Search Your Favourite Restaurants.

Name: Birchwood Kitchen
Address: 2211 W North Ave, Chicago, IL, 60647
Telephone: (773) 276-2100
Price range: Under $11
Rating: 4.38

Birchwood Kitchen

2211 W North Ave, Chicago, IL, 60647

(773) 276-2100
Store is closed

Birchwood Kitchen Menu

Starters Salads

Pickle Plate

Turnover

Salmon Riette

Ricotta

Warm Cauliflower Salad

Pickled Shrimp Salad

Greens

Salad Trio
Soups Sides

Today’s Soups

Fruit Salad

Greens Vinaigrette

Today’s Sides

Chips
Classic

Club

Smoked Salmon Salad

Goat Cheese

Chickpea

Cheddar

Tuna

Gruyère

Quiche
Winter

Egg Salad

Pot Roast

Duck

B.r.d

Sloppy Joe

Broccoli

Speck
Sandwich Board

Main

Bread

Condiments

Garnishes

Cheese

Healthy Meal suggestions for Birchwood Kitchen

Starters Salads

Pickle Plate [ Carbohydrates (ms): 0, Sodium (s): 0, Saturated Fat (ms) : 0, Calories: 0, Sugar (ms): 0 ]

Turnover [ Carbohydrates (ms): 0, Sodium (s): 0, Saturated Fat (ms) : 0, Calories: 0, Sugar (ms): 0 ]

Salmon Riette [ Carbohydrates (ms): 0, Sodium (s): 0, Saturated Fat (ms) : 0, Calories: 0, Sugar (ms): 0 ]

Ricotta [ Carbohydrates (ms): 0, Sodium (s): 0, Saturated Fat (ms) : 0, Calories: 0, Sugar (ms): 0 ]

Warm Cauliflower Salad [ Carbohydrates (ms): 0, Sodium (s): 0, Saturated Fat (ms) : 0, Calories: 0, Sugar (ms): 0 ]

Pickled Shrimp Salad [ Carbohydrates (ms): 0, Sodium (s): 0, Saturated Fat (ms) : 0, Calories: 0, Sugar (ms): 0 ]

Greens [ Carbohydrates (ms): 0, Sodium (s): 0, Saturated Fat (ms) : 0, Calories: 0, Sugar (ms): 0 ]

Salad Trio [ Carbohydrates (ms): 0, Sodium (s): 0, Saturated Fat (ms) : 0, Calories: 0, Sugar (ms): 0 ]
Soups Sides

Today’s Soups [ Carbohydrates (ms): 0, Sodium (s): 0, Saturated Fat (ms) : 0, Calories: 0, Sugar (ms): 0 ]

Fruit Salad [ Carbohydrates (ms): 0, Sodium (s): 0, Saturated Fat (ms) : 0, Calories: 0, Sugar (ms): 0 ]

Greens Vinaigrette [ Carbohydrates (ms): 0, Sodium (s): 0, Saturated Fat (ms) : 0, Calories: 0, Sugar (ms): 0 ]

Today’s Sides [ Carbohydrates (ms): 0, Sodium (s): 0, Saturated Fat (ms) : 0, Calories: 0, Sugar (ms): 0 ]

Chips [ Carbohydrates (ms): 0, Sodium (s): 0, Saturated Fat (ms) : 0, Calories: 0, Sugar (ms): 0 ]
Classic

Club [ Carbohydrates (ms): 0, Sodium (s): 0, Saturated Fat (ms) : 0, Calories: 0, Sugar (ms): 0 ]

Smoked Salmon Salad [ Carbohydrates (ms): 0, Sodium (s): 0, Saturated Fat (ms) : 0, Calories: 0, Sugar (ms): 0 ]

Goat Cheese [ Carbohydrates (ms): 0, Sodium (s): 0, Saturated Fat (ms) : 0, Calories: 0, Sugar (ms): 0 ]

Chickpea [ Carbohydrates (ms): 0, Sodium (s): 0, Saturated Fat (ms) : 0, Calories: 0, Sugar (ms): 0 ]

Cheddar [ Carbohydrates (ms): 0, Sodium (s): 0, Saturated Fat (ms) : 0, Calories: 0, Sugar (ms): 0 ]

Tuna [ Carbohydrates (ms): 0, Sodium (s): 0, Saturated Fat (ms) : 0, Calories: 0, Sugar (ms): 0 ]

Gruyère [ Carbohydrates (ms): 0, Sodium (s): 0, Saturated Fat (ms) : 0, Calories: 0, Sugar (ms): 0 ]

Quiche [ Carbohydrates (ms): 0, Sodium (s): 0, Saturated Fat (ms) : 0, Calories: 0, Sugar (ms): 0 ]
Winter

Egg Salad [ Carbohydrates (ms): 0, Sodium (s): 0, Saturated Fat (ms) : 0, Calories: 0, Sugar (ms): 0 ]

Pot Roast [ Carbohydrates (ms): 0, Sodium (s): 0, Saturated Fat (ms) : 0, Calories: 0, Sugar (ms): 0 ]

Duck [ Carbohydrates (ms): 0, Sodium (s): 0, Saturated Fat (ms) : 0, Calories: 0, Sugar (ms): 0 ]

B.r.d [ Carbohydrates (ms): 0, Sodium (s): 0, Saturated Fat (ms) : 0, Calories: 0, Sugar (ms): 0 ]

Sloppy Joe [ Carbohydrates (ms): 0, Sodium (s): 0, Saturated Fat (ms) : 0, Calories: 0, Sugar (ms): 0 ]

Broccoli [ Carbohydrates (ms): 0, Sodium (s): 0, Saturated Fat (ms) : 0, Calories: 0, Sugar (ms): 0 ]

Speck [ Carbohydrates (ms): 0, Sodium (s): 0, Saturated Fat (ms) : 0, Calories: 0, Sugar (ms): 0 ]
Sandwich Board

Main [ Carbohydrates (ms): 0, Sodium (s): 0, Saturated Fat (ms) : 0, Calories: 0, Sugar (ms): 0 ]

Bread [ Carbohydrates (ms): 0, Sodium (s): 0, Saturated Fat (ms) : 0, Calories: 0, Sugar (ms): 0 ]

Condiments [ Carbohydrates (ms): 0, Sodium (s): 0, Saturated Fat (ms) : 0, Calories: 0, Sugar (ms): 0 ]

Garnishes [ Carbohydrates (ms): 0, Sodium (s): 0, Saturated Fat (ms) : 0, Calories: 0, Sugar (ms): 0 ]

Cheese [ Carbohydrates (ms): 0, Sodium (s): 0, Saturated Fat (ms) : 0, Calories: 0, Sugar (ms): 0 ]

Sorry, We are updating this restaurant blood pressure menu details.

Sorry, We are updating this restaurant cholesterol menu details.

Write An Anonymous Review

Kristin M.

Yum! Came here for a chef's tasting menu night. The space is small but very warm and cozy. Service was friendly and attentive, a very enjoyable experience! Being a chef's tasting, selections were made for us and served family style. This is hearty comfort food, if you're looking for tiny portions plated in innovative ways, go elsewhere. If you're looking for unpretentious, great flavors, dig in! Here's what we had in order of yumminess: Hors: (hehe) -deviled egg with smoked salmon - so smokey, I thought there was bacon on it! Delicious! -homemade pickles - these have a kick to them, I think there is a little curry in the pickle juice. Yum! -root vegetable pancakes - tiny little latkes with ginge and yogurt on top, it was a nice bite Mains: -roasted mushrooms - I know, it's weird to put a side above the main, but these were so damn tasty (must be the sherry butter) -sherry (more!) marinated chicken thighs - normally I dislike thighs, you have to see/touch the bone and that just grosses me out. These had great flavor and melted off the bone, so I thoroughly enjoyed them. The spaetzle was a fun addition, too -swiss chard gratin - cheesy goodness Dessert: -salted butter cookie - the surprising favorite of the table! I mean, who likes cookies over chocolate and pastries?? But no, it was THAT good! -brownie - moist and walnuty, very tasty -lemon bar - I didn't try this, but my friends enjoyed..though not as much as the above two Nice work, Birchwood!
(4)
Chuck B.

The ricotta pancakes are beyond amazing. Fluffy and not too sweet, nor to heavy. The breakfast sandwich was on the heavier side, but so delicious. The prices were fair.
(5)
Sara T.

Unlike almost every other highly rated brunch spot, this one had no wait! That is virtually unheard of so I was pleasantly surprised, especially since we were, as my sister would put it, "HON-gray!!" There is indoor seating and outdoor seating at a patio out back. The diner has a very Bucktown feel. No table service aside from them bringing your order to your table. You order at the register and grab your own drinks. I ordered the croque Madame. It was tasty and the bread was done so that it was just the perfect amount of chewy. The quiche is a bit on the small side, like a small slice of pie. It was delicious though. I'll be back without a doubt to try some of the other items.
(4)
Greg G.

Damn. Just one of the best brunch places I've been to, like, ever! Sweet location, hip space inside, great service, with great tasting perfect portioned food at a usual, and very fair price. I was extremely satisfied with the two plates I tried... The breakfast sandwich and the croque vert. Both AMAZING. Everything that could have gone right at Birchwood did. Can't wait to go back and explore more of the menu (and the desserts).
(5)
Teddy D.

I was pretty excited to eat breakfast here. The pictures of food looked awesome, the restaurant looked really nice and it was a short walk from where I was staying. Upon arrival the hostess, who was very friendly, just seemed flustered and overwhelmed. You could see they had everything outside to self serve coffee to people waiting for tables, everything but the coffee? They'd been open for 30 minutes already. We waited about 10 minutes and got a table in the back yard. It was nice, I really enjoyed being outside on a nice day. Our table was very wobbly, not a big deal, I put my folded up napkin under it. About this time when the inconsistent service began. First, we got served out coffee, finally. It was brought over and we were told milk, sugar etc was on its way. After waiting 5 minutes I had to ask for it, twice. When the sugar/milk came we noticed no stirrers or spoons. So, I stirred with my knife. A few minutes later stirrers showed up, literally minutes. My wife said someone probably heard me say "c'mon, where are the stirrers?". We ordered, I got the breakfast sandwich with a side of potatoes. We had a shared table appetizer of the avocado and toast. It was good. There were three of us, two of the plates came out. Trying to be polite we waited for the third. Again, about five minutes. Once it arrived we began eating. I noticed my potatoes were a little under seasoned. Eventually our waiter (who also was very nice) asked if we wanted salt, pepper, hot sauce. I said yes, it all came out pretty quickly. My breakfast sandwich , with bacon, was tasty. I didn't let the hair on the bacon ruin my meal. It happens, it's not the end of the world. Everyone else enjoyed their meals very much. Maybe it was an off day. The hostess said they were on a re run of "Check Please" the night before and the morning was very busy. Would I eat there again? Maybe, but there are a lot more really good places to try first before going back. With great service this was 4 stars all day, but with mediocre service (with a smile), it's three.
(3)
Olivia C.

This place is off the chain. Everyone is beyond nice. From the free coffee while waiting to the endearingly kooky servers, I'm into it. I had the avocado toast and a side of fruit and it was unique - almost Thai flavors. My mom had the quiche and it was great. Prices are on point. Can't wait to go back with a bottle in tow (BYOB!!!)
(5)
Koce A.

This place has horrible service we went here with my boyfriend and we ordered 2 portions of pancakes and coffee we got our coffee my boyfriend got the pancakes we waited like 30 more minutes and my pancakes never arrived when I asked the waiter where are my pancakes he said that he thought we will share one so that's why I never got mine. That left alone the pancake portion is like just enough for one 6years old child I mean it was fucking tiny.
(1)
Vanessa H.

If you come during a rush hour (11 am on a Sunday) be prepared to WAIT. My husband, daughter and I waited over an hour to be seated. I was annoyed they sat larger parties who arrived after us, before us. Maybe they called in, who knows? I will say though, they were very nice to us about the long wait. We got complimentary coffee, hot chocolate, and banana bread for the wait. Thankfully, my daughter is used to going to hipster places, so she was well behaved with the help of technology ;-) It was slightly cold for May, so the outdoor seating was closed, which could explain the EXTREMLY LONG wait time. Customer beware, they have seasonal menus. So while looking at Yelp photos is nice, almost none of what was pictured was on the current menu. The hubby and I both settled on the breakfast sandwich, and ordered a waffle for my daughter. Too big for her, but there weren't any pancakes on the kids meal, and the kids menu was very limited. Our breakfast sandwiches were great! Soft bread that crumbled, I had bacon too, and it was toasty but not like break my teeth hard.
(4)
Sara A.

Had the most amazing Hot Cider, Sourdough waffle with raspberries is to die for... Savory with The Corn Beef hash was a taste I've never tasted before! Def eat here ppl! And great service
(5)
Ashley C.

It's really 3.5 stars. We have been in a few times for brunch. It was good but I wasn't blown away. They don't take reservations and there can be quite a wait. Their seating system is a little bit odd. Even though I could see empty tables inside, there was still a wait (even though we said we would be okay with inside). The hostess also looks overwhelmed at peak times. However, coffee while you wait is nice. The food was somewhat mixed for brunch. The Croque Madame was very tasty and one of my favorites. I didn't order it but tried a bite the first time and wished I had it. I thought the baked french toast was just okay. I kept eyeing the sandwiches most of the time. They have a nice patio and byob. I will have to come back for lunch over brunch.
(3)
Annie T.

Walked in during high brunch hours and was only told a 20mn wait. They had coffee outside for those waiting. Never had such great hospitality for brunch. The servers were super friendly and attentive. Love love their warm earthy decor. The backyard is very open and green. When you finally walk in, you have to order before seating down. I guess it keeps the place in order. I ordered the croque vert croque Madame with ham substituted for greens (asparagus was in season). Solid dish with fresh ingredients. I wouldn't have had it smothered with dijon mustard though. My husband loved his grilled cheddar sandwich which came oozing with cheese.
(4)
Kyle P.

Its a good sandwich place. Its very bucktown.... Which I knew coming in so can't take a star off. Crazy local coffee and pop and very fancy sandwiches. Expensive for what you get (again no taking stars off for what I already knew) but overall 4 stars but not my type of sandwich places
(4)
Nick H.

Do you like arugula and goat cheese? Because if you do, just about everything they serve has arugula and goat cheese on it. In fact they should change the name to arugula and goat cheese. If you don't like arugula and goat cheese then you might not like this place.
(3)
Mia O.

Visiting from NYC, I looked up best places to eat near Wicker Park and this place showed up first. We were greeted with a friendly girl outside and was offered water and coffee while we waited for our name to be called. We waited about 25-30 minutes outside before going in. I liked the simple/modern decor and the good service. My friend had the Croquet Madame and I had the Basque Stew or something like that... it was really good and worth the wait. I don't live in Chicago so I won't be able to come any time soon... probably not until next year! :(
(4)
Yogesh K.

Nice little place. My wife and I went here on a weekday 10am. Nice atmosphere, they had available outside seating we opted for indoor. Food was good, loved the greens, I do wish they had more options for coffee i.e local coffee or organic, the waitress mentioned regular and decaf. The food was not salty, made fresh. I had the Croque vert, portion size was perfect. My wife ordered the Gravlax BLT with a latte which was nice and foamy, she liked it. We were able to get street parking during this time without any hassles. Will go there again to try the lunch options which serves from 11am.
(4)
Sally Y.

The food here is pretty good, and they have BYOB which always makes for a fabulous brunch. Plus, this place is always so crowded giving the feeling that it's a hot spot. However, they definitely do not a have a very good seating system. The handful of times I've gone there always are empty tables and a line if people waiting to be seated. They definitely would benefit from a better operational system and probably make more money too! Overall though, great food, and I think the vegetarian dishes actually taste better if you're ok going meatless. Enjoy!
(3)
Rebekah R.

An overlooked gem. Extremely casual yet super-nice place with superb simple, fresh, ingredient-centered food. BYOB. Their back patio is enchanting. It's just a normal back yard, but they have just perfectly outfitted it as a discreet and comfortable dining space. Service is friendly and they actually know their customers. The food is, simply, perfectly executed. A kind of combination between comfort food (and Southern-oriented regional American cuisine) with farm-to-table, ingredient-centric cooking, with vegetables taking the center stage as often as meat. Lightly grilled peaches with corn, green beans, mozzarella and bacon was the perfect back yard summer dish. Crab cakes, sumptuously creamy and mild and lying atop spicy jicama salad, were excellent. A chicken dinner was if anything oversized, two expertly cut portions of chicken with a deliciously tender blackened skin. Served with fantastic roasted carrots, chard, and inventive potato dumplings. Everything else on the menu looked amazing. No dishes exceeded $12. They're known for their brunch/lunch, but they should be more popular for dinner!
(5)
Serim P.

Had brie sandwich (drizzeled with honey!) that comes with salad on the side. Super friendly atmosphere with great food. Definitely would come back for this.
(5)
Seher D.

Searching for a restaurant for brunch this past weekend, I stumbled upon Birchwood Kitchen during my yelp search and found that a familiar name had written a review - Kelly S. Now who is Kelly S. you ask? My first, quirky, awesome Yelp CM ever. I instantly knew I had to try this place. Birchwood Kitchen is everything that I want in a brunch place - exposed brick, free and unlimited coffee, a wonderful and friendly waitstaff, an even nicer owner (if that's possible), and delicious, scrumptious food. My friend and I ventured out to this cute establishment for Sunday brunch and loved every minute of it. Sure, you might have to wait a bit for a table on the weekends, but the wait system is super convenient/efficient. Their system takes your phone number, and texts you to let you know when you're in 'line' and when your table is ready, so you're not just hanging out watching everyone eat (what a tease). We perused over the menu and sipped our warm coffee, and then the debates began. Croque vert or the breakfast sandwich? Tuna melt maybe? OMG steak and eggs!! We decided to do a halfzies and share the steak and eggs and the Croque Vert sandwich. The food was delicious! The steak and eggs came with a side of roasted potatoes and a chipotle cream that paired perfectly, and the Croque Vert came with a side salad. I would definitely recommend both. I think what made the experience so great was the service. Judd, the owner, came over numerous times to make sure everything was to our satisfaction. The service was out of this world amazing and I would literally go back just to be friends with these nice people. Tip: the brunch wait on a Sunday is approximately 40 minutes, so be prepared to wait a bit!
(5)
Yanina R.

Great food and reasonably priced! Avocado toast was amazing. My husband had the breakfast sandwich and he loved it too. I would definitely come back.
(4)
Zach Z.

My friend's birthday was coming up, so I googled "sandwich BYOB" (she's a sandwich fan and and a boozer). I found this place and trusted the reviews, so we tried it! The staff was super friendly and accommodating. I shot them an e-mail saying we had a birthday group, and they got back. Even let me bring in a birthday cake, although I regretted it since their deserts looked delicious (banana bread, large chocolate chip cookies, carrot cake). It had a tapas feel, so go in an order a couple different sides of their different salads and pastas. We enjoyed a few beers we brought out on the back patio. They even brought a bucket to keep them chilled.
(5)
Jessalyn B.

Delicious food, especially brunch. No alcohol, but you can BYOB. Favorite things I've had there: avocado toast and strawberry rhubarb scones. The wait can be a bit long on the weekends, so get there early. Our waiter was really fun and quirky and was the one to practically insist on the avo toast, and he was my hero once I took a bite.
(4)
Jenny H.

I love brunch, and Birchwood Kitchen has now made it to the top of my favorites list. We came around 3pm on a Saturday, and were greeted as soon as we walked in by the very cheery staff. They assigned us a number and a table, and then we ordered at the counter (they bring the food out to you). We decided to go with their weekend specials- the shrimp and grits (10) and the baked french toast (8). I also ordered a mocha (4). They don't charge extra for soy, which is great for the lactose intolerant! You pick up your coffee at the end of the counter, where you can also pour your own water and get coffee and tea. The mocha came in a very large mug, and was probably the best mocha I have had, no exaggeration. It wasn't overly sweet, and was the perfect temperature. The baked french toast with blueberries came out first and it was like eating bread pudding or a really moist cake. Yum! We got three large pieces with lots of fresh blueberries. The shrimp and grits was amazing and we got 6 marinated shrimp, grilled asparagus, grits with pesto and a poached egg. That dish did not last long at all since we scarfed it down so fast. Overall, this is definitely a 5 star establishment for the atmosphere, food, prices, and service. Also, free street parking!
(5)
Tina L.

What a quaint and lovely establishment! I'll definitely have to come back when the weather is warmer, to enjoy seating outside in the back patio (AND the fresh, yummy food). Came here for brunch with coworkers on a gloomy Saturday. Put my name down for 3 people and waited only about 15 minutes before we got to order. It's super casual, you just order at the cashier and they bring the food out to your table. Of course I had to try the Croque Madame based on a bunch of awesome reviews. I'm glad I tried it, because it was magnificent! The bread was perfectly crunchy, crispy toasted...the Gruyere cheese was so ooey gooey melty...and I actually love that the ham was thinly sliced. I don't particularly care for thick sliced ham, I prefer it thinly sliced. Two thumbs up for my meal! Took home two of the quiche specials that day. It was good even the next day. The service is great, and the staff members are all very friendly and kind. Can't wait to come back here to try something else! Hooray for brunch and hooray for Brichwood!
(4)
Tim F.

Worst service I have ever received in my life. Let me preface this review by saying Birchwood is usually an awesome spot, with really great food and service. Well, not this time. We just went to brunch and were seated within 15 minutes, not too bad. My fiancÃ© ordered a chai latte and i ordered a coffee to start things off. Her chai came about 15 minutes later, and my coffee about 30 minutes after I ordered (which by the way was only because i called the waitress over to ask about it, she would have never brought it otherwise). I was then brought the quiche that I ordered, which was at least half the size of the quiche on the table next to me. When I questioned the portion, she gave me an attitude telling me that "thats what a quiche is, its a slice of the pie." I believe they were running low and really scrimped on the portions, but I should not be paying for a full portion then. Our waitress also never once checked on us. That coffee that took 30 minutes to receive? It was never refilled. Not even questioned. And we had waited about 15 minutes in between our plates clearing and receiving the check. Well, we again had to grab her attention, she was just walking by us completely ignoring our table. Maybe she was too busy washing off the kid's booster seat of the table down from us to handle our check. Yes, she washed off the booster seat in the back kitchen and brought it back out to give back to the parents. But asking for our money by handing us a check? Not important in the least. All in all, hands down the worst service I have ever experienced. It is a shame because I usually enjoy this place. I forget the servers name, but I would recommend bolting from this place if she comes to greet you.
(1)
Sam G.

I am PUMPED about this place. From the minute our feet hit the curb outside the storefront, we were greeted warmly and affectionately by two quirky women. One went inside to locate a table for us, the other began walking us through the menu (a courageous and selfless act as she could have drowned in our drool). (We arrived around 11am on a Sunday and had no wait time - there were even a couple empty tables inside.) As soon as I looked at the menu I started salivating like a pavlov's dog in the middle of a christmas handbell choir. The three of us had to get four dishes to split amongst ourselves, and even that was restraining our desired gluttony. I won't go through all the dishes but rest assured, the meat and the vegetarian dishes were all damn good. So was the lemon bar which I took home with me for desert because I couldn't bear the thought of our love being unrequited. I had lots of friendly playful banter with the guy at the counter. Love funny people with some snark to 'em. I didn't love the patronage as much (there was literally a parade of strollers leaving out the door with a very 'Gap vibe'). But no worries. The food and the service and the atmosphere all made me blind to my prejudices. And they were playing Little Dragon on the house speakers so that also calmed my ruffling feathers. Beautiful. Tasty. Fresh. Gluttonous healthful food. Honestly there wasn't a single thing here I wouldn't want to eat.
(5)
Suyoon P.

Over priced, small portion, okay taste. We ordered meat ball and it was bullshit. You can't charge $12 for a plate full of corn and barley with only 5 meatballs on it. And it wasn't that good either.
(2)
Lou T.

Birchwood Kitchen keeps me coming back every summer visit to Chicago. Definitely a must try for brunch. Be prepared to wait though. The food here is fresh and always subtly complex with flavorful ingredients. Best way to describe it is gourmet comfort food. This week we went for lunch. The brie prosciutto was satisfying and the pork loin was incredible. Try sitting in their fairy like garden if weather permits.
(5)
Meredith K.

I'm so glad I finally made it in here! What a treat! I was here for a chef's tasting menu w/ The Local Tourist. They're usually closed on Mondays which is good b/c its small and cozy inside. Since they were just on Check Please! you may have to wait until outside seating opens up. The people who work/own this place are superb. Super nice and really into making good food with fresh ingredients. They are talented. We had deviled eggs with smoked salmon. Wow! If that's all they served I would be excited. I think I could have had 16 of them. Also their pickles were fantastic. The mains were roasted mushrooms. So simple and so satisfying. Then chicken thighs with spaetzle. Normally I don't like the thigh but these were good and boneless. The desserts were simple but oh so delicious!! Our favorite was the salted butter cookie. For a chocoholic to say that is very high praise. But let's not sell the lemon bars and brownies short. I had a healthy helping of those too. I'd come back for it all!! And I'm dying to try their brunch. I'm sure its wonderful.
(4)
Monica B.

I met my friend here for brunch on Saturday and we arrived around 10:30am, right before a line formed. The staff is extremely bubbly and friendly. I ordered an orange juice and the breakfast sandwich. The sandwich was loaded with pesto, arugula, cheese and eggs. I looved the bread too, extremely fresh. The salad had a light dressing, but the potatoes were a little under- salted. The orange juice was fresh, with just the right amount of pulp. The sandwich was huge and I could only eat half of it. The other half was perfect for breakfast the next day. I couldn't leave without grabbing a butterscotch oatmeal cookie. I usually prefer a chocolate chip cookie, but this was perfect. Chewy, but not hard. And the oatmeal and butterscotch were the perfect pairing. I'd love to come back and check out the rest of the menu.
(4)
Jennifer C.

Update: they added a host counter and changed the brunch menu...removing a lot of yummy food items like the pork roast stew! Everything is now pretty much a sandwich or with-toast affair which my carb-phobic friend wasn't too happy about. Alas they are saved by the BYOB +orange juice mix option. **** This is perhaps the brunch place I've been to the most yet in Chicago, partly because I live in the Wicker park area, service is fast, food is fresh and it's not as bloody expensive as Lula's. The owner is really attentive. I'm a vegetarian and one time they gave me meat by accident and gave me a free croque vert sandwich. Another time I brought my friends who were visiting from Toronto and they gave us cake. My longest brunch wait here was 10 minutes. Sandwiches are always savoury and perfectly toasted, buttery and crunchy. The salad was done with a lovely vinagrette dressing. It goes up to $9 a sandwich-meal, but it's immaculately made and fills you up. Recommended: breakfast sandwich, smoked pork sandwich, croque vert They usually have a daily quiche, several salads and daily soup as well.
(4)
Jareli C.

Came all the way from south loop to get to this spot because of the reviews and the pictures of the delicious food. The expectations were met! My family and I enjoyed breakfast. The service was great, yeah it was a bit slow but we're human. We can only do so much at a certain pace.....Unless I'm the only one in the place who is eating, there shouldn't be a wait, but there is other people that need to be attended just as much as I do. Just gotta be understanding. I'll def come back for the avocado toast if I'm ever in Chicago.
(5)
Hillary M.

I used Yelp to find a good recommendation for brunch/lunch and I have to say a big THANK YOU! You led me to an awesome discovery. Turns out the friend I was meeting comes here all the time, and I just didn't know that. He LOVES the place and says he's never gotten anything bad there. When we went, he ordered the chilaquiles - I was basically drooling over them, they looked so good but unfortunately I don't eat anything with pork. I ordered the Croque Verde - basically a Croque Monsieur with vegetables instead of ham - second translation - an amazing French style grilled cheese with lots of seasonal veggies. It was delish and came with a side salad. My friend insisted we split one of their bagels as well. I couldn't be happier that we did. I was expecting the bagel quality to be superbly outrageous, which it was, but the real point of trying this is the spread. They mix cream cheese with goat cheese and honey and a touch of awesomeness, and then make it warm I think. It's like bagel crack, I couldn't get enough. I would definitely go back to this place - friendly staff, awesome dÃ©cor and delicious food. What more do you need?
(4)
Peter D.

Very, very good. The ratings here do not lie. I love the order at the counter first, get food second concept because you are in and out and it is a casual brunch and lunch experience. For me, that's all I ask. The belgian waffle with the fresh fruit was simple and not overbearing. The coffee, I think, is Metropolis and they let you drink coffee as you wait for your table. Really unpretentious, good food available here. Expect to pay around $20 a head which is definitely worth it.
(5)
Gaby T.

Their food is always so fresh and delicious. Be prepared to stand in line for a bit, it can get a little crowded. You order at the counter and eventually you get seated. You'll be glad you waited. The place isn't cheap, but I think it's reasonable. Apparently there's a patio. But I've never seen it. Oh Chicago weather!
(5)
Eric L.

It's great for breakfast and brunch, where you should get the croque madame sandwich. The Slagel Farms sausage is a welcome side. I'll eat here anytime I'm in Wicker Park.
(4)
Anthony S.

Had another amazing breakfast at Birchwood today. They always keep us guessing with the different options on their menu. I had the ham croque today which was amazing and my fiancÃ© had the market scramble. We eat here every Sunday and the scramble is different every week with different fresh veggies. Thanks for being awesome!!
(5)
Alex R.

Super friendly service. We loved Kelly! So attentive and nice. Market scramble was delicious and so fresh. Also get the oatmeal cookie and the chocolate banana bread.
(5)
Bart S.

Slow service on a Saturday afternoon at lunch! Watching the staff work is disconcerting. It seemed like the gal taking orders was SLOW. As in taking forever. Maybe it was the customers, or maybe it was her. However, then the food was also over 15 minutes from the time ordered to arrival. And this is an order-at-the-counter sandwich shop. Watching the food prep person shovel coleslaw into a shallow bowl using her her finger tips to make sure it was all in the bowl, and then shortly after that replacing the kitchen garbage bag was not a comforting site. It was a hot and humid day outside, so it was a hot and humid day inside the restaurant. Sitting around waiting for the meal to arrive in the heat left me a little on edge. At Birchwood, you serve your own water, but there were no glasses. I asked the guy behind the counter, and he said I would find glasses outside on the patio. Nope, none there either. So the guy then offered me a plastic cup, which I filled with their luke warm tap water - no ice until I had the chance to ask the server for some 15 minutes later when the food came. The food was great, not sure all the aggravation was worth it though.
(2)
Hollina U.

Very cute brunch spot with fresh flowers on each table. Came here for brunch with my girlfriends on a Sunday around 1 PM. The wait was only about 15 minutes, but the downfall was they were out of the French toast that we were all looking forward to. Sad face. So instead we opted for the waffles (bit disappointing-- my gfs referred to it as the Eggo waffle looking dish covered with chocolate sauce and bananas) but I guess it was alright, very soft and fluffy. Also ordered the breakfast sandwich with goat cheese, bacon and eggs, with a side of red potatoes and petit salad. The sandwich was pretty good, but then again I love anything with goat cheese and eggs. The biscuits and gravy prob was my favorite of the dishes we ordered--- opted for the pork sausage too, which complemented the rest of the dish. We got the oatmeal butterscotch cookie too (which really was a meh, nothing outstanding) and the berry cobbler--- probably the best of everything we ordered. Water is self-serve in the back, and you order and pay for food at the register. Crap, now that I think about it, I think we forgot to tip because they didn't have a line on the receipt to add gratuity. Oh shoot now I feel like an ass because the girl serving us was really nice! So ummm bring cash to tip!
(3)
Mary S.

Really appreciated this place. Having just returned from a trip to Paris and Rome, the freshness and flavor of this food really reminded me of what I'd had in Europe. At the recommendation of the employee, I tried the Brie and Jam sandwich with the chickpea salad as my "upgraded" side. The sandwich's whipped brie and apricot-lavender jam were out of this world. Flavorful without feeling like I was gorging myself on butter and sugar. The arugula really set off the sweetness with a peppery flavor. The chickpea salad was pretty spicy but had a good kick to it. I had read that others really like this side, which was my motivation for choosing it, and I'm glad I did. Very filling but not leaving me feeling sick. Tried their special blueberry basil lemonade and was surprised it came out pink. Blueberry? Pink? Not sure what concoction that was but it tasted like pink lemonade, I would suggest you pass on the upgraded drinks. A pretty small space but super cute dÃ©cor, I could see it getting busy for brunch or lunch. Wouldn't mind trying this place again if I were to be in the area.
(4)
Rachel H.

Chorizo con papas was delicious. Definitely worth the 45 minute wait. Only thing is its a pretty small menu and byob. Check out the menu ahead of time and don't count on a bloody mary/mimosa filled brunch. Other than that, fantastic.
(5)
Yen L.

Love love love this place. Guess I can understand why they don't take reservations, but I really wish they did! Be prepared for a reasonable wait. Huge points for being BYOB brunch. The food is truly excellent. I had the salmon and my boyfriend had the egg sandwich. We shared the daily quiche. Everything was awesome and the OJ they brought us for our champagne was great too! A must-visit for any brunch lover. As an update, have also ordered the lunch to go and been delighted. We got 3 of the prosciutto sandwiches for a road trip and all finished wishing we had 12 more.
(5)
Kateryna G.

The food: 4.5/5. I went here for the first time about a year and a half ago, when I tried some greasy chorizo eggs benedict and thought I'd never come back. Randomly, I stopped by again and got Croque Madame per my friends recommendation. I'm glad I gave Birchwood Kitchen another try, because now I'm hooked. Their Croque Madame is probably one of the best in the city, and BYOB makes it even better. I only wish they had a greater selection of traditional brunch food such as eggs benedicts and omelets. The service: 5/5. The last time we went, the wait was about 45 minutes, but they had heat lamps on their patio, so we didn't have to be all cramped inside. Our waitress was very friendly and accommodated my request in regard to food. Overall: I'll definitely recommend.
(5)
Lisa H.

Birchwood Kitchen is a small and cozy brunch spot with black and white photos hanging all over the exposed brick walls, worn down wooden benches and tables, and freshly picked flowers. It seems like a place you would find located in the country side. You wait to get seated by the host and then order your food at the register. My friend and I decided to split the breakfast sandwich (vegetable frittata, cheddar, and bacon on focaccia bread accompanied with a side salad and roasted potatoes) and a tuna melt (Spanish tuna salad, gruyere, and roasted tomatoes on multigrain bread accompanied with a side salad or chips.) Both sandwiches were delicious, probably because with each ingredient you can taste the freshness. Even the bread was soft and fluffy. The service here was excellent. All the employees were genuinely nice and happy. Even though there was no wait staff, the host went around asking customers how their meal was and if they needed anything else. Birchwood Kitchen is definitely a great neighborhood brunch spot, so stop by here if you want to enjoy fresh food with great service.
(4)
Pete K.

I've been here a couple of times in the past year. My first experience I was charmed by the beet sandwich, and I appreciate the BYOB. The second time I had a veggie special and the pickle plate. The veggie sandwich was fine, but nothing I couldn't whip up at home, and the saving grace of the overly vinegary pickle plate was some crostini and spreads. I came back tonight for dinner. My friend's burger, which the server told us "comes out med/rare standard" came out black and over cooked, the vinegary pickle plate had lost its spreads and bread, and the side salads with both sandwiches were more vinegary than the pickles. I got the grilled gruyere, which was a serviceable sandwich, again, nothing special. So, I've given it a fair shot. I appreciate it's talk of local, simple foods, but its just not worth it for a night out. I will say however, the service was great.
(2)
Jeff Z.

Stopped in at Birchwood Kitchen this morning on day 2 in Chicago. A super cute brunch/lunch joint in the Wicker Park/Bucktown section. With 4.5 stars and a huge number of reviews I trusted fellow yelpers and was not disappointed. What an awesome menu! A bunch of excellent sounding choices- Croque Madam looked like a popular choice but we went with the Vegetarian Croque Vert. Excellent! Vegetables instead of Han, melted Gruyere cheese, and two eggs on top that ran over it. Also had the Brie and jam sandwich which was very tasty. To top it off we had the oatmeal butterscotch cookie that was referenced in many other reviews. Soft, tasty and huge. Good balance of flavor between the butterscotch and oatmeal. Make sure to get one!
(5)
Conan C.

Came here for lunch. Had some sort of pot roast sandwich. It sounded delicious on the menu and looked great in front of me but every bite was super salty. It might be just me because I always make low sodium pot roasts at home. My wife had their ham and Gruyere cheese sandwich. She thought hers was too salty as well. I can confirm this because I intended on stealing her food. I snatched her sandwich when she went to the bathroom. The first bite reminded me of my first time in the ocean. I might just have a very low tolerance to salt. Other people would probably enjoy it. I don't know.
(4)
Leslie B.

I'm so glad I finally made it to Birchwood Kitchen! Sunny H. and I arrived around 10:00 and this is definitely the magic time to arrive. No wait, we were easily able to snag a table after we ordered at the counter. However, seemingly minutes after we sat down, the crowds arrived and there was an hour wait when we left! Birchwood Kitchen has a casual atmosphere, you order at the counter and then find a table. I really enjoyed the quiet ambiance and the staff was very friendly. If I come back, I'll definitely try to sit outside on their patio. Birchwood's brunch menu is pretty small and menu items change pretty frequently. Sunny went with the breakfast sandwich with bacon which was huge and very tasty. A reason for Birchwood not receiving a 5 star review has to do with the severely underdone bacon on the sandwich, it truly didn't look cooked. Other than that, she definitely enjoyed her meal. I had a dish that isn't on the menu at the moment, but had corn cakes, over easy eggs, black beans, chorizo, avocado, pickled onions, and other delicious items. This dish was unique and flavorful, I just felt that the corn cakes were kind of dry. Besides that, all of the flavors worked together perfectly. Overall, I'm really glad I came by for the coveted Birchwood Kitchen brunch! If I return, I'll definitely be trying their lunch and baked goods.
(4)
Rachel B.

Check this place out! The service started out great with a warm hostess, genuine but not bubbly. The server was great too. She was attentive and pleasant. The menu was exciting and changes weekly. The food was amazing. I got the vegetable scrambler. I don't eat cheese so I swapped it out for avocado. Everyone at our table loved our food and everything was made perfectly. It's hard to describe but there was just good energy here. I hope to be back soon!
(5)
renje g.

+++ - The system; I love the organization and the order/pay/sit/then get your food served to you idea. It's a wonder why everyone else doesn't steal this system - Somehow a packed Sunday at noon, the wait was only 20 minutes ++ - Free coffee - Portions; w
(4)
Heather L.

Best new restaurant for brunch in Chicago. I even like the hipster, customer-initiated service (pour your own coffee just the way you like it). The French Toast is more bread-pudding than fried-bread, and it's insanely good. The raspberry compote that it is served with should be sold in every self-respecting grocery store. Everything else I snuck my fork into is also an impeccable, original take on breakfast foods. Also, the menu changes with every season. (In the case of Chicago: Winter, Interlude, Winter). Basically, do go to Birchwood Kitchen if you are in the continental US. The end.
(5)
Nick P.

Been wanting to try out B-K for a while, finally decided it to make the trip couple weeks back. Went on a Sunday around 10am, had easy time finding a parking which was definitely good. I waited around 30min before getting my food which wasn't bad at all. They have nice little patio in the back with heaters, makes the waiting little bearable (it was cold..). I ordered the Breakfast Sandwich which was excellent, the Jam and roasted tomato mixture gets your taste-buds firing on all cylinders, and as always fried eggs makes everything taste better. Overall I had good experience, I think sandwich could use some type of nuts, maybe like roosted pecans.
(4)
Marisa Y.

I waited an hour and a half to eat at this place with my boyfriend, my friend, and his girlfriend. I was getting really really hangry, but I'm so glad we stuck it out because Birchwood Kitchen was amazing. The host was also extremely attentive. He saw us girls were getting really cold and checked in on us a couple times to give us updates and even seated us away from the door when we were finally seated so that we could warm up. We ordered the breakfast sandwich, croque madam, and pear ricotta pancakes. Everything was amazing. The food is light, fresh, and filling. You can eat everything without feeling like you're going into a food coma or need to run 18 miles to work off a heavy brunch. It's also BYOB which should put this over 5 stars, but Yelp sadly doesn't give me that option. I will definitely be back...but earlier in the day to avoid the lines.
(5)
Minna J.

Went before and after the remodel, Loved it both times!! Really great vegetarian options that can easily be made vegan. The servers were so helpful and the patio out back was lovely in the early fall. Can't wait to go back in the warmer weather!
(5)
Kelly H.

I usually go here by myself during the weekday when it's not insanely crowded, fantastic staff! I get the breakfast sandwich, never disappointed
(5)
Airen J.

Birchwood recently went from counter service to table service and I couldn't be more pleased. The food is excellent. It comes to your table in a very paced and timely manner. BYOB is a plus! There is seating outdoors for the warm season. They do not take reservations so be sure to get your place in line! The service was great and attentive. Their coffee is reasonably priced and just as good if not better than Intelligencia and they have great pastries. It is a must visit if you live in or visiting Wicker Park. PS - great brunch spot. I hope they keep the table service concept!
(4)
Lisa L.

Love this place! It's kinda small so expect a wait but it's worth it! I wish I lived closer so I could come here more.
(4)
Benjamin D.

It's going downhill. Ever since they took that Gravlax bagel off the menu I just can't seem to find anything that I really enjoy; especially considering lunch there with the starter, main and drink is usually around $25. The servers are really nice though so I feel bad saying anything, but the portions of meat they give on lets say a steak salad are very chincy, the sandwiches have often been to bread-y (yes sandwiches are made with bread but you know what I mean) and it's just not as good as it has been before.
(3)
Mr W.

We came on a Saturday and were told we had a 40 min wait. No problem except they say 3 tables that served AFTER is simply because they were tables of 4 or higher. You can't survive in a city like Chicago by penalizing couples. Preposterous. Will never come back.
(1)
Eugene S.

So I've been giving myself psychogenic alopecia for the past few weeks as a result of e____. Been hiding a lot in my favorite spot, been aggressive to other cats, but fortunately managed to keep my scant eliminations inside the litter box, to my partner's great appreciation. Returning appetite brought me back to my true calling: battling on the front lines of the eternal war between breakfast and lunch. (Aside: Ranks of french toast dripping with maple syrup are swept aside by a charging wedge of crispy BLT sandwiches ... my fur bristles with the memories of that day ... ) As always, unable to come to a mutually agreeable decision, my partner and I decided to see if Birchwood kitchen could perch in that tiny precious space and deliver a meal that would satisfy us both ... at 9 am. Arriving so early, we were seated immediately, although a presence of a coffee dispenser outside suggested that 11 am brunchers would not be as lucky. The menu is short, but teeming with choices: I ordered the truffled polenta, and my bruncher in arms ordered the croque vert. We also got coffee, of course, and an oatmeal butterscotch cookie to fill in the crannies. The food was excellent: the polenta with crispy pancetta was ineffably breakfasty, like grits , but lunchy due to the tasty addition of artichokes and gruyere cheese, and the mushroomy flavor permeating throughout. The croque vert came with a side of green salad and had roasted red peppers inside. An adult version of a ham and cheese sandwich with two eggs on top that gives hope that the end to bitter conflict is in sight. Our server, Kaitlan, pushed the overall experience to the stratospheric five star level with her exuberant affect and her friendly manner. She is a caffeine fueled whirlwind, and she won't judge your terrible coffee consumption or your pathological need to have dessert with every meal. In this darkest hour, there burns a light, and that light is the storefront of Birchwood Kitchen.
(5)
Noemi T.

Amazing!!!! The croque Madame is the best. Coffee is good. And very welcoming for party of 1. The waitress was awesome, and great vibes.
(5)
Sarah C.

Ate in the outdoor patio on a lovely sunny day. My friend and I split the breakfast sandwich and the baked French toast on specials menu. Breakfast sandwich had a fried egg with greens and usually not a fan of goat cheese but it worked really well with the rest of the sandwich and the bread was nice and toasty. Baked French toast tasted similar to a bread pudding without it being too mushy-had a strawberry and light cream sauce over but wasn't too sweet or overpowering. Overall, fresh ingredients with good flavors and next time i would def take advantage of the byob for mimosas!
(4)
Alex M.

I wish I could leave a review for the food, but we waited for an hour when told it was a 45 min to an hour wait. When we went to get an update on the wait time, we were told they "didn't know" and that she was "trying her best." Just be straight forward with the wait time - I'd rather know it's an hour and a half wait and leave than waste an hour of my Sunday for an "I don't know" wait time.
(2)
Mary R.

After reading brunch recommendations for Easter, I really wanted to try this place. We arrived on a Sunday afternoon with a short wait of about 30mins anticipating a yummy brunch. When our table was ready, we were directed to order at the register first, then asked to pick up our drinks at the far end of the counter (as if this was starbucks). My husband and I had the Croque Madame and Croque Vert... Big disappointment! Nothing but average food. We also ordered a side of bacon-- they served it undercooked in a pool of bacon grease. It was barely edible. The bread on both croques was difficult to cut and lacked the combination of crispy/soft that you would expect from a formidable sandwich. My husband chose to get the honey mustard on the side which was smart because it overpowered the sandwich. We were hoping our meal would be salvaged by the chocolate chip banana bread and the gooey butter cake but again we were disappointed. The banana cake was too dry and the butter cake wasn't gooey as advertised. If it weren't for the 4.5 star hype I may have given this restaurant a 3 but the expectation of an excellent brunch was met with mediocrity.
(2)
Ted C.

Super food! Unique menu without being too wierd. Highly recommend. Our group had the Breakfast hash, tacos, egg sandwich and the carrot hash and all were delicious.
(5)
Mark S.

I came here for brunch on my birthday with a group of my friends. I had only heard of Birchwood because I worked in Wicker Park during the summer; no one I knew had actually been here before. To say the least, we were incredibly impressed! First of all, there was no wait. On a Saturday at noon. This has go to be pretty much unheard of at brunch places! The restaurant itself has a hipstery, casual, comfortable atmosphere and a beautiful back patio. The hostess who was standing outside gave us a table number, and told us to order at the counter. It only took about 15 minutes for the dishes to come out. I sampled a bit of everything our group ordered, and it was all so delicious (and beautifully presented as well)! My favorites were definitely the breakfast sandwich, the french toast, and the applewood bacon side. I feel weird recommending the bacon as something to order, but omgz, I don't even know what they did to it to make it so delicious. Most menu options were less than $10, which was perfect as we are all poor students. Needless to say, I wasn't the only one in my group who loved it. 3 of my friends agreed that it was the best brunch that they've had since living in Chicago. I can't wait to come back!
(5)
Keerthana K.

Super delicious. And the menu is seasonal, and the ingredients are FRESH. Like just picked from the garden at their peak level of fresh. The staff is super nice, and the menu is super exciting. It's a pretty perfect place for brunch, except maybe not the best looking place, as the seating is cramped and there's a lack of modernity.
(5)
Steven N.

Took my sister here and a couple of her friends when they were in Chicago from out of town and we had a wonderful time. Almost all the food was made in house and we all thoroughly enjoyed the food. We came here for brunch on a Sunday so we had a good mix of breakfast food and lunch items. I of course, tried almost a little bit of everyone's dish so I could get a good sample of the food :) I had the smoked salmon salad - never have had a salmon salad with the fish smoked and it was super good! Would recommend it to anyone looking for a nice twist on your traditional salmon salad. Restaurant is set up cafe style, so you order and pay and then they bring you your food but the service was good. Everyone seemed genuinely interested about whether or not you enjoyed your meal. Only downside, is no alcohol and is not BYOB so makes Sunday brunch a little less fun.
(4)
Justine W.

Tuna melt !!! Finally, this was my first brunch in Chicago. After we waited for 30 minutes, we have to order our food at the register. The place was crowded on Saturday noon, but the service was impeccable. I ordered Tuna Melt for my lunch, the bread (multigrain) was crispy and perfectly toasted. The sandwich came with fresh salad. There was plenty of spanish tuna salad, which was mixed with chopped roasted tomato and right amount of gruyere, and it was a super-melty Tuna Melt. It is different from other Tuna melt (L.A. restaurant - GRUB) i had before. there is no mayo inside. An enjoyable experience. Love it ! Once again, it was gourmet and delish ! Worth for the wait. I will definitely be back for other sandwiches and pastries. Prices are affordable. Also also, Chicago style- it is a BYOB !!
(5)
Kat L.

Dude and I went last night to enjoy their backyard patio and eat some stuff. We went halvsies and split the warm summer salad (roasted potatoes, poached egg with dill, cherry tomatoes, greens, ricotta-topped grilled toast) and the BBQ Shrimp & Cheese Polenta. HOLY COW. The salad was good but the shrimp and cheesy polenta was truly amazing. Totally worth going back. The staff was very nice and the one waiter was attentive; the beautiful backyard patio alone is worth the trip again. Here's the thing, we got confused at how they run things, which the cashier said they are going to be changing soon: You walk in, look at their menu, they give you a table number, and you order and pay for your food and give them your table number and then go and sit down. The weird rules meant we got confused and forgot to tip. I went back today and gave them a $10 bill because I loved the place and would like to come back. I felt terrible for not tipping but their confusing system makes me believe that I'm not the first person that screwed this up.
(4)
Meg r.

They had Ricotta Gnudi! It is so amazing and full of deliciousness. Turkey burger is tasty as well. Plus! A big ol burger. And my neighbor Charlene's art opening tonight made this a wonderful evening at Birchwood. Bonus! Basil Lemonade, mmm. I want to eat here everyday. So great for a wonderful rotating menu with good standbys in the deli case and butterscotch cookies, lemon bars and carrot cake, o my!
(5)
Augi F.

Breakfast sandwich was just perfect! And the pancakes with fresh fruit service was amazing, the hostess made waiting seem like no time at all!
(5)
Stef S.

My mom, husband and I went to BK for brunch on Sunday early afternoon recently. It was about a 25 minute wait, but they offer free coffee (outside) while you wait - which was a bonus! When we got there, it was pretty loud with the restaurant at full capacity. As it got less full, the noise level went down to a more conversation-friendly level. Overall, our food was pretty good (despite the fact that they forgot about the side order of sausage that my husband ordered until towards the end of our meal). My avocado toast was yummy and my husband's veggie scramble was ok - according to him. My mom really liked her pot roast sandwich, although I thought that the portion was on the smaller side (especially compared to the size of some other plates I could see on other tables around us). The service was pretty slow though. The wait staff was nice, but it took much too long to have our order taken, they didn't come back and check to see how our food was, etc. And then our server seemed to be getting off [and just left] and nobody checked on us for awhile (as we sat with empty water glasses). The food I would give four stars, but three for the service and overall experience. I might go back to try it again, but my husband said that he wouldn't be back. They do offer some creative menu items, though. I wanted to love this neighborhood spot, but I left a bit disappointed.
(3)
Shayna Y.

Birchwood has the NICEST staff! Everyone there is incredibly helpful and friendly. We were lucky and did not have to wait to be seated. I ordered a chai tea latte which was not all that special. For brunch, I had the brussel sprout hash with chicken sausage. I ordered it without the crostini - to make sure it was gluten free - but it still came with the crostini. The brussel sprout hash was really interested - it was light and flavorful. It was almost like a brussel sprout slaw and it came with two sunny side up eggs. I would've preferred my eggs to be a bit more runny to mix with the hash. The chicken sausage was really juicy and delicious. This place seems better suited for those who can eat bread. My friend really enjoyed her breakfast sandwich and the pastries looks incredible. I would give this place another shot for lunch - some of the salads looked really good.
(3)
Paul P.

very friendly staff. whole wheat toast w avocado and two eggs on the side make this one of my favorite breakfast foods. super delicious
(5)
Deborah C.

Tried the croque madame with a side of potatoes substituted for the greens (extra $1.50). I also tried some of the special flank steak dish they had today as well as the brie appetizer and the prosciutto appetizer. All of it was tasty. Staff is super helpful. My friends and I did byob mimosas and they were accommodating with the ice bucket and placing it on a chair nearby since we didn't have room for it on the table. I wouldn't say the food was mindblowing, but the atmosphere was nice. Also, I HAVE to mention that they make amazing over easy eggs. One of the things I hate the most is when eggs are over easy, but some of the white is uncooked when you pop the yolk. So in reality, I would rate this 3.5 stars because I'm a fan, but the eggs pushed it to 4 :P
(4)
A.A. B.

Great staff and the food is AMAZING! I also had one of the best Chai Lattes I have ever had. I just discovered this place, but will for sure be back again.
(5)
Nirmal G.

I don't know what to do about this place! I had popped in one time before and walked out because their menu at that time didn't have anything I could eat (oh the life of a vegetarian with a nut allergy). I checked the menu before heading over with two pals this past Friday and found two items that appeared to be options for me. We showed up at 9am and we didn't end up leaving for almost 70 minutes - that was rather disconcerting for me for a weekday breakfast. I would have given one star, but the atmosphere of the restaurant gets a star - a cool place. One pal ordered the veggie scramble and the other pal ordered the breakfast sandwich. I also ordered the veggie scramble, made sure to ask about the eggs and informed the waitress that I didn't want them included. My pals received their plates and I was then told that they made mine with eggs and were remaking it...ok, cool, but kinda a bummer since I was just as starved as my pals. The one pal had ordered a side order of hash browns, which were actually small reds that were halved. Should really just be called roasted potatoes. My scramble then showed up, which for something that states are seasonal vegetables should include more than just mushrooms, especially when you're leaving out the eggs. There was a dollop of goat cheese on it. But wait, there were little chunks of egg in the scramble too. Back the scramble went. The waitress then returned to ask if other vegetables would be ok to add, and maybe chickpeas or lentils. I was like, "Yes, of course! As long as there as there are no nuts, that all sounds great!" So now I'm expecting a hearty scramble, better be worth my time of having my pals stare at me while I eat, since they were already done. There was some chard added to the mushrooms and some sweet potatoes. Nothing else. And no more goat cheese. What a letdown - where were the beans?! I just wanted to get more coffee at that point and just leave so decided not to say anything else. They ended up not charging me for it, but really? Seems like in this kind of hipster area, having an option that can be easily modified to be vegan or have another protein option than the egg would make a lot of sense. If the scramble could have been made with some sort of beans and the same veggies and maybe less oil, it might be something that I would come back for. As a person with allergies, it is always concerning to me when an establishment is unable to leave ingredients out (ie, the eggs) because that could be happening with allergens, which would be very uncool. I'm going to stick to going to Handlebar down the street, where vegan and vegetarian food is plentiful. If you're vegan/vegetarian or have an allergy, I would suggest you do the same.
(2)
Caitlin B.

I haven't been here in a while, but previously I loved this little place! Very friendly service, nice little outdoor patio, and yummy food. Their burgers in particular were a favorite as well as their spicy black bean soup (which mixed with the lentil soup was pretty fire). I can't speak to their current menu (I think everything changed?), but I'd like to come back and see what's new, especially when warmer weather hits.
(4)
Kyle M.

LOVE THIS PLACE. Super Chicago home-y feel with a little modern hipster twist. At the bottom of an apartment building right off west north ave. Order at the counter and take a seat on the patio. I will be dreaming of the warm goat cheese appetizer for years.... Or until my next visit at least. The smoked pulled pork is also an excellent dish. Love it!
(5)
Grace W.

Came here with my roommate and family. Consider yourself warned that on a Sunday morning, you will wait a very. very. very. long time. We waited two hours before we got seated and we were a party of 4! We got there at noon and finally got seated at 2 p.m. and then had to wait to get served. Thankfully, they were sensitive to our time crunch (we had an appointment at 2:30 that we kept pushing back for our food) and brought our food out fairly quickly. Honestly if it weren't for the wait I would have given this place 5 stars. However, the hosts maintained a great energy and were frequent in apologizing for the wait. The food itself was great! We got the croque madame and the lox BLT and both were fabulous. They make a BEAUTIFUL egg and the greens were fresh and crisp. The bread was a bit tough, but despite the inconvenience (ya'll need sharper knives!) the flavors all paired with each other perfectly. Both my roommate and parents enjoyed their food immensely. The decor was adorable and comfortable. We were seated on the patio and it is pretty shaded for the most part, which helped us avoid squinting at our food. I will have to try to come back on another day and hopefully I can upgrade my review haha
(4)
Monica H.

Cute and delicious! lowdown: - Sunday at 11:45am for 4 people - waited approximately 30 minutes. At least they provide water while you wait - very cute outdoor garden area. Felt peaceful and intimate. - croque madam - a little different from how I"ve had it before. It felt like a grilled ham and cheese sandwich with 2 eggs on top. I'm used to the sandwich being additionally battered up and friend. Less guilty but if I'm ordering croque madam I'm asking for the whole 9 greasy yards - GLBT - open faced smoked salmon sandwich. delicious! It tasted really fresh, simple, and sophisticated - ricotta pancakes - ooo yeah my favorite dish. They were somehow smooth and creamy but a tiny bit fluffy so it never seemed to doughy/cakey or rich/heavy. I would order again! Our waiter was also great. My friend ordered the white bean and potato salad and mentioned to him that she thought there would be more potato. He offered to take it off the bill but after she declined (she was just being honest!) he came out with a bowl full of potatoes. Now that's how you earn tip, ladies and gent!
(4)
Kamilah S.

I came here for lunch and had the salmon blt and my very first Moscow Mule, I was not disappointed by the food or the drink. My Moscow Mule was served in a Copper cup and the bacon on the blt was cooked to crispy perfection and the salmon was moist, flaky and delicious.
(5)
Rachel W.

I used to work really close so I came here all the time. And let me tell you, it's amazing. They change their menu seasonally I believe but everything is always delicious. I've had the kimchi pork sandwich which is amazing of course, although warning that the baguettes are a little hard. My favorite is this summer's salmon sandwich, which is diviiiiine. The pickled veggies are a really nice touch in the burger and in the accompanying salad as well. Also their vinaigrette converted me to salads, which I had previously hated. I've also had their summer panzanelle salad (good, but again the bread bits were just a tad too crispy for my taste) and the gravlax blt, which is also one of my favorites. Overall, the food is really good, the restaurant is cute, and the service is good as well.
(5)
Kristen M.

I can't say enough good things about this place. 5 years ago I lived two doors down from here and came often, now I live in LA and you just can not find food like this there. It's so fresh, they offer a rotating menu with such an amazing selection. My boyfriend said the fried egg & pimento cheese breakfast sandwich was the best he's ever had. That's saying a lot considering he eats them everywhere. Half order of blueberry ricotta pancakes, and followed by veggie goat cheese egg scramble. Seriously the best brunch ever, and they offer coffee while you wait and come around with pastry samples.
(5)
Anne W.

I love Birchwood Kitchen so so so much!!! I've gone for brunch twice and lunch once. Both times were absolutely amazing and always wonderful. I've had the pot roast sandwich, french toast, shrimp and grits, ricotta pancakes, and corned beef hash throughout my three visits. The ricotta pancakes were seriously the best pancakes that I've ever had in my entire life. I wanted so much more!!! The corned beef hash was a special for St Patty's Day Weekend and it was phenomenal. Honestly, everything that I've had here has just been wonderful. I always leave the place wanting more!!! They used to do a thing where you ordered at the counter and they brought the food out to you but now they just do regular service. I really don't care which way they do it. Be prepared to wait! I came with my mom promptly at 9AM so we were able to snag a seat but within minutes the place had filled up!
(5)
Vanessa Y.

Clean, lovely, fresh food. Had the market scramble with a side of bacon, which was awesome! Goat cheese is my bff. Everything here looks lovingly prepared and is (mostly) light, not grease-soaked and overly processed, like a lot of traditional American breakfasts. Only negative ding for Birchwood is that their service is crawling. Put more servers on the floor, please!
(4)
Nara K.

I loved it here! The customer service was great! The prices were perfect & food was amazing!
(5)
Kevin M.

Great spot. We had brunch there on a Friday after a walk on the 606/Bloomingdale trail. The food was really inventive and nice but I would say the patio and the service were even better. Good little spot.
(4)
Matthew M.

Yum. Seriously. This is a great little gem in the city of Chicago. I definitely enjoyed my breakfast at this hip gastro pub style resturant. In addition to great food and drinks they have a very friendly staff. A worth while visit.... and yes order a cookie at the end of your meal.
(5)
Rachel F.

Charming! Delightful eats! Delightful atmosphere! My lamb and carrot caponata sandwich was fantastic, and dear god, what are you dressing those greens with, Birchwood? It's intoxicating, that vinaigrette. Bonus points for salting and peppering those same beautifully-dressed greens, too... it's the little things.
(4)
Tingting W.

Love the decor and ambience here! The paintings on the wall made it colorful and trendy. Perfect for a nice brunch date :) We came around 3pm on a Sunday, and there was about a half hour wait. The hostess and waitress were friendly and attentive. Unfortunately, they had run out of the top three items on the brunch menu by then but we did come in late considering they were closing at 4pm. If I get a chance to come again, I would love to try the braised artichokes with italian sausage & and the shrimp and grits. What we ordered: - croque madame: this seems to be what everyone came here for so we had to try. It was flavorful and good, but the mustard seeds were a little overwhelming for me so it wasn't my favorite. The spinach vinaigrette salad that comes with it is fresh and a good pairing though. - breakfast sandwich with bacon: this was more of a burger sandwich, and the bread was soft albeit a bit greasy. Overall, full of protein and a good choice for someone with a hearty appetite. This comes with the spinach vinaigrette salad as well. - soup of the day (garlicky potato): TBH, I was excited to try their tomato soup but unfortunately that wasn't a choice that day. The garlicky potato soup was okay, but just didn't have all the flavor I was looking for in a soup. I would love to come back and try their dinner items or even some of the sweet brunch items (since we only ordered off the savory category). It seems like a busy place especially during prime brunch/lunch time so expect a wait, but it's worth a try!
(4)
Neil C.

The french toast here was fairly decent. The bacon was some of the best I've had at any restaurant. The service was pretty awful unfortunately. The waitress forgot 2 of the items I ordered and when I asked about them, she apologized profusely and said she'll get my toast and soup right away. 20 minutes later, after everyone had finished eating, she brings my toast and soup as we were asking for the check. The toast was cold, the soup was dripping all over the table and spilled onto the lap of the person next to me. Bottom line - for the leisurely diner who appreciates good bacon and doesn't mind their pants smelling like baked potatoes all day, I would recommend this place.
(2)
Jenn S.

We are not from the Chicago area so we stopped by on our way to Lollapalooza and just had a great experience! The hostess was outside and took down names and offered some free coffee and water outside! The wait was only ~15 min for 3 on Saturday at around 10:30am. When we were waiting, we noticed the sign outside that said they were BYOB and saw that there was a liquor store down the block. So we picked up a small bottle of vodka and ordered the beet based bloody mary which was really interesting and delicious! Honestly there's too much in that bottle for me, so I should've shared one. The food and the service was great. I loved the ambiance, seating area (indoor and out) and the open kitchen. One downfall was that they missed my utensils and forgot a coffee that we ordered but it was no big deal and he was so friendly and cool that I didn't even feel frustrated or disappointed. It was not difficult finding street parking in that area too!
(4)
Shaza O.

A bit of a hike from my apartment but well worth the trek. Everything about the place -- food, atmosphere and service -- was great. Sat on the glorious patio and split a half order of ricotta pancakes with my dining companion. He ordered a special, the squash cakes, which came with a corn salad and fried eggs on top. Something you won't find elsewhere and really tasty. I had the breakfast sandwich with bacon. Also full of flavor and healthy with greens on the side. WARNING: No liquor. But if you're looking for a PG, quaint breakfast in Bucktown, look no further. BONUS POINTS: You can walk off your meal on the nearby 606, but look out for bikers, walkers with loud voices and dogs. Yummm.
(4)
Ivy Z.

I feel like Birchwood Kitchen brunch was a little overhyped, to be honest. The atmosphere is a small, quaint, cute shop, and reminiscent of brunch places in LA. The Croque Madame is what I wanted when I ordered it, but nothing that blew my mind out of the water. The options were solid, but I felt that an oomph was missing to give it 4 or 5 stars.
(3)
Jacqueline B.

This is one of the hippest sandwich shops I've ever been to. Well done, Birchwood *fist bump* I stopped in for lunch with a co-worker and had such a hard time deciding what to order! Everything sounded so awesome (and it probably is, which is why I'll be back). Their sandwiches are super creative and take the concept to a whole new level. These are basically fancy sandwiches. The sandwich I ordered isn't on their online menu (but it was on the menu in the restaurant). It entailed ham, brie, pears, and a cranberry jam on whole grain bread if I remember correctly. The combo was intriguing, and I'm glad I got it because the combo of flavors were on point. A fresh side salad accompanied this delectable meal on bread. Pro tip: They do not have any sort of fountain drinks. Everything is bottled. I highly suggest their natural cola though!
(4)
David B.

It takes a lot for a sandwich place to earn a fourth star from me, but Birchwood had it from the first bite. On my first visit, I did the soup and half-sandwich. The soup - black bean - was some of the best black bean soup I'd ever had. Then the Spanish tuna sandwich (which is made mayo-less) was full of flavor and different textures. Great tuna, great toppings, great bread. And the generous portion of side salad was appreciated too! I returned a few weeks later and got the broccoli sandwich. Who are you trying to fool here? This was a grilled cheese with broccoli, and it was awesome. Yum yum yum. It's too bad I don't live in the neighborhood anymore, because I'd be there all the time.
(4)
Kaley K.

Ordered a quick coffee and brioche to stay on a Tuesday morning. Coffee was excellent but seemed a bit pricey for a drip coffee. Although I was able to take a cup to go so that was nice. Brioche was superb but I needed more bread to eat with the cheese so I used my spoon to eat the rest. It was creamy and balanced well with the sweet jam. The place was cute and quiet. The service was excellent. I'd love to stop by again for brunch!
(4)
Nadege L.

Very good food. There was a bit of a wait but they accommodated people with coffee and allowed us to hangout on the back porch since they couldn't seat people outside due to the rain. Street parking by the restaurant was free. The food prices were very reasonable especially since the quality of the food was pretty good. Portion sizes were also good. Not too little that you leave hungry but also not so large that you leave feeling uncomfortable. I would def come back and recommend others to come here.
(5)
Kaman T.

Great place for brunch and dinner. Anything with gravlax there is legit. Awesome pastries. Their soups are always on point. Whoever creates their menus knows how to balance out flavors and textures really well. Never overly salty. Their dishes let the ingredients speak for themselves. Would not recommend taking large groups here though.
(4)
Clark B.

Portions were right for for brunch. Food tasted fresh and had quality taste. My brunch companion was running late, and the maÃ®tre d' let me keep my status at the "front" of the line. This was so nice as the wait was about 50 minutes, not including the extra time it took for my friend. Inside was charming and the staff was helpful. My sausage patty was raw in the middle and burnt on the outside, which was the only extremely negative thing. I definitely found that this place was overhyped however. Nothing particularly blew my socks off. This is not a place I would take someone to be impressed.
(3)
Alyssa C.

Was en-route to another breakfast/brunch spot and passed by Birchwood Kitchen and decided to try them instead. We waited probably about 10 minutes to be seated which wasn't bad at all. There was self-serve complimentary coffee and water outside. After waiting, we were seated outside on the patio which was really cute! It happened to be a beautiful day out so it felt nice to sit outside. The service was really good and the food was amazing! I had the scramble, my boyfriend had the croque madam and then we split a half order of the ricotta fritter cakes. Perfect mix of sweet and savory! Try this place out-you will not be disappointed! =)
(5)
Leon Andrew H.

This was my first time here. I was immediately greeted by an extremely smiley fellow and after ordering my food to go, he insisted I try a sample of a cookie. I got the spinach lentil soup and the grilled gruyere with caramelized onions, Dijon mustard and spinach. Food was awesome. Atmosphere complimented the service plus they were playing Belle and Sebastian and a couple other songs that I wasn't too familiar with but dug, nonetheless. This actually inspired me to write my first yelp review.
(5)
Austin Y.

Very friendly cashiers and service! The croque madame is consistently good with perfectly cooked eggs on top of crunchy sourdough, but I wish there was more of the thinly sliced ham. I tried a piece of the croque vert once, and think it's just as good as the classic croque madame - roasted veggies and Gruyere is a great combination. Tried two remedies for the relative lack of ham in the sandwich: pork sausage which was juicy and delicious, and bacon, which was limp and covered in grease. In the end, their portions are generous enough that I wouldn't bother with the sides again. Overall, Birchwood is A-OK brunch for sure.
(3)
Melissa A.

I met up with some friends for a late lunch at Birchwood and was definitely impressed with the food and service. I don't believe the wait was too long but I arrived later than my other friends so I'm not sure how long they had to wait for a table (suckers! just kidding). I ordered the croque vert which basically is a grilled cheese sandwich with gruyere cheese and veggies topped with over easy eggs and a side of tossed greens. If you love cheese like I do, you'll definitely be a fan of this dish. The runniness of the eggs added a nice texture to the crunchy, grilled sandwich and the slight tang of the greens complimented the sandwich well. I am a huge carnivore and it is so rare for me to order a meatless dish. Let me tell you, this croque vert was so yummy I didn't even mind that it was a vegetarian dish! I also had a soy latte and it was pretty good. I believe they use Metropolis beans and they also offer free coffee outside for those waiting for a table. Pretty neat if I say so myself! Our server was funny, helpful, and incredibly sweet. We have one friend who is a picky eater and he was being a bit of a diva that day. He didn't like any of the choices and asked if he could make up his own dish since he only liked bits and pieces of each option. Thank goodness our server and Birchwood were so accommodating and they brought him what he wanted...which happened to be toast, their in-house smoked salmon, scrambled eggs, and a side of fruit. Of all things, this is what you order?! If you're going to be difficult, at least be a little more creative than that, right?? haha Anywho, I thought our server was going to kill us when we asked for separate checks at the end of our meal. Yikes! Next time we'll make sure to leave him behind so he doesn't cramp our style! All in all, I had a great time. Birchwood has great food, service, and a nice laid back atmosphere.
(4)
Bao L.

Was here for brunch on a Saturday and the place was packed. I had a party of 3 and luckily we only had to wait 20 minutes. Birchwood Kitchen is BYOB, so we headed down to a local store to grab some drinks for brunch. When we got seated, I quickly glanced over the menu and decided to get the croque madame. This was one of the better croque madames I've had - the eggs were cooked perfectly, the bread was still crunchy, and the cheese was perfectly gooey (pro tip from my friend: if you're going to use your hands to eat it, take the egg off the top and put it inside the sandwich). This may be the fat kid in me speaking, but I just wish that there was more ham! We also had the pickled plate, which was a variety of pickled veggies (see pics). All in all, a pretty solid place for brunch
(4)
Dana B.

This cute restaurant was so well done. The menu was well done and it had very clean, healthy options. My husband got the scramble and he absolutely loved it. It was fresh, and just the right amount of food. I got the waffle and sausage paddy. It was the best waffle I have ever had. It seemed as though they got the waffle mix from a mill of some sort. It didn't have the thick dough like taste it had more of a grain taste which was very unique and delicious. I would definitely recommend trying this spot.
(5)
Stephanie L.

This place was buzzing on yelp with 4.5 stars and 700+ reviews so we designated our last day in Chicago to have brunch here. Luckily, they just finished renovating and reopened. Everything was just so perfectly planned out! I already knew what I wanted after seeing the pictures and reading the reviews. The shrimp and grits looked amazing. However, their menu changed! The shrimp and grits was no longer offered! :(. Such sadness. None of their specials that day seemed appealing to me either. So I went with the croque madame. My friend ordered the croque vert (veggies with corn and brussel sprouts). We wanted to get the sourdough waffles with fresh fruit, but they ran out. It looked amazing when we saw them bringing it out. We were just one order too late! Both the croque madame and vert were pretty good. Both were very cheesy, a bit more to my liking. But the sunny side eggs were cooked perfectly and the bread was toasted just right! The only thing they could have improved on was maybe add a bit more ham in the croque madame to go with all that cheese. We ordered a side of hashbrowns. Don't get it. It was way too greasy with no flavor and the portion was quite small for $2.50. But their lemonade was delicious! It was infused with basil and lavender yummm! The lavender was just enough to give it a bit of a light floral taste. Prices were very reasonable. Just a little under $10 for each dish. We were seated out in their patio. We were very fortunate with ideal weather (sunny but not too hot and no wind)! But they have a good amount of seating indoors and out. Service was great. Our server and host were very friendly. I do recommend coming a bit earlier, which means the wait might be a bit longer. But since we came near the end of the morning rush (1 pm), foods run out such as their banana bread and their sourdough waffles. Poo. Overall, decent brunch. A-OK = 3 stars. I wouldn't mind coming back if I can try those waffles or grits!
(3)
Philip D.

This restaurant is an absolute gem. I just crossed it out off my bucket list and didn't even know it was there! We had truffle polenta and ricotta pancakes both of which were made to perfection.
(5)
Heidi R.

Took my family and grandma to lunch here. The owners and waiter were super accommodating and our lunch was delicious. My mom and I had the Salmon Sandwich. Seriously best salmon I've had in a long, long time. Oh, and the dressing on the salad - lemony vinegarette - amazing!
(5)
Amy A.

Went here for lunch on Friday and didn't have to wait for a table. I got the breakfast sandwich with bacon and it was fabulous. The spread on it (I think pimento cheese) really made it stand out. My friend had the vegetarian sandwich and thought it was mediocre. The atmosphere is really nice. The outside seating looks great! Wish we would've sat out there!
(4)
Jessica M.

Went today for lunch with my sister, we sat outside since the weather was nice and they have a very nice patio. My sister had the madam croque sandwich and she liked it. I had the salmon sandwich and it was AMAZING! I also tried there mushroom soup and was also very delicious the service was great and I am definitely going back for that sandwich!
(5)
Jennylyn U.

Just got into Chicago last night, woke up, and this was the first place I saw. I was NOT disappointed! While you wait to be called, they offer you brownies and coffee! Except maybe she just forgot... But the hostess did not offer me brownies, although there was a bowl full of them in between us (on the podium) when I gave her my name. She did offer brownies to the party right before me, and the party right after me. I grabbed one when she went inside to check for available tables! Mainly because I didn't want to ask if I could have one because she offered everyone else one. Anyway, I thought it was weird. I'm pretty sure it wasn't discrimination, but other people might take it that way. On to the food... DELICIOUS! We got the avocado toast and he sourdough waffle. Tip: Avocado toast is not enough for a meal. We had to order some sides. It was all very good, and I recommend it! I finished every last bite!
(4)
Lillie W.

We sat, we waited for an hour and our food never showed up, so we left. It was a bummer because everything looked delicious. Our server was really apologetic, but it was frustrating that she kept insisting the delay was because the kitchen was slammed, when people around us who were seated after us got their meals right away.
(1)
Danny W.

Birchwood switched to table service a few months back and in turn, overhauled their menu a bit. While I can't complain about any restaurant's desire to serve only items that are homemade, I'd be remiss to point out that they no longer have potato chips, their delicious brownies or bottled cola. I'm hoping these are only temporary issues as the pot roast sandwich remains the bubonic chronic*. *Dr. Dre reference
(4)
Jamie B.

I am disappointed with all the changes. The charm of this place before with order at the counter service then sit down was so much better. They probably switched from that to the new full service model to get the ignoramuses who previously camped out with their large parties out of here- in that regard there was a problem, but I'm not a fan of the menu changes. The food tastes different and the same quality and attention to detail that was there seems to be missing. My winter vegetable scramble w/goat cheese today was so generic, with sparse vegetables and a minuscule amount of goat cheese- just very boring. The hash browns aren't really hash browns, more home fries- thinly sliced potatoes slightly sautÃ©ed with copious amounts of oil. Needed to douse them in hot sauce for some flavor and at $2.50 for the serving it's ridiculous. They have put themselves in line with all of the other brunch places in Chicago now and really lost that uniqueness that I loved. My husband and I have visited countless times in the 5 years we've lived in Chicago and I just wish it would go back to the way it was.
(2)
Sheila L.

By far my favorite brunch in the city. I always look forward to brunch here. The environment is really charming both inside and the back outdoor patio and the service is always excellent. I've never waited more than 20 minutes for a group of 2 or 3, and there's free coffee provided. The breakfast sandwich is absolutely amazing, as is the side salad it comes with. I always feel like I should try other items on the menu, but the sandwich is just too good to pass up. It's very filling, but I'm always disappointed when I'm done because I wish I could have more. Very fair pricing for high quality!
(5)
Zak J.

They had the chutzpah to ask me to move from a 4 top to a single when the restaurant was empty. Then to make matters worse, they played a Dave Matthews live album from front to back. They also won't spread your cream cheese for you. What happened? You used to be cool.
(3)
Sac B.

I had two lengthy conversations with the catering mgr about food options and my excitement for another dining and catering option, then placed my order. The sandwiches were ok, but the bread was so overpowering to the ingredients for the cheese and veg options, it was almost strange. Why have so many interesting ingredients if you're going to lose them in the cheap baguette? I had also requested plates & napkins etc. I show up for my order and get asked again what I would like and there's some disorder about. I then asked someone to tell me which sandwiches were which and had to get someone who could tell me. When I asked why some weren't the same as described on the actual menu, I was told they're different for catering. Hmm, some apparently were and some were not. Do you want us to remake them? Uh, no, I need to go to my meeting, thanks. That's just how it is, we can have the catering manager call you later. He did call with a halfhearted apology they weren't as I expected, not sorry, I should have actually told you. I was not even looking for any actual compensation here, but if you are in the business of catering, you certainly should have more business acumen and people skills to warrant more business. I can update my post every time I order from somewhere else to remind you what you've lost and how to treat people in the future. One nice thing was Matthew offered to help me to my car and give me a coffee for my troubles.
(1)
Emily B.

I went to Birchwood Kitchen with a group and absolutely no expectations, and not only was I underwhelmed, I was distinctly disappointed. We came for a late Sunday lunch, so we were past the brunch rush, but even so, their weird and unintuitive ordering system took far too long. My dad and I were standing in the ordering line - with only about 4-5 people in front of us - for so long that we commented wonderingly about it to each other. At first I just thought the person currently at the register had a long and complicated order, or was having some other issue that was causing a delay. Nope. As we got closer, I observed that the reason for the incredibly slow line was that the dazed-looking cashier was chatting with each and every customer. Completely unnecessary and inefficient, especially given the annoying, special-snowflake ordering system. As for the food, I'm a bit torn. My uncle-in-law's build-your-own sandwich looked amazing, and is the sole reason for the second star I'm giving this place. My iced tea was so weak and bland it was basically water. I ordered the shrimp and grits, which is one of my all-time favorite dishes, as well as being a classic brunch staple - no need to mess with success, right? Wrong. The shrimp were in a tasty pesto-hybrid sauce that I enjoyed, but the rest of the dish was disappointing - both the grilled asparagus and the grits themselves were unseasoned and bland. I chose to forego the poached egg that comes on top of the dish, and I'm glad I did - several of my party ordered the croque monsieur, and the fried eggs that topped the sandwich looked severely undercooked in every case. Bottom line: an inefficiently-run establishment with unsatisfying food. I will not be back.
(2)
Melinda V.

So, so sad about the changes. The food has really gone down hill, the menu is smaller and the prices are higher. The same sandwich that used to come with chips and salad, now comes with salad only, costs more and doesn't taste as good. They used to have the most amazing chocolate chip cookie too, absolute perfection, but no more. I used to love this place, would go there multiple times a week. I really miss it. :(
(2)
Stefania G.

My first time back since the renovations. Must say I like the new floors and staff as usual! Lane is the best! That is still 5 stars but, I am truly disappointed with the menu. Especially when I use to come her 10 or more times a month. No sides besides salads! No chips or pasta salad? Not even the old breakfast, chick pea or build you own sandwich! Can't put goat cheese on a sandwich! Unfortunately the NEW menu is something I am not a fan of. Won't be back for a while for sure.
(2)
Priya S.

My husband and I decided to try Birchwood Kitchen for brunch after reading the raving reviews of it. The place was small and quaint, light colored wood with a very farm to table feel. The food was good but not unique. I had the McBirchwood (their version of a McMuffin I suppose) - The ham in it was good as well as the gruyere cheese but again no unique sauce, spread or dip. My husband had a belgian waffle and was hoping for a crunchy bite to his waffles though they had covered it with a cranberry compote that made the waffles soggy. Nevertheless we had a good experience, the staff was friendly and the place well lit and cosy.
(3)
Kat G.

Delightful little place! I came here for brunch with the husband and plan to come back. I got the vegetarian croquette sandwich and a lemon bar - both were delicious. I like that this place is either a "grab and go" or come by, have a seat, and lounge about. It's nice that I can go eat here and be at my own pace. The salad was light, bright and the sandwich was fresh. I kept peeking at nearby tables to see what other people were eating too because it all looked so great! We will definantly be back.
(4)
Kimmy L.

I am sad to say that I agree with other reviewers who say the menu looks better on paper than it tastes in person. Since it was our first time in Chicago we used good ol' yelp to find a place for lunch with the highest reviews! Based on what we read on yelp, we decided to wait the 1 hour for a table. Good thing it was nice outside because you can't wait inside. I don't even think there would be room if they allowed it. We for the Goat Cheese sandwich and the Steak and Cheese with chips. My Goat Cheese sandwich was just meh. The beets soaked through and made my bread red and soggy - yuck. The goat cheese was good but it completely overpowered all other flavors of the sandwich. I never thought I would EVER say this, but they put to much cheese on it. The BF thought his sandwich was ok but not worth waiting an hour for. Most of the sides ran out by the time it was our turn to eat. Complimentary warm tap water in the back if you choose to be healthy and drink water. No ice!??! Really?
(2)
Megan G.

OK, small space and lack of seating is of course annoying. Especially when you are closing in on that 9th month of pregnancy. With that said, the food is AMAZING so, totally worth the wait or just taking it to go. We ended up sitting outside (it was cool and crisp for April) and scarfing it all down instead of taking it home. Madame Croque was devine and hubby's pot roast sandwich (which was about to go out of season) was killer. Unique sodas and perfectly complimenting sides. If this place was closer or a tad bit cheaper, I'd be there weekly to deal with the lines. Really great and someplace you should go to at least once if you live in the city.
(5)
Lonnie C.

I just had brunch here and was expecting it to be super crowded given the crowd outside. We luckily got a table right as we walked in. They do counter service so there's a bit of a line, but the food is great and there's a nice ambience. They also have a lovely patio and great food at a reasonable price.
(4)
Angela G.

Such a great place to eat! I've had several different sandwiches from them and they are all delicious. Their signature "Greens" salad is so simple but so perfect! Also, their homemade iced chai latte is amazing! Best in the city! Whether you are looking for a sit down or carry out, this is a must try place!
(5)
Victor F.

Came here for Easter brunch @ 12pm. The wait was 20 minutes which was way better then the 45 min wait they estimated. We sat outside which was awesome, it felt like we were in a friend's backyard. The food was really good I had the Yucatan Pork and the pickle plate. My other guest enjoyed their food as well and do not recall what they had. The ordering is done at the counter but whereas some may not like that it creates a flow of traffic that ensures people get sat and people get their food in a well managed flow. Pros of that are minimal waiters checking in on you, your foods arrive on time to your table, and quality table time. Cons, well you have to order at the counter, big deal. I definitely recommend trying it out.
(5)
Lauren R.

Easily my favorite brunch spot in Chicago. I just love everything about this place-- the vibe, the cute decor, and most of all the fresh and tasty food. I've had so many delicious things here; it never disappoints. I've been here many times and something that stands out to me are the friendly owners. My boyfriend and I struck up a conversation on a couple of occasions with the owner (complimenting the service, and once my MBA-student BF actually called and asked the owner a few questions for a project) and both times he was so warm and friendly. Once he even gave us a free pastry-- so nice! This place can be a bit of a wait for brunch, but it's worth it! Plus, you can drink coffee while you wait :)
(5)
Dustin H.

Classic American cafe vibes, with friendly staff and great food. Lots of fresh veggies and bright flavors, mixed in with comfort options like the delicious pot roast sandwich. Not cheap, but worth the price.
(4)
T C.

Delicious meal for dinner. Will be back for breakfast. Had both procuitto on toasted sourdough with a honey drizzle. ..awesome... and the warm salmon on goat cheese spread crostini....delish. lamb polenta was so warm and hearty for the fall season and my lady's vegetarian corn squash cobbler with blue cheese biscuits was well seasoned and every morsel was yum. Byob. 4 stars because I wasn't able to taste the breakfast menu yet. I was looking forward to shrimp and grits... but came late.
(4)
Hannah M.

The food here is great, the staff are always friendly and attentive and the atmosphere is very pleasant. It can sometimes be quite busy, but if you have to wait a bit for a table they let you sit in their lovely sunny terrace and give you some free coffee for your troubles. Also, they have the best chocolate-chip cookies I have ever tasted.
(5)
William F.

Was told to fuck off when asked why was I told it was an hour wait after I called and was told it was a 15 minute wait.
(1)
Rem D.

Awesome brunch spot in Bucktown/Wicker Park. They are always friendly and the food is great. Croque Madame is my favorite. The outdoor patio in back is great for our little one who doesn't like to sit still. He can wander and not bother people too much. During the cold months, they'll park your stroller out back for you. Get there early otherwise there is usually a wait to get a table.
(5)
Kait G.

I love Birchwood!!! This is the type of place that you can't help but keep going back to (even if you choke on their sandwich because it's just that good you can't slow down)! I've been there a number of times, usually ordering whatever the special is or some type of pork sandwich (comes with a fancy side salad). They switch up the menu quite a bit and it is always very delicious and fresh. This is a great place to catch up with a friend while drinking their bottomless coffee. Hands down, my favorite sandwich spot in the city...that sentence should not be taken lightly.
(5)
Jiwon S.

Had quiche, breakfast sandwich, croque madame. All were good. It was pretty crowded around lunch time but worth the wait! And yoy can sip on complimentary coffee while you are waiting. And if you are lucky enough you can get free street parking right in front of the store.
(5)
Michelle M.

First time coming in for brunch. The place is very cute. Our waiter was ok. Seemed a bit uncomfortable trying to make small talk. I ordered the pancakes with a side of eggs. I was quite disappointed with the portion of the pancakes. I'm a small girl and I think I could have fit one whole pancake in my mouth all at once - they were so small!! Food was good, just wish there was more of it.
(3)
Anna K.

Bacon cheeseburger cute, hipster but not pretentious. friends rave over this place found it good but underwhelming and overpriced for such fare.
(3)
Emily D.

We arrived at Birchwood Kitchen around 11:45 Sunday afternoon. Expecting to wait awhile for a table on the deck, we were pleased when the host said he would have a "very sunny" table for us in 20 minutes. As we were waiting another group walked up and asked the same thing, saying they were just waiting on a couple more people to show up, completing their party of eight. The host responded that he could seat them as soon as the others arrived. No wait for a group of eight, but twenty minutes for a party of two? Ok... About twenty minutes later we were told our table was free and went inside to order. I ordered the bacon, scallion and cheese quiche with fruit salad and my boyfriend ordered the steak and eggs. We then walked to the deck where there were four open shady tables and our sunny table. Not a big deal as the sun didn't bother us, but strange as he made a big deal about the table being sunny and clearly we shouldn't have had to wait for a table. Our food arrived quickly. My quiche came out with ham and green beans in it which didn't really bother me, but was not what I ordered nor what the menu stated. I will say I enjoyed the light, flaky crust. The steak was chewy and pretty tasteless. While our experience was enjoyable due to the gorgeous (albeit, sunny) weather and nice deck, our food was just ok. The prices were fair, but I'm in no hurry to return as there are way too many other good brunch places to go to.
(3)
Reyna H.

This is a must hit destination in the Wicker Park area for lunch. If you haven't been yet, slap on some hipster clothes or whatever suits you, and get to BirchWood Kitchen where they are all about supporting local! Everything they make is fresh, and it definitely reflects on your taste buds. I knew I loved this place when I walked in the first time and heard Prince playing in the background, so really...they had me at Prince!
(5)
Claudia D.

Excellent coffee - Metropolis Good sandwiches Chipotle chick pea salad is divine! A bit pricey for what you get, but it is very good and consistent quality and creative. The staff is excellent. You order at the counter and pay. Then you get your beverage. You then find a table. In the back, there are picnic tables and a pleasant outdoor area with plenty of sunshine in the summer. The staff brings your food to you when it is ready. It is very pleasant during the week for lunch or a late brunch. Street parking. I just wish they weren't closed on Mondays!
(4)
Nida K.

When my friend and I first walked in, I was beginning to second guess Yelp since there wasn't anybody in the restaurant when it has 4.5 stars. I looked over the menu which was very minimal for brunch. I decided on the Croque Madame and my friend got the Breakfast Sandwich. Our server then asked us if we wanted to sit inside or outside. Oh there's an outside? Yessss, we wanted to sit outside... it was a beautiful day! There have a very cute outdoor patio and that's where everyone else was enjoying their meal. By the time we left, nearly all the tables were occupied. My Croque Madame was superb. The two eggs on top of the sandwich made it spectacular and the ham and gruyere inside was delicious. Birchwood Kitchen has both great tasting food and great atmosphere. This is was definitely the best breakfast we had on our whole trip. Sit outside!
(5)
Kari S.

I love this place! Their weekend brunch is so good. Today I had the mushrooms in romesco sauce with a poached egg and it was delicious. They also make fantastic vegan soups and their baked goods are amazing. You can't leave without a slice of banana bread!
(5)
Nikol P.

You can byob. Nice liquor store down on the corner. Suggest getting champagne and making mimosas! Don't think you could go wrong with any of the breakfast items!
(4)
Grennan K.

Though I've only been here once, this is such a great find. Free unmetered parking right in front. Great staff, total casual (you can loiter with laptop wifi), and enjoy a tuna melt sandwich & side salad (thats not crap iceberg.) Refills on coffee & super casual. Food I think is a bit overpriced but that's totally fine. Good for catching up with a friend and staying local.
(2)
R S.

Yum, farm fresh sourcing and homemade everything. Particularly perfect for breakfast. Get the waffles and egg sandwich, and be aware - no wifi.
(5)
Helen S.

What an adorable neighborhood cafe. We stopped by on a Sunday around 11am, when it was already fairly crowded but there was no wait. I ordered the smoked salmon with egg salad on a toasted sesame seed bagel, which was accompanied by a side salad. It was incredibly delicious for such a simple dish, and very very filling. My bf got the chorizo con huevos, which was also amazing. The eggs were all gooey and oozy, and went so well with the chorizo, sweet potatoes, and pickled onions. The service was also great. For a place where you order at the counter, they were incredibly attentive. After ordering, we sat down and the guy at the counter brought us a slice of their banana chocolate chip bread on the house, probably since we had told him that it was our first time there (what a sweetie). They also checked on us fairly constantly to make sure that our meal was going well. Birchwood Kitchen has tied M. Henry for brunch place in Chicago. I definitely wish that they were open closer to Evanston.
(5)
Shannon H.

My faaaaavorite part of eating here was literally everything about eating here. Such great service--everyone is friendly, happy to recommend or explain. They even came over after to recommend what I should try next time, based on my order today. Super reasonable prices--sando and salad for less than $10. And the pot roast sandwich was a total dream. Best part? Tie between the super tender pot roast itself, the tomatoes, the gruyere, the French bread, the caramelized onions...I mean, every bite was a dream. My only negative thing to say is that I'm pissed that this place isn't located in my hometown. You guys would nail it in San Diego. Just sayin.
(5)
Gina S.

Hipster coffeehouse with a killer kitchen. We arrived before 11 am on a Saturday, there was no wait. We were greeted right away by a very hospitable server playing "host" who asked if we wanted indoor or patio seating. We opted to sit outside, while he went to secure a clean table we checked out the menu at the counter. He came back and gave us a table number, we ordered at the counter (gave them out table number), paid and went to our table on the back patio. So early in the summer the sunny patio was bliss...on a hotter day I hope they break out some umbrellas for more shade. The food didn't take long to arrive, max of 10 minutes. I had the GruyÃ¨re with ham (optional), onion and mustard on sourdough bread. It was so good, from the crispy grilled crust to the super melty cheese and salty ham complimented by sweet caramelized onion and a mustard with a bite. Gawd, I'm drooling again. The hubby had the Chorizo con Huevos. I had little snippets off his plate, the chorizo wasn't too spicy...but I only had a little morsel. His only comment was "where's the cheese?" Cheese might have put this one over the top for him. The staff were very vigilant, despite it being not very crowded (half the tables were still unoccupied), my plate vanished just as the last scrap of food left it.
(4)
Samantha C.

I stopped in here once on my walk home to grab some dinner. The menu is small, which is nice, and the food was good. No complaints. The chocolate chip cookie is amazing. Just thought it was a bit pricey for what it was.
(4)
John G.

Stunning Food, Great Service, Just...Wow. Came here a bit late on a Saturday night, almost didn't stop in because it was only an hour before closing, the menu looked a bit limited and it had more of a brunchy-cafe feel. That would have been a terrible mistake. This ended up being a spectacular stop. The folks at the counter were more than happy to make sure we were taken care of, the menu explanation was great and their dinner selection ended up being superb for both meat and veg. selections. We ordered a pickled plate appetizer which was an eclectic mix of pickles, brussel sprouts, carrots, and other various vegetables all done with different pickling spices. Some were a bit interesting but overall quite a hit. The soup was excellent, the burger was better than most of the gastropub burger joints that seemed to have popped up. Even the salad, while not a stretch gastronomically, was fresh, properly dressed, and well garnished that gave it a little extra pop. According to the menu, everything is homemade with different selections over time and the desserts certainly looked homemade if we hadn't been stuffed already. Definitely worth your time.
(5)
Alicia G.

The food was great - full of flavor - and very reasonably priced. Love that it is BYOB. I can't wait to go back when the patio is open.
(5)
Bethany S.

The rules are weird. You give your name, then order, then are seated, then fetch your beverages, then receive your food. Points off for needing to be special, Birchwood Kitchen. But otherwise totally awesome. The cashier was lovely and we had the best chat. The gooeybutter cake (yes, gooeybutter is one word) was so so so good. The vegetarian hash that I added bacon to based on my chat with the cashier who discovered I was not a vegetarian was pretty excellent. Would do again.
(4)
N. J.

Was told the wait for four people for Sunday brunch would be 30 - 40 minutes. 75 minutes later we were still waiting. Bye bye.
(1)
Jandra H.

I'd only been to Birchwood once before for Sunday brunch, which was a so-so experience after waiting on the sidewalk for over an hour and being served an average-tasting omelette. However, I gave it another chance yesterday and was glad my friend and I went at 5:30 PM right when dinner started, as we were able to grab a table before the crowds started rolling in (pretty busy for an early Thursday evening). Although one of the servers misheard my order at the counter and accidentally made me a blueberry basil lemonade, he still gave it to me without charging extra. We were quite hungry when we sat down, but had a feeling our taste buds weren't fooling us with the extremely decadent ricotta, peach, and honey crostini appetizer - to DIE for! The flavor kept on going with each bite until the last chew, the only thing to complain about is that they only give you four on the plate. We wanted more, but saved belly room for the turkey burger and salmon plate, both of which we decided were some of the best we've ever had. Everything we had was perfectly seasoned, cooked just right, and a mix of wonderfully complementary flavors. Even the presentation was aesthetically pleasing, which made the experience even more pleasurable. By the end of our meal, we decided we were definitely going to come back, even though we're always looking for new places to eat. If the rest of the menu is anything like what we had, we could hold off on exploring other options until we get to try everything that Birchwood has to offer!
(5)
Melissa C.

My fiancÃ© and I walked in by chance on Saturday morning, we put our names down with the hostess and she told us it would be about a 45 minute wait. We decided we didn't have the time but that we would return again when we could because it smelled delicious, it was super cute...and well they had over 700 reviews. We returned the following day, the hostess said it would be about a 45 min wait but this time we stayed, we enjoyed free coffees on the back patio near the heat lamps and boy were we thankful we did! The service was absolutely amazing, a woman that worked there ( I'm assuming the manager/owner/or just someone very nice) came to get us when our table was ready, we exchanged a friendly conversation and we were seated. A little bit later she brought us out warm Fritter Cakes (berry compote, lemon cream cheese) for us to try ....AND they were so melt in mouth delicious! My fiancÃ© tried the turkey chili and club and I had the croque madame - the portion sizes were large and filling and everything about this place was perfection! Definitely worth the wait, we cannot wait to go back! Only regret was that we wish we would have stumbled upon you sooner!!
(5)
Tony W.

We get to the place and a hostess is standing outside. She tells us we will sit at table 25. We go in and grab a seat and watch all the servers walk around and no one stop at our table. We were eventually told we had to walk up to the counter and order our meal and grab our cup of coffee. that aside the food was good, and once we ordered the servers then took good care of us.
(3)
LOIS B.

Does this place need one more review? Of course, because it is mine. So, I'm a fan BUT . . . once again, I am mystified by the younger generation who see people waiting for an hour for a table and they continue to sit. I think the establishment should have a policy about loitering at peak times. Of course, good manners also help. Yet again, staff would clear their table and they did not take the hint. I also had the misfortune to be seated next to a young lady who missed her mouth with a spoonful of chickpeas that bounced on the bench and into my purse and onto my jacket. Now, had she been apologetic, I would have joked about it, but as I cleaned her mess she just continued to talk away. However, unbeknownst to her, she did clean a little of it with a butt swipe as she got up to replenish her beverage. So, they had run out of the ricotta fritter cakes and 2 of the brunch entrees. It seemed as the hostess brought over the menu the list of "what we have run out of" got longer with each person who entered. However, the food was quite delicious. I had the breakfast sandwich and, if I am in the area, I would definitely go back. Here's how it works: you enter, greeted by hostess, told how long the wait, when it is your turn, the hostess tells you your table number, you go to the cashier near the middle of the place, place your order, pay, go sit at your table, and food is brought to your table. Even a better reason that when you are finished, you can leave. Okay, I will get off my soapbox.
(4)
Bianca C.

They have an interesting set up where you place your order in at the counter and then when you sit at a table they deliver the food to you. It get pretty crowded for brunch but the food is really good. I love the coconut custard french toast and the breakfast sandwich was pretty good too. But my favorite so far is the brussell sprouts hash! It tastes nutritious and delicious :) I definitely plan on going back!
(4)
Kristin C.

What I love about Birchwood is the care they take with every element of the meal. Even if it's just a side salad, it still is well thought out and delicious. Also, everybody here is really nice, and it makes me want to stay there forever, but I won't, cuz you need a table too.
(5)
Rag C.

After having been there multiple times, I really think this place is the real deal when it comes to Brunch. The Quality and Taste have been consistent on all occasions.
(5)
David G.

During a recent visit to Chicago we went to Birchwood, given the extreme number of reviews. With an emphasis on farm to table I had high hopes and the food was tasty but the experience was extremely negative. I get that you go for the food but the question is whether it was worth the hassle. In my mind it wasn't. Reminds me of the series of lines at a Cheesecake factory. First, when you go in you see a line at a counter. Ok. No big deal. After about 10 minutes we were told we weren't eligible to wait in line in the small front room. We need to put our name on a list for permission to wait in line to order. While it's chilly outside, you are welcome to a cup of coffee so long as you stand outside. No chairs of course out there and you are asked not to sit on the steps. I know I go to the gym and do the elliptical for 45 minutes but standing 45 minutes in the cold is rough and this was during the fall. I can't imagine it in the winter. Sorry coffee doesn't cut it. When you are given the blessing to finally wait in line you order at a counter your entire meal at once like a fast food restaurant and you'll be assigned a table. If you want dessert, order it now because you won't get a second chance. While waiting in line we were "reseated" to another part of the restaurant and I have to say it really irked me to have my coat and backpack moved without my permission. Politeness wasn't on the menu it seemed (or did I forget to order it at one stage)? The meal is served to you but you have to pick up your own drinks. This wasn't explained to us and we didn't realize it until close to the end. We also ordered appetizers and entrees but the nature of the service there bring it out all at once. Again, sorry for thinking appetizers came before the meal, I was using logic. The patrons to the left of us were waiting, expecting table service. At one point I thought they may not have had things explained and told them to wait at the counter. They were pretty outraged they had waited so long without sufficient explanation and once they had waited 45 minutes to get in and another 30 minutes at the table they walked out rather than wait at the counter line another 20 minutes. I felt bad for these people and would have let them share in our appetizer but they walked out. So after all that experience about the process I'll say the food was tasty. Vegetarian sandwich with cashew butter was great and would have totally been worth it if I could have walked in and gotten it within a reasonable time . My dining companion got the grilled cheese that was good, but was a bit cold probably due to the service issues. The kitchen here and the staff are totally out of sync. We also got one of the spectacular cookies for dessert. This is great food and I think I'd like this place more if I were a local and knew the rules and the non-busy times to go. The wait and the rules simply weren't worth it and it's a shame as some better logistics would go a long way to make customers welcome.
(3)
Jude J.

My favorite place in Chicago. Seriously. I lived near here for almost two years then moved away this year, I came back this weekend and it was just as amazing as I remember it. Their menu changes seasonally but this is one of the few places I can say, no matter what you order, it will be great! I don't have a specific favorite meal because they are all amazing. I will say though, I try/tried to order the chipotle chickpeas with everything and their rosemary lavender lemonade when they have it in season. Amazing and natural food with a friendly staff and byob and a cute patio? what more could you ask for!
(5)
Jennifer L.

Awesome food, affordable prices and great atmosphere! I haven't dined at a restaurant that has the same concept as Birchwood Kitchen's so I was a bit thrown off at first. You give your name and party size to the hostess when you first walk in. You then wait for a table. You are then allowed to place your order at the counter in the middle of the restaurant once you have been given a table. There is coffee in the back of the restaurant you can grab you cup to sip while you wait for a table. Also, you can request that the hostess make you a drink if you don't want coffee. Thankfully, my boyfriend and I must have come in at the right time (a little bit before noon on a Saturday) since we did not have to wait too long for a table. I had the Croque Madame, which was fantastic! The sandwich comprised of thick slices of county ham, Gruyere cheese for a sweet and salty kick and some Dijon mustard to give it some acidity. Sunny side eggs were on top of the sandwich and it was served with a small salad. I absolutely loved the sandwich. All the ingredients worked well together. It's definitely a knife and a fork type of sandwich. The salad was a nice touch and I enjoyed the dressing. My boyfriend got the quiche, which had potatoes, bacon and cheese in it. He enjoyed his quiche, but found it to be a bit cold. Then again, he was not sure how they would really warm it up so he was OK eating it as is. His quiche came with a side salad, which he too enjoyed. The best part of the meal (as it usually is for me) was the dessert. I purposely made room so I could sample some of it. I got the gooey butter cake, which was divine! Birchwood put a spin on theirs by using almond. There also was a fruit topping on the bottom, which I enjoyed. It wasn't too sweet either. I would highly recommend trying it if you go! I really enjoyed the feel to the restaurant. You can see the employees working in the kitchen and everyone we interacted with was very friendly and helpful. It is also BYOB and I saw a table of ladies having drinks with their brunch. However, the restaurant is pretty small too so the front of it can get pretty crowded with other people waiting to eat. I didn't get the feeling that you could really stay and chat for a while since it is uncomfortable having other people glare at you to leave your table so they can eat. Also, when it came to tipping, we weren't sure what to do since we paid at the front. We saw other people putting tip on the table, but unfortunately, our table was cleared so quickly that we weren't able to put one down. We must come back and dine again so we can leave a nice tip!
(5)
George R.

Let me break it down for you. Colonel Mustard committed the flavor murder with the dijon on my sandwich. Any questions? Read on. I really wanted a great experience at this place because they have an aggregate 4.5 stars from about 700 reviews, which is very impressive. Unfortunately, a stellar star experience was not the case for me. I got the grilled gruyere and my girlfriend got the croque vert. I was super excited for these sandwiches prominently featuring gruyere cheese, BUT HOLY MOTHER OF MUSTARD, the honey mustard literally overpowered the entire sandwich in both of our entrees. Mustard was all I could taste and it overtook all the other flavors. I'm not one to complain about mustard either because I put it on everything. A couple other yelp reviewers seem to have had similar experiences. I wrote a comment in the suggestions box, so hopefully they'll get the message. Their sandwiches just don't have the right ingredients to create pleasant complementary flavors. On the plus side, they have free coffee and friendly staff.
(2)
Jen K.

This would probably be my favorite breakfast spot, hands down if it wasn't for the very weird experience I had up to getting my food. I met a few girlfriends there for a weekend brunch. When I walked up, 2 of them were standing outside and explained that they put their names down and then were asked to stand outside and wait. I just went with it. After about 10 minutes of us chatting, I said that I wanted to see if I could get a water while I waited and my friend wanted to look at the menu, so we all walked in. As soon as we did, the woman with the clipboard asked what we wanted, we explained and then asked how much longer did she think it would be. She very impatiently answered "we'll get to you when we get to you, now please go stand outside" ...seriously? I understand it's crowded in there but we were just trying to get a couple of things. We went and stood outside a bit longer. When we were called, we had to go wait in a line, order our food and then go find our table. It's a weird process, but I guess it saves on servers. So to switch over to the positives. We sat in the courtyard, which was too cute for words. The guys who brought out our food were ridiculously nice and accommodating. All of the food was exceptional. I tried the quiche and the croque madame and bits of my friends dishes. Nothing wasn't fantastic.
(3)
Joanne T.

Clean and delicious food. Their service is awesome and there's free coffee refills if you dine in :D They have the best gooey butter cake bars :) if you have a sweet tooth!
(5)
Mira S.

The flavored lemonade was very good, the food was good, although the French toast wasn't piping hot when it cane out, but not the most incredible food ever. Maybe the lunch sandwiches arevthr way to go. Service and friendliness are excellent. They don't rush you along, which is very nice.
(4)
Jenny C.

This has been my favorite spot since I first visited Chicago in 2010- now I'm lucky enough to live down the block. All the sandwiches are amazing and I can't go without getting the bowtie arugula salad. The guy who runs it is always super nice, and they have a great patio. All around the best.
(5)
Shilpi S.

I have been here twice and must say the awesome service here is what adds an extra touch of amazing-ness! (Yes, I talk with these words I made up and it helps me get my point across). The hostess took our names and started up a discussion with my boyfriend about the origins of his name. She loved his unique name so much she started calling us her "best friends". She was funny and kept coming to check up on us during the wait, encouraging us to have samples of the baked goods and coffee. This was so nice to have during the relatively long 30 minute wait since it was cold outside and 10 couples or so had to pack into the tight spaces inside. I love the food here too! I've mostly had breakfast items, which were all freshly made, and full of unique flavors and ingredients. Their menu keeps changing and I can't wait to go back to try some more. Since I have visited with groups I was able to try quite a bit. Baked goods: I recommend the gooey butter cake and butterscotch cookies, their coffee is delicious too and goes so well with these treats. The banana chocolate chip bread is soft and delicious and not too sweet. Sandwiches: The various grilled cheese sandwiches were delicious (I've tried one with curried cauliflower and gruyere and one with goat cheese), and the breakfast sandwich with cilantro pesto is so so good! Other items: I also had broccolli cheddar soup, thai curry chicken soup and curried garbanzo beans as sides, all of which were excellent. The soups are true to their flavors without too much salt, and served nice and warm. The garbanzo bean salad is cold, but it is nicely spiced making it a light but flavor-packed side dish. Overall, lots of vegetarian options, and a fun place to bring anyone - I even saw a group byob with champagne! Definitely a great combination of friendly faces and fresh, flavorful breakfast/brunch food.
(5)
Dan R.

Place is cozy and welcoming. You get seated but a hostess but need to choose what you want and go to the register to order. I ended up snooping around and saw a plate with the chilaquiles gratin being delivered. It looked awesome so I ordered the same. Special menu for brunch on weekends! Yumi food.
(5)
Matthew M.

Great food, reasonable service, long waits but at least they had coffee while u wait.
(5)
Lucy L.

This used to be a neighborhood favorite of mine until they decided to change the menu and layout of the restaurant. Before, the food portions were perfect, they had the best cookies and lemon bars, the order-at-the-counter format made the entire process very quick and efficient, which they really needed because of how popular and well-liked it was before. I can't say the same glowing comments about my last dining experience since the reno - the dishes were good, but more expensive and over-portioned. The service was good, but lost that casual warmth that Birchwood Kitchen had before. They got rid of the dessert bar and the turkey burger (which was smoky, juice and delicious). I want my old Birchwood back :(.
(3)
Jenny Y.

Birchwood kitchen is a cozy little cafe to catch up with friends. The owner of Birchwood is really friendly and had such an optimistic vibe. Their chipotle chicken soup is so delicious and all their food is fresh!
(4)
Meghan M.

Went for brunch around 12:30pm on a Sunday. We were told the wait would be about 20-30 mins for a party of 2, but we waited for about 10 before being called in. You are given a table number and then order at the counter. Fast and friendly service. I had the quinoa shrimp salad which was light and refreshing with spinach greens with shallots, celery, and marinated shrimp- perfect for that hot summer afternoon. My boyfriend had the pork brunch featuring eggs, pork shoulder, corn bread and collard greens. The one bite I had of his had amazingly tender pork which was a welcomed protein to the mix of the average breakfast. The ginger herb lemonade was great as well- not too sweet nor tart. I will be back to try more and to order some of the delicious looking desserts as well!!
(4)
Lisa M.

Two young lady's greeting customers at the door, great food, casual brunch cafe feel. Definitely a go back
(4)
Jimmy J.

Cozy dine in or outdoor patio seating. Warm and friendly staff. Chicken Salad sandwich and bbq pork sandwich were awesome. Started salad and pickled vegetable plate weren't chopped liver either. Ingredients here are ultra fresh and of top quality. You can taste it. If I lived in this area, this place would be in our regular rotation. Recommended.
(5)
Ritu R.

Delicious brunch! Casual spot. Street parking available. Greeted w a menus and taken to a table...Then walk up counter to order. They bring your meal to you. I had the Croque Vert. Delicious & generous portion. Comes w Side salad topped w the most tasty beet I've ever had. My hubs & sister had the biscuits n gravy. They both cleared their plates. Sister got hers w a vegetarian gravy they made w spring onions. She loved it! Ordered side if roasted red potatoes. Good. Nothing special. Cappuccino was very good.
(4)
Tim F.

Is this the best restaurant in Chicago? Yes! I've never been disappointed with anything, there are lots of good treatments of vegetables, great flavors in every dish, high-quality cheeses all over the menu, and, oh yes, pickles.
(5)
Caroline D.

I've been here both as a regular customer and as a private diner for a company holiday dinner, and both times it was exceptionally good. The food is simple but beautiful, seasoned well, balanced, just a home run. And for what you get, the prices are pretty fair. It's a nice space, though it gets pretty crowded.
(5)
Michael J.

Birchwood kitchen is setting the bar for fast casual brunch in the wicker park. Their staff is very friendly, the food is crafted nicely and you can tell they use the freshest ingredients. My favorite is on weekdays after five you can get burgers which are huge and cooked medium rare perfectly and served on a pretzel bun. You will not find a better burger nearby and it goes nicely with their pickled salads. Patio is beautiful and there are plenty of places to sit. Be careful going on the weekends the place gets slammed.
(5)
Sam C.

Coming here on a non-rainy day reminds me of Berkeley! I digress.. Perfectly located on my walk to the train, this cafe a great, quaint place for brunch/lunch -- especially the back patio for some rays and fresh air. Their menu is pretty small, but items on the menu look delicious. I got the tuna melt -- boy, what a great decision. Not too much tuna, huge chunk of tomatos, just enough cheese, and amazingly toasted wheat bread. Pastry selection is also limited, but the oatmeal cookie that Yelpers have been raving about looked amazing -- something to try next time! Friendly service. I've read that there are long lines, but I came mid-morning on a weekday, so I guess, come here during non-peak hours? Simple, no? Next time I head back to Chi-Town, I'm definitely coming back to try other things off the menu. And hopefully I'll have enough time to enough their endless coffee =)
(4)
Fred C.

Love this place. Interesting takes on all kinds of cuisine. I've been here several times for lunch. For lunch, they assign you a table, you order at the counter, and they bring your food to your table. Excellent experience every time I have been. Staff is friendly. Its always crowded with interesting neighborhood folks. I'll keep coming back.
(5)
Honna E.

I have been coming to Birchwood Kitchen for a few years and have always loved the food, service, and atmosphere. I would highly recommend them for any meal for which they are open. All of the food I have had has been fantastic, but my favorite is the cold goat cheese sandwich. Last week, they hosted my rehearsal dinner and it was a fantastic experience. All of the staff are kind and considerate and made accommodations for several special dietary needs that day. We rented out the space for the evening and could not have been happier with the food and service. Laine, who coordinated the event, was outstanding - and the staff on hand that day were also great. I researched around 25 places to host a rehearsal dinner for about 40 people and this was by far the best option. Thanks Birchwood for everything!
(5)
Emily J.

I use Yelp when I'm looking for a new place to go out. Thank God, because I found this gem when a friend and I went out for brunch. It was very crowded on Saturday morning but the staff were very efficient and so nice. Luckily, we beat the crowd and found a nice cozy table in the corner.
(4)
Tiffany V.

The outdoor patio is such a hidden gem, try to take advantage while it's still nice out! Good is great and tasty, service a tsa bit slow.
(4)
Nicole S.

This place is probably much better in the summer. But on a cold, damp, fall day waiting 45 minutes for a table outside in the back yard huddled up with coffee, just kind of sucked. By the time we were able to get a table and order (it's counter style folks so no table service here) I was so full of the hot coffee they kindly left out back to distract you while you wait that I wasn't much interested in another beverage or too much of my food. The bread was hard on my sandwich - huge pet peeve. Like not hard/crispy but rather hard/rip the roof of your mouth open and ruin your day. Overall, it's a cute spot albeit packed on the weekends. It's loud. Don't kid yourself it's hard to hear anyone in there let alone the voices in your own head. And I'd like to say I'd give it another chance but don't hold me to that.
(3)
Keith D.

Oh, not the damn Birchwood again. Is anyone else just sick and tired of these little places with marvelous food and great outdoor seating and good service? I have no patience for this. I'm tired and I just can't take one more second of this crap. I love it. I went here once over the summer and I visited today to throat punch Chicago Magazine's #8 sandwich, The Smoked Salmon Salad. I bust my ass to get here and back to work before my lunch hour is up and I find that the place is packed of shiftless layabouts (by that, I really just mean normal folk). What are you people doing!?! Do you think this is happy Friday funtime early weekend lunch? It's not the weekend yet, get your asses back to work! The smoked salmon salad sandwich is lovely. Something in the salad had an unexpected crunch (perhaps the arugula) which I feel is an essential component to this first-rate salmon sandwich. Lots of complexity with the onion, sage, squash and what might have been a hint of anise... perhaps? I know I'll get the, "Keith, you love everything. When are you going to hate something again? You can really hate the shit out of something. You suck at liking stuff and we hate your face". Settle down my vast assortment of delightfully unrefined minions, for there will be plenty of culinary shit masterpieces that will require enlightenment. For now, please enjoy a salmon dish that does not suck for once in your life.
(4)
Tara G.

The breakfast sandwich is delicious. Potatoes cooked to perfection (very important), and service was friendly and attentive. Very cute outdoor garden too. Great brunch spot and of course being BYOB makes it even better.
(5)
Natalka K.

The food here is great - came in with my friend and her son on Sunday for lunch. She ordered for us all. We ordered the croque madame, a grilled cheese sandwich and the french toast. Well, needless to say, the croque and grilled cheese came out but I ended up waiting. Apparently my french toast didn't even get rung up and hence they didn't make it with the other order. After it was pointed out, they made it and it was worth the wait! It was very good! I'll be back despite the little mishap.
(4)
Alyssa C.

Fabulous quaint little breakfast spot. Unique way when eating in... You put your name in (cuz lets be honest there is always a like since its so yummy) and then you can wait outside or in the small area (with complimentary coffee) to be seated. Then once you decide your order your go up to the counter and order all at once. They bring the food to you... I prefer the traditional service, with a waiter, but it gets the job done. Pretty rich foods, cool vibe, awesome patio out back. Delish!
(4)
Samantha J.

Stellar service, wonderful food, clever business style. The staff that was working when our group of eight dined here was fabulous. The hostess was kind and communicative, and there was a gentleman that made sure our limbs hadn't froze off while waiting on a busy Sunday morning. They also answered all of our crazy questions and were patient with us. Service goes a long way with me, and I was impressed. The food was delicious. I was limited to sausage, bacon and fruit (go paleo!) And their sausage was really good. My friend had the chillaquilles and said it was amazing (just looking at it made my mouth water). I like the ability to pay up front for your food (similar to pubs in London where you order at the bar and give them your table number) but beware that if you pay by credit card you can't leave a tip so be sure to bring cash. Great chai lattes, fresh squeezed orange juice, and they are super flexible in their food and offer a lot more than what's on their menu.
(5)
Amy Y.

AMAZING sandwiches. Came here for croquet vert and it was sooo good. Melted gruyere, mustard, and sourdough is perfect. The quality of the ingredients stand out here. I've eaten at several of popular brunch places in Wicker Park/Bucktown including Bongo room, Toast, and this definitely is better in terms of the quality of food and the pairing of the flavors is more on spot. Things to note: It's a cafe where you order yourself at counter. Also, it doesn't have the typical large menu of other places, but whatever I tried here so far has been good.
(5)
Christine M.

Came here for brunch because of the reviews. Our table shared the ricotta fritter cakes. If that was my main entree this place would have 6 stars. They were incredible. The texture was amazing and melted in my mouth. It was topped with pomegranate and orange (I think, I forget) with some fresh whipped cream. Perfect. For my actual entree I got chorizo con papas. The "papas" part was not just [red] potatoes, it was also sweet potatoes! The combination was divine. There were also fried tortilla strips which added a nice crunch. Pretty solid dish but I'd go for something else next time. For a group of 5 at 11 AM we only waited 20 minutes on a Sunday. But, I think we got lucky.
(4)
Anne G.

We adore Birchwood Kitchen. The food is fresh, light, yet satisfying and there is something for everyone, and every range of appetite. If you are just looking to grab a coffee and a pastry this is the place to go. If you're in the mood to have a sit down meal, Birchwood Kitchen will stimulate your pallet and satisfy your hunger! The owner, Jed, is always very friendly and accommodating to his customers needs. The place is clean, vibrant, cozy in the wintertime and airy in the spring and summer. Beautiful back area for outside dining. And probably the most important thing- the food is always delicious!!
(5)
Jack P.

I enjoy these Chicago places that do not feel like Chicago. More like a little trip out of town. The staff feel like old friends, even on a first visit. But walking into the narrow old storefront with the exposed brick walls and clean woody decor, Birchwood seemed like a restaurant in Brattleboro, VT or Boulder CO*. Even the other peeps there felt like they were from elsewhere. That couple from a Cialis commercial, the fresh-faced blond students, or the backpackers. Arriving for lunch at prime time, just after noon, there was plenty of seating. They boasted a new menu for fall., We both chose the meatloaf sandwich, with a cup of white bean and swiss chard soup. For a clear broth, the flavors were nicely complex, the greens earthy, and there was just enough spattering of a red pepper, giving the broth a little kick. The meatloaf sandwich was made with toasted sourdough bread. It was filled with softly textured and delightfully herbed fresh meatloaf, fresh tomato relish and melted cheese. Sorry mom, but it was the best meatloaf sandwich I've ever wrapped my mouth around. I took the chips with it but you can get salad, too. The menu in general has a reasonable amount of cold and hot sandwich offerings, some brunch or breakfast items, a few salads (visible in their deli case) and of course bakery dessert items. Service is that hybrid type where you order at the counter, and they deliver. Our service were very timely, helpful and warm. The prices are moderate and what one would expect for an urban bakery. Toward the end of our lunch, one of those drop dead Wicker Park couples walked in. The nice small town granola/academic atmosphere slipped away as I remembered I was back in Chicago. And stepping out to the North Ave.traffic only confirmed that fact. Can't wait to come back and work my way through the menu. Birchwood is definitely a top sandwich destination, and I'm sure the other offerings are just dandy, too. As my friend Matt says, "it's all good." *And yes, I've been to these places.
(4)
Scott P.

I livein the neighborhood. Got a few curry chicken sandwiches to go. Not tasty. Could've been so good but they were sooooo not! Won't be back.
(2)
Fasty W.

Birchwood is inventive, fresh, and delicious. It's BYOB and they serve generous portions, so a great place to bring a group. The one down side is they don't accept reservations, so wait times can be +45 minutes. That being said, it's worth the wait. The ambience is casual and cozy. It very much reminds me of a Seattle-esque family restaurant.
(5)
Glo K.

Dear Birchwood Kitchen, You never disappoint me, besides that one time you serve me french toast drizzled in syrup which I HATE. I don't like to eat my french toast soggy, but that's not your fault! It's my fault for not telling you. It was still delicious on the part that wasn't too soggy for my liking. I really enjoyed the duck sandwich over the weekend which came with this savory curry braised duck and pickled cauliflower, smeared with mint chutney yogurt sauce. I couldn't get enough of that yogurt sauce and asked for cup on the side so I can dip my sandwich in it. Also the apple cider is irresistible. It's like drinking Christmas in a cup. You guys make me so happy that I share my joy by bringing my friends to you guys. I am afraid to try other brunch places because they might disappoint me. Thank you for existing. Love, Glo
(5)
Anthony M.

Went to another restaurant nearby and saw this place pop up on Yelp. Great reviews and ratings! We came here the next day and am so glad we did. The Staff here is amazing. We must have looked lost. One of the employees came out to greet us and hand us menus. She asked if we had ever been here and we told her No and she filled us in on the program. I love that. So many places have employees who are too busy talking to each other and checking text messages to actually care about a customer. After she left, then another guy from behind the counter started helping us (later we found out he was one of the owners)! Five stars for the customer service and info. Now we feel like regulars!!! So you order your food and they assign you a table number and you pay!!! Wait a minute can we add on desert? There are these amazing deserts next to the register! We haven't even eaten yet and we are thinking desert!!! We ask the owner...lemon bar or carrot cake? He tells us to get both...he must have a sales background!!! We go carrot cake...wow it was so good!!! Spices were amazing...it was like autumn on a plate. It was also not overly sweet. It was so good!!! (Someone makes these for them and they are just amazing! I need to find her!!!) Now to our food. I had the hot salami with cheese and homemade giardinera. It was so tasty. The sandwich melted in my mouth. I was sad to hear that this Sunday (9/11/11) the seasonal menu will change and good-bye salami sandwich. I also got the side salad of mixed greens with the sandwich. There homemade lemon vinegarette dressing was so good. Simple, easy and light...fantastic for a salad. The corn chowder with ham was really good. When you hear that soup name you would think heavy cream soup!!! In fact it was quite the opposite!!! It was really light and tasty. Chunks of delicious ham with potatoes, corn and carrots in a light broth. I need that recipe!!! While sitting there I noticed a young man slicing meat...I want a meat slicer so bad. Maybe I should get a job as a butcher!! Now I know why the meat tasted so good. It was so fresh!!! The kitchen here is wide open...they have nothing to hide. I love that and will definitely be back!!!
(5)
Lauren F.

Oatmeal Butterscotch Cookie. Just do it. Huge, a little crispy while at the same time chewy, with little pieces of butterscotch throughout...so amazing I know I'll be going back time and time again for more. Yes, their cookies and other sweet treats are little pieces of heaven but you can't leave out their deliciously unique sandwiches and fresh, tasty salads. I've tried the Grilled Gruyere on sourdough and a special Turkey Meatball on a baguette. The Grilled Gruyere was fantastic. The gooey, crusty around the edges Gruyere paired with the perfectly caramelized onions and the spicy dijon that adds a nice bite...all melted between two slices of sourdough, I absolutely loved it. The Turkey Meatball sandwich was also super tasty. Moist, flavorful meatballs with spicy black beans that had me reaching for a glass of water...it had a definite kick but again, I loved it. Their salads are fresh and full of seasonal ingredients and always look amazing. Their menu is constantly changing so I'm excited for a new season to roll around. I'm definitely going to have to stop in for brunch on the weekends or for a burger after 5pm, no doubt they'll be just as fantastic as everything else! Birchwood is just the perfect little neighborhood cafe.
(5)
Michael L.

Solid, solid spot. I'm really glad I found this via yelp. I stayed in Wrigleyville for the weekend, but figured that this place was worth driving to (despite many detours due to road construction!). Meatloaf sandwich- strong garlic taste (awesome), the meatloaf itself was meaty, yet had good balance of veggies in it without tasting spongy. The sourdough was crispy end-to end, but not burnt. Well done. Pork Sandwich- this was amazing. The habanero aioli put wings on this sandwich and made my taste buds fly...I wish I had more than just a bite- I took this sandwich to go for my friend. If I had the time, I would've preferred to sit down and have brunch with my wife here, despite the hectic nature of this place.
(5)
Isis D.

loved it
(4)
Rachel C.

If Disney is deemed the "happiest place on earth" then this place could come in a very close second! As soon as you walk in you're greeted by a smiling face who directs you to the counter to order. Surprisingly on a Saturday morning around 11am it was not busy. Good for us! I wanted to eat every scrumptious looking pastry behind that case! Good thing I practiced a little self control. I ordered up a chai tea, which came from a tea company I had never heard of, Two Leaves Tea Company, but will now be ordering in bulk! First plus of the morning. Second plus of the morning was my amazing Smoked Salmon on top of egg salad and a sesame bagel. The bagel was divine! Not hard, but soft and fresh, like it had been baked that morning. The egg salad was a nice mixture of egg and mayo and the salmon was perfect, not too overly salty like smoked salmon could be. Just perfect! It was so large in fact that I could hardly finish on side of the bagel! It might be ideal for sharing with a side of fresh fruit. Third plus was the amazingly friendly service. I think I could have chatted with the guy ringing our meal up for days. We may actually be best friends now. I may actually be best friends with everyone there, considering their jovial attitude. It's just a pleasure giving business to a spot that fosters a good environment and amazing food!
(5)
Mary G.

Birchwood is one of my favorite restaurants in Chicago! Its hard to find a neighborhood place that is this consistent and truly has the nicest staff on earth. You cannot go wrong with any of there main menu items or trying a special. Everything is wonderful. My go to is the gruyere sandwich with ham. I love their burgers, soup and chick pea salad.
(5)
Julie W.

Does great breakfast food have to lead to chaos? Birchwood definitely has great food but the cramped seating, noise and jostling for food and tables is simply unpleasant. If you love sitting cheek (both kinds) by jowl with a lot of hipsters, you'll be happy here. Might go back on an off-hour or during summer to fight for a table outside.
(3)
Chris G.

Really good, fresh and unique salads and sandwiches. Really liked the outdoor space to eat in the back of the restaurant. It feels like you're eating on a neighbors deck (nice deck!). The staff is very courteous and well trained. You can tell this place is very well managed! Highly recommend for a causal lunch with tradition dishes but enhanced and a little higher quality than the norm.
(4)
Lucy N.

I am currently looking for an apartment that sits either above or next to this place...i want to start everyday with their french toast :) !
(5)
Laura L.

First-timers - you get in line and order at the counter instead of being seated first. It's a little awkward/unclear when you walk in. I want to like this place more than I do. Is it just me, or do the sandwiches sound better on the menu than they taste? The friendliest staff imaginable. Cute patio.
(3)
Sarah M.

Yum!!!!!! Love this place! Had the salad and kale sausage soup. Amaze balls!!!! Would go back tomorrow!
(5)
Simeen A.

Seriously- 5 star! This place really delivers. Lots of variety and lots of vegetarian options- score! The veggie chili is amazing and the veggie sandwiches are super flavorful and delish. Also- try one of the desserts. Lemon bars are especially tasty. If I lived closer I'd probably stop here once a week. One downer- gets super crowded on weekends at brunch time so plan accordingly. I like Birchwood for dinner. Less crowd, just as delicious :)
(5)
Dave W.

The food was pretty good but not life changing. The do it yourself dynamic was fine but I wish they would have been more up front about going to get your own drinks and that there are no servers. With that being said the salami sandwhich and the croque madame were delicious but the eggplant appetizer was disappointing. I'm sure I'll be back but I was not blow away by the food or service.
(3)
Cathy M.

I had the waffles with a homemade strawberry compote and a latte it was delicious, service was great as well!
(4)
Natalie P.

I love coming to this place for lunch! Their chicken salad sandwich is my go-to. The staff is always attentive and friendly. Make sure to check this place out next time your in WPB.
(5)
Magda M.

Had greens salad with citrus dressing and turkey. Everything was fresh and delicious. Also I didn't mind the wait at all since complimentary coffee was provided outside.
(4)
Mark K.

Uh, this place is the best? I love this place. I've only been for lunch, so I have yet to try some of the more savory dishes that comprise full dinners. Despite that, I've very consistently had great results at lunch and can't recommend this place enough. They do a marvelous job of creating simple side salads for their sandwiches, often adding a few extras that make things terrific - beets, anyone? The sandwiches are inventive and delicious, and it's often worth trying the special. What keeps me coming back here isn't just that the "hits" are great - I could eat the pork roast sandwich over and over and over - but that there's always something else to try and it is almost always terrific. It's hard for me to comprehend what they're doing to keep the quality so high across so many dishes. I'd especially recommend the vegetarian sandwiches as they take particular care with selecting fresh vegetables bursting with flavor. As an example, whenever the cauliflower salad comes back (winter, probably) definitely check it out. It's one of the best examples of how great this place can be, and how confusing it is they are so good, because the ingredients are so simple. The atmosphere is great. The back patio is nice during the summer/fall, and inside has a bit of hustle and bustle but not intrusively so. You order from the counter, but in the process of waiting the staff assigns you a table, so it meshes nicely between being a sit-down place and more of a deli. The wait can be intense during the weekend brunch hours, so be wary then, but during the week it's usually pretty easy to get the table, even though they're usually busy. They do just a few desserts, but they are worth trying - the gooey butter cake, when available, is a favorite.
(5)
David M.

This place gets 5 stars because of the great food, nice atmosphere, and impeccable service. Also, how can you not be in love with a restaurant that offers you free coffee while you wait? I ordered the Croque Madame and it was great! ~$10
(5)
Mary F.

Delicious home cooked food ... Nice interesting decor and smart waitresses...easy on-street parking nearby
(5)
Meghan H.

Aw - this place is so cute. We sat outside when we came here for lunch and it was very comfortable out there. Definitely felt like I was on a friend's back porch or something (in a good way) - very quiet and relaxing back there. I ordered the croque madame, which was a sandwich of ham and gruyere on sourdough topped with two fried eggs, plus a side of spring mix greens. Honestly, I devoured that sandwich reeeeal quick. Yum. I was just there recently and am already itching to go back!
(4)
Maria G.

Came in here for brunch today and was greeted as soon as we walked in the door. We were given menus and were instructed to take a look, order at the cashier and then have a seat. I went with the Croque Madame and DAMN was it good! Sourdough bread, guyere, ham and Dijon topped with two over easy eggs and a side salad. Eggs were cooked perfectly and the salad was refreshing. The room is big and inviting and there was also an outdoor patio. I'd go back!
(4)
Steve E.

We have been twice, once by accident, and nice VERY MUCH on purpose, for brunch. We did not have obnoxious waits for either. We both ordered the croque Madame, and it is simply phenomenal. I see bad reviews here, and am mystified. It is so,solid, service was great, food so fresh, and a great, albeit small, space. I don't know where the complainers are eating brunch, but I want to try there if you are complaining about this little gem.
(4)
Diane H.

What a great brunch spot! I liked it so much I almost don't want to tell people how great it is for fear of longer waits in the future. My friend and I made brunch plans but needed a location. We wanted to try something new with outdoor seating to take advantage of the great Sunday weather. During my Internet search I came across Birchwood Kitchen. We decided to try it out and then discovered it was BYOB...score! We came by around 1pm looking for a table for 2. There was no wait inside and hold it, yes there was one table for 2 outside...this must have been my day! I am not used to having no wait at all at brunch in Chicago. Most of the brunch places I go to are a minimum of 45 minutes, double that or more for an outside table. We were assigned a table number, ordered our meal at the register, grabbed our beverages and found our table. Out back is a super cute garden / patio that seats around 20 in various table set ups. We got a spot in the shade which was welcomed with the heat that day. I ordered a chilled carrot ginger soup. It was good, but I wish there was a bit more seasoning. I also got the roast beef sandwich. It was yummy as was the side salad (chips and bikinis don't go well together. The one observation is that the chimichurri sauce was on the bottom of the sandwich, so the bread and plate got a little oily. Other than needing an extra napkin or two this didn't bother me enough to not eat the whole sandwich. I will definitely add this to my top 5 go to brunch spots!
(4)
Liz K.

Perfect neighborhood spot for brunch and/or a weeknight dinner. Great outdoor courtyard and BYOB
(5)
Jake C.

This place is one of my favorites. For starters, they have a creative menu with a lot of ingredients (a lot of which I have never heard of), which usually means more expensive. But they managed to keep the prices affordable, which is obviously a huge plus. Creativity in making dishes only goes so far - there's no point if it doesn't taste good. Every sandwich I've ever had here has been absolutely delicious. My favorite thing is the back patio. It may be one of my favorites in the city. Even on a cloudy day, all the fresh plants and ivy give it such a cool vibe. I've been here multiple times, and I plan on coming in plenty in the future.
(5)
Callan C.

Excellent place for brunch. The service is friendly and menu delectable! I crave savory, and have been pleased by the croque madame and the breakfast sandwich. Metropolis coffee is self serve and plentiful. In addition to a handful of tables inside, they have a small outdoor seating area out back that looks charming. At times there can be a line, so be sure to prepare in advance.
(5)
Bludog X.

The food is a solid 4 to 4.5 stars. However, the troubling hygiene (0 stars) pulls their rating down. I observed the hostess bussing dirty dishes and scraping leftovers into the garbage, changing said garbage, wiping down tables with a spray bottle and some sort of rag, handling the phone, repeatedly walking in and out of the front door using her hands on the door handle, giving the prep cook a high 5 or handshake, and then - after all of this, arranging my food on the plate without gloves, without hand sanitizer, and without washing her hands. I was watching so closely because I saw my food being served up and placed on the counter while my husband waited impatiently for his. My food must have sat there for 5 to 8 minutes on the front counter as staff and customers walked by, handed things over it, served other food around it, etc. And I saw not one, but two, staff members stick their bare hands into my salad to arrange it on the plate. I was hoping against hope that it wasn't my food, but then the same hostess who had just taken out the garbage (through the food prep area) came over and plopped it down in front of me. Maybe it's just one employee who needs a refresher in food handling and food safety, but it was enough to turn me off of the whole place permanently. It's really too bad, because the food is good (what I could eat of it, knowing how it had been handled). The vibe is young and lively, and the prices are reasonable.
(2)
Lindsay D.

Best turkey burger I've had and one of the best burgers behind au cheval. Fresh ingredients, changing menu, good atmosphere, helpful and friendly staff, free coffee. Have yet to try the brunch.
(4)
Marie B.

EXCELLENT Food and Service! Highly recommend the Goat Cheese Sandwich and the Meatball Sub. Quality ingredients, great coffee. The staff was very kind to my loud and messy baby.
(5)
Brailey M.

FABULOUS all around, Infinite stars for this wicker park eatery! Some of the BEST food I've had in Chicago and absolutely the MOST INCREDIBLE STAFF!!! Laine is hands down the best host, server, runner, event planner I have ever come across.
(5)
Evelina L.

Went here over the weekend and got their special - red hash HEAVEN! Who ever thought about making hash cakes out of beets, potatoes and onions? BIRCHWOOD! Add some caramelized fennel and apples with 2 sunny side eggs = PERFECTION! Every time we come here, the experience is better and better. I might need to move Birchwood up on our brunch list... Thank you once again for being in the neighborhood, offering organic and sustainable food that is VERY REASONABLY priced AND having it all taste SO GOOD! Love you, Birchwood!
(5)
Ryan P.

Wick Park is definitely the Portland of Chicago. And as we all learned from Portlandia, those folks over there are obsessed with brunch. It would only make sense for there to be a great brunch place in Wicker Park, and this is it. Does it get insanely busy on the weekends? Oh yes. But is it worth it? Most definitely.
(5)
Justine L.

I thought I had reviewed Birchwood because I've come a dozen times. I usually thoroughly enjoy my meal at Birchwood. I prefer the Seasonal sandwiches and desserts over anything. I do not recommend going for really basic items - like a chicken salad sandwich - because they are way basic. They have a lot more creative things to offer. When I come, I usually just do a carry-out order. The line to sit is so long, so plan accordingly! PS- The staff is great! Once I got a free butterscotch cookie just because!
(4)
Michelle Q.

Truly 5 star. Birchwood Kitchen met all my expectations. 1. Staff was extremely knowledgeable, friendly, and efficient. 2. The decor was hipster with a Seattle vibe (fantastic industrial lights, exposed brick, artsy local flyers, great use of space indoor and outdoor seating) 3. Tip: free coffee with foursquare check in on first visit. Fun help yourself coffee station. 4. Grapefruit juice was best I've ever had. Tasted like it was fresh squeezed into the glass and ice cold. Croque Madame stole the show. A dish this perfect should be a crime! It makes me raise the bar on my future 5 star picks! I loved that the staff stopped by to see what we thought and even shared other picks from around Chicago. The confidence to acknowledge the breadth of culinary genius and explain why an item was created was a credit to the perfection of the dish but also to the care in putting together the mix of fresh, exciting flavors. Hubby ordered baked french toast with the fresh peaches with basil. We added the fresh cream and split. I found the basil too perfumey (this was a personal preference and not a reflection on the dish) but the peaches were fresh and the cream was an excellent topping. Price point was pleasing. Overall, add this to your list for breakfast if in Chicago!
(5)
Andy H.

This place was not impressive. Went here on a saturday around 11 (prime brunch time, I know). There were about 6 of us. The restaurant was not packed, but was crowded. We were told we would wait 45 mins. We were directed to the back deck where we were promptly forgotten about for 1.5 hours. It was about 40 degrees that day so we were less than pleased with our waiting arrangements. After we were seated, service was better, but the long wait left most of our group bitter. The menu gives you the impression that this place is trying to be fancier than it is. The type of place that adds ingredients with french names to look impressive on the menu. When we got our food, my suspicions were confirmed. The portions were small, but the food was well organized on my plate (so that counts for something, right?). My friend who ordered the waffles was the most dissapointed as he recieved a few oversized crackers. Everyone's impression of the portion sizes was "are you kidding me?" Overall this place did not wow me. I understand high priced, small portion foods are what some people are looking for, but not at brunch. The quality of the food did not make up for the lack of quantity. Bottom line, if you come here hungry, expect to leave that way.
(2)
Kavi P.

Came here for sunday brunch. Loved it! I ordered the breakfast sandwich and it was just perfect for me. The salad and potatoes were delish. The bf and I split a goat cheese and honey bagel as well- yum! Price was reasonable for the amount of food and satisfaction. I'd definitely come back.
(4)
Yen D.

This place tastes like home, the idea, rather than the actual home (my actual home tastes more like Vietnamese food). What else can I say? The warm cauliflower salad from winter was incredible. All of the spring/summer options for brunch are incredible. The salads are incredible. This place is incredible. Boy goes here at least once a week for lunch.
(5)
Ashley B.

I saw this place had a Croque Madame and I had to come. It was good, but not the best I've ever had, which I'll say is hard to top. So props to Birchwood Kitchen for a SOLID effort! My boyfriend had the GLBT which was really delicious. On both sandwiches though, the bread was pretty tough, that's the only downfall. I really liked the place overall though, it was such a nice brunch spot and I definitely want to come back and try some other things on the menu.
(4)
Ellienor R.

This place is awesome! I've never had a better salad than the one I've had at Birchwood. The croque Madame is a go-to for me. The staff there is super nice and every visit I've had has always been a pleasant one.
(5)
Clara C.

Came here for my first meal in the Windy City. Birchwood is situated in the hipster area of Wicker Park. Decor: Very cute, with trees inside and a very woodsy nature feel Food: DELICIOUS. I had the Grilled Gruyere with Ham sandwich. It was absolutely delectable. I also ordered the jalopeno lemonade, which was not as interesting as it sounded. It really just tasted like regular lemonade with annoying burn afterwards. My travel companion had the smoked salmon plate, and she was highly impressed as well. The salmon was perfectly cooked, and the boiled eggs were pickled in a beet juice that added a beautiful purple color as well as an interesting twist to a typical side. I only wish we had made it on time for the brunch menu. Service: Counter service. Order at the front, pick up your own food. Fast and efficient. Would definitely come back and highly recommend this as a great brunch/lunch spot.
(5)
Neha N.

Oh my yum! So flippin delicious. Ever in the mood for lunch food but it's before 10am? Have no fear, Birchwood is here! The bf and I made the walk over to Birchwood. We were curious about their brunch menu, but decided to stick with good ol' sandwiches. Being a vegetarian, I was LOVING their several veggie options (hot & cold sandwiches, salads and soups). I was reading an article on Chicago's top 50 sandwiches and saw the goat cheese sandwich from Birchwood listed. Skeptical of how good this could be, I went ahead and ordered it.... Good grief, how have I not been here before??? The bread is perfect, and the goat cheese/beet/arugula combo is AMAZING. I don't even like beets that much, but these are pickled beets and are awesome. I was really sad when my sandwich ended, but luckily some of the goat cheese fell on to my huge side salad, which also included pickled onions. Delish. I was stuffed! I got the hazelnut latte with skim milk, and was blown away how sweet but not oversweet this was....still craving it, mmm. All in all, I've definitely spent double on brunch and felt unsatisfied. Come here. You won't be dissapointed. Also, the bf got the curried duck (weekday special) and said the curry tasted like the type his dad made! He loved it. You deserve all the hype Birchwood!!!!!!
(5)
Benjamin L.

I agree with Laura L. that the sandwiches sound better on the menu than they taste. My girlfriend and I are from out of town and we love the area and thought this place looked appealing and provided some good lunch options. She ordered a turkey bacon avocado sandwich and I had a steak sandwich with caramelized onions. Her turkey was a little dry and bacon wasn't crispy how she liked it (personal preference... I think I would've been fine with it). My sandwich was ok. It was a ten dollar steak sandwich, so what do I expect? Bread on both sandwiches was good though. Portion sizes were pretty generous... I'm a 24 year old male with an appetite). Overall a "meh" experience and wouldn't return unless I were a local.
(3)
Josh V.

While recommending this cute little spot to someone this week, I realized I hadn't yet reviewed it. Quelle horreur! Why did I slip into French just then? Because-as everyone knows-French is classy, just like Birchwood Kitchen! First of all, if you're dining in (or "in" outside, on their lovely patio) you order at the counter and they bring your food out to your table. Be sure you look at both the paper menu and the specials board before making your selection. As BK aims to prepare fresh, seasonal fare their menu tends to change, but there should always be a number of good choices on it. Lunch fare is generally SSS: soups, sandwiches and salads. Brunch has both sweet & savory selections. (SSS again!) I went once for brunch and once for lunch, and was very pleased with both. The grilled cheese in particular sticks out in my mind. Plenty of hot, gooey, tasty (real!) cheese...mmm mmm good. It went just right with the delicious soup. The place is not big, but has a decent amount of seating. It's clean and bright and is just very pleasant in general....like the people who work there, at least in my experience. If you're looking for a good brunch (on the weekend) or lunch, you can't go wrong with Birchwood. Now dinner? That's the one meal I haven't had there, but one of these days (Tuesdays through Fridays to be more specific) I'll have to rectify that!
(5)
Juan A.

The french toasts are great and very different. Kinda like bread pudding texture, which was a nice variation. We also had the breakfast sandwich which I really liked. Not crazy about having to pay up front at the register for the food, but thats really not a big deal.
(4)
Ernie W.

Great first time experience. Fresh ingredients, and the oatmeal butterscotch cookie was awesome!
(4)
Galina M.

Great brunch place! Limited seating but the turnaround is fairly fast. I really like it that you order at the register and they bring you the meal so you don't have to sit there and wait until waiter comes up to you. Their menu is unique and interesting. Everything is delicious! I had the Madam Croquet and my fiance loves their benedict! I realize their menu changes...but every time i've gone so far, it has not disappointed! very very very good - worth the wait and they serve intelligenstsia coffee!!!!! mmmm they also have outside seating - the patio in the back! will come back here again and of course highly recommend it! 3 thumbs up
(5)
Laura M.

My husband and I just moved a few blocks from this place... we LOVE it!!! We eat here almost every week. Great quality food and people.
(5)
noel c.

The food was good enough, but not so extraordinary that it would offset the rest of my experience. We waited 45 minutes to get in the door, then additional 15 minutes at our table before ordering. Then we went to stand in a line at the cashier to order, all the while filling our own coffees and waters, etc. I'm no primadonna, but I missed what all the hype is about this place. It was a 2 hour waiting experience for a standard brunch place that needed more salt.
(3)
Eric H.

Simply put DELICIOUS! I highly recommend the B.R.D. Sandwich!
(5)
Amy A.

Everything we ordered was delicious! We had a grilled sandwich with salami and ooey gooey cheese. The pasta salad was light n yummy, the tomato bisque was delicious. It was just are ally pleasant experience & great service. I will definitely go there again!
(5)
Angelica G.

Stopped in on a cold Wednesday night for dinner. The staff was incredibly friendly and helpful. I absolutely loved the veggie sandwich.
(4)
Ryan U.

This is probably our favorite spot for brunch. The food is amazing. The owner is probably the nicest person in the world. I swear, the guy is always smiling. It is a great value and I would HIGHLY recommend it. Selfishly, I did not want to review it, because I do not want more people going there in the morning making the wait longer. Also, their cookies are incredible. And they brought this salmon dish back a couple of months ago for one week, which was incredible.
(5)
Andrea A.

My husband and I love this place. We first started going here over a year ago now, and we've been coming back almost weekly ever since. The place has become part of our lives, not only for the wonderful food but because of the amazing people. I love their pickled carrots and beets, and if it were possible, I could go the rest of my life sustaining myself on them alone. We decided to have our wedding rehearsal dinner at Birchwood and it was nothing short of spectacular. Jesse helped us plan everything, she was lovely to work with. Our friends and family raved about the food, we really couldn't have asked for a better time. Simply put, the service and food is wonderful, the owners are caring and generous, and the staff is kind.
(5)
Monica Y.

Came here on a freeeeezing day for dinner and nothing could have been better than the grilled gruyere and tomato soup. We also tried the yucatan pork, which I'd highly recommend! Overall I think it's a really cute spot to grab dinner or lunch with a friend and I really wanna come back and try their brunch!
(4)
Vaidehi T.

4 and a half stars!! Thanks to yelp, we found this gem of a place yesterday when we were in the neighborhood. I loved the ambiance and the service. The service is very friendly and helpful. They answered all the crazy questions I had :). None of the salads on their menu appealed to me, so they said I could convert any sandwich into a salad. I got their goat cheese and pickled beets salad and the hubby got the mac and cheese. My salad was great, its a classic combo, and it was done to perfection. The hubby liked his mac and cheese too, but it could have been a little more cheesy. It was a little bit dry and that's why they lose half a star. We also tried their chocolate fudge brownie and it was yum... excellent way to end the meal.
(5)
Kisha J.

I went to Birchwood Kitchen with 3 of my friends this morning. We had great food, great service, and great conversation. I love how responsive the staff was and the atmosphere made it easy for us four women to chat and catch up. We all enjoyed our dishes and the presentation. Thank you Birchwood Kitchen! We will definitely be back.
(5)
Laura C.

I am not one to post 1-star reviews. But alas, here we are. I love sandwiches, especially heated-up ones. I love ham and cheddar. I love BYOB's. Why oh why was this so disappointing??! The the cheddar was a strong white cheese that was totally overpowering. This sounds bad, and my dad makes hams like it's his job so I know how fresh ham tastes, but I had to pull the ham off the sandwich because it was extremely fatty AND it did not taste fresh. This place was a miss, through and through. I will not go back.
(1)
Breanne B.

This is my favorite brunch spot in all of Chicago. The staff is incredibly nice and always cheery despite the harsh weather we have been enduring lately! I definitely recommend the bagel with goat cheese, it's a hidden gem on the menu. Love love love Birchwood Kitchen. Perfect place to go on a Sunday morning!
(5)
Elena E.

Free coffee, friendly staff, amazing patio. Ordered the croque madame, very impressive. Definitely would recommend this place for brunch. Healthy menu
(4)
Dai W.

5 stars - I love the place. They have been there for 4 years now and even if I have tried it for 1 year now (and going there every month) I have never been disappointed. Great food - the Croque Madame is yummy. The plates are full and food is fresh It is BYOB and a great terrace in the back for nice warm summer Sundays Great service - great team
(5)
Kat F.

Being vegetarian I never get to enjoy sandwiches of the "Croque" variety but thankfully Birchwood Kitchen had me covered at weekend brunch with their scrumptious Croque Vert - grilled market vegetables, gruyere cheese, dijon mustard and sunny side eggs on grilled sourdough served with a perfectly-sized salad that had nothing in it I didn't like. The lemonade I ordered was so good it made my head spin and my eyes did a 180. Staff, and especially the owner, are fabulously hospitable and accommodating. 5 stars for a delightful Chicago brunch experience that I'll return to on every visit to my fave American city!
(5)
James Michael S.

Definitely my new favorite breakfast spot. Good people, relaxed atmosphere and most importantly, superb food. Go early as it gets busy quickly.
(5)
HB H.

What a great spot! I had the banh mi sandwich. It had a nice kick to it, and the baguette was perfect. Service is friendly, and the space is really inviting. I'll definitely head back there.
(4)
Kelly S.

Birchwood, I would move to Chicago for you. A. The owner who is probably taking orders when you get there is incredibly nice. He was highly solicitous and very kind when I struggled to make up my mind. B. It's adorable. Tiny, exposed brick, small patio, patrons ass-to-elbows but no one minds because the food is great. C. The proscuitto sandwich. Look, I hate to call out anything on the menu specifically because I know that by choosing this, you'll be forsaking all others forever. But if you like proscuitto, do. not. hesitate. I have a sick love affair with proscuitto and this was loaded like proscuitto is free. They just ran out of the artichoke mint tapenade - but then added fresh mozz on it. That's all I want -- great service, some ambiance and gorgeous bread, soft cheese, heaping tons of proscuitto and fresh arugula with a spritz of rich olive oil. That's not demanding right? Right. Oh also? It's fresh, local product. Run, don't walk.
(5)
Paul C.

This is it for me. It's the perfect balance of great, fresh-tasting food, continual updating, and the best, friendliest reception I think I'll ever find at a restaurant. The food's fantastic, but even merely good food, I think, would have gotten a five-star review out of me because of the people there, who remember you and make you feel at home and really care about your experience. This is the only place I'll consider getting food at more than once every two weeks except for the great taco place next door to my apartment. I've been unable to find a favorite dish, though. I actually think it might be impossible to go wrong with anything here.
(5)
Dennis S.

Perfect for Sunday brunch on a warm day. Birchwood Kitchen is worth the trip even if you're not from this neighborhood. Its a lesson on how to run a small no-table service restaurant extremely well. First and foremost is the food. We shared two dishes: the Belgian waffle and the roasted garlic polenta with poached eggs and mushroom ragout. Spinach salad on the side. With excellent coffee. Everything was as tasty as it sounded. Nice warm waffles. Tasty creamy polenta with light garlic, not overwhelming.. They so clearly know what they're doing that I'm confident every dish on the menu is good. Next time we'll test that theory. The staff is very friendly and helpful to first-time visitors (both us and the people in front of us). You stand in line to order, but have a table assigned before you place your order. Everything is well run and user friendly. The outside patio is welcoming and cozy for a warm summer weekend day in Chicago. I'd suggest not going with a big crowd - they just don't have the space for it. But two or four fit in fine.
(5)
Carrie S.

Moving and packing sucks especially when it's some of your best friends leaving for the burbs. Helping them get ready for their move into the land of strip malls, we got hungry. For lunch, we went to Birchwood Kitchen and got takeout. Judging by the takeout line, I knew this place had to be good. Our friend enlightened me on the best sandwiches to try here. I followed his lead and ordered a grilled gruyere with ham. While waiting in line, he gushed about how awesome the cookies were. So, we got one for everyone who helped pack minus their toddler. Oh that first bite of the sandwich was heavenly. Birchwood Kitchen's grilled gruyere sandwich is the grownup version of grilled cheese. They packed the sandwich with ham and cheese with a delicious spread of djion mustard to compliment the cheeses. Wow, that sandwich totally made my day. The chocolate chip cookie lived up to the hype of being one of the best chocolate chip cookies. It reminded me of the warm, gooey ones Mom makes right out of the oven. The sandwich and the cookie were so good that I would go out of my way just to have that meal again.
(4)
Linda T.

deliciously crunchy, cheesy, mushroomy hot mushroom sandwich! sourdough bread was rustic, brie was rich and creamy, mushrooms were chunky and meaty! petit salad had the perfect vinergar-y tartness to balance the richness of sandwich! nice rustic decor to compliment the yummy homemade food. perfect for a windy rainy day to sit by the window and watch the rain w good food
(4)
Young N.

Friendly staff and amazing FOOD! The burgers are only offered on week nights but that's probably the best thing, otherwise i'd be there for dinners on weekends as well. bacon cheese burger rocks! salmon salad sandwich, mushroom sandwich, meatload sandwiches are all amazing... it doesn't hurt that the place is also a BYOB! Brunches can be a bit hectic but not if you show up before 10. Their menu changes every couple of months and the newest addition to the brunch... the curry pancakes was just awesome. Lemonade with ginger.. phenomenal. Peachcobbler, carrot cake, etc.. you will develop an addiction.
(5)
Mima W.

Went there for lunch last Wednesday (2-5-14). We read good things on Yelp and were not disappointed. I tried the quiche, which was quite good, better than typical restaurant quiche. My companion had a salad, I can't remember what kind, but she thought it was delicious. They've got many baked goods and we enjoyed that part of the menu, as well.. The staff is one of the friendliest I've ever encountered: helpful, efficient and eager to provide a wonderful lunch experience. We definitely will return.
(5)
Ali Z.

As much as I love and trust Yelp, this is one of those rare occasions where the Yelp hype let me down. Despite the promising menu descriptions and the super friendly staff, the sandwiches were unsatisfying. The chickpea sandwich was a total disappointment. Bread was hard as a rock and the sandwich consisted of little else but cold, mashed chickpeas and lots of lettuce. The goat cheese and pickled beets sandwich was a little better but also bland. Everything from the sandwiches to the salad and side pickles was on the acidic side leaving a vinegary aftertaste reminiscent of a bad deli cole slaw. The saving grace here thought was the dessert. Carrot cake was perfect and butterscotch cookie was absolutely fantastic. I'm torn on whether to return here for lunch again but won't hesitate to drop by for a snack when the sweet tooth strikes.
(3)
Erin K.

Okay, let me preface this review by saying that the food here is really good. I'm giving this place a one star review because I came in for brunch this morning and there were a good half dozen open tables. This is a super small place so that's like half the restaurant. I sat at one of the open tables while waiting for my brunch mate... then was asked to get up. The girl with the clipboard invites me to stand and wait until the rest of my party was here. Let me reiterate... this is a small restaurant. The only place to wait was in front of the door. It was very awkward.
(1)
Grace Y.

I really want to love Chicago, but I haven't been impressed with the food thus far. So when I went to Birchwood Kitchen I was thoroughly pleased and surprised to find a restaurant that reminded me a lot of San Francisco. They use local ingredients and you can taste the difference. Everything is fresh and delicious. We ate a late brunch so we just stopped by here to share a Croque Madame and I had a latte. I thought the Croque Madame was a home run. The gruyere was melted perfectly on top of the savory ham and the sourdough bread tied everything very nicely together. My boyfriend complained that the egg should have been runnier and that he had better before but I thought it was amazing. The patio was super cute and gave a really relaxing feel to the meal. The service was great and the manager? owner? was super friendly and attentive. Perfect date spot and I think Chicago is starting to grow on me...
(4)
Chelsea A.

Wow- an accidental stop turned into a beautiful meal. Our taxi driver misheard my directions and we ended up in front of this adorable cafe, and we couldn't resist. Counter service and a 25 minute wait were not going to stop us from tasting whatever smelled so good. We poured some of the rich, dark roasted coffee they comp and took a stroll down the street. When our table was available we ordered the day's quiche, a grilled ham and gruyere sandwich, tomato soup, chilled carrot ginger soup and a pickled veg plate. Everything was perfect. As mentioned in my photo cap, the pickled veg were hands down the best I have ever had. Onions, thin sliced beets, green beans, zucchini and bell pepper with a little dollop of stone ground mustard and some lovely cheese- plus the tastiest toast slices full of nuts and seeds. Wow. I could have stopped there but of course, I ate on. The grilled cheese was half sized but triple stacked and what a sandwich she was. I opened it up and stuffed the remaining pickled onions inside and that turned out to be an excellent move. They really elevated horseradish spiked mustard hidden between the bread. My boyfriend had the quiche (ha ha ha ha ha) and it was really good. I know this because I reached over my own meal to fork his. Squash, corn and ham were the mix and the crust was perfectly flaky. Seriously fresh greens are served with the entrees. The soups were great but a bit much with the weight of the sandwich. I needed to save room for lunch. Brunch is really just breakfast. Lunch can still happen if you're adventurous.
(5)
Christina B.

This place is great!! In that area in the daytime it's not easy to find non-chain, non-bar, non-busy restaurants without plunging into the craziness of 6 corners. I was so thrilled to walk in and see an open kitchen, fresh/gourmet options, and decent prices. I had the steak sandwich and it was delicious!! The side salad was such a nice option (field greens vs. iceberg lettuce). I will definitely be back to dine in or carry out!
(5)
Richa A.

Cute, affordable, no fuss. That's what I want in a brunch, and Birchwood delivers. The menu is small, but they switch it up with with a few specials each week. I would highly recommend the croque vert and breakfast sandwich. I've ordered a salad before and was not a huge fan of pickled vegetables atop already raw things -- something to keep in mind if you're craving a salad but might want some warm or cooked ingredients. I do love the casual atmosphere, but am not sure how I feel about the self-serve for coffee and such. I get that it cuts down on costs but for brunch feels odd to get up and refill your coffee. Oh well, hardly a deal-breaker, I'd be back many more times (especially to try their dinner) if I wasn't moving!
(4)
Daniel C.

I have been to Birchwood Kitchen for lunch and brunch and it's delightful for both! I went completely overboard and ordered a sandwich/brunch entree, side, drinks and dessert both times. Everything was wonderful. They have specials all the time and while the brunch french toast (key lime!?) was bizarre the other options looked good. I have a hard time selecting but I'm not complaining! I will definitely be back. For brunch there was not a long wait (10 minutes or less actually) and they had free coffee and asked us to wait outside by the heating lamp to get out of the ordering area. It gave us just enough time to select what we wanted. They have a bunch of desserts and sweets items by the register where you order your food and they always get me. I've had the brownies, cookies and pumpkin chocolate chip bread! ALL DELICIOUS! Very friendly staff as well.
(4)
Suzanne S.

Birchwood Kitchen is easily one of my favorite places to eat in Chicago and a place that I miss now that I've moved away. I love the casual feel of ordering at the counter combined with incredibly tasty yet affordable food, a clean and appealing decor, and exceptional service. They also have a beautiful outdoor patio and serve Metropolis coffee (my Chicago favorite). I typically stayed away from the busy weekend brunch. Instead I frequently popped in for carryout on the way home from work (often times not being able to resist eating the oatmeal butterscotch cookie before getting all the way home) or stopped in for dinner on a weeknight to share a bottle of wine (BYOB) and some girl talk with a friend. Birchwood Kitchen is definitely on my list of places to go on future trips back to Chicago.
(5)
Lara S.

Wonderful little neighborhood spot with a super-friendly staff and delicious food choices! I had a sandwich consisting of mozzarella, tomatoes & FRESH basil. The baguette was spread with olive oil and sprinkled with salt and pepper. Tasty! Also good was my cup of kale and sausage soup. My hubby had the quiche du jour. I can't remember what was baked inside, but it sure did taste gooood! We shared a freshly made butterscotch oatmeal cookie for dessert. Amazing!! Also, 2 cups of Metropolis Coffee La Cordillera blend. Perfect finish. you better believe we'll be eating here again the next time we're in Chicago!
(5)
Lara K.

Favorite brunch spot in the city! Great food, great service and nice low key atmosphere. The croque Madame is amazing!!
(5)
Esther S.

The best sandwich/burger place in town with the nicest, most welcoming staff ever! My boyfriend and I eat here almost every week. They serve the tastiest and freshest burgers (only tue-fri evenings). We love the turkey burger and bacon cheddar burger. Both served with fresh cole slaw and crunchy chips. The burgers aren't greasy like Kuma's, DMK, J Wellingtons, 5guys. It's also BYOB. The perfect place to have a low-key dinner. We don't know how more people don't know about this place as a burger joint! I honestly think their burgers are the best in Chicago. We always get their lemonade (basil or mint! yum!). When we feel extra indulgent we get some carrot cake for dessert. To die for!! For breakfast, their croque madame is wonderful. They have specials for brunch on the weekends, so we usually try something new and are never disappointed. For lunch, we love their steak sandwich. Basically this place consistently has the freshest ingredients and the kindest staff. Whenever my bf and I have had a string of bad restaurant experiences, we always need to come back to Birchwood to remind us that there is great food and excellent service in town. We LOVE this place!
(5)
tara j.

Tasty quiche with a flaky crust and delicious soup. Sandwiches are very filling and fruit salad is bountiful.Friendly attentive service.Its really refreshing when you enjoy a meal that was thoughtfully prepared.
(5)
Coll P.

What a wonderful spot to dine on sandwiches in the sun! I had the chicken salad sandwich on a baguette. Instead of mayo-y mess, it was dressed with a chipotle-sage aioli and topped with lime jicama and cilantro. YUM! I also drank the most refreshing basil lemonade, and took a butterscotch oatmeal cookie to go. Fresh ingredients, laid back staff and a sunshine filled patio make this a go-to for lunch.
(5)
Eleni G.

Great food, we picked up takeout from here for the first time for lunch since I had to be back at home to work. I got the croque madame - it was delicious and not nearly as rich and overwhelming as they usually make them in France. There they tend to include bechamel in addition to the egg on top, but this once was just the ham, cheese and mustard on the inside of the sandwich and egg on top. It was nicely done, with just enough mustard to give it a zing, but not enough to overpower the other ingredients. The dried herbs sprinkled on top added a bit of depth to it as well that I wasn't expecting. It gets an A+ in my book. My boyfriend had the meatloaf sandwich (which I also tried) and he loved it. It's rich, and there's a definite spice kick to it, but it was delicious. The bread for both of these sandwiches was great, perfectly toasted/grilled (not sure which). We also snagged a bit of the chicken and white bean soup, which was the soup of the day. A bit salty, but that's honestly to my liking, and it wasn't overwhelming. I definitely want to come back for a sit-down brunch or lunch, I'm ready to try more of the tempting menu!
(5)
Sarah Z.

No table service! That was a rude awakening on a Sunday morning. I am not all about carrying my coffee AND oj AND silverware to my table that I have to pick out when I am not yet thinking clearly because it is 10am and I don't really wake up until after I consume caffeine. Yes, I am a night owl. Besides that Birchwood is pretty fantastic. I mean, the food is the best. The people that work there are so friendly and nice (even though they won't serve you). There is nothing else quite on their level. A++++
(5)
Suzy D.

This review is really 3.5. My husband and I came here for brunch today for the first time. We'd never eaten here before and were excited to try it based on the reviews. We had basil lemonade, the GBLT (gravlax), spaetzle special, and a side of chicken sausage. Everything was very tasty, we just wish that there were more of it. The portions were kind of small and we left still a bit hungry. Maybe we will come back and try a sandwich sometime. I think this place has great quality food but the portions are bit on the small side so don't come here looking for a hearty brunch. It's more of a healthy tasty brunch.
(4)
Sandra D.

I had the bacon cheddar burger. It was very flavorful, but also very rich. Seriously, after I ate this meal I thought I would get gout. I had to go on a cleanse the next day just to rid of the fattiness out of my system. Saying that, I thought the food was fresh and the portions were great. Next time, I will order something much lighter.
(4)
Ashley V.

Excellent brunch fare - fresh, local ingredients, awesome staff, BYOB. Relaxed atmosphere - order at the counter and they bring your order to your table. I had the hash which was delicious and we finished off more than a few pastries. highly recommend it!
(4)
Kyle B.

This place was recommended to me by Candice G and much to my surprise its RIGHT ACROSS THE STREET from my apartment. How had I missed this gem? Anyway I ate here for breakfast and can't say enough good things about my experience. The staff was great and the place had a really cool vibe. I got a cup of coffee and the duck hash and it kind of blew my mind a little. One of the best breakfasts of my life. Eggs, sweet potatoes, duck, and all kinds of leafy green goodness? YES PLEASE. My date got the breakfast sandwich which she loved and was kind enough to share with me. I also really enjoyed it but not as much as the tasty and unique duck hash. If you come here on a nice day I highly recommend sitting out back as its beautiful and just has one of the nicest atmospheres I've found. I shall be returning here very soon!
(5)
Jelena Z.

Does anyone make better sandwiches than Birchwood? Possibly. For my most favorite of sandwiches (a Madame Croque), I head to Blackbird. If it's a chicken sammie I'm craving, Crisp has me covered. I go to XOCO when it's a high-end torta that I want, and Cemitas Puebla for the real-deal authentic (and under $7) torta. Italian? Go L'Appetito. But for the best tuna melts? I leave it up to the sandwich crafters at Birchwood. They also make insanely good tomato bisque (this coming from someone who typically hates tomatoes) and couscous. I usually go to Whole Foods for the Israeli couscous with cranberries but I'll be picking up Birchwood's version (with butternut squash!) moving forward. And watch out for that Judd guy - he'll try his best to fatten you up! I sampled no less than three items during my last visit thanks to his persuasive nature and... well let's be real, he didn't have to work hard to twist my arm - the food here is dangerously convincing! I still need to get my hands on what some tout as the city's best grilled cheese sandwich. Watch out skinny jeans, 'cause Birchwood is taking the skinny out with the swiftness of a wrecking ball.
(5)
Angie M.

Sometimes I have to seriously wonder if my head is buried in the sand. How on Earth did I possibly manage to avoid Birchwood Kitchen for so long? While my waistline is happy I stayed away, my taste buds are very angry at me! This little sandwich joint is a total neighborhood gem. BK is easy-peasy dining at its very best. Just hippity hop up to the counter to place your order, get a number, grab a table and hang out for a few minutes with the BK staff whips up your delicious sandwich. BOOM. Done. No pretentiousness and no crappy service. Just straight-up amazing food. While there were a few menu items that seemed to be calling my name (I'm talking to YOU turkey club and hot beef sammies), but the tuna melt seemed to be the clear winner. I LOVE a good tuna melt and I was totally ready to get down on the BK version, especially when it's described as Spanish tuna salad, gruyere and roasted tomato on multigrain bread. A quick sub of aged white cheddar for the gruyere for this girl and a side of green salad were on my menu along with the utterly drool inducing chickpea salad that I simply couldn't pass up. The friendly guy at the counter also offered to throw in the couscous salad gratis for the table. Win. What came to the table was pure tuna melt bliss. For the record? Spanish tuna salad is NOT your mom's soupy, mayonnaise-ridden slop. It's super light and has tons of finely diced veggies. I nomed on that for sure. The chickpea salad was every bit the fantasy I built up in my head, too. Chock-full of fresh veggies and chickpeas, it's not to be missed. Super-duper tasty! Birchwood Kitchen is also known for their amazing desserts, so our party shared bites of the sinful oatmeal butterscotch cookie, the classic chocolate chip cookie and the ridiculously great lemon bar. Honestly... this place is great. It's a perfect low-key, friendly spot to grab delicious sandwiches, a big, yummy cookie and chillax. And did I mention they're BYOB? Birchwood Kitchen FTW!
(5)
Adam G.

I LOVE BIRCHWOOD!!! My favorite non-dinner place in all of Chicago. They have a very unique menu, yet make all that simple stuff too and make it taste amazing (see "create your own" section). It's perfect for everyone. They also have the most unique and delicious soups you've ever had. You have to try their drinks too (they make their own lemonade, ice tea, fruit drinks, etc.). Lastly, they have this incredible pasta salad that comes as a side with every meal... You're probably thinking "how good can pasta salad be?" But it's amazing. Birchwood is the best kept secret in all of Chicago. #Birchtitties
(5)
Elif Y.

DUH SANDWICH!!! Delicious brunch, ymmy sandwiches and juicy burgers I would live here if I could
(5)
Andrew L.

Typically I'm anti-sandwich when eating out but this spot came highly recommended. I ordered the salume sandwich with petite salad. Both were phenomenal. The staff was incredibly friendly and attentive. There is also a patio space in the back if you Iike to commune with nature. Check it out if you're in the hood. Worth the $10 for a high end sandwich.
(4)
Karen N.

I wish I lived in Wicker Park just because of this place. Great food, great service, great vibe, great baked goods, great salmon burger.
(5)
Samuel M.

I like to think I'm tough to please when it comes to restaurants. All the more reason to be impressed by the essentially flawless experience I had eating brunch (a meal which, in and of itself, I typically find superfluous and snooty) at Birchwood this morning. Here are some ways in which Birchwood Kitchen shines: 1) Efficiently manages a Saturday brunch throng with minimal wait times by streamlining the seating and ordering process 2) Offers a menu which is both eclectic and not overwhelming 3) Coffee is strong and costs $2 for a bottomless mug. 4) The food is pretty spectacular; gourmet without any fluff. Biscuits and gravy ($10), topped with sausage patties and two sunny side eggs, are rich but soft like clouds, and are accompanied perfectly by the co-op hot sauce. Breakfast sandwich ($7.50), with vegetable frittata, bacon, and cheese on focaccia, is perfectly balanced between bread and filling (which is impressive, considering the fact that it's on focaccia, which usually dominates a sandwich). By far the highlight, however, was the simple baked mozzarella appetizer ($8), with tomato quarters, herbs, and oil. Very warm and satisfying. 5) Pricing is very low, especially for the absurdly high quality of the ingredients that are used. 6) Service is very nice without being intrusive. 7) Beautiful outdoor dining situation. This might be the perfect eating establishment. I'll be back, and back, and back!
(5)
Julia S.

I was here with the duchess herself. No words, just pleasure. Must have every item on menu. Like this place a whole bunch.
(5)
Michael H.

We had lunch here today. I had a meat loaf sandwich that was great. Served with pickled brussel sprouts and chips, both good. Others had speck sandwich, grilled cheese and pulled pork, all reported delicious. We sat outside on a day with a storm blowing in. Interesting stained glass windows next door. Food was good and this place is worth a wait to get in. Show up early on Sunday, as by the time we left at 1230PM the line to get in was clearly longer than when we arrived.
(4)
Zak O.

The food and the staff make Birchwood the PERFECT neighborhood restaurant. The weeknight burgers are amazing as is their weekend brunch. When you walk in the door they make you feel like an old friend or a family member. I've been there many times and always look forward to going back.
(5)
Jakkrit J.

Great Food. Great Portion Size. Great Service. Came here with a buddy in search of an awesome brunch and left very satisfied. I highly recommend the Smoked Salmon Salad Sandwich served with a light delicate side salad. The sandwich itself was exquisite, stuffed with a fair amount of salmon (being that I'm a ChubChub, I don't really say this often). If you're a fan of Lox, you'll LOVE this sandwich. We also ordered the Croque Madame. Due to my cultural upbringing, I think I am predisposed to like the Sunny-side eggs / bread combination. So this too was delicious. All in all, great stop for brunch. No complaints here, just one more satisfied customer. Definitely a must stop if you're in the area.
(5)
Dominique B.

Definitely has moved into a go to breakfast/brunch spot with us. First Impression: Great look and feel on the inside, with actual Birchwood trees in the store. Was immediately greeted and handed a menu and given a table. As it got more busy, they had a person greeting and directing people. Very well organized and very friendly staff. The process: You go up the counter and order and they will give you a table number there. Then your food is brought out to you. My kind of style, with great service that was quick and easy The food: God Damn...I feel as though all of our food should taste this good. They only use the freshest ingredients which you can taste. Most are seasonal and the food combination are original. I had the Madame which was a great mixture of a sandwich topped with two over easy eggs. While Paul, had the GBLT which was a combo of bacon & salmon and enjoyed it. Both came with a salad which was different, but ironically seemed to pair our meals perfectly. I'd do it again. Final Assessment: Since it's so close, this is a definite go to spot where there are plenty of options that change as the season changes. If you have more then 4 peeps, I'd go somewhere else. See you there one of these weekends!
(4)
Adoley J.

Everything that has been said about this place is true. I got the Croque Madame which was delicious. It was filling but not too much. The wait was not that long and the staff was friendly and very helpful. We went in for brunch and stayed for a while and never felt rushed. Cannot wait to go back and try more.
(5)
C D.

I really enjoyed this place. It's nothing crazy fancy, but a great local casual place to go for breakfast. We just tried it this morning... Shrimp and grits. Yummy!! I could see my boyfriend and I being regulars. My boyfriend wants to go back tomorrow morning.
(5)
Anne Marie J.

The service is small town neighborhood friendly, the food upscale panera-esque, with matching higher prices and infinitely better quality. Easy free street parking and seasonal menus...of course I'm coming back! Loved the thick pieces of steak and corned beef in our sandwiches. And wow, yummy bread- I can go against low carb diets when I'm here :) Thanks for heating up my oatmeal butterscotch cookie, even though you normally don't!
(5)
Tera D.

My original review of Birchwood Kitchen is from their first month of business, and I wanted to update it now that I've been there more recently. They've really come a long way, and I liked it so much more this time around. The service is phenomenal. Like really above and beyond. There was a wait on Sunday around 1 when I went with my mom and aunt. They were having people wait outside to keep it less crowded inside, but my mom and aunt were really cold and we debated going elsewhere to avoid the wait. The hostess saw us deliberating and said she could make space for us to wait inside, suggested we get coffee while we wait, and even brought us a cookie sample. It was great! The prices are still a little high, but the truth is that they're not that far from the going rate in this neighborhood. The food is good - I had the Gruyere grilled cheese everyone raves about, and it was good but I think I'd try something more complex next time. I also brought home an oatmeal butterscotch cooking that was addictingly delicious.
(4)
Reviewer M.

Blown away! First time here so we didn't know to order from the counter then sit but the service food and staff more than redeemed themselves. The food alone was enough. We had warm lentil salad, breakfast sandwich and the pork sandwich. Each was unique, filling and tasty! Would come back in a heartbeat!
(5)
Tina P.

Brunch here was pretty fantastic. Outdoor patio seating is quaint and feels like you're just hanging out at someone's house. Leave some extra room for dessert!
(4)
Thyra D.

Great little cozy casual neighborhood spot with friendly staff and delicious brunch/sandwiches/salads. Go!
(4)
Katherine H.

Such a shame. I'd heard good things about their catering, but our two phone calls in eight days were not returned. It made us question the quality of their customer care, and we decided to go somewhere more client-focused. Again, a shame. :(
(1)
Emily H.

The food was a little different than I'm used to for a brunch offering, lots of baked goods, fresh veggies, and whole grains. You could tell they used high quality ingredients, and did not skimp. Mixed spring greens, red skin potatoes, and there was goat cheese everywhere, it was like a storm of goat cheese hit my friend's salad! Plus, despite being prolific vegetable preparers, the Birchwood Kitchen still had enough energy to make excellent bacon. Normally a place that accomplished good veggies absolutely faceplants when it comes to preparing simple meat sides. The coffee was fantastic, and the oatmeal butterscotch cookie I bought complemented the mellow brew well. The seating system was a little irritating, but everyone on the staff was incredibly nice and genuine. I'd go again.
(4)
Jennifer W.

We had a large party and Jud and his crew welcomed us with smiles. We ate a variety of things from the banana French toast (which should be called the banana coma) to Cocque Vert with Brussels sprouts. All fantastic. They even have a real Klimpt to gaze at while you wait. Highly recommended.
(5)
Josh C.

One thing that is nice about this place was the short wait. We got there during brunch hour on a Sunday and were seated within 15 minutes. The staff were very helpful and knowledgeable about the food. Additionally, the restaurant is set up where you order at the counter and wait at your table. The food will be delivered quickly. My girlfriend got a Croque Madame that was enjoyable. The bread was toasted to perfection. All in all, the combination of the bread, ham and cheese, and fried egg made for a delightful brunch. However, the Chorizo that I had fell short of my expectations. The dish was over-seasoned and was a little too greasy. But the peach cobbler that we got made up for it. We will definitely revisit this place.
(4)
Matthew M.

Friggen incredible menu! Kid friendly, great outdoor area! Love the soups which vary, and really prefer the pot roast sandwich.
(5)
Casey B.

I have been to Birchwood Kitchen numerous times and I cannot sing their praises enough. First off the food is awesome. I am usually a meat eater but have found their vegetarian options to be incredible, particularly the chickpea sandwich. Unfortunately it is only on the menu sporadically. The club sandwich is wonderful as well if you are looking for more traditional fare. And the desserts--wow! The butterscotch cookie and the gooey butter cake are to die for. The venue also has a real cool vibe to it. What I might enjoy the most though is the customer service. I find the staff to consistently be upbeat and the owner/manager Jud seems like a great guy. In short I don't think you can go wrong with Birchwood!
(5)
Jenny H.

I LOVE THIS PLACE!! I got their gruyere and ham cheese sandwich, their basil lemonade (free refills) and a lemon bar. The sandwich was good but not great, I thought they could have used better bread or a grill to make their bread really crispy. I did like the great honey-like ham, slices of gruyere melted in between, with house-made mustard and caramelized onions. The lemonade was very refreshing with a subtle basil flavor. The lemon bar was just OK- I've had better elsewhere. SERVICE WAS AMAZING!!! I've never met more nicer staff in a cafe before. Most cafes make you order and then you're left to scrounge for a table, but this place takes care of you, where the host greets you warmly and makes sure you have a table to eat at. They were SO nice and always offered to fill up my lemonade and gave me a nice little counter space in order to eat lunch and do some work.
(4)
Daniel M.

My wife and I came here for brunch recently. There are several great brunch places that come up when you do a search. But, we decided on Birchwood Kitchen. The place was busy - which is usually the sign of a good restaurant. While we waited we had access to delicious hot coffee - very good. We waited for about 25-30 minutes, which is all I would wait for if I was coming again. The food is good, but not good enough to wait beyond 30 minutes. The restaurant was full with a good mix of young urban professionals and folks from the surrounding neighborhoods. Lots of really nice people we got to interact with while waiting for a table. We ordered the pumpkin pie french toast and croque madame. The french toast was excellent. Lots of creamy sweet potato compote with marshmallows and cashews. The croque had a fried egg on top that really worked well with all the flavors in the sandwich. There's a hit from the dijon mustard that just really makes this sandwich work. The prices were extremely reasonable. Places like the Birchwood are only going to use quality ingredients. The food is extremely fresh. You don't leave with that nasty aftertaste of preservatives in your mouth. We'll put this place on our list of places to go back to. But honestly, if there's more than a 30-minute wait, there's lots of other good options.
(4)
Cami R.

Very nice place and friendly staff!! Had the goat cheese sandwich and loved it!! My husband had the meatloaf sandwich and enjoyed it very much. Great place!!
(5)
Ramya P.

Grilled Gruyere sandwich.... TRY IT! Yes, it is the usage of shouty capitals. I'm so thankful to yelp. Its my fave website ever! The reason being a strong recommendation to try the deliciousness in BK. I went there when it was totally empty on a weekday and ordered the cheesy delight. The best decision I've ever made. The dish is so well thought out, that I have a new respect for the chef. The spicy dijon, caramelized onions and sharp melted gruyere is such a perfect combination. I also decided to go with the salad instead of fries... I know, no lunch is complete without deep fried starch but I just felt like getting a salad and it too was perfectly complimentary to the sandwich with picked beets, carrots and tasty dressing. Its just one time that I've been here, but when its true love, you simply know!
(5)
Shu L.

A friend told me about it. Last time I tried to find this place, I drove past it without noticing it (yes, it's pretty small). Now, I know, you can identify it by the big "B" sign outside the place. Love the decor - simple, zen, no pretense. Love the staff - straightforward, friendly, no-fuss. LOVE the food - HIGH quality for sure. Love the prices - must be because the rent for the shop-space is low, or that they are people who respect what they cook and serve. Their salads are to die for. So fresh, so crisp, so healthy. The breads ... Just 2 days ago, I was mesmerized and completely inspired by a yogi/health guru friend to go low-carb. Birchwood, for you, I gladly broke my resolve to minimize carbs. The breads look and taste soooo succulent, I could eat it everyday. Incredible toasting skills they have (or maybe some special toaster I never knew existed). We also had the Belgian waffles (best waffles outside of Belgium!), salmon sandwich, breakfast sandwich. The fresh fruit is really fruit. And, the Chocolate Fudge brownie ... it costs only $2.50, but is way superior than most other places that charge more. One more thing - they know how to handle crowds. Fast service, no panic. LOVE, LOVE, LOVE!!
(5)
Kari A.

Birchwood Kitchen is by far one of best spots in the neighborhood. The staff is extremely nice and I'm continually impressed with the food. I recommend trying out the specials listed each week. The quiche and homemade salads are a must. Save room for dessert, carrot cake is amazing.
(5)
Mikhail S.

Horrible. The food was awful and stale, bitter service, horrible atmosphere, and the price were astronomical. Wouldn't wish this on my worst enemy... Just kidding, the place is as amazing as everyone says. Obviously, since it has like a million 5 star reviews. Seriously, how much more persuasion do you need after seeing that everyone loves this place? Been here 3 times - the brunch sandwiches are huge and filling enough for 2 meals, the salmon plate and carrot ginger soup were both incredibly fresh and perfectly sized, and the prices are very reasonable. Make this your go-to for lunch/brunch in wicker park.
(5)
Stella A.

I wish I lived closer to this place. I would be there everyday for breakfast and lunch, and petition them to open later on the weekends so that I could be there for dinner. I was there on a Saturday for brunch. The place was packed of course. I was greeted by a friendly host. He said there would be a 15 minute wait. A place with a reputation like Birchwood, I was expecting that so it was not a big deal. He handed my friends and I brunch menus and lead us to their complementary coffee stand. Nice touch! 15 minutes later, the host told us our table was ready. Turns out it was an outdoor table. It kind of annoyed me that he didn't tell us it would be a 15 minute wait for an outdoor table and a 30 minute wait for an indoor table. I think that's something the customer should know. Anyhow, it was about 10 degrees hotter than hell that day so I wasn't too excited about the table. However, I was hungry! So outside, it was! When we sat down, my friend was smacked right in the face with the sun. We were at a table with no umbrella. We asked the host to move to a different table because of that and they were very accommodating. Onto the food. I ordered the Croque Madame. Everything about it was delicious. The ham: tasty. The gruyere: melted to perfection. The sour dough bread: had the right amount of crunch to it. The eggs: also good. Even the salad was good. It was a green mix, possibly arugula with a lemony dressing. My friend got the carrot cake for dessert. I tried some of it and was in heaven. It was so good. Not too sweet. The cake was moist and had a good amount of carrot and spice flavor. The light sweetness of the frosting complemented the cake well. Yum yum. I will be back for more!
(4)
Chelsea A.

One of my top three favourite places in the city of Chicago. Have never had a disappointing dish. The chipotle chickpeas are something I crave on the regular. And their steak sandwich is SO GOOD. I recently moved to San Francisco, and having to leave Birchwood behind was one of the worst parts about the move! I went there for my final dinner in Chicago. The staff, whom have come to know me by name over the past three years, were so sweet. They gifted me one of their awesome oatmeal butterscotch cookies as a send off. I'll be back, Birchwood, just you wait!
(5)
Jenny Z.

My husband and I went to Birchwood Kitchen on Saturday and were greeted by a very friendly man who put us on the wait list. He told us to help ourself to water and coffee and take a seat on the sunny patio. It was delightful. When our table came up, we ordered (Spicy Sweet Potato Soup-light, flavorful and delicious, Fritatta Breakfast Sandwich with potatoes and salad-Amazing!!, Mushroom Biscuits and Gravy: WOW, Butterscotch Oatmeal Cookie-addictive and perfect amount of crunch with a soft middle) from the brunch menu and it was fantastic! I couldn't ask for better and fresh food with pretty great prices as well! The only way I could see our experience improve was Dan at the ordering counter-I found him to be rude and smug. Also, we were told to "help ourself to coffee and water" once we were on the waiting list. This would lead one to believe it would be free. I feel like they should just put up a sign that says "bottomless coffee, $2.95" or something....otherwise you give people the impression that it is free...then charging someone when you see the mug in their hand feels a bit rude.
(4)
Len S.

When liquid meets meat, heat and flavoring you get either overcooked meat or something completely divine. In the case of the Birchwood Kitchen it's the latter. I refer to the incredible and amazing pot roast sandwich. I've had some good stuff between two pieces of bread, but the combination of pot roast, cheese and the other bits and pieces that make this plate just work. Seriously, the pot roast sandwich may be one of my favorite sandwiches ever. The young woman that helped us make our choices and informed us about how the waiting/ordering/sitting works informed us that the seasonal menu is about to change, so go get the sandwich before it vanishes from the menu until next year. In addition to the sandwich we feasted on the mushroom gravy and biscuits. Yeah, that's good stuff, really good stuff. The gravy is rich even though it's vegetarian. The flavor of mushrooms come through and stand out as a driving force encouraging you to chop that biscuit to shreds and sop up every drop of that flavorful brown stuff. I don't think you can go wrong with anything ont he menu including the bacon stuffed sausage which is packed with flavor and grilled till the outside crisps like a deep fried sausage. cutting into it releases a torrent of juices. Yum!
(4)
Simone M.

This place was a great welcome to me since it was my first meal as a resident of Chicago. I had the Rosemary Lemonade which was deliciously refreshing (and you get free refills). Parking may be difficult especially on game day at Wrigley Field, but if you're patient you'll find something. The Oatmeal Butterscotch cookie and Lemon Bar were especially good. My mouth waters just thinking about them. Though it's a distance from where I am now, I'll certainly make the trek over there.
(4)
C W.

I've been here several times throughout the past two years and they have never failed! Such good service and amazing food! That and one Sunday Brunch when I asked if I could have something and they found out after I had paid that it had run out they actually offered me free deserts on the house. If more restaurants worked like this then I would always be a happy customer.
(5)
David R.

Not only is Birchwood Kitchen still making phenomenal sandwiches (poached garlic shrimp, yo) and superior chocolate-chip cookies, but they also sell jarred pickled vegetables. I love pickles of all kinds, but these guys take the practice to a higher level. We're talking about cumin carrots and brined brussels sprouts. Two of my favorite vegetables! Beets too, but you can get pickled beets anywhere. Where else have you ever seen pickled carrots and brussels sprouts by the jar? Both are delicious, but make sure to eat them up quickly, because unlike Vlassic, these babies will not last forever. They aren't chock-full of preservatives, of course.
(5)
Christine M.

Good place, only dropped a star because they said the wait was 20 mins which was fine. We walked around and came back where they said it would be another 20 mins. Little annoyed by that. Don't lie. Just tell me it's a 40 min wait!
(4)
Melissa P.

I have a real lunch crush happening with Birchwood right now. OK, the setup is a little weird when it's busy-- put your name in to be called to wait in line?-- but it seems to work pretty well, and I think the counter service speeds up the table lurkers a little. The environment inside is cozy and cute, and the patio out back is leafy loveliness. I had the marinated tofu sandwich the first time, which is a nice take on a bahn mi, and an *enormous* sandwich. A big crusty baguette with huge hunks of spicy vietnamese-style marinated tofu with shaved cucumber, radish, carrot, cilantro and jalapeno (if you're a spice wimp like me, beware, cause i ate a humongous hunk and then had to take an eyes-watering-coughing-sweating break, which might be frowned on depending on your dining company). The crunch of the bread and the softness of the tofu balance each other really nicely. The next week, we went back and I had the croque vert, a gruyere-y vegetarian take on a croque madame. With all the cheese and the fried egg and the dijon-- it was delicious, but a little overwhelming. It would be good to split-sy with another person. (Also, maybe not the best impressing your dining companion choice, cause I was kinda wrangling the oozy cheese and runny egg yolk with my fingers, which is not really all that cute.) My fella had the tuna melt both times, once on sourdough and once on multigrain. It's piping hot and not a mayo bomb like most of the tuna melts out there. Really good. On the side we've had the asiago arugula pasta salad -- yum, and the chickpea salad -- also yum. All the sandwiches come with a decently sized side salad that's a nicely composed and lightly dressed addition. Also, the tall fellow who was running the ship both times we were there was efficient, helpful, and really nice. The rest of the staff is pleasant and friendly, too. Bonus. Maybe I'll go there for lunch again today.
(5)
Mike G.

***RUDE HOST***Â° We arrived for brunch at approximately 11:30 on a sunday, we were told by the host that it would be a thirty minute wait. After waiting over forty minutes we were asked to wait outside. I found that odd as I didn't see anybody else asked that. After waiting outside for 20 minutes and noticing that we were the only people waiting outside while everyone else, even those that came after us, were waiting inside, we went back inside. I spoke with the host, about the wait as it was over an hour now, nearly 1 hour 15 minutes. I asked why we weren't seated and why a large table that could have accommodated us was split into two smaller tables, for two parties that arrived after us. The host began to get defensive and says to me "do you want to argue or do you want to sit and eat." Obviously I want to eat which I tell him, he then proceeds to tell me that he "can't explain his job to me in thirty seconds." I'm thinking in my head, you take names and you seat people, tell me more on the complexities of your job. Anyways we eventually were seated, the manager Lana was kind and friendly and very apologetic. The food was good. And honestly I would have probably gone again, however, I found it hard to enjoy the meal after the rude encounter with the host. Such rudeness tends to ruin the whole dinning experience, regardless of the quality of the food. Btw apparently you order and pay for your food, once you're seated they bring your food to you...would have been nice to have known that. The 15 year olds at Chili's make a better host than the lifeform they have here.
(2)
Judy L.

Oh the gravalox bagel is divine. Lemon bar, perfectly tart. Service and atmosphere, absolutely sweet.
(5)
Kensey W.

this place was amazing. i loved loved it for a casual lunch. got to try the pot roast sandwich and the goat cheese sandwich. the pot roast was tender and juicy, well-flavored but not too salty - just the way it should be. the bread on that was warm and chew too. mmm. the goat cheese had a delicious chunky paste on it (i'm guessing it was the walnut pesto, but it tasted sweet to me). the pickle beets went perfectly with the creamy goat cheese. my bread was toasted so that it was way too crunchy and it cut my mouth, but i still have to say that i enjoyed it immensely. sandwiches came with a size-able mixed greens salad that was crispy fresh and had a tangy sauce on it. such a good mix. all for under ten dollars. the people working were super super friendly and helpful. also, check in on foursquare because you can get a free cup of delicious coffee!
(5)
Luke P.

Great food but I don't have brunch here as often as I'd like due to the long wait on the weekends. Love stopping by when I'm in the area on a weekday and their weeknight dinner is pretty good too! The pricing is pretty fair, everything is very high quality.
(4)
Molly D.

Cute little brunch place, staff is super nice
(4)
Melanie S.

This place still gets 5 stars. I've been several times since my first visit and I always come away very satisfied. How many things can you say that about? This past visit we came for brunch. I went back and forth on what to get because everything sounded so yummy. That's always a good problem in my book. The friendly counter guy, who is always soooo nice when I go there, was so patient while I decided what to get. I ordered my food as well as a lemonade. He asked if I wanted regular lemonade or basil lemonade. Are you kidding me? I had to go with the basil. I got the breakfast sandwich which was a vegetable fritatta and aged cheddar on grilled foccacia bread. It came with perfectly roasted red potatoes and a spring salad on the side with lots of sliced beets. Yum! We got our food (my friend ordered the same thing but added bacon to her sandwich, smart gal that she is) and ate our food outside in the lovely back area. It was so pleasant and smelled so grassy and green. The food was great and the lemonade was delightful and refreshing. The best part is that this lovely meal set me back only $11. It's hard to believe I can get food of this caliber and friendly service for such a pittance, but I'm not complaining! Birchwood, you continue to impress me. You've earned a fan for life.
(5)
Mike H.

Their stuff is very good. The chicken salad (sandwich) deserves 5 stars, as it tastes great. The homemade baguette, soft meat, everything works on this one. By the way their bread (4,5/5) is very good for sandwiches, it does not have too much taste but the taste is still very good, just perfect bread for a sandwich. It could have been a little more crunchy though. I also tried the grilled gruyere (4,5/5), chocolate chip cookie (4/5) and banana bread (4/5). The banana bread was very delicious the only problem is that i was in Toronto at Mystic Muffin a few days ago and had a banana bread there and that was actually genious so i couldnt give this one more than four stars. The rating ist for the sandwiches not desserts. If i would include the desserts it wouldnt be five stars anymore but i really want to recommend the sandwiches.
(5)
Stacey H.

I went to Birchwood kitchen for Sunday brunch. There was about a 30 minute wait, but they gave us free coffee while we waited and it was a nice morning so it was actually quite enjoyable. I had the beet sandwich and it was absolutely killer. Crusty bread, beautiful beets, lots of goat cheese, and walnut pesto. The side salad was great too. I am so excited to get back to Birchwood soon!
(5)
Tori C.

My boyfriend and I got breakfast here a bunch before we moved a neighborhood south :( I've only ever eaten their egg sandwiches, french toast, and grilled cheese. But they were all so good that we came back a lot. I love the vibe here too. Laid back, but attentive. The seating/ordering situation is different, but someone always comes right up to you when you enter to make sure you know how it works. I will miss this place. Friendly and delicious.
(5)
Yanyao N.

Perfection at Birchwood Kitchen comes in threes: 1. They make the perfect sandwich. Really. Ordinarily I have issues with most sandwiches - bad bread, too much/little filling, too much/little condiments, or I'm just bored of the offers. At Birchwood Kitchen, I had major issues. What do I want to eat?! I choose a sandwich over salad, then cold over hot, then narrowed down to 2: duck or speck. I went with speck and it came down to the green apple slaw on the duck vs. the fig blood orange compote on the speck. If the only decisions people had to make where ones like these, life would be a much better place, no? The sandwich was perfect. Baguette was crusty on the outside, chewy on the inside. The speck was salty, smoky and there was plenty of it. Balanced with peppery arugula and the sweet fig blood orange compote that haunts my dreams... simple, unassuming.. perfection x1. 2. They make the perfect side salad. How many sandwiches have you had that come with lame sides? A bag of chips? An apple? Mediocre fries? Green leaves with too much balsamic dressing? Bah! The side salad that you can choose to pair with your sandwich (and you should do this, eat your greens!) is dressing with a tangy dressing and has shaved carrots, homemade pickles, and a thinly sliced pickled beet in it. You know someone in the kitchen is spending many a prep hour at the mandolin. Absolutely mind-blowing that a side salad would be so thoughtfully crafted. And yes, the best side salad I have had in my life. Perfection x2! 3. Their staff provides the perfect service. The people who work there are incredibly friendly. You are greeted when you walk in and told about the specials. Everyone has a smile of their face. The sweet girl who brought our sandwiches went to wrap up our sweet treats as we weren't eating them there. The guy at the counter? My dreamboat server, offering up a sample of their lentil soup when the white bean escarole I wanted wasn't available and fielding my questions about the bizarre bowl of green veggies in their display case. Turns out, they are pickled broccoli rabe! Dreamboat server saw my curiosity and gave me some to sample (note: not for those with weak stomachs). Perfection x3. This place is just fabulous. I eat out a lot and I haven't left in such excitement from an establishment for a while now. (A few hours later, my schoolgirl crush giddiness was replicated as I sampled their lemon bar, fudge brownie and chocolate chip cookie.)
(5)
Brian L.

My new upstairs neighbors invited me to this place for brunch. They kept raving about how delicious it was... and they were right. All ingredients were incredibly fresh and tasty! A really great breakfast/lunch spot... It was pretty crowded, we waited 15 or so minutes for a table. A little high priced for me as a regular spot; was a little under $15 for a breakfast sandwich and an OJ. Maybe nice for the once a week hangover cure :) But having said that, it was really delicious.
(4)
Kathleen C.

Sunny Saturday after the blizzard....wanted to try somewhere new and Birchwood won. Cute spot with one of the friendliest hosts ever. We stood for a while attempting to decide what to order. The host nicely offered me a taste of the Spanish tuna (would have been delicious if I liked peppers...). Croque Madame for me...I really wanted this sandwich to be out of this world based upon the reviews. It was good, but my eggs were overdone and the sandwich wasn't very warm. The side salad was tasty, but not sure how the one piece of celery and sliver of carrot fit in. The regular ham and cheese was ok, but it was deli ham...and the cheese wasn't very melty. Coffee was quite delicious. Also, the bread they use is great. Service was super until they cleared our table and left bits of greens all over... Price-wise, I suppose it's average for the city, and I would have liked the sandwiches to be phenomenal. I think maybe we just didn't order the right things.... Bathrooms....eh, a 3....please clean the floor..
(3)
Caroline A.

We had our lunch delivered from here and it was absolutely fan-tastic! A work friend and I shared two sandwiches - the Speck and the Vegatable Sandwiches. I don't eat pork very often, but the Speck really hit the spot. The fig-blood orange compote was a delicious compliment to the thinly sliced prosciutto on the chewy pretzel like bread. The vegetable sandwich was... ok. We sampled some of their desserts... and they were all amazing. The lemon squares, chocolate chip cookies and brownies were sinful. I was a bad, bad, BAD girl!!
(5)
Zo O.

I got the goat cheese sandwich with pickled beets(sour), walnut pesto(sweet), and arugula. I chose to have it with the 'petit salad' instead of the chips, and the 'petit' salad was pretty legit for a side salad. It was an interesting combination. Def worth trying. My foodpanion, Grace L., already ate.. but she devoured her grilled mozzarella sammich like a beast :) good job. So I'm guessing the grilled mozzarella was yumsome as well! They didn't have AC ... D: ........but they refilled my black iced tea w/out me asking.. so I'll let the no AC thing go :P
(4)
Jourdan S.

Great spot. It's small cute and quiet. Beyond all that mushy shit, it's got great food and really friendly staff. You'll be hard pressed to find soups and sandwiches with their level of quality, and thoughtfulness to overall taste and dish composition. I'd eat hear way more if it were just a little closer to my house.
(4)
Mike N.

Great Saturday brunch spot. Delicious food and really interesting flavor combinations.
(5)
Adam K.

After 380 reviews I will not get detailed. This is a good place for brunch, different than bongo room, but in the same arena. very intimate space, my friend commented that this place seems like it would be featured on anthony bourdains show or something. Meats come from local places like paulina meat market which I like. cappucino is good, the blood orange juice is not on the menu but when you order a regular orange juice, they're like" you want a blood orange juice?" Yes. Its good. The food took a little longer than normal but they said sorry it is taking so long and brought out a piece of delish apple cake something with frosting on top that was sublime. Very much appreciate that. Marinated brussel sprouts were amazing. I will be back. Great service.
(4)
Abby T.

I like coming here for a casual lunch or dinner. I have gotten the pot roast sandwich both times I have come here (yes, I know....I'm boring. hehe). The food takes approximately 10 minutes to come out. Birchwood uses fresh ingredients and caters to a semi-sophisticated palate. I have never brought booze here but it is worth mentioning that it's BYOB. It's actually a very chill vibe in there; never completely crowded. The staff is friendly and more than happy to answer any questions about the menu. They have daily specials and soups so you can try something new every time you visit.
(4)
B C.

I really wanted to love this place but our experience here left us feeling otherwise. My husband and I went here for brunch this morning and he ordered the mojo lamb (which was deccent but not great) and I ordered the shrimp and grits. I had to spit my first bite out because the shrimp had gone bad. We hailed down the server who took the plate away and then the manager showed up to tell us that she tasted the shrimp herself and that it tasted fine and I must have gotten a bad bite or something! She then asked me if I would like something else and so i ordered the quiche with a side salad. I especially requested that she make sure they leave out the onions from my salad and she said she would take care of it. 20 mins late the quiche arrives and there are onions in my salad. The managers response was "ooh well they are easy to pick out" We also ordered the ricotta cakes but they were charred and the charred flavor overtook the whole dish. I couldn't imagine going back here again. The only good part about the meal was that the manager bought over the $$ that we paid for the shrimp and grits and did not charge us for the quiche.
(1)
Anna C.

Seated outside and i enjoyed the coziness but i didn't like the salmon salad sandwich that much. my friend's breakfast sandwich was good though. i'm not too crazy over the food but it was definitely relaxing there!
(3)
Peter C.

Fantastic!!!!! Grilled cheese sandwich, bacon sausage, baked french toast, oatmeal cookie, and coffee...ALLL FANTASTIC! Wasn't too impressed with the pot roast sandwich but the people I was with enjoyed it. You should all GO!! I know I'll be back soon.
(5)
Jeff W.

Great neighborhood spot to stop in for a quick and delicious bite. I would like either my family, significant other, or drop in solo... great atmosphere and quick service. Great sandwich selection that comes with a tasty side salad for around $8-$10. Not too bad, but if you add a drink, extra side, or a dessert (look so tasty at the counter, hard to pass up!) then you're looking at a $15 lunch. Kind of expensive but well worth it if you're enjoying the atmosphere. I got the Salume hot sandwich - thick sliced prosciutto americano that was so delicious, salami calabrese, mozzarella, roasted tomato, home made giardinaria on sour dough bread. I love Italian style sammies and this did not disappoint! Not too messy either! Got an additional side of fruit salad. Very tasty but for $2.50, I thought I could have made this at home. Would probably opt for the pasta salad that looked tasty. Will definitely be back!
(4)
Melissa S.

For those who don't know how it goes at Birchwood: When you walk in you are seated at a table. Remember your table number. Then you stand in line and order at the counter, giving your table number with your order. Pay now. If you ordered beverages, go to the end of the counter and wait for them. If you want water, go get it yourself. Then go sit down and wait patiently for someone to bring you delicious food. Enjoy the heck out of it. Then leave a tip and be on your way. My BF just moved to the neighborhood and I am thrilled to have an excuse to become a weekend regular for brunch at Birchwood. By going here with friends, I've sampled things from all over the menu and they've all been really, really good. My personal favorite for brunch is the chorizo con papas, the pickled onion is what really does it for me. I recently had a strawberry shortcake that blew my mind. The rotating variety of sides on display in their case have always been great as well, in my experience. The service is always really friendly, you these people like their job and want you to be happy. The interioir is bright, clean and simple with a casual and lively atmosphere. And they serve Metropolis Coffee! My one desire: more options for folks who don't eat gluten and dairy.
(5)
Pascal M.

From beginning to end, Birchwood is magnificent. Birchwood is inviting, friendly, and easy going. I love that you place your order, opposed to ording off a menu. It makes the experience more about the food and who your with, plus it gets you in and out a little quicker. As you order they have all their racks filled with beautiful pastries and fresh bread. They also change their menu seasonally, while still keeping their staples. It gives you just another reason to go back. Everything is extremely fresh and made with care. The portions are generous and the prices are unbelievebly low for the quality of food you're getting. The apple cider, their coffee, and juices are all awesome. Any sandwich is a winner, especially the hot ones. Perfect during the Chicago winters. This is a spot anyone could become a regular at.
(5)
Aurore L.

Not all romances start all at once. Actually- the whole love-at-first-sight thing is a little BS if you really want to know what I think. Love at first sight? Hmmm....rather "lust" at first sight. Unless your name is Snow White, Cinderella or Princess Aurora. Note: My name is not Aurora. OK, maybe a bit cynical - especially with the holidays just around the corner but I believe that love slowly builds up. Repeated visits, several tastings, conversations, a couple of embarrassed silences and one day - you realize it's there, and there to stay. That day happened for me on Black Friday 2011 when I ordered the special sandwich of the day. And to be perfectly honest - as soon as I laid my eyes on the description I knew I would fall: aged Wisconsin goat cheese, curried cauliflower, cilantro, onions, Milwaukee sour dough. Dare I say perfection? I do. Perfectly toasted bread. Not abrasive, not chewy, just riiiiiiiiiiight. Oozy, gooey cheese. Not a chalky, pasty mess, no, huh-huh. I am not sure what they used but damn that's a mighty tasty one. Veggies!!! Flavorful ones! And yellow! With a glorious bite! The side-kick was a nicely dressed salad of beautiful greens. I was so happy that I wanted to get up and sing in the dining room, all of a sudden and out of nowhere like a "Glee" character but I just savored every bite, reluctantly letting my friend take a bite of MY sandwich. And we might have a problem because she loved it just as much as I did. Uh-oh. Birchwood for brunch, lunch and dinner. Birchwood for sweet snacks and free coffee refills . Birchwood inside, outside, in winter or in the summer. Birchwood - forever.
(5)
Monty M.

I came here during a weekend trip to Chicago and I was overly impressed with Birchwood Kitchen. I got the croque madame for brunch and it was absolutely delicious. The latte showed that there are some coffee making chops out in Chicago (sorry, we're annoying elitist about that in the Bay Area). My girlfriend got the breakfast sandwich, which neither of us found particularly awesome so stick with the house specialties and recommendations. What gives this place a 5 star review is the amazingly friendly staff. They are so nice that I could probably just hang out there all day. This place is a great brunch choice.
(5)
S.C. B.

This place is one of my favorites. Great weekend food and service. Everything is yummy. Wonderful vibe and crowd. It's my home away from home!
(5)
Casandra A.

Akward walking in as first-timers! You order at the counter instead of being seated. Someone will bring your food to your table but doesn't wait on you. Food was ok. Didnt live up to the hype of its ratings for me. Great lemon bars.
(3)
Sara M.

So this one time, I went for a run and stuck $10 in my key pocket for a post-run meal from Birchwood. I inadvertently ordered $10.95 worth of food and before I could change my order, the gentleman behind the counter pulled $1 from his own pocket to cover me. Amazing.
(5)
John K.

I have been here twice. I still cannot understand why this place gets such good reviews. The staff is nice and the food is fresh. The sandwiches are good, but there is no reason to go out of your way to do here. A lot of places in chicago have good sandwiches.
(4)
Dan S.

Birchwood Kitchen is doing everything right, from the care they put in to crafting an amazing menu to the perfection of their service. I live down the street and pick up food there at least once a week depending on how groceries are lasting. The food is fairly priced, delicious, and seems balanced and healthy for cafe type dishes. I think the number one reason I love this place, though, is the staff. They LOOK "hipsterish" (not to be derogatory), but they sure don't ACT hipsterish at all. It's a place where the entire staff could get away with being rude and pretentious, but not a single employee does. They are friendly, happy, and seem to genuinely care about their customers, even when you can tell the place is hectic and packed. This is rare in Wicker Park/Bucktown, where a lot of service employees focus more appearing "cool" (rude) than serving the customer. Everyone that works at Birchwood is friendly and happy, and that's cool in my book. So they do everything right here, and the reviews on Yelp reflect that.
(5)
Sarah P.

The facts: Interior is cozy and clean, there is a sunny back patio area, free refill coffee is not the typical watered down taste (I actually drank 3 cups of it), great atmosphere, and the pot roast sandwich was descent. I actually liked the small side salad better than the sandwich. The baguette was fresh and added great texture to the sandwich. You order and pay at the register, grab your own seats, and wait. The chocolate chip banana bread and espresso brownie was a-maz-ing. It wasn't overly sweet and tasted great with the coffee. I would definitely come back just to have their coffee and pastries. Great place to come with friends to chat and catch-up. The workers/owner are super friendly, and came outside several times to check up on me and my friend sitting outside.
(4)
Josh W.

The pot roast sandwich. The curried cauliflower grilled cheese. The BEST turkey sandwich out there. AND....Staff who are actually friendly! I love Birchwood Kitchen.
(5)
Kevin W.

Great pork belly sandwich (more like a pulled pork moist than the traditional slabs of pork belly w layer of fat that I'm used to, but still terrific). The microthin slices of apples complements well. Bread perfect. Kale soup w sausage was great and hearty, a very homey flavor to it. Will try their pot roast sandwich or seasonal specials next time here.
(4)
Julie R.

I don't think I have enough nice things to write about the Birchwood Kitchen. It's the ultimate comfort restaurant - a wonderful atmosphere, the kindest staff you could ever hope to find, consistently good food, and reasonable prices. Their regular menu (which changes seasonally) is full of delicious and reliable staples, but I find it very difficult to stray from their ever-changing, always delicious specials menu. As a vegetarian, I have to give a special shout out to the portabello chili. Holy moly. It's as hearty and flavorful as any carnivorous chili out there. I eat here way too often. Like, waaaay too often. And I've never once left feeling even vaguely dissatisfied. It's like if a teddy bear were a restaurant. I can always turn to the Birchwood Kitchen and know that I'll leave feeling warm and snuggly.
(5)
David M.

Not enough words to describe how all around wonderful this place is. Every piece of food we had was beyond delicious. Fresh and amazing. I simply couldn't love it any more!
(5)
John B.

I live nearby and go to Birchwood frequently. They offer a lot of great options (meat, vegetarian, soups, healthy options, baked desserts, etc.) and friendly service at a very reasonable price. It's most popular for brunch but it is also a great option for dinner. They have a seasonal menu and their side options rotate daily. They are very good at what they do.
(5)
Kyle H.

I didn't quite know what to expect from a place called a "Birchwood Kitchen". "Kitchen and Deli" might better explain the casualness and affordable price point of Birchwood. We walked in and saw numbers on the table, a chalkboard menu, a deli case; but what to do? I prefer not having to ask how the ordering/seating process works when I visit a new place, but once I did, the super-friendly owner explained it all. The fresh-squeezed lemonade was a delight if you're not BYOB'ing it. The art touches on exposed brick was nice, but the real birch trees is where it's at! Bring more! The servers that brought our orders to the table were always friendly and never did the drop and run. I started with the lentil and spinach soup of the day, which was comforting. My lovely dining partner's Grilled Gruyere cheese sandwich sounded amazing, but I had to go for a burger and got the Southwest Turkey Burger with pickled red onions and homemade chips. The turkey burger was so moist I almost didn't think it was turkey. So many people do dry turkey burgers, this one was amazingly juicy! Kudos to Birchwood for embracing local sustainable ingredients, making them taste amazing, and serving them at a price anyone can afford. Check their website for Farm-to-Table nights (the next one is Dec. 7).
(4)
Melissa B.

Chicken salad sandwich is ammmmazing. Goat cheese bagel- I get at least once a week. All the drinks are very refreshing, especially the teas. Great coffee too. Super friendly and helpful staff. LOVE.
(5)
Brooke O.

I can't say enough about this place.Their patio is perfect, croque vert on point, and endless delicious coffee. The folks who work there are enthusiastic, accommodating, and just happy. One time, I got there just before they were closing for an event, and they gave me a chocolate chip cookie! Seriously awesome customer service.
(5)
Vanessa R.

They have really awesome Portabella Chili & the corn bread that comes with it has just the right amount of sweet to it! The grilled Gruyere sandwich is also very good. I added salami to it and it gave it a nice flavor. I definitely want to go back on a burger night or to try the breakfast!
(4)
Tia S.

I initially found Birchwood Kitchen through Yelp, when looking for a place to do a roommate brunch. They had a lot of stellar reviews, and with two out of the three of us being vegetarian this place seemed like an alright option, though to be honest I wasn't really sure what to expect. When we arrived, we were greeted immediately, and the guy at the counter was very patient while we spent forever looking over the amazing menu. Birchwood is a cute space, a nice mix between a cafe and a sit-down restaurant. The outdoor seating is also a bonus, though when we went it was a little too hot for that. Anyway, everything on the menu sounded delicious, and the fresh, local ingredients were a huge plus. When we finally made our decisions, we ordered our food and were told it would be about ten minutes. Not bad at all for brunch! My roommates both got some version of the gourmet lemonade, and it was fantastic, not to mention it came with free refills! Our food came out very quickly and was amazing. The breakfast sandwich was made with simple ingredients but was SO GOOD. I got the market salad which was also fantastic - the flavors worked together so well (or maybe I'm just addicted to goat cheese), and it was a reasonable portion, which I've found to be rare these days. Seriously, why is it so hard to find a salad that's not either MASSIVE (I'm looking at you Cheesecake Factory) or three pieces of lettuce and one crouton? But I digress. I definitely planning on going back to Birchwood: great food, great service, great ambiance, and reasonably priced. What more could I ask for?
(5)
Daphne L.

I had a long overdue lunch date with an old friend, and Birchwood Kitchen was her suggestion. She said it was an "organic sandwich shop," which left me wondering what that meant..good, it means good! Our tete-a-tete was set for 2:00 pm on a Thursday so we were past the lunch rush, which I'm assuming this place gets. I walked in and was greeted by a very nice lady in a white paper hat, who invited me to pick any seat I wanted, and brought me a menu to peruse while I waited for my date to arrive. The smells coming from the kitchen were absolutely heavenly, and I was afraid I'd wind up ordering one of everything. I knew I wanted a hot sandwich and maybe a cup of soup to go with it, and I was given a very generous taste of the spicy sweet potato soup (yum!) to accompany my grilled Gruyere and ham sandwich. My date brought wine but I like to have a nonalcoholic side beverage to go with it, so I ordered the homemade lemonade. I can't rave enough about that lemonade; it was so clear it looked like lemon-flavored water, but has a wonderfully fresh taste and isn't too sweet. If they sold that stuff by the jug I'd be there every week for my fix. My friend had the lamb french dip (i think that's what it was) which looked delicious, and I'll definitely have to try next time. Her first visit was for a birthday dinner for a friend, and she said the burgers are to die for. I believe that means a dinner visit is in order. We sat there for at least 3 hours talking, drinking, eating, and at no point did we get evil glares to hurry up and leave. Granted, we were the only patrons in the joint, but, I still appreciated the lack of "hurry up and go." Birchwood Kitchen offers fresh delicious food in a warm setting, all overseen by a super-friendly staff. I can't wait for my next visit.
(5)
Leslie G.

I just wanted to add that I came here recently and tried the pumpkin baked French toast. It was hands down the best French toast I've ever had!
(5)
R K.

A friend and I were seriously overdue for a reunion and I decided we should grab lunch together here. Minutes before leaving, I made the mistake of checking my email and saw an email saying that the results of my board exam were available. This exam consumed months of my life and I had been convinced to this point that I had failed it. In a panicked frenzy, I clicked on the link to get my results. Since thousands of other OCD board takers across the country were all doing the same thing at the same time, the server had crashed. I sat for 30 minutes hitting refresh. At this point I was late for lunch. I called my friend, told her what was up, and she immediately pulled over and started to attempt to check her scores. 30 more minutes of this, and we decided to give up, have lunch, and check afterward when hopefully the website was working again. We went to lunch and talked about all sorts updates in our lives and gossip. We both enjoyed a delicious cheddar and apple sandwich + soup combo. Slightly too heavy/salty from the buttered bread and cheese combo, but a good and necessary comfort. The menu is full of creative and tasty looking dishes made with mostly local ingredients and I intend to come back and try them. The staff is friendly and our waiter who clearly sensed that we were both not of sound mind at the time was respectful and kind. The service is fast and everything affordable. Overall, Birchwood was a great distraction; I plan to return and hopefully enjoy it more. And I actually passed!
(4)
Michelle M.

Birchwood is such a gem! 1. The food is delicious. Everything I've ordered there I've been very impressed. 2. The staff and owner are incredibly friendly. There is always a smile waiting to greet you. My husband and I went in recently to celebrate our anniversary. It had just rained so the outside patio was wet. They kindly cleaned off a soaking table/chairs to let us sit outside and enjoy the post-rain weather. 3. While at times it can be busy the wait is never too long. 4. The prices are quite reasonable and it is BYOB. It really can't be beat. I'm just happy I live so close to be able to visit frequently.
(5)
Ashwin J.

Love this place. Nothing to add to whats been said. Food is brilliant, service is probably their top lure..as a reviewer mentioned they let u go at ur pace.... Wife and i go with our toddler and they are very baby friendly.
(5)
Julie A.

I'm so desperately in love with you Birchwood Kitchen. I've heard so many wonderful things about this beautiful restaurant. I loved it from "Hello" to "Have a good day!" I meandered in on a Saturday for lunch with a couple of girlfriends, and we were all thrilled and impressed. I had the Caprese sandwich with roasted tomatoes, fresh basil.....I'm a sucker for roasted tomatoes. One of my friends had the sweet potato gratin, and another had the mushroom sandwich. I didn't find anything to be boring. I've been on a quest for a wonderful sandwich shop for quite some time now. I'm happy I found one! Everything was fresh and delicious and the tomato bisque soup was lovely as well. I can't wait to go back - I think about it all the time.
(5)
H. Y.

Great food and service. It's a small place and they don't take reservations so prepare to wait (especially for brunch). I'd recommend getting carry-out instead, as the tables are really close together. Food is good and it's in a great neighborhood.
(4)
Jessica V.

Just great. I've never eaten anything I didn't love here (I've only been here for breakfast). Good service too. Come early or the wait can be very long. We always bring our three year old, and the cramped space is kind of a pain but the food makes up for it.
(5)
A H.

What a great brunch spot! The staff was super friendly and accommodating to our large group of seven. They put us out on the patio, which is a cozy, quiet spot. If the weather is nice, I'd recommend sitting outside. The food and drinks were delicious! The iced chai was amazing, and is highly recommended. Everyone raved about their dishes, and not much was left when we were done. My Croque Vert was pretty much the perfect breakfast sandwich. I also recommend trying one of their baked goods as part of your meal. The oatmeal butterscotch cookie was tasty, especially since it had just come out of the oven. I have heard great things about their dinner menu, and can't wait to try it out!
(5)
Carol K.

Take one rainy, Friday afternoon, couple it with two old friends catching up, add in some good food and what do you have? Birchwood Kitchen. A perfect way to wile away an afternoon. As I parked my car out front (free street parking- is that even possible anymore? But there really were no signs) and dodged the raindrops to the door- I wondered why I had not been to Birchwood Kitchen before. The space is quite nice with exposed brick walls lined with birchwood (clever, eh?) with seating along the left wall and in in the front windows and the counter that you order at to the right side. Specials are written on large chalk boards in the front but if you are like me and can't remember what you want from the chalkboard by the time you walk over to the cash register, take one of the to-go menus- it helps. They ask if you have picked out a table yet (all the tables have numbers on them) and after you tell them where you are seating you place your order and then sit and wait until it is brought out to you. Not a long wait might I add! I ordered comfort food all the way around as I was tired of my feet being wet in my good shoes and my hair looking like a disaster given all the rain as of late. Split pea soup with big chunks of ham and a grilled cheese on baguette with tomatoes and bacon (there was a pork theme here for sure). My friend had the soup and their garden salad. We also ordered a couple of their "diet colas" some kind of pure cane sugar drinks that, while it wasn't my stand by of Diet Coke, it was good in a different sort of way. The food was delicious (and huge, I might add) A half of sandwich had that been an option would have been plenty. And the salad so big that only half got eaten there as well. And hold on to your seat- the potato chips that they serve along side in their own little "tower" are worth the trip alone! Lunch for two cost around $28. They also do brunch and know that it's BYOB. A great find- even my friend who hangs in the area often never heard of it so while I hate to give my new favorite place away- take it from me. Go sit- have a sandwich and some soup. And you'll be raving about it too!
(4)
Candice G.

Fan Flipping Tastic! For just under 10 bucks I got a great veggie and cheese sandwich, homemade chips, and a phenomenal gazpacho. The guy at the counter (I think he might have maybe been the owner) went above and beyond in customer service and gave off some really positive vibes... ew, I just said vibes. Anyway, he was awesome and deserves mad props. If I lived or worked closer, I'd be back a lot more often. the only thing that I wasn't a giant fan of was that they were caramelizing onions towards the end of the night and the onions fumes seeped out of the kitchen and into my eyes and hair... but that's nitpicking. This place is totally worth having red eyes and stinky hair for. OH SH*T! I forgot one of the most important things... BYO mfing B! Totally 5 sexy stars.
(5)
John L.

Honestly this might have been the best lunch I've ever had. I went with the pork belly sandwich at the time and boy was it something special. Moist, flavorful with wonderful set of toppings packed between great bread. The wife and I were just tourists passing through Chicago and this was my favorite meal there. Nice friendly charm to the place as well.
(5)
Johnny T.

If you can manage to get here at 15 o'clock on Monterday in the middle of Marvtember, you're going to enjoy an incredibly good meal served by really nice people. Seriously, BK, you make great food. Stay open so's working folks can get to Wicker Park to try it. I stalked Birchwood Kitchen for a couple of months. I worked on the Near West Side and there was no way I was making it to Wicker Park before closing time [I wanna say that the 8 pm thing is new; didn't it used to be 7 pm?]. My friend, who works in Wicker Park, would tempt me with tales of incredible sandwiches from Birchwood Kitchen...eaten leisurely during her lunch time. I'd had enough. One Saturday, I woke up early enough (8-10 hours of sleeptime please) to get over to Wicker Park to try the food. The owner (?) greeted me and offered up some suggestions as to what I should get. I was running late for a 3 pm meeting and I was planning on taking CTA (mistake, I know) to get there, so I decided to forgo the whole experience and order a sandwich to go. Once I looked at the sandwich, though, I decided to stay. I ordered the Speck. Prosciutto. Truffle oil. Do you need to know anything else? It was served, lovingly, on a plate with chips. I ordered a Black Cherry (I think) soda to wash it all down. The sandwich was incredible. It's a sandwich. What's the big deal, right? The big deal is good portions, great ingredients and obvious pride in an excellent product. I sat in the front window and watched the urban summer scene unfold before me. With every bite I thought, "This was worth the wait. This is worth being late to meet my friends. This is worth it all. Wow. I can't wait to come back." I.can't.wait. P.S. Yeah, I was late. But, I kept deflecting. "You're late." "OMG! I ate at THE best sandwich place." "You're late." "There was prosciutto AND truffle oil TOGETHER. ON THE SAME SANDWICH!!" "Why are you always late?" "The CTA." "Ok. Let's drink."
(4)
Marielise J.

Delicious brunch food and beverages (great chai), friendly staff and relaxed atmosphere. Looking forward to future visits.
(5)
Alissa G.

Judd and crew are so warm and friendly, it's like eating at friend's everytime we go. Granted, they are very talented and amazing chef friends but...you get the idea. Love!
(5)
Allie M.

Best brunch I've had in Chicago! (and I've been to a lot of places) Great atmosphere, fresh ingredients, delicious sweets, great espresso! Really a great place.
(5)
Debbie L.

This place is the best to visit during spring, summer, and fall to make use of the back patio. Great selection of sandwiches to pair with coffee/tea for brunch or lunch.
(5)
Bubba G.

Delicious food, great service! Do I need to say more?? I can't believe I didn't stop by sooner! Definitely coming back here!
(5)
Mike K.

"Stuck inside these four walls..." So on her 29th* birthday plus one, I decided to take her to Birchwood Kitchen for lunch. Yelp gets all of the credit for this one. Yelpers have gotten this one right. Cheers. I'm not much of a Bucktown/Wicker Park kind of guy because this part of town always conjures up dirty, gritty, unkempt images that tend to scare sheltered, conservative, formerly suburban boys. That should fly well on The Yelp. Well, Birchwood Kitchen is none of the above. Birchwood Kitchen is basically an immaculately spotless country store turned urban sandwich shop. You get the best of both worlds with this urban oasis. There's lots of dark wood as well as the light wood of the actual Birch tree that miraculously has grown inside the place. When you walk in, you'll be greeted by a friendly, unpretentious and sincere counter person who will advise you of the protocol. You order, have a seat and then your food is squired to you in an ever so friendly manner. I've never had more gracious, candid service anywhere. It's remarkable and extraordinary. As for the food, the gruyere with ham was lovely, as was her panzanella salad (I could seriously eat a plateful of those addictive pickled red onions.). The same goes for the iced tea, which they will refill for free. Tea and free are always for me. Everything about this place is perfect: the food, the service and the ambiance. The company was perfect too, but you can't have her. Hey, they even spin my records. Bravo. As such, being... "...Sent inside forever..." ...wouldn't be a bad thing, as long as it was inside Birchwood Kitchen. Five magnificent and glowing stars. Get yourself and your band on the run to this place forthwith.
(5)
Khadijah L.

Very nice cafe, nice atmosphere, serving metropolis coffee and some of the most delicious looking baked goods! Amazing menu, although I only sampled the chicken salad sandwich and the biscuits and gravy breakfast. I liked the chicken salad sandwich but the biscuits and gravy came to my table *cold*. the biscuit was hard/dense and cold. the gravy was equally cold. too bad it could be really good gravy.. it was a black pepper mushroom gravy. I hope to come back here again soon to try other things on their menu. I was spying on other people's plates and I think it's worth coming back.
(3)
Andrew W.

Samples of zucchini bread as soon as we walked in, so instant fan. Two sandwiches: croque de madame and salmon on bagel. Both were really good, and I liked how the bagel was slightly burnt (intentional or not) because it really complimented the salmon flavor.
(4)
Colleen R.

One of the more thoughtful sandwich shops in the city. Everything is made with top-notch ingredients, carefully presented and generally delicious. My pork belly sandwich was an upscale banh mi, served on a fluffy baguette with pickled onion, carrot, jalapeno and cilantro. Accompanied by a lemon bar and an iced tea, the meal wasn't cheap even after using an A La Card, but it was well worth a try.
(4)
ben w.

I am writing about their brunch, that is all I have experienced here. Definitely outside your comfort zone, seat yourself, put an order in at the counter, get your own coffee and wait. Worth it? Yes. Even though you do it all your self there are plenty of busybodies going around making sure everything is okay and cleaning. Food is top notch! I had the bacon bread pudding, a bit dry but good with a couple of runny eggs on it. Coffee is exceptional. Outdoor patio looks beautiful, get here early for that, it fills up quick. I ate around 10 am, it was pretty peaceful when I arrived, by the time I left it was packed. Thinking about going here? Do it! Thanks for a great breakfast Birchwood!
(5)
Kristin R.

I wasn't sure how I would feel about Birchwood, since I don't really like sandwiches, and thus obviously rarely eat them. But, I was pleasantly surprised, and I must hand it to the yelp community: the 4.5 stars Birchwood earned are well-deserved. First, we were a party of three and we were helped within 10 minutes of putting our name in. Keep in mind this was a beautiful Saturday afternoon at noon, so I was shocked it didn't take longer to get seated. But our "greeter" informed us we were sitting at the "lovely" table #28. The outdoor section is so cute and calm. Not overly crowded or loud, but relaxed and charming. I was flustered in the beginning because I didn't know what to order! What with all of the sandwiches, I was pretty much screwed. No just kidding, I really wasn't. Luckily I love myself a grilled cheese. So I ordered a grilled cheese with gruyere, onions, and dijon mustard. I was thinking in my head...."dijon mustard on a grilled cheese?" I asked my friend Kirsten (who knows my eating habits like the back of her hand) if I would like it and she said that I likely would. So, I went out on a limb and tried a grilled cheese with mustard. This might seem like a normal combo to all you foodies out there, so don't laugh. As I've said before, I don't harbor the most sophisticated of palettes. So anyway, it was so yummy! The dijon mustard sort of cut the grease, as my friend explained, and while it was an odd pairing, I really loved it. The onions were a nice touch, and the mixed green salad was perfect. Lightly dressed and refreshing. Top it all off with a bottle of perrier sparkling water, and you have yourself a very nice Saturday brunch.
(4)
Liz O.

Birchwood Kitchen is a restaurant that convinces you Chicago is really just a small town. EVERYTHING about this place screams amazing. The warm atmosphere, inviting personable staff, location, outdoor seating, and DELICIOUS food. I've been here in the winter, summer, with a small group, a big party etc. And I don't think we've ever left a plate that was not spotless. It's that good. I highly recommend the goat cheese cream cheese & bagel. I usually get it as an appetizer of sorts for the table to nibble on. The hosts are welcoming faces, that make me want to come back every week. I would live here if I could. Run, don't walk, there.
(5)
Kristel S.

Had the pleasure of trying Birchwood's new year's brunch menu on Saturday and my lips still quiver from the thought of the french toast. it's prepared in such a way that half inch rectangular stalks of bread are stacked together with a half inch rectangular stalk of egg on top (or bottom depending on how you see it). No need to add syrup or fuss about it. Just put it all in your mouth as soon as it's set down. Don't ask people at your table to try it because it will leave you less to eat---even when you're crying about how full you are, it'll be hard to let it go. Also had some bacon stuffed sausages and I easily gave up my "just eat the meat" philosophy when i'm full--french toast trumps bacon at the Birchwood Kitchen. Other pros were the friendly staff and the butterscotch cookie. I'm not sure how I feel about the cafeteria style ordering. Upon entering, you walk up to the counter, grab a menu, order at the counter and pay, then you get assigned a table. I'm generally okay with it, but when you have a larger party of couples where one of the two orders, it can create a huge awkward standing crowd hovering over hungry people... but once you get a table, it's good eats!
(4)
Claire Y.

Great hot sammies -- I really like the mozzarella with roasted red peppers. They also have some great salmon burgers and soups. Very friendly servers (esp. that one really tall guy with big smiles) and inviting, casual atmosphere that facilitates digestion. They have some interesting, non-conventional sodas and beers as well. I'd love to return to try other hot sammies shortly.
(4)
Christine B.

Friendly service! Quick ordering and getting food. Sweet potato soup was fantastic! Homemade chips. Nice cozy little place! Highly reccommended.
(5)
Amy L.

We come here for brunch frequently. Great food, friendly staff, and fresh ingredients! Love, love, love!
(5)
Lauren D.

Birchwood Is a super yummie sandwich shop. I always go for the goat cheese sandwich because (gasp) it has beets! Each sammie comes with a side of delicious chips. Basically I think they read my mind of things I love...beets, coffee & cheese. The service has always been fantastic. One time I ordered a side of potato salad, but one of the chefs decided it wasn't all that awesome, so they gave us a free olive plate. How awesome is that!? I still thought the potato salad we pretty good. The one reason I didn't give it 5 stars is that its a wee bit pricey for just a sandwich.
(4)
Summer F.

A delightful little trendy spot where you order at the counter and then feel free to just chill. Food was great. One note, the Greek yogurt is very authentic, not sweet at all.
(4)
Kassi C.

Beer. Jelly. Need i say more?! Birchwood Kitchen is a fantastic place to grab a sandwich, and I should know as I am a sandwich expert. *flashes badge* At any rate, they make fresh sandwiches with loads of fantastic ingredients. They also over wonderful salads and various vegetarian options. Decor is cute, isn't too pretentious, considering the neighborhood, and is reasonably priced. Just go there already. I suggest the Ham on the pretzel roll. p.s. they make a mean Arnold Palmer.
(4)
Mary Beth K.

The back patio reminds me of the porch in the city you always wanted. Best thing about it? If you look close, you'll see fresh herbs and veggies growing all around you. Hence, fresh ingredients on their menu. There's nothing like fresh basil from the back porch on your sandwich... (I didn't confirm this with the owners, so don't go quoting me). Regardless, their ingredients are the freshest. Their sandwiches are simple, but packed with flavor. Portions are large. Service is genuine and helpful. I also love their prepared salads of the day... fruit, pasta, potato... all lovely. And they have sumptuous fresh juices- apple, lemonade, orange. The sandwich snob in me says thumbs up.
(5)
Barbara S.

went here with a friend and my daughter on the day before Thanksgiving. They were about to close, but stayed open long enough for us to take our time and enjoy our meals. We didn't linger, but we didn't feel rushed either. The atmosphere is nice, reminds me of a place I went to in London. Reasonably priced, quality seasonal ingredients. I had the bacon, lentil, goat cheese, spinach and mango salad. Amazing. What I couldn't finish, they boxed up for me. My daughter had a kids PB&J combo, tasty potato chips, and a side of fruit. A pretty good deal, and she enjoyed it. My only suggestion would be that they get some larger paper bags with handles on them, we had to carry our little to go boxes outside and it was raining heavily. I still ate my damp leftover salad (wilted greens and all), because it was just that awesome. Also, they can turn every sandwich combo into a salad, which is great for people like me who don't eat bread. I can't tell you how much I hate grilled chicken ceasar salad being the only meat salad offered at restaurants. I can't wait to try the duck salad in the future. This place does not disappoint.
(5)
Nadina D.

YUMMY!! This place rocks! Delicious sandwiches, salads, soups made from thoughtfully sourced produce and meats. Did i mention BYOB! I went for lunch on a saturday. I like that they try to keep costs down by not having a waitstaff. I had the speck. yummy! la quercia speck! my fav! i want to eat here everyday. My friend had the lamb dip, also amazing. I would like to come back and try their brunch as I saw other diners plates and it look yummy as well. They scored bonus points for playing Air.
(5)
Justin F.

This place is awesome !! Came from Florida to visit a buddy and YELP" brought me here ! We ordered all kinds of awesome items. Pork Belly Baquette, Goat Cheese Sandwich and killer lemonade. The staff was super cool and next time I'm in the "Windy" I'll be stoping by again.
(3)
Luan N.

Wow! Tried the lamb, speck, grilled mozarella and all were great. I just love their combination of enticing ingredients. I wasn't a big fan of the herb jus nor was the container dip friendly, but I still enjoyed the sandwich. My friend, Cliff ordered a gruyere with ham, and was thinking to myself, what a boring order. I drove you all the way from Evanston and you ordered such an unoriginal, uninspired item?!! But let me tell you, that was probably the best grilled gruyere I have ever had! Cliff also said the espresso was excellent and as good as some of the ones he had in Italy. Service was very upbeat and friendly too. So currently, Birchwood is my favorite sandwich shop in Chicago.
(4)
Olivia L.

Our party of 5 adults and 2 babies in highchairs had a great Sunday lunch here! The young man at the front door was very helpful in explaining how the restaurant worked (even though I already knew bc I had researched it here on yelp). We arrived while they were busy, but only waited about 20-30 minutes for a table on the patio. There was great shade and a breeze! A few of us had breakfast food and the others had lunch. All of our food was well priced and delicious! I had chicken salad which was delicious! My husband keeps raving about his shrimp salad! They were very pleasant and helpful with our children. The only thing negative is that we had to go unside and ask for drink refills. Overall we would definitely go back!
(4)
Amy J.

Loved. I heard great things about brunch and since I had the $10 off in my A La Card deck I had to try it out :) My friend and I arrived at 10:45- prime brunch time. I was prepared for a long wait...starving and a little hungover I was very pleased to find there was none! Love that you don't have to deal with an annyoing server before you've had your coffee- you just order at the counter, get your own coffee and have a seat. Not to mention the people there were so so nice and service was great. My friend ordered the breakfast sandwich special that looked good but I could not miss a bite of mine so did not even share :) I had the butternut squash hash- woah. So good, I practically licked the plate. Buttternut squash, bacon, maple, spinach and other things I'm forgetting under 2 friend eggs. Deliciousness. I also got a brownie to go for dessert later and ate only a quarter of it- so rich and yummy I'm trying to make it last a few days. Can't wait to go back and try something else!
(5)
Emily D.

If you don't have friends with a backyard patio, here's your stand-in. (sidenote: add some new friends to your stable. See "not having friends with a boat" for similar advice). I thought Birchwood might make me want to take an ax to some timber, wipe my brow and stare up at the canopy of trees shading a hard day's work. I thought of pioneering, of covered wagons and beans on the fire. More West than Midwest. And the good news is the patio might as well be in Frisco, Colorado. It's drenched in sun and flanked snuggly by some mighty fine Chicago architecture. Stained glass type shit. It's a quiet oasis on North Ave. Imagine. We ordered with fervor, hungry and hot. The staff was entirely edible themselves, really. From the man behind the counter, who we later saw in street clothes and exchanged a few beats, to the food runner with her impressive tats (I try not to stare, but gorge) and upbeat answer to "Wasn't there supposed to be ham on this?" being "Right on. Hand it over." I got the fennel salami sandwich with roasted tomatoes and red peppers and fresh mozz. Toasted and melty it was crisp and slightly cool, woody and smooth. Each bite was different. These folks are using great, local, fresh ingredients. And I'm big on all three, especially lately. If I'm putting it in my (ever-expanding) body, I want the best. Or the best I can afford. Shouldn't we all? Companions on this chuckwagon journey got ham and gruyere and the club. So it's all sandwiches (and some great sides), but they have quiche and a phenomenal breakfast menu too. Oh, and a Dyson Airblade. I had never used one before. I'm out of my cave now.
(4)
Ashley A.

Kind and attentive service -- and this is just a walk-up-to-the-counter-order-deli-styled type of place. The staff makes it feel like a kid in a candy store, minus the candy. You get the idea. I had the Croque Madame. WowWEEEEE. The eggs were a perfect sunny-side up, the baked ham was savory and the gruyere -- oh my I just love cheese. Yup, that good. The sourdough was actually sour...I was in sandwich heaven. It came with a hefty side of mixed greens with some pickled onions sprinkled on top. I don't mind paying $13 for lunch/brunch if it knocks your socks off. I think I'll go back for the Grilled Cheddar sandwich with bacon and tomato please!
(5)
Jennifer J.

I highly recommend this place. I went here with a group of my girlfriends for our monthly BYOB dinner and we all loved it. Not to mention, the manager brought us out two big COMLIMENTARY dessert plates of assorted goodies. This was above and beyond what we expected from the place and we definitely loved it even more. The sandwiches are delicious and unusual with the right mix of flavors. Try the coleslaw or rice, both were fabulous. Simple dining but with great food. I will definitely be back to take new people to this great find. Love that it's BYOB!
(5)
Ben S.

This place is great. The design of the place just makes you feel like you're in from the "city" bustle. It reminds me of Portland. Anyway, the service is great, the people smile, the food is all natural and fresh. I had the pork belly sandwich which was similar to the Vietnamese banh mi. It was good and tasty but I felt it needed some kind of sauce or dressing but is definitely delicious. Mixed veggies with a touch of kimchi was tasty. The grilled Tallegio cheese and pear sandwich was great. Desserts don't make you feel guilty afterward. Can't say enough about this place. If you like healthy and delicious food AND you like to support small local businesses this is the place to be.
(4)
A S.

Birchwood is amazing. Have been there 50+ times, and the quality and consistency are unparalleled. Great for brunch/lunch, but weeknight burgers are lovely as well. Best items: croque Madame, egg salad/salmon bagel, soups, pastries. They have great seasonal items and weekend brunch specials as well
(5)
Marge K.

The Birchwood Kitchen has the kindest, most professional staff in the area. We were given a 30 minute estimate on our wait time for brunch the other week (which pales in comparison to most places in the area) and when we were seated before that time was up, the host offered us two complimentary beverages for our patience. Now that's hospitality! The space is a bit tight for groups, but perfect for couples. The food was delicious and the service was fast and friendly. That's all I want when I'm hungry for brunch!
(4)
Rose N.

This place is amazing: the food is fabulous, the servers polite and helpful, and the price is right with a wide offering and BYO. I have tried the lentil soup and a mushroom concotion which were both very flavorful and heartwarming. My husband and I have bad only warm sandwiches (daily specials, veggie w/ leek, and lamb dip) and burgers so far which have all been fabulous. We are eagerly looking forward to the spring to eat outside and try the salads and cold sandwiches. PS- order the chocolate chip cookie and they will warm it for you, perfect :-)
(5)
Lori L.

So, after a weekend of gluttony with red meat, I was delighted to meet my friends for lunch at Birchwood Kitchen, where sandwiches rule the menu. I was going to opt for their Grilled Mozzarella sandwich. But, then I saw their lamb French dip sandwich with herbed jus and pickled onions. Meat boycott, bye bye. Oh, was this sandwich worth falling off the meat wagon. I wasn't sure about the pickled onions, but they worked well with lamb. It was a good sized sandwich and tasty to boot! I only had a couple of the house chips. They were crunchy and tasted, well, like potato chips. I'll be more than happy to return and try their BYOB brunch on the soon to be opened patio.
(4)
Monica U.

I live almost next door to Birchwood. My boyfriend complains about it every time I suggest going because he thinks everything is about $2 more expensive than it should be. On one hand, it is about $2 more than I think I should be spending on a burger or a sandwich. On the other hand, it's par for course considering the yuppifying creep into wicker park. While I never WANT to pay a bit more for a great sandwich, that's what the $2 are buying you. Everything at Birchwood feels and tastes fresh and fancy. I always get the burger - but they only start serving them at 5pm. I asked the owner once, he said it had to do with how small the kitchen is. Whatever, it's worth the wait. The green salad is fresh and tasty and big enough. The soups are always fresh tasting and delicious. Also, as other reviews have mentioned, the owner, a 40?50?something man has this odd charisma that makes interacting with him an unusually positive experience. The other staff are also unusually nice and patient. A few weeks ago my boyfriend and I went up to order and happened to get to the cashier right before a huge group of people got up to pay. Nevertheless, the cashier, without a hint of an attitude, answered boyfriend's endless questions about if x dish had y ingredient. The atmosphere is really clean and friendly. They play good music but not too loud. I'd recommend Birchwood to anyone, so long as they weren't feeling cheap.
(5)
Lindsey M.

This place is super cute, and they seem conscious and try to do everything right with local (and fancy) ingredients, but i'm not sure it's worth the higher-than-average prices. The back patio was lovely, very clean and well shaded. I had the iced tea--which was delicious, not too strong and just sweet enough--and a panini-style vegetarian sandwich with sourdough from the local Red Hen Bakery, mozzarella, mushrooms, and a tomato-ish sauce. It was tasty, but it wasn't huge, and it was $7.25. Same with my friend's heirloom tomato salad with goat cheese. It was tasty, if a bit salty, but came on a little plate and cost somewhere around $6. But, as my friend said, how many tomatoes can one eat in a sitting anyway? I would probably go back. But, next time I will go in expecting to pay a lot and eat a little.
(3)
Marisa P.

Delicious! Cramped entryway on the weekend, but that goes for most brunch places in the city. You order and pay at the counter. Fresh squeezed grapefruit juice, fresh ingredients (tried the Croque Madame and Croque Verde). Would love to try this place for lunch and during the warmer months when the terrace is open. Great spot!
(4)
Whitney S.

My kind of place. Quiet, nearby, outdoor seating, accommodating and helpful staff, AND amazing sandwiches!! Who doesn't like sandwiches, really? Especially when they have classics and exotic combinations. Everything looks fresh, and makes me hungry. I had the chickpea salad...it was good, but would try something different in the future.
(5)
Janette L.

I am total sucker for a BYO. Sometimes I don't even care what food they serve as long as I can bring along some 3 buck chuck. All kidding aside, this is a great sandwich joint with a really nice outdoor seating area. I think this is an good place for a lighter (aka not gut busting greasy) dinner with friends. I had the salmon burger and would highly suggest any of the burgers there. Everyone there was very kind and attentive. I haven't tried the brunch yet but may have to drag myself over one Sunday morning.
(4)
Helena B.

I'm in Love. With a sandwich place. Seriously. From the very start, everything was absolutely perfect. When I first arrived, I wasn't sure if I should seat myself or order from the counter. If I order from the counter do I wait while they prepare it or will they bring it to me? Or do I come back to pick it up? Potential missteps abound! Before I have even the slightest chance to be perplexed, a chef (I'm assuming he was a chef, he was wearing all-white chef-clothes) calls out to me and explains how it all works (Order from counter, sit where you want, they bring it out). So friendly, I like this place already! I take time to peruse the menu (plenty of meatless options, gold star for that) and order a grilled Gruyere sandwich and black cherry soda. I resist temptation and forgo dessert from the impressive selection in the display case to the right of the register, but next time (as there will be many "next times") my resolution will not be as strong. I head out back to their patio and grab a seat. This patio is an absolute treasure. Honestly, pure bliss. I could pitch a tent and live out here if they'd let me. My sandwich is brought out to me by a lovely, smiling server (seriously, everyone on staff here is an absolute gem). Oozy, cheesy goodness topped off with caramelized onions. Mmm... Nirvana with a side of chips. ::Bliss::
(5)
Dan G.

A small sandwich/brunch spot that hits the ground running. They have a variety of hot and cold sandwiches that look delicious and more importantly taste great. The grilled goat cheese sandwich is the "bomb" so to speak. The cheese is creamy, the butternut squash adds flavor and texture and the sourdough roll it is served on is a perfect match for this sandwich. Along with amazing sandwiches, there is tasty brunch/breakfast selections as well. And they have weekly specials. I had their Country Ham Plate. Which sounds as good as it tastes. Smoked ham steaks, to sunny-side up eggs, a biscuit with honey, and a small side salad. They all worked together in a symphony of flavor. The biscuit was really something special and I hope to see some biscuits and gravy on their menu soon. They tons of homemade desserts like cookies, lemon bars, and other sweets. I have yet to breakdown and try one but from the reaction of the people who were eating them around me they must be delicious, So as you can tell, great place, small and intimate, local foods and a extremely friendly staff. This place is worth seeking out!
(5)
Holly C.

consistently delicious and delightful environment. dig the self service. their back-of-house staff is REALLY cute.
(5)
Ed R.

Suffice it to say, I was very disappointed in Birchwood. Tried the blue cheese-roast beef and the portabella mushroom sandwiches, with a side of corn chowder. The soup was lukewarm and bland. The mushroom sandwich was ok. The roast beef was very fatty, like chewing beef-flavored gum. And the bleu cheese was terribly overpowering. Might give brunch a chance, but very unimpressed with my first visit.
(1)
Adam M.

My first experience at Birchwood Kitchen was nearly perfect. The service was friendly and genuine from the moment my friends and I walked in the door. The wait for a table was not long, but we were offered delicious hot cider samples while we waited. I ordered the Blue, a roast beef sandwich with caramelized onions, Dijon mustard and brandied blue cheese (I opted to add bacon, because that's the kind of guy I am). The gentleman at the counter was kind enough to warn me that it was a strong sandwich with a kick. The warning was appreciated, and confirmed that I was ordering the right thing. The Blue definitely delivered the kick. The onions were tangy, the blue cheese was strong and the Dijon burned my nostrils. It might not be a sandwich for everyone, but it was for me. I enjoyed everything about the restaraunt, from the atmosphere to the menu design. I will definitely go back for more.
(5)
Yara M.

I went here for a quick lunch with my friend today, and it was perfect- exactly what you'd want from a lunch! We shared the grilled cheese and the pot roast sandwiches, and both were equally delicious. For dessert, we shared a lemon square and it was scrumptious. Service was prompt, everyone was friendly and it was overall a great experience! Highly recommend.
(5)
Angelina M.

My husband and I love coming to this place. They have the freshest ingredients. The staff is really friendly.
(5)
Ellen M.

Fresh, inventive sandwiches and sides in a cute little place with over-the-top friendly service. They use local, seasonal ingredients and seem to change the menu often. Very happy this place is right around the corner from me! The man at the counter was unbelievably friendly and helpful in his suggestions for my carry-out order. I decided on the mustard potato salad as a side, and when I realized they had a watermelon, feta and mint salad I asked if I could switch. Without missing a beat, he wrapped up both for me and said it was on the house. The watermelon salad was amazing (I definitely recommend), while the potato salad was a little bland. As for the sandwich: I had the grilled gruyere with caramelized onion and baked ham. It was delicious, and perfectly grilled. I'm looking forward to trying brunch there as well as sampling a few of the other sandwiches for comparison. It's also BYOB!
(5)
Kathryn M.

I wandered into Birchwood last night to have some dinner, and I loved everything about the place!! Everyone was just so friendly, it felt like one of those small town sandwich shops that's been around for ages and everyone knows you and is happy when you walk in the door. From the second I walked in I was greeted by people behind the counter who casually mentioned some specials and favorites with a smile. I decided on the lamb french dip, served with herbed jus and pickled red onions - yum!! The man who brought my sandwich out gave me a quick rundown on how and where the lamb was raised and explained that it was braised in beer from Piece down the street - a good, local sandwich. I dig it. For dessert? A lemon cake (bar?) with some homemade strawberry jam. I felt like I was eating at my grandma's house, only so much better. Next time I come back, I'm trying the homemade lemonade.
(5)
Jenni B.

I had the pumpkin polenta which was AMAZING. I went around 1045 am on a saturday, and it was pretty packed. the service was fast and the people are nice. I had the croque madame which hit the spot too. GO HERE its worth it
(5)
Carolynne M.

Nice interior, nice vibe. The people working there were pretty awesome as well, they let you know they were very appreciative of your business. Had the "blue" sandwich which consisted of roast beef, caramelized onions, dijon mustard, and brandied blue cheese on sourdough bread. The meat was of incredible freshness and of high quality. The toppings were quite strong, especially the blue cheese, which made for a tasty sandwich, but folks who arent used to such strong flavours may want to take note. The white bean soup was delightful and full of so many ingredients it was almost to a chowder consistency. Oh and if they have it I HIGHLY recommend getting the cucumber-cardamom lemonade. Sounds incredibly weird, but might be the most delicious beverage EVER. I would go back just for that drink it was so heavenly. Sandwiches run from $6.50 to $9, so while they arent cheap, they also are totally worth the cost for the excellent preparation. This ain't no $5 footlong deal here, but I am picking Birchwood Kitchen over Jared and his deal anytime. BYOB too! Nice!
(4)
Kim J.

I think Birchwood Kitchen could be a 5 star joint, but I'll need a few more visits to figure that out! The boyfriend and I both got home kind of late tonight. Ensue whining about how neither of us felt like cooking. I took the opportunity to suggest that we head up to the Birchwood Kitchen for dinner. He agreed, and off we went. My word, was the food ever good. I had the much-yelped Blue, and it certainly lived up to the hype. I had the fruit salad with it - I love places that make a fruit salad that isn't full of melon (yuck!) and the Birchwood Kitchen delivered. The boyfriend had the beef sandwich, which he seemed equally excited about. And he raved about the potato salad and the ginger lemonade that accompanied his meal. It was a bit pricey for a sandwich joint at almost $30 for the two of us, but you get what you pay for, and we both had a fresh meal that was made with lots of local, in-season ingredients. Oh, and the staff was wonderful. Everyone seemed cheerful and genuinely concerned as to whether or not we were enjoying our meals. I love places where the staff takes a lot of pride in what they do.
(4)
Erik O.

Ate a great club!
(5)
Steve M.

OH yea. Excellent new restaurant in the former home of the Cold Comfort Cafe! Gourmet sandwiches that are sublime, Metropolis coffee, VERY friendly servers. This place is something special. I had the bleu cheese roast beef sandwich w/ spicy mustard and some deliciously crispy potato chips. It was hot. It was amazing. It made my stomach very very very happy. My buddy Ben had a duck breast and apple slaw sandwich that he seemed to like as well. When it was time to leave, he bought a baguette for the road. I didn't have any, but that seemed to make him happy as well. This place is really awesome. Cool new decor, friendly service, and a cozy atmosphere make this a place I'll be sure to keep on the winter warmer (lunch) list. You should too.
(4)
Bethany H.

The food is very good, but the staff is great. Seriously, everyone was so nice, and went above and beyond. We placed a large order, but forgot to get a fruit cup side for my infant son, and they gave it to us on the house. Furthermore, they came to my table to ask if there was anything I would like in it specifically, and if I needed a knife to cut into baby sized pieces. How nice is that?! Anyway...the food. Very good. The portions are good sized, and we enjoyed the variety of sides. I got the croque madame. The mustard taste was the tiniest bit strong for my taste, but really that is more a personal preference and did overall enjoy it. I got a simple side of greens with it and they were dressed perfectly! This seems like a small thing to mention but let me tell you how many places get it wrong. If I were to make a suggestion, it would be please improve your cutlery. My fork bent repeatedly when trying to cut into my food. Another guest at my table had the same experience. It was really frustrating. Back to the positive things though. I stole enough bites of my husband's Cheddar Classic with Roasted tomato and Bacon to say that it was also fantastic! Great back patio, great free coffee while you wait. So in summation, get rid of the forks and keep the people.
(4)
Matt G.

Thank goodness for a solid replacement in the same location for Cold Comfort. I had the special Flank Steak sandwich with salad on the side. Great sandwich on fresh bread with a nice pesto. Loved the inclusion of carmelized onions and greens on the sandwich. The salad had the nice addition of beets and other veggies. The sweets are also worth sampling for dessert. Very good meal, good value... nice place.
(4)
Jonathan K.

With fantastic sandwiches and baked french toast, this is a great brunch spot in Wicker Park. The french toast special of the day was apple crisp and it was amazing, not too sweet with the eggs and tasted great. The salmon salad, which was served on a bagel and with greens was quite good as well. The breakfast sandwich, with vegetable frittata, cheddar and on focacia was fantastic as well. The service was great, they immediately had someone hand us a menu and explain how to order as we walked in and the food came out fast. Prices are reasonable and the atmosphere is very nice with a large outdoor seating section behind the restaurant. I would look forward to coming back anytime I'm in Chicago.
(5)
Rebecca P.

Note to self: Don't ever visit Chicago without making a brunchtime pit stop to Birchwood Kitchen. Best ham and gruyere grilled cheese ever. Best breakfast sandwich ever. Best butterscotch oatmeal cookie ever. BEST BEST BEST! It was over this meal that I told my boyfriend I wanted to move to Chicago. He thought I shouldn't make such rash decisions while under the influence of melty gruyere. But honestly, if a place like this exists, how can any part of my declarative statement be wrong?
(5)
Alex F.

I have been telling myself I am going to reward Birchwood with a great yelp review for a while, so here goes. The first thing I have to mention is the service. They are always friendly, they keep the lines moving during crowded brunch times, and they will bring out samples of things if you have been waiting a long time. An example of great service. My wife and I walked in hoping to grab a cup of coffee to go. It turns out they had actually just closed. They sadly broke the news to us and I asked if we could just get coffee to go. They not only poured us coffee, but gave us some free cookies to take with us. Next, the food. The food is always fresh, tasty and a reasonable price. The brunch is exceptional, while lunch and dinner range from good to great. Note: This is a sandwich/deli type place...not an entree, app, dessert type place. I have had misses before with the sandwiches, but it is never bad and since the menu changes all the time, there is always something new to try. They even add Burgers to the menu during the weak and I have really enjoyed the onces I have tasted. Other notables...coffee is great, baked goods are great, ambiance is cosy, chic, and charming with rotating artwork on the exposed brick wall. BYOB, so bring some wine or beer with you. All in all just a great neighborhood staple that will hopefully be around for many, many years.
(5)
Kristen H.

A group of us ladies decided to try birchwood for a Saturday afternoon lunch before shopping & bar hopping. This place is delightful. I can say that all 4 of us really enjoyed our meals. I had the GBLT - delish but my only complaint was that my egg was slightly overcooked. The greens as a side were fresh & healthy. My friends had the grilled cheese, broccoli quiche special of the day and the polenta. I tried all & everything was tasty. I can say I'll go back for the polenta - the mushroom sauce was so savory & finger licking good. The patio is adorable and has plenty of seating. The service was great too!!
(5)
Jamie S.

This place is really great - ordered a Salmon BLT and it was fantastic. Also, highly recommend their banana nut bread! And for the price, I don't know if there is a better value out there. Can't wait to go back!
(5)
Ha-ti N.

One of the better brunch spots in Wicker Park I'd say. We came in for very late brunch and they accommodated just fine even though they were out of several items! really delicious items! :( totally cool though, I got the cauliflower quiche and apple cider. my friends got the curry duck sandwich with yogurt sauce -- omg fresh, flavorful.... you know what you are eating at Birchwood. You can just taste pure freshness! The apple cider was very refreshing. The quiche was fluffy and light. I would definitely come back. The ordering process might just be a little confusing. You have to order at the counter and then sit down and wait. Friendly employees and great atmosphere. A+ !
(4)
Ariel L.

This place is good. It's not great, but it is good. The sandwiches can be a little expensive ($8 for a ham and cheese), and the kitchen is slow, but it is a cute place and the owner is very friendly. I will say they have a fantastic chocolate chip cookie. I don't mind going here if one of my friends is dying to go, but i don't crave it like some other things. They have a nice patio as well. It is worth a try. Just don't go in with great expectations.
(3)
Ryan T.

We live across the street from Birchwood, and are so,lucky to be so close. They have very welcoming, tasty food. The owner is very nice and always working hard to make sure you are happy. They have pickled vegetables in a lot of their sandwiches and salads, which is delish. I really, really like their bagel with goat cheese cream cheese, black pepper, and honey. I don't know how they toast the thing but it is amaaaazing!
(5)
Maureen S.

Birchwood Kitchen is as good as it gets. The staff is notoriously friendly and sweet, the lunch and brunch food is delicious and mostly healthy, and the bottomless coffee is cheap and great. There are tons of menu options for everyone, vegans, vegetarians, and meat eaters alike. The seasonal menu pays much attention to detail and ensures freshness and quality. I'm not sure I've ever enjoyed an experience at a counter service restaurant more in my life. I would recommend this venue to any and everyone with an appetite. My favorites here are the iced coffee, mushroom sandwich, chipotle chickpea salad, and the sweet counter folk who are hell bent on making your day.
(5)
Jay R.

Been here a dozen times, and I have never been disappointed in Birchwood. I have to comment on some of the bad reviews of Birchwood: 1. I am amazed at how easily people get confused by the ordering procedures. They do things a little differently than Applebee's, and people feel like they are in a foreign land. "Where's my vibrating, light-up coaster?" Please, It only takes a moment to figure it out - it's hardly an inconvenience. 2. Someone made the accusation in a review that all good reviews of Birchwood are from employees, or friends of employees, or friends of owners, as if to say that the employees are trying to encourage business to gain financially. That's laughable. Assuming the good reviews truly are only from friends and the like, isn't having so many friends a good thing? I don't work there, nor am I friends with anyone that works there or the owner(s), and by writing this single review I have weakened the "employee-review" hypothesis almost to the point of disproving it. 3. The same reviewer (maybe not) complained about having to lean over or step to the side to see the menu behind the tall cashier. That must have been so inconvenient for someone so wickedly lazy! And a complaint about the cashier hitting on a girlfriend. I can picture this reviewer now: paranoid, jealous, and ignorant to the difference between a compliment and a romantic advance. Go back to your strip mall T.G.I.F. where you feel safe. 4. Complaints about price: If you want a feed lot in your back yard, keep going to Jimmy John's - they even have free smells there. Fresh, local ingredients, and well treated, decently paid employees make the higher than average price worth it. I doubt Birchwood's owners are flying to the Caribbean on NetJets to count all the money they're gouging from us. The food is always great. The service is always fast and friendly. BYOB earns a few more points, but I sometimes wish for a bloody with my brunch, and dragging the fixin's along is just too troublesome.
(5)
S P.

I go here ALL the time and I have yet to order something from the menu...the specials always sound SO good. I've been here for weekend brunch, lunch and dinner. I have yet to be disappointed. The salmon burger offered during dinner..I think Tues-Fri is spectacular. The staff is super nice, I love the look of the place..very casual and cozy. I LOVE the outside seating...the restaurant is sandwiched between brick apartments with leafy vines all over them and there are plants everywhere, its like an oasis. I love it.
(5)
Kent S.

The sandwiches are tasty. The menu is full of quality ingredients and creative cuisine. They even have a short kids' menu. Though I didn't have any, the pastries look top notch as well. As I've learned, one of the owners is also a lover of iced tea. Hooray! No refills, but I worked my charm on them and made it happen. The staff was still full of enthusiasm and attentiveness. Not only is there a great deal of concern that goes into their service, but also into the final product. We now have yet another business that shares an interest in community success and the local good. It made me smile to see an empty Growler of beer, from Piece, setting on their racks. Whether or not they're BYOB, I don't know, so you might want to bring a flask or an opaque water bottle. The outdoor patio, though currently empty, looks plenty promising for summertime lunch fun. Up next, will have have to be the brunch menu. It's short and sweet. I can't say that I've tried a breakfast salad or lamb sausage patties, but that will shortly change. Everything has been delicious, although you might not leave completely filled, assuming we share an appetite.
(4)
Andy M.

The Birchwood Kitchen is a beautiful little Sandwich shop. Right when we walked in I sensed a real comfortable vibe to the place. The white bean soup that C.R. and I started off with was delicious. We both ended up getting their Roast Beef sandwich. The sandwich was presented beautifully and was made with a top of the line, thinly sliced roast beef that was covered with Dijon mustard. The Sandwich comes with a small bag to home made potato chips. I was quite impressed with the food and presentation. The only thing that wasn't perfect was the price. Two soup and Sandwiches ended up being $30.00. That's a bit pricey for my book. But that would not stop me from ever going back. The meal was a wonderful experience.
(4)
Clif P.

I like Birchwood Kitchen for brunch. I have been there maybe 10 times over the past 2 years. They have speedy service, use great ingredients, and is moderately priced. I gave it only 3 stars because their menu isn't as expansive as I would like. While I've tried many things, the only 'marquee' item on their menu is the breakfast sandwich. Also, their juices and coffee are very expensive. Side note: My fiance loves Birchwood and would give it 5 stars.
(3)
Thomas G.

Awesome food. Don't remember what I had, but it was good. Great environment too. Plus, they gave our table a free muffin.
(5)
Lainie R.

Hands down, my absolute favorite brunch spot in the city! Friendliest staff in town! From the chick taking your name to the guy bussing your table and everyone in between, these guys will make you feel like one of the family, but not in an over-bearing sort of way. Just unpretentious good folks that you will want to be friends with. Delicious food! Plenty of creative and delicious vegetarian options, and it won't break the bank. The menu changes regularly so you'll never get bored. Self-serve coffee (which they will let you get before you're even seated if there's a wait.) Get the fruit cobbler while you sip your coffee and wait for your meal to be delivered, you won't be disappointed! Great atmosphere! Never feels overly crowded, even when it's a full house. When it's warm enough, enjoy your food on their cute garden patio, complete with strings of white lights and pots of herbs I assume they use for cooking. Birchwood is just my cup of tea. I feel happy just thinking about it.
(5)
Charlene S.

Went for dinner on a random Wednesday night. And was a bit skeptical upon walking in at 6:30ish. There was no one there. I was starving and was drawn to the turkey burger, which was one of the specials that day. The salmon burger also looked interesting but the turkey burger won out. It came with a mixd green salad, very fresh and lightly drizzled with a lemon vinagrette. Simple, fresh, and delicious. I also ordered a mushroom soup. Creamy and light.... sooo good. After about 1/2 hour, the place was packed. People slowly kept coming in and filling up the place. It became lively and comfortable. I would go back to try the brunch menu...
(4)
Jeffrey C.

UPDATE 10172014 Sadly I have had to downgrade Birchwood Kitchen from 5 to 3 stars. I became a regular, maybe too regular. Post chef change- It's been a long and tough road for them, and after a good dozen+ visits (attempts) to recapture my zeal, I must confess I'm sad to say the magical fire is not present at this time. It also doesn't help that the prices have been hijacked into a very thin air atmosphere rendering breathing impossible without making the food better when in fact it has fallen. ----- My Original review- My verbal tendency is to go into a somewhat vulgar tirade. I'll spare you the voracious and colorful energy. Everything I've tried has been superior. TRULY, very well crafted and thoughtfully put together flavors, assemblies and combinations. I already said superior. I will mention only one offering specifically- One thing that brings me to my knees every single time is the Pot-Roast sandwich. It's simply not funny. Magnificently balanced flavors throughout the entire sandwich. For me, this sandwich alone, is a superlative achievement - quite possibly a perfect sandwich. Again.. it's simply not funny. Yes, so very many great other offerings to be had, all of which exhibit care-filled execution and fantastic flavors. I dig the super-simple service. I like the idea of seasonal offerings and essentially wiping/changing large portions of the menu quarterly... (Please don't take away the best !@%#ing Pot-Roast (look its even capitalized) sandwich ever... please). One slight bummer is Winter time dining-in. There is but a single door with no vestibule or additional door, and during winter months when you are sitting down enjoying your hot food, the last thing you want to have happen is some dolt/moron/unconscious/stoned/oblivious(I'm the only person in the world) person, open the door... and then even HOLD the door open for their hipster bros/partner/spouse/pupa-containing-SUV-sized-Âstroller to stumble on in. There is no extra space for an additional door, it's understandable- and quite fine.... stupid people just make it a bummer when your food gets cold while they hold the door open and dont see everyone giving them the GLARE to shut the #%$^ing door idiot. In the end, I only wish the very best for this place. It's great- and so are the staff-folks you have to interact with. I am looking forward to the next time.
(3)
Meridith E.

I wish I could wrap Birchwood Kitchen up a s present and send it to all my friends. This place is so cute and inviting, and the staff is sweet. Their menu offers enough choices, but it isn't too long. I went for "brunch" with a friend, and we both tried something different and shared. Whichever breakfast sammy my friend got was so good I almost switched plates on her. We had an issue finding parking that day, but with North as it is...that's to be expected. It can get pretty crowded around brunch on the weekends, because their seating is limited. However, it's definitely worth the wait. My only issue was that, with the small seating space, I felt like it was a bit loud. I think more restaurants could learn a thing or 2 about proper service and menu offerings based on Birchwood. Can't wait to go back!
(5)
Erin M.

Wonderful customer service in this place!! My hubby and I walked in, our first time coming in, and we were greeted with a smile from a very friendly girl. She welcomed us, told us the program and handed us a menu. Wow. 5 stars already! We proceeded to order our sandwiches and soup and were helped again, this time from the gentleman behind the counter. There was no jumping up and down to try and vie for his attention or wait for him to finish rapping with coworkers to place the order. No he was just there to serve. What a difference it makes when YOU are the number 1 priority. Food came out quickly and was fresh and delicious. I had the curried cous cous and the homemade chowder soup. This place is an earthy, uncontrived coffee shop. It's not trying to be trendy or yuppy, it's just good food and great service. Great place for coffee and a pastry in the morning or lunch.
(5)
Casey F.

What is there to say that hasn't already been said? This place is the bomb. Came here for lunch last week and everything was absolutely amazing. I also had basil lemonade, which they refilled for free! Great selection, super friendly staff, superb food. I'll be coming back. Lots.
(5)
Nikki K.

Really great food! Super yummy. I've been here several times and never had a bad experience, or even close to it! Only downside I'd say is the place is small and sometimes you will have to wait a bit for a table but ...it is well worth it!
(4)
Amanda B.

Seriously, one of the best breakfast sandwiches I have ever had! Friendly staff, comfy on the inside. Went for the first time after living here for five years back in December and I'm glad I finally made it! It was crowded, as we went on a Saturday morning. I'm wondering if they will ever expand the place? Feel like it would be beneficial for those Saturday and Sunday brunches.
(4)
Janine G.

Free Fresh Lemonade Refills?!?!? I'm sold! I've had soups, salads, sammies, burgers, cookies, and (currently) carrot cake from this lovely establishment. I have never been disappointed! Plus the staff has always been really friendly. I would write more, but I am currently in a food coma as a result of Bwood. One of my fave places for a casual meal.
(5)
Kevin N.

We ordered the french toast. -It was terrible. The blueberry-peach cobbler however was fantastic. I might try this place again someday for a sandwich though.... Clientele was a combination of vapid, soulless, yuppies babbling on about their e-trade accounts and young families letting their kids run relay races in the restaurant. Friendly staff sitting behind the counter staring into the abyss while the line piles up and the second register sits unattended was also a nice touch. In summation.. Overpriced sandwich shop filled with empty-headed yuppies and friendly staff. If you want to pay top dollar to be seen and talk to your pals about your e-trade options account this is your place.
(2)
Cara T.

Hands down one of my favorite places to go after a hellish day at work. I love to come in to BK. I'm a regular, so they know of me. And they always ask me what I'm doing tonight...I love that, even if I just honestly say watching Project Runway in my pj's...they don't judge : ) The food is awesome. I love the deli style cooler with ever changing sides. The apple slaw is unique, and the fruit salad is a must. My favorites are the salmon burger (literally sushi on a bun). The flavors are amazing. I also love the bacon burger. Kuma's Corner needs to take a lesson....because BK knows how to do a burger right. I always ask for medium well, since they usually do medium and I'm not such a pink fan. For brunch I've had a variety, my favorite being the smoked salmon bagel sandwich. The salmon was great and the tuna salad ish mix was the perfect combination. The lemonade is a must. I love lemonade and this is a hit. Plus, you get free refills! If I had the tiniest cons, I would say desserts. Although the cookie is yummy, the desserts don't change out very much. And the desserts they do have I'm just not a fan of period...lemon bars, carrot cake, banana bread...I would love to see some different, unique cakes, maybe a cheesecake. Great for any group at any meal. I've taken family, friends...big groups, small groups...I would recommend is place to anyone. However, I don't plan to take people here on the weekends, as it's often closed for parties. So I primarily reserve BK for weekdays and Sunday brunch. Do it!
(5)
Virginia T.

I tried to go to Birchwood twice and they were closed. I kept trying though, and my patience was rewarded. I stopped in for a late lunch last Sunday and I really enjoyed BIrchwood Kitchen. I had the Club sandwich (smoked turkey breast, smoked bacon, greens, tomato jam, mayo and multigrain bread) was great. Thick cut turkey breast-just like Thanksgiving leftovers. The tomato jam was to die for....slightly sweet. I ordered a side of the chipotle chickpea salad which was also great. It has red onion, celery, red pepper in a chipotle dressing. I have to try and make this at home, it was crunchy, light and just the right amount of spicy. J had the chicken salad sandwich with chipotle sage dressing, citrus jicama, cilantro pesto on a baguette. He ordered the pasta salad with asiago and arugula- but they ran out. He got the last of it....a few bites at least, but then they offered him a full portion of another side- so he got the apple & cabbage slaw. It was also great with mustard seeds, apples, cabbage- sweet and tangy, crunchy. At the end of the meal I got a cup of metropolis coffee. We also ordered a piece of the "blueberry peach cobbler". I used quotes because really it was kind of like a cross between a cobbler and a coffee cake. It was delicious though. I will most definitely be back to the Birchwood.
(4)
Martha Z.

Not too crazy about the food. It was ok. We both ordered croque madames and felt like we dropped $20 for mediocre grilled cheese sandwiches. Coffee (Metropolis) was good. The staff was very very VERY sweet and nice and always on top of their game.
(3)
Justin M.

Found this cafe through Yelp and was not disappointed. Had an excellent sandwich (BRD - Bacon, Ricotta, & Date) and soup. Highly recommended for lunch, looking forward to trying breakfast in the near future.
(5)
L T.

What can I say? This place is phenomenal and is probably my wife and my favorite place to eat in the city. Lunch, dinner, or brunch it's good all around. It was a block away from where my wife lived so we had to try it soon after it opened. We started concistently going, I was addicted to the Club Sandwich, and she the Goat Cheese and Beet Sandwich. Honestly, I think I've liked everything I have tried here. We love Birchwood so much that when we got married last year we had our reception at the restaurant. Daniel, Judd, and Jesse really took care of us. Some of the best food I've eaten ever, on the best day of my life. So - things I'd suggest? The burgers are great, the Club, the Goat Cheese, Grilled cheese with Asparagus, the Basil lemonade. Sometimes they have these prosciutto butter biscuits that are to die for. Anyway. Go. You wont regret it.
(5)
Mary Ann C.

Pretty awesome spot. I have now been twice in the last two weeks. Most importantly, the staff is amazing! I cannot stress enough how wonderful the women is who works in the late afternoon/early evening. Helpful, kind. It is rare to find people who seem so happy to be at work! Love the goat cheese and beet sandwich. Wow. This is perfection! The greens and walnut pesto offer a nice complement to the cheese and beets. Tried the grilled gruyere and ham today, and that was also stunningly delicious. Mmmm! Love the side salad that accompanies the sandwiches. The cookies and carrot cake are devine! Love this spot! A+++++
(5)
Jen G.

We used to live just a couple blocks away from here and always meant to go, but every Sunday when we were deciding where to go for brunch, somehow we always forgot. We finally made it in a couple of weeks ago, and we were kicking ourselves for not venturing in sooner. The wait was about 30 minutes when we stopped in about 1:00. We figured that wasn't too bad and probably par for the course anywhere else anyway, so we grabbed some ciders from the counter and headed out to the patio area out back until our table was ready. When it was, we went back inside, ordered and paid at the counter, and then sat down. Our food came out really fast and was all delicious. For three people, we ordered the quiche, the chocolate chip pumpkin bread, corned beef sandwich, polenta, and a side order of carrots. The people who work there are all really nice and helpful too. Lots of smiles all over the room. Highly recommend.
(5)
Grace S.

I was only craving pancakes for breakfast when I walked in here but I couldn't say no to the Gravlax sandwich. It came with salmon gravlax, avocado and goat cheese in a bagel sandwich with salad on the side. My boyfriend ordered the belgian waffles, which came covered with powdered sugar and strawberries. While we were initially disappointed with the portion sizes, the quality of food is excellent and managed to fill us. I love salmon and avocado but the goat cheese added to the flavor and texture of my sandwich. The belgian waffles were delicious as well. Fresh orange juice and lemonade complemented the meal well, although go for the lemonade- free refills!
(4)
Boon K.

rhubarb lemonade, was the best thing I had. I love it so much I had to try making it at home. They have the best beet salad, very colorful and a great light dressing. The sandwiches were try were good too. We had the club and the steak but I must say I like the club a little better, the tomatoes jam rocks.
(5)
Adam K.

Awesome sandwiches & crazy good cookies.
(5)
sarah l.

Best brunch of my Chicago vacation. I found the ordering process a bit strange - you come in and they assign you to a table. Then you go up to the cash register and order and pay. You bring your drinks back to your table then a server brings your food when it's ready. I had the bacon bread pudding and it was good. The blood orange juice was amazing. The menu was really interesting and there were a bunch of things I would have considered getting (this never happens to me). I was really happy with and impressed by the menu. My only complaint would be that the people sitting next to us were douchebags and we had to listen to their innane conversation for the entirety of our meal, but that's obviously not Birchwood's fault. It's not like a "douchebag free zone" sign would be very welcoming to new people. I don't know if this is indicative of the crowd that usually dines here but we had a good laugh about it. I don't have too much to say about this place other than the food was excellent, it was busy but not crazy and I wish it was closer to my house.
(5)
Ashley A.

Very, very disappointing. My beau and I were craving some serious gourmet deli sandwiches, what we got was not only inedible, but disgraceful to real sandwich shops everywhere. There is nothing worse than spending $23 on two sandwiches to-go for a 5-hour-drive back to Michigan and having to stop at Culver's fast food to throw them out and get a freaking burger. A waste of time and money, it took them 20 minutes to make the sandwiches and there were 4 people working and no other customers! Grilled Gruyere, FAIL. It was a nasty, oily, sweet, grease dripping, mess. Moreover it had no flavor or finesse. The caramelized onions were down right mushy. The italian salami sandwich, FAIL. I can't even go into the details of its 1.5 inch layer of hot pepper cream cheese or its lack of actual salami without purging...it literally impaired my taste buds for the remainder of the drive, gag. Only plus was that they had a super friendly staff, sadly no amount of great customer service can make their food edible:-(.
(1)
Christine N.

this place is quaint, small, and cute. menu options are not that large, the prices are a bit hefty for sandwiches, but the quality is clean and yummy. go in, order, sit down, and BYOB. definitely not a late night place cuz they close early, so be careful with how much you bring for BYOB. it would be cute if you could stay later and just chill, but its more of a quick place to stop. overall? hm. a bit pricey, good food, cute setting... go back during the day ;)
(4)
Tim W.

Does this place need anymore 5 star reviews? Probably not, but I like throwing my 2cents in too. Grilled Cheesus this place is good! Samiches are legit and the cookies/desserts are tasty! Go here, eat food and your stomach will thank you.
(5)
R R.

I saw people standing in line for breakfast on my way to the nearby Dose Market and decided to check it out after I finished my shopping with my BFF. We got in line around 10:45am and the line was still dense. We waited about 20 minutes before we were seated in a window seat. The serving system is different. You order at the counter, pick up a mug to get your coffee in the back and then wait at your numbered table for your meal to arrive. The server and even the owner will come around with a warm up for your coffee and check in on you. My BFF ordered the breakfast sandwich with thick pieces of bacon. She really enjoyed her sandwich I had the root vegetable hash. This was a surprisingly good veggie inspired breakfast. The veggies were roasted to almost caramelized. The eggs were cooked to perfection. Both meals came with a side salad and a few roasted potatoes. The portion was just right to fill your tummy but not make you feel like jabba the hut trying get up. Once we finished up, the line had thinned and noise level had come down. I would recommend coming early or after 12:00 for breakfast/brunch to avoid the crowd, as between 10:00-12:00 is their busy time. Note: there is street parking but it can be difficult to find, so take the blue line to Damen-North Ave stop and walk the blocks to save yourself the headache of circling for parking. -Chitown Veg Gal
(4)
Alex R.

After reading all the awesome reviews about this place I ventured there from Lincoln Park this morning for brunch. The voyage was worth it! We had only a 5 minute wait, during which we could immediately help ourselves to some delicious coffee. When we were seated we noticed that most tables had ordered a piece of the apple brown sugar coffee cake, so we ordered some too - it was AMAZING! I also was very impressed with the wonderfully flavored quiche and croque vert. Soooo yummy!
(5)
Annabelle C.

Great Service. Great Food. Great Space. I should just end my review here as it really sums up Birchwood Kitchen. The staff here is so friendly and accommodating - we had a party of 6 for brunch which is a little tough as the (indoor) seating is rather limited but they made it work! They had self-serve water and coffee (honour system - just mention it when you order) while you wait. You put your name down with the hostess, and when a table is ready for your group, she would signal you to proceed to order at the counter. Food was delicious. I had the Polanta with country sausage ragout, braised greens and poached eggs while Grape S had the French Toast with pear. The rest of the group enjoyed their food as well. It was very chill inside and because they don't overload it with tables, at no point did the noise level get too loud. There is an outdoor patio at the back but too bad it was drizzling earlier that day so we couldn't sit outside but the day cleared up and I saw a group sitting there by the time we left. Location is great - easy to get to via public transportation (Milwaukee or Damen or North Ave bus, or the blue line Damen stop), and tons of FREE street parking. Everyone loved my find (thanks to yelp), and oh, the foursquare special for free coffee didn't hurt either!
(5)
Daniel S.

Flavor for value = excellent. A little bit of a wait for brunch at 12:30 on Saturday... to be expected (only 20 minutes for 2). Croque Madame - was quite good. A little too much cheese and bread for my liking, but generally quite nice. Breakfast sandwich - A bit underwhelming. Lacks flavor. The reason this place gets 4 stars instead of 3 is because it is such a pleasant place to have brunch. Plus, the bow tie pasta salad was very nice, and so was the side salad that came with the croque madame. The blueberry cobbler (heated... just ask), was very nice, as well as the banana bread. Definitely worth a trip out to Wicker if you are not already there.
(4)
Becky G.

This place is fantastic! I went here for brunch on Saturday morning with a friend. I like that their food is local, fresh, and seasonal. I had the polenta and it was really good. My friend and I also split the peach-blueberry cobbler, which was delicious as well. The gentleman working at the register was super friendly and polite, and so were the rest of the employees. The food came out pretty fast and of course I had to top it off with some Co-Op hot sauce (locally made in Humboldt Park!) As for the ambience - it was a little earlier, so I think we beat the brunch rush. We sat inside and it was quiet and cozy. There is also a patio in back. Towards the end of our meal, more people started coming in (aka more children) and it became a little noisier. Overall, a great casual place if you like delicious food and want to support local businesses!
(4)
Kendrah R.

Dashed in here the other day with my husband when we were on the run and needed a quick bite. I had never heard of this place and was quite surprised. Turkey sandwich was the best I've had in Chicago. It is actually real, thick sliced, home roasted turkey breast, not shave lunch meat. The bread was great, the condiments really tasty especially pickled red onion. Tuna sandwich was equally incredible. It didn't taste like any tuna salad I've ever had. It tasted like great oil packed tuna rather than the stuff from a can (though I don't actually know what it was.) It was just damn good. When I asked for a tomato on my sandwich, the guy behind the counter said, "You don't want it. Tomatoes suck now. They aren't very good." I love that kind of honesty. Yes, tomatoes suck in all the supermarkets right now because of weather in the southwest, and I loved that he was straight up with me about the fact that theirs are no different. Lemonade yum. Butterscotch oatmeal cookie. Yum. Please open a branch up in Edgewater/Andersonville where we live.
(5)
Whitney W.

Birchwood Kitchen is amazing! It's my neighborhood place to go for brunch, lunch, and dinner. Everything on the menu is fantastic, you can't go wrong! The service is topnotch. I truly love this place!
(5)
Casey P.

Everything is so fresh! They change their menu seasonally, so you know you are getting the best selection. The bread is phenomenal and their housemade chips? PLEASE forget about it. Service is friendly and simple, just like the decor, which lets the food shine through.
(5)
Sheela F.

When it comes to Yelp, I'm admittedly more a taker, less a giver. After years of consistently turning to strangers on the internet (often before my real, live friends) for guidance on where to eat/drink/be merry, I had yet to write a single review of my own. Cut to this past Saturday. On the suggestion of a friend (she's a devoted yelper, therefore she's to be trusted), I ventured out to Wicker Park to brunch at Birchwood Kitchen, and immediately upon entering, I knew I would not leave disappointed. The atmosphere: Maybe it's something they're pumping through the vents, but everyone in this place has a peaceful happiness about them, the staff included. Friendly greetings from the person pointing you in the direction of an available table, no pressure while perusing the menu at the ordering counter, and easy smiles from the man pouring coffee refills. It's like hanging out in your most favoritest friend's kitchen - you instantly feel right at home. The menu: BK, you had me a grilled cheese. Times three. Which one would I choose? Would they judge me if I picked all three? Was I going to have to come back in disguise later in the day? After much debate, I went with the Grilled Mozzarella. I have no words to describe. I'll just say that eating that sandwich was truly magical and leave it at that. Somehow, in my dairy-induced daze, my dining companions were able to pry it out of my hands for a taste of their own and gave it equally rave reviews. Needless to say, I cleaned my plate, as did everyone else at my table. The verdict: I would happily dine at Birchwood Kitchen every day of my life from now until forever. Thank you, BK, for the truly inspiring experience needed to snap me out of my selfish Yelping ways. I'm pretty sure this is the start of a long and beautiful relationship.
(5)
Chris C.

The staff we're very friendly and the food was delicious. I had the Gruyere hot sandwich with the greed salad. The sandwich was full of flavor; great cheese and mustard. I also really enjoyed the green salad. Awesome lunch spot!
(5)
Peater J.

I absolutely love this place. Great decor. Great vibe. Great service. Great food. I had the pot roast sandwich and it's the best sandwich I've had in Chicago. I can't wait to try to other items on their menu! Awesome!
(5)
Nick L.

The perfect American Brunch spot. Sit outside if the weather permits, and anything on the menu will be divine. I've had 5 different dishes, and every one has been perfect. This is on the low end of the $$ range, with per person costs ranging from $8-$14 with a drink.
(5)
N B.

I like it here. Birchwood Kitchen has a Portland type feel. The people are nice and the food is excellent. Come before 930am on weekends or you are going to have to wait for a table. This place is hard to beat in terms of food quality, price, and location.
(4)
Michael M.

Update to my previous review: I still give Birchwood 3 stars, because I don't quite think it is what it could be. I think their food could easily be more delicious than it is, given how excellent the ingredients they use are. However, I have had their salmon burgers on a few occasions, and they are extremely good. Flavorful, well charred on the outside, and not dry in the middle. I give Birchwood an A+ for that item. Still not enough to move them up to 4 stars in my book, but something I go there for specifically.
(3)
Dhaya D.

I recently moved to Wicker Park and could not be happier to live across the street from this gem. I just found my new go-to brunch spot! *The bf and I went at 10am on a Saturday and were able to get a table with no wait. *The entire staff is super friendly and attentive without coming off fake or over bearing. *The place is cute, clean, and cozy. It's also filled with delicious aromas. *Our food came out very quickly. No wonder there was no wait! *You get free coffee with your first foursquare check in. I had the Breakfast Sandwich which came with salad and roasted red potatoes: delicious and satisfying. The bf had the Sausage Quiche which came with a fruit salad and a side of roasted red potatoes. From the speed with which he polished it off (too quickly for me to grab a bite!), I'd say he was more than content. We also got some Pumpkin Chocolate Chip bread and a Lemon Square to go. I've yet to try the Lemon Square, but I'm eating the bread as I write this and it's fantastic. All that cost $25 (already a great price), but thanks to my A La Card it ended up being $15...what a deal!!
(5)
Roberto H.

Delicious food, great service and fun outdoor backyard eating area. You gotta go for their breakfast for sure, and I'll be going back for their well reviewed burgers.
(5)
Shakira E.

This is the place to go when you want something really good, let's say like a sandwich that tastes amazing, like a party in your mouth. Premium ingredients are used here roasted meats, thick slices just all around artfully put together combinations my favorites being the Club (cold) and the Beef (hot) Sandwiches. Oh and did I mention their homemade chips yum. Nice place to meet a friend for lunch or have a casual dinner.
(5)
Kyle B.

It was rainy. I was hungry. I wanted home-cooked food to satisfy my tastes, but wasn't really sure where I wanted to go. So I started walking. I start walking and didn't stop until I came across something that struck in me in a way I had never been struck before. Coincidentally, that only lasted a couple of blocks, but it was still pretty dramatic. I saw the sign for Birchwood Kitchen and immediately opened the door to paradise. The first thing you notice about this place is the ambiance. It is cozy, trendy and perfect for small gatherings of friendship. Everything felt right. I was handed a menu and spent about a half hour deciding what I should get. This would have been totally normal had I been with a group of people, but when you are standing alone in front of the counter in a crowded restaurant, indecisiveness can be your worst enemy. Luckily, the staff here was super friendly and patient and waited for me to decide on the Butternut Squash Hash special for brunch. Of course they had plenty of other tasty options like the Chile-rubbed Flank Steak Sandwich or the Sweet and Sour Pork Belly Sandwich, but I was feeling for a heavy dose of brunch. After ordering I had the chance to walk around the restaurant and stalk everyone else's food options. It took all of my energy to stop myself from walking up to a stranger's table and forcefully taking a sample of food. That's how good it all looked. Of course I'm not a criminal, but I would have gladly done 5-10 in lock-up for a taste of those apples. I'm just sayin'. The food was absolutely delicious and the restaurant really is a comfortable place to grab food. The atmosphere is great and they have a ton of creative options to keep you coming back for more. Birchwood Kitchen, you're my new favorite.
(5)
Haley S.

This is probably my favorite sandwich place in Chicago! I went for lunch with my friend on Saturday, and we each really liked what we got. She had the chickpea sandwich, and I had the special, which was a brie with homemade berry compote. Super friendly and efficient service, and the garden out back is so cute! Oh, and I LOVE the basil lemonade : )
(5)
Kimberly K.

Yum! This is a great place for fresh, high quality food! I had the goat cheese and pickled beet sandwich. It was GREAT. My husband had the GBLT (BLT with lox and an egg on top). It was also quite good. The banana chocolate chip bread was also quite good. I'd love to try the carrot cake sometime. I think the coffee was free, I forgot to look at the receipt. The prices match the high quality, fresh food. So, I'm willing to pay. You'll wait for a while to get seated on the weekend, so I'd like to try it on a weekday and compare. The staff was really cool and friendly as well. I'll definitely be going back here.
(4)
Rachel W.

Had them cater lunch for us today at my work...they did a great job and were a huge hit on set. Some highlights were the speck, roast beef, goat cheese, and my fave, egg salad. They cut all the sandwiches in threes, which worked out considering everyone wanted to try all of them. The greens salad was delicious, fresh, and unique. The presentation was lovely, and I will definitely be using them again.
(5)
Scubi X.

This is the nicest, most welcoming staff in all of Chicago. What a lovely group of people! I so often run into a wait staff who has that "trendier than thou" attitude, but you will not find that here. They are so gracious, but not in a Bennigan's sort of way, just lovely. I had the smoked salmon sandwich, and it was delicious, just perfect. The place is warm and inviting, and I'm going back ... YUM!
(5)
Jamie H.

Came here Sunday around 2pm with my roommate. I got a make your own sandwich with Roast Beef, it was good and my roommate got the cheddar sandwich, also good...I watched the guy make it, he put at least 15 pieces of cheese on there, so there was no skimping here! There was a line when we first came in (of course) and the line disappeared right after we ordered, and when it came our time to order, the guy just walked away from the counter, and we were kind of confused. But, we placed our order togo and then sat down and waited. There was some sort of mix up in the back, and one employee was INCREDIBLY SUPER friendly and nice trying to make sure we were OK, even though we hadn't been complaining or anything. He gave us free cookies and offered to refill my roommate's lemonade for free. It took around 15 minutes or so for two sandwiches which was too long, but they made up for it by being so apologetic.
(4)
Eric B.

Great drip coffee. Perfect with the pastries up front. I had the BLT Special. Very delicious traditional BLT, with a fresh side. The splash of citrus/acid really brightened up the sandwich and added a unique dynamic. Only complaint was the bread - while tasty, it became a bit tough/chewy for such a bright, fresh sandwich. Failed to compliment the rest of the sandwich. Pickled squash provided a nice balance to the sandwich as well. Those are the types of details that set Birchwood apart. Salad was lightly dressed and pickled onions brought it together nicely. Chocolate chip banana bread was fantastic. So nice with my coffee.
(4)
Anna E.

This place is good, but still has a few kinks to work out... We came here for lunch and it wasn't very busy before we got there. It got extremely busy right after us, and maybe that made them anxious because it seemed like we waited a long time for our sandwiches. When they finally came, it seemed kind of thrown together. Reasons: I had the special, which was pulled turkey and coleslaw. It was supposed to be served with chips, which they forgot. Other than that, it was really good. The slaw had some arugula in it and the sauce had just the right kick. My special friend had the speck and it says there was supposed to be truffle oil. We've both had it (and used in our own cooking) enough to know that there was absolutely no truffle oil on the sandwich. It would've probably made it a pretty near perfect creation. The coffee and service were great and the brunch menu looks good too, so I'll probably give it another shot in a few weeks once they've ironed everything out.
(3)
Alex B.

Birchwood is great for lunch and dinner. The atmosphere is casual but still nice. The employees are very nice as well. There al fresco seating out back, so it's particularly fun to eat here when the weather is nice. Just FYI, it's BYOB. Birchwood's forte is salads, sandwiches, soups, and interesting sides. I know it sounds simple, but they really put a creative twist on all their dishes. If you're into stuff like beets, quinoa, goat cheese, arugula--y'know, bourgie veggie food--you'll be in heaven. They use seasonal and fresh ingredients and great bread (without any factual basis, I also assume that this is the kind of place that sources their food locally as much as possible). There are many vegetarian options, but it's by no means a *vegetarian restaurant* and my meat-eating friends love this place as much as I do. The sandwiches are slightly not-cheap at 7-10 dollars, but Birchwood is good for anything from quick lunch to casual date to place-to-take-your-out-of-town-parents. The only drawback, really, is that the iron patio furniture is uncomfortable and will leave a fishnet imprint on your legs if you're wearing a skirt or shorts. But this certainly is not anything worthy of downgrading the rating, since I feel like outdoor seating tends to be uncomfortable basically everywhere. But just in case someone important somewhere out there ever reads this, pretty please get some seat cushions.
(5)
Sean S.

Short and Sweet... This place is awesome!!! (I never give 5 stars, 4 stars IS my 5 star review) The staff here is great, always willing to make suggestions... The food is phenomenal, I could have licked my plate.. & the environment is so quaint... it might make you puke.. but don't... because the staff is so great, you wouldn't want them to have to clean up puke... They have outdoor seating in their backyard... Its like eating brunch at your wealthy aunt's beach house.. with the occasional sound of the blue-line instead of waves. Will recommend to all! Free cups of coffee with your first "foursquare" check-in too...
(4)
Filly G.

You know when you've dated someone for like, seven years, and you have profoundly deep feelings for that person, but you never get around to actually saying those three little words that make everything extra magical? Yeah, I'm at a similar point in my relationship with Birchwood Kitchen. So lemme change that... Birchwood Kitchen, I love you! I've been going to Birchwood for over a year now, and I've eaten here at least a dozen times. It's my fail-safe, local restaurant. The staff here is always incredibly friendly and attentive. The gentleman who usually takes my order at the register always wears a sincere smile, and thanks me for my business. The bussers are always on their game and regularly check on me. The only thing that could make the service better would be a back massage while I wait for my food (preferably from Kristen Bell). Foodwise, I've never purchased anything here that wasn't tasty. I'm not going to say that I've always been blown away by everything I've eaten here, because that would make me a liar. (And since I wear polyester pants, they'd surely catch on fire. Polyester is very flammable.) However, I will say that I've never been disappointed by any of the food. From the quiche to the frittata to the breakfast sandwich to the croque madame for brunch to the meatoaf sandwich for lunch to the bacon-cheddar burger for dinner, I've always left satisfied. And frequently, I'm more than just satisfied. I'm straight up food retarded. I swear that the bacon-cheddar burger here is the best burger I've ever had in my life. Kuma's seriously has nothing on it. And the breakfast pork patty is always mouth-watering. I'm not sure if the cooks are infusing their food with crack, but whatever they're doing, it works. Ahhhh, it feels good to finally get my feelings out. In fact, I might as well be completely blunt. Birchwood Kitchen, I want to have your babies. You can stuff me with your pork sausage anytime.
(5)
Chrissy C.

chicken salad sandwich (w/chipotle-sage dressing, jicama, lime, cilantro, on a baguette) was delish! skip the pasta salad side they have and stick w/the petit salad all the sandwiches usually come with... which was light and great. my friend also thoroughly enjoyed her grilled gruyere sandwich w/ham. they also serve my favorite ginger ale!
(4)
Tiffany K.

Uhmmm I just found my new home. I can't believe it took me THIS LONG to try this place. I came here thinking I was going to get a Grilled Gruyere sandwich, but I ended up ordering a Turkey Burger and falling in L O V E. The space itself is amazing. Love the clean interior, and the back patio is HUGE! Lots of ivy, lots of seating, lots of plain awesomeness. The people who work here are so friendly, and the food is cheaply priced for the quality and portion of the food. The turkey burger was not dry and seasoned nicely. The chipotle mayo was flavorful, and the pickled zucchini was different but very delicious! The burger came with cole slaw and chips/side salad, and their sandwiches come with a side salad or chips. Sandwiches run from $6.75 to $9 dollars, and they have many different things like soups and quiche. The Turkey Burger was $8, and a Cheddar Bacon burger is $9 and the Salmon Burger is $10. My friend had a lemonade and loved it, and the refills seem to be free. I want to try every sandwich on their menu. The vibe was very casual and cute, and this place would be great for dinner dates or for lunch/dinner with family and friends. I will definitely be back! I wish I lived upstairs from it.
(5)
David C.

One of my favorite restaurants in Chicago. If you knew me, you'd know that I generally have no interest in sandwiches of any form except bahn mi. Even places like Katz's in NYC for me are just good once in awhile. Birchwood Kitchen when it boils down to it is just a sandwhich and breakfast place. Yet, if you read their menu, you can't help but feel you're in more than just a sandwhich joint but an actual restaurant - and you are. They do everything from the classics like croque madames to hot sandwhiches constructed around wine-braised pot roast and lamb meatloafs with yogurt gremolata. The last time I was here, my girlfriend got their croque vert which is essentially a sandwhich of vegetables and eggs. It was AMAZINGLY GOOD. It blew me away that I would be able to enjoy such a thing, much less crave and dream about it. I got the ham and gruyere. You think you know ham and cheese after eating it for lunch for the past 20 years? Come try it at BK. These guys use really fresh ingredients - even the little side salads next to their sandwhiches taste like they're made in a five-star place. I also love how they feature local artists' work, and brick wall homey-feel in Wicker Park just makes BK an inimitable, local gem.
(5)
Ebrahim B.

Awesome Hot cider, great service!
(5)
Pete Y.

I'm lucky to live nearby because this place rocks! Incredibly good, French-inspired breakfast at a reasonable price. I've never had lunch but I'm sure it's just as good. A small, well-chosen menu with vegetarian options. I like the croque vert so much I want to marry it. And the staff is super nice.
(5)
Sara O.

A frigid January afternoon, and for some reason I am strolling through Wicker Park like it's a warm July day. Then, hunger strikes. I scour the streets for a sandwich shop--I need something quick and easy and like right now. Birchwood Kitchen appears... And it was just what I needed... plus a few extra stars. Quick and easy, yes. But what about quality and flavor? Not even sacrificed. I might as well have been dining in at a fancy gourmet restaurant. A modern twist on old favorites. And I think they pickle just about everything here... I had the side salad with pickled beets, pickled carrots, and pickled onions... all of which pickled me with happiness. Pot roast sandwich--amazing. Tuna Melt--double amazing. Pastries--triple amazing. Eat here.
(5)
D D.

My wife has spoiled me with gourmet cooking for the past 7 years so my standards are pretty high as far as quality goes and this place is very good. I couldn't find the menu item I ordered on their online menu but it was an outstanding sandwich with their interestingly flavored and very thick bacon. I also ordered a cookie for dessert, not expecting that much, and was blown away- it was warm and soft and delicious. The one downside is the wait which was about 30 minutes.
(5)
Amanda A.

Amazing service! As we were waiting for our food, one of the staff members (who I presumed to be owner/manager) brought us sliced chocolate chip banana bread to have with our coffee. When leaving, I wanted to take my cold cappucino to go. The barista made me an entirely new drink! The staff here is so sweet and the atmosphere is so cozy. Not to mention our food was delicious! I recommend the vegetable hash - seasonal root vegetables that are hearty, but not heavy. And it's not covered in mushy potatoes like you would get at most places. We also go the mexican pork plate. It was tasty, but I would have liked a little more kick to it. I highly recommend this cute brunch spot for anyone looking for fresh food and a great atmostphere.
(5)
Kristin S.

Delicious. Super nice staff. Excellent coffee. We got in just before it got packed. I had a peanut butter and jelly bread pudding french toast thingy. WOWOWOWWWWWW!!!
(4)
Ed B.

Great sandwiches, salads, drinks. The turkey is nice and thickly cut, salads were well dressed and fresh, great tasting lemonade (free refills), customer service was top notch. Will frequent and suggest this place without any hesitation.
(4)
Jennifer B.

Nicest staff ever!!! I really feel like the cooks and order-takers at Birchwood Kitchen should be working at Charlie Trotters. These folks are just so attentive, and helpful, and efficient. Birchwood Kitchen, to me, is like, "Wicker Park cafe 2.0." It's a step-up from any of the other cafes in the area and add to it the great employees? Perfect lunch. My two favorite parts of Birchwood Kitchen are that: 1.) You could eat off the floor it is so clean there 2.) The menu items are just a little bit different than what you typically see. In other words, no boring Panera food here :-).
(5)
Caroline M.

The food is healthy-esque and artisinal. The dining area is pretty hip and the counter guy is pretty low key. I ordered the grilled gruyere sandwich with baked ham. The bread was pretty rough and tough and the tang of the spicy dijon mustard was pretty overwhelming. The other person I was with ordered the steak sandwich which was one of the day's specials. His sandwich was cold (not expected but oh well) and again, the bread was very rough and tough. The steak was also pretty thick and hard to chew. I tried some of his and each time I took a bite I felt like my teeth were going to be ripped out. I did really liked the fresh and healthy mixed greens salad that came with our sammies though.
(3)
Rencie H.

Love this place! The atmosphere was cozy, a little over crowded on the inside but the patio is lovely with a romantic atmosphere. The service is very nice. They major complaint I have is that this place only has one restroom for the entire restaurant. I had to wait in line for 15 min so by the time I got back to seat my seat, my food had already arrived and was cold. :( Next time I will make sure to use the restroom elsewhere before going here.
(4)
emily h.

When nearly 321 reviewers have given this place a 5 star- you know it is legit!!! Everything about Birchwood Kitchen deserves a 5 star. The owner is a super nice guy! For example, tonight when I was in, my husband and I were eating with our son and he brought him a huge bowl of blueberries complimentary! NICE! Their ingredients are also 5 star. I had a club sandwich and everything from the turkey to lettuce to bacon to bread was so FRESH and YUMMMY! Oh and did I mention this gem is BYOB? And that they have a darling patio???? Tonight we had a great meal including a bottle of wine and our total was $17! You just can't beat it!
(5)
Linna C.

Fresh ingredients, simple food done right, what more can you ask for? This is my idea of a breakfast joint with all the right trimmings! There is nothing complex about the menu, all the ingredients I could find in my neighborhood market, everything is fresh and seasoned to perfection. There are no waiters, you order, find a seat, they bring you your food. The space is small, so don't be surprised if you have to wait. I had the breakfast sandwich and I must say, it was AMAZING! It reminded me of Urth Cafe, a CA breakfast destination which I frequented. This place is an absolute gem!!! Will definitely be back next time when I'm in Chicago!
(4)
K S.

Not sure why I havn't stopped by this place before! Yes the staff is amazingly nice and helpful and also geared towards being green. My food to go was wrapped in deli paper instead of wastful styrofoam. Tomato soup was delicious and the Speck sandwich was strong in all the right flavors. I'm happy.
(4)
TN T.

CROQUE MADAME. yum!!!!! love this little place, real friendly service and tasty food - it's great for a quick brunch.
(4)
Mike P.

**UPDATE** Been here twice nearly a year apart and it is a nearly flawless execution of their concept whatever that is. The menu is short consisting of really tasty what I like to call "fake healthy" lite fare. My wife made me write this review or I wasn't getting desert. :)
(5)
Tony B.

I really want to like this place but it always leaves me with a bad taste in my mouth. It presents itself as a much cooler and better place than it actually is. Service is too weird. Walk up to a counter to order, your food is brought to your table but then you get brushed off to fix your own drink at the far side of the joint. It has this strange mix of super eager and happy and uber-cool "fuck you" hipstery customer service, in that you can never tell which one you are getting. They should be consistent with how they treat customers, if i start expecting to be treated well then i get shit on, it makes me feel even more shitty. And then the food. It's just not that good for the price. I always walk away from the Birchwood thinking "did i just pay 11 dollars for that flavorless meatloaf?" No amount of fancy display loaves or professional cookbooks laying around will distract me from the small portions of overpriced flavorless food. SO BORING! and I'm lying, i was tricked. again and again. But finally I've had enough and i won't fall for this illusion of awesome anymore. fool me once shame on you, fool me 7 times, i'll write a negative yelp review on your ass. also, a croque madam with just the most uncooked raw egg on top of the dry and bland ham sandwich. DIS-GUSTING. I don't care if that is how they do it in france. Grosso Bologono
(2)
Charlie G.

Love this place. It's become our Sunday brunch spot. The staff is so friendly. The meals are so delectable.
(5)
Moon Beam B.

I'm the one in the to go line, holding everyone up in line because I can't figure out what I want - just in case you've seen me - I am Sara. All of the delicious things in the glass are so distracting! Their salads are actually so filling and crisp and new/fresh. Sandiwiches are the same, kind of like gormet granny esqu. But not like a crepity old granny, like one who know's how to cook and has to feed her grandkids anyways. I hear the Burgers are one of a kind. BREAKFAST HERE IS A MUST. I put a picture up of the EGG MUFFINS & EGGS. wow. I catered a picnic from here as well & it worked out awesome!
(5)
Jamie K.

I almost forgot to write a review of this wonderful place that I visited a couple of months ago. I had a yummy steak sandwich and my friend had (she says) the most amazing meatloaf sandwich. The staff was very friendly. When I complimented our server on the tasty pickles, he brought me out a complimentary bag. Check it out!
(5)
Amanda Z.

"So, can I ask you a question about your pickles?" This is a true question that I asked upon my recent visit to Birchwood Kitchen. I'm a little late to the BK game here, I can see that. However, better late than never, I'm sayin'. Birchwood is the bee's knees. Serious. Big, bountiful sandwiches served aside your choice of chips or a marvelous green salad. Fresh ingredients, HOMEMADE pickles (we will discuss that tidbit later) and smiling faces. Bee's knees. I enjoyed the pork belly sandwich which is very similar to a bahn mi with it's porky goodness, cilantro and jalapeno (although watch the peppers, I nearly singed my mouth off!) P.I.C. ordered better though. The meatloaf sandwich is outta this world good. Double stacked with bacon and bbq, this sandwich does. not. mess. around. Meatloaf fans can rejoice, there is a sandwich that does it's loafiness justice. The homemade chips were fantastic, as was my side salad, perfectly dressed and plentiful. Now, back to the pickles. These are not ordinary pickles, obviously. I detected from the first bite that these pickles were homemade. Therefore I asked. "Tell me about your pickles." Sure enough, homemade. And what's more, apparently one of the guys back there is a pickle "nut". He likes to pickle all sorts of things and incorporate it into dishes. YUM. Big fan here. High class sandwiches at totally reasonable prices. We had lunch for two for under $20 and enjoyed every morsel immensely. We decided dessert was mandatory for our walk home, so despite my initial inclination toward the lemon bar, we went with the oatmeal butterscotch cookie. The HUGE oatmeal butterscotch cookie. Perfection. (But I'm going all lemon bar, all the way, next time.) Late to the game, sure. But I'll be back often. For sandwiches. And for pickles. (Duh.)
(5)
Maggie L.

Easily one of my favorite brunch spots in Chicago. It gets crowded, but I've never had to wait too long for a table. So many positives here! I've never had a dish that I didn't like (although I can only speak about breakfast items). Interesting specials. Good, bottomless cups of coffee. Friendly staff. I've never felt rushed. Lovely outdoor patio. Overall, a solid spot.
(5)
Greg T.

Really good, unique place. Check their hours before going on a weekend.
(5)
Angelina P.

Yes, everything was wonderful here. Good food, good coffee, good desert, nice staff. It really was great. However there was only one thing- what's with the no tipping allowed policy and how come no one has seemed to mention this within the other reviews? I feel strange not tipping my barista or sandwich maker. Maybe this is directly related to the fact that I use to be a barista too. But still, I like to tip. Let me. Anyways I'll go back. I'll try to tip again too.
(5)
Meghan B.

I've wanted to try this place for the longest time and finally stopped by for brunch last Sunday. It was busy but not annoyingly busy like many other Wicker Park brunch establishments, and the ordering and seating process was really efficient. I had the biscuits and gravy (which also had a fried egg, score!!) and arugula salad and it was awesome. The B&G were filling and flavorful and the salad made me feel like I was being kind of healthy (ha!) I really want to come back and try the normal menu before I fully commit to giving them 5 stars, but I'm sure I'll love that as well.
(4)
Samantha H.

You should go here. Not because it is dirt cheap. Not because it is conveniently located underneath an el stop. Not because it's next to your office in the loop. You should go here because the food is sublime; the ingredients are fresh and crsip. Because the staff are super friendly and helpful. Because there is an awesome patio in the back with perfect afternoon sunlight. Because they make fresh lemonade. Because they put a twist on your favorite salads and sandwiches. This is a bit more pricey than a happy meal and doesn't have the perfect location (you have to walk a few blocks from the Damen stop) but it. is. so. worth. it. You will not be disappointed by the kind and patient staff (willing to answer any and all questions you have) or the quality of the food. You should go here.
(5)
Sarah B.

Love it, love it, love it! The people who work here are so friendly and the food is outstanding. I had a spinach salad with goat cheese, and my dining partner had the croque monsieur...if I'm remembering correctly. The back patio is a lovely little green respite from the neighborhood noises and concrete. Plus, they serve Metropolis coffee. I will definitely be back for brunch soon!
(5)
Matthew M.

This is a sandwich-eater's nirvana. Get the pot roast sandwich on baguette!
(5)
Kristin S.

I can't say enough good things about this place. When stopping by here on a Monday for a coworker's birthday lunch, we were devastated to find that they were closed on Mondays. Doh! We saw a man coming out of the building, and I recognized him as the cheerful cashier from my last visit. We mentioned our disappointment at our lack of a birthday lunch restaurant, and he ran back inside to get us all free birthday cookies. Those oatmeal butterscotch cookies and lemon shortbread bars are the best I've ever had. Since the free cookie incident, I've been back multiple times, bringing friends, or just going by myself when I need something good in my day. The hot sandwiches are all fantastic, with one of my favorite meals being the "Lunch Lady Special" (grilled cheese and tomato bisque soup). Amazing. All the sides are delicious, and they let you try them before you make your decision, too. Birchwood is still one of my favorite places in the city.
(5)
Scott D.

I went here for brunch on a first date about 5 weeks ago. I had the french toast and he had the chicken salad baguette. We were both very happy with our order and have gone back to try other items on the menu. It's a nice spot for brunch, with an outdoor guardian in the back. This is a great place. I can't wait to go back and try the goat cheese - fresh goat cheese, pickled beets, walnut pesto, arugula, baguette!
(4)
Kori E.

My boyfriend and I came here for brunch yesterday and it was FANTASTIC!!!! It was his first time and he was very impressed. He wanted to order lunch right after we finished breakfast! I had dinner here not too long ago and wanted to try the brunch and I am glad that I did. They serve your coffee in these gigantic mugs that we both loved, the food was piping hot and SO tasty and the staff was as friendly as ever. If you are looking for a non-fussy, terrific all around dining spot, definitely com here!!
(5)
Tina W.

Yum! To escape Cubs traffic, I took Yelpers' recommendation and headed to Wicker Park for dinner at Birchwood. Since pretty much everything on the menu was in the form of sandwiches and sandwich accouterments, it may be better suited for lunch than dinner. But damn those sandwiches were good. My boyfriend and I shared a tuna melt and a salmon burger, both tasty and fresh. The tuna salad was made without mayo and had an interesting picante taste. The bread was ahhhmazing: crunchy and thick. The salmon wasn't over or undercooked and it was a perfect juicy substitute for the less healthy beef usually inhabiting the bun. Sides were crunchy chips and cole slaw (eh, I've had better), plus a side salad (again, nothing too special). The meal was filling, but I left without feeling stuffed or guilty about excessive calories. Service was friendly and unpretentious and the space was light and welcome. I like seeing what's going on in the kitchen so I enjoyed the deli style layout of the restaurant. Plus paying up front makes the end of the meal less stressful and makes spitting the bill easier. I'll definitely be back.
(4)
Leang E.

I stopped in earlier in the week to grab a menu and possibly pickup something to take home, but figured I'd come back later. Even though I stopped in for just a minute the friendly service that day was indictive of what was in store for when I came back. It worked out perfectly for my birthday brunch with a few close girlfriends. I appreciated the ability to get my own coffee and water as needed. It was a tough enough decision to decide between breakfast and lunch, and then there's the special menu. I decided on the Croque Madam and it was quite delicious. The country sausage was chargrilled and farm fresh. The prices are average. If I lived around the area, I could easily see myself becoming a regular.
(5)
Miles M.

Awesome sandwich shop. The menu rotates because the ingredients are all sourced locally, and thus only when in-season. This results in EXTREMELY fresh tasting sandwiches. My favorite was the pulled duck, which I've only seen around winter. The best tasting sandwich I think I've had to date. Nice atmosphere inside. Great outside patio in back as well. Staff has always been extremely friendly. Would recommend to anyone.
(5)
Chris M.

I was really impressed with Birchwood Kitchen when I went with my girlfriend for lunch this week. The fod was delicious, the atmosphere was awesome and the staff was friendly and attentive...what more can you ask for? I had the pork belly sandwich with and a side of the chipotle chickpea salad. The sandwich had a little bite since it had some jalapeno on it but it gave the sandwich a lot of flavor. The side was very tasty. My grilfriend had the goat cheese sandwich with pickeled beets which she really enjoyed. The baguette was nice and fresh! For dessert I had a piece of carrot cake that was really good. It even had some pineapple in it. Birchwood Kitchen is a great place to stop for a sandwich or afternoon brunch!
(5)
Adrienne C.

This place is awesome for a number of reasons: 1 - it is easy to walk to from my place in Wicker Park 2 - they serve amazing petit salads instead of greasy potatoes with their brunch 3 - they have the moistest, most delicious chocolate chip banana bread that I have ever feasted upon 4 - everything on the menu is bound to satisfy a discerning foodie 5 - good crowd of people 6 - much shorter wait than closeby Bongo Room and Feast. I have the Crroque Vert, an iced coffee, and shared a slice of banana bread for an appetizer. I would order everything else again! I will definitely be back soon.
(5)
Elvin Y.

For some reason this place always gives me a very New York feeling. It's just a cute little place that I could see in Greenwich Village but I'm glad it's in Chicago. I enjoy the counter service and serve yourself coffee. That way it takes away the stress of trying to nag down a server for those much needed refills. Food is clean, innovative and good. You can't go wrong w/any of their sandwiches. I love their brunch - although menu is pretty limited but changes often with whats freshly available.
(4)
Anne S.

I wish this place was not so popular but I know why it is! This was my second visit today and just like the first, I had some really amazing food. -- special pork loin panini w/ broccoli rabe and mozzarella -- pot roast sandwich also rocked -- the salad and the pickled carrots are so delish Seriously, you could eat anything from here and not be disappointed...AND...if you were...I bet they would try to fix that. The service is really good. -- another plus today was the organization for waiting for a table...they wouldn't let people order until they had a table...and they had a guy that was calling names when tables were available...it felt very stress free. -- oh yeah, and free banana chocolate chip bread whilst waiting...yum!
(5)
Julie H.

How in the hell have I not yelped Birchwood Kitchen yet? Can I just say that I have truly, madly, deeply fallen in love with this place? Reason being: Birchwood Kitchen fills a void in my life, and that would be SANDWICHES (seriously, until now I have been unable to find an outstanding sandwich in Chicago). I think the service is a tad slow, but the deliciousness keeps me coming back.
(4)
Paul H.

Had a great turkey sandwich on pretzel roll, with a salad, topped off with oatmeal butterscotch cookie. All fresh and good
(5)
Natalie S.

Nooooooooooooooo! I just write a rave review about the place that changed my opinion of sandwiches and they go and stop offering the ONE sandwich I ever liked! The mushroom sandwich has been replaced with what I can only assume is a significantly less delicious vegan sandwich. I'm trying to decide the most effective route of getting my sandwich back on the menu: 1) starting a petition and collecting signatures from all mushroom sandwich lovers or 2) vowing to throw mushrooms at one vegan per day until my sandwich is back. Please, Birchwood Kitchen, do not force me into a life of vegetarian-on-vegan mushroom violence. Bring it back and no one gets hurt. **Update: I have discovered that the mushroom sandwich is only temporarily off the menu as Birchwood stopped making mozz in the cold months. It will return in warm weather and so will I!**
(4)
Joyce C.

Ok, I'm not a huge sammy kinda girl. I'll go to a Jimmy John's or a Corner Bakery because they are close and cheap. BUT, I would come back all the way out to Wicker Park from the suburbs to have another of their sammies... with no hesitation. I liked most everything about this place: -Parking: plenty -Interior: clean and open, you can see the kitchen working -Menu: large selection of hot and cold sammies -Soups: great! We tried lentil and Portuguese kale and sausage which were hearty and delicious -Sandwiches: tasty and the bread was fresh. I got the pork belly sandwich and the hubby got a pork tenderloin sandwich which was one of the specials. Next time we're trying the pot roast sandwich, it looked awesome when the table next to us ordered it -Sides: the salad that accompanied my husband's sandwich was fresh and not wilted, and the chips I had were crunchy, not greasy and had chopped chives added to it - even the pickled carrots on the plate as a garnish was a nice touch -Coffee: they serve metropolis coffee here -Boylan's: they serve boylan's soda here -Desserts: they have homemade desserts that are reasonably priced (which we'll definitely try next time!) -Customer Service: is great here, everyone seems to care whether or not you're enjoying your experience The only one negative about this place- it's cold. I sat there with my jacket on all throughout lunch. Yes, I know it's winter, but really, if you're anywhere near the windows you'll understand. My one and only suggestion for this place is to get those windows insulated!!
(5)
Monica M.

yummmm. cool little place with great sandwiches and desserts. choco zucchini bread was awesome, lemon bar was perfect, and butterscotch cookie was great too. service is always so great too.
(5)
Scott S.

You should know it's byob...which is awesome. That means cheap beer or wine to go with your incredibly reasonably priced sandwich. Pork belly sandwich was pretty good, but the goat cheese sandwich with beets and walnut pesto was 5 stars all the way. I'd eat it 5 times a week. On top of that, the atmosphere is pleasant and the service is super-cool. Try the sweet potato salad too.
(5)
Miss O.

My boyfriend and I are obsessed with this place. We're always check out the new menus. The outdoor seating is great on the summer. Sandwiches are totally my style.
(4)
Luna H.

I just moved to Chicago a couple of weeks ago and, when my boyfriend came visit last weekend, we decided to look for the best brunch in the city. We ended up going to Birchwood Kitchen because it is so high rated and, after waiting for half an hour, we finally got a table. I have to recognize that EVERY person working there was extremely nice, but we really didn't like the system of no waiters that they have. This means that after you wait for half an hour to get a table, you have to leave your stuff there and go make the line to order your food in the bar. Bad. The menu is very short, really short. My boyfriend had the croque madamme and I had the croque vert, and we both thought it was disappointing. The croque sandwiches are supposed to have bechamel on top, which makes the bread tender, rich and easy to cut. In this case, there was no bechamel and only melted cheese on top of a really hard bread, which made pretty much impossible to cut it with the knife. Plus the taste was just not that good. Two stars seems to be too little but "meh, I've experience better" is the perfect phrase to describe the feeling.
(2)
Erin P.

You know how sometimes you have a restaurant on your "to try" list but you never get around to trying it? You forgot or put it off, then remember, but then forget again? That is how I was with Birchwood Kitchen. I have wanted to try it since it opened but I kept putting it off and forgetting. Finally (maybe a whole year later?) on the glowing recommendation of my sister, I made it in for lunch. Oh man- why did i put this off for so long? It was amazing. So it is not just a sandwich shop. It is a coffee shop, brunch place and cafe that serves lunch and dinner all rolled into one. With fabulous sandwich creations, homemade pastries and daily specials. Did I mention it is BYO and has non metered parking out front? Who knew?! For my first, and certainly not last visit, my sister and I shared the split pea soup, turkey club and salumi sandwich with sides of garbanzo bean salad and pasta salad. The salumi sandwich was a daily special that came grilled with fresh mozzarella and roasted red peppers. While the turkey club may sound pretty basic it was full of fresh ingredients and finished with a tomato jam which was a nice twist. The house made desserts stared me in the eye all meal. I gave into the temptation and finished the meal with one of the best lemon bars I have ever had. Service was fabulous. Not the kind of thing you expect in a place where you order at a counter and the food is later delivered to you. The guy that helped us with upbeat, friendly and very excited to tell us all about the food and make recommendations. He even checked on us a few times and brought us some samples from the kitchen. If you are still uncertain maybe this will sway your opinion: While we were dining, none other than Chicago Top Chef winner, Stephanie Izzard was eating lunch two tables away. Of all people she must be in the know about great neighborhood places right? Cant wait to go back, not just for the star stalking, there are so many more items to try.
(5)
November V.

HANDS DOWN BEST BURGERS IN CHICAGO, but that's not all EVERYTHING is delicious! One of my other FAVES is the GoatCheese/Beet Sandwich. Ambiance is so cool, gorgeous back patio. The owner and all of the staff are super friendly and just good people!! So reasonably priced for first class food. I don't what I would do if this place wasn't in my life.
(5)
Katie M.

I am so glad our original dinner plans fell through and we ended up at Birchwood. First of all-BYOB-heck yeah. Second of all-super affordable and HUGE portions, just what me and my bloated belly need. Third-delicious food and great service. You order from a counter, then take a seat, and they bring you your food once it's done. We ordered the burgers (two of us had the southwest turkey burger, one in the group had the bacon burger) and when they arrived at our table, we couldn't believe our eyes. They were huge let me tell you. Usually when I eat out I save half of my food for lunch the next day but none of us could stop at half. We all devoured our entire burgers. SO DELICIOUS. My friend who recommended the place said their food is local and organic so that makes me feel even better about devouring my whole southwest burger. Embarrassingly enough, we were having such a good time that we shut the place down. When they finally turned off the music (about 45 minutes after they closed) we knew it was time to go. They were gracious about us being the last table in there and we didn't feel rushed at all (or maybe that was all the wine we consumed). Overall, I cannot believe I have lived in Btown for 8 months and this is the first time eating here. Can't wait to go back!
(5)
Michael C.

This place is a neighborhood gem! I hate to even tell other people how good it is because I wish it could be all my own. Staff: 5-Stars, the people here are great. Attentive, suggestive and always smiliing Food: Innovative, simple (or so they seem) dishes with something special, unique ingredients, well portioned meals and savory sides Good to know: Coffee and Desserts are a must here. Past favorites include lemon bars, peach berry crumble and the cookies You would be a fool not to visit this place and say hello! P.S. -BYOB
(5)
Benjamin V.

One of the best brunch places in the city. Hands down. One of the owners, Jud, often greets you at the door with a warm smile. The staff is pleasant and the atmosphere is clean and inviting. Two things that struck me were the freshness of the ingredients and the very well put-together menu. Innovative with traditional options as well. Oh, and the price is right.
(5)
Grace L.

Do you ever have those days where you have everything planned out but then it falls apart and you have nothing to do so you impulsively decide to try something new? I just had one and those and discovered this place through random Yelping. This find has re-ignited my belief that Yelp is doing us a great service by being around :D LOVE LOVE LOVE this place! It's very cute and unassuming but the food and wait staff is incredible. Everyone behind the counter is incredibly friendly and the wait staff was very attentive. They just seemed to know when my coffee was starting to run low so I never had to get out of my seat to refill (they have a pour it yourself system by the counter). I got the waffle which had a lemon butter and a strawberry compote. It was so incredibly fresh, flavorful, light and fluffy. I was in absolute waffle heaven. The person I was with got their grilled gruyere sandwich and was definitely a fan. I tried a bite and was pretty blown away too. I absolutely have to come back here. Wow.
(5)
Chance S.

One of my favorite spots to grab lunch in Bucktown. Everything is locally raised and tastes healthy. I've been here 15+ times, and everything I've had here is amazing. The salmon burger with wasabi mayo (only served after 5pm) is seizure-inducingly delicious. Not to mention they are BYOB, AND they have an adorable patio. As you eat outdoors, sometimes you'll see the kitchen staff come out and snip some fresh herbs from one of the planters. Almost forgot to say that the oatmeal butterscotch cookies are probably the best cookies I've ever had. Ridiculous.
(5)
Annie W.

Yum. Great value for two under $20! We got one of their panini specials -- sopressata and taleggio. I'm not a seasoned charcuterie eater so I can't expand too much about it besides it being cheesy wonderfulness with a side of extra crispy pickle and chips. Tomato bisque was delicious. They had soft chunks of onion and other veggie bits to texturize the soup, making it a lot fuller than most bisques. I was a fan. My favorite dish was actually the arugula salad. WOW. Not your average salad that doesn't fill you up. First, this plate was a huge mama, with generous helpings of butternut squash and pickled beets and showered with goat cheese on top. I was pleasantly surprised how filling it was! I had to try the butterscotch oatmeal cookie--addicting! Interior dark wood decorations, open air kitchen, nice wooden furniture and easy seating. BIG portions, friendly service and they're currently celebrating their 1 yr anniversary! Which means free celebratory mini choco chip cookies!! Double yum :)
(5)
Ivanka B.

Got a loaf of the banana chocolate chip bread for mtg I had - I definitely made everyone happy but wanted to keep it all for myself!!
(5)
Karli S.

This place is perfect for breakfast or lunch! Great food, great setting, great staff. For details, read on. Lots of choices but not an overwhelming menu. Fresh, tasty food presented beautifully. Completely reasonably priced, and DELICIOUS!!! Dishes we got included bacon bread pudding, croque madame, steak sandwich, and "bagel and cream cheese" (lox salad on a sesame bagel w/ pickled onions, yummmm). They also have coffee, tea, and pastries (think cookies, lemon bars, cobbler). The ambience is lovely: quaint inside with a great outdoor seating area, and the people couldn't be more friendly. I love Birchwood Kitchen and so will you!
(5)
Luke S.

Man do these guys make unique sandwiches or what? I was excited to try this place and on all of your recommendations I decided to take a prospect to lunch here. We were both very happy with the decision. It's fairly priced, fresh ingredients, and you could tell the employees truly cared about their customers. The tuna melt was the bomb! Also be sure to use lots of the hot sauce. I even bought a bottle on my way out (supports a local charity).
(5)
Stacey R.

So good. My friend and i met here for an early dinner of burgers. I had the vegetarian burger -- a delicious white bean with rosemary (I will have to steal that idea now) and she had a cheddar and bacon. We both ate everything on our plates. Delicious and well done. Love the casual atmosphere and very friendly but totally unobtrusive service. Nice patio too. Very relaxed.
(5)
Michael D.

Birchwood Kitchen is located in the Wicker Park neighborhood that is a very trendy area loaded with a large number of restaurants and clubs. This BYOB restaurant features soups, sandwiches, salads, and brunch on the weekends. There is also a bakery on the premises that produces an assortment of breads and pastries. It has a small, charming dining room as well as an enclosed private and attractive outdoor patio adjacent to the rear of the restaurant building. Its menu regularly changes, reflecting the availability of seasonal ingredients. It is somewhat eclectic with a slant on French preparations. Patrons order their food at a counter and the food is subsequently brought by the wait staff to the diners' tables. On a recent Sunday my wife and I had brunch there for the first time. We entered at about 10:15 a.m., were greeted by a very friendly and informative staff member who explained the dining procedure, and were then seated immediately. (Soon thereafter, the place quickly filled up.) While we were ordering at the counter, we tried a complimentary sample of a freshly baked batch of scones that was very moist and flavorful. My wife ordered the Baked French Toast with strawberries and stuffed with a lemon flavored filling. I ordered the Croque Madame that is a grilled sour dough sandwich filled with ham, gruyere cheese, Dijon mustard, topped with two sunny-side up eggs, and accompanied by a small green salad. Both dishes were very fresh, well prepared, filling, and appetizing. The French toast was extremely tasty and not too sweet. The combination of ingredients in my sandwich worked very well. The ham was succulent, the melted cheese was very tasty, and the mustard provided just the right amount of kick. The Birchwood Kitchen is a very inviting small neighborhood restaurant and bakery with a comfortable atmosphere. The staff is friendly and shows obvious pleasure and pride in their work, resulting in food that is fresh and delicious. I highly recommend it with a solid four and one-half star rating.
(4)
lana v.

I wish I lived closer to Birchwood so I can come here for lunch daily. The food is excellent, I have been many times and have tried a lot of different thing, all of which have been excellent. We come here often for brunch, and while it is crowded there is never a huge wait. On several occasions when we did have to wait (less than half hour) they would give us free drinks or desserts, and sometimes they put out samples of different sandwiches/snacks. The menu is very interesting, and the owner changes it up fairly often based on what is in season and what is available. The food is very fresh, and you can tell they use very high quality ingredients in all of their dishes.
(5)
Mike Z.

been there multiple times now, never disappointed. very creative menu options (think the fall one is in the making so im curious about the new options) would especially recommend it to a curious eater. outdoor seating is in the back and nice if its not too hot. they had mint lemonade the other day - wow, it was quite a treat.
(5)
Ben K.

Hidden somewhat ON the beaten path, Birchwood Kitchen is a boutique, specialty sandwich shop that doesn't quite offer traditional options, but is well worth your time if you're feeling adventurous. Their menu doesn't feature "the classics". In fact, I can't remember much of anything that was on there besides the item I wanted but they were out of (lamb french dip au jus), the item my buddy got (roast beef w/bleu cheese sandwich), and the item I got (duck confit on french baguette). As such, I will only speak to what I had. The sandwich was a little smaller than I was expecting for $9. But what it lacked in size, it surely made up for in flavor (that's what she said?). The baguette was crisp and airy and did a fantastic job holding the components together. The duck was fatty and flavorful. The dijon mustard packed just the right punch. The entire thing was tied together with a shockingly awesome apple slaw whose sweetness I would have rejected if it were described to me, but that I found to be a perfect complement. Don't forget to BYOB if you're thirsty.
(4)
Andrew H.

Incredible. I'm not sure how I've lived in Chicago so long without discovering this place, but I'm thrilled that I've found it now. I had the duck sandwich, which is one of the better sandwiches I've ever had in my life. It is a little crowded, but the hostess did a great job of making the wait more pleasant, offering us samples of some of their baked goods - plus, you can hit up the self-service coffee while you wait. My fiance had the croque madame which was also solid. I can't wait to go back again and try more of the menu. If only it was closer to me, this would be a weekly staple - it might end up being one anyway.
(5)
Taylor S.

I feel like i don;t even need to write this review. It will just get buried in the enormous pile of five stars these guys earn. But seriously... My wife and I go here pretty often. always great. totally consistent. usually we go in, but right now I am totally sick, so i call and ask Judd what his soups are for the day and he tells me white bean escarole. I hm and haw and hunt around on yelp for something else that sounds, not just good, but just right. after reading fifty terrible reviews for Bon Bon and their awful pho, i decide that Im being silly and call Birchwood back. they've run out of soup. Out OF Soup. I feel totally defeated. reluctantly order sandwiches and set about trying to make my own failure soup. Wife goes to get the sandwiches, and returns, not twenty minutes later with two steak sandwiches, AND with a cup of soup that they made ESPECIALLY FOR ME. these guys are stand up. they do it all great and they love the hell out of it. I hope that in thirty years my wife and i are still eating there. every small restaurant owner should go here for lessons in food consistency, atmosphere, and most of all, customer service. and every food lover should go here in lessons in what they are missing.
(5)
Colleen O.

I ordered takeout for lunch from BWK for my office a few months back and several things stand out in my memory; They actually put the NAME of the person on their sandwich (which makes handing out lunch in the midst of a meeting soooo much faster and accurate). Also, I order for a neighboring business at the same time and they had no problem keeping the orders and tickets separate (you would be surprised at how many places can't seem to do that). I always order "a little something extra" to share and this time it was soup, and their soups were AWESOME! Unexpected flavor and texture combinations which just made my mouth so very happy! Thanks BWK for a very easy and nom nom nommy lunch!
(4)
Matthew B.

It's actually difficult to believe how great this place is. I've had a number of sandwiches here, and my current favorite is the Ham and Cheddar with greens and beer jelly. Beer Jelly! And as odd as it sounds, the jelly truly makes the sandwich. Not that it wouldn't be great without: these are top-quality ingredients, and I'm not exaggerating when I say that it looks as though each individual leaf of arugula was placed on my sandwich for the aesthetic appeal alone. That could explain why some reviewers are not as happy about how long it takes to be served at the Birchwood...but seriously? It is truly worth it. The meal that makes me curse with delight, however, is the f'ing spinach salad. It's warm. With duck confit and duck sausage and white beans. It's heavenly. My brother has had a burger here, which they offer in the evenings, and says that it was one of the finest he's had, and I don't doubt it. The only thing I was slightly less than thrilled about was the basic Green salad, and I can't put my finger on why; too many beets, perhaps? And I promise that I'm just being very picky; it was still delicious. I like that you can turn any of their sandwiches into a salad. That's neat. Top this culinary experience off with the friendliest of staff, a warm and inviting but still elegant decor, and fantastic coffee to boot, and you have my favorite lunch place in Chicago thus far. No wi-fi... but truthfully? It's the kind of place that you should savor some free time. Stay off that laptop for an hour. Focus on the great meal you're eating. Thanks Birchwood!
(5)
Cara M.

Great, fresh food. The staff are so amazing. The food is so good. The back patio is lovely. Love it all around!
(4)
Kel W.

From the moment I walked in, I knew I liked Birchwood Kitchen. The decor is inviting, the photos on the wall were lovely. It was a series called Wicker Women. The coffee was excellent and you were able to serve yourself. They ran out of coffee while we were up there, and upon telling them, it was immediately replaced. We ordered breakfast sandwiches which came with potatoes (yum yum yum) and greens (the dressing was fantastic). Everything on the sandwich was spot on, from the focaccia to the cheese. We also ordered the breakfast quiche, which had leeks, mushrooms and gruyere cheese. I couldn't stop eating it. There were ample portions and we left with a half a sandwich each. The service was excellent, and the owner/manager even offered to give us to go cups so we could bring our coffee along with us...Do yourself a favor and eat at Birchwood Kitchen. One other plus - the menu is revolving, so there is always something new to try.
(5)
J T.

Loved it - emphasis on local & organic in menu + outstanding taste and freshness + friendly staff + great location + decent prices = great experience at this place. Even with a fussy baby in tow. And that's saying something.
(5)
Eric B.

Creative menu. Everything was delicious and fresh. We split some grilled gruyere with ham, created our own sandwich with turkey arugula grainy mustard pickled red onions pretzel bread and goat cheese, ginger lemonades, fruit, and a cookie - all for about 27 bucks! The interior was bright, and the kitchen was bustling with activity. Highly recommend. It looks like the menu changes seasonally. Good luck choosing between breakfast and lunch, suppose that's what that bastard brunch was supposed to fix until this place made it hard.
(5)
S K.

Loved this place! We went for breakfast. You have to order at the counter, which was a little different, get your own cup of joe at the end, and find a table. If that was slightly inconvenient, the food, friendly staff, and amazing baked goods made up for it. The walnut bread was simply amazing! I ate so much of it, I could barely finish half of my meal.
(4)
pramod p.

This place is amazing. We walked in to a very busy place, but a super friendly greeter asked us where we wanted to sit, gave us a table number and even moved us to a better table while we waiting. The sandwiches are sinful. Homemade bread, cheeses and chips, they were awesome. Although not very healthy (LOTS of cheese and butter) if you are ready for a splurge it tasted out of this world. Endless cups of coffee and incredible homemade desserts make this one of my favourite lunch places. Cant wait to try brunch :) Must try.
(4)
Misse D.

Brunch at Birchwood Kitchen has me begging for more. As part of my Birthday Week, I organized a small group to meet on Sunday for brunch before we headed to the Wicker Park Street fest. The wait for a table was about 25 minutes. To speed it along, we ordered our meal at the counter so that the food came within minutes of sitting down. Genius. My mouth waters when I think of the Croque Madame. It was divine. I didn't really want to share with Denton but since he paid, I figured it was only fair. His quiche, the special, was very good but it really didn't compare to mine. I skipped the scones although I was tempted because they go so well with English Breakfast tea. The outdoor space is pretty and BYOB. How can you not like that? Since it's a short walk from my home, I plan on becoming a regular.
(5)
Anne P.

First visit was an A+. The cashier (who appeared to be the owner) seemed very invested in making it a lovely experience for everyone in there. He answered all my questions about ingredients and let me taste the pickled brussel sprouts that I was curious about. The salads (esp the Greens) were amazing. I will definitely be back.
(5)
Colter S.

More like BITCHwood Kitchen. 'Cause this place is BITCHIN. And by that I mean it is fast, healthy, fresh, and awesome.
(4)
Becky S.

Well, I'm a fan.. I'm already plotting my next visit. I called in for carry out, thinking this could be a perfect place to fulfill the sick boyfriend's desire for a turkey sandwich, and my own for something tasty. The phone guy was super nice and informative, and behaved similarly when I stopped in to picked up the goods. He wished the boyfriend a speedy recovery, and then I delivered the food. YUM. I didn't dare taste the sick boyfriend's stuff, but he praised the turkey club and tomato bisque soup so highly that I was almost willing to risk infection to grab a bite. However, I was so enamored with my mozzarella salad (involving mozzarella and some other kind of cheese--excessive, but delicious) that it didn't really matter. I've thought about that salad fondly every day since I've been there.. house-made cheese, greens, vinaigrette, and roasted tomatoes. Drool. When I stopped by, I was almost tempted to ditch the sickly boyfriend and sit down for brunch by myself instead.. next time.
(5)
Dagwood S.

Went there for breafast/brunch on a Sunday and had great food with super nice staff. First of all, this place is small, the menu is smaller because this is a small local contempoary place that seems to only serve high quality food. There was a line, but we eat at the back counter within 10 minutes. They have great coffee and a really good white tea and then the blood orange juice was awesome! My wife and I shared the Croque Vert and Breakfast Sandwich. When we ordered, the owner gave us a small bowtie and parmassan pasta salad while we waited and it was great. Just a great overall experiance where I would definately travel to go to again which is what makes a 5-star place for me.
(5)
Nicolas H.

Came back for dinner and had the bacon cheddar burger. Definitely lived up to my expectations. The meat itself was cooked perfectly and the cheese was more than your average cheddar. The bacon was also thick yet crispy and their aoioli was awesome. It also came with chips and their amazing green apple slaw. Throw in some sample tastes of the rice and sweet potato salad and you have a pretty great meal for about $10...
(4)
Cassie B.

So far have had sandwiches to go twice. Sandwiches are good, well-made, but not mind-blowing. That's fine, it's hard to make a takeout sandwich memorable. The staff is very nice and the to-go sides are outstanding (very special rice salads, russian salads, etc.) Both times I've been in here i REALLY wanted to stay for brunch - the crowd looked cool/fun/hip and the waffley smells from the kitchen were amazing - let's just say I almost forgot my to-go order.
(4)
Kristi K.

Great food. Good value. Good service. I had the mushroom sandwich, which was very balanced. I even took it home--which can be tricky with a grilled sandwich which has cheese on it. Was not greasy at all, and the flavors were very fresh. You can also create your own sandwich, but I decided to leave it to the professionals. Also, while I was waiting for my food, they brought me a cup of the tomato soup to try. It was as good as everything else I had there. I also got a side of mint chickpea salad, which was very refreshing and well seasoned. For dessert, I got a lemon bar. Their desserts are made by a pastry artist from Evanston, I believe, and it was really, really good. I'll definitely be back--whether it's on my way home to grab a cookie, or to stop for a whole meal. I can't wait to go back when summer finally gets here...they have a back patio area!
(5)
Reeder J.

This place is awesome. Food is excellent and fairly inexpensive. Menu changes seasonally. Good for breakfast, lunch or dinner, BYOB. The people that work there are about as helpful and friendly as you could ask for. YOu can tell they really like cooking and working there. Great place.
(5)
Kelly M.

I went to the Birchwood for the first time recently with some girlfriends for brunch. I have to say I really liked it. For starters, parking was easy which is always nice. The atmosphere inside is cute and friendly and the outdoor patio was sunny and comfortable. The staff was very helpful and didn't mind us sitting out back for a quite sometime without ordering while we waited for everyone to arrive. It is a very casual place where you order at the counter and get your own coffee and water which I liked. the coffee was outstanding! I ordered the Croque Vert - seasonal vegetables and cheese on sourdough topped with fried eggs and served with a petite salad. It was outstanding! I loved the flavors and the cheese and the eggs were cooked perfectly for my tastes. I would love to go again for brunch!
(4)
Reid B.

Though the wait and confused line can be unpleasant, I always love brunch at Birchwood. Would rate it 5, but I'm not always up for the AM hassle of ordering and getting a table.
(4)
Erika S.

I've become a regular since discovering this place with a couple girlfriends over dinner. One of them had seen it open and wanted to check it out--- it was the find of the century. I'm in love. We shared a bottle of wine (BYO) and chatted about all sorts of nonsense--- all over the best veggie sandwich I've ever tasted. The green salad was made with fresh fresh ingredients and (this might sound silly) but the best olive oil and salt and pepper ever. Since that first visit I've been hooked--- its the first place that comes to mind for a weekend brunch or lunch and all the soups and sandwiches have been wonderful... even the carrot ginger which surprised me so much I might actually try cooked carrots again. The staff is friendly, the food is fresh and full of flavor and there are always adorable fresh flowers on the tables. Birchwood is perfect.
(5)
Callie R.

One of the best BYOB spots in Bucktown. The staff is super friendly and I have never had a bad experience there. In the summer I love brunch on their outdoor patio. Some of the food highlights are the turkey burger, butterscotch cookies and lentil soup. Stomach growling as I type.
(4)
Daniel P.

Love it, Love it, Love it. I've walked by this place a million times and always though oh some day I will check it out. Finally went in and wish I would have gone sooner. This little place is doing everything right. Striving to use local, seasonal and sustainable produced products. Even a hot sauce made a local co-op for charity. I've only had the sandwich's but they've all been great! Definite thumbs up recommendation. Keep up the good work! Also has a nice little patio in the back. Great for sunny days like today!
(5)
Allie B.

I tried this place the other night when I was charged with bringing home dinner for my sick husband. I wandered in around 6:30 and placed my order for one cold sandwich and one hot sandwich. The guy working the counter was super friendly and nice, and not in that creepy way. He told me that my hot sandwich should take about ten minutes, asking if that was okay, and put in the order once I agreed that it wasn't a problem. First, let me give the big thumbs up to the delicious sandwiches I ended up with that night. I had the turkey club, which was amazing. I was initially a bit bummed that the sandwich had tomato jam instead of sliced tomato, because I am nothing, if not a whore for a good tomato. But, let me tell you, the jam that was on there was, well, THE JAM. Highly recommended! My husband had the Blue, which he really liked, aside from the inclusion of onions on it, which I'd specifically asked to be omitted. Not a big deal, though, he just took them off and plowed on through the sandwich. The only issue I had was that the hot sandwich did not take ten minutes, but nearly thirty minutes. It's a new place, though, and I expect some hiccups, so it won't keep me from going back.The guy at the counter was super apologetic about it, so whatever. Just mentioning it to make those who are looking to grab a quick sandwich aware that they should avoid ordering a hot sandwich if they're in a rush. I'd agree that the sandwiches aren't cheap, but for the quality of the ingredients, it didn't bother me. I'll be glad to have a nice alternative to Goddess and Grocer on nights I want to pick up a tasty sandwich on the way home from work. Also psyched to try their brunch sometime. Hopefully they'll work out some of the kinks with regard to the timing. I'll be back to check that out.
(4)
Rachel T.

I could not love Birchwood Kitchen more. The care and detail put into this awesome restaurant add up to a great experience. Their breakfast even makes dragging myself out of bed on the weekend for an early museum visit or road trip much more appealing. Birchwood Kitchen always offers genuinely nice, non-cloying customer service. The food is nothing short of delicious and picture perfect and it also happens to be an amazing value. I love that I can have a great meal for under $10 - ideal for carryout, or bring a friend and a bottle of wine and enjoy the guilt-free goodness. My vegetarian favorites are the goat cheese and beet for warm days, and the grilled gruyere and caramelized onion on cooler ones. Vegans can go for the lemony and delicious chickpea sandwich - it tastes like summer and is great with chips on the side. The vegan and delicious vegetable sandwich with spiced cashew butter was awesome too. For breakfast, you can't do much better than the croque vert. OH! And how could I forget the vegan burger, offered alongside otherwise meaty creations, on Tuesday-Friday nights? So delicious and filling, and it's great that vegans/vegetarians aren't excluded from some burger fun (as we often are). This is a handmade patty, no Morningstar Farms or Boca in the house. I am sorry to have moved fairly far from the neighborhood... I know I will make a point to continue eating at Birchwood Kitchen as often as I can.
(5)
Michelle B.

Just tried BK for the first time for brunch and had a great experience. Staff is super friendly, accommodating and gave us great recommendations. The set up is a little funky but it works and the food is absolutely delicious and perfectly executed. My husband and I shared a brunch entree with a few sides and left satisfied but comfortable. The fennel biscuit was amazing. Will definitely be back to try their lunch menu.
(5)
Justin J.

I think this might be the only restaurant I've given 5 stars to. Everything about Birchwood Kitchen is working. The food is delicious, fresh, light, prepared right before your eyes with local and regional ingredients, made with obvious TLC. I had a bowl of sweet potato soup that was soul satisfying. The tuna melt was different than any tuna melt I've ever had and that's what made it wonderful. Even the pickles don't taste like your every day pickles. Fresh is the key word here! The lemon square was tha bomb, they asked me what square I wanted, let me choose what I thought was the best looking one! The cookies are scrumptious. The atmosphere is relaxing, soothing, welcoming. The staff, constantly busy like bee, was friendly and they really knew what they were selling. They volunteered information about the food, ie, they really care and enjoy what they're doing. Birchwood feels like a family kitchen filled with conscious, energetic and caring folks. No pretentiousness, just excellent food. Go there if you want quality, freshness, a twist on classic deli-leaning soups and sandwiches and salads, great for brunch...an oasis in a desert filled with grease, huge portions, Sysco trucks and underwhelming sloppy joes.
(5)
Mork M.

Just got back from a soup and sandwich brunch date here. For counter service they sure as hell make you feel like you're waited on (an excellent thing) and insist on not taking tips. I had a really fancy pickled beet, sprout, cucumber, carrot with peanut sauce sandwich on fantastically fresh bread and a cup of black bean soup that was perfectly seasoned with a mini pico de gayo of sorts for garnish. Comes with what I believe to be homemade kettle chips garnished (I think?) with parsley which was phenomenal. I don't understand how people can't dig the service. Their service is friendlier and more helpful than most table service joints, but its a counter service place, so there is no need to even complain. GREAT KITCHEN. Highly recommended. Girlfriend got the baked mozz and they put on a fresh pot of coffee for her. Wow, definitely going back. Sidenote, the place is beautiful both in food presentation and interior deco.
(5)
Bart D.

If you like delicious sandwiches, then do yourself a favor and go to Birchwood Kitchen next time you're in Wicker Park. Everything I've had at Birchwood has been great. Sandwiches, burgers, homemade chips, soups, deserts... you name it, it is fantastic. The guys behind the counter are great too. They always seem to be in a fantastic mood. This is one of those places I keep going back to, and probably will for a very long time. Oh, and they get bonus points for BYOB and having a patio.
(5)
Kelly Z.

Never a let down. The veggie burger was absolutely phenomenal. Everything there is top notch. Esp the brownies... Love!
(5)
chris c.

I will definitely give this place another shot as you can tell their ingredients are well sourced, their concepts are pretty well thought out, but their execution, at least on this day, was really poor. Our party had the waffles (well done) with the bacon stuffed sausage ( tremendous), the polenta with ragout and poached eggs and the country ham with sunny side up eggs and a biscuit with honey. On both dishes the eggs came out over cooked. We deemed the poached eggs essential so sent them back (they were more hard boiled than poached) and when they sent out new eggs those were overcooked as well. It is hard to give this place 4 stars when they could not even get their eggs right. I will allow them to redeem themself at another time as the service was good and the raw materials top notch.
(3)
K G.

Service was phenomenal. Very friendly, knowledgeable fella behind the counter. Massive selection of sandwiches, salads, desserts. Presentation of most everything was deli style, and the cases looked clean and fresh. The baked goods were piled tantalizingly...my favorite way to see cookies, etc. In mountains! I had the mushroom quiche, and was pleased the server didn't mention the zucchini, because I wouldn't have ordered it. However, it was sliced so thin, I didn't get any of that mushy, seedy sensation that I find unappetizing. The salad had thinly shaved pickled beets and pickled red onion...so exciting and delightful! My fella ordered the bleu cheese roast beef panini with dijon. The server warned that it is a VERY strong tasting sandwich. This was much appreciated, since the big guy prefers strong flavor. Caramelized onion boosted "strong" to "massive". Intense! Delicious. Lovely interior dining, and a quaint patio in back. There was a private party out there when I visited, but look forward to returning to eat outside. BYOB!!
(5)
Rebecca S.

This place feels like it has the potential to become a great "neighborhood jem," featuring sandwiches with fresh seasonal and local ingredients. However, I think it needs some time to actually get there. I went to Birchwood for lunch today and had a feeling that I was walking into a place on its opening day. The servers were friendly, but uncomfortable - as if I might suddenly catch them doing some restaurant no-no in the corner. I think this place would work best if it relaxed a bit and let its food speak for itself. For example, while its cute to bring me my potato chips in a white paper lunch sack, its not really necessary and ultimately just makes me question who had the poor job of cutting the tops off of all those paper lunch bags. Not to mention the doubts this raises about how carefully Birchwood has considered its commitment to sustainability. As for the food, the sandwich I had was definitely above average. And at $8.25 for a goat cheese sandwich, I think it should be. I also had a delicious glass of cucumber-cardamom lemonade, a perfect compliment to a summer lunch. The place itself is cute and tasteful, a comfortable place to sit and enjoy a meal. The back patio also seems like a great place to enjoy the warm summer weather. Also, the state of the art hand dryer in the bathroom not only dried my hands quickly, but entertained me as well. I think I would like to come back to the Birchwood Kitchen after it has aged a bit. The menu is solid, the flavors are there, now if it would just trust its own idea and give it some time, I think it'll be on its way.
(4)
Monica S.

Birchwood Kitchen, I may be in love with you! Let me count the ways: 1. Your service staff allows guests to set their own pace. I visited on a lazy Sunday for brunch, so the chill vibe was totally appreciated. After ordering at the counter, you can grab your own water and a seat near the open kitchen. 2. Your food is beyond amazing. Being a vegetarian, I obviously went for the croque verte. Sure, I was impressed by the lightly toasted bread with perfectly made sunny side up eggs, but what sealed the deal was the cheese. Yes, never would I have imagined that the gruyÃ¨re cheese would bring everything together and totally make the croque! 3. Your side salad was equally amazing. How could something so simple with a tangy dressing, shaved carrots, and pickled beets make such a complementary side dish!? Simple yet quality food enjoyed in a chillax ambience. A girl can't ask for more.
(5)
Alison s.

This place is phenomenal, high end food, fraction of the price. Great service, seasonal plates, cozy atmosphere. If there is a wait, there is a free coffee station outside :) the only thing I was upset about, that I hadn't tried this place sooner. It is my new go to spot for brunch :)
(5)
Lisa P.

We gave this place another shot. I had their take-out a few times at lunch when someone I work with would pick it up, and it was delicious. So we went back in person for brunch. They switched to regular table service, which solved a lot of my complaints from before. Our server was friendly, and the food was outstanding. I much prefer the new table service, I only wish they still had Boylan's sodas. All things considered, I'm back on board
(4)
Hannah H.

About a 2-2.5: The restaurant itself was really cute - I ordered a 'Steak' sandwich, which was filled with pieces of grilled flank steak, blue cheese, 'charred' red onions, greens, tomato vinaigrette, all held together between two slices of baguette. The sandwich itself seemed kind of bland, even with the vinaigrette - the steak itself seemed to be not seasoned at all and the only thing you can taste are the bleu cheese chunks with the chewy baguette. I also tried out their side of Beet Salad, which were spinach, arugula, pickled onion, vinaigrette, goat cheese, and two slices of thin crunchy toast topped with the sweetest bacon bits (they called it 'bacon marmalade' I have ever tasted. The beats were okay and the overall dish had a 'sweet pickled' flavor - I wasn't a fan of the bacon marmalade as it was way too sweet for me. I'm glad I was able to try this place out, but not sure if I'd go back. +underseasoned meats
(3)
Reid S.

Great food and the changing seasonal menu is excellent. The back patio is great in this summer!!
(5)
Danny F.

If I had to dine at just one restaurant for the rest of my days, it would be Birchwood. It feels like home every time I stop in (at least once a month). Great ambience year round, amazing food (I've had it all) and excellent service. If there were 10 stars, Birchwood would be 10/10.
(5)
Colleen C.

I got married here. (smallish dinner party) And I love them. And I love Laine and Jesse. And everyone. And if I could eat their food every day -- I would. The End.
(5)
Emily R.

My husband and I held our wedding at Birchwood Kitchen and were thrilled with how everything turned out. Laine was fantastic...She is very helpful, accommodating, and so much fun to work with. The food turned out beautifully, and the setting was just what we were looking for...small, intimate, and casual. We could not have imagined a more perfect setting for our wedding.
(5)
Margaret H.

We adventured on a blizzard-eque day to see if this restaurant lived up to it's Yelp hype! The atmosphere: Loved the decor and artwork. Not very big, so get there early/late depending on what meal you're going for, or expect a wait. Order at the counter and have your food brought to you. Coffee to enjoy while you wait --- FourSquare offers free coffee to newbies with a check-in. The food: I was having decision issues, per usual. I ordered the white bean and escarole soup and the ciabatta strata. The soup was excellent! Perfectly flavored and fresh. A new flavor for me. Wasn't a total fan of the ciabatta strata and wouldn't order it again. The ingredients were all up my alley, but weren't the best combined. My friend had the Croque Vert and devoured it; I was rather envious. There were definitely other dishes on the menu that I was salivating over, so I'll be trying those in the future. The service: Exceptional! Everyone was very friendly, aside from the cashier who laughed at us when we couldn't pronounce two items.... Over it. ;-)
(4)
Angie R.

Took my honey out for breakfast since it's close to my work and have been here before and wanted him to try it for the first time and of course he loved it. We both had the breakfast sandwich with egg and bacon with an aioli sauce on the most perfect multigrain bread with a side of roasted potatoes and salad. Not very common to have a side salad but it was genius and very much enjoyed, perfect combo. We also shared the yogurt made to perfection with honey granola, strawberries and blueberries. Yum yum! One of the best cappuccino's I had as well.
(5)
Joann M.

My friend and I arrived the restaurant 5 minutes prior to opening but instead of having to wait outside in the cold till they opened, we were greeted by a gentlemen who offered for us to stay inside. We ordered 3 dishes: greek yogurt and granola, vanilla sourdough waffle and croque madame. All 3 dishes were fresh, right on with preserving the natural flavor of the ingredients. I was very very happy with the food and service. Would go back again!!
(5)
Rory P.

Staying in Wicker Park on a business trip for two weeks, from LA, and with only one day left I must admit I'm disappointed to have not found this place sooner. Came here for a late night dinner (8.45pm - 15mins before closing) not expecting too much beyond a good quality, quick, sandwich (per Yelp reviews). However, upon the recommendation of the kind man behind the counter I ended up ordering the Seared Salmon and Lamb Sausage to go. He was then nice enough to comp a lemonade and some pickled veggies for me while I waited for our order- perhaps it was because they were closing but a really nice touch nonetheless! The salmon was incredibly good. Fresh, delicate, light, flavorful and perfectly cooked/seasoned. I also thoroughly enjoyed side salad it came with; a really well balanced and executed dish. Not a lot of feedback to give on the lamb sausage sandwich unfortunately but she seemed very happy! Came with a fresh fruit salad which closed out the meal on a sweet note. All in all I was left very satisfied and very impressed- and all for $21.90! 5 Star Gem! Side note: Bring Your Own Beer/Wine! No corkage fee!!!
(5)
Ritika K.

We went here for a weekend brunch. There was a 40 minute wait. We had heard so much about Birchwood Kitchen so we decided to wait. I have to say that our wait was totally worth it. I ordered tuna melt sandwich and soup of the day (Carrot ginger). Food was very good and so fresh. They had free coffee for everyone waiting outside. The coffee was good too and it was a very nice gesture to serve fresh coffee to everyone waiting outside. I have not seen any other restaurant ever do that. I wish it was a little closer to where I live but a 30 minute train ride is not so bad. I will definitely recommend this place to everyone. You can't go wrong with Birchwood!
(5)
Jennie T.

The hot meatloaf sandwich (garlic-herb meatloaf, tomato fennel compote, gruyere cheese, sour dough bread) was delicious! My boyfriend ordered this with a side of chips, and I ordered the speck sandwich with a side of salad. We split the sandwiches, and I think I like his selection more. It was so juicy and soft and tender! OMG! And I loved the melted and slightly burnt gruyere cheese. My salad was amazing. My speck sandwich (smoked prosciutto, manchego, fig almond butter, baguette) was good too, but I thought the bread was a little too hard (but it's not as hard as Pastoral's so it's all good) and the figs made it a little too sweet for me. The customer service was great. When I asked to get my half of the speck sandwich wrapped to-go, the guy behind the counter wrapped it and taped the paper down as if I had ordered a to-go sandwich. I was expecting a DIY to-go service, so that was pretty awesome.
(4)
Sarah R.

Delicious & original recipe foods! Great customer service. FYI- This place gets super crowded for Sat/Sun brunch hours
(5)
Paul B.

Delicious. Excellent omelette and bloody but its loud and they really pack you in. If u can deal with volume, check this place out.
(4)
Rebecca R.

I have been here a few times and have enjoyed every brunch and lunch item I have ordered. Everyone I have taken here with me has also left happy. Bonus: Best chocolate chip cookie in town. Hands down.
(4)
Rob S.

Great neighborhood BYOB dinner spot! Delicious food with an awesome casual patio and a staff that obviously loves what they are doing. See y'all again. And from what I hear, that will be for brunch.
(5)
A S.

I used to love this place - it was a favorite for a long time. I have no idea why they closed and re opened so different and not for the better. The menu is completely different and their vegan sandwich is gone (vegan/ veg whatever) - no more good chips. It just lost the good. That's too bad because I miss it!
(1)
Andrew M.

This place is so delicious it almost hurts me to think about it. The seasonal menu certainly adds a level of uncertainty whenever they come back after a winter hiatus, but the owner and chefs know what tastes good. I think I was technically addicted to the goat cheese sandwich for about six months. The decor is beautiful and natural light is great. It used to be a good place to go and work, but as they get busy, the need to turn over tables increases and it's harder to have a relaxing lunch with a book. It's great for brunch if you can get in, but it's best for a delicious lunch with a friend or loved one. I forget that they're closed on Mondays, so I usually show up looking for a goat cheese sandwich and have to leave disappointed. The staff is great and always friendly. Oh, and they have a thing for pickles. After you go there, you will too. Just saying.
(5)
Sep E.

It so pains me to write this review because as a Bucktown resident, I have been a long-time customer. We went in for Sunday brunch since the baby was at grandma's house, and we could actually stand to wait for a table without our antsy toddler. After being quoted a 25-minute wait, we were seated 45 minutes later. Fine - it happens. You can't help that the hipsters at the tables around us linger for 30 minutes-plus after paying their bills, despite seeing other people waiting. However, after being seated, I had to ask for water after more than 5 minutes of waiting. I also made the mistake of trying one of the newer items recommended by the server - Miso root vegetables on polenta. Sounds great in theory, but what came out tasted like hospital food. It was a very sad plate and lacked flavor. After waiting for a table that long, I expected much, much more. Sourcing ingredients locally and make everything from scratch is great, but that does not excuse you from making food that tastes good. Bottom line - the food has to be tasty. Unfortunately, Birchwood has been failing on that front lately - not just with this brunch experience but also takeout orders I have had recently. After being a patron for 4 years, I think I am done, unfortunately. The food is just not worth the hassle and is not something I just have to have. It's just meh.
(2)
Michael Anne A.

I've been here a handful of times for lunch/brunch and have never had a bad meal. The place isn't that big, so I wouldn't recommend coming with a big group. They do have a cute little patio in the back, which is great during the summertime (or whatever you call this weather). The staff is v. friendly, the coffee is strong, baked goods are rull tasty, sandwich portions are perfect. And, it's BYOB.
(5)
Cynthia R.

Good for Birchwood for creating great flavors and putting them together! Of all the zillions of brunch spots in Chicago, this place had a menu that was kind of on the eclectic side....and it worked! At first view, you'd think the entrees sound the same as other places, but the ingredients are just a little outside of the norm. The flavors totally work, so french toast isn't just french toast. It's french-frigging eclectic-tastic!! Besides french toast, I had the Croque Vert, which was the strangest combination of deliciousness that I've sampled in a minute! Definitely need to go back to this place. Love the hood as well!
(4)
Meredith B.

My mom and I had brunch here a few months ago and I can't believe I didn't write a review! It was absolutely fantastic. The menu has changed since I've been there, which is cool since I can't remember what I ordered anyway! But I remember you order at the counter and find a table, and pick up your coffee at the front. Incredibly friendly staff, fresh ingredients, sunny and busy and apparently with a back patio that it was too cold for us to use! You can order with confidence, the food is made with skill and top-quality ingredients. I know I will be back soon and write a review before I forget what I ordered! (I remember it was a sandwich. And it was delicious.)
(5)
Sarah R.

Nice little place. Went during the week and had a salmon salad sandwich. My dad had the pot roast. He said it was good but it was a little small. The pastries are really delicious. Good coffee. Kind of a small joint that probably gets pretty crowded on the weekends. Service was awesome.
(4)
Arisa T.

Amazing brunch with my SO here. Kind of out of the way but walkable distance from the main Wicker Park area. We sat in the backyard because it was a nice, sunny day, and the view from our seat was gorgeous. The entire wooden building has ivies surrounding them and it was just the perfect brunch spot. We had their warm goat cheese as a starter, and then had smoked pork and brie and jam. The warm goat cheese was a bit salty but went very well with the baguettes. My SO loved the smoked pork, and the pretzel bun was soft and tasty. The brie and jam though.. oh my god that was probably the best sandwich I've had in a while. In terms of the view and the food, this place is a solid 5. On our way out, we were looking at possible desserts to eat as we walked back to the shopping area, and one of the guys behind the counter gave us free chocolate-chip banana breads. We loved it. We would love to come back as soon as possible, possibly next time with some wine because it is BYOB!
(5)
Shuangshuang W.

Another place that has done for office lunch. Pickles were good. Salmon sandwich were good. Beets sandwich were special. Ham sandwich were too salty. I am generally not a fan of sandwich. I would like to go to the restaurant and try different things.
(3)
Courtney Y.

They told us it would be a 20-30 minute wait. We ended up waiting over and hour. Then we waiting for our food for 30 minutes. By the time our food came, the waffles were cold and the egg sandwich, which was supposed to be a sunny side up egg, was cooked all the way through so it was basically a hard boiled egg. I asked for coffee, they never brought it. Then I was charged $3 for coffee when the bill came. Once they food was corrected, it was good, but the service was just so terrible it ruined the whole experience. Definitely not worth an hour+ wait. We won't be back.
(3)
Amy D.

Birchwood Kitchen is another tally for the surprising disappointment I've come to expect from the Wicker Park area food scene. It's a nice place to come by for brunch, on ambience alone, but the food is definitely sub-par. I came in for a late lunch one day, with the intention of order the duck sandwich that sounded deliciously yummy. However, the menu had changed, and with it no longer available, I had to think on my feet. I spied a goat cheese and lox sandwich that in retrospect, I should have been more wary of, but at the time, I thought, "I love goat cheese, and I love lox, what could go wrong?" FALSE. The sandwich ended up just being really weird. First, goat cheese and lox definitely do not go together well. In addition, the greens were arugula, which just added a weird dimension to this flavor mash. With something sweet in the mix, the sandwich just ended up being one big epic fail. I also ordered a grapefruit juice, which was nice and seemed freshly squeezed, but kinda pricey. Also, the set up is very weird. The experience is fine once you sit down, but an employee greets you at the door when you walk in to direct you to the counter, where you order from the menu, before being seated. This is despite it being very much a self-seat cafe sort of place. With the entrance being rather small, the extra dude just makes things awkward and takes up space. The place isn't full service, so the extra manpower at the door to ferry you the three feet to the counter is weird. If you're just looking for a simple bagel or sandwich, and want to do some reading, stop by for the phenomenal floor to ceiling windows. Otherwise, check out one of the other cafes in the area.
(2)
Jessica M.

Dined here this past Saturday for a late breakfast. There was about a 30 minute wait to be seated, but definitely worth the wait! Our server was attentive and the food was DELICIOUS. Everything was so fresh and had tons of flavor. To top it off, it was only $30 for two (this included a snack, two entrees and drinks). Will definitely be back soon.
(5)
Melissah L.

Best brunch spot in WPB, hands down. I've been hearing about it since I moved to the neighborhood, and I am happy that my favorite new spot is only a 15 minute walk from my house! The restaurant itself is actually more like a little cafe, as you order your food and pay at a counter then go find a table to sit after. But still, the menu is chock-full of sweet and savory dishes. I chose the breakfast sandwich, which was made with the freshest ingredients (the ciabatta bread was the perfect touch) and my boyfriend got the biscuits and gravy (which was really unique, but I wouldn't order it again). We also got a butterscotch oatmeal cookie on the side (deeelish). My boyfriend and I already agreed that we're coming back soon, a WPB must-try!
(5)
Jack M.

Birchwood Kitchen is amazing. The food is consistently super high-quality. Breakfast and dinner are both excellent. It's BYOB which I appreciate. The prices are very reasonable. You order at the counter, but the service and attention are on-par with fine dining. They replace the silverware between courses for a $10 sandwich, offer refills, and so on. The staff is super friendly. My wife and I have eaten there and gotten takeout dozens of times, and have been consistently impressed. It's so damn good.
(5)
Kelz M.

Homey, friendly, quiet but not "library quiet," interesting items on their menu and reasonably priced - what's not to love? I stop in here for tea and dessert sometimes; the jasmine tea is wonderful, as is the chocolate chip banana bread. I've really only had beverages and sweets (this is my "end of the day comfort dessert" place); it's just such a relaxing place to be - a great place to be when the work day is over and I want to feel "ahhh"
(5)
McKinzie K.

What a great place for lunch! They have delicious fresh food and always interesting specials on their board. They also have some of the best cool drinks-lemonade, ice teas, etc.. Get their chocolate chip cookie too-also out of this world! You will always see the same owner there, a nice and subdued guy-running a great business and delivering quality food. What a refreshing change to the standard chain spots-LOVE this place! Their prices are a tad high in my opinion, don't go here expecting a killer deal.
(5)
Christine W.

Birchwood- I'm IN LOVE!!!! Little story. I went 2 weeks ago for brunch and expected a wait. I mean its Chicago- you wait for brunch. We were greeted immediately by a very pleasant employee who told us to go get a coffee and he'd let us know when it was our turn- we didn't even have to stand in line for ourselves! On top of it, when we got to the register, we were told the coffee was on them because of the wait. The food was fantastic- this was my second time. The Gruyere grilled cheese I had my first visit was ok, but for me it was A LOT of cheese. I found my match when I ordered the tuna melt on visit 2. Its the roasted tomato that really makes it- such a great sweet and fresh addition. The soups are always good and I love the sides. The green apple coleslaw was the item that I couldn't stop talking about post-experience. Make sure you try a dab of the Co-op hot sauce they serve- you'll want to add a bottle to your bill. Delicious and benefitting a great organization. For two ladies, we split a sandwich, a soup, 2 sides and a desert and it was a great little tasting and we were more than full. I wish we would have brought some Champagne for mimosas- the couple that sat next to us had that great idea since its a BYOB. The food is so good they don't have to be nice, but I'm sure glad they are.
(5)
Joanna E.

Birchwood opened early summer and I first checked it out about 2 weeks after they opened. Ordered at the counter and stroll out to the herb filled, ivy-lined patio to wait for our sandwiches...I had brought a few anchor steams to accompany sandwiches on the patio and after figuring out that their wine key didn't have an opener on it (gasp!) Ernesto was brought out from behind the line to demonstrate his incredible gift of opening beers with a mega chef's knife. Accommodating and entertaining, to say the least. Started by the fromagier from Pastorale and friends, all the sandwiches I've had thus far are fantastic. As of August just added burgers to their menu (Tuesday-Saturday) and the turkey burger with chipotle may is fantastic. Plus if you go on a Wednesday in August, burgers are buy one get one... DEAL! BYO and get a sandwich free? Come on. I know there's a recession on but let's be honest, you can't resist.
(5)
J K.

This place couldn't be more lovely! Every single time I have gone (probably close to 8 times), the food has been surprisingly excellent. Sandwiches and salads come with little niceties like home made exotic pickles. Baked goods are sublime. There is always some season-perfect drink special (salted caramel cocoa in the winter!), and the deli case is full of many many tasty sides that never disappoint. Think of this as your favorite deli, but much more sophisticated and surprising. Melted cheese sandwiches get fig jam, couscous salad get curried. But you want to know what really makes this place? The *amazingly* friendly staff. Not hokey, not fake -- these people are truly kind and obviously care very much about the top-knotch little place they run. I hope you love it as much as I, and everyone I have ever brought, does!
(5)
Jerry G.

Early last summer I was lead to eat at a seemingly quaint sandwich place in Wicker Park. Who knew it would become one of my favorite destinations to eat in all of Chicago. Birchwood's menu displays how simple, but a focus on great ingredients (i.e. fresh-baked bread, locally sourced meats and vegetables, garlic aioli) can create a dish of pure bliss. My girlfriend ordered the Grilled GruyÃ©re hot sandwich and the first bite revealed how the bread had a great texture and flavor while absorbing the juices from the ham, onions and cheese. As always I asked the person taking our order what was their favorite dish in the place and I was told to choose from the off the main menu seasonal specials and order the burger. I'm glad I did because that was an amazing burger to bite into, second only to Kuma's. Returning visits have allowed me to try various cold and hot sandwiches, all consistent great meals. Combined with their comforting service and calm atmosphere, it is my place to go to when wanting to catch a bite to eat with friends when near Wicker Park and heading out to the bars. Must Try: - Grilled GruyÃ©re Hot Sandwich - Prosciutto Cold Sandwich - Any Burger listed on the seasonal specials
(5)
Kris R.

i love this place. it's casual, totally cool, and the people who work there are wonderful. all the food is wonderful. here are some key points, since i feel i'm being general: 1. outdoor seating in back 2. brunch is awesome - they had this sweet/savory special one day, and it was sooooo gooooood. 3. can get crowded and closes a bit early 4. butterscotch oatmeal cookie is amazballs definitely recommend this place if you want to grab a casual, yummy bite.
(4)
Natalie M.

Birchwood Kitchen is amazing!!! We often go for brunch/lunch and everything on their menu is delicious. The girl who usually takes our order at the register is so sweet, she has such a lovely personality that puts us in a good mood. We love their salad and their Croque Madame. We will keep going back, it is defiantly worth the wait.
(5)
tracy j.

I've been to Birchwood a few times now. One that included their Wednesday burger special (2 for 1) and the other during brunch. For my first visit, I had the salmon burger, and it was really good...it wasn't overcooked or dry, but just right. The second time I was there for brunch and chose from their specials menu. Everything is fresh, local and organic (I think) - and you can taste this in the food. The coffee was awesome and everyone that works there is professional and nice, but not in a way where they are trying too hard. They're just cool and love what they do and believe in their food - this comes out in how they interact with you. I want to go to here right...now.
(5)
John-Ryan G.

Everything I have ordered here has been amazing. The staff is super friendly, and they brew Metropolis coffee... one of my favorites. The food seems a bit higher than usual, but don't be cheap and let it scare you away... it's well worth the price! I have absolutely nothing negative to say about this joint!
(5)
Katja L.

I'm going to give Birchwood a solid "B". Pros: the food was amazing -- I had the grilled gruyere sandwich and my boyfriend had the polenta -- and beautifully presented, they had no problem substituting chips for greens, the staff was extremely friendly and kind, and the vibe of the place was very neat. Cons: it was about 20% more expensive than it should have been, their vegetarian selection was so-so, and it was odd to have the line of people waiting to order snaking directly behind my seat. When I say their vegetarian selection is "so-so," I particularly mean their breakfast selection. They have polenta and a waffle and... that's it. Now, for the rest of their grilled cheese sandwiches, the sandwiches are a base price, then you add $1-3 to get some meat in it. Their breakfasts, on the other hand, just come with the meat already on them. I certainly would have ordered the breakfast sandwich, had I not felt like I would have been paying for something I wouldn't eat. Yes, I could have asked if I could get the sandwich without bacon, but to add "oh and can you make it like $1 less?" after ordering it sans bacon would make me feel like a total goober. Note to Birchwood: if you can make your breakfast sandwich and salad $2 less, then charge an extra $2 to add in the meat, I and my vegematarian friends will be there a whole lot more often.
(4)
Deborah F.

Birchwood Kitchen boasts the following: 1. Locally sourced ingredients 2. Coffee with soymilk 3. Friendly staff 4. A variety of natural bottled sodas (I had the black cherry ... yes please and thank you) 5. One of the best mushroom sandwiches I've ever had -- toasted amazing in sandwich form 6. A three star lemon bar (kick up the lemon a notch, it would be tops) 7. An open kitchen (or at least what appeared to be half of an open kitchen, there seemed to be more prep space in the back) 8. A well designed menu. Now, most menus, this particular one not withstanding, exist to inform you of what the establishment serves, but the Birchwood menu is simply easy to read and aesthetically sound. (I'm a bit of a font dork and have nightmares about Papyrus and Comic Sans, so this sort of thing pleases me.) That is all my friends, that is all.
(4)
Evangeline L.

Yay, delicious! Went here earlier today because I was craving a yummy gourmet sandwich and contemplating the fact that I haven't really had one since I moved to Chicago. Yes, I've had Goddess and Grocer and the like but I mean a really innovative sandwich that makes you go wow! Well, I think I'm one step closer to finding the perfect place! I was unsure about which sandwich to get, the club or the speck, and enlisted the nice man behind the counter to help me. He proceeded to tell me a really cute story about which sandwich would be his "island sandwich" (to eat every day while stranded) and which one would be his "last meal" sandwich. Well, I went with the "island sandwich" which just so happened to be the club and was not disappointed. I especially liked the roasted tomato jam...yum and a bit different. I can't wait to go back and try the speck and others on the board...I just hope that they switch up often or add more because I have a feeling I'm going to run through that list rather quickly.
(4)
Amy X.

birchwood kitchen is a kind of restaurant that i hope to open one day. all menu offerings are heavy on fresh ingredients and simple preparations. instead of gimmicky flavor combinations (yeah, yeah, chocolate and bacon and balsamic reduction and ... truffle oil), you get to taste really fresh bread and crunchy vegetables and homemade condiments. for brunch, i ordered the breakfast sandwich. sounds boring, right? vegetable frittata, cheddar, grilled focaccia -- all ingredients you've eaten elsewhere. here, every ingredient was so clean, so natural tasting, so ... exactly what eggs and cheese and vegetables should taste like. i held onto each bite, as if the food was reminding me of how real food should taste. the potatoes on the side were crusty, crunchy -- great dipped in their house-made, smoky hot sauce. the salad was just fresh greens and some lightly pickled carrots and beets. what a reminder that sometimes, food can be just delicious food and still have the ability to set you in a reverie. i had a slice of the best carrot cake i've had in a while. it tasted like the time my best friend baked a carrot cake for me after i had just taken a really important test. she told me the grocery store was out of carrots so she had grated baby carrots by hand -- this cake tasted almost as good. maybe it was the food, maybe it was also the ambiance. everyone was friendly and ready to strike up a conversation. the cashier offered menu suggestions; the barista joked and said hello. i can't wait to come again and sit at the table by the window while reading the newspaper, maybe on a rainy day. i can't wait to try the tuna sandwich. i'm so glad to have found this little sandwich shop that will continue to feed my faith in real food.
(4)
rishi c.

The place was nice... The staff is very friendly also, however I didn't like the food. The sourdough bread was hard and you had to really eat everything with a steak knife and fork and they only provided a butter knife. I'll possibly try it again just to give them chance but I highly doubt it. Only because fiancÃ© would like to go there as she wasn't with me today. The orange juice wasn't freshly squeezed as advertised, it was def pasteurized . Oh well nice place, people love them so good job.
(2)
Willie B.

Nice place. Had a Gruyere sandwich, which was decent, the cheese was crunchy and the toasting just right. The waiters were friendly and the atmosphere is nice. recommendable if you`re in the neighborhood and want to get a good coffee or sandwich.
(3)
Susan L.

My friend and her hubbie took me here for brunch when we found that their favorite place Jam closed down (relocated elsewhere apparently). I glad it moved because my Croque Vert (with cauliflower and tomato) was thoroughly delicious. The mustard also gave it a nice tang, which is always appreciated when eating lots of oozy cheese. Plus with sexy, sunny eggs on top...I ate every bite! Okay, maybe I left two bites but only cause I was really, really full. Oh, and the guy behind the counter was super friendly. I ordered a lemon bar to go and he even asked which section I preferred...I'm a corner person! If I lived in Chicago, I'd definitely stop by often.
(4)
Ema S.

Thinking about what to eat for lunch? This place is heavenly. We were in the wicker park area and wanted to get lunch and a yelp search led us here. Everyone who worked here was so polite and friendly and made you feel right at home. The pot roast and the curry duck sandwich were to die for- and giant for only $9. Desserts are pretty cheap and irresistible too at around $ 2-3 each. Definitely a must try- wish there were more original places like this right in the city!
(5)
Georgia M.

My favorite brunch spot of ALL TIME. The breakfast sandwich with bacon and cup of their amazing coffee was the best $10 I've ever spent.
(5)
Sharon P.

Birchwood is just good overall. You can serve yourself coffee (really good coffee) while you wait for a table. The service is great and the host made sure we were on a waiting list and suggested we sit outside on the back patio, which was really a nice place to sit and wait and drink that good coffee. The food is ordered at the counter and then you wait for them to bring it to your table. That worked just fine. I was blown away by my toast with chopped bacon, marmalade and some kind of spicy something in it. Simple, but great. I want to go to Birchwood for breakfast every day.
(5)
Peggy N.

While it can get super busy some mornings, still one of my favorite brunch places. I especially enjoy bringing a bottle of bubbly (byob) to spike the delicious juice. The prices are good, the food is delicious, and there's plenty to choose from for vegetarians and the health conscious. Plus the coffee is awesome. After suggesting Birchwood for a friend's birthday brunch, I was upset one cold Sunday morning when we had to wait double our expected time outside for a patio. When we spoke with the nice hostess about it, the owner gave us all free coffee and brought out a slice of cake for the birthday girl and a plate of the pastry case stuff for all of us to share!!! It was so nice of them! You can tell they truly care about their customers' experiences.
(5)
Thomas T.

5 Stars all the way. I loved everything about this place, except for the fact that it isn't around the corner from where I live. The service here is amazingly - and genuinely - friendly and helpful. The menu looks great. Every sandwich sounded enticing, but I settled on a cold Roast Beef w white cheddar, garlic aoli, arugula, and oven-roasted tomatoes on rye. Each ingredient was absolutely top-notch, so the sandwich was delicious. I could only finish half of it, despite my legendary appetite, so I had the other half for breakfast this morning. My sandwich was served with some excellent home-made potato chips. When the owner/manager (?) came by to ask how everything was, he offered to re-fill our chips in our take out bag. We happily accepted his offer. I also had a Boylan's Birch Beer, basically a root beer, which was very good. My friend had a grilled cheddar on a baguette with oven-roasted tomatoes and crispy bacon (as requested), and it looked awesome. She raved about it. Lunch was around 10 bucks, so I consider this to be a great deal considering the quality of the food and service. One last snarky comment to the lady who sat next to us: do you think maybe you should put down your needlepoint if you're having lunch with another human being sitting right across the table from you? That's as obnoxious as constant fumbling with a Blackberry, only more Luddite.
(5)
Scott S.

Perhaps it's unfair for me to make an accurate call on Birchwood Kitchen, as my lone experience here was as part of our company's Christmas party. We didn't order from the menu, but rather received appetizer versions of a few of their specialty sandwiches. They weren't life-changing, but they were certainly decent. I'd be interested in going back to try some of their other sandwiches. After the finger food sandwiches, we had some very delicious pork belly and mediocre chicken, as well as some sides. The meal was capped off with carrot cake (good) and a birch beer float (EXCELLENT). Overall, a solid meal, but nothing that has me dying to go back anytime soon.
(3)
Kevin S.

Everything is delicious. Great place for brunch. The pork sandwich is a definite must.
(5)
J J.

I love it! We had a really tasty brunch there! It gets a bit crowded so either come early or plan for a bit of a wait on the weekends.
(5)
Ellen F.

I really like this place! The sandwiches are delicious and come in more imaginative varieties than usual -- the menu is updated seasonally. The staff is super nice too. They have a lovely patio when the weather is warmer, too.
(4)
Colin G.

So fortunate that I live a block a way. The nicest people in the world work here. The pot roast sandwich is awesome. And I love their pasta salad. I've eaten pretty much everything on the menu and you can't go wrong. Excellent food and top notch service.
(5)
Rachel W.

I am very glad I found this cafe on yelp when I was visiting Chicago. It's small but the menu is very unique and yummy. It was hard to decide what to order because there were multiple options that sounded very appealing! What a gem!
(4)
Lyn B.

This place is great! The wait was annoying... but worth it! The service was good, and once we were seated, we got our food relatively quickly. The food was fantastic- I went with my husband for weekend brunch and we were so overwhelmed by all the amazing choices on the menu, that we just went with our waitress's recommendations: pot roast, and some vegetarian sandwich, both of which were out of this world! Can't wait to go back!
(5)
Michael H.

Very good sandwiches. I just wish they were cheaper. I struggled between 3 and 4 stores because of the price, but the tastes ruled and i bumped it up to four. I remember a delicious lamb meatloaf.
(4)
Camilo R.

What can you say about a place you have no qualms about visiting 3 times a week? Birchwood is the perfect spot for a delicious healthy meal. Great seasonal variety, daily specials. The salmon burger might be the best burger in the city. The gaspacho in the summer is amazing. I never knew coleslaw could be so yummy. To top it off the service is impeccable. Friendly every time. In the summer there is an outdoor patio. My wife and I called in advanced to have our families eat dinner there during our wedding weekend. Judd accommodated us graciously, and had a bottle of wine waiting for us as a gift. Client for life. LOVE THIS PLACE.
(5)
Tim S.

Just got back from my first meal... and I'm already a fan (I became on on Facebook!). A friend told me to check this place out and I'm so glad that I did. The atmosphere was incredible and cozy, outdoor patio and seating area was fantastic. The food ... unreal. I got a chipotle turkey burger and subbed a side salad for the chips. Ok, the side salad was seriously one of the best side salads I've ever had. Nice iceberg lettuce, great greens, beets... and the vinaigrette was near perfect. The buger was one of the biggest things I've ever seen (that's what she said)... it was loaded and incredibly flavorful. The meat was quality and the portion size was just right. Added bonus about this place is the fact that it's BYOB... I highly recommend taking an adventure to the liquor store (Cerveza Fria) right down the street. Price was incredibly reasonable... I got out of there for under $10 and had a GREAT meal. Best part of the whole experience was the service. Employees were friendly and offered up some great suggestions. Definitely recommend it!
(5)
Ceal P.

6 stars. I can't stop saying enough amazing things about this place!!! But I will because amazing neighborhood spots like this need the support!! Came here for one of their monday night farm to table dinners. it was their very first vegetarian dinner supporting Genesis Growers. Genesis had a great story and we got to learn more about her eco-friendly farming and will forever continue to support them! All the vegetables were from their farm and it definitely tasted like it came straight from the ground. Dinner was amazing from top to bottom and the value at $50/pp is well worth it. Amazing food (all of it!) - Amuse: cantaloupe with goat cheese and mint, simple one bite, delicious! - Squash pizzette: home made pizza dough baked with thyme in the dough, topped with a layer of cheese and thinly sliced yellow and green squash sprinkled with more thyme. Marriage of flavors of the cheese and thyme were magical! - Chilled corn soup with jalapeno ice cream: there were pieces of freeze-dried corn at the bottom and on top a very spicy but perfect dollop of jalapeno ice cream. Corn soup was fresh and mildly sweet, just again a perfect combination of flavors that go so well together! - Summer salad: simple but just really showcased the fresh vegetables in season; arugula, beets made 3 ways, pickled cucumbers and pickled tomatoes. the beets were the best i've ever had!!! - Eggplant lasagna: thinly sliced eggplant, stacked and topped with a layer of cheese, sitting on top of a freshly made tomato sauce -- almost resembling a thick slice of ratatouille, again showcasing the amazing vegetables. all this was served with a mound of garlic swiss chard. AMAZING!!!! - Dessert: a very simple but light watermelon panna cotta, sitting atop a slice of the sweetest watermelon. Overall, birchwood can not go wrong. Its so commendable to enjoy the food of a group of chefs and food lovers who really respect where their food comes from and how to show case it in a way that shows that respect. Come here for lunch/dinner/farm dinners!
(5)
Matt Z.

I could eat their Chicken Salad sandwich 3-4 times a week! Delicious french bread, chipotle chicken salad, jicama, cilantro and a pesto that makes the sandwich! SO GOOD!
(5)
Joseph R.

I picked up sandwiches from this place for work before and it was quite delicious. This weekend I decided to give it a try for brunch and holy crap, it was fantastic. We helped ourselves to a cup of coffee while we waited for a table and we quickly shown to our seats. I remember the sandwiches having a special twist and was by no means let down by the brunch options. I had the Country Ham plate which came with a berry and fennel bread pudding and their insanely delicious roasted potatoes. We were also treated with a taste of their bitter orange and walnut breakfast loaf when we were finished. The staff was super friendly and made us feel totally comfortable in their shop. I will definitely be coming back with friends.
(4)
Catherine C.

Great food, great attention to detail and I look forward to hearing what their soup is for the day. Wish they had more 1/2 soup / 1/2 sandwich options as I cannot always make the choice! Great food and wonderful addition to the neighborhood.
(4)
Shante D.

This place actually gets 3.5/4 stars. VERY cute place. Cozy and quaint. Perfect 'date' spot or if you just want to relax and get to know someone or catch up w/ a friend. Went there for brunch last Sunday. Being the morning after Halloween, I was afraid it would be crowded. NOPE. Walked in...NO wait. Granted...I got there at around 9am! *don't ask why I was awake so early.* The owner and employess are EXTREMELY nice and friendly. You pay at the counter and they bring the order to you, but service is still great. I had the Butternut Hash. It was pretty good. I'm typically not a fan of butternut squash. Would love to go back for Burger Night. I have a friend who loves turkey burgers and I'm sure would like the atmosphere of the place. One downside--it took about 20+ minutes to get my hot chocolate. I don't know if they were melting the chocolate or what. :-/ And in the end, I didn't end up drinking it. It wasn't the best hot chocolate. Overall, Birchwood rocked. I'd go back. :)
(3)
Sandhya R.

Delicious. I had the Gruyere grilled cheese, which was super tasty and warm and perfectly melty on a cold afternoon. Also get the oatmeal butterscotch cookie.
(4)
Miss A.

I can get over the hipster poster children that populate this place because the food is GREAT! Constantly rotating specials keep things interesting. My favorite is the yellow watermelon salad with feta and basil. Oh. My. Goodness. I wanted to buy out their stock of it! The owner is super friendly and helpful, and I have liked every single thing that I have eaten. Also, the ambiance is really nice (watch out, though, the patio sometimes reeks of the neighbor's hot garbage, yech).
(5)
Christina M.

They might have the friendliest kitchen/counter staff in the the entire city of Chicago. I'm talking Trader Joe's level of friendly. Every time I go in there I am greeted with a warm smile and a welcome. Last weekend I went in for brunch and had the best quiche ever! It was mushroom and tomato with a perfectly baked bottom crust. I'll be ordering it again and again and again. If you're looking for a traditional bacon and eggs kind of breakfast joint, it might not be for you. But if your looking for a bit of flavor and flair in your brunch, treat yourself to Birchwood!
(5)
Alexis H.

The food here is amazing! Just a heads up, some of the dishes looked a little greasy, but it was a delicious, buttery greasy which I'm cool with. Most of their dishes come with a side salad so I guess it balances out. I kept my breakfast simple with a bagel with goat cheese and fruit salad, but everything on the menu had my mouth watering. I'm definitely looking forward to trying more dishes. And don't forget a bakery item, as if you could with their strategic placement. Lemon bars, cookies, brownies, you name it, all right next to the register and they smell amazing! I couldn't resist a freshly baked chocolate chip cookie, even first thing in the morning. It took all my willpower not to eat it first. For a self-service restaurant, the employees here go above and beyond. We had to wait 15 minutes for a table and the guy at the counter took 10% off my bill. Thanks buddy! Even though we technically didn't have a waiter, I still couldn't imagine not leaving a tip on the table with the number of times someone came by and asked if we needed anything. I'd recommend going early if you're trying for brunch on the weekend. We waited 15 minutes for a table at about 11AM, but after we sat down the line got so long it was out the door.
(4)
kate S.

Well this is my first review, and I'm glad it's for Birchwood. We had a big client meeting at my office today, and we wanted to bring in a lunch that would be both elegant and delicious. Dan was extremely helpful when I called, and we arranged a small selection of paninis and a salad. The order was too small to be catering but they very kindly provided a one-off delivery service. The set up was perfect for the event, and the food got rave reviews around the office. I'm grateful that they could be so accommodating to my small, last minute order, without any resentment or snippyness. We will certainly be using them again in the future.
(5)
walter s.

This place is right down the street and is exactly what is needed in the neighborhood. The food is really good. I have only been for lunch (or sandwich take out) and the food is just delicious. It's not cheap but not super expensive either. They are super nice - almost in a Stepford wives sort of way. Joking of course. They make butterscotch oatmeal cookies too. There is nothing better in the world than butterscotch and everyone seems to have forgotten this fact. It's just a great little place. Nothing supernatural but solid food and fresh ingredients and clearly made with care. I do not work here.
(5)
Kim A.

meat + cheese + veggies + bread + simple condiments = a sandwich awesomely tender prepared meats + well picked cheese + fresh veggies + crunchy/soft/pillowy bread + well paired sauces, dressings and dips = OMG OM NOM NOM SAMMICH! Cannot wait to try brunch, and sit down in this patio I've been hearing fabulous things about.
(5)
Betsy L.

Went for Sunday brunch and was really wowed. Great vibe, good food, and coffee self service while you wait. Hands down the people who worked there were the best part of all. Friendly, efficient, and happy. We were a group of six and they were totally accommodating and never rushed us out (we were celebrating a bday and still had gifts to open, but didn't want to take up table space as it was busy). They opened up the patio (it had just stopped raining) and even wiped down chairs so we could hang for a bit even though they weren't serving out there. We felt like a huge bother but they were completely welcoming about it all. It was getting busier and busier and the staff was as happy and friendly as when we first arrived. The Croque Vert, sausage and kale soup, and pumpkin porridge were amazing. Ditto the butterscotch oatmeal cookie that I had to get for the road.
(5)
Joshua N.

Birchwood Kitchen is as close to perfection as I can imagine in a sandwich shop. I've the meatloaf sandwich and the speck and I can't wait to make it back to try a few more. Everything is made with an extra bit of consideration for amazing flavors and balance, like the beets being pickled in the side salad or the fig and blood orange compote on the Speck sandwich. The staff is really friendly and efficient and there were plenty of places to sit on a Saturday afternoon. They have a few nice desserts also like lemon bars and brownies that are great.
(5)
Ruby K.

LOVE this place! The specials are always interesting & delicious, the staff is extremely kind, truly aiming to please, and It's just so darn nice to be feel like a "regular!" Oh and can't forget the BYOB. We love it so much that we had our rehearsal dinner there. Went off without a hitch. Thanks b-wood!
(5)
Melissa G.

Birchwood now has Autumn hours that extend until 9:00PM. I love coming here. Delicious soups, olives, and sandwiches. Plus, it's BYOB. I always leave happy.
(5)
chris g.

Small BYO for burgers & sandwiches. We both got sandwiches. One ham & one tuna that were both good. Not great but good or above average. Most people around us had brought bottles of wine.
(3)
Sam G.

Very friendly staff, would definitely recommend the basil lemonade! I got the gruyere sandwich (add the ham) and my wife got the goat cheese sandie. Yum and yum! Great find!
(4)
anne r.

Delicious food for brunch and lunch! Great laid back place with the friendliest, warmest, most helpful staff! There tends to be a wait, but tables turn over quickly so it's a rather brief wait. Definitely stop in!
(5)
Ryan W.

I went to Birchwood with a buddy of mine last Thursday for lunch. When I first walked in one of their employees steered my attention to their daily specials board. I was in luck because last Thursday's theme was the "Best of the Wurst." I typically don't expect much from places that feature counter service, but the staff here is pretty remarkable. They're more than willing to provide you with just about everything you'd expect from full-dining service--bringing out your food, refilling your drinks, chatting you up table side--but still, somehow, don't expect a tip. (Please tip them. I did. They're fantastic!) Now for the food. I ordered a curry-wurst on a pretzel bun with some house made sweet relish and a petit salad. I'm not exaggerating when I say that this is one of the best lunches I've had in a long time. The wurst was spot on in every way, aromatic, juicy, cooked to perfection. The spices of the sausage blended well with the salt and sweetness of the relish, and a pretzel bun doesn't need to be extolled. Everything was fresh, the decor is warm and inviting, and the attention to detail was very impressive. I'll be back very soon. I just hope they're offering the same curry-wurst. I haven't stopped thinking about it for a week now.
(5)
Scott D.

I really enjoyed this place for the simple features it offers the casual diner. To name a few: 1) counter service ordering (think Panera, Cosi, Noodles) is less officious and less expensive than a full service venue. 2) the menu offers a great selection of gourmet sandwiches, salads, and pastas. 3) the restaurant is operate by the owners, which helps resonate a genuinely friendly atmosphere. 4) the outdoor patio is charming in the summertime.
(4)
Walter D.

The ideal outdoor spot to eat outdoors during the summer. It feels like you're on a mini-vacation sitting in the back porch. Coupled with unlimited flavored lemonade (offered jalapeno lemonade day I was there) and delicious sandwiches its a great spot!
(5)
Soumeya B.

We went there for brunch. we were not wow'ed, but we don't have anything to complain about. Good brunch selection, but counter service only. Nice staff, and lovely ambinace with floor to seeling glass. Very brooklyn-like (nyc) and seems to attract the artsy, stroller pushing crowd. We got the croc madame (subtitute ham for an egg) and stuffed french toast. Both were good.
(4)
Katie J.

One of my favorite brunch spots in the city. Wins out over the rest because of it's proximity to my apartment. What? I'm not biased. The staff is always overly friendly and the pickled carrots are amazeballs. They even inspired me to try my hand at pickling at home. They carry Co-Op hot sauce, my fav, and serve Metropolis. That's a win-win in my book. It's hard to leave without trying out one of their desserts too - they tend to stare you down while you're eating. Hey, you've been forewarned.
(5)
Jeremy S.

Loved the food and the ambiance at this place!
(5)
Nora G.

Birchwood is casual and inviting and is just perfect for brunch, lunch and dinner. It's sort of like Pastoral in that it has inspired sandwiches featuring the freshest and most high-quality ingredients. The 'breakfast sandwich' in particular is like eating a normal bacon-egg-and-cheese sandwich while on ecstasy. I also love the quiches, they are light on egg and heavy on delicious roasted vegetables instead. Definitely ask about the daily specials in the front case. They always have some fresh fruit salad, a great side (like a German potato salad), and an original lemonade and/or iced tea option. Their coffee and espresso (Metropolis beans) are also top notch, so I will occasionally just stop in for coffee. There is no pressure about ordering lunch or whatever. The back patio is indeed lovely. And there are kitchen herbs in all the planters so in case you need a little more rosemary on your roasted potatoes... just pick some! I have to say all the staff are exceptionally sweet, definitely not too fussy or gourmet. We brought in beer not knowing if they were BYO and they brought us some nice glasses, no corkage fee or anything. I also love that you just pay up front and they bring you the food and let you chill out. We left a tip anyways, because they were so nice!
(5)
Marta S.

We sat outside for a late breakfast and had a great experience. The breakfast sandwich- grilled foccacia with fritatta and bacon inside was phenomenal. They also were nice enough to sustitute a side of yogurt for potatoes. Pouring your own water is a bit lame but otherwise- great menu options and friendly staff.
(5)
Nicholas Y.

Simply stated.... Great sandwiches and friendly service.
(5)
Shannon L.

I am so incredibly sad that the chick pea sandwich is not on the menu anymore. It was one of the best sandwiches I have ever had in my entire life and I used to go out of my way to drive all the way there to get it. I am so so so so sad!!!!!!!
(5)
Janet X.

Their breakfast sandwich is probably the best thing I've ever had for brunch. I love the fact that they take orders at a counter and bring the food to you... I hate waiters who hover while you try to decide what to order. Everybody who has ever rung me up has been incredibly cheerful. However, the thing I like the most is the fact that they don't blink an eye when you ask for takeout (because, let's be honest, there are times when a girl just wants to eat breakfast in her own kitchen, reading a newspaper). They package everything up so nicely that it's almost as great a treat to unwrap as to eat.
(5)
roger h.

I love this place. Its what a sandwich shop should be. I really shouldn't call it a sandwich shop because it is so much more. I have never a bad moment here from the deliciously prepared nosh to the lovely dark, yet sun-soaked atmosphere and the great service you receive from the start. The patio out back is even better than your typical Chicago pavement yard type. 5 stars all the way!
(5)
Joanna V.

basil lemonade! free refills! vegetarian-friendly and great staff!
(5)
Brian L.

Very very good brunch sandwiches. Croque madame was great and so was the breakfast sandwich. Elegant, flavorful side salads makes you feel healthy too. Nice, homey place, good food, unpretentious.
(5)
shivi d.

fun little place, they offer hybrid service - so you order at the counter and they seat you at a table while you wait for your food which is delivered to you. my friend had the smoked salmon salad and i ordered the croque monsier. both were good and the service is over the top nice. perfect portions, quality food and great ambiance are what earn a 4-star rating for this restaurant.
(4)
Eliot J.

let me tell you what's going to happen when you walk into the place, because you're not going to have any idea what's going on. a) there is no host, so just sit down at an open table. b) there is no server, so you need to go back to the front, stand in line to order your food. but don't forget to tell the cashier what table you're at so someone can bring your food (the tables are numbered). and don't forget to grab a to-go menu at the front on top of the food case. c) a food runner will bring you your sandwhich when it's ready, but that will take about 20 minutes. d) the water and coffee are self-serve, and they're tucked away behind the serving station and the door to the patio. if there aren't any glasses or coffee mugs, ask the food runner or the guy floating around taking names for tables, or the cashier who is walking around the tables asking people how their food is. the food here is good, but it's not great. this place is essentially a glorified sandwich shop, a new trend in the restaurant world, and i have experienced better ones. browsing the menu, i decided on the eggplant sandwich after reading the ingredients and becoming intrigued by the mint oil. sadly, the mint oil was not present on my sandwich, and i'm pretty sure the olive tapenade was left off, too. also, i didn't realize i had an option for a side (kruncher's potato chips that they refer to as "cafe chips" or salad) until after i had placed my order. the cashier didn't ask me which side i wanted, so i ran up to the runner and asked for the salad. that worked out fine, though. good salad and good pickle. i feel as though this place has great potential but there is a definite identity crisis going on here. that, or a lack of management. this place needs to make up its mind: are you self-service, or aren't you? is there a host, or is there not a host? and, if so, why is he refilling people's coffee and why does he not have a host stand at the front of the restaurant? is the cashier the owner, or not? and if not, why is he walking around asking people how their meal tastes when there are people in line waiting to order food from him. why does he act like david spade's receptionist character from SNL ("can you give me half a second? thaaaaaaanks." ::proceeds to turn his back to the counter to take a drink of his beverage on the shelf behind him:: "thaaaaaanks. what can i get for you?") :(
(2)
Amber R.

I am in love with everything about this place. The staff is amazingly welcoming and accommodating. As for the food, eat it, all of it. I've been here a number of times and it's perfectly consistent and delicious!! I'm impressed, Birchwood.
(5)
Lauren R.

Absolutely loved this place. Delicious food & cozy atmosphere. Everything was very fresh!
(5)
misee s.

$12 for a baby sized sandwich and a little paper bag of chips. While everything was good, I was left feeling hungry and teased. You want me to pour my own coffee? And it's at the other side of the restaurant? You may look cute, but fuck off, I'm going to Jay's.
(2)
Jen S.

Friendly service, great food, and it's byob. What more do you need in life? I highly recommend the tuna melt!
(5)
RJ D.

Great weekend brunch option for small to medium sized group looking for a casual, but (moderately) lively environment with delicious food and cafÃ© drinks. Even when the line looks a bit repelling -- it moves so quickly you won't mind the wait. It's a comfortable place, with friendly staff. I'd say it's probably 15% over priced for what you're getting - but I feel the same about Jam ---which I haven't heard from too many others. Regardless, I'm still a fan.
(4)
margaret z.

Excellent service, quality food, fast and no hassle!
(4)
Robin D.

Theres a reason this place has such high reviews it does live up to the hype. Went there on a Sunday at 1030 am an there was hardly anyone there but by the time we left it was very crowded. Parking is a breeze at that time and you dont even have to feed any meter along north avenue on outside the restaurant. We ordered steak and eggs and it was 30 total (no drinks no nothing just entree). The food was good and served fresh. The place is small and cozy and the menu is not your typical fast food joint fare. The only problem I had was when I asked if the orange juice is freshly squeezed because the menu says fresh they said yes and then I saw her pouring it from a pasteurized bottle. Hmmmmmmmmmmm i didnt like that at all so I said no thank you and give me a refund. All in all, I would recommend this place and even go back and try other things in the menu
(4)
Car M.

Everything from soup to sandwiches here are amazing. This spot fills a gap that B-town/WP have been missing (amazing homemade sandwiches and soups). If in the neighborhood, I"d call this a must try.
(4)
Brynna P.

Things I like: delicious food, warm and well-conceived decor, friendly staff, prompt service. Done, done, done and done. Surprisingly not packed for a Sunday brunch service, a friend and I wandered over her for a hearty meal. Walking in, you feel like you've walked into a modern French bakery. Stocked with breads, homemade sides and sweets, this place sold me before I even glanced at the menu. But then the menu...I want to try everything. That which I did try was excellent. Simple, flavorful, good portions. This place knows how to do savory. I appreciate a well-sized menu -- don't overextend, know your strengths, keep it simple but do it really well. The coffee was refilled, the staff were super friendly and I will definitely be back. OH, and it's BYOB.
(5)
caroline e.

I think I have a new obsession...it's called the Birchwood Kitchen. After scoping it out for a while, I finally stopped into this adorable spot in my neighborhood for brunch this morning. I can't believe I've been missing out on this place for so long! We sat right down at 10:45 am, but literally 5 minutes later there was a wait. I ordered the Croque Madame. It's basically a grilled cheese with ham and eggs on top. It was awesome! Even the little side salad was yummie. They brewed a special decaf coffee just for me and it was killer. Even though I was very satisfied with my meal, I still couldn't suppress the raging food envy I had for my boyfriend's plate. Butternut Hash? Sooooo good. I was only allowed one bite, but damn, that was all I needed to know that this is one of the tastiest dishes you'll find on a breakfast menu in the city. I will definitely be back to get a plate of my own!
(4)
Jessica K.

My mother and I were Christmas shopping in the area and we stopped in here for lunch. We got two of the daily specials and sat at a cute little table by the window. I love the atmosphere: big windows, well lit, flowers on every table. It's got that great neighborhood cafe vibe. The food was really good as well, especially the quiche. The option of fruit salad really pleased my mom and the dressing they put on the salad had a nice kick. They also have a nice selection of teas and coffees. If I lived in the area this place would definitely be one of my regulars. Oh, also it's BYOB, which wasn't really necessary when I went with my mom, but would come in handy for a weekend brunch with my friends.
(4)
Kari L.

what a great find! delicious assortment of foods. we got the eggplant sandwich special, and the flank steak sandwich. homemade lemonade & iced tea. sat outside in the patio. a perfect lunch. the staff is super friendly and accommodating. grab a table first, and then order at the counter.
(5)
Leslie W.

The food is great, the people are friendly, and I need to try it in the summer when they have more seating. Sometimes people stay at their tables a bit long and don't seem to recognize others are waiting. I live close enough to bring it home so I don't mind.
(4)
Roberta B.

In contrast to a great majority of reviews, we had an unsatisfactory experience while lunching here. The steak sandwich provided tough, stringy flank steak and almost unchewable roll. Like a Woody Allen joke, the food was awful and the portion too small. I had the breakfast sandwich which was burnt and lacked flavor. There was nothing particularly positive to say about this place. There are far better restaurants for brunch in Chicago.
(1)
Lea C.

This place is excellent. Great service and fantastic food. The menu is not overly ambitious in its size but the quality of each item is very high.
(4)
Megan H.

Their salads and sandwiches are killer, and made with quality ingredients. I only wish I had tried this place when I lived just around the corner. Great weekend lunch spot!
(5)
Tricia G.

BRIDES AND GROOMS TO BE: Great place to have your rehearsal dinner at or a private party! Daniel is soooo great to work with and easy going. We are having our rehearsal dinner here next month. You get to custom pick a menu that fits with what you are looking for. The food is amazing so your guests won't be disappointed! Staff is great too! If the weather is nice, they will let you use their private outdoor space. You can also play music of your choice. ATTENTION: It's BYOB! You can save so much money this way and still have an amazing party. I think they fit up to 50 people. 40 for a sit down. Check it out! UPDATE! 5/14/2010. We had our rehearsal dinner there on 4/30/2010. Our guests are STILL talking about the food! It was AMAZING! It knew it would be delicious but REALLY DELICIOUS IT WAS! The BYOB worked out perfectly! They had nice music playing (or they will let you bring their own). They even provided a BEAUTIFUL floral arrangement! They normally provide flowers at their table tops but we had someone come and do them as we already had a deposit with this floral company and had to use it. Daniel and Jason were great! All of their employees and staff had EXCEEDED our expectations! They were so accommodating! My sisters son wanted something else to eat, it wasn't on the menu but they whipped it up! (It was a small sandwich but it wasn't even a problem). Their lemonade and ice tea for soooo good! All the appetizers and how they were passing them around! They had so much food it was unbelievable. They didn't just make a couple but so much! They didn't go cheap! The quality of the food was UNBELIEVABLE! My step mom thought it was prime rib that they were serving because it literally was so moist if fell off the bone! It was pork chops! We also had Salmon. It was GREAT! Everything was so AMAZING! I know this will continue to be our normal spot. We are still re cooping from the wedding! Thank you again DANIEL and JASON and EVERYONE ELSE at BIRCHWOOD KITCHEN! You really allowed this to come together for us! We also apologize to those who are reading to tried coming that Friday for dinner. ;( I can truly see why you wanted to come here for a nice evening and an even better dinner! Thanks again to everyone!
(5)
Jan J.

fantastic food with personable, accountable staff. this restaurant feels like a small town cafe with the culinary chops of a world class city like chicago. i go once a week.
(5)
Sean H.

Great food. My wife and I enjoy the clean fresh food. Excellent quality!
(4)
Jennifer S.

This is a great sandwich place! I went with a group of 6 girls for a quick weekday meal. Everyone was more than satisfied with their choices. Some of us started with a soup (tomato bisque or lentil) and then everyone got a different sandwich. The standout was the Meatloaf which came with bacon and some sort of tomato jam. I had a special sandwich that was called Eggplant Parmesan and it was delicious. The sandwiches comes with your choice of chips or salad and range from $7-$9. It looked like there was only one chef in the kitchen and even though there were other people , our food came out very quickly. Just as a head's up, there isn't a wait staff. You place your order at the counter and then they bring the food out. It is also BYOB!
(4)
Sam M.

Birchwood is one of my go-to spots. I like everything about this place. The staff is incredibly friendly. The menu changes to make use of seasonal ingredients. The food is delicious. The prices are reasonable. Does that cover everything? Yes, it does.
(5)
Kristin O.

This was my first time here and the man behind the counter was extremely helpful. He explained a little about the place, the specials, and the menu and gave some really helpful suggestions. I ended up going with the Grilled Gruyere. This consisted of "cave-aged" gruyere, caramelized onion, and dijon mustard on sour dough. I got it with the cafe chips; homemade chips seasoned with sea sea salt. Everything was fresh, delicious, and made fast!
(5)
Jason F.

Birchwood catered a lunch that we hosted for 30 people. We ordered mini sandwiches, which are supposed to be 1/3 of a sandwich, but I think that they are closer to 1/2. Each sandwich was better than the next-- goat cheese/beet, salmon salad (incredible), chicken club, and chickpea (sounds weird but was awesome). Also, the pasta salad with arugula was fantastic! The owner delivered to our place with a smile even though the elevator was out. People haven't stopped raving about the food and we were thrilled! Definitely consider them for your next event- you won't be disappointed!
(5)
Rachel S.

Birchwood Kitchen is such a cozy place to go, with delicious and unique food. The owner is so nice and makes sure to talk to every customer.
(5)
Lori Taylor R.

Delicious little sandwich shoppe indeed! The mouthwatering aroma fills your nose. Cases of delectables tempt your tummy. You try and narrow down your lunchtime decision from the chalkboard overhead. Friendly employees offer up loads of suggestions. And the Lamb wins you over. The food is quickly delivered to your table amidst the planters of fresh herbs on the cozy sun filled patio. Superb choice! The baguette is toasted perfectly, the shaved lamb is tender and juicy, garnished with just the right amount of pickled onions. And then you realize ... you've just selected a brilliant dining destination!
(5)
Michelle F.

I live down the street from Birchwood, and it's great. I have been there a few times and haven't been disappointed. Last time I went I got this sandwich that had ham, brie, veggies on crusty Italian bread. It was DELICIOUS. Sooo much brie! Their chips are great, the people that work there are extraordinarily nice and helpful, and the restaurant itself is really cute. Slowly becoming one of my favorites.
(4)
Lindsay H.

Went for the first time today, met four others and a 1 year old for breakfast. We got there soon after they open so not crowded at all. Cute place, chill and neighborhoody, helpful personable staff. We all got different things and loved everything, good brownies too. I was the one who picked it and everyone said "good choice, good choice". I rule.
(4)
Akash P.

I'll start by saying, I have a bias to any great eatery that opens this close to our home. Although I enjoyed the guilty pleasure that was Cold Comfort, I love Birchwood. We've gone three times now for brunch. I've ordered the Polenta twice, comes with sunny side egg, argula, manchego, pine nuts and a relish. Unique and delish. I've ordered the breakfast sandwich once as well and it was excellent. Also they have Metropolis coffee, which is some of the best I've had.
(4)
Winnie L.

The soup is awesome. Sandwiches are fresh and yummy. I would recommend anyone to go there for a quick bite. I thought the byob idea at this restaurant is a little bit weird.
(4)
Joscelyn M.

I grabbed some sandwiches to go on a hungover Sunday afternoon, but I definitely want to come back to sit down. The place is really cute and everyone who works there is super nice - like incredible nice, as in "Am I in the South nice". But the real reason to go - yummy sandwiches. I have the mushroom and my husband had the gruyere with ham (I would have preferred it sans ham, but that's just me). They were a bit soggy, but that was because of the fact that they were both hot sandwiches and had to survive a cold 15 min walk home. The oatmeal butterscotch cookie rocked, too.
(4)
A S.

Even if Birchwood Kitchen didn't turn out absolutely delicious sandwiches (which it does - the goat cheese/beet number had me gripping the sides of the table to steady myself), I would still patronize this charming local business because of its remarkably friendly customer service. Seriously. I want a pull off whatever they're drinking behind the counter, because I have never seen the employees even one notch below BEAMING. Which is a refreshing change from the "I deign to take your order," eye-rolling, bored hipster service usually rendered in the WP. Keep it up, Birchwood. Mama like.
(5)
Genious C.

Really enjoyed our brunch. There was a bit of wait but we went out back which is quite lovely. Had some coffee. Food is excellent...had the breakfast sandwich and the baked french toast........delish! I don't drink coffee and I even liked that. Cute easy place with good food......
(4)
angel g.

I had the special when I went to birchwood. Shoulda had a sandwich.
(2)
Stephen B.

Wow. There aren't many places where you can say that everything is good. This is one of the few. The sandwiches are fantastic, the burgers are great - and the baked goods are the best in the neighborhood. Even the coffee is outstanding. Service is always friendly. The atmosphere is a comfortable woodsy-modern and they have an excellent outdoor patio in the back where you can relax and unwind - a major contrast to the other side of the building's North Ave location. To top it off, they are BYO - so you can bring in your favorite beverages and enjoy without markups while enjoying the top-notch food. They pretty much hit the nail on the head here - I just wish they were open for breakfast on the week days! Keep it up Birtchwood!
(5)
Jordan V.

birchwood kitchen is not messing around: (1) the sandwiches are outstanding. added an egg to the cheddar with roasted tomatoes and bacon. hands down, the best bacon, egg and cheese sandwich i have ever had. the homemade potato chips are clearly not an afterthought. [milk and honey, take a cue from these guys.] the standard breakfast sandwich was also super tasty, as is the gruyere with ham, which i had on my last visit. (2) the employees serve the shit out of you. how is this possible when it's not even a traditional sit down and order? because they pay attention to detail, are 100% behind their food and genuinely want you to be happy eating there.* (thanks for being so psyched about me eating my sandwich! it was really good!). (3) they did a bang up job of designing this place. every gourmet sandwich shop should have outside patio seating, a big, bright open dining area, fresh flowers and a display case with delicious looking sides and cured meats. * let me elaborate. went there this past sunday. the guy at the register had endless patience for my impossible questions about the menu (i was debating between the morning bread pudding and breakfast salad but ended up ordering the cheddar sandwich and asking for an egg on it). after we order, he asks us if the table he is putting us i good (it is). our metropolis coffee is already ready at the coffee bar so we grab it and sit down. the counter guy comes over a few minutes later and checks to see what kind of consistency i'm looking for in my egg yolk (not too runny, not too hard) and whether i want my egg on top or inside of the sandwich (inside). at that time, i ask for water. he apologizes for not letting me know where the serve yourself water station is and then insists on getting it for us (nicest way ever of letting me know that its my job to get water). a few minutes later, another server comes out with our perfectly prepared and presented sandwiches. we ask for hot sauce, she brings it right over, tells us how much she likes it, how it's produced locally and warns us that there is no plastic regulator thing on the inside (so that we don't end up with a pools of hot sauce on our plates).
(5)
Kathleen O.

I've been twice for lunch on weekends and could kick myself for not going more often. Great tasting food all around. Looking forward to enjoying their outdoor space this summer. Highly recommend for meeting up with friends or taking an out of Towner or just trying someplace outside your neighborhood. Has a nice local feel true to Bucktown.
(4)
Ben T.

I had the short rib sandwich, and it was awesome. Everything on the menu looks delicious. Also, there is a man who works there who is probably one of the nicest people I have ever met (in fact, everyone I've experienced who works there is incredibly pleasant). I want to support this business, and it's easy to do that when the food is so good (although, with sandwiches at 8-10$, I may have to settle for going just every-so-often). Great for lunch or dinner and a good option for take-out when you want something high-quality, highly satisfying and fast.
(5)
Justin H.

Ok I have been here plenty of times now since they have opened so close to me. I have had the Blue and now the Mozzarella sandwich. The chips are not homemade as far as I can tell. They taste like Jays potato chips that they put some green oniony stuff on them. Everything I have had here has been amazing and that is wheat will keep me coming back again and again. Every time you walk in you feel as if you are family. I was given a sample of their carrot/ginger/beet soup today. Not being a fan of soups I found this one tasty. The fruit salad is delicious as well. Always a great bet for lunch!
(5)
Amy S.

This place makes crave-worthy food. Everything is super good. I think they have the best veggie sandwich in the world! And their meatloaf sandwich is super good! I've yet to have a bad experience, but if I had to find something bad, I'd say that their prices a bit high, but still worth it. The decor is great and the staff is always friendly. Parking's not bad, either.
(4)
Joe S.

Thought I'd follow the review of the new Jerry's Sandwiches location with another spot in Wicker Park (right up the road on North Ave) where I was equally impressed. Soups, sandwiches, and salads that are as good as it gets.
(5)
Lindsay L.

I simply love Birchwood Kitchen. Everything about this place makes me feel good. The people that work here are so nice, and the food is wonderful.
(5)
Meghan B.

This is the perfect spot for a lunch outing. I had the grilled gruyere with ham and it was delicious. The weather was nice enough that we were able to take advantage of the adorable patio out back. I also ordered a piece of carrot cake to go and it did not disappoint! Not only that, but the guy behind the counter was super nice and a major cutie! I will definitely be back.
(5)
Lois A.

I heard that Birchwood Kitchen was now making burgers and less than 24 hours later I was eating one. I'd gone there before and it was really good but a Birchwood burger? Yum... had to taste! Buy one get one free is really hard to beat and my boyfriend and I both ordered the beef burgers. Really, really good! Cooked perfectly and it came with awesome slaw and chips.. The service there is always really great because the staff is so nice and it was nice to see it packed in there because last time we went there was only one other couple. We also ordered the pasta salad which was just as good as it was last time and we couldn't leave without a lemon bar. Maybe the best lemon bar I've ever had.
(4)
Bess R.

Very tasty brunch today at Birchwood. I had the polenta breakfast (with black beans, chorizo and eggs) and it was quite tasty. My ladyfriends both had the Croque Madame that also had delicious eggs on it. They both enjoyed. Coffee was great too, and everyone who worked there was super nice. Not a huge fan of ordering food at the counter because I'm extremely lazy, but otherwise great.
(4)
Margot A.

We went to Birchwood today for brunch, and had a really nice experience! The waitstaff is over-the-top friendly, but in a really genuine way. I think the restaurant is new, and they are just excited to be up and running. The decor is adorable...exposed brick and local photography on the walls. And the way it's run is simple but charming. You get a table when you walk in, and then when ready to order, you head to the counter to place it and pay. It just so happens that we were a party of three waiting on our fourth, so we sat down to peruse the menu while we waited. It turned out that our fourth was going to be quite a while, but no one pressured us to do anything at all except sit and enjoy the lovely atmosphere. My other two companions got coffees while we waited, and as soon as their cups were half drunk, there was a server by to refill. As I said, their enthusiasm was borderline over-the-top! After perusing the menu for quite a long time, we finally decided and went up to order. My sister and I got sucked in to the baked goods behind the counter, and ordered a piece of chocolate chip banana bread and an oatmeal butterscotch cookie as snacks before our meals arrived. Kind of fat kid, but whatever. Both were delicious as expected. At our table, we had the following dishes: Goat Cheese Sandwich, Lamb Sausage Quiche and mixed greens, Breakfast Sandwich with Veggie Frittata, Bacon, and Cheese, and Polenta with Sunny Side up eggs and some other delicious garnishes. Everything was amazing. Personally, the quiche and the breakfast sandwich were my favorites, but the other two items were also very nice. The sandwich had this walnut pesto that was out of control tasty, and the polenta was also fab. Ooh, I almost forgot that somewhere in the mix were breakfast potatoes, which get a special shout-out because they were just. right. The portions are not too big and not to small, and the prices are reasonable. We all left full and happy, but not overstuffed. I think all factors considered, this is a darling little spot which is sure to give Bongo a run for its money. The fact that it's a smidge west of Damen, paired with the relative newness, is probably what keeps the crowds down thus far. We will definitely be back to try the other delicious-sounding items on the menu!
(4)
Sam F.

What can I say that hasn't already been said about Birchwood? Probably nothing! It's a fantastic spot... One of my favorite places to eat in the city! These guys really know food. Everything is Executed with such care and precision... Nothing's ever sloppily thrown on a plate here. The ingredients are all fresh and seasonal, the soups are delicious, and the staff/owners are all as friendly as can be! Love this place...
(5)
Mark R.

A good solid menu with interesting and tasty takes on details. Brunch is great and they serve Metropolis coffee. Great staff and good food!
(4)
A P.

We LOVE Birchwood Kitchen! It has a bit of a wait when we go (Sunday brunch), but it has a nice and relaxed atmosphere, friendly service, and great food!
(5)
Jonathan H.

This place is amazing. High quality, seasonal fare at just the right price. Not to mention they are now BYOB. I had the Sweet & Sour pork belly sandwich (pork belly, cilantro, jalapeno on french baguette) and a sesame bagel w/ goats milk cream cheese & honey. This was my 1st try w/ pork belly and I was not disappointed. The sandwich was sweet, salty and spicy and if they started packaging the cream cheese I'd be back non stop. The two times I've been the owner has been behind the counter so you know your service and food are going to be top notch and prompt. Birchwood will not disappoint.
(5)
Joel M.

My wife got the the mushroom sandwich - 'twas delicious. I got the Blue and wanted to trade with her, but it was also tasty. Can't wait to try more of the sandwiches. Came with chips which pretty ordinary and didn't finish them. Coffee, cookies and lemon bars finished the lunch off nicely. Very reasonably priced. Great atmosphere, friendly staff. It is BYOB, but I didn't do partake - planning on doing so soon.
(5)
Matt M.

All the food is fresh and locally grown. The staff is friendly and knowledgable. It's counter service, but table service after your order. The back patio is amazing. It's quiet, secluded and surrounded by nature. Brunch menu is limited, but delicious. Lunch menu is extensive.
(5)
Lezah G.

All I can say is that I will definitely be back! They have a creative menu with foods made of high quality ingredients, and a very friendly and polite,helpful staff. I went there for lunch today with a friend and we share everything. The tomato bisque that was their special soup today was some of the best soup I have ever eaten. We had a quiche made from some creamy strong cheese I had never heard of and it had olives and caramelized onions in it an was delicious. We also had a mozarella sandwich with roasted tomato, basil, and smoke pancetta and a piece of banana cake with chocolate chips. We walked out of there very stuffed and very happy--an excellent place for a Saturday lunch.
(5)
Char Y.

Great sandwiches at a neighborhood cafe! The staff is super friendly and helpful, and the food is fresh and local. We ordered the meatloaf sandwich and the duck sandwich, both were mouth watering and gigantic. The sandwiches are reasonably prices, compared to other high end sandwich places such as Xoco, and they are considerably bigger. Everything is made fresh on order, so it might take some time, but it is worth the wait.
(4)
Greg B.

Only sandwich shop I know that has Harold McGee's "On Food and Cooking" on its shelf. This is a gourmet sandwich shop. They run their kitchen just like an upscale restaurant. Daniel and Judd are great and go out of their way to make you happy. Very pleased to live so close to this place. It's my go-to spot anytime I need to take someone to lunch.
(5)
S G.

Went here for Saturday lunch based on Yelp recommendations. This place was pretty good for a casual lunch place. The specials were great, had the grilled panini and pasta salad. Not overpriced for the fresh food. Very good!
(4)
J M.

Best damn sandwiches in Chicago. It's crazy busy these days. About 2 years ago it was so easy to get a table.. but now it's pretty crowded. It's still worth the wait.
(5)
caroline r.

Great new spot on North Ave which happens to be right on my way home! Friendly service right when you walk in the door and delicious, fresh, creative menu options. Daily quiche is always a winner, soup of the day is often a carrot ginger with beets or lentil with carrots (both are awesome) and the baked goods (lemon bars are soooo good!) are not to be missed. My favorite is the brunch menu though-- belgian waffle is super yummy, the polenta is dense but not dry, perfectly done in my opinion and the breakfast sandwich is always a good choice. They're all about the local/ sustainable food movement which I wholly support and they do it well. Portions are sized correctly and you can get things like pasta salad or mixed olives to go by the pound. yum yum! eat up!
(5)
Andy S.

It makes me want to live in wicker park Beautiful interior, great food with a changing seasonal menu, friendly people - I could come here every day.
(5)
Madelyn H.

this is a great addition to the neighborhood. really interesting sandwiches and salads with high-quality ingredients. it would be a great place to stop if you're getting picnic materials because they have some prepared salads too. the outdoor seating is a plus. loved it! good to eat: salmon sandwich
(5)
April W.

A friend brought me here and I was cery pleased. I had the prosciutto with celery cream and an apple and fennel cole slaw. The sandwich and the salad were both excellent. There were several other items I wanted to try including the lamb french dip. I will be back. Monday the 2nd of Oct I am looking forward to attending the farmer dinner they are hosting. The only down side is that it is BYOB and I didnt know ahead of time and would have liked a good bloody mary with my brunch.
(4)
Elle N.

This place has great food, a great space and great service (and a great patio in the warmer months). The owner, and the entire staff, are super friendly -- the genuine kind, not the super fake, in your face kind -- and the food is always great! They use high-quality ingredients, many of them local and I've literally never had a bad meal there. It's not the best for big groups, but otherwise it's just perfect!
(5)
Henry T.

Fresh local food, creative and interesting, great ambiance, reasonable prices. Took a date here, i had the meatloaf sandwich, she had the grilled onions and Munster marvel. We finished it off with a slice of carrot cake and cup of intelligensia coffee. Oh yeah, friendly, knowledgeable service. What more could you ask for for a $20 date? It was a bit cold in the restaurant. I would recommend sitting far from the door in winter.
(5)
Smart S.

Yelp, what has become of you? While I love the concept of Yelp, the site has become a site for business owners to game the reviews and the rankings. I now have to read between the lines to determine which restaurants are 2 star places masquerading as 4 and 5 star establishments. That brings us to my review of the Birchwood Kitchen. How I found the place: through Yelp having logged in this morning to look for a good Sunday brunch/sandwich place. My initial impressions about the nearly perfect reviews about Birchwood Kitchen: Possibly too good to be true. As some of the reviews point out, the place is celebrating its first year. Yet there were 153 reviews before my post? I realize that good news travels fast, but this is a fairly plain restaurant with an average menu. Still, I put my doubt aside and said, "let's give the place the benefit of the doubt". My review once we were there: The decor is better than how the picture on the company's pdf presents the place. But, how novel is the loft look (exposed brick and ventilation duct) nowadays? Have you just moved to the city? Are you used to being around barns? Moving beyond my mostly positive impression on the look of the interior, we did see that there is a patio with tables and chairs. The sun was pouring into the courtyard, but here's where the experience fell apart. My girlfriend and I stood in line for the cashier, while an employee with a note pad walked around the tables. The GF and I read the marker boards, perused through the to-go menu, and once we were two spots from the front of the line, the employee with the note pad asked us to wait to get a seat first, before ordering at the cashier. Digest that procedure for a moment. We moved outside to the patio, while the employee apologized, saying that the restaurant was understaffed on that particular day. I said that it was quite alright, although the setup and the operations of the place seemed thoroughly ill/unplanned. After waiting in the courtyard for a further 10 minutes, my name was called and we moved inside. There we were informed what our table number was, and we fell in line for the cashier again. Btw, whoever chose to put the 6'+ tall guy working at the register should think again. This guy is so tall that he blocks out the drink menu board. I had to look around him to read the drink list. Back to the ordering ... once we got to the front of the line, the doofus register guy proceeded to hit on my girlfriend. Perhaps I should give this place one star instead of two. Following ordering, the wait for the food took another 15 - 20 minutes. Then came the realization that this is a truly ordinary sandwich shop that impresses people who have never seen rocket salads. The ingredients are not worth the prices, and I am now certain that the 5 star reviews about this place are from employees, paid Yelpers, friends and family of the Birchwood Kitchen, and people who have left their barns for the first time to see the city, loft sandwich shops and rocket salad leaves. On top of clueless operations and management, the long waits, and "high end" ingredients at exorbitant prices, the bread on both of the sandwiches were too hard. My sandwich was on French bread, but the crust was hard and brittle. My girlfriend's sandwich was on regular bread, but it was toasted to the consistency of a brown rock. All in all, the entertainment that we received at the restaurant was related to how we could better use the space, and discussing where we would go to eat and drink after the Birchwood Kitchen. I will never eat here again and I'm just as open to giving this place a one star as I am to having given it two.
(2)
Andrew M.

God damn, I love you Birchwood Kitchen. You always serve delicious food, you let me bring my own booze and you give me free tasty treats like potato salad without any mayo or carrot cake. Your "speck" sandwich is delicious and so is your habanero lemonade. You're never crowded and sometimes I wonder why the masses who crowd the usual lunch spots don't know about you. But that's ok. They don't have to know. It can just be our little secret. You and me, Birchwood Kitchen. Forever....
(5)
Lizzie H.

I went on a whim with this place while I was in the neighborhood. The staff was friendly and helpful. The grilled cheese is abolsolutely delicious and their oatmeal cookies are phenom!
(4)
Angelina E.

The basil lemonade was so creative and delish!! My husband had the blue and enjoyed but thought it was missing something... My caprese type salad was awesome! Great fresh buffalo mozzarella. The guy who helped us, who appeared to be the owner, gave us a free sample of the tomato bisque since it was a chilly rainy day and we LOVED it... Melted in your mouth. Great addition to neighborhood... Please stay and keep coming west of western too!!!!!!
(4)
Danielle S.

Tasty sandwich selection, nice space, and good coffee. I;m looking forward to trying the outdoor patio in the spring/summer.
(4)
Stephanie E.

I am going to make the definitive statement everyone is thinking: Birchwood Kitchen is the best sandwich shop in Chicago. Every sandwich and soup is delicious and completely satisfying on a hot or cold day (my hands-down favorite sandwich is the vegetable with spiced cashew butter, carrot, cucumber, spinach, and pickled red onion on multi-grain bread - the spiced cashew butter really makes it!), the desserts are yummy (try the oatmeal butterscotch cookie), the management and service is out of this world (asks what you think of the dishes; once noticed we had waited too long in line and gave us some free samples to try; does not care if you swap sides; etc.), it is superbly veg friendly, it is byob, and it has one of the most beautiful outside patios. I highly recommend this place for breakfast, lunch, and now for my favorite meal at BK - dinner (bring a bottle of wine and talk for hours).
(5)
johnny b.

Great sandwich not subway so don't expect a 5$ footlong but new fav spot.
(4)
Kris B.

When I have a bad day at work I fantasize about opening up a restaurant and Birchwood Kitchen would be that restaurant. Their food is local, season, and sustainably produced --you might not think that matters but it does. The food is amazing! Me and my tummy left very happy. If you haven't been there make a trip.
(4)
Justin S.

So Lori and I decided to try another lunch despite the previous encounter that was less than successful. I looked to yelp and decided we should travel west and find more of what Wicker Park has to offer...and what we found was this delicious gem. I was already starving when i walked in and the smell of the place didn't help. I salivated at the aromas from all the amazing sandwiches being constructed. I went with the Blue sandwich because of the long time love affair I've had with bleu cheese. We sat on the patio and took in the beautiful day. The atmosphere was great and I wish I could have found this place sooner. The sandwiches were spot on. The bread, roast beef, and bleu cheese made a great meal. I devoured the meal completely and quickly. I am a huge fan and with the numerous sandwiches on the menu I'm looking forward to trying something different. I will be back. Amazing
(4)
Britni K.

I have had just about every breakfast item they offer on the menu and still can't get enough. The food is well thought out, delicious, a little fancy, but unlike those normal fancy restaurants they give you a good sized portion. Every time I have friends in town, I always take them to brunch here and they continue to rave about it. The very, very best part about this place is the service. Everyone behind that counter is poised and ready to help even if you just have a puzzled look on your face. They are extremely happy to see you, always very courteous and there isn't a single thing I have asked for that they have refused. The first time I went there, I was having brunch with friends and we ended up sitting and talking for quite some time. Our plates were cleared, and we were enjoying each others company and the atmosphere of the place (great music all the time in there, by the way) when the cashier came up with one of their giant chocolate chip cookies on a plate and presented it to us free of charge, saying, "You ladies still look hungry"...!!! I have never been to another place that does such a sweet, customer-friendly gesture completely our of the kindness of their hearts. That is the reason that I will continue to be a regular at Birchwood Kitchen as long as I am in Chicago. In fact, I'm going there right now. Wonderful food and amazing service! Doesn't get any better than this!
(5)
mike s.

Great spot. Just had lunch here and it was fantastic. Very friendly and helpful staff. I got the club sandwich, fresh lemonade and a cookie. Love it, Ill be back.
(5)
Jonathan S.

We went here on Friday night and loved the food and the atmosphere. I had the lamb french dip which was very tasty. Others in our party had the salmon salad sandwich and the turkey burger (reviewed very well). Even the chips were delicious. We really liked that the restaurant was BYOB (and located a block away from a liquor store) We definitely want to come back for the Beatles music and the roast beef sandwich.
(4)
Jennifer K.

Had lunch here today with the husband. We have been wanting to try this place for quite some time. He had the lamb sandwich and I the gruyere with onions. We also split the lentil spinach salad. I thought the food was delicious. My sandwich tasted like a french onion soup sandwich minus the broth. MMMM! The lentil salad was really more like a spinach salad with some lentils, bacon and goat cheese thrown in, but was still very very good. I would definitely go back and try something else next time. And it's BYO!
(4)
Erica S.

Went here yesterday with my AmeriCorps group to celebrate finishing our year! So we had a lot of people (11) at around 6:30ish. And it was not crowded. So we sat in the back because it was not nice enough out to go outside. However, it's BYOB, so we popped bottles of champagne and got to work eating! I had the grilled Gruyere sandwich with ham and it was delicious. It was a nice size, and very filling. The ham was stacked high, which was good since at 2 dollars extra, it felt nice to get my dollars worth. And it was so good that I didn't mind sharing! My roommate got the mushroom sandwich, which she said was awesome, especially because of the piquillo peppers! I tried it and also thought it was delicious. One of our coworkers got the lamb and talked to the people who worked there about it. They told him that they marinate the lamb in Piece's IPA! Which is good for anyone who really likes Piece's IPA/IPA in general. I saw the sandwich but didn't try it, but you could tell that the lamb was the correct color, not too rare on the inside. One of my other friends wanted to try to the sandwich, and ended up taking more than one bite. I feel as if this is what I will be getting the next time that I am there. I also got the marinated olives, which were good but there were so many that I thought I was going to have a salt overload, or at least turn into a deer and go find a salt lick. My roommate got the pineapple jalapeno coleslaw, which was super delicious, and I don't even really like coleslaw. Another co-worker/friend got the watermelon salad, which he also enjoyed, although was disappointed by the small size. What really needs to be mentioned here is the service. It's wonderful. Even though it's table service, they still treat you as if they are going to your table and serving you. Multiple times throughout the meal, one or more of the workers would come and ask how we were enjoying our food, which showed that they actually cared if we were liking it or not. They talked to us extensively about AmeriCorps and my friend asked if they had Coke and they only have cane cola, so someone brought him one to try. Wow! When we were leaving, we asked if we should clean up our BYOB mess (bottles, really) and they said "No, We're here for you." That's service. And it was awesome. And I will be back again and again. For the food and the service.
(5)
wil h.

I've eaten lunch here 4 times and every time the food has been spot on and the service warm and speedy. They're really nice people! Oh, and in the summer the back patio is amazing.
(5)
lauren a.

sandwich was great (i had the gruyere) but the shortbread lemon bar? the best lemon bar of my life. seriously. i've had a lot so i would know. since i don't live in chicago i'm going to have to beg, plead, and possibly bribe someone to get my hands on that recipe!!!
(5)
Brittany S.

I just discovered this place and absolutely loved it! The food, ambience, etc., were all great and the people were incredibly nice!! I will absolutely be adding this my top list of brunch places! Can't wait to go back for Burger Night, too!
(5)
Colin K.

This place is a find. You can tell the chef emphasizes fresh food and carefully prepares the little details in the simplest of things. I had a roast lamb sandwich, which was tender and moist, served with an au jus. The french roll was chewy with a nice crust, and the marinated onions were perfect. Not to mention that they make their own "cafe chips," which were light and not oily at all.
(4)
Eric L.

Nice place to eat lunch. Menu is nice and light, food is good, and plazy is cozy.
(4)
Stacy B.

One of my favorites! I can't decide if I keep coming back for the delicious food or the friendly staff. Honestly, the nicest restaurant staff in Chicago. The prices are great too. Definitely check out the Pork Belly sandwich. The quiche never disappoints either. But absolutely do not miss the burger at night - one of the best in town! Dessert - the butterscotch oatmeal cookie is to die for. I've heard the carrot cake is great too.
(5)
Tim B.

Love Birchwood. It's my default weeknight place. It's a great, casual neighborhood cafe. Boyfriend and I can share a sandwich, soup/salad, and dessert for around $20. Everything I've ever had has been delicious and fresh. Staff is ridiculously nice. Other highlights include BYOB and excellent, quiet, intimate patio dining.
(5)
Athar K.

Best food I've had in Chicago yet.
(5)
Linda T.

Love the food, love the guys who work here, it feels like a bit of NY in Chicago. I have mostly had brunch when I visit and really appreciate the specials that include a small salad on the plate. Their food feels and tastes like it was prepared with care and of the utmost quality, As I write this I'm thinking I must go this weekend. We also have it brought in for large lunch groups, and it's always a big hit, and they are so easy to work with...
(5)
Allison P.

This was a great find! The space is comfortable and cute, and despite being an order-at-the-counter type cafe, the service was extremely attentive and friendly. Portions were quite big - the four of us shared two sandwiches and two small sides, and left comfortably full. It was raining and pretty dreary outside, so we opted for the ultimate in comfort food: grilled cheese. One was aged cheddar with tomato and bacon on a baguette, and the other was gruyere with caramelized onions and dijon on sourdough. Both were warm, toasty, cheesy, and delicious. They each came with a side of chips. We also ordered sides of mixed olives and potato salad, which was very tasty in a whole grain mustard-based dressing - a nice departure from the typical mayo-heavy potato salads available. Though we didn't try them, there was a nice looking selection of desserts, including a fudgy brownie, chocolate chip banana bread, lemon bars, and some cookies. On a nicer day, the outdoor patio would be lovely, and I hope to go back to try it out!
(5)
John D.

1st or 2nd best breakfast I've ever had...sourdough sammy with cheese, cooked tomato, zucchini, dijon, and sunny side eggs, with a really lightly vinegared side sald that was super fresh and tasty (and I rarely eat salads). P E R F E C T I O N
(5)
Jennifer M.

dear birchwood kitchen, i am your biggest fan. for some reason, your "vibe" is east coast, like a friendly place right off a harbor... maybe i'm just homesick (being from maryland), or it was the incredible whitefish salad sandwich. sooo fresh! other great stuff: in season, the duck sandwich (i added brie just to be a glutton and because your cheeses are extraordinary), speaking of that, the goat cheese sandwich with walnut pesto and pickled beets for sweet and tangy taste mingling (add fresh roasted turkey if you care for some meat with it), and finally the turkey meatloaf sandwich with fresh melted mozzarella is the best i've ever had. other stuff now in different tense: their back patio is amazing and the always friendly staff even asked whether i preferred a sunny spot versus a shady one (who does that?) oh, and the one guy was gracious enough to explain to me how they concoct their basil lemonade (since i asked). you see, only great things to say about this place! XO;)
(5)
Michelle K.

I cannot say enough wonderful things about this place!! Birchwood Kitchen is my new favorite restaurant in town ... which is saying a lot coming from a girl who has lived here her entire life! All of the ingredients taste as amazingly fresh as they are (they make their own cheeses, roast their own meat, and bake fresh bread all day), and you can tell upon first bite how much work, talent and sheer craftsmanship has gone into creating each and every item on the menu. Aside from the Blue sandwich, which had become an instant favorite immediately after my first trip there, their new burgers are out of this world delicious!!! In my 20s I went years without eating red meat, and had I known about the Birchwood burgers then I surely would have ended my deprivation act instantly!!! That's just how good they are! And don't even get me started on their soups and baked goods. Too good for words (I highly recommend the lemon bars and any of the cookies and scones)! And did I mention the fact that this place is BYOB and has an awesome back patio? What more can a girl ask for? While the prices are slightly higher than your typical sandwich joint (e.g., Potbelly's), in this horrible economy, when all you want is some good, fresh, homemade food to soothe your woes, Birchwood is the perfect answer. All of their food has that great seasonal, well-thought-out quality that a number of higher end restaurants in the city have achieved (e.g., Lula Cafe), but with a much lower price point. So forget Blackbird and Bristol ... Birchwood is right up this cheap foodie's alley!!!
(5)
misty h.

WOW! This place is absolutely perfect. I waited to write this review until I visited several times to make sure my first couple of great experiences weren't happy accidents. Where to start... the food is exceptional. All of the ingredients are really fresh and very high quality. Many are apparently locally grown, which is a big plus. Everything I've had was cooked perfectly. Each item has been flavorful and exactly as it should be: light dishes are filled with bouncy fresh goodness. Heavy dishes (like the stupendous pineapple breakfast pudding) are laden with flavor, but never go over the edge. The setting is very pretty and comfortable. The hip, Euro feel of the decor and the menu are nicely offset by the staff who are very friendly, capable and attentive. They seem genuinely pleased that you came in and delighted when you like their food. This is hands down my new favorite place in Chicago.
(5)
rachel L.

This place is amazing. The owner manned the front counter each of the times I visited. He's very friendly but without any superfluous chitchat. The sandwiches are incredible, the sides are unique and tasty, and the coffee is nice and strong. One drawback: They could use a changing table. Twice we have had to leave to deal with diaper issues. Otherwise, it's pretty baby-friendly.
(4)
RM G.

one of the best brunch places in the city - the service and owner always go out of their way too - nothing has ever been less than superb - nuff said, go there!
(5)
Corey B.

Birchwood is not just about the food for me, it's good atmosphere as well. I find the staff to be friendly, helpful and informative (I have a few food allergies). I never get 'stared out' of my seat by insistent staff as I finish my coffee and butterscotch oatmeal cookie...or fruit cup! Can't say the same about some other smaller cafe-type establishments that make me feel like a 20 minute beginning-to-end meal is 10 minutes too long. That said: the food would probably excuse some attitude if I ever were to encounter it. I've raved to friends about the coffee and sandwiches and quiches and desserts, but I am raving to you about the unusual food pairings and love of pickled veggies on salads. Some things seem so straight-forward, but you can look forward to a little something to kick up the meal--a garnish, a relish, a condiment or pickled seasonal fruit. Repeat visits will be necessary!
(4)
Meghan L.

this place would get 5 stars if they had better hours; am i the only person who wants salads and sandwiches for dinner? surely not. anyway, everything on their seasonal menu always feels like "just what i need" whenever i come in. fresh ingredients, perfect sauces and seasonings, but never anything too froofy or overpowering.
(4)
Margaret C.

Everything at Birchwood is nothing short of delicious. Lots of fresh, local incredients. The menu is broad enough to please your most adventurous locavore friend or your grandmother. The staff is super friendly, it's BYOB, plus they have a patio for summer months. That is as good as it gets! They also cater, and speaking from experience, it also earns 5 stars.
(5)
Stacey H.

This is one of my most favorite restaurants in Wicker Park, AND it is very reasonably priced. It is my trusty stand-by and never fails to please. The food is fresh and amazing. The outdoor patio is wonderful. The staff is nice. It is also BYOB. You really cannot go wrong here.
(5)
Mia F.

Great sandwiches with novel combinations. Chips are yummy. Atmosphere is current and non pretentious. Friendly service.
(5)
Mateo S.

Chicago epicureans seeking the holy trinity of "local," "seasonal," and "sustainable" need seek no further than 2211 W North Avenue. I am a dedicated sandwich snob... to me there is nothing more perfect than ingredients layered between sliced bread. So, deciding amongst Birchwood's artisinal offerings is the only conundrum I encountered here. I myself am a committed carnivore with little sympathy for the drab plight of my vegetarian (or, shudder, vegan) friends, BUT after grappling with the choice between the assorted house cured meats and cheeses I surprised myself by opting instead for two vegetarian sandwiches (trying just one was not an option)! My picks? Fresh goat cheese, pickled beets, walnut pesto, and arugula on a baguette; and roasted mushrooms, leeks, sherry, fresh herbs, mozzarella, and piquillo peppers between grilled slices of sour dough. The sandwiches each came with house made kettle chips and I rounded the meal out with a smattering of the daily sides and lemonade. Don't like the options listed? Create your own sandwich from a lengthy list of options. The meal was as delightfully alluring as the interior: church pews, birch logs and tile walls color-coded to the bark (a calming palette of blues, beiges and grey). Need more convincing? Birchwood is open for brunch, it's BYOB and there are occasional specials (meat eaters: research burger night please). I am flabbergasted by any complaints below about prices... quality like this rarely comes cheap, but my meal rang in at a very affordable $25 with tip.
(5)
John G.

I love BK and have been patronizing this business since they opened, so last night I brought my cousin in to experience the wonderful food/service. I didn't know they were closed on Mondays, but that didn't stop the guys from inviting us in...and then feeding us and sharing a beer! What a gem we have in Birchwood Kitchen. I'm so thankful for this fab neighborhood spot.
(5)
Rebecca W.

I love this place. I always get a great meal here with the freshest ingredients I can imagine (the outside dining seems to be in the midst of their herb, vegetable, and spice gardens). I still think about the lox plate we had almost a year ago here. The service is always great, and they change their menu up all the time. I've never been disappointed here!
(4)
Tiff B.

Went here to grab a quick weekday lunch. I'm not much of a sandwich person, so I wasn't sure how I'd like the place. Well, I'll tell ya what-this place will make you a sandwich person! I had the Blue sandwich and it was one of the best sandwiches I've ever had. It has a strong flavor, but everything compliments each other and it's delicious. I also had the carrot ginger soup and it was very good as well. You could tell that everything was made with fresh ingredients. The servings are generous but not too huge that you feel like a pig eating there. The service there was exceptional and the guy behind the counter was friendly and made suggestions without being too pushy. I also love that they don't have tip jars or a tip line on the credit card sign slip. That scored huge points with me because I feel like a lot of these 'order at the counter and get your food dropped off at your table' type places are always begging for tips and give crappy service. Not the case at Birchwood. And because no one guilted me into giving a tip, I felt more like giving one due to the excellent service. Another plus is that there's ample free parking near the restaurant.
(5)
BurtK D.

Went here for lunch today and was definitely impressed. There were three of us and we each ordered sandwiches - I "made my own" - tuna, pretzel roll, grainy mustard, Gruyere and all the veggies - my husband got the Steak (cold sandwich) and our friend got the meatloaf. All 3 sandwiches were delicious! I want to try all of them :) I would DEF recommend getting a pretzel roll with a sandwich b/c it is soo delicious (if you like them). Anyways, Birchwood kitchen is now on my list of places to go for lunch and hopefully next time we can try the burgers for dinner! Oh, we also sat in their cute patio out back, also in the shade since it is so hot out!
(4)
Erika S.

I like Birchwood. The sandwiches are tasty and the back deck is beautiful. However, being basically a sandwich place, I am not interested in having dinner there if we have to sit inside. Since the restaurant is essentially a deli and you order at the counter, the indoor seating area is as a deli would be - basic, seat yourself. But for some reason, when we go there and try to reserve an outdoor table before we order, the woman at the counter always insists we order first and then she keeps tabs on who gets seated next outside. It doesn't make sense, because when we eat inside, nobody ever tells us where to sit. Tonight we tried to get our table outside, she told us there were plenty of seats outside, so we queued behind another couple at the counter. They then decided to eat outside, and after they walked outside, another staff person came in and said there were no more outside tables. So we left, because we came there only because we wanted to sit outside. At a deli, when you order at the counter, why should the person behind the counter deny you from picking your seat in advance if you want to sit outside, when they don't do that if you eat inside? Obviously, I find this irritating, and am not sure if it's worth going back.
(4)
heather d.

went here for a late lunch today and it was jammed, which i took as a good sign. i had the goat cheese sandwich and it was excellent. the chips are definitely not homemade, so 1 star off for that (i am a tough critic when it comes to chips!) a nice alternative from Jerry's though and easy no meter street parking.
(4)
bill s.

Finally had a chance to try the place out. Quite acceptable. My wife & I stopped by for lunch. She had a grilled cheese sandwich with 3 or 4 different kinds of cheeses. I had a daily special of salami, tomato, and some other ingredients. The ladies at the next table recommended the carrot cake so we tried a slice. Not the best I have ever had but definitely better than most. At $2.50 for a slice how could you go wrong. Happy to see this end of North Avenue getting some new businesses. 2 new bakeries, Birchwood Kitchen and a mini grocery store closer to 6 corners.
(4)
Nicole R.

I keep reading how amazing this grilled gruyere cheese sandwhich is and I was having trouble imaging how it could be that great. WELLLL IT IS. Its amazing. And the two items my friends got were too. VERY friendly staff and very good food!
(5)
Hilary T.

I met a friend at Birchwood Sunday for brunch. It was delicious- their special of the day- the bread pudding with house-cured ham should be a staple on the menu. The gentleman who took our order was friendly, incredibly patient and made recommendations which were very helpful. He saw that I was chilled from my bike ride there so poured some hot water and lemon for me- he insisted! The casual atmosphere and no wait for a table was perfect for us- reasonably priced we thought- $18 for two of us. And considering how fresh and innovative the menu is- it's a steal. It's just the kind of place that I would love to open up for myself one day (watch out!) BUT, I have a lot to master before I achieve their excellent standards. 5 stars for Birchwood Kitchen!
(5)
ralph d.

roast beef sandwich is great, so is the lentil salad. we have been twice and it is great everytime. I would for sure go back. place leaves you full but not stuffed. And everything is fresh.
(5)
David A.

friendly service, great food, laid-back atmosphere = an easy 5-star rating for birchwood
(5)
jen w.

while visiting friends in chicago this weekend, we went to birchwood for brunch. it was great! so great that i didn't mind the lack of breakfast cocktails! it was rainy out, so we sat inside and didn't get to experience the lovely back garden, but indoors is light and airy and well-soundtracked. and the food: holy yum! the breakfast salad with poached eggs, bacon, roasted tomatoes and potatoes and truffle vinaigrette is genius. everyone else at my table got waffles and they were tasty and delicious and topped with some lovely fresh peaches and lemon thyme. bottomless coffee was strong and dark, and the mocha had the perfect chocolate to coffee ratio. if only the birchwood was closer than a two hour flight away...
(5)
Jacqui M.

Probably my favorite place to eat in the city. Seasonal fare in a casual setting. Fresh ingredients and a super friendly staff. One of those menus you could never get sick of. Love the daily lemonade special (w free refills), the pickle plate, tuna melt- I could keep going. Very cool spot.
(5)
Danny W.

Croque Vert = so amazing. The chai latte was also delicious, and I loved the little back patio on a sunny and temperate day. Perfect.
(5)
Ellie H.

Lovely restaurant and the food are soooo good! We ordered breakfast sandwiches and coque Madame, they were so good. And the salads were amazing.
(5)
Morgan D.

The food here was fantastic and fresh and made my party very happy -- we went twice while visiting Wicker Park for a few days prior to our move to Chicago, but the real sell for Birchwood is the staff. Everyone is so nice and wants to know how your day is going, sincerely. We were remembered by the staff the second time we went in. I got compliments on my scarf. Everyone was just so sincerely nice it was mind-boggling. When we mentioned the first time we went in that we were visiting the area, the guy that I assumed was the owner (could be wrong, but he seemed to be setting the tone for the whole place) brought us over a cookie to sample, which he had cut up into bite sized pieces for us. And it was, like, the best cookie ever-- I'm not a big butterscotch fan, but this sold me on them, I actually ended up buying a half dozen to leave as a gift for our hosts. I found the atmosphere to be really pleasant, there is no table service but staff is readily accessible if you need anything. We waited in a small line, but it didn't take all that long, and was definitely worth the wait. My party sampled sandwiches, appetizers, and a curried squash dish, and everything was perfect -- the bread delicious, the vegetables fresh, the portions big enough to make you full but not uncomfortably so. I love this restaurant and would happily go again anytime. Thanks guys!
(5)
Erin F.

Chaotic but awesome. @Mikhail - your review got me...my eyes bugged for a sec! Of the 3 restos we hit while in Chicago recently (sushi, italian & this), BF claims this was by far his favorite (though I suspect he may be breakfast crazy.) I concur - it was really really good. I wanted to cram in more of their menu items than my belly could hold, for sure. The atmosphere is just homey and inviting - what you want at brunch time. He had the chorizo/egg breakfast special, I had a ham & gruyere and we shared the sausage stuffed with bacon (OH LORDY!) And the butterscotch oatmeal cookie. It was all righteous - a great way to start the day. It was all damn good! If you can't handle a smallish/tightly packed space...I'd caution you. The line usually reaches the door (or spills outside) and it is no table service - BUT, as other reviewers have commented, the folks there are super friendly so it's no big shakes if you try to summon a little patience & can be zen about it. If you want someone waiting on you beck & call, it isn't going to happen here. Highly recommended for breakfast/lunch whenever. Just cozy & cool (if not nearing cramped.) I'd say it's damn near perfect if you can find an off-peak time to go.
(4)
Jaime G.

This little cafe brought a smile to my face and comfort to my tummy this weekend. Seasonal offering sourced with local ingredients. We had the Grilled gruyere sandwich, tuna melt, and kids turkey sandwich with fruit. My wife didn't like her tuna melt and they quickly replaced it with another sandwich- lamb meatloaf and gave us a pasta salad while we waited. No charge for either. U also had the Soy lattee but their other beverage offering seem wonderful too. Try the coop hot sause from hombolt park. Best was cheese sandwich (I still can't stop thinking about it) go here for really good sandwiches and super customer service.
(4)
Jay I.

I tried salmon lox for lunch and something that seems to be turkey sandwich. Salmon lox was great; perfect balance between salmon and cream sauce with greens. However, the sub was too stuffy but the tasty wasn't great. Overall, a great place for brunch/lunch on a sunny day.
(4)
T B.

Their food is unique and insanely tasty. Their service = good luck They show local artists on their walls, which is always good. Cool, loud, hip, young vibe. Great decor. Super pleasant outdoor patio! 1+ hour wait on weekends for brunch.
(4)
Julie B.

Yum, yum, yum, did I mention YUM? So how this works, you order after you are given a table. The most upbeat, awesome friendly people work there. Great coffee, great food, just an all around enjoyable brunch spot! My friend had the roasted veggie cakes and I had the chillaquilles (sp?) - fantastic!!! There is a fantastic back patio for when the weather is nice but overall just a great enjoyable meal and service!!!
(5)
Kylie J.

What attracts me to this place is that you can have you meals in the large patio and soak in the summer sun. Other than that it has a convenient location and the prices are well within my budget. I've become a frequent visitor for breakfast and lunch as well and that includes the BYOB deal. The food is equally delicious and have fond memories of the strong coffee that smells so good coupled with the oatmeal butterscotch cookie that rocks. Other than that there are various items on the menu to whet your appetite including goat cheese cream cheese & bagel or grilled gruyere with ham all delicious and prepared with high quality ingredients. I must hand it to the chef of this place. It's irresistible and comparable only to my mother's cooking if not better. The greens are also fresh and a welcome side dish. It's definitely a place to keep patronizing.
(4)
Ryan And Jenna J.

Had a fun, delicious and reasonably priced lunch here with 2 girlfriends. Even though the wait was 40 minutes (and it only got more crowded after we arrived at noon on a Saturday) the food was delicious and didn't break the bank. (We all had some kind of sandwich--mine was the Mushroom and I tried my friend's breakfast sandwich, both yummy). they serve Metropolis coffee which I appreciate! Plenty of vegetarian options and the outdoor seating looked like a great place to enjoy the springtime in Chicago that is hopefully here to stay!
(5)
Jeka M.

My fellow Yelper friend and I were here last night and were shockingly disappointed. Yes, the staff was very friendly and the vibe is eco-positive, too. That part is great. It's just.. well... the sandwiches / salads we got tasted TOO much like... birchwood? They were not very flavorful in spite of having curried cauliflower and bonus condiments. The turkey didn't taste like much and we were both left with that "meh" feeling. Cool, low-key vibe, nice service, yay for veggie/vegan friendly items, but not very delicious at all.
(2)
Brett F.

yes, Yes, YES!! Took me forever and a day to finally get m'self to the fabulous and utterly divine 'sandwich shop' that is Birchwood Kitchen, but lemme tell ya; salads, soups, sammies and sweet treats THIS GOOD are absolutely more than worth waiting for. Amen for my darling Erin P.'s birthday and our celebratory congregation here or it's possible the world's best grilled cheese sandwich would have eluded me eternally. Yes, it's true, I'm having a love affair with a creamy, gorgeous, grilled taleggio sandwich on tangy sourdough and nobody can stop me! This beautiful creation piled high with sweet pears, crisp bacon and that fabulous favorite of stinky Italian cheeses proved that while Birchwood does serve up the best in sandwiches, it far surpasses anything remotely sandwich shop. A notable spot for brunch, lunch and yes, even dinner... BKitch brings the epicurean goods with a taste of all that is inventive, gourmet and truly delicious in a package that is unpretentious, straight forward and totally accessible. While the chillax order-then-seat-yourself system and option of BYOB surely lends to that perfectly pedestrian vibe, there's far more depth than one may expect within these goat cheese and blood orange lovin' doors. Try one - or many - of the following and prepare to be pork belly blown away.... // Speck and fig-blood orange compote with arugula on french baguette // Spinach salad with white beans, duck confit and sausage, cider vinaigrette // Tuna Melt with gruyere and roasted tomato // Bacon Cheddar Burger (only served after 5pm), creamy cole slaw, sweet potato and walnut salad // Whitefish and goat cheese quiche with seasonal greens, herbs, citrus chive vinaigrette // Oatmeal butterscotch cookie, lemon bar, carrot cake (yes, in one sitting) All extraordinary. All delectable. All made my tummy incredibly happy. Brunch at BK is calling my name now more loudly than ever as well as several of the other ingenious and soon to be devoured sandwiches... Eggplant/Spinach/White Bean Spread/Olive Tapenade/Mint Oil/Sourdough, brace yourself babe, I'm looking at you.
(5)
Esther K.

I can see that I am in the minority when I say I was underwhelmed by my Sunday brunch experience at Birchwood. My friend and I decided to share two dishes for a taste of both savory and sweet. Our biggest disappointment was with the baked french toast, as half of it was soggy- noo! My biggest pet peeve with french toast :( Though it was interesting that the french toast seemed to have been baked in layers, the layer of egg was almost slimy in texture and we couldn't eat it. The breakfast sandwich on the other hand (with bacon) was pretty great, and we especially enjoyed the petit salad that came as a side. Simple, light, and delicious. The space was cute (if a bit cramped) and the service friendly. However, with so many brunch places to try around the city, I don't think I would return to one that can't get my beloved french toast right. Well...maybe I'll be back to try some lunch items :)
(3)
Dave G.

So happy we quickly got a table at this adorable little sandwich and brunch place. Their grilled cheese is stuffed with gruyere and spicy mustard. Our kids shared a huge bowl of thick Greek yogurt fruit and granola, and they were nice enough to make it with just grapes. Unfortunately they were out of tuna salad (Chicago port embargo?) so I will have to try it next time. Coffee is self serve and they brew Metropolis so I loaded up! The water and coffee station is in the back and it was very congested.
(5)
A. M.

This place has been on my "breakfast spot" list for quite sometime. I'm so happy I finally made it up. Make sure to come hungry! Decor had a crisp modern/bohemian vibe. Exposed brick, clean tile, birch branches, fresh flowers on tables. Very simple and pleasant. Ordering concept is great. You walk in and are assigned a table. Then you order and pay at the counter. Then you sit down and they bring you your food. I like that there really is no server to rely on. I think this really helps with the table turn over when it gets busy. Once you are finished, no need to flag down the waitstaff to get your check. You are just up and on your way. I wish more restaurants did this. We both ordered the croque madame. It was beyond filling. The combo of the dippy eggs, ham, gruyere, and dijon was phenomenal. It does come on two pieces of sourdough so like I said, come hungry. I really wish it was only one piece of bread...but hey, maybe that is just how it is made. We also got a side of roasted potatoes and pork sausage. Potatoes were typical and I wouldn't order them again. But the pork sausage was pretty out of this world. Staff was beyond friendly and attentive. We were greeted with friendly smiles and a few people checked on us during our meal to make sure everything was up to par. Great place for breakfast or brunch. I will be back!
(4)
Kaitlin M.

I am a huge fan! Like I am sitting at my desk trying to figure out what I am going to get for lunch today and... Birchwood's Chickpea Veggie sandwich popped into my head! The bread was the perfect texture to hold the crunch fresh veggie between the partially pureed chickpea spread. The sour dressing drizzled in the sandwich created the perfect mirage of flavors. The side salad was also scrumptious with fresh beets and house pickled brussel sprouts. YuuummmmmY! I must say that my friend and I were googling over the food we saw at the tables around us as we were waiting for out meals to come. We both noted the next time we go to get the french toast and the vegetable hash! I cant wait... There was a line when we showed up but they turn over tables quickly. They have a unique set-up in that you check-in, grab a menu and decide what you want, wait for the hostess to tell you when a table is open, then order your food at the counter, grab your number and wait for tantalizing taste buds pleasure to arrive. Go and experience it! And indulge... this is a good place to spoil yourself for a meal!
(5)
A J.

Went on a sucky first date here, but they had really good coffee so I guess that helped. And the place is cute. And they only have one bathroom, so when you want to get away from your date for a spell there'll probably be a line, thus buying you more time. I prob should go back and try it when I am not in the midst of an hour long full-body cringe. I hate dating.
(4)
Shin M.

The beginning of the experience was a bit confusing. I came on Yelp before I went and saw we order before we sit. So I put my name down when I walked in and then waited in line to order (took quite a while). When I got to the register, I ordered, and the cashier kindly told me I should have a table before I order. I think he felt bad we waited in line for nothing so he offered us a free slice of Chocolate Chip Banana Bread. That was very nice of him and it was delicious! We also had some complimentary coffee (available for everyone) which was a pleasant surprise as well! In any case, I think they should have a sign in there telling people how the line/waiting works. The hostess told us we had our table so we got back in line to order. After ordering, we went to our table. They asked if it was okay if we sat in the sun. I kind of regret saying it was okay because my fiance and I were sweating like crazy while waiting for our food. My fiance got the Baked French Toast and I got the Market Polenta. The French Toast looked like a small portion but my fiance said it was pretty good. My Market Polenta was really good too! On our way out, the cashier asked how our meal was. That was nice of him. Overall, pleasant experience.
(4)
Chris L.

Totally a place I'd like to go to every weekend for Ice coffee and brunch. Waiters and waitresses were super nice and accommodating and let us get our ice coffees while waiting for the rest of our group. The back garden looked really cozy. Food menu is diverse and has good range of stuff for whatever you're in a mood for. Not too loud so a good place to catch up with friends or just chill. Oatmeal cookie was a nice surprise finish to our meal.
(4)
David L.

Food: 4 Decor: 4 Service: 5 My gf and I came here for brunch Sunday around 11am. 1. Smoked salmon and egg salad on sesame bagel yelp.com/biz_photos/NEXXâ€¦ Pretty good. 2. Chorizo con huevos yelp.com/biz_photos/NEXXâ€¦ Delicious. Spicy chorizo, pickled onions, sweet potato, and 2 over easy eggs with two tortilla chips. Host also gave us a slice of chocolate chip banana bread yelp.com/biz_photos/NEXXâ€¦ on the house, which was delicious.
(5)
Liz M.

I simply cannot wait to come back here! Stopped in for a quick lunch with the girls and had a wonderful time. The decor is fun, modern, and cozy. Like many Wicker Park hot spots, this place is not big. We were greeted by the staff as soon as we walked in. It was refreshing to see so many happy friendly faces. They explained that we order at the register and they would bring out the food. After several questions, followed by helpful and educated answers, we all ordered. Everything we had at the table was absolutely delicious. I'm fairly certain there wasn't a crumb left on any plate. - Pot Roast Sandwich- tender delicious meat, perfect baguette that kept the sandwich all together. Delicious! - Speck Sandwich- I just tried a bite or two, but I loved it! Perfect combination and fresh. Be sure to give this place a try! You won't be disappointed!
(4)
Eric L.

i tried so hard to love this place. they have so many great ideas, but just never really inspire with their execution quality. Execution is everything. Sorry, fail to execute at anything above average. I still come here, because I like the idea of it, but it doesn't excite. mostly overrated.
(3)
E H.

Been here.
(5)
Rachel S.

After our first brunch at Birchwood, we proceeded to eat here for brunch approximately once a week for the entire rest of the summer and most of the fall. It got a little ridic. So yeah... as a seasoned Birchwood-Kitchen-eater, I can tell y'all some more things! FH (previously BF) loves to get the Croque Madame. If you've never been to Paris, that's basically a grilled gruyere and ham sandwich with a fried egg on top. At Birchwood they take it to a new level and use a wicked spicy parisian mustard which is delicious (if not nose-burning). The gruyere is fantastic, clearly some kind of cave-aged magic is happening. I *also* love to get the Croque Mme, however I usually opt to sub out the green salad for the fruit salad to get a little sweetness with my brunch. Seriously, FH orders this like 99% of the time. For me, I branch out a bit more. I'm still not the biggest fan of the baked french toast. The toast part is great, just moist enough but still firm and flavorful, but the custard! Srsly. They need to reassess the recipe or something; bake it at a lower temp? Fewer eggs in the custard? Bake it for a shorter amount of time? I dunno, but I really hope they read this and change their recipe slightly. Things that I like: LOVE the belgian waffle. But then again I'm a waffle kind of girl. When I order the waffle, I usually order a side of sausage (ummm... bacon stuffed...) which is tasty, but is a bit tough in texture. I also order randos from the menu which are usually tastilicious. As of last time we went, though, I instructed FH to physically prevent me from ordering another cappuccino there. Maybe its a personal preference thing, but I find the espresso drinks to be SO bitter, its basically not palatable even with a million sugar packets. The hot chocolate is pretty good. That's the extent to which I've sampled the hot beverage menu. I will try more soon, though, owing to the aforementioned Rachel ban from cappuccino.
(5)
Shradha A.

After reading all the reviews, my girlfriend and I were under the impression that Birchwood Kitchen was something quite special and worth a long hike on a Saturday morning. Once we got there, the place itself disappointed a little - it was small and cramped. Service was slow. Ordering at the counter was painful because the line was so long because most people were doing take-out. When we eventually got a table, used up every ounce of patience while in line, and finally received our sandwiches, we were already getting testy and the sandwiches weren't 'out of the world' enough to make up for the overall experience. The people there were very friendly and I can see it being an upscale neighborhood deli, but that's all.
(3)
Roberto F.

Totally hooked, and it's awesome that I can easily walk to this place. For a first visit I have to say that it was a nice change of pace from my typical Saturday brunch choices. Excellent coffee and one hell of an Arnold Palmer to sip on their back patio and soak up the sun. Not only is the food great but the people that work there are amazing and extremely friendly. I can't wait to try other items off there menu. Belgian waffle Delicious Pork Belly: Amazing Oh and Don't forget it's BYOB!
(5)
Whitnie E.

Oh my! One of my favorite places to eat when visiting my big sis in the Windy City. I love their sides showcased when you walk in. The place is eclectic, friendly, and you want to try everything on the menu. The last time I was here, I had the croquet vert. It was so delicious. Grilled sourdough bread, warm gooey cheese, mustard, lots of veggies, and two sunny side eggs on top . I am not even a fan of runny yolks, but they were so delicious on top of that croque. It was served with a side of salad greens with shaved root veggies dressed in a delicious vinaigrette. My sister got the croquet madame, and she really enjoyed that too. It was very similar to mine, except with ham instead of veggies. My other sister got the breakfast sandwich and it looked good as well. She got a side of chickpea salad and I sampled it. It was cold and crisp and delicious. My most favorite part of this place is the baristas. They make fantastic cappuccini. I have had a handful of great cappuccini since I studied abroad in Milan, and this one definitely makes the list. I would highly recommend it.
(4)
Sarah S.

Nomnomnom. I have just devoured my pot roast sandwich (red wine braised pot roast, roasted tomatoes, caramelized onions, cheddar spread, baguette) and it had surprisingly complex flavors. The pot roast is melt-in-your-mouth perfectly cooked and the cheddar spread gave it a nice tang. I don't particularly taste the onions, but I'm not complaining. The baguette tasted fresh and the pot roast juices mixed in to give it a nice soft flavorful texture without getting mushy. I also got the tomato herb soup (the special of the day). Also the perfect balance of flavors with a nice herb punch, small pieces of tomato and basil to give it some texture. It has a hint of creaminess which intensifies the tomato rather than covering unworthy flavors. Very satisfying. Also noteworthy: the lovely staff! Everyone went out of their way to be helpful and nice, and at the end one of them came out to make sure we had everything we needed for our to-go order and to visit with our dog. It was super funny you could tell he really wanted to pet him and get in there but didn't because of "health code reasons." I can appreciate that! haha. Nice bunch, we'll be back! Speaking of bunch, those brunch photos look pretty great.
(5)
Andrea R.

I'm no longer faced with deciding between Sultan's Market and Birchwood Kitchen when leaving Just Waxing Salon (right across the street)..Birchwood Kitchen always wins! I've ventured beyond the soup and have tried the tuna melt (um, yum), caprese salad (so tasty) and couldn't resist their large, soft chocolate chip cookies. The hubby ordered a hash for brunch after our last waxing appt (yeah, he's jumped on the waxing bandwagon too) and couldn't stop raving about it. You really can't go wrong with anything you order from their oh so friendly staff! I never thought I'd look forward to a waxing appt, but I now do knowing that there will be a stop at Birchwood Kitchen soon after.
(5)

Sorry, we don't have Q&A for this restaurant.

Sorry, No Coupons available for this restaurant.

Address : 2211 W North Ave
Chicago, IL, 60647
Phone (773) 276-2100
Website https://www.birchwoodkitchen.com/
Click To Get Directions

Opening Hours

Specialities

Takes Reservations : No
Delivery : No
Take-out : Yes
Accepts Credit Cards : Yes
Accepts Bitcoin : No
Good For : Lunch
Parking : Street
Bike Parking : Yes
Wheelchair Accessible : No
Good for Kids : Yes
Good for Groups : Yes
Attire : Casual
Ambience : Casual
Noise Level : Average
Alcohol : No
Outdoor Seating : Yes
Wi-Fi : No
Has TV : No
Dogs Allowed : No
Waiter Service : Yes
Caters : Yes

Claim Restaurant

WE SERVE THE FOLLOWING STATES

Looky Weed - Buy Marijuana Online

Looky Weed is here to help you navigate the maze of legalized marijuana. We provide you with a complete dispensary directory.

Search Your Favourite Restaurants.

Birchwood Kitchen

2211 W North Ave, Chicago, IL, 60647

Birchwood Kitchen Menu

Starters Salads

Soups Sides

Classic

Winter

Sandwich Board

Healthy Meal suggestions for Birchwood Kitchen

Starters Salads

Soups Sides

Classic

Winter

Sandwich Board

Kristin M.

Chuck B.

Sara T.

Greg G.

Teddy D.

Olivia C.

Koce A.

Vanessa H.

Sara A.

Ashley C.

Annie T.

Kyle P.

Nick H.

Mia O.

Yogesh K.

Sally Y.

Rebekah R.

Serim P.

Seher D.

Yanina R.

Zach Z.

Jessalyn B.

Jenny H.

Tina L.

Tim F.

Sam G.

Suyoon P.

Lou T.

Meredith K.

Monica B.

Jennifer C.

Jareli C.

Hillary M.

Peter D.

Gaby T.

Eric L.

Anthony S.

Alex R.

Bart S.

Hollina U.

Mary S.

Rachel H.

Yen L.

Kateryna G.

Lisa H.

Pete K.

Jeff Z.

Conan C.

Leslie B.

Rachel B.

renje g.

Heather L.

Nick P.

Marisa Y.

Minna J.

Kelly H.

Airen J.

Lisa L.

Benjamin D.

Mr W.

Eugene S.

Noemi T.

Sarah C.

Alex M.

Mary R.