncommon Ground over and over again to check in and see how their overachievements pan out.
(3)
Barry H.
Sunday brunch Bloody Marys were awesome! The service unfortunately was very slow...waited 12 minutes for coffee and tea to get to table Food was good, I would go back
(3)
Ebs B.
I just did not like this place at all! Sorry to all of its fans... We went there before the Cubs game today because we've heard good things about this place. The food was nothing special, but the price tried to reflect something it wasn't. I found a hair in my food (not mine b/c I saw it before I even touched my plate). My friend ordered the breakfast melt, which was okay, but still cost $14; definitely not worth the price. The only good aspect about this place are the $5 Bloody Mary's on Sundays, but you can get this special almost everywhere. Although, I must mention the Bloody Mary's are premade so you can't ask for less spiciness, etc. I really don't know what else to say except that I will not be wasting my money here.
(2)
Ariel L.
Uncommon ground used to be a very reliable brunch spot. Then they expanded and got too big and the quality went away. I hadn't been back in a few years and went this past weekend and was so disappointed. A cup of coffee was $2.75, 2 small pieces of bacon cost $4, 3 dinky chicken sausages were $5, and a fresh mushroom scramble that wasn't cooked all the way through cost $12. The scramble came with a side of bland potatoes and 1 piece of toast. Are you kidding me?? I could have made a better breakfast at home, and if i have a choice next time I probably will. I would say the only reason to go to Uncommon Ground at this point is if you want to sit outside. They do have a nice outdoor section, and when the weather is nice it is a pleasure eating out there. But they sacrificed quality for quantity. With all of the new restaurants opening in Chicago, spend your money elsewhere. You can find a much better brunch. I wish I could have given this place 2.5 stars instead of two, but it definitely didn't deserve three.
(2)
Tony B.
Great spot for brunch or cocktails. 5 stars there. Dinner? Not so much. They are getting over their skis a bit. I commend them for sourcing locally and knowing their vendors. However, serving a 4 oz piece of Dietzler Farms sirloin with 3 onion rings for $25 is unf-ingbelievable. At least tell people they are getting the kids steak. I politely let them know that this was ridiculous, as well as overcooked, and they took it off the bill. High quality ingredients may be expensive, but your prices are over the top given that you're a coffee shop with a liquor license.
(3)
Bernadette E.
Wanted to have a quick bite and some drinks after a show and walked into this place. AND glad we did. Very friendly staff. There were about 7 or 8 of us and there were no seats to accommodate us so we decided to sit by the bar. The bartender was very friendly and quick! The food also came out quick. You have to try the meat-loaf...it is the best ever, we had to go for seconds. We also had Korean calamari and pizza with arugula which were all very good. For desserts, we had crème brulee and ice cream. I was a bit disappointed in the crème brulee..did not taste like it should. BUT over all, very good place. awesome service and great food.
(4)
Alice J.
Nice ambiance with seating indoors and outside. A great place to have a happy hour with friends since they have a variety of beer and wine. Also love that they promote sustainability and have their own rooftop garden.
(3)
Lindsey N.
This is one of my favorite brunch locations in the city. The food is fantastic and I love that it's locally grown/cultivated. The menu changes seasonally. The Summer Scramble (obviously a summer offering) was one of the most delicious meals I've ever eaten. Seriously. Not hyperbole. The freshness of the vegetables was outstanding. Ideally, you should go when the outdoor patio is an option. Indoors is really nice too (I like the bar area with the fireplace --very cozy!) and I appreciate the ever-changing artwork on the walls. Whenever I've been here for brunch, it's been busy. Reservations are recommended. They will seat you when your entire party has arrived.
(5)
Carol K.
You know you haven't been to a place in a long while when you don't even recognize it anymore. Such was the case Saturday night when I visited Uncommon Ground. Last time I was here- it was a little coffee spot that happened to serve brunch. Well imagine my surprise when I walked in to the new and improved Uncommon Ground and found three large seating areas, a full bar and little gathering spots. Nice. Really nice. The ambiance is a little rustic with some contemporary touches thrown in like the lights hanging above the bar and the interesting artwork on the walls. There is also music in the 3rd room throughout the week so check out their website to see who is there. We had reservations (a good idea as there were people standing around who didn't) so we were seated promptly and began to review the menu. We settled on some Korean chili spiced calamari to enjoy with our drinks. Good without being too spicy. For my entree I chose the special of the day which was a lamb shank, based on the recco from our server. It came with mashed potatoes and broccoli and was pretty darn good- falling off the bone in all it's tenderness. I also had a taste of the mac and cheese that was made with white cheddar and Gruyere cheese. Also very good (here's a hint- order the child sized portion as a side dish) Service was attentive and helpful- she actually told us that she had tried everything on the menu which was nice to hear and it showed in the suggestions that she made. Dinner for two with a couple of drinks and dessert was reasonable coming in at just under $100. Parking in the area is tough- try a little farther south on Clark and you should be okay. Wanted to stay and linger in one of the comfy chairs by the fireplace, but we had places to go that night. But you can bet I will be back as I have more to try at this "Uncommonly" good cafe.
(4)
Morgan M.
We went here for an early dinner before a show at Metro. It was excellent! We met up there around 6:00, by the time we left at 8:00 the place was packed! Based on the food we had and the drink choices (beers and tea and coffee concoctions) I can see why. Probably the best thing we had was the fall pizza...completely amazing. Everything else we had was good too. The atmosphere is nice and cool. I saw somewhere they have live music nightly (we must have missed it) and a friend of ours apparently did open mic singing there from time to time. Perhaps the best thing about this place is the fact that they are on board with the Slow Food Movement and will use local, organic and sustainable whenever possible. All this for a good price..... We will be back soon.
(4)
Sarah K.
We went here to hear a friend give a concert one Sunday night. Since we had already eaten dinner, we ordered dessert and some beers. The dessert was delicious! I'm not sure how the rest of their food is, but our experience with the concert/music wasn't great Well specifically, our experience with the manager. Our musician friend, a real sweetheart, switched tables in the dining rooms between sets and absentmindedly left without paying a tab on one of the tables (thinking her bandmate had covered that.) She was appalled when she realized she did that and called the restaurant once we reached our house on the South Side to give them her credit card number and pay the bill (which she did). The manager acted really mean and told her he was about to write a bad review about her....You would think he would wait more than an hour (as long as it takes to get anywhere in Chicago!) before defaming someone starting out in their music career. Anyway, try the dessert. Pray you don't have a run-in with the manager.
(3)
Billy H.
The staff is very gay friendly, which was nice. I also found what "D Mike K" said in his review to be exactly true about the staff... (almost as if we were there the same night instead of six weeks apart). Our waiter was obviously gay, with absolutely no smile or personality... Someone needs to inform him these two don't mix. The bartender was as straight faced as a poker player with bells-palsy, although, she may have been deaf too, so I will give her the benefit of the doubt. This place is way, way over-priced for what you get... If you are ever in Columbus Ohio, stop by a place called "North Star" and compare, it outshines this place 10-1 in every area. It just reminds me of what this place could be, instead of is. I am sorry, but i am somewhat of a critic to places that Have 5-star hype, with 3 star quality. However, I love their mission and focus, (except their prices and portion sizes), their decor and beer selections are nice too. The food is Decent here, I wish I had many more "Chicago eateries" to compare it to. Pumpkin ravioli is a fav of mine but compare theirs to "Bice" off Michigan ave in downtown. Sweet potato fries? You can get them everywhere... And Pssstt, they aren't very healthy unless you bake them!
(3)
Sophie B.
I can't speak to the food here, because I stopped in before a Cubs game and ended up just getting a couple of drinks. (And the food is a little pricey for me, but that's because I'm a broke college student...I can almost guarantee that it's worth the price.) The staff was incredibly friendly and knowledgeable, and the service was fantastic. I love the atmosphere, and the drink list is impressive. I definitely plan on coming back...and getting a meal next time!
(4)
Sophie B.
Went there for a late lunch with a friend yesterday. Way over priced so-so food. My drink was good (Hay ride) but NOT worth 8 dollars. I dont think it had a full shot of rum in it. In short, they gave us crappy seats and did not pay attention to us. We waited over 40 minutes for our food and there were maybe 3 other tables of people. The selection on the menue alone is smaller than small. They overcharged my friend and were rude and mean to her for THEIR error. If you want to over pay for a dish you didnt really want and be ignored then this is the place for you!
(1)
Ann J.
Went here because my bf had a gift card. The food was really good. Our waiter kept checking on us in a timely manner. I had the Helens chicken sandwich. I would recommend it. And the sweet potato fries with goat cheese was amazing. I was there on a Sunday night at 8. There is no parking in the area. Could not find meter. Had to park far and take a cab. It was still worth it. I would recommend taking a taxi if u live farther than 5 minutes away. They don't not have a parking service. Overall I will be back. There place is clean and has a nice earthy feel inside.
(4)
Tanya M.
My most favorite place to eat brunch lunch and dinner! Great locally inspired dishes and the almond rocha mocha is the best coffee based drink for brunch. You can also sit at the bar and just drink if you aren't hungry. Love Luv Lurv this place!
(5)
Sam K.
I had a date with a cute vegetarian who hates everything written by Sartre (read: he's a GROWNUP). Mutual hate is so good at bringing people together; we ended up at Uncommon Ground for drinks, and stayed for dinner and music. I ordered a ginger infused lemon cocktail, which, frankly, was just awful. I could taste no ginger in it whatsoever, and, even more unforgivably, I couldn't taste the alcohol in it. It tasted like very watery lemonade. I did send it back, though, in exchange for an all right glass of sauvignon blanc. Uncommon Ground hit a really big pet peeve of mine with respect to vegetarian food. They had two vegetarian entrees, and both were starches with no significant protein. I grew up in a vegetarian family, and even though I eat meat, I only eat it once or twice a week. And the biggest misconception people have about vegetarian food is that it's just regular food with the meat removed. But you have to replace the protein - I for one feel like I haven't had a real meal if I haven't had protein. The mac and cheese was average tasting, but came with a really flavorful, zingy slaw that I refused to share. The pumpkin ravioli was quite delicious, and in all fairness had a few roasted pecans and some cheese for protein, though it was more of a garnish than anything else. Both were very fatty and starchy and creamy - the latter didn't come with any veggies save the pumpkin filling. Including tax and a twenty percent tip, it came out to $32 per person for one entree and one drink each - not bad for dinner, but I think pretty hefty for a meal that left us both a little hungry and was mostly starch and fat and lacking in adequate protein and veggies. Maybe the meat dishes are better. Uncommon Ground would have been a solid three stars as a restaurant alone, but I will bump it up just for the music and ambiance. The music room did NOT have the sort of atmosphere where people eat and talk and have music in the background. Kevin Mileski, the artist for the night, held everyone in the room with his soulful voice and thoughtful, deft strumming on the guitar . We all leaned forward and stayed long after our meals were done and paid for. In fact, since they don't actually charge for the entertainment, it might be considered a pretty good deal if you pay the premium on food and stay for the music. Three stars for the food, five stars for the music.
(4)
Trevor H.
I would have given 5 stars, but every time I have been here, we have waited for 30+ minutes. That would be fine but I would not expect that long of a wait in the middle of the afternoon in the lull between lunch and dinner especially when I saw open tables. Maybe they were understaffed. However besides that, the service was great. Our waiter checked in just enough and we received our food really quickly. I love that this place has seasonal items. It's great and means you get a different food experience everytime. I had the fish tacos this time. They were delicious, but I wish I would have gone with one of the sandwhiches like I had last time. Or the Mac n Cheese. SO GOOD. I love this place. Here's to hoping I don't have to wait again when there are open tables...
(4)
S. E.
Husband and I love this place... Friends from out of town were impressed also. Every dish I have had here (multiple visits...maybe between 5-10?) is always good, tasty, fabulous food. We have had dinners and brunch/lunches here. Note to those unfamiliar with the place--if you go to the Clark location during Cubs season, you will most likely not find parking within an acceptable distance. Hubby and I only go in the off season. That being said, here's what's awesome: * OMG, the bacon-wrapped meatloaf. It will haunt your dreams. * OMG, sweet potato fries. They too will haunt your dreams. * Sunshine salad. Great dressing, awesome cracker-thing for garnish. * Seasonal duck breast, awesome. * Seasonal pork chop, really good. * Squash or pumpkin ravioli. Will induce salivation. * Smores Tart. Holy shit, it's orgasmically good. We love you, Uncommon, but had to take a star away due to your very annoying greener-cooler-more-hipstery-holier-than-thou habit of ONLY offering real sugar or that horrible Stevia shit, but no pink, yellow, or blue. WTF? If I recall correctly, you DO offer diet soft drinks, which have Aspartame or similar chemicals in them... so what difference would it make to have one of the fake sweeteners on the table? I don't think it would hurt the peace-love-and-granola image you work so hard to maintain. People like having a lot of options. But we'll be back, with hemp clothing and hairy armpits, just for you. Hugs!
(4)
Robert W.
Terrible service yet again. I used to live in the area and ate here out of convenience from time to time. I never thought it was great, but I could walk to it. I decided to try it again for old times sake, and nothing has changed. Took forever to get even a glass of water and coffee. The food really isn't bad, but it isn't great either. It did save the restaurant from getting a one star from this reviewer. I hate the fact the restaurants in good locations are so lacking in all the other things that can make
(2)
Jerry M.
Fantastic experience. All locally grown produce and meats. Vegetarian-friendly and great host/staff/management. Be mindful it is a slow-cooked restaurant, meaning it takes a while to prepare and serve food. So, plan an evening around it but it'll be worth the wait. As well, great to have plenty of drinks and catch up with old friends or experience a quaint romantic evening. Regarding food, it's all good but for desserts, I'd recommend the banana bread pudding.
(5)
Ryan C.
I have been to Uncommon Ground a few times and have always enjoyed it very much. The menu is nothing ground breaking, but is an evolving menu of American fare. Comforatable and intimate atmosphere. On select nights, you will also catch some live acoustic music that will set the mood for you dinner. Your best bet is going on Tuesday for their half price bottles of wine. The selection of wine is good and you shouldn't have a problem making a choice. Regardless if you go for breakfast, lunch or dinner, you'll definately enjoy it.
(4)
Derek B.
It's all about the sweet potato fries, and the specialty cocktails. The menu is always changing, so this is a great place to visit. Good atmosphere with live music and friendly staff. (It's a little more expensive than I typically like to pay for a meal, but it's not exorbitant. It makes for a nice, relaxing, special occasion place, that doesn't break the bank).
(4)
Claudia M.
This is one of the first breakfast places that I went to with my boyfriend when we started dating so of course I love it. The uncommon huevos is pretty good. I always ask about the special, this weekend I had the eggs benedict with a lime/chipotle sauce served on top of the eggs benedict with feta and tomato and LOTS of potatoes. Delicious! Usually you may have to wait a bit if you get there after 10 am on a Sunday. The food is fresh and the staff is always friendly.
(4)
Anna P.
This place is okay...the drinks are okay, the service is okay, the food is okay, the prices are too high for everything being "okay". However, it DOES have a better than okay atmosphere, which is why on average it rates "okay". Point made?
(3)
Susan F.
This place is ok, kinda pricey if you ask me... They have a good beer list and yummy burgers and sides, but like I said, a little steep for the location--if that even matters. I asked for a salad as the side with my burger, the waitress forgot and gave me fries. Not a big deal, but she later brought my salad. I was trying to be a good girl and she made it very hard on my ass and thighs! The service was friendly and the atmosphere was very quaint, especially for being in Wrigleyville! Anyways, not sure if I'd try it again, nothing too special, but maybe my mind can be changed at a later date.
(3)
Alec H.
I agree with all the comments below, what more is there to write? It was nice that I didn't have to wait to be seated right around dinnertime (burn on Chicago Diner), and the whole atmosphere was good. There's a bar area or a table-seated area, nice to have the options. The reason I didn't give five stars is that the food could be tastier and more economically priced, but I will definitely be back (but perhaps would visit more often if this was even better).
(4)
Sean A.
Warm and cozy atmosphere. Great service - helpful and friendly. One of the people in our party had lost his voice and the waiter brought out a glass of warm water without being asked. Very thoughtful. Food was incredible! Highly recommend the sweet potato fries. Duck Breast with polenta was very flavorful and satisfying as well. Entree portions are modest, which is a good thing because the desserts are outstanding.
(5)
Benny J.
The brunch food and drinks are awesome. I haven't had anything on the menu that I haven't loved. The breakfast sliders are great. I highly recommend the chilaquiles and the bloody marys. The place is a bit pricey, but the food is worth it. If you come here, expect for a more relaxed pace for ordering, it will be a longer meal.
(5)
Eileen Z.
SWEET POTATO FRIES & THE GOAT CHEESE FONDUE. Get it. You'll thank me later. Cozy spot with natural wood paneling throughout, and one of my favorite organic and local fare places to go. Been a fan of the fish tacos I've gotten here (both the crispy halibut and now the catfish) and the fried green & fresh heirloom tomato sandwich. On my list of places to eat when I feel like having a 'healthier' week, but for friends who lean toward a more vegan diet you'll be stuck with salads and soups here. That's more of a Karyn's or The Chicago Diner's ballpark than UG. Less noisy if you make it out in the early afternoon, but if you don't mind, what's great about the night crowd are the live bands. Humungo plus for yours truly!
(4)
Carri C.
Prices are very high for what you get. It is unfortunate because I like the decor. I would maybe return for a beer, but the food choices are too limited and overpriced. "Local sourced" and organic should not equal price gouging.
(3)
Jessica J.
Oh Uncommon Ground, how I love thee... While I'm partial to the feel of the Devon location, this location is closer to home and therefore a favorite. Love the vibe, service is usually solid (can be weirdly slow sometimes, but generally great). Amazing drinks - good craft beer selection, decent wine selection if that's your thing, tasty and interesting cocktails ($6 martinis on Thursdays hollaaaa), delicious coffee and coffee-based things for after dinner/brunch. And the food...the food. Sweet potatoe fries are a must - I know, sweet potatoe fries are everywhere. And I can (and do) make pretty tasty ones at home. But the goat cheese fondue that comes with them - heaven in a ramekin. Before I went veg, I was a fan of the burgers, and a roast chicken dish that I'm not sure is still/always on the menu. Now that I'm vegetarian, I have no shortage of things to love all up on, and their menu rotates regularly (gotta love a place that acknowledges and embraces local and seasonal food - one of the many reasons that you feel good about eating here). Perfect outdoor seating in the warmer months, cozy fireplace inside for the colder months. Only real downside is that there can be a bit of a wait depending on the day/time you go, but even that isn't really a downside - you can make a reservation in advance, or belly up to the bar and have a beverage. Everyone wins.
(5)
Caroline M.
So I've been by Uncommon Ground approximately 600 times....and finally made it inside the doors recently. I really don't like Wrigleyville: the crowds, noise, frat boys, Cubs home games, overpriced low quality beers. But I'm really glad a certain someone suggested that we go to Uncommon Ground. I didn't know what to expect for their menu, but at first glance I was pleasantly surprised to see some unique items. I'm all over mac and cheese so that is what I ordered and thoroughly enjoyed. I had a taste of the duck confit quesadilla--yum! A good selection of beers too! I enjoyed the live music, beer and food. Looking forward to returning again soon!
(4)
Courtney W.
Came here for breakfast on a Sunday morning quite hungover at around 10:00 am and there was no wait. When we left at around 11:00 am it was quite a different story. My boyfriend and I had heard of this place from a friend and decided to make the trip when we were discouraged by a 45 minutes wait at 2Sparrows. We walked right in and were seated in a comfortable window seat in the third back room. Our server was pleasant and helped us peruse the menu. I decided to go with the mocha cafe latte and my boyfriend with the hot chocolate. They serve mugs and bowls here and when they say bowl, they mean like a cereal bowl full. I'm not sure how you drink from a bowl so we both ordered mugs. Both of the drinks were great but a little on the expensive side. My caffe mocha latter was $4.50 which I felt was a bit overpriced. The food was spectacular and the options are varied. I had the special which was a modified eggs benedict. Instead of Canadian bacon, there was a heaping serving of pulled pork sloppy joe. The eggs were the same as was the English muffin and the Hollandaise sauce had bacon bits sprinkled in. Just what I needed to cure a hangover. My boyfriend went with the healthier omelet option with turkey and some bacon. We just had to share a side of banana bread and it actually tasted authentic and wasn't too sweet or fake banana tasting. Our verdict? We'll be back to try some adult beverages and perhaps dinner too!
(4)
C D.
Service: 5 stars Food: 2 stars I came here last weekend for brunch with a group of friends. I was pretty excited based on the menu and, I mean, BRUNCH! What's not to like? The good: service was amazing! Our waiter was super attentive to our table, even though there were about 8 of us + a baby. He was very nice and professional throughout our meal and checked on us/refilled our coffees often. The bad: I got the duck confit hash. Sounds amazing, right? Duck confit alone is delicious, and then you had crispy potatoes and roasted carrots and two sunny-side ups? Yum! How can you go wrong? Well, first by erroneously calling this dish a "hash". My potatoes tasted and looked like they had been BOILED, cubed, then strewn about my plate. They lacked texture and flavor and did not seem to have been salted at all. Because of this, the gamey-ness of the duck (not in a good way!) was the only flavor to the entire dish. Have you ever caught a whiff of raw meat? That was the taste in my mouth when I ate the potatoes. Second, the "roasted carrots" in the description ended up being tiny, very dry cubes of carrots that were also unseasoned. I tried to salvage this mess with some hot sauce but ended up picking out the pieces of duck to eat and also the eggs. I was so mad that I spent $15 on a barely edible dish. I don't know if I just ended up ordering the wrong thing. Everyone else at my table ate their food with some modicum of enthusiasm. I had a taste of Helen's chicken sandwich, which I liked but it certainly didn't seem to be worth the $14 price. Blergh.
(3)
holly b.
Chicken should not be pink....or should it? When I returned my chicken sandwich because it was pink inside, the waitress took it back to the kitchen, and upon her return, I was told that the "chicken is fine, it was the lighting". Apparently, chicken looks pink in bright sunlight and eating under cooked food is appropriate in her eyes. I should of seen the red flags when there were at least 10 tables open, and a 40 minute wait. When asked why the tables weren't being filled, we were told that they were out of menus. However, we were able to spot menus at many of the tables, while the customers were eating their meals.
(1)
Kate H.
I really wanted to like this place as another brunch spot. And, from how busy this place was, I should have. I liked that they use local and organic ingredients, and the dishes all sounded fantastic. My first mistake was ordering the chai instead of the hot chocolate. I like my spicy drinks to have a deep flavor, but this was more on the milky side. I had the hot chocolate eight years ago, and I still remember it (surely, this place being my first date with my fiancee didn't bias me...). We shared a side of both types of bacon, hickory smoked and peppercorn, but this was only okay--it would be good if you're a crispy bacon person, but I like bacon thick-cut and meaty. For my entree, I ordered the Autumn Omelet, which has broccoli, cheddar, spinach, and caramelized onions. It wasn't bad, but it wasn't stellar. It's a relatively simple dish, so it's a double-edged sword in that it's difficult to disappoint but also difficult to impress. This meal though weighed a little heavier to the latter. I would have liked a stronger/sharper cheddar or just more of it. The English Muffin that came with the omelet was excellent though, so I would like to know who bakes their bread. Or maybe next time, I'll get an English Muffin and just dip it into a gigantic mug of cocoa and whipped cream. Price: ~$15 per person for brunch
(2)
Kevin M.
I go there for brunch quite often and absolutely love it. You must ask for the benedict special! If it sounds good, then get it, I promise it'll be worth it!
(5)
Monica K.
Soooooo GOOOOOOD!!! Delicious! You can actually taste the food is very fresh! Its comes from their own rooftop organic garden! For steak lovers, they offer grass-fed beef steak. For Italian dish, my favorite all-time pasta, the pumpkin ravioli (creamy sage butter, gorgonzola, hazelnuts) is yummilicious!! For veggie lovers, there's lots of great delicious options! Such as Veggie Chili, Quinoa Stuffed Squash, Organic black bean cake, and more!! I love the sweet potatoes with goat cheese fondue! Brunch is fantastic gourmet organic healthy food. So much more to check out! This location is cozy with a fireplace for drinks or go to other room to listen to live music. Definitely a romantic spot!
(5)
Brianna L.
My family and I decided to make a trip down to uncommon ground today for brunch on this lovely rainy day. We arrived at 11:30 & are now leaving at 1:15...wth?!? Yea, my sentiments exactly. We were told we would have a 20 min wait, ok no problem. In reality though we didnt get seated for an hr. I orded the chilaquiles sub par at best. I love uncommon ground ive been here numerous times, but today was a total letdown, well I lied the artichoke goat cheese dip OMG totally delish!! And the bloody mary was soo good n tasty!
(3)
Kristen M.
Great food and ambiance. I love the comfort food side of the menu. I loved the meat loaf and salads are great. Nice spot for a nicer dinner!!
(4)
Kerry D.
I've only been for brunch, but it's always been delicious and fresh. The drinks are great- lots of options w/and without booze. Today I got to sit on the sidewalk patio, which was great for people watching and quieter than you'd expect- being so close to Wrigley. Another plus, they grow their own produce (what they can) and support/use local farms.
(4)
Jackie P.
I hate to rain on the Yelp love parade but I think I'm going to have to because I just don't get it. Lovely service aside lack luster food will not get me to come back again. And that's just what I got. Or maybe their brunch just stinks. I mean I like what they are trying to do with sustainability and food that's not completely bad for you but that doesn't mean the food needs to taste bad either. Their online menu is what won me over, however, upon arrival the printed menu was a little different. What I was drooling over wasn't being offered so I had to choose something else. I like raisins as much as the next girl but I don't need 2,000 raisins on my raisin french toast. Also if someone tells you their adverse to anything spicy you should know if your dish is spicy, especially if you've tried it. I've thought about going back for dinner but the bad taste in my mouth from brunch won't leave me and believe me people I've brushed my teeth since then.
(2)
Bob T.
Very good Macaroni w/ bacon. I will see you next time on my Chicago trips.
(4)
Melissa B.
Came here for brunch about a year and a half ago when we were in town for Lamb Chop's surprise 40th birthday. I live in Atlanta, and this place reminds me of my favorite brunch spot, Radial. The food was fresh, the service was great and they were hopping. I just recommended to my sister and her husband, who were @ U2 concert last night.
(4)
Ricky M.
I visited tonight, and the food was delicious. My friend and I decided to share their mac and cheese with their fried green tomato sandwich, both of which are amazingly magnificent. The Mac and Cheese was better than what I expected for a mac and cheese, and the tomato sandwich, one of the best I've ever had in my entire life. To be honest though, it is great that they are supporting local vendors and all that jazz with organic ingredients, but honestly, some things on the menu are totally overpriced. If you're looking for a casual bite, this is not the place. Go here if you have an adventurous palete that day. Drinks here are pretty much off the hook, but once again, slightly overpriced. Go here if you want to try new things.
(4)
Mike W.
I can't say I agree with this place not having a 4-5 star rating! Went there for brunch this last weekend and everything was excellent! The atmosphere is bright with lots of art around, and they have a nice patio for when the weather is sufficient for being outside. The service wasn't knock your socks off, but they were good and did their jobs quite well. They have an excellent menu that had enough variety to please a variety of food tastes, and all the food I saw/tasted was well worth stopping in. This was the type of place I could easily see myself frequenting on a weekly basis either for brunch, dinner, or apps and drinks!
(5)
Midge B.
Very family friendly. Great kids' menu. Leave room for dessert. Must try Black Dog Gelato Trio w/ goat cheese gelato. So rich & creamy.
(5)
Dan C.
I ordered the whitefish. The quality was decent, but the portion size was rather pathetic. Overall, I paid over $100 and was left very hungry at the end of the meal. I will never go back.
(2)
Thuy H.
Stumbled upon this place Thursday night as requested by a local we saw on the street. My friend and I went in and sat down. Bartender says "hi." After about 8 minutes, and no server to be found, I got up to grab the menu. Another 8 minutes passed until we were greeted by our server. Minus one star for the slow service at the beginning. Plus one star because she was on top of her game throughout the dinner. As I look at the menu, I recognized that I had saw it on yelp before and I thought to myself, awesome! My dish will be a breezy choice for me, I remembered reading great things about the pumpkin ravioli. Although I refrain from ordering pasta with alfredo sauce, I knew I had to try it. And you know what? It was good! I also had the kimchi calamari. Now this is how it's supposed to taste like! Sauteed or fried, it was good! Soft on the inside and a little fried on the outside. The seasoning was just right and full of flavor. I had ordered the chocolate martini, and it was a bit too strong for me. I didn't like it at all. I told our waitress that and she was able to get that off the bill. For that I give her another star. I was so disappointed with the martini that I ordered a chocolate latte. OMG it was so good! Sweet with a hint of dark chocolate. The ambiance was nice. It was really dim, but this place gave a really cozy feeling. It would be been nice to have the fire lit at the fireplace, but regardless, this place was a good cafe hang out. You definitely should try this place out.
(3)
Steven B.
I've been going to Uncommon Ground for at least 15 years and I guess I have kept going back because I have remained hopeful that I'll show up one day and it will suddenly be as good as it once had been. But tonight is my last attempt at that. After being quoted a wait time of "30 minutes to an hour" (I don't mind waiting, but the inability of the hostess to narrow that window a bit isn't a good sign), our table of five was seated. Appetizers (fried calamari and cheese curds) were tasty. Our entrees were pretty uniformly disappointing. When we pointed out to the waitress that they had clearly been sitting on the line and were cold, she told us she would "let the manager know." We proceeded to eat our lukewarm and soggy food, waiting for the manager who never arrived. Our waitress came back a few minutes later and told us that the "manager took care of it." I can only assume she meant that he told the kitchen that in the future it should stop serving people cold food because he/she never checked in with us and there was no offer of a comp, free dessert, or reduction of our bill. But that's beside the point, because I didn't want a discount or anything free, what I wanted was the food I ordered but not cold and soggy. Or barring that, the manager to walk over and apologize. Beside that, one of our group ordered a glass of wine that showed up long after he had finished his meal (ordered before the entree arrived) and when our bill came I assume it was for another party because it had tons of food that wasn't ours (8 orders of perch, anyone?). This experience, coupled with the roach we found on the table a few years ago and the time we waited an hour for brunch only to be told they had "run out of eggs" seals the deal. It is too bad, because the restaurant looks great, has a nice vibe, and is in a great location. But alas, enough is enough.
(2)
Dee W.
I love Uncommon Ground - their brunch is amazing and they have this great coffee bar in the back with Intelligentsia brewed coffee. They have this amazing peanut butter & banana stuffed brioche toast served with bacon and a cherry syrup. YUM! And for the savory brunch in me, I tried their Canadian bacon torta which had pickled jalapeno and an avocado remoulade on this tasty roll. Top it all off with a hot drink and I'm a really happy camper - my husband swears by their organic Mexican hot chocolate. I always opt for brunch which is more affordable than dinner here however they are open later hours, as well.
(4)
cassie r.
Drinkin' in the a.m. never tasted as good as it does at Uncommon Ground. With all of their intriguing combinations of alcohol, juice, coffee and more, there's really nothing wrong with getting a lil' tipsy before noon. In my case, it was closer to noon thirty, so it was totally acceptable. My choice of the bloody mary was excellently spicy, and was gone in pretty much a blink of an eye. Luckily, my order of fall scramble was able to balance out my imbibing - a fantastic mix of butternut squash, carmelized onions, scrambled eggs and goat cheese, complete with a side roasted potatoes that were perfectly crispy. Twenty bucks for good food and drinks, no complaints here. The joint is a bit small, but quaintly cozy for a Sunday morning brunch spot.
(4)
Amber M.
I went and saw a friend's band play here, and the live music is a define plus. My favorite part about this place is the bathroom, in terms of the decor, is their bathroom. Its mural of a forest scene covers not only all of the walls but the floor as well, so when you look down you are standing in a pond with fishies swimming around your feet. Their lemon-ginger martini is interesting, i think good, but very tangy. Their mussels, i thought were good, my friend thought they were too salty. And their macaroni and cheese sucks- very bland cheese taste combined with wayyy too many breadcrumbs.
(3)
Basil D.
A little too expensive for what you get, $15 for a burger, but the food is good.
(3)
Wicket D.
Grungey. Food is OK, love that it's all local and organic. Problem is, it's not that tastey. Good bar, though no common liquors (no Bombay, only NorthShore). Service is worst part. Really want to like this place, and I used to, but it's going downhill fast. :(
(1)
Angelica E.
Wow so this is a cute little place thats away from all the craziness on Clarke! I cant say how the food was but I had the dessert and all I can say is....WOW! I had the brownie with the carmel gelato and what I really loved about it was the face that the whole plate was brownie! So amazing and never seen that before ever! I had to nick it a couple of stars because the hostess had such an attitude it was ridiculous! I would come back but hopefully dont have to deal with that girl again...smh
(3)
Alison S.
Always a fan of a brunch place that takes reservations! Good variety of brunch food and coffee drinks. Have tried the eggs benedict, chilequilles, and breakfast melt on onion bread, and all have been filling and delicious. The atmosphere is great--wood floors, exposed brick, cushions on the window seats, etc. Between the ability to make a reservation and the food, I think it's one of the best brunch options in Chicago.
(4)
Kedar D.
The ambience of the place is good and it's definitely a trendy, well-done joint. But it doesn't offer much for vegans. When I went, I got a modified pasta dish which was passable, but nothing great. I take issue with restaurants that claim to be socially and environmentally conscious, but then offer few to no vegan dishes. These are the type of places that offer a grass-fed burger and then automatically call themselves sustainable or local or ethical. It takes a little bit more than that, folks.
(2)
John T.
Food is Ok (although not fantastic) but the service could be better (we had to wait more than half an hour from ordering to being served). Prices are quite high.
(3)
Elvin Y.
I would like to respond to AL B for his response to our review of the clump of hair we found in the bloody mary. First of all...my friend SUCKED the clump of hair through her straw. And no, it was NOT a coctail straw, it was a regular straw. And yes, she was crying...because she had a nasty clump of hair with black crusty stuff on it in her MOUTH. Also, when we told our waitress she took it away and laughed it off. She didn't bring out the manager. WE HAD TO ASK TO SPEAK TO THE MANAGER And did we laugh? UH...yea...like that uncomfortable laugh like we can't believe this is happening! And no, we didn't want it to ruin our entire day. As we said in our review, she did offer to comp 2 drinks and one meal. And we were pretty disgusted that we left our meals half eaten. However, there was one of us who was so hungry, he actually finished. I don't think we should have had to fight w/the management staff to speak to the owner who refused to come out and talk to us. You tell me All B, how does a clump of hair get in a Blood Mary glass? And if that's what we found, what else is going on? You tell us. You didn't suck the darn hair in your mouth so don't go around saying we gave a big stink about it for nothing. The emotional turmoil that caused my friend to cry warranted that they comped our whole meal- and that's right- we weren't going to stop until justice was served. Of course they were oohhhh ssooooo nice to you- they aren't that dumb of wanting to lose other business. Glad to know that your soul can be bought for a $4.00 dessert.
(1)
Joanna T.
FAVORITE PLACE BY FAR!!! Everything is delicious. The drinks are outstanding. They have live music on certain nights. Tempura avocados are great. I am a big fan of their uncommon salad. I try something new every time and I am never disappointed. Outside patio during the summer is the best. The bloody marys on sunday have a nice kick of flavor to them will defiantly wake up your senses.
(5)
Khadijah L.
Completely underwhelmed. My visit to Uncommon Ground was for coffee and live music. I was looking up their address and website, and it all seems too meticulous, precious and pretentious. Its a really great idea to have a green roof, organic, locally grown food, 'slow-food', however, stringing a bunch of marketing adjectives is like a 2 page long resume going on and on with positive, proactive verbs. Still, I said, you never know, maybe it IS ALL THAT. MEH. WHY IS IT THAT NOBODY HERE HAS MENTIONED THAT THEY SERVE COFFEE IN A BOWL? Sir, what in the world was I supposed to do with this? Was I supposed to lower my face to the bowl and lap up this drink like a dog? You provided me with a small teaspoon. IS THIS SOUP? If I was supposed to drink it like soup, provide bigger spoons. This is not a sake cup or small asian bowls to pick up and drink a-la miso. This is a huge Udon bowl, filled with hot liquid to the brim. I stared at my mocha for a good while, turning the plate around, attempted to pick it up with my hands but it was too hot. Just explain to me exactly HOW THIS IS A GOOD IDEA. Maybe don't explain. Get rid of the bowls. Get some proper mugs. With handles. The place looks cute and cozy but yes, seating probably toooo close to the bathroom. The live music was okay. Mostly friends of the artists. Props for the aspirational idea, not so much on the production.
(2)
Jennifer J.
Always have a great meal here and last time was no different. I got the gourmet mac n' cheese and it didn't disappoint. I opted for the add of sun dried tomatoes and some bacon. Even better!! Their fish tacos are yum as well. I've tasted all of my friends' and family's various dishes and never tasted a bad one if that says much. My favorite is their infused vodkas. It inspired me to do the same but I can't quite get their awesome ginger root infused vodka at home, so it looks like I have to keep visiting Uncommon Ground! I highly recommend trying one of their drinks. My favorite here is a goat pizza flat bread, but since the menu is seasonal and always changing, I feel like I will just keep chasing the unicorn till maybe they put it back on the menu. Everyone I have taken here have loved it. I've had lunch, dinner and brunch...all are great. I do insist on a lemon ginger martini every time because they are THAT GOOD. Their prices are probably a dollar or two high, but not high enough to keep me away since I always have a great meal here!
(5)
Jess L.
Uncommon Ground is the perfect place to get your coffee and/or alkie fix. They have great coffee-alcohol options and a chill staff. The live music could be hit or miss, but overall, it's a great place to go with friends and catch up.
(4)
Todd M.
I was not impressed with Uncommon Ground which was disappointing as I have heard so many great things about it. I visited them for a Sunday morning brunch. I ordered the House Made Chorizo Chilaquiles which was very bland and seemed to be missing any Chorizo flavor. The coffee was fine and the service was just alright. I might try them again for dinner or just to hang out but will not be back for breakfast as there are too many other great choices in the area.
(2)
Megan B.
Came for brunch before the beach over Memorial Weekend and had an aaaaaaaaaaaaaalright time. There was good and bad, allow me to enlighten you... The good (great): Bloody Mary's!! Seriously, I hate bloody mary's. Typically, I feel like I'm drinking red, ketchup flavored, sawdust muck when I indulge in one. I also regularly fall victim to bloody mary amnesia, where I forget just how much I dislike them and decide to order one. Clearly, in this case, my affliction served me well because Uncommon Ground has the best bloody mary's ever! They were spicy, liquidy but chunky, and strong. Awesome. And they're on special on Sundays, my wallet is pleased. The (kind of) bad: the food... It's not that it tasted bad, it just wasn't impressive. And it was extremely overpriced. I don't even remember what I got... a sandwich of some kind, I think. The ugly: not being able to sit outside when there's approximately 15 open tables and nobody else waiting. (Disclaimer: heavy user bias) It really bugs me when a host(ess) tells me my 2-person party cannot sit outside because they "are only sitting 4-tops." Especially when there's nobody waiting for a table and there's a ton of "4-tops" open. C'mon. Really? Let's try a little harder to start off on the wrong foot, guys. Either way, the bloody mary's outshone all the other dark spots of Uncommon Ground and I plan on going back for what will surely become the Sunday Hangover Special ... a bloody mary and a plate of french fries. yummm.
(2)
Audre L.
They have a great brunch and I've heard their dinner food is wonderful as well. It's like eating in a relaxed cafe/ coffeehouse more so than a restaurant-restaurant, which plays up to the lake view location.
(5)
Jason W.
Totally underwhelming. Had the catfish tacos for lunch today. One small piece of fish in each taco, with bland guac and arugala. Bland sauce on the side. $14 and i could have made better tacos at home. NOT impressed.
(2)
Ro S.
I saw the lady who started Uncommon Ground speak at the Green Festival last Spring at the McCormick Place and texted my roommate that night that we should go. I have been reading great things about the place so I thought why not. We called to make a reservation and we were automatically turned off. A girl named Tiffany, I believe. answered the phone and she basically hung up on us twice after being rude. She could hear us because we called a third time. She was rude and that to us spoke tons about the service we would get. Sad to say, I will never try this place.
(1)
Dan H.
Went for a late dinner on a Friday night. It was fairly busy, so we had to wait at little while for a table. We sat at the bar and ordered Spinach and Goat Cheese Dip, which was fantastic. After getting seated at our table, service was adequate, but wasn't anything above and beyond. I ordered the Bacon Wrapped Meatloaf, which was presented on a bed of mashed potatoes. SO TASTY! This entree was so good, that I had no choice but to give Uncommon Ground a 5 star rating.
(5)
Kairo C.
I heart this place to pieces! If I could get a membership to dine here weekly and save I would in a heartbeat! I was challenged that this place would be 1 of the best brunches ever... and it delivered. 1st: I heart their vow: "to use seasonal, locally produced, family farmed & organic products whenever possible" (my stomach hearts it too) 2nd: the amazing ambiance: the wood, the fireplace and leather chairs, the cool coffee bar, this place reeks coziness.... aside from one glitch... sitting by the bench window seat when its super chilly out cuz theres a draft... but thats very minor really AND the best part of the ambiance IS the amazing canvas print photography of dilapidated barns from Troy Bart... turned me on... even inspired me to go on a photo excursion meself... leaving a meal inspired is a lovely feeling... and the fact they welcome a new artist every month gives me a motivation to gnosh here at least once a month to appreciate it! AND the next best part of the ambiance is they have musicians perform DAILY... or more like NIGHTLY...go for dinner or a drink and tune in 3rd: the delicious food... they change their menu like my underwear so it stay exciting and fresh... I even yearn for what I had before! I would be surprised if you got anything there you wouldn't like! A MUST: the winter cocoa... and split it while it's the size of a 1/2 cantaloupe! 4th: the service... friendly, smart, tactful... I was smitten I'm won over and I'm going back here as much as my wallet, or partner in crime's wallet will allow...
(5)
M G.
I've been to uncommon ground on three different occasions. two out of thee times I visited, I was seated at the end of the bar by the window where the bathroom is located. both times during my meal I got a giant whiff of piss. The food is OK (when you're not smelling piss) and the drinks are good (when you're not smelling piss), but this place is way over priced. There are many other places in town with better food, better prices, and don't smell like piss!
(2)
Lisa N.
I LOVED this place. The service was great, the food was reallllly good. Sampled at least 8 things from the menu. Best sweet potato fries I have EVER had. And the chopped salad is delicious. Great setting, perfect for a date or dinner with girlfriends.
(4)
Ira U.
I've been here a few times with friends and family and I have never been disappointed. I really love some of the intersting selections they have on the menu, and that it is always changing. As far as the environment, you can't beat it. They have cool live music some nights and its has real cool, warm feel to it. If you don't like the music, there are three different rooms so you don't have to hear it. The drinks are great including the beer and my favoritepart is the great coffee. It's an all around pleasant experience.
(5)
Beth W.
I love Uncommon Ground. Breakfast, lunch, and dinner -I am never disappointed. I love how seasonal their menu is. I love this place because it cozy, casual, and has amazing food. I love the sweet potatoe fries w/ goat cheese dip. I love all of the items on the breakfast menu and love the pancake latte. I find it extremely difficult not to order the duck for dinner (its cooked so perfectly and always has a slightly different sauce/side) I like their beer and wine lists. OH and I love this lemon/vodka/basil cocktail they do in the summer- yum. The servers are knowledgeable and very helpful. I really love Uncommon Ground.
(4)
Jessica M.
First time for Brunch this past weekend - tasty tasty tasty! We went at 10am on Sunday with a couple friends and were happy to get a table for 4 right away -no wait! I really like the atmosphere and decor in this place, very relaxing and simple/chic. We ordered the banana bread to share at the table - which was a great idea, but you only get a couple bites to split 4 ways and that just ain't enough of this bread! It comes in one extra huge slice piled with whip cream and a couple slices of fruit. The edges had some crunchy cinnamon sugar on it that was a nice touch. Great taste all around! My husband and I split the roast beast skillet thingy - and it was very different and good! It is a roast beef with gravy over jalapeno cornbread, topped with 2 eggs and cheese. All the flavors complimented each other and there was a ton of roast beef in the gravy. This made it very filling, even for splitsies. The cornbread was mostly sweetness, and couldn't really taste the jalapeno, but didn't matter. Top it off with a couple cups of coffee and this meal was sweet all around! Our friends said they both enjoyed their entrees (black bean cake with eggs/poatoes and the special egg benedict with italian sausage slider, Gorgonzola and arugula). Came here 2 other times over a year ago also. First was the most expensive single dinner I ever got. But it was good. Girls night out, a fish dish with crusted nuts (I think) and 2 martinis... I think my bill was close to $45 - yikes. Second time I came to watch a performer sing and my husband and I just ordered an appetizer of hummus and a couple of beers. Again, for hummus REALLY pricey and nothing special. But the atmosphere and beers made up for it. Gotta love live music! Definitely give this place a try! We'll be back for sure!
(4)
bill t.
Fair food. Great Beer. Fantastic outdoor seating
(4)
David E.
Uncommon Ground it pretty wonderful, especially if you can sit outside on a nice night! I will say the service was a bit on the slow side but it was a great atmosphere for visiting so it wasn't the end of the world. I'd def. go back!
(4)
Arlene M.
So this is a LONG over due review... On my birthday (July 3rd, 2010), Kevin and i went to the cubs game and afterwards we came here to eat, let's see if i remember this correctly... We started off with the sweet potato fries with goat cheese. Mmmm... i could snack on those all day... I forgot what he had to drink, but i had a cucumber gin cocktail he had a salad and i had the burger it was great. my favorite moment was when he went to the bathroom for the longest time, and came back then our waitress came out with the ice cream trio. It was wonderful!
(4)
Princess C.
I took husband here for celebratory dinner. We had the sweet potato fries and the uncommon chopped salad. Both really good but the salad wasnt very flavorful. My 6 yo daughter had the chicken tenders with full salad and she really liked that. My husband had duck dish and was disappointed did not have a lot of flavor. They ran out of the menu listed steak and I had the hanger steak instead. Again I was disappointed; it was cooked very well but was low on flavor I've had better elsewhere. My mulled wine was really good. Brooks our server was great! All in all would say it was an average dining experience.
(3)
Melissa R.
I loved Uncommon Ground 5 years ago when it was cute and cozy, somewhat of a hidden gem among the obnoxious Wrigleyville bars. I used to go there to get coffee and read, or see random musicians perform. Then I moved away from the neighborhood and found out that they jazzed the place up by opening a big front room that seemed to cater more to the trendy and fabulous. That explains why I've stayed away for so long, but now I'm back...big time. I went there for brunch on a Monday and was so happy to see that the two back room haven't changed much at all. They were so welcoming that I couldn't wait to sit down and eat up. I ordered the Winter Scramble (sweet potato, shallots, gorgonzola) with house potatoes and wheat toast. It was so scrumptious and I enjoyed every bite. And the potatoes?!? Honestly, they must have given me at least 2 whole potatoes worth and I couldn't get enough...they were incredible. The space had all old wood and brick exposed walls with hand painted pictures of birds everywhere by a local artist. All of the staff were joking and having a good time together, which always makes me like any business I'm patronizing a little more. Our waitress was so nice and relaxed, she was attentive but didn't crowd. She even allowed us to move to the two big chairs near the fireplace after our meal to read for awhile. Just lovely. The only "meh" point was the coffee sweetener situation. They only had raw sugar or an all-natural substitute that was rank. I am all about loving the earth...but I want my Splenda. I will definitely be back for brunch and giving it a whirl for dinner.
(4)
Lisa H.
Love love love. If I were a rich girl, I'd be here all the time. To get the negatives out of the way first - my only gripes are that it's overpriced and parking in the area sucks. Now for the good! :) I'm vegetarian and particularly sensitive about environmental issues, and UG has fantastic options. I feel "good" when I eat here, because a lot of their food and beer is locally sourced. Last night I was there for an acoustic set in their music room (which I highly recommend - what a cozy, intimate atmosphere), where I had the pumpkin ravioli, some beers and their spiked hot chocolate (the Peppermint Patty?). FANTASTIC. Fellow chocoholics, take note. Their spiked hot chocolate comes in a big bowl (this is NOT a cup) with whipped cream and chocolate shavings and it is a DESSERT in itself. The night turned into a contest of my fiance teasing me about whether I could finish the whole thing - and I did because it was sooo amazing!! Ah, sugar coma...... Give this place a try; just be prepared to drop some $$. We spent $70 on dinner and a few drinks but it was worth a great night out!
(4)
Arthur M.
Kind of romantic!
(5)
Kevin G.
Listen, nothin' better than getting a flight of beers at the bar, great deal for 8 bucks, especially when one of the beers is a Goose Island Baudoinia. Super nice and knowledgable bartenders. Taking a date? GREAT IDEA!!! Not trying too hard but still nice and hip. The only problem is that there is usually a small Filipino man in the bathroom polishing the metal parts of the urinal, I'm not sure if he works there or has some sort of mental deficiency, but either way I guess he's kind of like their mascot. He has one eye and great hair. Anyways I love uncommon ground, go there, have a great night.
(5)
Joseph M.
I have been going here for the past 5 years with family and friends for meals. They used to be great, but the quality of their kitchen staff and therefore their food has gone down. Whenever I get chicken it always seems to be undercooked, but I would recommend their Sweet Potato Fries with Goat Cheese Fondu. Their wait staff has been declining as well. Last time I ate here, the bus boy had to get my food and my drink because our waiter was not around and our entrees came out 15 minutes before our appetizer, which is a joke. The waiter did not apologize and the manager said "it happens." Also, I have a few friends that work their as waiters and they treat their wait staff like dog shi* and don't care about them as people and just see them as money. This place is a joke. I just tried to get a quick take out order of the Chicken sandwich and sweet potato fries. I live a block away and it is quick and convenient, the host who answered the phone refused to take my order because it would not be fair to other customers. Not really sure how this works. If I could give this joke of a restaurant negative stars I would.
(1)
Meredith T.
I think the name of this place describes it perfectly. It's not your average, ordinary restaurant/bar. It's inviting and unassuming. The food is fantastic across the board. I've had their brunch many times and last night, the pleasure of dinner. It was one of the best meals I've had in a very long time (pork loin served over ratatouille). They make a conscious effort to use local ingrediants, which is a huge plus and the service was super friendly and (our server) knew everything on the menu well enough to make great recommendations for us. My date and I sat outside the other night for dinner and it was so relaxing. I know there are a lot of factors that go in to a good al fresco dining experience (weather, cubs games, traffic)...but Uncommon Ground has done a good job of keeping many outside distractions away (or so it seemed to me anyway). This place doesn't get a whole five stars because of the prices...which seem a little steep, but I'd gladly fork it over again for another bite of my dish. I'll be back and you should check it out too.
(4)
Pearl S.
My favorite restaurant. Absolutely delicious. They're good to us, our kids, and our guests every time. Changing menu, locally grown & outstanding. Cool vibe, but not painfully hip (phew!)
(5)
Katie R.
stopped in here with friends for a late-late dinner, and the staff very graciously served us the most delicious meal i've eaten in a while. i got the fried avocado tacos (appetizer) as my meal and i've never been so sassified. if i still lived in chicago, i would be here all the time.
(5)
Sarah S.
Loved this place. I really want to check out the location on Devon to see the roof top garden!
(4)
Megan W.
I hadn't been back to Uncommon Ground in about 3 years, purely because I had forgotten about it. I ordered the sunshine salad with grilled chicken and dressing on the side ($18), even as someone who cannot cook, this would be impossible to mess up. The salad came, all veggies were fresh, but the chicken tasted off, I could not place if it was expired or just poorly seasoned/ cooked, either way I would never eat something like that. The dressing, which did come on the side, as requested, was a mayonnaise, egg, fatty mix, bland tasting. Service was mediocre. The plus to the evening was that there were good Old Fashions on special for $6.00. This was the only redeeming factor of my dinner this evening. I haven't been to Uncommon Ground in 3 years and can say will not ever be back unless it is just for a quick drink. An $18 bland salad with questionably expired meat is not worth a second glance.
(2)
Kate W.
Damn you laziness and proximity! In my last review I said I wouldn't be back anytime soon, but mere weeks later, there I was again at dinner at Uncommon Grounds. And I still have the same complaints, go figure. Stuff white people like: expensive sandwiches. I am no exception to this rule, and so I got the $13 grilled chicken sandwich. Don't let the price fool you, this really is just a grilled chicken sandwich. No bad, but if you're charging me (okay, technically charging my date) $13 for some chicken, it'd better sing. Said date got some manly bison thing (men and their meat) but came away feeling much as I did- that it was just okay, but nothing to write home about. I would say I won't be back anytime soon, but who are we kidding; I live blocks from the place.
(2)
Scott C.
Uncommon Ground is a great place place for regional and sometimes organic comfort food. The atmosphere at the location on Addison is not quite a cozy as the one on Devon but the food is just as good. The Addison location has more of an urban feel with exposed brick and more of a hipster feel. The breakfast / brunch options here are fantastic. They serve the typical breakfast staples along with some creative twists of ingredients with them. They have a delicious selection of tea and coffee with or without alcohol - depending on how you want to kick off your day. Last time we went we enjoyed some of the spiced banana bread along with our breakfast. It was warm and covered whipped cream - so good. For breakfast we had the huevos rancheros and the french toast dish. Each meal is hearty but not overwhelming in size. Uncommon Ground continues to be a breakfast / brunch staple for us and we'll be back.
(5)
John S.
Fantastic new heirloom fried green and fresh tomato sandwich. I'm not a vegetarian, but this tempura take on a veggie sandwich filled me up and tasted amazing.
(5)
Shayna N.
OMG! The breakfast here was delicious. We had the breakfast melt with bacon, egg and spinach over black bread with potatoes. and a salad. Everything was super fresh and SUPER tasty! I was very dissapointed by the bloody mary, but you should go here for the fresh local produce and deliciously cooked meals, not the cocktails. The server was also super friendly and knowledgeable about the menu. He helped guide us through the menu, recommending certain dishes and explaining others. It's a bonus that most of the produce comes from the Green City Market and the meat is from local regional farms.
(5)
Gigi N.
I came here for brunch with a couple of others, and my experience was decent. I was surprised by how crowded it was! If you plan to eat here, be sure to call ahead or be prepared to wait about 30 minutes. Our server didn't check on us very often, and he forgot to get us coffee. We had to ask twice before he actually brought it at the end (when we were nearly done with our meals). He was a very friendly guy though! Whenever I go out for brunch, I always order something with egg. This time was no different. I asked for the summer omelet with a side of potatoes. Although it looked small, it was actually very filling. It was delicious, but for the price, I expected something more special to it (perhaps more herbs, flavors, etc). Do I plan to return? Maybe when the restaurant is less busy (if it ever is).
(3)
Julia W.
I have a love/hate relationship with Uncommon Ground. The Love: First and foremost, everything I've ever eaten here has been nothing less than spectacular. So, with the leaves changing and after a nearly nine month hiatus, I returned last Friday. For some reason- be it the cozy atmosphere, or the absolutely incredible pumpkin ravioli- I always get a hankering for Uncommon Ground this time of year. So, following a showing of Psycho at the Music Box down the way (best theater ever! BTW) the hubby and I made our way towards Clark and, seeing all the people enjoying a beautiful fall night al fresco, decided to stop in for a bite to eat and a drink. And just like every autumn before, I ordered the pumpkin ravioli: perfectly cooked pasta stuffed with pumpkin and spices and smothered in a creamy sauce and gorgonzola cheese. De-freaking-licious! The boy ordered the duck- which he devoured, along with several stolen raviolis from my plate. Grounds for divorce? Possibly... We washed it all down with some harvest ale, and capped off the night with the s'mores tart. Now THIS is comfort food. The Hate: But wait? The check. Seventy freaking dollars for two entrees, two beers and a dessert?! Um, excuse me? It amazes me that I seem to give myself amnesia every single time I come back here; like I don't remember that the food, while wonderful, is fantastically overpriced. Isn't cooking ingredients "in season" suppose to cut down on costs? If it weren't for the prices, I'd be here every weekend. Alas, I am a slave to low wages, and so am forced to pass by more often than not, stealing glances at the food on other peoples plates. First person to steal their ravioli recipe for me will get my soul, and my firstborn.
(4)
Heather A.
Yes, the food is expensive, but no, not overpriced. If you can wrap your head around what it costs to get so many local products and maintain the integrity that this place has, you will understand that you really are getting what you pay for. We try to make it up for brunch about once a month, since Saturdays offer a $5 mimosa, and breakfast year round is amazing! Anything with capriole cheese is normally what catches my eye! Also, their eggs benedict is the meal to end all meals.
(5)
Dan K.
I really don't know why this place gets such rave reviews. Now, I will say that the Edgewater location was much better, but even then, have these people never eaten at Blackbird or Avec or Karyn's? There is much better food out there. While I love the whole organic and sustainable and local produce thing, the flavor just is not consistent in this place. They definitely have some star dishes, but they have some that fall flat. Stars: Goat Cheese and pesto appetizer, pizza, sweet potato fries, arctic char. The duck and cabbage soup had no flavor at all. My burger was dry and flavorless. The first time I went here the other night I ordered the Crispy Pork Belly on top of Crispy Chicken. Notice, the word crispy. It was not crispy in either way. The pork belly was just a bunch of soft fat and the chicken skin was soft and gooey and fatty and gross. I don't personally like to chew on soft fat. Most of it ended up in my napkin. Lastly, I asked our server if the tortilla soup had tomatoes in it. She said it had tomatillos. I then asked her if it had any tomato in it at all (since I'm allergic) and she said, well the tomatillos are just green tomatoes (with a roll of her eyes...and she never ever smiled or asked us how our food was EVER). So, since I knew she was ignorant and didn't know a tomatillo is actually a relative of the goosberry and not a tomato in any way, I just gave up and ordered goat cheese. This place is also ridiculously arranged. I'm all for Euro dining and being close to strangers, but it's not easy to even manuever your way in and out of here. If you are in a wheelchair, or use a walker, you can forget about going here. There are way better restaurants around.
(2)
J N.
A-ok. Music was nice. Small town music that fit the environment. As for food we had the steak and potatoes, they were actually really poor. The steak was mostly fat and they must have poured the fat from frying all over the plate because the mashed potatoes were covered in grease. All in all, we still had a good time. I liked the environment and location. Not as romantic as I would have wanted it, probably great for hanging out with friends.
(3)
Sam S.
I've been a fan of Uncommon Ground for a while. Largely for their brunches but we've been going there for dinner more lately. Recently, for Valentine's Day, we decided to spend it there. While normally I really wouldn't make reservations, one of the things I like about the place, I thought that maybe I should because of the occasion. I made them well in advance. When we showed up, and they sat us, I'm fairly certain that it was just about the worst seat in the house. We were shoved next to the bathroom and kitchen entrance, shoved up along side some piece of rolling equipment. My wife and I were deep in conversation when we arrived, so I didn't think to much of it, but as the meal wore on I was pretty annoyed. The food was still good, but the experience was ruined.
(2)
Maureen P.
We went there for an early lunch today. Early lunch turned into a late lunch in the fact that our food didn't show up for nearly an hour. Our waiter? He couldn't be found either. There was a remark about the kitchen being backed up at one point...but no apologies, no "checking in", no updates, etc. I used to love this place, but the customer service is really on the decline. I would have gladly accepted an apology rather than the attitude from the manager acting as if it were our fault that the kitchen was backed up. We won't be going back...which is a bummer - because I really want to like this place.
(2)
Lindsay A.
I've had two separate experiences here. The first one was fantastic, the second one was not so much. This is based on the second one. and has no reflection on their amazing open mic nights. this is a dinner review. starting off, the atmosphere is fantastic!!! Its warm, cozy, inviting and everyone is friendly. There's a fireplace!! yesssss! And there seems to be a million rooms. No ending. On open mic nights its fantastic. It is a must go to. The most recent experience was when my boyfriend and I chose this place for his birthday dinner location because the menu looked interesting, it was out of our normal price range, and we see it all the time. We literally waited at our waiter at our table for 15 minutes and the food was really good, but not worth the price. The dessert menu is sub par. For dinner, this place is not a complete fail but not the best in my book.
(3)
Brett K.
Uncommon Ground, I am in love with you! I will admit it is a little pricey for the genre but overall the service and food were amazing. Everything put a unique twist on your traditional American cuisine. The local sustainability practices are always a plus also. My favorite dish was the pancetta encrusted chicken breast but then again any form of bacon will usually be an easy win with me... It wasn't just an add bacon to something cheap shot but was prepared to compliment the flavor of the meat like no other. Also some of the best sweet potato fries you will find served with warm goat cheese, oh god. The service was very friendly and for Wrigley area it was a laid back crowd although if its a game day sit in the front by the window because there will be great drunken people watching going by constantly. I will definitely return with lofty expectations.
(4)
Robin T.
I went with a hangover and left without one. I think it was the bowl (literally) of chai. I went to Uncommon Ground with two friends for a late Sunday lunch. We started with the mac and cheese for a hearty appetizer. Yum! I enjoyed the burger with sweet potato fries. Holy mackerel, it was sooo good! I completely forgot about my previous headache. The decor was nice and cozy, and some weird paintings gave it that quirk factor. There was even a fireplace, where I would have parked it if I were alone with a book. I didn't think it was overpriced at all. There was a lot of food on my plate. I was also jealous of my friend's tomatillo soup. Yummy! I would go again, for sure!
(5)
Jeff D.
I've been here a few times for brunch and lunch, which has been good. But my dinner experience has left much to be desired. I really like the concept of this place: sustainable, local food. The execution suffers (for dinner in my experience). I just had a grass fed steak and it was one of the saddest pieces of meat I've ever received in a restaurant. On top of that it was cooked well done when I asked for medium rare. It was a disappointing experience and made me wish I just went to a local bar to get wings.
(2)
Brett F.
One part coffeehouse, one part restaurant and one part rockin' little music venue gives you everything Uncommon Ground. Fortunately for my fabulous threesome looking to dine out 'healthy style' we were able to experience a little of all three! First up was dinner and how lovely it was! Sitting outside on UG's street side patio was a divine backdrop for the tasty, organic, family farmed eats offered up by the Uncommon folks. We all opted for salads (snoozeville, I know) despite the fact that the crispy braised pork belly and bacon wrapped meatloaf were practically jumping off the menu page and slapping me in the face. Uh... one Sunshine Salad - with chicken - please. Healthy it certainly was and I had to give myself a pat on the back for it! The "Sunshine Salad" is literally a heaping plate of super fresh veggies, sprouts, seeds, a splash of barely there dressing and absolutely none of the "fun stuff". You know, the stuff you usually pick around the the lettuce to peck for: crunchy bacon, creamy cheese, little happy bits of salami. Nyet. Not here. This dish is for the ultimate fresh farmers market enthusiast and for the $18 price tag (with the chix) it sure feels like a lot of cash for not that much sunshine. Psst! I'm coming back for you, Mr. Meatloaf! Next up we moved things inside by the cutesy fireplace for coffee and talk. Coffeetawk! The coffee house element is very inviting and the UG servers make sure you're warm on your drinks without making you feel rushed or pushed out the door. Love it! A handful of spiked coffee drinks (like the Devil and Robert Johnson, a vanilla infused whiskey espresso concoction) and, of course, your standard lattes, cocoas and cappuccinos ensure everyone a hearty and delicious caffeinated fix! Lastly we met Steve :::::swoon::::: the Jordan Catalano-esque crooner who was playing acoustic that evening in the music space next door. A little ditty with your java Miss? Don't mind if I do. Sunshine, Coffee and Sweet Ass... Uncommon Ground, making the world a better place since 1991. Cheers to that!
(4)
Matt G.
Great coffee and good food. Also nice touch that they use local organic produce and meat/eggs. Service was good, bottomless cup of coffee and original non-diner menu items. Have also had the lunch/dinner entrees and you get a great portion for a fairly reasonable price. If I take it down from 5 stars, it would be that with tip, one dish breakfast and coffee was $20. That's a little steep.
(4)
Cynthia C.
Love love love uncommon ground! It was good the first time and still hasn't disappointed me :) Had the pork loin this time. Great flavors! Its rubbed and crusted with these really complex tasting spices that add a hint of spicy with a ton of savory. Pork can be dry when cooked wrong but this one was really tender with a nice crust on the outside. Parmesan polenta and spinach was served with it which wasn't too bad. The sauce for the dish was delish. And of course the pumpkin ravioli can not be beat. Who knew pumpkin and goat cheese went so well together??? And since its now chilly autumn.. hot apple cider is served upon request. Tart and cinnamony although I wish they added the cinnamon stick.. even if its mainly for decoration.
(5)
mariah c.
I was with a crew of people getting ready for a show at the Metro a couple of weekends back. We packed up our car with lighting gear, hit I-94 and overall had a really smooth trip. I hadn't been to the Metro in ages, and I was totally looking forward to the show. And then, with slight horror... we realized there was a game going on. Now, I have nothing against baseball, but I have in the past almost always made an effort to steer clear of the masses in Wrigleyville during the most hectic times. We unloaded and 2 folks went on a (very long) hunt for parking in the midst of the mob of people leaving the game. That left the other 2 of us there -- hungry, and needing to kill time, but pretty sure most of the packed bars wouldn't be our scene. We asked the folks at the Metro for their advice, and they mentioned Uncommon Ground. Good call! Because they're set up as more of a restaurant, and less of a bar, there weren't overwhelming crowds. There was, however, some solid friendly service, and some absolutely amazing specials. In a summery mood, I tried a lemon ginger cocktail, and even found myself nibbling on one of the candied ginger pieces. I got the special red pepper gnocci. Each little gnocci was like a pleasant little burst of flavor in my mouth. Seriously. It was very tasty! By the time we left, reassured and nourished by good food, I was ready to deal with the rowdy crowd and get myself back into the Metro for another sort of crowd!
This place is great if you are all about having the local food as part of your dining experience. I went this morning with my husband for breakfast and we were pleasantly surprised to have great service thanks to Jessica our waitress, along with very delightful, fresh coffee. I had the mushroom omelet which comes with toast and potatoes. I asked if I could have fruit instead of the potatoes and without hesitation the waitress said yes. Half of my plate was covered with banana slices and fresh berries. It was wonderful! My husband had the chilaquiles which was very tasty. It was eggs mixed with peppers, cheese, tortilla chips with sour cream on top. Everything was very tasty and we will definitely be back!
(3)
Clare D.
Tonight I went back to Uncommon Ground after previously eating an amazing lunch there the summer before. This time I was with family and we thought that we would try out dinner. It was a beautiful Chicago summer night, so we thankfully got a table outside. We started out with the muscles and the mushroom tacos. The tacos were amazing the muscles were TERRIBLE. They were so bad that they fueled me to write this review!! They were not only over cooked but literally the size of a raisin! The waiter never asked us how they were either. He came to collect our dinner plates and we informed him of how unhappy we were with them, he apologized and that was it. The bill came and the awful muscles were still there. We paid for them but then spoke to a manager on our way out. He was very sympathetic and gave us a gift card as compensation. We will be returning but for lunch this time!
(1)
Sarah B.
A group of us decided to try Uncommon Ground for a few drinks and some apps. This was a good decision. We were seated outside and it was very nice, laid back, and generally chill. Our server, Tom, who had a very cool 'stache, was great and pretty attentive. I had two cocktails from the interesting list: The Frida Kahlo martini (vodka, chocolate and cinnamon/cayenne pepper syrup) and the Lemon Ginger martini (ginger infused vodka and citrus simple syrup). The FK had a kind of fake cinnamon taste which I did not like so much but it was a decent drink. I had wished that it had a cayenne/cocoa dusted lip on the glass, something I have had before and enjoyed. The ginger one was fairly tasty and had a skewer of candied ginger in it..yum. For eats, two of us shared the goat chees/artichoke/pesto dip. I am here to tell you that this dip was effing delicious! It must be ordered. My friend is wheat intolerant so Tom "the 'stache" graciously gave her tortilla chips to dip with. We then decided that the amazing dip was not enough and proceeded to order the mac and cheese. Pretty damn good. Not the best, but good. We had a good time and this place is on my list to try again.
(4)
Mauricio P.
I been there once since I am not from Chicago... however if I lived in Chicago I will be definitely be habitue of the place!!! Good music, good ambient, good service, good food and good coffee...
(4)
alan y.
They should rename this place Organic Applebee's.
(1)
Shannon D.
A warm and welcoming restaurant! Wonderful staff Delicious local/organic food (especially the house made chorizo chilaquiles...hold the chorizo) Good energy Warm Fireplace
(5)
LadyBird X.
I came here with my husband before a show at the Metro. Service was great, but somewhat slow. To be fair, it was a busy night but it's something to keep in mind if you're headed to a concert afterwards. The food was excellent. It's actually harder than you think to find a truly healthy salad in this city but their Sunshine Salad fit the bill. I also loved that I was able to find a raw healthy meal on the menu while my husband was able to order a steak - we were both satisfied! We enjoyed the Baked Artichoke, Goat Cheese and Pesto Dip, which had to be extremely fattening but was absolutely delectable! All in all I'm really glad I stumbled upon this place (I would have never found it otherwise). Even though I rarely enjoy visiting this area I would definitely come back for the yummy food!
(4)
Candice G.
This place is about as cozy and cozy gets and reminds of some good ole home cookin'... if my parents had cooked me anything that didn't come out of a frozen box as a child. Thankfully, as an adult who lives at home (get off my back people, I've got a 10 year plan), the food at Uncommon is what my Dad now cooks for me with his refined taste and pretty respectfully sized backyard garden. Uncommon Ground is a great bet for fresh, organic, locally grown comfort food. I'm a big fan of their sunshine salad, veggie chili, veggie burger, outdoor patio, sexy musician boys, and giant coffees. I'm a not so big fan of their sangria and the (IMO) too salty pumpkin ravioli, or draft window seating. I also love the server's here. You'll be promptly seated by a host and the server will be like someone you knew growing up and reconnected with... sometimes I even trick myself into making more convo with my server than my date. Oops! If it weren't such a drive for me, I'd be here much more often... maybe even get up in time for their famed breakfasts. I'll defo be making UG a summer lunching destination.
(4)
s. m. j.
We just stopped in for coffee and a nibble before meeting friends in the neighborhood, but my experience here was great, and I would definitely go back for more! We stopped in about 10:30 a.m. on a Saturday morning, and it was hopping, but we got a table right away, because this is a large cafe with many rooms. The friendly hostess seated us and our waiter appeared quickly to take our drink orders. Unusually for me, I ordered a mocha latte (I normally steer away from the sweet coffee drinks), and it was delicious. Chocolate-y, but not sickly sweet. I also ordered the banana bread (I wished they had more pastry selections to go with coffee...). When it came it was a generous slice of banana bread, with sliced bananas and whipped cream, a very desserty order! My friend ordered the English muffin, and that looked lovely and much lighter, but I enjoyed my banana bread. I thought the service was exceptional. When I took my first bite of the banana bread, I got sugar and whipped cream on my crocheted sweater. I brushed it off with my cloth napkin, but before I could even finish, the waiter appeared with club soda and a napkin to help me remove any food stains. I was really impressed! We loved our time at Uncommon Ground, because we had a great little table where we could really catch up and talk. My friend also works for a nature organization, and she likes Uncommon Ground because of its green restaurant designations. We had a perfect experience here. I recommend it.
(4)
Meera T.
My sister was in town and had read about how green Uncommon Ground was. To satisfy her "let's save the earth" crusade, we stopped by for an early dinner. When we walked in, the atmosphere was very cozy, but not stuffy. It reminded me more of a place to stop for a quick lunch. The restaurant was completely empty save for a few people in the back and at the bar, but what else do you expect on a Wednesday at 5? We started off with the sweet potato fries and the goat cheese fondue. Holy. Moly. As someone who doesn't normally gravitate towards sweet potato fries, I would eat these for the rest of my life. They were soft yet crispy, salty yet sweet, and melt in your mouth. They paired very well with the tangy, smooth fondue. For entrees, we split the black bean cake burger and the organic mac and cheese. The burger was delicious. The patty was perfectly spiced, and had a great texture. It was topped with a crunchy coleslaw and creamy avocado, both which went well with the burger. The side salad was perfectly dressed as well. The mac and cheese was decent. We added the sundried tomatoes to it, which in hindsight was a mistake. There were way too many tomatoes in it, and they completely overpowered the taste of the pasta and the cheese. The texture itself was amazing though, and I would definitely order it again plain or with broccoli. The menu is a bit expensive, but sharing with some others can lend you a nice variety of food and fill you up fast. The staff was also very friendly and welcoming, though I don't know how they would react when the restaurant was actually busy. I would definitely come here again!
(4)
Kate C.
After eating at Uncommon Ground on 3 different occasions I feel confident to say that the food is just not very good*. I've tried the Mac & Cheese, a sunshine salad and the fries w/ goat cheese and also the artichoke dip. None of which was mind-blowing. I've never had an issue with service, and the space is actually cozy and inviting. I just really wish the food tasted better. It's not worth the hassle of going to Wrigleyville just to eat mediocre (at best) food. *I also appreciate that it's all locally sourced, but like I said... I just wish it tasted good!
(2)
Ryan T.
I go here enough that I wanted to write another review. My boyfriend and I are obsessed with Uncommon Ground. At this point, it's probably our favorite restaurant in Lakeview, and considering the price, there's just about nowhere else we'd rather eat in the city. While it took a while (over ten visits) for me to try something other than the amazing mac and cheese, I've found that everything on the menu is delicious. I was seriously impressed by the bacon crusted chicken breast, and the chicken sandwich is also very yummy. And of course, don't go without getting the sweet potato fries or calamari appetizers. So yummy.
(5)
Jeremiah B.
Tempura Avo-tacos with co-op hot sauce. Damn! Washed that down with Half Acre pale ale. Nice! Salmon on mushroom pilaf, grilled bok choy and onion ring. Shiteee! Paired that with dry Rose'. Beautiful! Finished with goat cheese caramel, coffee toffee and chocolate malt gelato. Fuuuuuuuuhhhhhcccccckkkkk!
(4)
Chris K.
Great food! Nice outdoor eating space! Great atmosphere! Nice selection!
(5)
Rebecca H.
It used to be a 4, but now there is a new chef and the last time I went back, it was not that good. Get a Bloody Mary.
(3)
Janet E.
This review is for the food since last time was for the drinks. We had no reservations but were seated immediately. They have about three rooms for seating but the first room at the front of the restaurant is primarily for bar food/drinks. The menu changes every two weeks so dont expect any particular signature dishes. The restaurant supports local farmers so the food is very fresh and you can taste the difference. We werent very hungry so we ordered three appetizers. We had the goat cheese and spinach dip, the vegetarian chili, and the tomato bisque soup. Everything tasted delicious! Service was great. The prices for our dishes were reasonable but the entree dishes can be pricey. I wish they had a better selection of entree dishes. Maybe in another two weeks when the menu changes the entree selection will be better? Parking in this area can be difficult.
(4)
Melanie V.
4 words: Nutella stuffed french toast! O-M-G. heaven. it was topped with pecans and bananas. yummm. i am obsessed with nutella. did i mention that? i also tried the kiwi/pear tea. nice and light and not too fruity. great brunch experience! it was an added surprise when we only had to wait 15 minutes, as opposed to the 30 we were originally quoted. prices are pretty reasonable ($10-12 for a brunch item). it's crowded, but people aren't sitting on top of each other (i.e., M Henry). also, it's loud enough in here to talk to your friend and not worry about having the table next to you eavesdrop.
(4)
Ben K.
I had one of the best brunch entrees I've ever had at Uncommon Ground today. The english muffin "sliders" are a pair of thick english muffins, buttered up real good and toasted, and layered with fluffy scrambled eggs, sharp cheddar cheese, spinach, a piece of thick cut bacon, and roasted garlic aioli. Just wow. A rich brunch to be sure, but this sandwich is about the most perfect combination of breakfast foodstuffs to ever be put together on a sandwich. And there's two of them! Lesser appetites could easily split this brunch entree and come away satisfied. Hungry guys like myself will struggle to finish but leave quite satisfied. I can't wait to give this one another go.
(5)
Stephanie B.
Food = 5 stars Price = 3 If this place priced their dishes just a little more affordably, my overall review would be 5 stars. I used to frequent Uncommon Ground fairly often when I lived in Chicago. This is one of my favorite brunch spots of not only the area, but of all time. Everything is incredibly fresh and rich in flavor. At my most recent trip here I ordered a bloody mary to start ($5 on Sunday's), the uncommon huevos, a slice of banana bread, and the 312 lunchbox (drink). I left with a VERY happy tummy. I ate brunch there around 2:30, and didn't need another meal the rest of the day. If you like fresh, filling, and delicious food, you won't leave this place disappointed.
(4)
Sean M.
I frequent this place often and for good reason. This is a solid place to have a beer, eat dinner, maybe catch some live music, and relax. But it really stands out as an excellent breakfast/brunch restaurant. Interesting food options that change from time to time, and always deliver great flavor and leave you feeling satisfied. Great coffee too! Be sure to ask for the benedict special of the day, I highly recommend it!. This is probably one of, if not, the best brunch place in the area.
(5)
Nicole P.
This place is the t*ts! (--- complete that as you may) I live close to one of these, but my friend was unaware of that so the one he suggested we go to was this one in Wrigleyville. Originally we were looking for a coffehouse where we could just sit and chat. However, what we found was this trendy little lounge that serves amazing food. We went on a Thursday night and waited 10 minutes or so to be seated once we decided to stay and eat. Our table was in the back, past the closet-sized bathrooms and the kitchen. I'm still not really sure if there's a delineation for a reason or if that's just how the place was built. There was low lighting and lots of art on the walls. The low noise level was accented by the fun, emo music coming through the speakers. It was a pleasant atmosphere. I had the vegetarian chili and the sunshine salad. My favorite was the chili, but the salad wasn't bad. My friend had the grilled chicken sandwich which he seemed to really enjoy. Our server was very helpful and she didn't seem to hate us when we couldn't decide what to drink, but ended up ordering dessert instead of booze. We all agreed that it was a fair trade. In the future, I plan on going hungry and trying the tempura avocado tacos and the hummus.
(4)
Paul C.
Chill casual dining with a crunchy vibe. The pork chop was quite good, the steak not too shabby. Good cocktail list too. Service was friendly but a bit on the slow side. Nothing blew me away, but I'd say this is a good dining option for those times when you want good food in a laid back spot.
(3)
Jenny H.
The menu on the restaurant's website makes the food sound amazing, but it doesn't quite measure up. This place seems like a coffee shop that tries to serve great food but doesn't have a good restaurant chef in the back to quite make it. I went for dinner and the food was just OK, not great. Their chai was watery and had way too much cinnamon in the drink and dusted all over. Their spinach and goat cheese dip tasted like thick, hot cream cheese with spinach in it, they didn't add too much to the dip other than just hot, thick goat cheese, not sure what the fuss is all about. There were 4 long pieces of bread grilled but not that fresh. The mac+cheese was OK, it came out warm, not piping hot in a saucy cheese sauce. The chicken with bacon and BBQ sauce on top tasted like a thick chicken breast cooked with some chopped up bacon on top and ordinary BBQ sauce poured on top. The mashed potatoes were good, the brussel sprouts were small but good. I probably wouldn't come back here again for dinner. We went elsewhere for dessert since the apple crisp didn't have a lot of crisp, according to the waiter (not my kind of crisp), and the smores tart had a thick chocolate ganache filling (not my kind of thing either).
(3)
Erica L.
Uncommon Ground is amazing. I have gone here for open mic night as well as regular dinners. I have never had a single complaint regarding my meals or drinks. The pumpkin ravioli is to die for, the duck is amazing. I love the atmosphere here and would go back in a heartbeat. The drinks are delicious as well, but I would not recommend this place if you're looking for cheap eats/drinks. It's great for a date night - not too dressy but the food is great. Five stars!
(5)
M F.
Very good food for any time of day, made from the quality of ingredients you'd expect from the 'greenest restaurant in the country'. Great selection of local craft beer.
(4)
Jona W.
One day in seventh grade I came to school and saw my boyfriend holding hands with another girl. She was blonde and she wore this hot pink t-shirt all the time with a stick figure on it, and below the stick figure it said "Whatever!" I didn't officially find out that he'd dumped me until he had one of his friends write me a break up note for him and give it to me at lunch. I guess he was like any normal seventh grader, so busy with seventh grade business that he had to contract out this type of task. It hurt that he changed his mind about me being the coolest girl in the world, and though I thought I'd packed away this pain nice and tight somewhere deep down under a colon polyp, it came bubbling back up yesterday when I received an urgent text message from a friend alerting me that Uncommon Ground is no longer serving pumpkin ravioli. What? WHAT IS THIS MADNESS? If you never had the chance to have this pumpkin ravioli in your life, I am sorry. So sorry that I will now tell you exactly what you were missing. You got a big dish of 3 inch ravioli pillows filled with perfectly spiced pumpkin puree. They'd top it with brown butter sage sauce which I'd imagine is made a lot like your Southern granny made gravy (melted butter, some flour to thicken), except maybe without a lit Virginia Super Slim in one hand. They put fresh sage leaves on top of that, and then they crumble up gorgonzola and chestnuts on top of that. It's the kind of thing you eat until you feel like you're gonna die, take the remainder home with you, and finish it the VERY SECOND you stop feeling like you're gonna die. So, what is the meaning of this? Why did it go away? I can think of at least one lackluster chicken sandwich on the fall menu that could use a long retirement. Did the chef get tired of making it? I guess it's kind of like how Weezer got tired of playing Buddy Holly but people had paid $75 to get in to see their show so they were like JUST FUCKING PLAY IT. I feel this way about the pumpkin raviolis: I'm willing to pay goddamn $20 for this plate so would you just inject some pumpkin into some ravioli and give it to me?? JUST FUCKING MAKE IT. I don't care about your feelings, I pay you to COOK, not to FEEL. I have been to Uncommon Ground one million times and ordered that dish every single time. So thanks a lot for letting me know personally that you decided to make it impossible for me to get it anymore. I have to say that is just a really awesome way to emulate the communication skills of a seventh grader. Thanks a lot for breaking my friend's heart when she ordered it and having her let me know what happened. So it's your move: give me the ravs and I give you two stars. Bring it back, Uncommon Ground, or you will be sorry. Know how I know? My junior high ex-boyfriend ended up working at a mall restaurant to afford to pay child support to the girl he knocked up whose name is the actual title of a Jessica Alba dance movie. So think about that for a minute, whydontcha. **UPDATE! The ravs are back!!! Sometimes these things end well.
(5)
Paula M.
We hadn't been to Uncommon Ground for a couple of years because the service was bad the two times we had been there.The food was good, but we were left alone for extended periods of time during the meals and it was a big enough turn-off that we had not returned. As we live in the neighborhood, we thought we'd give U.G. another try. We were seated in an undesirable spot and all of our food was served to us at once (appetizers, soup, main). No one seemed to think that this was a bad idea: the food runner, the server, the host staff who were nearby. The food is not good enough to overlook what we have experienced as legendary bad service. Not going back!
(2)
Ross H.
Used to be one of my favorites...and I miss it. I am giving it one star to balance out my previous 5 star review. Local place for me a bit outside the craziness of Wrigleyville. They serve locally sourced, high quality, and generally fairly healthy (by restaurant standards) food with cool midwest craft beers. Goatcheese fondue with sweet potato fries is a favorite of mine. Their cocktail list is also very good, featuring lots of homemade liquor infusions with unique flavors. Prices on both are very fair for what you get. I also love the feel of the place, warm wood but still bright, rotating artwork on the walls, and a small intimate feel. The outdoor patio is great in the summer too. I go for dinner and brunch, and usually leave very happy. Always had a great experience with the staff too. That said...the last time I went (going on 7 months now, versus my usual bi-weekly visit) was pretty terrible. I took some guests from out of town for brunch. I ordered a regular item, chilaquiles, and got something very different from the norm. Instead of the delicious and well balanced flavor of fresh cilantro, eggs, spicy meat, fresco cheese and tasty verde sauce, I received a pile of tostitos with greasy chorizo, no sauce, undercooked eggs, and a crappy presentation. It looked like breakfast nachos a hungover college kid would make. The equally familiar items I recommended to my friends were similary "cheapened" with gobs of low quality ingredients in place of the light, fresh, tasty componenents to which I had become accustomed. Net: one bad experience completely turned me off of a once regular haunt. If the owners/managers are reading this, consider doing some quality checking in your kitchen (if you haven't already since April-ish). It may have been one chef having a really bad day...but it was way off the mark for what I expected. And in a city with so many great places to eat, once is all it takes to turn people away.
(1)
Sarah P.
A friend and I decided to grab dinner at this location of Uncommon Ground since he had been to the Devon location and loved it. Eh, it was okay. We ordered the sweet potato fries that came with a goat cheese fondue. Okay these were really good! I love sweet potato fries in general and it seems like everyone is serving them now, but it was the goat cheese that really made this delicious. Fondue is a stretch, since it really seemed like just a small cup of warm goat cheese, maybe with some seasonings added. However, tasty nonetheless! I ordered the chopped salad for dinner. It was fine. Wasn't bad. But it just tasted like a chopped salad that I could get anywhere. Absolutely not worth the $15 I spent on it. No way. The service was slow to the point where my friend and I grew frustrated. I am usually fine with taking my time at a restaurant and enjoying the food and company, but this pushed me beyond that point to where I could only think about why no one was coming to our table. This was a big issue when we first sat down, as we waited and waited to even be asked if we wanted a drink, but continued as well throughout the meal. I really wanted to like this place and every time I pass it, I think about going back. But then I remember my experience and wonder why I would want to.
(2)
Sherri J.
Ok not off to a good start, server took 10 minutes to come to the table. We ordered drinks-very strong FYI and two apps. Apps took over 20 minutes to come out. They were fantastic though. Fried cheese curds with chipotle mayo and sweet potatoes fries with goat cheese fondue. TO DIE FOR!!! the bad service continued though. Couldn't get the servers attention to order our entrees had to wait the 20 minutes till the apps came to order our food. Food came out pretty fast maybe it seemed that way cause we were busy eating the apps we waited so long for. The sever never really came by we had to flag her down for everything. Entrees were great, pretty small portions though. Almost the same size as the apps but three times the price. I got the meatloaf advertised as coming with brussel sprouts and cheese curds. I got two curds and three sprouts. Not exactly what I was expecting, I figured nice hearty portions based on our apps and the prices but that is not what we got. Food was very good though I have to say, My friend got the sunrise salad with the chicken and the chicken was like stick in your throat dry. My other friend got the tacos and asked to add chicken, there was no chicken on it. So the bill comes and we are charge $8 for our drinks that are supposedly on special for 6 and we are charged for the chicken even though we brought it to the servers attention that there was no chicken on the tacos. She offered to bring some out but we declined but still you cant charge for something your didn't receive. Seems to me they are trying to make as much money as possible and are betting on the rich yuppies of that areas not to bother checking their bill for accuracy. Overall food was great, portions small, service bad, and business practices a little sketchy.
(3)
D Mike K.
I would actually give the hostess and front bartenders a "Negative 2 star" review. The hostess was not friendly and did a very poor job in giving seating times and how long it would take. The bartenders? I walked in to my group of friends that were there waiting for a table, and went to the bar for a glass of wine. Waited 20minutes. She actually looked right at me and turned around to start washing glasses. I walked around to an empty area of the bar and got her attention. She asked if I wanted my $12 glass of wine on the tab of the group. She obviously knew that I had been there for awhile, and she had gone to cleaning glasses before making sure the whole group had been attended to. Very very poor service in my book. I have been a bartender, and this is a huge problem. For the food and dinner? 4 stars! So my review actually averages to 1 star, but I will give it 2 stars because i have had good experiences here in the past. I hope they can address the customer service issues at the front, so people can enjoy the entire experience at this location.
(2)
Tawfiq M.
Great place for breakfast & brunch. Portions are plenty, and it's pretty inexpensive for the great food they have. Service was also excellent, and the atmosphere is very chill for a breakfast & brunch place. Definitely going to try and go there again.
(5)
Tom T.
Had the Q7 breakfast sandwich which spiced corned beef - DELICIOUS. And they played some great music: The Doors, Jimi Hendrix. Good food, good tunes, it was one of the coolest places I've been to in Chicago.
(5)
Jay B.
I've seen lots of reviews that mentioned "poor service", but my experience here would be the opposite. My gf and I sat on the patio and received top notch service. We came for the Goose Island Tap Takeover event and were not disappointed. However, the beer menu on a normal night looked excellent as well. My gf tried a few of the bottles/cans on the normal menu and said they were good. I'd recommend the Secret Stache Stout if you like darker beer, it is absolutely delicious. I got the grass fed burger cooked medium, as I wanted to taste the difference. It was a very good burger. It was served on a potato bun which was pretty cool. Gf got the pizza, which she said was good as well. Overall I thought we were going to stay for a few beers and dinner. We ended up having about 5 rounds just because we were enjoying everything so much. Pro's Good Beer Menu Our Service Was Excellent Nice Patio/Ambiance Inside Too Con's More expensive (likely why the "Green" revolution hasn't taken off more)
(4)
Steve M.
I had a "working lunch" at Uncommon Ground a couple days ago, and it was great. First of all, I knew our server from growing up in Chicago, so that was cool. We sat down and ordered a couple Daisy Cutter IPAs. They were bitter and good. For my lunch, I chose the Uncommon BLT. What's so special about this sandwich is that they substitute pork belly for bacon (!!!). It adds a whole different feel to the sandwich.. more pork-y, not as salty, fattier, but still so damn good. Add to that decent fries and a tomato/rosemary dipping sauce for the fries, and we're in business. Next time I'm up in that area, I'll think about going back again. I don't make it up there often, but here's a good reason to change that.
(4)
Kat S.
Uncommon Ground was a nice place to have dinner and chat with some friends. The prices are a bit costly for this college student, but certainly worth it for the fresh ingredients (they even list where the ingredients are from, by food item, on the back of the menu- and most foods are local!) I ordered the Mac & Cheese and while the main dish was excellent and creamy, I was surprised at how much I enjoyed the apple cole slaw that came on the side. It was the perfect companion to the rich, cheesy mac. The atmosphere is very relaxed, and I enjoyed the wooden bar and the decor in general. We did wait a very long time for our food, and out waiter seemed a bit out of it, but as a former waitress, I never judge waitstaff harshly, so this wasn't much of a problem for me. If you do expect impeccable service, however, this may not be the spot for you. Of course, it could have just been an off night. Overall, Uncommon Ground has a tasty, if not a bit pricey, menu and is worth the stop if you are in the area.
(3)
Ben F.
Been to this place several times. Really good but can be a wait to make sure you have some time to kill. Great for breakfast! Breakfast melt has always been my fab.
(4)
Angie M.
Is it wrong that I was expecting more? I dropped into Uncommon Ground to grab a quick bite before a show at the Metro on a Sunday night at about 5:30. The restaurant was pretty empty, but I'm guessing that was due to WAY inclimate weather and the fact that, well, it was 5:30 on a Sunday night. No matter. My friend and I ordered up the Treetini (some kind of delicious combo of vodka, Veev and orange juices) because, well, it looks like Uncommon Ground is kinda famous for them. There's a huge poster advertising it on the wall and I know its been mentioned in a lot of reviews. Let me say that the Treetini is absolutely fabulous and worth a trip to Uncommon Ground. For dinner, I went with the grilled chicken sandwich, served on hearth bread with marinated chicken breast, avocado, sprouts, tomato and honey mustard sauce. I decided against the cheese. My friend ordered the mac and cheese. The food was good, but nothing special. And quite honestly, a bit overpriced. $13 for a small bowl of mac and cheese served with a few grapes and apple slices? And $12 for a chicken sandwich? I don't know... it didn't seem like the best deal in town to me. The other thing that kind of threw me off was the service. Now granted, our server was perfectly cordial, but she was so timid, a church mouse would have been more outgoing. She looked terrified of my friend and me, as we basically spent the entire meal dishing about how men are scum. I wanted to tell her, "Don't worry, Honey. We're not a bunch of angry man haters. We're just going through a rough patch." And maybe we were a little too boisterous, because I kid you not, the server and busboy tried to clear our plates no less than 5 times when we were clearly still nibbling on our dinners. What's up with that? We were some of the only people in the restaurant, so I know there wasn't a wait for the table. I guess I'm not totally sold on Uncommon Ground. The Treetini saved this place. Perhaps I'll come back for some live music and maybe coffee. Other than that? Eh.
(3)
Todd W.
I thought the place was above average, not loud, decent pricing, good environment. Did not try the food, thought he appearance looked good. It'll be hard to come back due to all of the surrounding bars with similar appeal. But in all, decent place.
(4)
Lisa Z.
The food here was good. I don't think anyone had any complaints about what they ordered. The problem... was the size of the dish for what you were paying. This place was expensive. If you're shelling out that much cash, okay, if I AM shelling out that much cash, I expect either large portion sizes, or extremely great food. This was neither. I probably wouldn't go back just because I expect more or better food for their prices.
(3)
Trisha F.
I went to the Uncommon Ground on Devon in Edgewater last night for dinner. I was very impressed! I really love their concept of growing their own food and being very green friendly. I definitely support that! I ordered the quinua stuffed squash and a grapefruit bitters cocktail (TO DIE FOR). Mmm, I loved my drink so much!!! Also, the straw was made of recycled paper!! The stuffed squash was presented beautifully and tasted delicious!! Our server was very polite and the place itself is clean, cozy and has a romantic touch. I would definitely come back!
(5)
Wendy K.
Saturday night, last night we entered at around 9:30pm. Five of us. My friend went in first and they told her that it was a 30 minute wait. After parking, I walk in 5 minutes later and we noticed couches by the fire that were empty. I tell the hostess " we are having coffee and dessert, can't we just sit there?" Hostess " yeah sure" no sorry or oops! or ANY acknowledgement of her lack of friendliness. She just stands there and I say " menus?" then she hands me them. WHY!!!!!?!?!??! am I doing YOUR job for you lady!!!! why?!!?!?!?!? We sit, took a little bit before our waitress approached us. She was very sweet. We ordered cappucinos, lattes, white russian and 4 desserts. Mine was the mocha rice pudding. Everyone's came and after like 15 minutes, mine took long. I know it wasn't the waitress' fault. The chef back there (and I guess maybe the waitress too) should have MADE SURE! they are not to come out until they were all ready. WHY???? oh! I'm glad you asked!!! because if you are going to overprice everything then that means!!! that you're are not only delivering upscale food but also upscale service!!! THAT'S!!! what we are paying extra for too! Of course, the pudding was HORRIBLE!!! cardboard cold mush with apples! everyone tasted and agreed. Returned it. The other desserts were...damn! they were really good! VERY good. drinks were excellent. MAYBE would come back, but easily tempted to try a different place.
(2)
Jenny A.
I've been here for brunch several times and have always had good food and great service. One thing that you don't realize upon coming into the restaurant is just how big it is. There are several rooms in the back, this place is huge! The brunch crowd also has lots of families, so if you go, be prepared to hear lots of toddlers playing around you. The food is quite good, however the menu recently changed (our waiter said they just got a new chef) and I think I prefer the old menu. The breakfast quesedilla is one of the best brunch items, with scrambled eggs, arugula and cheese on a spinach tortilla. I also have had the breakfast melt, with egg, bacon and spinach served open-faced on brown bread, which was also quite tasty. One good thing about the new menu is that they allow fruit as a side (which they did not prefer) and the fruit is very good, a variety of about five fruits presented very nicely and much better than most brunch food plates around town. Overall, I'm not sure I would travel out of my way to come here for brunch over other places in the city, but if you live in the neighborhood it is a great place for fresh, well made food.
(4)
Amanda C.
I went here for Sunday brunch and think it is a cool concept. I like that they have a lot of locally grown ingredients in their food and that they take reservations for brunch- a lot of places don't do that. I ordered a Bloody Mary ($5 on Sundays) and the winter scramble. The winter scramble was good- leeks, goat cheese, eggs and sausage with toast. Kind of hard to mess up and I did really like it. My friend ordered the Eggs Benedict which also looked great. I'm not a huge fan of the atmosphere- we were seated in some awkward window booth and the server was very rude. There was a mixup with our food where the 2 people seated next to us ordered exactly what we had ordered 30 minutes prior to them arriving, and they got our food right away after they ordered. We mentioned this to our server who replied with "well it's not a big deal, it's the same food, right?" Probably will try several other spots before returning, but the Bloody Marys were really good.
(2)
Tina T.
Uncommon Ground is a hip, funky place that serves locally grown, sustainable foods, supports local farmers and producers, and is generally on board with all my principled beliefs. So I liked it before I even tried it out! What's not to like? Combination delish food bought and prepared responsibly, a romantic outdoor patio, cool bar and eating area, coffeehouse, and a separate music venue featuring great music. Growing tomato, arugula, and other plants decorate the plant boxes along the patio. And they have got great, innovative cocktails! The only issue I had is that I wish they had more vegetarian meals on their menu - saw in some of the reviews that they have a veggie burger, but it wasn't on the menu the night I was there. Really, all of the accompanying veggies and whole grains were so good, I should have just ordered all the sides! My husband loved their signature meatloaf, while I enjoyed the Gunthorp chicken. We shared sweet potato fries - what's not to like about that? All well prepared and delish. Loved my drink - a homemade cucumber infused gin drink - so refreshing. And my hub loved the organic premium vodka. Desserts were fabulous. And the service was great. But the best was the vibe - if I lived in the hood, I'd be here often.
(4)
Haley S.
Had a lovely dinner here with the boyfriend on Thursday. I had the chicken sandwich and he had the burger. Both were really good. Cocktails were fantasic! The dessert (banana cream pie) was the best we've had in a while! Will definitely return.
(4)
Erin J.
A friend of mine took me here for a birthday dinner because she really enjoys the menu. I have to say, I was a little nervous based on some of the reviews here - I have little patience for poor service - but it ended well. We were seated in the back and reviewed the menu for about 5 minutes before a server came to take our drink order. They were out of the bottle of wine my friend had ordered, but it was half-price bottle night, so that was a bonus; she got a different bottle and it was delicious. We ordered the rather interesting-sounding "sweet potato fries with goat cheese fondue" as our starter. Fondue it wasn't - not even close - but I didn't really expect it to be. It was indeed good, it was just a really creamy goat cheese, probably mixed with something else, with herbes de provence (I think) mixed in. It was tasty. I ordered the burger and my friend got the chopped salad. The server seemed distracted and asked me twice what I wanted to order, which was...weird, but okay. He asked how I wanted it done and left. Only 10 minutes later our food was ready and it looked wonderful. Unfortunately, you could bounce my burger down the street, it was so overdone and rubbery. It took awhile to attract the attention of a passing server but my new burger was brought out mere minutes later, and perfect this time. We stayed a little longer, had another drink and left sated and happy. I wouldn't say it's destination dining by any means, but it seems to be a decent place to get some tasty food. It does seem to have a bit of an identity crisis, as others have mentioned; when you walk in it looks like a coffeeshop or a diner, and then in back it's a bar or a restaurant, and then further back still, there's a stage...something for everyone, I guess.
(3)
Nessie V.
Don't really see what the hype is. First, I just wanted a cuppa and a place to sit down while drinking. I wouldn't think this was strange for a coffee shop. But we had to talk to 4 different people before they could figure out what to do with us. We ended up in the section with a waiter and menus and stuff. But if you want to sit down and not run out with your hot beverage, that's your only option apparently. Strange. I got soy chai. Something basic that rarely fails me. I could tell it was from one of those liquid concentrates, which is okay, but they didn't even mix it, and it was mostly syrup at the bottom. Maybe if I got my drink at a diner or something that would make sense, but at a cafe you think they would know their stuff. I'm willing to give these guys another chance, but i'm not holding my breath.
(2)
Shannon M.
Took my mother here for lunch today to see how it compared to the other location. The look of the two places is about the same: wood, wood and more wood, with local artists on all the walls. The host led us through three rooms (each with a huge "Watch your step!" sign and uneven flooring in between) to get to the third (and not final; there was one beyond it) dining area. He was going to seat us at a table where one seat was a huge, deep window seat, but the collective family lumbar issues necessitated a table with more spinal support, so we were seated closer to the bar (and the speakers; music was blaring pretty loudly for so early in the day). We also had a pair of Lincoln Park moms (or nannies) ignoring their young charges next to us as they threw silverware and screamed; finally a man from another table leaned over and went, "SHHH!" to them (right on!) Our waitress was younger than me and was one of those people who kept calling both Mom and me "honey" and "my love," which weirds me out a little bit (I'm okay with old-lady waitresses doing it, like ones old enough to be my grandma, but not if they're younger than I am; we're not even in the South...); however, she was on top of the orders, kept drinks full and did not fade away at the end when we needed to deal with the check, so kudos to her. As a starter we ordered the sweet potato fries with goat cheese "fondue" (basically a cup of melted goat cheese, which tasted a lot better than it sounds). The fries were crunchy and insanely addictive, and the melty cheese was a nice alternative to the sweet accompaniments that often come with sweet potato fries (cinnamon creme fraiche, e.g.) For the meal, Mom had the chicken sandwich with avocado, swiss cheese, tomato and red onion on toasted bread, which she said was very good. She ate half and took half to go. I got the macaroni and cheese, which uses several types of cheese; it was topped with bread crumbs, which tasted not just dry but stale, though the macaroni was wonderfully creamy (I offset it with some pepper and Cholula hot sauce tableside for zest). Prices seem high for lunch; Mom's sandwich was $13 and my macaroni was $12. With the fries and a coffee lunch was almost $40. For two people that's a bit much in my book for a casual place.. An uncommonly good meal, perhaps, but the cost is grounds to quibble.
(3)
Steve M.
I went on a Sunday morning for brunch with my family (9 people) to celebrate my niece's birthday. The waiter took half the orders then walked away without a word, leaving the other half of us to wonder when we'd get the chance to order. Weird, but okay. He came back and we finished ordering. The food arrived on a few different trays, so my girlfriend and I weren't immediately concerned when everyone except the two of us had their plates... ...but 10 minutes later this became something of an issue. When the waiter came back he explained that ours would be out in a few more minutes, and that this was totally his fault - though he remained completely emotionless in his delivery, and I get the sense that he was more sorry about having to be at work than he was about forgetting to put in our order. Okay, guy. This is the sound of your tip shrinking. It takes another 15 minutes for our food to show up. Most of my family have nearly finished eating, but we're hungry so we're still looking forward to eating. Then, after the first few bites, my girlfriend finds a hair in her food. Great. I'm thinking to myself that under better circumstances this might not have been the biggest deal, but these are not better circumstances. We send the plate back and don't ask for it to be replaced. I finish eating and excuse myself to use the restroom. While I'm in there, the waiter brings my niece's slice of birthday cake to the table and I miss singing 'happy birthday' with the rest of my family. Again, this alone wouldn't have been a big deal, but if I was in his position I'd want to make damn sure that nothing else happened to detract from my customers' experience. Absolutely shitty service, no apology, hair in food. I give this place one star for decor and one star for food, which is very good if it doesn't pass the barber shop on its way to your plate. I will not come back here, though I'm not opposed to trying my luck at the Devon location.
(2)
Katherine R.
This was such an amazing restaurant for me and my boyfriend on a Friday night after work. We parked pretty far and walked through a concert line and upon entering Uncommon Ground there was a long bar and I kept looking at the far west back room hoping there would be an open table. The host was a perky and poignant young man who directed us to a far corner table to the north side of another room. The place was crowded with couples and large groups. Sitting by the window in an intimate corner near another couple was awkward and uncomfortable to be so far from the center of the restaurant. I thought our waiter might take forever but he was prompt. I ordered a salad and the dessert menu is delicious gelatos but what I remember most is the large cup of pumpkin spice expresso. This day was a special day because of the delicious food here that night. We also ordered sweet potato fries that were very fresh and soft, yet I like the slight crispy french fries as well here. I wanted to mention this hot melted white chocolate dessert.
(5)
Manhoso C.
We decided on a whim to come here for sunday brunch. It wasnt super crowded, and there were plenty of empty tables. After being seated in the back area, we began to feed my 7month old as we looked thru the menu. After a good amount of time (my son was done with all his food, we all knew what we wanted, menus were closed and we were all looking around) we still were not even approached by the waitstaff. Suprise! We saw people who were seated after us being attended to. At this point I was ready to go but my wife being an old server herself, approached the manager and owner and told them of the situation. By the reaction on their faces, I then wanted to leave. Obviously common ground is meant for a certain group of people which we obviously werent a part of.
(1)
Amy S.
I should have went with my gut and got coffee, but I went with a Chai Tea and it was SO sweet. All I could taste was the vanilla flavoring. However, my friend loved her coffee...I was so envious of her. We also each ordered a small sunshine salad (I think that's the name) and it was delicious. It had a great vinegarette on it, along with sunflower seeds, avocado, cucumbers, green peppers and mixed greens. Very fresh and tasty. I really want to go back to try out some of their other menu items...and a coffee!
(3)
Dima M.
Let me just start by saying that I do not recommend going to this place on days when the Cubs are playing. Don't get me wrong, I'm a die hard Cubs fan, but I am no fan of their drunk and annoying fans. That being said, this place is very lovely. It has a lot of unique dishes, and a menu that is constantly changing. Apparently the menu changes with the seasons, and I love that. I am a big fan of their salads, as they are usually kind of fancy, but not too fancily-priced. The desserts are also worth trying, and usually you'll have enough space as their portions are not "American," i.e., they're not very large. The atmosphere is very laid back and the place is actually quite big with three different dining rooms, so it's quite big. The great thing is that they also have a full bar, so you're not limited on the drinks as you would in other restaurants. Also, sometimes they have live bands in the back room, but usually they're of the "we just left our suburban garage" variety. At least they sound like that. But hey, if you're into that, by all means, sit in the same room as them.
(4)
Mike K.
I thought this place was actually just some fancy-smancy coffee shop which featured above average acoustic guitar players...luckily I was way off. I ended up here twice in one weekend, the first hanging out with some cool kids I worked with while being "non-profit boy". I was only thinking we'd meet up for coffee, maybe whatever snacks they had to offer, but UC offers some great options, and the kids jumped all over it! The prices weren't outrageous so I was able to cover all of our lunch, which always works, plus the kids absolutely loved their sandwiches. I next ended up here later with a friend from Milwaukee who was celebrating her (our) birthday. She said she had never been to a place quite like UC and their drink options were incredible. Pretty cool. Since I work right by this place I think I'll actually start making it my first coffee option, instead of the over-priced trip to Starbucks.
(5)
Kyle C.
Uncommon Ground is my favorite restaurant in Chicago I love everything about Uncommon Ground. The ambiance is great! Winter finds a couple of fireplaces crackling and there are three different rooms including one with a bar. Summer brings back the fantastic outdoor eating area. They display local artists work throughout the year, and on any given night you can ask to be seated in the back to listen to some live music while you dine ($20 minimum per person for these tables isn't difficult to accomplish - Uncommon Ground doesn't qualify as cheap eats, although I wouldn't say they are astronomically expensive either). The menu is fantastic, and I've tried most that they have to offer. As other surveys have pointed out, the Sweet Potato Fries with Goat Cheese Fondue are a stand out - although I never seem to have enough cheese and order an extra helping half way through (which is an additional cost). Also raved about in other reviews, the Pumpkin Ravioli is astonishingly good, and unlike other places where I have ordered ravioli, the portion seems perfect. The best part is, they are very organic minded and buy locally, so everything is tastes fresh! Their menu has a lot of options for vegetarians and meat eaters alike! The drink menu is great too - they have a wonderful selections of tea and coffee, but they are known for their hot chocolates, as they should be! You can have them served to you in a mug or a bowl (that's right, a bowl!), and they even have a good selection of alcohol infused hot chocolate concoctions. Their brunch is also pretty great, and a lot easier to get seated at then Orange down the street. At times they have a decadent nutella stuffed french toast brioche that will make your mouth water. This is a great place for a date, and if you come on Tuesday you can enjoy their half-price bottle of wine night!
(5)
Mark O.
I've only been to Uncommon Ground several times either for brunch or just for coffee. Every time the star has been service. This places hires people who know their stuff, are friendly, attentative, and seem to actually enjoy their jobs! The coffee and food are both very good. However, their cocktail list tries a little too hard to be creative and often fails to be good. Stick with a beer if you're looking for alcohol. My only real complaint is that the atmosphere is just odd. Is it a coffee shop, bar, restaurant, music venue? There's a TV showing college football, but also a fireplace in a loungey area with people sipping Chai and writing in journals. There's a lot of earthy wood and stone, but sorority girls and Cubs fans. Am I in Wrigleyville or some sort of hippie hunting lodge?
(3)
Robin W.
Screw this place... I used to frequent for the serious folk musicians, and the Jeff Buckley, Glen Hansard crowds. I left town for a bit and when I returned they had upgraded to a martini bar, installed a fireplace, and hired a wait staff with that, "$!#K my life" smile on their faces. Everything is expensive...they really lost their soul on this one. Great for a consultant business meeting...or to impress your recent Trixie mistress.
(1)
Nicolas H.
I guess the only reason I hadn't been here before is I thought it was only a coffee shop (and I don't really drink coffee). I have to say, I've definitely been missing out. The food is good, the drinks are even better and the service is friendly. Had it been a little cooler I may have even taken advantage of the outdoor seating. I tried a few different items, the best being the mac and cheese. It was pretty plain and simple, but that's how I like it (and they used good cheese). I also tried the stuffed pepper (with sausage) that came with a delicious homemade red sauce, as well as the grilled shrimp. The sausage in the pepper was pretty damn tasty, i'm just not a huge fan of green peppers, so I avoided that part. The shrimp was good as well, and was served with what appeared to be homemade guacamole which was tasty. I noticed they had some infused liquors atop of the bar, so I had a couple and they were delicious. The ginger whiskey drink was particulary good, just the right amount of ginger, not too overbearing. I also enjoyed their vodka version of an arnold palmer. Their beer selection ain't no joke either, some nice options on tap. Overall an unassuming spot that I will definitely frequent when i'm in the area...
(4)
Bridget H.
I like Uncommon Ground - been many times and the food is always fresh, local, and tasty. They have a good bar selection and some good wine specials. I love the concept and space. The service is solid, but it often food takes a long time for food or drink to be served. It's also a bit pricy for serving size (but, of course, it's mostly local/organic, so I understand and am willing to pay). I'll continue coming to Uncommon Ground. Also: great mac and cheese, meatloaf, and sweet potato fries w/ goat cheese fondu!!
(4)
Sharon S.
The place is a lot bigger than it seems at first. Came here with friends for brunch. I ordered the Winter Scrambler - housemade amish chicken sausage, spinach, leeks, capriole goat cheese. I think everyone else liked their food but I don't think I was a fan of goat cheese. It was just thick and I didn't like the texture. Though I did take it home and when I heated my leftovers back up, I liked it even more than before. Staff seemed super chill and nice. I'd probably give it another try. Nothing on their brunch menu seemed to please my eye though so I'd probably go back during a different part of the day.
(3)
Clint W.
This place blows. Weak food, very unoriginal, would never go back, $19 for fuckin meat loaf? waste of my time and money
(1)
Mindy S.
Local food, casual atmosphere, late night dining and drinks, friendly service, and environmentally conscious (no water at your table unless you ask). Uncommon Ground feels like a bit like a more upscale Pick-Me-Up Cafe (which I also would give 4 stars) and similar to Feast Restaurant. The Farm Burger melted in my mouth, and the Stuffed Portabella Mushroom Sandwich was not disappointing. Their peanut butter cup espresso drink was crazy good as well. They have live music on occasion, and accommodate groups easily in the 3 different dining rooms. A great neighborhood spot for a great meal, at a good price, in a warm atmosphere, serving local food.
(4)
Anna G.
Uncommon ground is magic. It is my favorite coffeeshop-cum-music venue-cum-too-cool-for-me bar-cum-brunch-restaurant in all the land. I loved seeing my musician friend play here with his bluegrass-tango trio, Orange Mighty! The little twinkly lights in the back concert room do way more for atmosphere than strings of twinkly lights should. But I'm a sucker for warm wood and nice acoustics and knowing the band. Brunch is fab, and the weekend wait really isn't that bad. I recently had the whimiscal eggs benedict with asparagus, ramps (which don't *not* taste like grass), mushrooms and a lil' taste of heaven I like to call bearnaise sauce. Such a change up from the usually too-lemony-for-me hollandaise that plays in these entrees! And if you are going the creamy-sauce route ANYWAY, by all means go the whole nine and get one of their 800 calorie mocha latte coffee drinks that cost a million dollars but are served in bowls with four inches of whipped cream to help you feel eight years old again. Not a bad bar either- I'm not much for generic bars, but we went here for my friend Joe Swanberg's movie premiere (LOL- the name of the movie, that earlier part wasn't particularly funny, har-har) and really enjoyed the free apps and accommodating staff. Needless to say, I feel they value the arts, and I value that.
(4)
J M.
I have been looking for a new restaurant to replace my favorite standby in the city where I just relocated from, and Uncommon Ground has officially been elected as the winner tonight. My husband and I were a bit thrown off my the Wrigley location (i.e. loud Cubs fans who tend to drink a bit too much, talk too loud, and take up a lot of sidewalk), but we were pleasantly surprised at how great this restaurant was and will just have to look past the location. We dined al fresco (which was quiet and pleasant despite the fact that a mere block or two away were drunk Cub fans) and both ordered burgers. I ordered the veggie burger and my husband the real McCoy. I'd say this was the best veggie burger I've ever had, which says a lot since I order them frequently and have had them all over the world. I also went with the sweet potato fries and probably enjoyed them a little too much (I'll run an extra mile or two tomorrow). My husband's burger was scrumptious as well considering he finished his in record time and started zeroing in on mine. Love this restaurant. Can't wait to try their other location.
(5)
Not J B.
Fun fact: Part of Andersonville is located in Wrigleyville inside this building or rather, this place doesn't seem like it should be located here but it's nice that ti's here. Anyways, the artichoke-spinach dip is the best I've had anywhere and the menu items are made up of individual ingredients that sound amazing by themselves but put together... B l i s s Bonus cool points for only serving water when it's requested.
(4)
Nicole V.
LOVE the mac & cheese! Whether breakfast or dinner, I always enjoy myself at Uncommon Ground. I've had great experiences with both the service and food. I especially like Tuesday nights because they offer 1/2 price bottles of wine. In addition to dining, many different forms of entertainment are available in the evenings, which makes the overall feel of the space fun and relaxing.
(4)
P S.
My friend John was playing a set in the back room at Uncommon Ground a few weeks ago, so we went to see him and maybe get some warm coffee beverages. The staff was friendly, the warm coffee beverages were fantastic (the spiked hot cider and 'The Devil & Mrs Johnson' in particular) and the tea served in a big pot - I had a lot of warm beverages that night. We ordered the sweet potato fries with warm cheese dip but they weren't that great. They'd been sitting for a while so they weren't very warm, and so I figured it would be a better place for a warm beverage than food. Wrong. Way wrong. Three weeks later, we returned to see the same friend play a longer set. The back room was packed, but as soon as a few girls left we jumped on their seats toute d'suite! First a bowl of fire-red calamari walked past us, then a pyramid of what turned out to be duck, then a dessert... it was all too much. We ordered a small salad for me as well as the meatloaf, and the calamari for the boyfriend. The calamari was, in his words, 'the best calamari' he'd 'ever eaten in' his 'life'. It was fantastic, I will attest. Korean chili - not hot, just amazingly savory and flavorful. The bacon-wrapped meatloaf with sauteed spinach and onions was to die for. It was smoky and flavorful all the way through. The little salad was great too with a lovely light peanuty vinagarette. I was completely impressed, I truly didn't expect Uncommon Ground to have such great food. The service was friendly if not pretty slow, both in back with our server (who had the whole room to himself, fair enough) and up front at the bar where our glasses sat empty longer than they perhaps should have. The bartenders are always quick with drink suggestions though and are friendly. It's a wonderful place on a cold night, a hungry night or a quiet night with a good book and a whiskey-spiked warm beverage.
(5)
Dan R.
I went here for my birthday on the recommendation from a friend. It was soooo good. It's been a long time since I've been to a place that has a wonderful atmosphere, excellent food and super friendly waitstaff. We had a table near the super-cozy fireplace and coffee bar. The coffee bar looks like the kind of place you would get coffee with someone on a first-date kind of experience. I had the "duck-duo." Absolutely delicious and plated in a really fun way. The friends I was with had the meatloaf (it's HUGE and possibly the best meatloaf I've ever tasted), red-pepper stuffed gnocchi (yummola), and the pumpkin ravioli-- which were divine. Literally everyone's meal looked wonderful and tasted even better. I can't wait to go back. It is a little pricey but totally worth it for special occasions. Our server, Brittney, was super friendly and put up with us calling her "Brit" and then "Christina" after we'd had a couple bottles of wine.
(5)
TJ B.
Check out the new Rogers Park local. Much hipper than its Wriggleyville sister. The owners are great people, who care about improving the neighborhood. Beside their converting their own waste vegetable oil to power their cars and the community garden recently installed on the roof, they make a knock out dinners. Great beers...with Matilda(Goose Island) on tap being a big draw. Try their homemade bloody mary, for which they steep their vodka in 7 different vegetables. Food and drink is very overpriced, but they give you such a good dining experience, that you forget you are paying 11 dollars for a glass of wine.
(3)
Rebecca G.
I've played music here a handful of times, and although I enjoy the food and the overall experience, Uncommon Ground has got to be one of the most overrated places I know. The prices are really high. Don't get me wrong; the food is good. I understand if things are organic, that makes for a bigger price tag. It's just that there are few places I know of that charge so much for beer. The music experience, at least for the musician, leaves a lot to be desired. For starters, it's a strictly bring-your-own-audience venue. They stuff you into this little tiny room in the back where no one sits unless they are your friends there to see you. There are only a handful of tables, so at our last show that we played, half of our friends had to go home because there was no where to sit/stand. (Maybe we're just popular.) And the open mic night is also pretty boring these days. I know many of my fellow open mic-ers and myself do not attend UG's open mic anymore because of the current host who is extremely annoying. ************ 6-25-09 I'm reposting because my last experience sucked. I went to see my friends played music there, and they were great. However, my favorite menu item had gone up in price, and the portion had gone significantly down in size (I'm referring to the calamari). I'm taking away a star, you bastards.
(2)
Misse D.
"What are you doing this weekend?" "I'm going to a movie and then to Uncommon Ground for dinner." "Uncommon Ground serves dinner? I thought it was a coffeeshop." Yup. I must have had the conversation a half dozen times. Apparently, no one knows that Uncommon Ground serves dinner. Maybe that is why they gave a $10 gift certificate in the yelp goodie bag? Back to the meal. We were asked if we wanted to hear live music. We declined and sat in the middle room, which is very cozy with a fireplace and large bar. Our waitress brought us some water and menus. While we decided on dinner, she also brought a glass of delicious wine for a mere $8. Famished, I devoured my cheeseburger in about five minutes. It came with a choice of a side, I opted for the salad. It was good enough but nothing extra ordinary. The meal was very reasonable. I would recommend for anyone looking a relaxing meal in a laid back atmosphere.
(4)
Kevin T.
Decent food, locally sourced. Mix of bar, cafe and live events. Great place meet up and hang out. Friendly staff.
(3)
Kim B.
I've been to Uncommon Ground a few times for brunch and I absolutely love their Uncommon Huevos (black bean corn cake, eggs over easy, ancho-chili sauce & chihuahua cheese). They are to die for and well-worth the wait for a table. I've also had their French Toast Duo, and it is tasty! The space has a great laid back feel and warm, cozy sitting area in addition to the usual tables & chairs. I haven't had a chance to check them out for dinner yet, but I really need to. They have live music at night and feature art from local artisans. Their website is really helpful, so make sure to check it out!
(4)
matty z.
What I love about UG: -excellent food (yay chili) -GREAT coffee -great beer selection -nice wine selection -good martini specials What I think could be improved: -if you're crowded, you're crowded. It's not the customer's fault. Just be cool to your patrons! -some items a little overpriced overall, recommend, especially for brunch (fantastic) and calm drinks after work or early evening.
(4)
Kristin R.
Unfortunately I have just discovered this place. Although, considering I have only been in the Chicago area a couple of months now, I guess that is not too bad. Anyway, there are a number of things that makes this place really cool. 1) They are environment friendly! The first Thursday of every month they have an event with live music and they feature a local non profit that sort of fits into their overall scheme. For example, the last time I was there they featured an organization that buys and sells purses, artifacts that have been fairly traded. 2) Along the lines of been green conscious, they have a drink called the "tree-tini". It is made with rain vodka and for every tree-tini sold, rain vodka has agreed to plant a tree. How cool is that?! And you can buy them any time you want, not just on the first Thursdays of the month. The tree-tinis are seasonal so they change it up every quarter. 3) All of their drinks/food are organically grown. I'm not too into being "organic", like I don't spend the extra money to buy organic at the grocery store, but I appreciate those who do. So, thanks Uncommon Ground. 4) They feature live music pretty frequently, so I hear. They definitely feature live music first Thursdays. This past Thursday was a great band (forget their name, ugh) who sang some pretty kick back music. I loved the guy's voice and it helped that he was pleasing to the eye. The second act was Green E: Green Elvis. This guy is a CRACK UP. ( greenelvis.com ). He is an elvis impersonator that uses Elvis' iconic rock status to teach and inspire people to be more environmentally conscious. He does a lot for the local schools and I can only imagine that the kids get a kick outta him. 4) Oh the food...such great comfort food. There are so many things I want to try so I will be coming back here very soon but what I did have was delicious: squash soup and the macaroni and cheese. The soup, fabulous. The mac n' cheese could have used some salt but hey, it's mac n' cheese so I'll like it no matter what. Other dishes on the menu that will surely satisfy the palette: pumpkin raviolis, sweet potato fries, calamari, a collection of gourmet pizzas, the duck quesadillas, to name a few. 5) The cocktails. They have a ton of martinis to choose from. I chose the ginger martini; it was fabulous. My friend Kirsten F. chose a pretty strong one with maker's mark and coffee beans floating atop...not for me but if you like maker's mark and want to get drunk real fast, this may be the drink for you. Oh and don't forget about that tree-tini! The only downside is that the cocktails are definitely on the pricey side. My cocktail and glass of wine each cost me $20. All in all this is a great little place to hang out, get a great cocktail, eat some all-American, top of the line grub and also feel good about giving your business to a restaurant/bar that is looking out for good ol' Mother Nature.
(5)
Karyn K.
I go by Uncommon Ground everyday on my way to work and finally went in. My friend and I were happily surprised with the brunch menu at 1pm on MLK Day. I had the roast turkey sandwich with the AMAZING sweet potato fries. My friend had an omelet, which she enjoyed. A little bit more expensive than a traditional sandwich and omelet, but delicious. Our waitress was a bit off, but she went with the feel of the place. Want to go back sometime when wine will be involved.
(4)
Kathryn M.
I've been wanting to visit Uncommon Ground for years...but somehow never made it there until a week ago. The future husband and I each had a Monday off and decided to fuel up between errands at Uncommon Ground. We were greeted by a very friendly host at the door and were seated in the back section at a table by the windows. Two tables are by the windows and one person gets to sit on the window ledge with comfy pillows. Our waiter was very friendly and joked around with us. We both went with the burger and I had a side salad. All the food is organic, local, and sustainable, which is great. Makes me feel like I'm doing something good for the planet just by eating! Our food was wonderful. The art work is wonderful. The servers are wonderful. Overall, it's just wonderful. Can't wait to go back and try some of the delicious sounding cocktails!
(5)
Barbara D.
I just love the feel when you walk into this place. It has a huge bar smack in the middle and gives the cool atmosphere of a drunken poet's hangout cafe. Their selection of food is so varied...from irish oatmeal to nachos to amish chicken. I also like that they have an outside dining area in the summer. I should go here more often.
(4)
S P.
Deelicious! I love that their menu changes every few weeks, it keeps me wanting to come back and try something new. I've never been disappointed here for breakfast or lunch. I love the mexican inspired hot chocolate! Last time I went, I got the pumpkin ravioli with gorgonzola sauce and sweet potato fries with goat cheese fondue..yum!!
Great food. Portions were small for the price. Left hungry :-(
(4)
Y R.
This is based on a dinner experience I had last night. Starting with the good: The atmosphere was fun...I liked the mix of cafe, restaurant, and live music. I also like the fact that they aim to use fresh local ingredients. The local craft beer selection was also very good. The Bad: The food was really not prepared well. My husband ordered the crispy chicken and it was not seasoned at all. The chicken was also overcooked, so it was just a pile of chewy flavorless meat. Luckily the sides that came with the dish had some flavor. I got the pork loin, and though it was well-seasoned, it had the same issue of being overcooked and tough. I couldn't finish it. The Worst: I don't know what exactly happened, but both of us fell really sick afterwards. We both had horrible stomach pains and I got so bad that I threw up my whole dinner. Probably never going back again for dinner...maybe for coffee or beer+live music.
(2)
Ellen B.
Brunch all the way here. I've found their dinners lacking, but brunch is amazing. And their brunch cocktails are wonderful. Coffee is great, though it takes a bit. Service is hit or miss too. But in the summer when their patio is open, can't be beat for brunch. It's just too delicious.
(4)
Drew S.
Once you get over the schizophrenia of this establishment you may well learn to love it. The food is generally pretty solid and occasionally interesting(the good kind), both the bar and normal styles. I think I rather like this place- especially now that I've tried their duck confit quesadillas- they are amazing. The first room has a regular bar and tables that may or may not be bar or restaurant seating- I don't think it matters but it's a little confusing. There is original artwork on the walls that you can buy if you'd rather get rid of the couple hundred bucks weighing your man-purse down. The second room is a coffee shop with baristas sporting ironic mustaches. There is also a fire. The back room is for eating and live music, usually pretty decent acoustic acts. Despite its proximity to Wrigley Field the d-bag factor runs pretty low, or maybe the d-bags get held up in the front by the bar and never find out there's a live band they could unironically be shouting "freebird!" at. Also, people should go back and see the bands, it's totally empty back there sometimes and packed everywhere else- the groups are always solid even if they're not your cup of tea.
(4)
Yan P.
It's a rare thing to find a cafe/restaurant that gets everything right: free wifi? check. Great food? check. Their food menu actually borders on innovative, and it is quite tasty contemporary american fare. Coffee? yes. Beer? A great selection of craft beers. Outlets and comfortable couches to work on, and a restaurant section if you want to dine in. Oh, and they have live music. So why only four stars and not five? Price. The one thing stopping this from being my daily office when I work from home is that I'd probably be paying 20-30 bucks a day while working here, when I can get away with a ten dollar tab at Kafein. I can see paying the dinner prices for the great food they provide. But if you want me to work there all day and eat lunch and snacks, try lowering your prices by a couple dollars. The air of upscale exclusivity works well for a dinner but probably doesn't do wonders for the business during the daytime when a more casual and less pricy atmosphere is called for.
(4)
Kunal B.
Wow, I spent so much money here. But I'd say it is worth it. They have a small beer selection, but definitely some interesting martinis. The food here is fantastic, but you have to go with the specials or the big plates. I'd say, coming here knowing you are going to spend AT LEAST $30 is the best way to come prepared. There are a lot of good things to try, so this is not a place I can go, hold back, and be happy. I will give them credit for finding the ONE beer in the world that I do not like, the Left-Handed Milk Stout. Yes, that's the name, and that's why I tried. It tasted like someone poured milk into beer, which very well may be the case, but it was hard to choke down. I may have to give it another try. A very cool environment with 3 separate rooms, the bar area in the front, the middle bar/coffee/kitchen area, and the back room where the music is. Another nice thing is, aside from the music, the seating is very open, so they can't pack the restaurant with too many people. One time there was a baby there, and that ruined the mood, but that is what babies often tend to do. Can't blame them, they are babies. My first meal there was the Grilled Buffalo Ribeye, and the Samuel Smith organic lager. The potatoes are so good. They put some magic sauce which I think is made from gold, sugar, and cocaine. It is so good. Save half the potatoes and eat them next time you come home from the bar and you are drunk. You will probably punch your roommate in the face because they are so good. That's what I did.
(4)
Mary C.
Was very turned off by this place. Came with a midsized group and was told we couldn't have a table unless we were all ordering dinner. We all were going to order drinks and they didn't even care to hear it. We were forced to sit at the bar, which was extremely awkward when you're trying to do a table read with a bunch of actors. Thanks for being so accommodating!
(1)
Claire A.
I love Uncommon Ground. Fireplaces, couches, wine and drinks, live music, friendly servers (though usually very busy), etc. Pumpkin ravioli = amazing deliciousness. I enjoy the aspect of their fresh, seasonal menu. However, I've seen plates come out that don't have too much on them for the price they're asking. But I'm broke, so maybe that's just me. Fun ambience, relaxing, not always quiet, and you can always find something appealing on the menu because it changes.
(4)
Dallas F.
It should be noted that this review is based off of two items on the menu. Those items being macaroni and cheese and the passion fruit lemonade. I am very discriminating when it comes to mac and cheese because I like to think I invented it. Uncommon Ground has some damn good macaroni and cheese. Its downright exceptional. If you take me here, be warned that if you order their mac and cheese I will probably eat off your plate. Smacking my hand doesn't work to stop me. Now on to the lemonade. I am slightly addicted to passion fruit flavored things. They have passion fruit lemonade! It's delish! I am really looking forward to the opening of the one on Devon Ave.
(4)
Jon W.
Went there for Sunday Brunch, Amazingly good!!!! Their distinct, organic Bloody Mary's are only $5 and very very tasty. I had their Chilaquiles, wow, they are very satisfying and they had just right amount of heat. Good move on my part. Also, one of us had their Granola Pancakes, WOW. Were those amazing, huge! and very very very good. I highly recommend making reservations for this time, as it is a popular place.
(4)
Jill S.
This was a spectacular spot for brunch. My bf and I went and have only positive things to say about the place. We contemplated getting fun drinks (they had many) but ended up with just mimosas. He ordered the french toast which was in a raspberry sauce served with bananas and macadamia nuts. I'm surprised he shared a bite, but very glad he did. However, I did like my dish loads more! I got the chilaquiles and fell in love. I am a mexican food fiend, and uncommon ground did not disappoint. There was plenty to share too and came with potatoes which were delicious. I cannot wait to go back and I would definitely call this a go-to brunch spot! Cool decor, and fast service.
(4)
Lauren S.
I really like this place a lot. I wish I remembered it more when my fiance and I are trying to think if places to go. I've never had a bad experience. The food is always wonderful. Get the sweet potato fries to share with your party, so good. I love the atmosphere so much. Its so cute. I haven't gotten to sit outside yet. I look forward to summer so I can change that!
(5)
Tammy Q.
I've seen this place a couple of times and have always heard that they had great brunch. However, I wasn't here for brunch for my Uncommon Ground experience. Instead, I came here for lunch one day. Upon entering, I seriously thought I would hate the "wholesomeness" of the place. Since I wanted to eat healthy that day, I decided on the veggie burger with sweet potato fries -- alright not that healthy. Service was pretty fast and the staff were way friendly. After the first bite of my veggie burger, I was in love. I could taste the cheese, grains and bits of mushroom ooze out of that sucker. It was a super flavorful burger. Who needs cow when you've got rice!
(4)
James C.
I always passed this place thinking it was a coffee house. It's huge with endless rooms! The aroma walking to my table alone was almost enough for a food coma! At first the menu looked a wee bit pricey. When you begin to read what is on it, those thoughts flutter out of your head. I had the sweet potato and short rib hash. Two eggs sat on top of this masterpiece and my mouth ignored conversation while I had one of the best, unique food in awhile! I am ready to go back and try some more creations!
(4)
James D.
I've eaten here many times, and I've never had a bad meal. It is consistently a good experience. My most recent visit was Sunday brunch, and of course it didn't dissappoint. Delicious!
(5)
Victoria S.
The first two times I came here I loved it (which is why I'm giving 3 stars instead of 1)- the salads and sweet potato fries were made with quality ingredients and large portions. The third time I came left much to be desired. Our waiter could not have been worse- he was actually rude and generally a bit ignorant about how waiters are supposed to treat their customers. He asked us to move half way through dinner --unless we wanted to pay the "cover charge" to sit in the back room. Why didn't they tell us about that when we were first seated? And couldn't you waive the cover in this instance since we didn't care to see the live music anyway and just came for dinner but were already seated? It seemed crazy to make us move. The salad I got was almost all lettuce, and I had to search to find other ingredients. Definitely was a disappointment considering I wanted to really like this place and make it a regular spot.
(3)
Jasmine J.
Dinner at Uncommon Ground tonight was great! We split the sweet potato fries for our first course and they were the best I've ever had. I chose the lettuce wrap appetizer for my entree and my beau had the chicken sandwich. I LOVED the wraps. I would eat them everyday if they didn't make my breath so damn bad. My beau felt equally pleased with his sandwich. The service was great, too. We'll be back.
(5)
Brooke R.
One of my favorites in our neighborhood! I could eat the calamari every day of my life. Great for dinner and for brunch and they have great drinks, too. I love to go here on a Saturday morning and get a latte and some breakfast or go here on a cold Chicago night and sit by the fire and have a good drink.
(5)
Gina M.
The. Best. Bloody. Marys. in the City!!! I do not throw this comment around lightly since I consider myself a bloody mary expert. The vodka is soaked in garlic or something like that to add that extra amazement. I went here for brunch a few Sundays ago and i still cant stop talking about it! The french press coffee! The organic food! The friendly waitstaff! If I could eat every meal from their ever-changing menu I would. I will be back again (and again)!
(5)
Vanessa P.
This place knows how to do brunch correctly. There are a bevy of options to suit both sweet and savory tastebuds. I had the uncommon breakfast melt and I think my favorite part was the onion black bread. It was absolutely delicious. My friend had the chilaquiles and we split the granola pancakes, which had just the right amount of granola in it. The server was great and even apologized when he thought he was ignoring us (he wasn't). I would definitely be back.
(4)
Jackie S.
Pros- Food, coffee and beer are pretty good. Cons- Totally overpriced and most of the servers are emotionless.
(2)
Carlo G.
This place is uncommonly good. The specialty mixed drinks are always a unique blend of ingredients and certifiably delicious. I had a "tom waits for no man" on a recent trip, it was so good, I had it again. The food is relatively good, the "cumin chorizo stuffed chicken", is highly recommended. Avoid the pizzas altogether. Great place to run in a grab a coffee, too. Also, a nice compromise for the dinner party of herbivore meets carnivore. Reservations are recommended and hard to come by on weekends, walk in early and try to nab a table before dinner rush.
(4)
Wade F.
On a cold morning the huge caffeinated drink served in the equivalent of a soup bowl was wonderful, Semi-interested staff and a bit on the high side of price brings it down a bit. On the way out the manager made sure to be pleasant which was a nice touch.
(3)
Drea C.
If you want to go someplace where the inside feels like the outside, then this is it! When I walked into the bathroom, I thought I accidentally opened a secret door to the rainforest. Trippy. On Mondays all their drafts are four buckaroos. Which is purty sweet considering all their tappers are high class. Weissy dicey. HOWEVER, if you go here for the open mic night be prepared to sit awkwardly for a good two hours. Their "Listening Room" is almost like a creepy version of storytime. Everyone sits in a circle, surrounding the performer and no one is allowed to speak. I think people literally glared at me when I tried to sip my beer... I don't know. Maybe I'm just a paranoid freak but I think open mics THIS intense should not be held at a bohemian-esque, ultra hip cafe/ bar. It only made this place seem weird and less urban. I didn't know there were people that took themselves this seriously. I would hate to see a poetry reading here. I'd probably die from holding my breath for so long. But really... if you like the woods, you'll totally dig the decor. If you like feeling comfortable and being able to move around and stuff, you will probably want to kill yourself.
(3)
C Y.
A must when stopping into Chicago. What's better than huge cups of quality latte and delicious food? And specialty lattes with Jim Bean? Hook a sister up. Great ambiance, indie-rock feeling. One of my favorite places to go when I'm in the windy city.
(5)
Adam P.
One of my favorite places, for either breakfast or dinner. The breakfasts are all really interesting, but if you're going for the simple omelette, or plain pancakes, then go elsewhere. If you're looking for your pancakes to have wheat germ and maybe a berry topping that you've never heard of, then Uncommon Ground is your place. I for one like a little variety in my breakfast, in my opinion I could make myself some plain pancakes, bring on the berry that I can't even pronounce! For a dish that can't be beat, I think the breakfast burrito is one of the best I've ever had. It's not just eggs and salsa in a tortilla, it has peppers, chicken and a great sauce. The dinners are just as interesting and usually as good. For a side dish be sure to order the sweet potato fries, which were not on the menu before, but could be ordered if you asked for them. The reviews that state it is a little expensive are correct, but in my opinion it is worht it. Oh yeah, and if you're into health conscious food, most of the dishes are organic. This will be the second review that I've written this week saying that a trip to the restaraunt is not complete without a trip to the bathroom, but it is true here too. The bathrooms are unisex, so don't worry if you are waiting and someone of the opposite sex comes out, this is normal. Once you get in the bathroom, the dreary Chicago winter will leave you far behind, and you will enter a wonderful Chicago fall day. Don't believe me, try it out for yourself!
(5)
Michelle L.
This is my go-to, fancy Sunday breakfast location. However, I go when I have time and a few extra bucks in my pocket. The wait can be a little long because the staff doesn't rush you like a typical diner breakfast spot and there are lots of families (i.e. strollers taking up space where you could be sitting). I love their coffee and Red Hen bread...and the menu makes you feel like you are eating healthy. I haven't been for drinks but I'm waiting for the Devon Ave location to open up!
(4)
Janis W.
I thought the prices were good. My tea was piping hot and stayed hot throughout the time it took me to finish off the pot. This is major! Our waiter was brusque and certainly wished he was somewhere else. We sat near the fireplace on a cold snowy night, but it wasn't turned on. So we weren't as comfy- cozy as we could've been if we'd had a nice waiter and a roaring fire.
(2)
Rebecca H.
Uncommon Ground has some of the best brunch in the city, and with such a welcoming comfortable atmosphere, who wouldn't go there. even though its a big space, it still somehow manages to be very cozy. the portions of the food are generous which is great because too many restaurants are going foodie-style and giving you the tiniest portions on the hugest plates. its a good value here too, its not super cheap but the quality of what you are getting is miles above the price. this place gets six stars because they have a fireplace, and at this time of year its a no brainer to hit this spot.
(5)
Char Y.
We were hungrily driving and saw this place on Clark St. There was no wait on a weekday afternoon, and we were seated immediately. Our waitress was super friendly & helpful with the menu, and we ordered the sweet potato fries, hamburger, and pizza. Everything was flavorful and fresh, and I honestly couldn't stop eating! The pizza was PAPER THIN with lots of cheese. I also appreciated the fact that the restaurant serves local ingredients from local farmers. Localvores!
(4)
hapa l.
I loved the the millman burger which is made wtih half pound angus beef, nueske peppercorn bacon, boursin cheese & piquillo peppers! The burger is HUGE but I split it with a friend. I also got the Sunshine salad with organic veggies and a warm rhubarb tart with goat cheese vanilla gelato. We sat outside and it was very relaxing.
(4)
Kate M.
Uncommon Ground has all the right elements - from the cozy atmosphere, the attentive service, and delicious sustainable food options. I went there for a small birthday party, but walked in and loved the shape of the bar and the cozy fireplace sitting area - I would for sure come back and sit in either of those two areas. The service was prompt and attentive and had great recommendations to make regarding the specials and food selections. It was great to go to a restaurant where local, sustainable food is the focus - without being pretentious or having a strange selection of those foods. The drinks were great, $6 martinis on Thursdays, and the wine and beer list was also creative and fun with many great options to choose from. The food was delicious and creative - salads, appetizers, and entrees. We split the appetizer veg roll with this creative cheddar sauce - very inventive and delish. Next, the sunrise salad which was so fresh, crisp and the sunflower seeds were a great added crunch. My entree and treat of the evening was the pumpkin ravioli - WOW. It was savory, sweet and tart experience that my whole table wowed over. It was rich between the pasta (very tender pasta, well made) and the pumpkin and cheeses (blue and parm) - but the overall taste was incredible punctuated by the pecans. Just goes to show, even at an organic, sustainable driven restaurant - you can still indulge!! The chocolate crème brule was a little intense even for a dessert lover - I would recommend the inventive s'mores which was out of this world. Overall, a great experience that I would go back to and bring some more friends and family to enjoy!
(4)
Alexander F.
Nothing in the ambiance of this place, from the loud patrons to the hippie waiter, hints at the surprisingly high the quality of their food. Everything my date and I got was absolutely delicious, and the presentation was impeccable. They even have The Bitter End Pale Ale on tap.
(4)
Chicago A.
Wow. My husband and I had been craving this place for a couple of weeks and we went on St. Patricks day and ordered their special....a corned beef eggs benedict. Gross. It tasted like they threw some cabbage and shredded beef in boiling water, drained the water, and put it on top of some bread. No taste at all. I'm just glad that we shared and didn't have to waste. I had an iced coffee drink that was pretty good. Service was fine.
(2)
Chris C.
I repeatedly return to Uncommon Ground for all meals because it has always been consistently delicious. There is always something new and adventurous on the menu and their drink selection--from coffees and teas to alcohol--is fantastic. It is slightly pricey, but the extra cost is definitely worth the high end ingredients and superb taste. I highly recommend this restaurant.
(4)
Jennifer L.
If I was writing this review based on my first visit, I'd give Uncommon Ground four stars. Unfortunately for them, I'm writing this based on my last visit. I came to UG specifically to see one of my favorite singer/songwriters perform. Now, ask yourself - if you were going to see a singer in a coffeshop, would you think to make reservations? Didn't think so. Unfortunately, UG is more concerned with turning over tables than they are with being a venue for live music, so the only people who get to sit in the little music room are patrons with dinner reservations. This is bad for a) the performers. At the show I attended, the singer actually had to ask the audience to stop talking over her performance. She shouldn't have to do that. A little bit of talking is ok. A lot is rude. b) the fans, since they can't sit and might not even be allowed to stand due to limited standing room and the Draconian hostess c) the diners who aren't fans. They probably didn't like being shushed, and chances are they wanted to be in a quieter room where they could talk over dinner. So despite enjoying a good coffee drink on my first visit, Uncommon Ground won't be getting my business any time soon. It's an awful place to see a show.
I haven't been here in a couple of years. But the two times that I got salad there they were good salads. And I eat a lot of vegetables. The reason it gets 5 stars is because if someone asks you, "do you wanna go to brunch?", and the idea of eating some variation of green eggs and ham in the morning causes some anxiety, you can go to Uncommon Ground. Because that way the green eggs and ham-liking person will be happy, and you also have several items to choose from. I know I ordered a salad here once at maybe 10:30am and no one looked at me funny. If your feeling naughty, you can even sneak a bite of your friends green eggs and ham while they are waiting in line for the bathroom. (Small bathroom..nbd...its not a sporting event.)
(5)
Julia W.
I'm a fan of Uncommon Ground. I went on a Monday night a week ago & it was fantastic as usual. I had the special gnocchi with a corn puree sauce. Sounds weird, I know but it was INSANE! So good! The salmon appetizer was great, as is the spicy chili calamari. It's probably a good and bad thing that the menu always changes. I like it but I am also a creature of habit & like to get the same thing over & over if it's something I like. Our waiter was attentive, nice, and descriptive... He tolerated all of my questions...
(5)
Ryan C.
I've eaten here a few times. I originally had thought the staff was somewhat unfriendly unless I had a lip ring or a indy band t-shirt. Turns-out the staff is very friendly, just a little on the strange side, that's all. For example, one of the first times I had eaten at Uncommon Ground, we had an awkward exchange with our waiter. When we asked how his day was going, he paused, then cracked his knuckles and said "Phenomenal!" in a low voice. Ok. I quickly forgot about that weirdo when I got my food. The Millman burger is quite possibly one of the best burgers I've ever had. Try it. I also like the whole wheat pancakes. I'm not much of a breakfast person, so I can't really experience Uncommon Ground to the fullest, but overall the food I've had is very good. I would consider fancy comfort food. Couple things to be cautious of...menu is a little pricey, but not bad. And there are always kids/families. You would think this place is located on Southport. Overall, good experience.
(4)
B J.
This is a very nice place near Wrigley Field. Good food and great service. A GREEN restaurant which uses locally grown! Nice environment to relax. the sweet potato fries were great as was the gnocchi , and the potato cooked in duck fat! Nice!
(5)
Jason P.
Nothing special. Decided to stop in here on a Saturday afternoon and it was busy but not super crowded. You can get the same type of coffee from any other place in Chicago, so it's not like the menu is super inventive. The cool art work on the walls adds a different dimension to Uncommon Ground that you won't find anywhere else. We sat in the back area, and it was less than desirable. It would of been better had we sat in the front (i think). Will give it another fair chance though.
(3)
Arlene A.
I've just finished the UG version of Spinach Florentine, and I must say it was expertly done. The black bread on the bottom was perfectly toasted, and tasty. Eggs done with the yolks perfectly dippable. Bacon crispy, but not too. My server was awesome, he was pretty busy on the porch and inside, but didn't miss a beat. Gave great instruction on the press pot. Definitely will be back.
(3)
Danielle R.
Everything I've tried here has been really good from breakfast to dinner, coffee to alcohol. The prices are a bit high but I like knowing that the quality of everything is high as well. Would definitely recommend to others.
(5)
Craig R.
I went to uncommon ground for the first time today, a Sunday afternoon, for an early dinner. It's in a convienent location, super nice space, and friendly wait staff. I had the pumpkin ravioli which was excellent. The salads also looked great, and the artichoke and goat cheese appetizer was good too. The waittress did forget my small salad though, but everything else was so good I can't hold it against them. I'm super excited to make this a place I visit regularly.
(4)
Jennifer D.
Pretty sure I died and went to foodie heaven. Everything I had here was excellent, all local and organic, the staff were friendly and accommodating, and the atmosphere is charming and warm. Best meal I've had out in a long time!
(5)
Julie H.
Food? good Service? alright Garnishes on my Bloody Mary? MOLDY!!! Let me explain... my big, tasty Bloody Mary arrived with a colorful skewer of garnishes, as all Bloody Marys should. There was a cool-colored cucumber; and then some bright, festive bell peppers in red, yellow, and green - topped off in blue and white fur! Now I know its not really part of the meal, but who doesn't love to snack on garnishes whilst drinking a Bloody? And what are the moldy garnishes saying about the overall quality control of the rest of the place? 1-800-NERVOUS. I think what troubles me the most is the number of people that handled the moldy peppers before they were served to me... theres the person that selects the peppers, washes the peppers, slices the peppers, skewers the peppers, and lastly the bartender that selects the skewer, places it atop my drink, and serves me said drink. Someone had to notice that mold, people! Shame on you, Uncommon Ground. Shame. UPDATE: I was in Wrigleyville last weekend and decided to try Uncommon Ground for brunch again. It was a gorgeous day and they were happy to seat us outside (with dog in tow). I even brought my parents and decided not to mention to them what happened last time. The food was fresh and delicious, no mold in site (well, I didn't order a Bloody Mary). I had a chopped salad, served just the way I like it (finely chopped, of course). Congrats, Uncommon Ground - you just earned yourself another star from me. And I will happily remove you from my "Hatorade" list.
(3)
Katie K.
I went here last night for my first time to see my friends band play. It was definitely nicer than I was expecting but as soon as we walked in, we were extremely disappointed by the service. The host was friendly but had no idea what he was doing. He had to ask his manager multiple times if they could seat my boyfriend and I in the back room where the music was twice and never communicated to us what the issue was. While we were waiting (confused) we grabbed a drink at the bar. The bartender was friendly but not very accomodating when asked for recommendations (fancier beers here, no bud lights). Finally the manager came over to tell us we could try to sit in the back room with the music. When we asked what time the bands were playing- he had literally no idea of the band names or time. The place wasn't busy, it was a Tuesday night, and he had no idea what was going on in his own restaraunt. And seemed appauled we would even ask him. Once we sat down, our server was decent. We ordered a bottle of wine (1/2 off bottles on Tuesdays) and then pretty much left us alone after that. Had she checked back on us after she served the wine, I probably would have ordered food but she didn't check back until our bottle was almost gone so I did not order anything else. Overall, the ambiance was good but the staff was less than mediocre. Everyone seemed hurried, annoyed and generally unhappy to be there. I get it, work can suck but you have to learn how to fake a smile! The food looked good so I MIGHT try it one more time for. Overall, they really left a bad taste in my mouth.
(2)
Emily Y.
Bleh. Food: 4 stars. Service: 1 to 5 stars depending, usually 1. Price: OUTRAGEOUS (esp when they pair it with 1-star service) Dependability: 0 stars My discontent has turned to apathy. This is the place that used to be and could've been but just isn't.
(2)
Dawn L.
Uncommon Ground is a stalwart in the folk and singer-songwriter scene. Before I lived in Chicago, I used to play here (and the Heartland Cafe) as a standard stop in tours--now that I live here, I perform at the cafe every few months. They really support live music, and it shows. Performers play for tips, so please tip your musicians! This is the only way we get paid. (Along those lines--most of the time when you see a tip jar next to a musician, it's probably the only way he's being paid. Most people don't realize this and assume the cafe/restaurant/bar is chipping in--they probably aren't. Waiters and bartenders almost always make much more than the performers.) The food's a little expensive, but it's good (the staff will tend to agree with this assessment). Try the duck quesadillas for a less expensive dinner (it's listed as an appetizer). Although the hot chocolate has apparently received all kinds of kudos from Chicago press, I'm not terribly impressed--there's not enough chocolate in the hot chocolate. (You'll have to keep in mind though that I've never yet had satisfactory hot chocolate at a restaurant after I discovered Valrhona cocoa. Less chocolate-obsessed people will be fine.)
(5)
Molly R.
We stopped in for lunch last week and the food was incredible! I ordered the Grown up Grilled Cheese, a delicious warm sandwich of layered goodness. It was a little pricey for just a sandwich, but the ingredients are unique and fresh, and it came with an overflowing heap of crisp greens. The small salads were piled high with fresh ingredients and definitely enough food to suffice as an entire lunch on it's own. The sweet potato fries were perfectly crisped and came with an amazing goat cheese dipping sauce. The service was great and the restaurant was bright, sunny and inviting. Surprisingly there were a lot of children there during the day (they have a very kid-friendly lunch menu), but they seated us adults far enough away that we barely noticed. All in all, a fantastic and hearty lunch spot that will leave you feeling full for the rest of the day (in a good way, no greasy-post-lunch-guilt). It's little on the pricey side, but by no means expensive.
(5)
Desiree K.
Common: Cheese fries. Uncommon: Sweet potato fries with goat cheese fondue. Common: Tortilla chips with artichoke dip. Uncommon: A Mediterranean Trio of herbed toasted pita with fresh baba ganoush, mint tsasiki and hummus. Common: Shrimp cocktail. Uncommon: Tropical cerviche with fresh, citrused shrimp and scallops, topped off with slices of avocado. At Uncommon Ground, it's not usual that you find stuff that's everyday on the menu. You don't just drop in for a burger; you get a Millman burger that's a half pound Angus beef, nueske peppercorn bacon, boursin cheese and picollo peppers. Mac and cheese like Mom made? How about mac and cheese for nerds, like butterkase, aged white cheddar and gruyere fresh from Prairie Farms. Fact is, Uncommon Ground was organic and farmer-friendly way before many restaurants in town were, and all that done well makes for a popular neighbourhood spot in Wrigleyville. Even though it's comfort food that might be a notch above what Mom made, it still feels like home stepping in, what with seasoned in leather couches and armchairs, an antique pot-bellied stove and wooden panelling all around. The drinks list is extensive, if you plan on staying over, and live music featuring folkies from all over the city is a nice complement. It may be a little pricey for simply dropping in for a meal, but those dollars go a long way down the organic road of sustainability.
(4)
Angela K.
Loved the decorations and the atmosphere. The baked organic spinach & goat cheese dip was delicious! I want to go back and try the other healthy and seasonal dishes.
(4)
Sarah C.
This location is much better than the one on Devon....we've never had issues with servers, cold food coming out to us, or anything else of note. The food is always good-- Uncommon BLT is a must!-- and, in general, the crowds are decent. I will say that location is keeping them from the 5th star-- it's often incredibly loud on the patio because of Cubs traffic in the summer.
(4)
Kristen L.
We were warmly freeted and shown to our table. We stared with the steamed mussels which were pretty tastyThe pumpkin ravioli in the bown sugar cream sauce with toasetd walnuts and topped with gorgonzola is out of control! I am so glad I had it, in fact, I want more! I can see mant dreams about it in my furture. Lol. For dessert we had the gelato trio...really good. Salt Peanut was awesome!
(4)
Amanda O.
The food here is a little pricy, but it's great! This coffee shop gone restaurant offers some pretty interesting dishes. All the food is organic there, which I like. My only complaint is atmosphere. I was there for lunch the other day, and ended up sitting by a table to screaming kids. I suffered through my food while I watched the two (obviously rich) mothers completely ignore the fact that their children were bothering everyone! I guess they gave the nanny the day off. Anyway, the best part of going there is the great service. Everyone there is very knowledgeable and attentive to your needs. I will go back, but not until school is back in!
(4)
Robyn N.
What an awesome coffee shop! The atmosphere is inviting and cozy with plush couches surrounding the fireplace in the front of the bar. The food is fantastic along with the service...definitely stop in and check it out!
(4)
Kristin A.
Super cute place that adds a little variety to a typical coffee shop. Really good menu and cozy feel. Also a late night bar. Who would have thunk it? Warning, sometimes there's a wait for a table since the place is so small.
(4)
Dave A.
Service was good and the food is okay. The food is very pricey for what you get though and it's not a great restaurant. Probably a good place to hang out and chill for us northsiders when we want to feel artistic, but wouldn't do a meal there again.
(3)
Dave S.
I wish I had the opportunity to try some food here! I went there with a few friends to see Radio Hour perform and get a coffee. The Vanilla lattes were done perfectly and at a good drinking temperature. I was watching the waitreses bring out the food and it really made me hungry because everything looked and smelled so good. The only complaint was that the hostess was sort of on the rude side. The next time I am here I will be eating!
(4)
Sarah S.
As a newbie to Chicago, tonight was my first night visiting Uncommon Ground. It had a lot of build up, and I was excited, which is maybe why I feel let down. I went for the music, which was excellent, but the wait staff were annoyed at us, and extremely unhelpful. I was not sure where the music was, or if it had even started, and they seated us at a table after I shared that I was looking for the music. I then felt compelled to order. The prices for food are way higher than my grad student/substitute ESL teacher salary, so I ordered hot chocolate and a desert. Amazing hot chocolate, dry cake for desert... let down. So, then our waiter was annoyed that we were leaving the table to go to the music, which we tried to get to in the beginning. I think I need to be less small town and just assert myself to begin with, but the staff did not make this easy. I give the staff a two star rating, because they were rude, and the music and vibe of the back room a 4 1/2 star rating, so I average out at three. Next time, I'll be assertive and ignore the crabby people.
(3)
alan l.
should not even get one star. went last night before the cubs second playoff choke job to the dodgers. two of us had a 7 o'clock res and were actually seated about 10 minutes early. the waitress promptly took our order ,a burger and a grilled chicken sandwich, and that's when time stood still. several times our waitress and others came to tell us our order was coming. at 8 o'clock, over an hour later, we called it quits and left for the game. we were billed for the one drink we each had. hey, if you can't serve that many people don't seat them! the owners and management need to get a clue.
(1)
Lisa D.
I really wanted to like Uncommon Ground. I had been there once - several years ago - when it was still small and intimate. It has definitely changed for the worse. We waited forever for our food and when the runner brought it, mine was wrong. I had ordered a cup of chili and a apple-walnut-bleu cheese salad with goat cheese instead of bleu. However, he brought me a cup of some other kind of soup and the salad with no walnuts and with bleu cheese on it. I couldn't explain the error because it was not our waitress who brought it out. After 5 minutes of waiting for her, I had to ask the hostess to find her. She took it away with an insincere apology. My replacement soup and salad took another ten minutes - altogether almost 45 minutes for the simplest meal on the menu! No real apologies were made and to top it all off, the food was not good at all. My boyfriend had something more adventurous, and he loved it. So, I'll give them that. But it would take a lot just to get me back in the door to give it another try...
(1)
cb b.
it was a while before i went here - although i had heard about it from many people. they just expanded there place to include more tables and a huge bar. they is seating of comfy leather furniture in the front for a great group gathering space as well as a great menu.
(3)
Lauren K.
Gorgeous patio and friendly service. I cannot comment on the food since I arrived late to brunch and missed the eating part. Hate when that happens. Ambiance is rustic and wooden. It fits the farm to table pattern of the tests. There is a ton of out door seating in which to sit and chill, great Irish coffee and home made iced tea. Will definitely be back, but unsure when.
(4)
Angie K.
Brought my vegetarian sis to UC for Mother's Day brunch because I'm awesome. She's extremely easy to please because she loved the food while I thought it could've used work. She had the uncommon huevos and I had the chilaquiles. I had to drown my food in salsa and added so much salt/pepper. This thing was so bland. Idk if my Hispanic cooking has just altered my taste buds that I can't handle bland white people food, but I wasn't wowed with their brunch. Service was ok, slightly pushy. I know it was Mother's Day and all but I had a reso. Let me be. With the countless brunch options, UC's is towards the bottom of my list.
(2)
Ashley J.
Two years ago this was a 4/5 star place. Neighborhood vibe, nice music & live music events, and most importantly a lovely menu that featured lots of light, healthy, seasonal, dare I say "Californian" style dishes that featured fresh, delicious & flavorful veg & protein options. What happened?? Pathetic meals here, twice in a row, we're done with this scam that has destroyed the amazing roots this establishment was built on. Everything was underwhelming, but let's focus on the biggest joke on the menu- the turkey burger. $16 buys you a small, dry, unseasoned patty slapped on a bun with a couple pieces of lettuce, onion & a pickle. No sauce of any sort. Would you like to add an exotic accoutrement such as tomato, cheese or bacon? $2 EACH. We sprung for the tomato, expecting for $2 we'd be getting a one inch slice of a gorgeous heirloom tomato or something. Nope, two slices of anemic subway-quality tomato, one of which was the end piece and mostly skin. We begged for some hot sauce and drenched the sad thing til it was barely edible. For $18!!!! Also: the sunshine salad used to be a lovely mix of at least 8 different seasonal fresh raw veg tossed in a nice light vinaigrette with sunflower seeds. Now it's 80% romaine lettuce with a handful of bell pepper, mushrooms, & tomato tossed in. I think that was $12. Pathetic. We really loved this place but something has gone horribly wrong there and it's time to let it go. Too bad, what it used to be was a great dining option in the neighborhood.
(2)
Chris H.
I used to be a regular here when I lived in the neighborhood and loved this place. I moved away about 5 years ago and haven't been back much since. I decided to drop in before a cubs game to see how things were going... Well, not very well. I ordered the Crispy Chicken over Summer Succotash. My succotash was composed of Brussels sprouts and artichokes in a watery broth. I really don't equate either of those with summer veggies. I brought it up to the waitress twice. Neither time did she apologize, and on my second inquiry she responded with a smarmy remark "That's what makes it Uncommon." WTF? I don't have an issue so much with the food, but make the menu reflective of the offering and for the love of god have better customer service.
(2)
Jamie B.
Very average food that is overpriced and lacks overall talent in preparation. I must have had too much wine when I composed my last review back in Feb 2014. Was here over the weekend and the consensus was: FAIL. See pics of the breakfast dishes from this weekend, pretty sad. I've been here three times in the last year and can say 100% without a doubt that this place is just overall lacking. Everything sounds so great on the menu but when the food comes it's just a disappointment. Dishes: -Helen's Chicken Sandwich- bland and on too thick of bread. -Fish tacos- with brown/slightly turning guacamole. Hardly any fish. Needs a ton of hot sauce to be enjoyable as this is the only flavor you'll get. Hey UG folks, ever eaten a fish taco before? Maybe you should try one. -Biscuits and Gravy- OMG I don't even know how this was allowed to be called biscuits and gravy. See photos of this one. Utterly disappointing runny mess, and where was the sausage country gravy exactly? Again, I implore mgmt/cooks here to go try some biscuits and gravy to model their dish after what most people expect. -Chilaquiles- aka a big plate of tortilla chips. Again, overdone on the chips missing the smoked chicken and scrambled eggs, this dish was $14, see pics posted. The bloody mary's are good, I'll give them that. Much to be improved here in terms of quality, flavor, portions, prices, etc.
(1)
Andre W.
This place has some of the best calamari I have ever had in my life! Its officially called korean fried calamari which of course that means its sweet and quite spicy with a nice kick to it. I also tried the gluten free roasted cauliflower which was ok, but sadly it followed the calamari which was a hard act to follow. I had it with a nice, dark zinfandel which was really good. I like this place!
(4)
Brooke O.
I really enjoy Uncommon Ground - the few times I have been here for brunch the service has been exceptional and the food delicious as well. The first time I went here we had a group of about 8 people which they accommodated very nicely. We ended up staying for HOURS - I think we tried every drink on the menu twice and many of the entrees. Luckily we were in the back room and they did not rush us out at all. My most recent time, just 2 of us sat at the bar by the fireplace - it was a cozy nice brunch (much shorter than the first experience) but equally an enjoyable.
(5)
Stephen M.
A short while ago saw Matt Nakoa perform here--a perfect venue for a soon to be discovered very, very talented performer. (Catch him when he gets back to Chicago in the Summer). We ordered our meal in the backroom where the performances are. The waitstaff is efficient, making sure not to interfere with the performance as they bring meals and take orders. I had the vegetarian chili (good, but needed some heat as in not served cold) and the fish tacos (wanted and asked for flour tortillas, got corn tortillas). The hitch in my order was apparently the only glitch. Rave reviews on the meatloaf. Drinks are good, local fare is emphasized and welcomed.
(4)
William O.
Bad food, poor service and overpriced. Has Uncommon Ground been sold? The quality continues to decline today's lunch was a new low. Don't waste your money just keep walking past the once Wrigleyville standard for quality, service and unique meal preparation. Uncommon Ground is a bust.
(1)
Cloey S.
A friend recommended this place to me and my husband so we tried it out for the first time the other night. We started with fried cheese curds. It was the smoothest cheese I've ever tasted. I noticed a lot of people around us were also ordering them. The dipping sauce was also amazing. I ordered the Cuban sandwich with fries and my husband got a cheeseburger with a fried egg on top. He ordered his burger with cheddar cheese and he got a burger with no cheese. I ordered my sandwich with no dijon and I got dijon. Both meals turned out great anyway. I just wish they would have paid a little more attention to the details. Other than that, I love the atmosphere, the area and the food. We will definitely give this place another try.
(4)
Connie A.
Have been here once before for a burger & I recall it was not great. So it's a couple years later, let's see if it's better... unfortunately no. (A restaurant that is empty in Wrigleyville on a Saturday night should have been the first clue.) I will say the beer selection was excellent and the patio is quite lovely. But the food is completely meh. Appetizer was ok (Jamaican cigars) -- good flavor, but very dry. Thank God for the dipping sauce. Entree was the worst I've had in my 20 yrs of city life. Fish tacos were bland w/very little fish. They were swimming in a tasteless sauce of some kind w/a browning, sad slice of avacado on top. Flour tortillas were bone dry & tasted like paper. I picked my way through one & didn't touch the other two. Luckily I had fries on the plate to help pacify my hunger. Total waste of $17. While waiting for the restroom, I overheard one couple also comment on the food & say that they were going to hit the Taco Bell on their way to the show they were seeing, and another guy approach the bar to try to cancel his large table's order since the food wasn't coming out. He was assured it was and the guy rebuffed with, "no, it isn't, I've already been told that twice and my group needs to leave now to make a show." Felt bad for the guy, he wasn't rude, just direct and visibly frustrated. (So I don't feel as bad leaving a negative review as it obviously wasn't just me.) Seriously, the prices are waaaaaaay too high for the quality. Won't be back.
(1)
Xiomara R.
This is probably the worst meal I have ever had in Chicago. I spent way too much money on a meal fish tacos that with soggy tortillas and a steak dinner that was nothing but a steak?? It looks like a great place but looks can be deceiving and I would not suggest even giving it a try if your in Chicago you can do much better for much less! Take my advice!
(1)
Leslie F.
Went last night to have dinner and see a friend's band. The turkey burger topped with a portobello mushroom and onions was delicious. But waiting for my table (with a reservation) took strangely long. The room was empty and they seated others, but I had to remind staff a few times that I was waiting to get seated. They seemed disorganized. When ordering my 2nd glass of wine, I had to remind the waiter several times. Finally, when trying to pay my check, it took extremely long. Music was great.
(3)
Gordan P.
I have given this place too many chances. Burgers are absolutely horrible. I would rather eat one from burger king. Really thin and bland. Chicken is the same way. The atmosphere is really cool, which is deceiving. I get that it is a vegan friendly place, but that doesn't mean the rest of your food should suck. Not to mention their "craft beer" is less than sub par. Really thin tasting IPA. The final straw was last week when I ordered carry out. I was wanting breakfast but didn't want to make it, and it is closer than the diner. I called in an order or their biscuits and gravy and picked it up 10 minutes later. The bill was $16 DOLLARS. 16 DOLLARS FOR AN ORDER OF BISCUITS AND GRAVY AT 10:30AM SATURDAY MORNING. But whatever, I was hungry and just brought it home. The gravy had some twisty flavor in it, not bad, but not traditional. I didn't mind it, but I can see why other complain about it. Biscuits were the worse I had ever had in my life. They were flavorless and stale, like they had been sitting out for a week. But the final straw? About five bites in and I bite into a pube. Good times. Spit it out and didn't even bother calling to complain to these bafoons. F*** this place. Moral of the story: Next time you go to a place and it sucks, don't go back because it has a cool atmosphere and is hip. It sucks because my sister is vegetarian and I really wanted to bring her here so she could try some stuff out, but now I will make sure she never does.
(2)
Lindsay S.
Very sad. This place was a favorite of mine. Loved the grass fed burger two years ago, before grass fed meat was as big as it is now. Tried my luck with the fried green tomato sandwich. My husband had the streak frites. His fries were fresh. Mine were old and chewy. My tomatoes were a terrible excuse for fried. The bread was soggy. Ended up disappointed the past several times we have been here. Prices are outrageous for standard bar food and the more "upscale" entrees are lackluster. Others are catching on as we are consistently one of 4 tables. I keep wanting things to change. Needs better execution and more reasonable prices. Locally sourced ingredients are becoming mainstream. Uncommon Ground can't just count on that to get people in the door anymore. I'm done until I see some improved reviews and will be the biggest fan of this place again.
(1)
Kim L.
This is a place where looks can deceive. Although Uncommon Ground has some things going for it, the thing that matters most for a restaurant--the food--is sorely lacking especially given the price. I appreciate that UC tries to source local and organic. I also appreciate that UC does a lot of things in house. There small outdoor garden, for example. They also make their own syrup for their ginger ale. The food here, however, is not worth its value. The menu is not as creative as their space. Their blackbean burger does not hold together--it's mushy, and lacks texture. It's more like a spread, than a patty. While it's hard to make a mindblowing veggie burger, it's hard to mess up, too. Their black bean burger is a mess-up. It's been on their menu for a while, probably to appease the many vegetarians out there. I hope they re-work their recipe. Their vegan chilli is weak. I think its absolutely possible to make hardy vegetarian food. But their vegan "chilli" is watery, and the menu says it comes with a baguette. For clarification, it comes with 2-3 pieces of thinly sliced baguette. They should try a chunk of corn bread or a demi baguette.
(2)
Heather A.
I love the concept around Uncommon Ground and how they are locally sourced, but I felt the food was lacking a bit in flair. This could be because my expectations of hipster-like restaurants is fairly high coming from southern California, but I was slightly disappointed in lack of creativity on the menu. I ended up going with a simple eggs, potato and side of bacon. Everything tasted completely fine, just was not blown away. Service was really great as well. I had made a reservation since we were going there prior to the baseball game and it was fairly crowded by the time we left, so was glad I did. Someone in my party ordered the pancakes. I had a bite, and they were probably what I should have ordered. Who knows - it might have even changed my rating.
(3)
Lord Of T.
Nice trendy decor. The food is fine, just a little too expensive for the quality and creativity level. Bottom line, it is not worth it but if someone else is buying, GO.
(3)
Veronica L.
Was very disspointed with the service. I was looking forward to eating here and it was completely ruined. I had a reservation. We were seated immediately. However, after ten minutes of waiting, we still had not been taken care of. I politely asked the hostess if we had a server. The hostess had to find our server and let her know we were waiting. Of course, throughout the entire meal, we rarely ever saw her. We had to ask another server to ask our server for our check. I haven't had this bad of service in a long time. As far as the food goes, not worth the price. Way too expensive for a sub par meal. Will not be coming back and do not recommend. McDonalds has better service.
(2)
Monique V.
I had such high hopes for this place as the menu looked really terrific. I took my mom here because we both enjoy healthier food. I ordered the black bean burger and my mom ordered the fish tacos. Ummm but wait, my black bean burger HAD NO BLACK BEANS. They made it with black eyed peas instead and didn't tell me they ran out. Not to mention the beans weren't even cooked all the way so it basically felt like I was chomping on nuts. Also this fake black bean burger was flavorless. Yuck. My mom's fish tacos needed some serious seasoning too. So boring. We didn't even finish out meals. I will say I like the atmosphere and I didn't end up having to pay for my burger because I told them there wasn't any black beans in it. Probably won't be returning.
(2)
Archana S.
Came here as a group of 5 for brunch on Saturday. Waited 30 mins to be seated on the patio despite there being several vacant tables and having made reservations in advance. Are you kidding me? Once seated, it took 20 mins to receive glasses of water. We put in our orders (3 chilaquiles - decent but grossly overpriced), edamame hummus (good, but we were charged an additional $1 for 5 slices of cucumbers...absurd), and the grilled chicken hash. We asked to substitute sweet potato fries in the grilled chicken hash and the kitchen responded 25 mins later that this was not a possibility and that we needed to select a new option altogether. This led us to believe that the hash was premade/frozen...gross. As icing on the unsavory cake that was our experience at Uncommon Ground, we were charged for items we did not order. Overall, would definitely not recommend nor would we return. Good luck to future patrons!
(1)
Dustin J.
So, let's start with the positives. The drinks were top-notch. The food was delicious. The music was great. Honestly, the smoked cherry manhattan is the best whiskey cocktail I have ever had. The food was appropriately portioned, well-seasoned and tasted fresh. Why the 2 stars? My friend chose this location to celebrate her birthday. She had a pair of friends who wanted to join us at our table for drinks after our dinner. When we asked if this would be ok, we were told it wasn't. When our friend (again, celebrating her birthday) asked "should I just tell them not to come?" A staff member told her "Yes." We were then told that it would be a fire hazard to host these two people, and that they were overbooked in "the music room, the front of house, and the side room." After eating, my friend was shocked to discover that the front lounge was empty. Completely empty. And, after she went to the front, a party in our area preceded to sit 10 people at a table for 6. Amazingly, the fire marshal wasn't called to the scene of the blatant fire code violation. Now, our server tried his best to keep us happy and satisfied. However, it took us 35 minutes to receive our appetizer, and another 30 for entrees. After dinner, a waitress came to bus our table and told my wife to hand her the plate, and then stated, "and your knife too." Do, in short: great food and drinks. The lounge in the front is great. But, by far some of the worst customer service imaginable. It's a shame. I don't think we would return to celebrate.
(2)
Jim S.
This place is super overrated. I'm honestly not sure how it has the reviews that it has. The food is super over priced and lacks taste. The service is slow and the waiters (that I've had) have a strange sense of entitlement that comes off in a very rude way. I live right around the corner from this place, so I've given it a few shots and each time it gets worse. There are tons of healthy, delicious restaurants in this area and this is not one to try. This one can be skipped.
(2)
Dane K.
One of the few restaurants in Chicago that's trying to do some useful things on the sustainability front, offering food that isn't made out of complete garbage. For that alone they get extra points. But... last visit, the execution was just poor. I ordered the corned beef hash... what arrived was a bowl of potatoes a bunch of sauce involved, with 3, *maybe* 4 pieces of 1 centimeter cubes of steak that I found by digging to the bottom. Your average $2 "steak taco" at any taqueria in town easily has 2x the meat as this $16 breakfast entree. Absolutely outrageous. My SO's eggs were burned as well. Also, the tone in which the hostess asks if you have a reservation is absurd. You're not a Michelin rated restaurant that's sold out, don't say it as if you're hard to get in. There were other tables, but my table had actually been seated already though when they asked me this, apparently though they asked the two whom originally got the table if we could be finished in 1 hour and 15 minutes because they did have a reservation ... these are things that you think to yourself as a hostess when trying to plan, not ask a customer.
(3)
Kathleen C.
I've visited now countless times since my original review and I still love the place. The food is delicious - yesterday, I tried the chopped salad (added chicken) for the first time and it was really really tasty. Fresh ingredients, not overwhelmed with salad dressing and a large portion size (though, it should be for $19!). I also had a bite of the egg sliders - these were also really tasty and a good sized portion. I think about half of that would have also been a good brunch/lunch. The atmosphere is a bit different in each of the rooms. The front near the fireplace is cozy and always packed. The back area seems to be the next area where they seat people and this is also bustling and friendly and bright. On the right (as you enter through the doorway) is a bit quieter and the tables are spaced a bit farther apart. I even enjoy the bar seating inside and you definitely can't go wrong in the summer with the outdoor seating. Service is always super friendly, but the last few times I've been there, it's been a bit slow and we had to ask for coffee refills. All in all, a good spot. A bit on the pricey side but the food is high quality, portion sizes are large and it's overall a cozy and relaxing spot to share a meal
(4)
Lindsey A.
It's been five years since I last graced Uncommon Ground and I'm still feeling a-ok about it, mostly based upon our service. It was so. so. so very slow. I'm talking, had I wanted another beverage with brunch, I might as well have walked to the bar and gotten it myself because my cup runneth dry and our server never runneth back over to fill it. Shame. (This was halfway through our brunch - come on! I'm thirsty.) Speaking with friends who live at Clark/Grace and frequent Uncommon quite commonly, they said service constantly borders terrible or terribly slow. Sigh. Tortoise. Baby crawl. Molasses in January. The dishes we had for brunch, were, however, delightful. My wife got the corned beef hash (she's on a mission to find Chicago's best) and was surprised when it came out so... green. Salad and kale and brussels sprouts adorned the little crock presented on a plate. She said it was tasty - and finished every bite. I had the chilaquiles which are probably hard to eff up, so I'm glad they didn't manage to do that. Would I go back? I'm still undecided. Maybe with its laid-back, coffee-house vibe it's expected of patrons to sit and chill.... but, leaving a girl thirsty is just plain wrong and having to flag down our server to get our bill is another strike. Decide for yourself - and give your brunch, lunch or dinner window an extra 30 minutes in doing so.
(3)
Liana L.
To be honest, their food is not very memorable and really over-priced. I like this place because of the atmosphere - comfortable couches, cafe-like, internet. It's a good place to work while grabbing something to eat. Only conflict is it's also a restaurant so you feel pressured to buy food when you just want to go for coffee.
(3)
Tammy M.
Definition of insanity, I know, but we came back and another epic fail. Waited forever for a dip appetizer. My daughter ordered chili for $9 a bowl, which arrived cold, and uncooked, watery and with raw and crunchy beans. With one tiny slice of baguette. My $16 burger had the wrong cheese and none of the toppings that were described in the menu. Server did her best to rectify it by comping the burger, but when I complained that we should not have been charged for the $15, yes $15, mac and cheese substitute, she informed me that she had to "twist the arm" of the manager to get it comped. WHAT??? A well run establishment would have sent a manager over and more would have been comped, This place is in need to a real kitchen manager and more professionalized services. I am all about supporting local business and farm to table but if you are going to charge the high prices they charge, the service and delivery had better be excellent. This has been a persistent problem for years. As they never seem to respond or address concerns in these Yelps, I know this is probably just a waste of time, but hope it helps someone else dodge an expensive bullet. Stick a fork in it, we're done with this place.
(1)
Norm J.
My friends and I came here for brunch and none of us were overly impressed. Food: -Breakfast Burrito (scrambled eggs, house-made chorizo, organic black bean salsa, chihuahua cheese, avocado, salsa verde) was soggy and lacked the flavor you would expect from a burrito that was filled with all those ingredients. - Breakfast Melt (eggs over easy, gunthorp farm hickory smoked bacon, cedar grove cheddar, organic spinach, artisinal black bread) was nice and cheesy, but the bread was a little burnt. - Gulf of Maine Pollock Tacos (shredded red cabbage, avocado, lime-cilantro creme) was good with a healthy serving of fish in each taco. - Chicken Sausage was dry as BLEEP (said my friend who ordered it). She thought it would be chicken sausage links, so she was bummed that it was one flat patty. When she found out how much she'd be paying for the chicken patty she clutched her heart in shock (I have dramatic friends). Over all the experience was just OK. I won't be running back to dine here.
(3)
Ben B.
Uncommon Ground is dumb. Every time I'm dragged there, I roll my eyes. You pay a 50% premium for their local, organic, tofu nonsense. Exceptional food is worth an exceptional price, but Uncommon Ground's food is just run-of-the-mill. My lady and I showed up for brunch around 1 p.m. on a Sunday. The place was moderately busy. We waited 45 minutes for our food. Literally. 45 minutes. I ordered the burger, which was fine, but fairly bland. The only reason it tasted like anything is because I ordered bacon with it. My burger came with a lone lettuce leaf and three sad, wilted, soft things that were supposed to be "pickles." My girl's hash browns were cold. Think how long it takes for freakin' *potatoes* to cool down. Our server was nice and apologetic, but seriously, this restaurant is a joke. On our last visit, our server disappeared between taking our order and dropping off the check. We had to flag down bus boys to get water refills and condiments. If you have a raging vegan boner for Whole Foods, enjoy your 45-minute wait. If you have the ability to separate marketing from quality, there are a million better restaurants in the city.
(2)
David R.
This was my first visit to the Lakeview UC for dinner; I used to come occasionally for drinks, coffee, and desserts back in the mid-aughts, and I've eaten several meals at the Edgewater location. So basically I knew what I was getting into, and I wasn't disappointed...mostly. The draft beer list is pretty short, but I put together a nice little sampler with a couple of known quantities (Great Lakes Dortmunder Gold, Lagunitas Pils) and a couple of new-to-me but tasty options (Revolution Rosa Hibiscus, 3 Sheeps Black Wheat). And as usual, there are plenty of enticing craft cocktails. Next time. We started with a Korean calamari appetizer, and after it came, I remembered that I didn't like it at the other location, and why--too much coating, not enough squid. The sauce and overall flavor are good, but they need to thin out the batter by about 50%. The fish tacos were somewhat better; my only complaint is that they used two tortillas per taco. This is usually appreciated, but in this case, there was not enough filling to balance two tortillas, but too much to balance one. They were still pretty good tacos though, and the fries--regular and sweet potato--were fine. Our server was great, giving honest feedback to questions and expressing enthusiasm about some of our choices. Unfortunately, his name isn't printed on the receipt so I can't tell you who he was. The food is really three stars, but service, atmosphere, and ethos merit a fourth. For those reasons, I'd prefer to come back here rather than the Edgewater location.
(4)
Lauren J.
What an awesome breakfast place in Chicago! After a long weekend of partying, old college friends and I looked to get together and have one last spiked beverage before heading on our ways. We were also looking for some serious grub to curb our hunger. They had a table for eight reserved for us, and one of the nicest, most knowledgeable waiters that I've met in a long time. It is amazing how much a pleasant personality can impact your experience at a restaurant. My friend and I both ordered alcoholic beverages right off the bat. Mine was the bloody Mary, and hers was an enormous bowl of latte and bourbon. Please see the pictures! Her pinkie just happened to pop up when taking her photo. We were both in heaven! My friends came later and ordered their own variations of beverages. Everyone loved their options, and some even had seconds. I ordered the mac & cheese with crispy pork belly, and it came with their homemade coleslaw. I also ordered a side of crispy home fries because the table next to me looks so good. I also thought it would be good to soak up some of that weekend fun... My friend ordered a skillet with brussels sprouts, fried egg, and hollandaise sauce. Everyone was in love with what they ordered. There was nothing that anyone would've changed. I wish I could remember in greater detail what everyone had. I can tell you that the crispy pieces of pork belly tucked into my mac & cheese was the most welcoming spoonful I had all weekend! Talk about leaving Chicago on a high note! Uncommon ground has an earthy vibe and tries to use as many sustainable products in their dishes. For my friends that are health-conscious, and those that hug the environment a little tighter than others, this was the perfect place for them. We could not rave about it enough. I cannot wait for the next trip to the city to enjoy some spiked beverages, wholesome good and healthy food, and maybe some crispy pork belly mac & cheese also!
(4)
P. M.
Relaxed, open area both indoors and sidewalk cafe'. The outside cafe' ambiance was enhanced with strings of lights - very fun! Service is top notch - perfectly attentive. We're from out of town visiting friends and family ~ it was marvelous to enjoy leisurely drinks and meals - we were not rushed to turn over window table. There is a nice variety of starters, small & large plates. Many items are fabulous for sharing. I had a unique special with heirloom tomatoes, basil and mozzarella - but wait - there's more! It was accompanied by an interesting chorizo spread on toasted baguette slices. Yummy!!! My special someone had a pot of mussels with fries - he was soooo happy:) Good times!!!
(5)
Alyssa J P.
Really delicious food pretty close to Wrigley Field. I stopped by with my cousins after a day game and it wasn't crowded, which was very nice. The menu is outstanding with a lot of vegan and vegetarian options. The food itself was delicious. I'm glad to know I have another solid lunch/dinner venue to bring people that don't want to eat at a vegan-only restaurant.
(4)
Christopher W.
Friendly enough staff, but holy crap is this food not a perfect storm of underwhelming and over-priced. Closest restaurant to my house so I have given it numerous chances to not suck, but everything on the menu is boring and expensive. Plenty of delicious restaurants in this neighborhood, so don't expect this place to stick around.
(1)
Mallory S.
Ironically my 300th Yelp review: I first stopped in this place with my mom and friend after my first concert at The Metro when I was 12. This place feels like home to me. It is so cozy and comfortable. Whenever I step inside it illuminates so many memories of winter nights drinking hot cocoa out of a massive mug; warm summer mornings sitting outside eating brunch before a cubs game; birthdays and endless dinner dates with my friends. When I was younger I always made my parents let me sit in the restaurant's bay window seat. This is a place I feel comfortable bringing my whole family. There is something for everyone from vegetarians to carnivores. Uncommon Ground prides itself on using local ingredients whenever possible. This means their produce tastes so fresh and their meats are deliciously tender. I also love how they change up their menu for every season. I honestly attribute Uncommon Ground to spark my love of food and using local ingredients when I was very young. Their service is always so personal and kind. After so many memories from my adolescence here, I hope to bring my own kids here one day!
(5)
Daniel W.
Food exceeded my expectations. We started with the olive hummus for an app. The hummus was really good and the pitas were seasoned and tasty as well. We also had the grilled chicken sandwich and the fish tacos. The fish tacos were Awesome! Chicken sandwich wasn't bad as well, wish there was a little more chicken but keep in mind I eat a LOT! (like 65 pieces of sushi at all you can eat sushi). Killed the fries. Service was excellent. I would go back if I were in the area.
(4)
Kara E.
I would never recommend coming here during prime time hours - the service is ridiculously slow for some reason when its busy, plus it just feels like chaos in there. However, two friends and I came Saturday morning for brunch at 10am. It wasn't busy yet and we got seating in the back in a nice booth window seat. Our server was actually great and on point. I got the mocha latte and the egg breakfast. The english muffin was rock hard and gross (grocery store ones are tastier) but the rest of my food was good. I got scrambled eggs with cheese and they added so much cheese. Alll the cheese! Yum. They did not skimp out on me. I used to love their banana bread - it was just simple, no added anything and it was so melt in your mouth good. We ordered a side of it and were disappointed to see they added chocolate chips and nuts. Bleh. My friends got the omelette special and enjoyed it. So get here early and avoid if you see crowds.
(4)
Caroline M.
We went here prior to seeing Avenue Q at the Mercury Theater last night. Don't be fooled by the reservation tool online. When I went to make a reservation, the only time available was 4 pm or 10 pm. I called and was able to make a reservation. Not that it was necessary. There were TONS of tables open at 6 pm on a Saturday night. I don't know if it was because it was Lollapalooza so most people weren't hanging out in Lakeview, but it was no problem getting a table. We sat outside which was nice. A strangely perfect temperature for a July evening. Our waitress was very nice and fairly knowledgeable about the drinks. I had the Virtue hard cider which was a very light cider, almost like a white wine. It was delicious. My favorite part of the meal was the cheese curds. They were fantastic. Homemade, delicious, light and served with a cucumber salad. I saved the ginger aioli sauce for my fries, which was perfect. I ordered the mushroom "ravioli" and it was good. The waiter warned me it was a small portion, but I guess I didn't think it would be that small. It was $20 for 4 "ravioli". They use vegetable slices to hold them together and pureed cashews for the cheese. It was tasty but for the size and quality, it really should've been a small plate priced closer to $9-$11. Way over priced. I ordered sweet potato fries which were good. But, $8 for a side of sweet potato fries? Ridiculous. The dark chocolate banana bread pudding was good, but really nothing to write home about. It looks like a nice restaurant and the waiter was friendly and attentive. The food was overpriced, but otherwise average. Aside from the cheese curds, food was average.
(3)
Doug J.
I find it difficult to justify paying over 20$ for a basic and bland breakfast. But unfortunately there are far and few places that serve breakfast in Wrigleyville (McDonald's, Salt and pepper) Stay away on Sunday mornings, Soccer mom's with there kids running everywhere, While mommy sips her latte and little Timmy is running all over the place.
(2)
Elizabeth J.
It was my first time in Chicago and my boyfriend recommended this place because he had been there for dinner and said it was wonderful. Well, we went for BRUNCH and I swear I have never been so disgusted about spending/WASTING $50! Won't go into detail but the food was gross, plain and simple. They strive to make it as fancy as possible but it's just a bunch of over priced junk. Save your money and get food that's actually fantastic in Chicago, this place was a waste.
(1)
Cassie B.
Before my husband and I moved to DC, we had been to Uncommon Ground a handful of times and always enjoyed the experience. I am not sure what happened since then, but after our meal today my husband remarked that this was the most disappointing meal we have had since (over a year) we have moved back. I agree with him. We waited about 45 minutes for our food. We ordered some eggs and sausages. We didn't think it should take that long. There were actually people who were seated about 20 minutes after us that received their food about 15 minutes before us. I got up and asked for the manager, and waited. In that time, we finally got our food with no explanation or apology for the extraordinary amount of time we waited. The manager never came. The food was cold, the sausages were dry, and we were extremely disappointed. I asked the server about it and he gave us 20% off our bill and a card for 10% off our next visit. I left the card on the table because we definitely won't be back. There are way too many great restaurants in this city to waste time on this place. What an overall disappointment...
(1)
Erin S.
I don't understand the low reviews on this restaurant! We had an excellent experience. From the friendly, fast service to awesome restaurant concept to fantastic food, you really can't go wrong with Uncommon Ground. They also have their own organic brewery! We have the Spaceship IPA, double IPA, Baja fish tacos, and Cuban sandwich. The staff is very attentive and knowledgable and the owner came around to ask how everything was. I wish I had tried the cocktail special - it sounded delicious. We will be back! Loved the atmosphere.
(5)
Yvonne I.
My friends and I have been trying different brunch places in the city each month, and we came to Uncommon Ground recently. Since so many brunch/breakfast places in Chicago can get so crowded on the weekends, I made a reservation for 10am, but the place was mostly empty when we got there. After 11 it did start to fill up though. They have a pretty large coffee menu. I started off with the white truffle latte, which was served in a bowl (like all of their lattes), and I liked it, but I liked my friends toffee latte even better. I originally considered ordering the toffee latte, but figured I could get a toffee latte anywhere. Unfortunately, I was not that excited by the food menu items like I have been at some of the other places I've been to. I think its because I normally prefer breakfast type food during brunch, and there wasn't that much on that side of the menu that wowed me. The quality of the food ingredients really stood out though. I had the chilaquiles, and the chorizo was non greasy and fresh. I've never had chorizo so fresh before. Uncommon Ground also tries to use as many organic products as possible which is also a plus in my book. Two of my friends are vegetarians, and one of them got the vegetable flatbread that looked delicious and full of a variety of different vegetables.
(4)
George H.
I've been here twice, and I must say the quality of food drink is on point. The service is good. The only thing is the flights. I'm not sure they served me the correct flights, and they did not align/tell me which beers were which. The beers were great, but the flight order is a bit disorganized.. Other than that great spot great beer.
(4)
tr y.
It is with a heavy heart that I post this. THIS REVIEW IS FOR BRUNCH ONLY. I will still try a lunch and a dinner, if thos suck as bad is brunch I'm taking this place off the rotation. Went for brunch with two others. The plow and platter- nope. Small serving, and had to ask for the pretzel. Poor description on the menu. The frittata - they don't say how dry it is. Let me tell you, I've bit moister stacks of saltines. It was dryer then a sauna in Arizona. It was dryer than your hands dipped in a dyson 50 times. It was dry, not good. Chilequiles- Nope. It was not good, has no place on the menu. For the love of Pete...maybe go back to the basics. Eggs, toast, bacon. Things the chef can make. Beer was good, service was good, but come on uncommon ground you're better than this. They say the kitchen is the engine of the restaurant well then your engine needs a tune up. Maybe we went when the real chef left for vacation and the bus boy was in there and it's like some wacky sit-com mix EM up. Or, maybe it's just going down hill. Be back in the spring, will give you some you time to fix you up. Get well soon, Your old pal TR
(2)
Francois V.
Stopped in for a hot cocoa with the wifey around lunch. Enjoyed the music very much! Almost as much as my uncommon cocoa. We plan on coming back for open mic night on Tuesday. Too bad the Wrigley Field traffic will kill this laid back spot once baseball starts. Otherwise we'd be here as often as possible.
(4)
Ana S.
Took some out of town friends here. Word to the wise: make reservations on a Saturday night, or don't even bother. We waited the good hour to be seated there but the place was bumper to bumper packed making it an uncomfortable experience. I vow never to go again on a Saturday night. I couldn't believe how many people were in there. And I was excited to see that chicken tenders were on the menu for kids only to find they were more like unbreaded chicken strips, not even close to looking like Chicken tenders, please make actual chicken tenders! Was bummed out about that. Food still rocks though.
(4)
Meg W.
I used to love the original place on Devon when I lived in the area. Despite multiple attempts to transfer the goodwill, I can't make this one work. Service: I've tried breakfast, lunch and dinner and the service is always slow and confused. They never acknowledge their obvious problems, which is really awkward sometimes. They're always out of something, usually several items. Food: For what it is, the food is very overpriced. I've gotten undressed salad, a very overcooked burger... but even when they do it "correctly," the food is just boring. Under-seasoned, nothing special. I've never even been with someone who said what they had was particularly good. Drinks and beer selection are OK, but it's just not enough for me to keep giving them second chances. I guess because there's nothing else in the area, they just don't have to try? Wish something better would open up around here...
(2)
Angela S.
I don't know. My experience was just an okay 3 stars, but my sandwich was heavenly and made up for how lost I felt in the ordering/service. It's been almost 10 years since I've been back to this location. I have always loved this place, and spent many nights watching my hubby play live music with friends. I was hungry and in the neighborhood, so I stopped in to grab a sandwich to-go after an afternoon meeting. There were a few people dining, and it took a couple of minutes for someone to acknowledge me. Thankfully I knew where to go - restaurant in the back. Once I got to the back I wasn't sure whether I should wait for someone to greet me or just head on up to the counter area and be assertive - that's what I did. It was just a little confusing at first. Though the service felt a bit disjointed and off, my sandwich was super amazing (I snarfed it down in the car). However, it seemed to be missing the pickles, and the jus container was totally melted so I somehow missed out on the sauce experience. Here's what I ordered: mint creek organic pork cuban sandwich grilled duroc ham, cedar grove swiss, pickles, dijon mustard, pork jus, served on a telera roll. Funny enough I was torn between meat and a beet salad. Talk about having a weird appetite. This is a good indication that their varied, yet specialized menu has something for everyone. Note: I've had the pumpkin ravioli before and it's fantastic! Everything here is farm fresh and local. You can tell. The meat didn't make my stomach feel like blowing up after eating pork. A great indication of a hormone free product. My sandwich was $14. It's kind of like paying for gluten-free, but you get the quality you pay for. Take note, they have live music concerts in their entirely separate music venue space. It's clean and cozy in here, and you can bet the next time I'm in the neighborhood I'll be back!
(4)
Jerry M.
Very disappointed. We live in the neighborhood and had not visited in over a year due to a decline in quality. We wanted to give it another chance after a Cubs game. The wait for food was nearly 45 minutes. The Mexican pizza entree was served with a burnt crust and a chicken sandwich was served with nearly no chicken. We initially inquired about eating outside in an area that was vacant and we were told that the area was "reserved". The area was still vacant upon leaving even after our long wait for food. The manager was insincere about the long wait time and poor food quality. Will not make the same mistake again. Feel sorry for the waiter, he tried hard. This might explain why the place was half empty on a Saturday which never happened previously.
(1)
louis S.
Loved the vibe and two different fireplaces. Each has its own unique comfy friendly feel. Everyone I talked with (staff) felt genuine and friendly. The food was over the top great this is why you go out. Extra small unique touches on every dish was very nice. I was disappointed by the dried out 3" apple tart dessert, way to small for the cost. Dude are you kidding me? Saw a top show for $10 worth three times the price. Great sound not blasted loud like so many other places. Very well managed. Hope to go back on a cold night. The coffee drinks are numerous and very unique too
(5)
Nathan P.
Coffee is good; music is good. Don't order the Chili; it's not good.
(3)
Julie B.
Let me start off by saying that I've been coming to Uncommon Ground for the past 9 years - my (then) boyfriend lived a few doors down and I love their local/sustainable focus, so it became our local favorite. Over the years, we witnessed the upgrade to white table cloths and higher prices, but the food and service were on par and we continued to enjoy it. The last time we went, however, my (now) husband and I were shocked at the terrible service and sub-par food. Granted they were hosting a private wedding party in one room, but we felt it was no excuse after we gave them multiple chances to correct their mistakes. First of all, our server hardly came by to check on us and we didn't even get a chance to ask for ketchup to offset my husband's dry burger. When he finally came, we notified him that the flavors were off from their usual (totally under seasoned) and 3 out of 4 dishes were hardly eaten. Our daughter was excited when she chose the "Chicken Tenders" from the kids menu, but was disappointed when they weren't the usual battered tenders (a quick google image search will reveal typical ones), but rather grilled chicken strips. I try to seek out the healthiest foods for my family, so I realize what we got is healthier, but that is not what we ordered, so she wouldn't eat them (in typical 3 year-old fashion). Maybe the server was having a very off day, but after he did nothing but mumble a quick "sorry", I felt I needed to notify the staff at the hosting stand. The two employees had saccharine half-smiles as I told them and also did nothing to ameliorate the situation. Bottom line, the customer service was extremely disappointing, especially since the food and service used to be quite good! I rarely write reviews (the last time I did was in 2010) unless something was exceptionally good or exceptionally bad. Unfortunately it was the latter.
(1)
Beth E.
So incredibly disappointing....where do we start? The background: 6 lovely ladies wanting a nice Sunday brunch. Not a game day. Quiet in the restaurant. What went wrong: 1) How do you screw up bloody marys? Worst ever. We sent two back but they thought we would still pay for those. Um. No. 2) Service: Terrible!! Our food was served before anyone had set ups. We literally sat there trying to figure out what to do and stared at the food. The server was oblivious to the needs of the table. She would check in with one person and run away instead of waiting to see if any of us needed anything. 3) And the food....yup, a trifecta of terrible. One of the girls had a mac and cheese. We could just not figure out what was off with the texture until we hit upon that the mac part was so overcooked it was just mush. The cheese portion was utterly flavourless. The artichoke spinach dip? Same deal. Zippo flavour. Ditto the hummus. All we can figure was since it was NOT a game day, the 3rd string was brought in so the A team could have the day off. JUST TERRIBLE. Go have wings at Yakzies instead.
(1)
Chris B.
Am a fan of the place, but had a lousy breakfast and bad service this morning. I know it is the Sunday before Memorial, day but no excuse for a cheese less tasteless sustainable sliders, desiccated potatoes and an overcharge on the bill(was corrected), looked like an overmatched skeleton crew. Quite disappointed in The Clark Street Uncommon Ground this morning. Just wanted to get out of there.
(2)
Stephanie E.
meatloaf with hot potato salad was excellent! unfortunately it wasn't my dish. I had the mac n cheese with bacon, which was just average. service was good.
(3)
Doc G.
I like this place. It reminds me of chill, understated venues along the beaten hippy trail in Anywhere, USA (or Canada). Unpretentious, simple goodness, complex flavors. Lots of vegetarian options like chili, sweet potato fries, and lots of salads. This is why the fam chose this 'special place you gotta try' for me, the Black vegan. My order: seasonal salad (combination of dark & light beats, clementines, and arugula - good stuff); tofu fritters - what the heck? Smashed up tofu, beat to a 'spongy' pulp (yes, the server used the word spongy), then rolled into big balls and deep fried golden. Wala, tofu fritters- good, reminiscent of falafel; and delightfully crispy sweet potato fries split 3 ways. Oh yeah, my sis and beaux love the drinks-shaken, not stirred.
(4)
Laura C.
Sigh. The search for a good brunch continues. Uncommon seemed like a good option, but we were sadly disappointed with the majority of dishes we ordered. The chilaquiles were a giant portion of rubbery eggs, with a meager serving of salsa verde and a tiny dollop of sour cream. The pork belly hash was more of a bowl of veggies with a fried egg and arugula salad on top. The lack of potatoes was curiously apparent, making the term "hash" completely misleading. It was also quite small, compared to my friend's dishes. The huevos had a flavorful ancho sauce which paired nicely with the light and crispy tortilla chips. Our drinks were a bit of a let down, starting with the espresso machine breaking down as I ordered the Niced Chai (spiked with brandy and a shot of espresso). When the server let me know that the machine was broken, he asked me if I wanted a different drink. So he brought the brunch menu, which only listed espresso and non-alcoholic drinks. When I explained that I wanted booze in my cocktail, he returned once again with the actual drink menu, thus prolonging my thirst. I ordered what I thought was a replacement, then to my surprise, he brought out both the replacement and the original order at the same time. Had I wanted two drinks (I did not), I most certainly did not want them at the time. While he was quite apologetic about the inconvenience, a bit of common sense would have helped this poor server. Also worth mentioning was the weakness of the cocktails. I had such high hopes. Stay tuned for the next episode in my search for a decent brunch.
(2)
Jul N.
Two years later, still a favorite spot. The cozy atmosphere with warm lights, a fire, sunny benches, and the wooden top bar makes UG still among my favorite places on the north side. Especially as the days shorten. The gorgonzola pumpkin ravioli was great but 8 pieces for $18 was pricey. I am giving five stars not only because of their ambiance but also for their overall fantastic menu (avoid the chilaquiles, good ingredients but dry and not pulled together), nice drink list (including brunch cocktails and hot drinks), and friendly service. Try the various drinks, the mac and cheese, the salads, the apple cole slaw, and bacon brussel sprouts.
(5)
Cassandra T.
We reserved a table thinking it was going to be packed before the Cubs game, but the place wasn't very busy at all. I was surprised because not only was the food amazing, the waitress was very friendly and attentive. I don't think our glasses ever got to the halfway point before she refilled them.
(5)
Connor S.
I went with my girlfriend because a friend of mine was booked to play there, expecting a more open small music venue where we'd have some beers, say our hellos, and head out. Instead, it was a much more intimate, sit-down experience with different artists playing their set lists in the front of the small room and the audience enjoyed the music quietly. $10 cover. We shared the calamari and the gnocchi while enjoying cocktails. We finished hot blonde, dessert drinks since the music was so nice. Everything ruled. Turned out to be a perfect date.
(5)
Sus K.
I can't believe I haven't written a review for Uncommon Ground earlier considering how miffed I was the last time I was here. I had it a while ago, however it is constantly brought back to mind as I recount the worst restaurant experience I've had to people I've met. So back last October, a friend and I stumbled into Uncommon Ground on a Friday night as she was a vegetarian, so we were looking for a place with a lot of options. After being told that it would be an unholy 1.5 hour wait for a table at Chicago Diner, we decided to have this place because there was only a brief wait. Sadly it was a mistake. After being seated within 15 minutes. our order disappointingly was not taken until almost an hour later. We walked into uncommon ground at around 6 p.m. under the auspice that we'd be able to make a friend's show at 9:30. Eater beware. At maybe around 7:15, the waiter finally decided to take our order, which was completely unreasonable given the fact that it wasn't even a full house by the time we had been seated. At this point, I was incredibly upset. However, my friend excited to try to food, calmed me down pointing out that it likely would not be much longer, before we would get to eat. But she was wrong. We order the pumpkin ravioli and the macaroni and cheese. The food is priced at a premium $22 for the ravioli, $14 for the mac and cheese which really ends up being a rather small bowl of it. So fast forward to 8:45, I'm saying to my friend, I'm ready to get up and walk out because lo and behold our food hasn't come yet. Periodically I had been pestering our waiter every 30 minutes, asking if our food would come soon because we had plans. He continually assured us that it would be out soon. The last time, I was practically seething because we were almost guaranteed to be late at this point and I was starving and alerted the waiter to such which prompted him to finally bring out the food soon after. Fast forward to 9:15, we finally get our food. Which was disappointing at best. Although my friend enjoyed the pumpkin ravioli, the macaroni and cheese was mediocre at best and I only took maybe a grand four bites. However, given that we were already late, we had to scarf down our food as well. Overall, it was the worst restaurant experience I have ever had. Which is saying a lot considered the volume of restaurants I've tried as a foodie, cruising the Chicago dining scene. I still remember it in vivid detail because of how distressed and upset I felt. The ambiance is nice and occasionally there's live bands playing. However, if you don't want mediocre extremely overpriced food and a restaurant that really does not respect your time, I suggest you avoid uncommon ground. If your experience is anything like mine, you'll probably leave feeling miffed and with tears of anger. This was my experience here, and even if it was unique to the time I went, the fact that this is ever allowable is extremely distressing. Just avoid it.
(1)
Dawn T.
This place feels like a grassroots, organic, vegetarian friendly establishment the moment you walk through the door. You wouldn't really be wrong with that assumption. I've only been here for brunch, so as I understand it, I need to make it back at night to catch the live music which has boasted some pretty heavy hitters in the past. (More folk than metal...obviously...) They were able to accommodate a large group of us during a busy time and the wait staff was excellent. When the food came out, each plate made everyone envious of their neighbors food...so naturally we all shared. I'm quite addicted to brunch at UG and clearly go back often enough. Now I just need to go for dinner...
(4)
Jenniffer L.
Great for brunch....just ok for dinner. The brunch menu is fantastic. Lots of options. I have been there twice now for dinner. Both times they have ordered only to have the waitress tell me that they had "just ran out of the entree" I had selected. Both dinner dates were around 8pm. Also, during the last dinner experience my boyfriend ordered the hanger steak but asked to sub out the potatoes for broccoli because he does not eat potatoes. They agreed but charged a $4.00 up charge. This is a little excessive given that this holistic restaurant caters to other dietary restrictions such as gluten free and organic products. I thought I would post this so the restaurant can improve.
(2)
Heather M.
I went there to order the vegan sandwich because I have a dairy allergy. Upon ordering the vegan sandwich my server actually told me that there are milk products in the bread used for the vegan sandwich. If j had eaten that I would have had to go to the hospital. This restaurant should be sued for false advertising. I ended up ordering a plain lettuce salad which I found cheese in and had to send back. The second time my salad came out I found cheese in it again! And bacon! A plain bowl of lettuce isn't that hard to get right. Thus place is a joke!
(1)
Madison P.
What can I say? This place is phenomenal. The staff is like one big family (also, my family lives about 3 doors down. My uncle also designed the logo for their house beer, so I have my connections). Everything is fresh and of the utmost quality. Brunch is amazing. They have eggs available in anyway possible. The burger is to die for, and their salads are so filling. Their Melonade is something to rave about all on its own. Lemonade with cantaloupe puree sounds bizarre, but trust me, it may be the best thing you have ever sipped on.
(5)
Krista S.
This place is extremely over priced. But there food is pretty good. I have been here a couple times and I am a fan of the chopped salad with chicken. It's 19$ which I always dread paying but it is really good! I have also had the chicken sandwich which was decent. Service is always very good. I understand that they are a full organic/grass fed place I just think that it is way to pricey. Portion sizes are decent. It's a nice atmosphere. Cozy fireplace in front room. The bar is cute...it's never busy, at least when I'm there which is for lunch. I think this place has potential but would do better if they weren't so expensive!
(3)
Joseph D.
I've been here for both dinner and brunch and my rating for both is the same - 4 stars. This is a "farm to table" type of place meaning dishes focus on seasonal, fresh, locally sourced ingredients. The fresh flavors and interesting combinations are certainly reflected the menu and the care they put into each dish definitely shows. Point of note: the menu for both dinner and brunch contains a number of meatless options for our vegetarian friends as well so it's a good place to go when there's a mixed group containing carnivores and vegetarians. The place has multiple seating areas so depending on what type of atmosphere you're looking for, will depend on where you should sit. If you don't mind more bustle and noise, try and get a table in the front room. It has a nice fire in the winter but balance that with the fact that the front door is right there. Since it's situated on the corner of Clark, you can get a nice view as well. If you like more quiet, sit in the back room. It's a bit easier to hear your guests talk and you may not get as bumped into as the staff comes in and out. The con of being back here is the entrance to the kitchen seems to be back here so expect high server traffic. At least there's space to get by for them so you're probably pretty safe. In the times I've eaten there, for dinner I had the crispy duck and the wife had the pumpkin ravioli. Portions were well sized and to me, a good value. Not too big, not too small. For brunch I had the duck confit hash with fried eggs (again with the duck) and the wife had the french toast. Again, both were quite good. I also added a bloody mary which warning - is quite spicy! Get the beer back -you'll be glad you did to cool yourself off. Service is good. Not great, but good. No specific complaints. It can get quite packed for brunch for heads up - get there on the early side. We arrived at 11am and were able to be seated right away. By the time we finished around 12:15, there was a 15 minute wait and the place was packed. It was a snowy day so maybe if the weather is nicer, the wait may start earlier. See if you can get a reservation... Each meal was very good and we would come back here again. There is live music from time to time (this place did start out as a coffeeshop mind you) so if that's not your thing, call ahead.
(4)
Sarah D.
Some lovely friends treated us to brunch at Uncommon Ground while we were visiting Chicago. In general, I think all parts of the country do the holidays so much better than California, so when I saw Spiked Maple Nog on the menu, I was feeling festive and had to order it. It was served in bowl and was rummy and warm without being overly creamy. I ordered one of their breakfast sandwiches. The plate came with two(!) sandwiches made on thick, homemade English muffins. Lots of food. They were good, though I would recommend eating with the hot sauce on the table (they just needed a little something else). Others at the table also ordered the breakfast sandwich, huevos rancheros, and a salad. All looked fresh and were enjoyed. Service was good. Food was good. Company was great.
(4)
Filip F.
It is painful when one of your favorites becomes a land of mediocrity. I immediately think back on many conversations when I recommended this place as a "great spot." Now all those people think that after my dinner at Uncommon Ground, I go home and wind down with a bottle of Mad Dog 20/20 and a Nickelback CD. Why did you do that to me Uncommon Ground? Local food sources - yes! Craft beers - yes! Bland-ass food priced as if it was special - no! Local food sources and local beers are nothing special in Chicago. To be special, you actually have to use the local food to make good-tasting meals. My personal experience - bland tiny burger with cold sweet potato fries. Mediocre service. Hummus appetizer was outstanding (extra star just for that). But just like few other reviewers mentioned, I don't see a reason to return to this place any more.
(3)
Willyum A.
We went there for brunch and ordered the corn beef hash. It was tasty but they charge $15 for an extremely small portion of food (small bowl). Their definition of mixed greens is four pieces of lettuce on top of the dish. It is definitely not a full entree worth $15. The service was fine and food came quite quick.
(3)
Andrew L.
I crowdsourced recommendations for coffee shops with fireplaces or board games. A few friends suggested Uncommon Ground. The coffee shop was pretty quiet on the late afternoon. I got a mocha latte and my friend got a bowl of some coffee variation. The menu has lots of seasonal offerings. Some spiked, some standard. Mine was very good and I say that as someone who likes coffee solely for its aroma. Our waiter was friendly and gave us time to figure out what we wanted, but didn't forget about us like some waiters are prone to do. Good spot for a date or to catch up with a friend.
(4)
Justin E.
Sunday Brunch here is unbeatable. They have a great selection of dishes to choose from but I highly recommend taking whatever their special eggs Benedict of the day is. I've had 2 different ones now and both were to die for. Their coffee and drinks are also very good. I tried their dinner last night and the menu seems to be lacking something. The food was good but not quite up to my expectations especially considering the price. I'd probably go back but it's not at the top of my list for places in the area. Definitely hit this place up for brunch, you wont be disappointed.
(4)
Sarah H.
Awesome place! Great black bean and quinoa burger. The best sweet potato fries ever!!
(5)
Not Just Brunch B.
Three of us came here for brunch around 11 on a Sunday without reservations, and we barely had to wait 15 minutes for a table despite the post-Shamrock Shuffle crowd, so we were quite pleased. We experienced good service and large portions at the brunch hour. Of note are the egg sliders that come with the fluffiest english muffins ever. Their regular drink menu is extensive and the brunch-specific drinks are really nice--we're talking fancy hot toddies and spiked hot chocolate served in a bowl. We'd say Uncommon Ground is definitely worthy of all those awards they have received over the years. You can read more about the brunch menu and those tasty alcoholic beverages here: notjustbrunch.wordpress.…
(4)
Kyle W.
I go back and forth about Uncommon Ground but it's definitely a decent option with a rotating menu of interesting and tasty food items, including plenty for vegetarians. I think it's a little overpriced at dinnertime but not ridiculous, and the brunch is fantastic and more affordable. Good cocktails and beer selection too. Nice sidewalk patio if you're interested in sitting outside. I went before a concert at Wrigley so the place was nuts and they sat us way late despite having a reservation, but I haven't had those sorts of issues on normal nights.
(3)
Lexie G.
Sweet. Potato. Fries. Let me start with how delicious those were-and the goat cheese dip that comes along with them is amazing. This alone will have you come back. Other than that the service was great, nice selection of beer and had New Grist Gluten Free beer which is one of my favorite GF beers and hard to find. The atmosphere is very cool as well, definitely a place to stop by.
(5)
James R.
What a great place! I actually work very close to this place (won't say where for fear of getting bad Yelp reviews, haha!) and have always wanted to check it out. The inside has a great atmosphere and ambience. Kinda feels like adventuring through a woodland forest, haha! We were seated promptly, and greeted by a very friendly server. The speed of the service overall was excellent and the food was delicious. We soon realised during our meal of the live music events that they have there, which we plan to make a return visit for. Nothing really negative to say about the place. Bravo!
(5)
Rachel S.
I was SO disappointed, I hardly ate any of my food. Also it took them FOREVER to bring our cappuccinos, by the time they arrived they were stone cold, so we had to ask for new ones. Not sure what happened there... Sad times, we won't be back.
(1)
Juan B.
Fairly common ground for me. I eat breakfast here once a week at a minimum. Excellent beer and mixed drink selection as well. The organic sourcing of ingredients is a big bonus. Wait staff is awesome. I'll be a regular for awhile if it stays like this.
(5)
Rose B.
Loved that all of the food is organic and the meat is from grass fed cows. There wasn't anything on the menu I wouldn't recommend. Our waitress Meghan was just great!!!
(5)
Mitchell I.
Every time I am in Wrigleyville, I grab breakfast with friends. I have had the breakfast melt, the chilaquiles, and the French toast over the years. Really good food. I am not into latte served in a big bowl, European style. My buddy loves them. Service is very quick and friendly.
(4)
Roseann M.
Sometimes I hate doing a 5-star review. It makes me look like an easy grader, or a pushover, or some paid shill that purports to be a real person. Here's the thing; four of us had dinner and drinks on a Saturday night at Uncommon Ground, and there was not one thing to criticize. Not one. We liked our drinks. We liked our food. We were told there was a half-hour wait when we arrived, and we waited 25 minutes. Service was quick, friendly and professional. The atmosphere was relaxing and casual. If the synopsis isn't enough for you, read on. We arrived shortly after 7pm and decided to wait for our table at the bar. The guys, the Young Lawyer and his Dad, each had a beer from the long craft beer list. I don't know what beers exactly they ordered, but there was enough selection that it took them at least five solid minutes of discussion before they settled on a something. The Department of Health and Human Services should spend that much time checking websites. The Mom, bless her heart, drank only water. But I, as my faithful readers expect, went for alcohol. Uncommon Ground has instituted its autumn seasonal selections. I had a glass of hot mulled wine, and it was delicious. We ate in the back room, and were waited upon capably by Dan. The Young Lawyer and I each had a cup of the soup of the day, a spicy root vegetable soup. It had a vegetarian base. Somehow I expected this to be thick, but it was thin, more like a consomme'. And it definitely had a spicy kick. We liked the soup very much. The Young Lawyer ordered the appetizer selection of mussels for his dinner. I had the small portion of the Sunshine Salad. The Mom and Dad decided to split their selections. They had the macaroni and cheese with the slaw on the side, and a chopped salad. All four of us took a few bites of the mac and cheese, and it was really good. The meal was a huge success. We didn't do coffee, but the Young Lawyer ordered a glass of the same hot mulled wine that I'd had earlier, and he enjoyed it very much. I know Uncommon Ground is famous as being a "green" restaurant, that they work to locally source the food. . . .yada yada yada. All that stuff is nice, and I like being politically correct as much as the next person, but if the food doesn't taste good, who cares? Everything has to come together for a good experience. In our opinion, Uncommon Ground is a terrific place for dinner. We'll be back!
(5)
Richard C.
My wife and I used to be regulars. We like to sit at the bar, where Tom and Lee provide great service. However, there has been a revolving door of chefs and a new general manager. Formerly there was generally a good fish special. Recently it was battered bar food fish. A recent visit involved too large a party to sit at the bar. Table service was slow and inattentive, as it generally is. The waitress brought two meat loaves when one had been ordered. She argued that it was one of our friends' mistake. Then she brought the manager over to argue some more. Lovely. This place used to be on our regular rotation. We'd eat there once or twice a month. Now we find less and less reason to come by.
(1)
S C.
I am pleased to say that they still have a delicious chicken sandwich, and yes, I still feel that its cost is expensive, especially since when we asked for sides of ranch dressing, they charged another 50 cents. On the plus side, it came with a side, and the chicken was moist and delicious. Our waiter was superb...friendly, informative, all around nice. Bathrooms still should be checked often!
(4)
Zorin D.
I stopped at Uncommon Ground when I was passing through on a Sunday afternoon. The menu is definitely steered more towards a vegetarian audience. For lunch I decided when in Rome, do as the Romans do. I went with the vegetarian chili and the tomato sandwich. The chili was hearty and wholesome. I am usually an omnivore and I prefer a chili that is light on the beans, but in spite of that it was flavorful, and slightly acidic with a nice bite of spice. I also ended up enjoying the tomato sandwich. It was a nice combination that used fresh heirloom tomatoes alongside fried green tomatoes. The winner in the dish was the aoli that brought the dish together. The only criticism I have is that it was a bit difficult to eat, even with the giant toothpick holding things together, the layers of the sandwich were slipping all over the place. I don't mind that much because messy sandwiches are some of the best you can have.
(4)
Hannah K.
Meh. I would give 2.5 stars... The food was just okay. I could of made my sandwich better at home- I would start by not burning bread. Everything we had was like that. I would compare to a Greek diner. Convenient and edible but nothing to go out of your way for.
(3)
Bri A.
I live down the street which is bad news, because this place is always calling my name. I usually come for brunch during the week if I have a day off. Going on the weekend, especially during baseball season, ensures that you will wait an hour or so for a table. The food is expensive but it's amazing! They use fresh, seasonal ingredients and the flavor combinations are always on point. My staple brunch is the Uncommon Huevos (organic black bean cake, eggs over easy, smoked chile sauce, chihuahua cheese) with chai tea or a Bloody Mary, the latter if it's been a rough night! I have also had various seasonal scrambles, duroc ham sandwich, blackened Florida shrimp salad, mac & cheese with bacon (+ a bloody = best hangover cure ever!), pork tacos, pizza, pasta.....pretty much everything on the menu! Recently, I had the pumpkin ravioli which came in a cheesey cream sauce. It was perfect for a chilly fall day. I have yet to come for dinner, but I would like to soon. I love the ambiance here and it seems cool at night. Service is usually good but can be slow when it's busy.
(5)
S F.
I went here today for the first time. It was recommended by a colleague for a lunch meeting. We arrived at 11:30 and it was not crowded. We sat in the back room which felt like a coffee house. I loved everything about this restaurant; the food, the decor, the atmosphere. The staff was friendly, the service good. I had the Mac n cheese with broccoli. Delicious! I also recommend the sweet n salty latte. I'll definitely go back to try some of the other dishes.
(5)
Rebecca S.
Awesome food! Great service. Wished they took opentable reservations because it can get crazy. As a organic and health conscious eater, this place is one of my favorite in Chicago. It's all local and sustainable ingredients made fresh in house. Four stars only for carryout policy. Don't even bother if you're in a hurry. They informed me the carryout order tickets still get put to the back of the ticket line, so it's gonna be at least 20-30 min wait during busy times. I would give 5 if they found a way to make carryouts more efficient.
(4)
Jennifer S.
I have been dining here for over 15 years and it has stayed on the top of my "Favorite Restaurants in Chicago" list ever since my first visit. My favorite thing to eat here is the pumpkin ravioli - sadly, it is not a constant menu item. I have tried many other things, including burgers, meatloaf, mac and cheese, duck, etc. Some of my stand out favorites - the calamari and sweet potato fries. Thankfully they are always on the menu so if the pumpkin ravioli is off at the moment they are usually my go-to's. I had a substitute ravioli once, can't remember the flavor, but it was just okay. Made me wish for the pumpkin ravioli again. Service is always A+ and the live music is a nice touch too. Great ambiance, and very understanding of food allergies.
(4)
Leslie B.
Came here with a few girlfriends for dinner and had a phenomenal time. The atmosphere in here is cozy and comfortable, I actually had no idea how large the restaurant was! We were seated in one of the back rooms where it wasn't too loud and we could easily talk. We started with the baked goat cheese, pesto, and artichoke dip. This was more then enough for the three of us to share and very tasty! Definitely recommend. For dinner, we ordered a variety of items including the pork chop with ricotta ravioli, the quinoa stuffed squash, and the black bean cake sandwich. Leah E. said she enjoyed the quinoa stuffed squash, but the flavor of the red wine syrup overwhelmed the dish a little bit. Kara Z. loved her black bean cake sandwich; she gave me a bite and it was fantastic. The pork chop was good, but needed a little more flavor. I really enjoyed the ravioli that came on the side. I felt that the entrees are a little pricey, but they definitely used fresh produce in all of their menu items. Service was just ok, nothing special. Overall, if I go back, I'll stick to something like the bean cake sandwich or a salad.
(4)
Salil G.
Not sure what to make of this place. The atmosphere was definitely fun. Bar was full and place was buzzing. Friday night, table for two. We called 15 minutes before we got there and they said wait was about 10 minutes. When we arrived, wait was sitting at 20-25 minutes. No big deal. We waited about 20 minutes, so not too bad. When we were walked to our table, to our surprise, there were three open two tops and several open four tops in the middle back room. We were taken to the far back room where there were more open tables. Not sure if they were short staffed or the kitchen was behind and they were trying to control the flow but seemed odd that when they had a wait, they weren't seating people at the open tables. Waiter came and was nice. Gave us a quick rundown of the restaurant and the menu, then gave us time to order. Came back, we placed our order then waited... And waited... At least 20 minutes passed before he arrived with our apps (a bowl of vegetarian chili - probably out of a pot that was prepped earlier in the day so should have taken about 30 seconds to pour into a cup) and a salad (with no warmed components that should have taken about 2 minutes to put together). Chili was good, actually very good. Salad had about two drops of dressing. The lettuces were DRY. We waited for our server to return and asked for some extra dressing. Three minutes later, the dressing arrived and we were ok... FIVE MINUTES later, our main courses arrived. We were still eating our chili and salad! Server quickly dumped off the mains on the small table and bolted. I'm sure that he knew that it was way too fast. So now we have our main courses getting cold as we're still eating our apps. Server nowhere to be found, so what can we do. We start eating everything buffet style, mixing courses together. Our pumpkin ravioli was great when we got it, but within a minute, the cream sauce broke, so that wasn't very fun. The seared tofu BBQ plate was ehh, ok, not great. We decided to get dessert and got the apple turnovers. Salted caramel ice cream was great, turnovers were tasty. Overall, the best part of our meal. I compare this place to Bite Cafe. Both are good, but Bite Cafe executes consistently where Uncommon Ground failed us again and again. If you're looking for a farm to table restaurant that hits the mark consistently, I'd pick Bite over UG.
(2)
Sarah S.
I went here for dinner and a live music show on a Friday night. The space is great- it is huge and has a great decor. (Except for the back room, which has these giant paintings of birds that state at you ominously while you eat.) I would absolutely go back for the coffee or a drink menu. The drink selection was quality, I recommend the rosemary-bourbon infused Beast of Bourbon. However the dishes I got there were not exceptionally. My partner and I ordered the sweet potato fries with goat cheese fondue, the macaroni and cheese with broccoli and sundried tomatoes, and the quinoa-stuffed delecata squash. Despite the locally -sourced and veggie-friendly options, I was not that impressed with the food. We also went for live music. Both acts were really enjoyable, but the restaurant tacked on a $7 cover charge to our bill without notifying us beforehand. They also added incorrect charge to our group tab, so we had to send the check back twice for corrections, and the gratuity was still based on the original, incorrect amount,
(3)
Greg R.
This is one of those places where I can not for the life of me figure out how it is getting so high of ratings? One theory, is its a bit off the beaten path for anyone that does not live directly in Wrigleyville, which would lead me to believe it is a bunch of locals giving some love to their local place, which I get. Look and feel of the place is warm and inviting - like walking into a high end sky lodge. There are some big leather couches in the bar area, which i thought was a good touch. Patio is very inviting w/ a garden like feel, which is impressively pulled off since it is right on the street. Service - Our Server was very nice and was ready to walk us through the menu...big issue we had was the speed of service.....Slowwwwwwwwww. Which seems consistent by reading some other reviews. Food - this is where I don't get it. Food was borderline awful. We sent back a Calamari appetizer - it was more breading than calamari. and it seemed no one in my group of 4 were overerly excited w/ their food. I just had a salad w/ a side of grilled chicken. Dry, over cooked, no flavor chicken. Looks like a cool place to get a beer but skip the food. The only good part of the evening was being there with the hottest chick in the city.
(2)
Lainchen F.
I really hate to have to write this review since this place has such good drinks, a cute patio, and is close to my house. But the food has gone so downhill, I just can't recommend it any longer. Our table of 4 had an app and three different entrees: Baba ghanoush app: we all liked it Macaroni and cheese: watery and chalky tasting Ricotta ravioli: bland and tasteless Hamburger: insultingly small and overcooked (sweet potato fries were very good) Our server was friendly, but she never came back once after the food arrived, and I had to chase her down to pay the bill since we were heading to a concert. Perhaps she would have offered to comp an item or two, which would have eased the disappointment, but we just didnt get the opportunity to tell her we were dissatisfied. Honestly the best thing they could do is seriously consider a new chef and some waitstaff training. If you just want drinks and apps, you're probably safe, but with the kitchen turning out subpar basics like burgers and mac & cheese? Don't stay for dinner. Sorry, Uncommon Ground. You're off the list.
(2)
Harold J.
Service was attentive, but the food was just ok. One of the two of my wife's eggs Benedict was cooked all the way through like a hard boiled egg. At least five members of the staff passed by an looked at the hard boiled egg Benedict and did not ask how the dish tasted.
(3)
Bill D.
Fantastic, fantastic, fantastic. One of my favorites in the city. The staff is amazing, the space is great, their mission is fantastic and, most importantly, their food is so delicious. I've never had a bad meal there. Their food is amazing - RUN!
(5)
Molly M.
I have been here multiple times before and have never had such great service, but today was the icing on the cake. I will not be back. I came in at 3pm on a Thursday afternoon (clearly there was not a crowd at this time). There were 2 tables of 6 people each and nobody else in the bar. I wanted to catch up on some work and grab lunch so I headed to a four top by the window (mind you the place was empty). The hostess snarled at me that they would "prefer" I sat either "there" or "there" - a 2 top. Once wedged against the front door or the other behind the hostess stand. The one table was right next to the 6 top with a baby -- I asked "is there a child at that table" clearly indicating that I was going to get work done and didn't want a noisy table next to me. She said, "they are about to leave anyway." I am mindful of not taking up table space if a place is full or they need the tables, but nobody was in the joint! I wanted to spread out, check email, do some work and eat. So I did as I was told and crammed into the 2 top up against the window. I had to move my computer off the table when my food came. I ordered the burger ($15) and it arrived smaller than the bun, with cheese (not melted) onion and lettuce. No tomato. I see $1 heirloom tomatoes can be added on the menu. But what about a plain old slice of regular old tomato? Hmmm...nope. I tipped generously as I usually do (I shouldn't have). I was asked to pay the bill as they were changing out the bar drawer (always find this odd). I'm leaving. Won't be back. My biggest beef, the hostess. Scowling, not using common sense....bye bye Uncommon Ground.
(2)
Matthew W.
After being seated we waited more than 10 minutes without the waitress acknowledging us. Not even a hi I will be with you in a minute, no waters, nothing. We walked out and I was ok with that because after looking at the menu it seemed like a rip off. The burger was over 10$ with 0 toppings, any extra toppings cost a 1$ each. Really 1 slice of tomato for a dollar. The rest of the menu was not very intriguing. Will not go back.
(1)
Rooney B.
Food isn't great every time but overall, it's a great brunch experience. We've had Cameron as our waiter a couple of times now and he's one of the best you'll find in the city. Super efficient, charming/funny, and pretty handsome to boot. Overall, staff averages from good to excellent. Ask about the Benedict specials too!!!
(4)
Kristin K.
Great brunch spot with lots of veggie and vegan options.
(5)
Tim H.
Uncommon Ground is a unique place: primarily a restaurant, but it's also a place where you can get cocktails, fancy cafe drinks, and on top of that it's a venue for acoustic-based music. At the Clark location the new music room is a welcomed addition and it might be one of the nicer, more intimate music rooms in the city. But this place is still a restaurant through and through. The food is good, not great, and a drawback is that it's slightly overpriced. Of course this is rationalized because of the organic and local products used, which is admirable and something I care about...but still, it's 15% more than I'd like it to be.
(4)
Henry L.
Food is overpriced and not very good. Expected more from the hype.
(2)
Annie M.
A coworker had recommended Uncommon Ground to me and I am so glad she did! I've been there three times now: once for coffee, once for brunch, and once for dinner. I was totally happy with everything I've gotten. The peanut butter mocha time may have permanently ruined starbuck's for me. Everything I love in one delicious cup! The rest of the menu was also incredibly tempting. Breakfast was even better! I got a breakfast quesadilla. The local hot sauce on the table gave it the perfect kick. I also tried a couple of bites of the pumpkin challah french toast. Really good, but a little too tart for my liking. A few weeks later we went back for dinner. We started with the sweet potatoe fries with goat cheese. Aside from needing a little salt, they were great. The pumpkin ravioli I had was a perfect fall dinner, especially with the craft pumpkin beer I drank with it. The drink menu deserves five stars on its own. Not a huge beer selection, but everything they had, I wanted! On Wednesdays they had $4 or $5 craft beers. Their cocktail list looked even better. I definitely plan on going back to try a few appetizers and cocktails. The restaurant itself has a really cool set up-- half is set up like a bar and the other half like a coffee house with a really nice outdoor patio. Great music played both times and the service was great. Instantly became my favorite place in the city!
(5)
Kelly H.
We were so glad to stumble into this cozy little eatery before the Cubs game last weekend. We wanted to fill up on something healthy and fresh to avoid the fried food frenzy at the stadium, and boy did we score. While we were only able to enjoy one meal here, it's was enough to fork over some props for good eats and great atmosphere. I had the summer omelette with cheese curds, summer corn and grean beans. So fresh! Others had the huevos with the black bean patty. The crispy breakfast potatoes are sinful, so be careful if you're at all watching the waistline. If not, dig in. We didn't feel the price was unreasonable, even with drinks. Our waiter seemed incredibly busy, yet he somehow pulled off being attentive and timely. Super kudos to good service. It's so nice to find a comfy, relatively healthy local joint when traveling. Would definitely return and recommend to anyone passing by for a quick bite or impromptu date night.
(4)
Courtney N.
Healthy, organic eating with an unbeatable atmosphere! This is my roommate's and my go-to brunch place in Lakeview, and when I move closer to the city this year, I will still make special trips to Uncommon Ground. The prices are a bit higher, but the food has always been amazing and you pay to eat clean and to enjoy a relaxing meal with great service.
(5)
Macaire D.
Going to have to agree with some of the more recent reviews for Uncommon Ground - the service was slow, the staff was condescending and apparently the chef thinks too highly of him/herself. There are lots of great food spots around with great service, we won't be back.
(2)
Stephen D.
Great food! The drinks are a little expensive and served in bizarre containers. If you order the hay ride, it's going to come in a soup bowl.
(4)
Jamsaheb ..
For veggies / Vegans - not very many options, avoid..
(3)
Lena M.
We stopped in for drinks, but ended up grabbing a bite to eat as well. Really wanted to try their Bloody Mary, but unfortunately they include Worcestershire sauce in their mix, which has anchovies in it. NO! I hate it when veggie friendly places do this to me! Got a seasonal special, the Fall Fashion, instead. It is their version of an Old Fashioned, & it was very nice. Shared the sweet potato fries (minus the goat cheese), & the polenta with wild mushroom ragout & vegan mozzarella. It came out with maybe 10 tiny strands of vegan cheese sprinkled on it. Don't get a girl excited for nothing! Luckily, the waitress was kind enough to bring me out a little more of the v- cheese. The dish was out of this world delicious! Will be back soon to have it again, plus want to check out some live music there, & try a few more house-infused liquors on their cocktail list. So warm & inviting this time of year! Could use a bit of background music playing. Was very quiet when we were there, & it was a Sat. night.
(4)
Kevin D.
Great place to come for lunch and breakfast. I've been coming here for years and the food is always to die for. Its usually pretty busy on weekends and during the summer, but its worth the wait! Most of the time the service is great, but there have been a few times when service was pretty bad, even when it was slow.
(4)
Therese N.
This place has really gone downhill. I ordered the breakfast burrito. It's pretty hard to screw something like that up - yet the eggs were overcooked, it had zero taste, and they really skimped on all the ingredients (avocado, cheese, etc...). The breakfast burrito was also $14, which was laughably overpriced. We also ordered the ricotta lemon pancakes. Again, zero taste. There are so many great brunch places in Chicago -- do not waste your time at this place.
(1)
Mandy P.
Love this place! Great place for acoustic music. I love that they celebrate all that is Jeff Buckley. A friend to the local artist as well. And now it is time for the pumpkin martini. my favorite drink...almost ever. Innovative and unpretentious menu. comfort food with flare. Always delicious, but a little over priced. Have never been disappointed with the experience. Staff is always great. Give me a pork chop, a pumpkin martini and a little acoustic music and I am happy.
(4)
james t.
The sweet potato fries are the best. you have to love them thin and crispy, though, not fat and squishy. Service was attentive without being pushy. The background music was a bit loud, but overall laid back, chilled atmosphere.
(4)
Dan B.
I don't go to many breakfast establishments but in my cycling days I did hit the diners quite often. 15 dollars is a lot for eggs, bacon, toast and an orange juice. It's really good and I had a great time but I'm guessing there are other places with just the same quality. I was hoping to go to tweet but it was closed on Tuesdays. It seems you always decide to go to a restaurant when they are closed that one day of the week.
(3)
Peter F.
Great food, order anything! BUT, the coffee is strangely heavily caffeinated. Tastes great but your heart pumps well into the night. Dinner is best.
(4)
S J.
I am glad they use organic ingredients(much worth of money to dine out) and all dishes I tried were so creative and tasty. I wish many more restaurants use 100% organic food like them, so I don't need to run to famer's market, whole foods to buy groceries and cook at home.
(5)
Kevin T.
i just got back from UG. it's a coffeehouse, a lounge, a restaurant, a cafe, a bar and much more. they usually invite nearby musicians to jam out a bit in their back room. tonite i had their "certified black angus burger". it was quite good cooked to how i like it. i wasn't able to engulf it like i normally inhale yummy things, since i was there for a social gathering. in fact, i am a bit disappointed that i left my take-out box there..... grrrr..... oh well. i guess i will need to bring/buy a lunch tomorrow. uncommon ground is definitely a social place and not so much a studying/reading corner. they seemed to have recently attained their liqour license, so be sure to bring a drinking buddy.
(4)
Alanna O.
This is an old stand-by of mine, within walking distance of my place. They have a very large space indoors and a very lovely, partly shaded outdoor sidewalk cafe. My favorite dish here is Helen's Chicken Sandwich.....SO GOOD!!!! I Always order this without even opening the menu. I should really expand my horizons and order something different next time I go, as I'm sure everything else is really good too!! Service is usually good but sometimes it's hard to find your server when you need them. All in all, great place to go!! Plus, it's open all day during the week!!
(5)
Heidi P.
We brought our children and our friends with their children here in the evening around 6. Not every restaurant would welcome the chaos into their establishment. They seated outside with plenty of room for the extra noise. Everyone was very accommodating and he food was delicious. I had the special soup, creamy corn chowder with goat cheese. REALLY good. We also tried the sweet potato fries. Loved them. Got the BLT app. Nice twist to the original. For dinner, the salad with berries and pecans and goat cheese. Great compliment to the soup. The burger was excellent as well as the gnocchi. My partner ordered the salmon special served with a stuffed banana pepper. All very delicious. We had a vegetarian with us who loved the veggie burger. She just mentioned that the fries that came with the burger should have been cooked a little longer. Great drinks list. Tons of unusual beers and cocktails. Liked the cucumber margarita a lot. Can't wait to go back for breakfast.
(4)
Chris S.
This place is OK. The food is actually really good, but it's pretty pricey for what it actually is. The music room is nice, but the artists who play there don't appeal to me. I was asked to play a benefit show for a friend and I was definitely the odd man out on the bill. Not for the punks. This place definitely has it's own demographic, which I personally don't fit into, which is fine. Be aware though, there's a 90% chance of yuppie missed connections here. If you have expendable cash to spend on dining and like music of the John Mayer variety, this place is probably for you. If you're at all like me, and you don't want to drop a ton of cash on food while some dude sings about his feelings whilst playing an acoustic guitar, you might want to jaunt a bit more south on Clark and hit up the Pick Me Up. Personally, I'm curious about the location in Edgewater, since it's entirely "green," but that just might mean that instead of John Mayer, you'll get Jerry Garcia. Neither of which would be a very appealing cap to any night out for me.
(3)
Chris S.
Good food-breakfast, lunch, brunch, whatever. It's good. Big huge mugs of lattes and hot chocolate. Big, full bar and a back room for bands to play at night. Great neighborhood place to start, or end the day.
(4)
Andrew M.
with its mix of food, ambience, drinks, and a coffee-themed name, this place has something interesting going on. but it did not quite captivate me to go back. i think the ambiance of this place is a bit like a cafe, so i wanted to go and surf or work there. but that felt kind of weird, kind of as it would if you cracked open your laptop in a restaurant. but it didn't win me over quite as a restaurant either. i tried some food once but can't remember if it was good. something about the feng shui of the place didn't sit with me. that's pretty vague but so was my feeling so there you have it. the beer selection was a plus and maybe ended up being the strongest point. if i found myself in the area with a couple of beer snobs/lovers i would head this way, especially on a late afternoon when we could sit outside.
(3)
J T.
A jack of all trades type establishment - cafe, bar, restaurant and venue - that surpasses the generic sports bar mundaneness of nearby/surrounding Wrigleyville (pending on your perspective) with great ease. Although it would be nice if this place put more effort into the coffee house aspect (in a Julius Meinl kind of way), I generally think they do a good job here as have always enjoyed the food, service and atmosphere. Strengths are definitely brunch and casual dinners.
(4)
Laura I.
I prefer just going here for a drink when watching a show. Going here for lunch/dinner isn't my preferred way to attend. I feel the food is overpriced for what it is, though I must admit they do have extremely fast service. However, it's best for shows that are held in the back seating area. Be sure to come a little early to be sure you can grab a table.
(3)
Marissa D.
Cute place to hang out. I went to see my sister's friend sing here and it was a great atmosphere in the back room (where the musicians perform). Very intimate, the crowd was really friendly, and I had a lot of fun. I only had a glass of wine (which was more like a vat...seriously, they give you so much wine here). My sister had sweet potato fries and chili and was very happy with both. She also gulped down 3 of their pomegranate martinis so they must have been fairly delicious. If you want to go when they have performers, try to make a reservation - that way you are sure to get a table. My sense is it fills up pretty quick back there.
(4)
Keenan S.
Been to Uncommon Ground twice, once for breakfast, once for dinner. Food was delicious both times, although everything at dinner out-shined breakfast by a long shot. The menu is all over the place, with something for everyone (including some vegetarian-friendly meals) The employees are friendly, and the service is pretty quick, but the place does get a little crowded during peak times, which makes for a loud and uncomfortable eating experience. Don't go here if you're planning on holding a deep, philosophical conversation! But definitely go for the great food.
(4)
Jerry W.
It was my oldest daughters 18th birthday and she asked Dad to see his Check Please database, she knows he just loves the show. She picks Uncommon Ground. So we have a party of 15 heading north to the Wrigleyville area and not for a Cubbies game but for a birthday lunch for my little girl. The place is really neat and cool inside. I just loved the exposed brick walls and hard wood floors. The place is quite large for a Chicago restaurant. It was pretty crowded on the day we went. It was very clean. The decor was really pretty cool also. I thought the food was really very good. I had the goat cheese pizza, which my birthday girl daughter also had. We both just loved it and would recommend it to anyone. The staff was very friendly. It was reasonably priced, not cheap but not really expensive either. I know if we are in the area again and have a taste for some goat cheese pizza we will be heading to Uncommon Ground.
(4)
Mariana P.
Unique and amazing food. Their cafe beverages (mochas, lattes etc.) are especially delicious. However, after a long night of drinking and spending money, I don't want to spend $10 on pancakes. The service is also just OK. On Saturday mornings when it is slammed, the waiters are way too busy to deal with your table effectively. We waited for our bill for about 25 mins. after finishing eating. So to sum up, a little too pricey for a breakfast place and mediocre wait staff.
(4)
Claudia R.
The name is fitting if based on a per-visit rating scale. My first time there lingered in my mind as a brilliantly tasty and eclectic experience yet my second time proved dismal and unworthy of the word-of-mouth advertising I'd been providing to the place pro-bono. That's all I really have to say about that.
(2)
Jenna B.
YUMMY in my tummy!!! Last year I threw a private party for work at UG, but we only drank and had a small area near the bar. I had been wanting to go back for dinner for over a year and finally went last night and wow, was it good. Way beyond my expectations. I had a small salad that had avocados and sunflower seeds in it, and then I also indulged in a bowl of sweet potato fries with a warm goat cheese fonde dipping sause and I also tried the gooey mac and cheese along with a few sips of the $5 bloody mary. Everything was amazing. Althiugh I did not try andy, the drinks/martini list was very unique and blended together lots of yummy looking sweet ingredients. I am only giving it 4 stars, not 5, because it is expensive and not a place you can afford to go to a whole lot, but I wish I could!! (entrees are like $18ish)
(4)
Ron S.
I've been there a number of times mostly out of convenience. I like the large outdoor seating area. That being said the food, which is mostly good, is a bit overpriced for the place. The service is VERY INCONSISTENT. I would say unacceptable for the price. When this was just a coffee shop, shitty service was expected. As a restaurant, it needs to be way better!
(3)
Stacy C.
A unique place for dinner, drinks, live music or coffee. I have to admit that it's a little pricey for me, but the interior is beautiful and the specialty drinks are pretty neat-o. They have a "treetini" made with organic vodka, and for each one purchased they plant a tree! Try it out for small plates and drinks, or to catch a friend playing a set in the back room. Uncommon Ground is a nice break from all the sports bars and dive bars that surround it in Wrigleyville.
(4)
Steve R.
Very nice place to grab brunch, thereby having the excuse for drinking during the noon hours. I've always found the food very tasty, the service courteous, and the bloody marys agreeable. Real agreeable. They've got a very nice patio as well. Relatively kid friendly, I suppose. The crowd is exactly the sort of crowd you'd expect for the area. I'll take this over Bongo Room any day. The only down side is that it's generally pretty crowded and there's a wait. They do have a nice waiting area with couches, a fireplace and whatnot, right by the bar.
(4)
Keith A.
Even back when Uncommon Ground was a coffeehouse, I'm not sure it really wanted to be a coffeehouse. The menu has always been expensive (more so than any other coffeehouse I've been to, except for Caffe de Luca), and when a musical act was playing in the back room, the staff seemed to resent it if anyone chose to stay out front. Now it's expanded into a restaurant-bar, still quite pricey for what you get, and seems to regard its coffeehouse-ish interior as an embarrassing growth that it hasn't been able to have removed yet. It's like the former UG got in touch with its inner bourgeois, which then turned the tables and took over, becoming an unabashed outer bourgeois that's determinedly and successfully repressing its feebly protesting inner bohemian. Why doesn't it just purge the coffee pun from its name and give itself over fully to its new, true identity?
(3)
Alaina F.
MMmmmmmm this place is good. I live in the area and have been here twice, once in the summer and once in the fall/winter. The reason I note that is because the menu changes (based on season, I believe, but I could be making that up). Both times, this place was great. It is a bit snobby, which I usually don't mind, but this place is snobby and hipstery. Oh well. The food and wine makes up for it. The menu is eccletic and original. In the summer, I got a fried green tomato BLT and it was outstanding. Had some kind of peppercorn aioli on it and the fried green tomato made the sandwich. I also tried the meatloaf, which I'm not usually a huge fan of, but this was nothing short of AMAZING. Very comfort-y and delicious. It was a huge portion, which I ate all of, and I could have eaten more. Very well done. Also got a great bottle of Cab, forget what it was called. A bit expensive, but well worth it. Definitely recommend this place.
(4)
Sy S.
Amazing!!!!! I have come for music before, but I never tried the food. I am so glad I did. Everything was seriously amazing! I can't wait for the pumpkin ravioli again!
(5)
Rachelle T.
Uncommon Ground is an awesome coffee house/bar/cafe. I've been here with friends, family, and even on a blind date and I've never had a bad experience. The artwork that covers the walls is amazing (check out the bathroom!), they have live music several nights a week, and it's got a very comfortable and intimate vibe. Oh and it's smoke free, ahhhhh. Their food is great, especially the artichoke/cheese dip appetizer, and if you're drinking I HIGHLY recommend the chocolate martini - yum yum!
(4)
Dana P.
I suggested to Andrea W that we have brunch here today because it's become one of my new favorite spots. My boyfriend just moved right around the corner and we've been eating here almost every week. I had an amazing goat cheese omlette last weekend, which I was sad to see wasn't on the menu this morning...I guess it was a special? However, the montana omlette hit the spot even though it was a little undercooked like Andrea said in her review. I also had dinner here last week- the burgers and fries are very good.
(4)
Wendy G.
I went to this restaurant for the first time over a year ago for dinner, but decided to try it for brunch recently. My previous experience wasn't too memorable, but I recall being a little weary at the eclectic menu options. This time, we decided to go there prior to a Cubs game so it was very busy, but they had a quick turnover on the tables. The menu offers items a bit 'uncommon', and my boyfriend and I both found ourselves saying, "it's different, but tastes really good". You pay a little more to get the unique spin on dishes, but it was worth it for our meals. That being said, it's not the place to go to if you just want a run of the mill breakfast of eggs, hashbrowns, & toast. Our waiter was extremely attentive and friendly. Even the other waitstaff helped to refill coffee and water without hesitation. I was happy to see this even during a busy time like pre-Cubs game. I'll definitely be heading back to try some of the other dinner options and the appealing drink menu (have to mention that for some of the drinks, they offer to donate a portion of the proceeds to various charities!!!). I'll also be adding it to my list of places to take out of town guests.
(4)
Nicole C.
Recently came here on a weeknight and had a great time. My dining companion and I shared a couple of appetizers: fried calamari with a sweet and spicy Korean sauce and Mussels in a coconut based broth. The calamari were light and crunchy with a taste of potato in the breading that I liked. The Mussels were good, not great, but amply served along with toasted baguette slices glisteningly brushed with oil to sop up the broth. Our server was very knowledgeable and friendly without being overweening. She recommended a great beer to pair with our food. I've been to Uncommon Ground a number of times, always satisfied. It's versatile and a great date spot as you can come for coffee/tea, drinks, appetizers, dinner, dessert, or any combination thereof. I will say that I did have one of their lauded hot chocolates once and found it disappointingly bland. Step up the cocoa content and I'd be much happier!
(4)
Gina B.
Love it love it love it! I've been a customer for longer than I care to admit... let's just say since they only had the one little coffee house store front and great veggie chili. I've been there for brunch, lunch, dinner and live music. Today on the lovely patio, I had spectacular fish tacos and sangria YUM. It still feels just as cool as when it was tiny - I love when my little neighborhood spots do so well!!
(5)
dave s.
All around decent food, great atmosphere and decent service. Saturdays are interesting because they hold an open mic in the back of the restaurant with some pretty good talent. I heard that Jeff Buckley used to play here every once and a while. I would recommend visiting on that day for a little extra entertainment. Supposedly they have good breakfast but I have not tried it.. Weekdays are typically slow and weekends are pretty crowded especially in the summer when they have outdoor seating. Definitely worth a try.
(3)
Chi M.
first of all, there is NO SMOKING WHATSOEVER allowed in this awesome spot. that makes it great already. then the food: very generous portions, not too pretentious, but gets to the point. great steel cut irish oatmeal with apples n brown sugar. they have this dish that i have all the time but i always forget the name, lol. its got beans n potatoes n eggs with cheese. good n hearty. the decor is simple and a bit stark. very "woody". but the leather couch n chairs by the fireplace warm things up a bit. plus FREE WIFI! yay. clean bathrooms, too! huge bar with pretty knowledgable bartenders, who may be a bit heavy-handed depending on the night. THIS IS A GOOD THING! Go check this place out.
(4)
Nina W.
I love Uncommon Ground and have been here multiple times and I'm never disappointed. Exposed brick and cool paintings from rotating artists line this enormous cafe. There is a cozy fireplace surrounded by a super comfy couch and chairs. I've had breakfast, dinner, coffee and drinks here and it's always a good time. I will definitely be back. The cost of two coffee drinks, a croissant breakfast sandwich consisting of egg and cheese, a chicken sandwich, and buttermilk pancakes came to a total of $41.24 without tip.
(5)
Diana C.
I have never been here for brunch as it seems many of the Yelpers have, but I have been here a few times for dinner. Very surprising for a place that, before I ever went, I knew as a coffee house. Both times I have had chicken, prepared different ways, but it was prepared flawlessly and the sides were delicious. Good, very reasonably priced wine list also.
(4)
Tanya R.
This place is absolutely to die for--a rare treat. If you're looking for the best latte in town, or some killer dishes like pumpkin ravioli or miso grilled salmon, this is where to go. Guys, if you're trying to impress a lady friend over dinner and a drink while still keeping the atmosphere laid back, tastefully artistic and fun, take her to Uncommon Ground. Food is reasonably priced, and you will not find better coffee drinks anywhere. They even have live music on weeknights. The sectioned off portions of the restaurant make each area feel unique and cozy. I used to come here even when I lived in Hyde Park...so now I'm very happy to be living down the street. The only bad thing was the waitress seemed "busy," which got annoying to have to flag her down all the time. Fortunately the "scene" was redeeming enough to override it...Hope this helps!
(4)
Erica i.
What a great place! The atmosphere is wonderful. When I first walked in a felt very warm. The decorating is very interesting. A cross between frontier style and modern country. The food was delicious. Being a vegetarian, I was extremely happy to see a veggie burger on the menu, and a few other dishes. The live music is also wonderful. They are very careful in who they select to play, so you know when you go there,it isn't going to be a garage band. Its about a block away from Wrigley field. Definitely worth checking out for dinner or after the Cubs game!
(5)
Kate G.
I have loved every dinner I have had here. We went here for the first meeting of my mom and the boy: the fun atmosphere really eased any nerves. I am addicted to the sweet potato fries and the butternut squash ravioli. I completely agree with Desiree K.: you look at the menu and find so many things that are not offered at other restaurants. I have stopped by here wanting to grab a coffee and listen to live music, but it has consistently been too crowded, so I am sure getting there early would be beneficial.
(5)
Dee C.
Loved the coffee and the breakfast potatoes,there wasn't too much in the breakfast menu to eat if you don't eat eggs or dairy,maybe some grilled tomatoes or mushrooms would work well with those yummy potatoes. Server was lovely,very relaxed atmosphere and the decor is very cool. I don't know if it's the same owners as the one in Michigan but if it is, they have 2 great places,not easy to do.
(4)
Matthew S.
For someone who is religious about brunching on the weekend, I was pleased with the food and service, but it was not anything head and shoulders above other Chicago brunch capitols. I will however go back again for lunch or dinner to try out more of the menu. The atmosphere was nice and laid back with a decent amount of outdoor seating. Staff was polite, but service was slow at times... however, not nearly as bad as the other reviews indicated for the one time I went. If you enjoy brunch in Chicago, put this pone on your list, but maybe not at the tip-top.
(3)
Michelle H.
Solid. About what you would expect from a coffee house. 10 years ago their menu was innovative and 10 years later the same items are on the menu. Tiny bit stale, I thought. The art on the walls changes every 6 weeks and I found the photography this month pretty cool and would go back to check out the new work every now and again.
(3)
Sara O.
Excellent food, super excellent atmosphere and uber excellent drink choices - they even have Dellerium on tap! This is a cool place for a date or for just chillin'. I like sitting by the fireplace when it's cold out. Only thing, one of the bartenders last time didn't give us the option of taking our change... he just said "thanks, ladies" and kept a 40 percent tip. What's up with that?
(4)
Laura S.
This is a good brunch option. They have very interesting menu items, so if all you want is eggs and bacon, this is probably not the best place to go. They have a great outdoor patio, which makes it very appealing in the summer months! I do have to agree that the service is not the best here, however.
(4)
David R.
Awesome food! We sat in the front room whhere the bar is, so it had a neighborhood bar type of atmosphere. Didn't have any coffee, but tried one of their Belgium beers on tap that was really good. The menu has common food but with unique twists that make it very interesting and hard to choose. I will be back to try more!
(4)
Jon N.
3 1/2 stars. pretty good food. bloody mary was salty
(3)
Mairin B.
This place is dog friendly, at least on their outdoor patio! When I stopped for bite while walking my pooch, the waitress brought out a bucket of ice water just for my dog... They also have a great selection of vegetarian foods. I recommend the macaroni and cheese... Seriously. It's gourmet.
(4)
Mark W.
Uncommon Ground is like the Jack-of-All-Trades of food/drink establishments- succesfully pulling off the coffeeshop / restaurant / bar combo, while displaying art and hosting local live music acts. As the name suggests, it is the food establishment that refuses to conform. The majority of my experiences with Uncommon Ground have come in the form of brunch. I've eaten dinner a couple times as well. I've never been blown away, but the food has always been quite good. Menu options are unique. There are a couple of rooms to seat people in, stretching back further than you'd imagine by looking at the front of the place. Yet, it's always packed for brunch on weekends (what place isn't?) Half hour + waits are often typical if you don't arrive early enough. I've never been for live music, but still like the idea of it in theory. It isn't my top choice for brunch, but it is pretty good. Dinners here have also managed to exceed my expectations each time.
(4)
Seiji C.
they brought us three bowls of whip cream. cuz we asked. the waiter was adorable. and funny. and the hot chocolate tastes like chocolate that's fourstarsworthy
(4)
Niall C.
This is a fun cafe where great new talented musicians get to play. I have alot of friends who have played their first gigs here. It's alot of fun to discover new acts and just hang out. Their desserts are also amazing!!
(5)
Nick R.
I love Uncommon Ground. I have never tried their coffee or stayed and listened to the live music, however the food is great. I went there for brunch on a Sunday with my brother and girlfriend and everyone was really happy with their meal. If you are looking for a different kind of place in Wrigleyville this should be one of your first choices.
(5)
Mary H.
Pretty good food and service. They were nice and didn't rush us when we hung out after finishing our dinner, which was nice. I also went there when it was cold for some hot chocolate. It was fantastic--it comes in a big bowl with lots of whipped cream. Yum.
(3)
Anonymous P.
Oh, man. Hot waitress.
(3)
Atl L.
Just went to this place for the first time this weekend. It was really good. The gnocchi was excellent. Our server was super nice - he even comped a dessert when the bartender got backed up on our drinks. Great atmosphere this time of year with the fireplace - nice and cozy.
(4)
Lisa M.
Just went here for brunch on Saturday. We sat outside but I got a glimse of the inside and the leather couch seating area is a very nice touch. The coffee was great and I ordered the Montana omlet. Yum! The potatoes that come on the side were excellent. They had a nice specials menu and lunch choices as well. I will definitely be back to try the pommegranite green tea, bowl of hot chocolate and more!
(4)
stephen r.
For the neighborhood, it's outstanding. Compared to some other coffee shops though it begins to waver. This was not always the case though. They have taken on a strange vibe after taking over the corner space on clark. The new extended space is a bar and grill. There are tv's with sports on (hey, you can hit wrigley with a stone standing at the bar) and it feels just, so, ho-hum. But the old space was always fun for us. Good food, good coffee drinks and we did once stick around for the music and were glad we did. I'm hoping to get there again soon.
(4)
Rob L.
I came her with two female friends of mine. We were thinking about getting a bottle of wine when our server came by and let us know it was half priced bottle of wine that night..... su weet! We had this great red from Argentina, actually two of them... and a sparkling white. Yes we did have hangovers the next day. The girls talked about this great braised beef dish with ravioli, they had the same dish, but this time they had it with risotto, raving about it they got it. I had the chicken stuffed with chorizo. Their dish was great, falling apart, succulent and the risotto was perfectly "to the tooth". Mine was great, moist, tasty and gone. The banana bread pudding we all shared was full of flavor and rich, but again equally gone. Service is friendly and quick, the atmosphere is cozy, warm and inviting. It was a great night with friends, made even better with some equally wonderful food and wine!
(5)
erin d.
i love this place! color me green and call me a hippie but they've got organic food down to a science. everything is always fantastic be it brunch, lunch or dinner. ...and they serve delirium tremons (sp?). in the summer they have a patio that is worth the wait...did i mention it's also a coffee house?
(5)
joe H.
Nice place to hang out!! Great place to enjoy a cup of coffee as well...
(4)
Anna A.
"Yay! I'm a fan."
(4)
Megan B.
I've been twice, once for dinner and once for lunch. Both times hit the spot and I can't wait to go back. The dinner menu is creative and the food is perfect. The burger I had for lunch was perfect as well.... The fireplace was also a nice touch since it was still winter when I went.
(5)
Eric _.
My favorite breakfast place. Everything I've tried I liked, but especially the pancakes. The best thing about it is the drinks. All the espresso or coffee drinks can be 'spiked' and are tremendous. The spiked cider is also very good.
(5)
mary b.
i admit it. when i was apartment hunting a few years ago, my priority was simple: be as close to uncommon ground as possible. they have THE best waitstaff in the whole city. and brunch at uncommon ground is undeniably the best brunch i've had anywhere. UG caters to all. Want to cozy up next to the fire with a book and their uncommon cocoa? You got it. Want to listen to some great bands in a small and cozy venue? Check. Want to enjoy your company without pressure to finish your meal and leave? It's all here. The food is great, the drinks are excellent, the service is fabulous. This is the best place in Chicago, hands down.
(5)
Scott C.
Any place that puts alcohol in the hot chocolate is ok in my mind. Good food, and great coffee.
(4)
Laura B.
Great coffee house and acoustic music venue. Good food, good peeps.
(5)
George R.
Well, we've eaten here twice now and it still hasn't tipped the scales towards a "favorite" destination, despite being a few blocks from our front door. Convenience matters, but food and quality service matter most to me. We have not had bad food per say, but there are concerns about quality. The staff was interesting and well mannered for an early Sunday, but there were issues with the bar delivering drinks in a timely fashion, if at all. My "special" berry pancakes came as two huge pancakes with a few (and I mean maybe 10) berries tossed on top after they were cooked. Warn tea water, undercooked bacon (despite requesting well-done) and way too many potatoes was enough for me to toss this one up as another casualty on my list. Otherwise, its a decent location and has lots of outdoor seating. Plus, the nightly live music can be great. You can hear everything just fine on the sidewalk if the cover is too high. I may not go back for breakfast, but a drink or two would be fine. You'll like the couch near the fireplace for lounging. Not a must see, but still interesting.
(3)
David S.
WAY overpriced for what you get. I went to the host stand to check on how long it would be until we got a table and the bartender removed my drink before I finished it... and didn't apologize at all when I mentioned this to him. They couldn't give us a table due to tables being held for reservations and were VERY apologetic. My group of 5 was able to have drinks at the bar, drinks by the fireplace, eat appetizers by the fireplace, settle our check, and leave without anyone being seated at tables they were holding for reservations. The hosts were young and incompetent. They apologized too much. The server apologized too much. The food was fine, but out of the five things we ordered, only 1 was a hit (calamari.) The chopped salad was definitely not chopped and definitely not worth $15. Not recommended.
(2)
Marc L.
This place is unfriendly to musicians and people organizing social meetings/events. They change things at the last minute, screwing you over. It happened to two of my friends, so I won't be going back here, not like this is a place I'd hang out often anyway.
(1)
joanna f.
YUM! I love this place! Super great foods with some interesting combinations. Love the specialty drinks. They make a great cosmo. My friend is a fan of their mint julep. They also have outdoor seating, which is really great in the summertime. The wait service was very friendly. Good for both couples and small groups. Been here 3 times and haven't found anything that I didn't enjoy! Pasta/mussels, appetizers, mac and cheese! They also have live music in the evenings (not sure what the schedule is). Easy to get to. Go go go!
(4)
Meghan C.
excellent, excellent breakfast. i was there for a late breakfast/early brunch on saturday morning. the atmosphere was relaxed, the waitstaff was friendly and attentive, and the food was amazing. the seasonal menu offered diverse choices from a local bakery and foodstand. i had the uncommon omelet (i believe that's what it was) and it was amazing. it was cheddar-beer cheese over sunny-side up eggs on fresh, thick wheat toast, topped with very tasty bacon (i usually don't eat bacon, but made an exception for this). this came with homefries, which i didn't even have to season in order to enjoy (usually, i'm a ketchup-aholic). even the coffee was uncommonly good. i'll definitely be back.
(5)
M R.
Went there on a Saturday afternoon and it wasn't too crowded, yet we were sat in the back, under an AC vent which was blowing on our faces and aggravating allergies. Waited about 10 minutes and no one approached us...just kept getting colder from the AC. So I asked the hostess if we could move outside where we would be warmer, even though it was drizzling outside. But that was our choice. Hostess seemed annoyed about that and annoyed that she had to dry off the chairs. After waiting again, no one even acknowledges us, wait another 10 minutes while we're sitting outside in the rain, so we just got up and left. Not like it was busy or packed...it was basically like we were invisible. Bad service and will definitely never be back again.
(1)
Kristin M.
Three stars is not bad in my book, its average... Unfortunately I was expecting a little more than average from Uncommon Ground mostly due to its awesome concept. Organic menu, interesting drinks, live music, hippy/trendy waitstaff... Everything just fell a little short. Service was attentive, but we did have to wait quite a while before any one came by. My drink was yummy (pomegranate margarita), but it arrived over an inch short of the rim. (I can understand if the waiter is worried he may spill in the delivery, but then give me the shaker too!) The menu was pricey, but that is what you expect for organic produce, hormone-free meats, etc. My entree was filling and flavorful, but the biggest thing missing: presentation. I never realized how important presentation was to a meal until I realized how poorly executed presentation can completely foul your perception of the food. It seems that all the entrees (both mine and my fiancees) are served on these triangle plates, cool idea, but the way the chef arranged the food on the plate... It was perfectly symmetrical, making it look as though it was some futuristic Star Trek meal. It was like it was something that we'll all eat in the future when we eat food solely for the nutrition and not for the fun of it. (God I hope that never ever happens!) At any rate, I was completely disturbed by the presentation- if you couldn't tell! :o) Otherwise it was tasty, but I don't think I'll go back.
(3)
Kristin L.
a well-kept secret of wrigleyville! their menu is a bit pricey (at least for my poor college student standards), but definitely worth it. they have live music in the back room, an ever-changing selection of artwork in the middle room around the coffee bar (which serves BOWLS of coffee and cocoa!), and a fully stocked bar in the front room. and with their warm, charming atmosphere and staff, this is a great little getaway!
(5)
larry w.
loooooove everything about this place!!
(5)
Patrick F.
We spent quite a bit of time trying to decide what to order here as the menu offers a lot of nice options. Everything we ordered turned out to be very good. They also have a nice beer / wine selection and the entire place is smoke free - which is great!
(4)
Ren H.
This is a great coffe house! They've got really great food and those awesome spiked coffees and hot chocolates!
(5)
Mark S.
It's like a coffee shop that collided with a restaurant and bar. The front area is more restaurant/bar, and the back is more coffee shop feeling. I don't think it was the owner's intention, but the result from my perspective is a very European "Bar/Cafe" type experience. This place totally reminds me of the kind of neighborhood place I'd go for drinks and conversation with friends in Munich- good lighting, interesting art on the walls, quality drinks, mature staff and the option of ordering food, although not required. I've eaten here a few times before when hungry, and the food was fine, but I don't come here specifically for that- I come for an atmosphere where I can feel reasonably civilized while having a drink or two and some conversation without a lot of phony-baloney stuff. If this place were closer to where I lived I could see myself enjoying meeting friends here more often than I do, but as it stands, it's still a great escape when I have to enter this neighborhood.
(4)
Elisabeth C.
This place is neither bad nor great. It 's the kind of place you eat at, then forget about. While the service was good and the food (breakfast) was pretty decent, the portion sizes were small and the nicoise salad was underdressed (and I'm not even a fan of vast amounts of salad dressing) and rather bland. I sort of resented paying $10 for it. It came with a small piece of bread that I couldn't eat since it was during Passover, so perhaps with the bread it would have been a bit more filling, but still. The date's breakfast burrito was (according to him) pretty good, and a larger portion. I don't think this is a bad place, and the coffee is good, but it's not somewhere I'd go out of my way to eat at.
(3)
Ingrid H.
I don't give out (4) stars like they're going out of style, but I'll certainly give (4) stars to Uncommon Ground based on cuisine and setting. It is the complete package vis-a-vis cozy, American brunch spots, and includes a sizable menu offering several wonderful comfort food selections. Little is left to be wanted in terms of the setting, complete with cozy leather couches set in front of a roaring fireplace, rough hardwood floors, throughout, and three separate dining rooms which break up the space, nicely, add a fairly intimate feel to the restaurant. There's even a bonus fireplace in the second dining room area that adds a nice touch to the place. Since it's winter, right now, I'm currently stuck in a crispy potatoes and mac 'n' cheese phase, which, together, are entirely too much food to consume, but manageable upon harassing my other crispy potato and and mac 'n' cheese-lovin' pals to dine out with me. The prices could be a bit lower, but no one's forcing me to eat there every night of the week, so when I do go, I suppose that I don't mind terribly. In any event, it's definitely worth the trip and, though I have yet to schedule the time, I'd like to stop in at some point to just lounge in front of the fireplace with coffee, or grab a pint at the very welcoming bar.
(4)
Natalie B.
Awesome! The menu changes every few weeks because that's just how seasonal this place is! They change what they make depending on what's available... because you know you shouldn't be eating strawberries in the middle of winter. Waiters were very knowledgeable about the menu and eager to tell us about where Uncommon Ground gets its food. I asked the water about the rooftop garden at their location in Andersonville (I think) and he was absolutely delighted! And, of course, the food was great. I had dinner there, but will definitely come back for lunch. Apparently it's also a coffee place, which I didn't know.
(5)
Megan B.
What's better than a discovering a great new brunch place on the first snowy winter weekend in Chicago? Finding a place that not only caters to my taste buds, serves fantastically creative cocktails, and provides the cozy, warm & friendly atmosphere that I crave during the long, cold, gray days of Chicago winter. Went here on a Sunday morning to catch up with a few of my girlfriends. Could not have been happier with our experience. Of course we had to wait (It's Sunday in Chicago after all, what do you expect!) but I have never had a better waiting environment for a brunch place. This is the kind of place you don't mind waiting. We were told it would only be 25 minutes and to cozy up to the bar while we waited. We got some coffee, pondered the amazing and inventive drink menu while we waited, and before we knew it, table was ready! Now to the food...I had the 'Winter Omelet' which consisted of purple yams, butternut squash, caramelized onions, bacon, and gorgonzola cheese. WOW. The flavors all blended together so wonderfully. This was all my favorite foods of the fall/winter season all rolled up into one entree! This was savory breakfast heaven. Also, the hash browns that come with all the egg entrees, to die for. I swear these are not your average joe hash browns. They look simple, but don't be fooled! All around a fantastic brunch experience. Their lunch food also looked wonderful and I would be interested to try dinner as well. This is the kind of place I feel like I could just hang out with friends for hours. I will be back!
(5)
Emily M.
Not happy with this place. Let me explain my experience: I went here with friends for brunch on a Sunday morning. Okay I know I can't expect to get in and out or be seated immediately on a Sunday but that is beside the point. I did have somewhere to go after and allotted myself 1.5hrs for brunch. We were told we had to wait. They didn't tell us how long we would have to wait. There were no other groups waiting. There were empty tables. My friend inquired how much longer we must wait.. as there were open tables available. The restaurant employee that my friend spoke with told us we couldn't be seated yet because they didn't have any menus for us. NO MENUS? THAT IS NOT A THING. I do not care. Not having enough menus is not a reason for me to be sitting on a couch waiting and hungry while there are tables available. Print more menus. Have more more menus so this doesn't happen. I would have been willing to pull up their website on my phone and order off that menu. I seriously couldn't believe it. Okay so we're finally seated. We wait a while. We're in the back room. NO servers enter that room. We have to wave someone down who was apparently a bus boy, and ask him if he could get someone to come by and take our order. Eventually a server comes by. Oh joy! We place our orders. The food comes. The food is delicious. The only reason I'm remotely tempted to come back here is because the food was so damn good. We finish our food. We're done, staring at our plates, each other, obviously still making conversation, but it's been so long since we've finished and no one has come by with our check or to check on us. We find the one server that managed to mosey into this back room and ask for our checks. We pay. We leave. Frustrated.
(2)
Todd M.
Food was pretty good, with an added plus for being locally-minded. I love the intimate performance space too. To top it off, the draft beer selection is great!
(4)
Lea S.
I went here with two girl friends for lunch on a weekend. We all had the amazing hot apple cider complete with an apple slice dripping with honey. Yum. The meals were decent, nothing extraordinary. I think the sweet potato fries were the best part! I do have to credit Uncommon Ground on their ethics. I actually went there because I had heard about their partnership in the Sustainable Food Co-op and that they grow food on the roof. That scores points in my book. Also, the staff was great. My friend was trying to guess the name of the song that was playing, and a waitress overhead and looked it up for her. I'll be back for sure. I'm thinking maybe their dinner selections might be more interesting for the palate.
(4)
Robyn T.
Local, sustainable food is given top notch care and lovingly presented to diners. Go early on weekends to snag an outdoor table. Great sweet and savory dishes and Intelligentsia coffee! Love, loved, loved my special eggs benedict complete with duck and some deliciously chunky unpasteurized cheese. Yum. When can I go back now for dinner?
(4)
Karen N.
Love this place. I am the 159th review... but I had such a great lunch here that I just have to report... We had a long lazy sneak-out-of-work lunch. Chop salad and fish tacos. You can't really mess up chop salad, but the fish taco was surprisingly good. Lightly battered tilapia, with diced sweet potatoes and a creamy sauce. Others have said it: this place has a great vibe, varied menu, and it induces conversation. Seriously.
(4)
Dora D.
I am a lover of this place and so is my hubby! Perfect coffee shop during the day, definitely a good place for a bite to eat at any time of day and perfect for cocktails and live music in the evenings. This place is as cozy as it is romantic as it is fun! I love the artsy atmosphere and always friendly wait staff. It's nice that it's family friendly during the day and there's always something interesting to look at with the ever changing art work on the walls. The other thing that changes from season to season are the beautiful lamps I love staring at over the bar. Okay...On to the YUMMO foooood!!! If you value and appreciate the earthy & organic plates and some traditionals with a twist, you will love this place! Some of my faves include the Winter scramble and uncommon huevos for breakfast, the baked artichoke goat cheese pesto dip is so yummy, the sweet potato fries with goat cheese fondu is MY FAVORITE MUST HAVE every time I'm there! I crave these fries!!! And I LOVE LOVE the pumpkin ravioli! But hurry in to get that because they take it off the menu at winter's end. Lot's of other good stuff I've tried include the sunshine salad, herb & cheese flatbread, halibut fish tacos, and don't forget the DESSERT! The apple cinnamon brown butter pudding cake topped with vanilla bean pecan gelato is just to die for! This place is meant to be shared and tasted!!! :)
(5)
Kimothee Z.
This place is hit or miss. A few times I've been there and really been pleased, more often its been disappointing. The service is the same way. I used to really like this place, but the last few times have left a little pissed. Its not cheap so I expect some level of quality and lately it just hasn't been up to par.
(3)
Jaime R.
Awesome drinks and food, super chic gastro pub digable atmosphere enjoyed every min.
(5)
Sarah Z.
I fancy the artwork. I dig the atmosphere. I quite liked the service. I did not care for the chopped salad, but the apple crisp was divine. I felt that the sweet potato fries and accompanying cheese came from a box. I will be back because of this joints reputation, but I am a bit underwhelmed at the moment.
(3)
David P.
On a chilly late afternoon, I was dragged here by my boyfriend. I say dragged because I didn't want to leave the house - but we're were hungry, crabby, and bored. Boy, was I glad I got up off my ass. Immediately after walking in, I felt incredibly comfortable and cozy in the space. It looks as if someone splashed a bucket of autumn all over and it came in the form of various wood patterns, a rustic floor, and some of the cutest lamps I've ever seen. I smiled and sat down. We got coffee and split the sweet potato fries that come with goat cheese fondue. It may be because I'm very hard to please when it comes to goat cheese, but I only cared for the fries. He got their chilly which I never got to try because I was too preoccupied with one of the best pasta dishes I've had all year. Their pumpkin ravioli is out of control delicious. It has a brown butter sauce and is sprinkled with pecans and gorgonzola. The saltiness of the sauce works like hot magic with the slight sweetness of the pumpkin filling. Better hurry up though guys, they take it off the menu in the spring!
(4)
Rebecca W.
This is a new favourite of mine. (I know, I'm a little late in game on this one.) My friend and I went to lunch here a couple of weeks ago, along with a large stroller and quiet baby. I was surprised to see that we were not the only stroller-rollers in there - we were one of many! I had the ricotta ravioli and it was delectable! I didn't want to stop eating. My friend had the chopped salad which she was also thrilled with. What really makes this place great in my eyes is the sustainability. They use fresh, seasonal foods that are organic when possible and from small local farms. THIS is the epitome of perfect restaurant traits. I can't wait to go back and try all of the other amazing dishes they offer!
(4)
Cory W.
Great food and service, laid back environment and the value is there. Mindful sustainable and often organic food made delicious; really delicious! Beer flights, lots of goat cheese and lightly fried items spoke to us and we weren't disappointed by anything. We will be back soon.
(5)
Eric L.
yet another average restaurant. i like it for the natural light and a pot of tea. i've had a caesar salad and a very average pastrami sandwich here for food. nothing to write home about.
This is hands down some of the best food in Chicago. I have never left her unsatisfied. Except maybe on their Valentines day special but just because the portions were small. It is a GREAT place to take a date. Very nice lighting, and a great ambiance. Some nights there is live music in the back so if you are on a date be aware since sometimes you cannot talk if you are near where they are playing. To the food. The winter menu I had the stuffed chicken with gorgonzola and pumpkin ravioli. I nearly fell out of my seat the ravioli was amazing. The chicken was mouth watering. Anytime I have had guests in town I take them here, and they have a nice dessert menu as well. The service is usually top notch, they are very friendly, patient, and down to earth and will usually recommend dishes and they are familiar with the entire menu. The only downside is theres really no parking, so if its warm I will walk there, or during the winter I'll cab it. I have also been there for lunch, and the food was also amazing. If you have not been you should go when the pumpkin ravioli is on the menu. I absolutely love this place. It s American Comfort food at its finest.
(5)
Leigh R.
Apparently, after the sun sets, Uncommon Ground puts on a different hat and turns from funky, kid-friendly, yummy brunch spot to pretentious (why, yes, you are), fine dining (why, no, you are not). Uncommon Ground, you need to find your persona and stick to it because your indecisiveness turned into a very awkward experience. Not to get into the gory details but I wrongly assumed that since brunch/lunch is kid-friendly, we would be welcomed for dinner as well. Not so much. Which is unfortunate because I really really like the food and the beer list. I should also point out that my 3 month old has been welcomed in various establishments throughout the city and we have not been stuck going to places like Ed Debevic's or the frickin Cheesecake Factory. Frankly, being relegated to those places just because I have a baby is my own personal culinary hell. Uncommon Ground seems to think that its dinner service is fine dining. It is not. I can't think of ANY reason an infant would not be welcome considering the dining room is very loud and a crying baby would likely not even be heard by other patrons (no joke - we were practically shouting). Had I known about this dramatic personality change from day to night, I would have chosen another restaurant. It never crossed my mind that a restaurant such as this could possibly turn so "exclusive" by nightfall. Anyway. 4 stars for food and beer. 4 stars for brunch. 3 for being sucky and snobby for dinner. (ETA: I am not a delusional parent who thinks my kid should be welcome everywhere. Based on previous experiences and my knowledge of UG, it seemed like dinner there would have/should have been ok for a kid and not annoying to other diners, the staff or detrimental to some image they are creating for their dinner service.)
(3)
Scott C.
I went in on a Saturday afternoon and had the eggs benedict, which were awesome. service is always great here. every meal i have is is fantastic
(5)
Theresa T.
Looking for a new brunch place to try, we ended up at uncommon ground. After reading the menu and cocktail list I found myself intrigued. Beverages included the typically coffee, tea, juice, water and soda selection along side more interesting mixed like jalapeno limeade, bloody mary's and beermosa. The brunch menu is enticing with mains like homemade granola pancakes with rolled oats and fresh berries. Egg dish make an appearance and large salads are plentiful. The concept and menu are great, but the food was slightly underwhelming. The pancakes looked delicious, but lacked the serious flavors that would have made them amazing. The salads were a bit off as well. Great patio seating, friendly staff.
(3)
Claire Y.
Had a really nice and casual dinner with him on a Monday. Unlike a Friday/Sat night, the place was loosely populated with patrons, enabling us to park right outside the door and to be seated in the plush chairs by the fireplace. Soon after placing the order, our appetizer Korean chili fried calamari came out and it was delicious! It was almost like a marriage of Italian fried calamari and Korean fried chicken (just the seasoning part). The bacon chicken entree was equally delicious, but I must say I would've gone for another round of the calamari if it weren't for caloric concerns. Very friendly service and comfortable atmosphere. I'm sure we'll be back for a night of live music, good java, and munches.
(4)
Preeti B.
Love, love, love this place! Love the organic, sustainable vibe.
(5)
Stan S.
I'm writing this the day after Julie Frost just won a Golden Globe as a best song writer for co-writing a song with Madonna! Notice that I wrote a review that included a mention of seeing Julie performing here at Uncommon Ground in '05. So the next time you are watching someone on open stage night consider the real possibility that you may be watching the early days of a future star. It happened here:)
(5)
Mary B.
I am a vegetarian...which sometimes makes going to dinner at a nice restaurant a hard thing to happen. You've seen Top Chef. It is always the vegetarian/vegan challenge that makes the contestants groan...really? No protein? No meat? Uncommon ground offered two vegetarian options on their menu, pumpkin ravioli and well the other I can't remember. But for $18 I felt as though I needed to pass. What really brought us (my best friend and I) here was their drink menu. Can anyone say ROSEMARY INFUSED VODKA???? AMAZING!!!!!!!! But drinking on an empty stomach is usually not a good idea, and I am pretty sure Uncommon Ground would frown upon me getting on the bar and dancing. So we ordered food...off the small plates (fancy word for appetizers). They were so so so so good. Squash, sweet potatoes and chili. All vegetarian and all perfect for the cold weather night. One weird thing was that all tables were reserved. ALL TABLES RESERVED! Also we had to go through Wrigleyville and their pub crawls to get here. Oh and one of the waiters...so dreamy.
(4)
Heather J.
I love the vibe of this place. Great concept with healthy food, unique drinks, and an incredibly cozy interior. I went on a date here recently (such a romantic place) and had the best time. Oh, and our waiter, Cameron was AMAZING!!! Such a sweet, cute young guy. He gave us a great background on the restaurant's green philosophy and use of local farms. We also bonded over our mutual dairy-free lifestyle, and he suggested some great alternative choices. He seemed to genuinely enjoy talking with us and his recommendation of the Fall Chicken (even without the goat cheese) was perfect! I was still very jealous of my date's pumpkin ravioli though. I'm definitely looking forward to return again one of these winter nights and warm up next to the fireplace.
(5)
Cindy G.
I love how low-key this place is, and the food is excellent. Not too pricey either. I think I've found my new favorite brunch spot for the time being.
(4)
Tina W.
I love how Uncommon Ground looks. The space is decorated with a fireplace, cedar tables and floors, and elaborate lanterns. The dim lighting is complemented by the abundant natural light that comes through the tall windows facing a tree-lined stretch of Grace. They don't pack the space and you end up with only 4-5 other groups in the same room. Now to the food and drink. I had a glass of wine called Manifesto! That exclamation mark is theirs and, truth be told, a little undeserved. My boyfriend had a Metropolitan Doppelbock. I like that they're supporting local businesses! For dinner I had the bacon-wrapped meatloaf. It was pretty darn good. It tasted fresh and without fat or greasiness. They topped it with some spinach and put it on a cushion of excellent mashed potatoes. Boyfriend had crispy chicken with a bacon and brussel sprout crust. It was okay. There wasn't much of a crust, but it was well-prepared, tender throughout, even though the piece was pretty thick. I like how Uncommon Ground is trying to be green and all and I like that they buy from local farmers. Their meals are solid. A pleasant night out.
(4)
Jacob Y.
This place serves excellent breakfast (and bloody Mary's!). I have practically tried everything from the croissant sandwich to their omelets... And if you like mimosas...they serve pomosas...made with pomegranate!
(4)
Sonchoi H.
It was morning time, starving from sleep, and the lovely girlfriend had convinced me to try this place, even though we were on our way to my favorite cafe. First thing I said when I walked in: Geez, those paintings are so out of place. They had these brightly colored paintings by an artist named Michele. I liked the photo, though, above the fireplace. The wife status on the other hand? First words out of her mouth: "Love...I think bad things happen here at night." HAHA. She meant drinking and picking up ladies. Not sure what made her say that. Maybe the big bar area in the middle of the room? Anyhow, I ordered the sugar n' spice. It was quite the bomb.com . With an order of brioche french toast...which was great, as well, but for how tiny of a plate it is? Not worth 10 bucks. I ordered an english muffin to try to fill in this stomach of mine. Nomnom. The wife ordered a plate of breakfast melt. It looked amazing...and definitely had more food on it than mine did. The potatoes on the side were amazing. I'm not a fan of bacon so I didn't try the rest. Overall, the food was good. I just wish there was more for the price.
(3)
Tory w.
I feel like I've already written a review for UG. But I love it so much I'll do it again. This is one of my local neighborhood staples, always just the right atmosphere no matter what the social situation - friends, blind date, seeing-eye date, family....I really, really love it here. I loved it way back when, when it was a teeny cafe, I love it now that it's expanded to almost a whole block and has couches and a fireplace and a big bar. I would love to have whoever decorated UG come and decorate my pad, it's so cozy. Board games, live music, lots of squishy couches, chairs, and window seats. And the food....I've tried almost everything on the menu, foods and drinks, and I love everything. LOVE. In particular, the chilaquiles are fabulous. As is the hot chocolate, in a giant bowl. And the sweet potato fries. And the mac n cheese. And the chili. Go there. Now. I'm going into food coma just thinking about it. Yum.
(5)
Allie S.
This is a good place to eat some food, have a drink, and listen to chill music, but I always end up feeling super claustrophobic when I'm there. Almost too intimate. Might be perfect for some people, but it's just not for me. Also, I've had a couple kind of nasty cocktails there. Too experimental, or something. And kind of pricey!
(2)
Jackie L.
Read the website before you go on all of the ways Uncommon Ground is focused on maintaining a eco-friendly, local & organic environment. I think it made me appreciate the food / atmosphere that much more. The menu changes seasonally and I'd definitely come back for the summer fare. The server knew all of the gluten free options off the top of his head which was reassuring so I had bacon crusted chicken with cheese-y mashed potatoes, broccoli and a side of bbq sauce. Not very innovative but tasty none the less. The 22oz bottle of Organic JK Skrumpys Cider for $12 isn't bad. Typically its $8 at Whole Foods.
(4)
Lindsay S.
I'm still walking around today in shock. I've been thinking all weekend about Uncommon Ground and how it couldn't have been *that* good. Well ladies and gentlemen, it really was. Taking advantage of a Yelp coupon, we braved the cold down the street to this cozy little corner. Well, I thought it was a corner. This place is bigger than I thought it would be! Promptly seated, since I made reservations thanks to you Yelpers who mentioned doing so. Cozy seats next to the fireplace were perfection for this cold evening! Our waitress was a doll in training although I would have never have guessed. She was a pro already! The chicken breast with apples, butternut squash and brie that I has melted in my mouth. I don't recall the last meal I had that was that good! The hunny had bacon wrapped meatloaf on top of mashed Yukon golds. Need I say more? The price fit the quality and service here perfectly. I loved every bit of our dinner here! Darn you Yelp for your coupons and making me discover yet another place that's going to hurt my poor little bank account! But THANK YOU Yelp! Because you know it's good when you're thinking about it 3 days later!
(5)
Lindsey O.
Due to proximity, this is the restaurant I've been to the most since moving to Chicago. I gave them 3 stars because they are over priced, can be insanely loud, and should have a more well rounded wine offering. The wine is only so-so and around $9 to $12 per glass. The restaurant's focus on being green is admirable but limits them to some real weak sauce wines. The food is very tasty and fresh. There is a strong push to serve organic and local produce, and it pays off. I do have cravings for the sunshine salad with fresh avocado and sprouts. For dinner, try the chicken or pork chop. Great spices. Split the bread pudding for dessert. I'd recommend this restaurant more for lunch than dinner. You never know if a band will be in or if there will be screaming children sitting next to you.
(3)
andy c.
I generally don't like to review places that i haven't visited a few times but i was on vacation in chicago recently and had an amazing dinner at this place. It seems weird reading the reviews that so many people dissed it but i don't know, i didn't come here expecting to study and drink coffee, mostly was just going for a somewhat informal dinner. I didn't really get the vibe that it was a cafe or anything so I can see why some people maybe didn't dig it, or are mad about paying $7 for a beer. Well, fact is the prices here are kind of cheap compared to many san francisco restuarants of similar quality so it seemed quite reasonable to me.. The server was fast and friendly and gave some good recomendations. He explained that the weekly specials were created by a new sous chef working there so i tried one of those entrees, a pan seared whitefish with watercress salad. Well, when the meal showed up i was psyched, the presentation was simply outstanding! (I posted a pic, which doesn't really do it justice).. The fish was perfectly grilled and served on a bed of basmathi rice, which also had almonds and some crisp green beans which added a perfect amount of texture and crunch to the meal. The watercress and baby onions (or something onion-like) added a light and fresh flavor. The whole thing was served on a plate with a thin layer of gorgeous and delicious watercress-based sauce. Their bourbon menu is very good, I had a very light and fresh manhattan and for dessert we had a flight with woodford, eagle rare, and ..hmm i can't remember the third but whatever... With the flight we had some great gelatos and a piece of pie that was indulgent but not too sweet. The ambience on a sunday night was very chill, there were a few kids there (including an 8 month old with our party) and it didn't faze the server in any way, it seemed pretty family friendly for being sort of on the fancy side of menu and service. Overall one of the finest meals i had while traveling last week!
(5)
becki s.
Very cool atmosphere, low lit and warm. The music room in the back is small, cozy and very intimate. But make sure you make reservations if you want to sit back here for a performance. They don't let just anyone wander back. Even though they are right down the street from Wrigley Field, Don't come here thinking you can get a Bud and the watch game - they don't serve those types of domestics. But they do have one of my favorites ,312, which more than makes up for the lack of Bud. If youre not in the mood for beer... try the Apple Hot Toddy. It comes in a bowl for your sipping pleasure and is ohhso yummy!
(4)
Matthew E.
How have I never been here. The food is delicious, the overall atmosphere is charming, and the drinks are strong. We started with the fantastic mediterranean trio, an amazing sampler of hummus, tzatziki, and eggplant salad. I got the grilled chicken sandwich and my date got the burger. The sandwich was perfectly grilled with great toppings that added a wealth of flavor. The sweet potato fries were unreal and are definitely worth visiting just for that. Overall this isnt a restaurant that shouldnt be missed, its overshadowed by the Wrigleyville area and is quietly tucked away past all the usual craziness that comes with Clark during Cubs season. The only thing uncommon about this place is a great dining experience for a good price.
(5)
Pete F.
Wow! I got the english muffin sandwiches (amazing) along with their breakfast potatoes, which were fabulous. I thought the prices were very fair considering what you got! I didn't get it, but I saw the red velvet pancakes with chocolate syrup, and they look like the most decadent breakfast you could ever have.
Actually it is 3 1/2 stars. ***** 5 stars for the food, room and the drinks ** 2 stars for the service ( very sad) I was here during summer on a warm full Moon night, sitting out side with a very handsome date :-) We ordered rescue meâ grilled pineapple greyhound ~ YUM Korean chili-spiced fried calamari ~ YUM mussels with red curry coconut broth ~ YUM & sweet potato fries ~ YUM YUM YUM 5 exceptional stars, I loved the food. My non spicy eating date had a bit of trouble but the manly man in him enjoyed all with a big smile on his face ( so sweet) All was going well, we were having a sweet date but we were sitting across from each other. So..after dinner He sat next me..saying very sweet things..touching my face.....So romantic...moon was out and...I was floating..... But everything stopped when I our very slender waitress rudely interrupted us to say he cannot sit next to me because she couldn't get through...(hater) We paid our check soon after that and left to continue our evening somewhere more user friendly. So Uncommon Grounds if you are listening, there are many many options to dine, it is the service you provide that makes you stand out and memorable. May I recommend as a simple rule, tell your wait staff not to interrupt a perfectly good date.
(3)
Shai L.
I really like Uncommon Ground. Their coffee and drinks selection is very nice. their breakfast/brunch menu is nice as well. The nice thing about Uncommon Ground is that their menus are seasonal, which is evidenced by there changing menu. They have a variety of options which is nice. I like the ambiance of the restaurant, but I like to go there more in the summer and fall so that we're able to eat outside.
(4)
Vinifer D.
Uncommon ground has a great warm atmosphere, great wait staff, and wonderfully prepared food. I went with a group of 6 people during a cold night. I had the pumpkin ravioli and sweet potato fries with goat cheese fondue. HOLY CRAP! The combination of the sweet potato and goat cheese is out of this world! It's a must try! And the pumpkin ravioli totally hit the spot! My Italian friend (who lives in Italy) was visiting, and she's never liked any kind of Italian-American food in the country. Even she said that this pumpkin ravioli was great, so that's really saying something.
(4)
Irena A.
I went to this place after my friend recommended it. I ordered the uncommon salad which is pretty tasty but I had to ask for additional salad dressing. Nevertheless, it was yummy. My friend had the butternut squash ravioli after I noticed that it was not included in the menu.. I asked the waitress and she said that there was one more serving. My friend LOVED the dish. I tried one of the raviolis and it was indeed delicious. A little bit too pricey(17bucks) for me for 7 pieces of ravioli. The service was wonderful. I enjoyed the atmosphere. I would go back there for sure.
(4)
Rob G.
Great selection of quality beers in a great setting.
(5)
Kate S.
Really delicious and has a wonderful patio.
(4)
Erica K.
Warning: Long over due review to follow. We hit Uncommon Ground up as part of Yelp Eats 09, and I can't believe I've been so freaking lazy about posting the review. We had a stellar time. The portions were huge, they offered the fixed price menu to anyone who came in that night. My salad was delicious and I had some of the best chocolate cake in the entire world. I'm not even joking. It was so good. I fully endorse eating here.
(4)
Mari K.
Exhausted? Irritable? Moody? Let the Fall Cosmo work its magic. It transformed me from Oscar the Grouch to Little Miss Sunshine... uncommon martinis can do that, you know. Craving greasy food? ..but still want a dash of "healthy" to silence that annoying voice in your head? Listen to me, and go with the sweet potato fries & goat cheese fondue. I'm sorry, where's the dash of "healthy"? Apparently sweet potatoes are loaded w/ a party of vitamins. Um.. yep. Not too hungry? Still feeling healthy? Hummus trio is the way to go. Service? ROCKS. *Btw, BONO eats here. Oh yah, he does. AND I got to see the plastic bag that held the box that held his food. I know you're jealous. Apparently, the owner of the Metro is friends with the owner of Uncommon Ground... and tonight just happened to be U2's version of Where's Fluffy @ the Metro. =)
(4)
Dariya T.
I had a less than pleasant experience at dinner here a few weeks ago that can be chalked up to a restaurant not having their best night. I will say however that the general manager handled it wonderfully. Very respectful and understanding. I wish the staff would learn a lesson or two from him. I will definitely be giving them a second shot.
(3)
S S.
Went here for brunch and overall enjoyed it. The staff were all super cool and on top of everything; great service. Their bloody marys rock and they have a really comprehensive brunch & lunch menu which is sure to satisfy whatever craving you walk in there with. I like that pretty much everything on there was done a little differently than you would normally find; I loved the brioche french toast with fruit compote and macadamia nuts. My friend also really liked her Chilaquiles. On the negative side, while they're apparently known for their various eggs benedict specials, when my boyfriend tried the eggs benedict & duck special he was positive it was chicken. Whether it was or not, it was a disappointment given how talked up it was. All in all however, I would recommend trying this place out - especially for their al fresco dining in nice weather.
(4)
Jacqueline S.
I love that this place isn't pretentious. It is fun to relax, drink great local beers and wines, and eat locally traded food. I have never been disappointed. I have been here over 100 times, and only once was my steak a little under-cooked in which case the server noticed and took it back to fire it up a little more. The service here is great. This place is upscale with a casual homey feel. Their patio is huge for the summer time. They also have a fireplace to sit and drink coffee at in the winter time. They host musicians, but I'm not sure what nights. They also have guest appreciation nights where they do specials for a three course meal for around 15-20 dollars, including a beer or glass of wine. Also some days they do half price bottles of wine. The walls are covered with local artists work. This place is how every business should be run, and they are definitely doing things right. I'm obsessed with their salmon and steak. They're desserts are top notch (bread pudding). They change their menu seasonally though. You should definitely make a reservation for weekends or if you are with a group, as this place can get packed around the right hours. The servers and hosts have always been very helpful and friendly. When I finished my wine, if someone noticed my glass was empty they would ask if I wanted another one even if they weren't my server. There was definitely communication among staff which is rare.
(5)
Moyah M.
This place is so cool! Great atmosphere and beautiful decor. Only went for tea and it was great! The server was a little slow and unattentive, maybe because it was Saturday night and we went for after dinner drinks (reason for 3 stars). The menu looked interesting and I would definitely go back to try. And they have live music.
(3)
B.D. K.
I have been here about three times now. Once in Rogers Park, twice in Wrigleyville - like Wrigleyville spot more for some reason, but that's probably b/c the other location feels so remote. Thank you Uncommon Grounds for serving my hot drinks in a giant bowl! You are awesome, I will come back next time for the meatloaf.
(4)
Joseph G.
Picture this, Uncommon Ground, last Sunday... So I come in and figured I would get some work done on my laptop, use the wifi, have a laid back late lunch. Tons of servers there, none of which could fix the wifi problem that they all apparantly are aware of. This point would be moot if they didn't advertise it as a feature of the place. The food itself is delicious, but the prices are on the high side - burger, soda, tax, tip - you are looking at almost 18 bucks.
(2)
Taylor O.
Another Yelper in search of nourishment before a Metro show, some friends and I arrived at Uncommon Ground unsure what to expect. The website is very nice but were wondering if we'd be underdressed etc. There were no worries, however, because the upscale organic hipster vibe fit, 2 of us were Polo wearing, the other two concert black t-shirt'ed and Chuck Taylor'ed. We drank some Metropolitan brewed lager at the bar waiting for the other two, enjoying the highly autumnal atmosphere. The walls of everything including the bathroom displayed leaves changing color, and birch bark styled candles. It's permanent fall; makes sense in a harvesty, farm way. We had the artisanal sausage sampler to start and were warned by our mustache clad long time server that it is on the small side. No kidding, it was the equivalent of less than one sausage. I'm not sure if it was good; I want another darn bite so I can tell. I switched to a Minnesota brewed Surly IPA to go with the Duo of Duck. The description like most lazy comma based ones lately did not describe in proper sentences or even phrases the entree, just random strings of ingredients. The duck confit and duck breast were great and stacked high on some not quite discernable mound. It ended up being fried potatoes and gorgonzola. I liked it at first but less so after eating the too large quantity. Overall, quite the nice atmosphere, great emphasis on local beer and good ingredients though as pricey as many Randolph Row restaurants but will be back, likely for a grass fed burger and a beer.
(4)
Chris W.
Uncommon is great! Menu is always changing, all organic, always wonderful. Craft cocktails and nice beer selection.
(5)
Frances C.
In terms of having brunch or dinner, Uncommon Ground is never my first choice. I think it'd probably be cool to get a cup of coffee or the occasional drink, but when I went there after Kuma's rejected my party of 10, it was very underwhelming. Plus, I was starving. I think I got the burger...or maybe it was pizza. See? Forgettable. Plus, I remember it being really overpriced and the wait staff being kind of flighty. Meh.
(3)
Sonia L.
This place is awesome. I came here on a date on a Tuesday night. We got there right before 8pm and my date made reservations in the back music room for live music. Reservations in this room are absolutely necessary! We were seated adjacent to each other at the front table, which was slightly intimidating. But it could not have been better! The music was awesome and the beer selection was fabulous. The food selection is slim but I LOVED the trout. Who ever thought brussell sprouts could be delicious? Because they were here! My date got the pork and finished his plate. Not only was the food, beer, and music awesome, so was the atmosphere. It seems like a cute little coffee shop with a bunch of rooms, and cool art. I am definitely coming back here again!
(5)
A R.
This place is really great and I can't wait to go again. If you get the chance, DEAR GOD get the Spicy Black Bean (and something else delicious that I can't think of) Hummus. It's divine! I also tried their Bloody Mary (five bucks on a Sunday) and it was pretty good. Not my absolute favorite, but better than a lot of others I've tried. The only complaint was that we waited for a bit before getting seated, and there were like three employees that walked by. The service was bang on other than that. We will definitely be going again for dinner!
(4)
Kristina W.
My fiance and I went to Uncommon Ground for dinner recently and I'm still on the fence about how I feel. I like food a lot and I like to be blown away by restaurants, but I was not blown away. The food was actually very good, but the atmosphere was kind of off- a little loud and we got a bad table in the middle of a high traffic area. I ordered a martini at the bar before dinner and had to send it back because it was really watery, and I saw another woman do the same. If you're in the area and are thinking of stopping in, definitely do because its worth it. If you're thinking of making a special trip- not worth it.
(4)
Katherine R.
First thing that comes to mind is that I will be back. I'd been wanting to try this place out for a long time, and was very happy when I finally did. I visited here for brunch the other weekend and had a great meal. We didn't have to wait for a table, but I think we got there in the nick of time because it started to fill up shortly after we sat down. Secondly, their bloody mary's are very good. Always tastes a little better when you know the ingredients are home grown. I believe they were on special as well, which rocks for a Saturday. Our server was also very attentive and helpful when deciding between all the amazing brunch options. I had the veggie benedict, which was great. Wasn't a huge fan of the cheesy (gouda? Bechemal? Don't remember) hollaindaise sauce (as opposed to just the egg and butter), it was very strong and I think over-powered the dish. The veggies were great and so were the potatoes. I was between a bunch of different options before ordering so I will definitely be back to try out other dishes. My bf had the huevos uncommon I think. Either way, he loved it. Literally almost licked the plate clean. Definitely support what they do here (they grow the ingredients on the roof! At the other location..I think) and will be back because of it and because of the great food. Hopefully other restaurants can follow in Uncommon Grounds footsteps!
(4)
Gina G.
This place has really great food. I love their brunch! The menu isnt too large but I have had several item and each time I haven't been disappointed. I would definitely recommend trying uncommon ground!
(5)
Natalia S.
this was lovely. super funky, saw my talented musician friends play here. no complaints although i can't help be bothered by the manager that night... i know my group of 6 was running like an hour late, and she did end up sitting us after all, but i dont know she was pretty rude. (maybe likely so) the decor, super awesome. the food + coffee super awesome. so no complaints. even the wait staff was awesome... get a bowl of coffee/chai. its incredible. also, my advice is to splurge. hello youre out to eat, you might as well treat yourself. my friend had this delish artichoke-something dip... AMAZING. do it. do it. go here, just don't be absurdly late like i was!
(4)
Tiff H.
A place that serves alcohol and coffee. A place that serves alcohol in my coffee!! This is a whole new world! There were no places like this in SC when I was there....that I knew of. Ok, so I may be a little biased towards this place...this is where I had my first date with the lady. Que romantico! (ha.) It was a rainy evening, and the place was pretty empty. I had sweet potato fries which were good; I was too nervous to eat a full meal. I had a Manhattan. She had 2 scotches on the rocks. Service was attentive and pleasant. Live music was interesting. We liked this place so much that we haven't been back since. Nothing against the place...it's just not in my area or the lady's....I prefer sticking to Bucktown and making my own spiked coffee. :)
(3)
Christine O.
Oh God... I went again. We had friends in town. Ann Sather's was insanely busy... we went again. I was so not ready to give them a second try that I was anxious. It was pretty good! The waiter we had last time is still there, somehow, but we were nowhere near his section. The gal who waited on us only forgot some toast and it was corrected forgivably quickly. They got the boyfriend's order right, same boring thing. I can't find what I ordered on the website. Me and my friend split a grain pancakes with fresh fruit (peach/blueberry I think) and a scrambled eggs plate with something in them, white cheese, and potatoes. I loved the multigrain toast, but was puzzled by only getting one piece with the meal. Good save, Uncommon Ground. I'll still hesitate, but I think you have won the boyfriend back.
(4)
Gigi H.
I was here tonight and from the get-go it was not good! The hostess was unnerved by us asking for a different table (the patio was more than half empty....so you would think no problem yet she seemed annoyed!). Then the waitress was annoyed that we only wanted water and salads! We waited 45 minutes for SALADS and then both came out wrong! We had to tell the waitress that the server had to send them back as they were both wrong...not what we ordered! We then waited another 15 minutes before we asked for some bread as we were now starving? We then asked a busboy if he could bring some bread as we waited. He was great but the waitress should have asked us! Then we had to ask for the manager to explain....our waitress could care less. She could have rectified the situation by explaining that they were correcting the situation but she never came by until after the manager corrected the situation. I have been here many times and I have never experienced such poor service! I am not going back again and it was because of the hostess and waitress ...lack of customer service!!!
(2)
Courtney K.
Love love love this place. The menu is creative, and the ingredients are fresh. The atmosphere is relaxed. I especially love the brunch/breakfast items, but have never been disappointed by something I ordered. When I lived in the neighborhood, I was there on a regular basis. Just as easy to spend an afternoon studying there as it is to go on a date!
(4)
Amy D.
This place is really great, it has perfect location, it is right near wrigley field. we wnt there right before the game and the area is full of proud cubs fans. ok back to the food, we started off with Sangria, i think it costs 8 dollars, it was alright, a little too much ice. the food was so good though, the thin crust roast chicken pizza was too die for, the crust was so tasty. Also the mac and cheese was really good, the cheese sauce was a lil thin but had amzing flavour. Its accompaniment was a bland coleslaw, they should have left that off of the plate.
(4)
Sarah P.
After years of wanting to go to this place, I finally did! It's been on my list of places to go, but I often forget about it. I ordered a hamburger with sweet potato fries (!). Both were delicious. My friends all ordered dessert and drinks. The cobbler was a bit of a disappointment, but the chocolate cake stole the show. Yum. Our server was great. She was attentive and familiar with the menu selections. It's a very low key atmosphere. Several people there were on what appeared to be date night. The candles and wine list must be a big draw! Tip: check out the bathroom. Weird, I know. The artwork is beautiful and probably the best out of the entire restaurant. Just do it.
(4)
Alexandra L.
Live music, good food, cozy atmosphere. Lovely!
(5)
Steve D.
Sharp cheddar cheese, smoky bacon, a perfectly cooked egg, tasty bread...Uncommon Ground breakfast melt I love you. Not only is this a really cool place, it helps that their food is really good and extremely fresh. They prescribe to the local ingredient ideal and they execute it perfectly, fresh ingredients usually begets good food and it certainly works here. Uncommon is really convenient for me since I live above it almost. But it helps that the staff is friendly, the atmosphere inviting, and you get a good feeling from it. Weekends are incredibly busy here, I don't think I've ever seen a weekend without a line. Getting a big caffeinated drink off the menu is a good way to start, they have really good coffee. The menu is diverse and interesting, and as far as I know they update it regularly which is cool. When you are there take some time to look at the art on the walls, or see if any of the upcoming musical acts pique your interest. Uncommon seems to be as much coffee shop as it is restaurant, and if you want to you can order a coffee and hang out, I believe they have free wi-fi as well. Plain and simple Uncommon Ground is a good place with decent prices and a quality product. If you are in Wrigleyville and want to find fresh and well prepared ingredients then this is a good place to check out. Uncommon is one of my favorite brunch spots in the city.
(4)
Rick P.
Horrible Service.. Excited for Mother's Day brunch with the whole family.. Only to wait 60 minutes for our food, while everyone around us was served. Server was no where to be found and when we did locate him, he was very dismissive and rude. Worse yet, when our food arrived, my daughter's (who is allergic to egg - which we told them upon ordering) sandwich came it was on the bread our server told us had egg. It took 15 min to get another one - very hard for a kid to wait an hour and then 15 more mins. The server did not even apologize. The manager delivered the food. He did not apologize or even say a word. Big surprise it took another 15min to run our credit card. The food was decent. All in all, worst brunch ever.
(1)
#NAME?
Been here 3x, twice for dinner and once for brunch- For dinner I've ordered the same thing b/c I'm finicky and what I get is good, the scallops and mac n cheese-One thing about the scallops, there is only two, not huge, normal size and it's $15-It's actually an appetizer, but I often eat appetizers for my meal-So those are some pricey scallops- Mac N Cheese is good, different blend of cheeses and is served with some apples- For brunch I had some of the driest disgusting pancakes ever, how can you mess up a pancake? I mean not even Denny's, IHOP or Salt and Pepper have served me a nasty pancake, but Uncommon Ground did, as well the syrup was gross-Just give me some Log Cabin and I'd be happy but this was pale and not good- Another negative is the seating, the benches you sit on against the window sucks, doesn't feel good on the butt or back- I don't think I'll go back again, unless they offer me 4 scallops for $15 :)
(2)
P. C.
Warm and welcoming decor. I came in on a Friday night wanting a table for two. There was a bit of a wait, naturally, but we found two seats at the bar. The service was friendly and the food was delicious! Order the duck... it's amazing. I'll be back for sure.
(4)
Vivian Y.
My review of this place would have been a "4" star had our visit been a little different. 3 of us show up and put our name in for a table. It was 1pm Sunday Brunch and sunny! We'd already teased ourselves a little by reading the menu online so we were looking forward to sitting at their bar right away to get one of their "uncommon" bloody Mary's. Service at the bar SUCKED. The place was busy, but sense of urgency was lacking. It took them 5 mins to clean off the dirty plates where we were seated at the bar. Another 10 mins to get us a menu. Finally, we were served our first beverage at 1:40pm. The hostess came by by around 2pm to let us know that our table was ready. We didn't cash out at the bar for another 10 mins because the bartender took his sweet time. It wasn't THAT busy. Finally we are seated. We get menus and our waiter was great at first! Gave us some great suggestions and then said he would give us a few mins to look over the menu and return to take our order. We all said that his service made up for the bar. But then, he must have disappeared for half an hour. Finally, took our order and we waited....and waited.....and waited.... Apparently something happened in the kitchen because the food still had not arrived by 3pm. The waiter recognized something had happened and comped us our meal. That was an excellent gesture. We finally got our food at 3:20 and we ate to our hearts content. Food does taste better when it is free! There was some disagreement in the kitchen and the owner (?) or manager ripped the chef a new one in front of us. (well, wasn't yelling, but you could tell he was quietly scolding her). I think after a few mins, he realized that MAYBE it was not appropriate to do that inside and he took them outside. Ok, so the food. It's good. Not awesome. I do appreciate the comped meal - but it was expected after all the time we waited. They are lucky we didn't just walk out. Arrival at 1pm, seated at 2:15, served food at 3:20. A little ridiculous even though we weren't in a rush to go anywhere in particular. If my experience had been better, I would easily go back. But with so many other restaurants out there, I'm off to try another place.
(3)
Kristin C.
Apparently after you turn thirty it is common to have a "Brunch Birthday" because I have been to two in the past month. I do love brunch. . .and birthdays. . . and day-drinking so this hot new practice is fine by me. Last Sunday, a large group of us gathered at Uncommon Ground to toast in our friend's 31st year. I have heard lots of good things so I was pumped to check it out. First things first, our waiter was simply awesome - accommodating, funny, pleasant, a "ten" as far a waiters go. The food was nothing to sneeze at either - I had the uncommon chicken sammy with a side salad. I also stole some sweet potato fries with goat cheese fondue from the people next to me. Holy crap, where has this combo been all my life? What is brunch without drinks? In a word, Lame. My anti-lame friends and I ordered mimosa after mimosa and those guys mimosas flew from the bar at warp speed. Little did I know, each little (and I mean little) glass set me back $10. Ten dollar mini mimosas? My brunch tab snuck up past $50! My tiny buzz was no match for such a meaty bill. In the end, I would come back - with a fat wallet and a craving for bloody marys - those are only $5 on Sundays. Mimosas are not uncommon for a Sunday but $10 ones are for this thrifty chick.
(3)
Lindsey B.
If I had written a review the first time I went to Uncommon Ground it would've been a 5 star rating. I returned a couple of months ago for the first time in about a year only to find that the Gorgonzola stuffed chicken breast is gone and the chef has been replaced by a new chef who changed the entire menu. Turns out the chef that was there the first time I went had a baby (congrats!) and had to leave. So I tried the Pistachio crusted Tilapia. The fish was pretty dry and all I could taste was Pistachio which was pretty disappointing. The pumpkin ravioli is still damn good though. And the Artichoke Goat Cheese dip is really tasty too. The prices also seem to have gone up considerably since I was there last. Economic crisis? I think not. Anywho... I recommend going to Uncommon Ground because the food is still pretty good, I'm just tainted because it used to be really really good. And I'll never get my gorgonzola stuffed chicken back. :(
(3)
Joscelyn M.
This is going to be a very hard review for me to write. Not because of anything negative, but because I don't go here as much as I did in the past. Before we got married, my husband lived around the corner and we went here almost every weekend for brunch and for dinner on occasion. So, bear with me! I really like this place a ton. Teas & coffees: great selection, interesting drinks Breakfast burrito - how can you go wrong here? so good. Omelets - usually good, I always get what's on the special Bloody marys - pretty darn good Wine list - awesome, and half price bottles on tues or wed, I think Helen's chicken sandwich - the stuff dreams are made of The atmosphere is cute and service is always friendly!
(4)
Cheryl G.
One of my favorite restaurants that I like to go to before or after a Cubs game. They have a variety of dishes to choose from depending on your appetite. I personally love the sweet potato fries and the goat cheese fondue!!! It really is delicious combination!!!! The restaurant itself is very nice. IT reminds me sort of like a coffee shop where you can gather and meet with friends. If it is a nice day or night I like to sit in their outside seating where you can people watch or just sit back and relax from a long day! Overall, great food and a great restaurant!
(4)
Jessica C.
Can anyone say crispy halibut tacos with jicama and sweet potato fries!!! Maybe duo of duck or perhaps bone-in porkchop with pear glaze, risotto and winter squash puree!!!! Come on, they have Ephemere on tap. I really really love this place. The dishes are creative but always have a downhome comfort feel and thier mixed drinks are strong and delicious. Oh yeah...the coffee. Good stuff. They make one of the best soy lattes around. I am absolutely in love with the ambiance of Uncommon Ground. Warm and welcoming, the decor screams arts and crafts with an urban artsy feel. Yes, i know that often equates to yuppy land, but I don't feel that way at all here. The walls are adorned with local art and the fireplace and leather couches are all too inviting. Did I mention that they play cool tunes and have a live venue with shows like every night. The only complaint that I have is that sometimes you'll get an off server...a bit snooty perhaps. I was in there once with my cute little aunt from Northbrook and she ordered a latte. Our Hitler mustache donned server asked if she wanted a bowl or a cup and she got a little confused. They don't serve bowls in the burbs, so she was a little thrown off. He looked at her like she had 5 eyes and got a little mouthy with her. Totally awkward for all parties involved. I ordered the bowl, cleared it all up and we moved on, but it was quite uncomfortable. Bottom line: Awsome food, Awesome environment, Awesome Awesome Awesome. I'm giving Uncommon Ground 4.5 stars. The only thing holding me back from giving the full 5 is the dude who rubbed us the wrong way. Oh yeah...and like ablock away from my place so its easy.
(4)
Tu'ens N.
The food is creative but not gimmicky and it is all tasty. If you get the chilaquiles, they have bits of jalapenos and it is actually a little spicy, which most places wouldn't dare to do. They supposedly use a lot of produce from their rooftop garden and are all about "sustainable" and organic food wherever possible, which is a good thing if true. Everything tastes good which is really the important bottom line for me, not to mention that it is not greasy or too heavy to start a day even if you eat a lot. The coffee drink called 'busy bee' or something is very delicious - espresso, honey and soymilk over ice. Try it even if you don't usually drink soy milk. Their bloody marys are good too, with real ingredients, i.e., spiced up with roasted poblanos and jalapenos not just Tabasco sauce ($5 on sundays). It is probably the best 7 day a week brunch place I know of in Chicago (will the people at Yolk please visit this place to see what food can be?). I just give 4 rather than 5 stars for the following reasons: last time I went the THREE hosts/hostesses all failed to notice the table right in front of them which was open for 20 minutes til we pointed it out to them. A big annoyance when you have to wait 40 minutes for a table on a Sunday morning. As soon as we pointed it out we got it, I just thought it was so obvious they couldn't be missing it, but I guess they were. Servers are hit or miss. Finally, last but not least, $5 for 3 slices of Neuskie's Black Pepper Bacon. The stuff is awesome but for $5 that is not a good deal. Normal plates are big-to-too-big and are mostly about $11 which is not cheap but is not a bad deal.
(4)
John And Jen R.
This place is the best! I read some of the lower reviews for this place and I don't know what some of these stuck up people are talking about. This place is great, great vibe, excellent food, and amazing service. Yes it is a little on the pricey side but you pay for what you get, if you want cheap food go to McDonalds. I also got a chance to meet the owners and they are the most real people out there. If you only knew what they do and their passion to bring real food into the city you might have different views on this place. I will definitely be back! Keep on keepin on Uncommon Ground, your the best!
(5)
Riz A.
I definitely love this place. The only reason i'm giving it 4 stars and not 5 is bc our waiter was a bit of a jerk, and the drinks were really not very good. ( outside of the nectarine mojito ). The dessert and coffee was excellent, and it was just a great place to chill out and catch up with friends on a weekend - no loud obnoxious music and a pretty respectful low key clientele. Definitely worth a visit.
(4)
K. M.
This place is great. I was part of a large group (10 people) celebrating a friends birthday. I really love the concept, the menu is seasonal, using local ingredients. I had the macaroni and cheese. It was amazing. Just the right amount of cheese, bacon and broccoli. It was perfect. There was a side dish of cole slaw that came with the meal. I didn't understand it's purpose. It was good cole slaw but after eating a bowl of mac and cheese, it was too much. I only had a few bites. For dessert, I ordered the s'mores tart. It was very good, but it's very rich. After a few bites I was done. They have a great wine/beer/mixed drinks menu. This is place is great for groups. I will be back!
(5)
Jennifer H.
I discovered this gem a couple of years ago when I went to see this indie band, Common Rotation. I ordered the Pumpkin Ravioli on a whim, and let me tell you, it was DIVINE. I live about an hour and a half away from the city, but I make a point of stopping at this restaurant as often as I can. I've even tried to recreate their dish, but it doesn't come close. Aside from the phenomenal food (everything on the menu looks delicious - it's a shame I live so far, because when I go, I always have to get the ravioli! Maybe someday I'll branch out and try that mac and cheese they've got... mmm), they make a mean Bloody Mary. The atmosphere is wonderful as well. Very warm and cozy, especially in the winter. I've never had any problems with the service, and the prices match the outstanding quality. If you're ever in the area, you must check out Uncommon Ground! Five very big stars from me.
(5)
Kate S.
Uncommon Ground is absolutely my favorite neighborhood restaurant. I love coming here for brunch. The egg dishes are delicious, as are the pancakes and oatmeal. The vegetarian chili is the best I've ever had. This place is also great for dinner and cocktails. The pastas are fabulous, and I would live off of the lemon ginger martinis if I could. The atmosphere is really comfortable and laid back, yet also pretty hip. I just love this place.
(5)
Kelly M.
I went there the other night for a friend's show. I've had breakfast there before, but have never been to the back. When they told me the show was "sold out" I was confused and asked for them to explain ... I guess they have seating back there so I needed to call to reserve a table, which I didn't know. And you didn't need tickets, it was an open mic. I asked to reserve the next available table, but then the manager came up to me and hostess .. I think he thought I was giving her a hard time, which I was not at all ... all I was asking was if I was in the right place and if it was my friends who were performing .. anyway, I'm a small blonde, preppy girl .. not some trashy looking person. ANYWAY .. the manager didn't even ask what was going on ... he told me that there was no tables available and there wouldnt be for hours ... so as I turned around to leave, a guy walked in and said "oh, there aren't any tables?" and the manager told him he could get him in. WTF?? I didn't do anything wrong, I was very nice and was just confused, because I thought it was an open mic at a coffee shop ... I WILL NEVER GO THERE EVER AGAIN .. I have NEVER been so disrespected in my life. I had friends who showed up after I left and had no problem getting a table back there. Uncommon Ground ... you need to hire better managers ... because I HATE YOU RESTAURANT!!!!
(1)
Alexis B.
Although this is a coffee house, I generally come here when I want to have a nice conversation over a bottle of wine. The selection is impressive and I've sampled a good amount of both their Pinot Grigio and Pinot Noir. If you're interested in having a casual weeknight out for two, bottles are 1/2 price on Wednesday. I think people make Uncommon Ground whatever type of destination they want it to be at that time. The area up front has comfortable couches arranged in an almost "cabin in the woods" (if you don't look out the window) type of feel. Venturing a few feet over to the large U shaped bar makes for a pub setting. The tables around the bar sit like a quaint restaurant, and the back room has the ambiance of a coffee house. On summer nights, the patio fills up quickly as it is generally the most popular area. Generally (I haven't been there on a night where they have had a band) the volume level is pretty low making this my go to "conversation and a drink" place. The only downside is that unlike a bar, they close at midnight and after the mellowness of this place it can be hard to go elsewhere in the neighborhood.
(4)
Collin G.
I would love to love this place. It has a great look to the place and the menu has great potential. I've been here twice, once for brunch, and once at night for some live music. I do have a problem with paying $10 for a Bloody Mary and it not coming with ANY GARNISHES! The menu clearly states that it comes with a virtual salad in a glass. When asking the server for a proper garnish -- any garnish, the response came back, "The bartender didn't make any, so here's some olives" -- Listen punk, I ordered a Bloody Mary not a martini -- go back into the kitchen, find yourself a celery stick, some olives, maybe a pickle, and anything else that you find fit and make me a bloody garnish, ya ken? I find the service to be lethargic and the menu to be overpriced. Again, I would love to love this place -- it has potential. Sadly, this potential is left unfulfilled. Blech.
(2)
Beth P.
I have a really good opinion of Uncommon ground, despite the fact that my first visit there was on a blind date. I saw a live indie trio in the back area, adjusted my lipstick in a small bathroom, and overpaid for a glass of Stella. Yes, I paid for it... damn blind date ; ) The front newer area seemed disconnected from the back, and totally different personalities from eachother. I guess they're trying to appeal to everyone? I like their food, and might go get some soon. I'd have to brave being judged by the Jeff Buckley fan club that meets there nightly... but that's ok.
(3)
K E.
I love brunch at Uncommon Ground. Everything I've had has been delicious. Today, I had the huevos rancheros with roasted potatoes, a slice of banana bread, and a "beermosa." Everything was great. The waiter was friendly and prompt and steered me toward the huevos rancheros, which I loved. The huevos rancheros is one egg over easy, served over a black bean corn cake, with chili sauce and cheese on top and roasted potatoes or tortilla chips on the side. The flavors were nicely balanced and it had a little kick. The banana bread was not too sweet, not too buttery, not too dry, not too hard, not too soft- perfect, and a great start to the meal. The beermosa could have used a bit more beer (they used daisycutter pale ale as the beer) to balance the orange juice, but it was delicious nonetheless. My friend had the special, Eggs Benedict, and she loved it. Best of all, I've never had a long wait to get a table. I am looking forward to going back and trying something else!
(5)
Jeff W.
A great spot with an interesting blend of music venue/hipster coffee shop/foodie breakfast place. I went for breakfast before a Cubs game and loved it. Drinks are very unique, though a touch on the expensive side. Food options were very diverse, and it was difficult choosing what I wanted. I ended up going with the chicken breakfast burrito which was huge and delicious. Accompanying potatoes were also great. Everyone else's food was equally good. I was a big fan of the menu, and really impressed with some of the unique selections they offered. Seems the focus is on local ingredients, and the quality shows. Next time I'm in the area I'd definitely return.
(4)
Chris M.
Awesome food, great atmosphere. Kind of makes you feel like you're in a Seattle coffee shop, but once the food comes out there's no denying this place serves a lot more than coffee. However, you should start out with a latte, as they come in cups larger than I have ever seen. Breakfast is the specialty here. Chiliquilles are out of this world good. The dinner menu also offers a ton of variety from burgers and salads to seafood and steak entrees. Sweet potato fries are a must, and my sister had these sweet tasting ravioli's with brown sugar on top and they were unreal.
(5)
Ms. R.
Just had lunch there with a friend today. We split a couple of dishes and they were both delicious! We had the halibut fish tacos with sweet potato fries and the uncommon breakfast melt with home fries. I preferred the fish tacos - they were really good (and I'd like to say that I'm a fish taco connoisseur!). The fish is lightly battered and served on corn tortillas (you get 3 tacos) with a jicama slaw and a tasty ranchlike sauce with a kick. I like the fact that they added a slice avocado on top - nice touch. OMG - the sweet potato fries were amazing! The best I've tasted! The breakfast melt was good too, although common, pretty much an open-faced breakfast sandwich - over-easy egg, bacon, spinach, and cheese (although I really couldn't taste it) over toasted black bread. The potatoes it came with were alright, again kinda just tasted ordinary. Good atmosphere. Service was nice and attentive. Can't wait to go back and try out other dishes that I was also eyeing, like the Uncommon BLT (instead of bacon, they use pork belly - yummm), a couple other sandwiches, and salads. Definitely getting the sweet potato fries again for sure! Oh, I was able to use my "a la card" $10 discount so it made the meal a better value!
(4)
Orenji K.
I was at Uncommon Ground for the first time in a long time this weekend. Overall, I'll definitely go back, but since the menu is somewhat inconsistent, I'd really prefer go back with a regular who knows Uncommon Ground's food really well. I had the grilled buffalo skirt steak. The meat itself was pretty mundane -- even just compared to skirt steak in general. But the espresso - cacao nib rub was unique, delicious, and slightly spicy. It went really well with the great lakes porter they have on tap. I'd imagine that most fans of Uncommon ground like their veg, so I was a little disappointed to see that this dish was really just meat + potatoes. While the steak was served with a surprising amount of pomme frite, the "carrots" promised on the menu were really just 2 mini carrots. Grilled with sweet glaze, they were so good that they would be great as a true side, not just a garnish. Unexpected portion sizes was a theme during our dinner. The mussels in a delicious curry broth were flawless. They were also a great value, with many more mussels that you'd expect for the price, especially compared to other Chicago restaurants. In contrast, the sausage sampler plate had roughly the equivalent of a single chopped weenie. So these 2 small plates were about the same price, but if you had to choose one, the mussels are without a doubt the better pick. Service was excellent, and we did not have to wait for a table for 2 at 7pm on a Saturday. I enjoyed their food, but you're kind of playing roulette as far as whether individual dishes are worth ordering.
(3)
BF K.
came here for brunch a few weekends ago and it was deeeeelicious! we ended up having to wait about a 30-40 minutes for a table and we were starving, but i think it was worth it. huge portions and the food was cooked perfectly. super cute space; clean, neat and earthy. large 'island' style bar, and lots of comfy chairs for waiting in. the pricing was a little high, but i was surprised at how good everything tasted, so i felt better about our final bill. i'd love to come back for a dinner here and try more than just the breakfast list!
(4)
Jen T.
I've tried to go to Uncommon Ground 3 times but have had three very weird results. The first time I stopped in was about 2 years ago for hot chocolate and dessert but they refused to give us a table because we weren't ordering "food." They said the four of us could sit at the bar yet there were no available seats. Nearly ALL the tables were open. We left, super pissed off. Flash forward to last weekend. I met a friend for breakfast and had a nice time. The service was good, the food was tasty. I ate the Winter Huevos and an amazingly perfect Smores latte. My vegan friend was a bit disappointed by the lack of vegan options but she did enjoy her bagel with hummus spread and breakfast potatoes. Today we happened to be in the neighborhood and wanted to stop in for lunch. We called while parking to ask the wait time (I know, kind of weird and lazy but we figured it can't hurt to check the wait time before we pay for parking). The man said it would be about 20mins. Five minutes later we walked in and the wait was over 40mins. Weird. We didn't have the time and were kind of annoyed so we left. Overall, I think I've just had bad luck with this place. I want to like it. I've heard great things about their hot chocolate and coffee drinks but it rarely works out. I probably won't be back.
(2)
Kristina B.
Bacon, inside or on top of anything, is amazing. It makes the dish THAT much better. HELLO! BLT eggs benedict? Sign me up! This item was superb. The spinach added great flavor/texture, and the hollandaise set the entire thing off. ABLAZE, I tell ya! Mmmmm... I sampled the breakfast of Mel V., the "lychee lover" supreme. She chose the nutella stuffed french toast, which ended up being the bomb.com . I could have had BOTH our breakfasts in one sitting; I gladly welcome that future food coma. Cute atmophere, too. I'm so heading back the next chance I get. I saw something on the menu with chorizo in it. YUM-O-RAMA!
(4)
Nancy T.
I really love the food at Uncommon Ground, but I prefer the ambiance at the Devon location. Still, this place is great for a younger, hip crowd--especially if you like live music--and the staff is just really friendly and nice. The sausage sampler, artichoke dip, potato soup, meatloaf, pumpkin ravioli and mac & cheese are just yummy. For dessert I'd go with the apple crisp or the s'more. The wines by the glass are also great.
(4)
Sarah M.
Bloody Marys... DUCK Benedict off their special menu Was AWESOME!!! French press coffee?? TASTY! Bloody Marys.... FAB... I like pickles in mine but that is maybe just me.... This place is cute.... intimate.... perfect really for a coffee shop and I was surprised at the food offerings! Not one person disliked their food. We all loved it and i loved the creativity that was put in to their dishes! Service was stellar.... I wish this was just up the block from my place! I had a great meal great drink and it was poppin! Soooo glad we had a reservation!
(5)
Rebecca H.
We showed up here the first time for Earth Hour - they featured a special drink that I thought looked inventive and my SO was hoping he could get me extra wasted. We really just showed up to drink. Maybe to catch some live music. The bar was full when we got there. The hostess told us that the restaurant full of half empty tables was for customers ordering food ONLY. Okkkk... so we stood around waiting for a spot to open up at the bar, complicating the lives of the waiters whose path we were standing in. But the hostess didn't give us a choice, sorry waiter guys :( Eventually we saw an empty spot at the bar. Their drink list is amazing. I liked the Earth Hour drink (a vodka based drink with a cardamom syrup). I liked the Spring Cosmo. I liked the weird cucumber-absinthe drink I had after that. My SO liked his drinks and commented on how good the beer selection was. Ohhh I should mention the vodka for the bloody mary is soaked in onions, garlic, and peppers. Talk about a bite! My SO loved it. My friend that was with us from out of town drank the coffee drinks and couldn't stop raving about them until she moved up to the seasonal drinks and saw how great they were, too. The bartenders (especially Joel) were awesome and helped us stumble through the selections. The music was good, too! We've been back since, but the most food we have ordered was an appetizer - mostly we like to drink. The food looks great, though - along with a tip of the hat to Heartland Meats who we buy our beef from at the Green City Market every few weeks. We thought the prices were reasonable and we really appreciate the organic/local atmosphere of Uncommon Ground.
(5)
Joe L.
I gave a very generous 3 stars. Went here for a late lunch one day with a lady friend. We ordered a salad and a burger which were very good but it took nearly and hour to get our food. I actually had to run out to my car to put another ticket in because it ran out of time. I realize it was in the lunch and dinner limbo period but we were 2 of 8 people in the place so I expected a little faster service. Good food though..
(3)
Penny P.
This is like your cool little neighborhood cafe......but it is way too easy to drop a lot of money here. Maybe it's because we can't seem to pass up anything. We always get the parmesan artichoke dip to start - seriously, if you get nothing else here, get the artichoke dip. We've been eating this stuff for 6 years and although it often changes slightly, it's far and away the best dip I've ever had. I'm also a huge fan of the veggie burger - totally handmade, (not the nasty freezer-burned patties you'll get at some restaurants) fresh, and extremely filling. In the winter, make sure you get one of their big hot chocolates with liquor. Although the first time I brought my husband to get one, the server asked what he'd like in his hot chocolate and he, not knowing what kind of booze goes best with chocolate, replied, 'Vodka?' Thankfully she steered him toward something a bit milder. Although that would've made a hell of a drink.
(5)
David D.
seated at the patio at 11:30 only to be kicked back into the restaurant at 12:50 due to "city ordinance". why'd you sit our party out there in the first place? or did you just need to let the busboy spray down the patio before he clocked out at 12:30. last call must have been at 12:15. i ordered a basil julep--tasty concept, but blandly watered down in reality. a friend was charged 75 cents for a slice of tomato on his burger. the minute our drinks were delivered, the lights went up and the mediocre muzak was replaced by hard rock as the bartender started cleaning up for the night. i might be more forgiving if we were alone but there were five other parties seated. i won't be back.
(2)
Gfiddy F.
Overall, pretty good.
(5)
sylvia r.
I checked out Uncommon Ground tonight with an old friend. We realized after ordering drinks (me: Watermelon Mint Mojito mmmmm, him: Witching Hour... also fabulous) that we had never had a meal together, just vast amounts of coffee and the occasional cocktail. So we decided to get food. But both were admittedly not very hungry. We both stuttered over the menu as we discussed our food preferences and both nervously admitted to feeling like meat. Which was a huge relief as we were both under the incorrect assumption that each was a hardcore vegetarian. Once that was lifted, he ordered the millman burger and I ordered the sausage sampler. Despite not being very hungry, his burger was so tasty he devoured all but the last 1/8th. My sausage plate was a nice treat. A nice combination of potato salad, pickled veggies, and mustard with 3 kinds of sausage. As we were finishing our lengthy meal (with encouragement from our waitress to stay longer) a teenage twee band set up. I was fearing for the worst, but their sound was actually pretty strong and crisp and yet still unobtrusive to the atmosphere and dining experience. I will definitely be going back for the sweet potato fries and pumpkin ravioli. And to figure out how to perfect my own watermelon mint mojito at home.
(4)
Erik B.
One of my favorite breakfast spots. Being a coffee snob and an indie music fan, the atmosphere and selection of fine coffees are a big hit with me. The breakfast menu isn't the biggest or most innovative you'll find in the city, but it's consistently good, and the service is consistently good. I especially enjoy the Curry breakfast burrito!
(4)
Steve H.
More like 3.5 stars. Live down the street and have eaten here probably close to 50 times over the last 4 years. Wife and I really enjoy sitting at the bar, you get much better service. The breakfast/brunch is always fantastic, however it can get a little crowded. Saturday night is also a favorite of ours. The guys who work the bar are great and always quick with your drinks. Favorite items on the menu would be calamari, mac n cheese, BBQ chicken. And for breakfast, french toast, chicken sausage and if they have it biscuits and gravy. Also they have a decent beer line-up. They had Founders KBS on tap last spring.
(4)
Casia J.
I agree with Kelly K. Not that I need to know "what is this?" but that some stuff here just isn't in synch. I love the atmosphere, cozy lighting and natural elements of the decor. But ... it just doesn't go with $10 martinis and $22 entrees. What on earth? Last visit, we (2 people) had 3 drinks (total, not each), one calamari, one salad and one burger and it was $80 with tip! This is insane. I'd better be getting a pitcher of margs or TWO entrees for that price. It sure doesn't jive with someone who looks like Janis Joplin rockin' out on the accordion with angst in the music room. Service is definitely hit or miss. Someone who carries on endlessly like he/she is a sommelier, or someone who tells you how they hate working there. Neither good! Food is good, but again, it's the overly expensive glorified bar food I can't quite get over. Cocktails: I admire the creativity and much of it is good. However, sometimes I don't want a homemade, honey-infused organic vodka. It ends up tasting like Pledge. A jigger of Stoli will do just fine. Many tasty, interesting beers. Thumbs up for the hazelnut beer. Like a smooth, just slightly nutty Negra Modelo. Bottom line: It's still relaxing and pleasantly fall-ish, so I'll be back in a month or so.
(3)
Jon J.
I like the idea of Uncommon Ground a lot - a nearly 24 hour establishment, where you can get good food & beer in the evening and good breakfast & coffee in the morning, all served up in a chill atmosphere. But despite this, I never find myself going there - and it perhaps stems from the high prices on the menu for merely average food. My girlfriend and I decided on a lark to eat here one evening, and while the food was fine, we walked out spending over $100. Now I'm no cheapskate, but there's a certain cachet I associate with a $50/person meal, and this didn't have it. Breakfast on the other hand is good, but average. For my money, I'd rather wait at Julius Meinl where I can get a better breakfast, and eat and drink elsewhere in the evening. Really, I want to like it! But they're just not doing it right.
(3)
Kelly R.
I once ordered the buttermilk pancakes here for brunch and when the bill came, my line item read "butt cakes". That's funny. This is a great, all-purposes spot - bar, coffee shop and restaurant. The specialty lattes are huge and delicious. And the pumpkin ravioli kicks ass as well, but I think that's seasonal. Oh, and it's also smoke-free which is always a huge plus! It should also be noted it's a little on the pricey side for a coffee shop.
(4)
Cassie B.
review for brunch only. i do intend to come back. I do recommend this place, it is unique in that they have multiple rooms, including cool rooms with sofa seats, and great people-watching outdoor seating. The crowd is yuppies + pre-yuppies. the food is good and has unexpected ingredients. But, is (1) expensive (two breakfast entrees, no leftovers, and two drinks, neither of them alcoholic, before tip was $30) and (2) service blew. Sorry, sweetie, i know you have tats and are so laid back, but that doesn't except you from serving us on time and bringing us our stuff in under an hour. anyhoo, i'll probably come back cause i like this space for a cool acoustic night or for a drink, and the food was tasty, but i was underwhelmed by the weekend breakfast experience.
(3)
JP P.
While I wish I had been here during the pre-expansion days, I have enjoyed my recent experiences here for dinner and a chill coffeehouse show. The vibe here is warm and cozy - just asking for groups of friends to share intimate conversations over food and wine. Everything on the menu looked delicious, and the drink menu was quite substantial. I settled on the duck quesadillas because I wasn't too hungry - and they were amazing. I think I need more duck in my diet. Our waitress very helpful in helping us navigate the drink menu. While I am not the dessert type - we were so happy with our dinner that we just to go for the cheesecake pizza. It's vanilla cheesecake filling topped on a warm flatbread and topped off with super fresh food. Super tastey. The times I've come here for the music, it was so easy just to relax with the music and enjoy the tunes. Many good times were had here at Uncommon Ground.
(4)
Hollus G.
We go here almost weekly when we get a chance to meet up with friends and have breakfast. In the area we live which is just east it is one of the only baby friendly places we have found. The service in general has been pretty good and the food has always been excellent. There breakfasts are one of my favorite to choose from in the lakeview area.
(4)
Stephen G.
I can't believe that anyone has given this place less than 4 stars. The only negative I can see is that it is a bit pricier than some similar places, but you do get what you pay for. I was not a fan of bloody marys until I had one at Uncommon. Helen's Grilled Chicken sandwich is my favorite item on the menu (to be honest I get it almost every time). I've also had the chilaquiles and the pesto, 3 cheese & cherry tomato pizza which are great as well. They have a very unique beer selection and their fries taste similar to McDonald's fries, but better. The sweet potato fries are delicious also if you like to go that route. Their outdoor patio during the summer is dog friendly, and their staff is friendly, knowledgeable and attentive. Get there early on a Sunday to beat the post-church crowd.
(5)
Duncan S.
Uncommon Ground is consistently excellent and little difference between the two locations. The interior is smart and warm, with the crowd a mixture of young professionals and well dressed 30ish folks. They have a tight menu of food and a good selection of beverages and craft US beers on draft. For lunch I had the chopped salad, which was really quite good, nice combination of ingredients and well dressed. My colleague had the grilled chicken sandwich, with sweet potato fries which were also very good. These folks care about their food, sourcing local produce and organic foods. The service was very good with our server constantly checking in on our progress. I will be back.
(4)
Kevin J.
I've only been for here breakfast and it's ok. The menu changes and sometimes I've really liked what was on the menu and at other times I couldn't really find anything I liked. I like that they try to use local and organic ingredients. I've heard better things about their dinner menu, so perhaps I'll try it for other meals sometime. For breakfast, however, it's kind of hit or miss.
(3)
Brett G.
I would vote between 3 1/2 and 4 stars, but with that option unavailable and no word that it will be at any time soon, let's go with 3. I think there's a difference between a place that tries to be earthy/hippie and a place that is cooler/quirkier. The food was very good. No complaints here. The jerk chicken pizza had no "jerk" spicing, but was tasty all the same. And the Mediterranean trio plate was flavorful as well, even though I don't eat olives the hummus and eggplant spreads were good. The pitas were a little too greasy though. Here's where my review loses points. If you want a cocktail, would you prefer yours with violet liqueur, candied hibiscus flower, elderflower nectar, or homemade all-spice liquor? Well I didn't, and the friend I was with said she and some of her friends had recently braved ordering and trying some of the above (as well as other strange/funky drinks) and ended up sending most back! We're not ladies to send back drinks. Just too weird for me. The brunch menu looks good, but if you see any of my other reviews where I can never seem to make brunch happen, well that's just wishful thinking on my part.
(3)
Rich K.
One of the best breakfast spots I have found so far in the city. Our server Evan was great. Ask for extra spicy if you order the Bloody Mary.
I won't write too much because this place has already been reviewed so much, but I went here for the very first time last month (despite having lived in Chicago for years) and I was very impressed. I showed up in the middle of the day to get some work done and I had the entire back room to myself. The staff was exceptionally friendly and didn't seem to mind at all that I was camping out. I can't even say that about myself when someone camps out in the restaurant where I'M working! Uncommon Ground, you have humbled me. -=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=Â-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=- I'm a writer who has trouble working in her own home. (Distractions include books, magazines, DVDs, phone calls, snacks, cleaning to be done, the Internet as a whole, and a very large cat.) I tend to work for several hours at a stretch, so the library isn't always an option. Over the course of the past five years I discovered some amazing coffee shops in Chicago and worked there happily. Since moving to LA in 5/07, I've realized just how picky I am about coffee shops: it's been hard to find one in LA I really love! In my quest for the perfect coffee shop, I have devised my own star rating system for the shops I review on this site. Each attribute below is worth one star, which makes it possible for a shop to lack desirable attributes yet still receive a perfect Yelp rating. Anything with a perfect Yelp rating is a place in which I am happy to sit for hours on end. * well lit * cozy atmosphere with comfortable seating * wifi (free or not) * open late * serves loose leaf tea * variety of affordable food and beverages * interesting people-watching, whether it be out the window or in the shop * not too crowded (I hardly ever go on the weekends because I know the odds would be against me) I understand that my rating system is unique to my own needs but hopefully I will be able to highlight qualities that others may be interested in. If anyone has any coffee shop suggestions for me, I am all ears! I would also like to state that I always try to spend enough money &/or leave a large enough tip to make my long-term presence tolerable to the cafe staff. I cringe when I see people ordering a $2 iced tea and then follow it up with free tap water while they sit and read "Harry Potter and the Deathly Hallows" in its entirety.
(5)
Sherry W.
I was really excited about trying out UG. It's by my new apartment, they have free Wi-Fi and it looked nice with the exposed brick and all. They dub themselves as a hip coffee shop - but it feels like it's a wanna-be hipster with an identity crisis. Is it a coffee shop/a restaurant/a nightspot? I went in looking for a cozy coffee shop atmosphere, but instead found an incredibly overpriced luncheon spot. Coffee was mediocre and food wasn't special. Service was not special, either. Meh. For me, Uncommon Ground will only be a place I return to when I have a friend begging me to support their open mic performance, *if* that is, they promise to buy me an overpriced drink ;).
(1)
Susan L.
I have to say I gave this place a fair shot. I wanted it to be good. I went there for different meals, on different days, during different times of the year. Sat inside and out, listened to music, sat at the bar. I gave it my all. Sadly, it disappointed every time. The food is overpriced for what it is, and they try too hard to be special. What they don't understand is that they are already special, and they should cut out the funky crap and just cook up some good food. Maybe it was a compatibility issue, I don't know. But we just couldn't make it work.
(2)
Matt N.
one of my new favs! The owner is into organics and sustainability so last night was the first 'green room sessions', (new monthly feature)kind of 'industry night/layperson' mingle night, appetizer tasting, live music, green people, etc. It feels bar-ish when you enter the first of three connected areas, comfy chairs by a fireplace, big bar with a lot of seats, but make sure and have a meal (I got to try a little of a lot... sweet potato fries, meatloaf, organic chicken, pulled pork nachos, and goat cheese/spinach empanada thing (love goat cheese!!)), which we did towards the end of the night. The menu is complete locally farmed products along with organic stuff too. Complete wine list, all my favorite american reds are there and organic "rain" vodka, along with a super cool martini list! Best of all smoke-free, friendly staff, and cool vibe. I'll be back.
(5)
Nick P.
They do some great stuff. The location and setting are aces. The day time bartender rocks but beyond that the service is their biggest set back. While I am all for for the "green" movement, they sometimes go too far for my taste. Domestic wine, beer and spirits only. Yikes. But, it is simply my taste. We go there often and truly enjoy brunch. Great libations despite the domestic only view. Wish the servers were on point like the day time bar guy. Wish I remembered his name. Overall yummy and cozy
(4)
Tracy K.
I want to love this place, really.. I do. They've got cool, clean bathrooms, they are smoke free, and the couches near the fireplace are so comfy that its almost hard to stay awake sitting on them. They've also got unfriendly waitresses that refer you to the bar for service, and bartenders that apparently automatically subtract a 50% tip for themselves from your change and then run off, without saying thank you, before you can even stop them to ask for the rest of your money back. If not for the beyond crappy service I've received here, I would be all about this place.
(2)
Kelly K.
What is this place? Is it a coffee house? One would think so at first, since there are many "uncommon ground" and "common ground" coffeehouses throughout the U.S., which tend to be trendy and have bands. At this place, the back rooms look like those of cute coffeehouses. And they have local, independent live music. But there was a $20 minimum to hear the music. And the food menu is expensive and trying to be high-end. And you're seated and have a waiter. Must not be a coffee house. Is it a restaurant? You're seated after all. They have a big menu and it's expensive and trying to be high-end. But the wait staff are all trendy like it's a coffee house. But you walk into a bar, and the bathrooms scream bar. And there are tables like a coffee house. And rooms like a coffeehouse. And live trendy music with audience people writing in their journals. Maybe it's a restaurant. Is it a bar? There is a bar right when you walk in. But a majority of the space is dinner tables, and there is someone that seats you, and the food is expensive. And there is someone who walks around and makes sure the candles are lit. Then again, it could be a bar as the bathrooms seem like they belong to a bar and there is a minimum to see a performer. So, I can't figure out what this is. As a coffeehouse, it's too expensive. As a restaurant, the primary dishes were OK and expensive and the aura didn't match the food. That being said, the Korean Chili Spiced Fried Calamari was good, and the service was great. But our two expensive main plates were just OK.
(3)
Kristen S.
It pains me to give only 3 stars to the restaurant, but my last experience there would only rank one star. So I am giving it an average score. They totally underestimated our wait, which is not fun. I would rather you tell me it will be 1.5 hours and it be an hour than tell me 30 mins and it actually be an hour. Then our waiter seemed totally pissed off to be waiting on us. I am a very cheerful person and I was nothing but nice to him and he acted like he would rather be anywhere else in the world. The service was absolutely terrible. We would ask him for a recommendation and he would huff and puff like we were asking him to go home to fetch my slippers. I don't even think he cracked a smile even once. I have been there other times and it was fine, but I will never go back. It stinks that one waiter will turn me off of a place, but that is exactly what happened.
(3)
Anastasia O.
I can only speak to drinks since I didn't have any food here. Let me preface this by saying that I have never before sent a drink back. I'm not really picky, but I came here with two friends last night (a Thursday) and ordered one of their seasonal cocktails - we all ordered the same one because it looked so good. NONE OF US LIKED IT (apparently it was their spin on an old fashioned, but I've had many an old fashion and this one just tasted like watered down whiskey). So we sent it back and asked for their mulled wine instead. Equally gross when we got it - tasted like cheap wine warmed up. After we sent that one back as well, we all just ordered beer. I'm only giving them an extra star because they tried to be accommodating. Maybe it was a new bartender? In any case, I won't be returning. A shame because it feels inviting once inside / they have a fireplace!
(2)
Caitlin C.
I love this place! I believe in there mission as a restaurant. Yes this place is a bit expensive, a bit. Its better quality product so you will pay for it. But its worth it. You walk in and they have a awesome bar right in the middle of the room, a side music room with acts every night, nice beverage program. If anything these drinks (cocktails, wine, beer) are what is expensive at this place. But there good. The service is a bet lacking but you could have a great server or a okay one. very strange. All in all I love it.
(5)
Katy A.
Delicious food. Great cocktail menu. Make sure you request a table in the main room with the fireplace. We sat in the back room with the live music stage, and it was not a good atmosphere. I had the spicy calamari and the pumpkin ravioli. Truly the best meal I have had lately. The only reason I didn't give 5 stars is because of the back room atmosphere downer. You can hear everyone's conversation, it's chilly, and you just keep wishing you were sitting in the fireplace room with the bar and happy people.
(4)
brian l.
This would be a bar for hipsters & self righteous douche bags. "We do not serve Un-American spirits." Serves Crown Royal. Hilarious ironic mustache bro. Would NOT go again.
(2)
Casandra R.
We went here for breakfast on Sunday mid morning. This was our experience : We wanted to sit outside and it was full (understandable) so we were told it would be a 15 minute wait. We were fine with it so we waited. It turned out to be about 25 minutes..still no big issue. We got our table and our waters. About 15 minutes later our food order was taken - (if you are counting we are at 40 mins so far). Then 30 minutes later we finally got our food - the place was not even crowed by the way. So an hour and ten minutes since we got into the restaurant we finally got to eat....the way overpriced food. Chilaquiles here are not real chilaquiles. Why you say? Chilaquiles, while delicious look like a mess to eat, have tortilla chips and are not neat. These were a pile of eggs, a pile of hash browns, a spoon full of sour cream and green salsa. The chips you ask? We have no idea. We paid for a coffee,tea, Chilaquiles, French toast about $40. Oh did I mention that three bacon strips is $5?? Would not recommend. Far better places to eat in this area for much better value and service.
(1)
Neil R.
Uncommon Ground is a place that knows how to please. Excellent beer selection, food from mostly local and sustainable farms/ sources, and the music is usually good! Recommendations include the sweet potato fries with goat cheese, bacon crusted chicken, duck breast, and bacon wrapped meatloaf. Yeah, we've been here a few times. I do want to give a special shout out to the Korean Chili-spiced Fried Calamari. It has always been fried to perfection; not too chewy and not too burnt. The sauce isn't too spicy, but still gives you something to remember. Just stopping in for a beer and the calamari is a good choice for pre-gaming in the area. The reason for the 5th star is for the service that we had on our last visit. I've seen some comments suggesting otherwise, but our waiter was very attentive and helpful with suggestions to my parents who were "visiting the Big City." We ordered the mussels as an appetizer (I think it was a special) and they came out undercooked or were a bad batch. When we suggested to the waiter that they didn't taste right and weren't all opened, he immediately took them back to the chef who apologized and gave us an appetizer for free. Overall, great for brunch, dinner, or grabbing a beer before going out or to a show!
(5)
Larry S.
There is so much to like at this fantastic restaurant/music club. The organic, wonderfully prepared food is outstanding. The cioppino is off the hook and the organic crispy chicken were outstanding. The kale caesar was delicious and the chocolate pot au creme and apple tar tartin with hazelnut ice cream were a perfect ending to a great dinner. A definite must on your Chicago restaurant tour. By the way, it's just down the block from Wrigley Field.
(5)
Jason M.
I hadn't been to Uncommon Ground in about 5 years. I remember it being a pretty good option for brunch. But dear god that perception went out the window today. It was literally the worst food I've ever had for brunch...ever. Seriously. it was so bad it was funny. The bacon smelled weird. The BACON! How do you screw up bacon? The eggs tasted fake, like they were made from silicone. The potatoes in the "hash" were strange as well. Again, how do you screw up potatoes?? There were 6 of us and all of us had terrible dishes. We couldn't believe it - it was almost like they were trying to be bad. The wait staff was very nice, so there's a plus.
(1)
Denise N.
I have been to Uncommon Ground for brunch and dinner. The brunch isn't bad but the dinner menu is just OK. We went there last night as we wanted to sit outside on the patio with our dog. I called ahead and they said that they DO NOT take reservations for the patio. Ok, no problem. We walked over and took our chances. Luckily there were plenty of tables available and we were seated right away. As we were wrapping up our meal I see one of the waiters put a RESERVED sign on the table next to us. I said "I thought you didn't take reservations". He said he would ask the manager about it. I happened to be walking in to the restroom while he was asking "Gabby" so I heard the whole conversation. I walked up to support our waiter and said that I was the one raising the question. She said that someone inside wanted a table outside so she reserved it. I said so that's the rule, if you are inside and want a reserved table it is OK? However, if we call ahead and we live 10 minutes away...the answer is no. And, she said..yes, that's how it works. If Gabby is the manager here...no wonder they aren't busy on a Friday night. Needless to say, we will not be making this our neighborhood "go to" spot. Our waiter was nice but the response by the manager was odd and inconsistent.
(2)
Patrick L.
Good place! The food was great & the portion sizes were perfect. Had a bit of a speed issue at one point but the manager quickly rectified this situation & picked up the tab for our 2nd round of drinks, great customer service. Love the local sources & the great flavor that all this freshness brings to their food.
(4)
Shane O.
On a recent evening, the bar was packed and I was only the man seated there. Jackpot. Uncommon Ground is a gift to my neighborhood. Fresh healthy food options, Great burger, and steak too. Bartenders here are tops. They make a seriously good cocktail, and when the demands of the job allow, provide great conversation on those nights when I'm dining alone. Proper barmen. 5 stars because I've never ever had a bad meal, nor bad service here. Ever. At least 20 visits since moving to the neighborhood.
(5)
Stephanie B.
Hard boiled eggs--not poached--with eggs Benedict. Waited an hour after ordering for food to arrive. Never again. Far better places to have brunch.
(1)
Kathy V.
Michelle is the new general manager We love the restaurant and are excited about upcoming upgrades The molten chocolate dessert is the BEST!
(5)
Cristen H.
LOVED this place. Food is amazing!! Excellent menu and it all tastes super fresh. My group of 7 friends came to eat here for brunch and loved it so much we returned for lunch the next day. Atmosphere is cozy and eclectic. Service is friendly, patient, yet eager to serve. Our waiter was patient with all our questions and made recommendations for each of us based on our preferences. We were all highly pleased with our food. The heirloom tomato sandwich is superb - and the avocado sandwich is also a solid choice. The coffee is great, too! (Be careful if you order a latte, those things are montrous - but look yummy!) My friends all loved their breakfast potatoes. Just great all around!! Go here - your first visit will not be your last!
(5)
Johanna H.
I've watched this place evolve over the last almost 20(!) years from a tiny coffee house with a little wood stove, to a sprawling spot that keeps growing. I've always enjoyed the food and the dedication to all things "green" and sustainable. After a lapse in patronage, a friend and I met there for dinner recently and we sat at the bar. It was comfortably busy, not slammed and certainly not full. There were two bartenders on duty, and the woman who served us was nice but kind of slack. She wasn't very attentive and disappeared for a while. The other bartender took our dessert order and didn't ask if we wanted another drink or coffee. The food was good, not great. I think part of it is the lousy plate presentation. I hate sounding like a food snob, but after working in the industry for as long as I have I've seen enough plates to know that you should make them look full or use a smaller plate. I ordered the meatloaf. My veggies were tucked under my entree, leaving the other half plate empty. Yes, empty! Very weird looking and the platter was huge! After the female bartender reappeared, I asked her for the check and she smiled at me, continuing to do what she was doing back there. Clearly she didn't hear me. Not an awful experience, but in general the service needs work. Everyone needs re-training so there's a cohesive understanding of how things can flow. Like when dessert orders get fired you print the check so it's handy. Drop it mid-way through dessert so nobody has to wait. I'll go back sometime, but not anytime soon.
(3)
Vicki N.
I took my health-conscious boyfriend here on a late Sunday afternoon. The wait was maybe 10 minutes, and the atmosphere was extremely cozy. The service was also excellent - our waitress was super friendly. By atmosphere and service alone, I was definitely impressed. The drink menu was varied and I enjoyed a lovely Toffee Nut Espresso while he had an herbal tea. As a salad lover, I found the Sunshine Salad to be absolutely excellent, while my boyfriend had Organic Egg Sliders (and while delicious, later admitted he should have been adventurous and tried the Uncommon Huevos he was eyeing). Overall, I fell in love with the family-friendly yet somehow modern design, lovely art displayed, friendly servers, and a very delicious selection of healthy, green, (guilt-free!) meals. I feel this is a lovely place for evening cocktails and listening to the music shows, but that reservations might be required since it seems quite popular! I would definitely recommend this place to a friend, and go again during the day for the atmosphere and to try all the delectable-sounding coffees alone! I had a very satisfactory experience and will surely come again.
(4)
Magen R.
Some friends and I tried out Uncommon Ground for dinner and it was fantastic! We sat on their sidewalk patio and it had a wonderful ambiance, a perfect place to enjoy a relaxing meal in the summer. We tried a variety of things at our table: avocado tempura tacos, chili, goat cheese dip and the tomato sandwich with sweet potato fries. I must say that everything was delicious except the chili which was extremely bland. My favorites were the tempura tacos and the dip. I'd highly recommend either of them. The drink menu was great as well and we enjoyed an array of cocktails and beer - none of which disappointed. Definitely check out Uncommon Ground if you have the chance!
(4)
Jillian W.
Excellent brunch! Had 10:45 reservations for two, showed up 10 minutes late and barely had to wait, even with the Cubs game crowd. The coffee is amazing. Had the sliders which were two egg/cheese/bacon sandwiches on english muffins with amazing hash browns on the side. Our waiter was attentive and had suggested the sliders. It's a bit expensive but expected from their all organic, local, vege + vegan, etc. menu. Not somewhere I would go on a regular basis but I had a friend in town and she really enjoyed it. Great location too!
(5)
Erin B.
Extremely inconsistent. I've been there and had some amazing food to rave about, I've been there and felt like it wasn't horrible enough to complain, and I've also just had the worst meal I've ever had in Chicago. The service is always fantastic, and I am completely on board with the philosophy of the restaurant. That said, I am not sure I'm willing to risk another precious date night to be ruined by this place. Tonight our meals were comped along with several tables around us, and I heard a manager say to another table that they just can't seem to keep up quality to meet the demand. Sounds like a personal problem to me. Figure it out, Uncommon Ground.
(1)
Dominika T.
We just had a meal here and overall it wasn't as good as my last visit. I had the beef hash from the brunch menu and my boyfriend had the pulled pork sandwich. My meal was delicious, but a long wait on coffee service. My boyfriends pulled pork was really dry; the server got him another one very quickly, but still dry :( I wish I could give it more then 3 stars.
(3)
Megan K.
This place fell off. Uncommon Ground used to be one of my favorite places to eat. Back in 2006/07 they used to have these awesome nachos. I've also had some great mac and cheese, salads, pork chops, martinis, all kinds of great, organic, local, house-infused things with full flavor and large portions. The last 2 times I've gone, not only was I not impressed but I was unhappy. I had a mediocre chopped salad that was like $14 or something. Last time I had the burger. It was overcooked, small, and didn't come with anything on it. Not even tomato. And it was still like $12. My friend ordered the chicken tortilla soup and a side salad. Then, the waiter came out with a bowl of not-chicken-torilla soup and said that he was wrong, the soup was mushroom bisque and would that be okay. My friend hates mushrooms. So she was like, well... no, actually. So then she was stuck because she had already started eating her salad and I already had my food. So she asked for the mac and cheese. They charged her FULL price for both. So her $10 lunch turned into a $16 lunch because the waiter told her the wrong soup. I wish we had gone somewhere else. There is so much good food in Chicago that it's so disappointing to have a bad experience. It's even more disappointing when I know how amazeballs this place used to be.
(2)
Oluwatope F.
I only had drinks with friends here but it was super cool and I love the concept. I had a apple cider hot toddy sort of drink and everyone else seems to enjoy there's as well. The vibe was relaxed and the waiter was nice, professional, and knowledgeable, what more could you ask for?
(4)
Felipe A.
Extremely expensive for the quality of food you get. I had a burger and it was mediocre, overcooked and bland, when I saw the pickles I wanted to cry. The fries were undercooked and tasteless. My girlfriend had the fish sandwich and it was a joke, tasteless and mushy. The service was awful, the waiter was ok, but you could see other waiters just standing there pointing at us without doing anything meanwhile this other guy was really busy. The cocktails were good. But I think they brag about the organic ingredients but it does not mean the food is good.
(1)
Laura V.
Just had the strangest experience at Uncommon Ground. We walked up and were very excited there were open tables outside on a Saturday night - awesome! Until the host told us there was a wait, because they couldn't "overfill their sections." What restaurant doesn't plan to seat all of their tables? So we decided to wait at the bar and get drinks. We tried to order an appetizer while we waited, but the bartender told us it was best to wait until we were seated, so it didn't get lost. Maybe it will end up at one of those empty tables? The food is great, and this was a neighborhood favorite, but I think I'll go someplace that actually wants me to purchase their food.
(3)
Kris G.
I liked Uncommon Ground more than I expected to based on Yelp reviews. It was a little more expensive than I like to pay, but for the quality of the ingredients and the variety of dishes, especially given where its located (by Wrigley, where low quality food with high prices is the norm), I was ok with the price for quality. The bad: I right off the bat ordered a drink I did not like for a late lunch on a Saturday afternoon. It was a cucumber infused vodka drink. I did not like this at all, but I should have known better. I had ordered almost this same drink elsewhere once and hated it. I thought it might have just been the restaurant, but I guess cucumbers and vodka don't mix the way I would like them too. Bummer, because it sounds so refreshing. Everything outside of this was stellar. I got a veggie pizza that had lots of arugula. It was an Italian style pizza, too, so it looks large, but one person can easily eat the whole thing. I enjoyed every bite. It was fresh and I could taste each ingredient separately--no "mystery meat". My waitress and another server were very attentive and accommodating. The restaurant was almost empty while I was here (I came right after the brunch rush), but the servers didn't make me feel rushed at all. I even got to enjoy coffee after my lunner, er, late lunch (there's no such thing as lunner haha.....). My favorite part of this is that there is a large canister of sugar in the raw sitting on the table instead of packets of sugar. This saves me the embarrassment of the 20 packet pile up I normally accumulate at other restaurants. Yes, I like my cream and sugar with a little bit of coffee in it. It's also worth stating that I like to treat myself every weekend to a lunch like this. Hosts/hostesses are always a little awkward when I come in (party of one? you're not expecting anyone?) but at Uncommon Ground, I wasn't treated like a social leper. It made my meal that much more enjoyable. While I don't see this being a regular for me given the price, I do see myself coming back for some fresh tasting food and great service (and awesome music in the background).
(4)
Claudia C.
Great atmosphere and food! We were 3 people and we ordered several things and everything was great !! The food is very fresh and they use local produce . Super friendly staff. A very cozy fun place !
(5)
Tim M.
The brunch here is pretty good. Sadly, it gets hot as hell inside. We went twice. The first time was outside, which was pleasant. The second time, we were roasting in a full house. It was so hot and uncomfortable, we had to escape back out into the 35 degree temperatures. At the bar, there's a few places in which the floor board lifts your stool up when someone walks by. No complaints with the food, but it's not the best we've had. Again, it must be a common thing with this neighborhood, but staff just isn't that friendly. Perhaps it's generational or just regional, but no one seems to really give a shit how you're doing or how the food is. Because it's close to us, we will visit for brunch again, but only when we can sit outside.
(3)
Jordyn D.
I went here a couple years ago during the summer and sat outside. I had a great experience so I was looking forward to going back. I love the atmosphere. The bar is so cute and cozy. A+ on interior. However, the food was extremely over priced and extremely bland. I ordered vegetarian chili and it was literally a bowl of black beans. Not good. My boyfriend ordered the chicken sandwich. The chicken had zero spices on it whatsoever. It was so bland and had no flavor. Service was good and it was convenient since we were going to the Metro for a show. I am looking forward to coming for their Monday open mic nights when the weather gets better. I would definitely come back to this place to drink and hang out. As far as the food goes- mediocre.
(2)
Ryan M.
I've been to Uncommon Ground twice: once a few years ago when I did some volunteer work in the city, and again this week, now as a full-time resident of the city. I was excited for the second visit because I remembered my first so fondly. Sadly, my memory of my first time may have been clouded by the 1/2 price bottles of wine (isn't that always the way?). Uncommon Ground gets 5 stars for its theme/idea--fresh, organic, local, grass-fed, and so on, will always sell me. But the food still has to taste great. Don't mistake me, the food was not bad, but it just wasn't great. Most things tasted a bit bland or felt like they just needed one last thing (maybe acid, maybe salt, something). We tried a variety of things, too: The goat cheese/artichoke dip was quite tasty, but maybe too cheesy; the mushroom tacos were almost indescribable, but because there was too much taco shell and not enough filling to describe; the black bean burger was interesting (there was a flavor I just could not pick out, though I know I've had it before), and the sweet potato fries were top notch; and the ricotta-pea ravioli also was good, but it was lacking that something to take it over the top (I think acid or something a bit salty--ricotta is pretty bland by itself). The decor of Uncommon Ground fits the theme, though the hardwood floors and drywall/concrete walls and ceiling made the entry room incredibly, uncomfortably loud. (Happily, we were seated in the back where it was much better). The bar in the front is charming though huge, and the beer/wine selection looks impressive (see my first visit). Overall, Uncommon Ground is a great place, with a great theme and great ingredients. But the food did little to move me beyond a shrug of the shoulders.
(3)
Aja G.
i put this place in the same category as Bite Cafe. I want to be PC and say I love the earth, but if that means eating non-meat that looks like meat with goat cheese, sprinkled with fair trade coconut or whatever count me out. One day, when I sign up to be a organ donor recipient, I may look back and think I should have made better eating choices, but until then Uncommon Grounds is too healthy for me. Yes the service is good, the tap selection is decent-good, yes they have some less healthy (albeit overpriced) items, but i would rather have bar food with the quintessential grease than reduced grease food food with an increased price.
(3)
Jen S.
Great food and Amaaazing service! Love Candice...fun, professional server! Definitely made our dining experience a great one! I will be back!
(5)
Gitta H.
My family decided to pop in for Sunday brunch. We thought we had lucked out since there was no wait here, but we now know why. First and foremost, we stood at the hostess stand waiting to be seated for a few minutes. The ladies there were deep in conversation and finally acknowledged us after intense staring on our part. We proceeded to our table and all took our respective seats. Our daughter received her standard kids menu and coloring page sans the crayons. Yes, the hostess walked all the way without crayons or the promise of finding any. Quite puzzling. The next ordeal was receiving our drinks. While they were quite delightful and highly recommended, the Bloody Mary's took 30 min to arrive. Thankfully they came right before our next debacle: brunch. I ordered the French toast - $13 for 2 small pieces of toast cut in half. The promises of bourbon flavored this and cinnamon flavored that were left unfulfilled and the "compote" provided was a poor excuse of syrup with a few berries mixed in. 2 to be precise, in my case. My partner order chilaquiles - cold, chewy, and void of chorizo. Well, that is a lie. In half a plate of chilaquiles, there was exactly one tablespoon of chorizo. Maybe one egg, if she was lucky. High point of the meal: homefries. My daughter received her fruit bowl twenty minutes after her French toast sticks. The waitress was great, and the manager offered to pay for our drinks as retribution for the wasted hour and twenty minutes this morning. Recommendation - go for coffee, good conversation, and bloody Mary's if you want to kill a few hours.
(2)
Claudia B.
Such a disappointing experience. Went there for drinks and apps on early Saturday evening. The service was ridiculously poor. Our waiter ignored us to the point that we had to leave early. It was so bad that we started to laugh with the table next to ours at how obvious our waiter was ignoring us. very sad because I've been there before and the food and service have always been great. Will definitely not be coming back and will tell friends not to come
(1)
Rose B.
Cool atmosphere but the service was terrible when I went. They were slow, and our appetizers came at the same time as our main courses. The sweet potato fries were really good, but the majority of us were not satisfied with our meals.
(2)
C M.
I had been dieing to try this place for months, and went with a group of friends for brunch one Sunday morning. What a poor choice. They put us at a table for four when we'd told them we had five, and then told us we either had to go wait longer, or they could pull a chair up to the end. We said we were fine pulling a chair up to the end, but my poor friend kept getting bumped into and pushed with trays by the waitresses and bussboys. It was like a scene from a bad movie. Our waitress had no patience, and I caught her rolling her eyes at a friend's question about one of the menu items. She treated us like we were children (although she was probably younger than we were), and never came around to refill our waters, ask if anyone wanted more coffee, and we had to flag her down to get the bill. We felt discriminated against because of our age, being the only patrons in our mid-twenties around several families, as we saw how much time and attention the other tables were payed. As for the food, stick to the coffee. The plates are small, way over priced, and there is nothing normal on the menu for someone feeling a little less adventurous.
(1)
Tom W.
Went for lunch over the weekend. If I was rating the food and drinks only, would be just one star. But the server was friendly enough that I'll settle with 2 stars. Both of our meals were so subpar in flavor and freshness it was a big disappointment. My sandwich tasted like it had been under a heat lamp for over an hour. My friend's meal was totally disappointing as well. That'll be my last visit there.
(2)
Pratik S.
Good ambiance, good drink menu and fantastic food and service. Only reason for 1 less star was that we were asked to empty our table as it was reserved (live music section). Our server Dan, was awesome enough to arrange for a table in general section if we chose to stay. But the ship had sailed till that time... In terms of food, it was a highlight of the time there! Our server Dan was awesome in his suggestions. We tried out with Artichoke dip and sweetpotato fries as appetizers. Both were good. Flight of beers as well as a good collection of whiskeys was our drinks. Kids had kids cocoa (very tempting for even adults), kid burgers (a tad bit charred but still juicy) and kids macarroni and cheese (not the bland yellow goo that one gets from packet but awesome, freshly made pasta with a mix of cheese) was hit amongst kids. Veggie choices are limited still decent. Pumpkin ravioli were not very sweet and could have used a sauce to complement. Veggie chili was ok. We also had fish tacos - nice bite and layers of flavor, short rib ravioli - special for the day - and well worth it, crispy chicken - simple and awesome - juicy and crispy at the same time and short ribs - which were lights out awesome, melt in your mouth, beer flavored! Even had the blueberry financier - the gelato that accompanied was ok but the cake was awesome! The only tiff I had with the food was weird plating... oblong plates with food at one end... Didn't quite work from a visual appeal and felt 'empty'. All in all a decent experience.
(4)
Sonya L.
I had been here for the music in the past but had never eaten before. We came for Sunday brunch. Here is how I see it: Pros: I liked the diversity of the menu. There was a lot of options that will please veg's like me and meat eaters alike. Vegetarian chorizo and tofu can be subbed on the chilaquiles which is one of the things we tried. It was very spicey, so it is not for the faint of heart, but I loved the heat. The coffee was toasty just like I like it. The chai is homemade (not that syrup crap). The french toast had a nice twist with a compote that was not too sweet and garnished pistachios (my favorite nut). I normally shy away from the french toast at brunch because it is usually overloaded with sugar, but this was just right. They were able to seat a table of 9 at 1:30 without problems (though I suspect earlier we would have waited longer. $6 bloody marys on special which several at our table took advantage of. Cons: Going later in the day they were out of several items. While I really liked their selection of creative drinks, I would have preferred one more drink special besides the bloody mary since I am not a fan of those, and I just don't want to splurge $10 a drink every Sunday. I will agree with other reviews that overall it is pricey for what you get.
(4)
Rob D.
Nice listening room great sound, I had the cheese curds eh- they weren't all that. Too greasy for me. & @ $11 pricey for what you get... it is full liquor so you can at least get you drink on. Prolly my first and last time @ uncommon ground.
(2)
Jennie C.
Been here a few times over the years, came back again for a mini high school reunion and started wondering why I don't come here more often, especially since I really dig the farm-to-table concept. We had a steak fan and a vegetarian in our group and everyone was happy with the choices. We started out with the black bean and herbed white bean hummus, and I LOVED it! (this coming from someone who runs as far as possible whenever the word "vegan" is involved is quite a compliment.) Among the 5 of us we had the sockeye salmon, black bean sandwich, steak and....I forgot what was the last entree. I enjoyed the salmon, it was perfectly cooked and everything was seasoned just right. Friends liked the black bean sandwich but thought the cheese in the sandwich was overwhelmingly sharp. It was a muggy Sunday night but inside the restaurant it was cool and breezy thanks to the fan above us. Atmosphere was very laid back and quiet. Service was friendly. When asked for recommendations, our waiter recommended over half of the menu...but it seemed like he genuinely like all of those dishes and enjoyed working there. We ended with creme brulee, s'more tart and espresso pot de creme. The pot de creme was actually off the latest menu, but they still had some in the kitchen so I got it for $2 less. Unfortunately it had a strange gritty texture, none of the usual silky smoothness associated with pot de cremes. I'll stick with the apps & entrees next time and get desserts elsewhere.
(4)
Jaime H.
I love Uncommon Ground! It's my go-to for consistently tasty and "happy" food that's lovingly grown, usually locally if not onsite! Service is always excellent- they get to know you and treat you well!
(5)
Mattt K.
I was here last night before a show at Metro and I have to tell ya, this place was great. I had the meatloaf and presentation of the food as well as the taste was excellent. The prices seemed a tad bit high but not outrageous. I would recommend this to anyone in the area!
(5)
Meghan S.
Always a good go-to for an inventive, tasty, organic meal. My family and I enjoy the burger, chicken sammy, salads & sweet potato fries. Check out the house-infused vodkas too :)
(4)
Mike L.
Good service for a Sunday brunch. Generously sized delicious portions that can be tailored to specific diets and needs. The iced coffee was delightful. Definitely on a must-eat list for anyone living in the neighborhood, with a chilled out vibe and easy atmosphere. Perfect, too, for people coming in for the Cubs game that want to escape the nuttiness south of Addison.
(4)
Graham B.
If your in for a healthy classy and great tasting evening then this is the spot. I've come here multiple times in the last few years. This place always offers great drinks, microbrews, and great mixed drinks. They also sell organic beer and vodka! The food is fresh, healthy and perfect. The wait can be long but well worth it, always call ahead unless you want to sit at the bar. The menu is seasonal so it changes from time to time but my standouts are the zucchini frites, and Hellen's chicken sandwich. Enjoy heathy good food with a great bar and atmosphere!
(5)
Teddy M.
This was utterly disappointing! You walk in and you think, "oh, this looks like it would be a good place to dine". It has a memorable name, intimate lighting, and has that rustic yet hipster look that most current upscale restaurants have. Then your eye catches a poster by the door informing you that Open Mic night starts at 7 (or 8) pm and you are thinking, "Seriously?!?" But you are in a group, so you act like the good boy you are and hold your tongue. The menu was fairly standard; nothing really stood out. Feeling uninspired, you order the chicken breast sandwich. How could they possibly screw that one up, right? Nope, you were wrong. The chicken was so dry, it felt like powder in your mouth. How does a professional chef overcook chicken this much? It was just a flavorless mess, and given the ridiculous prices, I simply felt cheated. It was not just my chicken. Two friends ordered the New York Strip steak, medium rare. What they got could hardly pass neither for New York Strip nor for medium rare. The steak was so thin and there was hardly any color in the center (probably because the steak was so thin). The only redeeming thing about the meal was the potato gratin that came with the steaks. All-in-all, it was a very disappointing experience. I guess it is not surprising that they have been getting more awards for being green than for their food lately. Sustainable foods and environmental consciousnesses are important things but they should not detract from the quality of the meals.
(2)
Kristen D.
First impressions: Much nicer venue than I anticipated. VERY small room for performers that is separate from the rest of the restaurant. Billing got confusing and really frustrating and we left with a pretty bad taste in our mouths because of the service. I came here with friends to watch a college friend perform on a Friday evening. We were told that it would be $6 cover charge, but were not asked for money up front. Turns out that they charge the cover on your bill when you are ready to leave. First of all, the service is pretty slow. I assume that this is because the waiters don't want to be constantly buzzing around when there are performers, so I can understand that. Still, it took them at least 5 minutes to bring waters to newcomers at our table. I ordered the Snaggletooth beer first when I sat down. I loved whatever they had brought and ordered another two of them (not at the same time), but the second two beers were not the same as my first. I thought that they got my order wrong twice so I made a pretty big stink about it. Turns out that my first beer was the incorrect one and I didn't know what he brought me the first time. (I wanted that one! Ugh!!) He said he'd bring me one to replace it, but then charged us for it. (Seriously?) Good thing he took it right off the bill when we brought that to his attention. We had a party of about 10 at our table, and most of our party left before we did. They paid for their portion of the bill at the bar which is great and all, but the remaining 3 of us had to make up for the additional 20% gratuity that was added to the groups check. SO PISSED OFF ABOUT THIS. I'm still bitter and after the way our server treated us (he was clearly annoyed with us after the beer misunderstanding, but in reality, that was the bartenders fault, not ours) like he just wanted us to leave ASAP, I will likely not return to this venue. I hope my friend begins to play elsewhere.
(2)
Angela A.
Great chill place. I sat at the bar and the bartender was so attentive and nice. Great service. Live music on Tuesdays is jazz but apparently there's live music every night. They brew their own beer. I had the kolsch which was similar to 312 the bartender recommended. The fish tacos I had were ok. Fell apart in the tortilla but I think overall the menu is good and lots of variety. I like that this place is a bar but not typical bar goers come here. No loud obnoxious people, the staff seem really nice. Place has class but still laid back. You can actually hear your partner across the table. I will come again for the beer, nice staff and unpretentious but higher class bar like feel
(4)
Lucy N.
Patio is dog friendly!
(4)
Kavi P.
The food here was pretty 'healthy' but kind of bland.... Respectable concept with trying to use all the local goods. Got the tacos verduras with scallion cakes. It was nice for the first try, one time experience, but I probably wouldn't come back here considering the prices and how far away this place is.
(3)
J X.
Food was pretty solid, but we waited for over an hour for it. This was on the later side of a Wednesday night. The place was far from packed, so I'm not sure what was up. Probably won't go back though.
(2)
Frances B.
Two of my best friends are obsessed with this place, and I've been here for every single meal with them: brunch, lunch and dinner. Everything I've had here is good, and I always feel like it's changes so much (it's a very green restaurant that sources everything locally and seasonally) that it warrants frequent visits. Not to mention it's priced reasonably enough to do so. The calamari is amazing, I don't like calamari but the spicy sauce they put it in is so divine I might die eating it. Also the pesto, goat cheese, artichoke dip is delicious. I usually go for their chicken sandwich or mac n cheese but my boyfriend had the duck the last time we were there and it was unreal. And I love the vibe. Just a relaxing, earthy place with quality, organic food at a good price. I don't really regular anywhere, but I love coming here as much as I can.
(5)
Marta K.
Sometimes the food here is really good, other times not so much.. Got the frittata for brunch on Sunday.. was AWFUL! But, I was hungry and I was raised to eat what is put before me, so I did. The waiter asked how it was and I was honest. Oh, I'll be back, it's right around the corner.. Just won't order that again! Love the pomegranate mimosas!!!
(3)
Hannah C.
All the times I've been here, I've been going for a concert. Each time, the music was amazing. Service has always been somewhere between absentmindedly neglectful and terrible. They offer a decent variety of cocktails and local liquors, but the quality is quite variable so stick with your standbys. The house tequila is good, but my friend once ordered a beer flight and didn't like ANY of them. The food is okay - the burger, chicken sandwich, and bean puree I've had were all pretty standard. Really, just go for the music.
(3)
Zac W.
Food is pretty good - its a little pricier because its hippy organic blah. Bartender with the NYC accent was great.
(5)
Stephen S.
Came here to a practically empty dining room on a Monday night. Instead, everyone was tightly packed into the music area listening to the artist of the night. Uncommon Ground's website divides into areas of eat, drink, look, listen, and it's this divided focus that sets my review right into the middle ground of 3 stars. Everything was good and they offer a little bit for everyone but nothing is great. We came here for food and my dining companion wanted a drink (or more a taste). Easy enough, they offer small tasting sizes of all of their beers (at a great price). The beer menu was small but well selected offerings drawing mostly from local breweries (no taps wasted here), the food menu drew influence from a bunch of different cuisines, we shared the tofu fritters, seasonal salad, and ravioli. I was a fan of the tofu fritters that had an interior so soft it practically melted away with a creaminess on each bite. The seasonal salad was a nice mix of beets, fennel, greens, goat cheese, and nuts. The ravioli? Well, not a pasta place so didn't wind up much better than something I could make up myself with some store bought ravioli and fresh veggies. I liked the vibe, I liked the ambiance, and had a completely enjoyable but almost completely forgettable meal. I'd come for an event and a well priced beer but not much else.
(3)
Eric T.
Was there on a busy night and you could tell that the bus staff was trained to not-so-subtly push you out the door. Not a pleasant experience after paying $27 for serviceable seared salmon. In no rush to return...
(2)
david w.
What happened uncommon ground? It's not me, it's you. I hate for it to end this way. Especially since it ended with me giving you 40 bucks, and you giving me cold eggs and crappy burnt cold potatoes. But sometimes it's best for both sides to move on. I've actually never been served a completely cold meal. And I have to say - I'm impressed. How do you cook a meal. And then get it ice cold before bringing it to me. It's seems like you would almost have to work hard not to bring hot food. So, umm. Well done. This was the crappiest meal I've had in Chicago in 25 years. Thanks for the memories.
(1)
Stu B.
$15 for a grilled chicken sandwich? Get real Uncommon Ground. Never again.
(2)
Sara B.
I was pretty disappointed with my experience at uncommon ground. I stopped in with a friend for a couple quick appetizers before going to see a show. Unfortunately it didn't end up being very quick at all because the service was strangely slow - took over a half hour to get two appetizers to the table. We ordered the calamari and artichoke dip which were pretty tasty, but definitely not worth the price. We ran out of bread for the artichoke dip and asked for some more, which took another 15 minutes. And we were especially annoyed when we got our bill because they had actually charged us extra for those 3 small pieces of plain bread. So I definitely would not recommend.
(2)
Diana S.
It looks like the reviews are pretty mixed with this place. I had a great time here. I sat in the music room and enjoyed a great meal while sitting back and listening to great musical talent. Korean calimari - very yummy Chopped salad - this was pretty large portion Banana bread pudding dessert - I loved it! I has ice cream on top...sooo good. The drinks were equally tasty. So after 3 drinks, 1 appetizer, 1 entree salad, 1 dessert we were actually stuffed and only out of $70 including tax and tip.
(4)
Janette L.
So I should start by noting that I have only come here after a Saturday afternoon (bleachers) Cubs game. So, maybe my memory is shaky but I would like to think that my taste buds were not. Food was good. They had me at Boursin (a garlic/herb French cheese), which was on their Millman burger. My friends ordered the Mac and Cheese and pizza. All were pretty good - much better than we expected. Their menu was mostly comprised of slight twists on the classics. Seems like a lot of people complain about service but we were seated and served right away. Great place for people watching and had seating outside (summer). I would go back to this place if I was in the area, but with so many other places in the city I would not go out of my way to come here.
(3)
Erin T.
I really love Uncommon Ground. I've been surprised by some of the negative/lukewarm reviews. We've brought friends to UG, and they immediately become obsessed. Brunch is great, dinner even better. The only problem with weekend brunch is that it gets crowded FAST - and there isn't a great waiting area. The macaroni and cheese is PERFECT - I don't even LIKE my macaroni and cheese that creamy, but somehow they've made it taste like a bowl of dairy heaven. Meatloaf pizza; pumpkin ravioli; sunchoke soup. The tasting menus they do for holidays are musts in my household right now (New Years Eve and Valentine's day). And they try to use local/natural/organic food when they can, which is important to me. The service is super-friendly, too!
(5)
Kara G.
Went here for lunch the other day to meet a friend - loved the ambiance, service was terrific, and the food was TERRIFIC. Very fresh, and I loved the combo of flavors (tomato bisque with miso? loved it!) and while my selection of the menu was really limited, I'm already looking forward to going back to try brunch, more lunch, and dinner! I was also told they have live music pretty much every night? I'll be sure to report more later!
(4)
Megan M.
Everything we had was delicious, starting with an awesome bottle of wine. The sweet potato fries with goat cheese dip were yummy, as was the spinach dip appetizer. We had a group of six, so we got to try a lot of the menu including the wrapped chicken (potatoes w/ sweet corn were to-die-for!), pork loin (spicey, delicious chile relleno as a side), meat loaf, salmon, and a couple of the pizzas. Everyone enjoyed their dish and the portions were generous. Definitely save room for coffee and dessert....we tried the chocolate creme brulee and the smores tart (Amazing!). Our server was attentive, friendly and informative. My only complaint was that it was freezing and I spent the whole meal shivering. Aside from the temp issues, I enjoyed every second of my meal.
(4)
Zo O.
Got the Korean chili-spiced fried calamari and the sweet potato fries w/goat cheese fondue. Both REALLY good. Kinda pricey for appetizers, but totally delicious and worth every cent. Who knew sweet potato fries would go so well with goat cheese? mMm.
(4)
Beavis M.
Good, good food. Pretty spendy though. The staff is always nice too. A plain bagel with cream cheese will cost you $4. You want a tomato on there? $5.50. And that's probably the cheapest thing on the menu. Millman burger is good. I really liked the duck too. Nice to eat outside too.
(4)
Karen C.
yummmmmmmmm, uncommon ground. yum. this is definitely one of my favorite places to go in the lakeview area... i've yet to have anything that i didn't like. if it wouldn't seem absolutely crazy, i'd order 3 of the mediterranean platter appetizers just for myself. i'm a huge fan of the chopped salad, the mac & cheese, the sunshine salad, scallops... ok i guess you get the point. i love this place. servers are always friendly, drinks are always poured well, and you gotta love the coziness of the room the musicians play in. even better in the summer, as you can enjoy the nice outdoor patio. two ecstatic thumbs-up.
(5)
Shantai G.
I don't get why this place is categorized under "Coffee and Tea" because coffee and tea it is not. But, I like it anyways. Their jasmine white tea is fantastic, subtle, fragrant. God, do i love tea. I've only been once, around dinnertime, 7:45 I think. The table set-up was like that of a restaurant, 4 to a table. So, I felt kind of awkward coming in to ask for a spot of tea and a place to scribe. But, they do have a few individual leather couches, both pleasing to the eye (muted olive) and to the ass (oh, so comfy) for tea-drinking, cookie-munching loners like myself. Framed art adorn the exposed brick. It wasn't quiet, but then again, it was full and it was dinnertime. But, it wasn't overbearingly loud. They played mostly Neutral Milk Hotel-type music, which I appreciated, so A+ for that. Granted, I would have preferred a bit more variation. For the half hour or so that I was there, it seemed as though they played whole albums through instead of shuffling the individual tracks of multiple albums...but now, I'm just nitpicking. The service is nice. The cookies are so-so, and I'm a gal who loves her cookies... But anyways, this place isn't a coffee shop. It's a restaurant, so keep that in mind.
(4)
Slu S.
Great bloody mary's and a decent brunch in Wrigleyville is pretty hard to find. I rarely visit the hood for food, but I was pleasantly surpristed by Uncommon Ground. We made the mistake of meeting a friend who was in town for Mother's Day for brunch. The wait was nearly an hour, but there were places to wait and Bloody's galore. The eggs were done well and the service was fine, all things considered.
(3)
Jenna D.
The first time I came here a few years ago was for my boyfriend's sister's surprise birthday party. It proved to be a fun atmosphere to celebrate over a big ol' cup of hot chocolate on a cool fall evening. Since then I have returned a couple times to see singer/songwriter friends of mine perform on the back room. This brings be to my favorite thing about Uncommon Ground: there seems to be a little bit for everyone here; good food, good drinks, coffeeshop feel, music, poetry, and so on. My least favorite thing? There always seems to be this weird pressure to buy food even if you're just there for the show and UG always makes a point to make a big deal out of this to my musician friends and their fans. I have never quite figured it out, but I know it's caused people to miss the show over the confusion. It's weird and I don't particularly like that aspect. All and all, not a bad little joint, but maybe not my fav place ever.
(3)
Meghan B.
This is a great drinks place and I never would have guessed it! They have fabulous cheap bloody mary deals on the weekends and their brunch is so delicious. The food is really great and creative and the waiters are super attentive and nice. My two complaints are a snotty host staff and runny eggs at brunch. Avoid anything poached here if you mind your eggs whites undercooked. The breakfast burrito, however, is as good as they come!
(4)
Christina P.
This is my fave place in chicago. Over the years, I've watched it grow with great excitement and a little fear (for other folks finding out about this gem and taking away its ambience). Happily that hasn't happened. It's kept it's cool and comfortable feeling -it's a combo coffeehouse, restaurant, bar, and a back room that showcases live music. I have had so many food and drink firsts here and am amazed at them all. Try anything here, you can't go wrong. This is the kind of place I would want to own.
(5)
Kate B.
I have been here twice now and each time loved every bite of my food. Their menu is great, has some basic staples with a simple twist making it comfort food at its best. Plus, most of their food is organic, so it has that fresh, just made by your grandma feeling to it. I have a hard time choosing what to get, it has taken me almost 10 minutes each time. The macaroni is good, but make sure to mix it up and let it rest for a few minutes before you dive in! Both times the waitstaff has been really nice and accommodating, making good recommendations and just overall really nice and attentive. I have only been here on the week days so I can not attest to the weekend brunch line - but if there were a wait, I would def. wait for good eats at Uncommon Ground!
(4)
Breea J.
This restaurant was on my list of places to try in Chicago so I was super excited when one of my friends suggested it. We went on a tuesday for dinner and sat outside and I was surprised that it was nearly empty. The food was great though, and I'm always a fan of a restaurant that supports local, sustainable and organic food. I had a grass-fed burger (high in omega-3s) with heirloom tomatoes and arugula and it was super tasty! I would definitely visit again but am going to try the other locale. Oh, and the service was great!
(4)
Elaine M.
I fled here one cold, rainy spring afternoon with a friend when it became clear that the Cubs game we were attending was rained out. In between the mayhem of sports bars, we retreated into the laid-back, quiet shelter of Uncommon Ground. In fact, Uncommon Ground is an all-purpose establishment. It manages to stay relevant through all hours of the day, serving brunch food by morning and sangria by night. Somehow this works. The entrees are a bit of a splurge, so I usually make the smaller splurge on one of the sinfully sweet coffee treats. The recent addition definitely adds more space, but it doesn't seem to blend with the funkier, low frills feel of the older two rooms as well as it could, and it seems like Uncommon Ground has veered away from its coffeehouse roots, even though the name evokes it. In fact, it has become a weird schizoid experience, the westernmost room a small live show venue, the middle room a coffee house and brunch place, the east room the dinner and drinks lounge. Boy, Chicago seems to house a whole lot of chill places to hang out that I have only recently begun to appreciate.
(4)
Leroi J.
One of my best friends always likes to camp out here. I oblige. Not the most stellar service, but gets the job done. People watching is a little sub-par, but at least the eavesdropping can be fun. Go for the beverages, stay for the calamari. I wouldn't push calamari from just anywhere. This isn't your basic breaded, tough, BS. Sesame seeds are included. I like.
(4)
Christina M.
Went today and it was actually not crazy busy! The food was fresh and full of flavor..and the coffee was decent :)
(4)
Ted B.
This place really struggles to find a balance between good food, accomodating service, and an overall pleasant diniing experience. I went in for lunch last Monday afternoon with two other friends. Having all dined there before, we joked whether we would be having a good dining experience or not. Turns out, it was just ok. We waited 15 MINUTES from the time we were seated until a server approached us. Worse yet, we were the only table in the entire restaurant. Inexcusable! Coffee was good but not hot. Also, our server said things like "kicks ass", "sweeet", and "so, just awesome". It was a bit obnoxious. Uncommon Ground was able to redeem itself with the food I had. A California BLT with crusty bread, yellow tomatoes, goat cheese, thick smoked bacon, and arugula. It was absolutely delicious. So all in all...good, not great. Go at your own risk!
(3)
Danielle T.
This place is right down the street from me and is one of the best hidden places in Wrigley. I love the ambiance, from the local artist paintings on the wall for sale to the exposed brick throughout the entire restaurant. The food is superb - their combination of ingredients creates for an enjoyable meal - especially the breakfast. The only thing I disliked is that they removed the amazing mahalo tea from the menu - so delicious and wish they would bring it back!!
(4)
bj f.
haven't been back to u.g. since my previous review a year ago, but this morning there were tons of parking spaces beckoning us as we wended our way down clark to tiztal. so we took it as a sign, and decided to give it a try, for old time's sake. at first, the signs pointed to a good decision. i enjoyed being back. being greeted with a happy smile, winding our way out of the new front areas to the very last seating area, part of u.g's original space, was like going home again. it's airy and comfy cozy, and the greeter and servers all seemed as friendly as they used to be. the menu looked interesting, and they will serve from the lunch or breakfast menu, even at 9 a.m. i ordered the oscar special that is unrelated to hollywood bronze, but rather benefits their employee, oscar, who is having expensive health issues. the hub ordered his default french toast. the special was an egg dish with veggies and potatoes, and was tasty, but nothing outstanding. the bourbon french toast was totally forgettable; hub didn't even finish it. the bill totaled $40 without tip. pretty incredible, even by chicago brunch standards. so for comfort and service, and their attention to their employee in need, i'll give up the stars, but i'd rather invest my $ in food elsewhere.
(3)
matt b.
It boggles my mind that people flock to this place. overpriced, the servers act as though they are doing you a favor, the food is never better than mediocre. for some reason being a resident of the hood i give this place a chance once every couple years, happily won't have to back now for a couple years.
(1)
Tara P.
Had a great birthday get-together here, in their big ol' back room. 1/2 off all wine bottles on Tuesdays, ya'll! And they have a decent selection. The food and service were also up to snuff. A month later I tried their treetini at the yelp holiday party - reason enough to go back to Uncommon Ground (unless it's a Tuesday...when I would be powerless against the pull of the 1/2 priced wine).
(4)
Adam C.
I want to like this place more, given that it's so close to where I live. It has all the makings of a great, cozy little diner and coffee shop. Unfortunately, the staff can be real hit or miss. Sometimes, it seems like they are clearly uninterested in helping you. And other times, they forget your order, or get it completely wrong. The food is actually quite good, despite being a bit expensive for what it is.
(2)
Cara S.
Organic menu/slightly hipsterish/friendly servers/comfort food/cozy space with interesting artwork sums up Uncommon Ground. This place is usually packed but be patient, it is usually worth the wait. Each time I have dined here, I try to get something new. It is easy to do so because their organic menu changes quite frequently. My favorites are the pancakes(change with season), vegetarian chili and the goat cheese/spinach dip.
(4)
Angela B.
First off, I should say that the food at Uncommon Ground is DELICIOUS. My friend and I went for brunch, it was very fresh and It came very quickly (after the waiter FINALLY came over and got our order). I am giving it three stars because the service was not that great AND my friend and I were the only non-white people in the restaurant (save the busboys, who were all brown people) and everyone was staring at us like we were aliens (we were wearing J. Crew and were not doing anything extraordinary), given how segregated Chicago is. I have no idea why this shocked me so horribly, but it was disturbing, non the less. Our waiter also took about 20 minutes to come over and take our order and the place was not busy at all. We almost walked out because the wait staff looked liked they were involved in a large game of Miss Mary Mack. Now that I know that this place is like this, I'll be more prepared..I think I'll get take out next time though instead of eating in.
(3)
Andrea R.
My friends and I had brunch here today before we went to see the Cubs for the last time this summer (they won! :)). It was only about a 15-20 minute wait for brunch at the Uncommon Ground, which isn't bad in comparison to the other places I typically go for brunch. The service was a bit slow, but our waitress was very nice and apologetic so we didn't mind. We all ordered the Montana omelet. I thought it was pretty good, although it was a little undercooked. However, the potatoes that came with the omelet were very good. I wouldn't go out of my way to go to brunch here, but would come back again if I was in the area.
(3)
Chelsa P.
I really do enjoy this place. I've been in the past for shows before and done the food and drink, but I haven't been in a while. I went last weekend for brunch on a Sunday and even though the brunch was fabulous and the coffee was tasty I was really disappointed in the fact that I couldn't get the bloody mary that I have been craving for a long long time. I understand that it was 9am on a Sunday and you can't serve until 10am and my Mom wanted to get on the road, so I understand but it still makes me sad. But that's not why I gave it 4 stars, it's 4 cause sometimes it feels too pricey for my budget.
(4)
Missy M.
There are so many different reasons to visit this establishment! I've been here for live performances (acoustic/ etc) in the far back room. Artwork is hung for sale, and changes every time I am in there. They have great drinks! Besides wine & beer, there are also cool coffee drinks, unique martini list, and delicious hot cocoa and other warm bevies that you drink from a bowl (although my roommate said she felt like a small pet while drinking her chai). I can also gladly rave about their food. Especially the egg croissant sandwich for brunch and the mac & cheese w/ delicious cole slaw that had grapes and green apple slices for lunch. All that and its smoke free- Woohoo!!
(4)
Leang E.
The place is split up in 3 different rooms, that each have their own unique atmospheres. The first room you enter is the bar area and eating area, the middle room is more relaxed where you could eat or drink coffee, and the end room is used for music, poetry, and what not. They also serve food, alcohol, coffee, and tea. They serve such a variety of things, and I like how relaxed I feel. They make this liquid dessert which is pretty damn good. I believe it has Espresso, a flavored syrup of your choice, whip cream, and some other stuff. I had butterscotch and that was some good stuff. I've also had a couple of desserts here, and the food they serve looks and smells so good inside here. It has a very artsy feel. Lately they have some artist's paintings - and he or she seems obsessed with boobs. It's a great place to catch up with people.
(5)
Maggie R.
the mac and cheese... holy hell. so good. so comforting. good service. good atmosphere. bring a date here. bring your mom here.
(4)
Kyle R.
This is one of the best restaurants I have been to. I enjoy eating out and living in Chicago there are many choices and most places I never go back to just because there are so many choices. This restaurant I go back to time after time. The atmosphere is great, the live music is enjoyable, the food is amazing!!
(5)
Rach T.
Great brunch spot. Came on a Sunday and had we had to wait a bit for a table at 1 pm so we saddled up to the bar for the $5 bloody mary and a mimosa. The bloody mary was definitely homemade and yummy. The mimosa was good, but I drank it way too fast (as usual). Once we were seated our server was really friendly and attentive, but not overly attentive! He told us about a great sounding special that I ordered but then came back quickly to say it was sold out. At that point I just picked something. My bf got the huevos uncommon and I ordered the biscuits and gravy. I wasn't entirely thinking it would be just like biscuits and sausage gravy, but I thought it would be close and peppery. It came with shredded chicken in a sauce topped with two eggs and a bit of cheese. The sauce was...eh, I guess not what I was expecting. It was loaded with a bits of broccoli and tasted like it too. Kind of like a runny green broccoli chicken soup. I have to be honest, I like broccoli, but not for brunch. The eggs and biscuit were good though! The bf liked his. Obviously, since it is a "green" sustainable organic etc restaurant, it is a bit higher priced than a normal brunch spot. Overall, I would recommend it and just read the menu more carefully.
(4)
Jackie O.
I've been here a few times and on the weekends there's always a long wait, but the food is worth it. I recommend the house-made granola which comes with fresh and dried fruit for breakfast, the baked artichoke, goat cheese and pesto dip for an appetizer and the mac & cheese! It's not super cheesy or fried which is nice and it comes with some bread crumbs on top. I love the interior and the staff is always friendly.
(5)
Elizabeth R.
I love the fact that this restaurant focuses on sustainable food. Even living in a city like Chicago, it can be hard to find environmentally conscious businesses. Aside from just that, I really love this place for the food, drinks and atmosphere too. I have been here for lunch & dinner, but mainly visit for breakfast. I love the coffee and they also have amazing seasonal coffee drinks if you're looking for something more special than a simple cup of coffee. They have latte bowls, not just mugs!! The granola, fruit & yogurt is one of my favorite menu choices & the fruit is always fresh & in season. Also, their scramble dish with potatoes is a VERY good choice. For lunch & dinner, the chicken & avocado sandwich & sweet potato fries were both very good, but the entree size is big enough to split. The atmosphere is casual & relaxed with good music, and it's not too loud so it's easy to have a good conversation with the person/people you're with. The staff members are always really nice & helpful. I usually go on Saturday/Sunday at 10/11/12 and there is usually a 15-20 minute wait. Have not tried to make reservations, so that might help you if you want to avoid a wait. They have a bar to wait at though with coffee, mimosas/bloody mary's, & a full bar, so that makes the time waiting for a table go by really quickly. =) I highly recommend this place. It is one of my favorites.
(5)
Elias H.
A bit pricey, but you can tell that they put a lot of effort into everything on the menu. The atmosphere is great here. Definitely beats Starbucks!
(4)
A.S. V.
This is a fantastic cafe that I often forget about because I rarely go north of Addison unless it's to the Metro. It recently expanded again, and features great brunch and lunch menus, along with all your standard cafe drinks. Plenty of room inside and outside, they also have shows. I once saw Jeff Buckley there! No, it wasn't his ghost, it was before he died. Despite the great space and size, however, service was lacking the last couple times I've been, and the prices have gone up too much. If the value were better, this might squeak into my top 13 brunch spots.
(4)
wendy c.
Amazing brunch. The Anna Banana Bread is so delicious. Have had some misses with lunch or dinner but for the most part great food. The service has always been great too. Awesome bacon infused vodka for bloody mary's. What else can you say?
(4)
Andrea N.
Food was great and the atmosphere is so unique! Where else can you find a bar/restaurant/coffee house/live music venue?? My husband had the burger and I had short ribs - very tasty. A little pricey but we'll definitely be back.
(4)
Andrea B.
After contacting the manager about my experiences with UCG, I received a call and email from him. He was very professional and expressed his concern about wanting to take care of the problem. I was very happy that he made the effort to call and seemed very interested in taking care of the problem so that this sort of thing would not happen to other costumers. As I always say, customer service is top priority to me so this makes me pretty happy. I may, just have to give UCG another try seeing as there food is pretty darn good!
(3)
Andrew K.
Enough of this place. I have been coming here for years. Dates, client meetings, seeing old friends - lots of memories, so i want to keep on coming back and love this place. It was kind of cool in the 90's but since my wife pointed out some flaws i keep on coming back to prove her wrong... and i get dissapointed every time. Is it the cold hashbronws two times in a row? Is it the outright incompetent service we got last time... and the time before? yeah, its still kind of cool, an old neighborhood anchor... but not for me. I'm moving on. I think this place will keep on plowing along due to great location, lots of old patrons and new out of collage kids. Too bad it doesnt care about being good.
(1)
Cameron C.
I live very close to Uncommon Ground and have been here many times. Great bloody Mary's and their only $5 on Sundays! Food is good, but not for the price. I hate blowing a bunch of $ on breakfast, especially when the portions arent that large. The sweet potato fries are supurb and they carry hoegaarden, my FAVORITE beer. In a nutshell come here for drinks and small bits, or for the acoustic sets in the back room!
(3)
Moe f.
Went in for Sunday brunch at 10. Only a 5 minute wait. Fantastic brunch drinks. Had a beermosa and a bloody mary. Went with the chilaquiles that were great. But the potatoes were really bland. And had a crazy high energy waiter who added to our entertainment.
(4)
noel c.
$5 martini's on thursdays... with free live music. if you are lucky like me, you'll stumble upon the sounds of the talented mr. buddy blomquist. i have a weakness for anything with ginger, so the lemon ginger martini won me over right away: organic ginger house infused rain vodka & lemoncello, need i say more? i thought the tree-tini was gimmicky, but then after a few drinks i was all-- "plant me a tree!" i'll be back here for dinner and to enjoy the rooftop garden.
(4)
Mary A.
This place is awful. I live in the neighborhood and have heard the same from a number of people, but I tried it anyway. We were seated quickly. However, it took a trip to the hostess stand 25 minutes later to get our first visit from a waiter. Another 20 minutes before our drinks arrived - apparently they ran out of glasses?!?! Finally another half an hour before our food and second round of drinks. I think we are a pretty easy group to satisfy - give us some decent food and keep the drinks coming. Whatever you do, do not order the bacon bloody mary. Two people ordered it at the table after the waiter with a bad attitude raved about it. Neither friend could stomach it. My food was OK but my friends were not happy with theirs. The orders came out wrong, forgotten side items and just incorrect food. Two members of our party had to wait an additional 20 minutes for their food. Again, that may have been OK if our waiter provided some drinks, but he just forgot. I left here having to apologize to my friends for my pick. This will teach me to listen to reviews in the future!
(1)
Jen H.
I was here for a friend's birthday a few weeks back, and had a wonderful, albeit expensive experience. Granted, this was my fault - we paid for the birthday girl's dinner and drinks (of which there were obviously a few) and I too fell prey to the whimsically named and intriguingly spiced liquored concoctions (Tom Waits for no man - awesome, but I'd like my $10 back please!). The appetizers, particularly the sweet potato fries, were wonderful, but the real star for me was the entree. A friend and I split a chicken dish with squash, apples, and a big ol' hunk of brie on top. When the server sat down my plate, we asked for a smaller plate to split it, as we had asked. Imagine our delight when he returned with ANOTHER portion, saying the dish had been split in the kitchen. This is how to do Uncommon Ground, people. Delicious, seasonal, perfectly portioned, and came out to $9 each. Now, slap on the appetizers and a couple of drinks... not so cheap. The decor and art is lovely as well - we were also lucky to sit in the back by the stage, so we got a nice little free concert too.
(4)
Sarah S.
I went there for a Sunday brunch and 1) my order was incorrect, 2) service sucked, 3) my earl grey tea came out green tea. Apparently not even tea is impossible to screw up.
(2)
Laura H.
I love anywhere that has a great outdoor patio and this place is no exception. If this place were a little less expensive I would dine here everyday!!! Great burgers, salads, specials, and BREAKFAST!!! They make a really good eggs benedict. It is one of their brunch items that changes from week to week... and everyone of them is great!!! Interesting drinks and great service. I never feel rushed to leave, but am alway being waiting on!!!
(4)
Erika R.
This was my second time here. All I can say is GREAT!!! Our server Ben GREAT!!!!! Food was GREAT!!!! Coffee was GREAT!!!!!!!!!!!!
(5)
Amy M.
I had the best omelette of my life at Uncommon Ground last week. It was sun dried tomato/basil/smoked mozzarella, and it was so exceedingly delicious. I was initially lured there by the promise of hot chocolate mugs "the size of your head." Now, it did come in a bowl and was very good (tons of whipped cream and thick chocolate flavor). It wasn't the world's best though. The omelette, hands down, was. In case you were wondering and don't want to look like an idiot: Men's Room is on the left, Women's is on the right.
(5)
Jason U.
I walk in at 10:30am on Thursday morning to study for school and use my laptop. The hostess, when i walked in, look at me like i was crazy for just saying i wanted to study and that ill be there for a while and will order lunch in an hour or so. She couldn't seat me at a table for whatever reason, even though there was hardly anyone there so she suggested the bar. All the employees seemed to be staring at me. I couldn't even concentrate, so i left after 10 minutes. Hey people, this is a coffee shop. People come here to study and do work. I realize you work on tips, but i guess now you don't get one from me. Ill never be back here......
(1)
Isabella W.
This is my new fav neighborhood brunch place. After hearing good review of this place, 3 of us weathered the rain to come here -- which, weathering the rain to get to brunch via bus meant that this place better be worth it. And it was. Despite our waiter who was a little "out of it" and repeatedly reintroducing himself, we had a very enjoyable meal. I ordered the bowl, yes bowl of cappuccino, and it was tasty - even with skim milk (which I don't typically do, but I was on a semi-health kick). I had the uncommon huevos with 2 runny eggs over a black bean corn bread and cheese melted atop. The flavors were wonderful. Another plus is that uncommon ground is known for using local, sustainable ingredients as best they can, and had heinz organic ketchup. After trying it, I have to say I won't be buying the non-organic stuff anymore. 2 other brunch items ordered from the table were the chilaquiles (which was good), and the montana omelet (with bacon, potatoes, etc.). The uncommon huevos were the best, then the montana omelet. Each dish had distinct taste and flavors. I can't stand a place where everything tastes the same, so kudos to chef millman. Oh, and despite some other review, our food actually came really fast -- within 5 mins of ordering. I'll definitely be back here, as this is now a staple in my brunch options.
(4)
Lynn M.
update: i have been there 2x since my 2 star review, and both times my dishes have been authentic and tasty. It is more reliable to me now such that I would recommend it to most people, but it still might not be my first recommendation. Pros: comfy couches, variety of menu items. Cons: I had a hamburger and fries- it tasted average and was warm at best when it was delivered. Fries tasted to me like McDonald's. My friend thought his Amish chicken tasted like KFC. Service was ok initially, and then really tapered off after we received our dishes. Menu entrees are expensive (average is $17 I suspect, but I just glanced down the prices and did not calculate a specific average). It would be fine if it was a fancy place, but it basically seems like bar food to me. I would go again to try something different, but I wouldn't be disappointed if I never went there again.
(3)
Mike V.
Have been here for Breakfast, and while the food was very good, I also thought it was outrageously expensive. Breakfast for 2, not including any alcoholic drinks ran just under $50. That's a little steep for breakfast, especially with so many other options near by.
(3)
Efrain F.
Good breakfast/brunch place. My favorite dish is the chilaqueles. I haven't eaten dinner there yet. The place is lively and has a good mix of people. The place is stroller-friendly as well.
(3)
Allison B.
I went for brunch w/ 2 girlfriends last weekend. I had the Uncommon Scrambler; my 2 friends had the Chorizo Chilaquiles. We were all very happy with our food. I LOVED the decor & ambiance-- very cool yet completely non-pretentious. My only gripe was the so-so service. On one hand, they were great about refilling our waters & warming up our coffees frequently, but our server was very slow to take our order, bring our bill, and collect our bill/ bring change. I will be back, but I'm hoping for slightly speedier service next time.
(4)
Ben T.
This is one of my favorite places, if not my favorite, to hang out in Chicago. Whether you're looking for good food, a place to get some drinks, dessert, coffee, or you want to see some live music, this place has a little bit of everything. It's fairly low-key, so if you're looking for a hyped up place to be seen, you're in the wrong place. But pretty much everything I've tried on the menu is good (I like the bacon-wrapped meatloaf. mmm...bacon), they have a good selection of coffees (regular and spiked), and they usually get pretty good music. Also, I love the atmosphere, with the fireplaces and the art on the walls. I saw that a few reviews have commented on the service, but in all the times I've been there, I've always had really good service. My waitress/waiter/bartender has always been really friendly, helpful, and quick. A couple drawbacks: it can be a little pricey, as well as crowded on weekend nights, and at the Wrigleyville one, finding parking is kind of a disaster. But it's worth it. Side note, the Edgewater location is pretty similar in menu and ambience, but I actually think the music room is a little better. Also, there's more parking (they actually have a small lot, and there's usually plenty of street parking). But most of what I said above still applies for that one.
(5)
Su S.
UG is trying to be everything- bar/coffee house/restaurant but I got the feeling that I was expected to eat a full meal everytime I come in. 1st time I came in, ordered a hot chocolate and said I wasn't going to order food. Hot chocolate took forever to come out and then my waitress disappeared. I had to leave money on the table when I left because I couldn't find her and had to go. I tried to go to their open mic with the bf. The hostess asked if we were eating dinner. I said no and she left us on our own to see if there were seats available or to find another table in a different room. They try to make their open mic seem like a Big Deal but when I stood in back to listen it seemed like every other open mic. The people listening were the performers and their friends. The room isn't very big with the stage area and guitars everywhere so there was no room to sit. What I have ordered was tasty. I'm not sure if the martinis are worth $10 just because they are organic.
(3)
Brooke E.
The Huevos Rancheros might be better titled Huevos on Beanpaste Cake with Tangy, Brown, Possibly Barbeque? Sauce. Because Uncommon Ground serves some really great food (sweet potato fries, duck 'dilla) I'm not sure they had to make their Huevos Rancheros so "Hey! We've got an original, fresh, innovative take on Huevos Rancheros!" They're tasty, but the mystery sauce can be a little overwhelming. Definitely over-priced.
(4)
Grace F.
One of my favorite restaurant!!! I just can't help myself but to keep on coming back to this place. This place is so perfect for one-on-one dinner with a close friend and even a date, it's very romantic. Besides having live performances every night, they also play great music. The atmosphere is just calming, artsy and great. Some of my favorite are the sweet potato fries. I am picky about my sweet potato fries, they're my favorite and Uncommon's sweet potato fries is the best in town! Some of my other favorites are, the blt eggs benedict, uncommon chopped salad, helen's grilled chicken sandwich and the pomegranate sangria. Last but not least, you have got to try the chocolate chip banana bread pudding dessert. I will be coming back to Uncommon Ground for more occasions :)
(5)
Kate S.
This place has *huge* potential but is uncommonly frustrating. The space is lovely. There are three main rooms indoors, with lots of seating and nice wood and light everywhere. But service tends to be very slow and rather disorganized. It always takes forever to be seated--not because all the tables are full but because things move so slowly here. Today the coffee was served about 15 mins after I ordered it, cold, and with grounds floating in it. When I asked for a cup of hot coffee, some fifteen minutes after this I finally got a cup that was hot with grounds floating in it. I gave up in desperation and drank it, grounds and all. We were seated outside, where they have a nice patio on the sidewalk. Our waitress was nice but slow. Two parties sat down behind us as we waited an eternity for our meal, and both got up and left without eating or drinking anything after waiting and not getting any service at all. I applaud the organic focus, but the food is variable, often good, occasionally not. My friend said she found a hair baked into her pizza there the other night. I can't believe it took over two hours to get through breakfast due to the pace of service. I just don't have this kind of time in my life. I will avoid in future, regretfully.
(2)
Kristina O.
This place is great. Quick service and a nice atmosphere. Also everything on the menu is quite interesting, I couldn't find one boring dish out of the whole thing. I ordered the Duo of Duck, which was duck confit and seared duck breast, over "crunchy" potatoes and gorgonzola. It also comes w/ braised cabbage, but I'm not big on cabbage so I asked for it without. This was one of the best meals I've had in a while, no joke! My boyfriend had the bacon wrapped midwestern meatloaf , which I had a small taste of, and this was also really good. Both portions were rather large.. I couldn't finish all my duck even though I really wanted to. It's a bit pricey, especially the drink menu, but I enjoyed everything so much that I can't complain. I will defintely be coming back here.
(4)
Leslie F.
My boyfriend and I have been here three times out of the last six weeks, which is impressive because there are so many brunch places that are closer. I go for the bloody marys, he goes for the eggs benedict. It seems every weekend they have a different flavor, like smoked tomato, which have all been great. the staff is friendly and helpful. for brunch, I admit the prices are a little higher than some other places, and the portions are slightly smaller, but they use tons of local ingredients and everything is really delicious and very worth it.
(5)
Tito C.
Great breakfast spot. Good drinks too. Chicken breakfast burrito was excellent....
(4)
Michael H.
It is a good place with a good bar. It is all just that...good. I never crave it or choose to go there. But if i end up there, I always have a decent meal. The menu is a bit limited but I've never had anything subpar.
(3)
Bert T.
I had a less-than-pleasant experience today at brunch on my first ever visit. There was a 15 minute wait for a table, which was fine, that's not the problem. I chose to sit and wait at the bar, & checked with three employees -- the host, the hostess (why have both?), & one of the bartenders -- that it would be OK to have coffee there until a table opened up; all were agreeable to that. But when my turn came to be seated, there was an expectation that I "settle up" for the coffee before going to eat! This was a first for me: they wanted me to pay in stages? I thought I was just getting a start on my brunch beverage, not making a separate visit for a coffee. (I've NEVER met with this arrangement in a restaurant before; many places in fact offer FREE coffee to waiting patrons). Then, as I was taken to my table in the third of the three dining rooms, I noticed many empty tables (& I hadn't seen a lot of people leave). Why had they made me wait if they had space? Once seated, I waited about TEN MINUTES to place my order -- a big no-no. Moreover, after I chose my main dish, the waiter immediately walked away without asking if I wanted anything else or giving me a chance to say that I did: namely, a glass of water, some sugar, and a SPOON (since neither was on the table & the bartender had not supplied me with one!). After another 10 or 15 minute wait for my food to come out, during which time I was ignored completely (and of course I'd already been in the place 30 to 45 minutes -- it's a good thing I'd thought to get a cup of coffee!), I finally got a chance to ask for my water & spoon. The waiter then informed me that they were a "green restaurant" and only served water on request. I thought that was funny, since both my coffee mug & the sugar dispenser were served on -- get this -- totally UNNECESSARY SMALL PLATES WHICH WOULD HAVE TO BE WASHED! I also was amused by the posted sign claiming that they were "committed" to using as little paper as possible, because -- can you guess? -- both the sugar & the coffee mug were also served sitting on (of course) EXTRA PAPER NAPKINS! What about the food? I'm lactose intolerant, & of course almost every menu item included added cheese (typical of American restaurants). I ordered the "fall omelet," which included goat cheese, because it was the last of five ingredients & I thought I could pull it out. Would you believe that my omelet was more like eating a Bismarck or eclair? -- there was more cheese in it than anything else, including egg! With service like that, I won't be in a big hurry to return. Oh, and the music they had on was WAY too loud.
(2)
theresa a.
i'd give four stars for the flavors and two stars for the texture of the food, hence the three-star middle ground. the soba in my soba salad melted in my mouth, but not in a good way, like cold cream of wheat. the waitress described the tilapia as melting in her mouth too, and it did in mine, but also not in a good way. way over-cooked. if it weren't for the pistachio crust, the fish would probably come in a puddle on the plate. the quesadilla with duck confit and carmelized onions was very tasty. and the only thing that melted was what should be -- the cheese.
(3)
Rachel F.
Good food but its overpriced and sometimes the service is really bad. Recommendations: Favorites: Sweet potato fries: awesome. Caprese Tomato Sandwich: awesome! Also Good: Grilled Chicken Sandwich Fried Green Tomato Sandwich Steel Cut Oatmeal Not so good: Artichoke dip: really really heavy and has a weird after-taste.
(3)
Katie B.
I love that UG is a coffee shop, and restaurant and bar. There are so many different sections that it is a great place to meet up with someone no matter what either person is in the mood for. I came here for a surprise party and there was about 30 people from toddlers to old schoolers and everyone loved the space and the food. A band was setting up in the back room as we were leaving and people were still chilling in the bars and coffee lounge areas as well. The food was excellent! I will be back.
(5)
January C.
I went here for lunch yesterday. I think I may have had the best blue cheese, bacon cheeseburger of my life. The bun was perfect in that it was soft and chewy but didnt soak up too much grease or fall apart. The beef, blue cheese, and bacon combination was nearly a food orgasm in my mouth. I also had the sweet potato fries and they were pretty great too.
(4)
Gail G.
I liked Uncommon Ground before the renovation...in fact, I loved it. But with the renovation the prices went up and the food and the service went down. So sad...I was thinking about giving it another shot today but...every time I've been there in the past few years, I have made a mental note to never return. (Luckily, this time I remembered it.)
(2)
Ela G.
Ok, I USED to love this place for brunch, my experience today was my 3rd and LAST TIME that i will EVER go to this establishment. Here's why...I was happily enjoying my bloody mary when I sipped something unusual through my straw into my mouth....I took it out of my mouth to discover not ONE hair, but a CLUMP of HAIR, that was in my bloody mary!!!!!!!! A CLUMP OF HAIR, like the kind you fish out of a shower drain. I am not the type of person to stop eating if I find one arrant hair in my food, I usually just push that part off to the side and continue eating. HOWEVER, this was not an accidental fallen hair, this was a HUGE CLUMP of hair that was no accident except but to speak of seriously disgusting kitchen and bar conditions that could lead to a CLUMP of hair in my drink. My friends and I were so put off by the experience that we couldnt' continue eating our meals!!!! I alerted our server and management, and I was completely shocked at their LACK OF RESPONSE! If this is something normal or unsurprising to THEM, I don't want to know what else goes on. I used to like the food here, but after this experience, I will NEVER go back, and to be honest, I'm a little traumatized and "off" from eating out....THANKS for that lovely experience. If you go there, maybe sift through your bloody mary and check for any hair clumps before you enjoy your drink. GROSS BLEH BLEH BLEH BAARAAARFFFF!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!
(1)
Natalie J.
i thought uncommon ground was excellent. went for a friend's birthday (dan r - woop woop!), they accomodated our party of 9 very nicely. our waitress, brittany, was cheerful and helpful. we started with three bottles of wine, all of which were wonderful and the sweet potato fries and goat cheese and the korean calamari, both of which were delicious. i had a hard time ordering between one of the specials, the pumpkin ravioli, and the bacon wrapped meatloaf but eventually decided to go with the latter because i'm a glutton for anything wrapped in bacon. and it was so so so so good. and i got a bite of almost everyone else's meal, too. the birthday boy had duck which was spectacular and the pumpkin ravioli was also delicous but perhaps a little too rich and/or sweet for an entire dinner entree. but who am i kidding, i'm probably going to order it next time or plan to share plates. it's just too hard to pick one item from the menu! i thought the atmosphere was wonderful; like being in your own house; if you're house was really nice and warm and had a fireplace. afterwards i was stuffed and felt i had spent the gdp of a very poor nation but i swear to you, it was worth it. i hope it's not long before i'm back.
(5)
Ross F.
Wrigleyville Oasis from crazy drunks- This place has good music, good food, and nice friendly staff. It is a great place to grab coffee or breakfast or lunch or brunch or dinner or linner or take a nap. Recent renovations added much more space and a new room/bar. They also added a TV set that just seems out of place in this otherwise hip joint.
(5)
Didier T.
Came for dinner and was not impressed. $14 burger? $20+ entrees? For the venue, I was already suspicious as I skimmed the menu. I settled on the $12 prosciutto and artichoke pizza, which came out void of much prosciutto or artichoke. Fortunately, my friend didn't care for the roasted peppers on his overpriced burger, so he passed them off to me so I could try and make something of my dough pie. No one in my group was terribly thrilled with their meals, so I won't be eating at Uncommon Ground anytime soon. Maybe a drink at the bar to hear some tunes would be the only common ground. But for those prices [or less], I can find better food pretty much anywhere else.
(2)
Lindsay V.
I just like the vibe of this place. The food is great (though a little pricey for my taste), but you can't go wrong wtih a great bar with interesting and delicious martinis (even a martini that benefits trees!--the treetini!), grand slam hot chocolate and espresso bar, a fireplace and lots of windows and interesting art on the walls. The food is downright tasty, but mostly it's the environment of this place that makes it a happy spot to hang out.
(4)
Theresa R.
I've been here for brunch, dinner, drinks, coffee - the options at any time of day are endless. Great food, excellent coffee, good drinks, decent service, excellent atmosphere. Highly recommend it for any and all of the above. Need to come back to check out the live music.
(5)
Carlo N.
One of the best place to play an open mic night if you are new to the music scene. A warm, kind and supportive group of listeners await you. I can say that Uncommon Ground is where I got my start as a musician in Chicago. Oh, did I mention the food is GREAT! Although they have recently changed their menu and miss the Burger with Boursin Cheese, there are plenty of other options from sustainable and local ingredients. If you are there just to chill, definitely get the hot chocolate...best in the city!
(4)
adam d.
amazing food and great beer selection. our waiter was super knowledgeable with the menu and even recommended which beer would compliment my dish. great atmosphere and live music in the back room.
(5)
Jennifer P.
This is an oasis in Lakeview, with delicious food and a great drink list. You can come at night for fancy duck dishes (I just found out the secret, sort of, to their "crispy" potatoes - it involves many steps) and live music, or you can chill during the day with a great coffee and their delicious lunch menu. Servers are friendly, owners are friendly, manager is friendly, food is good, space is beautiful, frat boys are few. I will definitely be back for food and music.
(5)
veronika p.
I was really disappointed by this place. The prices were ridiculous - and I understand that they use mostly (not all) organic/local ingredients, but 6 bucks for a mug of chili? The food was okay, mediocre at best, and no where near the prices we paid. The service was eh. Our waitress was attentive, but she messed up both of our orders. When I tried to tell another waitress who served us our food, she argued with me when I told her I ordered a chicken sandwich, not turkey - she tried to tell me that the turkey, which they delivered, was chicken. They eventually gave me the right sandwich, but I shouldn't have had to argue to get it.
(2)
Therron R.
Less than a 5 min wait on a beautiful Saturaday morning. Brunch Cocktails, yummy breakfast options, and sophisticated lunch ideas. This place is so large, it just keeps going and going. The server was very attentive to us even though we weren't in his section, and he served us anyway. I can't wait to come back and try some other menu items.
(5)
COLLEEN J.
Well after countless visits with and without kids Uncommon finally disappointed me. Granted, we rolled in at 6:10 with two kids for dinner on Valentines Day but to be told that every single table was taken and people were coming in every minute (exact words) was quite hilarious and stupid considering the place was deserted and there were 4 front tables taken! They know enough to know a family of 4 is a 30 minute meal done right on a Monday night. I am not sure if it was obvious discrimination or just stupidity but unfortunately they lost our business. I mean really everyone deserves a valentine meal and it wasn't 8pm on a Friday at the the hippest joint in town.
(1)
Mallory H.
The first time I came here for dinner, I had a decent experience. After last night, I will NEVER go back. 2 friends came to visit from out of town, and I was excited to take them here. Wish i wouldve gone somewhere else..... I was with a party of 5 and we walked in around 7. Not having a reservation, we figured we would have to wait a little for a seat, inside or outside. They said 20-25 minutes so we sat at the bar. After the rude bartender got our drinks, we waited. 1/2 hr later we asked the host how much longer. They said a little while, since they had to move tables around on the patio for a party of 5. Ok, fine. So we ordered apps - then the bartender was nice to us. After we got them, and finished we were stillllll waiting. Finally around 8:15 we were seated outside. We did not get water right away. Our male server never introduced himself and was pretty blah. Maybe he was having an off nite?? That could be forgiven, if we didnt wait almost an HOUR for our food.Our whole order consisted of 2 orders of mac-n-cheese and 4 apps (one which was a salad that had little to no dressing on it). An hour??? How is that possbile??? Tables who sat after us were already eating. One finished eating and we still didnt have our food. And not once did our server come back to apologize for the wait. We ate our mediorce food and asked for the bill. After he droppped it off, we put the card out. Waited, waited. Finally one of us walked inside and asked them to close our tab so we could leave. My friend said how long we were waiting and the lady's answer was 'oh we are busy'. I"m sorry but it was 10:00 and it was EMPTY!!! only 1/3 of the tables were sat. All in all, a 3 hour dinner w/ below average food for a pretty penny and horrible service. Maybe someone could teach these workers some manners.
(1)
Ari F.
As a musician who performed at Uncommon Ground a few years back, I have to say that it's a pretty good space. Not knock-your-socks-off amazing, but certainly a nice, intimate atmosphere. The food is good, too, and the staff is laid-back and friendly. Not bad!
(4)
min. r.
Wow, I've had some wonderful brunches and dinners here. Some tasty cocktails as well. Their menu tends to trend towards the innovative, using local produce and high quality ingredients, portions are large, and it's making my stomach rumble thinking about it. The staff is great, they book talented musicians, and I've always enjoyed my visits. It's a bit on the pricey side though, which is unfortunate, and makes my visits more infrequent than I'd like them to be.
(4)
Lyndsay G.
I'm a sucker for Brunch, that's for damn sure and let me tell you, this place takes the cake. I've only been here once and I still dream about it. Its not your normal brunch place. Instead of regular ham, egg and cheese, its more organic, making it more fun to eat and less "god i feel fat" after wards. I'll have to update this next time I go, but I remember good service and to die for OJ. I'm a sucker for OJ.
(5)
Bernie D.
Menu was a little high end, but interesting. Not really your "burger and sandwich" joint. The food we got was delicious, and the atmosphere was good. A little expensive, but definitely worth checking out.
(4)
Patrick W.
I've been here twice, and maybe I'm just crabby, but both times my princess has ordered something I've enjoyed much more than what I ordered. Both times we also waited ten minutes or more to be greeted by a server after being seated. Both times I waited another ten minutes for my first refill on coffee. Both times the food was outstanding. See? I do more than whine and complain. The first time we were there, we ran into some friends and wound up sitting with them. They're regulars there and her recommendation of the chilaquiles was spot on. Of course, I ordered something different- having a taste for french toast I went with that and found it dry and uninspiring, though the fresh fruit on top was at its peak. This time around, my princess ordered the breakfast burrito and I had the lemon poppyseed ricotta pancakes, topped with blueberry syrup. Again, I found them good but kind of dry. There was no butter served with them and the syrup was rationed sparingly, and since our waiter would be AWOL until I was nearly done eating, I made do. My apparent low biorhythms and crabbiness aside, they were good. The burrito was amazing, and came with some good home fries. Waits for service and coffee are annoying, but the food is really good. I'm certain the third time will be the charm for the service and I can give the place the thus-far elusive fourth star that it surely deserves.
(3)
Becky R.
I had an unusually bad experience here so I think I may have to give this place another try. Our waitress was incredibly scatterbrained and was never around when we needed her. It was busy at the time, but not THAT busy. My boyfriend's pancakes were cold, and we ended up borrowing syrup off the table next to us since there wasn't any brought over (I was under the impression that pancakes and syrup go hand in hand. Apparently this assumption was not shared by our waitress). We asked for refills on our coffee, but after 10-15 min with no coffee we decided to just get the check and get out of there. And just as we're getting up to leave...here comes the refill haha.
(2)
douglas r.
I went again for the calamari. Delish! The beer selection is good and also delish. I really like this place. Even when it's busy it's not super crowded or loud. It's the best people watching bar I've ever been to.
(4)
Sher K.
If it is hot outside, do NOT go here unless your idea of a pleasant dining experience is a hot yoga session! We were there Sunday for brunch and the heat inside was unbearable. Now please note that I'm that skinny girl that always complains because the restaurant is too cold! - and yet I was sweating. My little five month old twins were beat red from the heat. The indoor temperature must have been close to 90 degrees. The restaurant claimed that this was as cold as they could get it, that the thermostat was set to 68, but because of windows all around they could not get it cool. Whether they CANNOT or WILL NOT get it cooler, the impact is the same. Really hot, uncomfortable, and unbearable for children. Take my advice. If its hot outside, don't go here - especially if you have kids.
(1)
Amy R.
I've only been here for brunch (many times), so I can't speak to the nightly entertainment and ambiance this place is apparently known for, but I have to say their breakfast food is some of the best I've had in the city. The menu is always changing, which helps me to branch out and try something new each time. The dish that wins first place in my book was the Nutella-pancakes. Chocolate-covered carbs: YUMMY. I drool like Homer Simpson does over doughnuts just thinking about it. I've taken my parents here on a couple occasions when they've been in town, and they've loved it as well. The only reason I can't give this place 5 stars is that as of last summer, they had a piss-poor system of seating people inside and outside in the nice weather. We went the morning of a Cubs game (big mistake), asked to be seated outside, and were told it would be a half-hour wait. They wrote our names down to be seated inside, so we missed being called and ended up waiting close to an hour. The customer-service was apologetic, but I didn't feel it was enough for my poor rumbling tummy. If I had had enough energy that day, I would have corralled my group to another place nearby, but it wasn't worth waiting somewhere else. Hopefully it's improved since then?
(3)
Andrew S.
we ran into this place last night just strolling along lakeview and were captivated just by looking inside of it. the atmosphere was like eating in the woods... except without the bugs, dark, and actual woods of the woods. dropped in for the pumpkin caramel cheesecake with ginger snap crust and loved it. the rest of the menu looked very inventive while not intimidating to the average palate. definitely want to swing by again... probably later in the evening when it's less busy, because the place being full would probably take away from the ambience for me. oh! and the bathroom walls are painted like the outdoors so its like youre camping! OH! and they were playing the flaming lips...
(4)
Katya C.
Frickin' amazing. Fresh, organic-ish, delicious food and a great atmosphere. Order a mocha. They're beautiful!
(5)
Heather S.
I like the fact that this place is consistantly good. My fave is the pumkin ravioli. Trust me, it's devine! It's a great place to have a special night out without totally breaking the bank.
(4)
Megan R.
Went here for dinner, loved the atmosphere. The service was excellent and the martini's were great. The food wasn't anything special though and I thought it was overpriced. Worth a visit, but won't be a regular dinner spot for me.
(3)
Nicholas C.
I went to several shows here last year and was always interested in trying the food. When I needed a reservation in Wrigleyville in a place that wouldn't be flooded by post-game fans this seemed an obvious choice. Here's some advice UG, if you have special reservation policies like the reservation must be a day in advance, make me aware of the policy and decline my reservation or tell me you'll do me the favor but do not chastise me tell me I need to make plans better. Next time I'll pick a place that appreciates my reservation and encourages me to come the restaurant. The beer was too expensive and the pork chop tasted like candy, maybe some peoples thing, but I prefer my dinner to taste less like dessert.
(2)
Craig T.
This review really only covers weekend dinner, but I have to say I was very impressed. The restaurant itself has a bit of an identify crisis going on, has this odd mix of coffee house, wine bar and restaurant. This isnt necessarily a bad thing, as the decor has a laid back coffee house feel which is very warm and inviting. We went during dinner rush on a Friday night without reservations. There weren't many tables left but we were still able to be seated immediately. Despite being busy and having a live gig being set up in the back room, service was quick and wait staff was very helpful. Throughout the meal they were right there with everything we needed, and were eager to help throughout the meal and wine selection process. Beer selection was good, I was surprised by a few of the beers they had on tap. Wine was also very good, and the waiter was able to help us choose a bottle that would work well with all of our meals. Food was better than sex. To understand this statement, you must know that I *really* like sex. I had the Duo of Duck, nice juicy pieces of duck prepared two different ways stacked on top of roasted potatoes. Absolutely amazing, possibly the most satisfying meal I've had in the city. Other meals were also very good. Overall, price was about what I expected from the decor and menu. Meals were nearing the $20 range. You can do a little damage with the wine menu, but when is this not true? My experience was great, and I will definitely be back to try lunch.
(5)
Victoria T.
This place is amazing. We had friends visiting from California and they were impressed! The atmosphere was great, warm and toasty by the fire. The food was amazing and the service was spot on! I plan on going back here again and again. Their menu is diverse and really creative... and the servings are very generous. There were numerous things on the menu I would have loved. The veggie chili, meatloaf sand, ham and cheese and chorizo skillet were all wonderful and the sweet potato fries with goat cheese dipping sauce were delicious. I think you can tell by now that we really really loved it. Good experience all around.
(5)
Lauren C.
I really liked this restaurant! A friend and I decided to stop in here for dinner, and we walked away very happy. I had heard that the food was overpriced, and while the food is a little expensive, I honestly thought the few extra dollars were worth it. I ordered the pumpkin ravioli, which was absolutely delicious and creamy. My friend ordered a veggie burger, which was huge and looked amazing. Considering we ordered a bottle of wine, the total for our meal was not bad at all. The service was quick and friendly, and we hung out for a little bit after our meal without any pressure to leave. I'll definitely be returning!
(4)
steve h.
i like to smoke and drink. one of my favorite things to do is to saddle up to the bar, have a beer and watch the poisonous smoke ooze out my lungs and into the pseudo public air. its almost therapeutic. i couldn't do that here. the strange thing was, i didn't even have any urges to the whole time i was here (which was about 4 beers worth). minus 1 star for seven dollar stellas (on tap). plus 1 star for five dollar sam smith organic lagers (in a bottle). plus and minus 1 star for the non smoking environment.
(4)
Sarah B.
I very much enjoyed my dinner at Uncommon Ground. The food was fresh and inventive, albeit a tad pricey (if I want to pay more than 20 bucks for a plate of pasta, I'd prefer it be at Rosebud's with linens and formally dressed servers). My friend and I sat next to the window, but the place was heated so well, we didn't feel any chill (it was 20 degrees outside). The fire is a cozy touch, as are the forest-like decorations. Pretty decent selection of beer, wine and liquor, but again, kind of expensive. The beers start at $4, (i.e. Miller Lite), and the glasses of wine at $6. They do offer some interesting martinis, particularly a pumpkin pie martini. I would not go here to get my drink on, but for a nice meal with friends, or even my mom, Uncommon Ground is ideal. One more point: the waitstaff was a little creepy; seemed to be all guys, with the exception of a female hostess. Maybe it was a slow night, or the fact that our server only spoke in a monotone, but something felt off. This by no means will prevent me from returning and should only serve as a word of caution.
(4)
Angie T.
uncommon ground is one of those places that NEVER lets you down. want a delicious saturday or sunday brunch? no problem. they nail it every time. want a hearty bowl or french onion soup, heaping salad or a fresh piece of halibut? again, no problem. their extensive drink list is also impressive. they infuse their own vodkas - from anything from berry flavors to bacon-infused. yes, they'll put that bacon creation in a bloody mary. it was definitely not my thing, but i have a feeling it may be someone's... other perks: * great tea selection * fun bathrooms. the one on the back room is my favorite. painted orange fish swimming on the floor and walls. * each room is bursting with personality. *one thursday a month they have "green room sessions" in their back room. you can reserve a space, eat some dinner and enjoy three special acts that are booked for that night. i've seen these shows several times. its typically pretty diverse from act and act and very intimate. a great date spot or for just a different kinda thing to do with friends. *awesome fireplace in the front and they have no problem with you curling up on one of their big leather chairs with a book and a few glasses of wine for an afternoon. hmmmm, i may need to put that on my to do list. it sounds delicious right about now...
(5)
Margaret H.
Four of us went to Uncommon Ground on Saturday night-- I made reservations, but I'm not sure they were necessary. The host said that our table wasn't ready at 6:55, which was not true at all, since we ended up being seated at the very front of the restaurant in a table that was empty at 6:55. That doesn't really matter though, because the service the rest of the night was great. The menu was delightful to read, and the food was interesting and tasty. Skip the french fries though, one of my friends got them, and they were boring. Not bad, but nothing artisanal about them, unlike pretty much everything else. We ended up being there for 2 1/2 hours, and it was well past two hours when we finally started getting some hints to leave. I wouldn't go here all the time, because it's a bit more expensive, but as a place to try interesting food and chat with old friends, it was perfect.
Takes Reservations : Yes Delivery : No Take-out : Yes Accepts Credit Cards : Yes Good For : Brunch Parking : Street Bike Parking : Yes Wheelchair Accessible : Yes Good for Kids : Yes Good for Groups : Yes Attire : Casual Ambience : Casual Noise Level : Average Music : Live Good For Dancing : No Alcohol : Full Bar Happy Hour : No Best Nights : Thu, Fri, Sat Coat Check : No Smoking : No Outdoor Seating : Yes Wi-Fi : Free Has TV : No Waiter Service : Yes Caters : No
Emily D.
We went to Uncommon Ground for a date night Saturday. When we arrived we grabbed a drink at the bar and then were seated on the patio. The patio is cute and surprisingly quiet. Luckily Uncommon Ground is far enough north that it avoids the Wrigleyville shenanigans. We split the sunrise salad to start. It was plenty big enough to share and had a good mix of fresh ingredients. I ordered the ricotta ravioli, but they were out and I'm glad they were. Instead I had the bbq chicken which was topped with crumbled bacon - how can you go wrong? It also came with cheddar mashed potatoes and caramelized onions. Although I'm usually unimpressed by chicken dishes in restaurants, this was very good and I would order it again. My boyfriend had the steak and enjoyed it as well although he wished it had come with my potatoes instead. Our server was fairly absent. We had to ask another waitress for a box and our check after we waited awhile but never saw our server. It was fine since it was a nice night out and we weren't in a hurry, but still, service was lacking. All in all I think Uncommon Ground is a little pricey, but a nice atmosphere, good food and drinks make it a good date spot. I would definitely go back for dinks and appetizers to enjoy the live music.
(3)Bobuzzi C.
Everything was fresh & delicious! They grow a lot of their own herbs. There white sangria had a purple shamrock that the waiter told us tasted like a green apple and it really did. That was pretty fun! Tomato sandwich was awesome. It's only on the menu for a limited time when tomatoes are at their best. Burger is also really good. For dessert we had the dark chocolate brownie. Sooooo good. Worth stuffing our face over. When we called ahead for a table a couple hours ahead, they said they don't normally take reservations same day, but they would fit us in a little earlier than we were wanting, BUT when we got there it was basically empty. That was a little confusing. Either way it was a great night and we will be back.
(5)Christopher Q.
Fail. Kids burger, a burnt chip of meat. Kids chicken fingers, a small chicken breast grilled and sliced. No flavor. Service took forever. My burger tasted good. But the kids meals were terrible and service took forever. Oh and I forgot. The mushroom soup was thick like mud and flavorless. They emphasized ground pepper on top of it. Gee thanks. The long waits , ten minutes to take our kids order, another 10 to take adult orders and then strange long waits for the rest. I had to chase down check. Just ridiculous. Meanwhile lots of employees running all around the place who could care less.
(2)Nick S.
Have eaten here before food was great. Stopped for a drink on Tuesday, it was not that busy but took forever to take our order at the bar, closing out checks and cleaning the bar were more important even though there was plenty of clear space, and the checks he was closing the customers had already left so no change issue. I've tended bar so I know he wasn't over worked. We were about to walk out when he finally came back.
(3)Dana A.
My favorite, double dates, which typically means more delicious menu options to try! Wow I was full! After leaving Uncommon Ground I was full but in such a satisfied way! We started with the sweet potato fries and the baked artichoke, goat cheese and pesto dip. So amazing!!! I ordered the white sangria which was good and seemed huge, maybe because the cup was big and my hands are small either way it was good! :) They also have a prix fixe menu, but honestly only one person or two would need to get this out of a table of 4. My fiancé ordered the salmon on the prix fixe menu. One dessert is by far enough to go around. Must get the brownie with salted carmel pecan ice cream... incredible!! I got the bbq tofu and seitan which was also delicious! Though I would have preferred firm tofu vs. soft tofu. The patio is awesome and was perfect on a beautiful summer night! We had such a great time with friends! They also have a band playing in the next room starting around 10pm! Really like this place and so glad we tried it out! Can't wait to come back and try the brunch!
(5)Adrienne T.
Uncommon ground is a nice addition to the Wrigleyville area. They offer a unique selection of menu items, where dishes are seasonally based and most of the produce and meats are purchased from local farms. The first time I came to Uncommon I ordered the mac n cheese and my friend ordered the crusted bacon chicken with mash potatoes. Both dishes were equally delicious. They offer a nice selection of craft cocktails and their service is always good.
(4)Kelly R.
Went for lunch on a Tuesday afternoon. Service was friendly and nice, if a bit slow for the time of day (no one was there!). The tea I had (Flowery something) was awesome and my waitress was on it with the refills. The food didn't deliver at all. I got the chilaquiles ( a staple dish for me ) and a seasonal salad, both recommended by my server. They were miserable. I ate half of each and took the rest "to go". They'll probably live in my fridge for a week then die. I had a very nice time, and the place is quite pretty on the inside, but the food didn't stack up to my expectations. With Southport Market, Julius Meinl and Crosby's Kitchen all within walking distance, I don't anticipate returning to Uncommon Ground. Note: I don't drink, so I can't comment on the quality of their libations. Only their food.
(2)Liz K.
Yum, yum, yum. 9 am on a hot weekend morning, couldn't have been a better option. It wasn't too crowded, we had essentially the entire inside to ourselves to enjoy the artwork and cool-looking bar, and there war several appealing options. I ended up with the chilaquiles and the bf with the 2 eggs any style with cheddar. I was torn between two options and the waiter said that they were easily his two favorite things on the menu but it was better that I ended up with the chilaquiles because they had more flavor. That promise did not disappoint! My mouth is watering right now just thinking about the spicy sauce that was ladled over the eggs and chorizo. The bf said that the cheddar was a little overwhelming but nevertheless cleaned his plate, breakfast potatoes and all. The price was reasonable and the service was friendly. I can't really see this place as a bar/see myself coming here solely for drinks and music, but I would happily try it again for brunch, lunch, or dinner!
(4)Nichole F.
I have been to Uncommon Ground four or five times. I am a huge fan! I have sat outside in the summer which is the absolute best, sat on the comfy bench by the windows and sat at a table by a cozy little fire in the winter. The atmosphere rocks! The food, drinks and service also rock. They support local farms and breweries which makes this restaurant even cooler. Yesterday, we split the sweet potato fries, and then I sald the chopped salad with chicken and spicy ranch. So delicious. My husband had the cheeseburger with cheddar with regular fries. The breakfast items also sounded great, stuffed French toast, eggs Benedict and carrot cake pancakes. I will be back to try these!
(5)Annie N.
Cutest date spot ever - not that I came here for anything romantic, but still - take note! Right when I got out of the car - I saw lights hanging on the patio (it was an exceptionally warm nights), warm lights and decor inside, just enough greens, wall hangings, and exposed bricks to make it all modern yet cozy! Since we had a reservation, we got seated right away. At 7:30pm on a Saturday night, this place was busy, but not unbearable. I was hoping for a spot in the back room near the big window, but we were lead to the right room with a small stage - please note, this place is a lot bigger than it looks. Not a problem, our table was fine. Server was nice, and he seemed really knowledgeable about the menu/food, but he was a little awkward - note: I think he's just a shy person, not that he wasn't comfortable serving. I got to taste the pumpkin ravioli, mac & cheese, and black bean sandwich (which despite the menu's ambiguity did come with fries, which totally made my night). The food was excellent. I didn't expect to like the pumpkin ravioli since I tried something like that before at a different restaurant, but after tasting the small bite, I was sold. Just enough sweetness and creaminess to keep you happy. The mac & cheese has a different (but good) flavor, and my black bean sandwich - which was more like a burger - was excellent. Guys - bring your ladies here for a first/second/third/forever date. It's intimate yet relaxing, casual but chic, cool without pretentiousness, and most importantly, it won't leave a hole in your wallet (which would help especially if the date doesn't work out).
(5)Stephanie H.
I appreciate the mission statement of the restaurant but it doesn't make up for blah food. The food wasn't bad, but it wasn't great. The cafe drinks weren't bad, but they weren't great. One of my friends sent back a hot chocolate. Seriously. The menu is small, and picky eaters might have trouble here. They don't have the standard eggs, bacon, toast type breakfasts. Our service was fine and the decor is really cute, but for just okay this isn't worth the trip and I certainly would not wait more than 10 minutes for a table.
(3)Tom C.
Brunch review: We had a great spot on the patio on a beautiful day. The wait at noon on Sunday was about 30 minutes which was good especially considering the cubs were playing. Food: Chilaquiles: Delicious! Very flavorful, great spices in the chorizo, would definitely get again. Fried green tomato benedict: My friend LOVED this dish as much as I loved mine, we split both our dishes and agreed we would order both again. The sides were hashbrowns that were just ok - but we didn't need them anyway because the main dishes were large portions. Drinks: Bloody Mary: Wonderful, spicy, perfect. Blue Berry Mojito: Refreshing on a summer day. Service: Slow, but we were happy about that since we had a lot of catching up to do. I'll be back.
(4)Damian S.
The jalapeño limeade sounded good from the description, but insure had a bite--not in a hot and peppery way, but almost tasting like spruce or some other evergreen. So that was not my favorite part of the meal. The mac and cheese was very flavorful with the addition of bacon, though very rich and filling...not that that's a bad thing if you're expecting it. The mac and cheese comes with a side of apple-coleslaw which was a very tasty addition to a normal comfort food dish. My friend said the chopped salad was missing onions and tomatoes (it did have sun-dried tomatoes though), but he liked it all the same. Uncommon Ground was a pretty good place to eat overall, especially at 10pm on a Saturday. I don't know if I would wait in the typical dinner and brunch lines for the place, even as tasty as it was.
(3)Kary K.
I met 3 friends for brunch on a Sunday at 10AM, it wasn't yet busy. However, it took 15 minutes for me to get the chai latte that I ordered. My friends arrived about 5 minutes after I did and it also took them forever to get their drinks. We ordered breakfast at about 10:20 and it did not arrive until 10:50. We weren't in a hurry, but it seems ridiculous given how slow it had been when we first arrived. I had the Chilaquiles and my eggs were lukewarm, which basically meant they'd been sitting around while the other dishes were created. The side potatoes were warm, crisp and tasty. My friends ended up liking their egg sliders. It ended up being ~$25 each. We go out for breakfast once/month to a new place each time and there are plenty of good places. So, considering the slow service and lukewarm food, I wasn't impressed, so won't be returning.
(2)jesy b.
I really wish I could like this place more. The sustainable, local food thing is right up my hippie alley, but sadly every time I've been for dinner, the service is sorely lacking. Last Saturday, on our way to a show at the Metro, we swung by for a bite. We were seated after a short wait, totally understandable on a weekend night. The waitress came by for drink orders and I put in an appetizer also. I think we saw her twice more throughout the meal, and that's counting the one time my buddy nearly fell out of his chair trying to flag her down. That's not completely accurate. We SAW her. She just didn't see us. Watching every corner of the room, carefully inspecting the walls, checking out the ceilings, this woman did NOT want to look at us any of the dozen times she walked past our table, with its empty plate and glasses. A busboy came to clear our table. Our check was held hostage by the waitress who had better things to do, and our band was about to start up down the street. In general, I don't ask that servers bend over backwards for me, as that seems very uncomfortable, especially while waitressing. And I spent nearly a decade on the serving side of the service industry, so I fully get that you just have those nights from time to time, but the extreme effort taken to avoid looking at us was more than I could take. Despite the pretty good food and solid drink list (double bonus for being the best food in the whole of Wrigley), it will take some serious plying from my bf to get me back here.
(3)Chad O.
Awesome space for performers, staff was really friendly, drinks were awesome and the food is yummy!
(5)Adam K.
Bartender is named Tom. Cool engraved bar. Pre fixe menu for under $40 and its all sustainable meats and local organic produce, which makes me feel its ok to chow down on the meats they serve. I like the atmosphere / vibe in this place. Very homey. I have eaten the steak here and would get it again, but their menu is so vast and enticing, I will probably get something else. My friend always gets the grass fed burger.
(4)johnny b.
blah
(2)J B.
Yummy
(4)Kristin M.
I had such an unpleasant experience here yesterday. Right off the bat, I disliked our waitress, Tiana. She was abrupt, cold and clearly thought she was "too cool for school", but deigned to put up with us. Whenever I have bad service my instinct is to be nicer to compensate for their lack of manners. It did nothing to improve her mood. My friend said he's had better service at the Wiener Circle! We were too early for the dinner menu, so we sifted through the choices on the late lunch menu. The pumpkin ravioli was just ok. The vegetarian chili was cold. When I asked if it could be heated up, she snatched it and retorted "I'll just get another one". She brought it back 10 minutes later and said "better"? It was piping hot, but tasted like tomato paste with some beans thrown in. I also ordered the crab cake which was kind of fishy and not very satisfying. It had a nicely browned crust but I just didn't love it. I don't know if I just made bad menu choices or all the food is sub-standard, but I really regretted eating here. I will say the space is cute, but not enough to come back.
(1)Hannah J.
Five stars to uncommon ground for a cozy coffee experience. I did not order any food but this was a lovely, quiet place to do some work next to the fireplace and have a good cup of coffee for a few hours. The lighting was perfect for a winter evening-- dim but allowing for reading. I felt like I was in a ski lodge :) The service was friendly and attentive.
(5)Lisa C.
Every time I visit my sister in Chicago, I make it a point to visit Uncommon Ground. The food is fresh, delicious and fun to eat. I enjoyed lunch so much, that we returned for dinner to celebrate our birthdays . Our waiter, Cameron was wonderful and treated us to cake and ice cream. Fantastic local beer on tap. Can order 4oz to sample. Every beer I tried was topnotch. Love this place.
(4)Erin S.
Holy yuck. Two starts because they claim it's organic, but who knows. Hubs and I often try to venture out to organic places. We happen to be in the area last night so decided to go to uncommon. It's kind of like being in a friend's kitchen when you're in college: grungy, dark, and stinky. Service was awful and food was just as bad. Hubby's pork was rare -- not something you want to mess around with. We'll stick with Publican.
(2)Eric H.
Good beer Good fries (esp. with the sauces) Good chili (vegetarian) Cool focus on sustainability. #vegetarian review
(4)Colleen C.
Ok, I rescind my previous remarks...which were likely the result of an ill-fated brekkie date, way back in the day, with a boy named Morty. No amount of pancakes can solve a breakfast date with forced conversation without the aid of copious champagne. Truth. Finally, back for din din... 1. They employ very cute boys. Alex (server). CUTE as a button. Since we sat there for nearly 4 hours, I got many opportunities to notice. Well done! 2. Steve the guitar player. Is Uncommon Ground growing cute men in the garden or something? Holy holy, (organic) guacamole. 3. Sunshine salad (say that fast 5 times) was fresh, if not a wee bit...boring. Probably because I like bacon on my salads, with thick fatty dressing. I should've opted for the chop (yum), but my jeans will thank the SUNSHINE when I can actually zip them up, so hooray. 4. The buzzy bee: espresso, organic honey, and soy milk. Shaken and poured over ice = Frothy, non-dairy, pick-me-up. This will be my new go-to drinky drink when I feel like wittlin' away the day on the patio with some friends. $6, and worth every non-Starbucks penny. 5. It still blows me away that this used to be a little itty bitty coffeeshop. All grown up with mass appeal. $4 Bell's drafts on Mondays, too! Holla! I stand corrected, and have learned never to go on brunch dates until AT LEAST the 5th or 6th date. A coupl'a years will do that to ya, I apologize UC for letting you get caught in my catastrophic dating crossfire ;)
(4)Edward H.
Great atmosphere, alcohol selection, and locally-sourced food. However, the service was very slow. The food was all right, I would give it 3.5 stars if I could. I ordered Helen's chicken sandwich which was very bland and the chicken was a little pink. The sweet potato fries and Gouda is an interesting restaurant. The sweet potato fries are good--nothing to write home about-- but the Gouda is too bland to truly compliment the sweet potato fries well. A lighter blue cheese would've been better.
(3)laela l.
Great vibe, beautiful decor, locally-sourced food that supports the Midwest, and delicious food. I still think about that white bean hummus dip and their polenta dish! Also, they have a nice beer and cider selection.
(4)Beth A.
i first stopped in here yeaaaaars ago...i luv the fireplace and bar up front...and itty bitty local artist music rooms however my #1 reason for luving uc is because they are an economically sustainable business & the care that they put into that venture shines thru in the rest of their establishment recently: i had some of the richest and best tasting mac n cheese (with broc) and a side of cherry slaw (i have never liked slaw of any kind until this delicious concoction hit my lips) while i sipped on their version of an old fashioned...i guess i have a thing for cherries :) they also serve drinks that give back so go ahead and water ur liver for a cause the only detail im not thrilled with is the fact that the cover charge *for the music room* is put on your tab and taxed rather than just takin cash upfront yea the bill can get pricey...but its good n worth it
(5)Lisa S.
This place was great! Atmosphere was bright and cheerful. I had root vegetable soup and a green tomato sandwich on this whole grain bread that was delicious. The server was quick, pleasant and attentive. I would definitely eat here again. Definitely coming back.
(4)Nektaria R.
Nice outdoor seating area for hanging out with your buddies after a game or just because you're in the area. I've always sat outside seating area in the warmer months so my review is based on those experiences. Used to come here quite often but since my friends moved out of the area, I really don't feel like going out of my way to visit. The snooty staff was a bit standoffish, then again, I haven't been there since last summer so they may not even be working there any more. Fresh, organic ingredients. Decent wine selection. Good desserts that go well with the fab coffee and tea drinks. Solid entrees. The sweet potato fries though do make my heart skip a beat along with the pizza.
(3)Erin Q.
I recall this place being pretty good for breakfast so I was pretty disappointed with the Mac and cheese. All 3 of us ordered Mac &cheese on the first chilly night of fall, and unfortunately we all agreed it was Luke warm and flavorless. Terrible compared to most gourmet Mac & Cheese. Will never order again.
(1)David M.
We arrived with our two daughters, aged 8 and 10, at around 7 and were told it would be a 30 minute wait. After 40 minutes I asked where we were in the queue. They had skipped us. We were seated, and then they seemed to lose track of us. We ended up getting served around 8:40, about 1 hour and 40 minutes after we arrived. They did take 20% off the bill because we'd complained (multiple times through this process). I'd emphasize, it was not busy - there were OPEN TABLES the whole time. But it was unbelievably lousy service. The surprising thing about this is that we were regular customers, coming every couple of weeks. It is close to our house, food OK - it worked. But treating anybody like that, much less a regular customer - you feel completely dissed. They've lost us as customers. I'd stay away from this place, especially if you have kids.
(1)Leslie G.
I'd rather give 3 1/2 stars, but my last meal here was worth 4, so I'm rounding up. I've been here a handful of times over the past 5 years and have never been disappointed, but some meals have been better than others. For the most part, the dinners I've had here have been great, while the brunches have just been ok. My most recent meal here was for dinner, and it was phenomenal. I had the fried green tomato and heirloom tomato sandwich, which was probably one of the best sandwiches I've ever had. I ordered it with a side salad, but you also have the option of fries. I believe they grow the salad greens on the premises in the planters that enclose the outdoor seating area. I had the s'more for dessert, which was good, but not as good as the entree. It was a thick, chilled chocolate layer surrounded by graham cracker crust and topped with a marshmallow fluff. Beyond the fact that my entree was stellar, I appreciate that Uncommon Ground serves organic food and changes their menu seasonally. I'm sure I'll be back soon--maybe sooner than expected just to get that sandwich again!
(4)Jack P.
Just had the opportunity to attend another show here, where Rob Reid curates and brings in his favorite acoustic musicians all this month. We had a centrally located table in the back room. There was a nice crowd on a Tuesday evening. The UC staff was plentiful and always there to take a food or drink order. I must have witnessed a half-dozen orders of sweet potato fries w/dipping sauce go by. That thing is a real crowd pleaser. I had their burger which was a bit pricey and nothing to write home about, but fine within the context of a great evening of folk. Some of the best things about attending a show here: -easy parking on Clark -no cover or "minimums" -no tickets or ticket fees -just a reservation gets you a table -suggested donations allow you to decide how much to pay the talent. So the shows are accessible and affordable, and if all you can afford is a cup of tea and a moderate donation, no problemo. True democracy, sustainability and a free market capitalism are hard at work here in this cozy and inclusive spot on Grace Street.
(5)Kyle T.
Good food, all organic, but just too expensive for me. If you are into eating organic then I would check this place out.
(3)Florencia B.
This was our first time here. We liked the place but it was noisy. The waiters were very friendly but slow. We ordered chiken sandwitch with salad and a breakfast quesadilla (brunch). The portions were big. It is a nice place for lunch if you are not on a rush. This place also have live music some nights.
(2)Anahit G.
The pumpking ravioli are out of this world amazing. I hope they are not just a seasonal offering, because I have been dreaming of going back for more. Other than delicious food, the atmosphere is great, and the decorations/lighting provides an almost magical feel to the whole place. Definitely worth a trip.
(5)Lauren B.
Uncommon ground has an earthy, warm, casual, inviting vibe. Although they are all about the sustainable food theme, its not the in-your-face why-is-your-carbon-footprint-so-big way that other similar places have. If you are looking for a particular night to go, check out the first Thursday of every month for Story Club. Its an open mike story telling event that is super cool! I went this week for the first time and really enjoyed it. Good for all ages as well.
(4)Virl S.
Fun and eclectic location right by Wrigley Field. Uncommon Ground has been voted the 'Greenest Restaurant in the Nation' the last few years. This is based upon the electricity used, water utilization, source of food (mostly midwest local) and others. Typically crowded at dinner time. Food options are typically on the pricier side as most options are local and organic. I always love their calamari. Their burgers and bacon wrapped meatloaf are spectacular as well. They are known for their handcrafted cocktails. They usually have an excellent rotating list of craft beers on tap as well.
(4)Anita Y.
It's been years since I've been here, 10 or 12, and it's only gotten better, not to mention bigger, with age. We sat in the familiar "old" section. Cozy, comfortable, quiet, (not too quiet). The entire menu was enticing with creative concoctions. We split the Quesadilla with Goat Cheese and Avocado , and splurged on a side of Sweet Potato Fries. What a great meal! definitely enough for the 2 of us. First cup of coffee was cold. (surprising since it was only 11 in the morning). Our server graciously got me a fresh, hot cup. Service was helpful and pleasant, and friendly. Wish I was still around to enjoy this place more often.
(4)Nicole W.
Loved the variety of food and drinks here (both with and without alcohol), definitely something for everyone.
(5)Kyle H.
I used to come to this Uncommon Ground to see music back when seating was an elbow-to-elbow affair, before the renovation. The renovation has made it a beautiful open space in front, with a nice wrap-around bar. I made a reservation, thinking the place would be packed, which the staff seemed to think was cute, since it wasn't busy at all on a weeknight. Seating in the backroom is a little cozy. There was much on the menu I wanted to try, but I went with the bacon-wrapped meatloaf, served with some kind of malnourished albino carrots, and mashed potatoes. The dish was good! My dining partner's salad was chock-full of veggies and looked good as well. Service was excellent, and our waters must have been filled so much we almost floated out of there! We never felt rushed during dinner and had a nice espresso to top it all off. This is a place I would definitely return for a fresh meal served with local organic ingredients, to enjoy some music, or just to have a glass of wine at their nice bar!
(4)Mitch M.
Uncommon has a great vibe and amazing food. The sweet potato fries & goat cheese fondue appetizer is not to be missed. Everything that arrives at your table is sure to bring a smile to your face.
(5)Corey R.
Didn't really know what to expect before eating here. I tagged along with some friends who had been here before and enjoyed it. I wasn't starving so I ordered the fried green & fresh heirloom tomato sandwich. i've never had one before. for a tomato sandwich it was amazing. the ingredients were fantastic. i would have never guessed.i also ordered a local craft beer, which was also great. i couldn't have been more satisfied with the experience. both were delicious! everyone at the table (4 of us) also liked their food. i'd def recommend the place.
(4)Alexandra H.
My favorite place to eat in Lakeview. They grow their own vegetables on the patio. The food is all fresh and organic. I am a vegetarian and they have several choices I can eat. I got the heirloom tomato sandwich, which was soo delicious! The tomatoes were fried, which I did not expect. I recommend going here during the summertime, and sitting outside on the patio, at night. The only downfall was that it's a bit pricey.
(4)Briana D.
This was not my first time at Uncommon Ground but after the terrible service that I received last night, it will definitely be my last. My boyfriend and I decided to go there to celebrate a special occasion- our anniversary. When we walk in, we were told by the seemingly disgruntled hostess that the wait for two would be 20 minutes. That didn't seem too bad and I glanced at the bar to see if there were any seats that we could sit in while we waited. She gestured to the bar and said we could have a seat. Following instructions, we sat down, ordered a couple of drinks, and waited. 40 minutes later, we were still waiting. I asked my boyfriend to go and check why it was taking so long. He came back and said he was told that she thought we were eating at the bar and if we wanted a table the wait would be another 35 minutes. Now my boyfriend is an incredibly polite Brit so he didn't say anything to the hostess about the absurdity of the situation. However, I was livid (and starving) and decided to try to get some clarification from the woman. When I went to talk to her she basically blamed the situation on us saying that we didn't give her our name. *Since when is it my responsibility to tell a hostess how to do her job?* I mentioned that we merely sat down at the bar as she instructed while we waited for our table. She tried to explain further by saying "What I meant was for you to eat there." How was I supposed to know that? I wanted a table! There was no apology and I was on the verge of tears because I was so angry. I asked to speak with a manager and she said "I am the manager." Great. So not only was she not apologetic, but she was also not willing to do anything to rectify the situation. I walked back to the bar confused and visibly upset. I didn't want to have to wait another 35 minutes for a table so we decided to order there. 5 minutes later the same "manager" shows up and says "We have a table now if you want it." She mumbled something about taking care of our round of drinks and walked away. So we stood up and decided to go the table. It was a nice gesture but felt like too little, too late. Our server greeted us and we ordered another glass of wine and a beer. I had to ask for water as well. He came and took our order and then disappeared for 25 minutes. Our drinks were empty and we were down to our last sip of water. Still no food. Finally, our server came back and apologized for the wait but said that they were backed up in the kitchen. Understandable. Honestly, it would have been fine if we hadn't already been waiting over an hour. But then he walked away without asking if we needed anything else to drink. Huh? 20 minutes later our food finally arrived. It was ok but not worth the overall horrible experience. I liked Uncommon Ground before this ordeal and really just wanted a good meal to celebrate. I am surprised and disappointed that the evening turned out the way that it did. End result: no more Uncommon Ground for us. We don't need the hassle.
(1)Justin L.
Live Music And Mondays Have 4 dollar Drafts of delicious local beer on tap.
(3)Lexie V.
I love this place. Definitely one of my 'go-to' spots. The food has always been fantastic and interesting, the beer menu is one of the best, and the service has always been good. My only complaint/suggestion: For the love of god, get your servers new uniforms. Those outfits do not fit the aesthetic and they are flattering on absolutely no one.
(5)Charles B.
I want to preface this by stating that this review focuses primarily on the food. I am keen on the "Green Consciousness" of Uncommon Ground - it's admirable, but it seems more shtick to me. The food is only decent at best. Any rating over 2 stars I would regard with suspicion. I wish this were not the case because I sought this place out and truly wanted to like it. What I discovered is that most menu items are overpriced for what you get. The food is high priced and not very good. If the consumer is going to pay for more expensive ingredients then make sure the finished product at least tastes good. At Uncommon Ground the value proposition was, sadly, in short supply. That's good for Uncommon Ground (in the short term) but bad for the consumer. There are many better establishments nearby with more reasonable prices and better food. So to sum it up - I shan't return.
(1)Naum N.
Overall the food was great, though the service on a Sunday evening was a bit tardy and could have been more expedient. Admittedly it seemed like a slow day, though the changing of the wait staff did not help with the time it took to get the main course (~45 mins).
(4)Bill W.
Fck this place. The service was so shitty that we waited for 25 min before we went to a place called Rockit. Uncommon ground told us no reservations over the phone then asked for one when we got there. We wait b/c they tell us 20 min but half an hour later, they tell us no seating w/o party. Thanks a lot! Should've told us earlier. Know why it's uncommon ground? Cuz no one should ever go there. (edit, this review was intended for the night of 2/3/2012 but i didn't complete the review until today)
(1)Nick B.
Waitress forgot a meal and included on our bill a 20% tip, not 18% like the menu said. She even charged us for a birthday treat we didn't ask for.
(1)Tiffany N.
What a hippie-esque restaurant! Decked out with local art on the walls, live music and they use products that leave no or a low carbon footprint, Uncommon Ground is a winner in my book. And their vow is to "use seasonal, locally produced, family farmed & organic products"--how could you NOT love this place? We sat outside on their spacious patio and enjoyed a gorgeous night while perusing their menu. They had a pretty sweet selection of beers as well (all draft no bottles) and many were foreign to me since I'm from out of town. A big thumbs up to Goose Island beer! Seriously-everything looked mouthwatering. It came down to either the mac n cheese or the Capriole Goat Cheese Stuffed Portabella Mushroom Sandwich and in the end the portabella won! This bad boy was loaded with goat cheese, so much that it was oozing it out and who doesn't love anything oozing with goat cheese? I saw they serve brunch along with lunch and dinner, I am definitely intrigued by this and want to stop back again to try it out. Some people noted that their prices are a bit higher, I don't mind paying extra if it is for local products and food. Support your local businesses and farmers!
(5)Marie W.
Had dinner here on a Tuesday evening. Sweet potato fries with goat cheese fondue and the grilled salmon. All exceptional. Friendly attentive staff. Outside eating area surrounded by their own herb garden. Had to leave before the music started for the night- hear its a good place to hear some great music.
(5)Andrew H.
I love this place. Simply delicious food and no pretension. Good for any meal. I love the chilaquiles for breakfast. Make sure you order a side of their in house made chicken sausage. They also have delicious dinners. This is one of my go to places to meals with family: even our two little girls. They are very family friendly.
(4)Alli W.
I will gladly say that everything I've had here, from brunch to dinner, has been delicious. The staff is friendly and it has a nice ambiance to it. However, it is on the pricey side for what I feel like you get for the food and environment, so we do not frequent here as much as we'd like. We had dinner this weekend - one appetizer, two entrees, and two beers and it was $100. Not horrible, but not the staple eatery price we'd be comfortable with to go to regularly. If you haven't been, I highly recommend trying. They have a lot of great options for everyone's different tastes!
(4)Kerry S.
Great spot for a relaxing meal with tons of flavor. The drink menu has a wide variety of options and we started out with the avocado tempura tacos which were nice. Pork and salmon dishes didn't disappoint, ad we'll definitely be back. Pricing was $2-$5 more expensive than it should've been, but not enough to deter me from leaving a full 5-star review. Service was beyond amazing as well, very impressed!
(5)Galina M.
Great brunch place! Can sit outside - awesome patio. Great bfast food! Highly recommend!!! We've been to both locations and love them both equally. Just very unique menu and great combinations! Great/fast service. Definitely will be back.
(4)Jelena Z.
Four words for you: Gunthorp Farm crispy chicken. Seriously, any incarnation of this chicken is sure to win over even the most picky palate. I even dream of it. No, really! This coffeeshop/resto/music venue is one of my favorite places to lounge, linger and relax. And, you'll breathe easier knowing everything is locally-sourced, organic and sustainable in most cases. Like to imbibe? Yeah, me too. Even drinking can be done with a conscience at Uncommon Ground! Check out their signature eco-cocktail, the Agripolitan (like the Metropolitan, only greener), or the super delightful lemon-ginger martini. These go down like candy-- don't say I didn't warn you! Gwyneth Paltrow thinks UG is cool, and so do I. Word.
(5)Kammie G.
I love that this resto is all organic. I heard it's actually the most sustainable and eco-friendly resto in America. Awesomeness! So why not 5 stars? I was pretty disappointed with the amount of vegetarian options for dinner, there were only 2 I was interested in (vegan farro cakes and the bean burger). While the vegan farro cakes were good, I'm not sure if they were exactly worth the $18. The inside of the place is cute and comfy and their drinks are pretty good - but again, nothing to write home about. Although they do make their own honey! What I also REALLY didn't like about the resto is our waitress. She was giving us attitude the whole time we were there. Seriously, such a bitch. Plus our water was not refilled very often. I had to drink my boyfriend's water cup cause mine hasn't gotten refilled for the last 30 minutes we were there.
(3)H. Y.
The space is really cool and the food we got was really good and affordable. We got a couple of the dips...would recommend.
(5)Christina G.
My husband and I went here the Sunday before Valentine's Day for brunch. When we got there, we were seated right away. We ordered the sweet potato fries with goat cheese dipping sauce at 10am because it's just that good and no trip to Uncommon Ground would be complete without them. I had the winter omelette and it was loaded with veggies. I did think they were a little skimpy on the feta though. What's an omelette without cheese? The portion was huge, and the omelette arrived with potatoes on the side, which I wasn't expecting. We also each had a mimosa, which I thought were a little pricey at $8 each. They were mostly champagne with a splash of OJ for the color, so that made up for it. Our server was really sweet and was always there if we needed something. It was the perfect brunch.
(4)Bethami M.
Originally, I was extremely confused when I walked in. Being an avid yelper, and reading reviews before I enter what are considered to be popular restaurants, I checked the reviews for Uncommon Ground. I was advised during peak brunch times to make a reservation. So 11am sounded like a peak time to me? Anyway, we walk in and there's open tables everywhere. Having heard great things about Uncommon Ground, I wondered why it was so empty at 11. Sitting right away, I was able to place my order for a $5 mimosa, which in this city, I'd say a pretty good deal. Damn good mimosa. We ordered the huevos rancheros and the fall omelette. Hands down BEST huevos rancheros I'd ever had!!! Underneath the eggs and chihuahua cheese was a black bean cake, which turned out to be outstanding, and I don't normally love beans. I also threw on some of the hot sauce at the table, because I like my eggs extra spicy. SOOOOO DELICIOUS! The fall omelette was delicious as well, both of these dishes came with their house potatoes, which were also pretty good. But I give all 5 stars to the huevos rancheros. Still dreaming about those. The service was also very attentive as well, and I wouldn't have known to get the huevos without our server's help. Thanks a bunch!
(5)Matthew S.
I'll start this review off as did my last visit here started-- pleasant and smooth. Two friends and I recently came here late on a Saturday afternoon (~3) to have lunch and chill out. The place was fairly empty yet they chose to seat us in the way back area. Odd, but fine, because it was quiet and we were able to talk. Problem was, the waiter pretty much forgot about us, or so it seemed because it took about an 1 1/2 for him to take our order, deliver it and never once did he follow up to see if we needed anything or if there were any problems (more on this later). That wouldve been ok, except we did need condiments and to figure out what the heck was on the bottom of a friend's coffee cup (I'll spare you all from what we guessed it was). Once we sought out the waiter, rather than even apologize for whatever that odd colored glob was, or for not bringing out basic condiments when the food was delivered (late).. he sent the manager over, because we were a "problem" table. Hunh? He got very defensive and we explained that it wasn't a big deal, we simply wanted to know what that was.. and weren't expecting a comp. Bizarre reaction. Well, they decided to "show" us... they sat a table of three adults with about 6 kids in that previously quiet room and let them run amok. Yes, amok. Now, I like kids..when they're behaved. I blame the parents and restaurant management.. when no one tells the kids to stay in their seats and use indoor voices. WTF. Lastly, at the end of the ordeal.. they delivered the bill to us. 3 soft drinks, 2 soups, 1 sandwich and two big salads. $84. Again, WTF. NEVER AGAIN!!! Complete and total rip off and stupid, stupid management.
(1)B C.
This is a great date night spot. I think it has something to do with the soft lighting and extensively described food options. From the look of it outside during the daytime and by the sound of the name, I'd thought it was a coffee shop. It's actually more of a high-side-of-middle range informal dining restaurant. Our server was friendly and very knowledgeable about all the items we asked about and ordered. They had a quaint guitar and vocals duet come in to perform some background music during the latter part of the dinner hour. The prices were higher than we had anticipated, but the food was tastefully put together. The ambiance is really inviting and comfortable, and their porch in the summertime looks like a very relaxing spot with the white Christmas lights strung from the trees overhead.
(4)Lauren H.
Came here on Easter for a Sunday brunch and our first clue should have been that it was fairly empty. We started with sweet potato fries with goat cheese fondue which I liked. For my entree I had the huevos uncommon which I had been assured was not too spicy (I asked b/c I am a spicewuss) but it was. But it wasn't only spicy, it just didn't taste that great. The accompanying potatoes were way overcooked (a few were even charred to complete blackness) and not flavorful. My friend's cinnamon raisin french toast was overwhelmed by far too many raisins to the point of being comical. Service was lovely, but the food is not enough to return for.
(2)Caroline P.
Four of us went here on a Friday night. We were seated in the back where bands (eventually) set up. I was glad we were leaving by the time the band started testing for sound because that could have been irritating. It did feel a bit empty though, the only other table had a loud child running around and screaming the entire time. As an appetizer the baked artichoke, goat cheese and pesto dip was a must have-- delicious and perfect for four people. Sweet potato fries were also great. I had the bacon crusted cherry bbq gunthorp chicken breast as my entree and it was wonderful, filling, and delightfully seasonal. One friend had the mac and cheese, which had no complaints, and two others ordered the citrus glazed wild Alaskan salmon. They said the salmon was just not enough food. It was nicely presented but they were both hungry after the meal. Considering how much we spent, they expected to leave full. Drinks and service were fine, do check out the cocktail selections because there were a couple of interesting things on there, but don't order more than 2 drinks or you'll easily be spending more than $50 on your individual ticket. I'll probably go back, and hopefully sit outside if it's nice, but I'll have to be careful about what I order next time.
(3)Paula B.
I've been to the UG location on Devon and feel the same about both: it's great that you have a sustainable restaurant and support local farmers & such...BUT is it really so difficult to ask for more than 4 vegan options (two of which are a salad & soup of the day)? Farmers carry lots of veggies too, not just "sustainable/happy/organic" meat. they're sweet potato fries are good, but definitely overpriced! and finally- service could be MUCH better, especially for a slow Sunday evening
(2)Cecilia G.
I read that this place was named the "greenest restaurant in America" and of course I wanted to try it out. We had a friend in town so we went there for dinner. The place looks nice, warm and cozy. We had a reservation but got there a bit early and while we waited we could seat on the couches next to a fireplace - very cabin-like feeling! the wait turned out to be a bit too long but the waitress came to apologize since the people before us at our table were taking forever to get up and go after finishing. Anyway she got us another table - not the greatest location but that's ok. Now onto the food: I love the choice of having local and seasonal ingredients so they had already won me over with that. The dinner was very good, we tried the calamari and the sweet potatoes fries as appetizers - both really great. As entree I had delicious pumpkin ravioli with gorgonzola and hazelnuts.. superb!!! My fiance had the pork chop, also good but not exceptional. Our guest had a bean cake burger and she liked it too. We also tried the creme brulee, which had a strawberry-flavored crunchy crust that was really tasty. The beers were great - all local, they even tell you how many miles away they're brewed! I think they have good prices for the quality they offer: we paid less than $30 each including one beer each. The only thing I regret is that we couldn't enjoy the live music since it was in the other room.. next time!
(4)Brian S.
Mostly, this review is going to complain about Uncommon Ground's disappointing, overpriced cocktails and overall strategy. But then I will make some praise-sounding noises too to justify the three stars. Promise! The cocktail list at Uncommon Ground reads like a misguided self-help book. It sets up the reader to believe that yes, this is the mixed drink that is going to change my life -- for example, the basil julep. That is the path to holistic happiness and harmony! For sure! And for only $8-$10! But in the end, it's watered-down, flavorless (aside from, in the case of my blood orange margarita, salt and low-grade tequila (so low the name wasn't listed on the menu!)), and cannot help you feel better about yourself or the creator of the drink. I have a cocktail here at least once every two months, and I continue to feel sad. I have been fooled so many times, it's really "shame on the universe." Stick to their great draft beer selection if you are in need of a libation. I noticed one of my favorites, Rockey's Revenge from Tyranena, last Friday. Admittedly, cocktails aren't the focus at Uncommon Ground. It's music. Or wait -- it's coffee (hence the name). Or wait -- is it the locally sourced food? The biggest rooftop garden? It's getting increasingly difficult to know what it is that Uncommon Ground is trying really hard to do well, because they're trying to do so many things well. And as Jesse Spano taught us, trying to be the best at too many things just leads to painful addiction problems and unfortunate film choices later in life. In the end, the food is what shines the most (though the inflated prices are surely paying for more than just locally raised meat and produce; it must be offsetting the many niches Uncommon Ground is unsuccessfully trying to carve). Daniel and I have brunched here several times with mostly positive results. Their hashes are consistently great; the Uncommon Huevos really stands as a unique approach to a ubiquitous dish. Dinner is also great -- Daniel ordered a pork loin with crunchy, wine-soaked onions, fluffy feta, and polenta. Although the pork loin tasted overly brined (it was as though the moisture within the loin were totally unoriginal to the meat itself -- weird but still pretty good) I would still order it again. Since it's the best bet between my house and Andersonville okay, I haven't tried Vines, but ... I mean, just shoot me in the mouth first please), I will by default return to Uncommon Ground over and over again to check in and see how their overachievements pan out.
(3)Barry H.
Sunday brunch Bloody Marys were awesome! The service unfortunately was very slow...waited 12 minutes for coffee and tea to get to table Food was good, I would go back
(3)Ebs B.
I just did not like this place at all! Sorry to all of its fans... We went there before the Cubs game today because we've heard good things about this place. The food was nothing special, but the price tried to reflect something it wasn't. I found a hair in my food (not mine b/c I saw it before I even touched my plate). My friend ordered the breakfast melt, which was okay, but still cost $14; definitely not worth the price. The only good aspect about this place are the $5 Bloody Mary's on Sundays, but you can get this special almost everywhere. Although, I must mention the Bloody Mary's are premade so you can't ask for less spiciness, etc. I really don't know what else to say except that I will not be wasting my money here.
(2)Ariel L.
Uncommon ground used to be a very reliable brunch spot. Then they expanded and got too big and the quality went away. I hadn't been back in a few years and went this past weekend and was so disappointed. A cup of coffee was $2.75, 2 small pieces of bacon cost $4, 3 dinky chicken sausages were $5, and a fresh mushroom scramble that wasn't cooked all the way through cost $12. The scramble came with a side of bland potatoes and 1 piece of toast. Are you kidding me?? I could have made a better breakfast at home, and if i have a choice next time I probably will. I would say the only reason to go to Uncommon Ground at this point is if you want to sit outside. They do have a nice outdoor section, and when the weather is nice it is a pleasure eating out there. But they sacrificed quality for quantity. With all of the new restaurants opening in Chicago, spend your money elsewhere. You can find a much better brunch. I wish I could have given this place 2.5 stars instead of two, but it definitely didn't deserve three.
(2)Tony B.
Great spot for brunch or cocktails. 5 stars there. Dinner? Not so much. They are getting over their skis a bit. I commend them for sourcing locally and knowing their vendors. However, serving a 4 oz piece of Dietzler Farms sirloin with 3 onion rings for $25 is unf-ingbelievable. At least tell people they are getting the kids steak. I politely let them know that this was ridiculous, as well as overcooked, and they took it off the bill. High quality ingredients may be expensive, but your prices are over the top given that you're a coffee shop with a liquor license.
(3)Bernadette E.
Wanted to have a quick bite and some drinks after a show and walked into this place. AND glad we did. Very friendly staff. There were about 7 or 8 of us and there were no seats to accommodate us so we decided to sit by the bar. The bartender was very friendly and quick! The food also came out quick. You have to try the meat-loaf...it is the best ever, we had to go for seconds. We also had Korean calamari and pizza with arugula which were all very good. For desserts, we had crème brulee and ice cream. I was a bit disappointed in the crème brulee..did not taste like it should. BUT over all, very good place. awesome service and great food.
(4)Alice J.
Nice ambiance with seating indoors and outside. A great place to have a happy hour with friends since they have a variety of beer and wine. Also love that they promote sustainability and have their own rooftop garden.
(3)Lindsey N.
This is one of my favorite brunch locations in the city. The food is fantastic and I love that it's locally grown/cultivated. The menu changes seasonally. The Summer Scramble (obviously a summer offering) was one of the most delicious meals I've ever eaten. Seriously. Not hyperbole. The freshness of the vegetables was outstanding. Ideally, you should go when the outdoor patio is an option. Indoors is really nice too (I like the bar area with the fireplace --very cozy!) and I appreciate the ever-changing artwork on the walls. Whenever I've been here for brunch, it's been busy. Reservations are recommended. They will seat you when your entire party has arrived.
(5)Carol K.
You know you haven't been to a place in a long while when you don't even recognize it anymore. Such was the case Saturday night when I visited Uncommon Ground. Last time I was here- it was a little coffee spot that happened to serve brunch. Well imagine my surprise when I walked in to the new and improved Uncommon Ground and found three large seating areas, a full bar and little gathering spots. Nice. Really nice. The ambiance is a little rustic with some contemporary touches thrown in like the lights hanging above the bar and the interesting artwork on the walls. There is also music in the 3rd room throughout the week so check out their website to see who is there. We had reservations (a good idea as there were people standing around who didn't) so we were seated promptly and began to review the menu. We settled on some Korean chili spiced calamari to enjoy with our drinks. Good without being too spicy. For my entree I chose the special of the day which was a lamb shank, based on the recco from our server. It came with mashed potatoes and broccoli and was pretty darn good- falling off the bone in all it's tenderness. I also had a taste of the mac and cheese that was made with white cheddar and Gruyere cheese. Also very good (here's a hint- order the child sized portion as a side dish) Service was attentive and helpful- she actually told us that she had tried everything on the menu which was nice to hear and it showed in the suggestions that she made. Dinner for two with a couple of drinks and dessert was reasonable coming in at just under $100. Parking in the area is tough- try a little farther south on Clark and you should be okay. Wanted to stay and linger in one of the comfy chairs by the fireplace, but we had places to go that night. But you can bet I will be back as I have more to try at this "Uncommonly" good cafe.
(4)Morgan M.
We went here for an early dinner before a show at Metro. It was excellent! We met up there around 6:00, by the time we left at 8:00 the place was packed! Based on the food we had and the drink choices (beers and tea and coffee concoctions) I can see why. Probably the best thing we had was the fall pizza...completely amazing. Everything else we had was good too. The atmosphere is nice and cool. I saw somewhere they have live music nightly (we must have missed it) and a friend of ours apparently did open mic singing there from time to time. Perhaps the best thing about this place is the fact that they are on board with the Slow Food Movement and will use local, organic and sustainable whenever possible. All this for a good price..... We will be back soon.
(4)Sarah K.
We went here to hear a friend give a concert one Sunday night. Since we had already eaten dinner, we ordered dessert and some beers. The dessert was delicious! I'm not sure how the rest of their food is, but our experience with the concert/music wasn't great Well specifically, our experience with the manager. Our musician friend, a real sweetheart, switched tables in the dining rooms between sets and absentmindedly left without paying a tab on one of the tables (thinking her bandmate had covered that.) She was appalled when she realized she did that and called the restaurant once we reached our house on the South Side to give them her credit card number and pay the bill (which she did). The manager acted really mean and told her he was about to write a bad review about her....You would think he would wait more than an hour (as long as it takes to get anywhere in Chicago!) before defaming someone starting out in their music career. Anyway, try the dessert. Pray you don't have a run-in with the manager.
(3)Billy H.
The staff is very gay friendly, which was nice. I also found what "D Mike K" said in his review to be exactly true about the staff... (almost as if we were there the same night instead of six weeks apart). Our waiter was obviously gay, with absolutely no smile or personality... Someone needs to inform him these two don't mix. The bartender was as straight faced as a poker player with bells-palsy, although, she may have been deaf too, so I will give her the benefit of the doubt. This place is way, way over-priced for what you get... If you are ever in Columbus Ohio, stop by a place called "North Star" and compare, it outshines this place 10-1 in every area. It just reminds me of what this place could be, instead of is. I am sorry, but i am somewhat of a critic to places that Have 5-star hype, with 3 star quality. However, I love their mission and focus, (except their prices and portion sizes), their decor and beer selections are nice too. The food is Decent here, I wish I had many more "Chicago eateries" to compare it to. Pumpkin ravioli is a fav of mine but compare theirs to "Bice" off Michigan ave in downtown. Sweet potato fries? You can get them everywhere... And Pssstt, they aren't very healthy unless you bake them!
(3)Sophie B.
I can't speak to the food here, because I stopped in before a Cubs game and ended up just getting a couple of drinks. (And the food is a little pricey for me, but that's because I'm a broke college student...I can almost guarantee that it's worth the price.) The staff was incredibly friendly and knowledgeable, and the service was fantastic. I love the atmosphere, and the drink list is impressive. I definitely plan on coming back...and getting a meal next time!
(4)Sophie B.
Went there for a late lunch with a friend yesterday. Way over priced so-so food. My drink was good (Hay ride) but NOT worth 8 dollars. I dont think it had a full shot of rum in it. In short, they gave us crappy seats and did not pay attention to us. We waited over 40 minutes for our food and there were maybe 3 other tables of people. The selection on the menue alone is smaller than small. They overcharged my friend and were rude and mean to her for THEIR error. If you want to over pay for a dish you didnt really want and be ignored then this is the place for you!
(1)Ann J.
Went here because my bf had a gift card. The food was really good. Our waiter kept checking on us in a timely manner. I had the Helens chicken sandwich. I would recommend it. And the sweet potato fries with goat cheese was amazing. I was there on a Sunday night at 8. There is no parking in the area. Could not find meter. Had to park far and take a cab. It was still worth it. I would recommend taking a taxi if u live farther than 5 minutes away. They don't not have a parking service. Overall I will be back. There place is clean and has a nice earthy feel inside.
(4)Tanya M.
My most favorite place to eat brunch lunch and dinner! Great locally inspired dishes and the almond rocha mocha is the best coffee based drink for brunch. You can also sit at the bar and just drink if you aren't hungry. Love Luv Lurv this place!
(5)Sam K.
I had a date with a cute vegetarian who hates everything written by Sartre (read: he's a GROWNUP). Mutual hate is so good at bringing people together; we ended up at Uncommon Ground for drinks, and stayed for dinner and music. I ordered a ginger infused lemon cocktail, which, frankly, was just awful. I could taste no ginger in it whatsoever, and, even more unforgivably, I couldn't taste the alcohol in it. It tasted like very watery lemonade. I did send it back, though, in exchange for an all right glass of sauvignon blanc. Uncommon Ground hit a really big pet peeve of mine with respect to vegetarian food. They had two vegetarian entrees, and both were starches with no significant protein. I grew up in a vegetarian family, and even though I eat meat, I only eat it once or twice a week. And the biggest misconception people have about vegetarian food is that it's just regular food with the meat removed. But you have to replace the protein - I for one feel like I haven't had a real meal if I haven't had protein. The mac and cheese was average tasting, but came with a really flavorful, zingy slaw that I refused to share. The pumpkin ravioli was quite delicious, and in all fairness had a few roasted pecans and some cheese for protein, though it was more of a garnish than anything else. Both were very fatty and starchy and creamy - the latter didn't come with any veggies save the pumpkin filling. Including tax and a twenty percent tip, it came out to $32 per person for one entree and one drink each - not bad for dinner, but I think pretty hefty for a meal that left us both a little hungry and was mostly starch and fat and lacking in adequate protein and veggies. Maybe the meat dishes are better. Uncommon Ground would have been a solid three stars as a restaurant alone, but I will bump it up just for the music and ambiance. The music room did NOT have the sort of atmosphere where people eat and talk and have music in the background. Kevin Mileski, the artist for the night, held everyone in the room with his soulful voice and thoughtful, deft strumming on the guitar . We all leaned forward and stayed long after our meals were done and paid for. In fact, since they don't actually charge for the entertainment, it might be considered a pretty good deal if you pay the premium on food and stay for the music. Three stars for the food, five stars for the music.
(4)Trevor H.
I would have given 5 stars, but every time I have been here, we have waited for 30+ minutes. That would be fine but I would not expect that long of a wait in the middle of the afternoon in the lull between lunch and dinner especially when I saw open tables. Maybe they were understaffed. However besides that, the service was great. Our waiter checked in just enough and we received our food really quickly. I love that this place has seasonal items. It's great and means you get a different food experience everytime. I had the fish tacos this time. They were delicious, but I wish I would have gone with one of the sandwhiches like I had last time. Or the Mac n Cheese. SO GOOD. I love this place. Here's to hoping I don't have to wait again when there are open tables...
(4)S. E.
Husband and I love this place... Friends from out of town were impressed also. Every dish I have had here (multiple visits...maybe between 5-10?) is always good, tasty, fabulous food. We have had dinners and brunch/lunches here. Note to those unfamiliar with the place--if you go to the Clark location during Cubs season, you will most likely not find parking within an acceptable distance. Hubby and I only go in the off season. That being said, here's what's awesome: * OMG, the bacon-wrapped meatloaf. It will haunt your dreams. * OMG, sweet potato fries. They too will haunt your dreams. * Sunshine salad. Great dressing, awesome cracker-thing for garnish. * Seasonal duck breast, awesome. * Seasonal pork chop, really good. * Squash or pumpkin ravioli. Will induce salivation. * Smores Tart. Holy shit, it's orgasmically good. We love you, Uncommon, but had to take a star away due to your very annoying greener-cooler-more-hipstery-holier-than-thou habit of ONLY offering real sugar or that horrible Stevia shit, but no pink, yellow, or blue. WTF? If I recall correctly, you DO offer diet soft drinks, which have Aspartame or similar chemicals in them... so what difference would it make to have one of the fake sweeteners on the table? I don't think it would hurt the peace-love-and-granola image you work so hard to maintain. People like having a lot of options. But we'll be back, with hemp clothing and hairy armpits, just for you. Hugs!
(4)Robert W.
Terrible service yet again. I used to live in the area and ate here out of convenience from time to time. I never thought it was great, but I could walk to it. I decided to try it again for old times sake, and nothing has changed. Took forever to get even a glass of water and coffee. The food really isn't bad, but it isn't great either. It did save the restaurant from getting a one star from this reviewer. I hate the fact the restaurants in good locations are so lacking in all the other things that can make
(2)Jerry M.
Fantastic experience. All locally grown produce and meats. Vegetarian-friendly and great host/staff/management. Be mindful it is a slow-cooked restaurant, meaning it takes a while to prepare and serve food. So, plan an evening around it but it'll be worth the wait. As well, great to have plenty of drinks and catch up with old friends or experience a quaint romantic evening. Regarding food, it's all good but for desserts, I'd recommend the banana bread pudding.
(5)Ryan C.
I have been to Uncommon Ground a few times and have always enjoyed it very much. The menu is nothing ground breaking, but is an evolving menu of American fare. Comforatable and intimate atmosphere. On select nights, you will also catch some live acoustic music that will set the mood for you dinner. Your best bet is going on Tuesday for their half price bottles of wine. The selection of wine is good and you shouldn't have a problem making a choice. Regardless if you go for breakfast, lunch or dinner, you'll definately enjoy it.
(4)Derek B.
It's all about the sweet potato fries, and the specialty cocktails. The menu is always changing, so this is a great place to visit. Good atmosphere with live music and friendly staff. (It's a little more expensive than I typically like to pay for a meal, but it's not exorbitant. It makes for a nice, relaxing, special occasion place, that doesn't break the bank).
(4)Claudia M.
This is one of the first breakfast places that I went to with my boyfriend when we started dating so of course I love it. The uncommon huevos is pretty good. I always ask about the special, this weekend I had the eggs benedict with a lime/chipotle sauce served on top of the eggs benedict with feta and tomato and LOTS of potatoes. Delicious! Usually you may have to wait a bit if you get there after 10 am on a Sunday. The food is fresh and the staff is always friendly.
(4)Anna P.
This place is okay...the drinks are okay, the service is okay, the food is okay, the prices are too high for everything being "okay". However, it DOES have a better than okay atmosphere, which is why on average it rates "okay". Point made?
(3)Susan F.
This place is ok, kinda pricey if you ask me... They have a good beer list and yummy burgers and sides, but like I said, a little steep for the location--if that even matters. I asked for a salad as the side with my burger, the waitress forgot and gave me fries. Not a big deal, but she later brought my salad. I was trying to be a good girl and she made it very hard on my ass and thighs! The service was friendly and the atmosphere was very quaint, especially for being in Wrigleyville! Anyways, not sure if I'd try it again, nothing too special, but maybe my mind can be changed at a later date.
(3)Alec H.
I agree with all the comments below, what more is there to write? It was nice that I didn't have to wait to be seated right around dinnertime (burn on Chicago Diner), and the whole atmosphere was good. There's a bar area or a table-seated area, nice to have the options. The reason I didn't give five stars is that the food could be tastier and more economically priced, but I will definitely be back (but perhaps would visit more often if this was even better).
(4)Sean A.
Warm and cozy atmosphere. Great service - helpful and friendly. One of the people in our party had lost his voice and the waiter brought out a glass of warm water without being asked. Very thoughtful. Food was incredible! Highly recommend the sweet potato fries. Duck Breast with polenta was very flavorful and satisfying as well. Entree portions are modest, which is a good thing because the desserts are outstanding.
(5)Benny J.
The brunch food and drinks are awesome. I haven't had anything on the menu that I haven't loved. The breakfast sliders are great. I highly recommend the chilaquiles and the bloody marys. The place is a bit pricey, but the food is worth it. If you come here, expect for a more relaxed pace for ordering, it will be a longer meal.
(5)Eileen Z.
SWEET POTATO FRIES & THE GOAT CHEESE FONDUE. Get it. You'll thank me later. Cozy spot with natural wood paneling throughout, and one of my favorite organic and local fare places to go. Been a fan of the fish tacos I've gotten here (both the crispy halibut and now the catfish) and the fried green & fresh heirloom tomato sandwich. On my list of places to eat when I feel like having a 'healthier' week, but for friends who lean toward a more vegan diet you'll be stuck with salads and soups here. That's more of a Karyn's or The Chicago Diner's ballpark than UG. Less noisy if you make it out in the early afternoon, but if you don't mind, what's great about the night crowd are the live bands. Humungo plus for yours truly!
(4)Carri C.
Prices are very high for what you get. It is unfortunate because I like the decor. I would maybe return for a beer, but the food choices are too limited and overpriced. "Local sourced" and organic should not equal price gouging.
(3)Jessica J.
Oh Uncommon Ground, how I love thee... While I'm partial to the feel of the Devon location, this location is closer to home and therefore a favorite. Love the vibe, service is usually solid (can be weirdly slow sometimes, but generally great). Amazing drinks - good craft beer selection, decent wine selection if that's your thing, tasty and interesting cocktails ($6 martinis on Thursdays hollaaaa), delicious coffee and coffee-based things for after dinner/brunch. And the food...the food. Sweet potatoe fries are a must - I know, sweet potatoe fries are everywhere. And I can (and do) make pretty tasty ones at home. But the goat cheese fondue that comes with them - heaven in a ramekin. Before I went veg, I was a fan of the burgers, and a roast chicken dish that I'm not sure is still/always on the menu. Now that I'm vegetarian, I have no shortage of things to love all up on, and their menu rotates regularly (gotta love a place that acknowledges and embraces local and seasonal food - one of the many reasons that you feel good about eating here). Perfect outdoor seating in the warmer months, cozy fireplace inside for the colder months. Only real downside is that there can be a bit of a wait depending on the day/time you go, but even that isn't really a downside - you can make a reservation in advance, or belly up to the bar and have a beverage. Everyone wins.
(5)Caroline M.
So I've been by Uncommon Ground approximately 600 times....and finally made it inside the doors recently. I really don't like Wrigleyville: the crowds, noise, frat boys, Cubs home games, overpriced low quality beers. But I'm really glad a certain someone suggested that we go to Uncommon Ground. I didn't know what to expect for their menu, but at first glance I was pleasantly surprised to see some unique items. I'm all over mac and cheese so that is what I ordered and thoroughly enjoyed. I had a taste of the duck confit quesadilla--yum! A good selection of beers too! I enjoyed the live music, beer and food. Looking forward to returning again soon!
(4)Courtney W.
Came here for breakfast on a Sunday morning quite hungover at around 10:00 am and there was no wait. When we left at around 11:00 am it was quite a different story. My boyfriend and I had heard of this place from a friend and decided to make the trip when we were discouraged by a 45 minutes wait at 2Sparrows. We walked right in and were seated in a comfortable window seat in the third back room. Our server was pleasant and helped us peruse the menu. I decided to go with the mocha cafe latte and my boyfriend with the hot chocolate. They serve mugs and bowls here and when they say bowl, they mean like a cereal bowl full. I'm not sure how you drink from a bowl so we both ordered mugs. Both of the drinks were great but a little on the expensive side. My caffe mocha latter was $4.50 which I felt was a bit overpriced. The food was spectacular and the options are varied. I had the special which was a modified eggs benedict. Instead of Canadian bacon, there was a heaping serving of pulled pork sloppy joe. The eggs were the same as was the English muffin and the Hollandaise sauce had bacon bits sprinkled in. Just what I needed to cure a hangover. My boyfriend went with the healthier omelet option with turkey and some bacon. We just had to share a side of banana bread and it actually tasted authentic and wasn't too sweet or fake banana tasting. Our verdict? We'll be back to try some adult beverages and perhaps dinner too!
(4)C D.
Service: 5 stars Food: 2 stars I came here last weekend for brunch with a group of friends. I was pretty excited based on the menu and, I mean, BRUNCH! What's not to like? The good: service was amazing! Our waiter was super attentive to our table, even though there were about 8 of us + a baby. He was very nice and professional throughout our meal and checked on us/refilled our coffees often. The bad: I got the duck confit hash. Sounds amazing, right? Duck confit alone is delicious, and then you had crispy potatoes and roasted carrots and two sunny-side ups? Yum! How can you go wrong? Well, first by erroneously calling this dish a "hash". My potatoes tasted and looked like they had been BOILED, cubed, then strewn about my plate. They lacked texture and flavor and did not seem to have been salted at all. Because of this, the gamey-ness of the duck (not in a good way!) was the only flavor to the entire dish. Have you ever caught a whiff of raw meat? That was the taste in my mouth when I ate the potatoes. Second, the "roasted carrots" in the description ended up being tiny, very dry cubes of carrots that were also unseasoned. I tried to salvage this mess with some hot sauce but ended up picking out the pieces of duck to eat and also the eggs. I was so mad that I spent $15 on a barely edible dish. I don't know if I just ended up ordering the wrong thing. Everyone else at my table ate their food with some modicum of enthusiasm. I had a taste of Helen's chicken sandwich, which I liked but it certainly didn't seem to be worth the $14 price. Blergh.
(3)holly b.
Chicken should not be pink....or should it? When I returned my chicken sandwich because it was pink inside, the waitress took it back to the kitchen, and upon her return, I was told that the "chicken is fine, it was the lighting". Apparently, chicken looks pink in bright sunlight and eating under cooked food is appropriate in her eyes. I should of seen the red flags when there were at least 10 tables open, and a 40 minute wait. When asked why the tables weren't being filled, we were told that they were out of menus. However, we were able to spot menus at many of the tables, while the customers were eating their meals.
(1)Kate H.
I really wanted to like this place as another brunch spot. And, from how busy this place was, I should have. I liked that they use local and organic ingredients, and the dishes all sounded fantastic. My first mistake was ordering the chai instead of the hot chocolate. I like my spicy drinks to have a deep flavor, but this was more on the milky side. I had the hot chocolate eight years ago, and I still remember it (surely, this place being my first date with my fiancee didn't bias me...). We shared a side of both types of bacon, hickory smoked and peppercorn, but this was only okay--it would be good if you're a crispy bacon person, but I like bacon thick-cut and meaty. For my entree, I ordered the Autumn Omelet, which has broccoli, cheddar, spinach, and caramelized onions. It wasn't bad, but it wasn't stellar. It's a relatively simple dish, so it's a double-edged sword in that it's difficult to disappoint but also difficult to impress. This meal though weighed a little heavier to the latter. I would have liked a stronger/sharper cheddar or just more of it. The English Muffin that came with the omelet was excellent though, so I would like to know who bakes their bread. Or maybe next time, I'll get an English Muffin and just dip it into a gigantic mug of cocoa and whipped cream. Price: ~$15 per person for brunch
(2)Kevin M.
I go there for brunch quite often and absolutely love it. You must ask for the benedict special! If it sounds good, then get it, I promise it'll be worth it!
(5)Monica K.
Soooooo GOOOOOOD!!! Delicious! You can actually taste the food is very fresh! Its comes from their own rooftop organic garden! For steak lovers, they offer grass-fed beef steak. For Italian dish, my favorite all-time pasta, the pumpkin ravioli (creamy sage butter, gorgonzola, hazelnuts) is yummilicious!! For veggie lovers, there's lots of great delicious options! Such as Veggie Chili, Quinoa Stuffed Squash, Organic black bean cake, and more!! I love the sweet potatoes with goat cheese fondue! Brunch is fantastic gourmet organic healthy food. So much more to check out! This location is cozy with a fireplace for drinks or go to other room to listen to live music. Definitely a romantic spot!
(5)Brianna L.
My family and I decided to make a trip down to uncommon ground today for brunch on this lovely rainy day. We arrived at 11:30 & are now leaving at 1:15...wth?!? Yea, my sentiments exactly. We were told we would have a 20 min wait, ok no problem. In reality though we didnt get seated for an hr. I orded the chilaquiles sub par at best. I love uncommon ground ive been here numerous times, but today was a total letdown, well I lied the artichoke goat cheese dip OMG totally delish!! And the bloody mary was soo good n tasty!
(3)Kristen M.
Great food and ambiance. I love the comfort food side of the menu. I loved the meat loaf and salads are great. Nice spot for a nicer dinner!!
(4)Kerry D.
I've only been for brunch, but it's always been delicious and fresh. The drinks are great- lots of options w/and without booze. Today I got to sit on the sidewalk patio, which was great for people watching and quieter than you'd expect- being so close to Wrigley. Another plus, they grow their own produce (what they can) and support/use local farms.
(4)Jackie P.
I hate to rain on the Yelp love parade but I think I'm going to have to because I just don't get it. Lovely service aside lack luster food will not get me to come back again. And that's just what I got. Or maybe their brunch just stinks. I mean I like what they are trying to do with sustainability and food that's not completely bad for you but that doesn't mean the food needs to taste bad either. Their online menu is what won me over, however, upon arrival the printed menu was a little different. What I was drooling over wasn't being offered so I had to choose something else. I like raisins as much as the next girl but I don't need 2,000 raisins on my raisin french toast. Also if someone tells you their adverse to anything spicy you should know if your dish is spicy, especially if you've tried it. I've thought about going back for dinner but the bad taste in my mouth from brunch won't leave me and believe me people I've brushed my teeth since then.
(2)Bob T.
Very good Macaroni w/ bacon. I will see you next time on my Chicago trips.
(4)Melissa B.
Came here for brunch about a year and a half ago when we were in town for Lamb Chop's surprise 40th birthday. I live in Atlanta, and this place reminds me of my favorite brunch spot, Radial. The food was fresh, the service was great and they were hopping. I just recommended to my sister and her husband, who were @ U2 concert last night.
(4)Ricky M.
I visited tonight, and the food was delicious. My friend and I decided to share their mac and cheese with their fried green tomato sandwich, both of which are amazingly magnificent. The Mac and Cheese was better than what I expected for a mac and cheese, and the tomato sandwich, one of the best I've ever had in my entire life. To be honest though, it is great that they are supporting local vendors and all that jazz with organic ingredients, but honestly, some things on the menu are totally overpriced. If you're looking for a casual bite, this is not the place. Go here if you have an adventurous palete that day. Drinks here are pretty much off the hook, but once again, slightly overpriced. Go here if you want to try new things.
(4)Mike W.
I can't say I agree with this place not having a 4-5 star rating! Went there for brunch this last weekend and everything was excellent! The atmosphere is bright with lots of art around, and they have a nice patio for when the weather is sufficient for being outside. The service wasn't knock your socks off, but they were good and did their jobs quite well. They have an excellent menu that had enough variety to please a variety of food tastes, and all the food I saw/tasted was well worth stopping in. This was the type of place I could easily see myself frequenting on a weekly basis either for brunch, dinner, or apps and drinks!
(5)Midge B.
Very family friendly. Great kids' menu. Leave room for dessert. Must try Black Dog Gelato Trio w/ goat cheese gelato. So rich & creamy.
(5)Dan C.
I ordered the whitefish. The quality was decent, but the portion size was rather pathetic. Overall, I paid over $100 and was left very hungry at the end of the meal. I will never go back.
(2)Thuy H.
Stumbled upon this place Thursday night as requested by a local we saw on the street. My friend and I went in and sat down. Bartender says "hi." After about 8 minutes, and no server to be found, I got up to grab the menu. Another 8 minutes passed until we were greeted by our server. Minus one star for the slow service at the beginning. Plus one star because she was on top of her game throughout the dinner. As I look at the menu, I recognized that I had saw it on yelp before and I thought to myself, awesome! My dish will be a breezy choice for me, I remembered reading great things about the pumpkin ravioli. Although I refrain from ordering pasta with alfredo sauce, I knew I had to try it. And you know what? It was good! I also had the kimchi calamari. Now this is how it's supposed to taste like! Sauteed or fried, it was good! Soft on the inside and a little fried on the outside. The seasoning was just right and full of flavor. I had ordered the chocolate martini, and it was a bit too strong for me. I didn't like it at all. I told our waitress that and she was able to get that off the bill. For that I give her another star. I was so disappointed with the martini that I ordered a chocolate latte. OMG it was so good! Sweet with a hint of dark chocolate. The ambiance was nice. It was really dim, but this place gave a really cozy feeling. It would be been nice to have the fire lit at the fireplace, but regardless, this place was a good cafe hang out. You definitely should try this place out.
(3)Steven B.
I've been going to Uncommon Ground for at least 15 years and I guess I have kept going back because I have remained hopeful that I'll show up one day and it will suddenly be as good as it once had been. But tonight is my last attempt at that. After being quoted a wait time of "30 minutes to an hour" (I don't mind waiting, but the inability of the hostess to narrow that window a bit isn't a good sign), our table of five was seated. Appetizers (fried calamari and cheese curds) were tasty. Our entrees were pretty uniformly disappointing. When we pointed out to the waitress that they had clearly been sitting on the line and were cold, she told us she would "let the manager know." We proceeded to eat our lukewarm and soggy food, waiting for the manager who never arrived. Our waitress came back a few minutes later and told us that the "manager took care of it." I can only assume she meant that he told the kitchen that in the future it should stop serving people cold food because he/she never checked in with us and there was no offer of a comp, free dessert, or reduction of our bill. But that's beside the point, because I didn't want a discount or anything free, what I wanted was the food I ordered but not cold and soggy. Or barring that, the manager to walk over and apologize. Beside that, one of our group ordered a glass of wine that showed up long after he had finished his meal (ordered before the entree arrived) and when our bill came I assume it was for another party because it had tons of food that wasn't ours (8 orders of perch, anyone?). This experience, coupled with the roach we found on the table a few years ago and the time we waited an hour for brunch only to be told they had "run out of eggs" seals the deal. It is too bad, because the restaurant looks great, has a nice vibe, and is in a great location. But alas, enough is enough.
(2)Dee W.
I love Uncommon Ground - their brunch is amazing and they have this great coffee bar in the back with Intelligentsia brewed coffee. They have this amazing peanut butter & banana stuffed brioche toast served with bacon and a cherry syrup. YUM! And for the savory brunch in me, I tried their Canadian bacon torta which had pickled jalapeno and an avocado remoulade on this tasty roll. Top it all off with a hot drink and I'm a really happy camper - my husband swears by their organic Mexican hot chocolate. I always opt for brunch which is more affordable than dinner here however they are open later hours, as well.
(4)cassie r.
Drinkin' in the a.m. never tasted as good as it does at Uncommon Ground. With all of their intriguing combinations of alcohol, juice, coffee and more, there's really nothing wrong with getting a lil' tipsy before noon. In my case, it was closer to noon thirty, so it was totally acceptable. My choice of the bloody mary was excellently spicy, and was gone in pretty much a blink of an eye. Luckily, my order of fall scramble was able to balance out my imbibing - a fantastic mix of butternut squash, carmelized onions, scrambled eggs and goat cheese, complete with a side roasted potatoes that were perfectly crispy. Twenty bucks for good food and drinks, no complaints here. The joint is a bit small, but quaintly cozy for a Sunday morning brunch spot.
(4)Amber M.
I went and saw a friend's band play here, and the live music is a define plus. My favorite part about this place is the bathroom, in terms of the decor, is their bathroom. Its mural of a forest scene covers not only all of the walls but the floor as well, so when you look down you are standing in a pond with fishies swimming around your feet. Their lemon-ginger martini is interesting, i think good, but very tangy. Their mussels, i thought were good, my friend thought they were too salty. And their macaroni and cheese sucks- very bland cheese taste combined with wayyy too many breadcrumbs.
(3)Basil D.
A little too expensive for what you get, $15 for a burger, but the food is good.
(3)Wicket D.
Grungey. Food is OK, love that it's all local and organic. Problem is, it's not that tastey. Good bar, though no common liquors (no Bombay, only NorthShore). Service is worst part. Really want to like this place, and I used to, but it's going downhill fast. :(
(1)Angelica E.
Wow so this is a cute little place thats away from all the craziness on Clarke! I cant say how the food was but I had the dessert and all I can say is....WOW! I had the brownie with the carmel gelato and what I really loved about it was the face that the whole plate was brownie! So amazing and never seen that before ever! I had to nick it a couple of stars because the hostess had such an attitude it was ridiculous! I would come back but hopefully dont have to deal with that girl again...smh
(3)Alison S.
Always a fan of a brunch place that takes reservations! Good variety of brunch food and coffee drinks. Have tried the eggs benedict, chilequilles, and breakfast melt on onion bread, and all have been filling and delicious. The atmosphere is great--wood floors, exposed brick, cushions on the window seats, etc. Between the ability to make a reservation and the food, I think it's one of the best brunch options in Chicago.
(4)Kedar D.
The ambience of the place is good and it's definitely a trendy, well-done joint. But it doesn't offer much for vegans. When I went, I got a modified pasta dish which was passable, but nothing great. I take issue with restaurants that claim to be socially and environmentally conscious, but then offer few to no vegan dishes. These are the type of places that offer a grass-fed burger and then automatically call themselves sustainable or local or ethical. It takes a little bit more than that, folks.
(2)John T.
Food is Ok (although not fantastic) but the service could be better (we had to wait more than half an hour from ordering to being served). Prices are quite high.
(3)Elvin Y.
I would like to respond to AL B for his response to our review of the clump of hair we found in the bloody mary. First of all...my friend SUCKED the clump of hair through her straw. And no, it was NOT a coctail straw, it was a regular straw. And yes, she was crying...because she had a nasty clump of hair with black crusty stuff on it in her MOUTH. Also, when we told our waitress she took it away and laughed it off. She didn't bring out the manager. WE HAD TO ASK TO SPEAK TO THE MANAGER And did we laugh? UH...yea...like that uncomfortable laugh like we can't believe this is happening! And no, we didn't want it to ruin our entire day. As we said in our review, she did offer to comp 2 drinks and one meal. And we were pretty disgusted that we left our meals half eaten. However, there was one of us who was so hungry, he actually finished. I don't think we should have had to fight w/the management staff to speak to the owner who refused to come out and talk to us. You tell me All B, how does a clump of hair get in a Blood Mary glass? And if that's what we found, what else is going on? You tell us. You didn't suck the darn hair in your mouth so don't go around saying we gave a big stink about it for nothing. The emotional turmoil that caused my friend to cry warranted that they comped our whole meal- and that's right- we weren't going to stop until justice was served. Of course they were oohhhh ssooooo nice to you- they aren't that dumb of wanting to lose other business. Glad to know that your soul can be bought for a $4.00 dessert.
(1)Joanna T.
FAVORITE PLACE BY FAR!!! Everything is delicious. The drinks are outstanding. They have live music on certain nights. Tempura avocados are great. I am a big fan of their uncommon salad. I try something new every time and I am never disappointed. Outside patio during the summer is the best. The bloody marys on sunday have a nice kick of flavor to them will defiantly wake up your senses.
(5)Khadijah L.
Completely underwhelmed. My visit to Uncommon Ground was for coffee and live music. I was looking up their address and website, and it all seems too meticulous, precious and pretentious. Its a really great idea to have a green roof, organic, locally grown food, 'slow-food', however, stringing a bunch of marketing adjectives is like a 2 page long resume going on and on with positive, proactive verbs. Still, I said, you never know, maybe it IS ALL THAT. MEH. WHY IS IT THAT NOBODY HERE HAS MENTIONED THAT THEY SERVE COFFEE IN A BOWL? Sir, what in the world was I supposed to do with this? Was I supposed to lower my face to the bowl and lap up this drink like a dog? You provided me with a small teaspoon. IS THIS SOUP? If I was supposed to drink it like soup, provide bigger spoons. This is not a sake cup or small asian bowls to pick up and drink a-la miso. This is a huge Udon bowl, filled with hot liquid to the brim. I stared at my mocha for a good while, turning the plate around, attempted to pick it up with my hands but it was too hot. Just explain to me exactly HOW THIS IS A GOOD IDEA. Maybe don't explain. Get rid of the bowls. Get some proper mugs. With handles. The place looks cute and cozy but yes, seating probably toooo close to the bathroom. The live music was okay. Mostly friends of the artists. Props for the aspirational idea, not so much on the production.
(2)Jennifer J.
Always have a great meal here and last time was no different. I got the gourmet mac n' cheese and it didn't disappoint. I opted for the add of sun dried tomatoes and some bacon. Even better!! Their fish tacos are yum as well. I've tasted all of my friends' and family's various dishes and never tasted a bad one if that says much. My favorite is their infused vodkas. It inspired me to do the same but I can't quite get their awesome ginger root infused vodka at home, so it looks like I have to keep visiting Uncommon Ground! I highly recommend trying one of their drinks. My favorite here is a goat pizza flat bread, but since the menu is seasonal and always changing, I feel like I will just keep chasing the unicorn till maybe they put it back on the menu. Everyone I have taken here have loved it. I've had lunch, dinner and brunch...all are great. I do insist on a lemon ginger martini every time because they are THAT GOOD. Their prices are probably a dollar or two high, but not high enough to keep me away since I always have a great meal here!
(5)Jess L.
Uncommon Ground is the perfect place to get your coffee and/or alkie fix. They have great coffee-alcohol options and a chill staff. The live music could be hit or miss, but overall, it's a great place to go with friends and catch up.
(4)Todd M.
I was not impressed with Uncommon Ground which was disappointing as I have heard so many great things about it. I visited them for a Sunday morning brunch. I ordered the House Made Chorizo Chilaquiles which was very bland and seemed to be missing any Chorizo flavor. The coffee was fine and the service was just alright. I might try them again for dinner or just to hang out but will not be back for breakfast as there are too many other great choices in the area.
(2)Megan B.
Came for brunch before the beach over Memorial Weekend and had an aaaaaaaaaaaaaalright time. There was good and bad, allow me to enlighten you... The good (great): Bloody Mary's!! Seriously, I hate bloody mary's. Typically, I feel like I'm drinking red, ketchup flavored, sawdust muck when I indulge in one. I also regularly fall victim to bloody mary amnesia, where I forget just how much I dislike them and decide to order one. Clearly, in this case, my affliction served me well because Uncommon Ground has the best bloody mary's ever! They were spicy, liquidy but chunky, and strong. Awesome. And they're on special on Sundays, my wallet is pleased. The (kind of) bad: the food... It's not that it tasted bad, it just wasn't impressive. And it was extremely overpriced. I don't even remember what I got... a sandwich of some kind, I think. The ugly: not being able to sit outside when there's approximately 15 open tables and nobody else waiting. (Disclaimer: heavy user bias) It really bugs me when a host(ess) tells me my 2-person party cannot sit outside because they "are only sitting 4-tops." Especially when there's nobody waiting for a table and there's a ton of "4-tops" open. C'mon. Really? Let's try a little harder to start off on the wrong foot, guys. Either way, the bloody mary's outshone all the other dark spots of Uncommon Ground and I plan on going back for what will surely become the Sunday Hangover Special ... a bloody mary and a plate of french fries. yummm.
(2)Audre L.
They have a great brunch and I've heard their dinner food is wonderful as well. It's like eating in a relaxed cafe/ coffeehouse more so than a restaurant-restaurant, which plays up to the lake view location.
(5)Jason W.
Totally underwhelming. Had the catfish tacos for lunch today. One small piece of fish in each taco, with bland guac and arugala. Bland sauce on the side. $14 and i could have made better tacos at home. NOT impressed.
(2)Ro S.
I saw the lady who started Uncommon Ground speak at the Green Festival last Spring at the McCormick Place and texted my roommate that night that we should go. I have been reading great things about the place so I thought why not. We called to make a reservation and we were automatically turned off. A girl named Tiffany, I believe. answered the phone and she basically hung up on us twice after being rude. She could hear us because we called a third time. She was rude and that to us spoke tons about the service we would get. Sad to say, I will never try this place.
(1)Dan H.
Went for a late dinner on a Friday night. It was fairly busy, so we had to wait at little while for a table. We sat at the bar and ordered Spinach and Goat Cheese Dip, which was fantastic. After getting seated at our table, service was adequate, but wasn't anything above and beyond. I ordered the Bacon Wrapped Meatloaf, which was presented on a bed of mashed potatoes. SO TASTY! This entree was so good, that I had no choice but to give Uncommon Ground a 5 star rating.
(5)Kairo C.
I heart this place to pieces! If I could get a membership to dine here weekly and save I would in a heartbeat! I was challenged that this place would be 1 of the best brunches ever... and it delivered. 1st: I heart their vow: "to use seasonal, locally produced, family farmed & organic products whenever possible" (my stomach hearts it too) 2nd: the amazing ambiance: the wood, the fireplace and leather chairs, the cool coffee bar, this place reeks coziness.... aside from one glitch... sitting by the bench window seat when its super chilly out cuz theres a draft... but thats very minor really AND the best part of the ambiance IS the amazing canvas print photography of dilapidated barns from Troy Bart... turned me on... even inspired me to go on a photo excursion meself... leaving a meal inspired is a lovely feeling... and the fact they welcome a new artist every month gives me a motivation to gnosh here at least once a month to appreciate it! AND the next best part of the ambiance is they have musicians perform DAILY... or more like NIGHTLY...go for dinner or a drink and tune in 3rd: the delicious food... they change their menu like my underwear so it stay exciting and fresh... I even yearn for what I had before! I would be surprised if you got anything there you wouldn't like! A MUST: the winter cocoa... and split it while it's the size of a 1/2 cantaloupe! 4th: the service... friendly, smart, tactful... I was smitten I'm won over and I'm going back here as much as my wallet, or partner in crime's wallet will allow...
(5)M G.
I've been to uncommon ground on three different occasions. two out of thee times I visited, I was seated at the end of the bar by the window where the bathroom is located. both times during my meal I got a giant whiff of piss. The food is OK (when you're not smelling piss) and the drinks are good (when you're not smelling piss), but this place is way over priced. There are many other places in town with better food, better prices, and don't smell like piss!
(2)Lisa N.
I LOVED this place. The service was great, the food was reallllly good. Sampled at least 8 things from the menu. Best sweet potato fries I have EVER had. And the chopped salad is delicious. Great setting, perfect for a date or dinner with girlfriends.
(4)Ira U.
I've been here a few times with friends and family and I have never been disappointed. I really love some of the intersting selections they have on the menu, and that it is always changing. As far as the environment, you can't beat it. They have cool live music some nights and its has real cool, warm feel to it. If you don't like the music, there are three different rooms so you don't have to hear it. The drinks are great including the beer and my favoritepart is the great coffee. It's an all around pleasant experience.
(5)Beth W.
I love Uncommon Ground. Breakfast, lunch, and dinner -I am never disappointed. I love how seasonal their menu is. I love this place because it cozy, casual, and has amazing food. I love the sweet potatoe fries w/ goat cheese dip. I love all of the items on the breakfast menu and love the pancake latte. I find it extremely difficult not to order the duck for dinner (its cooked so perfectly and always has a slightly different sauce/side) I like their beer and wine lists. OH and I love this lemon/vodka/basil cocktail they do in the summer- yum. The servers are knowledgeable and very helpful. I really love Uncommon Ground.
(4)Jessica M.
First time for Brunch this past weekend - tasty tasty tasty! We went at 10am on Sunday with a couple friends and were happy to get a table for 4 right away -no wait! I really like the atmosphere and decor in this place, very relaxing and simple/chic. We ordered the banana bread to share at the table - which was a great idea, but you only get a couple bites to split 4 ways and that just ain't enough of this bread! It comes in one extra huge slice piled with whip cream and a couple slices of fruit. The edges had some crunchy cinnamon sugar on it that was a nice touch. Great taste all around! My husband and I split the roast beast skillet thingy - and it was very different and good! It is a roast beef with gravy over jalapeno cornbread, topped with 2 eggs and cheese. All the flavors complimented each other and there was a ton of roast beef in the gravy. This made it very filling, even for splitsies. The cornbread was mostly sweetness, and couldn't really taste the jalapeno, but didn't matter. Top it off with a couple cups of coffee and this meal was sweet all around! Our friends said they both enjoyed their entrees (black bean cake with eggs/poatoes and the special egg benedict with italian sausage slider, Gorgonzola and arugula). Came here 2 other times over a year ago also. First was the most expensive single dinner I ever got. But it was good. Girls night out, a fish dish with crusted nuts (I think) and 2 martinis... I think my bill was close to $45 - yikes. Second time I came to watch a performer sing and my husband and I just ordered an appetizer of hummus and a couple of beers. Again, for hummus REALLY pricey and nothing special. But the atmosphere and beers made up for it. Gotta love live music! Definitely give this place a try! We'll be back for sure!
(4)bill t.
Fair food. Great Beer. Fantastic outdoor seating
(4)David E.
Uncommon Ground it pretty wonderful, especially if you can sit outside on a nice night! I will say the service was a bit on the slow side but it was a great atmosphere for visiting so it wasn't the end of the world. I'd def. go back!
(4)Arlene M.
So this is a LONG over due review... On my birthday (July 3rd, 2010), Kevin and i went to the cubs game and afterwards we came here to eat, let's see if i remember this correctly... We started off with the sweet potato fries with goat cheese. Mmmm... i could snack on those all day... I forgot what he had to drink, but i had a cucumber gin cocktail he had a salad and i had the burger it was great. my favorite moment was when he went to the bathroom for the longest time, and came back then our waitress came out with the ice cream trio. It was wonderful!
(4)Princess C.
I took husband here for celebratory dinner. We had the sweet potato fries and the uncommon chopped salad. Both really good but the salad wasnt very flavorful. My 6 yo daughter had the chicken tenders with full salad and she really liked that. My husband had duck dish and was disappointed did not have a lot of flavor. They ran out of the menu listed steak and I had the hanger steak instead. Again I was disappointed; it was cooked very well but was low on flavor I've had better elsewhere. My mulled wine was really good. Brooks our server was great! All in all would say it was an average dining experience.
(3)Melissa R.
I loved Uncommon Ground 5 years ago when it was cute and cozy, somewhat of a hidden gem among the obnoxious Wrigleyville bars. I used to go there to get coffee and read, or see random musicians perform. Then I moved away from the neighborhood and found out that they jazzed the place up by opening a big front room that seemed to cater more to the trendy and fabulous. That explains why I've stayed away for so long, but now I'm back...big time. I went there for brunch on a Monday and was so happy to see that the two back room haven't changed much at all. They were so welcoming that I couldn't wait to sit down and eat up. I ordered the Winter Scramble (sweet potato, shallots, gorgonzola) with house potatoes and wheat toast. It was so scrumptious and I enjoyed every bite. And the potatoes?!? Honestly, they must have given me at least 2 whole potatoes worth and I couldn't get enough...they were incredible. The space had all old wood and brick exposed walls with hand painted pictures of birds everywhere by a local artist. All of the staff were joking and having a good time together, which always makes me like any business I'm patronizing a little more. Our waitress was so nice and relaxed, she was attentive but didn't crowd. She even allowed us to move to the two big chairs near the fireplace after our meal to read for awhile. Just lovely. The only "meh" point was the coffee sweetener situation. They only had raw sugar or an all-natural substitute that was rank. I am all about loving the earth...but I want my Splenda. I will definitely be back for brunch and giving it a whirl for dinner.
(4)Lisa H.
Love love love. If I were a rich girl, I'd be here all the time. To get the negatives out of the way first - my only gripes are that it's overpriced and parking in the area sucks. Now for the good! :) I'm vegetarian and particularly sensitive about environmental issues, and UG has fantastic options. I feel "good" when I eat here, because a lot of their food and beer is locally sourced. Last night I was there for an acoustic set in their music room (which I highly recommend - what a cozy, intimate atmosphere), where I had the pumpkin ravioli, some beers and their spiked hot chocolate (the Peppermint Patty?). FANTASTIC. Fellow chocoholics, take note. Their spiked hot chocolate comes in a big bowl (this is NOT a cup) with whipped cream and chocolate shavings and it is a DESSERT in itself. The night turned into a contest of my fiance teasing me about whether I could finish the whole thing - and I did because it was sooo amazing!! Ah, sugar coma...... Give this place a try; just be prepared to drop some $$. We spent $70 on dinner and a few drinks but it was worth a great night out!
(4)Arthur M.
Kind of romantic!
(5)Kevin G.
Listen, nothin' better than getting a flight of beers at the bar, great deal for 8 bucks, especially when one of the beers is a Goose Island Baudoinia. Super nice and knowledgable bartenders. Taking a date? GREAT IDEA!!! Not trying too hard but still nice and hip. The only problem is that there is usually a small Filipino man in the bathroom polishing the metal parts of the urinal, I'm not sure if he works there or has some sort of mental deficiency, but either way I guess he's kind of like their mascot. He has one eye and great hair. Anyways I love uncommon ground, go there, have a great night.
(5)Joseph M.
I have been going here for the past 5 years with family and friends for meals. They used to be great, but the quality of their kitchen staff and therefore their food has gone down. Whenever I get chicken it always seems to be undercooked, but I would recommend their Sweet Potato Fries with Goat Cheese Fondu. Their wait staff has been declining as well. Last time I ate here, the bus boy had to get my food and my drink because our waiter was not around and our entrees came out 15 minutes before our appetizer, which is a joke. The waiter did not apologize and the manager said "it happens." Also, I have a few friends that work their as waiters and they treat their wait staff like dog shi* and don't care about them as people and just see them as money. This place is a joke. I just tried to get a quick take out order of the Chicken sandwich and sweet potato fries. I live a block away and it is quick and convenient, the host who answered the phone refused to take my order because it would not be fair to other customers. Not really sure how this works. If I could give this joke of a restaurant negative stars I would.
(1)Meredith T.
I think the name of this place describes it perfectly. It's not your average, ordinary restaurant/bar. It's inviting and unassuming. The food is fantastic across the board. I've had their brunch many times and last night, the pleasure of dinner. It was one of the best meals I've had in a very long time (pork loin served over ratatouille). They make a conscious effort to use local ingrediants, which is a huge plus and the service was super friendly and (our server) knew everything on the menu well enough to make great recommendations for us. My date and I sat outside the other night for dinner and it was so relaxing. I know there are a lot of factors that go in to a good al fresco dining experience (weather, cubs games, traffic)...but Uncommon Ground has done a good job of keeping many outside distractions away (or so it seemed to me anyway). This place doesn't get a whole five stars because of the prices...which seem a little steep, but I'd gladly fork it over again for another bite of my dish. I'll be back and you should check it out too.
(4)Pearl S.
My favorite restaurant. Absolutely delicious. They're good to us, our kids, and our guests every time. Changing menu, locally grown & outstanding. Cool vibe, but not painfully hip (phew!)
(5)Katie R.
stopped in here with friends for a late-late dinner, and the staff very graciously served us the most delicious meal i've eaten in a while. i got the fried avocado tacos (appetizer) as my meal and i've never been so sassified. if i still lived in chicago, i would be here all the time.
(5)Sarah S.
Loved this place. I really want to check out the location on Devon to see the roof top garden!
(4)Megan W.
I hadn't been back to Uncommon Ground in about 3 years, purely because I had forgotten about it. I ordered the sunshine salad with grilled chicken and dressing on the side ($18), even as someone who cannot cook, this would be impossible to mess up. The salad came, all veggies were fresh, but the chicken tasted off, I could not place if it was expired or just poorly seasoned/ cooked, either way I would never eat something like that. The dressing, which did come on the side, as requested, was a mayonnaise, egg, fatty mix, bland tasting. Service was mediocre. The plus to the evening was that there were good Old Fashions on special for $6.00. This was the only redeeming factor of my dinner this evening. I haven't been to Uncommon Ground in 3 years and can say will not ever be back unless it is just for a quick drink. An $18 bland salad with questionably expired meat is not worth a second glance.
(2)Kate W.
Damn you laziness and proximity! In my last review I said I wouldn't be back anytime soon, but mere weeks later, there I was again at dinner at Uncommon Grounds. And I still have the same complaints, go figure. Stuff white people like: expensive sandwiches. I am no exception to this rule, and so I got the $13 grilled chicken sandwich. Don't let the price fool you, this really is just a grilled chicken sandwich. No bad, but if you're charging me (okay, technically charging my date) $13 for some chicken, it'd better sing. Said date got some manly bison thing (men and their meat) but came away feeling much as I did- that it was just okay, but nothing to write home about. I would say I won't be back anytime soon, but who are we kidding; I live blocks from the place.
(2)Scott C.
Uncommon Ground is a great place place for regional and sometimes organic comfort food. The atmosphere at the location on Addison is not quite a cozy as the one on Devon but the food is just as good. The Addison location has more of an urban feel with exposed brick and more of a hipster feel. The breakfast / brunch options here are fantastic. They serve the typical breakfast staples along with some creative twists of ingredients with them. They have a delicious selection of tea and coffee with or without alcohol - depending on how you want to kick off your day. Last time we went we enjoyed some of the spiced banana bread along with our breakfast. It was warm and covered whipped cream - so good. For breakfast we had the huevos rancheros and the french toast dish. Each meal is hearty but not overwhelming in size. Uncommon Ground continues to be a breakfast / brunch staple for us and we'll be back.
(5)John S.
Fantastic new heirloom fried green and fresh tomato sandwich. I'm not a vegetarian, but this tempura take on a veggie sandwich filled me up and tasted amazing.
(5)Shayna N.
OMG! The breakfast here was delicious. We had the breakfast melt with bacon, egg and spinach over black bread with potatoes. and a salad. Everything was super fresh and SUPER tasty! I was very dissapointed by the bloody mary, but you should go here for the fresh local produce and deliciously cooked meals, not the cocktails. The server was also super friendly and knowledgeable about the menu. He helped guide us through the menu, recommending certain dishes and explaining others. It's a bonus that most of the produce comes from the Green City Market and the meat is from local regional farms.
(5)Gigi N.
I came here for brunch with a couple of others, and my experience was decent. I was surprised by how crowded it was! If you plan to eat here, be sure to call ahead or be prepared to wait about 30 minutes. Our server didn't check on us very often, and he forgot to get us coffee. We had to ask twice before he actually brought it at the end (when we were nearly done with our meals). He was a very friendly guy though! Whenever I go out for brunch, I always order something with egg. This time was no different. I asked for the summer omelet with a side of potatoes. Although it looked small, it was actually very filling. It was delicious, but for the price, I expected something more special to it (perhaps more herbs, flavors, etc). Do I plan to return? Maybe when the restaurant is less busy (if it ever is).
(3)Julia W.
I have a love/hate relationship with Uncommon Ground. The Love: First and foremost, everything I've ever eaten here has been nothing less than spectacular. So, with the leaves changing and after a nearly nine month hiatus, I returned last Friday. For some reason- be it the cozy atmosphere, or the absolutely incredible pumpkin ravioli- I always get a hankering for Uncommon Ground this time of year. So, following a showing of Psycho at the Music Box down the way (best theater ever! BTW) the hubby and I made our way towards Clark and, seeing all the people enjoying a beautiful fall night al fresco, decided to stop in for a bite to eat and a drink. And just like every autumn before, I ordered the pumpkin ravioli: perfectly cooked pasta stuffed with pumpkin and spices and smothered in a creamy sauce and gorgonzola cheese. De-freaking-licious! The boy ordered the duck- which he devoured, along with several stolen raviolis from my plate. Grounds for divorce? Possibly... We washed it all down with some harvest ale, and capped off the night with the s'mores tart. Now THIS is comfort food. The Hate: But wait? The check. Seventy freaking dollars for two entrees, two beers and a dessert?! Um, excuse me? It amazes me that I seem to give myself amnesia every single time I come back here; like I don't remember that the food, while wonderful, is fantastically overpriced. Isn't cooking ingredients "in season" suppose to cut down on costs? If it weren't for the prices, I'd be here every weekend. Alas, I am a slave to low wages, and so am forced to pass by more often than not, stealing glances at the food on other peoples plates. First person to steal their ravioli recipe for me will get my soul, and my firstborn.
(4)Heather A.
Yes, the food is expensive, but no, not overpriced. If you can wrap your head around what it costs to get so many local products and maintain the integrity that this place has, you will understand that you really are getting what you pay for. We try to make it up for brunch about once a month, since Saturdays offer a $5 mimosa, and breakfast year round is amazing! Anything with capriole cheese is normally what catches my eye! Also, their eggs benedict is the meal to end all meals.
(5)Dan K.
I really don't know why this place gets such rave reviews. Now, I will say that the Edgewater location was much better, but even then, have these people never eaten at Blackbird or Avec or Karyn's? There is much better food out there. While I love the whole organic and sustainable and local produce thing, the flavor just is not consistent in this place. They definitely have some star dishes, but they have some that fall flat. Stars: Goat Cheese and pesto appetizer, pizza, sweet potato fries, arctic char. The duck and cabbage soup had no flavor at all. My burger was dry and flavorless. The first time I went here the other night I ordered the Crispy Pork Belly on top of Crispy Chicken. Notice, the word crispy. It was not crispy in either way. The pork belly was just a bunch of soft fat and the chicken skin was soft and gooey and fatty and gross. I don't personally like to chew on soft fat. Most of it ended up in my napkin. Lastly, I asked our server if the tortilla soup had tomatoes in it. She said it had tomatillos. I then asked her if it had any tomato in it at all (since I'm allergic) and she said, well the tomatillos are just green tomatoes (with a roll of her eyes...and she never ever smiled or asked us how our food was EVER). So, since I knew she was ignorant and didn't know a tomatillo is actually a relative of the goosberry and not a tomato in any way, I just gave up and ordered goat cheese. This place is also ridiculously arranged. I'm all for Euro dining and being close to strangers, but it's not easy to even manuever your way in and out of here. If you are in a wheelchair, or use a walker, you can forget about going here. There are way better restaurants around.
(2)J N.
A-ok. Music was nice. Small town music that fit the environment. As for food we had the steak and potatoes, they were actually really poor. The steak was mostly fat and they must have poured the fat from frying all over the plate because the mashed potatoes were covered in grease. All in all, we still had a good time. I liked the environment and location. Not as romantic as I would have wanted it, probably great for hanging out with friends.
(3)Sam S.
I've been a fan of Uncommon Ground for a while. Largely for their brunches but we've been going there for dinner more lately. Recently, for Valentine's Day, we decided to spend it there. While normally I really wouldn't make reservations, one of the things I like about the place, I thought that maybe I should because of the occasion. I made them well in advance. When we showed up, and they sat us, I'm fairly certain that it was just about the worst seat in the house. We were shoved next to the bathroom and kitchen entrance, shoved up along side some piece of rolling equipment. My wife and I were deep in conversation when we arrived, so I didn't think to much of it, but as the meal wore on I was pretty annoyed. The food was still good, but the experience was ruined.
(2)Maureen P.
We went there for an early lunch today. Early lunch turned into a late lunch in the fact that our food didn't show up for nearly an hour. Our waiter? He couldn't be found either. There was a remark about the kitchen being backed up at one point...but no apologies, no "checking in", no updates, etc. I used to love this place, but the customer service is really on the decline. I would have gladly accepted an apology rather than the attitude from the manager acting as if it were our fault that the kitchen was backed up. We won't be going back...which is a bummer - because I really want to like this place.
(2)Lindsay A.
I've had two separate experiences here. The first one was fantastic, the second one was not so much. This is based on the second one. and has no reflection on their amazing open mic nights. this is a dinner review. starting off, the atmosphere is fantastic!!! Its warm, cozy, inviting and everyone is friendly. There's a fireplace!! yesssss! And there seems to be a million rooms. No ending. On open mic nights its fantastic. It is a must go to. The most recent experience was when my boyfriend and I chose this place for his birthday dinner location because the menu looked interesting, it was out of our normal price range, and we see it all the time. We literally waited at our waiter at our table for 15 minutes and the food was really good, but not worth the price. The dessert menu is sub par. For dinner, this place is not a complete fail but not the best in my book.
(3)Brett K.
Uncommon Ground, I am in love with you! I will admit it is a little pricey for the genre but overall the service and food were amazing. Everything put a unique twist on your traditional American cuisine. The local sustainability practices are always a plus also. My favorite dish was the pancetta encrusted chicken breast but then again any form of bacon will usually be an easy win with me... It wasn't just an add bacon to something cheap shot but was prepared to compliment the flavor of the meat like no other. Also some of the best sweet potato fries you will find served with warm goat cheese, oh god. The service was very friendly and for Wrigley area it was a laid back crowd although if its a game day sit in the front by the window because there will be great drunken people watching going by constantly. I will definitely return with lofty expectations.
(4)Robin T.
I went with a hangover and left without one. I think it was the bowl (literally) of chai. I went to Uncommon Ground with two friends for a late Sunday lunch. We started with the mac and cheese for a hearty appetizer. Yum! I enjoyed the burger with sweet potato fries. Holy mackerel, it was sooo good! I completely forgot about my previous headache. The decor was nice and cozy, and some weird paintings gave it that quirk factor. There was even a fireplace, where I would have parked it if I were alone with a book. I didn't think it was overpriced at all. There was a lot of food on my plate. I was also jealous of my friend's tomatillo soup. Yummy! I would go again, for sure!
(5)Jeff D.
I've been here a few times for brunch and lunch, which has been good. But my dinner experience has left much to be desired. I really like the concept of this place: sustainable, local food. The execution suffers (for dinner in my experience). I just had a grass fed steak and it was one of the saddest pieces of meat I've ever received in a restaurant. On top of that it was cooked well done when I asked for medium rare. It was a disappointing experience and made me wish I just went to a local bar to get wings.
(2)Brett F.
One part coffeehouse, one part restaurant and one part rockin' little music venue gives you everything Uncommon Ground. Fortunately for my fabulous threesome looking to dine out 'healthy style' we were able to experience a little of all three! First up was dinner and how lovely it was! Sitting outside on UG's street side patio was a divine backdrop for the tasty, organic, family farmed eats offered up by the Uncommon folks. We all opted for salads (snoozeville, I know) despite the fact that the crispy braised pork belly and bacon wrapped meatloaf were practically jumping off the menu page and slapping me in the face. Uh... one Sunshine Salad - with chicken - please. Healthy it certainly was and I had to give myself a pat on the back for it! The "Sunshine Salad" is literally a heaping plate of super fresh veggies, sprouts, seeds, a splash of barely there dressing and absolutely none of the "fun stuff". You know, the stuff you usually pick around the the lettuce to peck for: crunchy bacon, creamy cheese, little happy bits of salami. Nyet. Not here. This dish is for the ultimate fresh farmers market enthusiast and for the $18 price tag (with the chix) it sure feels like a lot of cash for not that much sunshine. Psst! I'm coming back for you, Mr. Meatloaf! Next up we moved things inside by the cutesy fireplace for coffee and talk. Coffeetawk! The coffee house element is very inviting and the UG servers make sure you're warm on your drinks without making you feel rushed or pushed out the door. Love it! A handful of spiked coffee drinks (like the Devil and Robert Johnson, a vanilla infused whiskey espresso concoction) and, of course, your standard lattes, cocoas and cappuccinos ensure everyone a hearty and delicious caffeinated fix! Lastly we met Steve :::::swoon::::: the Jordan Catalano-esque crooner who was playing acoustic that evening in the music space next door. A little ditty with your java Miss? Don't mind if I do. Sunshine, Coffee and Sweet Ass... Uncommon Ground, making the world a better place since 1991. Cheers to that!
(4)Matt G.
Great coffee and good food. Also nice touch that they use local organic produce and meat/eggs. Service was good, bottomless cup of coffee and original non-diner menu items. Have also had the lunch/dinner entrees and you get a great portion for a fairly reasonable price. If I take it down from 5 stars, it would be that with tip, one dish breakfast and coffee was $20. That's a little steep.
(4)Cynthia C.
Love love love uncommon ground! It was good the first time and still hasn't disappointed me :) Had the pork loin this time. Great flavors! Its rubbed and crusted with these really complex tasting spices that add a hint of spicy with a ton of savory. Pork can be dry when cooked wrong but this one was really tender with a nice crust on the outside. Parmesan polenta and spinach was served with it which wasn't too bad. The sauce for the dish was delish. And of course the pumpkin ravioli can not be beat. Who knew pumpkin and goat cheese went so well together??? And since its now chilly autumn.. hot apple cider is served upon request. Tart and cinnamony although I wish they added the cinnamon stick.. even if its mainly for decoration.
(5)mariah c.
I was with a crew of people getting ready for a show at the Metro a couple of weekends back. We packed up our car with lighting gear, hit I-94 and overall had a really smooth trip. I hadn't been to the Metro in ages, and I was totally looking forward to the show. And then, with slight horror... we realized there was a game going on. Now, I have nothing against baseball, but I have in the past almost always made an effort to steer clear of the masses in Wrigleyville during the most hectic times. We unloaded and 2 folks went on a (very long) hunt for parking in the midst of the mob of people leaving the game. That left the other 2 of us there -- hungry, and needing to kill time, but pretty sure most of the packed bars wouldn't be our scene. We asked the folks at the Metro for their advice, and they mentioned Uncommon Ground. Good call! Because they're set up as more of a restaurant, and less of a bar, there weren't overwhelming crowds. There was, however, some solid friendly service, and some absolutely amazing specials. In a summery mood, I tried a lemon ginger cocktail, and even found myself nibbling on one of the candied ginger pieces. I got the special red pepper gnocci. Each little gnocci was like a pleasant little burst of flavor in my mouth. Seriously. It was very tasty! By the time we left, reassured and nourished by good food, I was ready to deal with the rowdy crowd and get myself back into the Metro for another sort of crowd!
(4)Anne R.
As I'm sitting here, still not impressed. We went here for my mothers birthday because she loves the farm to table type of dinning. This place gets one star for decor and another for their beer, wine, and cocktails list and for flavor. Hostess was nice, server short worded, and really nothing else special. Ordered our entrées and had a drink while we waited. My father ordered the duck while he liked but was soso for him. My mother had the chicken which she loved. And I had the Q7 steak, eh. I ordered the steak medium and it came out well, not good! Then when out server came to our table she didn't ask me if it was cooked right. She just walked up to the table and asked everything OK? None of us answered because we all had our first bites in our mouth, and she walked away. I couldn't eat my steak! I'm sorry but really? The flavors that were accompanying the steak were very nice, but if only I could have ate it. Won't be back here again and will not recommend it to anyone!
(2)Maria P.
This place is great if you are all about having the local food as part of your dining experience. I went this morning with my husband for breakfast and we were pleasantly surprised to have great service thanks to Jessica our waitress, along with very delightful, fresh coffee. I had the mushroom omelet which comes with toast and potatoes. I asked if I could have fruit instead of the potatoes and without hesitation the waitress said yes. Half of my plate was covered with banana slices and fresh berries. It was wonderful! My husband had the chilaquiles which was very tasty. It was eggs mixed with peppers, cheese, tortilla chips with sour cream on top. Everything was very tasty and we will definitely be back!
(3)Clare D.
Tonight I went back to Uncommon Ground after previously eating an amazing lunch there the summer before. This time I was with family and we thought that we would try out dinner. It was a beautiful Chicago summer night, so we thankfully got a table outside. We started out with the muscles and the mushroom tacos. The tacos were amazing the muscles were TERRIBLE. They were so bad that they fueled me to write this review!! They were not only over cooked but literally the size of a raisin! The waiter never asked us how they were either. He came to collect our dinner plates and we informed him of how unhappy we were with them, he apologized and that was it. The bill came and the awful muscles were still there. We paid for them but then spoke to a manager on our way out. He was very sympathetic and gave us a gift card as compensation. We will be returning but for lunch this time!
(1)Sarah B.
A group of us decided to try Uncommon Ground for a few drinks and some apps. This was a good decision. We were seated outside and it was very nice, laid back, and generally chill. Our server, Tom, who had a very cool 'stache, was great and pretty attentive. I had two cocktails from the interesting list: The Frida Kahlo martini (vodka, chocolate and cinnamon/cayenne pepper syrup) and the Lemon Ginger martini (ginger infused vodka and citrus simple syrup). The FK had a kind of fake cinnamon taste which I did not like so much but it was a decent drink. I had wished that it had a cayenne/cocoa dusted lip on the glass, something I have had before and enjoyed. The ginger one was fairly tasty and had a skewer of candied ginger in it..yum. For eats, two of us shared the goat chees/artichoke/pesto dip. I am here to tell you that this dip was effing delicious! It must be ordered. My friend is wheat intolerant so Tom "the 'stache" graciously gave her tortilla chips to dip with. We then decided that the amazing dip was not enough and proceeded to order the mac and cheese. Pretty damn good. Not the best, but good. We had a good time and this place is on my list to try again.
(4)Mauricio P.
I been there once since I am not from Chicago... however if I lived in Chicago I will be definitely be habitue of the place!!! Good music, good ambient, good service, good food and good coffee...
(4)alan y.
They should rename this place Organic Applebee's.
(1)Shannon D.
A warm and welcoming restaurant! Wonderful staff Delicious local/organic food (especially the house made chorizo chilaquiles...hold the chorizo) Good energy Warm Fireplace
(5)LadyBird X.
I came here with my husband before a show at the Metro. Service was great, but somewhat slow. To be fair, it was a busy night but it's something to keep in mind if you're headed to a concert afterwards. The food was excellent. It's actually harder than you think to find a truly healthy salad in this city but their Sunshine Salad fit the bill. I also loved that I was able to find a raw healthy meal on the menu while my husband was able to order a steak - we were both satisfied! We enjoyed the Baked Artichoke, Goat Cheese and Pesto Dip, which had to be extremely fattening but was absolutely delectable! All in all I'm really glad I stumbled upon this place (I would have never found it otherwise). Even though I rarely enjoy visiting this area I would definitely come back for the yummy food!
(4)Candice G.
This place is about as cozy and cozy gets and reminds of some good ole home cookin'... if my parents had cooked me anything that didn't come out of a frozen box as a child. Thankfully, as an adult who lives at home (get off my back people, I've got a 10 year plan), the food at Uncommon is what my Dad now cooks for me with his refined taste and pretty respectfully sized backyard garden. Uncommon Ground is a great bet for fresh, organic, locally grown comfort food. I'm a big fan of their sunshine salad, veggie chili, veggie burger, outdoor patio, sexy musician boys, and giant coffees. I'm a not so big fan of their sangria and the (IMO) too salty pumpkin ravioli, or draft window seating. I also love the server's here. You'll be promptly seated by a host and the server will be like someone you knew growing up and reconnected with... sometimes I even trick myself into making more convo with my server than my date. Oops! If it weren't such a drive for me, I'd be here much more often... maybe even get up in time for their famed breakfasts. I'll defo be making UG a summer lunching destination.
(4)s. m. j.
We just stopped in for coffee and a nibble before meeting friends in the neighborhood, but my experience here was great, and I would definitely go back for more! We stopped in about 10:30 a.m. on a Saturday morning, and it was hopping, but we got a table right away, because this is a large cafe with many rooms. The friendly hostess seated us and our waiter appeared quickly to take our drink orders. Unusually for me, I ordered a mocha latte (I normally steer away from the sweet coffee drinks), and it was delicious. Chocolate-y, but not sickly sweet. I also ordered the banana bread (I wished they had more pastry selections to go with coffee...). When it came it was a generous slice of banana bread, with sliced bananas and whipped cream, a very desserty order! My friend ordered the English muffin, and that looked lovely and much lighter, but I enjoyed my banana bread. I thought the service was exceptional. When I took my first bite of the banana bread, I got sugar and whipped cream on my crocheted sweater. I brushed it off with my cloth napkin, but before I could even finish, the waiter appeared with club soda and a napkin to help me remove any food stains. I was really impressed! We loved our time at Uncommon Ground, because we had a great little table where we could really catch up and talk. My friend also works for a nature organization, and she likes Uncommon Ground because of its green restaurant designations. We had a perfect experience here. I recommend it.
(4)Meera T.
My sister was in town and had read about how green Uncommon Ground was. To satisfy her "let's save the earth" crusade, we stopped by for an early dinner. When we walked in, the atmosphere was very cozy, but not stuffy. It reminded me more of a place to stop for a quick lunch. The restaurant was completely empty save for a few people in the back and at the bar, but what else do you expect on a Wednesday at 5? We started off with the sweet potato fries and the goat cheese fondue. Holy. Moly. As someone who doesn't normally gravitate towards sweet potato fries, I would eat these for the rest of my life. They were soft yet crispy, salty yet sweet, and melt in your mouth. They paired very well with the tangy, smooth fondue. For entrees, we split the black bean cake burger and the organic mac and cheese. The burger was delicious. The patty was perfectly spiced, and had a great texture. It was topped with a crunchy coleslaw and creamy avocado, both which went well with the burger. The side salad was perfectly dressed as well. The mac and cheese was decent. We added the sundried tomatoes to it, which in hindsight was a mistake. There were way too many tomatoes in it, and they completely overpowered the taste of the pasta and the cheese. The texture itself was amazing though, and I would definitely order it again plain or with broccoli. The menu is a bit expensive, but sharing with some others can lend you a nice variety of food and fill you up fast. The staff was also very friendly and welcoming, though I don't know how they would react when the restaurant was actually busy. I would definitely come here again!
(4)Kate C.
After eating at Uncommon Ground on 3 different occasions I feel confident to say that the food is just not very good*. I've tried the Mac & Cheese, a sunshine salad and the fries w/ goat cheese and also the artichoke dip. None of which was mind-blowing. I've never had an issue with service, and the space is actually cozy and inviting. I just really wish the food tasted better. It's not worth the hassle of going to Wrigleyville just to eat mediocre (at best) food. *I also appreciate that it's all locally sourced, but like I said... I just wish it tasted good!
(2)Ryan T.
I go here enough that I wanted to write another review. My boyfriend and I are obsessed with Uncommon Ground. At this point, it's probably our favorite restaurant in Lakeview, and considering the price, there's just about nowhere else we'd rather eat in the city. While it took a while (over ten visits) for me to try something other than the amazing mac and cheese, I've found that everything on the menu is delicious. I was seriously impressed by the bacon crusted chicken breast, and the chicken sandwich is also very yummy. And of course, don't go without getting the sweet potato fries or calamari appetizers. So yummy.
(5)Jeremiah B.
Tempura Avo-tacos with co-op hot sauce. Damn! Washed that down with Half Acre pale ale. Nice! Salmon on mushroom pilaf, grilled bok choy and onion ring. Shiteee! Paired that with dry Rose'. Beautiful! Finished with goat cheese caramel, coffee toffee and chocolate malt gelato. Fuuuuuuuuhhhhhcccccckkkkk!
(4)Chris K.
Great food! Nice outdoor eating space! Great atmosphere! Nice selection!
(5)Rebecca H.
It used to be a 4, but now there is a new chef and the last time I went back, it was not that good. Get a Bloody Mary.
(3)Janet E.
This review is for the food since last time was for the drinks. We had no reservations but were seated immediately. They have about three rooms for seating but the first room at the front of the restaurant is primarily for bar food/drinks. The menu changes every two weeks so dont expect any particular signature dishes. The restaurant supports local farmers so the food is very fresh and you can taste the difference. We werent very hungry so we ordered three appetizers. We had the goat cheese and spinach dip, the vegetarian chili, and the tomato bisque soup. Everything tasted delicious! Service was great. The prices for our dishes were reasonable but the entree dishes can be pricey. I wish they had a better selection of entree dishes. Maybe in another two weeks when the menu changes the entree selection will be better? Parking in this area can be difficult.
(4)Melanie V.
4 words: Nutella stuffed french toast! O-M-G. heaven. it was topped with pecans and bananas. yummm. i am obsessed with nutella. did i mention that? i also tried the kiwi/pear tea. nice and light and not too fruity. great brunch experience! it was an added surprise when we only had to wait 15 minutes, as opposed to the 30 we were originally quoted. prices are pretty reasonable ($10-12 for a brunch item). it's crowded, but people aren't sitting on top of each other (i.e., M Henry). also, it's loud enough in here to talk to your friend and not worry about having the table next to you eavesdrop.
(4)Ben K.
I had one of the best brunch entrees I've ever had at Uncommon Ground today. The english muffin "sliders" are a pair of thick english muffins, buttered up real good and toasted, and layered with fluffy scrambled eggs, sharp cheddar cheese, spinach, a piece of thick cut bacon, and roasted garlic aioli. Just wow. A rich brunch to be sure, but this sandwich is about the most perfect combination of breakfast foodstuffs to ever be put together on a sandwich. And there's two of them! Lesser appetites could easily split this brunch entree and come away satisfied. Hungry guys like myself will struggle to finish but leave quite satisfied. I can't wait to give this one another go.
(5)Stephanie B.
Food = 5 stars Price = 3 If this place priced their dishes just a little more affordably, my overall review would be 5 stars. I used to frequent Uncommon Ground fairly often when I lived in Chicago. This is one of my favorite brunch spots of not only the area, but of all time. Everything is incredibly fresh and rich in flavor. At my most recent trip here I ordered a bloody mary to start ($5 on Sunday's), the uncommon huevos, a slice of banana bread, and the 312 lunchbox (drink). I left with a VERY happy tummy. I ate brunch there around 2:30, and didn't need another meal the rest of the day. If you like fresh, filling, and delicious food, you won't leave this place disappointed.
(4)Sean M.
I frequent this place often and for good reason. This is a solid place to have a beer, eat dinner, maybe catch some live music, and relax. But it really stands out as an excellent breakfast/brunch restaurant. Interesting food options that change from time to time, and always deliver great flavor and leave you feeling satisfied. Great coffee too! Be sure to ask for the benedict special of the day, I highly recommend it!. This is probably one of, if not, the best brunch place in the area.
(5)Nicole P.
This place is the t*ts! (--- complete that as you may) I live close to one of these, but my friend was unaware of that so the one he suggested we go to was this one in Wrigleyville. Originally we were looking for a coffehouse where we could just sit and chat. However, what we found was this trendy little lounge that serves amazing food. We went on a Thursday night and waited 10 minutes or so to be seated once we decided to stay and eat. Our table was in the back, past the closet-sized bathrooms and the kitchen. I'm still not really sure if there's a delineation for a reason or if that's just how the place was built. There was low lighting and lots of art on the walls. The low noise level was accented by the fun, emo music coming through the speakers. It was a pleasant atmosphere. I had the vegetarian chili and the sunshine salad. My favorite was the chili, but the salad wasn't bad. My friend had the grilled chicken sandwich which he seemed to really enjoy. Our server was very helpful and she didn't seem to hate us when we couldn't decide what to drink, but ended up ordering dessert instead of booze. We all agreed that it was a fair trade. In the future, I plan on going hungry and trying the tempura avocado tacos and the hummus.
(4)Paul C.
Chill casual dining with a crunchy vibe. The pork chop was quite good, the steak not too shabby. Good cocktail list too. Service was friendly but a bit on the slow side. Nothing blew me away, but I'd say this is a good dining option for those times when you want good food in a laid back spot.
(3)Jenny H.
The menu on the restaurant's website makes the food sound amazing, but it doesn't quite measure up. This place seems like a coffee shop that tries to serve great food but doesn't have a good restaurant chef in the back to quite make it. I went for dinner and the food was just OK, not great. Their chai was watery and had way too much cinnamon in the drink and dusted all over. Their spinach and goat cheese dip tasted like thick, hot cream cheese with spinach in it, they didn't add too much to the dip other than just hot, thick goat cheese, not sure what the fuss is all about. There were 4 long pieces of bread grilled but not that fresh. The mac+cheese was OK, it came out warm, not piping hot in a saucy cheese sauce. The chicken with bacon and BBQ sauce on top tasted like a thick chicken breast cooked with some chopped up bacon on top and ordinary BBQ sauce poured on top. The mashed potatoes were good, the brussel sprouts were small but good. I probably wouldn't come back here again for dinner. We went elsewhere for dessert since the apple crisp didn't have a lot of crisp, according to the waiter (not my kind of crisp), and the smores tart had a thick chocolate ganache filling (not my kind of thing either).
(3)Erica L.
Uncommon Ground is amazing. I have gone here for open mic night as well as regular dinners. I have never had a single complaint regarding my meals or drinks. The pumpkin ravioli is to die for, the duck is amazing. I love the atmosphere here and would go back in a heartbeat. The drinks are delicious as well, but I would not recommend this place if you're looking for cheap eats/drinks. It's great for a date night - not too dressy but the food is great. Five stars!
(5)M F.
Very good food for any time of day, made from the quality of ingredients you'd expect from the 'greenest restaurant in the country'. Great selection of local craft beer.
(4)Jona W.
One day in seventh grade I came to school and saw my boyfriend holding hands with another girl. She was blonde and she wore this hot pink t-shirt all the time with a stick figure on it, and below the stick figure it said "Whatever!" I didn't officially find out that he'd dumped me until he had one of his friends write me a break up note for him and give it to me at lunch. I guess he was like any normal seventh grader, so busy with seventh grade business that he had to contract out this type of task. It hurt that he changed his mind about me being the coolest girl in the world, and though I thought I'd packed away this pain nice and tight somewhere deep down under a colon polyp, it came bubbling back up yesterday when I received an urgent text message from a friend alerting me that Uncommon Ground is no longer serving pumpkin ravioli. What? WHAT IS THIS MADNESS? If you never had the chance to have this pumpkin ravioli in your life, I am sorry. So sorry that I will now tell you exactly what you were missing. You got a big dish of 3 inch ravioli pillows filled with perfectly spiced pumpkin puree. They'd top it with brown butter sage sauce which I'd imagine is made a lot like your Southern granny made gravy (melted butter, some flour to thicken), except maybe without a lit Virginia Super Slim in one hand. They put fresh sage leaves on top of that, and then they crumble up gorgonzola and chestnuts on top of that. It's the kind of thing you eat until you feel like you're gonna die, take the remainder home with you, and finish it the VERY SECOND you stop feeling like you're gonna die. So, what is the meaning of this? Why did it go away? I can think of at least one lackluster chicken sandwich on the fall menu that could use a long retirement. Did the chef get tired of making it? I guess it's kind of like how Weezer got tired of playing Buddy Holly but people had paid $75 to get in to see their show so they were like JUST FUCKING PLAY IT. I feel this way about the pumpkin raviolis: I'm willing to pay goddamn $20 for this plate so would you just inject some pumpkin into some ravioli and give it to me?? JUST FUCKING MAKE IT. I don't care about your feelings, I pay you to COOK, not to FEEL. I have been to Uncommon Ground one million times and ordered that dish every single time. So thanks a lot for letting me know personally that you decided to make it impossible for me to get it anymore. I have to say that is just a really awesome way to emulate the communication skills of a seventh grader. Thanks a lot for breaking my friend's heart when she ordered it and having her let me know what happened. So it's your move: give me the ravs and I give you two stars. Bring it back, Uncommon Ground, or you will be sorry. Know how I know? My junior high ex-boyfriend ended up working at a mall restaurant to afford to pay child support to the girl he knocked up whose name is the actual title of a Jessica Alba dance movie. So think about that for a minute, whydontcha. **UPDATE! The ravs are back!!! Sometimes these things end well.
(5)Paula M.
We hadn't been to Uncommon Ground for a couple of years because the service was bad the two times we had been there.The food was good, but we were left alone for extended periods of time during the meals and it was a big enough turn-off that we had not returned. As we live in the neighborhood, we thought we'd give U.G. another try. We were seated in an undesirable spot and all of our food was served to us at once (appetizers, soup, main). No one seemed to think that this was a bad idea: the food runner, the server, the host staff who were nearby. The food is not good enough to overlook what we have experienced as legendary bad service. Not going back!
(2)Ross H.
Used to be one of my favorites...and I miss it. I am giving it one star to balance out my previous 5 star review. Local place for me a bit outside the craziness of Wrigleyville. They serve locally sourced, high quality, and generally fairly healthy (by restaurant standards) food with cool midwest craft beers. Goatcheese fondue with sweet potato fries is a favorite of mine. Their cocktail list is also very good, featuring lots of homemade liquor infusions with unique flavors. Prices on both are very fair for what you get. I also love the feel of the place, warm wood but still bright, rotating artwork on the walls, and a small intimate feel. The outdoor patio is great in the summer too. I go for dinner and brunch, and usually leave very happy. Always had a great experience with the staff too. That said...the last time I went (going on 7 months now, versus my usual bi-weekly visit) was pretty terrible. I took some guests from out of town for brunch. I ordered a regular item, chilaquiles, and got something very different from the norm. Instead of the delicious and well balanced flavor of fresh cilantro, eggs, spicy meat, fresco cheese and tasty verde sauce, I received a pile of tostitos with greasy chorizo, no sauce, undercooked eggs, and a crappy presentation. It looked like breakfast nachos a hungover college kid would make. The equally familiar items I recommended to my friends were similary "cheapened" with gobs of low quality ingredients in place of the light, fresh, tasty componenents to which I had become accustomed. Net: one bad experience completely turned me off of a once regular haunt. If the owners/managers are reading this, consider doing some quality checking in your kitchen (if you haven't already since April-ish). It may have been one chef having a really bad day...but it was way off the mark for what I expected. And in a city with so many great places to eat, once is all it takes to turn people away.
(1)Sarah P.
A friend and I decided to grab dinner at this location of Uncommon Ground since he had been to the Devon location and loved it. Eh, it was okay. We ordered the sweet potato fries that came with a goat cheese fondue. Okay these were really good! I love sweet potato fries in general and it seems like everyone is serving them now, but it was the goat cheese that really made this delicious. Fondue is a stretch, since it really seemed like just a small cup of warm goat cheese, maybe with some seasonings added. However, tasty nonetheless! I ordered the chopped salad for dinner. It was fine. Wasn't bad. But it just tasted like a chopped salad that I could get anywhere. Absolutely not worth the $15 I spent on it. No way. The service was slow to the point where my friend and I grew frustrated. I am usually fine with taking my time at a restaurant and enjoying the food and company, but this pushed me beyond that point to where I could only think about why no one was coming to our table. This was a big issue when we first sat down, as we waited and waited to even be asked if we wanted a drink, but continued as well throughout the meal. I really wanted to like this place and every time I pass it, I think about going back. But then I remember my experience and wonder why I would want to.
(2)Sherri J.
Ok not off to a good start, server took 10 minutes to come to the table. We ordered drinks-very strong FYI and two apps. Apps took over 20 minutes to come out. They were fantastic though. Fried cheese curds with chipotle mayo and sweet potatoes fries with goat cheese fondue. TO DIE FOR!!! the bad service continued though. Couldn't get the servers attention to order our entrees had to wait the 20 minutes till the apps came to order our food. Food came out pretty fast maybe it seemed that way cause we were busy eating the apps we waited so long for. The sever never really came by we had to flag her down for everything. Entrees were great, pretty small portions though. Almost the same size as the apps but three times the price. I got the meatloaf advertised as coming with brussel sprouts and cheese curds. I got two curds and three sprouts. Not exactly what I was expecting, I figured nice hearty portions based on our apps and the prices but that is not what we got. Food was very good though I have to say, My friend got the sunrise salad with the chicken and the chicken was like stick in your throat dry. My other friend got the tacos and asked to add chicken, there was no chicken on it. So the bill comes and we are charge $8 for our drinks that are supposedly on special for 6 and we are charged for the chicken even though we brought it to the servers attention that there was no chicken on the tacos. She offered to bring some out but we declined but still you cant charge for something your didn't receive. Seems to me they are trying to make as much money as possible and are betting on the rich yuppies of that areas not to bother checking their bill for accuracy. Overall food was great, portions small, service bad, and business practices a little sketchy.
(3)D Mike K.
I would actually give the hostess and front bartenders a "Negative 2 star" review. The hostess was not friendly and did a very poor job in giving seating times and how long it would take. The bartenders? I walked in to my group of friends that were there waiting for a table, and went to the bar for a glass of wine. Waited 20minutes. She actually looked right at me and turned around to start washing glasses. I walked around to an empty area of the bar and got her attention. She asked if I wanted my $12 glass of wine on the tab of the group. She obviously knew that I had been there for awhile, and she had gone to cleaning glasses before making sure the whole group had been attended to. Very very poor service in my book. I have been a bartender, and this is a huge problem. For the food and dinner? 4 stars! So my review actually averages to 1 star, but I will give it 2 stars because i have had good experiences here in the past. I hope they can address the customer service issues at the front, so people can enjoy the entire experience at this location.
(2)Tawfiq M.
Great place for breakfast & brunch. Portions are plenty, and it's pretty inexpensive for the great food they have. Service was also excellent, and the atmosphere is very chill for a breakfast & brunch place. Definitely going to try and go there again.
(5)Tom T.
Had the Q7 breakfast sandwich which spiced corned beef - DELICIOUS. And they played some great music: The Doors, Jimi Hendrix. Good food, good tunes, it was one of the coolest places I've been to in Chicago.
(5)Jay B.
I've seen lots of reviews that mentioned "poor service", but my experience here would be the opposite. My gf and I sat on the patio and received top notch service. We came for the Goose Island Tap Takeover event and were not disappointed. However, the beer menu on a normal night looked excellent as well. My gf tried a few of the bottles/cans on the normal menu and said they were good. I'd recommend the Secret Stache Stout if you like darker beer, it is absolutely delicious. I got the grass fed burger cooked medium, as I wanted to taste the difference. It was a very good burger. It was served on a potato bun which was pretty cool. Gf got the pizza, which she said was good as well. Overall I thought we were going to stay for a few beers and dinner. We ended up having about 5 rounds just because we were enjoying everything so much. Pro's Good Beer Menu Our Service Was Excellent Nice Patio/Ambiance Inside Too Con's More expensive (likely why the "Green" revolution hasn't taken off more)
(4)Steve M.
I had a "working lunch" at Uncommon Ground a couple days ago, and it was great. First of all, I knew our server from growing up in Chicago, so that was cool. We sat down and ordered a couple Daisy Cutter IPAs. They were bitter and good. For my lunch, I chose the Uncommon BLT. What's so special about this sandwich is that they substitute pork belly for bacon (!!!). It adds a whole different feel to the sandwich.. more pork-y, not as salty, fattier, but still so damn good. Add to that decent fries and a tomato/rosemary dipping sauce for the fries, and we're in business. Next time I'm up in that area, I'll think about going back again. I don't make it up there often, but here's a good reason to change that.
(4)Kat S.
Uncommon Ground was a nice place to have dinner and chat with some friends. The prices are a bit costly for this college student, but certainly worth it for the fresh ingredients (they even list where the ingredients are from, by food item, on the back of the menu- and most foods are local!) I ordered the Mac & Cheese and while the main dish was excellent and creamy, I was surprised at how much I enjoyed the apple cole slaw that came on the side. It was the perfect companion to the rich, cheesy mac. The atmosphere is very relaxed, and I enjoyed the wooden bar and the decor in general. We did wait a very long time for our food, and out waiter seemed a bit out of it, but as a former waitress, I never judge waitstaff harshly, so this wasn't much of a problem for me. If you do expect impeccable service, however, this may not be the spot for you. Of course, it could have just been an off night. Overall, Uncommon Ground has a tasty, if not a bit pricey, menu and is worth the stop if you are in the area.
(3)Ben F.
Been to this place several times. Really good but can be a wait to make sure you have some time to kill. Great for breakfast! Breakfast melt has always been my fab.
(4)Angie M.
Is it wrong that I was expecting more? I dropped into Uncommon Ground to grab a quick bite before a show at the Metro on a Sunday night at about 5:30. The restaurant was pretty empty, but I'm guessing that was due to WAY inclimate weather and the fact that, well, it was 5:30 on a Sunday night. No matter. My friend and I ordered up the Treetini (some kind of delicious combo of vodka, Veev and orange juices) because, well, it looks like Uncommon Ground is kinda famous for them. There's a huge poster advertising it on the wall and I know its been mentioned in a lot of reviews. Let me say that the Treetini is absolutely fabulous and worth a trip to Uncommon Ground. For dinner, I went with the grilled chicken sandwich, served on hearth bread with marinated chicken breast, avocado, sprouts, tomato and honey mustard sauce. I decided against the cheese. My friend ordered the mac and cheese. The food was good, but nothing special. And quite honestly, a bit overpriced. $13 for a small bowl of mac and cheese served with a few grapes and apple slices? And $12 for a chicken sandwich? I don't know... it didn't seem like the best deal in town to me. The other thing that kind of threw me off was the service. Now granted, our server was perfectly cordial, but she was so timid, a church mouse would have been more outgoing. She looked terrified of my friend and me, as we basically spent the entire meal dishing about how men are scum. I wanted to tell her, "Don't worry, Honey. We're not a bunch of angry man haters. We're just going through a rough patch." And maybe we were a little too boisterous, because I kid you not, the server and busboy tried to clear our plates no less than 5 times when we were clearly still nibbling on our dinners. What's up with that? We were some of the only people in the restaurant, so I know there wasn't a wait for the table. I guess I'm not totally sold on Uncommon Ground. The Treetini saved this place. Perhaps I'll come back for some live music and maybe coffee. Other than that? Eh.
(3)Todd W.
I thought the place was above average, not loud, decent pricing, good environment. Did not try the food, thought he appearance looked good. It'll be hard to come back due to all of the surrounding bars with similar appeal. But in all, decent place.
(4)Lisa Z.
The food here was good. I don't think anyone had any complaints about what they ordered. The problem... was the size of the dish for what you were paying. This place was expensive. If you're shelling out that much cash, okay, if I AM shelling out that much cash, I expect either large portion sizes, or extremely great food. This was neither. I probably wouldn't go back just because I expect more or better food for their prices.
(3)Trisha F.
I went to the Uncommon Ground on Devon in Edgewater last night for dinner. I was very impressed! I really love their concept of growing their own food and being very green friendly. I definitely support that! I ordered the quinua stuffed squash and a grapefruit bitters cocktail (TO DIE FOR). Mmm, I loved my drink so much!!! Also, the straw was made of recycled paper!! The stuffed squash was presented beautifully and tasted delicious!! Our server was very polite and the place itself is clean, cozy and has a romantic touch. I would definitely come back!
(5)Wendy K.
Saturday night, last night we entered at around 9:30pm. Five of us. My friend went in first and they told her that it was a 30 minute wait. After parking, I walk in 5 minutes later and we noticed couches by the fire that were empty. I tell the hostess " we are having coffee and dessert, can't we just sit there?" Hostess " yeah sure" no sorry or oops! or ANY acknowledgement of her lack of friendliness. She just stands there and I say " menus?" then she hands me them. WHY!!!!!?!?!??! am I doing YOUR job for you lady!!!! why?!!?!?!?!? We sit, took a little bit before our waitress approached us. She was very sweet. We ordered cappucinos, lattes, white russian and 4 desserts. Mine was the mocha rice pudding. Everyone's came and after like 15 minutes, mine took long. I know it wasn't the waitress' fault. The chef back there (and I guess maybe the waitress too) should have MADE SURE! they are not to come out until they were all ready. WHY???? oh! I'm glad you asked!!! because if you are going to overprice everything then that means!!! that you're are not only delivering upscale food but also upscale service!!! THAT'S!!! what we are paying extra for too! Of course, the pudding was HORRIBLE!!! cardboard cold mush with apples! everyone tasted and agreed. Returned it. The other desserts were...damn! they were really good! VERY good. drinks were excellent. MAYBE would come back, but easily tempted to try a different place.
(2)Jenny A.
I've been here for brunch several times and have always had good food and great service. One thing that you don't realize upon coming into the restaurant is just how big it is. There are several rooms in the back, this place is huge! The brunch crowd also has lots of families, so if you go, be prepared to hear lots of toddlers playing around you. The food is quite good, however the menu recently changed (our waiter said they just got a new chef) and I think I prefer the old menu. The breakfast quesedilla is one of the best brunch items, with scrambled eggs, arugula and cheese on a spinach tortilla. I also have had the breakfast melt, with egg, bacon and spinach served open-faced on brown bread, which was also quite tasty. One good thing about the new menu is that they allow fruit as a side (which they did not prefer) and the fruit is very good, a variety of about five fruits presented very nicely and much better than most brunch food plates around town. Overall, I'm not sure I would travel out of my way to come here for brunch over other places in the city, but if you live in the neighborhood it is a great place for fresh, well made food.
(4)Amanda C.
I went here for Sunday brunch and think it is a cool concept. I like that they have a lot of locally grown ingredients in their food and that they take reservations for brunch- a lot of places don't do that. I ordered a Bloody Mary ($5 on Sundays) and the winter scramble. The winter scramble was good- leeks, goat cheese, eggs and sausage with toast. Kind of hard to mess up and I did really like it. My friend ordered the Eggs Benedict which also looked great. I'm not a huge fan of the atmosphere- we were seated in some awkward window booth and the server was very rude. There was a mixup with our food where the 2 people seated next to us ordered exactly what we had ordered 30 minutes prior to them arriving, and they got our food right away after they ordered. We mentioned this to our server who replied with "well it's not a big deal, it's the same food, right?" Probably will try several other spots before returning, but the Bloody Marys were really good.
(2)Tina T.
Uncommon Ground is a hip, funky place that serves locally grown, sustainable foods, supports local farmers and producers, and is generally on board with all my principled beliefs. So I liked it before I even tried it out! What's not to like? Combination delish food bought and prepared responsibly, a romantic outdoor patio, cool bar and eating area, coffeehouse, and a separate music venue featuring great music. Growing tomato, arugula, and other plants decorate the plant boxes along the patio. And they have got great, innovative cocktails! The only issue I had is that I wish they had more vegetarian meals on their menu - saw in some of the reviews that they have a veggie burger, but it wasn't on the menu the night I was there. Really, all of the accompanying veggies and whole grains were so good, I should have just ordered all the sides! My husband loved their signature meatloaf, while I enjoyed the Gunthorp chicken. We shared sweet potato fries - what's not to like about that? All well prepared and delish. Loved my drink - a homemade cucumber infused gin drink - so refreshing. And my hub loved the organic premium vodka. Desserts were fabulous. And the service was great. But the best was the vibe - if I lived in the hood, I'd be here often.
(4)Haley S.
Had a lovely dinner here with the boyfriend on Thursday. I had the chicken sandwich and he had the burger. Both were really good. Cocktails were fantasic! The dessert (banana cream pie) was the best we've had in a while! Will definitely return.
(4)Erin J.
A friend of mine took me here for a birthday dinner because she really enjoys the menu. I have to say, I was a little nervous based on some of the reviews here - I have little patience for poor service - but it ended well. We were seated in the back and reviewed the menu for about 5 minutes before a server came to take our drink order. They were out of the bottle of wine my friend had ordered, but it was half-price bottle night, so that was a bonus; she got a different bottle and it was delicious. We ordered the rather interesting-sounding "sweet potato fries with goat cheese fondue" as our starter. Fondue it wasn't - not even close - but I didn't really expect it to be. It was indeed good, it was just a really creamy goat cheese, probably mixed with something else, with herbes de provence (I think) mixed in. It was tasty. I ordered the burger and my friend got the chopped salad. The server seemed distracted and asked me twice what I wanted to order, which was...weird, but okay. He asked how I wanted it done and left. Only 10 minutes later our food was ready and it looked wonderful. Unfortunately, you could bounce my burger down the street, it was so overdone and rubbery. It took awhile to attract the attention of a passing server but my new burger was brought out mere minutes later, and perfect this time. We stayed a little longer, had another drink and left sated and happy. I wouldn't say it's destination dining by any means, but it seems to be a decent place to get some tasty food. It does seem to have a bit of an identity crisis, as others have mentioned; when you walk in it looks like a coffeeshop or a diner, and then in back it's a bar or a restaurant, and then further back still, there's a stage...something for everyone, I guess.
(3)Nessie V.
Don't really see what the hype is. First, I just wanted a cuppa and a place to sit down while drinking. I wouldn't think this was strange for a coffee shop. But we had to talk to 4 different people before they could figure out what to do with us. We ended up in the section with a waiter and menus and stuff. But if you want to sit down and not run out with your hot beverage, that's your only option apparently. Strange. I got soy chai. Something basic that rarely fails me. I could tell it was from one of those liquid concentrates, which is okay, but they didn't even mix it, and it was mostly syrup at the bottom. Maybe if I got my drink at a diner or something that would make sense, but at a cafe you think they would know their stuff. I'm willing to give these guys another chance, but i'm not holding my breath.
(2)Shannon M.
Took my mother here for lunch today to see how it compared to the other location. The look of the two places is about the same: wood, wood and more wood, with local artists on all the walls. The host led us through three rooms (each with a huge "Watch your step!" sign and uneven flooring in between) to get to the third (and not final; there was one beyond it) dining area. He was going to seat us at a table where one seat was a huge, deep window seat, but the collective family lumbar issues necessitated a table with more spinal support, so we were seated closer to the bar (and the speakers; music was blaring pretty loudly for so early in the day). We also had a pair of Lincoln Park moms (or nannies) ignoring their young charges next to us as they threw silverware and screamed; finally a man from another table leaned over and went, "SHHH!" to them (right on!) Our waitress was younger than me and was one of those people who kept calling both Mom and me "honey" and "my love," which weirds me out a little bit (I'm okay with old-lady waitresses doing it, like ones old enough to be my grandma, but not if they're younger than I am; we're not even in the South...); however, she was on top of the orders, kept drinks full and did not fade away at the end when we needed to deal with the check, so kudos to her. As a starter we ordered the sweet potato fries with goat cheese "fondue" (basically a cup of melted goat cheese, which tasted a lot better than it sounds). The fries were crunchy and insanely addictive, and the melty cheese was a nice alternative to the sweet accompaniments that often come with sweet potato fries (cinnamon creme fraiche, e.g.) For the meal, Mom had the chicken sandwich with avocado, swiss cheese, tomato and red onion on toasted bread, which she said was very good. She ate half and took half to go. I got the macaroni and cheese, which uses several types of cheese; it was topped with bread crumbs, which tasted not just dry but stale, though the macaroni was wonderfully creamy (I offset it with some pepper and Cholula hot sauce tableside for zest). Prices seem high for lunch; Mom's sandwich was $13 and my macaroni was $12. With the fries and a coffee lunch was almost $40. For two people that's a bit much in my book for a casual place.. An uncommonly good meal, perhaps, but the cost is grounds to quibble.
(3)Steve M.
I went on a Sunday morning for brunch with my family (9 people) to celebrate my niece's birthday. The waiter took half the orders then walked away without a word, leaving the other half of us to wonder when we'd get the chance to order. Weird, but okay. He came back and we finished ordering. The food arrived on a few different trays, so my girlfriend and I weren't immediately concerned when everyone except the two of us had their plates... ...but 10 minutes later this became something of an issue. When the waiter came back he explained that ours would be out in a few more minutes, and that this was totally his fault - though he remained completely emotionless in his delivery, and I get the sense that he was more sorry about having to be at work than he was about forgetting to put in our order. Okay, guy. This is the sound of your tip shrinking. It takes another 15 minutes for our food to show up. Most of my family have nearly finished eating, but we're hungry so we're still looking forward to eating. Then, after the first few bites, my girlfriend finds a hair in her food. Great. I'm thinking to myself that under better circumstances this might not have been the biggest deal, but these are not better circumstances. We send the plate back and don't ask for it to be replaced. I finish eating and excuse myself to use the restroom. While I'm in there, the waiter brings my niece's slice of birthday cake to the table and I miss singing 'happy birthday' with the rest of my family. Again, this alone wouldn't have been a big deal, but if I was in his position I'd want to make damn sure that nothing else happened to detract from my customers' experience. Absolutely shitty service, no apology, hair in food. I give this place one star for decor and one star for food, which is very good if it doesn't pass the barber shop on its way to your plate. I will not come back here, though I'm not opposed to trying my luck at the Devon location.
(2)Katherine R.
This was such an amazing restaurant for me and my boyfriend on a Friday night after work. We parked pretty far and walked through a concert line and upon entering Uncommon Ground there was a long bar and I kept looking at the far west back room hoping there would be an open table. The host was a perky and poignant young man who directed us to a far corner table to the north side of another room. The place was crowded with couples and large groups. Sitting by the window in an intimate corner near another couple was awkward and uncomfortable to be so far from the center of the restaurant. I thought our waiter might take forever but he was prompt. I ordered a salad and the dessert menu is delicious gelatos but what I remember most is the large cup of pumpkin spice expresso. This day was a special day because of the delicious food here that night. We also ordered sweet potato fries that were very fresh and soft, yet I like the slight crispy french fries as well here. I wanted to mention this hot melted white chocolate dessert.
(5)Manhoso C.
We decided on a whim to come here for sunday brunch. It wasnt super crowded, and there were plenty of empty tables. After being seated in the back area, we began to feed my 7month old as we looked thru the menu. After a good amount of time (my son was done with all his food, we all knew what we wanted, menus were closed and we were all looking around) we still were not even approached by the waitstaff. Suprise! We saw people who were seated after us being attended to. At this point I was ready to go but my wife being an old server herself, approached the manager and owner and told them of the situation. By the reaction on their faces, I then wanted to leave. Obviously common ground is meant for a certain group of people which we obviously werent a part of.
(1)Amy S.
I should have went with my gut and got coffee, but I went with a Chai Tea and it was SO sweet. All I could taste was the vanilla flavoring. However, my friend loved her coffee...I was so envious of her. We also each ordered a small sunshine salad (I think that's the name) and it was delicious. It had a great vinegarette on it, along with sunflower seeds, avocado, cucumbers, green peppers and mixed greens. Very fresh and tasty. I really want to go back to try out some of their other menu items...and a coffee!
(3)Dima M.
Let me just start by saying that I do not recommend going to this place on days when the Cubs are playing. Don't get me wrong, I'm a die hard Cubs fan, but I am no fan of their drunk and annoying fans. That being said, this place is very lovely. It has a lot of unique dishes, and a menu that is constantly changing. Apparently the menu changes with the seasons, and I love that. I am a big fan of their salads, as they are usually kind of fancy, but not too fancily-priced. The desserts are also worth trying, and usually you'll have enough space as their portions are not "American," i.e., they're not very large. The atmosphere is very laid back and the place is actually quite big with three different dining rooms, so it's quite big. The great thing is that they also have a full bar, so you're not limited on the drinks as you would in other restaurants. Also, sometimes they have live bands in the back room, but usually they're of the "we just left our suburban garage" variety. At least they sound like that. But hey, if you're into that, by all means, sit in the same room as them.
(4)Mike K.
I thought this place was actually just some fancy-smancy coffee shop which featured above average acoustic guitar players...luckily I was way off. I ended up here twice in one weekend, the first hanging out with some cool kids I worked with while being "non-profit boy". I was only thinking we'd meet up for coffee, maybe whatever snacks they had to offer, but UC offers some great options, and the kids jumped all over it! The prices weren't outrageous so I was able to cover all of our lunch, which always works, plus the kids absolutely loved their sandwiches. I next ended up here later with a friend from Milwaukee who was celebrating her (our) birthday. She said she had never been to a place quite like UC and their drink options were incredible. Pretty cool. Since I work right by this place I think I'll actually start making it my first coffee option, instead of the over-priced trip to Starbucks.
(5)Kyle C.
Uncommon Ground is my favorite restaurant in Chicago I love everything about Uncommon Ground. The ambiance is great! Winter finds a couple of fireplaces crackling and there are three different rooms including one with a bar. Summer brings back the fantastic outdoor eating area. They display local artists work throughout the year, and on any given night you can ask to be seated in the back to listen to some live music while you dine ($20 minimum per person for these tables isn't difficult to accomplish - Uncommon Ground doesn't qualify as cheap eats, although I wouldn't say they are astronomically expensive either). The menu is fantastic, and I've tried most that they have to offer. As other surveys have pointed out, the Sweet Potato Fries with Goat Cheese Fondue are a stand out - although I never seem to have enough cheese and order an extra helping half way through (which is an additional cost). Also raved about in other reviews, the Pumpkin Ravioli is astonishingly good, and unlike other places where I have ordered ravioli, the portion seems perfect. The best part is, they are very organic minded and buy locally, so everything is tastes fresh! Their menu has a lot of options for vegetarians and meat eaters alike! The drink menu is great too - they have a wonderful selections of tea and coffee, but they are known for their hot chocolates, as they should be! You can have them served to you in a mug or a bowl (that's right, a bowl!), and they even have a good selection of alcohol infused hot chocolate concoctions. Their brunch is also pretty great, and a lot easier to get seated at then Orange down the street. At times they have a decadent nutella stuffed french toast brioche that will make your mouth water. This is a great place for a date, and if you come on Tuesday you can enjoy their half-price bottle of wine night!
(5)Mark O.
I've only been to Uncommon Ground several times either for brunch or just for coffee. Every time the star has been service. This places hires people who know their stuff, are friendly, attentative, and seem to actually enjoy their jobs! The coffee and food are both very good. However, their cocktail list tries a little too hard to be creative and often fails to be good. Stick with a beer if you're looking for alcohol. My only real complaint is that the atmosphere is just odd. Is it a coffee shop, bar, restaurant, music venue? There's a TV showing college football, but also a fireplace in a loungey area with people sipping Chai and writing in journals. There's a lot of earthy wood and stone, but sorority girls and Cubs fans. Am I in Wrigleyville or some sort of hippie hunting lodge?
(3)Robin W.
Screw this place... I used to frequent for the serious folk musicians, and the Jeff Buckley, Glen Hansard crowds. I left town for a bit and when I returned they had upgraded to a martini bar, installed a fireplace, and hired a wait staff with that, "$!#K my life" smile on their faces. Everything is expensive...they really lost their soul on this one. Great for a consultant business meeting...or to impress your recent Trixie mistress.
(1)Nicolas H.
I guess the only reason I hadn't been here before is I thought it was only a coffee shop (and I don't really drink coffee). I have to say, I've definitely been missing out. The food is good, the drinks are even better and the service is friendly. Had it been a little cooler I may have even taken advantage of the outdoor seating. I tried a few different items, the best being the mac and cheese. It was pretty plain and simple, but that's how I like it (and they used good cheese). I also tried the stuffed pepper (with sausage) that came with a delicious homemade red sauce, as well as the grilled shrimp. The sausage in the pepper was pretty damn tasty, i'm just not a huge fan of green peppers, so I avoided that part. The shrimp was good as well, and was served with what appeared to be homemade guacamole which was tasty. I noticed they had some infused liquors atop of the bar, so I had a couple and they were delicious. The ginger whiskey drink was particulary good, just the right amount of ginger, not too overbearing. I also enjoyed their vodka version of an arnold palmer. Their beer selection ain't no joke either, some nice options on tap. Overall an unassuming spot that I will definitely frequent when i'm in the area...
(4)Bridget H.
I like Uncommon Ground - been many times and the food is always fresh, local, and tasty. They have a good bar selection and some good wine specials. I love the concept and space. The service is solid, but it often food takes a long time for food or drink to be served. It's also a bit pricy for serving size (but, of course, it's mostly local/organic, so I understand and am willing to pay). I'll continue coming to Uncommon Ground. Also: great mac and cheese, meatloaf, and sweet potato fries w/ goat cheese fondu!!
(4)Sharon S.
The place is a lot bigger than it seems at first. Came here with friends for brunch. I ordered the Winter Scrambler - housemade amish chicken sausage, spinach, leeks, capriole goat cheese. I think everyone else liked their food but I don't think I was a fan of goat cheese. It was just thick and I didn't like the texture. Though I did take it home and when I heated my leftovers back up, I liked it even more than before. Staff seemed super chill and nice. I'd probably give it another try. Nothing on their brunch menu seemed to please my eye though so I'd probably go back during a different part of the day.
(3)Clint W.
This place blows. Weak food, very unoriginal, would never go back, $19 for fuckin meat loaf? waste of my time and money
(1)Mindy S.
Local food, casual atmosphere, late night dining and drinks, friendly service, and environmentally conscious (no water at your table unless you ask). Uncommon Ground feels like a bit like a more upscale Pick-Me-Up Cafe (which I also would give 4 stars) and similar to Feast Restaurant. The Farm Burger melted in my mouth, and the Stuffed Portabella Mushroom Sandwich was not disappointing. Their peanut butter cup espresso drink was crazy good as well. They have live music on occasion, and accommodate groups easily in the 3 different dining rooms. A great neighborhood spot for a great meal, at a good price, in a warm atmosphere, serving local food.
(4)Anna G.
Uncommon ground is magic. It is my favorite coffeeshop-cum-music venue-cum-too-cool-for-me bar-cum-brunch-restaurant in all the land. I loved seeing my musician friend play here with his bluegrass-tango trio, Orange Mighty! The little twinkly lights in the back concert room do way more for atmosphere than strings of twinkly lights should. But I'm a sucker for warm wood and nice acoustics and knowing the band. Brunch is fab, and the weekend wait really isn't that bad. I recently had the whimiscal eggs benedict with asparagus, ramps (which don't *not* taste like grass), mushrooms and a lil' taste of heaven I like to call bearnaise sauce. Such a change up from the usually too-lemony-for-me hollandaise that plays in these entrees! And if you are going the creamy-sauce route ANYWAY, by all means go the whole nine and get one of their 800 calorie mocha latte coffee drinks that cost a million dollars but are served in bowls with four inches of whipped cream to help you feel eight years old again. Not a bad bar either- I'm not much for generic bars, but we went here for my friend Joe Swanberg's movie premiere (LOL- the name of the movie, that earlier part wasn't particularly funny, har-har) and really enjoyed the free apps and accommodating staff. Needless to say, I feel they value the arts, and I value that.
(4)J M.
I have been looking for a new restaurant to replace my favorite standby in the city where I just relocated from, and Uncommon Ground has officially been elected as the winner tonight. My husband and I were a bit thrown off my the Wrigley location (i.e. loud Cubs fans who tend to drink a bit too much, talk too loud, and take up a lot of sidewalk), but we were pleasantly surprised at how great this restaurant was and will just have to look past the location. We dined al fresco (which was quiet and pleasant despite the fact that a mere block or two away were drunk Cub fans) and both ordered burgers. I ordered the veggie burger and my husband the real McCoy. I'd say this was the best veggie burger I've ever had, which says a lot since I order them frequently and have had them all over the world. I also went with the sweet potato fries and probably enjoyed them a little too much (I'll run an extra mile or two tomorrow). My husband's burger was scrumptious as well considering he finished his in record time and started zeroing in on mine. Love this restaurant. Can't wait to try their other location.
(5)Not J B.
Fun fact: Part of Andersonville is located in Wrigleyville inside this building or rather, this place doesn't seem like it should be located here but it's nice that ti's here. Anyways, the artichoke-spinach dip is the best I've had anywhere and the menu items are made up of individual ingredients that sound amazing by themselves but put together... B l i s s Bonus cool points for only serving water when it's requested.
(4)Nicole V.
LOVE the mac & cheese! Whether breakfast or dinner, I always enjoy myself at Uncommon Ground. I've had great experiences with both the service and food. I especially like Tuesday nights because they offer 1/2 price bottles of wine. In addition to dining, many different forms of entertainment are available in the evenings, which makes the overall feel of the space fun and relaxing.
(4)P S.
My friend John was playing a set in the back room at Uncommon Ground a few weeks ago, so we went to see him and maybe get some warm coffee beverages. The staff was friendly, the warm coffee beverages were fantastic (the spiked hot cider and 'The Devil & Mrs Johnson' in particular) and the tea served in a big pot - I had a lot of warm beverages that night. We ordered the sweet potato fries with warm cheese dip but they weren't that great. They'd been sitting for a while so they weren't very warm, and so I figured it would be a better place for a warm beverage than food. Wrong. Way wrong. Three weeks later, we returned to see the same friend play a longer set. The back room was packed, but as soon as a few girls left we jumped on their seats toute d'suite! First a bowl of fire-red calamari walked past us, then a pyramid of what turned out to be duck, then a dessert... it was all too much. We ordered a small salad for me as well as the meatloaf, and the calamari for the boyfriend. The calamari was, in his words, 'the best calamari' he'd 'ever eaten in' his 'life'. It was fantastic, I will attest. Korean chili - not hot, just amazingly savory and flavorful. The bacon-wrapped meatloaf with sauteed spinach and onions was to die for. It was smoky and flavorful all the way through. The little salad was great too with a lovely light peanuty vinagarette. I was completely impressed, I truly didn't expect Uncommon Ground to have such great food. The service was friendly if not pretty slow, both in back with our server (who had the whole room to himself, fair enough) and up front at the bar where our glasses sat empty longer than they perhaps should have. The bartenders are always quick with drink suggestions though and are friendly. It's a wonderful place on a cold night, a hungry night or a quiet night with a good book and a whiskey-spiked warm beverage.
(5)Dan R.
I went here for my birthday on the recommendation from a friend. It was soooo good. It's been a long time since I've been to a place that has a wonderful atmosphere, excellent food and super friendly waitstaff. We had a table near the super-cozy fireplace and coffee bar. The coffee bar looks like the kind of place you would get coffee with someone on a first-date kind of experience. I had the "duck-duo." Absolutely delicious and plated in a really fun way. The friends I was with had the meatloaf (it's HUGE and possibly the best meatloaf I've ever tasted), red-pepper stuffed gnocchi (yummola), and the pumpkin ravioli-- which were divine. Literally everyone's meal looked wonderful and tasted even better. I can't wait to go back. It is a little pricey but totally worth it for special occasions. Our server, Brittney, was super friendly and put up with us calling her "Brit" and then "Christina" after we'd had a couple bottles of wine.
(5)TJ B.
Check out the new Rogers Park local. Much hipper than its Wriggleyville sister. The owners are great people, who care about improving the neighborhood. Beside their converting their own waste vegetable oil to power their cars and the community garden recently installed on the roof, they make a knock out dinners. Great beers...with Matilda(Goose Island) on tap being a big draw. Try their homemade bloody mary, for which they steep their vodka in 7 different vegetables. Food and drink is very overpriced, but they give you such a good dining experience, that you forget you are paying 11 dollars for a glass of wine.
(3)Rebecca G.
I've played music here a handful of times, and although I enjoy the food and the overall experience, Uncommon Ground has got to be one of the most overrated places I know. The prices are really high. Don't get me wrong; the food is good. I understand if things are organic, that makes for a bigger price tag. It's just that there are few places I know of that charge so much for beer. The music experience, at least for the musician, leaves a lot to be desired. For starters, it's a strictly bring-your-own-audience venue. They stuff you into this little tiny room in the back where no one sits unless they are your friends there to see you. There are only a handful of tables, so at our last show that we played, half of our friends had to go home because there was no where to sit/stand. (Maybe we're just popular.) And the open mic night is also pretty boring these days. I know many of my fellow open mic-ers and myself do not attend UG's open mic anymore because of the current host who is extremely annoying. ************ 6-25-09 I'm reposting because my last experience sucked. I went to see my friends played music there, and they were great. However, my favorite menu item had gone up in price, and the portion had gone significantly down in size (I'm referring to the calamari). I'm taking away a star, you bastards.
(2)Misse D.
"What are you doing this weekend?" "I'm going to a movie and then to Uncommon Ground for dinner." "Uncommon Ground serves dinner? I thought it was a coffeeshop." Yup. I must have had the conversation a half dozen times. Apparently, no one knows that Uncommon Ground serves dinner. Maybe that is why they gave a $10 gift certificate in the yelp goodie bag? Back to the meal. We were asked if we wanted to hear live music. We declined and sat in the middle room, which is very cozy with a fireplace and large bar. Our waitress brought us some water and menus. While we decided on dinner, she also brought a glass of delicious wine for a mere $8. Famished, I devoured my cheeseburger in about five minutes. It came with a choice of a side, I opted for the salad. It was good enough but nothing extra ordinary. The meal was very reasonable. I would recommend for anyone looking a relaxing meal in a laid back atmosphere.
(4)Kevin T.
Decent food, locally sourced. Mix of bar, cafe and live events. Great place meet up and hang out. Friendly staff.
(3)Kim B.
I've been to Uncommon Ground a few times for brunch and I absolutely love their Uncommon Huevos (black bean corn cake, eggs over easy, ancho-chili sauce & chihuahua cheese). They are to die for and well-worth the wait for a table. I've also had their French Toast Duo, and it is tasty! The space has a great laid back feel and warm, cozy sitting area in addition to the usual tables & chairs. I haven't had a chance to check them out for dinner yet, but I really need to. They have live music at night and feature art from local artisans. Their website is really helpful, so make sure to check it out!
(4)matty z.
What I love about UG: -excellent food (yay chili) -GREAT coffee -great beer selection -nice wine selection -good martini specials What I think could be improved: -if you're crowded, you're crowded. It's not the customer's fault. Just be cool to your patrons! -some items a little overpriced overall, recommend, especially for brunch (fantastic) and calm drinks after work or early evening.
(4)Kristin R.
Unfortunately I have just discovered this place. Although, considering I have only been in the Chicago area a couple of months now, I guess that is not too bad. Anyway, there are a number of things that makes this place really cool. 1) They are environment friendly! The first Thursday of every month they have an event with live music and they feature a local non profit that sort of fits into their overall scheme. For example, the last time I was there they featured an organization that buys and sells purses, artifacts that have been fairly traded. 2) Along the lines of been green conscious, they have a drink called the "tree-tini". It is made with rain vodka and for every tree-tini sold, rain vodka has agreed to plant a tree. How cool is that?! And you can buy them any time you want, not just on the first Thursdays of the month. The tree-tinis are seasonal so they change it up every quarter. 3) All of their drinks/food are organically grown. I'm not too into being "organic", like I don't spend the extra money to buy organic at the grocery store, but I appreciate those who do. So, thanks Uncommon Ground. 4) They feature live music pretty frequently, so I hear. They definitely feature live music first Thursdays. This past Thursday was a great band (forget their name, ugh) who sang some pretty kick back music. I loved the guy's voice and it helped that he was pleasing to the eye. The second act was Green E: Green Elvis. This guy is a CRACK UP. ( greenelvis.com ). He is an elvis impersonator that uses Elvis' iconic rock status to teach and inspire people to be more environmentally conscious. He does a lot for the local schools and I can only imagine that the kids get a kick outta him. 4) Oh the food...such great comfort food. There are so many things I want to try so I will be coming back here very soon but what I did have was delicious: squash soup and the macaroni and cheese. The soup, fabulous. The mac n' cheese could have used some salt but hey, it's mac n' cheese so I'll like it no matter what. Other dishes on the menu that will surely satisfy the palette: pumpkin raviolis, sweet potato fries, calamari, a collection of gourmet pizzas, the duck quesadillas, to name a few. 5) The cocktails. They have a ton of martinis to choose from. I chose the ginger martini; it was fabulous. My friend Kirsten F. chose a pretty strong one with maker's mark and coffee beans floating atop...not for me but if you like maker's mark and want to get drunk real fast, this may be the drink for you. Oh and don't forget about that tree-tini! The only downside is that the cocktails are definitely on the pricey side. My cocktail and glass of wine each cost me $20. All in all this is a great little place to hang out, get a great cocktail, eat some all-American, top of the line grub and also feel good about giving your business to a restaurant/bar that is looking out for good ol' Mother Nature.
(5)Karyn K.
I go by Uncommon Ground everyday on my way to work and finally went in. My friend and I were happily surprised with the brunch menu at 1pm on MLK Day. I had the roast turkey sandwich with the AMAZING sweet potato fries. My friend had an omelet, which she enjoyed. A little bit more expensive than a traditional sandwich and omelet, but delicious. Our waitress was a bit off, but she went with the feel of the place. Want to go back sometime when wine will be involved.
(4)Kathryn M.
I've been wanting to visit Uncommon Ground for years...but somehow never made it there until a week ago. The future husband and I each had a Monday off and decided to fuel up between errands at Uncommon Ground. We were greeted by a very friendly host at the door and were seated in the back section at a table by the windows. Two tables are by the windows and one person gets to sit on the window ledge with comfy pillows. Our waiter was very friendly and joked around with us. We both went with the burger and I had a side salad. All the food is organic, local, and sustainable, which is great. Makes me feel like I'm doing something good for the planet just by eating! Our food was wonderful. The art work is wonderful. The servers are wonderful. Overall, it's just wonderful. Can't wait to go back and try some of the delicious sounding cocktails!
(5)Barbara D.
I just love the feel when you walk into this place. It has a huge bar smack in the middle and gives the cool atmosphere of a drunken poet's hangout cafe. Their selection of food is so varied...from irish oatmeal to nachos to amish chicken. I also like that they have an outside dining area in the summer. I should go here more often.
(4)S P.
Deelicious! I love that their menu changes every few weeks, it keeps me wanting to come back and try something new. I've never been disappointed here for breakfast or lunch. I love the mexican inspired hot chocolate! Last time I went, I got the pumpkin ravioli with gorgonzola sauce and sweet potato fries with goat cheese fondue..yum!!
(5)Brook G.
I can't say enough good things about Uncommon Ground. We've been there several times and it's always amazing. The portions aren't huge, but the food is so rich in flavor, that you really don't need a giant plateful to feel full. Yea, it's a little pricey, but some of the entrées are like something I've never tasted before. It's really the only place I can justify spending over $50 for dinner. Always worth it.
(5)Ross W.
Great food. Portions were small for the price. Left hungry :-(
(4)Y R.
This is based on a dinner experience I had last night. Starting with the good: The atmosphere was fun...I liked the mix of cafe, restaurant, and live music. I also like the fact that they aim to use fresh local ingredients. The local craft beer selection was also very good. The Bad: The food was really not prepared well. My husband ordered the crispy chicken and it was not seasoned at all. The chicken was also overcooked, so it was just a pile of chewy flavorless meat. Luckily the sides that came with the dish had some flavor. I got the pork loin, and though it was well-seasoned, it had the same issue of being overcooked and tough. I couldn't finish it. The Worst: I don't know what exactly happened, but both of us fell really sick afterwards. We both had horrible stomach pains and I got so bad that I threw up my whole dinner. Probably never going back again for dinner...maybe for coffee or beer+live music.
(2)Ellen B.
Brunch all the way here. I've found their dinners lacking, but brunch is amazing. And their brunch cocktails are wonderful. Coffee is great, though it takes a bit. Service is hit or miss too. But in the summer when their patio is open, can't be beat for brunch. It's just too delicious.
(4)Drew S.
Once you get over the schizophrenia of this establishment you may well learn to love it. The food is generally pretty solid and occasionally interesting(the good kind), both the bar and normal styles. I think I rather like this place- especially now that I've tried their duck confit quesadillas- they are amazing. The first room has a regular bar and tables that may or may not be bar or restaurant seating- I don't think it matters but it's a little confusing. There is original artwork on the walls that you can buy if you'd rather get rid of the couple hundred bucks weighing your man-purse down. The second room is a coffee shop with baristas sporting ironic mustaches. There is also a fire. The back room is for eating and live music, usually pretty decent acoustic acts. Despite its proximity to Wrigley Field the d-bag factor runs pretty low, or maybe the d-bags get held up in the front by the bar and never find out there's a live band they could unironically be shouting "freebird!" at. Also, people should go back and see the bands, it's totally empty back there sometimes and packed everywhere else- the groups are always solid even if they're not your cup of tea.
(4)Yan P.
It's a rare thing to find a cafe/restaurant that gets everything right: free wifi? check. Great food? check. Their food menu actually borders on innovative, and it is quite tasty contemporary american fare. Coffee? yes. Beer? A great selection of craft beers. Outlets and comfortable couches to work on, and a restaurant section if you want to dine in. Oh, and they have live music. So why only four stars and not five? Price. The one thing stopping this from being my daily office when I work from home is that I'd probably be paying 20-30 bucks a day while working here, when I can get away with a ten dollar tab at Kafein. I can see paying the dinner prices for the great food they provide. But if you want me to work there all day and eat lunch and snacks, try lowering your prices by a couple dollars. The air of upscale exclusivity works well for a dinner but probably doesn't do wonders for the business during the daytime when a more casual and less pricy atmosphere is called for.
(4)Kunal B.
Wow, I spent so much money here. But I'd say it is worth it. They have a small beer selection, but definitely some interesting martinis. The food here is fantastic, but you have to go with the specials or the big plates. I'd say, coming here knowing you are going to spend AT LEAST $30 is the best way to come prepared. There are a lot of good things to try, so this is not a place I can go, hold back, and be happy. I will give them credit for finding the ONE beer in the world that I do not like, the Left-Handed Milk Stout. Yes, that's the name, and that's why I tried. It tasted like someone poured milk into beer, which very well may be the case, but it was hard to choke down. I may have to give it another try. A very cool environment with 3 separate rooms, the bar area in the front, the middle bar/coffee/kitchen area, and the back room where the music is. Another nice thing is, aside from the music, the seating is very open, so they can't pack the restaurant with too many people. One time there was a baby there, and that ruined the mood, but that is what babies often tend to do. Can't blame them, they are babies. My first meal there was the Grilled Buffalo Ribeye, and the Samuel Smith organic lager. The potatoes are so good. They put some magic sauce which I think is made from gold, sugar, and cocaine. It is so good. Save half the potatoes and eat them next time you come home from the bar and you are drunk. You will probably punch your roommate in the face because they are so good. That's what I did.
(4)Mary C.
Was very turned off by this place. Came with a midsized group and was told we couldn't have a table unless we were all ordering dinner. We all were going to order drinks and they didn't even care to hear it. We were forced to sit at the bar, which was extremely awkward when you're trying to do a table read with a bunch of actors. Thanks for being so accommodating!
(1)Claire A.
I love Uncommon Ground. Fireplaces, couches, wine and drinks, live music, friendly servers (though usually very busy), etc. Pumpkin ravioli = amazing deliciousness. I enjoy the aspect of their fresh, seasonal menu. However, I've seen plates come out that don't have too much on them for the price they're asking. But I'm broke, so maybe that's just me. Fun ambience, relaxing, not always quiet, and you can always find something appealing on the menu because it changes.
(4)Dallas F.
It should be noted that this review is based off of two items on the menu. Those items being macaroni and cheese and the passion fruit lemonade. I am very discriminating when it comes to mac and cheese because I like to think I invented it. Uncommon Ground has some damn good macaroni and cheese. Its downright exceptional. If you take me here, be warned that if you order their mac and cheese I will probably eat off your plate. Smacking my hand doesn't work to stop me. Now on to the lemonade. I am slightly addicted to passion fruit flavored things. They have passion fruit lemonade! It's delish! I am really looking forward to the opening of the one on Devon Ave.
(4)Jon W.
Went there for Sunday Brunch, Amazingly good!!!! Their distinct, organic Bloody Mary's are only $5 and very very tasty. I had their Chilaquiles, wow, they are very satisfying and they had just right amount of heat. Good move on my part. Also, one of us had their Granola Pancakes, WOW. Were those amazing, huge! and very very very good. I highly recommend making reservations for this time, as it is a popular place.
(4)Jill S.
This was a spectacular spot for brunch. My bf and I went and have only positive things to say about the place. We contemplated getting fun drinks (they had many) but ended up with just mimosas. He ordered the french toast which was in a raspberry sauce served with bananas and macadamia nuts. I'm surprised he shared a bite, but very glad he did. However, I did like my dish loads more! I got the chilaquiles and fell in love. I am a mexican food fiend, and uncommon ground did not disappoint. There was plenty to share too and came with potatoes which were delicious. I cannot wait to go back and I would definitely call this a go-to brunch spot! Cool decor, and fast service.
(4)Lauren S.
I really like this place a lot. I wish I remembered it more when my fiance and I are trying to think if places to go. I've never had a bad experience. The food is always wonderful. Get the sweet potato fries to share with your party, so good. I love the atmosphere so much. Its so cute. I haven't gotten to sit outside yet. I look forward to summer so I can change that!
(5)Tammy Q.
I've seen this place a couple of times and have always heard that they had great brunch. However, I wasn't here for brunch for my Uncommon Ground experience. Instead, I came here for lunch one day. Upon entering, I seriously thought I would hate the "wholesomeness" of the place. Since I wanted to eat healthy that day, I decided on the veggie burger with sweet potato fries -- alright not that healthy. Service was pretty fast and the staff were way friendly. After the first bite of my veggie burger, I was in love. I could taste the cheese, grains and bits of mushroom ooze out of that sucker. It was a super flavorful burger. Who needs cow when you've got rice!
(4)James C.
I always passed this place thinking it was a coffee house. It's huge with endless rooms! The aroma walking to my table alone was almost enough for a food coma! At first the menu looked a wee bit pricey. When you begin to read what is on it, those thoughts flutter out of your head. I had the sweet potato and short rib hash. Two eggs sat on top of this masterpiece and my mouth ignored conversation while I had one of the best, unique food in awhile! I am ready to go back and try some more creations!
(4)James D.
I've eaten here many times, and I've never had a bad meal. It is consistently a good experience. My most recent visit was Sunday brunch, and of course it didn't dissappoint. Delicious!
(5)Victoria S.
The first two times I came here I loved it (which is why I'm giving 3 stars instead of 1)- the salads and sweet potato fries were made with quality ingredients and large portions. The third time I came left much to be desired. Our waiter could not have been worse- he was actually rude and generally a bit ignorant about how waiters are supposed to treat their customers. He asked us to move half way through dinner --unless we wanted to pay the "cover charge" to sit in the back room. Why didn't they tell us about that when we were first seated? And couldn't you waive the cover in this instance since we didn't care to see the live music anyway and just came for dinner but were already seated? It seemed crazy to make us move. The salad I got was almost all lettuce, and I had to search to find other ingredients. Definitely was a disappointment considering I wanted to really like this place and make it a regular spot.
(3)Jasmine J.
Dinner at Uncommon Ground tonight was great! We split the sweet potato fries for our first course and they were the best I've ever had. I chose the lettuce wrap appetizer for my entree and my beau had the chicken sandwich. I LOVED the wraps. I would eat them everyday if they didn't make my breath so damn bad. My beau felt equally pleased with his sandwich. The service was great, too. We'll be back.
(5)Brooke R.
One of my favorites in our neighborhood! I could eat the calamari every day of my life. Great for dinner and for brunch and they have great drinks, too. I love to go here on a Saturday morning and get a latte and some breakfast or go here on a cold Chicago night and sit by the fire and have a good drink.
(5)Gina M.
The. Best. Bloody. Marys. in the City!!! I do not throw this comment around lightly since I consider myself a bloody mary expert. The vodka is soaked in garlic or something like that to add that extra amazement. I went here for brunch a few Sundays ago and i still cant stop talking about it! The french press coffee! The organic food! The friendly waitstaff! If I could eat every meal from their ever-changing menu I would. I will be back again (and again)!
(5)Vanessa P.
This place knows how to do brunch correctly. There are a bevy of options to suit both sweet and savory tastebuds. I had the uncommon breakfast melt and I think my favorite part was the onion black bread. It was absolutely delicious. My friend had the chilaquiles and we split the granola pancakes, which had just the right amount of granola in it. The server was great and even apologized when he thought he was ignoring us (he wasn't). I would definitely be back.
(4)Jackie S.
Pros- Food, coffee and beer are pretty good. Cons- Totally overpriced and most of the servers are emotionless.
(2)Carlo G.
This place is uncommonly good. The specialty mixed drinks are always a unique blend of ingredients and certifiably delicious. I had a "tom waits for no man" on a recent trip, it was so good, I had it again. The food is relatively good, the "cumin chorizo stuffed chicken", is highly recommended. Avoid the pizzas altogether. Great place to run in a grab a coffee, too. Also, a nice compromise for the dinner party of herbivore meets carnivore. Reservations are recommended and hard to come by on weekends, walk in early and try to nab a table before dinner rush.
(4)Wade F.
On a cold morning the huge caffeinated drink served in the equivalent of a soup bowl was wonderful, Semi-interested staff and a bit on the high side of price brings it down a bit. On the way out the manager made sure to be pleasant which was a nice touch.
(3)Drea C.
If you want to go someplace where the inside feels like the outside, then this is it! When I walked into the bathroom, I thought I accidentally opened a secret door to the rainforest. Trippy. On Mondays all their drafts are four buckaroos. Which is purty sweet considering all their tappers are high class. Weissy dicey. HOWEVER, if you go here for the open mic night be prepared to sit awkwardly for a good two hours. Their "Listening Room" is almost like a creepy version of storytime. Everyone sits in a circle, surrounding the performer and no one is allowed to speak. I think people literally glared at me when I tried to sip my beer... I don't know. Maybe I'm just a paranoid freak but I think open mics THIS intense should not be held at a bohemian-esque, ultra hip cafe/ bar. It only made this place seem weird and less urban. I didn't know there were people that took themselves this seriously. I would hate to see a poetry reading here. I'd probably die from holding my breath for so long. But really... if you like the woods, you'll totally dig the decor. If you like feeling comfortable and being able to move around and stuff, you will probably want to kill yourself.
(3)C Y.
A must when stopping into Chicago. What's better than huge cups of quality latte and delicious food? And specialty lattes with Jim Bean? Hook a sister up. Great ambiance, indie-rock feeling. One of my favorite places to go when I'm in the windy city.
(5)Adam P.
One of my favorite places, for either breakfast or dinner. The breakfasts are all really interesting, but if you're going for the simple omelette, or plain pancakes, then go elsewhere. If you're looking for your pancakes to have wheat germ and maybe a berry topping that you've never heard of, then Uncommon Ground is your place. I for one like a little variety in my breakfast, in my opinion I could make myself some plain pancakes, bring on the berry that I can't even pronounce! For a dish that can't be beat, I think the breakfast burrito is one of the best I've ever had. It's not just eggs and salsa in a tortilla, it has peppers, chicken and a great sauce. The dinners are just as interesting and usually as good. For a side dish be sure to order the sweet potato fries, which were not on the menu before, but could be ordered if you asked for them. The reviews that state it is a little expensive are correct, but in my opinion it is worht it. Oh yeah, and if you're into health conscious food, most of the dishes are organic. This will be the second review that I've written this week saying that a trip to the restaraunt is not complete without a trip to the bathroom, but it is true here too. The bathrooms are unisex, so don't worry if you are waiting and someone of the opposite sex comes out, this is normal. Once you get in the bathroom, the dreary Chicago winter will leave you far behind, and you will enter a wonderful Chicago fall day. Don't believe me, try it out for yourself!
(5)Michelle L.
This is my go-to, fancy Sunday breakfast location. However, I go when I have time and a few extra bucks in my pocket. The wait can be a little long because the staff doesn't rush you like a typical diner breakfast spot and there are lots of families (i.e. strollers taking up space where you could be sitting). I love their coffee and Red Hen bread...and the menu makes you feel like you are eating healthy. I haven't been for drinks but I'm waiting for the Devon Ave location to open up!
(4)Janis W.
I thought the prices were good. My tea was piping hot and stayed hot throughout the time it took me to finish off the pot. This is major! Our waiter was brusque and certainly wished he was somewhere else. We sat near the fireplace on a cold snowy night, but it wasn't turned on. So we weren't as comfy- cozy as we could've been if we'd had a nice waiter and a roaring fire.
(2)Rebecca H.
Uncommon Ground has some of the best brunch in the city, and with such a welcoming comfortable atmosphere, who wouldn't go there. even though its a big space, it still somehow manages to be very cozy. the portions of the food are generous which is great because too many restaurants are going foodie-style and giving you the tiniest portions on the hugest plates. its a good value here too, its not super cheap but the quality of what you are getting is miles above the price. this place gets six stars because they have a fireplace, and at this time of year its a no brainer to hit this spot.
(5)Char Y.
We were hungrily driving and saw this place on Clark St. There was no wait on a weekday afternoon, and we were seated immediately. Our waitress was super friendly & helpful with the menu, and we ordered the sweet potato fries, hamburger, and pizza. Everything was flavorful and fresh, and I honestly couldn't stop eating! The pizza was PAPER THIN with lots of cheese. I also appreciated the fact that the restaurant serves local ingredients from local farmers. Localvores!
(4)hapa l.
I loved the the millman burger which is made wtih half pound angus beef, nueske peppercorn bacon, boursin cheese & piquillo peppers! The burger is HUGE but I split it with a friend. I also got the Sunshine salad with organic veggies and a warm rhubarb tart with goat cheese vanilla gelato. We sat outside and it was very relaxing.
(4)Kate M.
Uncommon Ground has all the right elements - from the cozy atmosphere, the attentive service, and delicious sustainable food options. I went there for a small birthday party, but walked in and loved the shape of the bar and the cozy fireplace sitting area - I would for sure come back and sit in either of those two areas. The service was prompt and attentive and had great recommendations to make regarding the specials and food selections. It was great to go to a restaurant where local, sustainable food is the focus - without being pretentious or having a strange selection of those foods. The drinks were great, $6 martinis on Thursdays, and the wine and beer list was also creative and fun with many great options to choose from. The food was delicious and creative - salads, appetizers, and entrees. We split the appetizer veg roll with this creative cheddar sauce - very inventive and delish. Next, the sunrise salad which was so fresh, crisp and the sunflower seeds were a great added crunch. My entree and treat of the evening was the pumpkin ravioli - WOW. It was savory, sweet and tart experience that my whole table wowed over. It was rich between the pasta (very tender pasta, well made) and the pumpkin and cheeses (blue and parm) - but the overall taste was incredible punctuated by the pecans. Just goes to show, even at an organic, sustainable driven restaurant - you can still indulge!! The chocolate crème brule was a little intense even for a dessert lover - I would recommend the inventive s'mores which was out of this world. Overall, a great experience that I would go back to and bring some more friends and family to enjoy!
(4)Alexander F.
Nothing in the ambiance of this place, from the loud patrons to the hippie waiter, hints at the surprisingly high the quality of their food. Everything my date and I got was absolutely delicious, and the presentation was impeccable. They even have The Bitter End Pale Ale on tap.
(4)Chicago A.
Wow. My husband and I had been craving this place for a couple of weeks and we went on St. Patricks day and ordered their special....a corned beef eggs benedict. Gross. It tasted like they threw some cabbage and shredded beef in boiling water, drained the water, and put it on top of some bread. No taste at all. I'm just glad that we shared and didn't have to waste. I had an iced coffee drink that was pretty good. Service was fine.
(2)Chris C.
I repeatedly return to Uncommon Ground for all meals because it has always been consistently delicious. There is always something new and adventurous on the menu and their drink selection--from coffees and teas to alcohol--is fantastic. It is slightly pricey, but the extra cost is definitely worth the high end ingredients and superb taste. I highly recommend this restaurant.
(4)Jennifer L.
If I was writing this review based on my first visit, I'd give Uncommon Ground four stars. Unfortunately for them, I'm writing this based on my last visit. I came to UG specifically to see one of my favorite singer/songwriters perform. Now, ask yourself - if you were going to see a singer in a coffeshop, would you think to make reservations? Didn't think so. Unfortunately, UG is more concerned with turning over tables than they are with being a venue for live music, so the only people who get to sit in the little music room are patrons with dinner reservations. This is bad for a) the performers. At the show I attended, the singer actually had to ask the audience to stop talking over her performance. She shouldn't have to do that. A little bit of talking is ok. A lot is rude. b) the fans, since they can't sit and might not even be allowed to stand due to limited standing room and the Draconian hostess c) the diners who aren't fans. They probably didn't like being shushed, and chances are they wanted to be in a quieter room where they could talk over dinner. So despite enjoying a good coffee drink on my first visit, Uncommon Ground won't be getting my business any time soon. It's an awful place to see a show.
(1)Liz P.
My first dining experience here was pretty great. Their fried calamari appetizer was great--the sauce is really unique but delicious. For my entrée I had the salmon and it was delicious. The server was really nice and informative, and I love how the restaurant uses local and sustainable ingredients. It's like a bar-restaurant-cafe in one so there's a little bit of something for everyone. I'll definitely go back.
(4)Isla E.
I haven't been here in a couple of years. But the two times that I got salad there they were good salads. And I eat a lot of vegetables. The reason it gets 5 stars is because if someone asks you, "do you wanna go to brunch?", and the idea of eating some variation of green eggs and ham in the morning causes some anxiety, you can go to Uncommon Ground. Because that way the green eggs and ham-liking person will be happy, and you also have several items to choose from. I know I ordered a salad here once at maybe 10:30am and no one looked at me funny. If your feeling naughty, you can even sneak a bite of your friends green eggs and ham while they are waiting in line for the bathroom. (Small bathroom..nbd...its not a sporting event.)
(5)Julia W.
I'm a fan of Uncommon Ground. I went on a Monday night a week ago & it was fantastic as usual. I had the special gnocchi with a corn puree sauce. Sounds weird, I know but it was INSANE! So good! The salmon appetizer was great, as is the spicy chili calamari. It's probably a good and bad thing that the menu always changes. I like it but I am also a creature of habit & like to get the same thing over & over if it's something I like. Our waiter was attentive, nice, and descriptive... He tolerated all of my questions...
(5)Ryan C.
I've eaten here a few times. I originally had thought the staff was somewhat unfriendly unless I had a lip ring or a indy band t-shirt. Turns-out the staff is very friendly, just a little on the strange side, that's all. For example, one of the first times I had eaten at Uncommon Ground, we had an awkward exchange with our waiter. When we asked how his day was going, he paused, then cracked his knuckles and said "Phenomenal!" in a low voice. Ok. I quickly forgot about that weirdo when I got my food. The Millman burger is quite possibly one of the best burgers I've ever had. Try it. I also like the whole wheat pancakes. I'm not much of a breakfast person, so I can't really experience Uncommon Ground to the fullest, but overall the food I've had is very good. I would consider fancy comfort food. Couple things to be cautious of...menu is a little pricey, but not bad. And there are always kids/families. You would think this place is located on Southport. Overall, good experience.
(4)B J.
This is a very nice place near Wrigley Field. Good food and great service. A GREEN restaurant which uses locally grown! Nice environment to relax. the sweet potato fries were great as was the gnocchi , and the potato cooked in duck fat! Nice!
(5)Jason P.
Nothing special. Decided to stop in here on a Saturday afternoon and it was busy but not super crowded. You can get the same type of coffee from any other place in Chicago, so it's not like the menu is super inventive. The cool art work on the walls adds a different dimension to Uncommon Ground that you won't find anywhere else. We sat in the back area, and it was less than desirable. It would of been better had we sat in the front (i think). Will give it another fair chance though.
(3)Arlene A.
I've just finished the UG version of Spinach Florentine, and I must say it was expertly done. The black bread on the bottom was perfectly toasted, and tasty. Eggs done with the yolks perfectly dippable. Bacon crispy, but not too. My server was awesome, he was pretty busy on the porch and inside, but didn't miss a beat. Gave great instruction on the press pot. Definitely will be back.
(3)Danielle R.
Everything I've tried here has been really good from breakfast to dinner, coffee to alcohol. The prices are a bit high but I like knowing that the quality of everything is high as well. Would definitely recommend to others.
(5)Craig R.
I went to uncommon ground for the first time today, a Sunday afternoon, for an early dinner. It's in a convienent location, super nice space, and friendly wait staff. I had the pumpkin ravioli which was excellent. The salads also looked great, and the artichoke and goat cheese appetizer was good too. The waittress did forget my small salad though, but everything else was so good I can't hold it against them. I'm super excited to make this a place I visit regularly.
(4)Jennifer D.
Pretty sure I died and went to foodie heaven. Everything I had here was excellent, all local and organic, the staff were friendly and accommodating, and the atmosphere is charming and warm. Best meal I've had out in a long time!
(5)Julie H.
Food? good Service? alright Garnishes on my Bloody Mary? MOLDY!!! Let me explain... my big, tasty Bloody Mary arrived with a colorful skewer of garnishes, as all Bloody Marys should. There was a cool-colored cucumber; and then some bright, festive bell peppers in red, yellow, and green - topped off in blue and white fur! Now I know its not really part of the meal, but who doesn't love to snack on garnishes whilst drinking a Bloody? And what are the moldy garnishes saying about the overall quality control of the rest of the place? 1-800-NERVOUS. I think what troubles me the most is the number of people that handled the moldy peppers before they were served to me... theres the person that selects the peppers, washes the peppers, slices the peppers, skewers the peppers, and lastly the bartender that selects the skewer, places it atop my drink, and serves me said drink. Someone had to notice that mold, people! Shame on you, Uncommon Ground. Shame. UPDATE: I was in Wrigleyville last weekend and decided to try Uncommon Ground for brunch again. It was a gorgeous day and they were happy to seat us outside (with dog in tow). I even brought my parents and decided not to mention to them what happened last time. The food was fresh and delicious, no mold in site (well, I didn't order a Bloody Mary). I had a chopped salad, served just the way I like it (finely chopped, of course). Congrats, Uncommon Ground - you just earned yourself another star from me. And I will happily remove you from my "Hatorade" list.
(3)Katie K.
I went here last night for my first time to see my friends band play. It was definitely nicer than I was expecting but as soon as we walked in, we were extremely disappointed by the service. The host was friendly but had no idea what he was doing. He had to ask his manager multiple times if they could seat my boyfriend and I in the back room where the music was twice and never communicated to us what the issue was. While we were waiting (confused) we grabbed a drink at the bar. The bartender was friendly but not very accomodating when asked for recommendations (fancier beers here, no bud lights). Finally the manager came over to tell us we could try to sit in the back room with the music. When we asked what time the bands were playing- he had literally no idea of the band names or time. The place wasn't busy, it was a Tuesday night, and he had no idea what was going on in his own restaraunt. And seemed appauled we would even ask him. Once we sat down, our server was decent. We ordered a bottle of wine (1/2 off bottles on Tuesdays) and then pretty much left us alone after that. Had she checked back on us after she served the wine, I probably would have ordered food but she didn't check back until our bottle was almost gone so I did not order anything else. Overall, the ambiance was good but the staff was less than mediocre. Everyone seemed hurried, annoyed and generally unhappy to be there. I get it, work can suck but you have to learn how to fake a smile! The food looked good so I MIGHT try it one more time for. Overall, they really left a bad taste in my mouth.
(2)Emily Y.
Bleh. Food: 4 stars. Service: 1 to 5 stars depending, usually 1. Price: OUTRAGEOUS (esp when they pair it with 1-star service) Dependability: 0 stars My discontent has turned to apathy. This is the place that used to be and could've been but just isn't.
(2)Dawn L.
Uncommon Ground is a stalwart in the folk and singer-songwriter scene. Before I lived in Chicago, I used to play here (and the Heartland Cafe) as a standard stop in tours--now that I live here, I perform at the cafe every few months. They really support live music, and it shows. Performers play for tips, so please tip your musicians! This is the only way we get paid. (Along those lines--most of the time when you see a tip jar next to a musician, it's probably the only way he's being paid. Most people don't realize this and assume the cafe/restaurant/bar is chipping in--they probably aren't. Waiters and bartenders almost always make much more than the performers.) The food's a little expensive, but it's good (the staff will tend to agree with this assessment). Try the duck quesadillas for a less expensive dinner (it's listed as an appetizer). Although the hot chocolate has apparently received all kinds of kudos from Chicago press, I'm not terribly impressed--there's not enough chocolate in the hot chocolate. (You'll have to keep in mind though that I've never yet had satisfactory hot chocolate at a restaurant after I discovered Valrhona cocoa. Less chocolate-obsessed people will be fine.)
(5)Molly R.
We stopped in for lunch last week and the food was incredible! I ordered the Grown up Grilled Cheese, a delicious warm sandwich of layered goodness. It was a little pricey for just a sandwich, but the ingredients are unique and fresh, and it came with an overflowing heap of crisp greens. The small salads were piled high with fresh ingredients and definitely enough food to suffice as an entire lunch on it's own. The sweet potato fries were perfectly crisped and came with an amazing goat cheese dipping sauce. The service was great and the restaurant was bright, sunny and inviting. Surprisingly there were a lot of children there during the day (they have a very kid-friendly lunch menu), but they seated us adults far enough away that we barely noticed. All in all, a fantastic and hearty lunch spot that will leave you feeling full for the rest of the day (in a good way, no greasy-post-lunch-guilt). It's little on the pricey side, but by no means expensive.
(5)Desiree K.
Common: Cheese fries. Uncommon: Sweet potato fries with goat cheese fondue. Common: Tortilla chips with artichoke dip. Uncommon: A Mediterranean Trio of herbed toasted pita with fresh baba ganoush, mint tsasiki and hummus. Common: Shrimp cocktail. Uncommon: Tropical cerviche with fresh, citrused shrimp and scallops, topped off with slices of avocado. At Uncommon Ground, it's not usual that you find stuff that's everyday on the menu. You don't just drop in for a burger; you get a Millman burger that's a half pound Angus beef, nueske peppercorn bacon, boursin cheese and picollo peppers. Mac and cheese like Mom made? How about mac and cheese for nerds, like butterkase, aged white cheddar and gruyere fresh from Prairie Farms. Fact is, Uncommon Ground was organic and farmer-friendly way before many restaurants in town were, and all that done well makes for a popular neighbourhood spot in Wrigleyville. Even though it's comfort food that might be a notch above what Mom made, it still feels like home stepping in, what with seasoned in leather couches and armchairs, an antique pot-bellied stove and wooden panelling all around. The drinks list is extensive, if you plan on staying over, and live music featuring folkies from all over the city is a nice complement. It may be a little pricey for simply dropping in for a meal, but those dollars go a long way down the organic road of sustainability.
(4)Angela K.
Loved the decorations and the atmosphere. The baked organic spinach & goat cheese dip was delicious! I want to go back and try the other healthy and seasonal dishes.
(4)Sarah C.
This location is much better than the one on Devon....we've never had issues with servers, cold food coming out to us, or anything else of note. The food is always good-- Uncommon BLT is a must!-- and, in general, the crowds are decent. I will say that location is keeping them from the 5th star-- it's often incredibly loud on the patio because of Cubs traffic in the summer.
(4)Kristen L.
We were warmly freeted and shown to our table. We stared with the steamed mussels which were pretty tastyThe pumpkin ravioli in the bown sugar cream sauce with toasetd walnuts and topped with gorgonzola is out of control! I am so glad I had it, in fact, I want more! I can see mant dreams about it in my furture. Lol. For dessert we had the gelato trio...really good. Salt Peanut was awesome!
(4)Amanda O.
The food here is a little pricy, but it's great! This coffee shop gone restaurant offers some pretty interesting dishes. All the food is organic there, which I like. My only complaint is atmosphere. I was there for lunch the other day, and ended up sitting by a table to screaming kids. I suffered through my food while I watched the two (obviously rich) mothers completely ignore the fact that their children were bothering everyone! I guess they gave the nanny the day off. Anyway, the best part of going there is the great service. Everyone there is very knowledgeable and attentive to your needs. I will go back, but not until school is back in!
(4)Robyn N.
What an awesome coffee shop! The atmosphere is inviting and cozy with plush couches surrounding the fireplace in the front of the bar. The food is fantastic along with the service...definitely stop in and check it out!
(4)Kristin A.
Super cute place that adds a little variety to a typical coffee shop. Really good menu and cozy feel. Also a late night bar. Who would have thunk it? Warning, sometimes there's a wait for a table since the place is so small.
(4)Dave A.
Service was good and the food is okay. The food is very pricey for what you get though and it's not a great restaurant. Probably a good place to hang out and chill for us northsiders when we want to feel artistic, but wouldn't do a meal there again.
(3)Dave S.
I wish I had the opportunity to try some food here! I went there with a few friends to see Radio Hour perform and get a coffee. The Vanilla lattes were done perfectly and at a good drinking temperature. I was watching the waitreses bring out the food and it really made me hungry because everything looked and smelled so good. The only complaint was that the hostess was sort of on the rude side. The next time I am here I will be eating!
(4)Sarah S.
As a newbie to Chicago, tonight was my first night visiting Uncommon Ground. It had a lot of build up, and I was excited, which is maybe why I feel let down. I went for the music, which was excellent, but the wait staff were annoyed at us, and extremely unhelpful. I was not sure where the music was, or if it had even started, and they seated us at a table after I shared that I was looking for the music. I then felt compelled to order. The prices for food are way higher than my grad student/substitute ESL teacher salary, so I ordered hot chocolate and a desert. Amazing hot chocolate, dry cake for desert... let down. So, then our waiter was annoyed that we were leaving the table to go to the music, which we tried to get to in the beginning. I think I need to be less small town and just assert myself to begin with, but the staff did not make this easy. I give the staff a two star rating, because they were rude, and the music and vibe of the back room a 4 1/2 star rating, so I average out at three. Next time, I'll be assertive and ignore the crabby people.
(3)alan l.
should not even get one star. went last night before the cubs second playoff choke job to the dodgers. two of us had a 7 o'clock res and were actually seated about 10 minutes early. the waitress promptly took our order ,a burger and a grilled chicken sandwich, and that's when time stood still. several times our waitress and others came to tell us our order was coming. at 8 o'clock, over an hour later, we called it quits and left for the game. we were billed for the one drink we each had. hey, if you can't serve that many people don't seat them! the owners and management need to get a clue.
(1)Lisa D.
I really wanted to like Uncommon Ground. I had been there once - several years ago - when it was still small and intimate. It has definitely changed for the worse. We waited forever for our food and when the runner brought it, mine was wrong. I had ordered a cup of chili and a apple-walnut-bleu cheese salad with goat cheese instead of bleu. However, he brought me a cup of some other kind of soup and the salad with no walnuts and with bleu cheese on it. I couldn't explain the error because it was not our waitress who brought it out. After 5 minutes of waiting for her, I had to ask the hostess to find her. She took it away with an insincere apology. My replacement soup and salad took another ten minutes - altogether almost 45 minutes for the simplest meal on the menu! No real apologies were made and to top it all off, the food was not good at all. My boyfriend had something more adventurous, and he loved it. So, I'll give them that. But it would take a lot just to get me back in the door to give it another try...
(1)cb b.
it was a while before i went here - although i had heard about it from many people. they just expanded there place to include more tables and a huge bar. they is seating of comfy leather furniture in the front for a great group gathering space as well as a great menu.
(3)Lauren K.
Gorgeous patio and friendly service. I cannot comment on the food since I arrived late to brunch and missed the eating part. Hate when that happens. Ambiance is rustic and wooden. It fits the farm to table pattern of the tests. There is a ton of out door seating in which to sit and chill, great Irish coffee and home made iced tea. Will definitely be back, but unsure when.
(4)Angie K.
Brought my vegetarian sis to UC for Mother's Day brunch because I'm awesome. She's extremely easy to please because she loved the food while I thought it could've used work. She had the uncommon huevos and I had the chilaquiles. I had to drown my food in salsa and added so much salt/pepper. This thing was so bland. Idk if my Hispanic cooking has just altered my taste buds that I can't handle bland white people food, but I wasn't wowed with their brunch. Service was ok, slightly pushy. I know it was Mother's Day and all but I had a reso. Let me be. With the countless brunch options, UC's is towards the bottom of my list.
(2)Ashley J.
Two years ago this was a 4/5 star place. Neighborhood vibe, nice music & live music events, and most importantly a lovely menu that featured lots of light, healthy, seasonal, dare I say "Californian" style dishes that featured fresh, delicious & flavorful veg & protein options. What happened?? Pathetic meals here, twice in a row, we're done with this scam that has destroyed the amazing roots this establishment was built on. Everything was underwhelming, but let's focus on the biggest joke on the menu- the turkey burger. $16 buys you a small, dry, unseasoned patty slapped on a bun with a couple pieces of lettuce, onion & a pickle. No sauce of any sort. Would you like to add an exotic accoutrement such as tomato, cheese or bacon? $2 EACH. We sprung for the tomato, expecting for $2 we'd be getting a one inch slice of a gorgeous heirloom tomato or something. Nope, two slices of anemic subway-quality tomato, one of which was the end piece and mostly skin. We begged for some hot sauce and drenched the sad thing til it was barely edible. For $18!!!! Also: the sunshine salad used to be a lovely mix of at least 8 different seasonal fresh raw veg tossed in a nice light vinaigrette with sunflower seeds. Now it's 80% romaine lettuce with a handful of bell pepper, mushrooms, & tomato tossed in. I think that was $12. Pathetic. We really loved this place but something has gone horribly wrong there and it's time to let it go. Too bad, what it used to be was a great dining option in the neighborhood.
(2)Chris H.
I used to be a regular here when I lived in the neighborhood and loved this place. I moved away about 5 years ago and haven't been back much since. I decided to drop in before a cubs game to see how things were going... Well, not very well. I ordered the Crispy Chicken over Summer Succotash. My succotash was composed of Brussels sprouts and artichokes in a watery broth. I really don't equate either of those with summer veggies. I brought it up to the waitress twice. Neither time did she apologize, and on my second inquiry she responded with a smarmy remark "That's what makes it Uncommon." WTF? I don't have an issue so much with the food, but make the menu reflective of the offering and for the love of god have better customer service.
(2)Jamie B.
Very average food that is overpriced and lacks overall talent in preparation. I must have had too much wine when I composed my last review back in Feb 2014. Was here over the weekend and the consensus was: FAIL. See pics of the breakfast dishes from this weekend, pretty sad. I've been here three times in the last year and can say 100% without a doubt that this place is just overall lacking. Everything sounds so great on the menu but when the food comes it's just a disappointment. Dishes: -Helen's Chicken Sandwich- bland and on too thick of bread. -Fish tacos- with brown/slightly turning guacamole. Hardly any fish. Needs a ton of hot sauce to be enjoyable as this is the only flavor you'll get. Hey UG folks, ever eaten a fish taco before? Maybe you should try one. -Biscuits and Gravy- OMG I don't even know how this was allowed to be called biscuits and gravy. See photos of this one. Utterly disappointing runny mess, and where was the sausage country gravy exactly? Again, I implore mgmt/cooks here to go try some biscuits and gravy to model their dish after what most people expect. -Chilaquiles- aka a big plate of tortilla chips. Again, overdone on the chips missing the smoked chicken and scrambled eggs, this dish was $14, see pics posted. The bloody mary's are good, I'll give them that. Much to be improved here in terms of quality, flavor, portions, prices, etc.
(1)Andre W.
This place has some of the best calamari I have ever had in my life! Its officially called korean fried calamari which of course that means its sweet and quite spicy with a nice kick to it. I also tried the gluten free roasted cauliflower which was ok, but sadly it followed the calamari which was a hard act to follow. I had it with a nice, dark zinfandel which was really good. I like this place!
(4)Brooke O.
I really enjoy Uncommon Ground - the few times I have been here for brunch the service has been exceptional and the food delicious as well. The first time I went here we had a group of about 8 people which they accommodated very nicely. We ended up staying for HOURS - I think we tried every drink on the menu twice and many of the entrees. Luckily we were in the back room and they did not rush us out at all. My most recent time, just 2 of us sat at the bar by the fireplace - it was a cozy nice brunch (much shorter than the first experience) but equally an enjoyable.
(5)Stephen M.
A short while ago saw Matt Nakoa perform here--a perfect venue for a soon to be discovered very, very talented performer. (Catch him when he gets back to Chicago in the Summer). We ordered our meal in the backroom where the performances are. The waitstaff is efficient, making sure not to interfere with the performance as they bring meals and take orders. I had the vegetarian chili (good, but needed some heat as in not served cold) and the fish tacos (wanted and asked for flour tortillas, got corn tortillas). The hitch in my order was apparently the only glitch. Rave reviews on the meatloaf. Drinks are good, local fare is emphasized and welcomed.
(4)William O.
Bad food, poor service and overpriced. Has Uncommon Ground been sold? The quality continues to decline today's lunch was a new low. Don't waste your money just keep walking past the once Wrigleyville standard for quality, service and unique meal preparation. Uncommon Ground is a bust.
(1)Cloey S.
A friend recommended this place to me and my husband so we tried it out for the first time the other night. We started with fried cheese curds. It was the smoothest cheese I've ever tasted. I noticed a lot of people around us were also ordering them. The dipping sauce was also amazing. I ordered the Cuban sandwich with fries and my husband got a cheeseburger with a fried egg on top. He ordered his burger with cheddar cheese and he got a burger with no cheese. I ordered my sandwich with no dijon and I got dijon. Both meals turned out great anyway. I just wish they would have paid a little more attention to the details. Other than that, I love the atmosphere, the area and the food. We will definitely give this place another try.
(4)Connie A.
Have been here once before for a burger & I recall it was not great. So it's a couple years later, let's see if it's better... unfortunately no. (A restaurant that is empty in Wrigleyville on a Saturday night should have been the first clue.) I will say the beer selection was excellent and the patio is quite lovely. But the food is completely meh. Appetizer was ok (Jamaican cigars) -- good flavor, but very dry. Thank God for the dipping sauce. Entree was the worst I've had in my 20 yrs of city life. Fish tacos were bland w/very little fish. They were swimming in a tasteless sauce of some kind w/a browning, sad slice of avacado on top. Flour tortillas were bone dry & tasted like paper. I picked my way through one & didn't touch the other two. Luckily I had fries on the plate to help pacify my hunger. Total waste of $17. While waiting for the restroom, I overheard one couple also comment on the food & say that they were going to hit the Taco Bell on their way to the show they were seeing, and another guy approach the bar to try to cancel his large table's order since the food wasn't coming out. He was assured it was and the guy rebuffed with, "no, it isn't, I've already been told that twice and my group needs to leave now to make a show." Felt bad for the guy, he wasn't rude, just direct and visibly frustrated. (So I don't feel as bad leaving a negative review as it obviously wasn't just me.) Seriously, the prices are waaaaaaay too high for the quality. Won't be back.
(1)Xiomara R.
This is probably the worst meal I have ever had in Chicago. I spent way too much money on a meal fish tacos that with soggy tortillas and a steak dinner that was nothing but a steak?? It looks like a great place but looks can be deceiving and I would not suggest even giving it a try if your in Chicago you can do much better for much less! Take my advice!
(1)Leslie F.
Went last night to have dinner and see a friend's band. The turkey burger topped with a portobello mushroom and onions was delicious. But waiting for my table (with a reservation) took strangely long. The room was empty and they seated others, but I had to remind staff a few times that I was waiting to get seated. They seemed disorganized. When ordering my 2nd glass of wine, I had to remind the waiter several times. Finally, when trying to pay my check, it took extremely long. Music was great.
(3)Gordan P.
I have given this place too many chances. Burgers are absolutely horrible. I would rather eat one from burger king. Really thin and bland. Chicken is the same way. The atmosphere is really cool, which is deceiving. I get that it is a vegan friendly place, but that doesn't mean the rest of your food should suck. Not to mention their "craft beer" is less than sub par. Really thin tasting IPA. The final straw was last week when I ordered carry out. I was wanting breakfast but didn't want to make it, and it is closer than the diner. I called in an order or their biscuits and gravy and picked it up 10 minutes later. The bill was $16 DOLLARS. 16 DOLLARS FOR AN ORDER OF BISCUITS AND GRAVY AT 10:30AM SATURDAY MORNING. But whatever, I was hungry and just brought it home. The gravy had some twisty flavor in it, not bad, but not traditional. I didn't mind it, but I can see why other complain about it. Biscuits were the worse I had ever had in my life. They were flavorless and stale, like they had been sitting out for a week. But the final straw? About five bites in and I bite into a pube. Good times. Spit it out and didn't even bother calling to complain to these bafoons. F*** this place. Moral of the story: Next time you go to a place and it sucks, don't go back because it has a cool atmosphere and is hip. It sucks because my sister is vegetarian and I really wanted to bring her here so she could try some stuff out, but now I will make sure she never does.
(2)Lindsay S.
Very sad. This place was a favorite of mine. Loved the grass fed burger two years ago, before grass fed meat was as big as it is now. Tried my luck with the fried green tomato sandwich. My husband had the streak frites. His fries were fresh. Mine were old and chewy. My tomatoes were a terrible excuse for fried. The bread was soggy. Ended up disappointed the past several times we have been here. Prices are outrageous for standard bar food and the more "upscale" entrees are lackluster. Others are catching on as we are consistently one of 4 tables. I keep wanting things to change. Needs better execution and more reasonable prices. Locally sourced ingredients are becoming mainstream. Uncommon Ground can't just count on that to get people in the door anymore. I'm done until I see some improved reviews and will be the biggest fan of this place again.
(1)Kim L.
This is a place where looks can deceive. Although Uncommon Ground has some things going for it, the thing that matters most for a restaurant--the food--is sorely lacking especially given the price. I appreciate that UC tries to source local and organic. I also appreciate that UC does a lot of things in house. There small outdoor garden, for example. They also make their own syrup for their ginger ale. The food here, however, is not worth its value. The menu is not as creative as their space. Their blackbean burger does not hold together--it's mushy, and lacks texture. It's more like a spread, than a patty. While it's hard to make a mindblowing veggie burger, it's hard to mess up, too. Their black bean burger is a mess-up. It's been on their menu for a while, probably to appease the many vegetarians out there. I hope they re-work their recipe. Their vegan chilli is weak. I think its absolutely possible to make hardy vegetarian food. But their vegan "chilli" is watery, and the menu says it comes with a baguette. For clarification, it comes with 2-3 pieces of thinly sliced baguette. They should try a chunk of corn bread or a demi baguette.
(2)Heather A.
I love the concept around Uncommon Ground and how they are locally sourced, but I felt the food was lacking a bit in flair. This could be because my expectations of hipster-like restaurants is fairly high coming from southern California, but I was slightly disappointed in lack of creativity on the menu. I ended up going with a simple eggs, potato and side of bacon. Everything tasted completely fine, just was not blown away. Service was really great as well. I had made a reservation since we were going there prior to the baseball game and it was fairly crowded by the time we left, so was glad I did. Someone in my party ordered the pancakes. I had a bite, and they were probably what I should have ordered. Who knows - it might have even changed my rating.
(3)Lord Of T.
Nice trendy decor. The food is fine, just a little too expensive for the quality and creativity level. Bottom line, it is not worth it but if someone else is buying, GO.
(3)Veronica L.
Was very disspointed with the service. I was looking forward to eating here and it was completely ruined. I had a reservation. We were seated immediately. However, after ten minutes of waiting, we still had not been taken care of. I politely asked the hostess if we had a server. The hostess had to find our server and let her know we were waiting. Of course, throughout the entire meal, we rarely ever saw her. We had to ask another server to ask our server for our check. I haven't had this bad of service in a long time. As far as the food goes, not worth the price. Way too expensive for a sub par meal. Will not be coming back and do not recommend. McDonalds has better service.
(2)Monique V.
I had such high hopes for this place as the menu looked really terrific. I took my mom here because we both enjoy healthier food. I ordered the black bean burger and my mom ordered the fish tacos. Ummm but wait, my black bean burger HAD NO BLACK BEANS. They made it with black eyed peas instead and didn't tell me they ran out. Not to mention the beans weren't even cooked all the way so it basically felt like I was chomping on nuts. Also this fake black bean burger was flavorless. Yuck. My mom's fish tacos needed some serious seasoning too. So boring. We didn't even finish out meals. I will say I like the atmosphere and I didn't end up having to pay for my burger because I told them there wasn't any black beans in it. Probably won't be returning.
(2)Archana S.
Came here as a group of 5 for brunch on Saturday. Waited 30 mins to be seated on the patio despite there being several vacant tables and having made reservations in advance. Are you kidding me? Once seated, it took 20 mins to receive glasses of water. We put in our orders (3 chilaquiles - decent but grossly overpriced), edamame hummus (good, but we were charged an additional $1 for 5 slices of cucumbers...absurd), and the grilled chicken hash. We asked to substitute sweet potato fries in the grilled chicken hash and the kitchen responded 25 mins later that this was not a possibility and that we needed to select a new option altogether. This led us to believe that the hash was premade/frozen...gross. As icing on the unsavory cake that was our experience at Uncommon Ground, we were charged for items we did not order. Overall, would definitely not recommend nor would we return. Good luck to future patrons!
(1)Dustin J.
So, let's start with the positives. The drinks were top-notch. The food was delicious. The music was great. Honestly, the smoked cherry manhattan is the best whiskey cocktail I have ever had. The food was appropriately portioned, well-seasoned and tasted fresh. Why the 2 stars? My friend chose this location to celebrate her birthday. She had a pair of friends who wanted to join us at our table for drinks after our dinner. When we asked if this would be ok, we were told it wasn't. When our friend (again, celebrating her birthday) asked "should I just tell them not to come?" A staff member told her "Yes." We were then told that it would be a fire hazard to host these two people, and that they were overbooked in "the music room, the front of house, and the side room." After eating, my friend was shocked to discover that the front lounge was empty. Completely empty. And, after she went to the front, a party in our area preceded to sit 10 people at a table for 6. Amazingly, the fire marshal wasn't called to the scene of the blatant fire code violation. Now, our server tried his best to keep us happy and satisfied. However, it took us 35 minutes to receive our appetizer, and another 30 for entrees. After dinner, a waitress came to bus our table and told my wife to hand her the plate, and then stated, "and your knife too." Do, in short: great food and drinks. The lounge in the front is great. But, by far some of the worst customer service imaginable. It's a shame. I don't think we would return to celebrate.
(2)Jim S.
This place is super overrated. I'm honestly not sure how it has the reviews that it has. The food is super over priced and lacks taste. The service is slow and the waiters (that I've had) have a strange sense of entitlement that comes off in a very rude way. I live right around the corner from this place, so I've given it a few shots and each time it gets worse. There are tons of healthy, delicious restaurants in this area and this is not one to try. This one can be skipped.
(2)Dane K.
One of the few restaurants in Chicago that's trying to do some useful things on the sustainability front, offering food that isn't made out of complete garbage. For that alone they get extra points. But... last visit, the execution was just poor. I ordered the corned beef hash... what arrived was a bowl of potatoes a bunch of sauce involved, with 3, *maybe* 4 pieces of 1 centimeter cubes of steak that I found by digging to the bottom. Your average $2 "steak taco" at any taqueria in town easily has 2x the meat as this $16 breakfast entree. Absolutely outrageous. My SO's eggs were burned as well. Also, the tone in which the hostess asks if you have a reservation is absurd. You're not a Michelin rated restaurant that's sold out, don't say it as if you're hard to get in. There were other tables, but my table had actually been seated already though when they asked me this, apparently though they asked the two whom originally got the table if we could be finished in 1 hour and 15 minutes because they did have a reservation ... these are things that you think to yourself as a hostess when trying to plan, not ask a customer.
(3)Kathleen C.
I've visited now countless times since my original review and I still love the place. The food is delicious - yesterday, I tried the chopped salad (added chicken) for the first time and it was really really tasty. Fresh ingredients, not overwhelmed with salad dressing and a large portion size (though, it should be for $19!). I also had a bite of the egg sliders - these were also really tasty and a good sized portion. I think about half of that would have also been a good brunch/lunch. The atmosphere is a bit different in each of the rooms. The front near the fireplace is cozy and always packed. The back area seems to be the next area where they seat people and this is also bustling and friendly and bright. On the right (as you enter through the doorway) is a bit quieter and the tables are spaced a bit farther apart. I even enjoy the bar seating inside and you definitely can't go wrong in the summer with the outdoor seating. Service is always super friendly, but the last few times I've been there, it's been a bit slow and we had to ask for coffee refills. All in all, a good spot. A bit on the pricey side but the food is high quality, portion sizes are large and it's overall a cozy and relaxing spot to share a meal
(4)Lindsey A.
It's been five years since I last graced Uncommon Ground and I'm still feeling a-ok about it, mostly based upon our service. It was so. so. so very slow. I'm talking, had I wanted another beverage with brunch, I might as well have walked to the bar and gotten it myself because my cup runneth dry and our server never runneth back over to fill it. Shame. (This was halfway through our brunch - come on! I'm thirsty.) Speaking with friends who live at Clark/Grace and frequent Uncommon quite commonly, they said service constantly borders terrible or terribly slow. Sigh. Tortoise. Baby crawl. Molasses in January. The dishes we had for brunch, were, however, delightful. My wife got the corned beef hash (she's on a mission to find Chicago's best) and was surprised when it came out so... green. Salad and kale and brussels sprouts adorned the little crock presented on a plate. She said it was tasty - and finished every bite. I had the chilaquiles which are probably hard to eff up, so I'm glad they didn't manage to do that. Would I go back? I'm still undecided. Maybe with its laid-back, coffee-house vibe it's expected of patrons to sit and chill.... but, leaving a girl thirsty is just plain wrong and having to flag down our server to get our bill is another strike. Decide for yourself - and give your brunch, lunch or dinner window an extra 30 minutes in doing so.
(3)Liana L.
To be honest, their food is not very memorable and really over-priced. I like this place because of the atmosphere - comfortable couches, cafe-like, internet. It's a good place to work while grabbing something to eat. Only conflict is it's also a restaurant so you feel pressured to buy food when you just want to go for coffee.
(3)Tammy M.
Definition of insanity, I know, but we came back and another epic fail. Waited forever for a dip appetizer. My daughter ordered chili for $9 a bowl, which arrived cold, and uncooked, watery and with raw and crunchy beans. With one tiny slice of baguette. My $16 burger had the wrong cheese and none of the toppings that were described in the menu. Server did her best to rectify it by comping the burger, but when I complained that we should not have been charged for the $15, yes $15, mac and cheese substitute, she informed me that she had to "twist the arm" of the manager to get it comped. WHAT??? A well run establishment would have sent a manager over and more would have been comped, This place is in need to a real kitchen manager and more professionalized services. I am all about supporting local business and farm to table but if you are going to charge the high prices they charge, the service and delivery had better be excellent. This has been a persistent problem for years. As they never seem to respond or address concerns in these Yelps, I know this is probably just a waste of time, but hope it helps someone else dodge an expensive bullet. Stick a fork in it, we're done with this place.
(1)Norm J.
My friends and I came here for brunch and none of us were overly impressed. Food: -Breakfast Burrito (scrambled eggs, house-made chorizo, organic black bean salsa, chihuahua cheese, avocado, salsa verde) was soggy and lacked the flavor you would expect from a burrito that was filled with all those ingredients. - Breakfast Melt (eggs over easy, gunthorp farm hickory smoked bacon, cedar grove cheddar, organic spinach, artisinal black bread) was nice and cheesy, but the bread was a little burnt. - Gulf of Maine Pollock Tacos (shredded red cabbage, avocado, lime-cilantro creme) was good with a healthy serving of fish in each taco. - Chicken Sausage was dry as BLEEP (said my friend who ordered it). She thought it would be chicken sausage links, so she was bummed that it was one flat patty. When she found out how much she'd be paying for the chicken patty she clutched her heart in shock (I have dramatic friends). Over all the experience was just OK. I won't be running back to dine here.
(3)Ben B.
Uncommon Ground is dumb. Every time I'm dragged there, I roll my eyes. You pay a 50% premium for their local, organic, tofu nonsense. Exceptional food is worth an exceptional price, but Uncommon Ground's food is just run-of-the-mill. My lady and I showed up for brunch around 1 p.m. on a Sunday. The place was moderately busy. We waited 45 minutes for our food. Literally. 45 minutes. I ordered the burger, which was fine, but fairly bland. The only reason it tasted like anything is because I ordered bacon with it. My burger came with a lone lettuce leaf and three sad, wilted, soft things that were supposed to be "pickles." My girl's hash browns were cold. Think how long it takes for freakin' *potatoes* to cool down. Our server was nice and apologetic, but seriously, this restaurant is a joke. On our last visit, our server disappeared between taking our order and dropping off the check. We had to flag down bus boys to get water refills and condiments. If you have a raging vegan boner for Whole Foods, enjoy your 45-minute wait. If you have the ability to separate marketing from quality, there are a million better restaurants in the city.
(2)David R.
This was my first visit to the Lakeview UC for dinner; I used to come occasionally for drinks, coffee, and desserts back in the mid-aughts, and I've eaten several meals at the Edgewater location. So basically I knew what I was getting into, and I wasn't disappointed...mostly. The draft beer list is pretty short, but I put together a nice little sampler with a couple of known quantities (Great Lakes Dortmunder Gold, Lagunitas Pils) and a couple of new-to-me but tasty options (Revolution Rosa Hibiscus, 3 Sheeps Black Wheat). And as usual, there are plenty of enticing craft cocktails. Next time. We started with a Korean calamari appetizer, and after it came, I remembered that I didn't like it at the other location, and why--too much coating, not enough squid. The sauce and overall flavor are good, but they need to thin out the batter by about 50%. The fish tacos were somewhat better; my only complaint is that they used two tortillas per taco. This is usually appreciated, but in this case, there was not enough filling to balance two tortillas, but too much to balance one. They were still pretty good tacos though, and the fries--regular and sweet potato--were fine. Our server was great, giving honest feedback to questions and expressing enthusiasm about some of our choices. Unfortunately, his name isn't printed on the receipt so I can't tell you who he was. The food is really three stars, but service, atmosphere, and ethos merit a fourth. For those reasons, I'd prefer to come back here rather than the Edgewater location.
(4)Lauren J.
What an awesome breakfast place in Chicago! After a long weekend of partying, old college friends and I looked to get together and have one last spiked beverage before heading on our ways. We were also looking for some serious grub to curb our hunger. They had a table for eight reserved for us, and one of the nicest, most knowledgeable waiters that I've met in a long time. It is amazing how much a pleasant personality can impact your experience at a restaurant. My friend and I both ordered alcoholic beverages right off the bat. Mine was the bloody Mary, and hers was an enormous bowl of latte and bourbon. Please see the pictures! Her pinkie just happened to pop up when taking her photo. We were both in heaven! My friends came later and ordered their own variations of beverages. Everyone loved their options, and some even had seconds. I ordered the mac & cheese with crispy pork belly, and it came with their homemade coleslaw. I also ordered a side of crispy home fries because the table next to me looks so good. I also thought it would be good to soak up some of that weekend fun... My friend ordered a skillet with brussels sprouts, fried egg, and hollandaise sauce. Everyone was in love with what they ordered. There was nothing that anyone would've changed. I wish I could remember in greater detail what everyone had. I can tell you that the crispy pieces of pork belly tucked into my mac & cheese was the most welcoming spoonful I had all weekend! Talk about leaving Chicago on a high note! Uncommon ground has an earthy vibe and tries to use as many sustainable products in their dishes. For my friends that are health-conscious, and those that hug the environment a little tighter than others, this was the perfect place for them. We could not rave about it enough. I cannot wait for the next trip to the city to enjoy some spiked beverages, wholesome good and healthy food, and maybe some crispy pork belly mac & cheese also!
(4)P. M.
Relaxed, open area both indoors and sidewalk cafe'. The outside cafe' ambiance was enhanced with strings of lights - very fun! Service is top notch - perfectly attentive. We're from out of town visiting friends and family ~ it was marvelous to enjoy leisurely drinks and meals - we were not rushed to turn over window table. There is a nice variety of starters, small & large plates. Many items are fabulous for sharing. I had a unique special with heirloom tomatoes, basil and mozzarella - but wait - there's more! It was accompanied by an interesting chorizo spread on toasted baguette slices. Yummy!!! My special someone had a pot of mussels with fries - he was soooo happy:) Good times!!!
(5)Alyssa J P.
Really delicious food pretty close to Wrigley Field. I stopped by with my cousins after a day game and it wasn't crowded, which was very nice. The menu is outstanding with a lot of vegan and vegetarian options. The food itself was delicious. I'm glad to know I have another solid lunch/dinner venue to bring people that don't want to eat at a vegan-only restaurant.
(4)Christopher W.
Friendly enough staff, but holy crap is this food not a perfect storm of underwhelming and over-priced. Closest restaurant to my house so I have given it numerous chances to not suck, but everything on the menu is boring and expensive. Plenty of delicious restaurants in this neighborhood, so don't expect this place to stick around.
(1)Mallory S.
Ironically my 300th Yelp review: I first stopped in this place with my mom and friend after my first concert at The Metro when I was 12. This place feels like home to me. It is so cozy and comfortable. Whenever I step inside it illuminates so many memories of winter nights drinking hot cocoa out of a massive mug; warm summer mornings sitting outside eating brunch before a cubs game; birthdays and endless dinner dates with my friends. When I was younger I always made my parents let me sit in the restaurant's bay window seat. This is a place I feel comfortable bringing my whole family. There is something for everyone from vegetarians to carnivores. Uncommon Ground prides itself on using local ingredients whenever possible. This means their produce tastes so fresh and their meats are deliciously tender. I also love how they change up their menu for every season. I honestly attribute Uncommon Ground to spark my love of food and using local ingredients when I was very young. Their service is always so personal and kind. After so many memories from my adolescence here, I hope to bring my own kids here one day!
(5)Daniel W.
Food exceeded my expectations. We started with the olive hummus for an app. The hummus was really good and the pitas were seasoned and tasty as well. We also had the grilled chicken sandwich and the fish tacos. The fish tacos were Awesome! Chicken sandwich wasn't bad as well, wish there was a little more chicken but keep in mind I eat a LOT! (like 65 pieces of sushi at all you can eat sushi). Killed the fries. Service was excellent. I would go back if I were in the area.
(4)Kara E.
I would never recommend coming here during prime time hours - the service is ridiculously slow for some reason when its busy, plus it just feels like chaos in there. However, two friends and I came Saturday morning for brunch at 10am. It wasn't busy yet and we got seating in the back in a nice booth window seat. Our server was actually great and on point. I got the mocha latte and the egg breakfast. The english muffin was rock hard and gross (grocery store ones are tastier) but the rest of my food was good. I got scrambled eggs with cheese and they added so much cheese. Alll the cheese! Yum. They did not skimp out on me. I used to love their banana bread - it was just simple, no added anything and it was so melt in your mouth good. We ordered a side of it and were disappointed to see they added chocolate chips and nuts. Bleh. My friends got the omelette special and enjoyed it. So get here early and avoid if you see crowds.
(4)Caroline M.
We went here prior to seeing Avenue Q at the Mercury Theater last night. Don't be fooled by the reservation tool online. When I went to make a reservation, the only time available was 4 pm or 10 pm. I called and was able to make a reservation. Not that it was necessary. There were TONS of tables open at 6 pm on a Saturday night. I don't know if it was because it was Lollapalooza so most people weren't hanging out in Lakeview, but it was no problem getting a table. We sat outside which was nice. A strangely perfect temperature for a July evening. Our waitress was very nice and fairly knowledgeable about the drinks. I had the Virtue hard cider which was a very light cider, almost like a white wine. It was delicious. My favorite part of the meal was the cheese curds. They were fantastic. Homemade, delicious, light and served with a cucumber salad. I saved the ginger aioli sauce for my fries, which was perfect. I ordered the mushroom "ravioli" and it was good. The waiter warned me it was a small portion, but I guess I didn't think it would be that small. It was $20 for 4 "ravioli". They use vegetable slices to hold them together and pureed cashews for the cheese. It was tasty but for the size and quality, it really should've been a small plate priced closer to $9-$11. Way over priced. I ordered sweet potato fries which were good. But, $8 for a side of sweet potato fries? Ridiculous. The dark chocolate banana bread pudding was good, but really nothing to write home about. It looks like a nice restaurant and the waiter was friendly and attentive. The food was overpriced, but otherwise average. Aside from the cheese curds, food was average.
(3)Doug J.
I find it difficult to justify paying over 20$ for a basic and bland breakfast. But unfortunately there are far and few places that serve breakfast in Wrigleyville (McDonald's, Salt and pepper) Stay away on Sunday mornings, Soccer mom's with there kids running everywhere, While mommy sips her latte and little Timmy is running all over the place.
(2)Elizabeth J.
It was my first time in Chicago and my boyfriend recommended this place because he had been there for dinner and said it was wonderful. Well, we went for BRUNCH and I swear I have never been so disgusted about spending/WASTING $50! Won't go into detail but the food was gross, plain and simple. They strive to make it as fancy as possible but it's just a bunch of over priced junk. Save your money and get food that's actually fantastic in Chicago, this place was a waste.
(1)Cassie B.
Before my husband and I moved to DC, we had been to Uncommon Ground a handful of times and always enjoyed the experience. I am not sure what happened since then, but after our meal today my husband remarked that this was the most disappointing meal we have had since (over a year) we have moved back. I agree with him. We waited about 45 minutes for our food. We ordered some eggs and sausages. We didn't think it should take that long. There were actually people who were seated about 20 minutes after us that received their food about 15 minutes before us. I got up and asked for the manager, and waited. In that time, we finally got our food with no explanation or apology for the extraordinary amount of time we waited. The manager never came. The food was cold, the sausages were dry, and we were extremely disappointed. I asked the server about it and he gave us 20% off our bill and a card for 10% off our next visit. I left the card on the table because we definitely won't be back. There are way too many great restaurants in this city to waste time on this place. What an overall disappointment...
(1)Erin S.
I don't understand the low reviews on this restaurant! We had an excellent experience. From the friendly, fast service to awesome restaurant concept to fantastic food, you really can't go wrong with Uncommon Ground. They also have their own organic brewery! We have the Spaceship IPA, double IPA, Baja fish tacos, and Cuban sandwich. The staff is very attentive and knowledgable and the owner came around to ask how everything was. I wish I had tried the cocktail special - it sounded delicious. We will be back! Loved the atmosphere.
(5)Yvonne I.
My friends and I have been trying different brunch places in the city each month, and we came to Uncommon Ground recently. Since so many brunch/breakfast places in Chicago can get so crowded on the weekends, I made a reservation for 10am, but the place was mostly empty when we got there. After 11 it did start to fill up though. They have a pretty large coffee menu. I started off with the white truffle latte, which was served in a bowl (like all of their lattes), and I liked it, but I liked my friends toffee latte even better. I originally considered ordering the toffee latte, but figured I could get a toffee latte anywhere. Unfortunately, I was not that excited by the food menu items like I have been at some of the other places I've been to. I think its because I normally prefer breakfast type food during brunch, and there wasn't that much on that side of the menu that wowed me. The quality of the food ingredients really stood out though. I had the chilaquiles, and the chorizo was non greasy and fresh. I've never had chorizo so fresh before. Uncommon Ground also tries to use as many organic products as possible which is also a plus in my book. Two of my friends are vegetarians, and one of them got the vegetable flatbread that looked delicious and full of a variety of different vegetables.
(4)George H.
I've been here twice, and I must say the quality of food drink is on point. The service is good. The only thing is the flights. I'm not sure they served me the correct flights, and they did not align/tell me which beers were which. The beers were great, but the flight order is a bit disorganized.. Other than that great spot great beer.
(4)tr y.
It is with a heavy heart that I post this. THIS REVIEW IS FOR BRUNCH ONLY. I will still try a lunch and a dinner, if thos suck as bad is brunch I'm taking this place off the rotation. Went for brunch with two others. The plow and platter- nope. Small serving, and had to ask for the pretzel. Poor description on the menu. The frittata - they don't say how dry it is. Let me tell you, I've bit moister stacks of saltines. It was dryer then a sauna in Arizona. It was dryer than your hands dipped in a dyson 50 times. It was dry, not good. Chilequiles- Nope. It was not good, has no place on the menu. For the love of Pete...maybe go back to the basics. Eggs, toast, bacon. Things the chef can make. Beer was good, service was good, but come on uncommon ground you're better than this. They say the kitchen is the engine of the restaurant well then your engine needs a tune up. Maybe we went when the real chef left for vacation and the bus boy was in there and it's like some wacky sit-com mix EM up. Or, maybe it's just going down hill. Be back in the spring, will give you some you time to fix you up. Get well soon, Your old pal TR
(2)Francois V.
Stopped in for a hot cocoa with the wifey around lunch. Enjoyed the music very much! Almost as much as my uncommon cocoa. We plan on coming back for open mic night on Tuesday. Too bad the Wrigley Field traffic will kill this laid back spot once baseball starts. Otherwise we'd be here as often as possible.
(4)Ana S.
Took some out of town friends here. Word to the wise: make reservations on a Saturday night, or don't even bother. We waited the good hour to be seated there but the place was bumper to bumper packed making it an uncomfortable experience. I vow never to go again on a Saturday night. I couldn't believe how many people were in there. And I was excited to see that chicken tenders were on the menu for kids only to find they were more like unbreaded chicken strips, not even close to looking like Chicken tenders, please make actual chicken tenders! Was bummed out about that. Food still rocks though.
(4)Meg W.
I used to love the original place on Devon when I lived in the area. Despite multiple attempts to transfer the goodwill, I can't make this one work. Service: I've tried breakfast, lunch and dinner and the service is always slow and confused. They never acknowledge their obvious problems, which is really awkward sometimes. They're always out of something, usually several items. Food: For what it is, the food is very overpriced. I've gotten undressed salad, a very overcooked burger... but even when they do it "correctly," the food is just boring. Under-seasoned, nothing special. I've never even been with someone who said what they had was particularly good. Drinks and beer selection are OK, but it's just not enough for me to keep giving them second chances. I guess because there's nothing else in the area, they just don't have to try? Wish something better would open up around here...
(2)Angela S.
I don't know. My experience was just an okay 3 stars, but my sandwich was heavenly and made up for how lost I felt in the ordering/service. It's been almost 10 years since I've been back to this location. I have always loved this place, and spent many nights watching my hubby play live music with friends. I was hungry and in the neighborhood, so I stopped in to grab a sandwich to-go after an afternoon meeting. There were a few people dining, and it took a couple of minutes for someone to acknowledge me. Thankfully I knew where to go - restaurant in the back. Once I got to the back I wasn't sure whether I should wait for someone to greet me or just head on up to the counter area and be assertive - that's what I did. It was just a little confusing at first. Though the service felt a bit disjointed and off, my sandwich was super amazing (I snarfed it down in the car). However, it seemed to be missing the pickles, and the jus container was totally melted so I somehow missed out on the sauce experience. Here's what I ordered: mint creek organic pork cuban sandwich grilled duroc ham, cedar grove swiss, pickles, dijon mustard, pork jus, served on a telera roll. Funny enough I was torn between meat and a beet salad. Talk about having a weird appetite. This is a good indication that their varied, yet specialized menu has something for everyone. Note: I've had the pumpkin ravioli before and it's fantastic! Everything here is farm fresh and local. You can tell. The meat didn't make my stomach feel like blowing up after eating pork. A great indication of a hormone free product. My sandwich was $14. It's kind of like paying for gluten-free, but you get the quality you pay for. Take note, they have live music concerts in their entirely separate music venue space. It's clean and cozy in here, and you can bet the next time I'm in the neighborhood I'll be back!
(4)Jerry M.
Very disappointed. We live in the neighborhood and had not visited in over a year due to a decline in quality. We wanted to give it another chance after a Cubs game. The wait for food was nearly 45 minutes. The Mexican pizza entree was served with a burnt crust and a chicken sandwich was served with nearly no chicken. We initially inquired about eating outside in an area that was vacant and we were told that the area was "reserved". The area was still vacant upon leaving even after our long wait for food. The manager was insincere about the long wait time and poor food quality. Will not make the same mistake again. Feel sorry for the waiter, he tried hard. This might explain why the place was half empty on a Saturday which never happened previously.
(1)louis S.
Loved the vibe and two different fireplaces. Each has its own unique comfy friendly feel. Everyone I talked with (staff) felt genuine and friendly. The food was over the top great this is why you go out. Extra small unique touches on every dish was very nice. I was disappointed by the dried out 3" apple tart dessert, way to small for the cost. Dude are you kidding me? Saw a top show for $10 worth three times the price. Great sound not blasted loud like so many other places. Very well managed. Hope to go back on a cold night. The coffee drinks are numerous and very unique too
(5)Nathan P.
Coffee is good; music is good. Don't order the Chili; it's not good.
(3)Julie B.
Let me start off by saying that I've been coming to Uncommon Ground for the past 9 years - my (then) boyfriend lived a few doors down and I love their local/sustainable focus, so it became our local favorite. Over the years, we witnessed the upgrade to white table cloths and higher prices, but the food and service were on par and we continued to enjoy it. The last time we went, however, my (now) husband and I were shocked at the terrible service and sub-par food. Granted they were hosting a private wedding party in one room, but we felt it was no excuse after we gave them multiple chances to correct their mistakes. First of all, our server hardly came by to check on us and we didn't even get a chance to ask for ketchup to offset my husband's dry burger. When he finally came, we notified him that the flavors were off from their usual (totally under seasoned) and 3 out of 4 dishes were hardly eaten. Our daughter was excited when she chose the "Chicken Tenders" from the kids menu, but was disappointed when they weren't the usual battered tenders (a quick google image search will reveal typical ones), but rather grilled chicken strips. I try to seek out the healthiest foods for my family, so I realize what we got is healthier, but that is not what we ordered, so she wouldn't eat them (in typical 3 year-old fashion). Maybe the server was having a very off day, but after he did nothing but mumble a quick "sorry", I felt I needed to notify the staff at the hosting stand. The two employees had saccharine half-smiles as I told them and also did nothing to ameliorate the situation. Bottom line, the customer service was extremely disappointing, especially since the food and service used to be quite good! I rarely write reviews (the last time I did was in 2010) unless something was exceptionally good or exceptionally bad. Unfortunately it was the latter.
(1)Beth E.
So incredibly disappointing....where do we start? The background: 6 lovely ladies wanting a nice Sunday brunch. Not a game day. Quiet in the restaurant. What went wrong: 1) How do you screw up bloody marys? Worst ever. We sent two back but they thought we would still pay for those. Um. No. 2) Service: Terrible!! Our food was served before anyone had set ups. We literally sat there trying to figure out what to do and stared at the food. The server was oblivious to the needs of the table. She would check in with one person and run away instead of waiting to see if any of us needed anything. 3) And the food....yup, a trifecta of terrible. One of the girls had a mac and cheese. We could just not figure out what was off with the texture until we hit upon that the mac part was so overcooked it was just mush. The cheese portion was utterly flavourless. The artichoke spinach dip? Same deal. Zippo flavour. Ditto the hummus. All we can figure was since it was NOT a game day, the 3rd string was brought in so the A team could have the day off. JUST TERRIBLE. Go have wings at Yakzies instead.
(1)Chris B.
Am a fan of the place, but had a lousy breakfast and bad service this morning. I know it is the Sunday before Memorial, day but no excuse for a cheese less tasteless sustainable sliders, desiccated potatoes and an overcharge on the bill(was corrected), looked like an overmatched skeleton crew. Quite disappointed in The Clark Street Uncommon Ground this morning. Just wanted to get out of there.
(2)Stephanie E.
meatloaf with hot potato salad was excellent! unfortunately it wasn't my dish. I had the mac n cheese with bacon, which was just average. service was good.
(3)Doc G.
I like this place. It reminds me of chill, understated venues along the beaten hippy trail in Anywhere, USA (or Canada). Unpretentious, simple goodness, complex flavors. Lots of vegetarian options like chili, sweet potato fries, and lots of salads. This is why the fam chose this 'special place you gotta try' for me, the Black vegan. My order: seasonal salad (combination of dark & light beats, clementines, and arugula - good stuff); tofu fritters - what the heck? Smashed up tofu, beat to a 'spongy' pulp (yes, the server used the word spongy), then rolled into big balls and deep fried golden. Wala, tofu fritters- good, reminiscent of falafel; and delightfully crispy sweet potato fries split 3 ways. Oh yeah, my sis and beaux love the drinks-shaken, not stirred.
(4)Laura C.
Sigh. The search for a good brunch continues. Uncommon seemed like a good option, but we were sadly disappointed with the majority of dishes we ordered. The chilaquiles were a giant portion of rubbery eggs, with a meager serving of salsa verde and a tiny dollop of sour cream. The pork belly hash was more of a bowl of veggies with a fried egg and arugula salad on top. The lack of potatoes was curiously apparent, making the term "hash" completely misleading. It was also quite small, compared to my friend's dishes. The huevos had a flavorful ancho sauce which paired nicely with the light and crispy tortilla chips. Our drinks were a bit of a let down, starting with the espresso machine breaking down as I ordered the Niced Chai (spiked with brandy and a shot of espresso). When the server let me know that the machine was broken, he asked me if I wanted a different drink. So he brought the brunch menu, which only listed espresso and non-alcoholic drinks. When I explained that I wanted booze in my cocktail, he returned once again with the actual drink menu, thus prolonging my thirst. I ordered what I thought was a replacement, then to my surprise, he brought out both the replacement and the original order at the same time. Had I wanted two drinks (I did not), I most certainly did not want them at the time. While he was quite apologetic about the inconvenience, a bit of common sense would have helped this poor server. Also worth mentioning was the weakness of the cocktails. I had such high hopes. Stay tuned for the next episode in my search for a decent brunch.
(2)Jul N.
Two years later, still a favorite spot. The cozy atmosphere with warm lights, a fire, sunny benches, and the wooden top bar makes UG still among my favorite places on the north side. Especially as the days shorten. The gorgonzola pumpkin ravioli was great but 8 pieces for $18 was pricey. I am giving five stars not only because of their ambiance but also for their overall fantastic menu (avoid the chilaquiles, good ingredients but dry and not pulled together), nice drink list (including brunch cocktails and hot drinks), and friendly service. Try the various drinks, the mac and cheese, the salads, the apple cole slaw, and bacon brussel sprouts.
(5)Cassandra T.
We reserved a table thinking it was going to be packed before the Cubs game, but the place wasn't very busy at all. I was surprised because not only was the food amazing, the waitress was very friendly and attentive. I don't think our glasses ever got to the halfway point before she refilled them.
(5)Connor S.
I went with my girlfriend because a friend of mine was booked to play there, expecting a more open small music venue where we'd have some beers, say our hellos, and head out. Instead, it was a much more intimate, sit-down experience with different artists playing their set lists in the front of the small room and the audience enjoyed the music quietly. $10 cover. We shared the calamari and the gnocchi while enjoying cocktails. We finished hot blonde, dessert drinks since the music was so nice. Everything ruled. Turned out to be a perfect date.
(5)Sus K.
I can't believe I haven't written a review for Uncommon Ground earlier considering how miffed I was the last time I was here. I had it a while ago, however it is constantly brought back to mind as I recount the worst restaurant experience I've had to people I've met. So back last October, a friend and I stumbled into Uncommon Ground on a Friday night as she was a vegetarian, so we were looking for a place with a lot of options. After being told that it would be an unholy 1.5 hour wait for a table at Chicago Diner, we decided to have this place because there was only a brief wait. Sadly it was a mistake. After being seated within 15 minutes. our order disappointingly was not taken until almost an hour later. We walked into uncommon ground at around 6 p.m. under the auspice that we'd be able to make a friend's show at 9:30. Eater beware. At maybe around 7:15, the waiter finally decided to take our order, which was completely unreasonable given the fact that it wasn't even a full house by the time we had been seated. At this point, I was incredibly upset. However, my friend excited to try to food, calmed me down pointing out that it likely would not be much longer, before we would get to eat. But she was wrong. We order the pumpkin ravioli and the macaroni and cheese. The food is priced at a premium $22 for the ravioli, $14 for the mac and cheese which really ends up being a rather small bowl of it. So fast forward to 8:45, I'm saying to my friend, I'm ready to get up and walk out because lo and behold our food hasn't come yet. Periodically I had been pestering our waiter every 30 minutes, asking if our food would come soon because we had plans. He continually assured us that it would be out soon. The last time, I was practically seething because we were almost guaranteed to be late at this point and I was starving and alerted the waiter to such which prompted him to finally bring out the food soon after. Fast forward to 9:15, we finally get our food. Which was disappointing at best. Although my friend enjoyed the pumpkin ravioli, the macaroni and cheese was mediocre at best and I only took maybe a grand four bites. However, given that we were already late, we had to scarf down our food as well. Overall, it was the worst restaurant experience I have ever had. Which is saying a lot considered the volume of restaurants I've tried as a foodie, cruising the Chicago dining scene. I still remember it in vivid detail because of how distressed and upset I felt. The ambiance is nice and occasionally there's live bands playing. However, if you don't want mediocre extremely overpriced food and a restaurant that really does not respect your time, I suggest you avoid uncommon ground. If your experience is anything like mine, you'll probably leave feeling miffed and with tears of anger. This was my experience here, and even if it was unique to the time I went, the fact that this is ever allowable is extremely distressing. Just avoid it.
(1)Dawn T.
This place feels like a grassroots, organic, vegetarian friendly establishment the moment you walk through the door. You wouldn't really be wrong with that assumption. I've only been here for brunch, so as I understand it, I need to make it back at night to catch the live music which has boasted some pretty heavy hitters in the past. (More folk than metal...obviously...) They were able to accommodate a large group of us during a busy time and the wait staff was excellent. When the food came out, each plate made everyone envious of their neighbors food...so naturally we all shared. I'm quite addicted to brunch at UG and clearly go back often enough. Now I just need to go for dinner...
(4)Jenniffer L.
Great for brunch....just ok for dinner. The brunch menu is fantastic. Lots of options. I have been there twice now for dinner. Both times they have ordered only to have the waitress tell me that they had "just ran out of the entree" I had selected. Both dinner dates were around 8pm. Also, during the last dinner experience my boyfriend ordered the hanger steak but asked to sub out the potatoes for broccoli because he does not eat potatoes. They agreed but charged a $4.00 up charge. This is a little excessive given that this holistic restaurant caters to other dietary restrictions such as gluten free and organic products. I thought I would post this so the restaurant can improve.
(2)Heather M.
I went there to order the vegan sandwich because I have a dairy allergy. Upon ordering the vegan sandwich my server actually told me that there are milk products in the bread used for the vegan sandwich. If j had eaten that I would have had to go to the hospital. This restaurant should be sued for false advertising. I ended up ordering a plain lettuce salad which I found cheese in and had to send back. The second time my salad came out I found cheese in it again! And bacon! A plain bowl of lettuce isn't that hard to get right. Thus place is a joke!
(1)Madison P.
What can I say? This place is phenomenal. The staff is like one big family (also, my family lives about 3 doors down. My uncle also designed the logo for their house beer, so I have my connections). Everything is fresh and of the utmost quality. Brunch is amazing. They have eggs available in anyway possible. The burger is to die for, and their salads are so filling. Their Melonade is something to rave about all on its own. Lemonade with cantaloupe puree sounds bizarre, but trust me, it may be the best thing you have ever sipped on.
(5)Krista S.
This place is extremely over priced. But there food is pretty good. I have been here a couple times and I am a fan of the chopped salad with chicken. It's 19$ which I always dread paying but it is really good! I have also had the chicken sandwich which was decent. Service is always very good. I understand that they are a full organic/grass fed place I just think that it is way to pricey. Portion sizes are decent. It's a nice atmosphere. Cozy fireplace in front room. The bar is cute...it's never busy, at least when I'm there which is for lunch. I think this place has potential but would do better if they weren't so expensive!
(3)Joseph D.
I've been here for both dinner and brunch and my rating for both is the same - 4 stars. This is a "farm to table" type of place meaning dishes focus on seasonal, fresh, locally sourced ingredients. The fresh flavors and interesting combinations are certainly reflected the menu and the care they put into each dish definitely shows. Point of note: the menu for both dinner and brunch contains a number of meatless options for our vegetarian friends as well so it's a good place to go when there's a mixed group containing carnivores and vegetarians. The place has multiple seating areas so depending on what type of atmosphere you're looking for, will depend on where you should sit. If you don't mind more bustle and noise, try and get a table in the front room. It has a nice fire in the winter but balance that with the fact that the front door is right there. Since it's situated on the corner of Clark, you can get a nice view as well. If you like more quiet, sit in the back room. It's a bit easier to hear your guests talk and you may not get as bumped into as the staff comes in and out. The con of being back here is the entrance to the kitchen seems to be back here so expect high server traffic. At least there's space to get by for them so you're probably pretty safe. In the times I've eaten there, for dinner I had the crispy duck and the wife had the pumpkin ravioli. Portions were well sized and to me, a good value. Not too big, not too small. For brunch I had the duck confit hash with fried eggs (again with the duck) and the wife had the french toast. Again, both were quite good. I also added a bloody mary which warning - is quite spicy! Get the beer back -you'll be glad you did to cool yourself off. Service is good. Not great, but good. No specific complaints. It can get quite packed for brunch for heads up - get there on the early side. We arrived at 11am and were able to be seated right away. By the time we finished around 12:15, there was a 15 minute wait and the place was packed. It was a snowy day so maybe if the weather is nicer, the wait may start earlier. See if you can get a reservation... Each meal was very good and we would come back here again. There is live music from time to time (this place did start out as a coffeeshop mind you) so if that's not your thing, call ahead.
(4)Sarah D.
Some lovely friends treated us to brunch at Uncommon Ground while we were visiting Chicago. In general, I think all parts of the country do the holidays so much better than California, so when I saw Spiked Maple Nog on the menu, I was feeling festive and had to order it. It was served in bowl and was rummy and warm without being overly creamy. I ordered one of their breakfast sandwiches. The plate came with two(!) sandwiches made on thick, homemade English muffins. Lots of food. They were good, though I would recommend eating with the hot sauce on the table (they just needed a little something else). Others at the table also ordered the breakfast sandwich, huevos rancheros, and a salad. All looked fresh and were enjoyed. Service was good. Food was good. Company was great.
(4)Filip F.
It is painful when one of your favorites becomes a land of mediocrity. I immediately think back on many conversations when I recommended this place as a "great spot." Now all those people think that after my dinner at Uncommon Ground, I go home and wind down with a bottle of Mad Dog 20/20 and a Nickelback CD. Why did you do that to me Uncommon Ground? Local food sources - yes! Craft beers - yes! Bland-ass food priced as if it was special - no! Local food sources and local beers are nothing special in Chicago. To be special, you actually have to use the local food to make good-tasting meals. My personal experience - bland tiny burger with cold sweet potato fries. Mediocre service. Hummus appetizer was outstanding (extra star just for that). But just like few other reviewers mentioned, I don't see a reason to return to this place any more.
(3)Willyum A.
We went there for brunch and ordered the corn beef hash. It was tasty but they charge $15 for an extremely small portion of food (small bowl). Their definition of mixed greens is four pieces of lettuce on top of the dish. It is definitely not a full entree worth $15. The service was fine and food came quite quick.
(3)Andrew L.
I crowdsourced recommendations for coffee shops with fireplaces or board games. A few friends suggested Uncommon Ground. The coffee shop was pretty quiet on the late afternoon. I got a mocha latte and my friend got a bowl of some coffee variation. The menu has lots of seasonal offerings. Some spiked, some standard. Mine was very good and I say that as someone who likes coffee solely for its aroma. Our waiter was friendly and gave us time to figure out what we wanted, but didn't forget about us like some waiters are prone to do. Good spot for a date or to catch up with a friend.
(4)Justin E.
Sunday Brunch here is unbeatable. They have a great selection of dishes to choose from but I highly recommend taking whatever their special eggs Benedict of the day is. I've had 2 different ones now and both were to die for. Their coffee and drinks are also very good. I tried their dinner last night and the menu seems to be lacking something. The food was good but not quite up to my expectations especially considering the price. I'd probably go back but it's not at the top of my list for places in the area. Definitely hit this place up for brunch, you wont be disappointed.
(4)Sarah H.
Awesome place! Great black bean and quinoa burger. The best sweet potato fries ever!!
(5)Not Just Brunch B.
Three of us came here for brunch around 11 on a Sunday without reservations, and we barely had to wait 15 minutes for a table despite the post-Shamrock Shuffle crowd, so we were quite pleased. We experienced good service and large portions at the brunch hour. Of note are the egg sliders that come with the fluffiest english muffins ever. Their regular drink menu is extensive and the brunch-specific drinks are really nice--we're talking fancy hot toddies and spiked hot chocolate served in a bowl. We'd say Uncommon Ground is definitely worthy of all those awards they have received over the years. You can read more about the brunch menu and those tasty alcoholic beverages here: notjustbrunch.wordpress.…
(4)Kyle W.
I go back and forth about Uncommon Ground but it's definitely a decent option with a rotating menu of interesting and tasty food items, including plenty for vegetarians. I think it's a little overpriced at dinnertime but not ridiculous, and the brunch is fantastic and more affordable. Good cocktails and beer selection too. Nice sidewalk patio if you're interested in sitting outside. I went before a concert at Wrigley so the place was nuts and they sat us way late despite having a reservation, but I haven't had those sorts of issues on normal nights.
(3)Lexie G.
Sweet. Potato. Fries. Let me start with how delicious those were-and the goat cheese dip that comes along with them is amazing. This alone will have you come back. Other than that the service was great, nice selection of beer and had New Grist Gluten Free beer which is one of my favorite GF beers and hard to find. The atmosphere is very cool as well, definitely a place to stop by.
(5)James R.
What a great place! I actually work very close to this place (won't say where for fear of getting bad Yelp reviews, haha!) and have always wanted to check it out. The inside has a great atmosphere and ambience. Kinda feels like adventuring through a woodland forest, haha! We were seated promptly, and greeted by a very friendly server. The speed of the service overall was excellent and the food was delicious. We soon realised during our meal of the live music events that they have there, which we plan to make a return visit for. Nothing really negative to say about the place. Bravo!
(5)Rachel S.
I was SO disappointed, I hardly ate any of my food. Also it took them FOREVER to bring our cappuccinos, by the time they arrived they were stone cold, so we had to ask for new ones. Not sure what happened there... Sad times, we won't be back.
(1)Juan B.
Fairly common ground for me. I eat breakfast here once a week at a minimum. Excellent beer and mixed drink selection as well. The organic sourcing of ingredients is a big bonus. Wait staff is awesome. I'll be a regular for awhile if it stays like this.
(5)Rose B.
Loved that all of the food is organic and the meat is from grass fed cows. There wasn't anything on the menu I wouldn't recommend. Our waitress Meghan was just great!!!
(5)Mitchell I.
Every time I am in Wrigleyville, I grab breakfast with friends. I have had the breakfast melt, the chilaquiles, and the French toast over the years. Really good food. I am not into latte served in a big bowl, European style. My buddy loves them. Service is very quick and friendly.
(4)Roseann M.
Sometimes I hate doing a 5-star review. It makes me look like an easy grader, or a pushover, or some paid shill that purports to be a real person. Here's the thing; four of us had dinner and drinks on a Saturday night at Uncommon Ground, and there was not one thing to criticize. Not one. We liked our drinks. We liked our food. We were told there was a half-hour wait when we arrived, and we waited 25 minutes. Service was quick, friendly and professional. The atmosphere was relaxing and casual. If the synopsis isn't enough for you, read on. We arrived shortly after 7pm and decided to wait for our table at the bar. The guys, the Young Lawyer and his Dad, each had a beer from the long craft beer list. I don't know what beers exactly they ordered, but there was enough selection that it took them at least five solid minutes of discussion before they settled on a something. The Department of Health and Human Services should spend that much time checking websites. The Mom, bless her heart, drank only water. But I, as my faithful readers expect, went for alcohol. Uncommon Ground has instituted its autumn seasonal selections. I had a glass of hot mulled wine, and it was delicious. We ate in the back room, and were waited upon capably by Dan. The Young Lawyer and I each had a cup of the soup of the day, a spicy root vegetable soup. It had a vegetarian base. Somehow I expected this to be thick, but it was thin, more like a consomme'. And it definitely had a spicy kick. We liked the soup very much. The Young Lawyer ordered the appetizer selection of mussels for his dinner. I had the small portion of the Sunshine Salad. The Mom and Dad decided to split their selections. They had the macaroni and cheese with the slaw on the side, and a chopped salad. All four of us took a few bites of the mac and cheese, and it was really good. The meal was a huge success. We didn't do coffee, but the Young Lawyer ordered a glass of the same hot mulled wine that I'd had earlier, and he enjoyed it very much. I know Uncommon Ground is famous as being a "green" restaurant, that they work to locally source the food. . . .yada yada yada. All that stuff is nice, and I like being politically correct as much as the next person, but if the food doesn't taste good, who cares? Everything has to come together for a good experience. In our opinion, Uncommon Ground is a terrific place for dinner. We'll be back!
(5)Richard C.
My wife and I used to be regulars. We like to sit at the bar, where Tom and Lee provide great service. However, there has been a revolving door of chefs and a new general manager. Formerly there was generally a good fish special. Recently it was battered bar food fish. A recent visit involved too large a party to sit at the bar. Table service was slow and inattentive, as it generally is. The waitress brought two meat loaves when one had been ordered. She argued that it was one of our friends' mistake. Then she brought the manager over to argue some more. Lovely. This place used to be on our regular rotation. We'd eat there once or twice a month. Now we find less and less reason to come by.
(1)S C.
I am pleased to say that they still have a delicious chicken sandwich, and yes, I still feel that its cost is expensive, especially since when we asked for sides of ranch dressing, they charged another 50 cents. On the plus side, it came with a side, and the chicken was moist and delicious. Our waiter was superb...friendly, informative, all around nice. Bathrooms still should be checked often!
(4)Zorin D.
I stopped at Uncommon Ground when I was passing through on a Sunday afternoon. The menu is definitely steered more towards a vegetarian audience. For lunch I decided when in Rome, do as the Romans do. I went with the vegetarian chili and the tomato sandwich. The chili was hearty and wholesome. I am usually an omnivore and I prefer a chili that is light on the beans, but in spite of that it was flavorful, and slightly acidic with a nice bite of spice. I also ended up enjoying the tomato sandwich. It was a nice combination that used fresh heirloom tomatoes alongside fried green tomatoes. The winner in the dish was the aoli that brought the dish together. The only criticism I have is that it was a bit difficult to eat, even with the giant toothpick holding things together, the layers of the sandwich were slipping all over the place. I don't mind that much because messy sandwiches are some of the best you can have.
(4)Hannah K.
Meh. I would give 2.5 stars... The food was just okay. I could of made my sandwich better at home- I would start by not burning bread. Everything we had was like that. I would compare to a Greek diner. Convenient and edible but nothing to go out of your way for.
(3)Bri A.
I live down the street which is bad news, because this place is always calling my name. I usually come for brunch during the week if I have a day off. Going on the weekend, especially during baseball season, ensures that you will wait an hour or so for a table. The food is expensive but it's amazing! They use fresh, seasonal ingredients and the flavor combinations are always on point. My staple brunch is the Uncommon Huevos (organic black bean cake, eggs over easy, smoked chile sauce, chihuahua cheese) with chai tea or a Bloody Mary, the latter if it's been a rough night! I have also had various seasonal scrambles, duroc ham sandwich, blackened Florida shrimp salad, mac & cheese with bacon (+ a bloody = best hangover cure ever!), pork tacos, pizza, pasta.....pretty much everything on the menu! Recently, I had the pumpkin ravioli which came in a cheesey cream sauce. It was perfect for a chilly fall day. I have yet to come for dinner, but I would like to soon. I love the ambiance here and it seems cool at night. Service is usually good but can be slow when it's busy.
(5)S F.
I went here today for the first time. It was recommended by a colleague for a lunch meeting. We arrived at 11:30 and it was not crowded. We sat in the back room which felt like a coffee house. I loved everything about this restaurant; the food, the decor, the atmosphere. The staff was friendly, the service good. I had the Mac n cheese with broccoli. Delicious! I also recommend the sweet n salty latte. I'll definitely go back to try some of the other dishes.
(5)Rebecca S.
Awesome food! Great service. Wished they took opentable reservations because it can get crazy. As a organic and health conscious eater, this place is one of my favorite in Chicago. It's all local and sustainable ingredients made fresh in house. Four stars only for carryout policy. Don't even bother if you're in a hurry. They informed me the carryout order tickets still get put to the back of the ticket line, so it's gonna be at least 20-30 min wait during busy times. I would give 5 if they found a way to make carryouts more efficient.
(4)Jennifer S.
I have been dining here for over 15 years and it has stayed on the top of my "Favorite Restaurants in Chicago" list ever since my first visit. My favorite thing to eat here is the pumpkin ravioli - sadly, it is not a constant menu item. I have tried many other things, including burgers, meatloaf, mac and cheese, duck, etc. Some of my stand out favorites - the calamari and sweet potato fries. Thankfully they are always on the menu so if the pumpkin ravioli is off at the moment they are usually my go-to's. I had a substitute ravioli once, can't remember the flavor, but it was just okay. Made me wish for the pumpkin ravioli again. Service is always A+ and the live music is a nice touch too. Great ambiance, and very understanding of food allergies.
(4)Leslie B.
Came here with a few girlfriends for dinner and had a phenomenal time. The atmosphere in here is cozy and comfortable, I actually had no idea how large the restaurant was! We were seated in one of the back rooms where it wasn't too loud and we could easily talk. We started with the baked goat cheese, pesto, and artichoke dip. This was more then enough for the three of us to share and very tasty! Definitely recommend. For dinner, we ordered a variety of items including the pork chop with ricotta ravioli, the quinoa stuffed squash, and the black bean cake sandwich. Leah E. said she enjoyed the quinoa stuffed squash, but the flavor of the red wine syrup overwhelmed the dish a little bit. Kara Z. loved her black bean cake sandwich; she gave me a bite and it was fantastic. The pork chop was good, but needed a little more flavor. I really enjoyed the ravioli that came on the side. I felt that the entrees are a little pricey, but they definitely used fresh produce in all of their menu items. Service was just ok, nothing special. Overall, if I go back, I'll stick to something like the bean cake sandwich or a salad.
(4)Salil G.
Not sure what to make of this place. The atmosphere was definitely fun. Bar was full and place was buzzing. Friday night, table for two. We called 15 minutes before we got there and they said wait was about 10 minutes. When we arrived, wait was sitting at 20-25 minutes. No big deal. We waited about 20 minutes, so not too bad. When we were walked to our table, to our surprise, there were three open two tops and several open four tops in the middle back room. We were taken to the far back room where there were more open tables. Not sure if they were short staffed or the kitchen was behind and they were trying to control the flow but seemed odd that when they had a wait, they weren't seating people at the open tables. Waiter came and was nice. Gave us a quick rundown of the restaurant and the menu, then gave us time to order. Came back, we placed our order then waited... And waited... At least 20 minutes passed before he arrived with our apps (a bowl of vegetarian chili - probably out of a pot that was prepped earlier in the day so should have taken about 30 seconds to pour into a cup) and a salad (with no warmed components that should have taken about 2 minutes to put together). Chili was good, actually very good. Salad had about two drops of dressing. The lettuces were DRY. We waited for our server to return and asked for some extra dressing. Three minutes later, the dressing arrived and we were ok... FIVE MINUTES later, our main courses arrived. We were still eating our chili and salad! Server quickly dumped off the mains on the small table and bolted. I'm sure that he knew that it was way too fast. So now we have our main courses getting cold as we're still eating our apps. Server nowhere to be found, so what can we do. We start eating everything buffet style, mixing courses together. Our pumpkin ravioli was great when we got it, but within a minute, the cream sauce broke, so that wasn't very fun. The seared tofu BBQ plate was ehh, ok, not great. We decided to get dessert and got the apple turnovers. Salted caramel ice cream was great, turnovers were tasty. Overall, the best part of our meal. I compare this place to Bite Cafe. Both are good, but Bite Cafe executes consistently where Uncommon Ground failed us again and again. If you're looking for a farm to table restaurant that hits the mark consistently, I'd pick Bite over UG.
(2)Sarah S.
I went here for dinner and a live music show on a Friday night. The space is great- it is huge and has a great decor. (Except for the back room, which has these giant paintings of birds that state at you ominously while you eat.) I would absolutely go back for the coffee or a drink menu. The drink selection was quality, I recommend the rosemary-bourbon infused Beast of Bourbon. However the dishes I got there were not exceptionally. My partner and I ordered the sweet potato fries with goat cheese fondue, the macaroni and cheese with broccoli and sundried tomatoes, and the quinoa-stuffed delecata squash. Despite the locally -sourced and veggie-friendly options, I was not that impressed with the food. We also went for live music. Both acts were really enjoyable, but the restaurant tacked on a $7 cover charge to our bill without notifying us beforehand. They also added incorrect charge to our group tab, so we had to send the check back twice for corrections, and the gratuity was still based on the original, incorrect amount,
(3)Greg R.
This is one of those places where I can not for the life of me figure out how it is getting so high of ratings? One theory, is its a bit off the beaten path for anyone that does not live directly in Wrigleyville, which would lead me to believe it is a bunch of locals giving some love to their local place, which I get. Look and feel of the place is warm and inviting - like walking into a high end sky lodge. There are some big leather couches in the bar area, which i thought was a good touch. Patio is very inviting w/ a garden like feel, which is impressively pulled off since it is right on the street. Service - Our Server was very nice and was ready to walk us through the menu...big issue we had was the speed of service.....Slowwwwwwwwww. Which seems consistent by reading some other reviews. Food - this is where I don't get it. Food was borderline awful. We sent back a Calamari appetizer - it was more breading than calamari. and it seemed no one in my group of 4 were overerly excited w/ their food. I just had a salad w/ a side of grilled chicken. Dry, over cooked, no flavor chicken. Looks like a cool place to get a beer but skip the food. The only good part of the evening was being there with the hottest chick in the city.
(2)Lainchen F.
I really hate to have to write this review since this place has such good drinks, a cute patio, and is close to my house. But the food has gone so downhill, I just can't recommend it any longer. Our table of 4 had an app and three different entrees: Baba ghanoush app: we all liked it Macaroni and cheese: watery and chalky tasting Ricotta ravioli: bland and tasteless Hamburger: insultingly small and overcooked (sweet potato fries were very good) Our server was friendly, but she never came back once after the food arrived, and I had to chase her down to pay the bill since we were heading to a concert. Perhaps she would have offered to comp an item or two, which would have eased the disappointment, but we just didnt get the opportunity to tell her we were dissatisfied. Honestly the best thing they could do is seriously consider a new chef and some waitstaff training. If you just want drinks and apps, you're probably safe, but with the kitchen turning out subpar basics like burgers and mac & cheese? Don't stay for dinner. Sorry, Uncommon Ground. You're off the list.
(2)Harold J.
Service was attentive, but the food was just ok. One of the two of my wife's eggs Benedict was cooked all the way through like a hard boiled egg. At least five members of the staff passed by an looked at the hard boiled egg Benedict and did not ask how the dish tasted.
(3)Bill D.
Fantastic, fantastic, fantastic. One of my favorites in the city. The staff is amazing, the space is great, their mission is fantastic and, most importantly, their food is so delicious. I've never had a bad meal there. Their food is amazing - RUN!
(5)Molly M.
I have been here multiple times before and have never had such great service, but today was the icing on the cake. I will not be back. I came in at 3pm on a Thursday afternoon (clearly there was not a crowd at this time). There were 2 tables of 6 people each and nobody else in the bar. I wanted to catch up on some work and grab lunch so I headed to a four top by the window (mind you the place was empty). The hostess snarled at me that they would "prefer" I sat either "there" or "there" - a 2 top. Once wedged against the front door or the other behind the hostess stand. The one table was right next to the 6 top with a baby -- I asked "is there a child at that table" clearly indicating that I was going to get work done and didn't want a noisy table next to me. She said, "they are about to leave anyway." I am mindful of not taking up table space if a place is full or they need the tables, but nobody was in the joint! I wanted to spread out, check email, do some work and eat. So I did as I was told and crammed into the 2 top up against the window. I had to move my computer off the table when my food came. I ordered the burger ($15) and it arrived smaller than the bun, with cheese (not melted) onion and lettuce. No tomato. I see $1 heirloom tomatoes can be added on the menu. But what about a plain old slice of regular old tomato? Hmmm...nope. I tipped generously as I usually do (I shouldn't have). I was asked to pay the bill as they were changing out the bar drawer (always find this odd). I'm leaving. Won't be back. My biggest beef, the hostess. Scowling, not using common sense....bye bye Uncommon Ground.
(2)Matthew W.
After being seated we waited more than 10 minutes without the waitress acknowledging us. Not even a hi I will be with you in a minute, no waters, nothing. We walked out and I was ok with that because after looking at the menu it seemed like a rip off. The burger was over 10$ with 0 toppings, any extra toppings cost a 1$ each. Really 1 slice of tomato for a dollar. The rest of the menu was not very intriguing. Will not go back.
(1)Rooney B.
Food isn't great every time but overall, it's a great brunch experience. We've had Cameron as our waiter a couple of times now and he's one of the best you'll find in the city. Super efficient, charming/funny, and pretty handsome to boot. Overall, staff averages from good to excellent. Ask about the Benedict specials too!!!
(4)Kristin K.
Great brunch spot with lots of veggie and vegan options.
(5)Tim H.
Uncommon Ground is a unique place: primarily a restaurant, but it's also a place where you can get cocktails, fancy cafe drinks, and on top of that it's a venue for acoustic-based music. At the Clark location the new music room is a welcomed addition and it might be one of the nicer, more intimate music rooms in the city. But this place is still a restaurant through and through. The food is good, not great, and a drawback is that it's slightly overpriced. Of course this is rationalized because of the organic and local products used, which is admirable and something I care about...but still, it's 15% more than I'd like it to be.
(4)Henry L.
Food is overpriced and not very good. Expected more from the hype.
(2)Annie M.
A coworker had recommended Uncommon Ground to me and I am so glad she did! I've been there three times now: once for coffee, once for brunch, and once for dinner. I was totally happy with everything I've gotten. The peanut butter mocha time may have permanently ruined starbuck's for me. Everything I love in one delicious cup! The rest of the menu was also incredibly tempting. Breakfast was even better! I got a breakfast quesadilla. The local hot sauce on the table gave it the perfect kick. I also tried a couple of bites of the pumpkin challah french toast. Really good, but a little too tart for my liking. A few weeks later we went back for dinner. We started with the sweet potatoe fries with goat cheese. Aside from needing a little salt, they were great. The pumpkin ravioli I had was a perfect fall dinner, especially with the craft pumpkin beer I drank with it. The drink menu deserves five stars on its own. Not a huge beer selection, but everything they had, I wanted! On Wednesdays they had $4 or $5 craft beers. Their cocktail list looked even better. I definitely plan on going back to try a few appetizers and cocktails. The restaurant itself has a really cool set up-- half is set up like a bar and the other half like a coffee house with a really nice outdoor patio. Great music played both times and the service was great. Instantly became my favorite place in the city!
(5)Kelly H.
We were so glad to stumble into this cozy little eatery before the Cubs game last weekend. We wanted to fill up on something healthy and fresh to avoid the fried food frenzy at the stadium, and boy did we score. While we were only able to enjoy one meal here, it's was enough to fork over some props for good eats and great atmosphere. I had the summer omelette with cheese curds, summer corn and grean beans. So fresh! Others had the huevos with the black bean patty. The crispy breakfast potatoes are sinful, so be careful if you're at all watching the waistline. If not, dig in. We didn't feel the price was unreasonable, even with drinks. Our waiter seemed incredibly busy, yet he somehow pulled off being attentive and timely. Super kudos to good service. It's so nice to find a comfy, relatively healthy local joint when traveling. Would definitely return and recommend to anyone passing by for a quick bite or impromptu date night.
(4)Courtney N.
Healthy, organic eating with an unbeatable atmosphere! This is my roommate's and my go-to brunch place in Lakeview, and when I move closer to the city this year, I will still make special trips to Uncommon Ground. The prices are a bit higher, but the food has always been amazing and you pay to eat clean and to enjoy a relaxing meal with great service.
(5)Macaire D.
Going to have to agree with some of the more recent reviews for Uncommon Ground - the service was slow, the staff was condescending and apparently the chef thinks too highly of him/herself. There are lots of great food spots around with great service, we won't be back.
(2)Stephen D.
Great food! The drinks are a little expensive and served in bizarre containers. If you order the hay ride, it's going to come in a soup bowl.
(4)Jamsaheb ..
For veggies / Vegans - not very many options, avoid..
(3)Lena M.
We stopped in for drinks, but ended up grabbing a bite to eat as well. Really wanted to try their Bloody Mary, but unfortunately they include Worcestershire sauce in their mix, which has anchovies in it. NO! I hate it when veggie friendly places do this to me! Got a seasonal special, the Fall Fashion, instead. It is their version of an Old Fashioned, & it was very nice. Shared the sweet potato fries (minus the goat cheese), & the polenta with wild mushroom ragout & vegan mozzarella. It came out with maybe 10 tiny strands of vegan cheese sprinkled on it. Don't get a girl excited for nothing! Luckily, the waitress was kind enough to bring me out a little more of the v- cheese. The dish was out of this world delicious! Will be back soon to have it again, plus want to check out some live music there, & try a few more house-infused liquors on their cocktail list. So warm & inviting this time of year! Could use a bit of background music playing. Was very quiet when we were there, & it was a Sat. night.
(4)Kevin D.
Great place to come for lunch and breakfast. I've been coming here for years and the food is always to die for. Its usually pretty busy on weekends and during the summer, but its worth the wait! Most of the time the service is great, but there have been a few times when service was pretty bad, even when it was slow.
(4)Therese N.
This place has really gone downhill. I ordered the breakfast burrito. It's pretty hard to screw something like that up - yet the eggs were overcooked, it had zero taste, and they really skimped on all the ingredients (avocado, cheese, etc...). The breakfast burrito was also $14, which was laughably overpriced. We also ordered the ricotta lemon pancakes. Again, zero taste. There are so many great brunch places in Chicago -- do not waste your time at this place.
(1)Mandy P.
Love this place! Great place for acoustic music. I love that they celebrate all that is Jeff Buckley. A friend to the local artist as well. And now it is time for the pumpkin martini. my favorite drink...almost ever. Innovative and unpretentious menu. comfort food with flare. Always delicious, but a little over priced. Have never been disappointed with the experience. Staff is always great. Give me a pork chop, a pumpkin martini and a little acoustic music and I am happy.
(4)james t.
The sweet potato fries are the best. you have to love them thin and crispy, though, not fat and squishy. Service was attentive without being pushy. The background music was a bit loud, but overall laid back, chilled atmosphere.
(4)Dan B.
I don't go to many breakfast establishments but in my cycling days I did hit the diners quite often. 15 dollars is a lot for eggs, bacon, toast and an orange juice. It's really good and I had a great time but I'm guessing there are other places with just the same quality. I was hoping to go to tweet but it was closed on Tuesdays. It seems you always decide to go to a restaurant when they are closed that one day of the week.
(3)Peter F.
Great food, order anything! BUT, the coffee is strangely heavily caffeinated. Tastes great but your heart pumps well into the night. Dinner is best.
(4)S J.
I am glad they use organic ingredients(much worth of money to dine out) and all dishes I tried were so creative and tasty. I wish many more restaurants use 100% organic food like them, so I don't need to run to famer's market, whole foods to buy groceries and cook at home.
(5)Kevin T.
i just got back from UG. it's a coffeehouse, a lounge, a restaurant, a cafe, a bar and much more. they usually invite nearby musicians to jam out a bit in their back room. tonite i had their "certified black angus burger". it was quite good cooked to how i like it. i wasn't able to engulf it like i normally inhale yummy things, since i was there for a social gathering. in fact, i am a bit disappointed that i left my take-out box there..... grrrr..... oh well. i guess i will need to bring/buy a lunch tomorrow. uncommon ground is definitely a social place and not so much a studying/reading corner. they seemed to have recently attained their liqour license, so be sure to bring a drinking buddy.
(4)Alanna O.
This is an old stand-by of mine, within walking distance of my place. They have a very large space indoors and a very lovely, partly shaded outdoor sidewalk cafe. My favorite dish here is Helen's Chicken Sandwich.....SO GOOD!!!! I Always order this without even opening the menu. I should really expand my horizons and order something different next time I go, as I'm sure everything else is really good too!! Service is usually good but sometimes it's hard to find your server when you need them. All in all, great place to go!! Plus, it's open all day during the week!!
(5)Heidi P.
We brought our children and our friends with their children here in the evening around 6. Not every restaurant would welcome the chaos into their establishment. They seated outside with plenty of room for the extra noise. Everyone was very accommodating and he food was delicious. I had the special soup, creamy corn chowder with goat cheese. REALLY good. We also tried the sweet potato fries. Loved them. Got the BLT app. Nice twist to the original. For dinner, the salad with berries and pecans and goat cheese. Great compliment to the soup. The burger was excellent as well as the gnocchi. My partner ordered the salmon special served with a stuffed banana pepper. All very delicious. We had a vegetarian with us who loved the veggie burger. She just mentioned that the fries that came with the burger should have been cooked a little longer. Great drinks list. Tons of unusual beers and cocktails. Liked the cucumber margarita a lot. Can't wait to go back for breakfast.
(4)Chris S.
This place is OK. The food is actually really good, but it's pretty pricey for what it actually is. The music room is nice, but the artists who play there don't appeal to me. I was asked to play a benefit show for a friend and I was definitely the odd man out on the bill. Not for the punks. This place definitely has it's own demographic, which I personally don't fit into, which is fine. Be aware though, there's a 90% chance of yuppie missed connections here. If you have expendable cash to spend on dining and like music of the John Mayer variety, this place is probably for you. If you're at all like me, and you don't want to drop a ton of cash on food while some dude sings about his feelings whilst playing an acoustic guitar, you might want to jaunt a bit more south on Clark and hit up the Pick Me Up. Personally, I'm curious about the location in Edgewater, since it's entirely "green," but that just might mean that instead of John Mayer, you'll get Jerry Garcia. Neither of which would be a very appealing cap to any night out for me.
(3)Chris S.
Good food-breakfast, lunch, brunch, whatever. It's good. Big huge mugs of lattes and hot chocolate. Big, full bar and a back room for bands to play at night. Great neighborhood place to start, or end the day.
(4)Andrew M.
with its mix of food, ambience, drinks, and a coffee-themed name, this place has something interesting going on. but it did not quite captivate me to go back. i think the ambiance of this place is a bit like a cafe, so i wanted to go and surf or work there. but that felt kind of weird, kind of as it would if you cracked open your laptop in a restaurant. but it didn't win me over quite as a restaurant either. i tried some food once but can't remember if it was good. something about the feng shui of the place didn't sit with me. that's pretty vague but so was my feeling so there you have it. the beer selection was a plus and maybe ended up being the strongest point. if i found myself in the area with a couple of beer snobs/lovers i would head this way, especially on a late afternoon when we could sit outside.
(3)J T.
A jack of all trades type establishment - cafe, bar, restaurant and venue - that surpasses the generic sports bar mundaneness of nearby/surrounding Wrigleyville (pending on your perspective) with great ease. Although it would be nice if this place put more effort into the coffee house aspect (in a Julius Meinl kind of way), I generally think they do a good job here as have always enjoyed the food, service and atmosphere. Strengths are definitely brunch and casual dinners.
(4)Laura I.
I prefer just going here for a drink when watching a show. Going here for lunch/dinner isn't my preferred way to attend. I feel the food is overpriced for what it is, though I must admit they do have extremely fast service. However, it's best for shows that are held in the back seating area. Be sure to come a little early to be sure you can grab a table.
(3)Marissa D.
Cute place to hang out. I went to see my sister's friend sing here and it was a great atmosphere in the back room (where the musicians perform). Very intimate, the crowd was really friendly, and I had a lot of fun. I only had a glass of wine (which was more like a vat...seriously, they give you so much wine here). My sister had sweet potato fries and chili and was very happy with both. She also gulped down 3 of their pomegranate martinis so they must have been fairly delicious. If you want to go when they have performers, try to make a reservation - that way you are sure to get a table. My sense is it fills up pretty quick back there.
(4)Keenan S.
Been to Uncommon Ground twice, once for breakfast, once for dinner. Food was delicious both times, although everything at dinner out-shined breakfast by a long shot. The menu is all over the place, with something for everyone (including some vegetarian-friendly meals) The employees are friendly, and the service is pretty quick, but the place does get a little crowded during peak times, which makes for a loud and uncomfortable eating experience. Don't go here if you're planning on holding a deep, philosophical conversation! But definitely go for the great food.
(4)Jerry W.
It was my oldest daughters 18th birthday and she asked Dad to see his Check Please database, she knows he just loves the show. She picks Uncommon Ground. So we have a party of 15 heading north to the Wrigleyville area and not for a Cubbies game but for a birthday lunch for my little girl. The place is really neat and cool inside. I just loved the exposed brick walls and hard wood floors. The place is quite large for a Chicago restaurant. It was pretty crowded on the day we went. It was very clean. The decor was really pretty cool also. I thought the food was really very good. I had the goat cheese pizza, which my birthday girl daughter also had. We both just loved it and would recommend it to anyone. The staff was very friendly. It was reasonably priced, not cheap but not really expensive either. I know if we are in the area again and have a taste for some goat cheese pizza we will be heading to Uncommon Ground.
(4)Mariana P.
Unique and amazing food. Their cafe beverages (mochas, lattes etc.) are especially delicious. However, after a long night of drinking and spending money, I don't want to spend $10 on pancakes. The service is also just OK. On Saturday mornings when it is slammed, the waiters are way too busy to deal with your table effectively. We waited for our bill for about 25 mins. after finishing eating. So to sum up, a little too pricey for a breakfast place and mediocre wait staff.
(4)Claudia R.
The name is fitting if based on a per-visit rating scale. My first time there lingered in my mind as a brilliantly tasty and eclectic experience yet my second time proved dismal and unworthy of the word-of-mouth advertising I'd been providing to the place pro-bono. That's all I really have to say about that.
(2)Jenna B.
YUMMY in my tummy!!! Last year I threw a private party for work at UG, but we only drank and had a small area near the bar. I had been wanting to go back for dinner for over a year and finally went last night and wow, was it good. Way beyond my expectations. I had a small salad that had avocados and sunflower seeds in it, and then I also indulged in a bowl of sweet potato fries with a warm goat cheese fonde dipping sause and I also tried the gooey mac and cheese along with a few sips of the $5 bloody mary. Everything was amazing. Althiugh I did not try andy, the drinks/martini list was very unique and blended together lots of yummy looking sweet ingredients. I am only giving it 4 stars, not 5, because it is expensive and not a place you can afford to go to a whole lot, but I wish I could!! (entrees are like $18ish)
(4)Ron S.
I've been there a number of times mostly out of convenience. I like the large outdoor seating area. That being said the food, which is mostly good, is a bit overpriced for the place. The service is VERY INCONSISTENT. I would say unacceptable for the price. When this was just a coffee shop, shitty service was expected. As a restaurant, it needs to be way better!
(3)Stacy C.
A unique place for dinner, drinks, live music or coffee. I have to admit that it's a little pricey for me, but the interior is beautiful and the specialty drinks are pretty neat-o. They have a "treetini" made with organic vodka, and for each one purchased they plant a tree! Try it out for small plates and drinks, or to catch a friend playing a set in the back room. Uncommon Ground is a nice break from all the sports bars and dive bars that surround it in Wrigleyville.
(4)Steve R.
Very nice place to grab brunch, thereby having the excuse for drinking during the noon hours. I've always found the food very tasty, the service courteous, and the bloody marys agreeable. Real agreeable. They've got a very nice patio as well. Relatively kid friendly, I suppose. The crowd is exactly the sort of crowd you'd expect for the area. I'll take this over Bongo Room any day. The only down side is that it's generally pretty crowded and there's a wait. They do have a nice waiting area with couches, a fireplace and whatnot, right by the bar.
(4)Keith A.
Even back when Uncommon Ground was a coffeehouse, I'm not sure it really wanted to be a coffeehouse. The menu has always been expensive (more so than any other coffeehouse I've been to, except for Caffe de Luca), and when a musical act was playing in the back room, the staff seemed to resent it if anyone chose to stay out front. Now it's expanded into a restaurant-bar, still quite pricey for what you get, and seems to regard its coffeehouse-ish interior as an embarrassing growth that it hasn't been able to have removed yet. It's like the former UG got in touch with its inner bourgeois, which then turned the tables and took over, becoming an unabashed outer bourgeois that's determinedly and successfully repressing its feebly protesting inner bohemian. Why doesn't it just purge the coffee pun from its name and give itself over fully to its new, true identity?
(3)Alaina F.
MMmmmmmm this place is good. I live in the area and have been here twice, once in the summer and once in the fall/winter. The reason I note that is because the menu changes (based on season, I believe, but I could be making that up). Both times, this place was great. It is a bit snobby, which I usually don't mind, but this place is snobby and hipstery. Oh well. The food and wine makes up for it. The menu is eccletic and original. In the summer, I got a fried green tomato BLT and it was outstanding. Had some kind of peppercorn aioli on it and the fried green tomato made the sandwich. I also tried the meatloaf, which I'm not usually a huge fan of, but this was nothing short of AMAZING. Very comfort-y and delicious. It was a huge portion, which I ate all of, and I could have eaten more. Very well done. Also got a great bottle of Cab, forget what it was called. A bit expensive, but well worth it. Definitely recommend this place.
(4)Sy S.
Amazing!!!!! I have come for music before, but I never tried the food. I am so glad I did. Everything was seriously amazing! I can't wait for the pumpkin ravioli again!
(5)Rachelle T.
Uncommon Ground is an awesome coffee house/bar/cafe. I've been here with friends, family, and even on a blind date and I've never had a bad experience. The artwork that covers the walls is amazing (check out the bathroom!), they have live music several nights a week, and it's got a very comfortable and intimate vibe. Oh and it's smoke free, ahhhhh. Their food is great, especially the artichoke/cheese dip appetizer, and if you're drinking I HIGHLY recommend the chocolate martini - yum yum!
(4)Dana P.
I suggested to Andrea W that we have brunch here today because it's become one of my new favorite spots. My boyfriend just moved right around the corner and we've been eating here almost every week. I had an amazing goat cheese omlette last weekend, which I was sad to see wasn't on the menu this morning...I guess it was a special? However, the montana omlette hit the spot even though it was a little undercooked like Andrea said in her review. I also had dinner here last week- the burgers and fries are very good.
(4)Wendy G.
I went to this restaurant for the first time over a year ago for dinner, but decided to try it for brunch recently. My previous experience wasn't too memorable, but I recall being a little weary at the eclectic menu options. This time, we decided to go there prior to a Cubs game so it was very busy, but they had a quick turnover on the tables. The menu offers items a bit 'uncommon', and my boyfriend and I both found ourselves saying, "it's different, but tastes really good". You pay a little more to get the unique spin on dishes, but it was worth it for our meals. That being said, it's not the place to go to if you just want a run of the mill breakfast of eggs, hashbrowns, & toast. Our waiter was extremely attentive and friendly. Even the other waitstaff helped to refill coffee and water without hesitation. I was happy to see this even during a busy time like pre-Cubs game. I'll definitely be heading back to try some of the other dinner options and the appealing drink menu (have to mention that for some of the drinks, they offer to donate a portion of the proceeds to various charities!!!). I'll also be adding it to my list of places to take out of town guests.
(4)Nicole C.
Recently came here on a weeknight and had a great time. My dining companion and I shared a couple of appetizers: fried calamari with a sweet and spicy Korean sauce and Mussels in a coconut based broth. The calamari were light and crunchy with a taste of potato in the breading that I liked. The Mussels were good, not great, but amply served along with toasted baguette slices glisteningly brushed with oil to sop up the broth. Our server was very knowledgeable and friendly without being overweening. She recommended a great beer to pair with our food. I've been to Uncommon Ground a number of times, always satisfied. It's versatile and a great date spot as you can come for coffee/tea, drinks, appetizers, dinner, dessert, or any combination thereof. I will say that I did have one of their lauded hot chocolates once and found it disappointingly bland. Step up the cocoa content and I'd be much happier!
(4)Gina B.
Love it love it love it! I've been a customer for longer than I care to admit... let's just say since they only had the one little coffee house store front and great veggie chili. I've been there for brunch, lunch, dinner and live music. Today on the lovely patio, I had spectacular fish tacos and sangria YUM. It still feels just as cool as when it was tiny - I love when my little neighborhood spots do so well!!
(5)dave s.
All around decent food, great atmosphere and decent service. Saturdays are interesting because they hold an open mic in the back of the restaurant with some pretty good talent. I heard that Jeff Buckley used to play here every once and a while. I would recommend visiting on that day for a little extra entertainment. Supposedly they have good breakfast but I have not tried it.. Weekdays are typically slow and weekends are pretty crowded especially in the summer when they have outdoor seating. Definitely worth a try.
(3)Chi M.
first of all, there is NO SMOKING WHATSOEVER allowed in this awesome spot. that makes it great already. then the food: very generous portions, not too pretentious, but gets to the point. great steel cut irish oatmeal with apples n brown sugar. they have this dish that i have all the time but i always forget the name, lol. its got beans n potatoes n eggs with cheese. good n hearty. the decor is simple and a bit stark. very "woody". but the leather couch n chairs by the fireplace warm things up a bit. plus FREE WIFI! yay. clean bathrooms, too! huge bar with pretty knowledgable bartenders, who may be a bit heavy-handed depending on the night. THIS IS A GOOD THING! Go check this place out.
(4)Nina W.
I love Uncommon Ground and have been here multiple times and I'm never disappointed. Exposed brick and cool paintings from rotating artists line this enormous cafe. There is a cozy fireplace surrounded by a super comfy couch and chairs. I've had breakfast, dinner, coffee and drinks here and it's always a good time. I will definitely be back. The cost of two coffee drinks, a croissant breakfast sandwich consisting of egg and cheese, a chicken sandwich, and buttermilk pancakes came to a total of $41.24 without tip.
(5)Diana C.
I have never been here for brunch as it seems many of the Yelpers have, but I have been here a few times for dinner. Very surprising for a place that, before I ever went, I knew as a coffee house. Both times I have had chicken, prepared different ways, but it was prepared flawlessly and the sides were delicious. Good, very reasonably priced wine list also.
(4)Tanya R.
This place is absolutely to die for--a rare treat. If you're looking for the best latte in town, or some killer dishes like pumpkin ravioli or miso grilled salmon, this is where to go. Guys, if you're trying to impress a lady friend over dinner and a drink while still keeping the atmosphere laid back, tastefully artistic and fun, take her to Uncommon Ground. Food is reasonably priced, and you will not find better coffee drinks anywhere. They even have live music on weeknights. The sectioned off portions of the restaurant make each area feel unique and cozy. I used to come here even when I lived in Hyde Park...so now I'm very happy to be living down the street. The only bad thing was the waitress seemed "busy," which got annoying to have to flag her down all the time. Fortunately the "scene" was redeeming enough to override it...Hope this helps!
(4)Erica i.
What a great place! The atmosphere is wonderful. When I first walked in a felt very warm. The decorating is very interesting. A cross between frontier style and modern country. The food was delicious. Being a vegetarian, I was extremely happy to see a veggie burger on the menu, and a few other dishes. The live music is also wonderful. They are very careful in who they select to play, so you know when you go there,it isn't going to be a garage band. Its about a block away from Wrigley field. Definitely worth checking out for dinner or after the Cubs game!
(5)Kate G.
I have loved every dinner I have had here. We went here for the first meeting of my mom and the boy: the fun atmosphere really eased any nerves. I am addicted to the sweet potato fries and the butternut squash ravioli. I completely agree with Desiree K.: you look at the menu and find so many things that are not offered at other restaurants. I have stopped by here wanting to grab a coffee and listen to live music, but it has consistently been too crowded, so I am sure getting there early would be beneficial.
(5)Dee C.
Loved the coffee and the breakfast potatoes,there wasn't too much in the breakfast menu to eat if you don't eat eggs or dairy,maybe some grilled tomatoes or mushrooms would work well with those yummy potatoes. Server was lovely,very relaxed atmosphere and the decor is very cool. I don't know if it's the same owners as the one in Michigan but if it is, they have 2 great places,not easy to do.
(4)Matthew S.
For someone who is religious about brunching on the weekend, I was pleased with the food and service, but it was not anything head and shoulders above other Chicago brunch capitols. I will however go back again for lunch or dinner to try out more of the menu. The atmosphere was nice and laid back with a decent amount of outdoor seating. Staff was polite, but service was slow at times... however, not nearly as bad as the other reviews indicated for the one time I went. If you enjoy brunch in Chicago, put this pone on your list, but maybe not at the tip-top.
(3)Michelle H.
Solid. About what you would expect from a coffee house. 10 years ago their menu was innovative and 10 years later the same items are on the menu. Tiny bit stale, I thought. The art on the walls changes every 6 weeks and I found the photography this month pretty cool and would go back to check out the new work every now and again.
(3)Sara O.
Excellent food, super excellent atmosphere and uber excellent drink choices - they even have Dellerium on tap! This is a cool place for a date or for just chillin'. I like sitting by the fireplace when it's cold out. Only thing, one of the bartenders last time didn't give us the option of taking our change... he just said "thanks, ladies" and kept a 40 percent tip. What's up with that?
(4)Laura S.
This is a good brunch option. They have very interesting menu items, so if all you want is eggs and bacon, this is probably not the best place to go. They have a great outdoor patio, which makes it very appealing in the summer months! I do have to agree that the service is not the best here, however.
(4)David R.
Awesome food! We sat in the front room whhere the bar is, so it had a neighborhood bar type of atmosphere. Didn't have any coffee, but tried one of their Belgium beers on tap that was really good. The menu has common food but with unique twists that make it very interesting and hard to choose. I will be back to try more!
(4)Jon N.
3 1/2 stars. pretty good food. bloody mary was salty
(3)Mairin B.
This place is dog friendly, at least on their outdoor patio! When I stopped for bite while walking my pooch, the waitress brought out a bucket of ice water just for my dog... They also have a great selection of vegetarian foods. I recommend the macaroni and cheese... Seriously. It's gourmet.
(4)Mark W.
Uncommon Ground is like the Jack-of-All-Trades of food/drink establishments- succesfully pulling off the coffeeshop / restaurant / bar combo, while displaying art and hosting local live music acts. As the name suggests, it is the food establishment that refuses to conform. The majority of my experiences with Uncommon Ground have come in the form of brunch. I've eaten dinner a couple times as well. I've never been blown away, but the food has always been quite good. Menu options are unique. There are a couple of rooms to seat people in, stretching back further than you'd imagine by looking at the front of the place. Yet, it's always packed for brunch on weekends (what place isn't?) Half hour + waits are often typical if you don't arrive early enough. I've never been for live music, but still like the idea of it in theory. It isn't my top choice for brunch, but it is pretty good. Dinners here have also managed to exceed my expectations each time.
(4)Seiji C.
they brought us three bowls of whip cream. cuz we asked. the waiter was adorable. and funny. and the hot chocolate tastes like chocolate that's fourstarsworthy
(4)Niall C.
This is a fun cafe where great new talented musicians get to play. I have alot of friends who have played their first gigs here. It's alot of fun to discover new acts and just hang out. Their desserts are also amazing!!
(5)Nick R.
I love Uncommon Ground. I have never tried their coffee or stayed and listened to the live music, however the food is great. I went there for brunch on a Sunday with my brother and girlfriend and everyone was really happy with their meal. If you are looking for a different kind of place in Wrigleyville this should be one of your first choices.
(5)Mary H.
Pretty good food and service. They were nice and didn't rush us when we hung out after finishing our dinner, which was nice. I also went there when it was cold for some hot chocolate. It was fantastic--it comes in a big bowl with lots of whipped cream. Yum.
(3)Anonymous P.
Oh, man. Hot waitress.
(3)Atl L.
Just went to this place for the first time this weekend. It was really good. The gnocchi was excellent. Our server was super nice - he even comped a dessert when the bartender got backed up on our drinks. Great atmosphere this time of year with the fireplace - nice and cozy.
(4)Lisa M.
Just went here for brunch on Saturday. We sat outside but I got a glimse of the inside and the leather couch seating area is a very nice touch. The coffee was great and I ordered the Montana omlet. Yum! The potatoes that come on the side were excellent. They had a nice specials menu and lunch choices as well. I will definitely be back to try the pommegranite green tea, bowl of hot chocolate and more!
(4)stephen r.
For the neighborhood, it's outstanding. Compared to some other coffee shops though it begins to waver. This was not always the case though. They have taken on a strange vibe after taking over the corner space on clark. The new extended space is a bar and grill. There are tv's with sports on (hey, you can hit wrigley with a stone standing at the bar) and it feels just, so, ho-hum. But the old space was always fun for us. Good food, good coffee drinks and we did once stick around for the music and were glad we did. I'm hoping to get there again soon.
(4)Rob L.
I came her with two female friends of mine. We were thinking about getting a bottle of wine when our server came by and let us know it was half priced bottle of wine that night..... su weet! We had this great red from Argentina, actually two of them... and a sparkling white. Yes we did have hangovers the next day. The girls talked about this great braised beef dish with ravioli, they had the same dish, but this time they had it with risotto, raving about it they got it. I had the chicken stuffed with chorizo. Their dish was great, falling apart, succulent and the risotto was perfectly "to the tooth". Mine was great, moist, tasty and gone. The banana bread pudding we all shared was full of flavor and rich, but again equally gone. Service is friendly and quick, the atmosphere is cozy, warm and inviting. It was a great night with friends, made even better with some equally wonderful food and wine!
(5)erin d.
i love this place! color me green and call me a hippie but they've got organic food down to a science. everything is always fantastic be it brunch, lunch or dinner. ...and they serve delirium tremons (sp?). in the summer they have a patio that is worth the wait...did i mention it's also a coffee house?
(5)joe H.
Nice place to hang out!! Great place to enjoy a cup of coffee as well...
(4)Anna A.
"Yay! I'm a fan."
(4)Megan B.
I've been twice, once for dinner and once for lunch. Both times hit the spot and I can't wait to go back. The dinner menu is creative and the food is perfect. The burger I had for lunch was perfect as well.... The fireplace was also a nice touch since it was still winter when I went.
(5)Eric _.
My favorite breakfast place. Everything I've tried I liked, but especially the pancakes. The best thing about it is the drinks. All the espresso or coffee drinks can be 'spiked' and are tremendous. The spiked cider is also very good.
(5)mary b.
i admit it. when i was apartment hunting a few years ago, my priority was simple: be as close to uncommon ground as possible. they have THE best waitstaff in the whole city. and brunch at uncommon ground is undeniably the best brunch i've had anywhere. UG caters to all. Want to cozy up next to the fire with a book and their uncommon cocoa? You got it. Want to listen to some great bands in a small and cozy venue? Check. Want to enjoy your company without pressure to finish your meal and leave? It's all here. The food is great, the drinks are excellent, the service is fabulous. This is the best place in Chicago, hands down.
(5)Scott C.
Any place that puts alcohol in the hot chocolate is ok in my mind. Good food, and great coffee.
(4)Laura B.
Great coffee house and acoustic music venue. Good food, good peeps.
(5)George R.
Well, we've eaten here twice now and it still hasn't tipped the scales towards a "favorite" destination, despite being a few blocks from our front door. Convenience matters, but food and quality service matter most to me. We have not had bad food per say, but there are concerns about quality. The staff was interesting and well mannered for an early Sunday, but there were issues with the bar delivering drinks in a timely fashion, if at all. My "special" berry pancakes came as two huge pancakes with a few (and I mean maybe 10) berries tossed on top after they were cooked. Warn tea water, undercooked bacon (despite requesting well-done) and way too many potatoes was enough for me to toss this one up as another casualty on my list. Otherwise, its a decent location and has lots of outdoor seating. Plus, the nightly live music can be great. You can hear everything just fine on the sidewalk if the cover is too high. I may not go back for breakfast, but a drink or two would be fine. You'll like the couch near the fireplace for lounging. Not a must see, but still interesting.
(3)David S.
WAY overpriced for what you get. I went to the host stand to check on how long it would be until we got a table and the bartender removed my drink before I finished it... and didn't apologize at all when I mentioned this to him. They couldn't give us a table due to tables being held for reservations and were VERY apologetic. My group of 5 was able to have drinks at the bar, drinks by the fireplace, eat appetizers by the fireplace, settle our check, and leave without anyone being seated at tables they were holding for reservations. The hosts were young and incompetent. They apologized too much. The server apologized too much. The food was fine, but out of the five things we ordered, only 1 was a hit (calamari.) The chopped salad was definitely not chopped and definitely not worth $15. Not recommended.
(2)Marc L.
This place is unfriendly to musicians and people organizing social meetings/events. They change things at the last minute, screwing you over. It happened to two of my friends, so I won't be going back here, not like this is a place I'd hang out often anyway.
(1)joanna f.
YUM! I love this place! Super great foods with some interesting combinations. Love the specialty drinks. They make a great cosmo. My friend is a fan of their mint julep. They also have outdoor seating, which is really great in the summertime. The wait service was very friendly. Good for both couples and small groups. Been here 3 times and haven't found anything that I didn't enjoy! Pasta/mussels, appetizers, mac and cheese! They also have live music in the evenings (not sure what the schedule is). Easy to get to. Go go go!
(4)Meghan C.
excellent, excellent breakfast. i was there for a late breakfast/early brunch on saturday morning. the atmosphere was relaxed, the waitstaff was friendly and attentive, and the food was amazing. the seasonal menu offered diverse choices from a local bakery and foodstand. i had the uncommon omelet (i believe that's what it was) and it was amazing. it was cheddar-beer cheese over sunny-side up eggs on fresh, thick wheat toast, topped with very tasty bacon (i usually don't eat bacon, but made an exception for this). this came with homefries, which i didn't even have to season in order to enjoy (usually, i'm a ketchup-aholic). even the coffee was uncommonly good. i'll definitely be back.
(5)M R.
Went there on a Saturday afternoon and it wasn't too crowded, yet we were sat in the back, under an AC vent which was blowing on our faces and aggravating allergies. Waited about 10 minutes and no one approached us...just kept getting colder from the AC. So I asked the hostess if we could move outside where we would be warmer, even though it was drizzling outside. But that was our choice. Hostess seemed annoyed about that and annoyed that she had to dry off the chairs. After waiting again, no one even acknowledges us, wait another 10 minutes while we're sitting outside in the rain, so we just got up and left. Not like it was busy or packed...it was basically like we were invisible. Bad service and will definitely never be back again.
(1)Kristin M.
Three stars is not bad in my book, its average... Unfortunately I was expecting a little more than average from Uncommon Ground mostly due to its awesome concept. Organic menu, interesting drinks, live music, hippy/trendy waitstaff... Everything just fell a little short. Service was attentive, but we did have to wait quite a while before any one came by. My drink was yummy (pomegranate margarita), but it arrived over an inch short of the rim. (I can understand if the waiter is worried he may spill in the delivery, but then give me the shaker too!) The menu was pricey, but that is what you expect for organic produce, hormone-free meats, etc. My entree was filling and flavorful, but the biggest thing missing: presentation. I never realized how important presentation was to a meal until I realized how poorly executed presentation can completely foul your perception of the food. It seems that all the entrees (both mine and my fiancees) are served on these triangle plates, cool idea, but the way the chef arranged the food on the plate... It was perfectly symmetrical, making it look as though it was some futuristic Star Trek meal. It was like it was something that we'll all eat in the future when we eat food solely for the nutrition and not for the fun of it. (God I hope that never ever happens!) At any rate, I was completely disturbed by the presentation- if you couldn't tell! :o) Otherwise it was tasty, but I don't think I'll go back.
(3)Kristin L.
a well-kept secret of wrigleyville! their menu is a bit pricey (at least for my poor college student standards), but definitely worth it. they have live music in the back room, an ever-changing selection of artwork in the middle room around the coffee bar (which serves BOWLS of coffee and cocoa!), and a fully stocked bar in the front room. and with their warm, charming atmosphere and staff, this is a great little getaway!
(5)larry w.
loooooove everything about this place!!
(5)Patrick F.
We spent quite a bit of time trying to decide what to order here as the menu offers a lot of nice options. Everything we ordered turned out to be very good. They also have a nice beer / wine selection and the entire place is smoke free - which is great!
(4)Ren H.
This is a great coffe house! They've got really great food and those awesome spiked coffees and hot chocolates!
(5)Mark S.
It's like a coffee shop that collided with a restaurant and bar. The front area is more restaurant/bar, and the back is more coffee shop feeling. I don't think it was the owner's intention, but the result from my perspective is a very European "Bar/Cafe" type experience. This place totally reminds me of the kind of neighborhood place I'd go for drinks and conversation with friends in Munich- good lighting, interesting art on the walls, quality drinks, mature staff and the option of ordering food, although not required. I've eaten here a few times before when hungry, and the food was fine, but I don't come here specifically for that- I come for an atmosphere where I can feel reasonably civilized while having a drink or two and some conversation without a lot of phony-baloney stuff. If this place were closer to where I lived I could see myself enjoying meeting friends here more often than I do, but as it stands, it's still a great escape when I have to enter this neighborhood.
(4)Elisabeth C.
This place is neither bad nor great. It 's the kind of place you eat at, then forget about. While the service was good and the food (breakfast) was pretty decent, the portion sizes were small and the nicoise salad was underdressed (and I'm not even a fan of vast amounts of salad dressing) and rather bland. I sort of resented paying $10 for it. It came with a small piece of bread that I couldn't eat since it was during Passover, so perhaps with the bread it would have been a bit more filling, but still. The date's breakfast burrito was (according to him) pretty good, and a larger portion. I don't think this is a bad place, and the coffee is good, but it's not somewhere I'd go out of my way to eat at.
(3)Ingrid H.
I don't give out (4) stars like they're going out of style, but I'll certainly give (4) stars to Uncommon Ground based on cuisine and setting. It is the complete package vis-a-vis cozy, American brunch spots, and includes a sizable menu offering several wonderful comfort food selections. Little is left to be wanted in terms of the setting, complete with cozy leather couches set in front of a roaring fireplace, rough hardwood floors, throughout, and three separate dining rooms which break up the space, nicely, add a fairly intimate feel to the restaurant. There's even a bonus fireplace in the second dining room area that adds a nice touch to the place. Since it's winter, right now, I'm currently stuck in a crispy potatoes and mac 'n' cheese phase, which, together, are entirely too much food to consume, but manageable upon harassing my other crispy potato and and mac 'n' cheese-lovin' pals to dine out with me. The prices could be a bit lower, but no one's forcing me to eat there every night of the week, so when I do go, I suppose that I don't mind terribly. In any event, it's definitely worth the trip and, though I have yet to schedule the time, I'd like to stop in at some point to just lounge in front of the fireplace with coffee, or grab a pint at the very welcoming bar.
(4)Natalie B.
Awesome! The menu changes every few weeks because that's just how seasonal this place is! They change what they make depending on what's available... because you know you shouldn't be eating strawberries in the middle of winter. Waiters were very knowledgeable about the menu and eager to tell us about where Uncommon Ground gets its food. I asked the water about the rooftop garden at their location in Andersonville (I think) and he was absolutely delighted! And, of course, the food was great. I had dinner there, but will definitely come back for lunch. Apparently it's also a coffee place, which I didn't know.
(5)Megan B.
What's better than a discovering a great new brunch place on the first snowy winter weekend in Chicago? Finding a place that not only caters to my taste buds, serves fantastically creative cocktails, and provides the cozy, warm & friendly atmosphere that I crave during the long, cold, gray days of Chicago winter. Went here on a Sunday morning to catch up with a few of my girlfriends. Could not have been happier with our experience. Of course we had to wait (It's Sunday in Chicago after all, what do you expect!) but I have never had a better waiting environment for a brunch place. This is the kind of place you don't mind waiting. We were told it would only be 25 minutes and to cozy up to the bar while we waited. We got some coffee, pondered the amazing and inventive drink menu while we waited, and before we knew it, table was ready! Now to the food...I had the 'Winter Omelet' which consisted of purple yams, butternut squash, caramelized onions, bacon, and gorgonzola cheese. WOW. The flavors all blended together so wonderfully. This was all my favorite foods of the fall/winter season all rolled up into one entree! This was savory breakfast heaven. Also, the hash browns that come with all the egg entrees, to die for. I swear these are not your average joe hash browns. They look simple, but don't be fooled! All around a fantastic brunch experience. Their lunch food also looked wonderful and I would be interested to try dinner as well. This is the kind of place I feel like I could just hang out with friends for hours. I will be back!
(5)Emily M.
Not happy with this place. Let me explain my experience: I went here with friends for brunch on a Sunday morning. Okay I know I can't expect to get in and out or be seated immediately on a Sunday but that is beside the point. I did have somewhere to go after and allotted myself 1.5hrs for brunch. We were told we had to wait. They didn't tell us how long we would have to wait. There were no other groups waiting. There were empty tables. My friend inquired how much longer we must wait.. as there were open tables available. The restaurant employee that my friend spoke with told us we couldn't be seated yet because they didn't have any menus for us. NO MENUS? THAT IS NOT A THING. I do not care. Not having enough menus is not a reason for me to be sitting on a couch waiting and hungry while there are tables available. Print more menus. Have more more menus so this doesn't happen. I would have been willing to pull up their website on my phone and order off that menu. I seriously couldn't believe it. Okay so we're finally seated. We wait a while. We're in the back room. NO servers enter that room. We have to wave someone down who was apparently a bus boy, and ask him if he could get someone to come by and take our order. Eventually a server comes by. Oh joy! We place our orders. The food comes. The food is delicious. The only reason I'm remotely tempted to come back here is because the food was so damn good. We finish our food. We're done, staring at our plates, each other, obviously still making conversation, but it's been so long since we've finished and no one has come by with our check or to check on us. We find the one server that managed to mosey into this back room and ask for our checks. We pay. We leave. Frustrated.
(2)Todd M.
Food was pretty good, with an added plus for being locally-minded. I love the intimate performance space too. To top it off, the draft beer selection is great!
(4)Lea S.
I went here with two girl friends for lunch on a weekend. We all had the amazing hot apple cider complete with an apple slice dripping with honey. Yum. The meals were decent, nothing extraordinary. I think the sweet potato fries were the best part! I do have to credit Uncommon Ground on their ethics. I actually went there because I had heard about their partnership in the Sustainable Food Co-op and that they grow food on the roof. That scores points in my book. Also, the staff was great. My friend was trying to guess the name of the song that was playing, and a waitress overhead and looked it up for her. I'll be back for sure. I'm thinking maybe their dinner selections might be more interesting for the palate.
(4)Robyn T.
Local, sustainable food is given top notch care and lovingly presented to diners. Go early on weekends to snag an outdoor table. Great sweet and savory dishes and Intelligentsia coffee! Love, loved, loved my special eggs benedict complete with duck and some deliciously chunky unpasteurized cheese. Yum. When can I go back now for dinner?
(4)Karen N.
Love this place. I am the 159th review... but I had such a great lunch here that I just have to report... We had a long lazy sneak-out-of-work lunch. Chop salad and fish tacos. You can't really mess up chop salad, but the fish taco was surprisingly good. Lightly battered tilapia, with diced sweet potatoes and a creamy sauce. Others have said it: this place has a great vibe, varied menu, and it induces conversation. Seriously.
(4)Dora D.
I am a lover of this place and so is my hubby! Perfect coffee shop during the day, definitely a good place for a bite to eat at any time of day and perfect for cocktails and live music in the evenings. This place is as cozy as it is romantic as it is fun! I love the artsy atmosphere and always friendly wait staff. It's nice that it's family friendly during the day and there's always something interesting to look at with the ever changing art work on the walls. The other thing that changes from season to season are the beautiful lamps I love staring at over the bar. Okay...On to the YUMMO foooood!!! If you value and appreciate the earthy & organic plates and some traditionals with a twist, you will love this place! Some of my faves include the Winter scramble and uncommon huevos for breakfast, the baked artichoke goat cheese pesto dip is so yummy, the sweet potato fries with goat cheese fondu is MY FAVORITE MUST HAVE every time I'm there! I crave these fries!!! And I LOVE LOVE the pumpkin ravioli! But hurry in to get that because they take it off the menu at winter's end. Lot's of other good stuff I've tried include the sunshine salad, herb & cheese flatbread, halibut fish tacos, and don't forget the DESSERT! The apple cinnamon brown butter pudding cake topped with vanilla bean pecan gelato is just to die for! This place is meant to be shared and tasted!!! :)
(5)Kimothee Z.
This place is hit or miss. A few times I've been there and really been pleased, more often its been disappointing. The service is the same way. I used to really like this place, but the last few times have left a little pissed. Its not cheap so I expect some level of quality and lately it just hasn't been up to par.
(3)Jaime R.
Awesome drinks and food, super chic gastro pub digable atmosphere enjoyed every min.
(5)Sarah Z.
I fancy the artwork. I dig the atmosphere. I quite liked the service. I did not care for the chopped salad, but the apple crisp was divine. I felt that the sweet potato fries and accompanying cheese came from a box. I will be back because of this joints reputation, but I am a bit underwhelmed at the moment.
(3)David P.
On a chilly late afternoon, I was dragged here by my boyfriend. I say dragged because I didn't want to leave the house - but we're were hungry, crabby, and bored. Boy, was I glad I got up off my ass. Immediately after walking in, I felt incredibly comfortable and cozy in the space. It looks as if someone splashed a bucket of autumn all over and it came in the form of various wood patterns, a rustic floor, and some of the cutest lamps I've ever seen. I smiled and sat down. We got coffee and split the sweet potato fries that come with goat cheese fondue. It may be because I'm very hard to please when it comes to goat cheese, but I only cared for the fries. He got their chilly which I never got to try because I was too preoccupied with one of the best pasta dishes I've had all year. Their pumpkin ravioli is out of control delicious. It has a brown butter sauce and is sprinkled with pecans and gorgonzola. The saltiness of the sauce works like hot magic with the slight sweetness of the pumpkin filling. Better hurry up though guys, they take it off the menu in the spring!
(4)Rebecca W.
This is a new favourite of mine. (I know, I'm a little late in game on this one.) My friend and I went to lunch here a couple of weeks ago, along with a large stroller and quiet baby. I was surprised to see that we were not the only stroller-rollers in there - we were one of many! I had the ricotta ravioli and it was delectable! I didn't want to stop eating. My friend had the chopped salad which she was also thrilled with. What really makes this place great in my eyes is the sustainability. They use fresh, seasonal foods that are organic when possible and from small local farms. THIS is the epitome of perfect restaurant traits. I can't wait to go back and try all of the other amazing dishes they offer!
(4)Cory W.
Great food and service, laid back environment and the value is there. Mindful sustainable and often organic food made delicious; really delicious! Beer flights, lots of goat cheese and lightly fried items spoke to us and we weren't disappointed by anything. We will be back soon.
(5)Eric L.
yet another average restaurant. i like it for the natural light and a pot of tea. i've had a caesar salad and a very average pastrami sandwich here for food. nothing to write home about.
(3)Deborah E.
For my 100th Yelp review, I really agonized over what it should be. In my mind, I set up rules - nothing overreviewed; has to be cool & original; perhaps west loop-ish; something avant garde, tres chic, fanciful, blah, blah, blah. But who am I trying to impress, anyway? Suddenly, I realized I needed to review a restaurant that truly meant something to me, that: - has never failed me - has consistenly tittilated my tastebuds with innovative fare - offers a wide variety of dishes, including organic items - is a place I love to impress the uninitiated - provides friendly, knowledgeable service - in essence, is a place on which I can always rely And Uncommon Ground fits the bill. My beloved and I frequent the Devon Ave. location the most but our recent Sunday afternoon visit at the Clark location sealed it for me, so there it is. (Sundays are also $5 Bloody Mary day and in my opinion one of the best Bloodys I have ever had.) I have never been disappointed in one thing I have eaten at Uncommon Ground from the sunshine salad to the prairie pure macaroni & cheese (prairie pure butterkase, aged white cheddar, gruyere, tart apple slaw) to the open faced meatloaf sandwich (bacon wrapped meatloaf, yukon gold mashed potatoes, caramelized onions, sautéed spinach, demi-glace) to the lemon ginger cheesecake. Also, the following two appetizers are winners of the Deborah E Death Row Food Award: the sweet potato fries with goat cheese fondue and the baked artichoke/goat cheese/pesto dip w/extra virgin olive oil & crostini. One of each is ordered at every visit - and often, one order is not enough. Kudos to Helen and Michael Cameron for your community dedication, informative email newsletters and website, for your organic roof top garden (Devon Ave.), your nightly musical offerings, ever-changing artwork and your Green Room Sessions. Yes, Uncommon Ground, some day I will miss you. As Chicago continues to tax its residents out the ass and I question how I can afford to live here, you will truly be one of the things I will miss the most. Carry on!
(5)Anthony B.
This is hands down some of the best food in Chicago. I have never left her unsatisfied. Except maybe on their Valentines day special but just because the portions were small. It is a GREAT place to take a date. Very nice lighting, and a great ambiance. Some nights there is live music in the back so if you are on a date be aware since sometimes you cannot talk if you are near where they are playing. To the food. The winter menu I had the stuffed chicken with gorgonzola and pumpkin ravioli. I nearly fell out of my seat the ravioli was amazing. The chicken was mouth watering. Anytime I have had guests in town I take them here, and they have a nice dessert menu as well. The service is usually top notch, they are very friendly, patient, and down to earth and will usually recommend dishes and they are familiar with the entire menu. The only downside is theres really no parking, so if its warm I will walk there, or during the winter I'll cab it. I have also been there for lunch, and the food was also amazing. If you have not been you should go when the pumpkin ravioli is on the menu. I absolutely love this place. It s American Comfort food at its finest.
(5)Leigh R.
Apparently, after the sun sets, Uncommon Ground puts on a different hat and turns from funky, kid-friendly, yummy brunch spot to pretentious (why, yes, you are), fine dining (why, no, you are not). Uncommon Ground, you need to find your persona and stick to it because your indecisiveness turned into a very awkward experience. Not to get into the gory details but I wrongly assumed that since brunch/lunch is kid-friendly, we would be welcomed for dinner as well. Not so much. Which is unfortunate because I really really like the food and the beer list. I should also point out that my 3 month old has been welcomed in various establishments throughout the city and we have not been stuck going to places like Ed Debevic's or the frickin Cheesecake Factory. Frankly, being relegated to those places just because I have a baby is my own personal culinary hell. Uncommon Ground seems to think that its dinner service is fine dining. It is not. I can't think of ANY reason an infant would not be welcome considering the dining room is very loud and a crying baby would likely not even be heard by other patrons (no joke - we were practically shouting). Had I known about this dramatic personality change from day to night, I would have chosen another restaurant. It never crossed my mind that a restaurant such as this could possibly turn so "exclusive" by nightfall. Anyway. 4 stars for food and beer. 4 stars for brunch. 3 for being sucky and snobby for dinner. (ETA: I am not a delusional parent who thinks my kid should be welcome everywhere. Based on previous experiences and my knowledge of UG, it seemed like dinner there would have/should have been ok for a kid and not annoying to other diners, the staff or detrimental to some image they are creating for their dinner service.)
(3)Scott C.
I went in on a Saturday afternoon and had the eggs benedict, which were awesome. service is always great here. every meal i have is is fantastic
(5)Theresa T.
Looking for a new brunch place to try, we ended up at uncommon ground. After reading the menu and cocktail list I found myself intrigued. Beverages included the typically coffee, tea, juice, water and soda selection along side more interesting mixed like jalapeno limeade, bloody mary's and beermosa. The brunch menu is enticing with mains like homemade granola pancakes with rolled oats and fresh berries. Egg dish make an appearance and large salads are plentiful. The concept and menu are great, but the food was slightly underwhelming. The pancakes looked delicious, but lacked the serious flavors that would have made them amazing. The salads were a bit off as well. Great patio seating, friendly staff.
(3)Claire Y.
Had a really nice and casual dinner with him on a Monday. Unlike a Friday/Sat night, the place was loosely populated with patrons, enabling us to park right outside the door and to be seated in the plush chairs by the fireplace. Soon after placing the order, our appetizer Korean chili fried calamari came out and it was delicious! It was almost like a marriage of Italian fried calamari and Korean fried chicken (just the seasoning part). The bacon chicken entree was equally delicious, but I must say I would've gone for another round of the calamari if it weren't for caloric concerns. Very friendly service and comfortable atmosphere. I'm sure we'll be back for a night of live music, good java, and munches.
(4)Preeti B.
Love, love, love this place! Love the organic, sustainable vibe.
(5)Stan S.
I'm writing this the day after Julie Frost just won a Golden Globe as a best song writer for co-writing a song with Madonna! Notice that I wrote a review that included a mention of seeing Julie performing here at Uncommon Ground in '05. So the next time you are watching someone on open stage night consider the real possibility that you may be watching the early days of a future star. It happened here:)
(5)Mary B.
I am a vegetarian...which sometimes makes going to dinner at a nice restaurant a hard thing to happen. You've seen Top Chef. It is always the vegetarian/vegan challenge that makes the contestants groan...really? No protein? No meat? Uncommon ground offered two vegetarian options on their menu, pumpkin ravioli and well the other I can't remember. But for $18 I felt as though I needed to pass. What really brought us (my best friend and I) here was their drink menu. Can anyone say ROSEMARY INFUSED VODKA???? AMAZING!!!!!!!! But drinking on an empty stomach is usually not a good idea, and I am pretty sure Uncommon Ground would frown upon me getting on the bar and dancing. So we ordered food...off the small plates (fancy word for appetizers). They were so so so so good. Squash, sweet potatoes and chili. All vegetarian and all perfect for the cold weather night. One weird thing was that all tables were reserved. ALL TABLES RESERVED! Also we had to go through Wrigleyville and their pub crawls to get here. Oh and one of the waiters...so dreamy.
(4)Heather J.
I love the vibe of this place. Great concept with healthy food, unique drinks, and an incredibly cozy interior. I went on a date here recently (such a romantic place) and had the best time. Oh, and our waiter, Cameron was AMAZING!!! Such a sweet, cute young guy. He gave us a great background on the restaurant's green philosophy and use of local farms. We also bonded over our mutual dairy-free lifestyle, and he suggested some great alternative choices. He seemed to genuinely enjoy talking with us and his recommendation of the Fall Chicken (even without the goat cheese) was perfect! I was still very jealous of my date's pumpkin ravioli though. I'm definitely looking forward to return again one of these winter nights and warm up next to the fireplace.
(5)Cindy G.
I love how low-key this place is, and the food is excellent. Not too pricey either. I think I've found my new favorite brunch spot for the time being.
(4)Tina W.
I love how Uncommon Ground looks. The space is decorated with a fireplace, cedar tables and floors, and elaborate lanterns. The dim lighting is complemented by the abundant natural light that comes through the tall windows facing a tree-lined stretch of Grace. They don't pack the space and you end up with only 4-5 other groups in the same room. Now to the food and drink. I had a glass of wine called Manifesto! That exclamation mark is theirs and, truth be told, a little undeserved. My boyfriend had a Metropolitan Doppelbock. I like that they're supporting local businesses! For dinner I had the bacon-wrapped meatloaf. It was pretty darn good. It tasted fresh and without fat or greasiness. They topped it with some spinach and put it on a cushion of excellent mashed potatoes. Boyfriend had crispy chicken with a bacon and brussel sprout crust. It was okay. There wasn't much of a crust, but it was well-prepared, tender throughout, even though the piece was pretty thick. I like how Uncommon Ground is trying to be green and all and I like that they buy from local farmers. Their meals are solid. A pleasant night out.
(4)Jacob Y.
This place serves excellent breakfast (and bloody Mary's!). I have practically tried everything from the croissant sandwich to their omelets... And if you like mimosas...they serve pomosas...made with pomegranate!
(4)Sonchoi H.
It was morning time, starving from sleep, and the lovely girlfriend had convinced me to try this place, even though we were on our way to my favorite cafe. First thing I said when I walked in: Geez, those paintings are so out of place. They had these brightly colored paintings by an artist named Michele. I liked the photo, though, above the fireplace. The wife status on the other hand? First words out of her mouth: "Love...I think bad things happen here at night." HAHA. She meant drinking and picking up ladies. Not sure what made her say that. Maybe the big bar area in the middle of the room? Anyhow, I ordered the sugar n' spice. It was quite the bomb.com . With an order of brioche french toast...which was great, as well, but for how tiny of a plate it is? Not worth 10 bucks. I ordered an english muffin to try to fill in this stomach of mine. Nomnom. The wife ordered a plate of breakfast melt. It looked amazing...and definitely had more food on it than mine did. The potatoes on the side were amazing. I'm not a fan of bacon so I didn't try the rest. Overall, the food was good. I just wish there was more for the price.
(3)Tory w.
I feel like I've already written a review for UG. But I love it so much I'll do it again. This is one of my local neighborhood staples, always just the right atmosphere no matter what the social situation - friends, blind date, seeing-eye date, family....I really, really love it here. I loved it way back when, when it was a teeny cafe, I love it now that it's expanded to almost a whole block and has couches and a fireplace and a big bar. I would love to have whoever decorated UG come and decorate my pad, it's so cozy. Board games, live music, lots of squishy couches, chairs, and window seats. And the food....I've tried almost everything on the menu, foods and drinks, and I love everything. LOVE. In particular, the chilaquiles are fabulous. As is the hot chocolate, in a giant bowl. And the sweet potato fries. And the mac n cheese. And the chili. Go there. Now. I'm going into food coma just thinking about it. Yum.
(5)Allie S.
This is a good place to eat some food, have a drink, and listen to chill music, but I always end up feeling super claustrophobic when I'm there. Almost too intimate. Might be perfect for some people, but it's just not for me. Also, I've had a couple kind of nasty cocktails there. Too experimental, or something. And kind of pricey!
(2)Jackie L.
Read the website before you go on all of the ways Uncommon Ground is focused on maintaining a eco-friendly, local & organic environment. I think it made me appreciate the food / atmosphere that much more. The menu changes seasonally and I'd definitely come back for the summer fare. The server knew all of the gluten free options off the top of his head which was reassuring so I had bacon crusted chicken with cheese-y mashed potatoes, broccoli and a side of bbq sauce. Not very innovative but tasty none the less. The 22oz bottle of Organic JK Skrumpys Cider for $12 isn't bad. Typically its $8 at Whole Foods.
(4)Lindsay S.
I'm still walking around today in shock. I've been thinking all weekend about Uncommon Ground and how it couldn't have been *that* good. Well ladies and gentlemen, it really was. Taking advantage of a Yelp coupon, we braved the cold down the street to this cozy little corner. Well, I thought it was a corner. This place is bigger than I thought it would be! Promptly seated, since I made reservations thanks to you Yelpers who mentioned doing so. Cozy seats next to the fireplace were perfection for this cold evening! Our waitress was a doll in training although I would have never have guessed. She was a pro already! The chicken breast with apples, butternut squash and brie that I has melted in my mouth. I don't recall the last meal I had that was that good! The hunny had bacon wrapped meatloaf on top of mashed Yukon golds. Need I say more? The price fit the quality and service here perfectly. I loved every bit of our dinner here! Darn you Yelp for your coupons and making me discover yet another place that's going to hurt my poor little bank account! But THANK YOU Yelp! Because you know it's good when you're thinking about it 3 days later!
(5)Lindsey O.
Due to proximity, this is the restaurant I've been to the most since moving to Chicago. I gave them 3 stars because they are over priced, can be insanely loud, and should have a more well rounded wine offering. The wine is only so-so and around $9 to $12 per glass. The restaurant's focus on being green is admirable but limits them to some real weak sauce wines. The food is very tasty and fresh. There is a strong push to serve organic and local produce, and it pays off. I do have cravings for the sunshine salad with fresh avocado and sprouts. For dinner, try the chicken or pork chop. Great spices. Split the bread pudding for dessert. I'd recommend this restaurant more for lunch than dinner. You never know if a band will be in or if there will be screaming children sitting next to you.
(3)andy c.
I generally don't like to review places that i haven't visited a few times but i was on vacation in chicago recently and had an amazing dinner at this place. It seems weird reading the reviews that so many people dissed it but i don't know, i didn't come here expecting to study and drink coffee, mostly was just going for a somewhat informal dinner. I didn't really get the vibe that it was a cafe or anything so I can see why some people maybe didn't dig it, or are mad about paying $7 for a beer. Well, fact is the prices here are kind of cheap compared to many san francisco restuarants of similar quality so it seemed quite reasonable to me.. The server was fast and friendly and gave some good recomendations. He explained that the weekly specials were created by a new sous chef working there so i tried one of those entrees, a pan seared whitefish with watercress salad. Well, when the meal showed up i was psyched, the presentation was simply outstanding! (I posted a pic, which doesn't really do it justice).. The fish was perfectly grilled and served on a bed of basmathi rice, which also had almonds and some crisp green beans which added a perfect amount of texture and crunch to the meal. The watercress and baby onions (or something onion-like) added a light and fresh flavor. The whole thing was served on a plate with a thin layer of gorgeous and delicious watercress-based sauce. Their bourbon menu is very good, I had a very light and fresh manhattan and for dessert we had a flight with woodford, eagle rare, and ..hmm i can't remember the third but whatever... With the flight we had some great gelatos and a piece of pie that was indulgent but not too sweet. The ambience on a sunday night was very chill, there were a few kids there (including an 8 month old with our party) and it didn't faze the server in any way, it seemed pretty family friendly for being sort of on the fancy side of menu and service. Overall one of the finest meals i had while traveling last week!
(5)becki s.
Very cool atmosphere, low lit and warm. The music room in the back is small, cozy and very intimate. But make sure you make reservations if you want to sit back here for a performance. They don't let just anyone wander back. Even though they are right down the street from Wrigley Field, Don't come here thinking you can get a Bud and the watch game - they don't serve those types of domestics. But they do have one of my favorites ,312, which more than makes up for the lack of Bud. If youre not in the mood for beer... try the Apple Hot Toddy. It comes in a bowl for your sipping pleasure and is ohhso yummy!
(4)Matthew E.
How have I never been here. The food is delicious, the overall atmosphere is charming, and the drinks are strong. We started with the fantastic mediterranean trio, an amazing sampler of hummus, tzatziki, and eggplant salad. I got the grilled chicken sandwich and my date got the burger. The sandwich was perfectly grilled with great toppings that added a wealth of flavor. The sweet potato fries were unreal and are definitely worth visiting just for that. Overall this isnt a restaurant that shouldnt be missed, its overshadowed by the Wrigleyville area and is quietly tucked away past all the usual craziness that comes with Clark during Cubs season. The only thing uncommon about this place is a great dining experience for a good price.
(5)Pete F.
Wow! I got the english muffin sandwiches (amazing) along with their breakfast potatoes, which were fabulous. I thought the prices were very fair considering what you got! I didn't get it, but I saw the red velvet pancakes with chocolate syrup, and they look like the most decadent breakfast you could ever have.
(5)Rebecca D.
Great from start to finish ! Artichoke pesto dip was an awesome app then we shared the cavatelli and the chicken( the one with bacon). For dessert we had blood orange Cree brûlée and it was great too! They have a list on the back of the menu showing where the food comes from - great touch :) great wine and beer list too! I would def recommend checking this place out
(5)Thamara D.
Actually it is 3 1/2 stars. ***** 5 stars for the food, room and the drinks ** 2 stars for the service ( very sad) I was here during summer on a warm full Moon night, sitting out side with a very handsome date :-) We ordered rescue meâ grilled pineapple greyhound ~ YUM Korean chili-spiced fried calamari ~ YUM mussels with red curry coconut broth ~ YUM & sweet potato fries ~ YUM YUM YUM 5 exceptional stars, I loved the food. My non spicy eating date had a bit of trouble but the manly man in him enjoyed all with a big smile on his face ( so sweet) All was going well, we were having a sweet date but we were sitting across from each other. So..after dinner He sat next me..saying very sweet things..touching my face.....So romantic...moon was out and...I was floating..... But everything stopped when I our very slender waitress rudely interrupted us to say he cannot sit next to me because she couldn't get through...(hater) We paid our check soon after that and left to continue our evening somewhere more user friendly. So Uncommon Grounds if you are listening, there are many many options to dine, it is the service you provide that makes you stand out and memorable. May I recommend as a simple rule, tell your wait staff not to interrupt a perfectly good date.
(3)Shai L.
I really like Uncommon Ground. Their coffee and drinks selection is very nice. their breakfast/brunch menu is nice as well. The nice thing about Uncommon Ground is that their menus are seasonal, which is evidenced by there changing menu. They have a variety of options which is nice. I like the ambiance of the restaurant, but I like to go there more in the summer and fall so that we're able to eat outside.
(4)Vinifer D.
Uncommon ground has a great warm atmosphere, great wait staff, and wonderfully prepared food. I went with a group of 6 people during a cold night. I had the pumpkin ravioli and sweet potato fries with goat cheese fondue. HOLY CRAP! The combination of the sweet potato and goat cheese is out of this world! It's a must try! And the pumpkin ravioli totally hit the spot! My Italian friend (who lives in Italy) was visiting, and she's never liked any kind of Italian-American food in the country. Even she said that this pumpkin ravioli was great, so that's really saying something.
(4)Irena A.
I went to this place after my friend recommended it. I ordered the uncommon salad which is pretty tasty but I had to ask for additional salad dressing. Nevertheless, it was yummy. My friend had the butternut squash ravioli after I noticed that it was not included in the menu.. I asked the waitress and she said that there was one more serving. My friend LOVED the dish. I tried one of the raviolis and it was indeed delicious. A little bit too pricey(17bucks) for me for 7 pieces of ravioli. The service was wonderful. I enjoyed the atmosphere. I would go back there for sure.
(4)Rob G.
Great selection of quality beers in a great setting.
(5)Kate S.
Really delicious and has a wonderful patio.
(4)Erica K.
Warning: Long over due review to follow. We hit Uncommon Ground up as part of Yelp Eats 09, and I can't believe I've been so freaking lazy about posting the review. We had a stellar time. The portions were huge, they offered the fixed price menu to anyone who came in that night. My salad was delicious and I had some of the best chocolate cake in the entire world. I'm not even joking. It was so good. I fully endorse eating here.
(4)Mari K.
Exhausted? Irritable? Moody? Let the Fall Cosmo work its magic. It transformed me from Oscar the Grouch to Little Miss Sunshine... uncommon martinis can do that, you know. Craving greasy food? ..but still want a dash of "healthy" to silence that annoying voice in your head? Listen to me, and go with the sweet potato fries & goat cheese fondue. I'm sorry, where's the dash of "healthy"? Apparently sweet potatoes are loaded w/ a party of vitamins. Um.. yep. Not too hungry? Still feeling healthy? Hummus trio is the way to go. Service? ROCKS. *Btw, BONO eats here. Oh yah, he does. AND I got to see the plastic bag that held the box that held his food. I know you're jealous. Apparently, the owner of the Metro is friends with the owner of Uncommon Ground... and tonight just happened to be U2's version of Where's Fluffy @ the Metro. =)
(4)Dariya T.
I had a less than pleasant experience at dinner here a few weeks ago that can be chalked up to a restaurant not having their best night. I will say however that the general manager handled it wonderfully. Very respectful and understanding. I wish the staff would learn a lesson or two from him. I will definitely be giving them a second shot.
(3)S S.
Went here for brunch and overall enjoyed it. The staff were all super cool and on top of everything; great service. Their bloody marys rock and they have a really comprehensive brunch & lunch menu which is sure to satisfy whatever craving you walk in there with. I like that pretty much everything on there was done a little differently than you would normally find; I loved the brioche french toast with fruit compote and macadamia nuts. My friend also really liked her Chilaquiles. On the negative side, while they're apparently known for their various eggs benedict specials, when my boyfriend tried the eggs benedict & duck special he was positive it was chicken. Whether it was or not, it was a disappointment given how talked up it was. All in all however, I would recommend trying this place out - especially for their al fresco dining in nice weather.
(4)Jacqueline S.
I love that this place isn't pretentious. It is fun to relax, drink great local beers and wines, and eat locally traded food. I have never been disappointed. I have been here over 100 times, and only once was my steak a little under-cooked in which case the server noticed and took it back to fire it up a little more. The service here is great. This place is upscale with a casual homey feel. Their patio is huge for the summer time. They also have a fireplace to sit and drink coffee at in the winter time. They host musicians, but I'm not sure what nights. They also have guest appreciation nights where they do specials for a three course meal for around 15-20 dollars, including a beer or glass of wine. Also some days they do half price bottles of wine. The walls are covered with local artists work. This place is how every business should be run, and they are definitely doing things right. I'm obsessed with their salmon and steak. They're desserts are top notch (bread pudding). They change their menu seasonally though. You should definitely make a reservation for weekends or if you are with a group, as this place can get packed around the right hours. The servers and hosts have always been very helpful and friendly. When I finished my wine, if someone noticed my glass was empty they would ask if I wanted another one even if they weren't my server. There was definitely communication among staff which is rare.
(5)Moyah M.
This place is so cool! Great atmosphere and beautiful decor. Only went for tea and it was great! The server was a little slow and unattentive, maybe because it was Saturday night and we went for after dinner drinks (reason for 3 stars). The menu looked interesting and I would definitely go back to try. And they have live music.
(3)B.D. K.
I have been here about three times now. Once in Rogers Park, twice in Wrigleyville - like Wrigleyville spot more for some reason, but that's probably b/c the other location feels so remote. Thank you Uncommon Grounds for serving my hot drinks in a giant bowl! You are awesome, I will come back next time for the meatloaf.
(4)Joseph G.
Picture this, Uncommon Ground, last Sunday... So I come in and figured I would get some work done on my laptop, use the wifi, have a laid back late lunch. Tons of servers there, none of which could fix the wifi problem that they all apparantly are aware of. This point would be moot if they didn't advertise it as a feature of the place. The food itself is delicious, but the prices are on the high side - burger, soda, tax, tip - you are looking at almost 18 bucks.
(2)Taylor O.
Another Yelper in search of nourishment before a Metro show, some friends and I arrived at Uncommon Ground unsure what to expect. The website is very nice but were wondering if we'd be underdressed etc. There were no worries, however, because the upscale organic hipster vibe fit, 2 of us were Polo wearing, the other two concert black t-shirt'ed and Chuck Taylor'ed. We drank some Metropolitan brewed lager at the bar waiting for the other two, enjoying the highly autumnal atmosphere. The walls of everything including the bathroom displayed leaves changing color, and birch bark styled candles. It's permanent fall; makes sense in a harvesty, farm way. We had the artisanal sausage sampler to start and were warned by our mustache clad long time server that it is on the small side. No kidding, it was the equivalent of less than one sausage. I'm not sure if it was good; I want another darn bite so I can tell. I switched to a Minnesota brewed Surly IPA to go with the Duo of Duck. The description like most lazy comma based ones lately did not describe in proper sentences or even phrases the entree, just random strings of ingredients. The duck confit and duck breast were great and stacked high on some not quite discernable mound. It ended up being fried potatoes and gorgonzola. I liked it at first but less so after eating the too large quantity. Overall, quite the nice atmosphere, great emphasis on local beer and good ingredients though as pricey as many Randolph Row restaurants but will be back, likely for a grass fed burger and a beer.
(4)Chris W.
Uncommon is great! Menu is always changing, all organic, always wonderful. Craft cocktails and nice beer selection.
(5)Frances C.
In terms of having brunch or dinner, Uncommon Ground is never my first choice. I think it'd probably be cool to get a cup of coffee or the occasional drink, but when I went there after Kuma's rejected my party of 10, it was very underwhelming. Plus, I was starving. I think I got the burger...or maybe it was pizza. See? Forgettable. Plus, I remember it being really overpriced and the wait staff being kind of flighty. Meh.
(3)Sonia L.
This place is awesome. I came here on a date on a Tuesday night. We got there right before 8pm and my date made reservations in the back music room for live music. Reservations in this room are absolutely necessary! We were seated adjacent to each other at the front table, which was slightly intimidating. But it could not have been better! The music was awesome and the beer selection was fabulous. The food selection is slim but I LOVED the trout. Who ever thought brussell sprouts could be delicious? Because they were here! My date got the pork and finished his plate. Not only was the food, beer, and music awesome, so was the atmosphere. It seems like a cute little coffee shop with a bunch of rooms, and cool art. I am definitely coming back here again!
(5)A R.
This place is really great and I can't wait to go again. If you get the chance, DEAR GOD get the Spicy Black Bean (and something else delicious that I can't think of) Hummus. It's divine! I also tried their Bloody Mary (five bucks on a Sunday) and it was pretty good. Not my absolute favorite, but better than a lot of others I've tried. The only complaint was that we waited for a bit before getting seated, and there were like three employees that walked by. The service was bang on other than that. We will definitely be going again for dinner!
(4)Kristina W.
My fiance and I went to Uncommon Ground for dinner recently and I'm still on the fence about how I feel. I like food a lot and I like to be blown away by restaurants, but I was not blown away. The food was actually very good, but the atmosphere was kind of off- a little loud and we got a bad table in the middle of a high traffic area. I ordered a martini at the bar before dinner and had to send it back because it was really watery, and I saw another woman do the same. If you're in the area and are thinking of stopping in, definitely do because its worth it. If you're thinking of making a special trip- not worth it.
(4)Katherine R.
First thing that comes to mind is that I will be back. I'd been wanting to try this place out for a long time, and was very happy when I finally did. I visited here for brunch the other weekend and had a great meal. We didn't have to wait for a table, but I think we got there in the nick of time because it started to fill up shortly after we sat down. Secondly, their bloody mary's are very good. Always tastes a little better when you know the ingredients are home grown. I believe they were on special as well, which rocks for a Saturday. Our server was also very attentive and helpful when deciding between all the amazing brunch options. I had the veggie benedict, which was great. Wasn't a huge fan of the cheesy (gouda? Bechemal? Don't remember) hollaindaise sauce (as opposed to just the egg and butter), it was very strong and I think over-powered the dish. The veggies were great and so were the potatoes. I was between a bunch of different options before ordering so I will definitely be back to try out other dishes. My bf had the huevos uncommon I think. Either way, he loved it. Literally almost licked the plate clean. Definitely support what they do here (they grow the ingredients on the roof! At the other location..I think) and will be back because of it and because of the great food. Hopefully other restaurants can follow in Uncommon Grounds footsteps!
(4)Gina G.
This place has really great food. I love their brunch! The menu isnt too large but I have had several item and each time I haven't been disappointed. I would definitely recommend trying uncommon ground!
(5)Natalia S.
this was lovely. super funky, saw my talented musician friends play here. no complaints although i can't help be bothered by the manager that night... i know my group of 6 was running like an hour late, and she did end up sitting us after all, but i dont know she was pretty rude. (maybe likely so) the decor, super awesome. the food + coffee super awesome. so no complaints. even the wait staff was awesome... get a bowl of coffee/chai. its incredible. also, my advice is to splurge. hello youre out to eat, you might as well treat yourself. my friend had this delish artichoke-something dip... AMAZING. do it. do it. go here, just don't be absurdly late like i was!
(4)Tiff H.
A place that serves alcohol and coffee. A place that serves alcohol in my coffee!! This is a whole new world! There were no places like this in SC when I was there....that I knew of. Ok, so I may be a little biased towards this place...this is where I had my first date with the lady. Que romantico! (ha.) It was a rainy evening, and the place was pretty empty. I had sweet potato fries which were good; I was too nervous to eat a full meal. I had a Manhattan. She had 2 scotches on the rocks. Service was attentive and pleasant. Live music was interesting. We liked this place so much that we haven't been back since. Nothing against the place...it's just not in my area or the lady's....I prefer sticking to Bucktown and making my own spiked coffee. :)
(3)Christine O.
Oh God... I went again. We had friends in town. Ann Sather's was insanely busy... we went again. I was so not ready to give them a second try that I was anxious. It was pretty good! The waiter we had last time is still there, somehow, but we were nowhere near his section. The gal who waited on us only forgot some toast and it was corrected forgivably quickly. They got the boyfriend's order right, same boring thing. I can't find what I ordered on the website. Me and my friend split a grain pancakes with fresh fruit (peach/blueberry I think) and a scrambled eggs plate with something in them, white cheese, and potatoes. I loved the multigrain toast, but was puzzled by only getting one piece with the meal. Good save, Uncommon Ground. I'll still hesitate, but I think you have won the boyfriend back.
(4)Gigi H.
I was here tonight and from the get-go it was not good! The hostess was unnerved by us asking for a different table (the patio was more than half empty....so you would think no problem yet she seemed annoyed!). Then the waitress was annoyed that we only wanted water and salads! We waited 45 minutes for SALADS and then both came out wrong! We had to tell the waitress that the server had to send them back as they were both wrong...not what we ordered! We then waited another 15 minutes before we asked for some bread as we were now starving? We then asked a busboy if he could bring some bread as we waited. He was great but the waitress should have asked us! Then we had to ask for the manager to explain....our waitress could care less. She could have rectified the situation by explaining that they were correcting the situation but she never came by until after the manager corrected the situation. I have been here many times and I have never experienced such poor service! I am not going back again and it was because of the hostess and waitress ...lack of customer service!!!
(2)Courtney K.
Love love love this place. The menu is creative, and the ingredients are fresh. The atmosphere is relaxed. I especially love the brunch/breakfast items, but have never been disappointed by something I ordered. When I lived in the neighborhood, I was there on a regular basis. Just as easy to spend an afternoon studying there as it is to go on a date!
(4)Amy D.
This place is really great, it has perfect location, it is right near wrigley field. we wnt there right before the game and the area is full of proud cubs fans. ok back to the food, we started off with Sangria, i think it costs 8 dollars, it was alright, a little too much ice. the food was so good though, the thin crust roast chicken pizza was too die for, the crust was so tasty. Also the mac and cheese was really good, the cheese sauce was a lil thin but had amzing flavour. Its accompaniment was a bland coleslaw, they should have left that off of the plate.
(4)Sarah P.
After years of wanting to go to this place, I finally did! It's been on my list of places to go, but I often forget about it. I ordered a hamburger with sweet potato fries (!). Both were delicious. My friends all ordered dessert and drinks. The cobbler was a bit of a disappointment, but the chocolate cake stole the show. Yum. Our server was great. She was attentive and familiar with the menu selections. It's a very low key atmosphere. Several people there were on what appeared to be date night. The candles and wine list must be a big draw! Tip: check out the bathroom. Weird, I know. The artwork is beautiful and probably the best out of the entire restaurant. Just do it.
(4)Alexandra L.
Live music, good food, cozy atmosphere. Lovely!
(5)Steve D.
Sharp cheddar cheese, smoky bacon, a perfectly cooked egg, tasty bread...Uncommon Ground breakfast melt I love you. Not only is this a really cool place, it helps that their food is really good and extremely fresh. They prescribe to the local ingredient ideal and they execute it perfectly, fresh ingredients usually begets good food and it certainly works here. Uncommon is really convenient for me since I live above it almost. But it helps that the staff is friendly, the atmosphere inviting, and you get a good feeling from it. Weekends are incredibly busy here, I don't think I've ever seen a weekend without a line. Getting a big caffeinated drink off the menu is a good way to start, they have really good coffee. The menu is diverse and interesting, and as far as I know they update it regularly which is cool. When you are there take some time to look at the art on the walls, or see if any of the upcoming musical acts pique your interest. Uncommon seems to be as much coffee shop as it is restaurant, and if you want to you can order a coffee and hang out, I believe they have free wi-fi as well. Plain and simple Uncommon Ground is a good place with decent prices and a quality product. If you are in Wrigleyville and want to find fresh and well prepared ingredients then this is a good place to check out. Uncommon is one of my favorite brunch spots in the city.
(4)Rick P.
Horrible Service.. Excited for Mother's Day brunch with the whole family.. Only to wait 60 minutes for our food, while everyone around us was served. Server was no where to be found and when we did locate him, he was very dismissive and rude. Worse yet, when our food arrived, my daughter's (who is allergic to egg - which we told them upon ordering) sandwich came it was on the bread our server told us had egg. It took 15 min to get another one - very hard for a kid to wait an hour and then 15 more mins. The server did not even apologize. The manager delivered the food. He did not apologize or even say a word. Big surprise it took another 15min to run our credit card. The food was decent. All in all, worst brunch ever.
(1)#NAME?
Been here 3x, twice for dinner and once for brunch- For dinner I've ordered the same thing b/c I'm finicky and what I get is good, the scallops and mac n cheese-One thing about the scallops, there is only two, not huge, normal size and it's $15-It's actually an appetizer, but I often eat appetizers for my meal-So those are some pricey scallops- Mac N Cheese is good, different blend of cheeses and is served with some apples- For brunch I had some of the driest disgusting pancakes ever, how can you mess up a pancake? I mean not even Denny's, IHOP or Salt and Pepper have served me a nasty pancake, but Uncommon Ground did, as well the syrup was gross-Just give me some Log Cabin and I'd be happy but this was pale and not good- Another negative is the seating, the benches you sit on against the window sucks, doesn't feel good on the butt or back- I don't think I'll go back again, unless they offer me 4 scallops for $15 :)
(2)P. C.
Warm and welcoming decor. I came in on a Friday night wanting a table for two. There was a bit of a wait, naturally, but we found two seats at the bar. The service was friendly and the food was delicious! Order the duck... it's amazing. I'll be back for sure.
(4)Vivian Y.
My review of this place would have been a "4" star had our visit been a little different. 3 of us show up and put our name in for a table. It was 1pm Sunday Brunch and sunny! We'd already teased ourselves a little by reading the menu online so we were looking forward to sitting at their bar right away to get one of their "uncommon" bloody Mary's. Service at the bar SUCKED. The place was busy, but sense of urgency was lacking. It took them 5 mins to clean off the dirty plates where we were seated at the bar. Another 10 mins to get us a menu. Finally, we were served our first beverage at 1:40pm. The hostess came by by around 2pm to let us know that our table was ready. We didn't cash out at the bar for another 10 mins because the bartender took his sweet time. It wasn't THAT busy. Finally we are seated. We get menus and our waiter was great at first! Gave us some great suggestions and then said he would give us a few mins to look over the menu and return to take our order. We all said that his service made up for the bar. But then, he must have disappeared for half an hour. Finally, took our order and we waited....and waited.....and waited.... Apparently something happened in the kitchen because the food still had not arrived by 3pm. The waiter recognized something had happened and comped us our meal. That was an excellent gesture. We finally got our food at 3:20 and we ate to our hearts content. Food does taste better when it is free! There was some disagreement in the kitchen and the owner (?) or manager ripped the chef a new one in front of us. (well, wasn't yelling, but you could tell he was quietly scolding her). I think after a few mins, he realized that MAYBE it was not appropriate to do that inside and he took them outside. Ok, so the food. It's good. Not awesome. I do appreciate the comped meal - but it was expected after all the time we waited. They are lucky we didn't just walk out. Arrival at 1pm, seated at 2:15, served food at 3:20. A little ridiculous even though we weren't in a rush to go anywhere in particular. If my experience had been better, I would easily go back. But with so many other restaurants out there, I'm off to try another place.
(3)Kristin C.
Apparently after you turn thirty it is common to have a "Brunch Birthday" because I have been to two in the past month. I do love brunch. . .and birthdays. . . and day-drinking so this hot new practice is fine by me. Last Sunday, a large group of us gathered at Uncommon Ground to toast in our friend's 31st year. I have heard lots of good things so I was pumped to check it out. First things first, our waiter was simply awesome - accommodating, funny, pleasant, a "ten" as far a waiters go. The food was nothing to sneeze at either - I had the uncommon chicken sammy with a side salad. I also stole some sweet potato fries with goat cheese fondue from the people next to me. Holy crap, where has this combo been all my life? What is brunch without drinks? In a word, Lame. My anti-lame friends and I ordered mimosa after mimosa and those guys mimosas flew from the bar at warp speed. Little did I know, each little (and I mean little) glass set me back $10. Ten dollar mini mimosas? My brunch tab snuck up past $50! My tiny buzz was no match for such a meaty bill. In the end, I would come back - with a fat wallet and a craving for bloody marys - those are only $5 on Sundays. Mimosas are not uncommon for a Sunday but $10 ones are for this thrifty chick.
(3)Lindsey B.
If I had written a review the first time I went to Uncommon Ground it would've been a 5 star rating. I returned a couple of months ago for the first time in about a year only to find that the Gorgonzola stuffed chicken breast is gone and the chef has been replaced by a new chef who changed the entire menu. Turns out the chef that was there the first time I went had a baby (congrats!) and had to leave. So I tried the Pistachio crusted Tilapia. The fish was pretty dry and all I could taste was Pistachio which was pretty disappointing. The pumpkin ravioli is still damn good though. And the Artichoke Goat Cheese dip is really tasty too. The prices also seem to have gone up considerably since I was there last. Economic crisis? I think not. Anywho... I recommend going to Uncommon Ground because the food is still pretty good, I'm just tainted because it used to be really really good. And I'll never get my gorgonzola stuffed chicken back. :(
(3)Joscelyn M.
This is going to be a very hard review for me to write. Not because of anything negative, but because I don't go here as much as I did in the past. Before we got married, my husband lived around the corner and we went here almost every weekend for brunch and for dinner on occasion. So, bear with me! I really like this place a ton. Teas & coffees: great selection, interesting drinks Breakfast burrito - how can you go wrong here? so good. Omelets - usually good, I always get what's on the special Bloody marys - pretty darn good Wine list - awesome, and half price bottles on tues or wed, I think Helen's chicken sandwich - the stuff dreams are made of The atmosphere is cute and service is always friendly!
(4)Cheryl G.
One of my favorite restaurants that I like to go to before or after a Cubs game. They have a variety of dishes to choose from depending on your appetite. I personally love the sweet potato fries and the goat cheese fondue!!! It really is delicious combination!!!! The restaurant itself is very nice. IT reminds me sort of like a coffee shop where you can gather and meet with friends. If it is a nice day or night I like to sit in their outside seating where you can people watch or just sit back and relax from a long day! Overall, great food and a great restaurant!
(4)Jessica C.
Can anyone say crispy halibut tacos with jicama and sweet potato fries!!! Maybe duo of duck or perhaps bone-in porkchop with pear glaze, risotto and winter squash puree!!!! Come on, they have Ephemere on tap. I really really love this place. The dishes are creative but always have a downhome comfort feel and thier mixed drinks are strong and delicious. Oh yeah...the coffee. Good stuff. They make one of the best soy lattes around. I am absolutely in love with the ambiance of Uncommon Ground. Warm and welcoming, the decor screams arts and crafts with an urban artsy feel. Yes, i know that often equates to yuppy land, but I don't feel that way at all here. The walls are adorned with local art and the fireplace and leather couches are all too inviting. Did I mention that they play cool tunes and have a live venue with shows like every night. The only complaint that I have is that sometimes you'll get an off server...a bit snooty perhaps. I was in there once with my cute little aunt from Northbrook and she ordered a latte. Our Hitler mustache donned server asked if she wanted a bowl or a cup and she got a little confused. They don't serve bowls in the burbs, so she was a little thrown off. He looked at her like she had 5 eyes and got a little mouthy with her. Totally awkward for all parties involved. I ordered the bowl, cleared it all up and we moved on, but it was quite uncomfortable. Bottom line: Awsome food, Awesome environment, Awesome Awesome Awesome. I'm giving Uncommon Ground 4.5 stars. The only thing holding me back from giving the full 5 is the dude who rubbed us the wrong way. Oh yeah...and like ablock away from my place so its easy.
(4)Tu'ens N.
The food is creative but not gimmicky and it is all tasty. If you get the chilaquiles, they have bits of jalapenos and it is actually a little spicy, which most places wouldn't dare to do. They supposedly use a lot of produce from their rooftop garden and are all about "sustainable" and organic food wherever possible, which is a good thing if true. Everything tastes good which is really the important bottom line for me, not to mention that it is not greasy or too heavy to start a day even if you eat a lot. The coffee drink called 'busy bee' or something is very delicious - espresso, honey and soymilk over ice. Try it even if you don't usually drink soy milk. Their bloody marys are good too, with real ingredients, i.e., spiced up with roasted poblanos and jalapenos not just Tabasco sauce ($5 on sundays). It is probably the best 7 day a week brunch place I know of in Chicago (will the people at Yolk please visit this place to see what food can be?). I just give 4 rather than 5 stars for the following reasons: last time I went the THREE hosts/hostesses all failed to notice the table right in front of them which was open for 20 minutes til we pointed it out to them. A big annoyance when you have to wait 40 minutes for a table on a Sunday morning. As soon as we pointed it out we got it, I just thought it was so obvious they couldn't be missing it, but I guess they were. Servers are hit or miss. Finally, last but not least, $5 for 3 slices of Neuskie's Black Pepper Bacon. The stuff is awesome but for $5 that is not a good deal. Normal plates are big-to-too-big and are mostly about $11 which is not cheap but is not a bad deal.
(4)John And Jen R.
This place is the best! I read some of the lower reviews for this place and I don't know what some of these stuck up people are talking about. This place is great, great vibe, excellent food, and amazing service. Yes it is a little on the pricey side but you pay for what you get, if you want cheap food go to McDonalds. I also got a chance to meet the owners and they are the most real people out there. If you only knew what they do and their passion to bring real food into the city you might have different views on this place. I will definitely be back! Keep on keepin on Uncommon Ground, your the best!
(5)Riz A.
I definitely love this place. The only reason i'm giving it 4 stars and not 5 is bc our waiter was a bit of a jerk, and the drinks were really not very good. ( outside of the nectarine mojito ). The dessert and coffee was excellent, and it was just a great place to chill out and catch up with friends on a weekend - no loud obnoxious music and a pretty respectful low key clientele. Definitely worth a visit.
(4)K. M.
This place is great. I was part of a large group (10 people) celebrating a friends birthday. I really love the concept, the menu is seasonal, using local ingredients. I had the macaroni and cheese. It was amazing. Just the right amount of cheese, bacon and broccoli. It was perfect. There was a side dish of cole slaw that came with the meal. I didn't understand it's purpose. It was good cole slaw but after eating a bowl of mac and cheese, it was too much. I only had a few bites. For dessert, I ordered the s'mores tart. It was very good, but it's very rich. After a few bites I was done. They have a great wine/beer/mixed drinks menu. This is place is great for groups. I will be back!
(5)Jennifer H.
I discovered this gem a couple of years ago when I went to see this indie band, Common Rotation. I ordered the Pumpkin Ravioli on a whim, and let me tell you, it was DIVINE. I live about an hour and a half away from the city, but I make a point of stopping at this restaurant as often as I can. I've even tried to recreate their dish, but it doesn't come close. Aside from the phenomenal food (everything on the menu looks delicious - it's a shame I live so far, because when I go, I always have to get the ravioli! Maybe someday I'll branch out and try that mac and cheese they've got... mmm), they make a mean Bloody Mary. The atmosphere is wonderful as well. Very warm and cozy, especially in the winter. I've never had any problems with the service, and the prices match the outstanding quality. If you're ever in the area, you must check out Uncommon Ground! Five very big stars from me.
(5)Kate S.
Uncommon Ground is absolutely my favorite neighborhood restaurant. I love coming here for brunch. The egg dishes are delicious, as are the pancakes and oatmeal. The vegetarian chili is the best I've ever had. This place is also great for dinner and cocktails. The pastas are fabulous, and I would live off of the lemon ginger martinis if I could. The atmosphere is really comfortable and laid back, yet also pretty hip. I just love this place.
(5)Kelly M.
I went there the other night for a friend's show. I've had breakfast there before, but have never been to the back. When they told me the show was "sold out" I was confused and asked for them to explain ... I guess they have seating back there so I needed to call to reserve a table, which I didn't know. And you didn't need tickets, it was an open mic. I asked to reserve the next available table, but then the manager came up to me and hostess .. I think he thought I was giving her a hard time, which I was not at all ... all I was asking was if I was in the right place and if it was my friends who were performing .. anyway, I'm a small blonde, preppy girl .. not some trashy looking person. ANYWAY .. the manager didn't even ask what was going on ... he told me that there was no tables available and there wouldnt be for hours ... so as I turned around to leave, a guy walked in and said "oh, there aren't any tables?" and the manager told him he could get him in. WTF?? I didn't do anything wrong, I was very nice and was just confused, because I thought it was an open mic at a coffee shop ... I WILL NEVER GO THERE EVER AGAIN .. I have NEVER been so disrespected in my life. I had friends who showed up after I left and had no problem getting a table back there. Uncommon Ground ... you need to hire better managers ... because I HATE YOU RESTAURANT!!!!
(1)Alexis B.
Although this is a coffee house, I generally come here when I want to have a nice conversation over a bottle of wine. The selection is impressive and I've sampled a good amount of both their Pinot Grigio and Pinot Noir. If you're interested in having a casual weeknight out for two, bottles are 1/2 price on Wednesday. I think people make Uncommon Ground whatever type of destination they want it to be at that time. The area up front has comfortable couches arranged in an almost "cabin in the woods" (if you don't look out the window) type of feel. Venturing a few feet over to the large U shaped bar makes for a pub setting. The tables around the bar sit like a quaint restaurant, and the back room has the ambiance of a coffee house. On summer nights, the patio fills up quickly as it is generally the most popular area. Generally (I haven't been there on a night where they have had a band) the volume level is pretty low making this my go to "conversation and a drink" place. The only downside is that unlike a bar, they close at midnight and after the mellowness of this place it can be hard to go elsewhere in the neighborhood.
(4)Collin G.
I would love to love this place. It has a great look to the place and the menu has great potential. I've been here twice, once for brunch, and once at night for some live music. I do have a problem with paying $10 for a Bloody Mary and it not coming with ANY GARNISHES! The menu clearly states that it comes with a virtual salad in a glass. When asking the server for a proper garnish -- any garnish, the response came back, "The bartender didn't make any, so here's some olives" -- Listen punk, I ordered a Bloody Mary not a martini -- go back into the kitchen, find yourself a celery stick, some olives, maybe a pickle, and anything else that you find fit and make me a bloody garnish, ya ken? I find the service to be lethargic and the menu to be overpriced. Again, I would love to love this place -- it has potential. Sadly, this potential is left unfulfilled. Blech.
(2)Beth P.
I have a really good opinion of Uncommon ground, despite the fact that my first visit there was on a blind date. I saw a live indie trio in the back area, adjusted my lipstick in a small bathroom, and overpaid for a glass of Stella. Yes, I paid for it... damn blind date ; ) The front newer area seemed disconnected from the back, and totally different personalities from eachother. I guess they're trying to appeal to everyone? I like their food, and might go get some soon. I'd have to brave being judged by the Jeff Buckley fan club that meets there nightly... but that's ok.
(3)K E.
I love brunch at Uncommon Ground. Everything I've had has been delicious. Today, I had the huevos rancheros with roasted potatoes, a slice of banana bread, and a "beermosa." Everything was great. The waiter was friendly and prompt and steered me toward the huevos rancheros, which I loved. The huevos rancheros is one egg over easy, served over a black bean corn cake, with chili sauce and cheese on top and roasted potatoes or tortilla chips on the side. The flavors were nicely balanced and it had a little kick. The banana bread was not too sweet, not too buttery, not too dry, not too hard, not too soft- perfect, and a great start to the meal. The beermosa could have used a bit more beer (they used daisycutter pale ale as the beer) to balance the orange juice, but it was delicious nonetheless. My friend had the special, Eggs Benedict, and she loved it. Best of all, I've never had a long wait to get a table. I am looking forward to going back and trying something else!
(5)Jeff W.
A great spot with an interesting blend of music venue/hipster coffee shop/foodie breakfast place. I went for breakfast before a Cubs game and loved it. Drinks are very unique, though a touch on the expensive side. Food options were very diverse, and it was difficult choosing what I wanted. I ended up going with the chicken breakfast burrito which was huge and delicious. Accompanying potatoes were also great. Everyone else's food was equally good. I was a big fan of the menu, and really impressed with some of the unique selections they offered. Seems the focus is on local ingredients, and the quality shows. Next time I'm in the area I'd definitely return.
(4)Chris M.
Awesome food, great atmosphere. Kind of makes you feel like you're in a Seattle coffee shop, but once the food comes out there's no denying this place serves a lot more than coffee. However, you should start out with a latte, as they come in cups larger than I have ever seen. Breakfast is the specialty here. Chiliquilles are out of this world good. The dinner menu also offers a ton of variety from burgers and salads to seafood and steak entrees. Sweet potato fries are a must, and my sister had these sweet tasting ravioli's with brown sugar on top and they were unreal.
(5)Ms. R.
Just had lunch there with a friend today. We split a couple of dishes and they were both delicious! We had the halibut fish tacos with sweet potato fries and the uncommon breakfast melt with home fries. I preferred the fish tacos - they were really good (and I'd like to say that I'm a fish taco connoisseur!). The fish is lightly battered and served on corn tortillas (you get 3 tacos) with a jicama slaw and a tasty ranchlike sauce with a kick. I like the fact that they added a slice avocado on top - nice touch. OMG - the sweet potato fries were amazing! The best I've tasted! The breakfast melt was good too, although common, pretty much an open-faced breakfast sandwich - over-easy egg, bacon, spinach, and cheese (although I really couldn't taste it) over toasted black bread. The potatoes it came with were alright, again kinda just tasted ordinary. Good atmosphere. Service was nice and attentive. Can't wait to go back and try out other dishes that I was also eyeing, like the Uncommon BLT (instead of bacon, they use pork belly - yummm), a couple other sandwiches, and salads. Definitely getting the sweet potato fries again for sure! Oh, I was able to use my "a la card" $10 discount so it made the meal a better value!
(4)Orenji K.
I was at Uncommon Ground for the first time in a long time this weekend. Overall, I'll definitely go back, but since the menu is somewhat inconsistent, I'd really prefer go back with a regular who knows Uncommon Ground's food really well. I had the grilled buffalo skirt steak. The meat itself was pretty mundane -- even just compared to skirt steak in general. But the espresso - cacao nib rub was unique, delicious, and slightly spicy. It went really well with the great lakes porter they have on tap. I'd imagine that most fans of Uncommon ground like their veg, so I was a little disappointed to see that this dish was really just meat + potatoes. While the steak was served with a surprising amount of pomme frite, the "carrots" promised on the menu were really just 2 mini carrots. Grilled with sweet glaze, they were so good that they would be great as a true side, not just a garnish. Unexpected portion sizes was a theme during our dinner. The mussels in a delicious curry broth were flawless. They were also a great value, with many more mussels that you'd expect for the price, especially compared to other Chicago restaurants. In contrast, the sausage sampler plate had roughly the equivalent of a single chopped weenie. So these 2 small plates were about the same price, but if you had to choose one, the mussels are without a doubt the better pick. Service was excellent, and we did not have to wait for a table for 2 at 7pm on a Saturday. I enjoyed their food, but you're kind of playing roulette as far as whether individual dishes are worth ordering.
(3)BF K.
came here for brunch a few weekends ago and it was deeeeelicious! we ended up having to wait about a 30-40 minutes for a table and we were starving, but i think it was worth it. huge portions and the food was cooked perfectly. super cute space; clean, neat and earthy. large 'island' style bar, and lots of comfy chairs for waiting in. the pricing was a little high, but i was surprised at how good everything tasted, so i felt better about our final bill. i'd love to come back for a dinner here and try more than just the breakfast list!
(4)Jen T.
I've tried to go to Uncommon Ground 3 times but have had three very weird results. The first time I stopped in was about 2 years ago for hot chocolate and dessert but they refused to give us a table because we weren't ordering "food." They said the four of us could sit at the bar yet there were no available seats. Nearly ALL the tables were open. We left, super pissed off. Flash forward to last weekend. I met a friend for breakfast and had a nice time. The service was good, the food was tasty. I ate the Winter Huevos and an amazingly perfect Smores latte. My vegan friend was a bit disappointed by the lack of vegan options but she did enjoy her bagel with hummus spread and breakfast potatoes. Today we happened to be in the neighborhood and wanted to stop in for lunch. We called while parking to ask the wait time (I know, kind of weird and lazy but we figured it can't hurt to check the wait time before we pay for parking). The man said it would be about 20mins. Five minutes later we walked in and the wait was over 40mins. Weird. We didn't have the time and were kind of annoyed so we left. Overall, I think I've just had bad luck with this place. I want to like it. I've heard great things about their hot chocolate and coffee drinks but it rarely works out. I probably won't be back.
(2)Kristina B.
Bacon, inside or on top of anything, is amazing. It makes the dish THAT much better. HELLO! BLT eggs benedict? Sign me up! This item was superb. The spinach added great flavor/texture, and the hollandaise set the entire thing off. ABLAZE, I tell ya! Mmmmm... I sampled the breakfast of Mel V., the "lychee lover" supreme. She chose the nutella stuffed french toast, which ended up being the bomb.com . I could have had BOTH our breakfasts in one sitting; I gladly welcome that future food coma. Cute atmophere, too. I'm so heading back the next chance I get. I saw something on the menu with chorizo in it. YUM-O-RAMA!
(4)Nancy T.
I really love the food at Uncommon Ground, but I prefer the ambiance at the Devon location. Still, this place is great for a younger, hip crowd--especially if you like live music--and the staff is just really friendly and nice. The sausage sampler, artichoke dip, potato soup, meatloaf, pumpkin ravioli and mac & cheese are just yummy. For dessert I'd go with the apple crisp or the s'more. The wines by the glass are also great.
(4)Sarah M.
Bloody Marys... DUCK Benedict off their special menu Was AWESOME!!! French press coffee?? TASTY! Bloody Marys.... FAB... I like pickles in mine but that is maybe just me.... This place is cute.... intimate.... perfect really for a coffee shop and I was surprised at the food offerings! Not one person disliked their food. We all loved it and i loved the creativity that was put in to their dishes! Service was stellar.... I wish this was just up the block from my place! I had a great meal great drink and it was poppin! Soooo glad we had a reservation!
(5)Rebecca H.
We showed up here the first time for Earth Hour - they featured a special drink that I thought looked inventive and my SO was hoping he could get me extra wasted. We really just showed up to drink. Maybe to catch some live music. The bar was full when we got there. The hostess told us that the restaurant full of half empty tables was for customers ordering food ONLY. Okkkk... so we stood around waiting for a spot to open up at the bar, complicating the lives of the waiters whose path we were standing in. But the hostess didn't give us a choice, sorry waiter guys :( Eventually we saw an empty spot at the bar. Their drink list is amazing. I liked the Earth Hour drink (a vodka based drink with a cardamom syrup). I liked the Spring Cosmo. I liked the weird cucumber-absinthe drink I had after that. My SO liked his drinks and commented on how good the beer selection was. Ohhh I should mention the vodka for the bloody mary is soaked in onions, garlic, and peppers. Talk about a bite! My SO loved it. My friend that was with us from out of town drank the coffee drinks and couldn't stop raving about them until she moved up to the seasonal drinks and saw how great they were, too. The bartenders (especially Joel) were awesome and helped us stumble through the selections. The music was good, too! We've been back since, but the most food we have ordered was an appetizer - mostly we like to drink. The food looks great, though - along with a tip of the hat to Heartland Meats who we buy our beef from at the Green City Market every few weeks. We thought the prices were reasonable and we really appreciate the organic/local atmosphere of Uncommon Ground.
(5)Joe L.
I gave a very generous 3 stars. Went here for a late lunch one day with a lady friend. We ordered a salad and a burger which were very good but it took nearly and hour to get our food. I actually had to run out to my car to put another ticket in because it ran out of time. I realize it was in the lunch and dinner limbo period but we were 2 of 8 people in the place so I expected a little faster service. Good food though..
(3)Penny P.
This is like your cool little neighborhood cafe......but it is way too easy to drop a lot of money here. Maybe it's because we can't seem to pass up anything. We always get the parmesan artichoke dip to start - seriously, if you get nothing else here, get the artichoke dip. We've been eating this stuff for 6 years and although it often changes slightly, it's far and away the best dip I've ever had. I'm also a huge fan of the veggie burger - totally handmade, (not the nasty freezer-burned patties you'll get at some restaurants) fresh, and extremely filling. In the winter, make sure you get one of their big hot chocolates with liquor. Although the first time I brought my husband to get one, the server asked what he'd like in his hot chocolate and he, not knowing what kind of booze goes best with chocolate, replied, 'Vodka?' Thankfully she steered him toward something a bit milder. Although that would've made a hell of a drink.
(5)David D.
seated at the patio at 11:30 only to be kicked back into the restaurant at 12:50 due to "city ordinance". why'd you sit our party out there in the first place? or did you just need to let the busboy spray down the patio before he clocked out at 12:30. last call must have been at 12:15. i ordered a basil julep--tasty concept, but blandly watered down in reality. a friend was charged 75 cents for a slice of tomato on his burger. the minute our drinks were delivered, the lights went up and the mediocre muzak was replaced by hard rock as the bartender started cleaning up for the night. i might be more forgiving if we were alone but there were five other parties seated. i won't be back.
(2)Gfiddy F.
Overall, pretty good.
(5)sylvia r.
I checked out Uncommon Ground tonight with an old friend. We realized after ordering drinks (me: Watermelon Mint Mojito mmmmm, him: Witching Hour... also fabulous) that we had never had a meal together, just vast amounts of coffee and the occasional cocktail. So we decided to get food. But both were admittedly not very hungry. We both stuttered over the menu as we discussed our food preferences and both nervously admitted to feeling like meat. Which was a huge relief as we were both under the incorrect assumption that each was a hardcore vegetarian. Once that was lifted, he ordered the millman burger and I ordered the sausage sampler. Despite not being very hungry, his burger was so tasty he devoured all but the last 1/8th. My sausage plate was a nice treat. A nice combination of potato salad, pickled veggies, and mustard with 3 kinds of sausage. As we were finishing our lengthy meal (with encouragement from our waitress to stay longer) a teenage twee band set up. I was fearing for the worst, but their sound was actually pretty strong and crisp and yet still unobtrusive to the atmosphere and dining experience. I will definitely be going back for the sweet potato fries and pumpkin ravioli. And to figure out how to perfect my own watermelon mint mojito at home.
(4)Erik B.
One of my favorite breakfast spots. Being a coffee snob and an indie music fan, the atmosphere and selection of fine coffees are a big hit with me. The breakfast menu isn't the biggest or most innovative you'll find in the city, but it's consistently good, and the service is consistently good. I especially enjoy the Curry breakfast burrito!
(4)Steve H.
More like 3.5 stars. Live down the street and have eaten here probably close to 50 times over the last 4 years. Wife and I really enjoy sitting at the bar, you get much better service. The breakfast/brunch is always fantastic, however it can get a little crowded. Saturday night is also a favorite of ours. The guys who work the bar are great and always quick with your drinks. Favorite items on the menu would be calamari, mac n cheese, BBQ chicken. And for breakfast, french toast, chicken sausage and if they have it biscuits and gravy. Also they have a decent beer line-up. They had Founders KBS on tap last spring.
(4)Casia J.
I agree with Kelly K. Not that I need to know "what is this?" but that some stuff here just isn't in synch. I love the atmosphere, cozy lighting and natural elements of the decor. But ... it just doesn't go with $10 martinis and $22 entrees. What on earth? Last visit, we (2 people) had 3 drinks (total, not each), one calamari, one salad and one burger and it was $80 with tip! This is insane. I'd better be getting a pitcher of margs or TWO entrees for that price. It sure doesn't jive with someone who looks like Janis Joplin rockin' out on the accordion with angst in the music room. Service is definitely hit or miss. Someone who carries on endlessly like he/she is a sommelier, or someone who tells you how they hate working there. Neither good! Food is good, but again, it's the overly expensive glorified bar food I can't quite get over. Cocktails: I admire the creativity and much of it is good. However, sometimes I don't want a homemade, honey-infused organic vodka. It ends up tasting like Pledge. A jigger of Stoli will do just fine. Many tasty, interesting beers. Thumbs up for the hazelnut beer. Like a smooth, just slightly nutty Negra Modelo. Bottom line: It's still relaxing and pleasantly fall-ish, so I'll be back in a month or so.
(3)Jon J.
I like the idea of Uncommon Ground a lot - a nearly 24 hour establishment, where you can get good food & beer in the evening and good breakfast & coffee in the morning, all served up in a chill atmosphere. But despite this, I never find myself going there - and it perhaps stems from the high prices on the menu for merely average food. My girlfriend and I decided on a lark to eat here one evening, and while the food was fine, we walked out spending over $100. Now I'm no cheapskate, but there's a certain cachet I associate with a $50/person meal, and this didn't have it. Breakfast on the other hand is good, but average. For my money, I'd rather wait at Julius Meinl where I can get a better breakfast, and eat and drink elsewhere in the evening. Really, I want to like it! But they're just not doing it right.
(3)Kelly R.
I once ordered the buttermilk pancakes here for brunch and when the bill came, my line item read "butt cakes". That's funny. This is a great, all-purposes spot - bar, coffee shop and restaurant. The specialty lattes are huge and delicious. And the pumpkin ravioli kicks ass as well, but I think that's seasonal. Oh, and it's also smoke-free which is always a huge plus! It should also be noted it's a little on the pricey side for a coffee shop.
(4)Cassie B.
review for brunch only. i do intend to come back. I do recommend this place, it is unique in that they have multiple rooms, including cool rooms with sofa seats, and great people-watching outdoor seating. The crowd is yuppies + pre-yuppies. the food is good and has unexpected ingredients. But, is (1) expensive (two breakfast entrees, no leftovers, and two drinks, neither of them alcoholic, before tip was $30) and (2) service blew. Sorry, sweetie, i know you have tats and are so laid back, but that doesn't except you from serving us on time and bringing us our stuff in under an hour. anyhoo, i'll probably come back cause i like this space for a cool acoustic night or for a drink, and the food was tasty, but i was underwhelmed by the weekend breakfast experience.
(3)JP P.
While I wish I had been here during the pre-expansion days, I have enjoyed my recent experiences here for dinner and a chill coffeehouse show. The vibe here is warm and cozy - just asking for groups of friends to share intimate conversations over food and wine. Everything on the menu looked delicious, and the drink menu was quite substantial. I settled on the duck quesadillas because I wasn't too hungry - and they were amazing. I think I need more duck in my diet. Our waitress very helpful in helping us navigate the drink menu. While I am not the dessert type - we were so happy with our dinner that we just to go for the cheesecake pizza. It's vanilla cheesecake filling topped on a warm flatbread and topped off with super fresh food. Super tastey. The times I've come here for the music, it was so easy just to relax with the music and enjoy the tunes. Many good times were had here at Uncommon Ground.
(4)Hollus G.
We go here almost weekly when we get a chance to meet up with friends and have breakfast. In the area we live which is just east it is one of the only baby friendly places we have found. The service in general has been pretty good and the food has always been excellent. There breakfasts are one of my favorite to choose from in the lakeview area.
(4)Stephen G.
I can't believe that anyone has given this place less than 4 stars. The only negative I can see is that it is a bit pricier than some similar places, but you do get what you pay for. I was not a fan of bloody marys until I had one at Uncommon. Helen's Grilled Chicken sandwich is my favorite item on the menu (to be honest I get it almost every time). I've also had the chilaquiles and the pesto, 3 cheese & cherry tomato pizza which are great as well. They have a very unique beer selection and their fries taste similar to McDonald's fries, but better. The sweet potato fries are delicious also if you like to go that route. Their outdoor patio during the summer is dog friendly, and their staff is friendly, knowledgeable and attentive. Get there early on a Sunday to beat the post-church crowd.
(5)Duncan S.
Uncommon Ground is consistently excellent and little difference between the two locations. The interior is smart and warm, with the crowd a mixture of young professionals and well dressed 30ish folks. They have a tight menu of food and a good selection of beverages and craft US beers on draft. For lunch I had the chopped salad, which was really quite good, nice combination of ingredients and well dressed. My colleague had the grilled chicken sandwich, with sweet potato fries which were also very good. These folks care about their food, sourcing local produce and organic foods. The service was very good with our server constantly checking in on our progress. I will be back.
(4)Kevin J.
I've only been for here breakfast and it's ok. The menu changes and sometimes I've really liked what was on the menu and at other times I couldn't really find anything I liked. I like that they try to use local and organic ingredients. I've heard better things about their dinner menu, so perhaps I'll try it for other meals sometime. For breakfast, however, it's kind of hit or miss.
(3)Brett G.
I would vote between 3 1/2 and 4 stars, but with that option unavailable and no word that it will be at any time soon, let's go with 3. I think there's a difference between a place that tries to be earthy/hippie and a place that is cooler/quirkier. The food was very good. No complaints here. The jerk chicken pizza had no "jerk" spicing, but was tasty all the same. And the Mediterranean trio plate was flavorful as well, even though I don't eat olives the hummus and eggplant spreads were good. The pitas were a little too greasy though. Here's where my review loses points. If you want a cocktail, would you prefer yours with violet liqueur, candied hibiscus flower, elderflower nectar, or homemade all-spice liquor? Well I didn't, and the friend I was with said she and some of her friends had recently braved ordering and trying some of the above (as well as other strange/funky drinks) and ended up sending most back! We're not ladies to send back drinks. Just too weird for me. The brunch menu looks good, but if you see any of my other reviews where I can never seem to make brunch happen, well that's just wishful thinking on my part.
(3)Rich K.
One of the best breakfast spots I have found so far in the city. Our server Evan was great. Ask for extra spicy if you order the Bloody Mary.
(4)MaryAnne M.
"Wait just a minute, are we still in Wrigleyville?" That is what you'll be asking yourself once you enter Uncommon Ground, which is anything but a Wrigleyville hang out. More likely you'll feel you're in Roscoe Village. (Which is a good thing in case you're wondering.) Recently celebrated a birthday dinner with my bf. Drinks: I ordered the Tree-Tini. Featuring Rain organic vodka & Veev Acai spirit. For every Tree-Tini you order they plant a tree! To date, they've planted over 7,300 trees. So I had a great drink and I planted a tree (or four). Yup, that's how nice I am. Apps: -Crispy braised pork belly -Creamy herb potato salad, house made stout mustard, pickled cucumber salad, crostini Nice, but I pretty much love pork belly and would be hard pressed to have anything negative to say about any pork belly. -Sweet potato fries, goat cheese fondue. Now, lots of the reviews raved about these, but for me they were just meh, just okay. My entree: -Duo of duck - duck confit, seared duck breast, black river gorgonzola, 'crunchy' potatoes, farmer's market onion & port wine duck jus Holy poultry Batman! I'm not a big fowl gal, but this was delicious. Juicy, tender, basically melted in my mouth. I may have been moaning audibly while consuming it. Dining companion had: -Bacon wrapped midwestern meatloaf - Yukon gold mashed potatoes, demi glace, caramelized onions, sautéed spinach Didn't try it, but looked great, and how can you go wrong with bacon wrapped anything? Answer - You can't. Dessert: Everyone 'round here knows I hate chocolate so I ordered the -Seedling farm apple crisp-salty peanut gelato Again, clearly audible moaning involved. I wanted to bathe in that gelato. BF had the: Chocolate chip banana bread pudding- whiskey gelato & caramel sauce. Whiskey gelato? That can bring about world peace I assure you. As other reviewers mentioned Uncommon Ground CAN BE a bit pricey, but for great drink selections & a unique dinner in the middle of Wrigleyville it is certainly worth a visit.
(4)Anna B.
I won't write too much because this place has already been reviewed so much, but I went here for the very first time last month (despite having lived in Chicago for years) and I was very impressed. I showed up in the middle of the day to get some work done and I had the entire back room to myself. The staff was exceptionally friendly and didn't seem to mind at all that I was camping out. I can't even say that about myself when someone camps out in the restaurant where I'M working! Uncommon Ground, you have humbled me. -=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=Â-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=- I'm a writer who has trouble working in her own home. (Distractions include books, magazines, DVDs, phone calls, snacks, cleaning to be done, the Internet as a whole, and a very large cat.) I tend to work for several hours at a stretch, so the library isn't always an option. Over the course of the past five years I discovered some amazing coffee shops in Chicago and worked there happily. Since moving to LA in 5/07, I've realized just how picky I am about coffee shops: it's been hard to find one in LA I really love! In my quest for the perfect coffee shop, I have devised my own star rating system for the shops I review on this site. Each attribute below is worth one star, which makes it possible for a shop to lack desirable attributes yet still receive a perfect Yelp rating. Anything with a perfect Yelp rating is a place in which I am happy to sit for hours on end. * well lit * cozy atmosphere with comfortable seating * wifi (free or not) * open late * serves loose leaf tea * variety of affordable food and beverages * interesting people-watching, whether it be out the window or in the shop * not too crowded (I hardly ever go on the weekends because I know the odds would be against me) I understand that my rating system is unique to my own needs but hopefully I will be able to highlight qualities that others may be interested in. If anyone has any coffee shop suggestions for me, I am all ears! I would also like to state that I always try to spend enough money &/or leave a large enough tip to make my long-term presence tolerable to the cafe staff. I cringe when I see people ordering a $2 iced tea and then follow it up with free tap water while they sit and read "Harry Potter and the Deathly Hallows" in its entirety.
(5)Sherry W.
I was really excited about trying out UG. It's by my new apartment, they have free Wi-Fi and it looked nice with the exposed brick and all. They dub themselves as a hip coffee shop - but it feels like it's a wanna-be hipster with an identity crisis. Is it a coffee shop/a restaurant/a nightspot? I went in looking for a cozy coffee shop atmosphere, but instead found an incredibly overpriced luncheon spot. Coffee was mediocre and food wasn't special. Service was not special, either. Meh. For me, Uncommon Ground will only be a place I return to when I have a friend begging me to support their open mic performance, *if* that is, they promise to buy me an overpriced drink ;).
(1)Susan L.
I have to say I gave this place a fair shot. I wanted it to be good. I went there for different meals, on different days, during different times of the year. Sat inside and out, listened to music, sat at the bar. I gave it my all. Sadly, it disappointed every time. The food is overpriced for what it is, and they try too hard to be special. What they don't understand is that they are already special, and they should cut out the funky crap and just cook up some good food. Maybe it was a compatibility issue, I don't know. But we just couldn't make it work.
(2)Matt N.
one of my new favs! The owner is into organics and sustainability so last night was the first 'green room sessions', (new monthly feature)kind of 'industry night/layperson' mingle night, appetizer tasting, live music, green people, etc. It feels bar-ish when you enter the first of three connected areas, comfy chairs by a fireplace, big bar with a lot of seats, but make sure and have a meal (I got to try a little of a lot... sweet potato fries, meatloaf, organic chicken, pulled pork nachos, and goat cheese/spinach empanada thing (love goat cheese!!)), which we did towards the end of the night. The menu is complete locally farmed products along with organic stuff too. Complete wine list, all my favorite american reds are there and organic "rain" vodka, along with a super cool martini list! Best of all smoke-free, friendly staff, and cool vibe. I'll be back.
(5)Nick P.
They do some great stuff. The location and setting are aces. The day time bartender rocks but beyond that the service is their biggest set back. While I am all for for the "green" movement, they sometimes go too far for my taste. Domestic wine, beer and spirits only. Yikes. But, it is simply my taste. We go there often and truly enjoy brunch. Great libations despite the domestic only view. Wish the servers were on point like the day time bar guy. Wish I remembered his name. Overall yummy and cozy
(4)Tracy K.
I want to love this place, really.. I do. They've got cool, clean bathrooms, they are smoke free, and the couches near the fireplace are so comfy that its almost hard to stay awake sitting on them. They've also got unfriendly waitresses that refer you to the bar for service, and bartenders that apparently automatically subtract a 50% tip for themselves from your change and then run off, without saying thank you, before you can even stop them to ask for the rest of your money back. If not for the beyond crappy service I've received here, I would be all about this place.
(2)Kelly K.
What is this place? Is it a coffee house? One would think so at first, since there are many "uncommon ground" and "common ground" coffeehouses throughout the U.S., which tend to be trendy and have bands. At this place, the back rooms look like those of cute coffeehouses. And they have local, independent live music. But there was a $20 minimum to hear the music. And the food menu is expensive and trying to be high-end. And you're seated and have a waiter. Must not be a coffee house. Is it a restaurant? You're seated after all. They have a big menu and it's expensive and trying to be high-end. But the wait staff are all trendy like it's a coffee house. But you walk into a bar, and the bathrooms scream bar. And there are tables like a coffee house. And rooms like a coffeehouse. And live trendy music with audience people writing in their journals. Maybe it's a restaurant. Is it a bar? There is a bar right when you walk in. But a majority of the space is dinner tables, and there is someone that seats you, and the food is expensive. And there is someone who walks around and makes sure the candles are lit. Then again, it could be a bar as the bathrooms seem like they belong to a bar and there is a minimum to see a performer. So, I can't figure out what this is. As a coffeehouse, it's too expensive. As a restaurant, the primary dishes were OK and expensive and the aura didn't match the food. That being said, the Korean Chili Spiced Fried Calamari was good, and the service was great. But our two expensive main plates were just OK.
(3)Kristen S.
It pains me to give only 3 stars to the restaurant, but my last experience there would only rank one star. So I am giving it an average score. They totally underestimated our wait, which is not fun. I would rather you tell me it will be 1.5 hours and it be an hour than tell me 30 mins and it actually be an hour. Then our waiter seemed totally pissed off to be waiting on us. I am a very cheerful person and I was nothing but nice to him and he acted like he would rather be anywhere else in the world. The service was absolutely terrible. We would ask him for a recommendation and he would huff and puff like we were asking him to go home to fetch my slippers. I don't even think he cracked a smile even once. I have been there other times and it was fine, but I will never go back. It stinks that one waiter will turn me off of a place, but that is exactly what happened.
(3)Anastasia O.
I can only speak to drinks since I didn't have any food here. Let me preface this by saying that I have never before sent a drink back. I'm not really picky, but I came here with two friends last night (a Thursday) and ordered one of their seasonal cocktails - we all ordered the same one because it looked so good. NONE OF US LIKED IT (apparently it was their spin on an old fashioned, but I've had many an old fashion and this one just tasted like watered down whiskey). So we sent it back and asked for their mulled wine instead. Equally gross when we got it - tasted like cheap wine warmed up. After we sent that one back as well, we all just ordered beer. I'm only giving them an extra star because they tried to be accommodating. Maybe it was a new bartender? In any case, I won't be returning. A shame because it feels inviting once inside / they have a fireplace!
(2)Caitlin C.
I love this place! I believe in there mission as a restaurant. Yes this place is a bit expensive, a bit. Its better quality product so you will pay for it. But its worth it. You walk in and they have a awesome bar right in the middle of the room, a side music room with acts every night, nice beverage program. If anything these drinks (cocktails, wine, beer) are what is expensive at this place. But there good. The service is a bet lacking but you could have a great server or a okay one. very strange. All in all I love it.
(5)Katy A.
Delicious food. Great cocktail menu. Make sure you request a table in the main room with the fireplace. We sat in the back room with the live music stage, and it was not a good atmosphere. I had the spicy calamari and the pumpkin ravioli. Truly the best meal I have had lately. The only reason I didn't give 5 stars is because of the back room atmosphere downer. You can hear everyone's conversation, it's chilly, and you just keep wishing you were sitting in the fireplace room with the bar and happy people.
(4)brian l.
This would be a bar for hipsters & self righteous douche bags. "We do not serve Un-American spirits." Serves Crown Royal. Hilarious ironic mustache bro. Would NOT go again.
(2)Casandra R.
We went here for breakfast on Sunday mid morning. This was our experience : We wanted to sit outside and it was full (understandable) so we were told it would be a 15 minute wait. We were fine with it so we waited. It turned out to be about 25 minutes..still no big issue. We got our table and our waters. About 15 minutes later our food order was taken - (if you are counting we are at 40 mins so far). Then 30 minutes later we finally got our food - the place was not even crowed by the way. So an hour and ten minutes since we got into the restaurant we finally got to eat....the way overpriced food. Chilaquiles here are not real chilaquiles. Why you say? Chilaquiles, while delicious look like a mess to eat, have tortilla chips and are not neat. These were a pile of eggs, a pile of hash browns, a spoon full of sour cream and green salsa. The chips you ask? We have no idea. We paid for a coffee,tea, Chilaquiles, French toast about $40. Oh did I mention that three bacon strips is $5?? Would not recommend. Far better places to eat in this area for much better value and service.
(1)Neil R.
Uncommon Ground is a place that knows how to please. Excellent beer selection, food from mostly local and sustainable farms/ sources, and the music is usually good! Recommendations include the sweet potato fries with goat cheese, bacon crusted chicken, duck breast, and bacon wrapped meatloaf. Yeah, we've been here a few times. I do want to give a special shout out to the Korean Chili-spiced Fried Calamari. It has always been fried to perfection; not too chewy and not too burnt. The sauce isn't too spicy, but still gives you something to remember. Just stopping in for a beer and the calamari is a good choice for pre-gaming in the area. The reason for the 5th star is for the service that we had on our last visit. I've seen some comments suggesting otherwise, but our waiter was very attentive and helpful with suggestions to my parents who were "visiting the Big City." We ordered the mussels as an appetizer (I think it was a special) and they came out undercooked or were a bad batch. When we suggested to the waiter that they didn't taste right and weren't all opened, he immediately took them back to the chef who apologized and gave us an appetizer for free. Overall, great for brunch, dinner, or grabbing a beer before going out or to a show!
(5)Larry S.
There is so much to like at this fantastic restaurant/music club. The organic, wonderfully prepared food is outstanding. The cioppino is off the hook and the organic crispy chicken were outstanding. The kale caesar was delicious and the chocolate pot au creme and apple tar tartin with hazelnut ice cream were a perfect ending to a great dinner. A definite must on your Chicago restaurant tour. By the way, it's just down the block from Wrigley Field.
(5)Jason M.
I hadn't been to Uncommon Ground in about 5 years. I remember it being a pretty good option for brunch. But dear god that perception went out the window today. It was literally the worst food I've ever had for brunch...ever. Seriously. it was so bad it was funny. The bacon smelled weird. The BACON! How do you screw up bacon? The eggs tasted fake, like they were made from silicone. The potatoes in the "hash" were strange as well. Again, how do you screw up potatoes?? There were 6 of us and all of us had terrible dishes. We couldn't believe it - it was almost like they were trying to be bad. The wait staff was very nice, so there's a plus.
(1)Denise N.
I have been to Uncommon Ground for brunch and dinner. The brunch isn't bad but the dinner menu is just OK. We went there last night as we wanted to sit outside on the patio with our dog. I called ahead and they said that they DO NOT take reservations for the patio. Ok, no problem. We walked over and took our chances. Luckily there were plenty of tables available and we were seated right away. As we were wrapping up our meal I see one of the waiters put a RESERVED sign on the table next to us. I said "I thought you didn't take reservations". He said he would ask the manager about it. I happened to be walking in to the restroom while he was asking "Gabby" so I heard the whole conversation. I walked up to support our waiter and said that I was the one raising the question. She said that someone inside wanted a table outside so she reserved it. I said so that's the rule, if you are inside and want a reserved table it is OK? However, if we call ahead and we live 10 minutes away...the answer is no. And, she said..yes, that's how it works. If Gabby is the manager here...no wonder they aren't busy on a Friday night. Needless to say, we will not be making this our neighborhood "go to" spot. Our waiter was nice but the response by the manager was odd and inconsistent.
(2)Patrick L.
Good place! The food was great & the portion sizes were perfect. Had a bit of a speed issue at one point but the manager quickly rectified this situation & picked up the tab for our 2nd round of drinks, great customer service. Love the local sources & the great flavor that all this freshness brings to their food.
(4)Shane O.
On a recent evening, the bar was packed and I was only the man seated there. Jackpot. Uncommon Ground is a gift to my neighborhood. Fresh healthy food options, Great burger, and steak too. Bartenders here are tops. They make a seriously good cocktail, and when the demands of the job allow, provide great conversation on those nights when I'm dining alone. Proper barmen. 5 stars because I've never ever had a bad meal, nor bad service here. Ever. At least 20 visits since moving to the neighborhood.
(5)Stephanie B.
Hard boiled eggs--not poached--with eggs Benedict. Waited an hour after ordering for food to arrive. Never again. Far better places to have brunch.
(1)Kathy V.
Michelle is the new general manager We love the restaurant and are excited about upcoming upgrades The molten chocolate dessert is the BEST!
(5)Cristen H.
LOVED this place. Food is amazing!! Excellent menu and it all tastes super fresh. My group of 7 friends came to eat here for brunch and loved it so much we returned for lunch the next day. Atmosphere is cozy and eclectic. Service is friendly, patient, yet eager to serve. Our waiter was patient with all our questions and made recommendations for each of us based on our preferences. We were all highly pleased with our food. The heirloom tomato sandwich is superb - and the avocado sandwich is also a solid choice. The coffee is great, too! (Be careful if you order a latte, those things are montrous - but look yummy!) My friends all loved their breakfast potatoes. Just great all around!! Go here - your first visit will not be your last!
(5)Johanna H.
I've watched this place evolve over the last almost 20(!) years from a tiny coffee house with a little wood stove, to a sprawling spot that keeps growing. I've always enjoyed the food and the dedication to all things "green" and sustainable. After a lapse in patronage, a friend and I met there for dinner recently and we sat at the bar. It was comfortably busy, not slammed and certainly not full. There were two bartenders on duty, and the woman who served us was nice but kind of slack. She wasn't very attentive and disappeared for a while. The other bartender took our dessert order and didn't ask if we wanted another drink or coffee. The food was good, not great. I think part of it is the lousy plate presentation. I hate sounding like a food snob, but after working in the industry for as long as I have I've seen enough plates to know that you should make them look full or use a smaller plate. I ordered the meatloaf. My veggies were tucked under my entree, leaving the other half plate empty. Yes, empty! Very weird looking and the platter was huge! After the female bartender reappeared, I asked her for the check and she smiled at me, continuing to do what she was doing back there. Clearly she didn't hear me. Not an awful experience, but in general the service needs work. Everyone needs re-training so there's a cohesive understanding of how things can flow. Like when dessert orders get fired you print the check so it's handy. Drop it mid-way through dessert so nobody has to wait. I'll go back sometime, but not anytime soon.
(3)Vicki N.
I took my health-conscious boyfriend here on a late Sunday afternoon. The wait was maybe 10 minutes, and the atmosphere was extremely cozy. The service was also excellent - our waitress was super friendly. By atmosphere and service alone, I was definitely impressed. The drink menu was varied and I enjoyed a lovely Toffee Nut Espresso while he had an herbal tea. As a salad lover, I found the Sunshine Salad to be absolutely excellent, while my boyfriend had Organic Egg Sliders (and while delicious, later admitted he should have been adventurous and tried the Uncommon Huevos he was eyeing). Overall, I fell in love with the family-friendly yet somehow modern design, lovely art displayed, friendly servers, and a very delicious selection of healthy, green, (guilt-free!) meals. I feel this is a lovely place for evening cocktails and listening to the music shows, but that reservations might be required since it seems quite popular! I would definitely recommend this place to a friend, and go again during the day for the atmosphere and to try all the delectable-sounding coffees alone! I had a very satisfactory experience and will surely come again.
(4)Magen R.
Some friends and I tried out Uncommon Ground for dinner and it was fantastic! We sat on their sidewalk patio and it had a wonderful ambiance, a perfect place to enjoy a relaxing meal in the summer. We tried a variety of things at our table: avocado tempura tacos, chili, goat cheese dip and the tomato sandwich with sweet potato fries. I must say that everything was delicious except the chili which was extremely bland. My favorites were the tempura tacos and the dip. I'd highly recommend either of them. The drink menu was great as well and we enjoyed an array of cocktails and beer - none of which disappointed. Definitely check out Uncommon Ground if you have the chance!
(4)Jillian W.
Excellent brunch! Had 10:45 reservations for two, showed up 10 minutes late and barely had to wait, even with the Cubs game crowd. The coffee is amazing. Had the sliders which were two egg/cheese/bacon sandwiches on english muffins with amazing hash browns on the side. Our waiter was attentive and had suggested the sliders. It's a bit expensive but expected from their all organic, local, vege + vegan, etc. menu. Not somewhere I would go on a regular basis but I had a friend in town and she really enjoyed it. Great location too!
(5)Erin B.
Extremely inconsistent. I've been there and had some amazing food to rave about, I've been there and felt like it wasn't horrible enough to complain, and I've also just had the worst meal I've ever had in Chicago. The service is always fantastic, and I am completely on board with the philosophy of the restaurant. That said, I am not sure I'm willing to risk another precious date night to be ruined by this place. Tonight our meals were comped along with several tables around us, and I heard a manager say to another table that they just can't seem to keep up quality to meet the demand. Sounds like a personal problem to me. Figure it out, Uncommon Ground.
(1)Dominika T.
We just had a meal here and overall it wasn't as good as my last visit. I had the beef hash from the brunch menu and my boyfriend had the pulled pork sandwich. My meal was delicious, but a long wait on coffee service. My boyfriends pulled pork was really dry; the server got him another one very quickly, but still dry :( I wish I could give it more then 3 stars.
(3)Megan K.
This place fell off. Uncommon Ground used to be one of my favorite places to eat. Back in 2006/07 they used to have these awesome nachos. I've also had some great mac and cheese, salads, pork chops, martinis, all kinds of great, organic, local, house-infused things with full flavor and large portions. The last 2 times I've gone, not only was I not impressed but I was unhappy. I had a mediocre chopped salad that was like $14 or something. Last time I had the burger. It was overcooked, small, and didn't come with anything on it. Not even tomato. And it was still like $12. My friend ordered the chicken tortilla soup and a side salad. Then, the waiter came out with a bowl of not-chicken-torilla soup and said that he was wrong, the soup was mushroom bisque and would that be okay. My friend hates mushrooms. So she was like, well... no, actually. So then she was stuck because she had already started eating her salad and I already had my food. So she asked for the mac and cheese. They charged her FULL price for both. So her $10 lunch turned into a $16 lunch because the waiter told her the wrong soup. I wish we had gone somewhere else. There is so much good food in Chicago that it's so disappointing to have a bad experience. It's even more disappointing when I know how amazeballs this place used to be.
(2)Oluwatope F.
I only had drinks with friends here but it was super cool and I love the concept. I had a apple cider hot toddy sort of drink and everyone else seems to enjoy there's as well. The vibe was relaxed and the waiter was nice, professional, and knowledgeable, what more could you ask for?
(4)Felipe A.
Extremely expensive for the quality of food you get. I had a burger and it was mediocre, overcooked and bland, when I saw the pickles I wanted to cry. The fries were undercooked and tasteless. My girlfriend had the fish sandwich and it was a joke, tasteless and mushy. The service was awful, the waiter was ok, but you could see other waiters just standing there pointing at us without doing anything meanwhile this other guy was really busy. The cocktails were good. But I think they brag about the organic ingredients but it does not mean the food is good.
(1)Laura V.
Just had the strangest experience at Uncommon Ground. We walked up and were very excited there were open tables outside on a Saturday night - awesome! Until the host told us there was a wait, because they couldn't "overfill their sections." What restaurant doesn't plan to seat all of their tables? So we decided to wait at the bar and get drinks. We tried to order an appetizer while we waited, but the bartender told us it was best to wait until we were seated, so it didn't get lost. Maybe it will end up at one of those empty tables? The food is great, and this was a neighborhood favorite, but I think I'll go someplace that actually wants me to purchase their food.
(3)Kris G.
I liked Uncommon Ground more than I expected to based on Yelp reviews. It was a little more expensive than I like to pay, but for the quality of the ingredients and the variety of dishes, especially given where its located (by Wrigley, where low quality food with high prices is the norm), I was ok with the price for quality. The bad: I right off the bat ordered a drink I did not like for a late lunch on a Saturday afternoon. It was a cucumber infused vodka drink. I did not like this at all, but I should have known better. I had ordered almost this same drink elsewhere once and hated it. I thought it might have just been the restaurant, but I guess cucumbers and vodka don't mix the way I would like them too. Bummer, because it sounds so refreshing. Everything outside of this was stellar. I got a veggie pizza that had lots of arugula. It was an Italian style pizza, too, so it looks large, but one person can easily eat the whole thing. I enjoyed every bite. It was fresh and I could taste each ingredient separately--no "mystery meat". My waitress and another server were very attentive and accommodating. The restaurant was almost empty while I was here (I came right after the brunch rush), but the servers didn't make me feel rushed at all. I even got to enjoy coffee after my lunner, er, late lunch (there's no such thing as lunner haha.....). My favorite part of this is that there is a large canister of sugar in the raw sitting on the table instead of packets of sugar. This saves me the embarrassment of the 20 packet pile up I normally accumulate at other restaurants. Yes, I like my cream and sugar with a little bit of coffee in it. It's also worth stating that I like to treat myself every weekend to a lunch like this. Hosts/hostesses are always a little awkward when I come in (party of one? you're not expecting anyone?) but at Uncommon Ground, I wasn't treated like a social leper. It made my meal that much more enjoyable. While I don't see this being a regular for me given the price, I do see myself coming back for some fresh tasting food and great service (and awesome music in the background).
(4)Claudia C.
Great atmosphere and food! We were 3 people and we ordered several things and everything was great !! The food is very fresh and they use local produce . Super friendly staff. A very cozy fun place !
(5)Tim M.
The brunch here is pretty good. Sadly, it gets hot as hell inside. We went twice. The first time was outside, which was pleasant. The second time, we were roasting in a full house. It was so hot and uncomfortable, we had to escape back out into the 35 degree temperatures. At the bar, there's a few places in which the floor board lifts your stool up when someone walks by. No complaints with the food, but it's not the best we've had. Again, it must be a common thing with this neighborhood, but staff just isn't that friendly. Perhaps it's generational or just regional, but no one seems to really give a shit how you're doing or how the food is. Because it's close to us, we will visit for brunch again, but only when we can sit outside.
(3)Jordyn D.
I went here a couple years ago during the summer and sat outside. I had a great experience so I was looking forward to going back. I love the atmosphere. The bar is so cute and cozy. A+ on interior. However, the food was extremely over priced and extremely bland. I ordered vegetarian chili and it was literally a bowl of black beans. Not good. My boyfriend ordered the chicken sandwich. The chicken had zero spices on it whatsoever. It was so bland and had no flavor. Service was good and it was convenient since we were going to the Metro for a show. I am looking forward to coming for their Monday open mic nights when the weather gets better. I would definitely come back to this place to drink and hang out. As far as the food goes- mediocre.
(2)Ryan M.
I've been to Uncommon Ground twice: once a few years ago when I did some volunteer work in the city, and again this week, now as a full-time resident of the city. I was excited for the second visit because I remembered my first so fondly. Sadly, my memory of my first time may have been clouded by the 1/2 price bottles of wine (isn't that always the way?). Uncommon Ground gets 5 stars for its theme/idea--fresh, organic, local, grass-fed, and so on, will always sell me. But the food still has to taste great. Don't mistake me, the food was not bad, but it just wasn't great. Most things tasted a bit bland or felt like they just needed one last thing (maybe acid, maybe salt, something). We tried a variety of things, too: The goat cheese/artichoke dip was quite tasty, but maybe too cheesy; the mushroom tacos were almost indescribable, but because there was too much taco shell and not enough filling to describe; the black bean burger was interesting (there was a flavor I just could not pick out, though I know I've had it before), and the sweet potato fries were top notch; and the ricotta-pea ravioli also was good, but it was lacking that something to take it over the top (I think acid or something a bit salty--ricotta is pretty bland by itself). The decor of Uncommon Ground fits the theme, though the hardwood floors and drywall/concrete walls and ceiling made the entry room incredibly, uncomfortably loud. (Happily, we were seated in the back where it was much better). The bar in the front is charming though huge, and the beer/wine selection looks impressive (see my first visit). Overall, Uncommon Ground is a great place, with a great theme and great ingredients. But the food did little to move me beyond a shrug of the shoulders.
(3)Aja G.
i put this place in the same category as Bite Cafe. I want to be PC and say I love the earth, but if that means eating non-meat that looks like meat with goat cheese, sprinkled with fair trade coconut or whatever count me out. One day, when I sign up to be a organ donor recipient, I may look back and think I should have made better eating choices, but until then Uncommon Grounds is too healthy for me. Yes the service is good, the tap selection is decent-good, yes they have some less healthy (albeit overpriced) items, but i would rather have bar food with the quintessential grease than reduced grease food food with an increased price.
(3)Jen S.
Great food and Amaaazing service! Love Candice...fun, professional server! Definitely made our dining experience a great one! I will be back!
(5)Gitta H.
My family decided to pop in for Sunday brunch. We thought we had lucked out since there was no wait here, but we now know why. First and foremost, we stood at the hostess stand waiting to be seated for a few minutes. The ladies there were deep in conversation and finally acknowledged us after intense staring on our part. We proceeded to our table and all took our respective seats. Our daughter received her standard kids menu and coloring page sans the crayons. Yes, the hostess walked all the way without crayons or the promise of finding any. Quite puzzling. The next ordeal was receiving our drinks. While they were quite delightful and highly recommended, the Bloody Mary's took 30 min to arrive. Thankfully they came right before our next debacle: brunch. I ordered the French toast - $13 for 2 small pieces of toast cut in half. The promises of bourbon flavored this and cinnamon flavored that were left unfulfilled and the "compote" provided was a poor excuse of syrup with a few berries mixed in. 2 to be precise, in my case. My partner order chilaquiles - cold, chewy, and void of chorizo. Well, that is a lie. In half a plate of chilaquiles, there was exactly one tablespoon of chorizo. Maybe one egg, if she was lucky. High point of the meal: homefries. My daughter received her fruit bowl twenty minutes after her French toast sticks. The waitress was great, and the manager offered to pay for our drinks as retribution for the wasted hour and twenty minutes this morning. Recommendation - go for coffee, good conversation, and bloody Mary's if you want to kill a few hours.
(2)Claudia B.
Such a disappointing experience. Went there for drinks and apps on early Saturday evening. The service was ridiculously poor. Our waiter ignored us to the point that we had to leave early. It was so bad that we started to laugh with the table next to ours at how obvious our waiter was ignoring us. very sad because I've been there before and the food and service have always been great. Will definitely not be coming back and will tell friends not to come
(1)Rose B.
Cool atmosphere but the service was terrible when I went. They were slow, and our appetizers came at the same time as our main courses. The sweet potato fries were really good, but the majority of us were not satisfied with our meals.
(2)C M.
I had been dieing to try this place for months, and went with a group of friends for brunch one Sunday morning. What a poor choice. They put us at a table for four when we'd told them we had five, and then told us we either had to go wait longer, or they could pull a chair up to the end. We said we were fine pulling a chair up to the end, but my poor friend kept getting bumped into and pushed with trays by the waitresses and bussboys. It was like a scene from a bad movie. Our waitress had no patience, and I caught her rolling her eyes at a friend's question about one of the menu items. She treated us like we were children (although she was probably younger than we were), and never came around to refill our waters, ask if anyone wanted more coffee, and we had to flag her down to get the bill. We felt discriminated against because of our age, being the only patrons in our mid-twenties around several families, as we saw how much time and attention the other tables were payed. As for the food, stick to the coffee. The plates are small, way over priced, and there is nothing normal on the menu for someone feeling a little less adventurous.
(1)Tom W.
Went for lunch over the weekend. If I was rating the food and drinks only, would be just one star. But the server was friendly enough that I'll settle with 2 stars. Both of our meals were so subpar in flavor and freshness it was a big disappointment. My sandwich tasted like it had been under a heat lamp for over an hour. My friend's meal was totally disappointing as well. That'll be my last visit there.
(2)Pratik S.
Good ambiance, good drink menu and fantastic food and service. Only reason for 1 less star was that we were asked to empty our table as it was reserved (live music section). Our server Dan, was awesome enough to arrange for a table in general section if we chose to stay. But the ship had sailed till that time... In terms of food, it was a highlight of the time there! Our server Dan was awesome in his suggestions. We tried out with Artichoke dip and sweetpotato fries as appetizers. Both were good. Flight of beers as well as a good collection of whiskeys was our drinks. Kids had kids cocoa (very tempting for even adults), kid burgers (a tad bit charred but still juicy) and kids macarroni and cheese (not the bland yellow goo that one gets from packet but awesome, freshly made pasta with a mix of cheese) was hit amongst kids. Veggie choices are limited still decent. Pumpkin ravioli were not very sweet and could have used a sauce to complement. Veggie chili was ok. We also had fish tacos - nice bite and layers of flavor, short rib ravioli - special for the day - and well worth it, crispy chicken - simple and awesome - juicy and crispy at the same time and short ribs - which were lights out awesome, melt in your mouth, beer flavored! Even had the blueberry financier - the gelato that accompanied was ok but the cake was awesome! The only tiff I had with the food was weird plating... oblong plates with food at one end... Didn't quite work from a visual appeal and felt 'empty'. All in all a decent experience.
(4)Sonya L.
I had been here for the music in the past but had never eaten before. We came for Sunday brunch. Here is how I see it: Pros: I liked the diversity of the menu. There was a lot of options that will please veg's like me and meat eaters alike. Vegetarian chorizo and tofu can be subbed on the chilaquiles which is one of the things we tried. It was very spicey, so it is not for the faint of heart, but I loved the heat. The coffee was toasty just like I like it. The chai is homemade (not that syrup crap). The french toast had a nice twist with a compote that was not too sweet and garnished pistachios (my favorite nut). I normally shy away from the french toast at brunch because it is usually overloaded with sugar, but this was just right. They were able to seat a table of 9 at 1:30 without problems (though I suspect earlier we would have waited longer. $6 bloody marys on special which several at our table took advantage of. Cons: Going later in the day they were out of several items. While I really liked their selection of creative drinks, I would have preferred one more drink special besides the bloody mary since I am not a fan of those, and I just don't want to splurge $10 a drink every Sunday. I will agree with other reviews that overall it is pricey for what you get.
(4)Rob D.
Nice listening room great sound, I had the cheese curds eh- they weren't all that. Too greasy for me. & @ $11 pricey for what you get... it is full liquor so you can at least get you drink on. Prolly my first and last time @ uncommon ground.
(2)Jennie C.
Been here a few times over the years, came back again for a mini high school reunion and started wondering why I don't come here more often, especially since I really dig the farm-to-table concept. We had a steak fan and a vegetarian in our group and everyone was happy with the choices. We started out with the black bean and herbed white bean hummus, and I LOVED it! (this coming from someone who runs as far as possible whenever the word "vegan" is involved is quite a compliment.) Among the 5 of us we had the sockeye salmon, black bean sandwich, steak and....I forgot what was the last entree. I enjoyed the salmon, it was perfectly cooked and everything was seasoned just right. Friends liked the black bean sandwich but thought the cheese in the sandwich was overwhelmingly sharp. It was a muggy Sunday night but inside the restaurant it was cool and breezy thanks to the fan above us. Atmosphere was very laid back and quiet. Service was friendly. When asked for recommendations, our waiter recommended over half of the menu...but it seemed like he genuinely like all of those dishes and enjoyed working there. We ended with creme brulee, s'more tart and espresso pot de creme. The pot de creme was actually off the latest menu, but they still had some in the kitchen so I got it for $2 less. Unfortunately it had a strange gritty texture, none of the usual silky smoothness associated with pot de cremes. I'll stick with the apps & entrees next time and get desserts elsewhere.
(4)Jaime H.
I love Uncommon Ground! It's my go-to for consistently tasty and "happy" food that's lovingly grown, usually locally if not onsite! Service is always excellent- they get to know you and treat you well!
(5)Mattt K.
I was here last night before a show at Metro and I have to tell ya, this place was great. I had the meatloaf and presentation of the food as well as the taste was excellent. The prices seemed a tad bit high but not outrageous. I would recommend this to anyone in the area!
(5)Meghan S.
Always a good go-to for an inventive, tasty, organic meal. My family and I enjoy the burger, chicken sammy, salads & sweet potato fries. Check out the house-infused vodkas too :)
(4)Mike L.
Good service for a Sunday brunch. Generously sized delicious portions that can be tailored to specific diets and needs. The iced coffee was delightful. Definitely on a must-eat list for anyone living in the neighborhood, with a chilled out vibe and easy atmosphere. Perfect, too, for people coming in for the Cubs game that want to escape the nuttiness south of Addison.
(4)Graham B.
If your in for a healthy classy and great tasting evening then this is the spot. I've come here multiple times in the last few years. This place always offers great drinks, microbrews, and great mixed drinks. They also sell organic beer and vodka! The food is fresh, healthy and perfect. The wait can be long but well worth it, always call ahead unless you want to sit at the bar. The menu is seasonal so it changes from time to time but my standouts are the zucchini frites, and Hellen's chicken sandwich. Enjoy heathy good food with a great bar and atmosphere!
(5)Teddy M.
This was utterly disappointing! You walk in and you think, "oh, this looks like it would be a good place to dine". It has a memorable name, intimate lighting, and has that rustic yet hipster look that most current upscale restaurants have. Then your eye catches a poster by the door informing you that Open Mic night starts at 7 (or 8) pm and you are thinking, "Seriously?!?" But you are in a group, so you act like the good boy you are and hold your tongue. The menu was fairly standard; nothing really stood out. Feeling uninspired, you order the chicken breast sandwich. How could they possibly screw that one up, right? Nope, you were wrong. The chicken was so dry, it felt like powder in your mouth. How does a professional chef overcook chicken this much? It was just a flavorless mess, and given the ridiculous prices, I simply felt cheated. It was not just my chicken. Two friends ordered the New York Strip steak, medium rare. What they got could hardly pass neither for New York Strip nor for medium rare. The steak was so thin and there was hardly any color in the center (probably because the steak was so thin). The only redeeming thing about the meal was the potato gratin that came with the steaks. All-in-all, it was a very disappointing experience. I guess it is not surprising that they have been getting more awards for being green than for their food lately. Sustainable foods and environmental consciousnesses are important things but they should not detract from the quality of the meals.
(2)Kristen D.
First impressions: Much nicer venue than I anticipated. VERY small room for performers that is separate from the rest of the restaurant. Billing got confusing and really frustrating and we left with a pretty bad taste in our mouths because of the service. I came here with friends to watch a college friend perform on a Friday evening. We were told that it would be $6 cover charge, but were not asked for money up front. Turns out that they charge the cover on your bill when you are ready to leave. First of all, the service is pretty slow. I assume that this is because the waiters don't want to be constantly buzzing around when there are performers, so I can understand that. Still, it took them at least 5 minutes to bring waters to newcomers at our table. I ordered the Snaggletooth beer first when I sat down. I loved whatever they had brought and ordered another two of them (not at the same time), but the second two beers were not the same as my first. I thought that they got my order wrong twice so I made a pretty big stink about it. Turns out that my first beer was the incorrect one and I didn't know what he brought me the first time. (I wanted that one! Ugh!!) He said he'd bring me one to replace it, but then charged us for it. (Seriously?) Good thing he took it right off the bill when we brought that to his attention. We had a party of about 10 at our table, and most of our party left before we did. They paid for their portion of the bill at the bar which is great and all, but the remaining 3 of us had to make up for the additional 20% gratuity that was added to the groups check. SO PISSED OFF ABOUT THIS. I'm still bitter and after the way our server treated us (he was clearly annoyed with us after the beer misunderstanding, but in reality, that was the bartenders fault, not ours) like he just wanted us to leave ASAP, I will likely not return to this venue. I hope my friend begins to play elsewhere.
(2)Angela A.
Great chill place. I sat at the bar and the bartender was so attentive and nice. Great service. Live music on Tuesdays is jazz but apparently there's live music every night. They brew their own beer. I had the kolsch which was similar to 312 the bartender recommended. The fish tacos I had were ok. Fell apart in the tortilla but I think overall the menu is good and lots of variety. I like that this place is a bar but not typical bar goers come here. No loud obnoxious people, the staff seem really nice. Place has class but still laid back. You can actually hear your partner across the table. I will come again for the beer, nice staff and unpretentious but higher class bar like feel
(4)Lucy N.
Patio is dog friendly!
(4)Kavi P.
The food here was pretty 'healthy' but kind of bland.... Respectable concept with trying to use all the local goods. Got the tacos verduras with scallion cakes. It was nice for the first try, one time experience, but I probably wouldn't come back here considering the prices and how far away this place is.
(3)J X.
Food was pretty solid, but we waited for over an hour for it. This was on the later side of a Wednesday night. The place was far from packed, so I'm not sure what was up. Probably won't go back though.
(2)Frances B.
Two of my best friends are obsessed with this place, and I've been here for every single meal with them: brunch, lunch and dinner. Everything I've had here is good, and I always feel like it's changes so much (it's a very green restaurant that sources everything locally and seasonally) that it warrants frequent visits. Not to mention it's priced reasonably enough to do so. The calamari is amazing, I don't like calamari but the spicy sauce they put it in is so divine I might die eating it. Also the pesto, goat cheese, artichoke dip is delicious. I usually go for their chicken sandwich or mac n cheese but my boyfriend had the duck the last time we were there and it was unreal. And I love the vibe. Just a relaxing, earthy place with quality, organic food at a good price. I don't really regular anywhere, but I love coming here as much as I can.
(5)Marta K.
Sometimes the food here is really good, other times not so much.. Got the frittata for brunch on Sunday.. was AWFUL! But, I was hungry and I was raised to eat what is put before me, so I did. The waiter asked how it was and I was honest. Oh, I'll be back, it's right around the corner.. Just won't order that again! Love the pomegranate mimosas!!!
(3)Hannah C.
All the times I've been here, I've been going for a concert. Each time, the music was amazing. Service has always been somewhere between absentmindedly neglectful and terrible. They offer a decent variety of cocktails and local liquors, but the quality is quite variable so stick with your standbys. The house tequila is good, but my friend once ordered a beer flight and didn't like ANY of them. The food is okay - the burger, chicken sandwich, and bean puree I've had were all pretty standard. Really, just go for the music.
(3)Zac W.
Food is pretty good - its a little pricier because its hippy organic blah. Bartender with the NYC accent was great.
(5)Stephen S.
Came here to a practically empty dining room on a Monday night. Instead, everyone was tightly packed into the music area listening to the artist of the night. Uncommon Ground's website divides into areas of eat, drink, look, listen, and it's this divided focus that sets my review right into the middle ground of 3 stars. Everything was good and they offer a little bit for everyone but nothing is great. We came here for food and my dining companion wanted a drink (or more a taste). Easy enough, they offer small tasting sizes of all of their beers (at a great price). The beer menu was small but well selected offerings drawing mostly from local breweries (no taps wasted here), the food menu drew influence from a bunch of different cuisines, we shared the tofu fritters, seasonal salad, and ravioli. I was a fan of the tofu fritters that had an interior so soft it practically melted away with a creaminess on each bite. The seasonal salad was a nice mix of beets, fennel, greens, goat cheese, and nuts. The ravioli? Well, not a pasta place so didn't wind up much better than something I could make up myself with some store bought ravioli and fresh veggies. I liked the vibe, I liked the ambiance, and had a completely enjoyable but almost completely forgettable meal. I'd come for an event and a well priced beer but not much else.
(3)Eric T.
Was there on a busy night and you could tell that the bus staff was trained to not-so-subtly push you out the door. Not a pleasant experience after paying $27 for serviceable seared salmon. In no rush to return...
(2)david w.
What happened uncommon ground? It's not me, it's you. I hate for it to end this way. Especially since it ended with me giving you 40 bucks, and you giving me cold eggs and crappy burnt cold potatoes. But sometimes it's best for both sides to move on. I've actually never been served a completely cold meal. And I have to say - I'm impressed. How do you cook a meal. And then get it ice cold before bringing it to me. It's seems like you would almost have to work hard not to bring hot food. So, umm. Well done. This was the crappiest meal I've had in Chicago in 25 years. Thanks for the memories.
(1)Stu B.
$15 for a grilled chicken sandwich? Get real Uncommon Ground. Never again.
(2)Sara B.
I was pretty disappointed with my experience at uncommon ground. I stopped in with a friend for a couple quick appetizers before going to see a show. Unfortunately it didn't end up being very quick at all because the service was strangely slow - took over a half hour to get two appetizers to the table. We ordered the calamari and artichoke dip which were pretty tasty, but definitely not worth the price. We ran out of bread for the artichoke dip and asked for some more, which took another 15 minutes. And we were especially annoyed when we got our bill because they had actually charged us extra for those 3 small pieces of plain bread. So I definitely would not recommend.
(2)Diana S.
It looks like the reviews are pretty mixed with this place. I had a great time here. I sat in the music room and enjoyed a great meal while sitting back and listening to great musical talent. Korean calimari - very yummy Chopped salad - this was pretty large portion Banana bread pudding dessert - I loved it! I has ice cream on top...sooo good. The drinks were equally tasty. So after 3 drinks, 1 appetizer, 1 entree salad, 1 dessert we were actually stuffed and only out of $70 including tax and tip.
(4)Janette L.
So I should start by noting that I have only come here after a Saturday afternoon (bleachers) Cubs game. So, maybe my memory is shaky but I would like to think that my taste buds were not. Food was good. They had me at Boursin (a garlic/herb French cheese), which was on their Millman burger. My friends ordered the Mac and Cheese and pizza. All were pretty good - much better than we expected. Their menu was mostly comprised of slight twists on the classics. Seems like a lot of people complain about service but we were seated and served right away. Great place for people watching and had seating outside (summer). I would go back to this place if I was in the area, but with so many other places in the city I would not go out of my way to come here.
(3)Erin T.
I really love Uncommon Ground. I've been surprised by some of the negative/lukewarm reviews. We've brought friends to UG, and they immediately become obsessed. Brunch is great, dinner even better. The only problem with weekend brunch is that it gets crowded FAST - and there isn't a great waiting area. The macaroni and cheese is PERFECT - I don't even LIKE my macaroni and cheese that creamy, but somehow they've made it taste like a bowl of dairy heaven. Meatloaf pizza; pumpkin ravioli; sunchoke soup. The tasting menus they do for holidays are musts in my household right now (New Years Eve and Valentine's day). And they try to use local/natural/organic food when they can, which is important to me. The service is super-friendly, too!
(5)Kara G.
Went here for lunch the other day to meet a friend - loved the ambiance, service was terrific, and the food was TERRIFIC. Very fresh, and I loved the combo of flavors (tomato bisque with miso? loved it!) and while my selection of the menu was really limited, I'm already looking forward to going back to try brunch, more lunch, and dinner! I was also told they have live music pretty much every night? I'll be sure to report more later!
(4)Megan M.
Everything we had was delicious, starting with an awesome bottle of wine. The sweet potato fries with goat cheese dip were yummy, as was the spinach dip appetizer. We had a group of six, so we got to try a lot of the menu including the wrapped chicken (potatoes w/ sweet corn were to-die-for!), pork loin (spicey, delicious chile relleno as a side), meat loaf, salmon, and a couple of the pizzas. Everyone enjoyed their dish and the portions were generous. Definitely save room for coffee and dessert....we tried the chocolate creme brulee and the smores tart (Amazing!). Our server was attentive, friendly and informative. My only complaint was that it was freezing and I spent the whole meal shivering. Aside from the temp issues, I enjoyed every second of my meal.
(4)Zo O.
Got the Korean chili-spiced fried calamari and the sweet potato fries w/goat cheese fondue. Both REALLY good. Kinda pricey for appetizers, but totally delicious and worth every cent. Who knew sweet potato fries would go so well with goat cheese? mMm.
(4)Beavis M.
Good, good food. Pretty spendy though. The staff is always nice too. A plain bagel with cream cheese will cost you $4. You want a tomato on there? $5.50. And that's probably the cheapest thing on the menu. Millman burger is good. I really liked the duck too. Nice to eat outside too.
(4)Karen C.
yummmmmmmmm, uncommon ground. yum. this is definitely one of my favorite places to go in the lakeview area... i've yet to have anything that i didn't like. if it wouldn't seem absolutely crazy, i'd order 3 of the mediterranean platter appetizers just for myself. i'm a huge fan of the chopped salad, the mac & cheese, the sunshine salad, scallops... ok i guess you get the point. i love this place. servers are always friendly, drinks are always poured well, and you gotta love the coziness of the room the musicians play in. even better in the summer, as you can enjoy the nice outdoor patio. two ecstatic thumbs-up.
(5)Shantai G.
I don't get why this place is categorized under "Coffee and Tea" because coffee and tea it is not. But, I like it anyways. Their jasmine white tea is fantastic, subtle, fragrant. God, do i love tea. I've only been once, around dinnertime, 7:45 I think. The table set-up was like that of a restaurant, 4 to a table. So, I felt kind of awkward coming in to ask for a spot of tea and a place to scribe. But, they do have a few individual leather couches, both pleasing to the eye (muted olive) and to the ass (oh, so comfy) for tea-drinking, cookie-munching loners like myself. Framed art adorn the exposed brick. It wasn't quiet, but then again, it was full and it was dinnertime. But, it wasn't overbearingly loud. They played mostly Neutral Milk Hotel-type music, which I appreciated, so A+ for that. Granted, I would have preferred a bit more variation. For the half hour or so that I was there, it seemed as though they played whole albums through instead of shuffling the individual tracks of multiple albums...but now, I'm just nitpicking. The service is nice. The cookies are so-so, and I'm a gal who loves her cookies... But anyways, this place isn't a coffee shop. It's a restaurant, so keep that in mind.
(4)Slu S.
Great bloody mary's and a decent brunch in Wrigleyville is pretty hard to find. I rarely visit the hood for food, but I was pleasantly surpristed by Uncommon Ground. We made the mistake of meeting a friend who was in town for Mother's Day for brunch. The wait was nearly an hour, but there were places to wait and Bloody's galore. The eggs were done well and the service was fine, all things considered.
(3)Jenna D.
The first time I came here a few years ago was for my boyfriend's sister's surprise birthday party. It proved to be a fun atmosphere to celebrate over a big ol' cup of hot chocolate on a cool fall evening. Since then I have returned a couple times to see singer/songwriter friends of mine perform on the back room. This brings be to my favorite thing about Uncommon Ground: there seems to be a little bit for everyone here; good food, good drinks, coffeeshop feel, music, poetry, and so on. My least favorite thing? There always seems to be this weird pressure to buy food even if you're just there for the show and UG always makes a point to make a big deal out of this to my musician friends and their fans. I have never quite figured it out, but I know it's caused people to miss the show over the confusion. It's weird and I don't particularly like that aspect. All and all, not a bad little joint, but maybe not my fav place ever.
(3)Meghan B.
This is a great drinks place and I never would have guessed it! They have fabulous cheap bloody mary deals on the weekends and their brunch is so delicious. The food is really great and creative and the waiters are super attentive and nice. My two complaints are a snotty host staff and runny eggs at brunch. Avoid anything poached here if you mind your eggs whites undercooked. The breakfast burrito, however, is as good as they come!
(4)Christina P.
This is my fave place in chicago. Over the years, I've watched it grow with great excitement and a little fear (for other folks finding out about this gem and taking away its ambience). Happily that hasn't happened. It's kept it's cool and comfortable feeling -it's a combo coffeehouse, restaurant, bar, and a back room that showcases live music. I have had so many food and drink firsts here and am amazed at them all. Try anything here, you can't go wrong. This is the kind of place I would want to own.
(5)Kate B.
I have been here twice now and each time loved every bite of my food. Their menu is great, has some basic staples with a simple twist making it comfort food at its best. Plus, most of their food is organic, so it has that fresh, just made by your grandma feeling to it. I have a hard time choosing what to get, it has taken me almost 10 minutes each time. The macaroni is good, but make sure to mix it up and let it rest for a few minutes before you dive in! Both times the waitstaff has been really nice and accommodating, making good recommendations and just overall really nice and attentive. I have only been here on the week days so I can not attest to the weekend brunch line - but if there were a wait, I would def. wait for good eats at Uncommon Ground!
(4)Breea J.
This restaurant was on my list of places to try in Chicago so I was super excited when one of my friends suggested it. We went on a tuesday for dinner and sat outside and I was surprised that it was nearly empty. The food was great though, and I'm always a fan of a restaurant that supports local, sustainable and organic food. I had a grass-fed burger (high in omega-3s) with heirloom tomatoes and arugula and it was super tasty! I would definitely visit again but am going to try the other locale. Oh, and the service was great!
(4)Elaine M.
I fled here one cold, rainy spring afternoon with a friend when it became clear that the Cubs game we were attending was rained out. In between the mayhem of sports bars, we retreated into the laid-back, quiet shelter of Uncommon Ground. In fact, Uncommon Ground is an all-purpose establishment. It manages to stay relevant through all hours of the day, serving brunch food by morning and sangria by night. Somehow this works. The entrees are a bit of a splurge, so I usually make the smaller splurge on one of the sinfully sweet coffee treats. The recent addition definitely adds more space, but it doesn't seem to blend with the funkier, low frills feel of the older two rooms as well as it could, and it seems like Uncommon Ground has veered away from its coffeehouse roots, even though the name evokes it. In fact, it has become a weird schizoid experience, the westernmost room a small live show venue, the middle room a coffee house and brunch place, the east room the dinner and drinks lounge. Boy, Chicago seems to house a whole lot of chill places to hang out that I have only recently begun to appreciate.
(4)Leroi J.
One of my best friends always likes to camp out here. I oblige. Not the most stellar service, but gets the job done. People watching is a little sub-par, but at least the eavesdropping can be fun. Go for the beverages, stay for the calamari. I wouldn't push calamari from just anywhere. This isn't your basic breaded, tough, BS. Sesame seeds are included. I like.
(4)Christina M.
Went today and it was actually not crazy busy! The food was fresh and full of flavor..and the coffee was decent :)
(4)Ted B.
This place really struggles to find a balance between good food, accomodating service, and an overall pleasant diniing experience. I went in for lunch last Monday afternoon with two other friends. Having all dined there before, we joked whether we would be having a good dining experience or not. Turns out, it was just ok. We waited 15 MINUTES from the time we were seated until a server approached us. Worse yet, we were the only table in the entire restaurant. Inexcusable! Coffee was good but not hot. Also, our server said things like "kicks ass", "sweeet", and "so, just awesome". It was a bit obnoxious. Uncommon Ground was able to redeem itself with the food I had. A California BLT with crusty bread, yellow tomatoes, goat cheese, thick smoked bacon, and arugula. It was absolutely delicious. So all in all...good, not great. Go at your own risk!
(3)Danielle T.
This place is right down the street from me and is one of the best hidden places in Wrigley. I love the ambiance, from the local artist paintings on the wall for sale to the exposed brick throughout the entire restaurant. The food is superb - their combination of ingredients creates for an enjoyable meal - especially the breakfast. The only thing I disliked is that they removed the amazing mahalo tea from the menu - so delicious and wish they would bring it back!!
(4)bj f.
haven't been back to u.g. since my previous review a year ago, but this morning there were tons of parking spaces beckoning us as we wended our way down clark to tiztal. so we took it as a sign, and decided to give it a try, for old time's sake. at first, the signs pointed to a good decision. i enjoyed being back. being greeted with a happy smile, winding our way out of the new front areas to the very last seating area, part of u.g's original space, was like going home again. it's airy and comfy cozy, and the greeter and servers all seemed as friendly as they used to be. the menu looked interesting, and they will serve from the lunch or breakfast menu, even at 9 a.m. i ordered the oscar special that is unrelated to hollywood bronze, but rather benefits their employee, oscar, who is having expensive health issues. the hub ordered his default french toast. the special was an egg dish with veggies and potatoes, and was tasty, but nothing outstanding. the bourbon french toast was totally forgettable; hub didn't even finish it. the bill totaled $40 without tip. pretty incredible, even by chicago brunch standards. so for comfort and service, and their attention to their employee in need, i'll give up the stars, but i'd rather invest my $ in food elsewhere.
(3)matt b.
It boggles my mind that people flock to this place. overpriced, the servers act as though they are doing you a favor, the food is never better than mediocre. for some reason being a resident of the hood i give this place a chance once every couple years, happily won't have to back now for a couple years.
(1)Tara P.
Had a great birthday get-together here, in their big ol' back room. 1/2 off all wine bottles on Tuesdays, ya'll! And they have a decent selection. The food and service were also up to snuff. A month later I tried their treetini at the yelp holiday party - reason enough to go back to Uncommon Ground (unless it's a Tuesday...when I would be powerless against the pull of the 1/2 priced wine).
(4)Adam C.
I want to like this place more, given that it's so close to where I live. It has all the makings of a great, cozy little diner and coffee shop. Unfortunately, the staff can be real hit or miss. Sometimes, it seems like they are clearly uninterested in helping you. And other times, they forget your order, or get it completely wrong. The food is actually quite good, despite being a bit expensive for what it is.
(2)Cara S.
Organic menu/slightly hipsterish/friendly servers/comfort food/cozy space with interesting artwork sums up Uncommon Ground. This place is usually packed but be patient, it is usually worth the wait. Each time I have dined here, I try to get something new. It is easy to do so because their organic menu changes quite frequently. My favorites are the pancakes(change with season), vegetarian chili and the goat cheese/spinach dip.
(4)Angela B.
First off, I should say that the food at Uncommon Ground is DELICIOUS. My friend and I went for brunch, it was very fresh and It came very quickly (after the waiter FINALLY came over and got our order). I am giving it three stars because the service was not that great AND my friend and I were the only non-white people in the restaurant (save the busboys, who were all brown people) and everyone was staring at us like we were aliens (we were wearing J. Crew and were not doing anything extraordinary), given how segregated Chicago is. I have no idea why this shocked me so horribly, but it was disturbing, non the less. Our waiter also took about 20 minutes to come over and take our order and the place was not busy at all. We almost walked out because the wait staff looked liked they were involved in a large game of Miss Mary Mack. Now that I know that this place is like this, I'll be more prepared..I think I'll get take out next time though instead of eating in.
(3)Andrea R.
My friends and I had brunch here today before we went to see the Cubs for the last time this summer (they won! :)). It was only about a 15-20 minute wait for brunch at the Uncommon Ground, which isn't bad in comparison to the other places I typically go for brunch. The service was a bit slow, but our waitress was very nice and apologetic so we didn't mind. We all ordered the Montana omelet. I thought it was pretty good, although it was a little undercooked. However, the potatoes that came with the omelet were very good. I wouldn't go out of my way to go to brunch here, but would come back again if I was in the area.
(3)Chelsa P.
I really do enjoy this place. I've been in the past for shows before and done the food and drink, but I haven't been in a while. I went last weekend for brunch on a Sunday and even though the brunch was fabulous and the coffee was tasty I was really disappointed in the fact that I couldn't get the bloody mary that I have been craving for a long long time. I understand that it was 9am on a Sunday and you can't serve until 10am and my Mom wanted to get on the road, so I understand but it still makes me sad. But that's not why I gave it 4 stars, it's 4 cause sometimes it feels too pricey for my budget.
(4)Missy M.
There are so many different reasons to visit this establishment! I've been here for live performances (acoustic/ etc) in the far back room. Artwork is hung for sale, and changes every time I am in there. They have great drinks! Besides wine & beer, there are also cool coffee drinks, unique martini list, and delicious hot cocoa and other warm bevies that you drink from a bowl (although my roommate said she felt like a small pet while drinking her chai). I can also gladly rave about their food. Especially the egg croissant sandwich for brunch and the mac & cheese w/ delicious cole slaw that had grapes and green apple slices for lunch. All that and its smoke free- Woohoo!!
(4)Leang E.
The place is split up in 3 different rooms, that each have their own unique atmospheres. The first room you enter is the bar area and eating area, the middle room is more relaxed where you could eat or drink coffee, and the end room is used for music, poetry, and what not. They also serve food, alcohol, coffee, and tea. They serve such a variety of things, and I like how relaxed I feel. They make this liquid dessert which is pretty damn good. I believe it has Espresso, a flavored syrup of your choice, whip cream, and some other stuff. I had butterscotch and that was some good stuff. I've also had a couple of desserts here, and the food they serve looks and smells so good inside here. It has a very artsy feel. Lately they have some artist's paintings - and he or she seems obsessed with boobs. It's a great place to catch up with people.
(5)Maggie R.
the mac and cheese... holy hell. so good. so comforting. good service. good atmosphere. bring a date here. bring your mom here.
(4)Kyle R.
This is one of the best restaurants I have been to. I enjoy eating out and living in Chicago there are many choices and most places I never go back to just because there are so many choices. This restaurant I go back to time after time. The atmosphere is great, the live music is enjoyable, the food is amazing!!
(5)Rach T.
Great brunch spot. Came on a Sunday and had we had to wait a bit for a table at 1 pm so we saddled up to the bar for the $5 bloody mary and a mimosa. The bloody mary was definitely homemade and yummy. The mimosa was good, but I drank it way too fast (as usual). Once we were seated our server was really friendly and attentive, but not overly attentive! He told us about a great sounding special that I ordered but then came back quickly to say it was sold out. At that point I just picked something. My bf got the huevos uncommon and I ordered the biscuits and gravy. I wasn't entirely thinking it would be just like biscuits and sausage gravy, but I thought it would be close and peppery. It came with shredded chicken in a sauce topped with two eggs and a bit of cheese. The sauce was...eh, I guess not what I was expecting. It was loaded with a bits of broccoli and tasted like it too. Kind of like a runny green broccoli chicken soup. I have to be honest, I like broccoli, but not for brunch. The eggs and biscuit were good though! The bf liked his. Obviously, since it is a "green" sustainable organic etc restaurant, it is a bit higher priced than a normal brunch spot. Overall, I would recommend it and just read the menu more carefully.
(4)Jackie O.
I've been here a few times and on the weekends there's always a long wait, but the food is worth it. I recommend the house-made granola which comes with fresh and dried fruit for breakfast, the baked artichoke, goat cheese and pesto dip for an appetizer and the mac & cheese! It's not super cheesy or fried which is nice and it comes with some bread crumbs on top. I love the interior and the staff is always friendly.
(5)Elizabeth R.
I love the fact that this restaurant focuses on sustainable food. Even living in a city like Chicago, it can be hard to find environmentally conscious businesses. Aside from just that, I really love this place for the food, drinks and atmosphere too. I have been here for lunch & dinner, but mainly visit for breakfast. I love the coffee and they also have amazing seasonal coffee drinks if you're looking for something more special than a simple cup of coffee. They have latte bowls, not just mugs!! The granola, fruit & yogurt is one of my favorite menu choices & the fruit is always fresh & in season. Also, their scramble dish with potatoes is a VERY good choice. For lunch & dinner, the chicken & avocado sandwich & sweet potato fries were both very good, but the entree size is big enough to split. The atmosphere is casual & relaxed with good music, and it's not too loud so it's easy to have a good conversation with the person/people you're with. The staff members are always really nice & helpful. I usually go on Saturday/Sunday at 10/11/12 and there is usually a 15-20 minute wait. Have not tried to make reservations, so that might help you if you want to avoid a wait. They have a bar to wait at though with coffee, mimosas/bloody mary's, & a full bar, so that makes the time waiting for a table go by really quickly. =) I highly recommend this place. It is one of my favorites.
(5)Elias H.
A bit pricey, but you can tell that they put a lot of effort into everything on the menu. The atmosphere is great here. Definitely beats Starbucks!
(4)A.S. V.
This is a fantastic cafe that I often forget about because I rarely go north of Addison unless it's to the Metro. It recently expanded again, and features great brunch and lunch menus, along with all your standard cafe drinks. Plenty of room inside and outside, they also have shows. I once saw Jeff Buckley there! No, it wasn't his ghost, it was before he died. Despite the great space and size, however, service was lacking the last couple times I've been, and the prices have gone up too much. If the value were better, this might squeak into my top 13 brunch spots.
(4)wendy c.
Amazing brunch. The Anna Banana Bread is so delicious. Have had some misses with lunch or dinner but for the most part great food. The service has always been great too. Awesome bacon infused vodka for bloody mary's. What else can you say?
(4)Andrea N.
Food was great and the atmosphere is so unique! Where else can you find a bar/restaurant/coffee house/live music venue?? My husband had the burger and I had short ribs - very tasty. A little pricey but we'll definitely be back.
(4)Andrea B.
After contacting the manager about my experiences with UCG, I received a call and email from him. He was very professional and expressed his concern about wanting to take care of the problem. I was very happy that he made the effort to call and seemed very interested in taking care of the problem so that this sort of thing would not happen to other costumers. As I always say, customer service is top priority to me so this makes me pretty happy. I may, just have to give UCG another try seeing as there food is pretty darn good!
(3)Andrew K.
Enough of this place. I have been coming here for years. Dates, client meetings, seeing old friends - lots of memories, so i want to keep on coming back and love this place. It was kind of cool in the 90's but since my wife pointed out some flaws i keep on coming back to prove her wrong... and i get dissapointed every time. Is it the cold hashbronws two times in a row? Is it the outright incompetent service we got last time... and the time before? yeah, its still kind of cool, an old neighborhood anchor... but not for me. I'm moving on. I think this place will keep on plowing along due to great location, lots of old patrons and new out of collage kids. Too bad it doesnt care about being good.
(1)Cameron C.
I live very close to Uncommon Ground and have been here many times. Great bloody Mary's and their only $5 on Sundays! Food is good, but not for the price. I hate blowing a bunch of $ on breakfast, especially when the portions arent that large. The sweet potato fries are supurb and they carry hoegaarden, my FAVORITE beer. In a nutshell come here for drinks and small bits, or for the acoustic sets in the back room!
(3)Moe f.
Went in for Sunday brunch at 10. Only a 5 minute wait. Fantastic brunch drinks. Had a beermosa and a bloody mary. Went with the chilaquiles that were great. But the potatoes were really bland. And had a crazy high energy waiter who added to our entertainment.
(4)noel c.
$5 martini's on thursdays... with free live music. if you are lucky like me, you'll stumble upon the sounds of the talented mr. buddy blomquist. i have a weakness for anything with ginger, so the lemon ginger martini won me over right away: organic ginger house infused rain vodka & lemoncello, need i say more? i thought the tree-tini was gimmicky, but then after a few drinks i was all-- "plant me a tree!" i'll be back here for dinner and to enjoy the rooftop garden.
(4)Mary A.
This place is awful. I live in the neighborhood and have heard the same from a number of people, but I tried it anyway. We were seated quickly. However, it took a trip to the hostess stand 25 minutes later to get our first visit from a waiter. Another 20 minutes before our drinks arrived - apparently they ran out of glasses?!?! Finally another half an hour before our food and second round of drinks. I think we are a pretty easy group to satisfy - give us some decent food and keep the drinks coming. Whatever you do, do not order the bacon bloody mary. Two people ordered it at the table after the waiter with a bad attitude raved about it. Neither friend could stomach it. My food was OK but my friends were not happy with theirs. The orders came out wrong, forgotten side items and just incorrect food. Two members of our party had to wait an additional 20 minutes for their food. Again, that may have been OK if our waiter provided some drinks, but he just forgot. I left here having to apologize to my friends for my pick. This will teach me to listen to reviews in the future!
(1)Jen H.
I was here for a friend's birthday a few weeks back, and had a wonderful, albeit expensive experience. Granted, this was my fault - we paid for the birthday girl's dinner and drinks (of which there were obviously a few) and I too fell prey to the whimsically named and intriguingly spiced liquored concoctions (Tom Waits for no man - awesome, but I'd like my $10 back please!). The appetizers, particularly the sweet potato fries, were wonderful, but the real star for me was the entree. A friend and I split a chicken dish with squash, apples, and a big ol' hunk of brie on top. When the server sat down my plate, we asked for a smaller plate to split it, as we had asked. Imagine our delight when he returned with ANOTHER portion, saying the dish had been split in the kitchen. This is how to do Uncommon Ground, people. Delicious, seasonal, perfectly portioned, and came out to $9 each. Now, slap on the appetizers and a couple of drinks... not so cheap. The decor and art is lovely as well - we were also lucky to sit in the back by the stage, so we got a nice little free concert too.
(4)Sarah S.
I went there for a Sunday brunch and 1) my order was incorrect, 2) service sucked, 3) my earl grey tea came out green tea. Apparently not even tea is impossible to screw up.
(2)Laura H.
I love anywhere that has a great outdoor patio and this place is no exception. If this place were a little less expensive I would dine here everyday!!! Great burgers, salads, specials, and BREAKFAST!!! They make a really good eggs benedict. It is one of their brunch items that changes from week to week... and everyone of them is great!!! Interesting drinks and great service. I never feel rushed to leave, but am alway being waiting on!!!
(4)Erika R.
This was my second time here. All I can say is GREAT!!! Our server Ben GREAT!!!!! Food was GREAT!!!! Coffee was GREAT!!!!!!!!!!!!
(5)Amy M.
I had the best omelette of my life at Uncommon Ground last week. It was sun dried tomato/basil/smoked mozzarella, and it was so exceedingly delicious. I was initially lured there by the promise of hot chocolate mugs "the size of your head." Now, it did come in a bowl and was very good (tons of whipped cream and thick chocolate flavor). It wasn't the world's best though. The omelette, hands down, was. In case you were wondering and don't want to look like an idiot: Men's Room is on the left, Women's is on the right.
(5)Jason U.
I walk in at 10:30am on Thursday morning to study for school and use my laptop. The hostess, when i walked in, look at me like i was crazy for just saying i wanted to study and that ill be there for a while and will order lunch in an hour or so. She couldn't seat me at a table for whatever reason, even though there was hardly anyone there so she suggested the bar. All the employees seemed to be staring at me. I couldn't even concentrate, so i left after 10 minutes. Hey people, this is a coffee shop. People come here to study and do work. I realize you work on tips, but i guess now you don't get one from me. Ill never be back here......
(1)Isabella W.
This is my new fav neighborhood brunch place. After hearing good review of this place, 3 of us weathered the rain to come here -- which, weathering the rain to get to brunch via bus meant that this place better be worth it. And it was. Despite our waiter who was a little "out of it" and repeatedly reintroducing himself, we had a very enjoyable meal. I ordered the bowl, yes bowl of cappuccino, and it was tasty - even with skim milk (which I don't typically do, but I was on a semi-health kick). I had the uncommon huevos with 2 runny eggs over a black bean corn bread and cheese melted atop. The flavors were wonderful. Another plus is that uncommon ground is known for using local, sustainable ingredients as best they can, and had heinz organic ketchup. After trying it, I have to say I won't be buying the non-organic stuff anymore. 2 other brunch items ordered from the table were the chilaquiles (which was good), and the montana omelet (with bacon, potatoes, etc.). The uncommon huevos were the best, then the montana omelet. Each dish had distinct taste and flavors. I can't stand a place where everything tastes the same, so kudos to chef millman. Oh, and despite some other review, our food actually came really fast -- within 5 mins of ordering. I'll definitely be back here, as this is now a staple in my brunch options.
(4)Lynn M.
update: i have been there 2x since my 2 star review, and both times my dishes have been authentic and tasty. It is more reliable to me now such that I would recommend it to most people, but it still might not be my first recommendation. Pros: comfy couches, variety of menu items. Cons: I had a hamburger and fries- it tasted average and was warm at best when it was delivered. Fries tasted to me like McDonald's. My friend thought his Amish chicken tasted like KFC. Service was ok initially, and then really tapered off after we received our dishes. Menu entrees are expensive (average is $17 I suspect, but I just glanced down the prices and did not calculate a specific average). It would be fine if it was a fancy place, but it basically seems like bar food to me. I would go again to try something different, but I wouldn't be disappointed if I never went there again.
(3)Mike V.
Have been here for Breakfast, and while the food was very good, I also thought it was outrageously expensive. Breakfast for 2, not including any alcoholic drinks ran just under $50. That's a little steep for breakfast, especially with so many other options near by.
(3)Efrain F.
Good breakfast/brunch place. My favorite dish is the chilaqueles. I haven't eaten dinner there yet. The place is lively and has a good mix of people. The place is stroller-friendly as well.
(3)Allison B.
I went for brunch w/ 2 girlfriends last weekend. I had the Uncommon Scrambler; my 2 friends had the Chorizo Chilaquiles. We were all very happy with our food. I LOVED the decor & ambiance-- very cool yet completely non-pretentious. My only gripe was the so-so service. On one hand, they were great about refilling our waters & warming up our coffees frequently, but our server was very slow to take our order, bring our bill, and collect our bill/ bring change. I will be back, but I'm hoping for slightly speedier service next time.
(4)Ben T.
This is one of my favorite places, if not my favorite, to hang out in Chicago. Whether you're looking for good food, a place to get some drinks, dessert, coffee, or you want to see some live music, this place has a little bit of everything. It's fairly low-key, so if you're looking for a hyped up place to be seen, you're in the wrong place. But pretty much everything I've tried on the menu is good (I like the bacon-wrapped meatloaf. mmm...bacon), they have a good selection of coffees (regular and spiked), and they usually get pretty good music. Also, I love the atmosphere, with the fireplaces and the art on the walls. I saw that a few reviews have commented on the service, but in all the times I've been there, I've always had really good service. My waitress/waiter/bartender has always been really friendly, helpful, and quick. A couple drawbacks: it can be a little pricey, as well as crowded on weekend nights, and at the Wrigleyville one, finding parking is kind of a disaster. But it's worth it. Side note, the Edgewater location is pretty similar in menu and ambience, but I actually think the music room is a little better. Also, there's more parking (they actually have a small lot, and there's usually plenty of street parking). But most of what I said above still applies for that one.
(5)Su S.
UG is trying to be everything- bar/coffee house/restaurant but I got the feeling that I was expected to eat a full meal everytime I come in. 1st time I came in, ordered a hot chocolate and said I wasn't going to order food. Hot chocolate took forever to come out and then my waitress disappeared. I had to leave money on the table when I left because I couldn't find her and had to go. I tried to go to their open mic with the bf. The hostess asked if we were eating dinner. I said no and she left us on our own to see if there were seats available or to find another table in a different room. They try to make their open mic seem like a Big Deal but when I stood in back to listen it seemed like every other open mic. The people listening were the performers and their friends. The room isn't very big with the stage area and guitars everywhere so there was no room to sit. What I have ordered was tasty. I'm not sure if the martinis are worth $10 just because they are organic.
(3)Brooke E.
The Huevos Rancheros might be better titled Huevos on Beanpaste Cake with Tangy, Brown, Possibly Barbeque? Sauce. Because Uncommon Ground serves some really great food (sweet potato fries, duck 'dilla) I'm not sure they had to make their Huevos Rancheros so "Hey! We've got an original, fresh, innovative take on Huevos Rancheros!" They're tasty, but the mystery sauce can be a little overwhelming. Definitely over-priced.
(4)Grace F.
One of my favorite restaurant!!! I just can't help myself but to keep on coming back to this place. This place is so perfect for one-on-one dinner with a close friend and even a date, it's very romantic. Besides having live performances every night, they also play great music. The atmosphere is just calming, artsy and great. Some of my favorite are the sweet potato fries. I am picky about my sweet potato fries, they're my favorite and Uncommon's sweet potato fries is the best in town! Some of my other favorites are, the blt eggs benedict, uncommon chopped salad, helen's grilled chicken sandwich and the pomegranate sangria. Last but not least, you have got to try the chocolate chip banana bread pudding dessert. I will be coming back to Uncommon Ground for more occasions :)
(5)Kate S.
This place has *huge* potential but is uncommonly frustrating. The space is lovely. There are three main rooms indoors, with lots of seating and nice wood and light everywhere. But service tends to be very slow and rather disorganized. It always takes forever to be seated--not because all the tables are full but because things move so slowly here. Today the coffee was served about 15 mins after I ordered it, cold, and with grounds floating in it. When I asked for a cup of hot coffee, some fifteen minutes after this I finally got a cup that was hot with grounds floating in it. I gave up in desperation and drank it, grounds and all. We were seated outside, where they have a nice patio on the sidewalk. Our waitress was nice but slow. Two parties sat down behind us as we waited an eternity for our meal, and both got up and left without eating or drinking anything after waiting and not getting any service at all. I applaud the organic focus, but the food is variable, often good, occasionally not. My friend said she found a hair baked into her pizza there the other night. I can't believe it took over two hours to get through breakfast due to the pace of service. I just don't have this kind of time in my life. I will avoid in future, regretfully.
(2)Kristina O.
This place is great. Quick service and a nice atmosphere. Also everything on the menu is quite interesting, I couldn't find one boring dish out of the whole thing. I ordered the Duo of Duck, which was duck confit and seared duck breast, over "crunchy" potatoes and gorgonzola. It also comes w/ braised cabbage, but I'm not big on cabbage so I asked for it without. This was one of the best meals I've had in a while, no joke! My boyfriend had the bacon wrapped midwestern meatloaf , which I had a small taste of, and this was also really good. Both portions were rather large.. I couldn't finish all my duck even though I really wanted to. It's a bit pricey, especially the drink menu, but I enjoyed everything so much that I can't complain. I will defintely be coming back here.
(4)Leslie F.
My boyfriend and I have been here three times out of the last six weeks, which is impressive because there are so many brunch places that are closer. I go for the bloody marys, he goes for the eggs benedict. It seems every weekend they have a different flavor, like smoked tomato, which have all been great. the staff is friendly and helpful. for brunch, I admit the prices are a little higher than some other places, and the portions are slightly smaller, but they use tons of local ingredients and everything is really delicious and very worth it.
(5)Tito C.
Great breakfast spot. Good drinks too. Chicken breakfast burrito was excellent....
(4)Michael H.
It is a good place with a good bar. It is all just that...good. I never crave it or choose to go there. But if i end up there, I always have a decent meal. The menu is a bit limited but I've never had anything subpar.
(3)Bert T.
I had a less-than-pleasant experience today at brunch on my first ever visit. There was a 15 minute wait for a table, which was fine, that's not the problem. I chose to sit and wait at the bar, & checked with three employees -- the host, the hostess (why have both?), & one of the bartenders -- that it would be OK to have coffee there until a table opened up; all were agreeable to that. But when my turn came to be seated, there was an expectation that I "settle up" for the coffee before going to eat! This was a first for me: they wanted me to pay in stages? I thought I was just getting a start on my brunch beverage, not making a separate visit for a coffee. (I've NEVER met with this arrangement in a restaurant before; many places in fact offer FREE coffee to waiting patrons). Then, as I was taken to my table in the third of the three dining rooms, I noticed many empty tables (& I hadn't seen a lot of people leave). Why had they made me wait if they had space? Once seated, I waited about TEN MINUTES to place my order -- a big no-no. Moreover, after I chose my main dish, the waiter immediately walked away without asking if I wanted anything else or giving me a chance to say that I did: namely, a glass of water, some sugar, and a SPOON (since neither was on the table & the bartender had not supplied me with one!). After another 10 or 15 minute wait for my food to come out, during which time I was ignored completely (and of course I'd already been in the place 30 to 45 minutes -- it's a good thing I'd thought to get a cup of coffee!), I finally got a chance to ask for my water & spoon. The waiter then informed me that they were a "green restaurant" and only served water on request. I thought that was funny, since both my coffee mug & the sugar dispenser were served on -- get this -- totally UNNECESSARY SMALL PLATES WHICH WOULD HAVE TO BE WASHED! I also was amused by the posted sign claiming that they were "committed" to using as little paper as possible, because -- can you guess? -- both the sugar & the coffee mug were also served sitting on (of course) EXTRA PAPER NAPKINS! What about the food? I'm lactose intolerant, & of course almost every menu item included added cheese (typical of American restaurants). I ordered the "fall omelet," which included goat cheese, because it was the last of five ingredients & I thought I could pull it out. Would you believe that my omelet was more like eating a Bismarck or eclair? -- there was more cheese in it than anything else, including egg! With service like that, I won't be in a big hurry to return. Oh, and the music they had on was WAY too loud.
(2)theresa a.
i'd give four stars for the flavors and two stars for the texture of the food, hence the three-star middle ground. the soba in my soba salad melted in my mouth, but not in a good way, like cold cream of wheat. the waitress described the tilapia as melting in her mouth too, and it did in mine, but also not in a good way. way over-cooked. if it weren't for the pistachio crust, the fish would probably come in a puddle on the plate. the quesadilla with duck confit and carmelized onions was very tasty. and the only thing that melted was what should be -- the cheese.
(3)Rachel F.
Good food but its overpriced and sometimes the service is really bad. Recommendations: Favorites: Sweet potato fries: awesome. Caprese Tomato Sandwich: awesome! Also Good: Grilled Chicken Sandwich Fried Green Tomato Sandwich Steel Cut Oatmeal Not so good: Artichoke dip: really really heavy and has a weird after-taste.
(3)Katie B.
I love that UG is a coffee shop, and restaurant and bar. There are so many different sections that it is a great place to meet up with someone no matter what either person is in the mood for. I came here for a surprise party and there was about 30 people from toddlers to old schoolers and everyone loved the space and the food. A band was setting up in the back room as we were leaving and people were still chilling in the bars and coffee lounge areas as well. The food was excellent! I will be back.
(5)January C.
I went here for lunch yesterday. I think I may have had the best blue cheese, bacon cheeseburger of my life. The bun was perfect in that it was soft and chewy but didnt soak up too much grease or fall apart. The beef, blue cheese, and bacon combination was nearly a food orgasm in my mouth. I also had the sweet potato fries and they were pretty great too.
(4)Gail G.
I liked Uncommon Ground before the renovation...in fact, I loved it. But with the renovation the prices went up and the food and the service went down. So sad...I was thinking about giving it another shot today but...every time I've been there in the past few years, I have made a mental note to never return. (Luckily, this time I remembered it.)
(2)Ela G.
Ok, I USED to love this place for brunch, my experience today was my 3rd and LAST TIME that i will EVER go to this establishment. Here's why...I was happily enjoying my bloody mary when I sipped something unusual through my straw into my mouth....I took it out of my mouth to discover not ONE hair, but a CLUMP of HAIR, that was in my bloody mary!!!!!!!! A CLUMP OF HAIR, like the kind you fish out of a shower drain. I am not the type of person to stop eating if I find one arrant hair in my food, I usually just push that part off to the side and continue eating. HOWEVER, this was not an accidental fallen hair, this was a HUGE CLUMP of hair that was no accident except but to speak of seriously disgusting kitchen and bar conditions that could lead to a CLUMP of hair in my drink. My friends and I were so put off by the experience that we couldnt' continue eating our meals!!!! I alerted our server and management, and I was completely shocked at their LACK OF RESPONSE! If this is something normal or unsurprising to THEM, I don't want to know what else goes on. I used to like the food here, but after this experience, I will NEVER go back, and to be honest, I'm a little traumatized and "off" from eating out....THANKS for that lovely experience. If you go there, maybe sift through your bloody mary and check for any hair clumps before you enjoy your drink. GROSS BLEH BLEH BLEH BAARAAARFFFF!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!
(1)Natalie J.
i thought uncommon ground was excellent. went for a friend's birthday (dan r - woop woop!), they accomodated our party of 9 very nicely. our waitress, brittany, was cheerful and helpful. we started with three bottles of wine, all of which were wonderful and the sweet potato fries and goat cheese and the korean calamari, both of which were delicious. i had a hard time ordering between one of the specials, the pumpkin ravioli, and the bacon wrapped meatloaf but eventually decided to go with the latter because i'm a glutton for anything wrapped in bacon. and it was so so so so good. and i got a bite of almost everyone else's meal, too. the birthday boy had duck which was spectacular and the pumpkin ravioli was also delicous but perhaps a little too rich and/or sweet for an entire dinner entree. but who am i kidding, i'm probably going to order it next time or plan to share plates. it's just too hard to pick one item from the menu! i thought the atmosphere was wonderful; like being in your own house; if you're house was really nice and warm and had a fireplace. afterwards i was stuffed and felt i had spent the gdp of a very poor nation but i swear to you, it was worth it. i hope it's not long before i'm back.
(5)Ross F.
Wrigleyville Oasis from crazy drunks- This place has good music, good food, and nice friendly staff. It is a great place to grab coffee or breakfast or lunch or brunch or dinner or linner or take a nap. Recent renovations added much more space and a new room/bar. They also added a TV set that just seems out of place in this otherwise hip joint.
(5)Didier T.
Came for dinner and was not impressed. $14 burger? $20+ entrees? For the venue, I was already suspicious as I skimmed the menu. I settled on the $12 prosciutto and artichoke pizza, which came out void of much prosciutto or artichoke. Fortunately, my friend didn't care for the roasted peppers on his overpriced burger, so he passed them off to me so I could try and make something of my dough pie. No one in my group was terribly thrilled with their meals, so I won't be eating at Uncommon Ground anytime soon. Maybe a drink at the bar to hear some tunes would be the only common ground. But for those prices [or less], I can find better food pretty much anywhere else.
(2)Lindsay V.
I just like the vibe of this place. The food is great (though a little pricey for my taste), but you can't go wrong wtih a great bar with interesting and delicious martinis (even a martini that benefits trees!--the treetini!), grand slam hot chocolate and espresso bar, a fireplace and lots of windows and interesting art on the walls. The food is downright tasty, but mostly it's the environment of this place that makes it a happy spot to hang out.
(4)Theresa R.
I've been here for brunch, dinner, drinks, coffee - the options at any time of day are endless. Great food, excellent coffee, good drinks, decent service, excellent atmosphere. Highly recommend it for any and all of the above. Need to come back to check out the live music.
(5)Carlo N.
One of the best place to play an open mic night if you are new to the music scene. A warm, kind and supportive group of listeners await you. I can say that Uncommon Ground is where I got my start as a musician in Chicago. Oh, did I mention the food is GREAT! Although they have recently changed their menu and miss the Burger with Boursin Cheese, there are plenty of other options from sustainable and local ingredients. If you are there just to chill, definitely get the hot chocolate...best in the city!
(4)adam d.
amazing food and great beer selection. our waiter was super knowledgeable with the menu and even recommended which beer would compliment my dish. great atmosphere and live music in the back room.
(5)Jennifer P.
This is an oasis in Lakeview, with delicious food and a great drink list. You can come at night for fancy duck dishes (I just found out the secret, sort of, to their "crispy" potatoes - it involves many steps) and live music, or you can chill during the day with a great coffee and their delicious lunch menu. Servers are friendly, owners are friendly, manager is friendly, food is good, space is beautiful, frat boys are few. I will definitely be back for food and music.
(5)veronika p.
I was really disappointed by this place. The prices were ridiculous - and I understand that they use mostly (not all) organic/local ingredients, but 6 bucks for a mug of chili? The food was okay, mediocre at best, and no where near the prices we paid. The service was eh. Our waitress was attentive, but she messed up both of our orders. When I tried to tell another waitress who served us our food, she argued with me when I told her I ordered a chicken sandwich, not turkey - she tried to tell me that the turkey, which they delivered, was chicken. They eventually gave me the right sandwich, but I shouldn't have had to argue to get it.
(2)Therron R.
Less than a 5 min wait on a beautiful Saturaday morning. Brunch Cocktails, yummy breakfast options, and sophisticated lunch ideas. This place is so large, it just keeps going and going. The server was very attentive to us even though we weren't in his section, and he served us anyway. I can't wait to come back and try some other menu items.
(5)COLLEEN J.
Well after countless visits with and without kids Uncommon finally disappointed me. Granted, we rolled in at 6:10 with two kids for dinner on Valentines Day but to be told that every single table was taken and people were coming in every minute (exact words) was quite hilarious and stupid considering the place was deserted and there were 4 front tables taken! They know enough to know a family of 4 is a 30 minute meal done right on a Monday night. I am not sure if it was obvious discrimination or just stupidity but unfortunately they lost our business. I mean really everyone deserves a valentine meal and it wasn't 8pm on a Friday at the the hippest joint in town.
(1)Mallory H.
The first time I came here for dinner, I had a decent experience. After last night, I will NEVER go back. 2 friends came to visit from out of town, and I was excited to take them here. Wish i wouldve gone somewhere else..... I was with a party of 5 and we walked in around 7. Not having a reservation, we figured we would have to wait a little for a seat, inside or outside. They said 20-25 minutes so we sat at the bar. After the rude bartender got our drinks, we waited. 1/2 hr later we asked the host how much longer. They said a little while, since they had to move tables around on the patio for a party of 5. Ok, fine. So we ordered apps - then the bartender was nice to us. After we got them, and finished we were stillllll waiting. Finally around 8:15 we were seated outside. We did not get water right away. Our male server never introduced himself and was pretty blah. Maybe he was having an off nite?? That could be forgiven, if we didnt wait almost an HOUR for our food.Our whole order consisted of 2 orders of mac-n-cheese and 4 apps (one which was a salad that had little to no dressing on it). An hour??? How is that possbile??? Tables who sat after us were already eating. One finished eating and we still didnt have our food. And not once did our server come back to apologize for the wait. We ate our mediorce food and asked for the bill. After he droppped it off, we put the card out. Waited, waited. Finally one of us walked inside and asked them to close our tab so we could leave. My friend said how long we were waiting and the lady's answer was 'oh we are busy'. I"m sorry but it was 10:00 and it was EMPTY!!! only 1/3 of the tables were sat. All in all, a 3 hour dinner w/ below average food for a pretty penny and horrible service. Maybe someone could teach these workers some manners.
(1)Ari F.
As a musician who performed at Uncommon Ground a few years back, I have to say that it's a pretty good space. Not knock-your-socks-off amazing, but certainly a nice, intimate atmosphere. The food is good, too, and the staff is laid-back and friendly. Not bad!
(4)min. r.
Wow, I've had some wonderful brunches and dinners here. Some tasty cocktails as well. Their menu tends to trend towards the innovative, using local produce and high quality ingredients, portions are large, and it's making my stomach rumble thinking about it. The staff is great, they book talented musicians, and I've always enjoyed my visits. It's a bit on the pricey side though, which is unfortunate, and makes my visits more infrequent than I'd like them to be.
(4)Lyndsay G.
I'm a sucker for Brunch, that's for damn sure and let me tell you, this place takes the cake. I've only been here once and I still dream about it. Its not your normal brunch place. Instead of regular ham, egg and cheese, its more organic, making it more fun to eat and less "god i feel fat" after wards. I'll have to update this next time I go, but I remember good service and to die for OJ. I'm a sucker for OJ.
(5)Bernie D.
Menu was a little high end, but interesting. Not really your "burger and sandwich" joint. The food we got was delicious, and the atmosphere was good. A little expensive, but definitely worth checking out.
(4)Patrick W.
I've been here twice, and maybe I'm just crabby, but both times my princess has ordered something I've enjoyed much more than what I ordered. Both times we also waited ten minutes or more to be greeted by a server after being seated. Both times I waited another ten minutes for my first refill on coffee. Both times the food was outstanding. See? I do more than whine and complain. The first time we were there, we ran into some friends and wound up sitting with them. They're regulars there and her recommendation of the chilaquiles was spot on. Of course, I ordered something different- having a taste for french toast I went with that and found it dry and uninspiring, though the fresh fruit on top was at its peak. This time around, my princess ordered the breakfast burrito and I had the lemon poppyseed ricotta pancakes, topped with blueberry syrup. Again, I found them good but kind of dry. There was no butter served with them and the syrup was rationed sparingly, and since our waiter would be AWOL until I was nearly done eating, I made do. My apparent low biorhythms and crabbiness aside, they were good. The burrito was amazing, and came with some good home fries. Waits for service and coffee are annoying, but the food is really good. I'm certain the third time will be the charm for the service and I can give the place the thus-far elusive fourth star that it surely deserves.
(3)Becky R.
I had an unusually bad experience here so I think I may have to give this place another try. Our waitress was incredibly scatterbrained and was never around when we needed her. It was busy at the time, but not THAT busy. My boyfriend's pancakes were cold, and we ended up borrowing syrup off the table next to us since there wasn't any brought over (I was under the impression that pancakes and syrup go hand in hand. Apparently this assumption was not shared by our waitress). We asked for refills on our coffee, but after 10-15 min with no coffee we decided to just get the check and get out of there. And just as we're getting up to leave...here comes the refill haha.
(2)douglas r.
I went again for the calamari. Delish! The beer selection is good and also delish. I really like this place. Even when it's busy it's not super crowded or loud. It's the best people watching bar I've ever been to.
(4)Sher K.
If it is hot outside, do NOT go here unless your idea of a pleasant dining experience is a hot yoga session! We were there Sunday for brunch and the heat inside was unbearable. Now please note that I'm that skinny girl that always complains because the restaurant is too cold! - and yet I was sweating. My little five month old twins were beat red from the heat. The indoor temperature must have been close to 90 degrees. The restaurant claimed that this was as cold as they could get it, that the thermostat was set to 68, but because of windows all around they could not get it cool. Whether they CANNOT or WILL NOT get it cooler, the impact is the same. Really hot, uncomfortable, and unbearable for children. Take my advice. If its hot outside, don't go here - especially if you have kids.
(1)Amy R.
I've only been here for brunch (many times), so I can't speak to the nightly entertainment and ambiance this place is apparently known for, but I have to say their breakfast food is some of the best I've had in the city. The menu is always changing, which helps me to branch out and try something new each time. The dish that wins first place in my book was the Nutella-pancakes. Chocolate-covered carbs: YUMMY. I drool like Homer Simpson does over doughnuts just thinking about it. I've taken my parents here on a couple occasions when they've been in town, and they've loved it as well. The only reason I can't give this place 5 stars is that as of last summer, they had a piss-poor system of seating people inside and outside in the nice weather. We went the morning of a Cubs game (big mistake), asked to be seated outside, and were told it would be a half-hour wait. They wrote our names down to be seated inside, so we missed being called and ended up waiting close to an hour. The customer-service was apologetic, but I didn't feel it was enough for my poor rumbling tummy. If I had had enough energy that day, I would have corralled my group to another place nearby, but it wasn't worth waiting somewhere else. Hopefully it's improved since then?
(3)Andrew S.
we ran into this place last night just strolling along lakeview and were captivated just by looking inside of it. the atmosphere was like eating in the woods... except without the bugs, dark, and actual woods of the woods. dropped in for the pumpkin caramel cheesecake with ginger snap crust and loved it. the rest of the menu looked very inventive while not intimidating to the average palate. definitely want to swing by again... probably later in the evening when it's less busy, because the place being full would probably take away from the ambience for me. oh! and the bathroom walls are painted like the outdoors so its like youre camping! OH! and they were playing the flaming lips...
(4)Katya C.
Frickin' amazing. Fresh, organic-ish, delicious food and a great atmosphere. Order a mocha. They're beautiful!
(5)Heather S.
I like the fact that this place is consistantly good. My fave is the pumkin ravioli. Trust me, it's devine! It's a great place to have a special night out without totally breaking the bank.
(4)Megan R.
Went here for dinner, loved the atmosphere. The service was excellent and the martini's were great. The food wasn't anything special though and I thought it was overpriced. Worth a visit, but won't be a regular dinner spot for me.
(3)Nicholas C.
I went to several shows here last year and was always interested in trying the food. When I needed a reservation in Wrigleyville in a place that wouldn't be flooded by post-game fans this seemed an obvious choice. Here's some advice UG, if you have special reservation policies like the reservation must be a day in advance, make me aware of the policy and decline my reservation or tell me you'll do me the favor but do not chastise me tell me I need to make plans better. Next time I'll pick a place that appreciates my reservation and encourages me to come the restaurant. The beer was too expensive and the pork chop tasted like candy, maybe some peoples thing, but I prefer my dinner to taste less like dessert.
(2)Craig T.
This review really only covers weekend dinner, but I have to say I was very impressed. The restaurant itself has a bit of an identify crisis going on, has this odd mix of coffee house, wine bar and restaurant. This isnt necessarily a bad thing, as the decor has a laid back coffee house feel which is very warm and inviting. We went during dinner rush on a Friday night without reservations. There weren't many tables left but we were still able to be seated immediately. Despite being busy and having a live gig being set up in the back room, service was quick and wait staff was very helpful. Throughout the meal they were right there with everything we needed, and were eager to help throughout the meal and wine selection process. Beer selection was good, I was surprised by a few of the beers they had on tap. Wine was also very good, and the waiter was able to help us choose a bottle that would work well with all of our meals. Food was better than sex. To understand this statement, you must know that I *really* like sex. I had the Duo of Duck, nice juicy pieces of duck prepared two different ways stacked on top of roasted potatoes. Absolutely amazing, possibly the most satisfying meal I've had in the city. Other meals were also very good. Overall, price was about what I expected from the decor and menu. Meals were nearing the $20 range. You can do a little damage with the wine menu, but when is this not true? My experience was great, and I will definitely be back to try lunch.
(5)Victoria T.
This place is amazing. We had friends visiting from California and they were impressed! The atmosphere was great, warm and toasty by the fire. The food was amazing and the service was spot on! I plan on going back here again and again. Their menu is diverse and really creative... and the servings are very generous. There were numerous things on the menu I would have loved. The veggie chili, meatloaf sand, ham and cheese and chorizo skillet were all wonderful and the sweet potato fries with goat cheese dipping sauce were delicious. I think you can tell by now that we really really loved it. Good experience all around.
(5)Lauren C.
I really liked this restaurant! A friend and I decided to stop in here for dinner, and we walked away very happy. I had heard that the food was overpriced, and while the food is a little expensive, I honestly thought the few extra dollars were worth it. I ordered the pumpkin ravioli, which was absolutely delicious and creamy. My friend ordered a veggie burger, which was huge and looked amazing. Considering we ordered a bottle of wine, the total for our meal was not bad at all. The service was quick and friendly, and we hung out for a little bit after our meal without any pressure to leave. I'll definitely be returning!
(4)steve h.
i like to smoke and drink. one of my favorite things to do is to saddle up to the bar, have a beer and watch the poisonous smoke ooze out my lungs and into the pseudo public air. its almost therapeutic. i couldn't do that here. the strange thing was, i didn't even have any urges to the whole time i was here (which was about 4 beers worth). minus 1 star for seven dollar stellas (on tap). plus 1 star for five dollar sam smith organic lagers (in a bottle). plus and minus 1 star for the non smoking environment.
(4)Sarah B.
I very much enjoyed my dinner at Uncommon Ground. The food was fresh and inventive, albeit a tad pricey (if I want to pay more than 20 bucks for a plate of pasta, I'd prefer it be at Rosebud's with linens and formally dressed servers). My friend and I sat next to the window, but the place was heated so well, we didn't feel any chill (it was 20 degrees outside). The fire is a cozy touch, as are the forest-like decorations. Pretty decent selection of beer, wine and liquor, but again, kind of expensive. The beers start at $4, (i.e. Miller Lite), and the glasses of wine at $6. They do offer some interesting martinis, particularly a pumpkin pie martini. I would not go here to get my drink on, but for a nice meal with friends, or even my mom, Uncommon Ground is ideal. One more point: the waitstaff was a little creepy; seemed to be all guys, with the exception of a female hostess. Maybe it was a slow night, or the fact that our server only spoke in a monotone, but something felt off. This by no means will prevent me from returning and should only serve as a word of caution.
(4)Angie T.
uncommon ground is one of those places that NEVER lets you down. want a delicious saturday or sunday brunch? no problem. they nail it every time. want a hearty bowl or french onion soup, heaping salad or a fresh piece of halibut? again, no problem. their extensive drink list is also impressive. they infuse their own vodkas - from anything from berry flavors to bacon-infused. yes, they'll put that bacon creation in a bloody mary. it was definitely not my thing, but i have a feeling it may be someone's... other perks: * great tea selection * fun bathrooms. the one on the back room is my favorite. painted orange fish swimming on the floor and walls. * each room is bursting with personality. *one thursday a month they have "green room sessions" in their back room. you can reserve a space, eat some dinner and enjoy three special acts that are booked for that night. i've seen these shows several times. its typically pretty diverse from act and act and very intimate. a great date spot or for just a different kinda thing to do with friends. *awesome fireplace in the front and they have no problem with you curling up on one of their big leather chairs with a book and a few glasses of wine for an afternoon. hmmmm, i may need to put that on my to do list. it sounds delicious right about now...
(5)Margaret H.
Four of us went to Uncommon Ground on Saturday night-- I made reservations, but I'm not sure they were necessary. The host said that our table wasn't ready at 6:55, which was not true at all, since we ended up being seated at the very front of the restaurant in a table that was empty at 6:55. That doesn't really matter though, because the service the rest of the night was great. The menu was delightful to read, and the food was interesting and tasty. Skip the french fries though, one of my friends got them, and they were boring. Not bad, but nothing artisanal about them, unlike pretty much everything else. We ended up being there for 2 1/2 hours, and it was well past two hours when we finally started getting some hints to leave. I wouldn't go here all the time, because it's a bit more expensive, but as a place to try interesting food and chat with old friends, it was perfect.
(4)