JAM
3057 W Logan Blvd, Chicago, IL, 60647
JAM Menu
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Menu
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Tasting Menu
Diabetics at Jamba Juice:
Eating good food at the right time can control your blood sugar, also stop you from craving wrong sort of food. Jamba Juice offers drinks in three separate sizes: 16, 24, and 32-ounce. You can choose the lowest serving size and cut down on sugars and calorie intake. If you're diabetic and concerned about the sugar intake, then you can opt for the smaller 9.5-ounce smoothies available for kids at Jamba Juice.
Foods to Avoid at Jamba Juice for Diabetics:
Jamba Juice is primarily known for its highly satisfying and nutritive smoothies and juices. Almost every smoothie and juice item on the Jamba Juice menu contains sugar. Diabetics are recommended to opt for smaller serving size while ordering at Jamba Juice. Also, avoid opting for creamy treats as all the smoothies offered in this category contain a load of sugars.
Keep the sugar content below 50g per meal at Jamba Juice and ensure that you don't follow it with a heavy meal. A small size regular smoothie is equivalent to a meal for everyone. Classic smoothies at Jamba Juice are also heavily loaded with sugars. Stay away from that section if you are a diabetic.
Food Suggestions for Diabetics at Jamba Juice:
Great Greens (16 fl oz)
Nutritional Facts: 160 calories, 1.5g (Tans. Fat 0g & Sat. Fat 0g), 5mg sodium, 37g carbs, 24g sugar, 5g fiber, 4g Protein
Pomegranate Antioxidant Smoothie (Small)
Nutritional Facts: 180 calories, 0g Fat (Tans. Fat 0g & Sat. Fat 0g), 80mg sodium, 43g carbs, 34g sugar, 4g fiber, 1g Protein
Cucumber Orange Cooler (16 fl oz)
Nutritional Facts: 190 calories, 1g (Tans. Fat 0g & Sat. Fat 0g), 10mg sodium, 46g carbs, 46g sugar, 1g fiber, 3g Protein
Steel-Cut Oatmeal
Nutritional Facts: 180 calories, 2.5g (Tans. Fat 0g & Sat. Fat 0.5g), 15mg sodium, 35g carbs, 5g sugar, 4g fiber, 8g Protein
Orange Carrot Twist (16 fl oz)
Nutritional Facts: 180 calories, 1g (Tans. Fat 0g & Sat. Fat 0g), 120mg sodium, 41g carbs, 34g sugar, 0g fiber, 4g Protein
Veggie Vitality (16 fl oz)
Nutritional Facts: 200 calories, 1.5g (Tans. Fat 0g & Sat. Fat 0g), 240mg sodium, 44g carbs, 33g sugar, 5g fiber, 4g Protein
Lotta Horchata
Nutritional Facts: 210 calories, 2.5g (Tans. Fat 0g & Sat. Fat 0g), 125mg sodium, 44g carbs, 26g sugar, 2g fiber, 4g Protein
Positively Pomegranate Bowl
Nutritional Facts: 380 calories, 8g (Tans. Fat 0g & Sat. Fat 2.5g), 85mg sodium, 69g carbs, 46g sugar, 10g fiber, 10g Protein
Wheatgrass Juice Shot
Nutritional Facts: 8 calories, 0g (Tans. Fat 0g & Sat. Fat 0g), 5mg sodium, 1g carbs, 0.5g sugar, 0g fiber, 0.5g Protein
Orange Ginger Cayenne Juice Shot
Nutritional Facts: 35 calories, 0g (Tans. Fat 0g & Sat. Fat 0g), 0mg sodium, 8g carbs, 3g sugar, 0g fiber, 1g Protein
Turmeric – Tame the Flame™
Nutritional Facts: 20 calories, 0g (Tans. Fat 0g & Sat. Fat 0g), 0mg sodium, 6g carbs, 4g sugar, 0g fiber, 0g Protein
Wheatgrass – Amino on the Go™
Nutritional Facts: 20 calories, 0g (Tans. Fat 0g & Sat. Fat 0g), 0mg sodium, 4g carbs, 3g sugar, 0g fiber, 0g Protein
Ginger – Daily Zing™
Nutritional Facts: 25 calories, 0g (Tans. Fat 0g & Sat. Fat 0g), 0mg sodium, 6g carbs, 3g sugar, 0g fiber, 0g Protein
Healthy Meal suggestions for JAM
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Menu
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Tasting Menu
High Blood Pressure at Jamba Juice
Vegetables and fruits combo is considered the best food to lower blood pressure. More importantly, if you opt for ingredients containing carotenoids such as lutein, beta-carotene, and cryptoxanthin as well as Vitamin C will also help lower blood pressure. Potassium-rich foods also help lower blood pressure. So, if you are concerned about your high blood pressure, then always opt for Jamba Juice smoothies and juices containing vegetables and fruits, especially foods rich in potassium.
Foods to Avoid at Jamba Juice for High Blood Pressure:
Almost every juices and smoothie offered at Jamba Juice contain an adequate amount of sodium. To control or maintain blood pressure levels, you must avoid flatbreads served at Jamba Juice. They are high in sodium and saturated fat. Most of the items on the Jamba Juice menu are safe for high blood pressure candidates. However, it is recommended to opt for healthier options than to munch on anything and everything.
Food Suggestions for High Blood Pressure at Jamba Juice:
Acai Super-Antioxidant Smoothie (Small)
Nutritional Facts: 310 calories, 4.5g (Tans. Fat 0g & Sat. Fat 1.5g), 65mg sodium, 63g carbs, 52g sugar, 4g fiber, 6g Protein
Tropical Greens (16 fl oz)
Nutritional Facts: 230 calories, 1.5g (Tans. Fat 0g & Sat. Fat 0g), 170mg sodium, 56g carbs, 39g sugar, 8g fiber, 4g Protein
Pomegranate Paradise (Small)
Nutritional Facts: 240 calories, 0g (Tans. Fat 0g & Sat. Fat 0g), 25mg sodium, 61g carbs, 50g sugar, 4g fiber, 1g Protein
Strawberry Whirl (Small)
Nutritional Facts: 210 calories, 0g (Tans. Fat 0g & Sat. Fat 0g), 20mg sodium, 53g carbs, 45g sugar, 4g fiber, 1g Protein
Wheatgrass Juice Shot
Nutritional Facts: 8 calories, 0g (Tans. Fat 0g & Sat. Fat 0g), 5mg sodium, 1g carbs, 0.5g sugar, 0g fiber, 0.5g Protein
Orange Ginger Cayenne Juice Shot
Nutritional Facts: 35 calories, 0g (Tans. Fat 0g & Sat. Fat 0g), 0mg sodium, 8g carbs, 3g sugar, 0g fiber, 1g Protein
Turmeric – Tame the Flame™
Nutritional Facts: 20 calories, 0g (Tans. Fat 0g & Sat. Fat 0g), 0mg sodium, 6g carbs, 4g sugar, 0g fiber, 0g Protein
Wheatgrass – Amino on the Go™
Nutritional Facts: 20 calories, 0g (Tans. Fat 0g & Sat. Fat 0g), 0mg sodium, 4g carbs, 3g sugar, 0g fiber, 0g Protein
Ginger – Daily Zing™
Nutritional Facts: 25 calories, 0g (Tans. Fat 0g & Sat. Fat 0g), 0mg sodium, 6g carbs, 3g sugar, 0g fiber, 0g Protein
Sorry, We are updating this restaurant blood pressure menu details.
High Cholesterol at Jamba Juice
The best thing about Jamba Juice is that almost every item on their menu contains zero cholesterol and no trans-fat. Jamba Juice offers a wide range of vegetable, fruits, nuts, and chocolate smoothies, juices and bowls. The unique blend of these healthy ingredients ensures that each item on Jamba Juice is 100% healthy and cholesterol free.
Foods to Avoid at Jamba Juice for High Cholesterol:
Besides packing good amount nutrients in their drinks, several items on Jamba Juice often come with a high calorie count. If you have high cholesterol, then better stay away from their range of classic smoothies. Some high-calorie smoothies available at Jamba Juice are Peanut Butter Moo'd, Chocolate Moo'd, Strawberry Surf Rider, etc.
Although low in calories, the Tasty Bites are often cooked in palm oil (a trans-fat) and contains butter and sugar. It is recommended to choose a 200-calorie smoothie containing fresh fruits and veggies instead.
Food Suggestions for High Cholesterol at Jamba Juice:
Apple 'n Greens Smoothie (Small)
Nutritional Facts: 250 calories, 1g (Tans. Fat 0g & Sat. Fat 0g), 55mg sodium, 60g carbs, 45g sugar, 4g fiber, 4g Protein
Orange Supreme (16 fl oz)
Nutritional Facts: 240 calories, 2g (Tans. Fat 0g & Sat. Fat 0g), 65mg sodium, 54g carbs, 40g sugar, 4g fiber, 4g Protein
Kale-ribbean Breeze Smoothie (Small)
Nutritional Facts: 320 calories, 3g (Tans. Fat 0g & Sat. Fat 0g), 75mg sodium, 66g carbs, 48g sugar, 6g fiber, 10g Protein
Nutritional Facts: 490 calories, 10g (Tans. Fat 0g & Sat. Fat 3g), 40mg sodium, 99g carbs, 67g sugar, 11g fiber, 8g Protein
Wheatgrass Juice Shot
Nutritional Facts: 8 calories, 0g (Tans. Fat 0g & Sat. Fat 0g), 5mg sodium, 1g carbs, 0.5g sugar, 0g fiber, 0.5g Protein
Orange Ginger Cayenne Juice Shot
Nutritional Facts: 35 calories, 0g (Tans. Fat 0g & Sat. Fat 0g), 0mg sodium, 8g carbs, 3g sugar, 0g fiber, 1g Protein
Turmeric – Tame the Flame™
Nutritional Facts: 20 calories, 0g (Tans. Fat 0g & Sat. Fat 0g), 0mg sodium, 6g carbs, 4g sugar, 0g fiber, 0g Protein
Wheatgrass – Amino on the Go™
Nutritional Facts: 20 calories, 0g (Tans. Fat 0g & Sat. Fat 0g), 0mg sodium, 4g carbs, 3g sugar, 0g fiber, 0g Protein
Ginger – Daily Zing™
Nutritional Facts: 25 calories, 0g (Tans. Fat 0g & Sat. Fat 0g), 0mg sodium, 6g carbs, 3g sugar, 0g fiber, 0g Protein
Low-Cholesterol Foods:
The best way to get rid of bad cholesterol from the body is by detoxifying the whole system with fresh shots. Jamba Juice offers Turmeric Shot, Ginger Shot, Wheatgrass Shot, and Orange Ginger Cayenne Shot that will keep you healthy even when you consume junk food.
Sorry, We are updating this restaurant cholesterol menu details.
Q & A for Jamba Juice
How to order Jamba Juice?
You can order Jamba Juice either online or visiting the store directly. Use the Jamba Juice to order Jamba Juice online or use Restaurant Listings directory to locate the Jamba Juice store nearby.
Are Jamba Juice smoothies gluten free?
Jamba Juice offers 36 gluten-free drink options including 15 non-dairy drinks.
Are Jamba Juice smoothies vegan?
Yes, you can order vegan smoothies at Jamba Juice. Almost all Jamba Juice smoothies are available as vegan or can be made vegan by substituting milk with Almond milk or Soy milk.
When does Jamba Juice open and close?
Generally, Jamba Juice outlets are operational every day of the week from 7 a.m. to 7 p.m. However, the timings may vary based on the restaurant locations and owner preferences. You can check the timings of the Jamba Juice nearby on our Restaurant Listings directory.
When is Jamba Juice happy hour?
Currently, there are no Jamba Juice happy hours.
Is Jamba Juice healthy?
Jamba Juice offers a wide range of smoothies and fresh fruit juices. Most of them are healthy, while a lot of others are loaded with sugar and excessive calories. Check the nutrition content before you make the order at Jamba Juice to choose a healthy option.
Sorry, No Coupons available for this restaurant.
Jamba Juice
Jamba Juice Company was founded by Kirk Perron who is fitness enthusiast and avid cyclist. The company was first headquartered in Emeryville, California but later transferred to in Frisco, Texas. The company has 875 locations in the United States and 65 International Stores including Mexico, Taiwan, Philippines, South Korea, Thailand, and the United Arab Emirates. Jamba Juice gains its popularity by introducing healthy drinks and smoothies in the US. Later they also introduced healthy bowls and snacks specially designed for kids. The main aim behind Jamba Juice was to introduce nutritional food options for all age group.
Healthy Food Options at Jamba Juice
If you are too tired of sipping sugar-loaded drinks then
visit nearest Jamba Juice outlet where you can enjoy fresh fruit smoothies,
juices, fresh shots and ready to drink shots for those who wish to have
something healthy while going to work. All the drinks made in Jamba Juice are
made using fresh seasonal fruits and vegetables.
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Address :
3057 W Logan Blvd
Chicago, IL, 60647 - Phone (773) 292-6011
- Website https://www.jamrestaurant.com
- Click To Get Directions
Opening Hours
- Mon :7:00 am - 3:00pm
Specialities
- Takes Reservations : No
Delivery : No
Take-out : Yes
Accepts Credit Cards : Yes
Good For : Brunch
Parking : Street
Bike Parking : Yes
Wheelchair Accessible : Yes
Good for Kids : No
Good for Groups : No
Attire : Casual
Ambience : Trendy
Noise Level : Average
Alcohol : Full Bar
Outdoor Seating : Yes
Wi-Fi : Free
Has TV : No
Dogs Allowed : No
Waiter Service : Yes
Caters : Yes
WE SERVE THE FOLLOWING STATES
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Tiff B.
I went to Jam for brunch and really enjoyed it. It was semi-fine dining brunch in my opinion. We went on a Friday, so there was no wait. Our server was very attentive but not pushy. The menu had some interesting dishes, but I wasn't in an adventerous mood. So I went for the pancakes, eggs and sausage combo they had available. It was very well done. Tasty and the portions were just right. You could eat the whole meal and not feel uber stuffed and like you needed to be wheeled outta there. Which is what I find happens at some of the other brunch spots that give you huge portions. Just be warned that the sausage isn't your typical breakfast sausage, but very good nonetheless. The cash only thing is kind of a bummer, but it won't stop me from returning. Next time I go, I'll try some of the more interesting dishes on the menu.
(4)Nathan S.
The food is bland. We tried the eggs benedict, sausage & gravy and the jam burger. Nothing tasted bad but everything tasted bland, all 4 of us thought so. The food sounds good on the menu and looks good on the plate, but is a big let down when you eat it. Maybe they'll tinker with the recipes and fix this, but as it stands the food is bland.
(2)Gabby B.
I am really confused by positive reviews. We didn't have to wait long for a table, but it took over an hour for us to get our food after we ordered. The service all around was terrible. The interior is incredibly loud, but cute. I really wanted to find a new cute brunch spot, but our food was meh and with the bad service there is no way I will be going back.
(1)Julia H.
I brought my parents to eat brunch at Jam. They are older, conservative and live in a small town. They are uncomfortable with hipness yet they loved Jam. Our waitress Amelia was one of the nicest, most attentive servers you could ever have. She was gracious to them and attentive and didn't act like a snotty hipster that had to "deal" with older people that tend to be fussy. The food was outstanding as was the service and Amelia was right on with all of her suggestions for our meal. We will go back to Jam as often as possible.
(5)HEATHER S.
Delicious and very friendly. We were the only ones in there today, but it was great! They even gave us a little carrot cake muffin. Very tasty. Love the roasted almond tea.
(5)jeff c.
i wasn't really sure what to expect...the yelp reviews for jam are kind of all over the place! walking in at 9:30am this morning (a saturday, but it was pretty chilly out), there was no wait for our party of 3. the inside of the place is interesting; the mirrors are a good addition for making the place seem not quite as cramped as well, it was. :) the decor was minimal, but i thought it was tastefully done (even if the clear pieces in the lighting elements looked better from far away). the inside of this place kind of reminded me a little of lokal on north. this is not really a traditional breakfast place, but if you want that, you will probably be at the hollywood grill or somewhere similar. i had a tough time deciding on what i wanted, but i eventually decided on the buckwheat crepes (with lamb) on the recommendation of our server. we found the wait staff super attentive...no issues there. out first was a little mini muffin - banana chocolate chip with some lemon cream cheese on top. it was so small that at first we laughed about it, but it was actually quite excellent. my crepes were plated very nicely, although my friend alan asked if they were grape leaves. i told him they were crepe leaves...anyway, they were very good. the combination of the tender lamb, the sauce, the arugula, pearl onions, and hazelnuts was quite pleasing and not as heavy as i would expect. last up, we ordered some zucchini bread. after quite a lengthy wait (during which our coffee cups were never empty for more than 17 seconds), it appeared, piping hot...steaming profusely when we cut into it. it was...spectacular! totally worth the wait. so even though jam is maybe a little fancier of a place than i would ordinarily choose, i though the food and service were excellent, and i will likely go back.
(4)BenoitTro W.
Cute place, very nice staff, but, as many others have already said, the food simply misses. The items on both the breakfast and lunch menu sound absolutely exquisite, but the execution misses. Glad we went, had a nice walk, won't be back!
(2)Ryan W.
We had brunch here this past weekend, and I am a big fan of this place. The service is a little slow, but very attentive. We were served two--yes two--amuse bouches, just as we were thinking, "where's our food?" Our waiter was funny and engaging, the place is adorable, and the food was well worth the wait. I don't really have anything negative to say about this place!
(4)joann h.
This place is like the fine dinning of brunch spots, any place that has an amuse bouch (not spelled right I'm sure but you get the point) to start your breakfast is doing something right. Great staff and well thought out food. A must for the food savvy Chicagoan. Don't complain about the coffee being three dollars because our culture obviously pays more than that for a form of a cup of coffee each day. The coffee here was so good its worth every bit of three dollars, and the two dollars I spent on my coffee the next day was so bad it made me want to spit it out and cry. And I would also like to add if your going to complain about a two hour brunch wait on a Saturday or Sunday morning in Chicago, either make your own breakfast or go to Mcdonald's!
(5)Christopher B.
Jam is absolutely first-rate. A group of 3 of us went for Brunch today at 10:30 am - prime dining time. We were told a 45 minute wait, we were seated in 30 minutes. Everyone we encountered, including the roving server targeting hungry folks waiting with coffee, etc., was gracious and professional. The first thing you notice is the elegant room, balancing a chic spartan aesthetic with wonderful attention to detail. The room is painted in soothing gray and cream tones, which offset the modern light fixtures, chairs and table settings making the room comfortable and fashion-forward without being fussy or trying too hard. 3 entrees, all excellent, preceded by a tasty amuse bouche, which came as an unexpected surprise. French Toast with macerated fruit and lime leaf cream; a deconstructed Biscuits & Gravy, and the Egg terrine with beets, goat cheese and crushed macadamia were all just right. Jam has done something rare for brunch: Elegant presentation, innovative approaches to old standards, and just the right quantity to feel sated and not groaning in agony. All in a comfortable, sophisticated room without boho hipster attitude and at a price point which defies belief. $10 for an entree - very reasonable and worth every penny. If you view Brunch exclusively as an opportunity to overindulge on mountains of pancakes and 12-egg omelettes, this isn't the place for you. If you want a chic, urban eatery with great service, innovative cuisine at reasonable prices in a comfortable setting, go go go. Please come to Lakeview Jam, you're desperately needed here !!!
(5)Amy S.
Came here for a late brunch. Really appreciated their unique menu offering for a non traditional brunch. I ordered the lamb crepes which were delicious. The Asian apples added a nice texture to the very tender pieces of braised lamb. My sister ordered the sweet potato egg white omelette. A good fall dish but was too salty for me. Prices without coffee are reasonable...three dollars is a rip off. Though the dishes are good, I guess the three stars is just because it's not a traditional omelette and pancakes brunch place. The serving sizes are a bit small (or maybe normal?) so as long as you're in the mood for an atypical brunch menu offering, you'll really enjoy this place.
(3)Brad C.
Came here for a late brunch on a Monday. There were just a few other people there. Some were eating inside and couple were eating outside. We ended up sitting inside but really should of ate outside on their great patio and enjoyed the early summer weather. I was glad to see they served Metropolis coffee. It's always great to see local businesses supporting other local businesses. Jam starts you off with a complimentary mini muffin which is very tasty and goes great with the coffee. As far as the menu goes, it felt a little limited on classic breakfast fare. I went with the egg sandwich, it came with pork and rhubarb. Really this was more of a pork sandwich with an egg on it. Much more of a lunch dish then a breakfast item. But it was basically lunch when I was there so I wasn't complaining. The sandwich was excellent and there wasn't a bite left on my plate when it was taken away. My fiancé ordered the veggie panini and she also enjoyed it but didn't love it. Glad I got to check it out but I don't think I would have waited in the typical weekend brunch line for it. Be sure to bring cash. Its cash only but there is an ATM inside.
(4)Becky A.
I went here because a friend and I wanted to try a new brunch place. First, we waited about 45 minutes for a table for 2. When the host came out to call names, many names were called where no one claimed it, showing many people had given up an left. I know you have to wait some times, but it got a little ridiculous. When we sat down, we had to wait for menus. Someone came to take our drink order, and then another person came to take our drink order. Clearly there was no communication. The same thing happened once we ordered entrees. Plus, right up front as we ordered our entrees, the server suggested we order a bread/scone to start because it would take a while for the food to come. She mentioned they expanded the restaurant but not kitchen capabilities, which I think is an interesting move for a business. I did have the zucchini bread which was quite tasty and glad I ordered it. The egg sandwich was good. My friend had the eggs Benedict and the amount of food on my plate vs. hers was 4 times bigger. If I were her, I would have felt cheated. I got potatoes, she didn't. I literally would have finished the eggs Benedict in 4 bites. The two tables on either side of us had brought champagne (it's BYOB), but they waited a long time for their servers to actually find it. Overall, food is good. Service is slow and I'll look for some other brunch places.
(2)Maura S.
I came here for a late brunch on a Saturday and had a great time. The service was wonderful- my coffee cup was never empty! We were served a tasty amuse bouche upon arrival, and our dishes were great. Many of the items on the menu were creative and interesting. I had oatmeal and got to choose three items to put in it (cream, fruit, and brown sugar). It was delicious and I would go back again!
(5)Ivanka B.
Pleasantly surprised by the spiced chocolate bread pudding amuse bouche with caramel sauce. Also impressed by the presentation of the eggs benedict but it ends right there - at the appearance. Pork belly was OVERcrisped and dry and barely edible. I have had much pork belly and really don't think it was meant to be served this way. Also the eggs were overpoached and did not spill out all over my plate like I had anticipated :-( boo. The tiny English muffin that they sat on was very good though. I really wanted to love this dish but sadly it missed the mark.
(2)J T.
Holy what!!! I don't know who this chef is but I am going to jump this counter and kiss him. This food is crazy good. Scotch egg, the French toast is nuts, and if biscuits and gravy is your thing..do it. Oh, my friend got the pork belly eggs Benedict (homemade biscuit) and seriously...I'm blown away.
(5)Julie H.
The interior is simple and charming, and the food is actually really good. I really wanted to like this place, but we waited 2 hours at the table for my food. We hardly saw our waitress the whole time we were there. We sat down at 1:00 and left at 3:00, and they weren't even that busy. The guy who owns this place also owns a joint called Chick Pea (Chicago/Damen). It's the same way....I'm always waiting FOREVER for my food and there's hardly anyone in the restaurant. Both places aren't worth going to anymore...I've tried a few times...that's just how the guy runs the place. I'm stickin to places with better and faster service.
(2)Barry Z.
Tried it out for the first time, since I live real close. I had been to Dodo before, which was well-named, in my opinion (I never got what was so great about that place - hey, I melted cheese in an omelette! Look at me!). Starting out, Jam was not looking like a winner. We had difficulty entering, due to all the yuppie parents with their double-wide SUV strollers clogging the entrance. I don't get bringing babies to cramped expensive restaurants, but I digress. When we came in and asked for a seat, they took our names and said 20 min. I looked at the empty 2-seater table right next to us, and looked at the hostess. She asked us to leave and go to the courtyard. At this point, I need coffee. We navigate around more strollers, hit the cool little courtyard, and contemplate buying coffee from the bakery next door. And then, they came out and told us to come in. And guess where we sat....at the same empty 2-seater I glanced at when we came in. No idea what that pointless 5 minute wait was about. Anyway, I really want coffee. And so we sit. And wait. About 5 minutes later, we get water. Nice, but wrong color. I need coffee! Finally, our waitress comes by. Clearly a Buddhist monk in training, she moved with GREAT deliberation. I mean, extreme deliberation. It took a minute for her to put our silverware down. I beg for coffee. Luckily, the coffee guy is not a Buddhist monk, and when we finally get cups, from that point on the coffee poured freely. The Metropolis stuff is very good - high points. Also got an amuse bouche, which I thought too sweet - some sort of poppy bread w/ peach sauce, but I will never complain about free food, so no points deducted. I ordered the eggs benedict, and my gf got the blueberry pancakes, and here, despite the coffee delay, Jam earns its stars. This place approaches Lula's in its level of attention to detail. I was really impressed. At first, I thought the portions small, but by the time we finished, we were both stuffed. I liked how the dishes were greater than the sum of their parts. The egg with the amazing pork belly (they do all their own charcuterie and meats), which had a light sprinkling of salt crystals, with the bread, and the light spinach hollandaise all tasted better together. Similarly, the blueberry pancake elevated itself with the combination of lemon creme fraiche (can we just call it rich man's sour cream?) and an excellent blueberry compote, w/ maple syrup. Anyway, definitely worth a return visit. Looking at some of the other reviews, I agree there are some kinks in their seating and service, which hopefully will improve with age. I just like having somewhere closer than Lula to go for thoughtful food. By the way, if you are complaining about the amuse bouches (free food), the decor (who freaking cares), the cash only, or the effect of un-conditioned air on your precious yuppie skin - GO BACK TO LINCOLN PARK, and take your strollers with you!
(4)Christina M.
A disgrace to the space. Filling the void left by Dodo was not an easy task, but the new occupants are a far cry from even being close to a worthy replacement. Their strained, weird-for-weird's-sake ingredient combinations are eye-rolling, and the dishes themselves are simply bland and uninspired. Such is the same with their desperate attempt to have a trendy interior: they desecrated what was once a really unique, cozy, genuinely cool space with exposed brick and interesting artwork and gave it a sterile cosmetic makeover with the apparent help of Delia Deetz from Beetle Juice- white everything peppered with cheap stainless steel. If you don't feel like a sugary waffle or something that once had eyeballs, you are out of luck. But anyone is better off saving the wait for a table and getting an egg muffin from next door.
(1)Frances C.
What makes a restaurant fabulous is that it offers a complete package: from having just the right ambience, providing impeccable service, to memorable food (either because of unique twists on classic cuisine, or just downright amazing bite after bite). Jam has the complete package. The bonuses are it's located in one of my fave neighborhoods in the city and that they have a kids menu thus welcoming my 19 month old with open arms. What sets Jam apart, and why I highly recommend it to anyone for brunch/lunch is their service. From Jerry (cool dude behind the counter) who answered my probing questions by email (!!) promptly and with a sense of humor, to our server (I'm sorry I didn't get your name, but cool dude with a blue checked shirt and gave my daughter a free OJ to go) they were friendly and made all of us at the table feel like we were eating in someone's dining room. Go for the mouthwatering savory buckwheat crepes stuffed with braised lamb and the fluffy melt-in-your-mouth buttermilk pancakes (really, the entire menu); stay for the charming and bustling ambience; and return (over and over) for the awfully friendly service. I'll be back for sure!
(5)Jen P.
Pretension potential is high, but Jam delivers... - SOLID food with unique flavor combinations (who knew I'd love white anchovies atop a chorizo omelet?!) - leafy courtyard with complimentary coffee while you wait - respectable service amidst modern mod decor - damn fine people watching Looking forward to coming back in the summer and brunching outside... Make no mistake: you'll probably wait and you'll pay more than you would at Golden Angel, but they put your money where your mouth is. Go. Taste for yourself.
(4)Jacqueline G.
I am in love... Fell in love yesterday and can't wait to go back. It was literally the best brunch I have had in years. The decor is perfect - clean, crisp, with a touch of trend. The servers all look like they should be actors or models yet have fantastic personalities and are attentive and honest. The food - perfection. I had the Eggs Benedict, my boyfriend had the french toast. Not only was our food beautiful to look at, but it was delicious. I felt like the chef had prepared my meal with the utmost attention to detail. Everything was perfect. Can't wait to go back next weekend :)
(5)Nicolas H.
the jamburger is delicious. one of the best burgers i've had in chicago, no question. the egg sandwich was damn good too. the cheeks tasted at times like briscuit and then other times like short ribs. sure it takes a while, as do most good things, but its worth the wait...
(4)Beth D.
I never got to sample the food here, so I can't speak to that. What I do know is that the big guy who takes names at the counter is extremely unorganized. We came in after these two other guys, just steps behind them. Waited for them to give their names, then we gave ours. 30 minutes later, the counter guy sat those guys and then said we would be next. Then he sat two other tables. I asked the the heezy...he said we were way down on the list and it would be ANOTHER 45 minutes. I said we came in after those guys. He didn't remember. I couldn't read his writing on the list so I couldn't argue. They clearly weren't interested in our business since he said, oh well. Nice service.
(1)Courtney B.
This was a great start to a totally lazy Saturday with nowhere to be. It may have been the best 'wait' I have experienced, sitting in an adjoining courtyard sipping on Cafe Au Lait and sampling mini cupcakes at the bakery next door. I had read that there was no AC so was pleasantly surprised to be seated in the table right next to the window at the front. I am not sure what my comfort level would have been further in the back. Our service could not have been better. Our very cute and attentive waitress was there every step of the way, bringing extra this or that and answering all our questions, such as, "What is Bollo bread?" which is served with the egg sandwich. "French bread basically," if you're curious. All of the ingredients inside this stacked sammy got my attention and I had to check it out. For $10 I got the Egg Sandwich which included Pork cheeks, ricotta salata, pickled plums, bollo bread and fingerling potatoes. The plums and pork together were heavenly. Sweet and savory. I also had a bite of my gal pal's egg white omettette with golden beets, marscapone served in a beet puree with macadamia nuts. That was kind of a show stopper along with the lemon Creme Fraich that came with the blueberry pancakes. What a sweet sensation! I enjoyed the combinations of flavors and would definitely come back here another time. I was unprepared for the harsh reality of not having a bloody mary (or any booze) for breakfast on a weekend, so note this going in. Also, cash only.
(4)Caroline G.
Went to Jam on Saturday for a late brunch...its BYOB brought a bottle of Rose and they were quick with a bucket of ice to chill it. Waitress was a bit awkward but attentive and pleasant nonetheless... Ordered their special scone (more of a biscuit I'd say) of the day: bacon and chive with raspberry jam and butter, AMAZING, thought the sweet jam with the savory scone might be an odd combo, but it was delicious. Ordered the egg sandwich, which was also delicious, only complaint is the thick crusty bread which its served on...tasty but hard to cut/bite through. Overall, would definitely recommend if you like dishes with a little twist on the classics!
(5)rebecca s.
you can basically copy and paste word for word what lauren p just said into my review because we ate here together. -i got here a bit before my party and was hounded for a drink before i even got settled in my chair. - i agree they were waaaaaay overstaffed. im a restaurant manager at a 700 seat restaurant and ive never had that much staff on at 10am on a monday ever before. - any time we started a conversation or tried to enjoy the company of my party we were interrupted by someone...either refilling our drinks after one sip or asking us if we were ready to order 30 seconds after we told you we werent. -aside from the annoying service...i ordered the biscuits and gravy. it was delicious, minus the egg. i like a runny egg but i dont like it when the white isnt even cooked. i was really hoping to enjoy this place but i feel like im going to have to give it a few more months before i go back. hopefully some improvements will be made after they have been opened a little bit longer.
(2)Becky C.
The food here is amazing, and the portions were very large. Although I noticed other tables getting an amuse bouch as we were leaving, and we didn't get any! The two stars are really for the ambiance. First of all, there is nothing soft on the walls to absorb sound, so it was ridiculously loud. Second, it is really crowded and cramped in the space. We were placed at a table that was right in the middle of the walkway. People kept bumping into our chairs and our table - seems like they could take out a few tables and give people some breathing room. And finally, while our waitress was really nice, the service was a bit slow. It's too bad that we were so put off by the atmosphere, because the food was great...but we won't be going back.
(2)Michael R.
This place is excellent. Sophisticated yet unpretentious food for not much $$. With careful plating & attention to detail, Jam really knows how to execute. I only wish it were open for dinner too.
(5)Susan F.
We had a great dinner at Jam the other night. The menu is interesting, the food well prepared and friendly, knowledgeable, attentive service. And since we brought our own wine, the value is excellent for the price! Well worth visiting--you can even get brunch for dinner!
(5)Rose G.
I live in Logan Square and have now eaten at Jam three times- Breakfast, and twice for dinner. The food is excellent- the menu is creative but still does the classics well (classic brunch dishes done with an artsy flair, dishes like pot roast for dinner- but really elegant and beautiful presentation.) I have spent about 15 dollars on each visit- so I think prices are totally reasonable. The room is absolutely gorgeous- modern, welcoming and light filled. Love the charcoal grey and pale pink walls so much that I am tempted to ask for the paint colors so that I can do it at home! It's a beautiful space, great food, and three times in two weeks means I expect I'll be there often.
(5)hachem h.
If I could I'd go with 4.5 stars. I've been twice and tried several different items. This is not a hangover spot, if hangover comfort food dictates your likes in a brunch this isn't your place. It's a more upscale spot with smaller portions, but they pay a lot of attention to the ingredients and presentation. Like any restaurant this one shines brighter on certain dishes. The eggs benedict, pancakes and in-house braised pork cheek are amazing! Avoid the french toast.
(4)Andrew S.
Awesome corn beef hash sandwich. REALLY good. Thats all im gonna say.
(5)Masha F.
The entire seating area reeked of pork being fried. As a non pork eater the smell really got to me. The breakfast menu also has some kind of pork/bacon in 75% of the selections. I was the only patron there in the morning and was not greeted very graciously, not offered a water, not spoken to and overall ignored for a good 10 minutes. Again, I was the only person in the place. I agree with another reviewer they need the AC up, it was much warmer inside than it was outside. In the future I am sticking with Flo for early bird grub.
(1)Kristin H.
Cute brunch spot in Logan SQ. Our server was excellent! Very accommodating, super sweet and friendly. I ordered the Egg Sandwich and it was very hearty and delicious. My friend ordered the Eggs Benedict and it was yummy but very small. I recommend it if you're watching your figure. We split the Malted Custard French Toast and wow!! Yummmmy! Definitely going back next time I'm home.
(4)Steve M.
JAM at first seems full of potential. It's a cute little storefont location with a pleasant outdoor seating area, modern decor and good music playing. The menu has tasty-sounding options. My roommate and I stopped by this afternoon for a late brunch. Tasty-sounding, but not tasty-tasting. My potatoes were waaay overcooked, my roommate's highly-anticipated brown sugar bacon sausage tasted neither of brown sugar nor bacon ("Man, did they pick this up at Aldi?"). His eggs benedict were "passable, but nothing special". My egg sandwich with pork shoulder was a little better, but the pork shoulder was probably braised in too much liquid, since about a half cup of water was pooled on my plate after the first few bites. All in all, pretty mediocre food. Our waiter was nice enough, but we wondered why the coffee took longer to serve than the food we ordered. My roommate joked that if we'd walked over to New Wave and ordered coffee there, we could have drank it and walked back to our table without missing a beat. All in all this place probably deserves another chance. Maybe the kitchen was just having an off day. We both walked away agreeing that it wasn't the worst meal we'd ever had, but that's not much of a compliment. Final thought: I'm glad I tried JAM, but for brunch in the square I'm sticking with Lula next time.
(2)Yen L.
First, I am just going to put in my own gripe based only on my preferences and personality. We had the misfortune of being seated right next to a very loud couple, less than two feet away. Her laugh pierced my ear, I couldn't hear my husband, the language was a tad strong for me. She seemed well aware of her volume, but laughed it off. Unfortunately, the couple on the other side of them joined in and increased the volume by a couple of decibels. It made my overall experience terrible. I didn't really enjoy the food as much as I probably could have since I just wanted to get out of there. Now, on to what you probably really care about: service and food. Server was attentive and timely, though the place was pretty busy. Their menu was a bit limited, I guess in the interest of doing a few things very well. For the price, I felt the portions were small. My omelet looked like they had cooked it, folded it, and then cut off the end. It just seemed short. Furthermore, I couldn't really taste the Spanish chorizo. The onions and peppers were delicious, but I was disappointed by the lack of chorizo. My husband got their chicken n waffle special, and it was respectable. The portions were lacking. We didn't feel completely satisfied. The taste wasn't exceptional to us. We probably will not make an effort to return, though I'm glad this place seems to have found a niche in Logan Square.
(3)Joseph A.
Jake is awesome! French Toast was phenomenal. Breakfast sandwich was good but messy, next time I will do over hard on the egg. Burrito was great as well. A cool place to sit and relax. Oh, pretty cool beer selection too.
(5)Lisa B.
First review on Yelp :-) ... I love JAM. We've been about 4 or 5 times and does not disappoint. Everything is good. Excellent service. Will return again and again. Chef Mauro well done!
(5)Stella K.
Jam is pretty good. They usually have a seat for you for brunch without any wait time on the weekends. The Bloody Mary's are always on point, the meals are filling and the servers are always nice. I have noticed that their menu doesn't change, or if it does, it doesn't change often. Also, food is usually lukewarm/cold.
(3)Nichole W.
I went here with a good friend of mine and we both had our babies with us, which usually poses an issue in Chicago restaurants. Our server was very gracious in helping us get situated in the tight tables and relocated our strollers for us. She also was great in giving us suggestions for food as neither of us had been there before. You are greeted with a super mini orange walnut biscotti. It was pretty cute and tasty. There was a carafe of water on the table, which is always nice as someone who only drinks water...and a lot of it. I went for the custard french toast as per our server's recommendation. Apparently, Food and Wine Magazine rated it as one of the best breakfast dishes in all of Chicago. This is a very rich dish with a stunning presentation. It has fresh whipped cream on the side with lime zest over the top. My friend opted for the Egg Whites. As much as I liked my own food, I certainly was experiencing some food envy when I tasted her food. It was OUT OF THIS WORLD good. I'm going back, just for that. There was poached egg whites, a beet emulsion, asparagus and so much more.
(4)Melanie A.
Nothing spectacular here. I ordered the French toast and had the nerve to ask for maple syrup. After a lecture from the waitress about how it didn't need maple syrup she offered to get me some for a fee, obnoxious. I don't like being told how to eat my food, that's right I put ketchup on my hot dogs with pride!! My friend had the pancakes which she wasn't impressed with either. Based on other reviewers I'd try Lulas instead.
(3)Q D.
Pros: Trendy Professional staff Good ambience On par food Cons: Variety Hidden location Sn: i ordered a bloody mary that didnt taste quite like it should (not enough vodka and missing another ingredient) instead of fixing my drink he charged me for extra vodka and it still didnt taste right. Had to order a beer just to subside the bad taste of the first drink
(3)Stephanie G.
The restaurant is truly fabulous!! I ate here this past Monday with my boss. We had the best food. We tried the waffle of the day, which was a chicken and waffle. I know that "chicken waffle" does not describe it's deliciousness. I can't even explain what this masterpiece was, but it was unlike any chicken and waffle that I had ever had or heard of. We also got the malted custard french toast. This is award winning and as good as it sounds. I was in food heaven! We had these items for lunch. The portions were huge, but I did not leave Jam overly stuffed, which is a good thing since we were headed back to the office. Our server was amazing! His name was Brandon, and you will be lucky to get him if you visit Jam. He made great recommendations. I will definitely be back!!
(5)Matt B.
All the food was unique. Eggs Benedict, Bloody Mary's and the Biscuits and Gravy were all very good! The Chicken and Waffles looked great but I'm not a fan of dark meat. Lets try them with white meat and I'm sure I'll be a raving fan!
(4)Lexie V.
I remember coming here years ago when they were at their old location and LOVING it. I just went to the newer location for the first time and I was so disappointed. If this was a review for the french toast alone I would give them 4.5 stars. It's amazing. Unfortunately everything else sucked. The bloody mary was one of the worst I've had. It was thick and bland and I'm not convinced that there was any booze in it... and if I remember correctly it was over $10. The service was mediocre at best. There weren't many people there but somehow the ordering and payment processes were extremely drawn out. I went in August on a hot day. Somehow it was hotter inside than it was outside. I was dying. I'm much more a summer person than I am a winter person, but I was so uncomfortable that I just wanted to leave. The waitress said "Oh yeah, we only turn up the AC to a certain level and then we just leave it". Great. Overall I was disappointed. I wont be going out of my way to come back here again.
(2)Amelia H.
I've brunched all of the brunches in Logan Square and Jam is my favorite hands down. The menu is classic with ingenious twists, and the weekly waffle is always a must order. I've had a scotch egg waffle, a waffle with cranberry gastrique, poached eggs and pork tenderloin, and, most recently, a potato -hash waffle topped with poached eggs and corned beef. And then there's the French toast: nationally ranked! And it's no exaggeration. I'd go there just for the food, but the service is also superb. Even when I come in at the busiest hour (11am - noon on weekends) they manage to squeeze me in at the bar and keep my coffee cup full. Three thumbs up!
(5)Bob M.
Jam is a very cool, sort of eclectic street front cafe that has amazing menu choices including drink selections and amazingly prepared foods. I would definitely return on any sunny morning for a breakfast cocktail and fresh burrito suiza or pork shoulder and egg sandwich. Amazing!
(4)Derek S.
I went here for my girlfriend's birthday brunch after a night of some rambunctious fun and I was so into the food (french toast, chicken & waffles, and egg pork sandwich) that I feel like I might have experienced a sort of dysphoria, forgetting where I was and who I was with and zeroing in on the food as if it were the only thing that existed and my sole source of pleasure in the universe. I recovered.
(5)Marie B.
Disappointing. Pecan sticky bun was stale (or maybe the Publican sticky bun has ruined me). The omelette was bland. The waitress was very nice. However the pouring of water with her blue lighter in the same hand was kind of different. Smoke your heart out I say, but please put your lighter away when you're at work. Especially when you're serving a table. When I got there my water glass was dirty, total turn off but I tried for it to not be. Kind of hard considering Lula Cafe, Reno, and Longman & Eagle are nearby. I wanted to try something new, guess I should of stuck to my old favorites! Here's a plus: Fantastic outdoor seating on this beautiful 80 degree day.
(2)Erick N.
I had been hearing lots of accolades about Jam from some friends of mine who work in the industry and today my wife and I decided to trek out to Logan Square to experience it firsthand. I have to say that I am really surprised with the relatively mediocre reviews here on Yelp and find Zagat's rating of 28 out of 30 for food (with ratings of 24 for service and decor) to be right on the mark. Jam is run by Chef Jeffrey Mauro who spent time at now shuttered Chicago stalwart Charlie Trotters as well as at North Pond (which happens to serve my absolute favorite brunch in the city). The influence of these high end venues are apparent at Jam; while Jam is a casual venue, the brunch is extremely high quality cuisine and creative, intriguing menu items (think braised antelope with polenta cake, poached egg, black Tuscan kale and celery root puree for example) . Definitely a gourmet brunch. There certainly are more "plain" options for those who do not enjoy exotic dishes and also a few vegetarian items and some choices that are healthy without being boring (such as egg whites with a root vegetable hash gratine, roasted brussel sprouts and fennel soubise). The only problem I had with the menu was there were at least a half dozen items that were calling my name that I was really struggling to choose just one! Fortunately some of the items have half portion options in the event you want to sample multiple small plates and on Tuesdays they even offer a breakfast tasting menu! When our server came by she informed us of today's special - fried, boneless chicken and waffles and the description really sounded appealing so I opted for the special. My wife went for the eggs Benedict. Both courses had beautiful presentations (see my photos I added - the spinach hollandaise sauce on the eggs Benedict really made for a colorful, appealing plate) and everything was well seasoned, cooked to perfection and tasted phenomenal. Prior to our entrees we were served a small cookie as an amuse bouche that also was great and my wife ordered a cinnamon roll; the pastry chef had just finished the batch so it was fresh out of the oven; hot, gooey and served with caramel sauce on the side - this too was amazing. Sure the food is going to cost a few bucks more than if you opt for brunch at your run-of-the-mill diner or waffle house type venue, but for a few bucks more you are receiving fresh, well prepared, interesting, gourmet food - well worth the small upcharge (our two entrees, pastry and two coffees came to $39 before gratuity). Portion sizes are reasonable; they certainly are not hefty servings, but neither are they dainty. They have lots of housemade fresh pastries available as well as sides to choose from, so if you are particularly hungry be sure to order a little something extra in addition to your entree and you will be satisfied. Jam features Metropolis coffee (very good) and has a liquor license so if you are in the mood to indulge you can enjoy Mimosas, Bloody Mary's (served with Tito's vodka, housemade mix, smoked mussels and pickled green tomato), craft beers or their specialty cocktails with your brunch. A great plus about Jam is that it does not become nearly as crowded as some of Chicago's other highly acclaimed brunch venues such as Bongo Room or M Henry where waits on the weekends can exceed an hour; today we arrived just before 10:00am on a Sunday and while Jame was mostly full, we were seated immediately. The space at Jam is bright and cheerful. One review mentioned blaring music (a pet peeve of mine) but at least today the music was quiet and simply background noise. While tables are a bit close together (making the venue a little bit on the noisy side), it was comfortable. My wife and I both enjoyed the contemporary decor and found the ambiance quite pleasant. Service was extremely friendly and attentive; we had Rachel as our primary server and you are sure to be well cared for if she is assigned to your table. We also had the opportunity to chat with Chef Mauro for a few minutes after eating and he seemed like a really nice, genuine person. As we had such a wonderful brunch and there is so much more on the menu we want to try we will definitely be back within the next couple of weeks despite residing a few miles away.
(5)Sherry M.
I tried the malted custard French toast with macerated cherries the best French toast I have ever had in the waiter was right when he said it was the best.
(5)Penelope S.
I'm on a mission to use my giftie dollars and this place rocks!!!! I had 10 giftie dollars to use towards my meal. Started off with OJ and coffee and then french toast crispy around the edges and soft in the middle with syrup...OMG... they have toppings for the french toast but I like some things just plain. Then I had the apple dessert pancake!!!!! you guys don't know what you are missing here. They also have an eclectic menu which I like. Get the giftie app and try some new places!!!!!
(5)Ashley P.
I was introduced to Jam last year and it quickly rose to the top of my favorite brunch spots in the city. I ordered the Eggs Benedict on my first visit and was not disappointed. Another favorite is the Egg Sandwich. I recently went with a group of friends and we tried the French Toast, which is *to die for*. There just isn't a comparison. What really stood out was the service. Our server, Brandon, was simply amazing. Let's be honest: there are a myriad of delicious restaurants in the city, but service can really make or break a place. Brandon was polite, charming and very knowledgeable about every inch of the menu. Not one of us ever saw the bottom of our coffee cups. His recommendations were spot on and everyone was beyond delighted with the food and his attentiveness to our table on a "jam"-packed Sunday morning. Overall: Menu Selection - 5 stars Quality of Food - 5 stars Ambience - 5 stars Service - 25 supernovae Outstanding experience.
(5)Laura L.
I keep coming back to Jam for the egg sandwich, the burrito suizo, malted French toast, salad nicoise, corned beef sandwich, the crispiest house made chips, GREAT coffee and fresh squeezed juice. I'd skip the dry, bland club sandwich but with the rest of the menu that's no loss. The service is always top notch, my coffee always full. It's a great place for families and we always bring our toddler who loves the light fixtures and complimentary amuse bouche cupcakes. Now I'm hungry. Dammit.
(5)Benjamin D.
What's funny about JAM is that all of it's online presence is off-putting, yet the actual experience is great. When you look at the menu and pictures of the food online, the place comes off as over priced with very small portions. I can say that the price was very fair for a nicer brunch and I was so stuffed and satisfied after my meal that I didn't eat again till very late that evening. My girlfriend and I went to this past weekend and really enjoyed ourselves. Was it a cheap brunch so to speak, certainly not, but it was well worth the go. The egg sandwich and bacon I ate was excellent. I didn't try the "famous" french toast though but it did look good on other people tables. Finally the service was great and we really enjoyed our waiter. I will go again soon and you should try it now. Looks like Logan Square is becoming the brunch capital of the city...
(4)Tim H.
Awesome food but NOT DOG FRIENDLY. I brought my for-legged buddy with me to sit on the patio and had him tied up to the planters just outside the seating area, but near me. Our waitress kindly asked that I tie him up further away as the chef doesn't like having dogs on the patio. I was SHOCKED and a little frustrated, especially since my dog was just laying there. It's just another one of those "its out policy" B.S. things that get under my skin. The breakfast sandwich was amazing though.
(3)Jamie B.
The service was stellar, excellent vibe and beautiful indoor/outdoor areas. The food was amazing. My boyfriend had the French toast which was recommended and I had the pork shoulder, egg, plum preserve sandwich, we were both over pleased with our food and we plan to add JAM to every weekend. They also have loose leaf teas in cast iron pots and you must have the orange juice!
(5)Eric B.
Who knew bourbon goes with carrot juice? After my latest brunch here, I do. And, as a result of my binary generosity, you do, as well. I refer specifically to JAM's bourbon cocktail, whose name escapes me, but whose ingredients are bourbon, carrot juice, and maple sugar (or syrup). It is a delightful concoction which will allow me to put my juicer to good use. Highly recommended. The pleasure here does not stop with the cocktails, however. My amuse bouch was a muffin for munchkins, and had lovely sweet notes of brown sugar. The pecan sticky bun was sweet without being cloying, and the eggs benedict, while being small, are delicious - some of the best in the city. The eggs are not at all watery, the greens are delicious, and it comes with a hefty serving of sausage. Add to this Metropolis coffee and not too long a wait and you have yourself an excellent brunch option in Logan Square when Lula and Longman are overwhelmed.
(4)Cara L.
I love trying new and interesting dishes and the chef here really is creative. Their brunch is fun and really tasty. It's really close to home and right on the square so it's very convenient as well. But sometimes you just want a basic brunch meal, here you will get a turned up version and for quite a bit more money. Oh yea, try their famous french toast, it's amazing!
(4)Brett P.
Good food and some interesting options. Definitely worth stopping in for brunch if you are hitting up the farmers market on Sundays.
(4)Kaya T.
The food was lukewarm, the flavors were off and the prices were absurd. Very disappointing. Don't even bother with this place. Their only possible saving grace was their Bloody Mary.
(2)Julie M.
There's really not much I can add as far as ranting and raving about how good this place is... I'm just going to put my 2 cents in... It's really as good as everyone says. 3 of us went. We had waffles, poached salmon, and the omelette. All were amazing and cooked to perfection. We sucked down some cocktails and I can't remember which one I had but it had grapefruit juice and by the end of brunch, both of my buddies switched to what I was drinking...
(5)Raquel L.
I'm surprised I haven't reviewed Jam sooner since they have been my favorite brunch place in Chicago for years. I tend to be a regular at places I LOVE and Jam is one of them. Also, if you can swing getting here on a Tuesday, they have an excellent Tasting Menu that is just amazing. Best brunch in Chicago!
(5)Emily Z.
Lately I have been giving perfectly decent restaurants 3 starts and feeling bad... but I guess that is accurate. We started out with fresh squeezed orange and apple juice which were both delicious. Everything on the menu sounded good and inventive but I was not impressed with the execution of either of our entrees. We shared the Egg Sandwich, $13, Pork Shoulder, Ricotta Salata, Plum Preserve, French Bollo, Roasted Fingerling Potatoes. The pork shoulder was plentiful and very tender but I thought the sandwich overall lacked flavor with just an egg and smidge of plum preserve. We also split an appetizer portion of the special which was Pot Roast and Waffle for $9. A large portion of tender pot roast in gravy over 1/4 waffle, it was good but just didn't really come together for me, no wow factor. We were in the front room which was nice though a bit chilly on a cold winter day. Our server was very chromaticism and helpful. There was a very odd smell of something cooking coming from the bar or adjoining open kitchen which definitely did not improve my dining experience. If I were to find myself at Jam again I would be ordering off the sweet section of the menu as it sounds like that might be where they shine.
(3)R K.
These are 2 things a burger with fried egg should not contain: 1. An overcooked egg (should be sunny side up, not over hard) 2. Undercooked (ie completely raw) hamburger patty Each of the multiple orders of the Jam burger at our table were prepared exactly like this. I'm not sure what's more concerning - the fact that it's highly recommended by the waitstaff or that some girl in our group compared the uncooked meat patty to steak tartare. Yikes.
(1)Law S.
We went to brunch and got the pressed apple juice, bloody mary with Stroh's sidecar, pearl tea, amuse bouche was a little apple muffin, custard french toast (app size), Jamburger, and Turkey club. Every single thing was amazing, as was our service from John L. I cannot recommend this enough and is now my go-to place for brunch/ breakfast. Outstanding!
(5)Den B.
I like this place, very quality and tasty food! The best breakfast place ever!!! French toast unforgettable! Highly recommended!!!
(5)Michael B.
Hot Waiters. Cold Food. French Toast was dipped in batter and thrown on the plate - grossly raw and cold. No syrup offered - just peppered whip cream - really? Extremely overpriced for quality of food. Two stars for the cute decor and the cute waiters.
(2)Sharon G.
My husband and I went here for lunch and were pleasantly surprised with an awesome brunch. One thing I can say about Jam is they are doing it right. We ordered the french toast as our server recommended it and it was absolutely by far the best french toast we have ever had. It delivered on every note and the best part was you do not even need syrup - it is that flavorful. We also split the egg sandwich with pork shoulder . The pork was so good - flavorful and tender. You have to try it- it is just that good. There were several other items on the menu that caught our attention and based upon this visit we would go back. We ordered the Bloody Mary with a Schlitz beer chaser - yes the whole can of beer. We got a complimentary cookie which was a nice touch and yummy. I did think for a brunch type restaurant that the decor was a bit odd....but when you are serving such good food it really does not matter.
(5)Claire G.
I went here last weekend for a nice Saturday brunch with my friend. And it was a nice brunch. We got seated right away - it helps we got their early (11:30 am) by Logan Square standards. The service was fine, if a bit effusive. "Welcome to JAM!", our server exclaimed. "We've got the best brunch in Logan Square!" Orly? Wow, with Lula and L&E right around the corner, thems fightin' words, Charlie! And no, it's not the best brunch in Logan. But it's good. They have a nice little beer list and their cocktails looked pretty tasty. I got the Jamburger and it was, you know, okay. There was an egg on it and some fries on the side. My friend really liked her corned beef sandwich. We sat inside, but they have some nice patio seating overlooking the square. See where I'm going with this? Nice. Nice. Nice. That's basically it. It didn't blow me away, but hell, I'm okay with that. I'd go back, if I were in the area.
(3)Mollie W.
I had breakfast at Jam October28,2009. I thought it would close soon after but it didn't ,i was not surprised most of the people in that area are not use to Good food and Good service. I wrote to the restaurant about my experience and did not receive a reply. I should have called the health department because I was ill for days after having buttermilk pancakes sausage, and eggs. I can cook better with my eyes closed! I hope the cook has gotten better or they have finally hired someone who has cooked before.
(1)Evelina L.
I love Jam. #1 because of the food. #2, because you can almost always get seated right the way and almost always outside. Of course, the earlier you go the better, but its a great option. Yes, the service might not be the best, especially outside, but as long as you go there with that expectation (and bring something to drink with you), things will go as smooth as ever :) Amouse bouche is always yummy and prepares you nicely for the work of art food that Jam delivers. I love pretty food, especially when it combines with good tasting food. I also love perfect bites :) Ultimate favorite is the benedict, with the sauce flavor that changes depending on what's in season. (beets are my fav) The crepes are also divine + the sandwiches with the pork shoulder or the terrine - yum! Enjoy this neighborhood gem (or jem, in this case), but come with the right expectations!
(4)Dennis N.
One Classy Breakfast Spot! Three of us visited Jam for the first time & were very impressed. We received exceptional service from our waiter, Nathan. The fresh OJ was amazing as were the Eggs Benedict & Quiche we ordered. Wonderful outdoor, covered & indoor seatin (see pictures). Total ticket for 3 and a 27% tip was $60. We will definitely be back!
(5)Linda. G.
Not my usual stomping grounds, but I would definitely make a trip out here to eat again! The menu items will please both the adventurous as well as the picky. My friends and I were able to find breakfast staples as well as unique menu items. The food is both visually appealing and tasty. I highly recommend the Smoked Salmon, Salad Nicoise, and the French Toast. I'd skip the Bloody Mary though as there wasn't a good balance in flavors. Also street parking can be challenging... Other than those two flaws, I'm a fan!
(4)Jonathan C.
Chicken and Waffles, jamburger, egg sangwhich w/ pork shoulder???, can't wait to try everything else on the menu but it's so hard not to repeat the classics. Service is excellent, super cool, laid back atmosphere. You can tell they are all about the food.
(5)Luchenzo D.
Dear JAM, Why are you trying to ruin French Toast? It does not need lime and peppercorn flavors. What kind of person does that to something so sweet and delicious? It's like a cruel trick you are playing on my tastebuds and, thereby, my heart. The bread itself is so fantastic I couldn't believe how wildly off base the rest of the dish was. Also, $6 for a SINGLE SLICE? The cruelty abounds! I will now provide a short list of toppings that better pair with French Toast: maple syrup, whipped cream (not infused with lime or other citrus), chocolate, vanilla sauce of some kind, mascarpone, butter, bananas, strawberries. I understand that these are all standard fare and JAM is about breaking the mold. You are welcome to try, as you are well aware given that you've already opened and been operating for some time, but playing around with something so inherently perfect makes you subject to me comparing your food to that time Pitbull remixed Daft Punk's "Get Lucky." Side note, your omelette with Spanish chorizo, onions, peppers, etc. should be at least a little spicy. I found mine to be rather bland, and I do not appreciate the audacity you have to suggest adding an achovy on top. Your coffee is fantastic as is your decor. Even your name is awesome in its simplicity. Have you considered just making your French Toast with a variety of awesome JAMs that don't try to mess with my psyche? I really wanted to like your food, as evidenced by me ordering more food after trying a slice of that French Toast. Alas, it was not meant to be.
(2)Erin B.
This place is awesome! The food was amazing, the service was excellent, and the atmosphere on the patio reminded me of a cafe in France. I ordered the Burrito Suizo and a cappuccino, both amazing. Jam is one of my new favorite spots in Logan Square.
(5)Leigh K.
This is my first live yelp. Sample of the cherry muffin with a sage sauce was awesome! Sweet meets savory! The menu is actually similar to Dodo who used to be in this location. If my memory serves me, this is a wee bit pricier with less vegetarian options. Still it sounds intriguing. I ordered blueberry pancakes and asparagus soup. The soup with apricot puree is so insanely good. Nom nom nom! Just had a bite of my friend's french toast. A+. Diving into my pancakes. Hmm, not the best actually. Presentation is really nice. Will be coming back again. I'll try something else next time. CASH ONLY.
(4)Jennifer T.
Ok. So my boyfriend was going to work during the week and got a coffee to go since nowhere else is open by us. Not only did he have to wait for the coffee, but it was $3.50 for a 12-oz cup of coffee. I was pissed that he would pay for it! Seriously. I don't get it.
(1)Anemone T.
chicago: what is your obsession with pork belly?
(3)Michael V.
Went to Jam on a Thursday morning with two others. I bet the place is packed on weekends but it's pretty dead during the week. The waitress was very friendly and brought water right away along with a free sample of their Apple raisin muffins. We ordered the omelette, the egg sandwich and pancakes & eggs ala carte. Everything was very good! The omelette was very light despite having chorizo and was quite tasty. The egg sandwich was on a big ciabatta roll with jam which was a nice touch too. Overall, this is a really solid place for brunch up in Logan Square and I'd recommend it if you're in the area!
(4)Angie F.
My favorite place for breakfast! Their jam isn't that great, but that omelette with Spanish chorizo rocks the house every time and their signature burger is a good choice for lunch. The restaurant is small, but they have a large outside area that almost doubles the size of the restaurant. Service is always a pleasure. They open at 7am so you can even stop in during the week and still make it to work on time!
(4)Tim H.
Good food, friendly service, and no wait early on a Sunday. Nice to have the farmer's market to go to right outside the restaurant after an early Sunday brunch. Every dish I tried here was good and I would have it again. The malted custard french toast is their signature dish and we had a half portion to start with. It was really good, but glad I just got the starter half portion. Wife had the burrito which was packed with beef and very tasty. I had the poached egg white with Spätzle and veggies. The egg white dish was one of the most novel brunch dishes I have seen in a long time. I would come back just to have that again.
(4)Liliana P.
I think my Google Maps was confused, because I got a little lost trying to figure out how to get here. But other than that, we had a late lunch on a weekday, so not many people were around and the two workers at the time were very friendly and useful in helping us decide what we should get. Because our waiter liked the french toast, we shared a small order of it. We both liked it, but I wasn't completely blown away, I've definitely had better. On the other hand, that waffle of the day was absolutely divine. The waffle of the day when I went had asparagus, a poached egg and pork belly. I normally don't like waffles, but this was divine! I'd come back for this any day. And the Metropolis coffee they served was never-ending! If the waffle of the day sounds good, I say go for it!
(4)Sabrina M.
Two words: jowl bacon. Oh. You still want to know more? Well. Let's start with the jowl bacon. I never knew the jowl of the swine was THAT flavorful & utterly delicious. So yep. Go to JAM. Get the jowl bacon. You still feel like you need more? Well, ok. The omelettes are good, the French toast is really decadent. They have seasonal specials that are always good & even the coffee is outstanding. And the service is great. And it is a really cute, comfortable, welcoming spot. And (drumroll, please): Jowl bacon. That is all. #JowlBacon
(5)Johnny R.
This place has flown under my nose for awhile now as a hidden gem on the Logan Square. I had nothing but an outstanding experience here, starting and ending with quality / timely service and delicious / outstanding food. The menu items suggested by our server were beautifully prepared and presented. The French toast was unbelievable; an absolute must-try but the kicker was the burger and I'm saying this as someone who has tried every listed burger in the city, Jam's needs to be on everyone's list. Mouth watering, double stacked, perfectly cooked. Skip the lines at Lula and the basic brunch at Dunlay's - spend a bit extra and get your money's worth at Jam.
(5)Linda T.
One word: Amazing! Delicious and innovative menu, beautiful and bright restaurant, adorable location, pleasant service. Chef Jeffrey Mauro works wonders at JAM Restaurant. We visited for brunch on a weekday, and so we were fortunate that the restaurant was fairly empty. We were seated by the window at the front near the door, so there was plenty of sunshine to enjoy with our meal. Special of the Day - Waffle with roasted eggplant, heirloom tomatoes, poached egg, truffled pecorino cheese and basil. OMG, the best waffle I have ever eaten! The waffle had an amazing soft texture, and the veggies were super fresh. I loved the creaminess of the egg yolk with the sweet herbs. So good! Still dreaming of this waffle! Malted Custard French Toast with macerated cherries, lime leaf cream, pink peppercorns - A regular dish on their menu for a reason, the french toast is sweet and dense. The combination of cherries, lime leaf and pink peppercorn is unique and delicious. Service was friendly and they came by to check on us regularly, only for me to praise how amazing our food was. They even wrote down the description of the special waffle on a buisness card for me to take home as a souvenir. Overall I enjoyed brunch here very much. Definitely one of the best meals I have ever had, and can't wait to come back again.
(5)Victoria G.
Very modern place hidden in the middle of Logan Square. Great food, nice servers and they provide good non pushy suggestions on what to order depending on what you are hungry for.
(4)Carol K.
What a cute little place! Stopped in here for lunch the other day and was surprised at just how cute this breakfast/lunch spot was on the inside. We were lucky enough to grab a table on the smallish outdoor patio and proceeded to take a look at the menu. I liked that the service was quite good. They even brought out a couple of complimentary super mini muffins, and when we both said we were "gluten free" they replaced it with some fruit. Don't get too excited as "some fruit" was only 1/4 of one strawberry . . .but it was fruit! (made me laugh that they actually got a plate dirty for that!) Guess super mini applies to all things complimentary. But the real star was their take on a salad nicoise. This was delicious with potatoes, octopus and a poached egg. Delicious! Lunch came to about $15 which was also super reasonable. And if you drive, street parking is still pretty easy in the area. Jam. You surprised me, and in a good way. And that doesn't happen often!
(4)Sanny W.
Who are these idiots giving these low ratings and complaining about BS!?? I have been coming here every Sunday and I can only say- wow!! Everything is amazing- drinks, food, service!!! Cannot pick one over the another!! Great, great place! Highly recommend it for Sunday afternoon Drunch! Yes Drunch- Brunch combined with drinking!:)) Awesome, awesome, awesome!!!
(5)Morganne B.
We came here on a hot hot Saturday afternoon for brunch and sat in the front room which was really gorgeous. The place has a modern vibe, and luckily was not crowded at all. Our server made some great suggestions--the Bloody Mary with a PBR back was on point. I also ordered the corpse reviver which was really tasty but just very very small. This theme carried through the meal as well... We loved our food, we just wished we got more of it! The portions were extremely small, so don't go here if you're starving. I got the egg whites, which came with a chive spaetzel and this amazing beet emulsion. The emulsion was so good I could've drank it. My boyfriend got the pork belly benedict which was good but small, and not really hot enough when it was served. The way they poach their eggs here is pretty sweet though and makes them taste amazing. I don't know if I'd come back here but glad we tried it once!
(4)Amanda M.
Very clean and inviting ambience. We were given two complimentary mini chocolate cupcakes to start, which was nice. These were ordinary but the coffee-like buttercream was divine. Got the omelette and thought it was pretty tasty, although most of it attributing to the piquillo peppers. The chorizo and onions were lackluster. However, I enjoyed that it wasn't your traditional omelette. It was light and refreshing, but packed with ingredients. The accompanied corn bread was very good, considering I don't usually care too much for corn bread. Cousin enjoyed his pork shoulder egg sandwich. We also split the full order of French toast and that was delish. It was amazing on its own, but the lime leaf cream and macerated cherries really kicked it up a notch. Service overall was decent. A little slow towards the end but nonetheless, friendly.
(4)Sarah G.
If you are looking for a modern, trendy looking spot to grab some pretty well crafted brunch dishes, and you don't mind waiting since this place is pretty small inside, then Jam is your Jam. This place has a small bar area you can wait for a table at or order food at, and their calm gray and white color interior really does have this calming feel over you while you wait for your table. They do take credit card, but a max of two, but they do have one of the craziest looking atms here that I swear looks like some sort of futuristic safe or something like that. Just go to the bathrooms to check out that atm since it is pretty unique indeed. But you don't go here for the atm, you go here for the food! I got their cheddar waffle of the day which came of course with some fried chicken and that fried chicken was so juicy and tender and perfect. The waffle itself actually could have been a little crispier especially to hold up to the fried chicken on top. But that dish was pretty great. And then Matt J. got their burrito suizo which was a wheat crepe packed and I mean PACKED with all kinds of braised beef, tomato crema, gouda, and an egg. There was so much meat in that bad boy it was so incredibly filling, and we definitely had to go home and take a nap after that one. Their raspberry coffee cake was a little bland to be honest, but if you want a pastry their pecan sticky bun comes out of the oven warm and gooey and heavenly and this was one we were all fighting over the last bite :-) And if you don't want to be as big of an eater as we were, our friend got their egg whites with chiven spatzle with lots of spinach and broccoli and she loved it and it and it was definitely one of the more novel brunch dishes I have seen on a menu. So thanks Jam for being our Jam!
(4)Jenna S.
My first thought, upon regarding the menu: this place is prett-y expensive. I've been to some 'fancy' brunch places before, but this one is a bit pricey for what it's doing. The Bloody Mary was like $11. Seriously? It's like tomato juice, spices, and vodka. I can't imagine more than $7, tops. The server also asked if I wanted a "chaser" beer, which I agreed to thinking it was a tiny, cute bottle of Miller High Life, but it was actually just a full-size, $5 beer which was too much all around. The menu was large enough but, again, all the entrees were super expensive. They said they had the "best waffles in the city" so maybe that's just what I should have ordered, but I went with something that looked intriguing. The spaetzle with beets and a poached egg ended up being watery and oddly sweet. I wasn't impressed with the overall flavor, even though the individual ingredients seemed promising together in a dish. I definitely wouldn't order it again. My experience here makes me think a lot of their menu items are similarly overdone, even breakfast classics like eggs Benedict or other things. I don't know if I'll be back and that's alright with me. Also, parking is near impossible on Sundays, so beware.
(3)Erin H.
Wow! This place was a wonderful brunch spot. The specialty waffle was outstanding and the service was refreshing.
(5)Gino W.
Chicken and waffles. (Pause) (Fireworks) We're not talking about a plate of crispy chicken wings over a large Eggo waffle. Yes, this was fancy. Pulled chicken over coriander and flour waffles and drizzled with a fennel gastrique. Loved the fact that this version of chicken and waffles puts all "those other" attempts to shame. Loved the fact that the green apple juice, chicken and waffles, and coffee afterwards didn't leave me with eyes wide shut when the bill came. I went early in the week, so there wasn't a packed room when I arrived. The same cannot be said by the time I left, though. I imagine JAM is a hot spot, so I recommend going as early as possible to get ahead of the crowd. I will be going back, for sure.
(4)Linh L.
A lot of quality and care with their dishes and service. I really enjoyed this place. The food doesn't seem so heavy either. Parking is very easy. The only thing I don't like about this place is the design. For a breakfast place, it felt like I was at a hotel. I prefer breakfast settings to be cozy. Not a big deal. It's just not my cup of tea.
(5)Priti N.
The experience was great. The service was efficient and friendly. My savory waffles with pork and a soft egg were amazing. The ingredients were fresh and flavorful. The ambience is very relaxed.
(5)Rich C.
A modern gourmet brunch spot. I enjoyed the colors and flavors of the lime cream and pick peppercorns on the malted custard French toast. The jowl bacon was amazing. The locally roasted (Metropolis) coffee was kept filled. Sadly, their credit card processing was down, but everything else that morning was great.
(5)Angela L.
I went to Jam for brunch and I am looking forward to returning. Jam is in a small quaint nook space just off of "The Square" in Logan Square. The decor is all white and modern -- Plastic chairs, rustic lighting, and big windows that really open up the space and let a lot of light in. I'd imagine this space would get very crowded on weekends, but I went on a cold Tuesday morning and there were only a few other people there. Our waiter was very friendly and we were seated as soon as we walked in. I ordered a tea and my brunch date ordered a Goose Island Root beer. Upon returning with our drinks, our waiter told us what the special was: Rice flour waffles topped with pork tenderloin, poached eggs, jalapeño gastrique, and maple syrup, on a cauliflower purée. I had to have it! My date ordered the Pumpkin Pancakes with dark chocolate sauce, candied pepitos, and a large cinnamon marshmallow on top. Everything was great! My special was very good: Sweet and savory, and did not sit heavy in my stomach. Really hit the spot. My friend enjoyed the Pumpkin Pancakes, but said he could do without the candied pepitos. We both cleaned our plates. Jam is a great go-to for weekday brunch or lunch. The food is not heavy (like you might find at many other brunch hotspots), but still filling and satisfying. Closed on Wednesdays!
(5)Roy S.
Great food, nice vibe, great neighborhood. One of the better breakfast places I have been to recently. Fortunately, I had read up on Logan Square and noticed it was a stop off the Blue Line when I took the train into the city from ORD. Started off with a complimentary red velvet amuse bouche and a cup of good coffee...followed that up with 2 egg whites and their signature French Toast--complete with malted custard, macerated cherries and other accompaniments. Requested a side of Vermont maple syrup and the French Toast was to die for. Very good service and I got there early enough on Sunday morning (before 9AM) so as not to have to wait for a table. Would definitely go back and highly recommend this place. A Chitown breakfast institution.
(5)Ammir G.
This was the best breakfast I had during my stay in Chicago. The service was great and the restaurant had a great patio. We started with the French toast. You MUST get the French toast. Our server was telling us how it won the award for best French toast in the country. That was hands down the best French toast I've ever had. Everything on the plate made sense, it came with macerated cherries on the side and it really made the toast pop. I also ordered the special of the day which was waffles with a side of pork belly with a bourbon maple syrup and a side of salad. It was delicious. My girlfriend ordered the smoked salmon and she was amazed by it. All in all, you can't go wrong here. Everything is good. Definitely check it out!
(5)Daniel C.
I LOVE JAM. They have such interesting brunch items. I also love the space and the service is on point. I need to go back soon they are amazing. Delicious food.
(5)Catherine B.
I think there are better places to get brunch in Logan Square - namely Chicago Diner, Cozy Corner, Longman and Eagle, and Lula. As a vegetarian, the only real option here is the French toast unless they are having a special waffle that doesn't have meat. Yes, the French toast has won awards, but it didn't really wow me. It's good, but I've had better. I though it was a little sour/lacking sweetness. Boyfriend liked his pork belly. Coffee was good. But like I said, there are better places in the neighborhood so I probably won't be back.
(3)Elliott D.
My sis brought me here for brunch one morning. She has good taste, but my standards are quite particular. Could JAM withstand the rigor? ***MALTED CUSTARD FRENCH TOAST - Macerated Cherries, Lime Leaf Cream, Pink Peppercorns I asked for some maple syrup when our server mentioned that this dish wouldn't be served with any. She said I wouldn't need any and brought only a tiny portion. I requested a bit more. But dammit, she ended up being right, it didn't need even one drop! Dear reader, human language cannot express the beauty and warmth that I felt as this soft, velvety French toast entered my mouth. The bread tasted like they'd made it from scratch--thick, supple, & mildly sweet. I don't even care for cherries generally, but these macerated beauties were absolutely gorgeous, not too tart or bold, just right. And that glorious cream with the essence of lime and pink peppercorn--I remember sneering to myself that pink peppercorn on whipped cream was just a play for indie street cred, but upon tasting it, I repented in sackcloth and ashes--this flavor, along with the lime, defined the dish and changed my life. ***JOWL BACON Don't get me wrong, it was really solid bacon, but it tasted just like, errr, bacon. It's my belief that the jowls of this animal are best celebrated in ramen, which preserves the golden essence of this cut. ***BURRITO SUIZO - Buckwheat Crêpe, Braised Beef, Tomato Crema, Jardinière, Smoked Gouda, Sunnyside Egg I'm generally not a big fan of breakfast burritos, and this dish (which my sister ordered) didn't sound very appealing whatsoever. But when she offered me a bite, I quickly repented of my hasty judgment--the beef was tender enough to cut with a spoon, incredibly savory and a bit tangy. And that smoked Gouda, oh sweet divine--it felt almost like Emmentaler in this presentation. I found myself begging for bite after bite, and it's not like my dish wasn't the best ever. ALL IN ALL: These two dishes, one sweet and one savory, were the perfect balance for the perfect brunch. I'm trying to wrap my head around the negative reviews here--usually I'm usually the one to play the heel. Yet, righteousness will prevail, and JAM will expand to fill the universe.
(5)Mikey R.
If you're looking for a standard American Breakfast with eggs, bacon and a pile of hash browns for $6.99 this place is NOT for you. This place is not a greasy spoon diner, their culinary creativity is far beyond that. I had the omelette with Spanish chorizo topped with anchovies...it was AWESOME! Incredible service, our server was on point and very friendly. My brother and I posted up on our computers after our meal and our server continuously checked in and refilled our drinks. Cool modern interior, I like that the kitchen is visible from the dining area and you can see the food as it is expo'd to the table. Will definitely be back!
(5)Girish J.
Brunch like a boss at this friendly neighborhood spot. The brunch has a gourmet twist and the service is warm, a little unusual for ultra hip Logan Square. You have a lot classics like eggs bene, but all in all the menu runs a little sweet (lemon curd pancakes are dangerously close to delicious cake).
(5)Tina G.
Food and service was excellent. Atmosphere relaxed, clean, upscale neighborhood breakfast.
(5)Alycia P.
This place is fantastic. Decor is modern and sunny, and the servers were attentive and knowledgeable. I had their special of the day, which was a cheese-stuffed waffle covered with sauteed mushrooms, two beef patties, more cheese, and a creamy ancho chili sauce. There was also a pickled onion and frisee salad on the side, which was the perfect fresh counterbalance to all the savory heartiness of the waffle. Perfect serving size - not gigantic, but definitely enough to fill me up. I also had a cocktail with gin, lavender liqueur, champagne, and blueberries. Refreshing and boozy! One of my brunch companions ordered a bloody mary, which was unfortunately pretty mediocre. Skip those and go for the specialty cocktails. This is a small restaurant, so you're looking at a 20-40 min wait on the weekends. 100% worth it.
(5)Shaza O.
Jam was jammin. I'm often hesitant to venture as far as Logan Square on a hungover Sunday (I live in Ukie Village) but was certainly not disappointed on this trip. Was hungry (that's a given) and as was my boyfriend (he's usually hungrier than me) so we ordered the soup of the day, pork and egg breakfast sandwich along with a delicious smoked salmon dish with potato leek cakes. All of this was simply divine. The coffee and casual bloody mary with a casual Schlitz beer back were also just what the doctor ordered. Not cheap, per say, but when it comes to the right brunch with the right vibe and all the right tastes, this Logan gem hit our collective spot.
(5)Olga Z.
Nice location, fantastic food, great service and atmosphere! Came here on a trip, ordered the smoked salmon and the custard French toast (best French toast I ever had). The dishes were well put together and very tasty. Will definitely visit again next time I'm in town.
(5)Alexander Z.
First off the Jam Burger is amazing and is a strong rival to Au Chavel's (minus the thick cut bacon). They do that whole double patty thing I'll never get as I'm usually a 1 patty, super rare kind of burger eater. That being said, the burgers were incredibly juicy and visibly medium rare. Having eaten this twice now, I can say it's simplicity & freshness make it one of my favorite Chicago burgers. Not to mention the fried egg on top visually is rivaled only by Little Goat. On my second visit I ordered essentially a burrito suizo. It was much smaller than I expected but then again this is fancy food so I wasn't too surprised. It was also exceptionally tasty, although i felt it needed some more spice kick. My only real complaint was the bacon maple Manhattan. It was super heavy on maple syrup and tasted good but was sweet. That being said, it has nothing on The Southern's maple bacon bourbon Manhattan's dry bacon-centric taste. The ambiance is pretty cool here and one of my favorite spots. It's this mix of suble yet high fashion simplicity that I really enjoy. Overall, I love this place for brunch (only ever been), and would definitely recommend going during the summer to eat outside.
(4)Gloria Z.
I don't understand why Jam's rating is so low - both of my experiences were phenomenal! The first time I went, it was over the summer. My friend from school was visiting for the weekend, and after much deliberation between Jam and Lula's we decided to go to Jam. They had opened up their patio, so even though we were technically sitting indoors, the fresh breeze and summer lightheartedness of Logan Square still put a smile on our faces (as cheesy as that sounds). My friend ordered the chicken and waffles, I ordered the quiche, and we split a half order of the french toast. I still rave about that quiche to all my friends when the topic of brunch comes up! The bagel chips added crunch to the otherwise soft quiche, and the bits of trout added the perfect amount of flavor to the dish. Jam's quiche is by far the tastiest quiche I've ever had. We were similarly pleased by the french toast - the custard was perfectly creamy and the entire thing just exploded in our mouths. We raved about our food for pretty much the remainder of the meal! The next time I went, it was with a few more friends from school and everyone was highly complimentary of my decision to go here. I wish I could take the credit, but it was all Jam's for making such delicious brunch!
(5)Emilie W.
Hands down, my favorite breakfast place in Logan Square. Fantastic food, classy vibe, great service. This is the first place I bring all of my guests who visit from out of town!
(5)Noel R.
Jam is definitely towards the top of my favorite brunch spots. I've been here several times and have always ordered a different item. The eggs benedict is a good choice if you find yourself on the struggle bus when deciding. Not once was I ever disappointed with regards to food. There was one occasion where I was absolutely mortified by a drink... sadly I don't recall what it was so I can't warn you to stay away from it. Service has always been outstanding. Brandon has been simply amazing and consistent with each time I've had him as a waiter. Polite, charming, very knowledgeable and on point with everything on the menu. A good sport as well... particularly when my friend's mother's friend (Southern California housewife) became a bit aggressively friendly over the course of our brunch last summer. Errr... these things happen? I have never had a terribly long wait but maybe I've just been lucky? I would still play it safe or prepare myself to wait on weekends.
(5)Faye Z.
Thank you, Chicago, for a brunch place that doesn't make you wait a million years in line. Came here at 10:30 on Saturday and were quickly seated. Nice location, friendly servers, good food. Will come again. Here's we had: BOSTON CREAM DONUT (5/5) - I kid you knot, a finer donut will never grace your lips. Heavenly fluffy dough, filled with a perfectly light cream filling that is subtle and not too sweet. You can eat that filling straight with a spoon it's so good and light. Poached egg whties with chive spätzle, mustard jam, almond-beet emulsion, swiss chard (5/5) - Amazing. Colorful, bright-tasting, light but still satisfying. Breakfast that leaves you feeling good inside, because let's be honest, you skipped your morning run and just can't justify dessert for breakfast. Malted custard french toast with macerated cherries, lime leaf cream, pink peppercorns (4/5) - The weakest part of this was actually the bread itself. The cherries were good, the lime leaf cream was phenomenal, but the middle part of the bread was slightly too soft with richness/butter. Maybe that's just me - I'm more of a savory breakfast kinda gal.
(5)Jim M.
Visually a very pleasant space. The food was inventive, I had a salmon dish with some kind of tea sauce but overall execution was only a bit above average with prices that are not. I would probably give Jam another try but I'm not rushing back.
(3)Jessica K.
This place is fantastic. Service: very friendly, accommodating. Location: easy to get to from the blue line! Atmosphere: impeccably decorated and gorgeous natural light. Coffee & Tea were both so good. Best cup of coffee I've had at a restaurant in a long time. Hubby got the pork belly breakfast sandwich & finger potatoes. The meat was so tender and everything was cooked perfectly. The flavor of the meat was fantastic- not terribly spicy but very flavorful. I got the omelette with chorizo and it tasted so so good. Came with grilled cornbread. Definitely recommend.
(5)Cristie F.
If there could only be one brunch place I could go to for the rest of my life, it would be JAM. This little Logan Square nook gets 2 thumbs up, 5 stars, 7 cartwheels, and an endless amount of kudos. This is brunch done right. Food & Drinks: Generally, this is the number one thing I come to a restaurant for (obviously). When it comes to brunch, I come for egg whites. Not only does JAM deliver on having egg whites, they take them to a whole new level. Between the some form of poaching, chive spätzle with kale, and almond-beet emulsion - I'll never look at your standard "veggie egg white omelet" again. It's truly a dish to die for. Let's also talk about the jowl bacon. I'm not a bacon kind of girl (shocking, I know) - but there are no words for the smokey, tender chunks of pig jowl. Get three orders. Hell, get 4. It's that good. Other rave worthy items: chicken & waffles, bacon sausage, eggs benedict, and the quiche. Oh - and let's not forget the Bloody Marys - also worth ordering. Service: Fast, friendly, knowledgeable, and willing to re-run your check after one more...and then one more...and then one more round of drinks. With no complaints. I always love a restaurant that brings an amuse bouche as well - especially for brunch...think mini pastries.... Overall - Solid 5 stars.
(5)Monica R.
I've been to Jam maybe four or five times in the past five or so years. I'm always pleased with the service, the free bakery item, the beermosas, and the food. The chicken and waffles are especially delicious and the recipe is always changing, making for a fun experience each time. I only rate Jam 4 stars because it's pretty pricey. I think I've spent around 100 dollars (including tip) on breakfast for two here- but keeping in mind that we each had two beermosas which surely skyrocketed the price.
(4)James T.
Great place for brunch! The chicken and waffles are amazing. I also love the french toast and the burrito! This is far from diner style brunch. Clean, artistic and thoughtful presentaion. Enjoy.
(5)Liliana G.
I been here twice and it gets better each time. Egg Benedicts (wow) French Toast (Amazing) you have to try them I'm addicted to their coffee
(4)Arvind P.
A different kind of brunch. This restaurant was Michelin rated. Food was top notch and I really don't understand why its rated 3.5 on yelp!
(5)Clarissa B.
One of my favorite places to go for breakfast or brunch! Grew up around here and it was always my place to go. Love Jam and the food!
(5)Justin B.
I've been sitting on how to best describe JAM to the masses now that I've had two days to think about it, so here's what I'll go with: If you are a foodie, you'll love everything about JAM, and you'll love being able to tell your friends about the macerated fruit, the ____-____ emulsions and the tasting items before your meal. And you won't mind paying $12 for an omelette. If you just like to eat breakfast, don't go to JAM, because the food will be mostly inaccessible to you. You'll notice the fact that your food is served lukewarm (intentionally, from all that I can tell), and be unhappy about that, because at the diners you normally hit for breakfast, hotcakes are served hot, etc. But if you are with friends who are foodies, order the French toast, because it is exceptional no matter how high-end your tastes are. Our server was great, and was kind to explain to me the three or four terms on the menu that I had never seen before (note: I've been to 300+ restaurants since moving to Chicago 19 months ago, so this is saying something). The space is nice and if you go at 9 AM on a Saturday, you can walk right in. But the food--the Funfetti tasting item, the omelette, the bacon sausage, the eggs benedict--was mostly okay to the three of us, but none of us are foodies in the traditional sense. But the six-star French toast was so good (did that as an appetizer) that I'm willing to give JAM four stars.
(4)Jaime G.
Good coffee and service. Decent breakfast and specials. I had the irish breakfast while i was there it was it tasty...but in true irish fashion, i was a bit bland. My wife had eggs and toast and she was pleased with it but nothing special.
(4)Sheena D.
Excellent and friendly service. I had the famous custard french toast and my husband had the breakfast sandwich - both were delicious! Great atmosphere and great coffee
(4)Meredith A.
Yum yum yum!.this place is yum! I started going to jam when they were on damen and armitage the food was fantastic! When they moved to Logan Square I was apprehensive...but they do not dissapoint! The quality is the same if not better. Thank you Jam for being such a wonderful brunch spot. Your food is rockin.
(5)Kat L.
If you need cash, they have a very futuristic ATM in the back that only charges $1. I had brunch here on a weekday with a foodie friend while visiting Chicago from Seattle. We got a seat right away and the waiter was so nice. He asked my opinion on their coffee compared to what I can get in Seattle. I personally thought their coffee was great -- he then informed me it was a personalized blend from Metropolitan. A+! My friend and I shared a half plate of their French Toast and I got the eggs benedict. Their maple bacon sausage is probably the most delicious sausage I have ever ate in my life! They also make perfect poached eggs! But in the end -- it's all fancy schmancy breakfast. The culinary creativity was great and fun. But if you just want a normal breakfast covered in maple syurp, this is not the place for you.
(4)Emily J.
Short version: overpriced brunch with service that leaves something to be desired. I went here on Sunday afternoon with my boyfriend. We got to JAM around noon and when we walked in I immediately noticed there were empty tables. Nevertheless, I was told there was a 30 minute wait and to check back in about 20 minutes. I figured maybe they were saving tables for a larger party and that's why there was a wait with empty tables in plain sight. We returned in 20 minutes and tables were still empty. We noticed there were empty seats on the patio and when I asked if we could be seated outside I was told that we couldn't because JAM "needs to save those seats for larger parties." Ok. (When we left we saw two parties of two sitting out on the patio at the table we had asked about. I have no idea why they lied to us and refused to seat us outside). Our server told us the restaurant is known for its malted custard french toast so we ordered a slice to share and we both got the breakfast burrito. The french toast was nothing special and was fairly unremarkable. I have no idea how this is a famous dish. You would be better off going to M. Henry or Bongo Room for a dessert brunch treat. The burritos were also unremarkable. I've had better at Bongo Room and The Boundary-- at a cheaper price point. The only thing that really stood out was the cocktail we both ordered: it was called a Lunchbox and was beer, fresh OJ and some Disarono. It was the highlight of an otherwise expensive, ho hum brunch. The service was slow. It wasn't terrible, just frustrating to see our drinks sitting out at the bar and our server chatting and not taking them to us after several minutes. I sort of regret tipping 20%. I am really surprised this place got a Bib Gourmand designation from the Michelin guide and I will less surprised once it gets taken off for the 2015 guide.
(2)Jackie D.
This place was absolutely delicious, but be prepared to wait. It's fairly small, with only 15 or so tables in the whole place. The waitstaff managed the rush pretty well with us, but there were some other tables that had to wait a while to order/get drinks/etc. Once we were seated, I ordered a bloody mary, as I normally do if offered, and it wasn't my favorite. Reasonably priced but one of the garnishes (I forget what it was) was smoked, and it overpowered the entire drink. Fortunately, when our food arrived, it more than made up for my cocktail. There was a chicken and waffle special posted on the board that day and the more I saw it while we were waiting for our table, the more I had to have it - and boy was it worth the wait. I believe the waffle was lemon thyme flavored, and then the chicken thigh was perfectly fried, moist and delicious. THEN its all topped off with this absolutely fabulous syrup. SO WONDERFUL. My sister had pancakes that were also delicious and then tried the bacon of the day which I strongly suggest trying. Jam is definitely a cute little place with really tasty food, but I would suggest getting there VERY early and steering clear of the Bloody Mary.
(4)Emma G.
Jam's menu is somewhat pretentious with pretty basic ingredients. I found some items are a bit of too much trying to come together all for one dish. I have the lemon pancakes with vanilla marshmallow fluffs and blueberry sauce. It was delicious but not quite worth the price for something pretty simple. My menu options were limited since i don't eat beef or pork and I'm sure other menu items are just as delicious but maybe upscale service from upscale prices and ambiance would make me a more happy customer. Server was friendly and helpful when assisting with the complicated menu items but lacked luster when it came to making us feel welcome to come back again. We were dressed nice and didn't ask for any special accommodations. Might try again only if someone wanted to go for their first time.
(3)Patrick R.
I've been here twice and I had the same thing. The French toast and the jowl bacon. Best French toast I've ever had and the best bacon as well. I may never get a chance to try their other food since I don't know that I can turn down these items. Portion size of the French toast is perfect. If they gave me more I would probably eat myself sick by stuffing my face with it's deliciousness going past full to food coma stuffed.
(5)Angie K.
Recently moving to Logan Square, I jumped at the first opportunity I could to visit the highly-rated Jam. I brought along my hubby, recently transplanted friend (from miami, she crazy like me) and her date. I always try to pick an exceptionally good spot when I have a crowd and I knew I'd be getting praised for this one. We went for Sunday brunch and got there around noon. We were quoted a 30 minute wait, which was another reason why I picked this and not another popular place around the corner with hour-long waits *cough*. Precisely 31 minutes after, we were prompted to take a seat. The restaurant was really cute, with a minimalist, modern feel. The sleek, simplistic decor gave it an extra trendy feel. The patrons varied from couples, to big groups of BYOBers to parents sippin' bloody maries while holding their infants, your typical Logan Square mixture of peeps. Our server approached us and right from the start was amazing. Even though we knew he was probably up to his ears with guests, he made it seem like we were the most important priority at the moment. After ordering coffees, we were brought amuse brouche, essentially mini brownies sent from the pastry gods. These little bites leave you needing (more like fiending) a sweet meal after, so I was thrilled when my friend ordered the pumpkin pancakes (a seasonal item, score!). I ordered the smoked salmon as did her date and my hubby ordered the burrito suizo. When our food arrived, I noticed the silverware was the exact one I had in my house! I knew i had good taste when I picked that out ;). Anyway, the food was amazing. My salmon was perfect, and I'm exceptionally picky about smoked salmon as I've been traumatized with freezing fish before. The pumpkin pancakes were divine. They're now in my top 5 pancakes in the city. OMG, I need them in my life on a regular basis. My only gripe was my hubby's suizo. He said felt the meat was a little fatty, but in Jam's defense, he has been on a mostly-vegetarian diet and his belly may have not been used to such a big, meaty dish. At this time, there were still a lot of other people waiting to be seated, so after we enjoyed our yummy meals, we got out to let another group have a seat. Thanks for making me love my new 'hood even more, Jam. I will be back!
(4)Lisa H.
JAM is another hyped up brunch spot that I had to go try out and decide for myself. It is located in Logan Square, so looking for parking will require some patience. The restaurant itself is a little difficult to find because there isn't much signage. Just look for the big white building with some green accent. Upon entering through the glass doors on a Sunday afternoon, my party of three was seated promptly. Score! No waiting. The service here was one of the worst I had experience in a while. Our waiter came by shortly after we sat down to take drink orders. The table all just took water, but I ordered coffee with soy milk. I don't know where they were getting this coffee from, but I didn't receive my cup of coffee until 15-20 minutes later. Upon receiving the cup of coffee, I never received the soy milk or sugar. 10 minutes later, I finally received my soy milk without any sugar. Had to wait again for another couple of minutes for the sugar. Great! Now my coffee is cold. In between this whole entire process with my coffee, our waiter never came by to take our food order. We flagged him down a couple of times and he kept telling us he'll be with us in a moment. Finally, after almost 40 minutes, he came back to take our order. I ordered the egg sandwich. It came with pork shoulder, ricotta salata, and plum preserves on French bollo bread. It also was accompanied with some roasted fingerling potatoes. They didn't go cheap with the pork and it was really tender, but the sandwich itself was lacking flavor and dry. Overall, JAM was a huge disappointment. I expected more from the famous Chef Jeffrey Mauro (formerly of Charlie Trotter and North Pond.) The presentation of each dish was stunning, but the food wasn't on par. The service lacked even more. Definitely steer clear of this place unless you just want some mediocre food and horrible service.
(1)Matthew M.
Cold food, undercooked egg whites and no adjustment on the check. Disappointed and still hungry :(
(2)Ashley R.
The Chicken and Waffles special is amazing. Best Bacon I have ever had in my life! Also love the breakfast sandwich :) Soooo yummy!
(5)Andrea S.
Decided to give Jam another try. My fiance works 3rd shift and it's the only place in the neighborhood where we can get breakfast and he can get a beer at 7:00a.m. I don't think there's actually been other customers at the time we go. I feel like 2 out of the last 3 times we've been, their credit card machine wasn't working so we needed to get cash. I've been ordering the egg whites, which are pretty good. I really like the bacon and bacon sausage.
(4)Maria A.
Excellent brunch spot with a beautiful sun-filled front room, best area to snag a table if you can. Recommend getting a half order of their acclaimed french toast to share and a savory dish. Normally I don't go sweet at brunch but their french toast was light and interesting enough that it was worth it. Great little neighborhood spot that is better than Lula's in my opinion and with the open kitchen you can see the love the chefs are putting into their creations.
(5)Jason W.
Well, this is one of those super fancy, tiny portion, food places with a dirty hipster twist. Some people like that, but it's not my cup of tea. It's the kind of place you bring a trendy brunch loving hipster girl to, but not the place you should go when you're actually hungry. The food was good, but the overall ambiance, portions and price will not bring me back. And be careful about going on hot days. No Air conditioning will not make that much fun.
(2)Alia K.
I'm not feeling the love for Jam and neither was the rest of my table. Our food was under-seasoned and boring. If a place bills itself as a more eclectic menu, I'd expect the food to actually taste... well, yeah, just "actually taste" would be great. Go elsewhere.
(2)Mercedes S.
It only took a second date to be introduced to this fabulous place. I was suggested the chicken and waffles by the young lady taking our order. I have never had the combination and was instantly intrigued. I ordered it and it was delicious. We did get a mini chocolate muffin, which made me giggle because it looked like it must have shrunk in the oven. The free pastry touch is actual really nice. The coffee was constantly being refilled which was great since we are both heavy coffee consumers. The gentleman friend is a chef himself so it was quite a treat when he said he highly recommended the place. The gentleman friend ordered the smoked salmon, which I also tried a bite of. I think that was just not for me as I didn't find it as yummy as my chicken and waffles. But he was very pleased with his breakfast. Service was fast, pleasant, and the food came pretty quick and warm. Parking is not the best but I managed to find a spot right outside the restaurant. After sitting there for a while chatting away we left to make room for the people that started arriving. It did get pretty busy after around 11:30-12ish. Hope you enjoy your experience. I would definitely come again.
(5)Peter H.
Our waitress was super friendly and helpful, but never mentioned the special that was written on the wall that we had no idea existed, I may've actually ordered it. She did recommend that we try this -- Malted Custard French Toast -Macerated Cherries, Lime Leaf Cream, Pink Peppercorns It was SPECTACULAR. My girlfriend got the egg whites dish -Sweet Potato Buckwheat Crepe, Kohlrabi, Manchego, Hazelnuts It looked very pretty, she didn't seem blown away by it, but said she enjoyed it. I had an Omellete with chorizo and roasted red peppers...was pretty good. It's not the most extensive brunch menu, but we enjoyed ourselves nonetheless. Very nice modern vibe in there, friendly staff, good service. They serve metropolis coffee. We agreed we would like to go there for dinner sometime and try some other stuff.
(4)Jane K.
LOVED this place! A group of us came here on a Sunday morning for some brunch and had a great experience =) There was a group of 8 of us and they were able to seat us right away (thank god) I had ordered they pork-belly egg Benedict (drooling). The presentation of the food was great, made me feel like I was at a 5 star rest. the pork-belly was cooked to perfection. My boyfriend ordered they french toast and it was delicious. I would love to come back here again and bring some new friends.. Def recommend this place =)
(4)Joel M.
Solid breakfast spot in Logan Square. Pros: - The building/space is incredibly well designed and decorated - The menu goes way beyond your typical breakfast fare - The coffee is delicious and strong Cons - The wait can be super long during busy times - The service is not great (we waited 20 minutes to get menus) - The servings are pretty small for the price Overall, I would check the place out for the food and ambiance but don't expect it to completely blow you away.
(3)Bri B.
They're pretty good. I think they can put a higher end twist on things that I don't particularly care for, but I'd go back. I've been twice already. The first time I ordered a soup and sausage. I'm glad I got the sausage to pair with the soup because it was a bit too sweet, but together, I enjoyed it. When I went back, we actually ordered off the kids menu. We got the french toast sticks, grilled cheese sandwich, and pancakes. All was very good. I thought for a kids menu grilled cheese, again, it was a bit over the top for a simple kid's meal, but I could eat it. However, those french toast sticks...now if I could rate food alone, those would get a 5 star rating. I don't know why, but they were perfectly crunchy on the outside and so moist and gooey on the inside, I just felt like I was in french toast stick heaven! They should take that fancy french toast off the menu of adults and make an adult order of those!!! I'll take those with a side of more ANY DAY!
(3)A R.
11:00am on a Saturday and an hour wait. That just means it's probably really good so we stuck it out. It took a little while for our server to come to us but once things got going, we had our bloody mary's in no time. Speaking of which, they were...meh. Average. But the food, was quite delish. We split a half order of malted custard french toast. That was pretty good. I got the vegetable melt (incredible!) and my friend got the scallops special. Everything (minus the average bloodies) was tasty and I might go back if I'm in the neighborhood.
(4)Tiffany K.
If you are looking for a good brunch spot, skip this spot. Everything here just doesn't work. I ordered a burger and my bf ordered the omelette. Both dishes were too heavy and poorly executed. It was also not worth the almost one hour wait. We went out on a limb because we had never tried this spot before, and we were very disappointed by the food. I get what they are trying to do in theory but the execution is not there. Also, the tables are crammed together and I can hear every conversation around me but mine. Not for me.
(1)Jacaqui B.
Absolutely love this place! Look at my tip thank you again Jeff(the chef) Joanne and Marybeth Excellent service and food try the French toast
(5)Emily H.
The restaurant decor is beautiful, classy and modern, and also apparently acoustically sculpted to blast at the front door like a megaphone. As you walk in, the sheer violent volume of the place is enough to knock you off your feet. Holy guacamole! That aside, everything is more than edible. I cannot attest to understand why every modern restaurant has this obsessive need to use arugula and ONLY arugula has their plate greens, but it worked well enough with the Eggs Benedict smeared with beet hollandaise sauce. My plate looked like an abstract murder scene of beet and yolk by the end. The small slivers of hand-cut, home-smoked bacon were scintillating, but the Guisado Verde was writing flavor checks that its actual taste could not cash. I liked how the kitchen was open to the eye, and as I watched the chefs stomp around and manage the breakfast rush, I made up names and personalities for them all. Grumps, the big Papa-looking guy seemed continually upset at their French Toast offering. But he had a heart of gold deep down, and wielded his caramelizing torch like a gentle giant.
(3)Laurice M.
Love this place! I think it's the perfect brunch place for my husband and I. We ordered 4 different entrees: the pancakes, french toast, eggs benedict, and the burger. Everything was delicious! The portions were just right, the servers were attentive, and we didn't have to wait to be seated. We'll definitely be back!
(5)Karen T.
Logan Square isn't a normal haunt for me, but I'm glad I made the trek out to brunch with some friends a weekend ago. We sauntered in around 12:15 and landed the last open 4-top without a problem on a Saturday morning, though we did see a bit of a line pick up after that. Jam's decor is both whimsical and welcoming. Think CB2 meets a Pier 1. Service was average. A man taking our drink orders mistakenly brought me coffee after I said "just water" twice, but the confusion was settled quickly and I wasn't charged for a drink I didn't order, so it wasn't a big deal. Now for the best part: the food. The amuse of a biscotti with homemade apricot jam whetted our appetites. A guisado verde of pork, sunny-side egg and corn risotto with tomato crema was a delight to my gluttonous belly. I tried my friends' dishes too - a beef hash was an extremely generous portion of meat and the vegetarian biscuits and gravy made from oyster mushrooms was savory and delicious. Even the day's special, a venison omelette, was cooked to perfection and tasted great. All in all, a solid choice at a reasonable price point. I wouldn't wait in line for a table here when there's so many great brunch spots in this culinary mecca, but I'd certainly be up for a repeat trip.
(4)January S.
Came here for my birthday brunch and loved it! I got the eggs Benedict, which was delicious. Bloody Mary's are tasty...I also had this champagne drink with lavender in it (forgot the name) but it was unforgettable! My husband had their Scotch Egg and it was really good as well. Love this little spot!
(4)Fitzgerald B.
The food is fantastic--the french toast is my absolute favorite. I only wish they took reservations. That fact keeps it from getting the coveted fifth star.
(4)Esther K.
The wait for four (though it ended up being three) on Easter Sunday at about noon was 30minutes, which I didn't think was bad at all. Our server was attentive (constantly stopping by to refill our glasses with our BYOB champagne), and I thought the interior was very nice. My friends and I shared the french toast, jamburger, and guisado verde with braised beef for a taste of both savory and sweet. My piece of french toast was unfortunately very soggy, which is a pet peeve of mine, especially when I'm dining out. The combination of the cherries and cream was delicious, however.The jamburger was the highlight- beautiful presentation and a burst of flavor, and the fries were super tasty as well. In the 5 minutes that the guisado verde sat on our table it became cold, which was really unfortunate. It makes me wonder if it was warm enough to begin with. The beef, however, was extremely tender. As it's been said (over and over again), cash only makes no sense to me. The food was good enough that I wouldn't mind coming back if I was in the area, but not good enough that I would purposely make a point of returning.
(3)Cassandra M.
Here for a private party on Saturday night. Delicious sliders, mini chicken sandwiches, pulled pork sliders. Lots of yummy apps, creative cocktails. Cool, fun space!!
(4)Sean A.
Amazing menu, execution and staff. Brandon Lee is one of the most consistently friendly and helpful servers in the city and he is one of the main reasons I love spending my time and money at Jam. Not to mention the Amuse is usually to die for and the tasting menus are fantastic.
(5)Andy M.
Pancakes at 6 p.m. on a Friday night. Can I get an Amen!!! This place is quirky but a lot of fun. Jam tries to bill itself as a typical diner, but it's a lot more than that. It's a cozy little eatery that's perfect for a casual, relaxing dining experience. The first thing our server says to us is that breakfast is still available. Well, you don't have to ask me twice. I jumped on the Breakfast train and ordered a heaping, hot stack of flapjacks. Not a bad way to start the weekend. Here's the bottom line: Jam is quirky, eclectic and fun. It fits in with the surrounding neighborhood perfectly. I wouldn't necessarily call it five star dining, but I enjoyed myself. If you are looking for something out of the ordinary, give this place a try.
(4)Racheal C.
Amazing coffee, food and service!
(5)CatwomanRoar M.
Let me preface this with... I believe in this place! I plan on going back & trying dinner. The menu sounded pretty amazing. Brunch... C Got the Egg & pulled pork breakfast sandwich & side salad (instead of the potatoes). Besides being bland... I am a texture girl. Part of good "flavor", is good texture. This was a mushy mess. Decor/Ambiance... B Not quite sure why so many are drinking the haterade on this. It's not awful. It's style is similar to most of the post-food network craze that has hit has major cities by storm. Trendy, minimalist but somehow ornate.... Wait staff was nice enough, service not quick, but not slow & nice patio. Pretty typical for restaurants in the Logan Sq area.... We got there at 10 am waited about 10 min? Not too shabby for a popular Sunday brunch haunt. p.s. they accept Credit Cards now.
(3)Joel W.
Great outdoor seating, Tuesdays is no waffles but they have a tasting menu French toast is essential for me, every time. Mary Beth was great.
(4)Tommy W.
I went here with friends for brunch and had a great time. It's very hard to see, the sign is really small, but it's very good. We are from out of town and our waiter was very friendly and helpful. He talked us through the menu and gave us A LOT of great suggestions for other places to eat on our trip. He get could get this place five stars on his own. The food was really good too. They give you a small mini apple spice muffin with butter cream to start which is really cool of them and tasted great. I had the French toast which could not have been more fluffier and my wife had the chicken and waffles which was also really good along with the jowl bacon which was also really good, though mine was beyond burnt. All-in-all, I loved this place. Really good food and great service. It's worth the trip out from downtown to go to this place.
(5)Matthew C.
I've since been here twice and the food was better and the service was markedly better. Glad they improved things.
(4)Janel S.
I've lived in Logan for 5 years and I am mad I haven't been to this place before today. Loved the ambiance. Lots of other reviews I saw subtracted points for the layout and the tight seating, that should not be a factor when reviewing. Sorry, I've been in the service and food industry for the majority of my life and it has nothing to do with quality of service and food. These guys went above and beyond to provide good food and fantastic service. They did well with the layout the building provided. The open kitchen was charming and had a great ebb & flow for production and service. Everything was clean and perfectly executed. I couldn't have been happier with my meal. I just wished I had a bigger appetite to taste more! Not enough breakfast places in Chicago have an emphasis on the waffle so kudos on the daily waffle selection. Service time! Our waiter was awesome! Attentive, without being over bearing. Answered all the questions I had about the food. Made suggestions without hard selling. He was one of those people that seemed to genuinely enjoy his job, which is hard to come by. That is really what made the whole experience worthwhile and I will for sure recommend Jam to people looking for rock star brunch places in Chicago!
(5)Emily H.
It's the weekend, so that means: brunch time. I was meeting a friend and we had decided on going to JAM. I'd heard great things, so I mean, why NOT? I arrived there around 11:15am and it was busy, but not incredibly so. However, by the time we left around an hour later, it certainly was jam packed. Now... with all of the hype I'd been hearing I was expecting way more. I ordered the eggs benedict and it was good, but the portion sizing was just entirely too small for $12. I still left hungry after the meal (but maybe that's my own problem... WHO KNOWS). The presentation was beautiful, though so I'll have to give 'em major points there. Our waitress was fine- not too friendly, not too cold. The hostess on the other hand, as frazzled as she was, was constantly laughing and making sure we were comfortable during our short wait. All in all, I tried Jam, but I certainly wouldn't go back any time soon.
(3)Josh N.
The food was excellent... The wait time for the food wasn't so excellent 25 minutes....
(4)Christine K.
Finally got to try JAM! Ordered the eggs benedict, and I feel slightly conflicted. I really appreciated the mini English muffins and the poached eggs, but the sausage a bit too salty for me. I just wish there was some citrus or acidity in the dish to cut the saltiness and richness of the food. While I did enjoy the service here (thanks, Ryan!), I don't think I'd come back a second time. Once is sufficient is all I have to say. I wish I could give this place 3.5 stars, but the service today made me feel generous enough to bump it to 4 stars.
(4)Katie K.
I really enjoyed this breakfast place. I thought the atmosphere and the wait staff were extremely friendly. The coffee was delicious and the juices were made fresh and also good. I recommend carrot and apple, sounds weird, but ya it was good. I had the french toast, a half order, and that was plenty!! So tasty. Yums, I was hesitant at the combination of flavor, but it was really good. My friend got the Scottish Egg which was quite good, I tried a bite. Very flavorful. Overall, I would recommend this place for a solid fancy breakfast joint. (my favorite fancy breakfast joint is still M Henry, however). Oh also, they now accept credit cards which is good because to be charging that high and expect you to pay cash--seemed a little absurd.
(4)Geoffrey E.
A great brunch spot, but a bit bougie. Regardless, this place has THE BEST homemade Bloody Mary mix I've ever had.
(4)Maytee M.
We had our wedding rehearsal dinner at JAM last Thursday February 13th. The food was AMAZING the drinks kept flowing and our families were so happy! We were so grateful to have this wonderful experience at such a beautiful venue. Hands down among the best places in the city to host a private event! M&G
(5)Van D.
Have been here a couple times for brunch. First time food was solid but wait did not justify the food. Came back for brunch this week. French toast was bland, pork belly was dry, and pancakes were really dry. Outdoor patio is nice but seems like food quality is going down hill
(3)mary r.
We tried the tasting menu. $25 you can't beat that. Our food was very fresh . The fish was prepared flawlessly. Dessert amazing. Strawberry Rhubarb yummyness on a buck wheat something topped with basil and creme fraiche. I will definitely go back for another great dinner that won't break the bank. They also have a huge outdoor patio to enjoy this summer.
(5)Jourdan S.
Great burger, fried egg and all that ish. asparagus soup was good too. Sadly there was lipstick on my coffee cup. Don't think they wash em well...Dunno bout you, but I'm not trying to holler at a cold sore via coffee mug. For that you ought to get at least a mean blowie and a steak dinner.
(4)Greco R.
Daring, creative, fun, but most importantly, good tasting. I ordered an egg white omelette, that I think had papaya and a quite tasty sauce, which I think had crushed macadamia. Had a freshly made scone for dessert, which was wonderful. The kitchen and dining area essentially share the same room, which makes for an unusual, but quite pleasant intimacy. Very great brunch offering. Got there around 10am and beat the rush. Be careful with the coffee. It is good, but they take bottomless quite literally and keep pouring and pouring. You'll get 6 cups down without thinking and will be walking around still all day, trying to find public restrooms.
(4)Paul M.
Went in for just some breakfast, turned out it was tasting Tuesday. it was such a greta experience. food was great. service was great. defiantly go on Tuesdays. cant wait to try the jam burger.
(5)Megan T.
I came at the beginning of July on National Donut Day and we were given samples of the BEST red velvet cupcakes. I should have bought 12 and eaten them all day. Oops. Anyway, we came on a Thursday morning and there was zero wait. The service was awesome, the food was amazing, and did I mention there was no wait? We will for sure be back.
(5)Dave T.
Absolutely fantastic. Delightful Eggs Benedict with sweet pea hollandaise. Yum! Can wait to try the lunch menu.
(4)Issy G.
This is a gem. Loved the decor, the atmosphere and best of all the food was fabulous! I went on the lighter side of the menu for brunch. The wedding is coming...but a girl has to eat right? Jam did not miss a beat. The food was healthy, visually appealing and awesome! I had the sweet potato buckwheat crepe (party in my mouth!), a kohlrabi salad w/ hazelnuts, and egg whites. It was filling and it was delish...did I say that already? I can not wait to try the other stuff! The downside; parking around there bites... 60 max seating so expect a wait...
(4)Bre F.
The food is amazing. The staff, not so much. Our waiter was very knowledgeable about the menu. He knew his stuff. He gave us awesome recommendations, and was funny. But it took him 20 minutes to even greet us, and I think we saw him 2 other times the entire meal. It really just seems like there is a nonchalant-ness to everything and everyone that works here. (I'll excuse the kitchen, there was a bit of a wait to sit down so I'm sure they were getting their butts kicked back there.) But everyone else, just sorta there. Hanging out. Not really moving at even a semi-fast pace. But besides that. Kudos to the chef! I can only really comment on my dish, the french toast. YUM. This was probably the first time I can remember liking french toast without some sort of syrup. Just macerated cherries, a citrus creme, and pink peppercorns. And I don't really like cherries. But this was so good. I'm sure if we had brought some booze it would have made the time go by quicker, and maybe if we had gotten a scone or something to wait with. But, over all this was pretty effing good.
(4)Megan R.
I went to Jam on Sunday for brunch with some friends. I called ahead to learn they don't take reservations - they told me it would be a 30 minute wait, but we sat down right away! Loved the way they managed my expectations. The food was delicious, portions were a little small, but I usually expect hefty portions for brunch and come hungry. I had their eggs benedict and was not at all disappointed. Beautiful instagram-worthy presentation and they incorporated inventive ingredients like pomegranate seeds which were a refreshing pop of flavor. The wait staff was extremely friendly, the entire establishment was beautifully decorated and very clean. I definitely want to go back and try other menu items!
(4)Leilo P.
Jam is hidden in Logan Square. When you finally find parking on Milwaukee and walk inside you are pleasantly surprised at the décor. The décor is impressive whoever you are! BUT this place is TINY! I suggest getting there around 10:00 a.m. because the rush seems to start right before 11:00 am when they start their lunch menu. HIGHLIGHTS: The service was superb, we had several waiters helping us and we never had to ask twice for anything. Their Apple Pie is shut-up-omg-delicious. By far, hands down, the best apple pie I've ever eaten. The Egg White was different than any other egg whites I usually get. These were poached artistically and the brussel sprouts had that nice char I love. DOWNFALLS: Their Bloody Mary is not worth ordering. It had a gross mussel, smelled funky and was more like a tomato smoothie than a Bloody Mary. The Ham Serrano was a bit of a bizarre dish to include on the brunch menu. It is similar to what you might get at a tapas restaurant but without cheese or other meats it was a 'random' menu item. Overall, Jam is a cute spot, but I tried it and I don't think I would go back. There was nothing mind blowing about the food. I hate to say this, but when you have Lula's within walking distance you have to try a little harder.
(3)Erica J.
I used to go to the other Jam location when I lived in Ukrainian Village and was pleasantly surprised that nearly two years later a new location had opened in Logan Square. The decor reminds me very much of the other location; a bit minimalist with lime green and natural wood accenting a fresh, white space. The food isn't overly complicated, but it is a departure from your normal hangover-brunch. You won't find plates overflowing with huge portions here, but you will find well-proportioned, creative options, such as poached pillows of egg whites seated atop a smear of sweet potato purree, with roasted sweet potato, frissee salad, and hazelnuts, or creamy oatmeal with a house-made cranberry chutney. The coffee is good, and they serve various fresh-squeezed juices.
(4)Helena G.
I would give 5 star to this place if it accepted cards. It's very frustrating and annoying when a "fancy" place like this one doesn't accept cards, it doesn't make any sense! The food is great, very creative and well done. As amuse bouche we had a delicious banana cake. We shared eggs Benedict and a full French toast. The eggs benedict came in a large plate with 2 lines of sauce, 2 small muffins with the eggs, some pork belly and beets. The mix of flavors was super interesting and delicious. The French toast had lime leaf cream and pink peppercorns. It was terrific! I loved the decor and the staff was very nice.
(4)Meridith E.
I had been waiting to get to Jam for the longest time and was so happy to make it yesterday for brunch. I loved the al fresco dining and the inside seating was modern and chic. Very cute. My friend and I sat outside and decided to share a couple of things. The zucchini pancakes were AMAZING. It is the perfect serving size...2 "normal" sized pancakes...and has a delicious run raisin topping with bruleed marshmallow topping with candied walnuts. SERIOUSLY? Delicious. Our other dish was the egg whites. The eggs and side salad were delicious, but we really didn't care for the cold mashed sweet potato wrap thing that came with it. Just not a good consistancy in my opinion. I think if the wrap were warm and filled with a sweet potato dice, it would have been more appetizing. Would definitely go there again! I am thinking next time I'll try a sandwich. There was a guy inside chowing on one and it looked delicious.
(4)Tyler H.
So I'm hesitant to write this review because I don't want one of my favorite neighborhood brunch spots to become more popular than it is...I love that I can go to a very well appointed, friendly, tasty, and high quality brunch in the Logan/Wicker/Buckton neighborhood on a weekend and not wait for a table...it's INSANE that people aren't all over this place. I actually crave their French Toast...and I don't normally order French Toast when I go to brunch b/c I love eggs...but I always have to at LEAST get the half order. They also have a special that the chef whips up every weekend morning, and it is always unique and great, but runs out when it runs out. I love the decor inside, but I'm shocked that they don't have a huge sign outside to attract people to the restaurant...if you don't come specifically to find it, you won't. A fantastic place to stop by for brunch and take a walk along Logan Blvd.
(4)Drew S.
Nicely played, JAM. I'm not sure if it's an accurate statement but the place feels like IKEA's concept of a dinner, complete with the open kitchen in the dining room. Lately I can't get away from ordering a classic eggs, pancake and fruit combo off the a la carte menu but the menu proper leans towards the interesting and presentation is always on point. Plus they've been accepting credit cards for a while- the future is here!
(5)Kristin F.
I had lunch at Jam this past Tuesday I tried the tasting menu and my friend had the eggs benny. It was the best brunch experience I have ever had. The only way it could have been better is if it was on a island in the Carribean instead of a little off the path in Logan Square. Everything was cooked to perfection and the price was right. I think Stacey h and Jim j would be better off at the ihop around the corner on California Ave. I have never been to a breakfast place were they had such well trained chefs in the kitchen (I heard the head chef was from Trotters?) I loved the open kitchen and the decor. I can not wait to go back!
(5)Melissa P.
Simply the best breakfast place I've been to in Chicago. I had a custard-based french toast with a peppercorn cherry compote. It was sweet, but not enough to be classified as a dessert. The food paired wonderfully with my fresh Chicago-brand Metropolis coffee. That stuff is liquid gold. We had the omelet with cremini mushrooms and sauteed onions. The eggs had a surprising crunch to them. When I think of crunch in an omelet, I often think of eggshells that had gotten carelessly tossed with the batter. Not so with these eggies! I can't put my finger on the taste, but if I were to guess I would say the mysterious crunch is from some form of a crouton. Whatever made the crunch, it was a pleasant surprise. Dessert for brunch, yes please. We shared their delicious apple scone with real chunks of fresh apple and fresh whipped butter. This was a wonderful breakfast and far worth your time to come to on a regular basis even if you don't live in Chicago.
(5)Egg L.
Meh. Cute decor, but this is one of those brunch places that serves what I like to call 'rich anorexic portions'. The waiter was familiar in a kind of obnoxious way - smirking after everyone ordered for a second to himself. The Egg Whites I had ordered were okay - nice brussel sprouts (could've been cooked sliiightly more) and it was all very austere and OK. The buckwheat pancakes with asian pear (at the market price) were AWFUL. Dry. And it didn't even come with maple syrup... when we asked for it, we were told: "well since we use 100% vermont maple syrup we charge an extra dollar for it, is that okay?" Sure, fine, okay - waiter comes back with a tiny tiny pitcher of syrup. Again, you had to very frugally pour the syrup over the pancakes. The free muffin starter they gave at the beginning of the meal was probably the best part; all went downhill from there. Overall verdict: pricey & not that great, but it's a nice enough looking place. Would not go back.
(2)Caroline M.
Two more exceptional visits.... I just don't get the three star average for Jam--it's quite shocking actually. The service is fine. The food is awesome. And, oh, yeah.....the open kitchen is lovely :) What is better than getting caffeinated, eating fancy poached eggs, and staring at chefs??? Make sure you inquire about the breakfast pastry of the day. It's always been the highlight of my brunch at Jam.
(5)Ben M.
I've been to three of the bougie breakfast/brunch places in Chicago - Jam, Bongo Room, and Over Easy, and I can firmly say that this one is my favorite. Its a bit classier than the others, at basically the same price range (Over Easy was ever so slightly cheaper). The kitchen is TINY - that gets them so much extra cred. Like, how are you cooking all of the indoor tables' meals, and the outdoor tables meals, with two grills and two ovens? The insanity! Order anything - this place delivers. The lamb crepes, the apple pancakes, the pork sandwich, it doesnt matter, you cant go wrong.
(5)Jeff R.
About a year ago Julia Kramer (of TOC) said that Jam was "Only the best thing to happen to brunch in a long time." With a strong following and great food, this BYO, cash only store-front in Ukrainian village decided to expand to include dinner. When dining buddies Geoff and Ashley suggested dinner at Jam to honor Geoff's birthday, I was thrilled to experience what everyone else had been talking about. The dinner menu is quite simple with two main choices: a tasting menu of four or five courses, or seven a la carte items. I'm never one to shy away from a well prepared tasting menu and went with all five courses for $37. Ashley joined me with five courses while Geoff and Erica chose the $25 four course option. I appreciated their ability to be flexible with different lengths at one table, and even offered us to mix and match if someone preferred a la carte. Consumer flexibility and service is always appreciated. We had a great meal with friendly service at very compelling value (it helps when you bring your own wine). Total bill with tax and tip came to $160 for four people. We did not walk out stuffed, but pleasantly full from a good meal. If there is one main complaint from the evening, it would be that the first two courses do not do justice to the rest of the selections. Everyone started with an heirloom tomato with gorgonzola, watercress and coco nib puree. It was a simple starter with a nice plump and fresh tomato, but probably too simple to warrant its own course. I also did not understand the texture or flavor importance of the coco nib puree. Our second course was foie gras tortellini with melted onion and snap pea puree. I'm not a lover of foie gras, but I am a lover of tortellini. The presentation and technique made this a fun dish and I even enjoyed the foie gras flavors. The main comment was that, again, it was too small a course with three tortellini. The main entrees arrived and dispelled any notion of an average meal (the first two courses left us wondering). Erica may have made the best move of the evening with a four course meal selecting the roasted pork tenderloin as the entrée. While she enjoyed her entrée, the rest of us were served seared pacific ono with lemon gnocchi, blueberry, ricotta and an almond emulsion. There was a lot going on in this dish with a rather small piece of fish. The presentation was beautiful with the green, blue and yellow colors. The gnocchi and blueberries were interesting and fun textures to enjoy with fish. The almond emulsion made the well cooked fish taste close to perfection. Course three was a major success, we just wish there was a little more of it. Our meal continued to get better with course four (only for Ashley and me). Erica already sampled the pork tenderloin but it was now my turn. The roasted pork tenderloin served with fig, scallion cream, crisped bollo and tapenade was on the better dishes I've had in a long time. The pork was cooked well and the flavors jumped off the plate. Each bite could be savored and enjoyed with any of the dressings. I am quite certain the pork was the star dish of the evening. There were two desserts on the daily changing dessert menu, and we tried both. The first was a vanilla crème pudding served with small shortcake crackers, and the second was a mini molten chocolate cake served with vanilla Black Dog Gelato from down the street. While the pudding was tasty, the chocolate cake was incredible. This was one course I did not mind my smallish portion because I don't when I would have stopped eating. Having Black Dog down the street can take any dessert to the next level. We walked out very happy having experienced a wide range of gourmet flavors, a true testament to a well rounded and talented chef. While the extra course may not be worth the extra $12, I highly recommend the tasting menu to experience all that Jam offers. Bring a few bottles to enjoy and don't forget to stop at the ATM.
(4)Jason V.
Was very impressed with Sunday brunch at Jam--easily one of the best and most creative brunches I have had. We had to wait 10 minutes or so for a table for 5 in the outdoor courtyard but it was well worth it--though some credit is due to the perfect weather that day. Started with an order of Scones and Breakfast Pastries, both served piping hot. The herb scone was just okay but the pastry was very good. What really stole the show, though, was the house-made cherry jam--every little bit of the smears on the plate were scooped up. Definitely consider getting an order of one or the other (or both) even if you wouldn't normally get an appetizer item for brunch. The scones and pastries were followed up with the Eggs Benedict--which was a poached egg on top of a bread plated over an artistic brush of fennel hollandaise and served with crisped pork belly. The dish looked amazing, and the fennel hollandaise was fantastic. The pork belly was also pretty good. Tip: The pork belly as an additional side serves up a surprisingly large quantity of pork belly--a big value over the usual expectations of paying a couple bucks for two or three pieces of bacon a la carte. After the check we were rewarded with tiny chocolate cupcakes served straight from the oven topped with a delicious lemon creme fraiche. Again, this was good food that simply left you wanting for more. Service was pretty good and, as I mentioned before, the outdoor courtyard is a superb place to have brunch and ease into the day. It is BYOB, so feel free to bring a bottle of champagne if you want to enjoy some mimosas. Also, the fact that they are cash-only is a bit of a pain, but I can live with it given the food and environment. Why not a full five stars? I don't think Jam is quite at the point of being a destination restaurant where one would travel (as in, across state lines) to get to, but this isn't to say the thought didn't cross my mind. Jam ends up as a very strong four star establishment.
(4)Elisa E.
Do you know why it took 45 minutes to be seated, and then your table was right next to a shrieking 2 year-old? Because you went to BRUNCH. Man, I do not know why people still go to brunch, especially with kids. I would stay home and make animal-shaped pancakes for the rug-rats, plant them in front of a My Little Pony video and go back to bed. Oh yeah...the review of Jam. Try the evening. Jam's non-breakfast dishes are really quite exceptional, even when compared to a nearby Michelin-starred restaurant (Longman & Eagle). Jam is byob for now, so I started with fresh carrot juice and a delicious asparagus soup. The chef applied a thin layer of what appeared to be cooked garlic pulp to the bottom of the bowl, with creme fraiche, and the fragrant, leaf-green soup was poured over this base. Fantastic. The other stand-out was dessert, which was actually a breakfast item: Pineapple French Toast. The pineapple is finely diced and poached (?) in cranberry to create a complex, tart contrast to the slight sweetness of the toast. I usually don't touch restaurant whipped cream, but this was cloud-light and barely sweetened, dusted with spices or herbs. I'm giving Jam 4 stars for excellent food and service, albeit without a wine list to enjoy with it. Another star goes to the beautiful design of the space. Crisp oversized mirrors, clear lucite chairs, white "ball-of-string" pendant lamps and gorgeous laser-cut plexi wall fixtures give the space a sophisticated, yet sexy feel. If you bring a date here, it will set the right mood. [ Thanks for the ROTD, Yelp! I do want to note that JAM has discontinued dinner service. I hope they will reconsider in the future. The dining room is so pleasant in the evening, overlooking the parkway. ]
(5)Sonia L.
Went here for Sunday brunch. It was about a half hour wait... That's to be expected. I didn't like the fact that there's absolutely no room to wait (except outside... ) without just awkwardly standing in the entryway and being in everyone's way. I really, really didn't like how uncomfortably cramped and close-together the tables are. It's totally ridiculous to the point that everyone has to awkwardly turn sideways to squeeze by furniture just to move around in this place. When at my table I shouldn't feel like I'm pretty much dining with the people at the neighboring tables. They are cramming way too many tables into way too small a space and there's no room to even walk comfortably. The service was pretty bad. After first being seated, it was a solid 15 minutes before someone took our order. The waiter disappeared for long stretches of time. He took our credit card for paying the check and disappeared for 15 minutes before bringing it back. We definitely felt that they probably "forgot" about us quite a few times. As for the food, it was decent. I had the turkey club. It was fine. But not worth going back for.
(2)Pete V.
In a cozy spot off Damen sits Jam. A tiny nondescript brunch spot with so much scaffolding outside, we had to drive by twice before finding the place. But we weren't there for the ambiance, we came for good food, and at Jam we found plenty of it. With brunch being such a seemingly boring meal, the chef at Jam is doing an admirable job being adventurous and unique. We started off with the prosciutto and fennel scone. Lovely blend of flavors, a bit dry, as I thought it could use a more butter (I can't believe I just said that), but it crumbled nicely and the tiny prosciutto added a pleasant twist on a typically fruity breakfast pastry. I ordered the scotch egg and the biscuits and gravy for my main. The scotch egg on a waffle with a bit of raspberry jam was superb. First off, it seems nearly impossible to find a scotch egg on the menu of a Chicago restaurant (Owen & Engine) is the only other one I've found so far. Second, it was very well prepared, with a thin layer of sausage with bread crumbs/corn meal coating and cooked almost perfectly...I thought it was not quite runny enough, but still it was runny enough to enjoy with the sweet and savory nature of the waffle and jam. The biscuits and gravy were the highlight of the meal. Homemade sausage with a wonderful mushroom gravy and tight fresh biscuits; it was a unique take on tried and true southern dish that even Paula Dean wouldn't be able to turn down! -- (Not that Paula Dean would turn down any food for that matter) -- Besides the delicious food we had, the coffee was great and it was nice to see that they don't over charge you for coffee (it was a very reasonable $2). The place is BYOB and cash only so come prepared!
(4)Mat M.
I received a nice message from the owner after reviewing last week. It's always a good sign to see owners/managers following up with their online reputation. Good way to know they care. Go dine at Jam!
(4)Roger L.
I will go back, the service was superior, the ambience very cool, the menu interesting. Wasn't impressed with the dish I ordered, but was impressed with my friends selection, can't wait to try another item on the menu.
(4)Emily M.
I was referred here by my executive chef. I do believe that I had too high of expectations. The food was good and I believe had I gone on a weekend it would have been better. Service was okay. It seems to be missing something... Not the most comfortable environment for a brunch.
(3)Mahsa T.
I really wanted to like this place, and I did like the charming outdoor patio, but the food just really fell flat. The amazing amuse bouche (mini banana cupcake with icing) that I had heard so much about was actually really dry and tasteless--at least it was complimentary so no harm done, and it's not on the menu so don't look for it, they bring it out automatically. I went with the most popular recommendation from my fellow Yelpers and got the eggs Benedict (English muffin--or rather a smaller cubed version of an English muffin--with crisped pork belly and poached eggs). It was average, nothing about it stood out, no real differentiating taste or flavor, I could have made something yummier at home. I had a taste of the Jamburger (double patties with a sunnyside egg on top) and while it looked delectable, it too was a let down. Service from our waitress was slow. She was slow to take our order and slow to bring the check. The food took a long time to come out as well, and this was after the morning rush. Sadly, there was nothing else on their menu that I would want to come back for.
(3)Alison E.
Great brunch spot in Logan Square. It's the fancy type of food in a relaxed atmosphere. I'm not usually one to take picture of my food, but I did this time.
(4)Yadi R.
love love this place! But the wait SUCKS!!! Its perfect when its only 2 people because table for 2's always become available first. If your party is any bigger you will be waiting for awhile... They really need to expand... Their food is good, I just wish they upped on the serving size a little more. Other than that, I love coming here...
(5)Michael U.
The day started like any other in Ohio - early alarm, a trip to the gym, and my typical breakfast...four clock hours later (5 minus 1 accounting for time difference) I found myself seated at a table at Jam in Chicago for the first meal of my most recent trip to the Windy City - this time to see SOFA. With my sister and her art pals coming to town via car and myself flying Jam would be one of my solo meals for the trip and arriving shortly after 8am the place was largely empty. Seated immediately and presented with a menu I ordered a coffee and browsed the scene. Owned and operated by Jeffrey Mauro (who was manning the open front kitchen along with a young female,) Jam defines "hipster kitsch" in terms of music (Radiohead to Beach Boys,) layout (Acrylic Chairs,) and menu (upscale brunch classics somewhat reinvented.) It is also cash only. Sipping my coffee, a sturdy blend by Metropolis, I was next greeted by my server and orders were placed - a pastry and the dish described as their "signature." I will note that the online menu is not up to date, though both the online menu and in-store menu were full of wonderful sounding options. Settled in I was first delivered an amuse bouche - a nice touch for breakfast. Slightly bigger than a thimble the apple cider brioche was perfect for the season - loaded with spice and dissolving on the tongue in a manner similar to a gougere. Arriving second and plated much more elaborately than I'd have expected from something simply described as a "cinnamon roll" was - well - a cinnamon roll. Served hot off the grill and frosted in the open kitchen the pastry was of similar dimensions to a hockey puck but crisp and flaky seated next to a lovely hand whipped cream and raspberry jam. Somewhere between a croissant and a cinnamon roll in texture, buttery and aromatic - one of the better cinnamon rolls I've ever had, and small enough to serve as an excellent appetizer. For my main course I opted for the Malted Custard French Toast with Macerated Rhubarb, Lime Leaf Cream, and Pink Peppercorn. Watching the dish prepared from start to finish I will first note that this is some elaborate French Toast - thick brioche was pulled from a large container of liquid and first pan seared prior to entering the oven to be finished. After approximately 10 minutes in the oven the dish was plated and served up piping hot. Unfortunately everything that the toast had in preparation and presentation it largely lacked in flavor. Buttery for sure and interesting in the interplay of lime and peppercorn the dish lacked any sweetness aside from that imparted by the Rhubarb. While this dish may have found a more receptive audience amongst those who prefer a savory breakfast it simply wasn't my style. Adding to the disappointment, when I was presented with the bill it turned out I could've ordered a half-order and thus saved stomach space for another menu item. When it was all said and done I settled the bill - just over $20 with a good tip for excellent service - and made my way to the street en route for Millennium Park. While Jam was good, particularly in comparison to the options in my home town, I can't say I'd rush back - there are simply too many excellent breakfast and brunch spots in Chicago.
(3)Isaias M.
A friend of ours came to visit over the weekend and said we must come here for brunch, I was completely ready for disappointment. Not only was I completely satisfied I was utterly surprised on how good the food actually was. I tend to be weary of a lot of places that I "Must Go To" because usually I am disappointed on not being amazed. This is now on the very top of my Brunch list. Fresh quality ingredients and a true balance on flavors. A MUST VISIT!
(5)Carolynne M.
Breakfast for dinner? Lunch for breakfast? Dinner for lunch? Yep, anything you want, here for you! Jam bills themselves as a diner, which couldn't be further from the truth. It is a darling, sleekly designed place, giving the vibe of a much more sophisticated space than one would expect based on the description and website. I had a pot of green tea, which was amazing, and the Eggs Benedict with a side of fresh fruit. The fruit was beautifully presented, lovely and fresh, consisting of pineapple, granny smith apple, melon, grapes and strawberries. I can safely say the Eggs Benedict was among the best I have ever had. Soft english muffin with crisp edges, perfectly poached eggs, gorgeous, huge chunks of pork belly, and the best part, a winter squash hollandaise. I am really on the fence about hollandaise in general, as it rarely is made well, and when I do take the leap the sauce is always too sharp, heavy and tangy. Well this sauce was delicious and really paired well with the other items on the plate. I would absolutely come back for another order of this. Plus, an attentive wait staff assured that we always had whatever we needed and made us feel pretty pampered. Upscale breakfast? At 6:30 at night? Heck yeah!
(5)Angie M.
A solid 3 stars. On the plus side... * Adorably bite-sized amuse of a mini banana muffin topped with a dollop of chocolate cream cheese. It was super yummers and a nice surprise to start out the meal. * Diet Coke in 8 oz. glass bottles is kitschy and sweet. * Lovely service that didn't rush my brunching gal pal and me out when we finished our meals and were just sipping our coffee, gossiping and otherwise catching up as female friends tend to do. * Absolutely gorgeous outdoor patio complete with stones, landscaping and was it a horse statue? Truly an Eden-eque urban escape. And nicely shaded, too! * Beautiful food presentation. My Spanish omelet was so incredibly smooth and perfect it looked more like a breakfast burrito's tortilla exterior than egg. Clearly the chefs know how to prepare food. On the minus side... * Super rich food. I'm talking a Panini Cristo (French toast, prosciutto, tallegio, sautéed rapini and sweet mustard jam) swimming in butter and cheese. The Spanish omelet was overflowing with chorizo and oozing with Garrotxa cheese. I could only eat maybe half the omelet... and I can eat. * 'Spensive! I'm down with paying for a fancy meal, but to me, the food at Jam isn't really that fancy. Just pricey. My gal pal and I paid $22 each (with tax and tip) for a sandwich, an omelet, a diet Coke, some OJ and a couple of cups of java. Was it worth it? Especially when we could only muscle down half the meal? Not sure. * Pretty darn crowded. I'm an early bruncher so our arrival time of 9:30am was perfect. It was definitely full with a solid wait when we left an hour later. Gorgeous... yes. Was the food up to snuff... maybe. I'd really like to go back to try the oatmeal with a variety of toppings and maybe that pork belly sandwich. Anyone want to indulge in a Jam-fest with me again?
(3)Ryan H.
This is how brunch should be done. Having spent a few years in the industry myself, I know: no one wants to work brunch. It sucks. Anyone who has ever done it, knows... and likely expects a little less of any server who greets you before noon. But these guys were on their game. Brunch moves fast... and I did have to wait an extra minute or two for my order to be taken... but that's because I walked in within 2 or 3 minutes of 4 other tables. And 3 more walked in before my juice came. Insanity! But I quickly figured out why. The menu was really beautifully crafted, and I wasn't sure I could pick just which dish would ultimately be the most satisfying. Sweet? Savory? Something baked? fried? cold? Tough call. I went with the scotch egg - one of my new favorite outrageous indulgences. a soft-boiled egg, wrapped in sausage meat, breaded and deep-fried. Cholesterol, what? Oh well. This particular egg was served atop a small sage-scented waffle with a bit of raspberry coulis and some diced apple and frisee. I hate frisee, But the sweet/tart coulis paired well with the savory waffle and the salty egg/sausage. They were out of the side I ordered, but the server cheerfully recommended the crisped pork belly. Pork belly is hit or miss with me, but I took a shot. And this hit was a bullseye. Enough meat to give them fatty bits some structure... A great texture and balance not always easy to achieve with belly meat. There was no amuse, which is fine (it's not required, obviously) but so many other reviews referenced it, so I had been looking forward to some little sweet bite to start off. Oh well... no other table nearby seemed to receive one, so I know I wasn't just left out. The fresh-squeezed OJ topped it off nicely, and I never came close to running out of water - the back-server was really attentive. I did have a couple of minutes to kill before receiving the check at the end, but again, I gave them the benefit of the doubt since they were so busy. Plus, it was a great chance to just watch the VERY open kitchen (open on two sides, with just a half-wall separating it from the dining room. I love an open kitchen, so I was happily entertained while I waited. Well-priced, a great value... this place must have a crazy cult following on the weekends. I showed up just before 9 and it was packed by 9:05. On that note... I want to address a couple of other reviews here. 1 star, because you had to wait for a table? Right. If you go to a busy, popular spot, that only has about a dozen tables... expect that those for 4 are for 4. Those for 2 are for 2. It's the way the world works. If you can't handle basic restaurant rules, make your own breakfast. Rant over.
(4)Kristen B.
Just had dinner there with a friend and it couldn't have been better. We shared a half order of the french toast as an appetizer, then each had a cup of soup (which was asparagus), and split the turkey club. Our server Brandon was friendly and attentive. The first time I went to Jam was for brunch, and true to form, we waited quite awhile to be seated, and then ended up at the community table with a few randoms. I didn't mind the experience since I know what to expect when having Sunday brunch in Chicago, but it's not my favorite thing to do. The other times I have been there were off hours, once for lunch at 2PM, then again tonight - Tuesday at 7:30. Both times it was not busy and very pleasant. My recommendation if you want to enjoy this place is to go at a time that's not insane.
(4)Vivek V.
Context: lunch on Tuesday for four Atmosphere: on Logan square so off the beaten path for most people. Street parking is somewhat limited but we didn't have a huge problem finding it. Area around the place is decent and felt safe. Restaurant is part of a small strip of places in a gentrified little area with a small patio of outside seating that overlooks the wide, leafy street and boulevard. Inside, the modern decor is bright and open. Service: our server was relatively new but she was friendly and talkative. Our food was bought promptly and each dish is explained. Food: we were lucky to go on a Tuesday when they do a prix fix brunch menu (about $25) which allowed us to try several things, unusual in a breakfast place. We did two of those and ordered two items off the menu, a stuffed French toast and a chorizo omelet. Everything was good with some excellent bites as well. We were all brought a little muffin to start. It was moist and flavorful. The four course prix fix meal started with something I can't remember but it was very good. The second thing was a little waffle triangle with fruit, also good and then eggs Benedict and finally a panna cotta. The best thing though was the French toast which was creamy and fluffy and flavorful and literally some of the best French toast any of us had ever had. The omelet was also excellent, a beautiful presentation (all the food is presented artfully) with such a smooth egg wrapped around tasty and balanced filling. Is Spanish chorizo but it wasn't too hard, spicy and chewy with peppers and cheese. Drinks: bloody Mary's were exceptional, with rich, intense tomato and spice flavor and served with all kinds of fun little things, cheese and celery. The tea was also excellent, though served Ina bit of a broken tea pot.
(5)Murphy Z.
a cute place, very fresh ingredients
(4)Rachel W.
YUM!!!!! Had the Tuesday tasting and loved every course! Especially the caraway waffle with corned beef. Melt in your mouth amazingness!!!! Staff was great, loved our server Melonie (?)-sorry if I didn't spell it right. We were grubby from moving the day before and had my snotty 2 year old, and everyone was really nice and treated us great. As a server, I know its easy to judge customers, and I'm sure we were a sight to see, but again, got treated like friends. LOVE THIS PLACE!!!
(5)Jaclyn D.
This place seems impressive when you walk in, and they even give you a little amuse bouche while you are waiting for your food...but I always feel underwhelmed. I've eaten here two or three times, and I felt like I was sort of choking down food that was all the same texture. The menu is ambitious, like french toast with pink peppercorns, etc, but the experience, overall, wasn't very enjoyable. That being said, it seems like a nice enough brunch spot, and I wouldn't refuse to go back, it just isn't necessarily first on my list.
(2)Sabine K.
So after my initial review I got a really sweet message from the owner inviting me to come back and try the farm dinner. So my brunch friend (the same one who ordered the amazing zuchini bread with the homemade marshmellow) trotted back over and had dinner. My friend was there before me and got us a seat outside, I was a few minutes late - typical. It was a beautiful evening and once again I was struck by what a wonderful location this is. Anyway, I get there and our server comes out right away. She explains a few things to us, and we settle on the 4 course pre-fixe dinner with wine pairings. You also have the option to do the 5 course meal. I have to say, before I go any further, that pre-fixe has really grown on me. I'm usually so anal about stuff, that the idea of just sitting back and not having to make any decisions is really welcoming, especially on a Friday night. So, dinner. The wine came out first, it was a blanc de blanc. What better way to start off a hotly anticipated dinner that with some bubbly. The paired heirloom carrot salad came out a few minutes later. Even though it's called an heirloom carrot salad, the stars of the salad were clearly the smoked mussels. Amazing! With field greens, a poached quail egg, and salmon mousse. Off to a good start. The second course was home made foie gras tortellini with a pureed asparagus sauce paired with a really dry Riesling. I'm usually not a Riesling person, but this was really exquisite. Main course for me was the antelope. My friend got the halibut and then we shared. Let me just preface that I'm all about exotic meats - bring it. My friend was a little more hesitant. I'm pretty sure that this time I got the better dish. The antelope was ridiculous. Seared on the outside and still tender and pink on the inside. It came with a side of caponata which changed my life. There was a little herring fillet on top which gave just the right amount of brine to cut the richness. And the fact that it came in an adorable red Le Creuset dish did not get lost on me. Nice touch, Jam :) My friend's Halibut was also amazing. Soft, flakey, delicious, you know, all of the good things fish is supposed to be. I got a red and she got a white. I have no idea what it was, by this point I was so lost in food ecstacy that I forgot to take notes. For desert they went real traditional. Blueberry muffin with creme fraiche (?) and some blueberries sprinkled on the side. Paired with a really sweet late season white dessert wine. This muffin.. how can I say this. This muffin was unlike any other muffin I've ever had, in a really good way. I'm assuming there's a stick of butter per muffin. And I was okay with that. After we just got a coffee and sat for a while and soaked up the magic of the evening. Jerry came over and introduced himself to us during the meal and chatted for a bit and asked how everything was. He was really sweet and seemed genuinely interested in our experience, which I appreciate. Final thoughts : I've always equated Jam with brunch. After this, I would highly recommend visitng for dinner. Seriously. Even though the restaurant has a full bar, it's still byob, which I think is really fantastic, and I haven't seen before. This helps keep costs down for the clients, but a lower bill typically means less tip for a server who still provides great service. So if you do bring your own, please remember to tip a little more than you typically would. Also, our server - I think her name was Elizabeth - was really knowledgable, eager to help and explain dishes, and friendly. Thanks for a great experience :)
(5)Amy H.
I was really excited to finally try Jam. I must be the last person on Yelp who hasn't been here yet! What I experienced was an epic letdown. I met my friend here for brunch around 1-ish and when I arrived he had already been put on the waitlist for a table so we were able to be seated just minutes after I arrived. Our waiter came over and said "What would you like to order??" Well, for starters, I would like some coffee, maybe some juice. How about a drink order first and give us some time to look at the menu, mkay?? No amuse bouche. Sad face. Although I did spy them delivering some petite plates of what looked like amuse bouche to another table. My friend said that sometimes they "run out". That's understandable, I guess. Still it was le sad. I ordered the Malted Custard French Toast, which was ok. It had rhubarb on it and I likes rhubarb. It also had some type of lime flavored foam, which was good. It was hard to know exactly what was on it because our waiter was really hard to understand...a British accent mixed with a mush-mouth. My friend's Jam Burger was good and the place was really cute. The service was suck-tastic. I had to ask for coffee refills, although the coffee was really delicious. I guess if you're going to come for brunch, come at the beginning of the brunch rush and not at the end.
(2)Dominick W.
"EXCERPTED FROM A CONVERSATION WITH A FRIEND VIA FACEBOOK ABOUT MY EXPERIENCE AT JAM" Me: JAM blows. Friend: Why? Me: Not that I ought to have to explain myself, because if I tell you something blows you should just accept that as the truth and not ask me stupid questions like, "Why?," but JAM blows because: 1) They don't put hollandaise sauce on their Eggs Benedict and that's just fucked in the head. 2) It's cash-only, and you know how I feel about cash-only establishments - goo.gl/K4BT1 3) Our waitress was nice, but probably better-suited for a job where just disappearing for long stretches of time is a desirable skill 4) They had this stringy-curtain thing that bugged the shit out of me.
(2)Sonia B.
JAM, your style might be a little cliche for my taste, but I think we can be friends. My date suggested coming here on Christmas Eve day after a failed attempt at a crazyyy busy Cozy Corner, and it turned out to be a great experience all around. Our service from the moment we walked in, was spectacular. Everyone was so nice and attentive, and we even got a little delicious pumpkin muffin while we waited for our breakfast. I was in the mood for savory, so I ordered the Omelet with fresh ham and brussels sprouts, and my date seemed to be in the mood for sweet, so he got the pumpkin pancakes with a fabulous toasted marshmallow on top. Both dishes, though different, were quite good. I think the ham was a bit too rich for my taste, but would recommend it, as well as the pumpkin pancakes. We also had the house coffee, which complimented our meal well. Although, at $3 a cup, I don't think I am crazy about their prices. They are also cash-only, so something to keep in mind when coming here, too!
(4)Molly A.
we came here for brunch on a busy sunday morning. there was QUITE a wait (and they kiiiiiind of lied to us about how long the wait would BE), but we did have a huge party, so it was definitely understandable. luckily, the farmer's market kept us occupied while we waited for a table to open up. i had a bloody mary and it was delicious! i'm a hard to please bloody mary drinker, because my husband makes the best version of this drink, but JAM came pretty darn close to being AS good, with the perfect amount of spice, and not too watered down. i was also in love with my food choice. i had a vegetable sandwich with melted cheese, and while this concept is often difficult to pull off without being stringy, overly cheesy and not "meaty" enough (yes, i realize the irony of that description). i also love that they have a "french toast of the day." everyone seemed pretty happy with their food - the only reason i didn't give five stars was because, like most things in logan square, it was kind of pricey, so i can't frequent this place as much as i would like to. probably best, since health food isn't exactly on the menu here. definitely check this out if you have visitors in town!
(4)Molly P.
It was clear when I walked through the door that this was no greasy spoon breakfast joint. The space communicated a sophisticated attention to detail that became more and more apparent with every bite of my meal. My whitefish quiche's flaky crust and bright citrus accents were spot on. It was garnished with black lava sea salt that gave it just the extra bite needed. The quiche was served with a red onion and bagel chip panzanella that was "jam" packed with peppery arugula and fried capers. I highly recommend it and Jam for brunch. For more on our visit check out my blog: bit.ly/K2yq9N
(5)Phil S.
I live very close to Jam. Every weekend morning there is a line out the door. The only explanation I can give for this us that it takes forever for your food to come. The outdoor space appears charming but you quickly realize the rustic aspect may not be intentional. While waiting (and waiting) for our food at least two different cats leapt over the fence and onto our table. It's rather unfortunate when stray animals show up more than your waiter. Food was so-so. Seemed like the food was waiting in the window too long. Nothing worse than eggs that have sat too long.
(1)Sabrina S.
This was just ok for brunch. it was abou $20/pp which I found pricey for the portion sizes. It is more fine dining and elegant ingredients but if you're hungry, not a great place to go to feel satisfied after your meal. The wait time can be long because service on a Sunday is attentive but food prep time was very slow. The waitress was knowledgeable about the dishes and gave some good recommendations.
(3)Stacey H.
If you are an eggs and pancakes kind of person, this is not your place. When you walk in, you are taken in by the beautiful decor as noted from others. They really did a great job in such a tight space. The menu is diverse but they do not offer up any "boring" dishes for those who are not as adventurous in their palates. (my husband). The french toast is delicious but I would not recommend this as a kid-friendly, breakfast spot. The service was fine, but our server was not over-enthusiastic. When asked about the ingredients on a particular dish, they seemed more annoyed that we did not know what it was. Overall, good food, but not worth the price you pay
(2)Christoph B.
Shock! Horror! Jam recently opened in my neighborhood. Gentrification in Logan Square is now complete. Normally I would avoid Jam for this reason alone, but since Cozy Corner had a wait on Christmas Eve day, my date and I decided to try this new spot instead. To my surprise, it was really quite good. We were seated immediately in the front window (no doubt because we are both extremely good-looking). The tables and chairs look like they came straight out of a CB2 catalog. Even the water on our table was in a fancy cork bottle. I had the pumpkin pancakes. They were really good and came with a toasted melty marshmallow topping. My partner ordered the omelet with ham and brussel sprouts. We both liked our food. It wasn't the best breakfast I've ever had but it was a nice change from typical diner food. The coffee is $3 a cup, but it was also really good. We left spending less than $30 for the two of us. Not horribly overpriced, but still more than I would normally spend on breakfast. But whatever, if you can afford it, Jam is solid.
(4)Kelly D.
Stopped in for a late breakfast/early lunch on a Monday and we basically had the place to ourselves -- the soup of the day (onion) was 5 stars, and the roasted vegetable sandwich was pretty good but very heavy on the cheese, which was a little disappointing. The bread had either soaked up the grease from the cheese or been slathered in butter. Had been hoping for a slightly lighter meal, but they had run out of the item I originally ordered (the legume salad) and had to choose something else on the spot. Our waitress was super friendly, and I'd like to go back and give it another try.
(4)Megan G.
Yes, I Love me some JAM. I will wait in the line, I will sit too close to strangers having obnoxious conversations about how people think they look like Joaquin Phoenix, and yet still I will very much enjoy my brunch. The food here is STELLAR. The Metropolis coffee is always hot and delicious. I have been here several times and every time has been amazing.
(4)Kate M.
I was in dire need of a comforting breakfast Friday morning and found my way over to Jam. The dining room is much nicer than I expected for a breakfast place. There was a nice patio that would be good for lunch or dinner, but a little too buggy for a 7 am breakfast. We had the buckwheat savory crepes and the malted french toast. The crepes were delicious, I'm still thinking about them actually. The french toast, as with most french toasts, was too sweet for me but it was good. The service was exceptional. Our server was just attentive enough and knowledgeable about the menu. I wish I lived closer to Jam. This is the kind of breakfast place I've been looking for to have a "fancy" breakfast ever once in a while in the middle of all my dinner divey breakfasts. They only take cash though so come prepared.
(5)Chan K.
I came here on a Sunday morning for breakfast. I ordered the buckwheat crepes with lamb. The hazelnut glaze paired perfectly with the lamb. It was a savory dish, but didn't feel too heavy; with the delicate crepe wrapping and complex sauce I was eagerly scarfing it down. Great presentation too. I'm more of a casual breakfast eater, and so a nicer restaurant like this is not my style. I also thought the tables were too close together. Again, that's just my personal preference. I enjoy Sunday lounging after breakfast with the paper and coffee, and this place is definitely does not have that cafe vibe, at least inside. Food is a tad bit overpriced, but I would come here again to treat a guest.
(4)Jocelyn P.
Wow. I read all of the reviews and figured it'd be at lest a 3-star experience, but that it could have been even better. In fact, in ended up being lackluster. FOOD- The food itself was amazing & delicious, and decently priced/proportioned. I would give the food 4 stars. (Fantastic potato-leek pancakes and green tea.) SERVICE- This part was fine, 3 stars. AMBIENCE- Here is where negative stars have been achieved so as to lower the entire rating to 2 stars, even 1 1/2 stars to be honest. The decor was OK, but not that cute. The tables were squished together and we were seated in a very "bad energy" spot, in the aisle between front door and back kitchen door, perpendicular to another table, how odd & unsettling for us whom are attuned to such matters. Also, overall, we felt it seemed more of a destination spot for Lincoln Parkers and not a Logan Square neighborhood spot. If the opening of JAM is a trend of what is to come, I am spooked. The clientele was not the usual fun & young & creative & upbeat lovable, happy, good-times I've come to cherish in my community. Le sigh. Go here if you dare, or if you're very, very curious (as I'll admit I was!). :D :) :/
(2)Alicia G.
I love Jam! Had excellent service and I can't say enough about the coffee, zucchini bread pancakes or french toast! Soooo scrumptious and a definite must have. There is an item I think they should completely nix off the menu and that's the egg sandwich. It's WAY too big. The sandwich had about a half pound of pork shoulder on it that had absolutely no flavor , a smear of plum jam, and an egg all stuffed between a ciabatta roll. Not exactly what I was expecting. With that said everything else I have had here is superb! The location is right on the blvd, decor is clean and simple, and for what you get it's an excellent price. I say give it a try!
(4)Carmen W.
Went there once for brunch a while ago and everything was impeccable. Sunday late after the early brunch was a good time to go and upon seating we had an amuse- bouche was the cutest little zucchini muffin. I had the lamb crepes and they were excellent!!! The pork belly Benedict was outstanding and the plates looked like they were straight out of a magazine. This restaurant was quaint and i enjoyed being able to look over at the chef. It was like being in someones home. I would definitely go back the pork belly was cooked perfectly and had an awesome crunch on the outside. My perfectly poached egg was delicate and made me feel like a queen. Try this place instead of the usual brunch places that don't live up to the hype.
(5)Joan L.
The food was okay but it was nothing to write home about, especially for the high-ish price. I got the pork breakfast sandwich and it was just kinda one note all the way through. It was kinda good (only really because I love eggs no matter what crap they're on) but mostly bland and unexciting. If you're gonna make hoity-toity food, make it good hoity-toity food. Also, I will probably never come here again because the decor drives me crazy. It's like Ikea and Crate&Barrel barfed all over the inside. Pseudo design lover, pseudo modern with stupid bead curtain things hanging on the walls. Shoot me now.
(2)Lauren D.
Brunch has become a mild obsession of mine. I think all the years I used to refuse to go to brunch (for a reason still unbeknownst to me) are finally coming back to haunt me and I have to go at least once a week. I've tried my fair share of brunch places in Chicago and Jam certainly stands out. (So much so, in fact, that I brunched here two days in a row.) (1) setting: the boulevard in Logan Square is one of my favorite settings in Chicago, so Jam's definitely got that going for them. (2) inside: the decor was really well done. It's got a modern and "happy" vibe to it - lots of mirrors, cool tables and glass chairs. Don't get me wrong: I'm all about casual brunch places, but Jam somehow accomplishes appealing to both an easy, casual brunch and a more "dressy" brunch. (3) food: the French toast really is incredible, so you've got to try that for sure. The yogurt and granola is also tasty and good for a side or starter, and the egg sandwich with pork shoulder is a favorite. Perfectly sized portions, as well. And, you may find this hard to believe, but Jam has the BEST scrambled eggs I've ever tasted in my life.
(4)Mark H.
Jam. Yes, I will. A beautiful space, visually. & food fit right in. Obviously this is not for everyone (a quote from a friend: that little overly modern looking joint on the corner by NewWave). But I was excited when I saw the menu. Composed dishes with some thought & creativity, but still breakfast. I was able to taste the: Guisado Verde 14 Braised Beef, Corn Risotto, Tomato Cream, Tomatillo, Sunnyside Egg. And the : Eggs Benedict 12 English Muffin, Poached Eggs, Pork Belly, Spring Onion, Forono Beet Hollandaise. The Guisado was pretty damn good. I felt the corn was lacking in the risotto, but over all the dish was good. The benedict was good as well. Especially considering I'm not a lover of beets. There was an option for a tasting menu, which you don't see for breakfast very often. I'll be doing that next time! 4.5!
(4)Teri Y.
Based on my experience at Jam, I'm giving them a solid 3-star rating. Jam's decor is abstract and contemporary. It reminded me of Takashi restaurant or other fine dining places. Jam gets stars for introducing brunch food as gourmet food. My braised lamb crepe was presented like I was at a nice dinner at a West Loop restaurant. The taste was good but not great. So why 3 stars? They dont have espresso drinks. What?! A gourmet brunch place doesn't have an espresso machine? We had to settle for drip brew coffee. I initially wanted the Scotch egg and was later told that they were out of that. I wanted the Threedom of Choice where I could choose 3 items of choice but was told that the kitchen is too busy and they weren't running that because there's too much coordination, but I could choose to order one item as a side. Doesn't even make sense. Aren't kitchens supposed to be busy? Thats their job in preparing what customers want. Anyway the server recommended some popular items that I could choose from. I'm glad we tried Jam but won't go out of our way to come back here though.
(3)Cara T.
I took my family here for brunch when they came into town for a visit. We had a group of 5. Can you say awful experience? I was extremely close and incredibly loud (Ha..didn't realize I just typed that). We weren't able to talk really at all. I had the Eggs Benedict. It was really heavy. I might have just ordered the wrong thing, but the bread seemed really dense, the sauce was really thick, and the pork belly just added more weight on top of all that. I wasn't impressed. Family mostly got omelets and they seemed to like them okay. Overall, we waited probably an hour and everything was just okay. The best part was the free s'more cookie and fresh OJ. I may go back and get the burger for lunch one day. I won't be back for brunch. There are too many other good places close to this location (Dunlay's, Lula, etc.) that I know and love.
(2)Jennifer H.
I came here on Sunday after having some industry friends rave how much they love Jam and I agree. My husband and I arrived around 10ish on Sunday and we were sat right away, shortly after arriving the restaurant did begin to fill up quickly. I ordered the Pecan Sticky Bun as an appetizer and it was fresh out of the oven. The plating was beautiful and the pecan bun was perfect in size and so tasty! For my main I ordered the Eggs Benedict and it was amazing. First off the presentation was beautiful, the eggs were seasoned perfectly and the flavors melted in your mouth. Jam will now become a regular brunch spot for my husband and me. Service, food and ambiance are awesome. If you are looking for great food for brunch, then look no further. I can't wait to come back!
(5)Jenna C.
There was no wait at 10:30am Sunday brunch which makes me almost not want to write a review. French toast was standard or above. Poached egg whites were fabulous, perfectly cooked with a really delicious salad. Service was great. The not so great: Too many Lincoln Park yuppies. Terrible music to placate above yuppies.
(4)Ciara B.
The only reason I am giving this place a 2 instead of a 1 is because the decor was nice to look at. I had high hopes going here after reading reviews in the Red Eye. However, the food ended up being sub par. My biscuits and gravy were cold and the portions were minimal. The overall flavoring of the breakfast was bland (and this is from taking a bite off of 5 different plates at the table). It seems the trendiness reputation and vibe of Jam is bound to trick many customers into thinking that the $15/plate for breakfast food is worth it, but I recommend skipping the trend and finding a breakfast place where the food is plentiful in both portion and flavor and it costs $5, as it should for breakfast.
(2)Jared H.
They need to fig12ure out a way to get the names on the waiting list thing right. I don't mind being put on a waiting list but if you say it will be 20 mins- make it 20 mins. We waited 65 minutes just to be sat. And the service wasn't even that great. If I want a dude bro shouting "what do you want" I would go to a bar in Wrigleyville. Maybe a good way to start an interaction would be "...may I get you something to drink after standing around for over an hour? I do apologise for the wait." The food is good but the people who run the joint ... Eh
(2)Kyra M.
I'd maybe come back for the dinner tasting menu, but that's a big maybe. Walked past this place Saturday night on our walk to Lula and decided to walk over for Sunday brunch. The wait was entirely too long, and it was obvious while we were waiting the kitchen was moving very slow. Barely anyone seated actually had food on their table. When we finally got seated, it took forever to have our order taken. Our appetizer came out before our cocktails. The appetizer, in fact, the waffle with a fried chicken thigh, was the only memorable portion of this meal, and it's not even a regular menu item. I had the egg sandwich, and my partner had the omelette. The guy at the table next to us also had the egg sandwich, and at the end of the meal he asked me if I also thought the meat could've used some salt. Pretty much. The food lacked flavor in general. My cocktail was ok (the bacon old fashioned), but my partner wasn't a fan of his bloody Mary. If I'm going to spend time waiting for brunch, there are plenty of better options in the area.
(3)Ashley F.
Let me tell you about Jam. -Amus-bouche at brunch? Yes please. Goes great with the excellent coffee. -The decor is adorable, but the tables are a little too close for comfort when it's crowded. I don't enjoy nearly elbowing my neighbor in the head when I need to get up to use the restroom. -The wait staff is pleasant. When they get crushed, you do have to wait a smidge. -Don't go to brunch if you want quiet. It gets loud in here. -BYOB and plan to stay that way even once they have their liquor license. Please and thank you. I really like Jam. Their German Chocolate Pancakes are to die for.
(4)Julia C.
Unbeknownst to me- it looks like this place had a former location. I'd love for Yelp to separate the two, because half of these reviews are NO WHERE CLOSE to what the bf and I experienced today. First off- the decor needs a nod of its own. Lovely color palate, creative use of mirrors/clear plastic chairs to make the space feel huge, and slightly divided areas, which seemed to divide those in for lunch and those in for the long haul quite well. Don't let it fool you though- completely comfortable! The chairs were perfect for that mid-day, slightly slouchy, relaxed mode. From there? Amazing. Delicious. Impeccable service. We walked up to the Cash Only sign on the door- the bf froze, but between the two of us, we had about $50 and figured that was fine. Amazingly, we somehow didn't even spend that much! I had the French toast and the bf had the Jamburger. Our server, Brandon, could not have been more awesome. He started with an explanation of how they make the french toast, marinate overnight, balance the sweet with tart flavors- totally made the difference. Also, the pink peppercorn on the lime whip? Brilliant! Shane's Jamburger looked phenomenal. It was a little slippery to pick up with the egg, roasted tomato, and cheese, but he loved it. Would've snagged a seasoned French fry too, but he loved them as well! I'm excited that they do breakfast, lunch, and dinner. We can't wait to go back and try more things. I know they just opened today, but I'm crossing my fingers that everything stays impeccably quick and tasty as they get busier! Ps- it's byob. I would've loved to bring some bubbly for brunch- next time I won't forget!
(5)Cara B.
I went to brunch here this past Sunday and have to admit, i was pretty disappointed. I went with 2 other friends and when we got there, they told us it was about a 15 minute wait which was no problem as the farmers market was going on. They took our phone number and told us they would call, which i always think is a perk from places. However, when they called us to tell us our table was ready, they sat us at a 2 top outside and pulled up an extra chair and place setting. Normally, this wouldn't bother me, but they were jam packing the patio so tight, you really couldn't move too much. They also looked at all 3 of us, and then proceeded to ask if it was for 2 people still (which it never was). We were served water, and there was oj flakes in there as it hadn't been cleaned out very well. When one of the staff caught that, they said they would bring us a fresh pitcher that we never received until we asked our waitress for water. The rest of the experience was VERY slow, including getting coffee, refills, and our food. While waiting, we were served small brownie/peanut butter bites to hold us over until the food came out since it was taking so long, which was a nice gesture. Once the food hit the table, the presentation was very nice, but i thought that it stopped there. I ordererd the breakfast egg sandwich with the pork and the bottom piece of bread was so soggy and mushy, it was hard to even hold. i ended up using a fork/knife to eat it. Overall, i didn't think it had too much flavor besides the jam. That part was delish! The food was lukewarm like it had been sitting, and the potatoes that came with were not even cooked all the way through. The other 2 people I ate with ordered the chorizo omelette (which i thought had the most flavor) and the italian sandwich. The bread on the italian was much yummier as i compared it to my own. Our waitress checked to see if everything was okay, offered a refill on coffee and then never brought it. When we finally got the check and gave her our credit cards, we waited another 15 minutes for her to bring them back. She was the SLOWEST. Overall, not impressed, which bummed me out since i had heard good things. Im hoping we just caught them on an off day. But nothing we got is anything i would go back for and the slowness of the service was borderline ridiculous!
(2)Jennifer S.
I had the blueberry pancakes. They were too heavy, too rich, too cakey, very unsatisfying. Oh...and they charged us for syrup even though I didn't ask for it!!!! I've never before been to a restaurant where you order a pancake item and be charged for syrup!!!! I went once, will never step foot in that place again. Also, the server sucked. The place wasn't' even busy, but it took him forever to take our order. Not pleased....
(1)Dina I.
Don't know what happened to this place. Used to come here a lot when they first opened and it was amazing-I still dream about the blueberry pancakes on one of their first menus. The last 3 visits have been disastrous-undercooked pancakes, then overcooked/browned pancakes, cold food...disappointing...my dining companion refuses to ever go back.
(2)Kathleen C.
I really wanted to like Jam... I visited for brunch with a group on a lovely Friday. The outdoor patio area is a little haven away from the street. However, it seemed as if we had missed the actual lunch/brunch crowd as the restaurant was very empty and even so, we were not able to order items from the earlier menu (we had a mid-day menu). However, the food was quite delicious and service was quick and helpful. Prices were not inexpensive, but were reasonable. Due to the delicious food, our group decided to return, as part of a larger group, for dinner. We were again seated outside. The restaurant is BYO, and we were provided glasses, wine buckets, corkscrews, etc, quickly upon arrival. However, this is where the similarity to brunch ended. There is a tasting menu at dinner, but none of these items are offered a la carte (I feel this is quite odd, as outside of restaurant week menus, most restaurants are happy to offer fixed menu items a la carte). A few of us opted for the tasting menu, while some had meals from the regular menu. We waited extensively for our meals. The kitchen is miniscule and does not seem to be able to keep up with the dinner crowd. The food itself was tasty. However, small portions for some menu items were surprising. Additionally, our group requested some items that we were not provided with which resulted in a discussion with the manager that did not solve the issue. Overall, the nice outdoor patio does not make up for the inflexible menu options, long wait for food, and the service. There are other great BYOs in the area that are much better options.
(2)Shayna N.
Another new restaurant in our hood yippee! Jam is open 7a - 9p every day. They specialize in breakfast / brunch (all day!) , but dinner options are also available. Almost everything is made in house, making it super tasty. We got here at ~12 on Sunday and only had to wait 15 minutes. Our server was super cute, friendly and prompt, plus there was no delay on water and coffee refills. We split a half serving of the FRENCH TOAST which was AMA ZING. So light and fluffy and delicately flavored. I also had the Kale salad which was fantastically soft and mild, especially for kale. My husband had the lamb special. To round out the breakfast, the Metropolis Coffee was delish!
(4)Robin W.
Yummy for brunch! This place gets crammed though so expect a wait! The decor is super cute/trendy. The food is delicious. The service is good, friendly. I love that they give you a lil miniature pastry to start your meal :) I don't like the cash only thing... I always forget and then it's a walk to the Chase down the street. The brunch menu has some inventive items: my fav so far is the roast vegetable hash with a poached egg; the roasted beets make the dish. Yum... I'll be back for the blue plate special dinners soon.
(4)Greg G.
I had the burger for brunch and I can tell they use organic and fresh meat which was a huge plus. The egg on top was a nice touch and I would recommend it to anyone not sure what to get. The place is not big so i wouldn't recommend it for a large group. There were about 9 of us there and we were squeezed in way too tight and couldn't hear each other so they should have just broken us into two tables. All in all a good place but a bit pricey.
(3)Erika C.
JAM is a neighborhood place that I wanted to believe in but let me down. Based on the reviews below, it seems like I'm not alone: brunch is a no-go. My partner and I arrived on a Saturday morning and were seated immediately inside the restaurant. The service is OK. There were a couple of times we either ran out of coffee or needed something and were unable to get our server's attention. I ordered the zucchini bread pancakes and pork sausage. Our server recommended that I get all the fixings (candied walnuts, marshmallows and rum glaze) on the side but still recommended that I order the pancakes since I expressed to her that I did not like sugary extras. My partner ordered the salad niçoise (octopus salad) and a soup. I'd like to review the pork sausage but it never arrived. I asked for it 3 times! It finally arrived when we were done with our meal. My pancakes were so sweet that I had to ask for a salty butter to counterbalance the sweetness. I did not use any of the fixings. My partner loved his octopus salad which I did not try. At the end our server sensed our disappointment with the overall experience that she provided us with a certificate for free wine pairings for the next time we're in for dinner. Not sure if that will happen soon but I always give establishments a second try.
(2)Liz D.
I DREAM of the salmon dish here - it is my favorite dish for breakfast in the city. I come here and eat it until we need to take a break (the salmon and I that is). It's got me so dreamy that I never order anything else here, so I turn into one of those annoying "can I try that?" people who's reaching her fork across the table at my bf b/f he answers (note to all others: we suck) since while his go-to is the pork shoulder egg sandwich (drool) he branches out now and then. We go at 1 on a Saturday (always a table open then) and get our regulars and booze it up. I once had a Tuesday off and came for the tasting menu and it's one of the best deals in the city - 4 courses, $20, totally worth double that. I put this down as "spendy" as we can't ever pass up a Saturday cocktail or 3 - I'm referring to you, Beatrix Potter (fresh pressed carrot juice, maple syrup, bourbon, happiness). I love the servers (friendly, attentive, professional - and I'm including you too busboy) and the place is cute as heII, but unfortunately not super comfy unless your a slight and tiny person (it's crowded and the chairs are hard and small, inside & out). the food is SO GOOD I can't knock a star even though I am neither slight nor tiny (thanks salmon breakfast and 1pm boozing). Beautifully presented, highest quality, delicious food; superb staff, excellent location and design, consistently excellent, crowded, a bit pricey, totally worth it. I don't know how people can say the servings are small here (did I mention I am neither tiny nor slight?) other than the food is so good your are slightly saddened by the self-emptying of your plate.
(5)Katie R.
I loved Jam! The breakfast choices are unique and priced reasonably, and the decor was lovely. I'll definitely be back to try the pork cheeks (sounds gross but looked delicious) and something from the lunch menu.
(5)Rob D.
I've been to Jam on a few occasions and the experience has been hit or miss. Unfortunately, it was the recent miss that led to this review. Without the miss, it's an easy 4-5 star place, but average in the 1-2 star experience and we'll call it a 3. So, on to the experience. I'll start with the good. The spanish omelet is delicious. The mini-pastry served up before your meal has never disappointed and is an enjoyable surprise the first time you come. The scones are worth the trip alone. Now, on to the bad. Came here on a late Sunday morning with the girlfriend. After a short wait, we were seated by the kitchen. I ordered up the breakfast sandwich (pork, egg, cant recall the other stuff), she orders the blueberry pancakes. 45 minutes later, our food shows up... So, not off to a good start. I dive in to my sandwich. It's good, nothing to write home about, but a solid effort none the less. After a few bites, I look up to see one bite missing from the pancakes and a dejected look on the gf's face. How they managed to screw up blueberry pancakes is completely beyond me. Doughy and bland come to mind. Seeing as how my gf is a server herself and normally recoils in horror at the thought of sending food back, I was shocked when she didn't protest for even a second when I suggested it. To fill in for the disappointing cakes, a scone was ordered. 20 minutes later, it showed up, was delicious, not much else to report. On to the bill... Sat for another 15 minutes patiently waiting to pay and leave. At this point we're an hour and thirty into it and just want to move on with our day. Finally, the bill comes and we were charged for both the pancakes and the scone. I can completely understand one or the other, but both?!?! I mean, we're talking about a $3 scone here. They're not exactly giving the house away if they comp a scone in exchange for those awful pancakes. As frequent diners with numerous friends in the industry, we can confidently say that we are not "those customers". Regardless, it left a bad taste in our mouth after an already poor experience. We will be back, eventually, but not until after a long hiatus spent at Chicago's many other competent breakfast establishments.
(3)Daniel R.
Jam on it. Some cities have a weekend breakfast culture. Some don't. In Chicago, we love our breakfast, so it's important to stand out in the crowd. Jam stands out in the crowd. I could eat that egg sandwich all day. Home made ketchup, pig cheeks, fingerling potatoes on the side? If you're into that kinda thing, Hell, yeah. The only problems were the long wait to get seated, the long wait to get served, and the noise level in the place. However, the kitchen show was great and the service was nice, so I'm not too upset. Maybe they could put a jar of home made *jam* on the table too?
(4)Anna S.
I went for a late Sunday brunch with a friend. It was crowded when we walked in so I expected to wait for a table. They seated us right away. The restaurant is loud and cramped. The servers were very attentive. The menu sounded unique and impressive but the taste was pretty average. I will say the prices are affordable. The dinner menu sounded interesting so I may give it another chance for dinner.
(2)P R.
We live in the 'burbs and our original destination was actually Lula Cafe. But we got to Lula and the wait was an hour so I called up Jam which recently re-located from Ukrainian Village. I had eaten at their prior location and I knew their food was very good. They were able to accomodate us so we trotted on over and were seated in the lovely front room which is airy and looks out onto the street - the rest of the restaurant is a bit cramped. Coming from the boring 'burbs, everything looked innovative and delicious on the menu. We all started with the butternut squash soup - delicious and poured over toasted hazelnuts and wilted kale. The rest of our order included the jamburger (substituted pork belly for the egg), the egg sandwich, eggs benedict and the panini cristo. The latter was good but least successful - a bit too salty but the acccompanying apple slaw was refreshing and necessary. Burger was perfectly cooked and came with seasoned fries (smoky paprika?). Eggs benedict was elevated by the pork belly and butternut squash hollandaise. The egg sandwich was superb - poached eggs nestled over creamy ricotta and mounds of luscious, soft, braised pork - accompanying fingerlings perfectly roasted. I had to dock one star for service - it was very friendly but we had two mis-steps. The first was when he knocked over my son's root beer onto my husband - that's okay, mistakes happen - but would have been nice to replace the root beer since half of it spilled. Also, I had eaten at the other location and enjoyed a delicious amuse bouche at the start of the meal. I assumed they had discontinued this practice at the new location. However as we were leaving, I noticed the table next to us had been served them. The spilled rootbeer was forgiveable but not the missed amuse bouche! I had forgotten this place was cash only so we had to avail ourselves of the cash machine at the back. Would be nice to be able to use a credit card. I'm sure the lines will start to get crazy here once their signage is up.
(4)Kim P.
Went there for a brunch this morning and DAMN was it packed! I guess everyone else had Martin Luther King Day off, too. Anyway, although it was packed the staff was still very friendly and uber organized, keeping things running smoothly and bussing tables and seting people promptly. I was impressed. Even more impressive was the food... We had the buckweat crepes with lamb and pear- very mild, very delicious,, and the smore-themed chocolate pancakes, which were solid, but didn't contain any actual chocolate chips. I like things disgustly sweet, but I think they'd be perfect for a more normal palate. ;) Oh, The coffee was so good that my boyfriend, who'd already polished two cups at home before we left so was therefore passing on coffee, had to order some of his own. I would highly recommend Jam.
(5)p H.
Do you like raw pork? I don't. I went to Jam for the second time to give it another try. I wasn't impressed with it the first time I went, but thought I was just being a little too critical. So, I went again, and my friend ordered pork. It came out and was undercooked. WAY undercooked. To the point of being disgusted and losing his (and my) appetite. I don't want Trichinosis so we sent it back. After telling the host and server about the pork, we got a scone to make up for it. THANKS! Really? So, we ate the scone, shared my blueberry pancakes (which were delicious), drank our coffee and waited and waited for our check. Ten minutes -- no check. I put my wallet on the table as a sign -- no check. I put my coat on -- no check. We went to the counter to cash out, and were greeted by a different, snotty server who seemed annoyed by us. We ended up having to pay for the uneaten, raw pork. I didn't like the atmosphere either. The food on the menu seemed delicious, and the ingredients were interesting. This place is not worth waiting 45 minutes to eat brunch in.
(1)Eliza R.
I love this place... and I can't stay away. I've had most of what's on the breakfast menu and enjoyed all of what I've had. My favorite is the egg white omelet (I liked it a bit more when it had the red beet puree(?) instead of the orange, but I get it). Although the steak and eggs is close second favorite. Like others say, it all looks beautiful as well as tasting lovely. Everyone I've brought here has been impressed. Love the amuse bouche every time- such a cute and tasty touch. I enjoy the coffee and their ability to keep my mug full and warm until I call a halt to it. The service is friendly and now remembers me and greets me- makes me want to come back even more. Watching the kitchen at work is an added bonus. Yes, if you come during the prime brunch time, there will be a wait... and it's cash only. Neither of those should surprise. Not to mention that it's worth the inconvenience, in my humble opinion.
(5)keri h.
Went on a weekday for breakfast to avoid the weekend brunch-sters crowd. Being a vegetarian my choices were limited - almost everything had pork in it. I had the Three-dom which consisted of (you get to pick) over medium eggs, potatoes and toast and jam. Presentation was great and I really dug their potatoes. Overall decent, but I wasn't asking for much. The jam for my three slices of toast were great...although I wish they had given me that forth slice.
(3)Crystal P.
Hello Teeny tiny blueberry muffin! i love you :) Jam = delish... Well what I could taste. Not very many un meaty things. We had the Quiche and the French toast.. presentation was beautiful and the food was excellent. i don't know if I will be going back very soon just because.. I'm not sure what i would eat.... but I loved that little muffin :)
(4)Matthew C.
The only thing stopping me from giving this restaurant a 5 was the long wait time to get a table and the fact that it is cash only. Outside of that, this place was awesome. By far my favorite brunch in the city. Every item ordered by our group was delicious (egg sandwich, omelet, french toast, pancakes, and eggs benedict). Service was solid, ambiance was upscale and trendy. One person in my group mentioned that it reminded them of NYC. I took a bit of offense to that statement. Just because something is cool, trendy, and delicious, doesn't mean it's like NYC. Having said that, I agreed with her.
(4)Ria C.
This is 4 blocks from my apartment so the location is a huge plus. The patio waiting area is so perfect for a fall day, with unlimited coffee while you wait-very quaint and urban (we thought it was free, but they end up charging you when presenting your check.) There's this strange little oblong wood burning contraption that really fascinates me, and this little pig sculpture that hides I don't know what...anyways, I am rambling. The only con here is the wait. I got the eggs benedict with pork belly and spinach hollandaise, but it took over 30 minutes for us to get our meals, I thought they were killing Wilbur outside in the little pig structure contraption and then firing him up in the oblong thing...I'm a huge fan of porkbelly and this was good, not great, but something different for brunch. The hungover bubby had the biscuits & gravy which really had a fantastic shiitake mushroom glace, kind of vinegary, but paired with the dish very well. I would come back here for the spanish omelet and add the white anchovy, which distracted me every time it was served out. I have food ADD and this one really caught my attention and made me mentally cheat on my pork belly. Sorry Wilbur. Good solid brunch at very reasonable prices-we came out at about $25 with coffee, tax, and tip, and also came out with the kitchen stench of breakfast grease-it is an open kitchen which is cool, but not cool to my dry cleaner.
(4)Stephen P.
A group of five of us went there yesterday for Easter brunch and had a great experience. The food was delicious and the ambiance was great. We had the French toast to start which was delightful. Then I had the egg sandwich. Definitely going back and trying the Jamburger.
(5)Luis B.
So good, but not the cheapest. I had their German Chocolate pancakes which were SO good. The price was reasonable at about $10. The person I was with had the corn beef dish, and while it was good it was way overpriced. $15? When it comes to food, decor, ambiance and customer service it gets five stars. But I had to take one star off just because this place has many dishes that are just overpriced.
(4)Marshall D.
Went to JAM on New Year's Day for brunch. As expected there was a wait, so we ordered coffee at the bar. Coffee was nothing special. It appears to have a full bar, and the bartenders were busy whipping up a variety of drinks. I ordered a Pecan sticky bun and the buckwheat pancakes, while my friend ordered an Omelet. She is a vegetarian, and she did not have many choices, i mean like 2-3 things to choose from for breakfast. I did not like her omelet, it was a bit undercooked. My pancakes were fine, but no syrup. I've never had pancakes without syrup, I doubt I will again. The food took awhile to come out, but it was January 1st and expected. Our waiter Ryan was attentive and knew the menu well. The space is small, and they have stuffed as many Ikea tables, chairs, and stools as they can into it. It was loud, at times difficult to hear my friend right across from me. I am unlikely to return.
(2)Ashley A.
Since we had a 30 minute wait and we were 'jamming' brunch in before my friends flight we took the thirty minutes to peruse the whole menu. Everything looked so good, it was truly difficult to decide. After seating us and placing our orders immediately, there was a little glitch in the kitchen and our food took quite sometime (I think around 40 minutes). Our server handled it well (as did the three other servers) by bringing out a crumb cake to the tables that were experiencing a delay. I was glad to see that the man plating the works de arte decided to continue putting out quality dishes rather than rushing and putting out crap. We had the eggs benedict -- kind of a play on green eggs and ham. It was our least favorite at the table however the eggs were done to perfection. We also had the veggie panini and the biscuits with mushroom gravy. All were gorgeous to look at and equally appealing to the palate. Now, how can I bypass that line--will they have a frequent diner card or something for those within a four block radius??
(4)Michele G.
My new, hands-down favorite breakfast place in Chicago. Classy, modern, beautiful space; so many delicious items on the menu (where to begin?), great coffee, wonderful food and attentive, friendly and informed service. Michele, our waitperson -- who should be cloned -- was so honestly and sweetly enthusiastic about this morning's pork chop offering, that it broke my heart to say, "thanks, but no thanks" as I don't eat pork. The custard French toast was wonderful and there are at least six other menu items that will beckon me back.
(5)Edward L.
I debated between two and three stars for an inordinate amount of time but ultimately settled on two. Most of what others have said is true, which I noticed before reading other reviews. Highlights: The food was generally quite tasty and unique without being too avant garde and weird. In the end, it should taste good and it did. Unique ingredients combined to pretty tasty flavors. The coffee was pretty good too, from a casual drinker's perspective. The server was helpful and nice, offering advice and friendly. Low-Points: The service (not necessarily the server) was slow. The meal took almost an hour to come out and it did not seem busy. The kitchen is small so I can understand the delay, but did not take away from the time looking awkwardly at the modern fixtures at other impatient diners. The space is not equipped to handle more than four people in a party (two would be optimal). We had five and it was cramped with knees going in awkward places. Final Say: Food is good but experience wasn't great.
(2)mandee m.
I loved this place and it moved out of my hood without any notice! Their site doesn't reflect the closing of the Damen Ave location so when I went there for a lunch date, it was all locked up. I wish they would've had some sort of flyer posted for it's wicker park/uk vill customers. sad day.
(4)Sarah M.
This place was nice. I enjoyed my Malted Custard French Toast, they serve Metropolis coffee which I love and we didn't feel rushed even though the place was super busy and small. I will say though, as much as I enjoyed the product, I didn't enjoy the bill. I'm sorry, but this isn't downtown. Breakfast shouldn't cost $20. Like I said, it was good, but it wasn't BETTER than most other brunch/lunch places in the area. And for the price tag, I expected it to be. I wouldn't rush back but I'm glad I tried it.
(3)Chiyo T.
As a new restaurant, this place seems to be doing pretty well. Decided to stroll in for breakfast on the rare occasion that I actually woke up in time for "breakfast." Arrived a few moments before the friend I was meeting got there, and was greeted right away. Once my friend finally arrived, we sat there for about ten minutes without a server greeting us and taking our drink order. Now, I know what its like to be in the weeds, but this was not the case at all. I'm sure it was just a mix up of who's section we were in, but in any case, the female server took the initiative to just take us. The menu was small and concise which was actually relieving. Too many choices gets to be too complicated, so I just went with the (three)dom of choice, which I chose two eggs over easy, the homemade sausage and fingerling potatoes. Once the food came, I couldn't tell if the portions were small or because it was plated on such a large plate, but it ended up being the perfect portion. One thing I particularly liked that caught me off guard was that, there weren't any condiments on the table. No salt, no pepper, no ketchup. I usually throw some salt and ketchup on my potatoes, but didn't really have the option here. THANK GOD. The potatoes and the eggs and the sausage were all perfectly seasoned. It was amazing, really. I just want to thank the kitchen staff for being so on top of their game. I mean, honestly, even the mini coffee cake they gave out in samples was sooo delicious. And whoever the guy in the back is, with the beard, and longer brown hair. You are god damned beautiful. I couldn't stop staring, sorry if I'm creeping you out. Anyway, if you want a good breakfast, definitely check this place out.
(4)William W.
Allow me to describe this place in a single word: Precious. The big problem is the portion size-price ratio. Two buttermilk pancakes do not a stack make, nor are they worth five dollars. The quiche was literally a half-inch rectangular slice. The egg-white frittata probably had about 3 egg whites in it. It's not that the flavor and quality of the food was bad - it wasn't, but this is hardly likely to sate the average Chicagoan's expectations for brunch. Even my friend and I, who are two health-conscious, Pollanites left quite hungry. What's more, the service was appallingly bad. Rather than taking our orders and delivering our food in a prompt manner, our waiter fussed over the symmetry of our silverware. Those five dollar pancakes were forgotten in the mix and had to be re-ordered (lord knows we needed the food!) Overall, the money spent on having this restaurant restrict your diet would be better spent on a dietician. A twee, Brooklyn knock-off.
(1)Anne M.
This new place suits me just fine. Yes, indeed. For starters, parking was no prob on a Saturday morning on Damen. The friendly staff seated us right away and (adorable, dimpled) Frankie brought us yummy Metropolis coffee straight away. My girls and I split 2 breakfast dishes (Spanish Omelet, Malted French Toast) and 1 lunch special (terrific and complicated corn chowder with fennel. The omelet was very good, especially the housemade chorizo, but the french toast...aw-aw-awesome. The malt flavor is subtlely powerful and lush dusted with pink peppercorns. Finally a little, reasonable, haute breakfast spot that's not slammed (yet).
(5)Chris R.
back for round 2...... porkbelly eggs benidict....WOW. Now my favorite brunch meal. Hands down. I'm going to have to order that from now on...or as long as its on the menu.
(5)Eric G.
For breakfast I normally prefer traditional, simple, American style breakfast. Hot and plenty of it, and I'm usually happy with just a diner. A friend took me to Jam and I was really impressed. I don't usually like what I refer to as "chef-y" places, meaning I don't like creative takes on my old favorites, but there was just enough creativity to be interesting without detracting from tradition. I had the french toast, and it was excellent. Thick slices, cooked perfectly, served with a very light whipped cream and diced cherries in a slightly sweet sauce, and these pink peppercorns that gave it just a hint of a savory edge. At first I balked at the missing syrup, but the syrup would have totally overpowered the bread. The cream and cherries were perfect, I don't remember the last time I enjoyed french toast this much. My friend got the same french toast with scrambled eggs, which were scrambled in such a way that they looked like yellow swirls that could have been painted by an impressionist painter. It was crowded at 11:30 on a Saturday, but not packed, and we were seated right away. Quarters are tight and you have to be friendly with the people seated next to you when you want to get up, because either you're going to have an ass pass close by your face or one is going to pass by yours. The service was excellent, maybe even a little too excellent as there was someone constantly refilling my water glass. Many of their entrees have prices for full or half orders, which worked perfectly for us. We each had a half order of french toast, two eggs, and coffee and the bill was less than $25. It's not college student cheap, but very reasonable for a brunch not made by a short order cook.
(4)Miss A.
This place is a hidden gem. The outdoor patio is SO wonderful. It manages to feel chic without being pretentious.The food is amazing for what you are spending on it. I've tried the french toast, lamb crepes, and mexican omelette (this WINS). The servers are attentive and knowledgeable, yet laid back. It would be nice to see some more things listed on the menu, but I'll still keep going back.
(4)Mallery I.
Brunch makes me happy, and I was thrilled to see that Jam was opening so close to my place! I dragged my boyfriend to Jam on their third day of business, and we were both sorely disappointed. I am cutting them some slack as it was their first weekend, but I will not return for a loooong time (if ever). We waited about 45 minutes for a table, which is not unusual at noon on a Sunday. When we were finally seated, I appreciated the ambience and the prompt cup of coffee. Looking around, I noticed one table had their food. I should have left at that point. Instead, we placed our order immediately, and then waited ANOTHER 45 minutes for our food. In the meantime, the tables on either side of us were given an "I'm-sorry-we're-so-slow-please-forgive-us" amuse bouche. Where the heck was MY tasty snack?! Before I could flag down my ditzy waitress and beg for an amuse bouche, our food finally arrived. I had the Custard French Toast, which was VERY tasty. A bit of lime zest made it taste fresh and delicious. Unfortuantely, my bf's three-dom plate wasn't nearly as good. His fingerling potatoes were rock hard, and the pancakes and eggs were only mediocre. Even paying took unnecessarily long. The place is cash-only, and the cashier was clearly struggling to calculate and count my change. He also took the unnecessary time to break two $20's while I waited. The service at this place can only improve, so I may try it again in a few months. I would recommend only going here if you have plenty of time and are not starving.
(3)Chrissy H.
I am a server, and I find it really insensitive when Yelpers write detailed, play-by-play accounts of their bad service experiences. So I'm just going to say this: The service was non-existant. Maybe the dude was having a bad day, or was distracted with personal issues. I don't know...but he barely acknowledged us the whole time. We're lucky we were able to place our orders at all. That's all I'm saying about that. However, the menu had a lot of tempting options, and the items we chose were all very tasty. Orange juice--fresh squeezed deliciousness. Eggs benedict--a solid A. Jam Burger--serious comfort food. If you don't mind sitting 8 inches from the table next to you, (and assuming the service is not consistently poor), this is a decent brunch option.
(2)Megan S.
Jam is pretty great. It can be a bit busy, but both times I went (both Sunday brunch) we got seated right away. They give you a little treat from the bakery. The coffee is good and so is the service. The scotch egg was really tasty. It's a little expensive, but has always been worth it. Cash only.
(4)Josh J.
I think this place is fantastic... the food is great, at reasonable prices. I've been twice, and have had (or shared) the egg sandwich (amazingly good), the savory crepe (also great) and the spanish omelette (good). The service has been friendly and attentive. Not sure about some of the complaints - I thought the temperature was fine but maybe it wasn't a hot day? I'm sure those of us who came to Dodo appreciate the improvement. Regarding cash-only - it was clear to me, and Jam is far from the only brunch place with that restriction. Lastly - yes there is no alcohol. It is a BYO - which is a huge bonus for me - but I guess some may disagree? All in all, really excited that this is here, I will definitely return
(5)nick a.
move over, bongo room. the chocolate pancakes were insane. well worth the price! their eggs benedict are also incredible. Gorgeous outdoor seating. There can be a line sometimes...
(5)Jane L.
They have really unique dishes. I ordered their Egg Whites, which is one of their breakfast options. I enjoyed it! The egg whites were seasoned very well and it comes sweet potato buckwheat crepe and a salad. Its a good combination and also a healthy option, since I am somewhat health conscious.
(3)Ashley L.
Very friendly staff, unique menu, tasty food.
(4)Matt J.
Better than the average brunch. We are serial-brunchers and we came on a Saturday morning. My GF got the house specialty panini and my son got the chocolate pancakes (he's a chocolate pancake connoisseur) and I got the Spanish omelet. The panini was well received, the chocolate pancakes got two thumbs-up, but the Spanish omelet blew me away. Maybe one of the best omelets I've ever had. I can't remember all the ingredients, but I do remember the chorizo because it was just perfect. I'd come back for that omelet alone. It's pretty small (but not too loud) and they have a small kitchen. I imagine it wouldn't take much for them to get overwhelmed on a Sunday morning, but we got good service and the food didn't take too long to come. We were also pretty promptly seated, though shortly thereafter they had the dreaded bunch-of-people-standing-on-the-sidewalk.
(4)Laura W.
Hi. So Jam is open for dinner now (open Monday, Wednesday through Sunday from 7 am to 9 pm). I've heard of Jam before but never really found myself in the area around breakfast/brunch time (mostly because around breakfast time I'm either working or sleeping, depending on the day). It's just never worked out, know what I'm saying? I'm about to move to Kansas City and a friend offered to take me here for dinner. (Note to Jam staff: update your website! Argued for a minute that Jam wasn't open for dinner. No, it is.) Cool, I took her up on the offer. Holy crap. Please go here immediately and order the tasting menu before they realize they are charging $25. I will say no more. Okay, no I will. I. Just. Ugh. Seriously, every moment was filled with "OMGWTFISTHISIDON'TEVEN" and then a lot of chewing and sighing. The asparagus soup was fantastic. I love the prosciutto but the best part was the citrus zest. It looks a little like Exorcist-barf but is really great. My friend and I got both the duck breast AND the seared escolar. The duck breast was really delicious-- cooked well and the thigh confit perogi was tasty. But if I had to pick one, I'd go with the seared escolar MOSTLY because of the pineapple gnocchi, ricotta and pecan emulsion that compliment the dish. I couldn't even begin to recreate it. You must try. The dessert was an olive oil cake with chocolate sauce and an orange marmalade. It was not SUPER AMAZING but the flavors were interesting and definitely after the meal I had, I wasn't looking for something intense. The meal was filling but not heavy so I didn't feel like dying afterward. The best part, however, had to be the second course-- the foie gras tortellini with the snap pea puree. The foie gras filling is just sooooo good. It's creamy and a teeny bit sweet. The tortellini shell is made from duck skin. It sounds bizarre but, as I told my dining partner, it is probably one of the best things I've ever eaten. At least in the top five. Behind my grandmother's gumbo (she paid me to say that). Reading some of the other reviews of dinner at Jam, I have a few comments to make: 1) There were two of us and we both ordered the tasting menu. At no time were we ever asked to order from another menu. 2) Yes, BYOB. Plan ahead or there is a liquor store a few steps away. No big thang. 3) Yes, cash only. Uh, their ATM is cool looking and the charge is only $1.00. 4) Portions for a tasting menu are going to be small. You know, about the size of tasting portions...BECAUSE THEY ARE PORTIONS FOR A TASTING MENU. Logic? ;) 5) There were not any other customers there (7:00 pm on a Monday). I suppose that might feel awkward for some people but I loved it. Our waiter paid us a ton of attention and answered questions and humored me when I made really bad jokes. I enjoyed being able to waltz right in and act as if I owned the place because I feel like, in a few months, there will be a line out the door. Enjoy the atmosphere and peace now, WHILE YOU STILL CAN. (so many caps) Thank you, Jam, for the wonderful meal (and the foie gras tortellini cravings I expect to take place in about thirty minutes).
(5)Maggie N.
met some friends here b/c it was in his 'neck of the woods' & so glad I did! we shared the french toast & it was really good! I had the biscuits & (mushroom) gravy & gave the sausage to my friends since I don't eat pork & it was a really tasty gravy!!! I wish I could just have this as a cream of mushroom soup it was so yummy! My friends marveled at the beauty of their poached eggs! they seriously oohed & ahhed over it, but I do have to say, they were glistening! :P The decor is cool too , especially for a brunch spot! our food did seem to take awhile to come out, but since we weren't in a hurry, we didn't mind, but hopefully this doesn't happen often.
(4)Margot A.
I would definitely give Jam a solid 3.5 stars if possible, but alas, Yelp, it is not. It's right around the corner, which is a plus, and the decor is darling. But let me tell you, this place is TINY. I would not attempt to go with a large party, which we did not, but still we waited thirty minutes for a table. They do share a patio with the bakery next door, which is nice, and they allow you to wait there and have coffee. So once we were seated, our waiter was very prompt in getting us drinks and taking our order. The interior temperature is really warm in the front part of the restaurant, but it was pretty chilly in the back where we were seated because they had the back door of the prep kitchen propped open. I think this is an attempt to air out the greasy cooking smell, which is pretty prominent. We did have to wait longer than average for our food, but if you look at the menu, you will see why. It's definitely not your average brunch spot. I ordered the Jamburger, which was definitely the correct choice if you're feeling like lunch. In-credible. The quality of the beef was outstanding, and the bun was perfection. Add cheese and a fried egg on top, plus a little homemade ketchup and you have one tasty sandwich. At first I was a little weirded out that it did not come with lettuce, tomato, etc. but honestly, it was completely unnecessary. The fries are also good....we couldn't figure out what seasoning they put on them, and came up with sugar, salt, a hint of cinnamon and maybe fennel? Tasty dipped in ketchup for sure! My sister had the chorizo omelet which was also quite good. The chorizo was great, and there was a LOT of it. Shockingly, the omelet was a bit too salty which is a ridiculous statement because we are salt-lovers....i mean, we LOVE salt. But regardless, it was a very nice menu item. It comes with breakfast potatoes which are also delicious. Our friend had the savory crepes, which were good, but very meaty. They have braised lamb and some other stuff (sorry I wasn't paying much attention because of my JAMBURGER) and come pre-wrapped in two little burrito-like crepes. Then they are kind of swimming in some sort of sauce. The flavor is really gamey, as lamb is, but it feels like you're eating lamb brisket wrapped in a crepe. It's not bad, by any means! I just think he was expecting something different. Overall, the food gets two thumbs up. The service was good, although the food prep was a bit slow, and the wait time is fairly long. The prices are reasonable, and what you would expect. We will definitely go back, but probably not regularly. Enjoy!
(4)annie c.
After reading the other reviews, I think they have worked out some of their kinks since they opened. Got right in and service was pretty speedy, perhaps too speedy. My only complaint was they cleared the table while I was still eating, but I understand that it's breakfast and they have to make money by turning their tables. This isn't a typical breakfast spot, it's a little on the fancy side, which is a nice change for the other places in the neighborhood. The food is very clean! I had the egg white omelette with beets, usually a terrine but today it was an omelette and I devoured it! I usually like a breakfast that comes with all the extras but typically I end up stuffed with potatoes and toast, that won't happen here since it doesn't come with your dish but, it's an option. The fresh squeezed orange juice is amazing! Oh, and they give an amuse bouche...for breakfast!! All around good experience except now that I'm sitting here typing this minutes after leaving, I realize one other complaint...they need a better hood to ventilate b/c my t-shirt reeks of grease. !
(4)Meg G.
Some reviews have mentioned Jam's inconsistency, so my experience may be an off-day for them. But I'll never know, because I'll never go back. This was the absolute worst brunch experience I've had in any metropolitan city. Long waits for brunch are to be expected, but I want to get an accurate picture of the wait. The host gave us an estimate (30 min) that was half what our actual wait was (1 hr). And then he didn't give us menus when he sat us or mention that the wait for food would be another 30 minutes. Meanwhile, we watched while three tables sat open for twenty minutes while the line grew. Our waitress brought out little muffins to tide us over until the food came, which is a nice touch - unfortunately, those muffins were the best part of the meal. When we finally got our food, one dish was delicious, one was good once the creme was scrapped off (it tasted like Lemon Pledge smells), and one was awful (the sickly blue, dense pancakes with little flavor). The impression we got was that everyone there was either overwhelmed or didn't care about what they were doing. Service industry jobs aren't easy, and I don't expect false enthusiasm, but I do expect that the customer not get blamed for a restaurant's lack of organization. Our server complained to us about people complaining to her about the long wait, and then said "It's brunch in Chicago, what do you expect?" as though the problem isn't Jam's poor management or communication but our expectations. Wrong. If Milk & Honey, Flying Saucer, Flo's, or any of the other numerous brunch places in the neighborhood can manage to get us seated and fed before 3 HOURS have passed, then so can you. Everyone has an off day, and if there had just been one or two missteps I'd definitely give them another chance. But the combination of bad service, bad attitude, and bad (not cheap) food is too much. There are so many delicious places to eat in Chicago, this isn't worth the bother.
(1)Delia C.
judging from other reviews, the thing to do is visit this place during off-peak hours. which is what i did with my Guy a few weeks ago, playing hooky from work. it was a brisk wed morning (around 10ish), we walked over from my place and were immediately seated inside the near-empty dining room. our coffees were filled contantly, our waitress(es) were smiley and helpful, and the food came quickly - and to the correct table. i had the buckwheat pancake with the risotto (just call it grits, dudes) and my Guy had something that came with 3 different jams on the side. (sorry i can't remember what he had - the excellent dollops of jams obliterated my brain.) generally, i need to go to a place more than once before i like it, but this place is on my list of revisits. the food was sophisticated, yummy and above average. (hear that, Cleo's?)
(3)KM M.
Overrated and overpriced. The eggs benedict was very small and lacked in flavor. The egg sandwich (which the waitstaff highly recommends) was ok- i prefer a McDonald's breakfast sandwich to Jam's and I don't even like McDonald's. The service was SO SLOW. We waiting 40 minutes to be seated and then 30 minutes to order coffee and practically had to beg to get our check. And it was $25 pp. I was excited to try Jam but was very disappointed at the end.
(1)sarah d.
I wanted to like Jam. It's so close to where we live and it has a cute name and seemed to be the place that was going to fill the void of cute brunch places south of Division. But I didn't like Jam. And I won't go back. Here's why: -My son's pancakes were raw in the middle. Raw pancakes? At $6 for two silver dollar sized ones? Stop it. -My husband got the egg sandwich and hated it. (So much so that later on that day I reminded him of how we went out to breakfast and he told me to never speak of it again because it grossed him out.) It was like a Top Chef Quickfire gone wrong. Might have looked good on paper but just wasn't good in execution. -I got the trout quiche. The trout was cured and had a funny consistency, as did the quiche (more of a pudding texture). It was yucky. (And I eat anything and love almost everything.) Things they got right: -Our waitress was really nice and helpful with seating for our son. etc. -The amuse-bouche was good -Inside it is cutely decorated Like I said, I want Jam to be my new brunch place. My husband and I are foodies: We cook from Ad Hoc, we try new restaurants every chance we get. And I love and respect new twists on old classics (like at The Bristol or Avec) but Jam is trying too hard, and the results indicate either a lack of culinary skills or experience.
(3)Rachael S.
I was so unsatisfied with the food and service that I won't even justify it with a descriptive review. Never again.
(1)Jenna H.
Well hel-lo! I am in BRUNCH LOVE. Brunch is my favorite meal, so that is a serious declaration. This place was on my to do list, and we wandered over on a sunny June Saturday morning and were promptly seated in what appears to be an eccentric backyard on the grass, under the trees. It is a delightful change of pace here in the city. The service was fantastic, our server gave great details and was super efficient. The food ...was out of this world. It blew away my already high expectations. We did a breakfast pastry, the french toast and the benedict. Each was inventive and fantastic with twists on the traditional. I can't wait to go back!
(5)Marina M.
The staff is nice and the place is cute and cozy. However, the wait is ridiculous (not to mention there is no space to wait in). The menu was interesting but depending on what you order the food is either good but average or trying to hard to be creative and the flavors don't mix well.
(3)Burr B.
Liked it. Food was good. Half french toast order stephie and I killed was nice, her whitefish quiche and salad was outstanding, and I liked the eggs benedict with pork belly. Our only issue, and enough to knock experience down a star, was our waiter lacked the fierce urgency of now. The guys busing the table seemed annoyed with him too - they delivered his bills for him, checked in on his tables for him, made the change we needed when he went missing etc. I did get the sense he was an anomaly - the other staff seemed pretty on the spot. So instead of looking at another table, envying their food, we ended up doing that about their server. We'll be back but hope we get more attentive service.
(3)Chris H.
We had breakfast there this morning. The service was very nice and expedient. That's about the only good comment I can make. I had the Spanish Omelet. It was cold on the inside. My girlfriend had the quiche stuffed with salmon...which turned out to be all egg and bits of salmon. And I thought it was very pricey ($45 for two people for breakfast). I would not recommend.
(2)Cassie B.
Showed up at 11:30 on a Sunday, was told the wait was 30 minutes but ended up being seated in less than 10. Small (cozy?) and a little crowded, but most good brunch places are. I like the decor - spare with clear chairs and granite-slab tables. Everything on the menu looked good - I literally couldn't decide what to get - and contained complex flavors and ingredients. My egg sandwich with pork cheek was excellent, as were the fingerling potatoes on the side, but there were so few of them. Companion had the panini sandwich, which came with a very small bunch of mixed greens. C'mon, guys, bump up the sides! Would like to try a sweet entree next time. Coffee was only okay (Metropolis) but if you get a soft drink it comes in an 8-oz. glass bottle - NOT worth $3. $30 tab for two people, one entree and one (non-alcoholic) drink each, not including tip. Not horrible, but the portions could definitely be bigger. I'll be back, but I'm not rushing there.
(3)Tommy D.
I don't get it. Or I'm sorry.. I don't get waiting 45min in a super crowded space for what is offered. There is nary a vegetarian option on the menu. And the prices are a little steep considering what you are getting. Plus, its not like you can even enjoy your meal.. while being pushed together like sardines and having a phalanx of waiting patrons looking over my shoulder. Eff that noise, dudes. All ya'll waiting for them $12 eggs are insane.
(2)Brandon B.
I give this place 3.5 stars. 3 for service and 4 for food. My girlfriend and I are visiting Chicago from NYC and we are eating at A LOT of places. This place was recommended by food and wine magazine plus staff from a very awesome restaurant. And it was good. My pork cheek and fried egg sandwich was AWESOME. Cheeks cooked perfect with i believe a granny-smith apple-something that i dont really remember, but it was early in the morning and we had a very tiring day previous to eating here. My girlfriend got the eggs benedict. The eggs were perfect. I think they were cooked the Arzak method by being tied in plastic and steamed and it was served with excelent crispy pork belly and an awesome english pea hollandaise. We also ordered the french toast for us to share plus more of the pork belly. The problem i had with the place was not really the food. It was the atmosphere (which the restaurant couldnt really be faulted for) and the service. There was a family sitting next to us and they let their kid basically sit at our table for ten minutes while i was eating and the kid kept coughing. No one said anything. And the parents kept looking over as i was seriously annoyed and did NOTHING!!! Then the waitress asked if i wanted hot sauce or ketchup for my fingerlings and i said sure to the hot sauce (later realizing that they did not really need anything else because they were delicious) and when she set it down it splattered everywhere including my milk for my coffee and the table. She just walked away and did not return until she had the check in her hand. The other upsetting thing was that i made a comment to the waitress inquiring how they make the hollandaise to where it doesnt break on the plate because it was cold. Which i kind of thought was awesome until she just looked at me like an idiot and said "they make it fresh every morning and they keep it in a water bath". So what i thought was some inventive cold hollandaise was just a mistake. All in all i would go back though. The food was great. We got in easy and for two it only cost us 60 dollars for three entrees, two coffees, a side, tax, and tip.
(3)cina p.
Breakfast should not be pretentious. I have been here twice and the first time my husband and I just stopped in on a Tuesday night and dinner was fine. Friday my best friend and I stopped in for breakfast. Now, I am a lifelong Chicagoan, specifically in Logan Square and I get the neighborhood has surely changed and we have enjoyed the changes, but some changes...like pretentious breakfast are just annoying. First off, I didn't want Creme Fraiche with my French Toast. I hate the stuff and when I requested my dish without the server appeared frightened to ask the chef to nix it. So, she insisted that I have it on the side. Fine. Whatever. Then, when they brought the French toast out it was COLD oh, and I wanted maple syrup. I asked for it and again, the server was hesitant to ask for any because "the chef doesn't want it served with any." I don't care what the hell the chef wants...that's what I want and I'm the customer. So, she told me to try it without the syrup, I did and I wanted some anyway. She said it would cost a $1 and who cares...it's a dollar and so I asked for it again. When she did bring it out she apologized because it was only a tablespoon's worth. Ugh. Whatever. I still tipped her appropriately, but even the first time, at dinner with my husband, the server was reluctant to give me my salad without cheese when I asked for it...because of the chef. Who the hell is the chef at this place that he/she is such a dick that they've scared their waitstaff? If you want people to keep coming to your place you are going to have to accommodate folks, especially for simple requests that are easily feasible elsewhere. I live walking distance from this place and you have likely lost a good recurring customer. I'll stick with Lula, Longman & Eagle and a ton of other great places in the neighborhood.
(1)Ken R.
I had brunch at Jam today, Saturday, and it was just what I needed. The french toast was some of the best french toast I've had to date, and the corned beef sandwich was savory as well. My gf had their eggs benedict with a glass of freshly squeezed orange juice, and she couldn't stop raving about it. The server was extremely friendly. The place itself is designed very nicely and their kitchen is out in the open, right as you walk in. FYI, it is cash only. I'm a big fan of small shops like this that serve quality food to their patrons at reasonable prices. Check it out.
(5)Katie H.
"HEY BEHBEH! YOU CAN AMUSE MAH BOUCHE ANYTIME YOU WANT." I went to Jam twice and both times the voice inside my head was screaming the above statement. Can't be helped though. I had a LOVELY (just lovely) view of the line when I came in and one of the chefs had me fantasizing about erotic dancing on the table tops singing La Bouche's "Be My Lover" while he flings mini cranberry muffins drizzled in honey into my mouth...naked? No not naked, "nude**." My roommate and I came here twice in one week. The first time was on quieter Wednesday morning which was superior to bumpin' Saturday morning when sadly there was no mini treat from the kitchen (though the table next to us did receive one). Aw, poop. Next time I'll flash the chef to ensure proper goodies. It's a risk though, I might get banned for life... or arrested. At the risk of not receiving even one "Useful" on this review, I'll take the ferry home from Whackjob Island for a minute here. Yes, yes the egg sammich with the pork cheeks is quite remarkable but I urge you to go for the less obvious choices. Try the savory buckwheat crepes with braised lamb. Total darkhorse of the brunch menu. Haven't had anything off the lunch menu yet but soon! My overly particular roommate greatly enjoyed his steak and eggs and also his Spanish Omelette with white anchovies. This is going to sound poncey as hell but I like that Jam cooks the steak THEIR way... not yours. Learn how to appreciate rare meat, dullards, before you foray into cultured society. Scoff. Seriously though, they're taking some risks here and so far I'm down with that. They probably won't win over people who want to mod the hell out of everything they order and have it come with extra ketchup. Sometimes I think it's nice just to go to a place and have them be like "Eat this. I assure you, it will be tasty the way I make it." Maybe that makes me a Food Sheep but at least I'm a cannibalistic Food Sheep. Mmm, lamb, baaaahhhh. I'll offer up the fifth star if I can still gape at the chef every time I come. I hope he reads this and gets thoroughly creeped out. * youtube.com/watch?v=N0R_… ** youtube.com/watch?v=lAuC…
(4)Nancy T.
three words: my breakfast sucked. if i was in the mood for fancypants, i would have gone to the peninsula. okay, i guess i didn't do my research. i was flippin starving and thought i'd pop into jam's new location. when i'm wearing my pajamas and have unbrushed hair, i just want a big plate of yumminess. i should have gone to flo. the scotch egg left such a bad taste in my mouth that i had to pop in a piece of gum on the way out (seriously!). and for $12 (incl. tip), i shouldn't be hungry on my way home. yep, i ate the entire teeny, tiny plate of greens, boiled egg encased in breading, and some paltry pieces of diced potato. last: too many personnel standing around (maybe that's why it's so expensive). annoying. i am pissed. but i love love love chickpea (same owners). sorry to be a be-yatch re jam but it truly sucked maybe sight-seeing suburbanites will like it.
(1)Chrissy D.
Best Chicken in the neighborhood! The srevice was fantastic. The staff really know there stuff and was more then happy to share details about every dish. They brought mini cupcakes with homeade mint icing! Too die for. Overall I thought the value was right on. The atmosphere was really nice- I have yet to eat in the garden but I will be hitting it up soon. The food doesnt come out super fast so bring the paper or someone to chat with.
(5)Gray G.
Good service. Good food. Eggs, pork belly and fingerling potatoes were quite tasty. The malted custard french toast was also good. Food + Wine magazine named it one of the top ten dishes in the country of 2010. For me it was not that. The marinated fruit was too tart and overpowering for the dish. There was pink peppercorn on it, but I didn't taste it maybe because I don't know what they are supposed to taste like (regular black peppercorns?). I was expecting a taste sensation and I got something I'm not sure I would recommend. There were other dishes I would like to come back to try. This review is a little unfair since it was tainted by the hype of the french toast, so I may revise this review after my next visit!
(3)Christy S.
Jam was an afternoon delight! Typically I shy away from brunch because anything worth eating requires an hour wait and a loud crowded restaurant. At noon on Saturday Jam was full, but not too full. We were seated right away and greeted promptly by our very personable waiter. We were then presented with a teeny tiny pumpkin muffin compliments of the house. We then eased into our brunch with a 1/2 order of their world famous french toast which lived up to its reputation. Then I ordered the corned beef hash which was hands down the most delicious corned beef I have ever had. My friend ordered the pork belly eggs benedict and they were also outstanding. I give Jam five stars and two thumbs up.
(5)Crystal M.
First of all, they do not have a liquor license so no Bloody Marys and Mimosas for you! For some this may not matter, but for me it's kind of a big deal. Second of all, the service is...bad. Our waiter seemed confused by not only his job, but maybe life itself. He was extremely disengaged and clearly had no serving experience. Our orange juice was fresh squeezed, as in I could see someone squeezing it in the back, so that was a plus. However, since it was room temperature, that kind of ruined it for me. I really don't like hot juice, but maybe that's just me. We ordered about the simplest thing on the menu (basically just eggs, toast and a plain pancake) because the savory dishes are pretty meat centric, and we do not eat meat. (I don't fault them for that) But, it took about 30 minutes to get our food, meanwhile the person next to us had been seated 10 minutes after us, and was already finished eating by the time we were served. Even in the face of this glaring evidence that something had gone wrong, our waiter made no apologies. Keep in mind that all the while, we are sitting in a boiling room. I understand that it was a nice day so they had the windows open, but that doesn't eliminate the necessity for some A/C. That combined with the three drops of "real maple syrup" that we got with our pancakes leads me to believe that the owners of this establishment are...how should I put this....CHEAP. But, that doesn't mean your bill will be cheap. $30 before tip with no alcohol. Oh, and don't even think of using plastic because of course, to add to the annoyance of it all, they only accept cash.
(2)Ginger L.
I don't understand how the average rating for Jam is only 3 stars. I went with friends who had been before and it was great. I am a big breakfast person but I ended up having lunch instead. I ordered the turkey club which sounds like a boring selection until you read the description and actually taste it. I loved every bite including the fries. We were also served an amuse bouche which was yummy. The service was very attentive. I liked everything about the place from the deceiving entrance, to the simple but elegant decor and the cool outdoor space. I plan to go back and am hoping it will be a bit warmer so I can sit outside with my kids. They had a ton of high chairs by the entrance so that impressed me too. Walking into Jam I would not think it was super child-friendly but they had plenty of menu options for kids.
(5)Rachel R.
My friend and I decided to go somewhere new and since this place is just around the corner we thought we should try it. Big mistake! Although the service was great, the food was practically inedible. My friend ordered fish and chips, which was the chef's recommendation. Her fish was too salty, and the coleslaw tasted perfumery. I have a severe gluten allergy and the waitress was very accommodating. However I ended up just requesting a chicken salad. The chicken was boiled and the skin was still on it.It tasted really bad. I couldn't even eat it. My friend took it home and she said the same. My meal was a few pieces of lettuce and then a hunk of chicken, not exactly the right proportions for a salad. The ambiance in this place is weird. The tables are situated in a strange way and the restaurant seems to be a weird mix between fancy and casual. I felt underdressed in a sundress but my friend said she felt okay in a blouse and jeans. After eating here I was sick the next day. My friend and I have also seen them put their pots and pans out in the alley way on the ground and sitting on the trash can. Disgusting! Avoid this place if you can.
(1)Larson T.
Awesome little dishes. Very exciting combinations of flavors. Lamb Crepes were amazing, and crispy pork belly in-stead of bacon! How awesome is that?!?!
(4)Jen G.
Disregard my plea for a dinner menu online...it's there and so are the new hours! swak
(5)arc g.
This was an incredible find. Had the French Toast and Steak and Eggs. Sounds like your average breakfast right. Well this was far from average. For starters, the coffee and fresh squeezed orange juice were perfect. They brought out a complemetary banana and chocolate cupcake. This was a great way to keep me happy while I waited. I ordered the special cupcake. It was a lemon and cranberry, it was excellent. The french toast had spices and was perfectly brown. I could have used more syrup but I didn't want to drown the spices. The steak was cook perfectly, although I was not terribly impress with the sauce. The eggs were cooked just right and were complimented by the rice grits and corn. The only thing that was missing was some bread. I was going to ask for it but, God, I had too much to each already. Anyway, let's just say that it exceeded all expectations.
(4)Lindsay D.
All we could think about on our drive over, was how much we wanted jam; rasberry, blueberry, boysenberry, it didnt matter what kind. Although there actually isnt an overwhelming plethora of jams sadly, the 3-spice and ricotta scone was SO good, and yes, it came with rasberry jam. The sweet plus the savory was excellent. I also ordered the sweet potatoe egg white omelet and I couldnt have been happier with my choice. Even the coffee was excellent. The reason Im giving this 3 stars, is because WOW was it hot in there. I was sweating while eating; not a pretty combo. I was also told the kitchen was 101 degrees...not something I want to hear as a patron! I would go back because of the friendly staff and host (who sat us right away even though there was a wait!) and the fabulous food, but when the temperature gage hits 50 and below.
(3)Creighton G.
Once a dump, always a dump. This location used to be a real pig called Dodo. The lipstick they slathered on it to open Jam is already rubbed off on its teeth. Ridiculous wait times, shoddy service, and unpleasant flavors all make for a bad experience. I had the turkey club and the predominant flavor wasn't creamy avocado or salty bacon, rather, the sizable sandwich was overpowered by a rancid note to the turkey. My companion had the amish chicken--a lackluster dish that required "an extra 25 minutes" to prepare. Do they coax the live chicken to walk itself onto the stove? What justifies the extra time? It certainly wasn't for the incorporation of flavor. Here's my reco: hit up Jam on a weekday, get seated, thoroughly enjoy the amuse bouche, order the amish chicken so that they comp you a chive and bacon scone, enjoy, skip the entrees and leave.
(2)Andrew M.
This place sucks donkey tits.
(1)Sarah M.
LOVE LOVE this place! I've been twice, and both times were awesome. 1. Brunch: the french toast is FAB, so is the corned beef hash. Everything on the menu involves unique combinations of ingredients and flavors. I was a little nervous about all of the descriptions, but EVERYTHING we ordered was awesome. 2. Dinner: Same story as brunch (they're closed for dinner though until the spring/summer months). Interesting combos of ingredients and flavors. A little scary for anyone who is a cowardly eater like myself, but SO worth it. EVERYTHING on the tasting menu was fabulous. My husband and I each ordered a different tasting menu and we shared bites and everything was delicious. 3. Decor: really cute, cozy, and a nice cross between a casual and upscale feel. 4. Service: everyone was very kind and very happy to be there! I would go back here 100 times because they always change the menu, and it's BYOB!
(5)John C.
Enjoyed breakfast at the new location on Logan. We sat in the glass enclosed front area and the view over the boulevard is very pretty. The omelettes were great. Service was sweet, although a little slow. The interior is very crisp, modern and well designed. Love being able to choose between Lula and Jam in the same area. Who knew Logan Square would become the mecca for fine breakfasts?
(5)Amanda C.
Amazing food but don't go if you are in a hurry!
(4)Jackie S.
We ate at Jam for dinner last night and minus a few kinks it was delicious. We tried the tasting menu and were not disappointed. We started with the fennel soup with tarragon. I thought the flavors in the soup were underdeveloped but the presentation was nice. They bring you two bowls with concentrated spices and fennel in the bottom and then pour in the broth. Next we had the foie gras tortellini with pea pods and pea pure. I thought it was excellent and an interesting dish. For dinner we tried both the Ono with pineapple gnocchi and the pork tenderloin. The Ono was amazing. Never in my life have I found a fish dish delicious but this was it. It had a great crisp and although I was not crazy about the gnocchi being pineapple flavor it was excellent. The pork was also wonderful. It came on a crostini with figs which I would have preferred be hot rather then ice cold but the bits of olive and I think rosemary were a great touch. The major gripe during dinner though was I could not see a damn thing. Our waiter was very apologetic and tried to bring more candles but it really took away from the amazing food by not being able to see. Literally I could only make out shapes and nothing more. With an extra candle the dessert was amazing!!! I am hit or miss with dessert and Jam had me figured out. We had the chocolate donuts with a caramel sauce and ground hazel nut. It also came with a very thick chocolate custard. I thought that was a little thick and the flavor had a hint of a tootsie roll taste which I don't like but bottom line I ate the whole thing and it was fabulous. We also got the buckwheat cakes which were more of a cream puff with a homemade strawberry preserve with basil. Great pair. I always looked forward to going to Jam for breakfast but I am happy to see it is open for dinner. Great food but the kitchen is really slow and they need lights on the patio. The restaurant was not even half full so I have a feeling on some nights you might wait a long time. Bottom line though, it's worth the wait. Also there is no corkage fee.
(4)mls s.
The food is good but there are several tips for having a good experience. My boyfriend lives across the street and we like to go but decided that we needed rules to ensure a good experience. 1. You can go at anytime during the week but on the weekend try to go before 10:20 or after 1:30. 2. If you have large parties who want to try it on Saturday and Sunday go before 10. There is a tipping point between 10am 10:20 where it gets packed and expect a long wait. 3. Always have the coffee, its really good. 4. Remember to carry enough cash, because it is cash only. 5. If you want to go during prime time expect to wait a long time but while you wait go next door to sweet cakes and have a mini cupcake. Sweet Cakes is a great place to wait during the summer because its has a beautiful patio and you can sit in the sun while you wait. My only suggestion for the chef at Jam is I wish there were more veggie options.
(4)Jennifer L.
I just threw my husband a surprise 40th birthday party at the patio at Jam and everything was OUTSTANDING! The service, the food, the setting was all beyond... These guys nailed it! Everyone who worked there was super helpful and so nice and accommodating. The food was amazing! All the guests keep emailing me to tell me what a great event it was. Jamtastic!
(5)Cora B.
I'm a sucker for a new and/or exciting brunch place, so Jam has been on my short list since Daily Candy told me about it a few weeks ago. They told me not to miss the malted custard French toast; who was I to disobey? Between me and my two friends, I tried the egg sandwich, the blueberry pancakes and the aforementioned malted custard French toast and was more than impressed by everything - especially the French toast. I don't care how much other food you order when you come to Jam, you MUST order this French toast. It's gooey on the inside, caramelized on the outside, and imbued with the most delicious, mellow, happy malted milk flavor I have ever had the pleasure of experiencing. Really like nothing else I've ever had. The egg sandwich came with an expertly done over-easy egg on top of tender, melty roasted pork cheek with juicy slices of peaches and a sort of peachy-ketchup sauce. The first bite was fine, the second bite was good, the third was great, and so on and so forth until I ran out of positive adjectives. The potatoes which accompanied the sandwich were fine, but nothing special. An original, thoughtful menu, and a good value for the quality. Not terribly large portions, but who wants to be overstuffed at brunch? FYI, Jam is CASH ONLY! Watch out, M. Henry!
(4)Jake T.
Delicious breakfast cooked up in a tiny kitchen.
(4)Evangeline L.
We decided to check this place out yesterday so as to avoid the masses of the weekend. I like the space; its very minimalistic and modern with simple decorations. The service was a little shaky and our server a bit quirky but she was nice so whatever. We didn't get this infamous amuse bouche that everyone keeps talking about but perhaps that's a weekend only thing? My gf had the buckwheat crepes stuffed with lamb and pears which was quite tasty. My bestie had eggs, pancakes and bacon which were fine; however its a big ole problem if you screw that up. I decided to try something a little more adventurous...the egg white omelet with goat cheese and beets. It was tasty and healthy. Plus, I felt great after, which is sometimes unusual after brunch! All in all, I'm happy that its in my neighborhood (we're lacking in the brunch department) and I'll probably stop by again. However, I don't have that blissful in love mouth watering feeling about it. For that, Lula Cafe will always have my heart. Jam will do in a pinch though and who knows, perhaps after a few weeks they too will find space in my heart of hearts!?!?
(3)Mara R.
I just came back from brunch at JAM. I was looking forward to trying a new place in my neighborhood, but was quickly let down. My overall impression--over-rated, over-priced, and below-average food. Ambiance was cold and sterile. Service was sub-par. Staff was unfriendly and distant. Our waitress had an attitude, like she was doing us a favor by serving us. She disappeared shortly after we ordered and did not resurface until the end of our meal It took about 20 minutes for coffee re-fills and the coffee was bitter and burnt. The scrambled eggs were under-cooked, lukewarm and salty and the oatmeal was tasteless. I will be sure to let my friend in the area know of my experience and tell them not to waste their money . I chose Lulu Cafe, hands down, over JAM and will not return for seconds.
(1)Darlene L.
Loved this new breakfast place which was not crowded on a Wednesday morning at 9:30. So, no wait and no slow service. The egg white omelet rocks and is served like a crepe with fresh sweet potatoes inside. Yummy, healthy and beautiful . The oatmeal is steel cut oats with lovely accompaniments like fresh cream, dried or fresh fruit, and brown sugar. It was probably some of the best I have had. Coffee is hearty and fresh with quick refills. Service is friendly and knowledgeable. Good whole grain toast and jam top off a nice comforting breakfast on a cold Chicago January morning. Oh, by the way, it is cash only, but I did spot an ATM inside the restaurant.
(5)Paul M.
I love this place! Def a neighborhood gem! One of my Favorites. The employees are professional and patient! They held my RSVP even though my party wasn't available yet. The food is incredible and fun!
(5)Rekha V.
Went for brunch with two of my cousins. We were considering Lula but decided against it because of the wait, and I'm so happy that was the case. We were seated right away and welcomed by our friendly server. A great start to the morning. I loved what I ordered. I got the zucchini pancakes and they were delicious, the only con was that I was a little too stuffed from the full order, so I would recommend getting a half-order instead. But overall a great experience!
(5)Ellen V.
A friend introduced Jam to me few weeks ago. I still have the perfect taste of Cafe au lait in my mouth. It is THE Best one I had in years. The food, the service, the atmosphere - all were fantastic. The tables by the window are very cozy. Cannot wait to be back!
(5)S S.
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(3)Erika K.
Value: It's not terribly expensive, but the portions were pretty small and I didn't leave completely satisfied. There are definitely more tempting deals out there. Jam has some pretty good breakfast, but the lovely presentation might work against the dish when it gets to the table styled but cold. Overall, I left a little bit disappointed. Check out the full review with some XXX food porn here: thebuckwheater.com/jam
(3)Nikki L.
Interesting place. Best donut I have ever had , which was a special today. The food and service were both excellent.
(4)Erika G.
Whatever. Really. This place did not impress. First of all, mumbling waiter was completely incomprehensible. None of us could figure out what the hell he was saying. And then, he disappeared. Finally, we got our beverages. Nothing special, coffee and tea. I will say, the coffee was DELICIOUS! My brother got the Eggs Benedict with Pork Belly. That was the standout meal. Creatively presented, and good flavors. I got the pulled pork sandwich, which was bland. My sister in law got the quiche, which she was not overly impressed with. She shared an order of pancakes with her man that they both seemed to enjoy, but . . . Overall . . . a resounding MEH. Just not worth the hype. Maybe this restaurant will improve once it opens a Logan Square outpost, 'cos that is the new cool, happening 'hood, as far as I can see. So . . . . yeah, I probably won't go back, sadly, 'cos the interior was cute, and the outdoor space looked sweet. But the food . . . just MEH.
(2)Kevin M.
Very attractive people eating very attractive food in a very attractive place. Interesting note: A thimble size portion of syrup is $1 extra.
(3)Anna E.
Upscale and Creative Brunch... I thought this place was great. It's not overtly advertised that it's BYO (or at least it wasn't a month or so ago when I went), because they don't really have any mixers, but we brought our own bloody mary mix and vodka and had no problems. I had the steak and eggs...delicious and my BF had the pork cheek sandwich. The bun didn't really match the sandwich...I'm not sure what would've been better, but they have the right idea. The meat was nice and tender tho. Definitely give it a try!
(4)Delitronix X.
Delicious food and coffee,can't wait to come back.. Great addition to logan square!
(5)Christine D.
Went here for breakfast and the service was great. The food and selection are pretty good but I felt it was overpriced, especially for breakfast. Also, a lot of folks said it was cash only but they now accept credit cards.
(4)Colleen D.
We have been wanting to try this place for a long time - there is always a wait to get in - if you want to sit outside. Well we went early and got seated right away out side. The out side was okay - certainly a little disappointed after waiting so long to see it - just nothing special and there was a very loud air conditioning unit that made conversation difficult. The food was good - french toast very good / but a little strange (no syrup and some sort of seeds) and eggs benedict. Again good but a little strange. As my previous post a little too expensive and not worth the wait. Sun shine cafe around the corner is a better bet.
(3)matt w.
Long over due visit to this little spot a block from my house, amazing! The corned beef sand was something outta this world! The potato salad that came with it was very tastey as well. Service was perfection! The server was attentive and very knowledgeable on the menu. We went through all lunch items and he described each one in detail. This guy ( think his name was Paul ) should be working fine dinning dowtown! Nice work Jam, I will be back!
(5)Helen C.
Two 5 star brunches in 2 weeks? With all these poached eggs, Chicago, you are spoiling me. I do always fall for the poached eggs. Though at Jam, I think I seriously considered eating every dish on the menu one by one; every dish sounded delicious, and having now dined there I think they probably ARE delicious. The 'amuse bouche' (ugh, sorry) was a nice little cheese scone thing, tasty enough. We were lucky enough to also get to try the custardy french toast and - wow. I need to go back for a full portion. The toast was fluffy and the fruit compote with it was delicious, sweet but with enough lime and flavour to make it very interesting to eat. Plus, anythng that comes with a glob of whipped cream wins, in my book. When my main course was put down, I had a moment of 'uh-oh' - for brunch, nay, for any meal at all, this is fancy pants food. A smear of green sauce, hollandaise which was more like a quenelle of butter, and some scattered pieces of pork. Eggs Benedict has been messed with many times but I thought this might be taking it too far. Thankfully I was wrong. It was an artful dish and beautifully executed, also a perfect portion size. Aside from the food, which everyone loved (kudos to the chef for cooking poached eggs exactly to order, soft and hard), the service was great. I may never have consumed as much coffee or water in an hour sitting before: refills frequent. Coffee - meh. The open kitchen does mean you may smell of food when you leave; but it does also mean you can get a live chefs' show (if you crane your neck). Nursing a hangover so the lack of alcohol didn't bother me; the general atmosphere, decor, food and service more than made up for a lack of mimosas. And it really isn't any more expensive than other places - for the quality, well worth it.
(5)Brett F.
Thoroughly mediocre. As a huge brunch advocate (yes, I'm very official about my breakfast), I can honestly say I've had a lot of brunches that ooze fabulosity here in our fair city. The mascarpone french toast at Toast? Phenom! The trout benedict at Lula? Divine! The zephyr omelette at Tiztal? Got nothin' but love for you, Baby! I was hoping this would be right up there with my list of favs, but Jam? The wind was hardly knocked out of my brekkie sails. Le Sigh. The Highlights ------------------------- + Cute Décor - Fantastically hip and monochromatic with hints of lime green and those ubercute ghost chairs that I just adore! common.csnstores.com/com… + Eggs Benedict with crispy pork belly. Y U M M Y ! Artfully presented with a lovely brushstroke of mild spinach hollandaise and 100% irresistible. The crowing glory of Jam, indeed. + Really efficient coffee service. I've never had my cup refilled so frequently... like, literally in between sips frequently. Go Java Jam Go! The Lowlights -------------------------- - No amuse bouche. I've heard Jam does a brunch service amuse which I was wholly looking forward to. Sounded unique and enticing, but alas, none for our table. No pre taste for this brunch fan makes Brett a sad girl. - Jam is hotter than a whore bathing in habaneros in July. Seriously. No a/c? Not sure what was going on here but it's gross. Temps were probably close to mid-to-high 80's inside Jam this weekend. Sweaty brekkie? Eh, I'll pass. - Odd service. When asked to omit an ingredient from the egg white omelette (comes with beets, goat cheese, macadamia nuts and watercress) due to a food allergy I was responded to by our server with a flat out 'No'... Not an "I'll ask the chef" or "Lemme see what I can do", just No. Hmmm. The necessity to instruct her on how to do her own job was frustrating and trying to say the least. - Malted Custard French Toast. The self-proclaimed 'best french toast in Chicago' was the biggest disappointment of all. Odd sour taste, mushy texture, zero crispy, caramelized exterior. Aside from the 3 bites that were tested by myself, Hilary and Martha it went entirely uneaten. Wasted money, wasted precious stomach real estate. Brunch Fail. - Cash Only. Bah! At a dive bar? Yes. For a (supposed to be) nice brunch? Confusing. Oh Jam, you lured with me promises of french toast wishes and chorizo dreams but alas, I was unsated. I'd come back for your amazing benedict - on a cool day - and that alone... everything else, in my opinion, can Jam on along. Later Skater!
(3)Alyssa C.
Amazing brunch! Went there with 2 others and we all had great meals. Cool venue. A bit swanky. Delicious juices but amazing food. French toast was nice and fluffy. Eggs Benedict- one of the best I've had!
(5)Nathan F.
They accept credit now!
(4)Moe f.
We strolled in and managed to snag a table w/no wait on a Sunday. The place is small and the furniture is crappy. I ordered a coke and got an 8oz bottle for $3(it wasn't even Mexican coke). I almost walked out then but decided to give them a shot. The pork rillete was fantastic and huge. My egg whites dish was tiny(like I could have eaten 3 of them) and over salted. And my daughter's grilled cheese was good and I like the fact the put the order in quick so she'd eat first. Over all, I might give them another shot but I'm a petty man and that coke just pissed me off.
(2)Colleen C.
When an 'amuse bouche' arrives pre-brunch in the form of a delightfully petite cranberry muffin with real honey drizzle, I find this to be perhaps the best foodie foreplay...ever. Not that I'm a foodie, but I can be warmed up just like 'em, mmmk? Luckily, I have some likeminded co-workers...which means we always split something sinful with the entire table: *a plate of french toast with real maple syrup, berry compote and lemon fraiche. Mmmmm, i suggest splitting this and going for the savory buckwheat crepes or steak 'n eggs as the meal... *This arrived "pre-split," onto four small plates, which was most appreciated. The service from start to finish was impeccable, as noted afterwards when I could barely type due to the 19 coffee refills I managed to consume in a 1.5 hour time period. Zingggggggggggg! Main: Oatmeal with dried cranberries, nuts and brown sugar. (get the real honey!) There are a plethora of "mixings" to choose from, and all arrive beautifully in a teensy line of bowls. Adorable. Truly. These guys have very adequately managed to replace the beloved Dodo, and are doing a splendid job of brunching this 'hood up, right quick. The understated sleek design (don't rock those plastic chairs, ma friends, oops) mixed with approachable 'foodie-friendly" items, and a commitment to culinary prowess at a decent price point will have you forgetting the minor flaws, I assure you. minor flaws: *cash only. *no BYOB. *no AC. *You've been warned...but, in this ONE case, I'll take Jam anytime, no matter the obstacles. I hear they may be throwing around the idea of a late night menu...so stay tuned!
(5)Elaine C.
Dang. I once heard someone say, "I was a vegetarian, until I tried pork cheek. I realized how very wrong being a vegetarian was in the natural order of things." Try a pork cheek + egg sandwich with ricotta and pickled plums. Wtih fingerling potatoes. There's just no way you could ever go back. Welcome, carnivore. We also tried a French Toast sandwich with prosciutto, sauteed greens and sweet mustard jam. This was also delectable although a little on the salty side. The arugula salad it came with was a perfect balance. The whole menu was filled with interesting, irresistable options. There was nothing on there that sounded like something I've had before. The service was impeccable. There was a half hour wait at around noon on a Saturday, but we went next door to Sweet Cakes for some coffee and they came and got us from next door in about 15 minutes. Yes, it's cash only but our bill was like $22 dollars or something so not at all a big deal. We got seated in the front of the restaurant which I highly recommend because I think the back of the restaurant was a lot hotter due to the open kitchen. The light coming in the through the windows was beautiful as well. I plan on making this a regular destination. Viva, pork cheek!
(5)Andrea R.
New breakfast place! New breakfast place! One of the benefits of working from home is that I get to try these places during the week and don't have to join the crowds of people waiting hours to be seated on the weekend. My just as lucky work-from-home colleagues and I showed up around noon this past Friday and were immediately seated in this half empty restaurant. Your jealous, aren't you? If not, keep reading cause jealously will surely set in once I start describing my delicious meal. First, a complimentary mini cranberry muffin. Mmmm...this is so much better than bread. Jam is on to something! For an appetizer (yes, you can even have appetizers at brunch!) I made my 3 colleagues split the malted crusted French toast with me. Believe me,I heard no complaints about this...only murmurings for more. It was a bit rich to be my whole meal, but splitting it really was the perfect taste. For my main entree I ordered the oatmeal. I've been a bit of an oatmeal fanatic as of recently. I even had the Starbucks oatmeal 3 times just this week, which actually happens to be quite good. But shame on me for comparing Jam's oatmeal to Starbucks because it really doesn't fit into the same category. Dare i say it...Jam served me one of the best bowls of oatmeal ever. I got to pick from a variety of sides and I went with brown sugar, honey, and fruit. I mixed it all up and was in oatmeal heaven...seriously. Alas it was time to leave my lovely brunch and colleagues behind. The bill came and the all knowing Colleen C reminded me it was cash only. Oops...unfortunately the $8 in my wallet wouldn't cover much of this $50 brunch. Fortunately, Colleen saved the day with a few $20s, but next time I"ll remember to load up the wallet for an uhmazing brunch.
(4)Ryan L.
Damn, Second. The LOL guy is quite fleet-footed when it comes to brunch. May be the only race he beats me in. I'll review the food once I finish my beer @ whole foods. Ok, that was good. They give you a mini cranberry muffin with creamy sage sauce on top to start. Pretty good, and i took a fork to the remnants of the sauce leftover on my plate. Yes, shameful. With the "Three"dom of choice, i picked pancakes, bacon, sausage. There are so many choices (eggs, potatoes, etc.) I easily could've gone with a "five"dom. Bacon was very crispy and delicious and the pancakes were good. Apparently the syrup is $78 a gallon (wow, the cost of a city sticker), so they bring out a syrup dispenser that is 10% full. They were gracious to bring out a little more for free, but it'll cost $1 for extra syrrrrup in the future. I tasted the buckwheat crepes with lamb and it was awesome. I'll throw up a pic of that dish soon. The eggs benedict with pork belly looks like it'll be the big winner at this place. My companions seemed to enjoy the panini. I will be back to try the other foods, as well as their lunch menu. It did get a little hot by the end...we sat in the front and it was a little cooler. If we sat near the kitchen (in the middle or in the back), we may have had the first shirtless LOL brunch.
(4)Andre W.
Decided to make a trip over to this spot this morning since I took a day off of work and knowing on the weekend I probably would have to wait awhile for food. As my pal and I walked in there were many seats available (weekday mornings are obviously the best times to go), but the place is small. They have those really cool see through, clear seats that I like a lot. We were greeted as soon as we walked inside by a cool guy and a very nice waitress. The menu is pretty slick and I saw lots of things I wanted to try.They gave us a complimentary mini orange muffin to start, which was pretty good. I decided on the Egg Sandwich, which was very delicious, but it had more meat than expected (still very good). Pickled plum inside of the sandwich gave it a nice flavor. The sandwich came with some very nice potatoes that were out of this world. The sandwich was very filling, so if you choose it for your meal make sure you are hungry and can handle it. Our server was spectacular!!! She helped my buddy figure out which dish he should choose and was very attentive. Make sure you bring cash as well because they don't take plastic yet. Very small spot and easy to miss. It is right next door to that Sweet Cakes joint on Damen. Just look for the sign that says Jam!
(5)Gregory S.
Tasty offerings, if a little bit overly precious. Beautiful space, pretty staff.
(3)Jen P.
CASH ONLY! which sucks, but everything else is pretty awesome. cute decor, very tasty food. portions a little on the small side...but its fancy brunch food. whaddaya expect
(4)Ericka J.
Certainly a good solid brunch. The service was just as good as the food. There were three of us dining mid afternoon on a Saturday. No wait. Great location for a table. We had - French Toast. It was good. I wish a little less soggy. I like mine well done. But it was a full order and enough to share between 2 adults and a very hungry teen! Lots of fresh fruit and cream. Salmon Eggs Benedict - There was just one order left at 2pm Saturday when we arrived. My bestie loved it! Very large portion. The teen had the burger which was a duo-party stack with an egg sunny side up on top. Food Envy all around...It was certainly a beautiful presentation! Fries galore too and they were also well seasoned and crispy. I had the quiche with a white fish salad... OM.... It was good! I mean I was surprised by the fluffy texture of the quiche and the little salad that accompanied it was just the perfect paring. Things can make Jam a 5: 1-Credit Cards. Please accept plastic SOON. 2-Decor. Do away with the IKEA glasses and plastic place mats. With such fine munchies dining out should feel just a tad bit dressed up especially when the menu is so perky. Jam, you are good!
(4)M M.
We're always hesitant to try new breakfast and brunch spots because we have our favorite but this particular day we thought what the heck and we now have another favorite! It's small, you see the kitchen and hear or see little situations but the food was delicious. I had the skirt steak with rice grits and WOW! I should also mention that we're all about dark coffee, the stronger the better, and we're thrilled that not only does this place have great food but they have great coffee to boot. JAM on!
(4)Stacey A.
A few weekends ago, I was walking my dog and my roommate texted me about brunch and asked if I wanted to go to the crepe place that's around the corner from our house that we have been to a hundred million times. Now don't get me wrong. I like the crepe place. The crepe place and I are old friends. But dammit, I am that asshole who always wants to go to eat at somewhere that is completely new in an area of town that I haven't been to before. So I suggested we go to Jam. I don't remember how I heard of Jam or why it popped into my head that morning but I am SO GLAD IT DID, because I told her to check out the menu online and her response was, "This is happening." So we hopped on the Damen bus for what seemed like forever (because it's the Damen bus and the Damen bus shows up approximately three times all day, which is horseshit considering the fact that it connects three train lines) and went down to Ukrainian Village. Jam is like two separate worlds. The inside world has an open kitchen and those weird clear plastic chairs and it's clean and minimal and it makes you feel like you're in the weird lovechild of CB2 and Anthropologie. (Note: This is okay because I dig both of those stores.) The outside world is like your insane artist aunt is having a backyard party and threw a bunch of tables out back among her weird cowhide sculptures and stacks of trucks. (Note: Not kidding. Cow sculptures. Stack of trucks.) Sit outside if it's not a million degrees out - because the inside has no AC. Eat the adorable amuse (ours was a teeny carrot-ginger muffin with cream cheese frosting) and marvel at the idea of an amuse served with brunch. If you want savory, get the lamb crepes. Do not pass go. Do not look elsewhere on the menu. Maybe ask for extra pears to better balance out the savory perfection of the crepes. Do not be put off by the fact that the sauce looks like tomato bisque. (It isn't tomato bisque.) If you can't decide if you want sweet or savory and aren't super hungry - get the Scotch Egg. It's soft-boiled and battered and lightly fried and served over an herbed waffle with strawberry balsamic vinaigrette and manages to hit every spot correctly. Bring cash. Bring champagne (it's BYOB). Bring your A-Game, because Jam sure the fuck does.
(4)Marie M.
Since the boo had already started a pot of coffee on our lazy Saturday mid morning, we were just walking down Logan Boulevard planning on grabbing some pastries. But then the brunch monster snuck up on us and reminded us what lovely brunchy things we could be enjoying in Saturday Brunch Village. Luckily this happened right in front of Jam and even more fortunately, they had room for two. We started off with mimosas with fresh squeezed oj- so delicious! They have the perfect ratio of sparkling wine to oj down, so you taste how amazing the juice is, but also get a little morning buzz from the fizzy confection. The menu is tough- it all sounds amazing and each item seems to have an ingredient that pulls you in with intrigue. We finally settled on the French toast and eggs benedict. Wow. The eggs benedict looks a little small on arrival, but the flavors are so delicate and balanced, that it is perfect. The English muffins are heavenly and the beet hollandaise is a perfect symmetry of rich and creamy with earthy goodness. The eggs were cooked flawlessly, so the yolk just poured out as soon as you cut in. And the pork belly... It just melts in your mouth. The French toast is clearly soaked for an extended amount of time in malted custard, so the entire toast is saturated and perfectly soft. The boo remarked that this may be the first time that he had ever indulged in French toast without syrup and wondered if he should ask for some. I told him to just try it and he could not believe how delicious it was. The lime leaf cream, floral pink peppercorns and slightly lemony and sour macerated cherries easily blow normal maple syrup out of the water by providing different textures and more exciting flavors. We loved that Jam took our two favorite breakfast items to new heights! On our way out, we saw the egg sandwich with pork shoulder, and it looked huge and fabulous, so we will definitely be trying that on our next trip to Jam.
(4)Rajiv H.
I went to Jam for dinner which was clearly a mistake. There was nothing overwhelmingly wrong here. The service was kind, the company and the weather were great. Their outdoor patio is really cool. But, and this is a big but, the food is "meh." At these prices, you cannot be "meh." The dishes sound good, but every single one was quite bland. Because of the good service and the very positive brunch reviews, I'd come back here for brunch, but I doubt I'll ever be back for dinner.
(2)Nicole M.
Our waiter is the only person I will forgive for having those feather things in his hair, because he was a great waiter-- helpful & friendly with great suggestions. The place is a bit hipster, but not that more-obscure-than- thou hipster. It's more like your little brothers gone foodie. All good. The lamb crepes-- kind of a one note dish, but that one note was amazing. Lots of lovely lamb, and lovely buckwheat in the crepe. The french toast is so rich and decadent. The quiche was very custard-like. I could see where someone who was used to heavy, scrambled eggy quiches would not like it, but i thought it was light and divine. The only clunker was the trout and arugula underneath-- the fish was too strong. The coffee was off the hook and the OJ was fresh squeezed. (It's BYOB, so we brought champagne for mimosas. Yeah, we're lushes. Stage an intervention.) Prices were good, so like, like like.
(4)Jonathan D.
Wonderful breakfasts and service. Amuse bouche with breakfast was a first but very welcome. A superb start for exploring an interesting part of Chicago.
(5)Ariel L.
I have been to Jam twice in the last month before reviewing it. So obviously the food was good enough for me to want to come back, but the fact that i gave it three stars only means the place also has some issues, namely the service. The first time i was there i had the Eggs Benedict. It was a very interesting and original take on the dish, with crispy pork belly instead of Canadian bacon, and it was also serve with a light split pea sauce instead of tradditional hollandaise. I also had a savory scconee which was fresh, buttery and delicious. My wife equally enjoyed her egg white omelet. The OJ was fresh and the cofee was good. We sat outside in their beautiful outdoor garden. What a pleasure on a nice day, although we came within inches of a bird pooping on us from the trees above (it splattered on the ground next to our table). What made me hesitate to write a review was that the waitress for got to put in our order and our food took an hour because of that. If i had been the waiter, i would have brought out a scone on the house and apologized profusely. They did no such thing. So we decided to give it another try and came back with 4 friends this time. The food was again good, although people didn't love their dishes as much as our the first time, but the food again took at least 45 minutes. We waited, waited, and waited. And the funny thing was that the restaurant was no totally packed. It was 1pm when we ordered on a Saturday. This is when kitchens should be prepared for the rush. Instead we starved ourselves by sitting there, and our waitress never came out to tell us what was going on. By the time the food arrived, everyone was annoyed and cranky from hunger. So after reading the other reviews, i see many people have the same complaint. Good food, slloooooowwwwwww service. I guess i would recommend going here, but not on an empty stomach. Make sure you have a lite snack beforehand and plenty of time to spare.
(3)Stuart E.
This place tries oh so hard, but still manages to miss the mark. To begin, the space is pretty damn cramped - it may be nice in the summer, with the possibility of patio seating, but in the winter you have other tables elbowing you throughout the meal. And to make matters worse, they owners have elected to bring silver out with the meal, making the poor waitstaff reach over everyone at the table. In addition, the decor is bizarre - it's like a cross between the Korova Milk Bar and a 70s porno set. As for the food, everything was just pretty average. And for $15 a person, pedestrian food is not sufficient, particularly when you can eat like a king for $6 at Johnny's Grill a block away. All of the food just seemed to be a bit over-the-top: like too much ham in the ham omelet with brussel sprouts; or way too much seasoning on the fries. And the turkey club sandwich is almost impossible to eat because there is so much bread. I would only recommend this place if you don't want to wait for Lula or Longman & Eagle when you're in Logan Square.
(2)Crystal W.
If you've been up all night and hungover and want simple tasty breakfast options, go somewhere else. That being said, we went Saturday around 1:30pm. Lots of glass and mirrors, kinda like walking into a funhouse maze in the state I was in, albeit a trendy looking one. Got seated quickly, attentive and friendly staff. My bf ordered the chicken/waffle entree. You shoulda seen the look on the waiter's face when he asked for maple syrup (FYI, they didn't have any). I had a taste, I liked it. Tasted like Thanksgiving if that makes any sense. He was disappointed with the portion size. Now on to my meal. I ordered a cup of the white bean soup. Roughly about 2-3tbs of actual beans and such, with the broth in a separate cup to pour over. But don't attempt to eat it right when you get it (like they scooped it outta the pit of a volcano scorching hot!). Alright, but kinda bland. Never in my life have I eaten something where I had no idea what it consisted of. Ever! I ordered the meal with egg whites in it and a side of bacon sausage. That's the only thing I was certain on as far as what the ingredients were. I was gonna ask questions on what everything else in it was but figured screw it, can't be too bad right? And as I've stated before, we were hung over and tired and starving, and I was in no condition to be asking questions on what the heck this bird/rabbit food was on the menu. Btw, the bacon sausage neither looked nor tasted of bacon. And it was bland! Total letdown on that for sure. Well, it wasn't bad. My bf hated it, said it had no flavor at all. I ate it all, but he was right. Definitely tasted like the healthiest thing on the menu... Over all, I liked the decor and the waitstaff were friendly. My bf thought maybe it was avant-garde and maybe we were supposed to eat with our hands, the waiter forgot to bring our silverware (which I'd imagine were the kind Fred and Wilma Flintstone would use at a fancy caveman restaurant-big and heavy). Would have been better off going to Hollywood grill. Kinda hoity-toity.
(2)Isla E.
I am tempted to give 5 stars to offset the one-star review from the person that didn't even eat there, just complained about the wait. However, that would just be perpetuating insanity. So I am going with 4 very strong stars. At about 11am on a beautiful Saturday there was plenty of seating as the patio was open. Warning: if you come in winter, seating may not be so plentiful. Another warning: a vegan will struggle to find something to eat. Third warning: cash only, as many people have already stated. The people I was with cleaned their plates. For some tastes, the brunch portions may be a little small, but I thought they were perfect. I got the wheatberry salad and if you've never had wheatberries, this is a great first experience. What a grain! I asked for the salad without onions, and the waiter actually returned to our table to ask me if I had an aversion to onions or an allergy. The chef requested he find out. What I take from that is, if you have a food allergy, this place may double check that they aren't going to kill you. It makes all the difference knowing that one's food is being prepared by someone that cares. So while a reviewer may give one star because of the wait, I am of the opinion that quality work takes time at Jam.
(4)Tera D.
It was cute and unique, no debate there. It's upscale, culinary focused breakfast, with standard brunch prices. The menu was interesting, with lots of appealing options for both sweet and savory appetites. Also, they bring out a little taste portion before your food, which makes it feel so classy. As for the food itself, I got the biscuits and gravy. The concept and plating was cute, and very different from standard biscuits and gravy. Unfortunately the dish was absurdly salty, so I couldn't really enjoy the natural flavors of any of the ingredients, and frankly don't really know what the dish tasted like. My dining companions had the eggs benedict and the panini cristo. The eggs benedict was described as good but not out of this world, and the bite of the panini I tried was flavorful and interesting, but I wasn't a big fan of the sweet mustard jam on it. Overall, if they add a few things to the menu or change it up seasonally, I would go back and try it again.
(3)Diana R.
I don't know what the big deal is about this place. The furniture is weird, plastic clear chairs, not comfortable, small aisles to walk through (I need my space!), and the food was meh. French toast was good but not spectacular. The egg sandwich was alright and the potatoes just okay, not soft enough for me. It just wasn't my type of brunch place and too bad because I've been dying to try this place forever! P.s.- They only take cash.
(2)Lauren M.
Today I decided to treat myself since I've been eating cheaply and nothing of substance all last week. It was a Monday afternoon of no make-up, oily hair and a ratty sweater (I'm saying this like it's uncommon for any other day) which clearly stated the message I was trying to deliver: I don't give a FUCK. Due to my attire, I figured I'd take something out and return to my cave filled with blankets and Arrested Development for the umpteenth time. But the friendly waiter seemed so jovial, the place mostly empty aside from a table of detestable Logan Square people and the menu said something about a waffle. I guess if I was going to subject anybody to my "I love you but I've chosen comics" shirt from Challengers Comics, it would be these people. Free advertising wink. My server Ryan was friendly and accommodating. I, of course, returned the hospitality by never looking him in the eye once because I was busy staring out the window or at my food. Every time he was forced to put a plate down in front of this bogtrotter who was constantly texting, I sent out invisible waves in my mind saying "It'll all be worth it! Somehow!" Note: An amuse bouche cookie will always help. If it didn't, then you'd have really been in trouble. But a good little lemon cookie, mmm. First, I had the chicken and waffle half portion, which some people complain how slightly more upscale restaurants control plate sizing, it actually helps me at times because my mind's eye of appetite is much bigger than actually available stomach hard drive. The chicken was beautifully cooked, even the horrible hipsters next to me took a break from talking about tumblr portfolio stats and "the nazi pope" to notice. The waffle was good too but I just wasn't vibing the seasoning, I tasted a little bit of it in the chicken. Maybe it was the container it was cooked in, no idea. There was also very slight drizzled syrup which again worked for me because l'm not a sweet & savory person. It all paired wonderfully with my slightly overpriced glass of fresh squeezed OJ to make it feel like l was doing my body a favor. I don't know if I'd order the whole dish again but certainly the chicken. There's a decorative salad garnish on the side of the dish l would throw in the trash like where all vegetables belong. Then I went ahead and ordered maple sausage and bacon because it's not a meal if pork isn't at the party. More staring out the window and hearing discussion about being too cool for Instagram and a future photo of all their dogs around a computer. I quietly pondered what slicing their faces off would look like. Also you pour your own water from the carafe, for some this may be a grave insult, I actually prefer it since I know my own water intake. Casual in the right instance. The bacon maple sausage, as Ryan commented, was his fave. I didn't hear much about that because l was wondering why l didn't order a whole meal of just this. It's more a commercial sausage in that there's no grain or anything to mix up the texture like some homemade sausage but it was nonetheless delicious. It was cooked medium which was probably on the best side of caution since it'd have to be smoked to take on more heat. However the jowl bacon was, I don't want to say terrible, but yeah it was not great. As someone who has been called "bacon girl" since childhood, I feel fit to say this. Jowl bacon can be cooked like regular bacon, but it's tender in a way that needs gentle guidance like a mama's boy of the pig. Though it's great pan fried, which many people like myself prefer a smoother texture, the oven rack tends to be better suited to its fat content. It'll get crispy with dark brown edges. But the bacon l was served was a lot black. Girl, no. I'll go to a diner if I want decimated bacon char. Cook it like you're incubating your pork child. Also the faint aftertaste that l had in the chicken I was tasting in the bacon, which l liked even less here. Since the service was superb, I had a pleasant window view and had mostly decent parts of the meal, I'll give it a tentative 4 stars. I definitely felt positive about having eaten there. I don't know whether it was the cold, dry air but when I was walking I was already running out of breath. I would never say sweatpants outside no matter how disheveled l may have looked but maybe pick something flowy.
(4)Debra M.
Food-Fantastic, seriously. Volume of the music- Ear-splitting, ruins the whole experience. You seriously have to wonder if the management has suffered hearing loss, and consequently, has to jack up the volume. I have frequently asked the server to have the music turned down, but this will not happen because the music is not there to create an ambience for the customers, it's there solely for the management. Too bad for the customers who do not want environmental hearing loss.
(1)Leah G.
We had a great brunch here at Jam. They brought us out some complimentary chocolate biscotti...nice touch. I ordered the waffles of the day: Rice flour, pork liver ,melted onions, mustard gastriouf, sunny side eggs. A real delicious and creative blend. My dining partner ordered French toast which was perfectly cooked and melted in your mouth. Their coffee blend was great. Nice clean restaurant with friendly service. Would recommend making the trip over here. Some good character.
(4)Kean M.
So, new local restaurant 200yds from house, had to try it out. Ambiance: I liked the decor from waist down, tables, chairs, flatware etc...the walls / mirrors above waist height seem a little sterile and uninteresting. No art, colour etc. Staff: Seemed like a good bunch of staff, a little bit of first week nerves and getting used to the layout I'd guess, but all in all a good experience, staff polite and professional. Kitchen: well, it's right there next to you so you get to eyeball everything!! quite fun actually. Food: After a very tasty amuse bouche we had the eggs benedict with pork belly and skirt steak with grits and eggs, flavours very good , nicely presented. Drinks: no mimosas but the orange juce was fresh and the coffee good. Cash only, but that's ok, need to speed up returning with change but as I said, they just opened here and it was pretty busy up front by 9:30am! Will be back to test lunch and dinner! maybe up to 5 stars once everyone has bedded in.
(4)S. E.
Hmmm, where to go on this one? After having attempted several times to get in here without having to get up at the crack of dawn for a seat, husband and I finally bit the bullet and waited between 30-40 minutes for a late brunch seating today. We'd heard and read good things about this place, so here's the rundown: 1) Restaurant too crowded, tables shoved too close together, and as a result--too noisy. That isn't the restaurant's fault. But really, I'd love to see them try and accommodate either a wheelchair patron or a hugely fat person. Would be very amusing. 2) A little precious for my taste. Any restaurant that doesn't put salt and pepper on the tables gets a star taken away. We had to ask for salt. Ditto for places that refuse to put fake sweetener out, or for places that don't carry a normal soft drink selection (see Uncommon Ground and Longman & Eagle, respectively). 3) Price. An 8-ounce bottle of Coke goes $3. My husband's burger was $12, and my turkey club was $12. Now, it was a pretty good sandwich, and a good size. But I've had better turkey sandwiches elsewhere in the city that were either cheaper, or didn't involve a 35-minute wait. Same goes for the burger--he said it was good, but not SO good that he feels the wait is necessary when as-good or better-than can be gotten elsewhere faster and cheaper. We split the raspberry coffeecake muffin after lunch. It was pretty tasty. Don't know if we will be back for brunch, but we might try to stop in later at night to sample some of the sweet items for dessert. I think JAM will do just fine and have a long run at their place in Logan Square.
(2)Danielle S.
Jam's best asset is enthusiastic hard-working staff that truly wants everyone to enjoy their meals. They're excited about the menu and with good reason -- it features inventive takes on classic breakfast fare. My whitefish quiche was delightful, light, and fresh and the french toast is famous for good reason. I'll miss Jam at this location because it's within walking distance of my sister's apartment.
(5)Jennifer R.
I just had the most mind-blowingly delicious french toast on JAM's lovely outdoor patio this morning. Malted Custard French Toast with macerated pineapple, lime leaf cream, and pink peppercorns. Hands down best french toast I've ever had. So light and not too sweet. Try it. Thank me later.
(5)Jeff K.
Horrible service, decent food Went with a group of 4; my wife and I ordered the egg whites and they were delicious (this is why they are getting 2 stars instead of 1). The other order was the blueberry pancakes that did not taste like blueberry and lamb crepes that were weird and just okay. Service: Sat down right away but took a very long time to order. Took forever to get water and refills on both water and coffee. When we finally ordered, the crepes came out 10 minutes after everything else did and no apology. Also they forgot the syrup for the pancakes and didn't bring it until it was too late. Overall, okay food, horrible service, great outdoor space, probably will never return especially since they are so many other places in the area with better service. All we needed was an apology, something.
(2)Graciela V.
As the rating itself (when rating a place on Yelp), explains it perfectly, - Meh, I've experienced better. We had brunch at Jam this past weekend and it pretty much was disappointing. So many other places that are much better than this place and not worth the trouble in trying to locate it because it's a bit hidden on Logan Blvd and definitely not worth the price for brunch. I give it two stars because it was nice decor and the service was pretty good but just did not enjoy the food. My sandwhich came out somewhat luke warm and the potatoes were a bit on the cold - & on top of that it was pretty bland. I needed to add hot sauce to my sandwhich to give it some flavor and the coffee tasted a bit burnt as well. My friend had the french toast and it was meh as well - she's had better. Sorry, won't be going back.
(2)Gayatri D.
I'd probably have given Jam 3 stars had the food not been DELICIOUS! We were a party of 6 and ordered about 10 things from juices to sweet pastries. But the good food doesn't justify slow service, general chaos and it being cash only.
(4)Sarah L.
We loved this place. The top reasons: BYOB service that provides respectable glasses and proactively volunteers a chiller for sparkling wine. The patio is cozy and cool. And the coffee was outstanding. (Surprisingly rare.) Food: my pork shoulder egg sandwich was tender and yummy, but really needed the hot sauce we requested. It was a touch on the bland side. The spanish omelette was flavorful and perfectly prepared. And you have to love an amuse bouche to start a brunch. Very nice touch.
(4)Kendra C.
I had hopes for this place. The ambiance was nice, the drinks were good. But the food was boring and uninteresting, and they seriously screwed up my potatoes...I mean, how do you manage to screw up breakfast potatoes? They tasted hard and leathery. I had a pulled pork and egg sandwich, which was ok, just kind of boring. The menu was inventive enough, maybe they'll improve over time.
(2)Melissa L.
I was googling for good brunch places in Chitown and came across Jam. Based on the reviews and the website I had high hopes but was a bit disappointed. The eggs benedict was so measly and the french toast while very doughy is served without maple syrup - it cost extra. Um, who easts french toast without syrup, even if there is cherry preserve? I don't know, maybe its a Canadian thing. Speaking of which, I felt like I was in Toronto again as the servers were a bit aloof and not like the friendlines I had grown accoustomed to after a few days in Chicago. Its not terrible but certainly not worth the effort to go there unless you live in the neighbourhood. Im sure there is better in Chicago and there is certainly better brunch in Toronto.
(2)Drew M.
Cool environment, great coffee, fantastic food. We went when there was only one other table, so I can't comment on how they handle pressure, but the service was good. The only thing I would comment on is it is slightly overpriced. Buckwheat pancakes are fantastic, nonetheless, but certainly does not warrant a $10 price tag.
(4)Aaron D.
What a wonderful little spot! Tasty, inventive food, attentive service, lovely decor. Most everything on the menu was intriguing and wanted to order way too much. The only cons.. cash only is unfortunate. $40 is enough to reasonably want to use a card... And, avoid the venison sausage.. We can't wait to go back!
(4)Kunal K.
Love. LOVE. No really, I LOVE (!) this place. Yeah, yeah, "hipster/yuppie" crowd, "small" portions, "long" waits, cash only with a "overcharging ATM machine," "they couldn't seat my walk-in group of 24 and now I am pissy!" What-the-hell-ever. 1. Hipster/Yuppies. I am not here for the crowd. I could care less who else I find eating here. I am here for the food. 2. Small portions. Yeah, if you want to over eat till the point where you can only feel the heartburn and not be able to see your feet, this may not be the right choice for you. 3. Long waits. This place is small, the kitchen is smaller and the food is fantastic. Do the math. I usually show up at 12:30-1 and the wait is not too bad. 4. Cash only. So? Big whoop. Overcharging ATM machine? $1 is about the most reasonable ATM fee you could find in a private establishment. 5. Walk-in group of 24. Read #3. Small restaurant. Small kitchen. Do the math. Do everyone a favor and rate your deduction skills as a 2 rather than this perfectly fine establishment. Every time I have been here, the service has been between good and excellent. I love their selection of teas and the server has always been kind enough to bring out their little plank of the varieties of tea for us to check out before we can make our decision. The food, as you may have guessed by the tone of my review, is phenomenal. I have never been a big fan of quiche but Jam has certainly changed my opinion. The texture is perfect and has just the right amount of tart to make an excellent meal. I have also had the braised lamb crepe and that is complemented magnificently by the pear and the hazelnut glaze. So. Damn. Good. Every time I have been here I have been unable to resist to get one of their pastries because they are always spectacular. Warm delicious gooeyness. Just thinking about it is making me hungry. If I am doing brunch in Wicker Park, this will be at the top of my list. And I will be able to walk out without feeling like a thanksgiving parade float.
(5)TC S.
Spectacular service and value. An amuse-bouche before a $13 brunch? Marking the silverware for every course? Delicious food. Beautiful plating and execution. Do you see the words I am using here? We are not talking "the eggs were ok." We are talking full-on service and flavor design. This is like a bloody 4-star brunch FOR UNDER FIFTEEN BUCKS A PERSON. GO. AS OFTEN AS YOU CAN. Also, fantastic almond tea.
(5)Paul L.
Hubba hubba, eating breakfast never felt so important. This place is senior varsity kick-ass. Have the french toast. Or eggs. Or anything.
(5)Jim K.
If you're looking for a frou-frou brunch in Logan Square head here. But if the wait is long don't expect to get a drink at the bar since that space is mostly wait station. Me? I prefer more food and less frou but I can see why folks are diggin' on this joint.
(3)Myra M.
If you like fine dining at affordable prices then you'll like Jam. For sure try the four course tasting menu for $25. The tortellini spring pea dish is one of the best things I've ever put in my belly. And if you're a beef loving person, then don't miss out on the Steak and Frites. Sure, it's just beef and potatoes, but Jam does them to perfection. And all the bad reviews here based on service are sort of BS. I go somewhere for the food, not the people waiting on me. This is a small, independent place just trying to get off the ground. Sure, the service isn't 5 star, but the food is and that's what counts.
(5)Khadijah L.
THE FOLLOWING IS A REVIEW OF JAM ON DAMEN, WHICH IS NO LONGER. *** The ratings are not faulty, and the reviews are not mixed up. I actually find it consistent with the restaurant's character albeit subjective in star factor. Let me explain. I came with 2 other friends on a Sunday (1pm-ish) and were seated within 10-15 minutes (which is a vast improvement from other typical brunch places). The interior is cute and all, and I love the open kitchen area- I like to know where my food comes from and who's making it. Immediately I noted the crowd, they are definitely here to see and be seen. Its like a Disneyland of the yuppie-hipster types, and I had to stop myself from gawking. Red cowboy boots, fedora hats, keffiyehs, babies. No es importa. (but take note). I just rolled out of bed with my jeans and faded hard rock tshirt, no cash and nursing a hangover. Voila! An ATM machine that charges only $1 fee!!! I wanted to kiss this beautiful machine.. They serve Metropolis coffee. We got each, a mini muffin each amuse bouche. I forget what kind, it was citrusy, like orange and honey. I thought it was a nice touch. We proceeded to order... quince french toast, braised lamb crepes, crisp pork belly (for my friend), apple coffee cake, a sticky bun, between us 3. The food, was really good. It had been meticulously planned to taste the way it tasted. It wasn't too complicated, it was simple and complex enough, and delicious. Standard american portions (XXL) leave me with much guilt, especially with breakfast/brunch because who eats leftover brunch? in my opinion the portions are perfect and appropriately sized. So what is with the average 3 stars? Aside from the star rating, observe the rating distribution, trend and read the individual reviews.. Instead of consistently being average, the average 3 stars are comprised of almost equal parts high and low ratings. Here is why: this place attracts trendy yuppie hipsters. It is simply a natural behavior for hipsters to criticize in order to demonstrate their depth of a particular subject. Ergo raving or complaining. Decide yourself. I would definitely come here again, and would especially love to take advantage of the outdoor patio in the warmer months. The food was lovely and that was the impression I left with.
(4)Jim C.
I had a Spanish omelet that was excellent as was the service. Expensive. 24 bucks for an omelet, a side of sausage and coffee including tip. Ouch!
(3)Kim W.
notes: the french toast is to die for. the vegetable hash is to be avoided. the decor/atmosphere is great even if the chairs are an abomination. the service is a-ok. this place is cash-only with an atm in the back. BYOB BITCHES a great alternative if lula cafe is busy.
(3)Billy M.
If you are going to try as hard as this place does to look the part, you would think that the service and food would follow suit. Not the case. Had no wait which was a nice start considering the popularity of this place. Ordered the butternut squash soup, the braised antelope, and the reuben with horseradish creamcheese. Soup took 15 minutes to get to our table and the HEAD CHEF IS EXPEDITING!!! How is this possible? Then, after this guy gives us our soup, 3 minutes later here is our sandwich and antelope dishes...thanks man...appreciate it. As for the taste? The soup was so basic it was sad...no taste. The antelope is a gamey cut of meat...why have a sauce that makes it taste MORE gamey? When you have a reuben on the menu, with horseradish cream cheese, you would think you would be able to taste the horseradish...nope...just as bland as the corned beef was... The Bacon of the day was very good, hence the second star...other than that, this place needs to work on its service and its food...stop trying so hard with the decor if you wont try as hard to make the food taste good. Boo.
(2)Kristin J.
I went on a Friday morning for brunch, so they only had four other tables occupied. With one waiter, the service was super attentive, but since I went on a Friday, this might be atypical. Coffee was great, and the cute little sweet potato mini-muffin amuse bouche was a great touche. My boyfriend got biscuit with sausage, mushroom gravy, and fried egg with some sort of really refreshing cauliflower and straw mushroom salad. I got the eggs benedict with pork belly and winter squash puree. The presentation on both dishes was beautiful, and both were delicious. I think the eggs benedict was the clear "winner," but that might just be because any dish with pork belly in it is awesome. One note: Cash only!
(4)Patrick P.
There are things I liked about Jam: -cute space (they have outdoor seating in summer) -all male wait staff (i hate sorority-girl waitresses) -cute arrangement of food (looked cute on plate) -food was decent. not great, but decent. the fruit was very fresh. -the coffee is strong (i think it might have killed some cancer cells) However, there is one thing I didn't like about Jam: -CASH ONLY (boo!!! it's 2011, take credit cards) Give it a try. But bring cash! :(
(4)Desire' M.
The gross stuff is at the end... The inside of the restaurant had a classy feel but we ate on the patio, which was more rugged and earthy. Even getting there was a rugged trip because the patio stones are all uneven and I lost my balance a few times and later watched the waiters trip on up turned stones. I can't really comment on the food because I only got the fresh fruit and an orange juice which I have no complaints about. The presentation of my friends dishes was classy. The waitstaff definitely needs training! The set the water pitcher on the rim of each persons glass at the table. Gross! I probably shared germs with everyone on the patio that day. The waiters are dressed like couch potatoes with t-shirts, jeans and dirty sneakers. One lifted his shirt to wipe the sweat from his face and bared his belly to the table he was waiting. Ew! Oh yeah, it was 50 minutes before we got our food. Cash only.
(1)Aurore L.
First night in my new digs, followed by the first morning. As I woke up, my first thought was: breakfast. And Jam. Pump it up and make my day, babe. Around Christmas time, I usually slave behind the stove to cook up my favorite jam recipe, lovingly laden it up in crystalline pots. Its rich, deep, shiny purple color is a holiday ornament by itself. Its name: Heavenly Fig. Well, Jam on Damen is exactly that: heavenly. I couldn't have dreamed of a better welcome in the neighborhood than this one: a breezy walk, a push on the door, a bright smile, a lovely table warmed up by a touch of green, and a menu that made me (mental) back flips in their gorgeous patio (mentally emptied of all its customers too, I am not much of an entertainer; I leave that to Matt L. who does an excellent job and is pretty talented.) I was highly anticipating the amuse I read so much about, and was delighted to see an old fav' on the plate: banana chocolate muffin with peanut butter icing. Two bites. Then, under my advice of her waitress (she was a darlin') I ordered the Panino Cristo, and was blown away. Not only is the combination thoughtful (the contrast of flavors is remarquable and extremely balance: salty prosciutto, sweet honey mustard, creamy tellagio, crunchy rapini) but the ingredients in themselves were extremely high quality: the bread was so freaking good that I thought for a while that I had been transported to Europe......extremely moist, a perfect little bite to it, buttery, rich, complex. A gem. I am not a fan of Metropolis coffee so that would be the only negative but it's definitely not enough to keep me away from this little urban paradise. I'll be back again and again to eat a lot of Cristo and co., with cash in tow.
(5)Scott N.
Intimate little location reminded me of Toast in LP which I've been going to for years. The menu is like Elate at The Hotel Felix except its breakfast. We split two items and both were superb. The ingredients were creative and went perfectly but there was also enough on the plate to be full rather than stuffed which is perfect. I will definitely be back!!
(5)Alex F.
Great patio, great food, great service, great everything! Went for brunch, we got a table pretty fast. The kitchen was a little backed up so we orders the breakfast pastry to start. Banana cream torte...YUMMY. Food came...wow! The most perfectly poached eggs I have ever seen in my life arrived. Amazing. I didn't even want to eat them they were so perfect. Great flavor in my eggs benny. The man had the lamb, great too but a little heavy for summer time. I wish they had a liquor license cause the only thing that would have made it better was a mimosa. I highly recommend this place and can't wait to try dinner!
(5)Yayo T.
Talk about unique flavors! Ordered the French Toast with a dash of peppercorn. WTF you say??? Yes, sounds crazy, but delicious and a very new taste! The egg white omelet was also unique in taste. My only gripe is that there's no second door to block the wind (yeah, first day of spring, and I'm still bitching about the 40 degree weather). Also, this place is NOT GOOD for kids. Please don't bring them! I can't imagine hearing them scream first thing in the morning if one is hung over. Bad enough I had to hear one screaming today. BYOB, outdoor seating coming along- just waiting on the weather, and parking is pretty easy on Damen.
(4)Kristin S.
Thumbs up to this hip little Logan Square diner. I had a little trouble finding it, probably more due to me than the small signage, but needless to say we got free parking right out front. So my friend and I started off with a breakfast appetizer (don't you love having apps at breakfast!) of macerated cherry (yes, that is the liquor soaked kind, which intensifies the flavor!) lime leaf foamy cream with pink peppercorn french toast! Holla! Oh yeah. First, devine bread. Fresh and fluffy yet solid. The flavors here are expertly crafted together. I don't know who thunk this one up, but yo' a genuis. I would come back again and again for this. I want this for my birthday cake. So that peppercorn mind you, is not harsh and come to find out, it is not a true pepper at all. Oh, no. It is a berry of the shrub Schinus molle. Okay, no I did not know that, I had to look it up as the dish so intrigued me. Mind you, this comes with no syrup. But I swear, you definitely don't need it and don't want to kill the trifecta going on here. So then my main dish. I had the poached egg whites with lemon zest and pepper, spring greens, macadamia nuts, parmesan cheese, nice vinaigrette accompanied by a buckwheat crepe filled with sweet potato puree and cheese. This was the perfect size, about 2 inches long. Seriously, I am done with breakfasts bigger than your head. I am after the unique goodness of some quality ingredients, which is what JAM is. Coffee was consistently pipping hot. Metropolis. Service was great. We were told 20 minutes wait as we arrived around 10:20. We only waited 15! We sat at the community table, which was actually excellent as 1) we got to watch the kitchen and see what was going out 2) look at our co-diners meals 3) get some good area restaurant recommendations 4) be out of the crowded main dining area. I don't know why people rate based on cash only or one the crowdedness of the restaurant. Yes to both. But hell yes to top notch food!!!
(5)Maureen S.
This place has really good french toast, and they've won a lot of awards for it. The patio is impeccable, albeit a total health hazard because of all the rocky paths that the servers have to balance on while juggling plates of delicious food. The restrooms were weird, disorganized, and kind of dirty, but the service was really great and the food is amazing. Come early to grab a beautiful seat without a wait on the patio.
(4)Gerald P.
Yes. I love every bite of every breakfast item I've ever ordered here. Especially the Malted French Toast with macerated rhubarb, lime leaf cream and pink peppercorn... Scandalous! I have late night cravings for this french toast. There have been a few occasions when I've tried to make plans to wake up extra early just so I could be at JAM as soon as they opened to enjoy some of that french toast. Many friends have rejected the invite so, It hasn't panned out yet. But, doesn't it sounds like a delicious way to start the day? (pvt msg me if you're down for this plan!!) Fortunately, I have no shortage of friends that love brunch at JAM. BTDubs, the staff here are really friendly and professional - you will always be greeted with a smile. The chefs are cuties and boy!, can they macerate the shit out of some rhubarb!
(5)Jims L.
DO NOT eat here UNLESS, you are (1) going as a party of 2 OR (2) really don't mind waiting 45 minutes while watching 10 other 2 top parties that get seated before you as they come in and wait maybe.. 30 seconds. I've had much better eggs Benedict, the meat in the crepes was underseasoned and.. I don't even remember what the third person in our party ordered. Cash only.
(2)Nikki R.
I went to Jam this past Saturday with three of my girlfriends. We got there around 11:30am and were seated promptly outside on the patio. Our server was attentive and quickly brought us some wine glasses so we could mix up our BYOM (bring your own mimosas). The amuse-bouche was a yummy banana nut muffin with butter cream. I chose the Spanish omelet. It was pretty good. The chorizo inside was delish. One friend got the jamburger, which looked like it was the heartiest thing on the menu. Another got the buckwheat crepes and said they were pretty good. The last got the eggs benedict. Two of us joked that if we had ordered the eggs benedict we would've been disappointed because the portion was tiny! One thing that was disappointing was that they didn't have the "(Three)dom of Choice" on the menu when I was there, but it was on the menu they had on the website. Note to Jam- please keep an updated menu on the website, so future customers know exactly what their options will be when they dine.
(3)Raana A.
I had a great brunch at Jam a few weeks ago. I had such a great meal and that I was surprised by the mixed reviews. The egg white omelet was like non other I've ever had with it's caramelized sweet potatoes, macadamia nuts and goat cheese. And then the buckwheat lamb crepes - my mouth waters just thinking about them. We also tried a smaller portion of their custard french toast with rhubarb and pink peppercorn to end the meal - heavenly. I've only been here once, so I might have lucked out or it might have been the beautiful weather that brought out the best in everything - the food and service, namely, but I can't wait come back to Jam. Dishes are sized reasonably and it's cash only.
(5)David A.
Went here on a weekday for brunch. It wasn't crowded. It's nice looking inside. The food is good, some dishes were stronger than others. Zucchini bread pancakes were good, kind of desserty. Italian sandwich was awesome and I actually took half of it home, kind of unheard of for a fatty like me. I wouldn't be surprised if weekend brunch is overcrowded and service slows down. But, this seems to be what happens at popular brunch spots. If you don't like busy places with waits, don't go to popular, no reservation restaurants during peak hours. Seems pretty straight forward?
(4)Bethany B.
Love this place for brunch! The french toast is literally the best I've ever had. I am more of a savory brunch person, and I only ventured out of my comfort zone because of the rave reviews I read here of the french toast at Jam. Boy am I glad I did! I go back solely for this dish. The service has been very nice, it's BYOB, and the music playing always makes me say "I LOVE this song!" - so there is much to go back for. The only thing that keeps this from 5 stars is one bad experience (one out of three, so this could change). Went for brunch a few months ago and the server(s) were nonexistant, and my delicious french toast came out cold (aka no longer delicious and amazing). I was so heartbroken that I couldn't go back for several months. However, a few weeks ago I decided to block this from my memory and give them another try - and Jam delivered. So, 4 stars because of the inconsistency...but after a few more visits I'm hoping I can rule that bad time out as a fluke :)
(4)Ryan H.
Perfectly poached eggs!!!
(3)Brandon B.
Perfect place for Chicago brunch with friends, meaning: 1) you have all the time in the world and have lots of things to say to all your bright eyed buddies, 2) you don't mind at least a 90 minute time going through the whole deal (not including time to wait for the check, which we short-circuited by going to the register after waiting for 10 minutes), 3) you enjoy well proportioned and well crafted dishes that are very reasonable for the price. Downsides; see the above (if you have any sort of urgency; we bypassed the outside wait for 30 minutes by sitting inside), the cursed location of this space with no reasonable air conditioning and a kitchen right in the eating area (hot and sweaty, the 2 establishments before this as well, in the summer). I'm not a fan of Chicago brunch-er establishments for this slow processing even on the most relaxed days with good friends.
(3)Anisha A.
The space at 935-937 N Damen is hexed; just note the feline that grazes the patio grounds. A cat once tried to murder me, hence I'm a strong believer that these creatures are the devil's spawn. Regardless, it was bittersweet dining at Jam, which took over Dodo, which took over Sweet Cakes Bakery, which took over some restaurant that began with a P, which took over our beloved, short-lived Grasshopper. Hopefully Jam eludes the turnover curse and is here to stay. It's done wonders with the space and patio, which (ignoring the evil cat) may be the most charming in the city. Though, like everything else, could further benefit from music and more thoughtful lighting. The polarizing, whimsical brunch menu is the work of a mature Willy Wonka. Regardless of the hits and misses, you have to admire the audacity of pairings being served before sundown: French toast with pink peppercorn; buckwheat crepes with Asian pear and braised lamb. Even more effective is the dinner, the $24 four course tasting- featuring an impeccable asparagus prosciutto soup, foie gras tortellini, and escolar- is highway robbery. Bring your own booze, go wild, and make sure the cat doesn't kill you.
(4)Tracey S.
I feel bad only giving two stars, because the first time I ate here I had an extremely positive experience. The food was great, the service was great and the music was great. This time...the music was great. I ordered the blueberry pancakes. They were very large and dense and in spite of a lot of blueberries they were bland. I think if they'd been served with syrup, like normal pancakes I might have loved them. Unfortunately they were served with a tiny amount of a lemon cream thing and a tiny amount of blueberry jam. Overall it was a big let down. My boyfriend had an egg white omelet that he was very underwhelmed with , plus a side of pork belly since they don't serve sides of bacon or sausage (?). The service was very slow and not as friendly as it was on our first visit. With all the brunch options in the city I don't think we will be back.
(2)Kristin W.
Jam is open for dinner now and I could not be happier! My husband and I went on a whim Monday night and had a fantastic experience. We ordered the tasting menu which is a crazy deal at $25 for four courses. The dinner consisted of: Asparagus Soup with crispy prosciutto, Foie Gras Tortellini, your choice of either Pan Roasted Duck Breast or Seared Escolar with Pineapple Gnocchi (whoa!) and then finally Olive Oil Cake with orange marmalade. The food was all completely awesome. My favorite was the tortellini, but the Pineapple Gnocchi definitely comes in second place because it was just so original and was a total compliment to the fish. I'm totally down with this new dinner menu and now that its getting warmer out I can't wait to bring a bottle (it's BYOB) and sit outside in their garden while enjoying the food. The service was fantastic and the food was filling without overstuffing me. Hurray for Jam!
(5)Alex R.
Jam is everything and more. yes if you go during high traffic times it will be overwhelming, but that's the case ALMOST anywhere. Amelia is an amazing waitress, with attention to detail, and could sell an airconditioner to an eskimo! Phenominal baked goods, service with a smile not to mention AMAZING FRENCH TOAST. Heck don't come, leaves more for me :)
(5)Mary Ann C.
This place is fabulous! I have been trying to find the time to try it since it opened and am so glad I finally got the chance! Service was fabulous and helpful. The dining room was small and cute. Loved the tea (green mint), pastry of the day (two scones--double yumm), and the french toast (server recommended it as an appetizer for the table). The eggs benedict was very good, beautifully plated, and creative. Can't wait to return!
(4)Natro I.
This is the worst meal I have ever eaten in Chicago. Actually, that's a lie because I couldn't eat it. I took one bite. (that after waiting 45 minutes for the food to arrive). When the waiter asked if I liked the dish (about 30 minutes after the food came out) I said that I thought it was terrible and couldn't eat it (this has never happened to me). He said he would take the dish off our check (his suggestion) but then the host told him he couldn't do it. Fine - I get it. But he didn't offer anything else. I would have been happy with just a mini cinnamon bun...anything. I live a block away but you will never see me in there again and I will definitely make sure the people I love don't go there either.
(1)Andrew H.
Had the Jamburger, it was fantastic. This was not your normal burger, the "Butterkäse" (essentially buttery cheese), and "smoked tomato sauce" really gave it a great flavor. Fries were seasoned nicely as well. Atmosphere was enjoyable, kind of a nicer brunch place then your average destination. Staff was extremely friendly, did a nice job of describing the food / flavors and even brought a tiny pastry snack for us to sample while waiting for our food. Small place so I could see the wait can getting long if you go at a peak time.
(4)N P.
Well Chicagoans are known, if not around the country then at least to each other as being huge on brunch, and I am no exception. It comes with the territory that you are going to wait at least 30 minutes for a table at the best places in the city, and usually it's worth it (there wouldn't be a wait if it weren't). Said places are also loud as a rule. That being said, I have some mixed feelings about this place. I went here with some friends about a week ago to check them out. We were told a 45 minute wait, which I expected, but got seated in 15. So far, pretty good. The decor is nice, especially the light fixtures, and I am partial to the color scheme ( I notice these things) as well. I did read the reviews on here days before, so I went curious to see what my experience may be. So, the server arrived and took our order, and while we got our drinks pretty fast, we waited forever for the food to arrive. I think I would have almost rather spent that time waiting to be seated than waiting for the food. I know they were slammed but oh well. Our server realized we were waiting a long time, and brought out a tiny madeline (cookie) for each of us to tide us over- I have to point out though that said madeleine was only slightly larger than my thumb, so it is rather comical that anyone would think it could hold you over. Anyway, I am not saying this to be mean. I worked in the service industry most of my adult life, so I have some sympathy for those who are in it. Okay, so at last our food has arrived. I am looking forward to the malted custard french toast that is in front of me, with its dollops of whipped cream topped with pink peppercorns and macerated cherries. My brunch companions ordered a turkey club with seasoned fries and eggs benedict respectively. The french toast was very good, but I have to note here that there was no syrup of any kind to be seen for it. Now I am not closed minded about getting creative with food but after a few bites sans syrup I suspected there was a good reason why it's been an accompaniment to french toast for as long as it has. I used the whipped cream as a substitute (I was too hungry to sit and wait til our server came back) but it sadly ran out before the toast did. The pink peppercorns were a very nice touch though, so if you order this eat them with the toast, don't just cast aside as a garnish. They may have actually been the best thing about my breakfast. When our server came back, I inquired about syrup- she said it is an extra charge. Okay,, I've never heard of a restaurant charging extra for syrup. I think a cherry syrup would be a good accompaniment because of the macerated cherries, but who am I to say that if you're charging 12 bucks for french toast that it shouldn't be an extra? I don't know. Well, I didn't try anything off my friends' plates except the fries since I am vegetarian. And the fries, I'm sad to say, had way too much spice rubbed on them. As in she and I were scraping it off with a knife too much. This is not something that should be happening in a restaurant that sports haute cuisine, should it? Anhow, we get the bill and luckily my friends boyfriend was insistent on paying- good thing since I was planning on paying with my card and they apparently are a Cash Only establishment. Now that's one thing that may give me pause about going back. I don't want to have to run to an ATM in the freezing cold and pay the stupid ATM fee because a place doesn't take credit card. I mean it would be one thing if they were some old mom and pop joint in the sticks, but this is a modern restaurant in one of the largest cities in the world, so what is the reason folks? Check them out if you are curious I guess, just don't forget to bring some cash.
(2)Jerry C.
Been here for brunch. Right around the corner from me. Have had the cherry French toast, the Zucchini pancakes and the quiche. French toast was creative, tasty and fun, the peppercorns being an interesting surprise. The zucchini pancakes were fluffy, light, tasty with a spicy jam on top along with a small slab of toasted marshmallow. Substantial. The quiche was surprisingly custard-like, which I have never experienced, even in France. The only thing about the quiche was that I thought the slice was a bit too small, and a bit too salty (I think they were using some kind of black sea salt which provided an interesting texture, but too much sodium). Service here both times was excellent: attentive and helpful without being overbearing. Bring a bottle of prosecco/cava/champagne and they sell you a carafe of OJ.
(4)Christine K.
Been here twice for breakfast on a Saturday. The place was hidden by some scaffolding a little while ago, but once you step inside, you are pleasantly surprised by the modern decor. Almost CB2ish with a little mirror and flourish action. The kitchen is right out front right behind the register so you can sort of see the chefs cooking food. The food is somewhat more upscale than your typical breakfast/brunch place...or at least it is laid out on fancier plates with fancier names. The first time I went there I ordered an egg sandwich with the pork belly. It was nice but a little on the fatty side. Granted pork belly has fat on it, but this was a little too much. The flavors were pretty good though. The second time we went, my friend and I both ordered the biscuits and gravy. I remember this dish being disappointing as I was expecting some soft right-out-of-the oven hot biscuits with creamy gravy. Instead the biscuits were harder than expected and the gravy was dark and just didn't give me that comforting feeling. I read also that they give some diners amuse bouche...and while the table right next to us got theirs, they somehow missed us on both of our trips. Another note: the service is on the slow side. While the chefs and waiters do look busy, it seems that they simply do not have enough chefs to feed hungry diners promptly on a busy morning. That does not make a pregnant woman happy. All in all, a cute dining atmosphere but after my 2nd trip, I give it 3 stars.
(3)Amanda Z.
Banana. Cocoa. Muffin. Caramel. Cream. Cheese. Alright, those words separately mean nothing to you, but in one beautiful little baby muffin a la a brunch amuse bouche, they are perfection. Trust me here. Oh, and try the pork belly benedict and steak and eggs where they so kindly agreed to poach my eggs to more of a medium (Hey, no judgment, I'm just getting on board the "runnier yolk" bandwagon. As our sweet server said "baby steps."). Yessss....good stuff. Pork belly benedict was perfect with a marvelous beet hollandaise and beautiful little english muffins (made in house). Steak was done to a perfect medium rare and served with rice grits and poached eggs done to my liking. Lotsa coffee with real cream, place mats that I contemplated stealing, and a menu with half the menu being a "not really sure what that is but I think I'll try it" item. Truly, this is a brunch that will make the snootiest bruncher smile. Do it up kids. (Just hit up the ATM first.)
(5)James C.
I gave it 1 star based on the fact that we are a family of 5 and this place is NOT kid friendly. We go out to brunch often and nice restaurants, but the entire atmosphere and attitude was poor based on the fact that we came with young kids and were immediately treated like 2nd class citizens. The service was poor, as we heard about the specials for our server telling the tables next to us when they were seated. And they sounded great. The atmosphere is modern with thick plastic chairs that look like glass and really cool and heft silverware. The food looks good on the menu but is rather tasteless when eating. Due to the poor service, it took way to long for us to get anything our children, who go often to another local brunch place, were constantly asking to leave and the place seemed welcome to the idea. Too bad our normal spot was closed and too bad we couldn't add this to our arsenal.
(1)Miss M.
We went there for the first time today and let me tell you: their food is amazing! I had their lamb crepes with asian pear and hazelnut sauce and I had never experienced anything like that before. I tried their peppermint iced tea which really complimented the lamb of the crepes. Their pancakes and hash browns are very good. The downside is that they take cash only, but luckily I had cash with me so that was not an issue. Also, it is a hipster hangout, but ignore the patrons and focus on your food and you will not be dissappointed! I would definitely be going back! The service was good and in fact, the waitor we had was pretty darn sexy. Too bad they didn't serve him on a platter :)
(4)Elliott R.
Eh.. I'm not hating on Jam. I want to like this place and it seems like it's gonna be an awesome experience cause it looks cool but it just left me underwhelmed. I got the eggs benedict which were quite good but small portions so I was still hungry. My lady friend got the spanish omelette which was terrible. I eat anything and always finish her meals, but I wouldn't touch it. Then they make you pay cash so you have to go to the little ATM in the back and get charged $5 to get cash out. Then we waited for like 15 minutes for them to bring change. I just wanted to get out of there and go to Sunrise diner or something where I get real portions of good food.
(2)Tracey S.
French toast! Kale salad! Egg sandwich! The best brunch ever! Service was tremendous, relaxed atmosphere, cannot wait to go back!
(5)Alaina F.
I've been hearing good things about this place for a while, and seeing that breakfast is by far my favorite meal, I had to try it. Last Saturyday, I was in a serious pancake mood (not to mention had a miz hangover and was starving) and my friend suggested we go to Jam. Fine. We arrive to this hole-in-the-wall and spend at least 15 minutes look for parking. when we finally walked in, it wasn't terribly crowded and the host said it would be no longer than 20 minutes. im crabby and hungry but okay. the place started to fill up while we waited. so.... maybe 45 minutes later, the host finally calls us to sit down. we had a group of 4 and he must've sat at least 3 other groups of 2 before us. needless to say, i was very irritated at this point. honestly it's pissing me off to go through the play-by-play of this miserable experience so let me sum it up: we waited forever. the waitress was a fucking retard and incredibly rude and slow. (i despise that shit wicker park attitude of "you're in wicker park and we're a popular restaurant so you should be honored to wait around here.") UM no thank you, unwarrantedly self-righteous hipsters. anyways we waited at least 20 minutes to order from this idiot after telling her twice that we were ready to order (after looking at the menu while waiting 45 min, we knew what we wanted). finally, the food came out. it was cold and sub-par. AND expensive. FUCK this place. I am kind of a snob and understand patience for good food, but this place is kidding itself. get over yourself, Jam. you aren't trendy and original and you aren't upscale. i don't even want to give you one star, but there isn't an option for zero. thanks for ruining my saturday.
(1)Connie M.
I'm with Sandra O--this place is so inconsistent. It has a lot of pluses: great outdoor space, lovely decor. All true. And our food, once we got it, over an hour after being seated, was actually tasty. But the ridiculous chaos surrounding our bunch today--long waits, excruciating service, our food actually being delivered to the wrong table... everything other than the food itself went so wrong that I could never recommend this place. The people at McDonald's are more competent. If you do bother to go, definitely BYOB, as you have NO IDEA how long it's gonna take for you to be seated or get your food. And by the way: what's with the obligatory need for once off-the-grid meat cuts? Porky bits (cheeks, belly) were in almost everything, really limiting the options for non-omnivores and... kinda tired. Overly wrought. I know I've ranted enough, but here's one more rant: whenever a place has so many 5-star ratings and 1-2 star ratings, that should be a tip off. Their s*&# simply isn't together.
(1)Jovanna F.
Jam......I went two Sundays ago. We got there at around 2 and had to wait maybe 15 minutes for a table. When the hostess came to seat us, we were lead outside. This was odd since we never requested to sit outside. It wasn't even nice out-- it was overcast and cold. Whatever...we were hungry so this was a step in the right direction...or so we thought. This is where things went down (a steep) hill. My friend and I had to wait a good, oh, 20 minutes to just order our food. The waitress kept milling about around our table but failed to acknowledge us until we got her attention. Mind you, it is 2:30 in the afternoon-- we're starved, hungover, tired and just want to EAT. Ok, so we order. And, we wait.. and wait.. and wait some more..... after 45 minutes of waiting, I asked the waitress (who was very sweet) what the deal was. She said something about the restaurant expanding and the kitchen not being big enough to accomodate the influx in orders..I don't know- not my problem-- just bring me my French toast! I thought we were getting close to having some food when my friend noticed an employee come in with groceries (I think he said he saw avocados??). I wasn't surprised- I had suspected that they had run out of food because, there really is no other excuse for having to wait over an hour for French toast and an egg sandwich. So, finally after at least an hour of waiting, we got our food. Hallelujah. The food was above average but it was completely overshadowed by the ridiculous wait. This was the kind of situation where the manager should have come out and apologized for us having to wait or, they say your meal is on the house-- SOMETHING-- that's how insane the wait was. We got none of that. I would have been much more understanding had we gotten a sincere apology from the manager but since we didn't get that, I felt like my patronage wasn't valued. So, yeah, won't be going back unless I feel like getting reacquainted with their patio and drinking cup after cup of coffee while I fantasize about food....
(2)Dominique B.
So first impression: Meh Didn't really greet us when we came in, waited about 20 minutes to get sat and our waiter didn't greet us for about 5 minutes. Which is only significant since he was all over the table next to us, who got sat at about the same time. Eating experience: Phenomenal. I sort of felt I was on top chef. Great presentation, the flavor bomb that exploded in my mouth was amazing. I had the apple pancakes with a side of chicken sausage and Paul had the pork breakfast sandwich. Pancakes were amazing, chicken sausage melted in my mouth, and Paul demolished the sandwich. Final assessment: 2 "entrees", two cups of coffee and a side = $40/tip. Pricey breakfast. Service was meh. Could have been slightly more attentive given its the size of a living room. I wouldn't rush to go back or be a regular there, but would advise going to check it out. if you have more then 4 peeps, I'd go somewhere else.
(3)Eric V.
A rainy Saturday morning in Ukie Village served as the perfect opportunity to satiate our breakfast cravings at Jam. It was early enough before the lunch crowd hit so we had no issues getting a table. Brunch started with a mini spiced orange muffin amuse bouche. I can't name one other place that presents a non-dinner amuse - nice touch and a great way to welcome your guests. Being a lover of all things pork, I went with the Eggs Benedict and the wifey ordered the Blueberry Pancakes. Now Jam is no greasy spoon diner, so you can expect their food to have an up-scale twist. In the case of their Eggs Benedict, that means a somewhat deconstructed presentation and the canadian bacon gets replaced with some tasty pork belly. I do appreciate that everything wasn't drowned in Hollandaise (not that there's anything wrong with that), so you could portion off as much as you wanted with each bite. While I thoroughly enjoyed my dish, the same couldn't be said for my wife's pancakes. I tried a bite and the flavor was just flat. There were definitely blueberries in there, but their flavor just didn't pop. I would normally end the story there and finish up a 3-star review, but things changed when our waitress stopped by and asked if everything was alright. Ever so polite, my wife gave the "it's ok" reply with a cordial smile but our waitress wasn't buying it. She could clearly tell my wife wasn't enjoying her meal and gladly took it back to the kitchen, saying that if we're paying good money for a meal then we better enjoy it. After a second review of the menu, and a recommendation from our waitress, my wife went with the Malted Crusted French Toast. Our waitress was nice enough to comp us with a tasty Pecan Sticky Bun so my wife could nibble on something while I went to town on my eggs benedict. The French Toast hit the table a few of minutes later and it was fantastic. I was told that before they hit the griddle, the french toast is first sous-vide to set the custard batter. The end result is non-mushy french toast that has body, but is still very light and delicate. Additional layers of flavor came in from macerated cherries and pink peppercorns that added some light peppery accents and crunch. While there might be a few "misses" on the brunch menu, there are surely more hits. It's also worth asking your server for recommendations so you can get right to the goods. Service gets a big 'ol gold star for actually caring about the customer's dining experience and not just the bottom line.
(4)Erica W.
I enjoyed the food at Jam - what I didn't enjoy was the wait. When I got there w/my party of 2 on a Sunday at 12:30, they told us we would have a 30 minute wait, which turned into over an hour. Not cute. Thank goodness I had eaten a granola bar before I went, but the hungry monster was starting to rear it's ugly head. I noticed that Jam has 3 1/2 stars, and I think that's pretty accurate. The food was good - we had the spanish omelette and the french toast w/custard and cherries (very rich). Decent portion sizes, and the service was good as well- nice staff. I would go back if it wasn't for the wait - maybe during an off time of the day.
(4)Claire M.
So.. The menu is amazing looking, a pretty great variety to choose from. The environment is lovelyish (although I kind of hate plastic chairs, even 'hip' ones..) Very white and clean with hints of green and black. Ok. This place wants to be a bit upscale, that is apparent.. upscale with a coolness that says 'we're upscale but we aren't assholes.' My example of this done perfectly is Nightwood in Pilsen. Upscale and cool as hell without any pretension. The problem is that what makes a restaurant classy are the details. The presentation. The price & giving the customer what they want. So, price, sure we can lean towards upscale. Breakfasts for $9 & $13? That's moving towards it.. The food presentation was lovely, absolutely, to be sure. OK, check. But our silverware was just sort of thrown onto our place mats at some point (which i kind of hated) and when we asked to get a half order of pancakes because we were getting an entire other entree plus two sides, so a half order would have been plenty, we were told no. They will only do pancake half orders for the table, ie, we have to order another full entree. I just think that's bullshit. Totally not classy. We ordered the lamb crepes and they were DELICIOUS. We also got the chocolate pancakes and they were mediocre. Dry.. They came with butter and a 'banana milk jam', and graham crust crumbles, all on the side, but we wished for something that made them moist. Or for them to be moist. We had a side of the handmade sausage and it was good, although not appetizing looking, kind of wet, and I think could have been spiced better. No espresso machine. That hurts a little. I don't know. I think that if it didn't feel like they were trying so hard to be 'classy' and just were what they were it would be better. It was fine though, a good alternative to the norms of my breakfast adventures, and I do want to try that cheek & egg sandwich. So, I will return. But my expectations were maybe a bit higher than were met. I think you should try it, mixed bag of reviews to be sure.. My friends that went on a separate occasion liked everything except for the fact that the restaurant was playing the radio. It appears no one had their ipod that day. For future reference-- Silence is WAY better than ads. Radio? Not classy.
(3)Erin S.
Never written a Yelp review before but after my second amazing visit, I had no choice but to write one for JAM. As someone who doesn't eat pork or red meat, many servers raise an eyebrow when I ask for my options but our waitress gave me several solid choices. I landed on the veggie melt the first time which was out of this woorrrrld. Order. This. When I went back for breakfast, I got the smoked salmon over potatoes with bernaise and my friend got the waffle special which was an unbelievable take on chicken and waffles. Needless to say, I'll be back with friends for more silly-awesome creations from JAM.
(5)Joyee L.
Unfortunately, I did not enjoy my breakfast here. I went after hearing about this restaurant from a friend and I did not look up reviews before I went here. I asked the waitress for a suggestion and was told about the Panini Cristo. Bad idea, the prosciutto was SO salty it overwhelmed everything else. I wasn't a fan of the coffee that much either. I am glad I came here during a weekday because having to wait forever to eat what I did would have probably made me really grumpy.
(2)Lucy M.
Ok, I want to give this place 3 stars, my friends wanted to give it 5, so I'm splitting the difference... but this is probably going to sound more like a 3 star review. I had never heard of Jam, living as I do on the other side of town, but my friend in Wicker Park said the eggs benedict here were the best she'd ever had, so we went. The eggs benedict were ordered by two of our group, and when they arrived, served with pork belly, they were enjoyed immensely. My boyfriend ordered the braised lamb buckwheat crepes and declared that it was the best breakfast he'd had in Chicago. I went with the amish chicken after it came highly recommended by our server, but I was disappointed by it. It was served over a grain that I think was quinoa, which was great, but the whole dish was pretty bland. Seeing how much everyone else enjoyed their meal I think I (and my server) might have made a mistake choosing this dish. Then there was the serving size. All the plates were very beautifully prepared, arriving at the table like little works of art, but all the dishes were on the smaller side. If I go out for brunch, especially on days when I have to work all evening (in a restaurant, surrounded by food, no less), I really want a big meal that sets me up for the day, but only a little while after leaving Jam I was hungry again, which I felt was a shame. The coffee was good, and the amuse bouche they served us while waiting for our food (tiny chocolate cupcakes with peanut butter frosting) were delicious. We sat out on the patio, which is decorated with some very eclectic art pieces and all agreed it was cute, except for the back corner which apparently belongs to the apartment building that overlooks the patio and was filled with old junk. This, we agreed, would be much enhanced by some sort of screen. All in all, I'm glad I tried it once, but probably won't trek across the city to try it again.
(4)India K.
Blech! My love of brunch + optimism generally leads me to write generous reviews. I can't on this one. I will start with the pros first in moment of yelp diplomacy. Pros- GREAT renovation! Has a classy vibe with noticeable amounts of thought put into color scheme, great floors, blend of contemporary and classic elements. GREAT coffee & have Splenda available. GREAT bathroom. Cons- quiche was a DISASTER. Too heavy and gelatinous. Plain gross with flavors peeking through that seemed like they were last night's left overs...from two nights before. Pretty little salad. Tiny little coffee cups. Some of the worst customer service I've had in Chicago despite 7 staff for floor, register, hosting for what couldn't be more than total seating of 35 people. Had to flag and beg for everything we needed. CASH ONLY with a fair $1.00 fee for customers on a kinda shady looking cash machine by bathroom. If I lived nearby, I would definitely give it a couple more chances. Coming from Gold Coast to relax in the Ukranian Village, I won't waste my time for the travel time.
(2)Vivian Y.
The coffee is good. But that's about it. oh, there was also a carrot cake muffin amuse bouche. I think it's unacceptable to wait 40 mins for french toast and biscuits and gravy. When we arrived at 10am, the couple next to us had just received their plates. Looked scrumptious! couldn't wait to get my order! They ate and the left. The table was quickly filled with another two patrons. They ordered and they received their food around minute 30. Meanwhile, James and I were on our 4 or maybe even 5th cup of coffee. Finally the food came at minute 42. Meh. Mediocre. It can't be that we ordered wrong. Our server said that the French toast was 'the best French toast in the city". I was convinced. He also recommended the biscuits and gravy. I admit, I don't order French toast *ever* in a restaurant - I'm a savory breakfast person - but because this was so highly recommended here, I agreed to order something sweet. Tell me - is French Toast supposed to be soggy? It was beautifully toasted on the outside but it was wet and goopy on the inside. Not impressed. And $10 for French Toast? Please. Biscuits and gravy were not traditional. it was ok. I prefer a white gravy over brown. Our server had to have known that we were waiting SO long for our food. At least come by, apologize and and offer some fruit on the house or something. I won't be coming back.
(2)Aram E.
Recently, Chef Jeff along with his crew did a private tasting menu for my family and I for dinner. The meal was out of this world. I know everyone raves about the brunch because the brunch at Jam is top notch, but I wanted to give a nod to the dinners they do as well. If you haven't had a chance to eat there yet, make plans to do so real soon.
(5)Katie C.
Food: Mine was SO salty. I ordered the spanish omelet - it had homemade chorizo, some peppers, and cheese...I couldn't even finish it because the saltiness was SO overwhelming. Jam: Have you tasted this dish??? It's insane! Loved the mini carrot muffin with cream cheese frosting amuse b. Nice touch to start. My bf had the pork cheek egg sandwich. I tried it. Wasn't blown away. It had some green apple ketchup on it that sounded interesting but it really wasn't all that great. Service, etc: Food took forever. We were in there over an hour. Jersey shore looking waiters wearing super tight Ed Hardy t-shirts, spray tans, and trendy hats. Pretty bizarre. We got there early on a Saturday morning (around 10AM) and had no wait. By the time we left, there was a line out the door... I'll go back once more to try a few different dishes, then I'll decide. PS - CASH ONLY
(3)Carolyn C.
very unhappy with the brunch menu. not too much to choose from. It's quite stuffy in Jam. The food was edible, but nothing special. Much happier at Johnny's Grill or Longman & Eagle.
(1)Amy D.
French toast is one of my fave dishes to order for breakfast, and when i heard that there was a restaurant that was serving it sous vide style, i was intrigued. Jam is a hip restaurant in the popular area of Logan Square. The decor is modern, and their is a fair bit of seating considering the size of the space. We started with the French toast and it is served with pink peppercorns, lime zest and macerated cherries. You would think that the components would make it savoury but it didn't. French toast can be overly sugary and with the addition of the peppercorns and the zest it truly counteracted the sweetness. We also had the scotch egg with greens and garlic dressing. I had never had one prior and i am now a fan. The coating was crunchy, and their was a layer of meat around the egg, it was like having corned beef and eggs all in one morsel. The garlic dressing on the greens was great and the hashbrowns provided just the right amount of texture. Overall Jam is reineventing the breakfast game and i cannot wait to come back and try some more of their concoctions.
(4)Jenn P.
Food was served nothing close to warm. Service staff was completely unfriendly. Will NEVER go back again....
(1)Kate W.
When I told the waitress I'd "just have the breakfast sandwich" she replied, "Oh, it's not JUST a breakfast sandwich." IT WAS NOT. No dry toast, bacon or cheddar cheese here. Pork belly served on a ciabatta roll with apple slices and some fancy cheese I can't remember. With amazing fingerling potatoes to boot. And big enough to have leftovers. Which will last all of two hours before I gobble them up. The bf ordered the Eggs Benedict on a whim and loved it. But you can read his review for more on that. And they're open at 7 a.m., which is nice because we're old people who go to bed early and wake up early. We rolled in around 9 a.m. and had a short (but understandable) wait for a table outside. Finally, speaking of sitting outside. The patio is lovely, as is the inside. Modern and classy but still comfortable and welcoming. I usually prefer jelly, but Jam is great. Groan.
(5)Deb A.
If you want bacon foam, this place is for you. If you want simple bacon & eggs go somewhere else. Long wait, slow service, food was bland and portions are small ish. Fail.
(2)Aaron G.
Better than the old location. My steak was so well seasoned!
(5)Lillian P.
The food was terrific and beautiful. The design and atmosphere are very cool but friendly. We got their early and didn't have a wait at all (though a line formed almost immediately after we sat down.) Two problems. One: very few vegetarian options, so few that it means there is almost no chance I will ever go back. I know that I am in the minority on this one but given the neighborhood and the clientele I'd think that they'd be a little more flexible. We couldn't even get the delicious sounding omelet without the chorizo. They do offer their biscuits and gravy vegetarian, which were great, and the french toast was top notch, covered with a remarkable rhubarb sauce. Two: it was full of, pardon my French, douche bags. Which isn't such a huge deal, and you can't fault a place for it but man was it annoying.
(3)Kasey O.
Being an avid fan of both patios and brunch alike, I can't believe it took me so long to discover this place. The outdoor eating area is protected from the traffic of Damen Ave by a wall and there are many funky decorations (including a leaning tower of Tonka trucks) that make the atmosphere quite pleasant. A friend and I sat on the spacious patio only to realize that this was a BYOB and we should have come prepared with a bottle of wine, which I noted for my next visit. Our server was a Rick Moranis look-alike, making him just as fun and entertaining as he was efficient. We both had the vegetable panini which came out quickly and piping hot. The sandwich was delicious but fairly light, so I left feeling like I should have started with an appetizer or something. Oh, and the coffee was excellent.
(4)Tim M.
I went to Jam for my birthday brunch last month and it was very good. All around. I got the Jam Burger (Great burger with an egg over easy on top), a bowl of fruit (all very fresh. Might possibly be the best grapes I have ever tasted actually), and some pancakes (yes. I was very hungry and hungover). This meal was fantastic. All around, the food was great. My only regret is that I was too hungover to bring my body to allow me to get a mimosa or something of the sort. Definitely recommend this place. Go there. This Sunday.
(4)M S.
This place takes itself way too seriously and underdelivers on taste - especially considering the price point. We hit up Sunday brunch today , it was busy, but we were seated right away. The waitress was not able to keep up with her workload and service suffered as a result. But I would not have written a bad review if lackluster service were the only problem. The food here was underwhelming bordering on unappealing. As a vegetarian there were few options for me, I tried the egg white dish. I love egg whites, but these were a little too undercooked, and were floating in a pool of some sort of beet foam jam. I love beets, but the combination was too earthy for an egg dish. My companion's egg and chorizo omlette was not tasty and the optional sardines that were not asked about, were front and center on the top of the dish. gross. she said the eggs and chorizo both tasted cheap - which is inappropriate considering the small brunch portions averaged $13 each. I also found it really pretentious and rude that apparently Jam frowns upon substitutions and omissions, but doesn't just have a written policy on the topic. My companion tried to order 2 separate dishes and omit the cheese because it doesn't agree with her. Instead of just politely saying substitution could not be accommodated, instead the waitress wrinkled her nose and looked conflicted. She promised to check with the kitchen to see if this could be done, but in the end the food was delivered with cheese and without comment or apology. Sooo many better places for brunch in Logan Square! Go to Reno for the $4 egg & cheese bagel sandwiches!
(1)Katie H.
Ever since I visited Jam this summer, I've been jonesing to go back. In a city where I, and many other brunch patrons may wait up to, or even longer than 60 minutes for a table, I appreciated that Jam didn't have a wait even at 10 am. I guess those Ukranian Village kids don't wake up as early as we do in Lincoln Square. Their Metropolis coffee drinks are delicious. Our server was really friendly and helped us choose what to get, since every single menu item looked amazing. We ended up with one sweet, one savory - and I was even happier to get rhubarb sauce on my waffles. It was raining when we visited, but I'd love to go back and check out their cute shady garden this spring.
(4)Thomas M.
This place actually convinced me to write my first Yelp review. I've held off for a while and really hate that fact that my first review is negative since I have frequently used this site to find some of my favorite restaurants in the city. Guess it's time I start giving back... I've been wanting to try this place for a while but held off based on the number of mixed reviews. My wife and I woke up early and decided to give the place a shot since they open at 7:00 and we couldn't hold off until our favorite brunch spots opened at 10:00. The servers and staff were friendly enough but both dishes dishes we ordered were terrible. I ordered the biscuits and gravy and she ordered the french toast. I am from the south and a huge fan of biscuits and gravy. When our plates arrived I was in shock, the gravy covering my ONE biscuit was brown and looked like sludge. I took a bite and almost gagged, the gravy was made from a mushroom puree, which the menu did not specify. How the hell do you completely ruin one of the best breakfast dishes known to man? And without warning? I'll admit that I'm not a huge fan of mushrooms so my opinion might be a little tainted but come on, it's biscuits and gravy not biscuits and some nasty mushroom sauce. Luckily my wife loves mushrooms as well so we switched and I ended up eating some of the french toast, which we'll get to in a moment. She was disgusted by it as well. So let's talk about Jam's "the best french toast in the city" as touted by our neighbors' server. Not even close, the toppings were fine, some kind of rhubarb puree and cream. The french toast itself was very soggy, the insides looked like uncooked pancake batter. Nothing like raw egg for breakfast... That's about all I have to say about that, If you're signature dish is a soggy, undercooked mess of dough and eggs, you have some problems. Overall based on our food and the other dishes on the menu, the place seems to think that creativity in your dishes' ingredients means good food. Wrong... Quality and taste have to factor in somewhere... They did seem to have a nice patio though if you're intrested in sitting outside and eating bad food. So bad experience, we barely touched the food it was so bad. When we were leaving the cashier asked how everything was and we told her. She said she'll let the chef know. Thanks... They could've at least sprung for the McDonald's we went to immediately following one of the worst dining experiences I've had in Chicago. Yep, that bad.
(1)Blanca R.
I went here for the first time today. My friend and I had a delicious lunch. She had the special which was trout with a creamy polenta. I had the Amish Chicken with quinoa. We of course shared eachother's meal, and they were both delicious. The portions are perfect and the presentation is perfect. I can't wait to go again and try more of their amazing dishes. Oh, the service is wonderful too. And the best part was that we got a complimentary cute mini-banana muffin to open our palette. And that was delicious too. Keep in mind though, that this is a BYOB and cash only. But no worries, there is an ATM machine right by the bathroom.
(5)Lindsey W.
Really like the food here. The servers are very polite and seem to know what they are talking about. Once I asked for no bacon on my sandwich and my server explained to me that the bacon was all part of a well planned out taste sceme. I still got the sandwich with no bacon, but totally respected where the restaurant was coming from. The seasonal pancakes were *AWESOME* we had the blueberry pancakes and they were probably the best pancakes I've ever had.
(4)tracy g.
I have walked past JAM before it opened, seeing the corner spot turn into this fabulous restaurant. My friend and I decided to try it. When you walk in there is a Door and then another door and then a glass wall. To the front of the restaurant there is a few ceiling to floor windows and it has a few tables in this area that gives you the opportunity to see outside. We had a table in the main part of the restaurant. They have these very comfortable plastic chairs. The table has lime green place mats and the silverware is very modern and sturdy. The wall is this great gray color with white trim. There are also mirrors on the walls. The lighting is gorgeous and makes the place very classy looking. Now to the food.... Yummy. My friend and I both had the eggs Benedict. It has crunchy pork pieces as well as a winter squash hollandaise sauce. I gobbled the meal right up. The service was good and the price was decent too. I would go back.
(4)Natalie G.
The review below i wrote a few years ago, I finally gave JAM another chance and the service was absolutely horrible horrible worst worst worst. I'm changing my 3 star even lower. I walked in and wasn't acknowledged. Like 3 waiters walked by and didn't even look at me. Once we were sat we had to ask the waiter after 30 minutes of looking ready to take our order. He came back about 6 minutes later to take our order. Then we waited an additional 50 minutes to get our food, which was some pretty average brunch. Our waiter never apologized for the wait. We were offered nothing. When we asked him when our food was coming he said that this is normal for their restaurant. So yea if you want to sit at a table for an hour and 45 minutes and eat some average brunch- go here. Bad service central. **************************************************Â******************** I went here for brunch and it was fun to try it out, but I probably won't come back. The first thing I was turned off by, was I came with a group of four. A couple walked in befoe us, and they were quickly told that there was a 30 minute wait, while there were two empty tables right at the front. Then they sat our table of four right away, I guess since they have two person and four person tabes. Regardless, I thought it was weird and off that they would make couples stand outside for 30+ minutes while there were open tables inside and they were losing that business. The food was good, although the boys I went with left hungry. The plates are very small, but the food was interersting and worth a try.
(1)Janet X.
Just ho-hum for me. I had the eggs benedict, which were good, but I've had better for $12. (Also, the portion size are left a bit to be desired -- I'm not a huge eater and I was still a bit hungry afterwards.) Service was fine but perhaps that was because it was about 9 am on a Saturday. But what I don't understand is how a restaurant that serves $15-20 items is cash-only. Do they not want people to tip? Bottom line: okay, but not somewhere I would look forward to coming back to.
(3)Ashley H.
My first brunch in town. Everything was great except that it was too hot (of coz it's no one's fault :p) Love the French toast and poached egg there, and the service was good too
(4)Rob L.
I needed lunch. I was famished. I was starving. I was bleary eyed and weak in the knees. I had been wanting to come here for a few weeks since it opened and now life had presented me with an opportunity. Opportunity, don't knock, I know you are there and I am coming for you. Walking in around 11:30am, I was an eager beaver. I was excited to snag a spot for a quick solo lunch before heading on a multitude of errands. Being spotted by the lovely Amanda H, who was finishing up her lunch, I knew if she had been eating here I had made a wise decision. I savored the menu, breakfast on one side, brunch on the other, flip a coin which would win? Brunch it is. Hmmmm, simple yet tasty... okay that doesn't narrow it down. Nothing seems outrageously complicated, but all of it sounds tasty.... hmm turkey club. Nueske bacon? Someone hold me. I think I might cry out of happiness. Done. As I wait and drink some water, an amuse bouche of a banana mocha muffin with a peach compote... one bite and done and the light and yet subtle flavors made me smile with a twinge of glee. Then as I look around at all the other dishes I begin to worry. Wow. His biscuit and gravy looks great, did I make the right choice? Nah... my turkey club will be amazing. It has Nueske bacon in it. Ohhh but look at her chicken with the quinoa underneath, that chicken looks so perfectly cooked yet tender.... I wonder if I could snag a piece before she notices.... no... that wouldn't be right. Oh good, my sandwich is here. Slapped within some slices of toasty multigrain bread, there is some tasty goodness going on. Guacamole and tomatoes and turkey and some tangy spread that whips this all together with that bacon. I'd like to say that I ate it calmly and quietly. I'd like to say I still savored that sandwich after the third bite. But I don't like to lie. Lying kills baby elves, and who likes to do that? I would like to say the service is top notch, but to be honest, these people are moving at a fast and furious pace that would keep most marathon runners ready to call it quits after ten minutes so they may not be spending ten minutes of your time to answer questions, they were still friendly and quick. The managers were down to earth and happy to be there and happy to dish out the food in this modern sleek styled place. The place is lovely, the food keeps calling me, I'm glad I will be answering that call sooner rather than later.
(4)Lala S.
I was excited to hear that another breakfast spot opened up in the neighborhood. Although I love Milk n' Honey, I wanted something a little different. The menu at Jam sounded similar to the Bristol's so I wanted to check it out. Know the area pretty well, I decided to go during a week day because I just didn't feel like waiting 40 mins for breakfast. When we got there we were greeted. Those host was super nice. Now the food. The food sounded so delicious and the ideas were there. The problem is the execution. There were only 2 other tables that were seated. It took over 45 minutes for us to get our food. 45 minutes for breakfast! So to start things off, our waitress seemed a little out of it. We placed our order, our soup came out, then she came with complementary chocolate muffins with spice caramel--we decided to save that for dessert (duh!). I ordered the Eggs Benedict and my cousin order the Steak n' Eggs. To start things off, the portions are on the smaller side, but I guess they had to save room for all their pretty sauce splatters. I think it was a bit pricey for the portion. It would be one thing if it was amazing but it wasn't (believe me, I wanted this place to be m-f-ing amazing). Both dishes came with poached eggs, which were extrememly over-cooked. I could have sworn that poached eggs are like the first test in culinary school. May be our meals would have came out in like 40 mins if they didn't overcook our poached eggs (just a thought). And it's not like they were slightly overcooked but they were almost hard boiled inside. So moving beyond my OVERCOOKED POACHED egg, the Eggs Benedict were just OK. The hollandaise sauce was super rich, it taste like whipped butter, which in most cases I would like but I seriously felt like I was eating a stick of butter. The pork belly were measly little chunks. The homemade English muffins were the size of Triscuits (which by the time I got my food, wished I had some in my purse to satiate me). Eggs Benedict get a C-. The Steak n' Eggs were not my cup of tea. The rice grits--blah. The sauce just not the right flavor. Steak n' Eggs get a C- to a D+ I ordered the Turkey Club to go for my boyfriend. His comment, it's like they had too many ideas and threw it in this sandwich. Cranberry and Guac? and Red Pepper? I just figured they would have made it work. It just was under par. The sandwich gets a C-. So overall the place gets a C-...I guess it still passes. Not sure if I'll give it another shot considering how un-busy the place was when we were there. I'll just get off my lazy butt and drive over to the Bristol. mmmmmmmmmmmmmmmmmmmmmmmmmmmmmmmmmmmmmmm
(2)Anne P.
Wow, Jam server, you don't know what a scramble is? I asked if they would be able to make the omelette that she recommeded into a scramble and she looked at me like I had two heads. Sensing this might be a problem I said, "if it's a problem I'll choose something else from the menu." she replied that it wouldn't be a problem but that she just wanted to make sure I got what I wanted so did I just want it all mixed in a skillet? Um, yes, what part of scramble aren't you understanding? My order arrived as....an omelette. I didn't want her brain to explode from confusion so I just ate the damn omelette. Not dying to go back.
(3)Rafael C.
Pump up the Jam Pump it up While your feet are stompin' And the Jam is pumpin' Look at here the crowd is jumpin' Sorry but somehow this tune kept popping in my head while I waited about 90 minutes to finally get fed at Jam. It was about a 45 minute wait to get in and then another 45 minutes for the food to arrive after ordering. This was only on the third day of opening and I certainly can be forgiving. The wait aside, the food choices was mind bogglingly good. I usually crave the sweet side of breakfast and the malted custard french toast seemed my likely choice but then I was overwhelmed by many new and different savory choices. I needed to decide between the egg sandwich or the buckwheat crepes with lamb ... I chose the sandwich and I must say I was happy to scarf it down after a long wait. I enjoyed the pork cheeks even though it was just slightly overcooked and even better, I liked the pickled plum in the sandwich. Note one thing, the pork makes this sandwich a bit messy so I did see some eat it open face. My friend got the eggs benedict and it was plated very nicely. The taste was there but I have no idea why my sandwich came hot and her dish felt like it was waiting on the counter. Perhaps is just one of the kinks they need to figure out. I will happily come back and give this place another go at some point. Their menu is certainly interesting and worth a couple of looks for sure and I have to think they will be much more seasoned to handle the masses.
(4)Shauna B.
I first took notice Jam when their diners-in-waiting starting to take over the courtyard of my beloved Sweet Cakes; and, as a true breakfast devotee, I put it on my to-try list. If I could rate my experience here in categories, it would be: aesthetics=4 stars, food=3(ish), service=1. It took the waitress a while to notice us, and we made a big mistake by not giving her our food orders when she asked what we wanted to drink. When we did finally place our order, the kitchen took so long that we started joking about the chef driving to Indiana to pluck the eggs from the hens. And all of this on a weekday, when the place was less than full. The food itself, when it arrived, was passable but not great. My boy got the granola and yogurt, which was nothing more or less than what you'd expect. I got the Spanish omelette, which was okay, but not to my taste. I prefer the ingredients to be cooked in with the egg, and at Jam they're folded into the middle wrap-style. It was kind of saucy and kind of salty and, truth be told, I didn't finish it. All through the meal we had to get their attention to ask for things like drink refills, condiments, salt and pepper... Our needs were met, but not anticipated; and I felt like a high-maintenance diner when I asked for things that should be standard. I have to say too, that I think it's ridiculous that it's a cash-only establishment. Not only are they cash-only, but they have an ATM next to the bathroom. Instead of being convenient, I think it's a huge disservice to their customers. They're not willing to shoulder the the transaction fee of a credit card machine, but they don't mind sticking their customers with much higher ATM service fees. All in all, I wouldn't eat here twice. Sunrise Cafe, Flying Saucer, Old Oak Tap and Handle Bar are all within walking distance from Jam, and every one of them puts this place to shame.
(2)Deanna G.
Just finished brunch with a group of 5. I wouldn't recommend going in with more than 4 people, as it limits where you can sit. They told us 35-40 minutes, so we went next door for some coffee to this cute bakery while we waited. Came back 15 minutes later, and he had crossed off our name and said 'someone must have pretended to be you'. Seriously? there were NOT many people waiting at this time. So when we were finally seated 45 minutes to an hour later, we were put at a 4 person table with a folding chair on the side. I guess that's fine, but it seems like they could have seated us sooner then. once we were seated - the service was good. Water was refilled proptly, waitress friendly and helpful. We even got a cute little banana cupcake appetizer. As for the food, this place is FANCY-ish. Which is ok, but that just means ingredients you won't recognize, and small, overpriced portions. We ordered: Chorizo omelet: they are sort of pushy on the anchovies, which he diceded NOT to get. 3.5/5. Decent portion, safe dish. Egg Sandwich: 3.5/5: decent portion, not as amazing as the fancy description leads you to believe. Pick 3 sides: egg, pancakes, toast. Can't really go wrong. 3/5 due to $9 price. Eggs Benedict with Pork: 2/5. SHe didn't like it much, small portion, beet hollandaise. Nothing amazing. Steak and eggs: 2/5. They cook it medium rare, fine i'll try it. It was super fatty. The poached eggs were a little undercooked with the egg whites still slimey. I don't like that...but maybe it's the norm? I substituted the pancakes for the rice grits..so no idea how those would have tasted, but pancakes were good and helped fill me due to the small portion. I probably wouldn't go back. Super cute place, but a little fancier/pricier than i would like to fill me up on a sunday hangover brunch.
(3)hafsa a.
It was alright. not great but not bad either.
(3)Colter S.
New neighborhood brunch and dinner joint in Logan Square. It was smart of them to move to the square, its like a foodie explosion around this intersection. I had their special, which was lamb/pear/cashew buckwheat crepes. This was pretty much all my favorite things combined. When it arrived, my first impression was that this was a small dish, not enough food. However, the first bite changed my mind. They were very rich and packed to the gills with tasty lamb meat. They were dressed with an extremely rich savory pear sauce as well. It was very unique and delicious. My companions enjoyed everything they ordered. Service was friendly and prompt, although we had to ask our waitress for "full" cups of coffee, which was awkward (she filled each cup about 2/3. huh?). I'll be going back for the "blue plate" dinner for sure.
(4)Cakeeate R.
Jam is one of the best breakfast places in Chicago. Simplicity at it's best. The chefs put their love and passion for food straight from their soul on to your plate. The Eggs Benedict is creative, colorful, textural, and oh so tasty! The chef's homemade cotechino sausage is simply artisinal. These chefs are a talented bunch and dining there warms my heart, thank you Jam for staying true to your culinary wisdom and sharing it with the rest of Chicago.
(5)Audre L.
Came in around 1 on a Saturday with a girlfriend and we were immediately seated in the bright front seating area. The decor is inspiring, and the food is just as amazing. Presentation of the food was ridiculous. It's like a foodie brunch with excellent service. It's casual, fresh, fine and sophisticated without being stuffy. Amazing.
(5)Alysha P.
Right around the corner from my bf's house and we finally got around to brunching here...... Food Eggs Benedict w/ Pork Belly & Spinach Hollandaise: This was my dish.....and it was delicious!! Eggs were poached to perfection and when I cut them they caused a gooey little mess :) Pork belly was....well it was pork belly.....which is always good.....and I liked that they served it on the side so I could decide how much fatty goodness I wanted in each bite! The hollandaise sauce was also a hit for me.....the only thing I wish was that the english muffins were bigger or that they gave me more.....these were some saucy ass eggs and I wanted to clean up every last bite but in the end I had nothing to sop with. Steak and Poached Eggs w/ Grits, Smoked Tomato Sauce & Truffled Pecorino: My bf's dish.....he only gave me 1 bite.....apparently he did not want to share his plate of delicious-ness : ) But that bite was perfect.....I would probably order this the next time I came in. Steak was as juicy as a skirt steak can be.....and the smoky tomato coupled with the truffled pecorino elevated this dish from good to excellent! Again though....this was a saucy dish....so def needed some extra bread for sopping. Service We came in on a Saturday....but towards the end of service....so we didn't have to wait......thank god! The host was friendly and our waiter was a doll.....attentive without being annoying....and genuine....love that! Ambiance It's a small space.....we didn't feel crowded but I could see that that could be a problem if it was uber busy. Open kitchen....which I like...but don't like that it left me smelling like food for the rest of the day. Overall I am so sick of run of the mill brunch places that serve the same tired old dishes......Jam is a little beacon of hope.....casual space with food that has interesting flavors, is well thought out and ups the ante on brunch.....makes me do my happy food dance.......yay!
(4)E L.
Excellently done brunch. A wide variety of flavors for a small menu place. First, the kitchen is tiny, as you can clearly see. On hot summer days, especially with humidity it just gets too hot. but now they are open for dinner which is an amazing deal at $25. Now the service. I've had some great service here, but mostly its pretty crappy. The small kitchen and great care that goes into each dish, may be why they are so slow (perhaps they are keeping up or slowing down for the kitchen?). But the food is great! I've tried over half the menu and been there for brunch and dinner and I recommend it to everyone. Celery Root and Asparagus soups were both amazing! Pure and fresh with added textures (ex. crispy prosciutto) and flavors (ex. Myer lemon). Breakfast, Sandwiches, Pancakes and Omelets are really good. For me, the Eggs Benedict / Pork Belly and savory Lamb Crepes are my favorites. Cristo is really good, too. This is not your ordinary brunch meal. I also really dig the JamBurger which puts a nice easy egg on two Delicious patties. Dinner - this was a steal!. perfect small portions for my girl and I. We brought a bottle of wine and had the tasting menu. Soup was delicious! Foie Gras Tortellini tastes with crispy duck skin and English pea.... Duck Breast for me / Fish for her and then .... Desert - they have a Pasty Chef who is having fun with great combinations! The muffins are killer and the desert choices (when available) are nice and new. They have outdoor seating now as they bought the bakery space next door. the wait for me hasn't been bad. Time it out right and enjoy a great affordable meal
(4)Lauren H.
This is only their third day open, so I will cut them a little slack, as they were clearly not prepared for the onslaught. The wait was very long to get a table, but the place is small so that will happen. But once we were seated, it still took a really long time to get our food, and that did not make me happy. We were given an amuse bouche of a peach muffin with a balsamic glaze, and I don't usually like peaches but this was light and moist. I had the eggs benedict which was good, but it was lukewarm and I think the pork belly should have been crispier. I liked the black sea salt on top of the egg, it was a nice touch. My friend had the egg sandwich and I think that was the better choice, it was quite tasty. They were out of one dish and wanted to make another dish into an omelet, so they need to work the menu kinks out as well. They were apologetic, but that doesn't sate my belly after waiting so long. I will give them another shot as I want to try some more of the menu options, but I would go on an off time and will wait until they have time to work things out first.
(3)Matt S.
Mixed reviews all over the place! EEK! I was a little hesitant to hit this place after reading some of the negative reviews--slow service, crappy food, etc. But I was pleasantly surprised. I wasn't bowled over, but it is definitely a place I would go back to. The menu is fun and offers a lot of varied options, making it difficult to choose. Which is why I was very excited one of my companions agreed to order two different things and share--MY FAVORITE! :) I ordered the Jam Burger, while she had the blueberry pancakes--can't really have two more diverse orders! While the food it good, what I enjoyed most were the little amuse-bouches (is this the correct plural form?) they offered during the meal. One was a mini-dark chocolate lava cake--heaven. One of the best parts of the eating experience was the flirtatious, snarky waiter. As a former server (got about seven years under the belt) I'm a big proponent of being nearly invisible to a table--provide great service and don't add to the experience. But in this case, our guy was hilarious. He'd jump into conversations to razz someone and always had perfect timing for entering/leaving our experience. Wish I remembered his name, but the management should make sure he's happy there--he's a keeper!
(4)K K.
I finally went to Jam last week. It wasn't that great. Overpriced, small portions, pretentious, and the food was just average. The cauliflower soup tasted exactly like Campbell's soup out of a can (which is fine for $1.50, but not for $7) and the presentation was silly. Waiter was not attentive, we had to flag down a cook to order toast. My husband's eggs were good, but how hard is it to make an egg taste good, really? Having worked in the service industry my entire life, I realize that any place can have an off day. I will give them another chance in a few weeks.
(2)Miles H.
While I will certainly come off as smarmy, I'm a little embarrassed to even be writing relative to you who are complaining about size!?, price?!, service/wait??!! This is Chicago, a major metropolitan city with sophisticated tastes. Have you people ever been to a resto (no, McDonalds and 7/11 don't count) before? Bottom line for the rest of us...got to Jam, enjoy the superior quality, detail, and flavor combinations at prices that are insanely low. I'm not going to give away each and every aspect of our experience, details difficult to find even at the best, chef-driven dinner establishments in town... But for those who understand, you'll be beyond delighted.
(5)Julie S.
I am going to preface my four stars with a "this is probably more like a 3.5 for me, but I am rounding up because I like the place" statement. I think the space is lovely. I love the open kitchen. The service was polite and friendly. Neither overbearing nor dismissive. I liked the little amuse we got. It made me excited for the meal. I wish that the whole meal had lived up to it. I ordered the benedict. It sounded so delicious. Bacon sausage, acorn squash, etc. When it came to the table, it was just a little swirl of the squash on the plate. It added nothing to the dish, beyond the visual. I was bummed because I was looking forward to that actual flavor component in the dish. It was a good benedict, but not my favorite. I got a side of the potatoes and they were great. A little salty, but so good. I also ordered the signature cocktail because it listed beet juice as an ingredient. It must have just been a drop to add color because it added no texture or flavor to the drink. The drink was still delicious. Just tarter and not as I expected it to be when I ordered. Several of my friends had similar comments about how they thought the dish they ordered would be different than what it actually was. The only actual complaint was on the egg sandwich. As another reviewer mentioned, it was a soggy pile of meat with not a ton of flavor. We wished it had more flavor and the proportions of the sandwich were more balanced. I realize that my review is sounding more negative than positive. That wasn't the case. With the exception of the sandwich, the food was good. I just wish the descriptions were more accurate, so we had the right expectations. I was torn between a few dishes and I probably would have chosen differently if I would have known what I was really getting.
(4)Liz O.
I got a Daily Candy about this place and took my 3 friends along to check it out on Sunday. We had to wait 45 minutes and the host was nice enough to come over and get us next door so we could have a coffee. That's the only thing good that happend to us, and this was before we actually entered the restaurant. The service was scattered, the restaurant was hot, none of us were aware that it was cash only, and for a place that is not cheap, it was a suprise. And the topper was that I got food poisoning and was sick the entire day and had to call off work today. Never. Again.
(1)Eric K.
Here is a rough timeline of highlights from our evening at Jam. 7pm - Arrive with our party of four, begin waiting for an outdoor table and for our wine to be opened. 7:20pm - Get seated outside, still waiting for a wine key. 7:40pm - While using the wine key lent to us from another table, we meet our server, who was very nice and apologetic about what we deduced as 'kitchen issues'. 8:00pm - Manage to get our order in. 8:30pm - After a couple of conversations about how long it could possibly take to heat and serve soup, we get our soup course. 9:00pm - Second course is served. To half of our party. 9:10pm - Second course is served, to the other half of our party. 10:00pm - Dessert and wine are finished, so are we. I have never spent so much time NOT eating in a restaurant. We were there for three hours and the three course meal took about 30 minutes total to eat. The servers were nice and apologetic, although something like an offering of bread would have been nice. They clearly have some major logistical issues to figure out regarding the kitchen and how to run a restaurant. Oh, yes - the food. The ingredients were high quality, but in general the dishes themselves were lacking in flavor. To be honest, we had a nice time overall because it was a beautiful night and we had good company. The 'restaurant' portion of the evening was more like a distraction than a reasonable dining experience.
(1)Annette L.
What is not to like about Jam? BYOB and no corkage fee...adorable plaid wearing hipster boys working their tails off to make sure my water glass was full and I had everything I needed...excellent prices and creative and delectable dishes. It may be the BYOB speaking but Jam was firing at all cylinders. Loved the charm of the patio and the seriously excellent customer service. I'll be back again.
(5)Hugh B.
It always amazes me how many people will wait outside in the cold at someplace like Toast for a fine-but-nothing-special plate of eggs or bacon. Jam, however, takes breakfast to a better place. The menu is adventurous but not too much so, but def more than just eggs and hash browns. Like today I had a spanish omelet which they make with house-smoked chorizo, some sort of basque cheese, roasted peppers, and white anchovies. Tablemates had a scone (perfect), the panini with proscuitto and broccoli rabe (very enjoyable-I had it last time), and the biscuits with gravy and a side of pork cheeks. Everyone enjoyed everything. Service is friendly. The coffee is strong. The music is loud. All in all, something actually worth waiting for (although I still wouldn't wait longer than 5-10 mins for breakfast). The only problem is that the place needs better ventilation because my coat still smells like Jam five hours later...
(4)M L.
45 minute wait yet there were empty tables all over the place. We finally asked if we could just sit down and have some coffee at one of them while we waited. It was on the patio and the weather gorgeous so we were content w/ our coffee. When they called our name we asked if we could just stay put. The reply was no and they had us move ONE table over. Laughable but we didn't mind. Everything took forever. Our server told us the daily scone/pastry and then ran off. We had to flag her down to finally place an order. Tables around us having same problem too. When our neighbor's food finally came, they commented that the service was very slow. The reply was that nothing is pre-made and they are a restaurant. REALLY? You're a restaurant? That makes FOOD? To ORDER? How compelling. I had the quiche and it was good but the consistency a little strange. The scone of the day was marvelous. And they brought a little cookie in between the scone and entree course. Which brings me to my next point. This is brunch, not a candlelit dinner. The scones should come immediately, not after 15 minutes, and there's no need to wait until I finish the scone course to bring out the other food.
(3)Amy H.
Despite the evilest of all hangovers I met some friends here for a breakfast this Saturday. The 45 minute wait was in reality a quick half hour. However, for food this tasty I would be happy to wait the full 45 minutes. Due to a pounding head and lurching tummy, I wasn't sure I would make it through the entire meal, but I did rally and was richly rewarded with yummerific (yes I did just invent that for Jam) tastes of my friends blueberry pancakes with lemon creme fraiche and blueberry compote. I opted for the lightest and most flavorful egg white omelet layered with delicate beets and cheese. For my side dish I had the pork cheeks braised to perfection, tender and super tasty. Nom nom nom
(5)Amused Bouche X.
Hello, Yelpers! I was the first! to have breakfast this morning at Jam, a sweet little spot that opened just today in one of my favorite 'hoods, East Village/Ukrainian Village. (You could almost call this area Wicker Park. Whatever.) I found out about the opening just last night and couldn't wait for the usual warm-up you normally want to give a new kitchen. But they didn't need it -- everything seemed to run just fine. I shared a foodgasmic Eggs Benedict with crispy pork belly. OK -- pork belly seared to a crisp was not my dining companion, but rather one of the luxury ingredients that made this a breakfast beyond. (I have to admit -- they had me at "Pork Belly Eggs Benedict"...) Even the English muffin was something special-- dreamily dense, a worthy vehicle for sopping up the last drops of egg yolk and the emerald-colored fresh spinach puree that was drizzled over the entire dish and expertly balanced the savoriness of the coarse black lava salt sprinkled on the eggs. The hollandaise was delicately flavored with basil. Pure, unvarnished win. The other dish I sampled was a thick french toast with a warm black cherry compote punctuated with globes of lime-leaf creme fraiche. This was, as they say, off the hook. There was a lot of nuance to the spices used in the french toast. It was at this point in the meal that I knew this wasn't another breakfast spot drowning some pancakes or french toast in some sweet sauces and calling it a creative brunch. This place is for people who know the difference between an Vosges organic 72% cacao dark chocolate bar and a crusty Hershey's kiss from last Halloween. (I relent that sound like a complete foodie @-hole now.) Let me put it this way-- it is as if every single ingredient in everything we ordered was well thought-out and they just stone cold found the best version of every single element and ran with it. The owner is the former impresario of Narscisse (remember that place?) In my opinion, he raised the stakes on brunch around here. Rumor has it that he is going to open late for post-clubbing noshes. I just hope God doesn't deduct any virgins from his allotment of 72 or whatever in heaven on account of the pork cheeks, pork belly, coticchino sausage, et al...Based on the lime-leaf creme fraiche alone, he deserves all the accolades heaven can provide!
(5)Matt T.
First off, food was good, not great. Went with my sisters for brunch on the hottest day of the summer. Only waited 30 mins, which was fine. Inside it was extremely noisy (terrible acoustics) and the music was too loud. Most importantly, no A/C and the kitchen is basically in the middle of the tiny restaurant. We sat down, ordered right away and the server ws nice enough to offer suggestions and answer questions. It took well over an hour to get our food. I looked over and barely any other table had their food. Something was amiss in the kitchen as I turned around and it looked frantic. After a while the server offered us a piece of decent but dry coffee cake. It was needed and it was hot as hell and the three of us had not eaten yet. The time to food delivery must be improved. the food was good but not great. As did another reviewer, the server said flatly they could not subsitute or remove an ingrediant. Are you serious, what kind of BS is that? I understand trying to be different but this is ludicrous. We got the french toast whic was actually very good, the lamb braised crepes with pear and macadamian nuts...those were filled with plenty of meat that made up for the small portion. the crepes were good, but slightly bland. The third dish was the bisucuits and gravy. Definitely not the kind you are used to be good nonetheless. It was failry tasty but it seemed that more time was spent on the presentation of the food then actual flavor. The plating was fancy but the biscuits and gravy were lacking a real kick to them. We did get the fingerling potatoes as a side dish and they were probably the best part. We did not try anything from the lunch menu. It was pretty underwhelming. I might go back once this place has some time to get their stuff togehter.
(2)Samantha G.
I really don't know why this place is so popular. We waited a full 40 minutes outside, and while I wanted to leave, my companions insisted that if it could draw a line like this, then it must be worth it. Also - some people were served coffee while waiting in line, but others weren't. We weren't. WTF, Jam? That shit is super frustrating when you've been waiting forever and then you have to watch other people in line slurping away happily. The food was presented well, our server was super nice. I ordered the french toast which was good but not great. I appreciated the tiny cakes delivered to the table. My companions were not at all impressed with their food, the quiche was not that good, imho. The decor inside was pretty cheesy. If it was 30% cheaper and not a long ass wait, I would like this place a lot more.
(2)Lauren L.
Here's why this place only gets 3 stars as opposed to the 4 stars I would've given it because my chorizo omlette was amazing: I think that with a name like Jam, toast with their delicious flavored jams should come on the table, with every meal. I didn't feel like ordering a side of toast, but I did stare longingly at the table next to ours wishing I could stick my spoon in their mini jam dishes. Also, as a pregnant lady who can't eat lots of different kinds of cheeses (soft cheeses are off limits when pregnant), and who already doesn't eat red meat, my menu options were limited. I asked the waitress if I could substitute the cheese that the dish came with for another cheese. She gave me a little bit of attitude and explained that the dishes were prepared so that the tastes would "balance". I totally get that, but I'd rather have an unbalanced meal that I can eat rather than a balanced one that I can't! Boo. But as I said, my chorizo omlette was delicious (after she finally subbed out the cheeses), and my husband's chocolate french toast with banana milk jam was unbelievable.
(3)Michael V.
Welcome to the neighborhood, Jam! You rock! Took my first trip there today on their third day open. While the owner mentioned that they were busier than they expected so things might not run as smoothly as they'd like, I was more than happy. As others have mentioned, things start with a fabulous little amuse bouche. Today's was a mini peach muffin with balsamic glaze -- perfect. The coffee was strong, the service was great (although the food was a little slow -- third day and all), and the meal was incredible. I had the spanish omelet (sans anchovies) which was expertly made, and my friend had the custard French toast, which was really more of a dessert than anything else. Personally, I would have found it too sweet for breakfast, but she was in the mood for it and loved it. The space took a big step up from its Dodo days, with mirrors and these cool lit crystal wall decorations set into framed wall panels. And they shut off that entry into the gallery next door, which makes the whole place seem less hectic. Take my advice and go soon, because I foresee long lines for this place in the near future.
(5)Cleo H.
Been here 6-8 times so far, for brunch/lunch, usually on weekends. Fantastic service and excellent food. Decor is stunning. They were BYOB with no corkage fee, but no more. Now they begrudgingly charge you $6 if you wander in without being aware of the policy change. Have no complaints other than that. On par w Longman, Lula. Love having this place so close to me!
(4)Stan W.
Based on some of these other reviews, I must have come on a good day (Saturday 10:30AM) and they must have lowered their prices a bit. I liked Jam. If you're a picky eater, or just looking for a simple breakfast - you'll hate it. This is NOT the place to get 2 eggs, bacon, and wheat toast. You gotta be in the right mood for their unconventional and sometimes intense flavors. You also gotta be careful because their portion size varies wildly. I got the Spanish omelet and couldn't put the whole thing down, laughing at the big guy at the other table who got the eggs benedict which was a piddly little joke - some kind of smear paste across the plate with bits of meat and tiny little eggs that looked like have the white had been cut off - they probably consider that "deconstructed". The french toast (which was really good) was big but the pancakes looked little. We also got biscuits and gravy, which had some very interesting flavors. The service was fine when I came - and it was pretty busy. And the check didn't seem too unreasonable in the end. Very glad I didn't order that benedict.
(4)lauren p.
In an attempt to keep this review brief, I was just going to tell you all to take your money to Publican instead. But I feel that I should try to tell you why. - The menu is very heavy on the heavy. As a bride to be (who ate her weight in deep dish pizza the night before) I'm trying to watch my girlish figure, and I just wasn't feeling the 'pork cheek breakfast sandwich' or whatever they had. I went with yogurt + granola, which was fine, but it would have been nice if they added some fruit, considering it was $7. Oh wait, there were 4 raspberries. Sorry, my bad. - They are way overstaffed. We counted about 7 people behind the counter, and given that it was 10 am on a Monday, that seemed a bit much. In fact, our waitress wouldn't leave us alone. Every time we started to have a conversation, she popped up to ask us how things were or the busboy showed up to top off our coffee. I know the coffee was $3, but we each had about 14 cups, which is a lot of coffee. - The waitress, while very nice, couldn't explain the different breakfast pastries to us. All that's listed on the menu is 'breakfast pastries' so obviously you need some explanation. She checked with the chef to see what they had, and came back with three different flavors. But when I asked her what they were, as in what kind of pastry, she just repeated the flavors. So at this point I'm assuming that they're all Danish-type things, just different flavors. We decided to get one of each to share. When they arrive at the table, we see that one is a muffin, one is a pound cake, and one is a scone. Those are very, very different. The waitress couldn't tell the difference? Maybe the chef didn't tell her, and just told her the flavors. I don't know. It was weird. The total bill came to $75. For 4 people. For breakfast. For that price, you'd be better off at Publican, where the portions are hearty and the food is delicious. See, it all comes full circle.
(2)Christine P.
The quality of the food definitely took this place from a 2-star to a 3-star in my book. The service was so-so. It took a little too long to get the attention of a server to get more coffee, let alone order our meal. Redeeming factor - we got mini muffins for free and the food was 5-star restaurant quality. I had the lamb crepes - very delicious and different. My husband had the eggs benedict - LOVED the crisped pork belly. I think they would be better served with a larger kitchen but it is pretty cool to be able to watch your food being cooked.
(3)Mike W.
I'm giving this a higher rating because i've been here a few times since and they've been super friendly and the food wonderful. I'll keep the review up though. The good: The food is creative and excellent The Bad: The wait can be pretty harsh. Plenty of other good spots like sunrise right down the street for my dollar. The Ugly: Sweet Cakes closed it's doors next door, so Jam is posting a piece of paper saying that they offer to go cups of coffee and pastries so I said OK, cool. I ordered, waited, finally got the joe, and they rang me up for nearly 4 bucks. Psshh, screw them. What a nice deed to prey on the former customers of sweet cakes by ripping them off-NOT.
(4)Dan M.
Ok, sorry but it's time to get my hate-on. I will preface all of this by saying, yes, I know they just opened and it sometimes takes a bit for a new place to get into the groove... BUT.... I had an all around irritating/unsatisfying/unappetizing lunch/breakfast experience so I will share. I ordered the Jam Burger which is a 2 patties of beef with an egg on top, tomatoe sauce, and a mild white cheese. (sry, forgot which one) and served on a thick hunk of bread (not really a good bun). The presentation was very nice and it honestly looked really tasty sitting there on the plate. The dining area is very nice, drastic improvement over the old place. (still a bit warm in there, not as bad as DoDo was though) We've already reached the climax of this story......it's all downhill from here. The burger was undercooked, underseasoned, and all around unappealing (I'm sure I could think of a few more "un's" to put in there, but you get the point). The bread, egg, sauce, and seasoning were all far too mild to compensate for the huge hunk of ground beef I was eating. I could taste nothing at all but half-cooked hamburger meat. I am by all means a carnivore, but c'mon give me some damn flavor. My girlfriend had the breakfast omelette.... Sorry to say things did not improve... She didn't hate it, but to me it looked really bland. I had a few bites and surprise surprise, it was. It was also pretty small, I wouldn't call it omelette size, really. I had had enough by now and just wanted to go home. Then the check arrives. It was around $21, so I dropped my card in and chalked it up as a loss. Not so fast!! I was then told they are cash only. Guess what? I had no cash on me and was told there is a sign on the door that says so. Well, they weren't lying. In letters that were 1/2 inch tall and placed at knee level there was indeed a reminder for those 3' tall or less that they are cash only. Great. So now I go next door to the gas station and drop and extra $2 on atm fees for an already shitty meal. Anyway, I'm getting annoyed all over again so I'll stop. I would actually give them 1 1/2 stars because the fries weren't bad, the host-guy was nice, and I like the interior space but that is as far as I can reasonably go. Maybe the bad taste will go away after a few months..... or not.
(1)Peter K.
I geek out on brunch pretty hard - I straight up giggle for good breakfast food and a mindblowing bloody mary can take me to a new level of nirvana. So the thought of finding a new brunch spot relatively near my hood got me pre-emptively giddy with excitement. Not so fast. Jam is good, for sure, but it's pretty far from great. It's a tiny space, which has its charm for sure, and I love the completely open kitchen - it makes the otherwise cramped room inviting and honest. While we waited for a table, a nice fella came around with coffee, which as far as I'm concerned, was a big plus and maybe the places saving grace. Maybe I'm being too hard on the place, and I'll likely give it another try sometime, but I was simply whelmed with the food. Not overwhelmed nor underwhelmed, but simply satisfied and not much more. The ingredient choices are creative and excellent, but somewhere in the execution the dishes don't seem to match their potential. At our table we had the Egg Sandwich, the Eggs Benedict, the Panini, and the Biscuits & Gravy, and the general consensus was mild satisfaction all around. I had the egg sandwich and it was pretty good, a nice sized meal with tasty bread and delicious fingerling potatoes on the side, but it fell short of a solid mindblow. As noted elsewhere, the coffee rocks. Tasty and bold. The atmosphere was pretty good and everyone was friendly. However the server was just a little lacking. Granted, it looked like there were only two servers on the floor and it was crazy busy so I was giving her the benefit of the doubt all the way through (plus some of our party gave her a bit too much guff), but speed issues aside, she was kind of abrasive. Ultimately, we all enjoyed ourselves and, like I said, I'm sure I'll be back, just not anytime soon while there are more enticing places ot check out. If you have the opportunity to go, don't turn it down, I just can't imagine seeking it out in a moment of crave-craziness.
(3)Benita T.
i was excited about eating here because it had been highly recommended. The restaurant itself was attractive but everything else about it was over-priced and pretentious. Our server wouldn't bring us coffee because the third person in our party was parking - I could understand in a full restaurant but we were the only people there the entire time. We had a hard time getting refills on everything and there was an upcharge for everything too (more maple syrup, more butter, etc.) - the prices weren't high but maybe if they gave more than a teaspoon of butter or maple syrup to start with there wouldn't have been an issue. The pancake was tasty but the middle was raw - totally gooey and liquidy. The scotch egg which by description is a hard boiled egg was totally runny - more like a raw egg than a boiled one and the deviled eggs were covered with salmon roe. Not bad for an adult but when purchased for a child you tsort of wish they had mentioned it. All in all, not impressed. If the server had been the slightest bit friendly we might have tried it again, but not after her unpleasant, I'm doing you a favor attitude.
(2)R B.
I was eagerly anticipating something good from this restaurant but was disappointed to find a place that is: -very expensive for what they serve -small portioned -made up of a menu where many of the ingredients are unknown (i was not expecting this at a place called jam) -only accepts cash (wait, are you fancy or not) -seems to only add to the gentrification of logan square. Half of the ppl that live in logan square could never afford to eat here and I was disappointed at yet another high priced yuppie establishment being added to what was once a beautiful diverse neighborhood.
(1)Cory D.
are you kidding me? they should change their name to go f yourself. we were seated quickly, however it took about 10 minutes to be greeted by our server. finally, when we attempted to order, several menu items were unavailable. after figuring out what was not sold out, the server returned to inform us our meal would take 20 minutes to prepare as the kitchen was backed up. at this time she suggested ordering a scone to tide us over which we did. the meal arrived 30 minutes later and although somewhat tasty, was not worth the wait. additionally the runner who delivered the food had a complete chip on his shoulder when my friend jokingly asked, "what's going on in that kitchen". no apologies were given from him, our server or the management. they also gave no compensation for the horrific service we received, charged us full price for everything including the recommended scone. perhaps if the kitchen cannot serve the amount of tables the restaurant has on the floor they should put some in storage until they get it together.
(1)Amy Elizabeth S.
I feel bad writing a two star review for such a new establishment, but the food needs a bit of work. The sweets are divine and the coffee is good, but they need help with "savory." My over medium eggs were hard, and my bacon came black. I was really surprised that they sent the food out of the kitchen, quite honestly. Our service was friendly, and the place got a much needed face lift. I will be back, since it is new and it has kinks.... but I will give it a month or so.
(2)Jack M.
Can't quite put my finger on this one, but it just fell short of a good breakfast experience. We went on a weekday morning and were the only people in there, adding to the literal and figurative cold feeling. The menu was small, which is understandable for such a small venue, but I was not terribly impressed by the meal. My pancakes were a little burnt & the sausage was interesting (made in-house, as I was told). I wouldn't say the meal, overall was terrible - It just fell short of expectations. My biggest irk was how literally cold this place was, coupled with the somewhat sterile feel of the place. It may be worth a 2nd whirl - coulda just been an 'off' day (?)
(3)heather s.
In short, I would not recommend Jam to anyone who is hungry, and especially not if they were vegetarian. My girlfriend and I arrived here at 11:30am on Sunday, knowing full well that there would be a half-hour wait. So we put in our name and went next door to Sweet Cakes to get coffee, and returned to Jam with 10 minutes to spare. They had just called our name. That was our fault, I know. But then we waited another half an hour to be seated, even though we were then next on the list. It seemed to strange--it was like nobody was leaving the restaurant. We realized why once we ordered our food. The service is ridiculously slow. They did take our order pretty quickly once we sat down, but then we waited 45 minutes for our food to arrive. 45 minutes for a bowl of oatmeal and a vegetable panini? really?! The food was lackluster. Nothing special. The menu was so meat-driven that we didn't have many options though.
(2)Robyn T.
Jam's not just for brunch anymore. No more waiting in obscenely long lines and cramming into a tiny table next to your neighbor. Now you can relax and enjoy a leisurely dinner. You can actually have a relaxing dining experience, see the decor of the restaurant and watch the chef prepare your meal. Charming yes? I was impressed that the seasonal dinner menu was as inventive and inspired as the brunch items. I didn't try it but may go back for the $35 four-course dinner. It's BYOB to boot so you can't really argue with that. Instead I ordered a la carte opting for the asparagus soup (lovely presentation but bitter bits of lemon I can do without - garlic puree was nice) and the foie gras ravioli (ooh yes, so rich and so delicate at the same time). Don't forget there is the delicious Metropolis coffee to enjoy with dessert too. Downsides to Jam...they're cash only. What? Yes, so be sure and stop at the ATM before you head here. In this day and age it's almost unheard of, I know. The other oddity was the service. The staff here is usually super friendly but our waitress was a little...odd. She told my dining companion not to order the burger and suggested an $18 fillet instead. The dining area is also a little small so you can see basically everything that's going on....not always a good thing because she would touch her hair or face and then bring some food over. Oh yum.
(4)Bryan H.
The decor is stunning and the food is fresh and delicious. I love everything about this place. The service was also wonderful!
(5)George F.
Driving around the neighborhood on a Saturday morning and ran across this restaurant. Service was good and the food was better. Had an opportunity to get a seat outside. Very nice beginning to a day.
(4)K G.
Staff: Attentive, friendly, helpful, informed. Space: Cute, not over-air conditioned, prep in front a nice touch, close to my house! Food: Blueberry pancakes with lemon creme fraiche: Pancakes a hearty texture loaded with blueberrries. Creme fraiche, berry compote and soft butter served in tiny glass bowls set into a wooden server. Lovely presentation! Oatmeal with fresh fruit and almonds: Steel cut oats, served chewy, not gooey! Fruit, brown sugar and almonds in same little glass bowls. Coffee: Metropolis, and it kept coming. 5 stars. Eat it.
(5)David S.
The food we were served at Jam has to be some of the most beautifully plated breakfasts and lunches we've ever had. It was a treat just looking at it! My meal was a delicious heart attack on a plate that I'd willingly eat again and again...the Jamburger: two beef patties, Butterkasse cheese, and a fried egg on a bun. This sandwich was best eaten - strike, savored - with a knife and fork. The fries were an absolute treat too. When ordering, I was torn between this and the biscuits and gravy. Thank goodness I got this, because I hate mushrooms and it turns out the gravy on the biscuits is a portobello mushroom gravy. Not my thing, but no worries, I'll grab another Jamburger!
(4)Krishna A.
I Came here with my sister and my BIL (bro in law) the morning after Thanksgiving.... Q: "Wait - you were still hungry??" A: "Yes - I'm always hungry. Stop interrupting." There was no wait, and were seated real quick, but I hear that is abnormal and it quickly got pretty packed. The atmosphere is pretty minimalist/modern, which is cool. I liked the juxtaposition of the concrete tables with plexiglass chairs. The chef started us off with an amuse-bouche of a chocolate muffin with a raspberry jam. So soft and delicious. Rule # 14 - there are few things better than chocolate in the morning. My sister ordered the french toast with lime-leaf cream (the cream was the best part). It was ALMOST as soft as the amuse bouche - I'd place it somewhere between a baby's bottom and a delicate earlobe. It was VERY sweet - maybe even too sweet. I ordered the chocolate pancakes - (See Rule #14 above). They were not chocolate chip pancakes as I originally thought, but rather the batter was completely chocolate. I like the chip variety, so consider yourself warned. There was a roasted marshmallow on top which was nice. They came with graham, caramel butter and syrup. I added all of that on top. They were OK - and were kind of on the small side. My BIL ordered the Eggs Benedict with pork belly. WHOA. Presentation was spot on. And it was cooked perfectly. It was my favorite dish of the 3. We also ordered a side of the sausage and scrambled eggs...oh yeah - and fruit (gross), The sausage was a bit undercooked, the eggs were standard, and the fruit made nice bird feed for the pigeons outside... All in all, I liked the place - 3.5 stars. I'd stick with the egg dishes as you might walk away hungry if you listen to your sweet-tooth. Plus, the owners also run Chickpea - which is a chill Middle Eastern kitchen in the area that I really like (the food is great, but mostly because of the Middle Eastern posters of 80's classics such as First Blood part 2, and Commando).
(4)Aaron B.
Went here for brunch on Monday morning and the place was near empty. I like it because you can see the cooks from your seats, messing around in the "kitchen". I imagine it would be a pretty noisy room, when full, but on Monday morning we had the place to ourselves. Very fast service :) We came because Stephanie Izard said this was the best French Toast she ever had, and certainly it did not dissapoint. It was light and fluffy, with amazing cream and, of course, Jam. I really enjoyed it. It filled me up without weighing me down. The pork and egg sandwich, I'm told, was also very good. This month they also had a pumpkin bread side which we ordered and loved. I definitely recommend this place for a fun spin on breakfast food.
(4)Steve M.
Since I live in Logan Square I really wanted to love this place. I really tried to find the positive in the newest restaurant to hit The Square but I struggled to see a reason why I would go back. The first issue is that there are not a lot of breakfast selections to choose from. I had the egg sandwich which was just OK. I couldn't really differentiate any of the flavors that were described to me in the menu. It tasted like an egg with meat on it. Nothing special. The second issue the place was very loud and it wasn't even that crowded. I can't imagine what the place is like when it is hopping. I think the issue is the music was set so loud that everyone felt the need to talk over everyone else. I really don't care about what people are talking about but I do wish I could have held a nice conversation with the people I was with or at least not have to yell to be heard. The third issue it is cash only and the place isn't that cheap for breakfast. Hopefully that will change soon but make sure you have cash if you go. I can't imagine how expensive their dinners would be but that would mean for a table of four you need a lot of cash on hand. The positive was the service which I thought was great. The free carrot cake cupcakes were a nice plus and the apple coffee cake we ordered was the best thing I ate. There are more and more brunch locations opening in The Square and I think for the money you get better deals and selections elsewhere.
(2)MA H.
three of us went for my 'birthday breakfast'. Two foodies, and one sweets-only-picky-eater. And all three of us cannot wait to go back: Food: buckwheat lamb creps - wow wow wow - perfect combination of flavors blueberry pancakes - the sweets-only-picky-eater practically licked her plate the egg sandwich - so good that the foodie asked for the menu to identify the 'sweet' bite she was getting from it (green apple catsup) Presnetaion: beautiful on all three plates! Service: quickly seated (9am saturday); water glasses never less than 25% empty before being refilled; coffee perpetually topped off; cream brought rapidly for coffee; pacing of food delivery not too fast, not too slow; friendly helpful waitstaff Ambiance/ decor: one was trying to figure out how to do the wall-light/shaddows at her own house - perfect!
(5)Michael W.
Oh no you diiiiiit----nt, fellow yelpers?????? You've really landed on 3 stars for JAM????? Seriously? Let's try some perspective....Golden Nugget Pancake House has 3 stars. I just found 3 instances of Denny's restaurant with 3.5 stars. Feast has 3.5 stars. F'in Bongo Room has 4 freakin' stars!!! OK....deep breath. I apologize for dropping the f-bomb. I do love my fellow yelpers. But just like your brother or sister that you love in the grand scheme, sometimes you really know how to push my buttons. So simply put....in my opinion(not feeling humble at this point),Jam is some of the BEST brunch you can get in Chicago. Period. My wife and I are close to double digit visiters to Jam, and it's really our favorite brunch spot to hit. The decor is simple, but kind of cool and different for brunch. Somebody mentioned CB2 "ish" and I agree. It creates a feel of quaint, but sort of modern and clean at the same time. The kitchen is right out there in the open, so you can see all the action as it happens. Walk in and you will be most likely greeted by the same tall guy that I've seen there for years. Sorry man...don't know your name, but you've always been extremely nice and accurate in your estimate on wait time. Yes...there is sometimes a wait time. That's because this food is good and people want to come here. So they have a little courtyard next to the restaurant that you can ajourn to while you wait if it's not too cold outside. And as we sat in that slightly eclectic and interesting, spacious courtyard, they brought us water. 2 points for sevice beginning even before our table inside has become available. And you are not standing outside like cows on Milwaukee Ave milling around aimlessly looking at soap carvings at whatever the frick that store near Bongo room is supposed to be(no offense in particular to that store...I'm sure your carved soap is beautiful and cleans with the best of soaps...just not my thing). Anyway....after enjoying a short 10 minutes out in the courtyard, we were ushered to our table and the deliciousness begins. Coffee....excellent. Amuse bouche today happened to be a mini lemon poppy cake like bite. Yes...you get a little amuse bouche at Jam. And no...it's not pretentious. I'm sorry yelpers but that's crap. The staff are tatt'd up dudes that are totally chill. They give you a little taste of what's to come. On this particular visit, I had something I hadn't seen before. Pork Terrine with over easy eggs on pretzel bread. There was some kind of carmelized veg and some whole grain mustard in the mix. Pork Terrine for breakfast??? Are you kidding me? It was awesome. My wife got the pork belly eggs benedict with a fennel hollandaise sauce. Beautiful plating and absolutely delicious. In addition we had fresh made PB&J scones that were warm, fresh and packed with fruity and nutty goodness. So some folks seem to complain that it's just too expensive for the quantity of food you get.. OK.....yes.....this is not Bongo Room where you wait around for 45 minutes to get seated and pull up to your trough and then if they sprinkle an excessive amount of Dill on everything, apparently that makes it special in some way. Look....I don't mean to rip on Bongo. I like Bongo. They offer some good food, no question. And it's lively and fun there, for sure. But if you like good food. And you want something a little different and a little more thought out than your typical brunch spots, then you most assuredly can appreciate Jam. Sure....it's not gonna be a dirt cheap brunch, but the chef creates thoughtful, creative, and unique brunch dishes. But if you prefer the Dill and the trough.....go Mooooooo on with your bad self. To each their own...I won't hate on you. Or at least not to your face. Moooo!
(5)Harry L.
One of my favorite restaurants, I've been going to Jam for breakfast and lunch since they opened and now they are serving dinner! Here's the thing. They are creative, they put great flavors together on the plate and they cook everything perfectly. I cannot emphasize the last point enough. Example, the Amish Chicken. It's a chicken breast and I usually am leery of chicken breast, but theirs is always perfect, tender JUICY and flavorful. I was in recently for dinner and had the tasting menu, which at $25 for 4 courses is a steal. The fish was so awesome; the flavor combination a fantastic surprise (I'm usually not likely to order fish, for some reason) and was again, perfectly cooked. The duck breast (i opted for the 5th course) was again so good and again perfectly cooked. By the way, the server, Paulina, was really, really attentive, friendly and at the same time, professional. I love Jam and cannot overstate how good it is. Whether it's breakfast, lunch or now dinner, it remains one of my favorite restaurants anywhere. I've always found the quality, creativity and care of the kitchen as well as the level of service and the atmosphere to be way above and beyond the price point.
(5)Jeff S.
I stopped by here a couple of weeks ago but couldn't do the 45 minute wait. Went over there this morning to grab a biscuit. Just a biscuit. They wanted to charge me $4 for a biscuit to go. Absurd. I went over to Sunrise Cafe around the corner. They were much more accommodating.
(2)Kristina D.
The menu items are plated very nicely. The food was totally acceptable. I would definitely be willing to bring people to eat here, but the flavors weren't really anything new. However, i just don't think the food id worth the wait. We waited a total of 2 hours to get our food- 30 minutes for the table + 1hr 30 min after being seated. They apologized for the long wait time and brought an amuse bouche so that our stomachs didn't eat us alive, but it really was unacceptable to be getting food that isn't amazing after such a long wait. The waitress was nice but way too over apologetic in the form of refilling our waters and coffee too soon (think two sips consumed between refills). I might come back if they add more savory vegetarian options but I'll probably just skip it and go somewhere with less of a wait and slightly better food.
(3)Tiffany A.
My husband and stopped into Jam around for breakfast this past weekend. I passed it couple of times and we LOVE brunch, so we thought we would check it out. I love the decor - and when we arrived we were seated right away in a cozy table near the door. The waiter was very personable and the service in general was great. After we ordered they brought us each a mini chocolate chip muffin with vanilla cream cheese. Yum! However, I wasn't terribly impressed when it came to my main dish (Eggs Benedict). I felt the "beet hollandaise" sauce lacked flavor and there wasn't much else to it. My husband doesn't eat eggs and so his options were limited. He had the Granola and Yogurt with a side of Fingerling Potatoes - which he said were fine. I just don't know that it was enough for us to go back again. A couple of specifics: - It's cash only (but there's an ATM by the bathroom if you forget to come with cash on hand) - It seemed pretty kid friendly and they even had a kids menu with some more simplified dishes
(3)Lauren H.
I wanted to love this place so much that I was willing to overlook the lack of air conditioning or them running out of ice (seriously though how the hell do you run out of ice?!?) because the menu sounded so inventive. The menu was chock full of crazy combination and fascinating ingredients that I found myself torn between a number of dishes. The food itself was so terrible that I had to force myself to eat it (we're in a recession here and the food there is pricey). The eggs on both our dishes were way overcooked. The whole point of poached eggs and sunny side up eggs is the runny yoke. If you can't cook an egg and hold yourself out as a breakfast place you should be shot. Secondly, stop calling it pork belly when you are just giving me an overcooked piece of rib meat. It's not pork belly just because you call it that. Overall, go here if you are a masochist/ bulimic who wants a guaranteed way to toss your cookies after a meal
(1)shai h.
Came for brunch on a Monday afternoon. The outdoor seating is kind of weird. The true patio feel gives it character, but it also made me feel like everything was dirtier or something. The ambience was also off-putting. My boyfriend said it was because there was no music. I always feel awkward when I can hear other tables' conversations when I'm eating. The food was nothing special. The brownie they brought out was dry. The steak and eggs I ordered was over cooked and chewy. The grits were really good though. My boyfriend's food was better although he said he'd never be coming back. We were both disappointed because we'd been looking forward to trying this place forever.
(2)Anthony B.
Just wow. The food is amazing, the atmosphere is amazing. I just have a great time there. The service is so far beyond what you would expect for the level of dining. I tip my hat to the owner; who is usually there and is as nice as he can be. I'd give it 6 stars if I could.
(5)Claire Y.
We went for a morning-after-Christmas brunch. Still fatigued from the previous nights' festivities, we were quick to request bottomless coffee and sat quietly looking out the windows at the lovely snowfall. Silence and tranquility broke when our food came. My pork cheek sandwich (with roasted fingerling potatoes) looked succulent, and so did his eggs benedict with pork belly. Looks aside, the flavors and textures were superb as we both found ourselves fully focused on our food. Fun, modern interior and friendly service. Prices are very reasonable for this caliber of brunch offerings.
(4)Ryan F.
I'm less than 5 blocks from this place and I am addicted. There isn't one thing on the menu that isn't amazing. My favorites are the corned beef and hash, scotch egg and guisado verde. The wait is never too long and the staff is amazingly friendly. This is why I am not giving it a 5 star rating: ITS CASH only.... BUT they do have an ATM basically on top of the women restroom.... Its mounted uncomfortably low so you have to kind of squat down to use it and you end up looking extra creepy when that amazingly beautiful woman walks out... --true story...
(4)Olha S.
Failed expectations.... This is a fairly new restaurant in the neighborhood. We went there on Sunday night. There were twice as more of waiters than customers. Felt awkward. All waiters were standing the whole time in front of our eyes (café is small) - annoying. It did not feel private. Kitchen is right inside of the restaurant, but no seating, as you would imagine around it. PROS: cute looking modern design and nice service. CONS: cooks the carried dirty or steamy huge pans with food back and forth from the "back" kitchen to the "inside kitchen" just few inches behind our backs all our diner time. Not pleasant. CONS: Food was so-so. I have eaten far better prepared duck in other restaurants. I did not like the taste of foie grass at all. CONS: Portions are so tiny even of the regular menu, really like a tasting portion. Not filling. Would not recommend to go there if you are hungry. CONS: Our waiter told us that if one orders the tasting menu ($25 sounds like a bargain but indeed so TINY), other people at the table are obligated to order an entrée from a regular menu, or another tasting menu. PRO: There is only one positive side of this restaurant. Its Patio. I love to sit outside. Their patio still needs some repair work, it does not look as neat or clean, as one would wish for. Bottom-line I would not recommend this restaurant for its food but I would visit their patio for a cup of coffee.
(3)James B.
My parents were in town and we wanted to grab some breakfast close to home before we went out to the burbs to visit family. We got there at 8:30am on a Saturday and the place was full (not slammed, full) .. with maybe 2-3 parties ahead of us in line. We put our name down and the host told us 25 minutes. Ok fine, so we wait. It was raining outside, so we waited in the small alley-way near the front door. We waited for 30 minutes and none of the 2-3 parties in front of us in line had been seated. We asked the host again .. he said probably 10 more minutes. After waiting a total of 45 minutes and seeing absolutley no turnover whatsoever, we decided we had waited long enough for a little breakfast... and took off. So, we never actually tasted the food so I really can't comment on that other than it looked small and overpriced. But overall, its amazing how such a tiny restaurant can be so grossly inefficient. I mean, this is Breakfast guys, you gotta turn and burn .. its not like I'm sitting down for a 3 hour marathon at Trotter's. The incompetence overall was painfully obvious, so I really have no desire to even go back and actually order anything.
(1)Rudy S.
I paid $10 for 2 small slices of French Toast, that wasn't even out of this world. Try the egg dishes - you'll get more food with those orders. This place doesn't have liquor and is not BYOB. also CASH ONLY. I'l say this - the owners are really nice and for only being open a short time they seem to have it together. it's too bad when you have a bad server who ruins the experience. I think i'll give this place a second chance in a few weeks.
(2)Vera P.
Jam was just OK. I really wanted to looove them, but sadly, I think it's just OK. It's a beautiful space and certainly a welcome addition to the neighborhood. The servers were all very nice and they bring by a pre-meal bite of some yummy baked good, which is a nice touch. Our meals, however, fell a bit short. We had been to their previous location in Ukranian Village with some friends who raved about the food. Unfortunately, my husband and I both felt there was a whole lot of salt and not enough flavor in our dishes. Because we totally heart Logan Square we were happy to see this space being renovated for JAM... we anxiously awaited their opening and went to try dinner this time, well, I was the only one who ordered dinner, actually. The restaurant was nearly empty, but that was fine by us, because we could actually carry on good conversation without screaming. They were very accommodating - I can be a little difficult when it comes to ordering and at that time they were only offering one dinner option nightly. I really wanted Saturday's special, the pot roast, and it was Sunday. Our server checked with the chef and told me he would be able to do the pot roast - they now offer multiple dinner options nightly, which is definitely a good thing. I was very happy with my pot roast, tender and delicious, but again, just a touch too heavy on the salt. We went again for brunch with some friends in the neighborhood who wanted to check it out - they have two little ones and although we had to wait a little for a table, they were able to get us a nice comfy spot, pretty quick for a late Sunday morning, although the restaurant was rather crowded and loud. That's brunch I guess. Again, the presentation was terrific, but I felt my dish lacked oomph. I definitely enjoyed my dinner at JAM more than brunch (and I love me my eggs!). I will not give up on you, JAM. The dishes are unique and creative. Hopefully they will continue to improve as they get into the groove in their new location.
(3)Joscelyn M.
The next time I'm in the mood for a sugar-loaded brunch - I'm here. I liked this place, but I think it's better for sweets (v. savory). The good: The amuse bouche: mini pumpkin banana cupcake. Wow. If this were all I had, this place would get 6 stars. The coffee cake with cranberries & pecans - great combo of flavors & textures. The service: sooooo nice. The meh: Biscuits and gravy: overall flavor was a bit vinegar-y, but I would get it again. Cash only: I really like my plastic. The not so good: The spanish omelet: the cheese flavor in it was way over-powering. The "savory" menu: a bit too odd for me. That said, still 4 stars.
(4)Amanda G.
I give this place 4 stars. I am subtracting one star because we had to wait a long time for our food (about 35 min). But when we did get it, the food was great. I thought the service was decent. The water and coffee was re-poured regulary during our meal. Our server was nice and explained to us some of the popular items on the menu. I chose the savory crepes with braised lamb and pear sauce. My boyfriend chose the egg sandwich, also very tasty. The food quality here is excellent. They definitely have a great presentation and use an awesome combinations for their menu items. The place is cash only though. They do provide an ATM at the back to withdraw money. I just wish they had a bar so I could have mimosas or bloodies with my wonderful food!
(4)Lois A.
I've been wanting to try Jam for so long that I really expected great things and felt pretty let down by my brunch today. I ordered the eggs benedict and it certainly looked amazing on the plate. The way it looked was the high point. There were two sauces drizzled on the plate...both completely lacking in flavor. One was made of winter squash and the other I can't remember. Each bite I took only tasted of egg, no pop, no burst of something special, just the taste of poached egg. I tasted each sauce alone just to make sure I wasn't crazy. Nothing to taste. The pork belly that came with it was ok but again, nothing special. You know when places are so sure that everything tastes so amazing out of the kitchen that they don't put any salt or pepper on the table? Here it would have been useful. My boyfriend had the quince french toast and it was pretty good. He always orders eggs benedict and said he was glad he hadn't today. Service was good, coffee was good. Prices were fine but I wouldn't go back given that I can think of 20 other places I wish I had spent my money at instead.
(2)Erin A.
This was one of the worst dining experiences I have had in Chicago. I went there with my boyfriend for brunch and we decided to sit outside. We put in our order and people were seated, served their meals, and left while we were waiting for our food. The server must have realized that they forgot to put in our order, and when we finally got it we had been waiting for well over an hour. I had the eggs benedict, a recommendation of our server, and it was the worst.... tasteless and small. The pork belly was almost raw, not good. My boyfriend got the biscuits and gravy which he liked... until a bird decided to shit on his eggs. The waiter was nice and immediately replaced them... but we were so hungry/frustrated by that point we were done. Skip it. I like interesting "foodie" food and it was not good...
(1)Jordan V.
after singing jam's praises for two weeks, we returned with two friends only to be disappointed by our sandwiches. the veggie panini was soggy and overwhelmingly tasted of vinegar. the italian sandwich was just uninteresting cold cuts served with pasta salad. on the bright side, the octopus salad was made interesting by the addition of grapefruit and tomato, and the service was still stellar.
(3)Brian P.
Delicious, beautifully presented, and affordably priced ($25) prix fixe dinner. Servers were friendly and attentive. Definitely worth checking out.
(5)melissa m.
So, I'm not a fan of giving negative reviews to neighborhood establishments, but I'll do it if it helps lead to some positive changes to improve the place and keep it around. My friends and I showed up at 10:45ish on a Sunday. The wait for a table outside was only 15 minutes, which was good b/c other times we've tried to pop in here the wait was a good hour. However, the Big Wait came AFTER we placed our orders. We sat down a little after 11 and we didn't get our food until after noon!!! They brought us a little banana muffin with chocolate cream cheese halfway through our wait, but it just made our stomaches more grumbly for food (though it was tasty and we did appreciate it). Our food came, and the poor hungry boy who was with all us girls unbeknownst got the menu item with one of the smallest portion sizes (the eggs benedict). The presentation was nice but there is something off about have such a small portion for one item and then have other items with much larger portions (egg sandwich, panini) but similar price points. The proscuitto on the panini was VERY overwhelming and my friend couldn't eat it. Another friend got the scotch egg and it came with a half waffle underneath (like they only poured half the batter in when they were making it. Pluses: the outdoor patio, friendly host. Minuses: previously mentioned. I think you need to do better when you have so much competition around you.
(2)Jaime E.
jam rules: 1. go on a wednesday, around 8am. be the only people in the restaurant. 2. enjoy the sounds of Rush and Zepplin, before they put on Coldplay for the weekday brunch crowd. 3. try not to be disappointed by their lack of specialty coffee drinks 4. forget about the coffee drinks when a little complimentary amuse bouche arrives at your table and it involves a tiny biscuit with fancy butter 5. order the savory buckwheat crepes with braised lamb and asian pear, or the panini cristo (very nice rendition of the monte cristo-- only with sauteed rapini, prosciutto and sweet mustard jam. 6. be relieved your dining buddy brought cash because it's cash only. 7. go next door to Sweet Cakes and pass the people who just cooked you breakfast. 8. buy your cash toting friend a cherry scone because those buckwheat crepes were satisfying but she DEFINITELY has room for dessert. 9. that's right, dessert. after an 11 dollar breakfast. on a wednesday morning. 10. skip lunch. jam rules.
(4)Lucy Z.
Was excited to try Jam. Very friendly host made the 40-minute wait tolerable. We sat in the patio and there was a really strong stench coming from the kitchen which ruined my appetite. I thought we smelled it because we were right outside the air vents, but it was even worse inside. That was my biggest complaint, however, the menu to be a less interesting than I had hoped for, and it took about 25 minutes for our food, a long time to wait for breakfast food. The waitress had warned us of the long wait due to their recent kitchen expansion, so maybe this will improve over time. With all the delicious places to go in the city, I probably won't return.
(2)michelle m.
firstly, if you'd like to use your card at this restaurant which has mid-priced to overpriced plates of food, sorry- apparently a credit card system is too expensive. rather than recount my morning/afternoon visit to jam, just read everything below that is 3 stars or less- i'm noticing i probably had the same waitress as half these folks ("the kitchen is too small") & the fact that the complaints are CONSISTENT pretty much says they have management and kitchen issues that aren't being addressed. I'm pretty easy going about eating out, but my table's food looked like an acid flashback (rhubarb puree should not look like vomit amidst an unsweetened, sour yuzu spew, blueberry pancakes should not be green and the density of scones), couldn't melt butter and tasted like hell. The kitchen at my apt. is bigger and i'm glad the employees in both the kitchen & front of house seemed to be having a relaxing shift while i got coffee and hunger jitters, b/c i've never seen a sweat-free, unrushed, more devil-may-care open kitchen. it just had the wrong energy to it as a kitchen and i'm betting this explains all the waiting from start to finish. i don't want excuses, jam, fix your shit for these prices.
(1)Jenni Q.
Such a cute little restaurant with clean, modern decor and a touch of spring (pale greens, black and white). The menu was very original and creative....it was great to see so many interesting options (buckwheat crepes with lamb, trout quiche, etc). We started off with the complimentary "amuse bouche" - mini carrot cupcakes with creamy frosting. What an unexpected surprise! MMM MMM MMM....light and yummy and the perfect size to start off our meal. I got the egg white omelette (sweet potato, goat cheese and watercress) and my boyfriend got the malted custard french toast (rhubarb topping). Both were extremely good however, we each had one thing that we didnt particular care for. I LOVE goat cheese however, I wish that it had been creamier instead of stringy....that would have bumped up my dish from a 4 to a 5. My boyfriend loved the rhubarb topping but they had some type of lime zest in the whipped cream which kind of threw our taste buds off. Without it, the dish would have been perfect. But overall, presentation and taste were excellent. The orange juice here was also freshly squeezed with just the right amount of pulp and sweetness. I will definitely be back to try some of their other tantalizing dishes (especially the eggs benedict with fried pork belly)!
(4)Hilary H.
wonderful brunch. how can you not love french toast soaked in custard?? the smoked fish quiche is phenomenal. had bites of the egg sandwich and nicoise. all delicious, great service, classy decor. love the amuse bouche. logan square is lucky to have it. and byo!! can't wait to try dinner-
(5)Ceda X.
I've been here about three times in the past three months and I've never had any problems with either service or food. To answer the one star review of the $3.50 coffee: um, its bottomless, so drink up to get your $3.50's worth. I absolutely adored the hostess with mostess, (and glasses to boot) who was fantastic to us during our waiting ordeal (our friends were suppose to meet us, but were stymied by the marathon). I talked to her no less than 5 times during the whole escapde, and she was gracious and accomodating during every turn. I love the decor of this place, modern, but not coldly so. I need to branch out of eating just the Egg sandwich (pork cheeks, fried egg, pickled tomatoes) and Eggs benedict, but it is so hard when those two items are so good. If you don't want to wait for an hour, go on a weekday. The wait is worth it on the weekends if you know to go to Sweetcakes next door, enjoy a cup of coffee and look at the cool horse-installations.
(4)Alya A.
came here on a weekday morning, expecting to be able to beat the rush and experience the best of Jam. not sure if that was the best they have to offer, but if so, please avoid this place. first the food itself - the egg sandwich was just a strange over-complication of flavors (I and I really do think I have an adventurous palate, more than most), and my friend's poached egg was just too too runny. eeek. besides the so-so food, the service was way off. our server was nervous and overly-attentive, constantly asking us if we needed anything while water and coffee were refilled at every sip, probably because our food took an eternity to arrive. now in a half-full restaurant on a weekday, with what looked like full kitchen staff working, why is that? I noticed a guy at the front of the kitchen who looked responsible for plating the food taking an absurd amount of time with each dish, seriously it looked like he placed every potato just *so*. maybe he was the culprit. hey buddy, I'd rather get my food hot and on time!!
(2)j s.
This place is just not that good. I have heard so many wonderful things about it and was very let down when my dinner was okay. I was wanting salt, but didn't want to ask. The beet salad was good.
(2)Liz C.
The first word that comes to mind is overrated. Although the servers were pleasant, the food was pretentious and underwhelming. I returned my "panini christo," which did not taste good at all, and got the jam burger instead, which I would describe as bland. The seasoned fries were good, though. Also, we waited a long time for our food and the restaurant was so hot and muggy we opted to eat outside (on a 90 degree day) because it was cooler. Now I can say I tried it, but I can't say I'll be back.
(2)Andy W.
Disappointed. Menu looked great. French toast kind of blah and turkey sandwich so so. Nice server though.
(3)Mary Rose V.
What a delightful & delicious dinner. My first thought when I looked at the menu was that there were only a few choices. There were four of us, we each ordered a different entree & we all were extremely pleased! My friend made the comment, "best chicken she has ever eaten". Service was great even though the house was full. Highly recommend!!!
(5)Jessica H.
We went on the basis of a few rave word-of-mouth reviews but doubt we would ever go back--you can see what they are aiming for, but where they land seems to be wide of the mark. A couple notable things: 1. Van Halen at 9 am on a Sunday is just kind of a mood killer 2. The busser/water guy we had on had cologne so strong that it made me gag. Given the narrow space where the wait staff all is forced to cluster and squeeze past one another, it meant he was basically hovering behind us for our meal, along with the other half dozen wait staff. 3. Food was really so-so for the price. The flavors in the french toast were inventive, but it was uneven--the occasional really strange, soggy bite, so $10 for french toast with 2 dollops of pastry cream and a little compote seemed ridic. The omelet I got was bland and all 7 microsized cubes of the chorizo in it were really tough, after 3 of them, I gave up. Potatoes were probably overdone in prep--incredibly dry--I wondered if they were even from that morning. To mess up potatoes is really saying something.The 10$ omelet was on par with say, $4 one at Sunrise, the greasy diner around the corner in terms of taste, despite all it's garroxta cheese and farm eggs. 5. Placemats are a bad idea--ours were dirty and didn't appear that they had even been cleaned that day--crusted with food and stained and had other peoples syrup and sugar and salt all over them-- and the table underneath was clearly dirty. 6. Having the napkins on the table but not the silverware within them means the staff must present you, direct from their hands, your silverware. It's just bad form. Given you can drop $30 at Lula and have an unparalleled brunch--no reason to go here.
(2)Miss O.
a-ok. not great. not horrible. this comes as a 4th to bongo room. a bit overpriced for okay food.
(3)Laura L.
After waiting for an hour and fifteen minutes (being told the wait was 45-60min), we were finally seated. We were seated well after the two tables on either side of us, yet received our meals before either table. This made for a very uncomfortable experience and it was very difficult to enjoy the meal. The food was alright, but definitely not worth the wait!
(2)Kourtney V.
Went to Jam for brunch on a snowy Sunday around 10am. I enjoyed almost everything about the experience-- food was delicious, well priced and came out quickly. Service was attentive and helpful (she recommended the buckwheat crepes with lamb- fantastic!). Atmosphere was comfortably posh. Both my husband and I commented on how nice it was to not be disappointed by a restaurant's press. Only thing that wasn't stellar was the coffee and the temperature of the place- we were both chilly and ate with our hats and scarves on. We'll be back and this will be a place to bring guests.
(4)Penny C.
We ate breakfast there today. I really want to like this place, it is adorable and the menu reads so well, however, the food just doesn't measure up to the delicious descriptions. The plating and presentation of the food was beautiful and apparently took a lot of time because everything we ate was BARELY WARM. The biscuits were dense and covered in a heavy mushroom/wine gravy with flavorless and unattractive sausage. The skirt steak was very tasty, but again it wasn't hot. It was also a little expensive for the portion sizes - $57 for three people, no bloodys or mimosas. The service was okay, but the waiters and hostess stood right behind our table near the wait stand and talked loudly (instead of refilling our coffee). One last thing, it was FREEZING in there. Hard to relax and enjoy breakfast while shivering.
(2)Mary C.
First of all, thank god dodo is gone, because that place sucked. I was nervous going into JAM, thinking that it might be dodo redux. But it got a facelift and a pretty color palate. The food was great - I had the egg white terrine with beets and goat cheese. Yep, I had beets for breakfast, and I liked it. Hubby got the egg sandwich with pork cheeks, which he said were juicy and tender. As a vegetarian, the thought of eating anything's cheeks makes me want to vomit, but he really seemed to enjoy it. Oh! I also liked the amuse bouche - a little olive oil cake with creme fraiche. I will definitely go back.
(4)Anna J.
i live in the area so i have been wanting to try this place. i finally had a brunch date with a friend so it was a good excuse to try it out. it was very good. the place is pretty busy so usually it means it's a good spot. we had to wait a half hour...which was not too bad. the service was good. i really liked our waitress....she had suggestions and also made a point to let us know that since they had expanded to patio service that our food would take a while. i liked that she let us know. they continued to come by to fill our water and coffee and our food tasted great. the interior also looks really nice. i will totally be back. the menu is limited but it just means that they specialize in the stuff that they have. don't come here if you are looking for a denver omlette. go to a diner down the street....the food is unscale and they mix with different ingredients that you would have never thought of. yay!
(4)Natalie P.
So the first time I went here we were told the wait would be 15-20 minutes and instead we waited over an hour. That said, they did apologize and send over a complimentary dish (pancakes). Since it had been just newly opened we let is slide, and they did apologize and the food was pretty good. So last weekend we went back and had an awful experience. We waited for our table about 45 minutes which was fine (they said it would be that long) but then it took 1 hour and 15 minutes to get our food! Our waitress didn't say anything to us until 40 minutes had passed and she said that "they lost our ticket" but it really didn't matter b/c the chefs just take orders as they get them? She made zero sense and she was so insincere it was laughable. We finally got our food which was just okay (nothing spectacular) and instead of doing the right thing , which would be taking off our drinks for us having to wait for over an hour our waitress gave us tiny pieces of zucchini bread b/c she said "I know you guys were freaked out b/c of the wait so here is some zucchini bread". Awesome. I think people like this place b/c of its location but the service is awful and the food is really not that amazing.
(2)Sam T.
So we miss the old Dodo and decided to try Jam. Don't frigging bother, especially if you're a vegetarian. In looking through the menu, nothing grabs you -- each starts to look good until you keep reading the ingredients. The amuse-bouche is not so amusant and downright bland. More importantly, we never actually got to the meal beyond ordering and the "amuse." After having waited half an hour for a table, we were seated. There was nothing on the menu for my wife the vegetarian except for the kid's menu grilled cheese sandwich. We put in our order and ten minutes later the waitron comes back only to tell us that the chef won't make it for my wife since she's not a child. Of course, how would the chef know that? Does he patrol the dining room to ensure that each person is of appropriate age given the fare they've ordered? We, of course, offered to pay an "adult" price for the sandwich. The waitron went back to check with the chef. Upon her return, we were told, "no go." WTF?! Who runs this bloody place? We canceled our remaining order and spoke with the manager, who shrugged and said the chef runs the kitchen. Great. And also turns away diners. Simply out of principle, don't go to this place and don't give the clearly egomaniacal chef the satisfaction of dining in "his" restaurant. And judging from those bland amuses, the rest of the food would be pretty bloody ho-hum as well. Dine at Jam at your own risk, do NOT go if you're a vegetarian, and definitely don't go unless you want to support a jackass chef and business owner who puts up with this nonsense.
(1)beth s.
have eaten at jam several times for brunch, lunch and dinner. the service is excellent and the food is usually just as good. it is especially nice now that they have the outdoor garden. you can bring your own wine for dinner and the price fixe is an excellent value. the chef puts interesting combinations together and the muffins that are served (for no charge are terrific). the only compaint is that bread is not served for dinner and if you request some they will give you wheat or white toast.
(4)gregory f.
Arrived at the restaurant with a party of 6. We were told it would be a 20- 30 minute wait. While we were waiting 2 parties of 2 and a party of 3 came in after us. There were no tables for 6 so I assumed when the table for 4 emptied they would grab one of the tables for 2 and put them together and seat us. Instead they sat all 3 parties before us. When I asked why people who arrived after us were sat before us the host became defensive and told me he had been seating for 20 years and didn't have to explain himself to me. When I told him he should have put the 2 tables together and sat us he told me he didn't need or want our business and then called me a "dick". Needless to say, we left... stunned. I worked in the restaurant industry for 5 years (2 years for Lettuce Entertain You - the king of customer service) and I have never seen or heard of such horrible behavior. I was taught if 1 cutomer walks away dissatisfied they will tell 10 and so on. So pass it along.
(1)Stacey H.
If you are an eggs and pancakes kind of person, this is not your place. When you walk in, you are taken in by the beautiful decor as noted from others. They really did a great job in such a tight space. The menu is diverse but they do not offer up any "boring" dishes for those who are not as adventurous in their palates. (my husband). The french toast is delicious but I would not recommend this as a kid-friendly, breakfast spot. The service was fine, but our server was not over-enthusiastic. When asked about the ingredients on a particular dish, they seemed more annoyed that we did not know what it was. Overall, good food, but not worth the price you pay
(2)Van D.
Have been here a couple times for brunch. First time food was solid but wait did not justify the food. Came back for brunch this week. French toast was bland, pork belly was dry, and pancakes were really dry. Outdoor patio is nice but seems like food quality is going down hill
(3)Nathan F.
They accept credit now!
(4)Michael V.
Went to Jam on a Thursday morning with two others. I bet the place is packed on weekends but it's pretty dead during the week. The waitress was very friendly and brought water right away along with a free sample of their Apple raisin muffins. We ordered the omelette, the egg sandwich and pancakes & eggs ala carte. Everything was very good! The omelette was very light despite having chorizo and was quite tasty. The egg sandwich was on a big ciabatta roll with jam which was a nice touch too. Overall, this is a really solid place for brunch up in Logan Square and I'd recommend it if you're in the area!
(4)Michael B.
Hot Waiters. Cold Food. French Toast was dipped in batter and thrown on the plate - grossly raw and cold. No syrup offered - just peppered whip cream - really? Extremely overpriced for quality of food. Two stars for the cute decor and the cute waiters.
(2)Moe f.
We strolled in and managed to snag a table w/no wait on a Sunday. The place is small and the furniture is crappy. I ordered a coke and got an 8oz bottle for $3(it wasn't even Mexican coke). I almost walked out then but decided to give them a shot. The pork rillete was fantastic and huge. My egg whites dish was tiny(like I could have eaten 3 of them) and over salted. And my daughter's grilled cheese was good and I like the fact the put the order in quick so she'd eat first. Over all, I might give them another shot but I'm a petty man and that coke just pissed me off.
(2)Alex F.
Great patio, great food, great service, great everything! Went for brunch, we got a table pretty fast. The kitchen was a little backed up so we orders the breakfast pastry to start. Banana cream torte...YUMMY. Food came...wow! The most perfectly poached eggs I have ever seen in my life arrived. Amazing. I didn't even want to eat them they were so perfect. Great flavor in my eggs benny. The man had the lamb, great too but a little heavy for summer time. I wish they had a liquor license cause the only thing that would have made it better was a mimosa. I highly recommend this place and can't wait to try dinner!
(5)Paul M.
Went in for just some breakfast, turned out it was tasting Tuesday. it was such a greta experience. food was great. service was great. defiantly go on Tuesdays. cant wait to try the jam burger.
(5)Megan T.
I came at the beginning of July on National Donut Day and we were given samples of the BEST red velvet cupcakes. I should have bought 12 and eaten them all day. Oops. Anyway, we came on a Thursday morning and there was zero wait. The service was awesome, the food was amazing, and did I mention there was no wait? We will for sure be back.
(5)Dave T.
Absolutely fantastic. Delightful Eggs Benedict with sweet pea hollandaise. Yum! Can wait to try the lunch menu.
(4)KM M.
Overrated and overpriced. The eggs benedict was very small and lacked in flavor. The egg sandwich (which the waitstaff highly recommends) was ok- i prefer a McDonald's breakfast sandwich to Jam's and I don't even like McDonald's. The service was SO SLOW. We waiting 40 minutes to be seated and then 30 minutes to order coffee and practically had to beg to get our check. And it was $25 pp. I was excited to try Jam but was very disappointed at the end.
(1)Greg G.
I had the burger for brunch and I can tell they use organic and fresh meat which was a huge plus. The egg on top was a nice touch and I would recommend it to anyone not sure what to get. The place is not big so i wouldn't recommend it for a large group. There were about 9 of us there and we were squeezed in way too tight and couldn't hear each other so they should have just broken us into two tables. All in all a good place but a bit pricey.
(3)Anne M.
This new place suits me just fine. Yes, indeed. For starters, parking was no prob on a Saturday morning on Damen. The friendly staff seated us right away and (adorable, dimpled) Frankie brought us yummy Metropolis coffee straight away. My girls and I split 2 breakfast dishes (Spanish Omelet, Malted French Toast) and 1 lunch special (terrific and complicated corn chowder with fennel. The omelet was very good, especially the housemade chorizo, but the french toast...aw-aw-awesome. The malt flavor is subtlely powerful and lush dusted with pink peppercorns. Finally a little, reasonable, haute breakfast spot that's not slammed (yet).
(5)Yayo T.
Talk about unique flavors! Ordered the French Toast with a dash of peppercorn. WTF you say??? Yes, sounds crazy, but delicious and a very new taste! The egg white omelet was also unique in taste. My only gripe is that there's no second door to block the wind (yeah, first day of spring, and I'm still bitching about the 40 degree weather). Also, this place is NOT GOOD for kids. Please don't bring them! I can't imagine hearing them scream first thing in the morning if one is hung over. Bad enough I had to hear one screaming today. BYOB, outdoor seating coming along- just waiting on the weather, and parking is pretty easy on Damen.
(4)Dennis N.
One Classy Breakfast Spot! Three of us visited Jam for the first time & were very impressed. We received exceptional service from our waiter, Nathan. The fresh OJ was amazing as were the Eggs Benedict & Quiche we ordered. Wonderful outdoor, covered & indoor seatin (see pictures). Total ticket for 3 and a 27% tip was $60. We will definitely be back!
(5)Linda. G.
Not my usual stomping grounds, but I would definitely make a trip out here to eat again! The menu items will please both the adventurous as well as the picky. My friends and I were able to find breakfast staples as well as unique menu items. The food is both visually appealing and tasty. I highly recommend the Smoked Salmon, Salad Nicoise, and the French Toast. I'd skip the Bloody Mary though as there wasn't a good balance in flavors. Also street parking can be challenging... Other than those two flaws, I'm a fan!
(4)Angie F.
My favorite place for breakfast! Their jam isn't that great, but that omelette with Spanish chorizo rocks the house every time and their signature burger is a good choice for lunch. The restaurant is small, but they have a large outside area that almost doubles the size of the restaurant. Service is always a pleasure. They open at 7am so you can even stop in during the week and still make it to work on time!
(4)Jim M.
Visually a very pleasant space. The food was inventive, I had a salmon dish with some kind of tea sauce but overall execution was only a bit above average with prices that are not. I would probably give Jam another try but I'm not rushing back.
(3)Jared H.
They need to fig12ure out a way to get the names on the waiting list thing right. I don't mind being put on a waiting list but if you say it will be 20 mins- make it 20 mins. We waited 65 minutes just to be sat. And the service wasn't even that great. If I want a dude bro shouting "what do you want" I would go to a bar in Wrigleyville. Maybe a good way to start an interaction would be "...may I get you something to drink after standing around for over an hour? I do apologise for the wait." The food is good but the people who run the joint ... Eh
(2)mary r.
We tried the tasting menu. $25 you can't beat that. Our food was very fresh . The fish was prepared flawlessly. Dessert amazing. Strawberry Rhubarb yummyness on a buck wheat something topped with basil and creme fraiche. I will definitely go back for another great dinner that won't break the bank. They also have a huge outdoor patio to enjoy this summer.
(5)Jourdan S.
Great burger, fried egg and all that ish. asparagus soup was good too. Sadly there was lipstick on my coffee cup. Don't think they wash em well...Dunno bout you, but I'm not trying to holler at a cold sore via coffee mug. For that you ought to get at least a mean blowie and a steak dinner.
(4)Jordan V.
after singing jam's praises for two weeks, we returned with two friends only to be disappointed by our sandwiches. the veggie panini was soggy and overwhelmingly tasted of vinegar. the italian sandwich was just uninteresting cold cuts served with pasta salad. on the bright side, the octopus salad was made interesting by the addition of grapefruit and tomato, and the service was still stellar.
(3)Brian P.
Delicious, beautifully presented, and affordably priced ($25) prix fixe dinner. Servers were friendly and attentive. Definitely worth checking out.
(5)Sheena D.
Excellent and friendly service. I had the famous custard french toast and my husband had the breakfast sandwich - both were delicious! Great atmosphere and great coffee
(4)Meredith A.
Yum yum yum!.this place is yum! I started going to jam when they were on damen and armitage the food was fantastic! When they moved to Logan Square I was apprehensive...but they do not dissapoint! The quality is the same if not better. Thank you Jam for being such a wonderful brunch spot. Your food is rockin.
(5)Raquel L.
I'm surprised I haven't reviewed Jam sooner since they have been my favorite brunch place in Chicago for years. I tend to be a regular at places I LOVE and Jam is one of them. Also, if you can swing getting here on a Tuesday, they have an excellent Tasting Menu that is just amazing. Best brunch in Chicago!
(5)Tiffany K.
If you are looking for a good brunch spot, skip this spot. Everything here just doesn't work. I ordered a burger and my bf ordered the omelette. Both dishes were too heavy and poorly executed. It was also not worth the almost one hour wait. We went out on a limb because we had never tried this spot before, and we were very disappointed by the food. I get what they are trying to do in theory but the execution is not there. Also, the tables are crammed together and I can hear every conversation around me but mine. Not for me.
(1)Jacaqui B.
Absolutely love this place! Look at my tip thank you again Jeff(the chef) Joanne and Marybeth Excellent service and food try the French toast
(5)Chris R.
back for round 2...... porkbelly eggs benidict....WOW. Now my favorite brunch meal. Hands down. I'm going to have to order that from now on...or as long as its on the menu.
(5)Katie R.
I loved Jam! The breakfast choices are unique and priced reasonably, and the decor was lovely. I'll definitely be back to try the pork cheeks (sounds gross but looked delicious) and something from the lunch menu.
(5)Greco R.
Daring, creative, fun, but most importantly, good tasting. I ordered an egg white omelette, that I think had papaya and a quite tasty sauce, which I think had crushed macadamia. Had a freshly made scone for dessert, which was wonderful. The kitchen and dining area essentially share the same room, which makes for an unusual, but quite pleasant intimacy. Very great brunch offering. Got there around 10am and beat the rush. Be careful with the coffee. It is good, but they take bottomless quite literally and keep pouring and pouring. You'll get 6 cups down without thinking and will be walking around still all day, trying to find public restrooms.
(4)M M.
We're always hesitant to try new breakfast and brunch spots because we have our favorite but this particular day we thought what the heck and we now have another favorite! It's small, you see the kitchen and hear or see little situations but the food was delicious. I had the skirt steak with rice grits and WOW! I should also mention that we're all about dark coffee, the stronger the better, and we're thrilled that not only does this place have great food but they have great coffee to boot. JAM on!
(4)Ben M.
I've been to three of the bougie breakfast/brunch places in Chicago - Jam, Bongo Room, and Over Easy, and I can firmly say that this one is my favorite. Its a bit classier than the others, at basically the same price range (Over Easy was ever so slightly cheaper). The kitchen is TINY - that gets them so much extra cred. Like, how are you cooking all of the indoor tables' meals, and the outdoor tables meals, with two grills and two ovens? The insanity! Order anything - this place delivers. The lamb crepes, the apple pancakes, the pork sandwich, it doesnt matter, you cant go wrong.
(5)Jeff R.
About a year ago Julia Kramer (of TOC) said that Jam was "Only the best thing to happen to brunch in a long time." With a strong following and great food, this BYO, cash only store-front in Ukrainian village decided to expand to include dinner. When dining buddies Geoff and Ashley suggested dinner at Jam to honor Geoff's birthday, I was thrilled to experience what everyone else had been talking about. The dinner menu is quite simple with two main choices: a tasting menu of four or five courses, or seven a la carte items. I'm never one to shy away from a well prepared tasting menu and went with all five courses for $37. Ashley joined me with five courses while Geoff and Erica chose the $25 four course option. I appreciated their ability to be flexible with different lengths at one table, and even offered us to mix and match if someone preferred a la carte. Consumer flexibility and service is always appreciated. We had a great meal with friendly service at very compelling value (it helps when you bring your own wine). Total bill with tax and tip came to $160 for four people. We did not walk out stuffed, but pleasantly full from a good meal. If there is one main complaint from the evening, it would be that the first two courses do not do justice to the rest of the selections. Everyone started with an heirloom tomato with gorgonzola, watercress and coco nib puree. It was a simple starter with a nice plump and fresh tomato, but probably too simple to warrant its own course. I also did not understand the texture or flavor importance of the coco nib puree. Our second course was foie gras tortellini with melted onion and snap pea puree. I'm not a lover of foie gras, but I am a lover of tortellini. The presentation and technique made this a fun dish and I even enjoyed the foie gras flavors. The main comment was that, again, it was too small a course with three tortellini. The main entrees arrived and dispelled any notion of an average meal (the first two courses left us wondering). Erica may have made the best move of the evening with a four course meal selecting the roasted pork tenderloin as the entrée. While she enjoyed her entrée, the rest of us were served seared pacific ono with lemon gnocchi, blueberry, ricotta and an almond emulsion. There was a lot going on in this dish with a rather small piece of fish. The presentation was beautiful with the green, blue and yellow colors. The gnocchi and blueberries were interesting and fun textures to enjoy with fish. The almond emulsion made the well cooked fish taste close to perfection. Course three was a major success, we just wish there was a little more of it. Our meal continued to get better with course four (only for Ashley and me). Erica already sampled the pork tenderloin but it was now my turn. The roasted pork tenderloin served with fig, scallion cream, crisped bollo and tapenade was on the better dishes I've had in a long time. The pork was cooked well and the flavors jumped off the plate. Each bite could be savored and enjoyed with any of the dressings. I am quite certain the pork was the star dish of the evening. There were two desserts on the daily changing dessert menu, and we tried both. The first was a vanilla crème pudding served with small shortcake crackers, and the second was a mini molten chocolate cake served with vanilla Black Dog Gelato from down the street. While the pudding was tasty, the chocolate cake was incredible. This was one course I did not mind my smallish portion because I don't when I would have stopped eating. Having Black Dog down the street can take any dessert to the next level. We walked out very happy having experienced a wide range of gourmet flavors, a true testament to a well rounded and talented chef. While the extra course may not be worth the extra $12, I highly recommend the tasting menu to experience all that Jam offers. Bring a few bottles to enjoy and don't forget to stop at the ATM.
(4)Jessica K.
This place is fantastic. Service: very friendly, accommodating. Location: easy to get to from the blue line! Atmosphere: impeccably decorated and gorgeous natural light. Coffee & Tea were both so good. Best cup of coffee I've had at a restaurant in a long time. Hubby got the pork belly breakfast sandwich & finger potatoes. The meat was so tender and everything was cooked perfectly. The flavor of the meat was fantastic- not terribly spicy but very flavorful. I got the omelette with chorizo and it tasted so so good. Came with grilled cornbread. Definitely recommend.
(5)Jonathan C.
Chicken and Waffles, jamburger, egg sangwhich w/ pork shoulder???, can't wait to try everything else on the menu but it's so hard not to repeat the classics. Service is excellent, super cool, laid back atmosphere. You can tell they are all about the food.
(5)matt w.
Long over due visit to this little spot a block from my house, amazing! The corned beef sand was something outta this world! The potato salad that came with it was very tastey as well. Service was perfection! The server was attentive and very knowledgeable on the menu. We went through all lunch items and he described each one in detail. This guy ( think his name was Paul ) should be working fine dinning dowtown! Nice work Jam, I will be back!
(5)Bre F.
The food is amazing. The staff, not so much. Our waiter was very knowledgeable about the menu. He knew his stuff. He gave us awesome recommendations, and was funny. But it took him 20 minutes to even greet us, and I think we saw him 2 other times the entire meal. It really just seems like there is a nonchalant-ness to everything and everyone that works here. (I'll excuse the kitchen, there was a bit of a wait to sit down so I'm sure they were getting their butts kicked back there.) But everyone else, just sorta there. Hanging out. Not really moving at even a semi-fast pace. But besides that. Kudos to the chef! I can only really comment on my dish, the french toast. YUM. This was probably the first time I can remember liking french toast without some sort of syrup. Just macerated cherries, a citrus creme, and pink peppercorns. And I don't really like cherries. But this was so good. I'm sure if we had brought some booze it would have made the time go by quicker, and maybe if we had gotten a scone or something to wait with. But, over all this was pretty effing good.
(4)Megan R.
I went to Jam on Sunday for brunch with some friends. I called ahead to learn they don't take reservations - they told me it would be a 30 minute wait, but we sat down right away! Loved the way they managed my expectations. The food was delicious, portions were a little small, but I usually expect hefty portions for brunch and come hungry. I had their eggs benedict and was not at all disappointed. Beautiful instagram-worthy presentation and they incorporated inventive ingredients like pomegranate seeds which were a refreshing pop of flavor. The wait staff was extremely friendly, the entire establishment was beautifully decorated and very clean. I definitely want to go back and try other menu items!
(4)Leilo P.
Jam is hidden in Logan Square. When you finally find parking on Milwaukee and walk inside you are pleasantly surprised at the décor. The décor is impressive whoever you are! BUT this place is TINY! I suggest getting there around 10:00 a.m. because the rush seems to start right before 11:00 am when they start their lunch menu. HIGHLIGHTS: The service was superb, we had several waiters helping us and we never had to ask twice for anything. Their Apple Pie is shut-up-omg-delicious. By far, hands down, the best apple pie I've ever eaten. The Egg White was different than any other egg whites I usually get. These were poached artistically and the brussel sprouts had that nice char I love. DOWNFALLS: Their Bloody Mary is not worth ordering. It had a gross mussel, smelled funky and was more like a tomato smoothie than a Bloody Mary. The Ham Serrano was a bit of a bizarre dish to include on the brunch menu. It is similar to what you might get at a tapas restaurant but without cheese or other meats it was a 'random' menu item. Overall, Jam is a cute spot, but I tried it and I don't think I would go back. There was nothing mind blowing about the food. I hate to say this, but when you have Lula's within walking distance you have to try a little harder.
(3)Erica J.
I used to go to the other Jam location when I lived in Ukrainian Village and was pleasantly surprised that nearly two years later a new location had opened in Logan Square. The decor reminds me very much of the other location; a bit minimalist with lime green and natural wood accenting a fresh, white space. The food isn't overly complicated, but it is a departure from your normal hangover-brunch. You won't find plates overflowing with huge portions here, but you will find well-proportioned, creative options, such as poached pillows of egg whites seated atop a smear of sweet potato purree, with roasted sweet potato, frissee salad, and hazelnuts, or creamy oatmeal with a house-made cranberry chutney. The coffee is good, and they serve various fresh-squeezed juices.
(4)Helena G.
I would give 5 star to this place if it accepted cards. It's very frustrating and annoying when a "fancy" place like this one doesn't accept cards, it doesn't make any sense! The food is great, very creative and well done. As amuse bouche we had a delicious banana cake. We shared eggs Benedict and a full French toast. The eggs benedict came in a large plate with 2 lines of sauce, 2 small muffins with the eggs, some pork belly and beets. The mix of flavors was super interesting and delicious. The French toast had lime leaf cream and pink peppercorns. It was terrific! I loved the decor and the staff was very nice.
(4)Meridith E.
I had been waiting to get to Jam for the longest time and was so happy to make it yesterday for brunch. I loved the al fresco dining and the inside seating was modern and chic. Very cute. My friend and I sat outside and decided to share a couple of things. The zucchini pancakes were AMAZING. It is the perfect serving size...2 "normal" sized pancakes...and has a delicious run raisin topping with bruleed marshmallow topping with candied walnuts. SERIOUSLY? Delicious. Our other dish was the egg whites. The eggs and side salad were delicious, but we really didn't care for the cold mashed sweet potato wrap thing that came with it. Just not a good consistancy in my opinion. I think if the wrap were warm and filled with a sweet potato dice, it would have been more appetizing. Would definitely go there again! I am thinking next time I'll try a sandwich. There was a guy inside chowing on one and it looked delicious.
(4)Tyler H.
So I'm hesitant to write this review because I don't want one of my favorite neighborhood brunch spots to become more popular than it is...I love that I can go to a very well appointed, friendly, tasty, and high quality brunch in the Logan/Wicker/Buckton neighborhood on a weekend and not wait for a table...it's INSANE that people aren't all over this place. I actually crave their French Toast...and I don't normally order French Toast when I go to brunch b/c I love eggs...but I always have to at LEAST get the half order. They also have a special that the chef whips up every weekend morning, and it is always unique and great, but runs out when it runs out. I love the decor inside, but I'm shocked that they don't have a huge sign outside to attract people to the restaurant...if you don't come specifically to find it, you won't. A fantastic place to stop by for brunch and take a walk along Logan Blvd.
(4)Drew S.
Nicely played, JAM. I'm not sure if it's an accurate statement but the place feels like IKEA's concept of a dinner, complete with the open kitchen in the dining room. Lately I can't get away from ordering a classic eggs, pancake and fruit combo off the a la carte menu but the menu proper leans towards the interesting and presentation is always on point. Plus they've been accepting credit cards for a while- the future is here!
(5)Kristin F.
I had lunch at Jam this past Tuesday I tried the tasting menu and my friend had the eggs benny. It was the best brunch experience I have ever had. The only way it could have been better is if it was on a island in the Carribean instead of a little off the path in Logan Square. Everything was cooked to perfection and the price was right. I think Stacey h and Jim j would be better off at the ihop around the corner on California Ave. I have never been to a breakfast place were they had such well trained chefs in the kitchen (I heard the head chef was from Trotters?) I loved the open kitchen and the decor. I can not wait to go back!
(5)Melissa P.
Simply the best breakfast place I've been to in Chicago. I had a custard-based french toast with a peppercorn cherry compote. It was sweet, but not enough to be classified as a dessert. The food paired wonderfully with my fresh Chicago-brand Metropolis coffee. That stuff is liquid gold. We had the omelet with cremini mushrooms and sauteed onions. The eggs had a surprising crunch to them. When I think of crunch in an omelet, I often think of eggshells that had gotten carelessly tossed with the batter. Not so with these eggies! I can't put my finger on the taste, but if I were to guess I would say the mysterious crunch is from some form of a crouton. Whatever made the crunch, it was a pleasant surprise. Dessert for brunch, yes please. We shared their delicious apple scone with real chunks of fresh apple and fresh whipped butter. This was a wonderful breakfast and far worth your time to come to on a regular basis even if you don't live in Chicago.
(5)Egg L.
Meh. Cute decor, but this is one of those brunch places that serves what I like to call 'rich anorexic portions'. The waiter was familiar in a kind of obnoxious way - smirking after everyone ordered for a second to himself. The Egg Whites I had ordered were okay - nice brussel sprouts (could've been cooked sliiightly more) and it was all very austere and OK. The buckwheat pancakes with asian pear (at the market price) were AWFUL. Dry. And it didn't even come with maple syrup... when we asked for it, we were told: "well since we use 100% vermont maple syrup we charge an extra dollar for it, is that okay?" Sure, fine, okay - waiter comes back with a tiny tiny pitcher of syrup. Again, you had to very frugally pour the syrup over the pancakes. The free muffin starter they gave at the beginning of the meal was probably the best part; all went downhill from there. Overall verdict: pricey & not that great, but it's a nice enough looking place. Would not go back.
(2)Caroline M.
Two more exceptional visits.... I just don't get the three star average for Jam--it's quite shocking actually. The service is fine. The food is awesome. And, oh, yeah.....the open kitchen is lovely :) What is better than getting caffeinated, eating fancy poached eggs, and staring at chefs??? Make sure you inquire about the breakfast pastry of the day. It's always been the highlight of my brunch at Jam.
(5)Jason V.
Was very impressed with Sunday brunch at Jam--easily one of the best and most creative brunches I have had. We had to wait 10 minutes or so for a table for 5 in the outdoor courtyard but it was well worth it--though some credit is due to the perfect weather that day. Started with an order of Scones and Breakfast Pastries, both served piping hot. The herb scone was just okay but the pastry was very good. What really stole the show, though, was the house-made cherry jam--every little bit of the smears on the plate were scooped up. Definitely consider getting an order of one or the other (or both) even if you wouldn't normally get an appetizer item for brunch. The scones and pastries were followed up with the Eggs Benedict--which was a poached egg on top of a bread plated over an artistic brush of fennel hollandaise and served with crisped pork belly. The dish looked amazing, and the fennel hollandaise was fantastic. The pork belly was also pretty good. Tip: The pork belly as an additional side serves up a surprisingly large quantity of pork belly--a big value over the usual expectations of paying a couple bucks for two or three pieces of bacon a la carte. After the check we were rewarded with tiny chocolate cupcakes served straight from the oven topped with a delicious lemon creme fraiche. Again, this was good food that simply left you wanting for more. Service was pretty good and, as I mentioned before, the outdoor courtyard is a superb place to have brunch and ease into the day. It is BYOB, so feel free to bring a bottle of champagne if you want to enjoy some mimosas. Also, the fact that they are cash-only is a bit of a pain, but I can live with it given the food and environment. Why not a full five stars? I don't think Jam is quite at the point of being a destination restaurant where one would travel (as in, across state lines) to get to, but this isn't to say the thought didn't cross my mind. Jam ends up as a very strong four star establishment.
(4)Elisa E.
Do you know why it took 45 minutes to be seated, and then your table was right next to a shrieking 2 year-old? Because you went to BRUNCH. Man, I do not know why people still go to brunch, especially with kids. I would stay home and make animal-shaped pancakes for the rug-rats, plant them in front of a My Little Pony video and go back to bed. Oh yeah...the review of Jam. Try the evening. Jam's non-breakfast dishes are really quite exceptional, even when compared to a nearby Michelin-starred restaurant (Longman & Eagle). Jam is byob for now, so I started with fresh carrot juice and a delicious asparagus soup. The chef applied a thin layer of what appeared to be cooked garlic pulp to the bottom of the bowl, with creme fraiche, and the fragrant, leaf-green soup was poured over this base. Fantastic. The other stand-out was dessert, which was actually a breakfast item: Pineapple French Toast. The pineapple is finely diced and poached (?) in cranberry to create a complex, tart contrast to the slight sweetness of the toast. I usually don't touch restaurant whipped cream, but this was cloud-light and barely sweetened, dusted with spices or herbs. I'm giving Jam 4 stars for excellent food and service, albeit without a wine list to enjoy with it. Another star goes to the beautiful design of the space. Crisp oversized mirrors, clear lucite chairs, white "ball-of-string" pendant lamps and gorgeous laser-cut plexi wall fixtures give the space a sophisticated, yet sexy feel. If you bring a date here, it will set the right mood. [ Thanks for the ROTD, Yelp! I do want to note that JAM has discontinued dinner service. I hope they will reconsider in the future. The dining room is so pleasant in the evening, overlooking the parkway. ]
(5)Sonia L.
Went here for Sunday brunch. It was about a half hour wait... That's to be expected. I didn't like the fact that there's absolutely no room to wait (except outside... ) without just awkwardly standing in the entryway and being in everyone's way. I really, really didn't like how uncomfortably cramped and close-together the tables are. It's totally ridiculous to the point that everyone has to awkwardly turn sideways to squeeze by furniture just to move around in this place. When at my table I shouldn't feel like I'm pretty much dining with the people at the neighboring tables. They are cramming way too many tables into way too small a space and there's no room to even walk comfortably. The service was pretty bad. After first being seated, it was a solid 15 minutes before someone took our order. The waiter disappeared for long stretches of time. He took our credit card for paying the check and disappeared for 15 minutes before bringing it back. We definitely felt that they probably "forgot" about us quite a few times. As for the food, it was decent. I had the turkey club. It was fine. But not worth going back for.
(2)Pete V.
In a cozy spot off Damen sits Jam. A tiny nondescript brunch spot with so much scaffolding outside, we had to drive by twice before finding the place. But we weren't there for the ambiance, we came for good food, and at Jam we found plenty of it. With brunch being such a seemingly boring meal, the chef at Jam is doing an admirable job being adventurous and unique. We started off with the prosciutto and fennel scone. Lovely blend of flavors, a bit dry, as I thought it could use a more butter (I can't believe I just said that), but it crumbled nicely and the tiny prosciutto added a pleasant twist on a typically fruity breakfast pastry. I ordered the scotch egg and the biscuits and gravy for my main. The scotch egg on a waffle with a bit of raspberry jam was superb. First off, it seems nearly impossible to find a scotch egg on the menu of a Chicago restaurant (Owen & Engine) is the only other one I've found so far. Second, it was very well prepared, with a thin layer of sausage with bread crumbs/corn meal coating and cooked almost perfectly...I thought it was not quite runny enough, but still it was runny enough to enjoy with the sweet and savory nature of the waffle and jam. The biscuits and gravy were the highlight of the meal. Homemade sausage with a wonderful mushroom gravy and tight fresh biscuits; it was a unique take on tried and true southern dish that even Paula Dean wouldn't be able to turn down! -- (Not that Paula Dean would turn down any food for that matter) -- Besides the delicious food we had, the coffee was great and it was nice to see that they don't over charge you for coffee (it was a very reasonable $2). The place is BYOB and cash only so come prepared!
(4)Mat M.
I received a nice message from the owner after reviewing last week. It's always a good sign to see owners/managers following up with their online reputation. Good way to know they care. Go dine at Jam!
(4)Roger L.
I will go back, the service was superior, the ambience very cool, the menu interesting. Wasn't impressed with the dish I ordered, but was impressed with my friends selection, can't wait to try another item on the menu.
(4)Emily M.
I was referred here by my executive chef. I do believe that I had too high of expectations. The food was good and I believe had I gone on a weekend it would have been better. Service was okay. It seems to be missing something... Not the most comfortable environment for a brunch.
(3)Mahsa T.
I really wanted to like this place, and I did like the charming outdoor patio, but the food just really fell flat. The amazing amuse bouche (mini banana cupcake with icing) that I had heard so much about was actually really dry and tasteless--at least it was complimentary so no harm done, and it's not on the menu so don't look for it, they bring it out automatically. I went with the most popular recommendation from my fellow Yelpers and got the eggs Benedict (English muffin--or rather a smaller cubed version of an English muffin--with crisped pork belly and poached eggs). It was average, nothing about it stood out, no real differentiating taste or flavor, I could have made something yummier at home. I had a taste of the Jamburger (double patties with a sunnyside egg on top) and while it looked delectable, it too was a let down. Service from our waitress was slow. She was slow to take our order and slow to bring the check. The food took a long time to come out as well, and this was after the morning rush. Sadly, there was nothing else on their menu that I would want to come back for.
(3)Alison E.
Great brunch spot in Logan Square. It's the fancy type of food in a relaxed atmosphere. I'm not usually one to take picture of my food, but I did this time.
(4)Yadi R.
love love this place! But the wait SUCKS!!! Its perfect when its only 2 people because table for 2's always become available first. If your party is any bigger you will be waiting for awhile... They really need to expand... Their food is good, I just wish they upped on the serving size a little more. Other than that, I love coming here...
(5)Carolynne M.
Breakfast for dinner? Lunch for breakfast? Dinner for lunch? Yep, anything you want, here for you! Jam bills themselves as a diner, which couldn't be further from the truth. It is a darling, sleekly designed place, giving the vibe of a much more sophisticated space than one would expect based on the description and website. I had a pot of green tea, which was amazing, and the Eggs Benedict with a side of fresh fruit. The fruit was beautifully presented, lovely and fresh, consisting of pineapple, granny smith apple, melon, grapes and strawberries. I can safely say the Eggs Benedict was among the best I have ever had. Soft english muffin with crisp edges, perfectly poached eggs, gorgeous, huge chunks of pork belly, and the best part, a winter squash hollandaise. I am really on the fence about hollandaise in general, as it rarely is made well, and when I do take the leap the sauce is always too sharp, heavy and tangy. Well this sauce was delicious and really paired well with the other items on the plate. I would absolutely come back for another order of this. Plus, an attentive wait staff assured that we always had whatever we needed and made us feel pretty pampered. Upscale breakfast? At 6:30 at night? Heck yeah!
(5)Michael U.
The day started like any other in Ohio - early alarm, a trip to the gym, and my typical breakfast...four clock hours later (5 minus 1 accounting for time difference) I found myself seated at a table at Jam in Chicago for the first meal of my most recent trip to the Windy City - this time to see SOFA. With my sister and her art pals coming to town via car and myself flying Jam would be one of my solo meals for the trip and arriving shortly after 8am the place was largely empty. Seated immediately and presented with a menu I ordered a coffee and browsed the scene. Owned and operated by Jeffrey Mauro (who was manning the open front kitchen along with a young female,) Jam defines "hipster kitsch" in terms of music (Radiohead to Beach Boys,) layout (Acrylic Chairs,) and menu (upscale brunch classics somewhat reinvented.) It is also cash only. Sipping my coffee, a sturdy blend by Metropolis, I was next greeted by my server and orders were placed - a pastry and the dish described as their "signature." I will note that the online menu is not up to date, though both the online menu and in-store menu were full of wonderful sounding options. Settled in I was first delivered an amuse bouche - a nice touch for breakfast. Slightly bigger than a thimble the apple cider brioche was perfect for the season - loaded with spice and dissolving on the tongue in a manner similar to a gougere. Arriving second and plated much more elaborately than I'd have expected from something simply described as a "cinnamon roll" was - well - a cinnamon roll. Served hot off the grill and frosted in the open kitchen the pastry was of similar dimensions to a hockey puck but crisp and flaky seated next to a lovely hand whipped cream and raspberry jam. Somewhere between a croissant and a cinnamon roll in texture, buttery and aromatic - one of the better cinnamon rolls I've ever had, and small enough to serve as an excellent appetizer. For my main course I opted for the Malted Custard French Toast with Macerated Rhubarb, Lime Leaf Cream, and Pink Peppercorn. Watching the dish prepared from start to finish I will first note that this is some elaborate French Toast - thick brioche was pulled from a large container of liquid and first pan seared prior to entering the oven to be finished. After approximately 10 minutes in the oven the dish was plated and served up piping hot. Unfortunately everything that the toast had in preparation and presentation it largely lacked in flavor. Buttery for sure and interesting in the interplay of lime and peppercorn the dish lacked any sweetness aside from that imparted by the Rhubarb. While this dish may have found a more receptive audience amongst those who prefer a savory breakfast it simply wasn't my style. Adding to the disappointment, when I was presented with the bill it turned out I could've ordered a half-order and thus saved stomach space for another menu item. When it was all said and done I settled the bill - just over $20 with a good tip for excellent service - and made my way to the street en route for Millennium Park. While Jam was good, particularly in comparison to the options in my home town, I can't say I'd rush back - there are simply too many excellent breakfast and brunch spots in Chicago.
(3)Isaias M.
A friend of ours came to visit over the weekend and said we must come here for brunch, I was completely ready for disappointment. Not only was I completely satisfied I was utterly surprised on how good the food actually was. I tend to be weary of a lot of places that I "Must Go To" because usually I am disappointed on not being amazed. This is now on the very top of my Brunch list. Fresh quality ingredients and a true balance on flavors. A MUST VISIT!
(5)Angie M.
A solid 3 stars. On the plus side... * Adorably bite-sized amuse of a mini banana muffin topped with a dollop of chocolate cream cheese. It was super yummers and a nice surprise to start out the meal. * Diet Coke in 8 oz. glass bottles is kitschy and sweet. * Lovely service that didn't rush my brunching gal pal and me out when we finished our meals and were just sipping our coffee, gossiping and otherwise catching up as female friends tend to do. * Absolutely gorgeous outdoor patio complete with stones, landscaping and was it a horse statue? Truly an Eden-eque urban escape. And nicely shaded, too! * Beautiful food presentation. My Spanish omelet was so incredibly smooth and perfect it looked more like a breakfast burrito's tortilla exterior than egg. Clearly the chefs know how to prepare food. On the minus side... * Super rich food. I'm talking a Panini Cristo (French toast, prosciutto, tallegio, sautéed rapini and sweet mustard jam) swimming in butter and cheese. The Spanish omelet was overflowing with chorizo and oozing with Garrotxa cheese. I could only eat maybe half the omelet... and I can eat. * 'Spensive! I'm down with paying for a fancy meal, but to me, the food at Jam isn't really that fancy. Just pricey. My gal pal and I paid $22 each (with tax and tip) for a sandwich, an omelet, a diet Coke, some OJ and a couple of cups of java. Was it worth it? Especially when we could only muscle down half the meal? Not sure. * Pretty darn crowded. I'm an early bruncher so our arrival time of 9:30am was perfect. It was definitely full with a solid wait when we left an hour later. Gorgeous... yes. Was the food up to snuff... maybe. I'd really like to go back to try the oatmeal with a variety of toppings and maybe that pork belly sandwich. Anyone want to indulge in a Jam-fest with me again?
(3)Vivek V.
Context: lunch on Tuesday for four Atmosphere: on Logan square so off the beaten path for most people. Street parking is somewhat limited but we didn't have a huge problem finding it. Area around the place is decent and felt safe. Restaurant is part of a small strip of places in a gentrified little area with a small patio of outside seating that overlooks the wide, leafy street and boulevard. Inside, the modern decor is bright and open. Service: our server was relatively new but she was friendly and talkative. Our food was bought promptly and each dish is explained. Food: we were lucky to go on a Tuesday when they do a prix fix brunch menu (about $25) which allowed us to try several things, unusual in a breakfast place. We did two of those and ordered two items off the menu, a stuffed French toast and a chorizo omelet. Everything was good with some excellent bites as well. We were all brought a little muffin to start. It was moist and flavorful. The four course prix fix meal started with something I can't remember but it was very good. The second thing was a little waffle triangle with fruit, also good and then eggs Benedict and finally a panna cotta. The best thing though was the French toast which was creamy and fluffy and flavorful and literally some of the best French toast any of us had ever had. The omelet was also excellent, a beautiful presentation (all the food is presented artfully) with such a smooth egg wrapped around tasty and balanced filling. Is Spanish chorizo but it wasn't too hard, spicy and chewy with peppers and cheese. Drinks: bloody Mary's were exceptional, with rich, intense tomato and spice flavor and served with all kinds of fun little things, cheese and celery. The tea was also excellent, though served Ina bit of a broken tea pot.
(5)Murphy Z.
a cute place, very fresh ingredients
(4)Ryan H.
This is how brunch should be done. Having spent a few years in the industry myself, I know: no one wants to work brunch. It sucks. Anyone who has ever done it, knows... and likely expects a little less of any server who greets you before noon. But these guys were on their game. Brunch moves fast... and I did have to wait an extra minute or two for my order to be taken... but that's because I walked in within 2 or 3 minutes of 4 other tables. And 3 more walked in before my juice came. Insanity! But I quickly figured out why. The menu was really beautifully crafted, and I wasn't sure I could pick just which dish would ultimately be the most satisfying. Sweet? Savory? Something baked? fried? cold? Tough call. I went with the scotch egg - one of my new favorite outrageous indulgences. a soft-boiled egg, wrapped in sausage meat, breaded and deep-fried. Cholesterol, what? Oh well. This particular egg was served atop a small sage-scented waffle with a bit of raspberry coulis and some diced apple and frisee. I hate frisee, But the sweet/tart coulis paired well with the savory waffle and the salty egg/sausage. They were out of the side I ordered, but the server cheerfully recommended the crisped pork belly. Pork belly is hit or miss with me, but I took a shot. And this hit was a bullseye. Enough meat to give them fatty bits some structure... A great texture and balance not always easy to achieve with belly meat. There was no amuse, which is fine (it's not required, obviously) but so many other reviews referenced it, so I had been looking forward to some little sweet bite to start off. Oh well... no other table nearby seemed to receive one, so I know I wasn't just left out. The fresh-squeezed OJ topped it off nicely, and I never came close to running out of water - the back-server was really attentive. I did have a couple of minutes to kill before receiving the check at the end, but again, I gave them the benefit of the doubt since they were so busy. Plus, it was a great chance to just watch the VERY open kitchen (open on two sides, with just a half-wall separating it from the dining room. I love an open kitchen, so I was happily entertained while I waited. Well-priced, a great value... this place must have a crazy cult following on the weekends. I showed up just before 9 and it was packed by 9:05. On that note... I want to address a couple of other reviews here. 1 star, because you had to wait for a table? Right. If you go to a busy, popular spot, that only has about a dozen tables... expect that those for 4 are for 4. Those for 2 are for 2. It's the way the world works. If you can't handle basic restaurant rules, make your own breakfast. Rant over.
(4)Kristen B.
Just had dinner there with a friend and it couldn't have been better. We shared a half order of the french toast as an appetizer, then each had a cup of soup (which was asparagus), and split the turkey club. Our server Brandon was friendly and attentive. The first time I went to Jam was for brunch, and true to form, we waited quite awhile to be seated, and then ended up at the community table with a few randoms. I didn't mind the experience since I know what to expect when having Sunday brunch in Chicago, but it's not my favorite thing to do. The other times I have been there were off hours, once for lunch at 2PM, then again tonight - Tuesday at 7:30. Both times it was not busy and very pleasant. My recommendation if you want to enjoy this place is to go at a time that's not insane.
(4)Sabine K.
So after my initial review I got a really sweet message from the owner inviting me to come back and try the farm dinner. So my brunch friend (the same one who ordered the amazing zuchini bread with the homemade marshmellow) trotted back over and had dinner. My friend was there before me and got us a seat outside, I was a few minutes late - typical. It was a beautiful evening and once again I was struck by what a wonderful location this is. Anyway, I get there and our server comes out right away. She explains a few things to us, and we settle on the 4 course pre-fixe dinner with wine pairings. You also have the option to do the 5 course meal. I have to say, before I go any further, that pre-fixe has really grown on me. I'm usually so anal about stuff, that the idea of just sitting back and not having to make any decisions is really welcoming, especially on a Friday night. So, dinner. The wine came out first, it was a blanc de blanc. What better way to start off a hotly anticipated dinner that with some bubbly. The paired heirloom carrot salad came out a few minutes later. Even though it's called an heirloom carrot salad, the stars of the salad were clearly the smoked mussels. Amazing! With field greens, a poached quail egg, and salmon mousse. Off to a good start. The second course was home made foie gras tortellini with a pureed asparagus sauce paired with a really dry Riesling. I'm usually not a Riesling person, but this was really exquisite. Main course for me was the antelope. My friend got the halibut and then we shared. Let me just preface that I'm all about exotic meats - bring it. My friend was a little more hesitant. I'm pretty sure that this time I got the better dish. The antelope was ridiculous. Seared on the outside and still tender and pink on the inside. It came with a side of caponata which changed my life. There was a little herring fillet on top which gave just the right amount of brine to cut the richness. And the fact that it came in an adorable red Le Creuset dish did not get lost on me. Nice touch, Jam :) My friend's Halibut was also amazing. Soft, flakey, delicious, you know, all of the good things fish is supposed to be. I got a red and she got a white. I have no idea what it was, by this point I was so lost in food ecstacy that I forgot to take notes. For desert they went real traditional. Blueberry muffin with creme fraiche (?) and some blueberries sprinkled on the side. Paired with a really sweet late season white dessert wine. This muffin.. how can I say this. This muffin was unlike any other muffin I've ever had, in a really good way. I'm assuming there's a stick of butter per muffin. And I was okay with that. After we just got a coffee and sat for a while and soaked up the magic of the evening. Jerry came over and introduced himself to us during the meal and chatted for a bit and asked how everything was. He was really sweet and seemed genuinely interested in our experience, which I appreciate. Final thoughts : I've always equated Jam with brunch. After this, I would highly recommend visitng for dinner. Seriously. Even though the restaurant has a full bar, it's still byob, which I think is really fantastic, and I haven't seen before. This helps keep costs down for the clients, but a lower bill typically means less tip for a server who still provides great service. So if you do bring your own, please remember to tip a little more than you typically would. Also, our server - I think her name was Elizabeth - was really knowledgable, eager to help and explain dishes, and friendly. Thanks for a great experience :)
(5)Amy H.
I was really excited to finally try Jam. I must be the last person on Yelp who hasn't been here yet! What I experienced was an epic letdown. I met my friend here for brunch around 1-ish and when I arrived he had already been put on the waitlist for a table so we were able to be seated just minutes after I arrived. Our waiter came over and said "What would you like to order??" Well, for starters, I would like some coffee, maybe some juice. How about a drink order first and give us some time to look at the menu, mkay?? No amuse bouche. Sad face. Although I did spy them delivering some petite plates of what looked like amuse bouche to another table. My friend said that sometimes they "run out". That's understandable, I guess. Still it was le sad. I ordered the Malted Custard French Toast, which was ok. It had rhubarb on it and I likes rhubarb. It also had some type of lime flavored foam, which was good. It was hard to know exactly what was on it because our waiter was really hard to understand...a British accent mixed with a mush-mouth. My friend's Jam Burger was good and the place was really cute. The service was suck-tastic. I had to ask for coffee refills, although the coffee was really delicious. I guess if you're going to come for brunch, come at the beginning of the brunch rush and not at the end.
(2)Dominick W.
"EXCERPTED FROM A CONVERSATION WITH A FRIEND VIA FACEBOOK ABOUT MY EXPERIENCE AT JAM" Me: JAM blows. Friend: Why? Me: Not that I ought to have to explain myself, because if I tell you something blows you should just accept that as the truth and not ask me stupid questions like, "Why?," but JAM blows because: 1) They don't put hollandaise sauce on their Eggs Benedict and that's just fucked in the head. 2) It's cash-only, and you know how I feel about cash-only establishments - goo.gl/K4BT1 3) Our waitress was nice, but probably better-suited for a job where just disappearing for long stretches of time is a desirable skill 4) They had this stringy-curtain thing that bugged the shit out of me.
(2)Sonia B.
JAM, your style might be a little cliche for my taste, but I think we can be friends. My date suggested coming here on Christmas Eve day after a failed attempt at a crazyyy busy Cozy Corner, and it turned out to be a great experience all around. Our service from the moment we walked in, was spectacular. Everyone was so nice and attentive, and we even got a little delicious pumpkin muffin while we waited for our breakfast. I was in the mood for savory, so I ordered the Omelet with fresh ham and brussels sprouts, and my date seemed to be in the mood for sweet, so he got the pumpkin pancakes with a fabulous toasted marshmallow on top. Both dishes, though different, were quite good. I think the ham was a bit too rich for my taste, but would recommend it, as well as the pumpkin pancakes. We also had the house coffee, which complimented our meal well. Although, at $3 a cup, I don't think I am crazy about their prices. They are also cash-only, so something to keep in mind when coming here, too!
(4)Molly A.
we came here for brunch on a busy sunday morning. there was QUITE a wait (and they kiiiiiind of lied to us about how long the wait would BE), but we did have a huge party, so it was definitely understandable. luckily, the farmer's market kept us occupied while we waited for a table to open up. i had a bloody mary and it was delicious! i'm a hard to please bloody mary drinker, because my husband makes the best version of this drink, but JAM came pretty darn close to being AS good, with the perfect amount of spice, and not too watered down. i was also in love with my food choice. i had a vegetable sandwich with melted cheese, and while this concept is often difficult to pull off without being stringy, overly cheesy and not "meaty" enough (yes, i realize the irony of that description). i also love that they have a "french toast of the day." everyone seemed pretty happy with their food - the only reason i didn't give five stars was because, like most things in logan square, it was kind of pricey, so i can't frequent this place as much as i would like to. probably best, since health food isn't exactly on the menu here. definitely check this out if you have visitors in town!
(4)Molly P.
It was clear when I walked through the door that this was no greasy spoon breakfast joint. The space communicated a sophisticated attention to detail that became more and more apparent with every bite of my meal. My whitefish quiche's flaky crust and bright citrus accents were spot on. It was garnished with black lava sea salt that gave it just the extra bite needed. The quiche was served with a red onion and bagel chip panzanella that was "jam" packed with peppery arugula and fried capers. I highly recommend it and Jam for brunch. For more on our visit check out my blog: bit.ly/K2yq9N
(5)Phil S.
I live very close to Jam. Every weekend morning there is a line out the door. The only explanation I can give for this us that it takes forever for your food to come. The outdoor space appears charming but you quickly realize the rustic aspect may not be intentional. While waiting (and waiting) for our food at least two different cats leapt over the fence and onto our table. It's rather unfortunate when stray animals show up more than your waiter. Food was so-so. Seemed like the food was waiting in the window too long. Nothing worse than eggs that have sat too long.
(1)Sabrina S.
This was just ok for brunch. it was abou $20/pp which I found pricey for the portion sizes. It is more fine dining and elegant ingredients but if you're hungry, not a great place to go to feel satisfied after your meal. The wait time can be long because service on a Sunday is attentive but food prep time was very slow. The waitress was knowledgeable about the dishes and gave some good recommendations.
(3)Christoph B.
Shock! Horror! Jam recently opened in my neighborhood. Gentrification in Logan Square is now complete. Normally I would avoid Jam for this reason alone, but since Cozy Corner had a wait on Christmas Eve day, my date and I decided to try this new spot instead. To my surprise, it was really quite good. We were seated immediately in the front window (no doubt because we are both extremely good-looking). The tables and chairs look like they came straight out of a CB2 catalog. Even the water on our table was in a fancy cork bottle. I had the pumpkin pancakes. They were really good and came with a toasted melty marshmallow topping. My partner ordered the omelet with ham and brussel sprouts. We both liked our food. It wasn't the best breakfast I've ever had but it was a nice change from typical diner food. The coffee is $3 a cup, but it was also really good. We left spending less than $30 for the two of us. Not horribly overpriced, but still more than I would normally spend on breakfast. But whatever, if you can afford it, Jam is solid.
(4)Kelly D.
Stopped in for a late breakfast/early lunch on a Monday and we basically had the place to ourselves -- the soup of the day (onion) was 5 stars, and the roasted vegetable sandwich was pretty good but very heavy on the cheese, which was a little disappointing. The bread had either soaked up the grease from the cheese or been slathered in butter. Had been hoping for a slightly lighter meal, but they had run out of the item I originally ordered (the legume salad) and had to choose something else on the spot. Our waitress was super friendly, and I'd like to go back and give it another try.
(4)Megan G.
Yes, I Love me some JAM. I will wait in the line, I will sit too close to strangers having obnoxious conversations about how people think they look like Joaquin Phoenix, and yet still I will very much enjoy my brunch. The food here is STELLAR. The Metropolis coffee is always hot and delicious. I have been here several times and every time has been amazing.
(4)Kate M.
I was in dire need of a comforting breakfast Friday morning and found my way over to Jam. The dining room is much nicer than I expected for a breakfast place. There was a nice patio that would be good for lunch or dinner, but a little too buggy for a 7 am breakfast. We had the buckwheat savory crepes and the malted french toast. The crepes were delicious, I'm still thinking about them actually. The french toast, as with most french toasts, was too sweet for me but it was good. The service was exceptional. Our server was just attentive enough and knowledgeable about the menu. I wish I lived closer to Jam. This is the kind of breakfast place I've been looking for to have a "fancy" breakfast ever once in a while in the middle of all my dinner divey breakfasts. They only take cash though so come prepared.
(5)Chan K.
I came here on a Sunday morning for breakfast. I ordered the buckwheat crepes with lamb. The hazelnut glaze paired perfectly with the lamb. It was a savory dish, but didn't feel too heavy; with the delicate crepe wrapping and complex sauce I was eagerly scarfing it down. Great presentation too. I'm more of a casual breakfast eater, and so a nicer restaurant like this is not my style. I also thought the tables were too close together. Again, that's just my personal preference. I enjoy Sunday lounging after breakfast with the paper and coffee, and this place is definitely does not have that cafe vibe, at least inside. Food is a tad bit overpriced, but I would come here again to treat a guest.
(4)Jocelyn P.
Wow. I read all of the reviews and figured it'd be at lest a 3-star experience, but that it could have been even better. In fact, in ended up being lackluster. FOOD- The food itself was amazing & delicious, and decently priced/proportioned. I would give the food 4 stars. (Fantastic potato-leek pancakes and green tea.) SERVICE- This part was fine, 3 stars. AMBIENCE- Here is where negative stars have been achieved so as to lower the entire rating to 2 stars, even 1 1/2 stars to be honest. The decor was OK, but not that cute. The tables were squished together and we were seated in a very "bad energy" spot, in the aisle between front door and back kitchen door, perpendicular to another table, how odd & unsettling for us whom are attuned to such matters. Also, overall, we felt it seemed more of a destination spot for Lincoln Parkers and not a Logan Square neighborhood spot. If the opening of JAM is a trend of what is to come, I am spooked. The clientele was not the usual fun & young & creative & upbeat lovable, happy, good-times I've come to cherish in my community. Le sigh. Go here if you dare, or if you're very, very curious (as I'll admit I was!). :D :) :/
(2)Alicia G.
I love Jam! Had excellent service and I can't say enough about the coffee, zucchini bread pancakes or french toast! Soooo scrumptious and a definite must have. There is an item I think they should completely nix off the menu and that's the egg sandwich. It's WAY too big. The sandwich had about a half pound of pork shoulder on it that had absolutely no flavor , a smear of plum jam, and an egg all stuffed between a ciabatta roll. Not exactly what I was expecting. With that said everything else I have had here is superb! The location is right on the blvd, decor is clean and simple, and for what you get it's an excellent price. I say give it a try!
(4)Carmen W.
Went there once for brunch a while ago and everything was impeccable. Sunday late after the early brunch was a good time to go and upon seating we had an amuse- bouche was the cutest little zucchini muffin. I had the lamb crepes and they were excellent!!! The pork belly Benedict was outstanding and the plates looked like they were straight out of a magazine. This restaurant was quaint and i enjoyed being able to look over at the chef. It was like being in someones home. I would definitely go back the pork belly was cooked perfectly and had an awesome crunch on the outside. My perfectly poached egg was delicate and made me feel like a queen. Try this place instead of the usual brunch places that don't live up to the hype.
(5)Joan L.
The food was okay but it was nothing to write home about, especially for the high-ish price. I got the pork breakfast sandwich and it was just kinda one note all the way through. It was kinda good (only really because I love eggs no matter what crap they're on) but mostly bland and unexciting. If you're gonna make hoity-toity food, make it good hoity-toity food. Also, I will probably never come here again because the decor drives me crazy. It's like Ikea and Crate&Barrel barfed all over the inside. Pseudo design lover, pseudo modern with stupid bead curtain things hanging on the walls. Shoot me now.
(2)Lauren D.
Brunch has become a mild obsession of mine. I think all the years I used to refuse to go to brunch (for a reason still unbeknownst to me) are finally coming back to haunt me and I have to go at least once a week. I've tried my fair share of brunch places in Chicago and Jam certainly stands out. (So much so, in fact, that I brunched here two days in a row.) (1) setting: the boulevard in Logan Square is one of my favorite settings in Chicago, so Jam's definitely got that going for them. (2) inside: the decor was really well done. It's got a modern and "happy" vibe to it - lots of mirrors, cool tables and glass chairs. Don't get me wrong: I'm all about casual brunch places, but Jam somehow accomplishes appealing to both an easy, casual brunch and a more "dressy" brunch. (3) food: the French toast really is incredible, so you've got to try that for sure. The yogurt and granola is also tasty and good for a side or starter, and the egg sandwich with pork shoulder is a favorite. Perfectly sized portions, as well. And, you may find this hard to believe, but Jam has the BEST scrambled eggs I've ever tasted in my life.
(4)Mark H.
Jam. Yes, I will. A beautiful space, visually. & food fit right in. Obviously this is not for everyone (a quote from a friend: that little overly modern looking joint on the corner by NewWave). But I was excited when I saw the menu. Composed dishes with some thought & creativity, but still breakfast. I was able to taste the: Guisado Verde 14 Braised Beef, Corn Risotto, Tomato Cream, Tomatillo, Sunnyside Egg. And the : Eggs Benedict 12 English Muffin, Poached Eggs, Pork Belly, Spring Onion, Forono Beet Hollandaise. The Guisado was pretty damn good. I felt the corn was lacking in the risotto, but over all the dish was good. The benedict was good as well. Especially considering I'm not a lover of beets. There was an option for a tasting menu, which you don't see for breakfast very often. I'll be doing that next time! 4.5!
(4)Teri Y.
Based on my experience at Jam, I'm giving them a solid 3-star rating. Jam's decor is abstract and contemporary. It reminded me of Takashi restaurant or other fine dining places. Jam gets stars for introducing brunch food as gourmet food. My braised lamb crepe was presented like I was at a nice dinner at a West Loop restaurant. The taste was good but not great. So why 3 stars? They dont have espresso drinks. What?! A gourmet brunch place doesn't have an espresso machine? We had to settle for drip brew coffee. I initially wanted the Scotch egg and was later told that they were out of that. I wanted the Threedom of Choice where I could choose 3 items of choice but was told that the kitchen is too busy and they weren't running that because there's too much coordination, but I could choose to order one item as a side. Doesn't even make sense. Aren't kitchens supposed to be busy? Thats their job in preparing what customers want. Anyway the server recommended some popular items that I could choose from. I'm glad we tried Jam but won't go out of our way to come back here though.
(3)Cara T.
I took my family here for brunch when they came into town for a visit. We had a group of 5. Can you say awful experience? I was extremely close and incredibly loud (Ha..didn't realize I just typed that). We weren't able to talk really at all. I had the Eggs Benedict. It was really heavy. I might have just ordered the wrong thing, but the bread seemed really dense, the sauce was really thick, and the pork belly just added more weight on top of all that. I wasn't impressed. Family mostly got omelets and they seemed to like them okay. Overall, we waited probably an hour and everything was just okay. The best part was the free s'more cookie and fresh OJ. I may go back and get the burger for lunch one day. I won't be back for brunch. There are too many other good places close to this location (Dunlay's, Lula, etc.) that I know and love.
(2)Jennifer H.
I came here on Sunday after having some industry friends rave how much they love Jam and I agree. My husband and I arrived around 10ish on Sunday and we were sat right away, shortly after arriving the restaurant did begin to fill up quickly. I ordered the Pecan Sticky Bun as an appetizer and it was fresh out of the oven. The plating was beautiful and the pecan bun was perfect in size and so tasty! For my main I ordered the Eggs Benedict and it was amazing. First off the presentation was beautiful, the eggs were seasoned perfectly and the flavors melted in your mouth. Jam will now become a regular brunch spot for my husband and me. Service, food and ambiance are awesome. If you are looking for great food for brunch, then look no further. I can't wait to come back!
(5)Jenna C.
There was no wait at 10:30am Sunday brunch which makes me almost not want to write a review. French toast was standard or above. Poached egg whites were fabulous, perfectly cooked with a really delicious salad. Service was great. The not so great: Too many Lincoln Park yuppies. Terrible music to placate above yuppies.
(4)Ciara B.
The only reason I am giving this place a 2 instead of a 1 is because the decor was nice to look at. I had high hopes going here after reading reviews in the Red Eye. However, the food ended up being sub par. My biscuits and gravy were cold and the portions were minimal. The overall flavoring of the breakfast was bland (and this is from taking a bite off of 5 different plates at the table). It seems the trendiness reputation and vibe of Jam is bound to trick many customers into thinking that the $15/plate for breakfast food is worth it, but I recommend skipping the trend and finding a breakfast place where the food is plentiful in both portion and flavor and it costs $5, as it should for breakfast.
(2)Kyra M.
I'd maybe come back for the dinner tasting menu, but that's a big maybe. Walked past this place Saturday night on our walk to Lula and decided to walk over for Sunday brunch. The wait was entirely too long, and it was obvious while we were waiting the kitchen was moving very slow. Barely anyone seated actually had food on their table. When we finally got seated, it took forever to have our order taken. Our appetizer came out before our cocktails. The appetizer, in fact, the waffle with a fried chicken thigh, was the only memorable portion of this meal, and it's not even a regular menu item. I had the egg sandwich, and my partner had the omelette. The guy at the table next to us also had the egg sandwich, and at the end of the meal he asked me if I also thought the meat could've used some salt. Pretty much. The food lacked flavor in general. My cocktail was ok (the bacon old fashioned), but my partner wasn't a fan of his bloody Mary. If I'm going to spend time waiting for brunch, there are plenty of better options in the area.
(3)Ashley F.
Let me tell you about Jam. -Amus-bouche at brunch? Yes please. Goes great with the excellent coffee. -The decor is adorable, but the tables are a little too close for comfort when it's crowded. I don't enjoy nearly elbowing my neighbor in the head when I need to get up to use the restroom. -The wait staff is pleasant. When they get crushed, you do have to wait a smidge. -Don't go to brunch if you want quiet. It gets loud in here. -BYOB and plan to stay that way even once they have their liquor license. Please and thank you. I really like Jam. Their German Chocolate Pancakes are to die for.
(4)Julia C.
Unbeknownst to me- it looks like this place had a former location. I'd love for Yelp to separate the two, because half of these reviews are NO WHERE CLOSE to what the bf and I experienced today. First off- the decor needs a nod of its own. Lovely color palate, creative use of mirrors/clear plastic chairs to make the space feel huge, and slightly divided areas, which seemed to divide those in for lunch and those in for the long haul quite well. Don't let it fool you though- completely comfortable! The chairs were perfect for that mid-day, slightly slouchy, relaxed mode. From there? Amazing. Delicious. Impeccable service. We walked up to the Cash Only sign on the door- the bf froze, but between the two of us, we had about $50 and figured that was fine. Amazingly, we somehow didn't even spend that much! I had the French toast and the bf had the Jamburger. Our server, Brandon, could not have been more awesome. He started with an explanation of how they make the french toast, marinate overnight, balance the sweet with tart flavors- totally made the difference. Also, the pink peppercorn on the lime whip? Brilliant! Shane's Jamburger looked phenomenal. It was a little slippery to pick up with the egg, roasted tomato, and cheese, but he loved it. Would've snagged a seasoned French fry too, but he loved them as well! I'm excited that they do breakfast, lunch, and dinner. We can't wait to go back and try more things. I know they just opened today, but I'm crossing my fingers that everything stays impeccably quick and tasty as they get busier! Ps- it's byob. I would've loved to bring some bubbly for brunch- next time I won't forget!
(5)Cara B.
I went to brunch here this past Sunday and have to admit, i was pretty disappointed. I went with 2 other friends and when we got there, they told us it was about a 15 minute wait which was no problem as the farmers market was going on. They took our phone number and told us they would call, which i always think is a perk from places. However, when they called us to tell us our table was ready, they sat us at a 2 top outside and pulled up an extra chair and place setting. Normally, this wouldn't bother me, but they were jam packing the patio so tight, you really couldn't move too much. They also looked at all 3 of us, and then proceeded to ask if it was for 2 people still (which it never was). We were served water, and there was oj flakes in there as it hadn't been cleaned out very well. When one of the staff caught that, they said they would bring us a fresh pitcher that we never received until we asked our waitress for water. The rest of the experience was VERY slow, including getting coffee, refills, and our food. While waiting, we were served small brownie/peanut butter bites to hold us over until the food came out since it was taking so long, which was a nice gesture. Once the food hit the table, the presentation was very nice, but i thought that it stopped there. I ordererd the breakfast egg sandwich with the pork and the bottom piece of bread was so soggy and mushy, it was hard to even hold. i ended up using a fork/knife to eat it. Overall, i didn't think it had too much flavor besides the jam. That part was delish! The food was lukewarm like it had been sitting, and the potatoes that came with were not even cooked all the way through. The other 2 people I ate with ordered the chorizo omelette (which i thought had the most flavor) and the italian sandwich. The bread on the italian was much yummier as i compared it to my own. Our waitress checked to see if everything was okay, offered a refill on coffee and then never brought it. When we finally got the check and gave her our credit cards, we waited another 15 minutes for her to bring them back. She was the SLOWEST. Overall, not impressed, which bummed me out since i had heard good things. Im hoping we just caught them on an off day. But nothing we got is anything i would go back for and the slowness of the service was borderline ridiculous!
(2)Jennifer S.
I had the blueberry pancakes. They were too heavy, too rich, too cakey, very unsatisfying. Oh...and they charged us for syrup even though I didn't ask for it!!!! I've never before been to a restaurant where you order a pancake item and be charged for syrup!!!! I went once, will never step foot in that place again. Also, the server sucked. The place wasn't' even busy, but it took him forever to take our order. Not pleased....
(1)Kathleen C.
I really wanted to like Jam... I visited for brunch with a group on a lovely Friday. The outdoor patio area is a little haven away from the street. However, it seemed as if we had missed the actual lunch/brunch crowd as the restaurant was very empty and even so, we were not able to order items from the earlier menu (we had a mid-day menu). However, the food was quite delicious and service was quick and helpful. Prices were not inexpensive, but were reasonable. Due to the delicious food, our group decided to return, as part of a larger group, for dinner. We were again seated outside. The restaurant is BYO, and we were provided glasses, wine buckets, corkscrews, etc, quickly upon arrival. However, this is where the similarity to brunch ended. There is a tasting menu at dinner, but none of these items are offered a la carte (I feel this is quite odd, as outside of restaurant week menus, most restaurants are happy to offer fixed menu items a la carte). A few of us opted for the tasting menu, while some had meals from the regular menu. We waited extensively for our meals. The kitchen is miniscule and does not seem to be able to keep up with the dinner crowd. The food itself was tasty. However, small portions for some menu items were surprising. Additionally, our group requested some items that we were not provided with which resulted in a discussion with the manager that did not solve the issue. Overall, the nice outdoor patio does not make up for the inflexible menu options, long wait for food, and the service. There are other great BYOs in the area that are much better options.
(2)Shayna N.
Another new restaurant in our hood yippee! Jam is open 7a - 9p every day. They specialize in breakfast / brunch (all day!) , but dinner options are also available. Almost everything is made in house, making it super tasty. We got here at ~12 on Sunday and only had to wait 15 minutes. Our server was super cute, friendly and prompt, plus there was no delay on water and coffee refills. We split a half serving of the FRENCH TOAST which was AMA ZING. So light and fluffy and delicately flavored. I also had the Kale salad which was fantastically soft and mild, especially for kale. My husband had the lamb special. To round out the breakfast, the Metropolis Coffee was delish!
(4)Robin W.
Yummy for brunch! This place gets crammed though so expect a wait! The decor is super cute/trendy. The food is delicious. The service is good, friendly. I love that they give you a lil miniature pastry to start your meal :) I don't like the cash only thing... I always forget and then it's a walk to the Chase down the street. The brunch menu has some inventive items: my fav so far is the roast vegetable hash with a poached egg; the roasted beets make the dish. Yum... I'll be back for the blue plate special dinners soon.
(4)Erika C.
JAM is a neighborhood place that I wanted to believe in but let me down. Based on the reviews below, it seems like I'm not alone: brunch is a no-go. My partner and I arrived on a Saturday morning and were seated immediately inside the restaurant. The service is OK. There were a couple of times we either ran out of coffee or needed something and were unable to get our server's attention. I ordered the zucchini bread pancakes and pork sausage. Our server recommended that I get all the fixings (candied walnuts, marshmallows and rum glaze) on the side but still recommended that I order the pancakes since I expressed to her that I did not like sugary extras. My partner ordered the salad niçoise (octopus salad) and a soup. I'd like to review the pork sausage but it never arrived. I asked for it 3 times! It finally arrived when we were done with our meal. My pancakes were so sweet that I had to ask for a salty butter to counterbalance the sweetness. I did not use any of the fixings. My partner loved his octopus salad which I did not try. At the end our server sensed our disappointment with the overall experience that she provided us with a certificate for free wine pairings for the next time we're in for dinner. Not sure if that will happen soon but I always give establishments a second try.
(2)Liz D.
I DREAM of the salmon dish here - it is my favorite dish for breakfast in the city. I come here and eat it until we need to take a break (the salmon and I that is). It's got me so dreamy that I never order anything else here, so I turn into one of those annoying "can I try that?" people who's reaching her fork across the table at my bf b/f he answers (note to all others: we suck) since while his go-to is the pork shoulder egg sandwich (drool) he branches out now and then. We go at 1 on a Saturday (always a table open then) and get our regulars and booze it up. I once had a Tuesday off and came for the tasting menu and it's one of the best deals in the city - 4 courses, $20, totally worth double that. I put this down as "spendy" as we can't ever pass up a Saturday cocktail or 3 - I'm referring to you, Beatrix Potter (fresh pressed carrot juice, maple syrup, bourbon, happiness). I love the servers (friendly, attentive, professional - and I'm including you too busboy) and the place is cute as heII, but unfortunately not super comfy unless your a slight and tiny person (it's crowded and the chairs are hard and small, inside & out). the food is SO GOOD I can't knock a star even though I am neither slight nor tiny (thanks salmon breakfast and 1pm boozing). Beautifully presented, highest quality, delicious food; superb staff, excellent location and design, consistently excellent, crowded, a bit pricey, totally worth it. I don't know how people can say the servings are small here (did I mention I am neither tiny nor slight?) other than the food is so good your are slightly saddened by the self-emptying of your plate.
(5)Rob D.
I've been to Jam on a few occasions and the experience has been hit or miss. Unfortunately, it was the recent miss that led to this review. Without the miss, it's an easy 4-5 star place, but average in the 1-2 star experience and we'll call it a 3. So, on to the experience. I'll start with the good. The spanish omelet is delicious. The mini-pastry served up before your meal has never disappointed and is an enjoyable surprise the first time you come. The scones are worth the trip alone. Now, on to the bad. Came here on a late Sunday morning with the girlfriend. After a short wait, we were seated by the kitchen. I ordered up the breakfast sandwich (pork, egg, cant recall the other stuff), she orders the blueberry pancakes. 45 minutes later, our food shows up... So, not off to a good start. I dive in to my sandwich. It's good, nothing to write home about, but a solid effort none the less. After a few bites, I look up to see one bite missing from the pancakes and a dejected look on the gf's face. How they managed to screw up blueberry pancakes is completely beyond me. Doughy and bland come to mind. Seeing as how my gf is a server herself and normally recoils in horror at the thought of sending food back, I was shocked when she didn't protest for even a second when I suggested it. To fill in for the disappointing cakes, a scone was ordered. 20 minutes later, it showed up, was delicious, not much else to report. On to the bill... Sat for another 15 minutes patiently waiting to pay and leave. At this point we're an hour and thirty into it and just want to move on with our day. Finally, the bill comes and we were charged for both the pancakes and the scone. I can completely understand one or the other, but both?!?! I mean, we're talking about a $3 scone here. They're not exactly giving the house away if they comp a scone in exchange for those awful pancakes. As frequent diners with numerous friends in the industry, we can confidently say that we are not "those customers". Regardless, it left a bad taste in our mouth after an already poor experience. We will be back, eventually, but not until after a long hiatus spent at Chicago's many other competent breakfast establishments.
(3)Daniel R.
Jam on it. Some cities have a weekend breakfast culture. Some don't. In Chicago, we love our breakfast, so it's important to stand out in the crowd. Jam stands out in the crowd. I could eat that egg sandwich all day. Home made ketchup, pig cheeks, fingerling potatoes on the side? If you're into that kinda thing, Hell, yeah. The only problems were the long wait to get seated, the long wait to get served, and the noise level in the place. However, the kitchen show was great and the service was nice, so I'm not too upset. Maybe they could put a jar of home made *jam* on the table too?
(4)Anna S.
I went for a late Sunday brunch with a friend. It was crowded when we walked in so I expected to wait for a table. They seated us right away. The restaurant is loud and cramped. The servers were very attentive. The menu sounded unique and impressive but the taste was pretty average. I will say the prices are affordable. The dinner menu sounded interesting so I may give it another chance for dinner.
(2)P R.
We live in the 'burbs and our original destination was actually Lula Cafe. But we got to Lula and the wait was an hour so I called up Jam which recently re-located from Ukrainian Village. I had eaten at their prior location and I knew their food was very good. They were able to accomodate us so we trotted on over and were seated in the lovely front room which is airy and looks out onto the street - the rest of the restaurant is a bit cramped. Coming from the boring 'burbs, everything looked innovative and delicious on the menu. We all started with the butternut squash soup - delicious and poured over toasted hazelnuts and wilted kale. The rest of our order included the jamburger (substituted pork belly for the egg), the egg sandwich, eggs benedict and the panini cristo. The latter was good but least successful - a bit too salty but the acccompanying apple slaw was refreshing and necessary. Burger was perfectly cooked and came with seasoned fries (smoky paprika?). Eggs benedict was elevated by the pork belly and butternut squash hollandaise. The egg sandwich was superb - poached eggs nestled over creamy ricotta and mounds of luscious, soft, braised pork - accompanying fingerlings perfectly roasted. I had to dock one star for service - it was very friendly but we had two mis-steps. The first was when he knocked over my son's root beer onto my husband - that's okay, mistakes happen - but would have been nice to replace the root beer since half of it spilled. Also, I had eaten at the other location and enjoyed a delicious amuse bouche at the start of the meal. I assumed they had discontinued this practice at the new location. However as we were leaving, I noticed the table next to us had been served them. The spilled rootbeer was forgiveable but not the missed amuse bouche! I had forgotten this place was cash only so we had to avail ourselves of the cash machine at the back. Would be nice to be able to use a credit card. I'm sure the lines will start to get crazy here once their signage is up.
(4)Kim P.
Went there for a brunch this morning and DAMN was it packed! I guess everyone else had Martin Luther King Day off, too. Anyway, although it was packed the staff was still very friendly and uber organized, keeping things running smoothly and bussing tables and seting people promptly. I was impressed. Even more impressive was the food... We had the buckweat crepes with lamb and pear- very mild, very delicious,, and the smore-themed chocolate pancakes, which were solid, but didn't contain any actual chocolate chips. I like things disgustly sweet, but I think they'd be perfect for a more normal palate. ;) Oh, The coffee was so good that my boyfriend, who'd already polished two cups at home before we left so was therefore passing on coffee, had to order some of his own. I would highly recommend Jam.
(5)p H.
Do you like raw pork? I don't. I went to Jam for the second time to give it another try. I wasn't impressed with it the first time I went, but thought I was just being a little too critical. So, I went again, and my friend ordered pork. It came out and was undercooked. WAY undercooked. To the point of being disgusted and losing his (and my) appetite. I don't want Trichinosis so we sent it back. After telling the host and server about the pork, we got a scone to make up for it. THANKS! Really? So, we ate the scone, shared my blueberry pancakes (which were delicious), drank our coffee and waited and waited for our check. Ten minutes -- no check. I put my wallet on the table as a sign -- no check. I put my coat on -- no check. We went to the counter to cash out, and were greeted by a different, snotty server who seemed annoyed by us. We ended up having to pay for the uneaten, raw pork. I didn't like the atmosphere either. The food on the menu seemed delicious, and the ingredients were interesting. This place is not worth waiting 45 minutes to eat brunch in.
(1)Eliza R.
I love this place... and I can't stay away. I've had most of what's on the breakfast menu and enjoyed all of what I've had. My favorite is the egg white omelet (I liked it a bit more when it had the red beet puree(?) instead of the orange, but I get it). Although the steak and eggs is close second favorite. Like others say, it all looks beautiful as well as tasting lovely. Everyone I've brought here has been impressed. Love the amuse bouche every time- such a cute and tasty touch. I enjoy the coffee and their ability to keep my mug full and warm until I call a halt to it. The service is friendly and now remembers me and greets me- makes me want to come back even more. Watching the kitchen at work is an added bonus. Yes, if you come during the prime brunch time, there will be a wait... and it's cash only. Neither of those should surprise. Not to mention that it's worth the inconvenience, in my humble opinion.
(5)keri h.
Went on a weekday for breakfast to avoid the weekend brunch-sters crowd. Being a vegetarian my choices were limited - almost everything had pork in it. I had the Three-dom which consisted of (you get to pick) over medium eggs, potatoes and toast and jam. Presentation was great and I really dug their potatoes. Overall decent, but I wasn't asking for much. The jam for my three slices of toast were great...although I wish they had given me that forth slice.
(3)Crystal P.
Hello Teeny tiny blueberry muffin! i love you :) Jam = delish... Well what I could taste. Not very many un meaty things. We had the Quiche and the French toast.. presentation was beautiful and the food was excellent. i don't know if I will be going back very soon just because.. I'm not sure what i would eat.... but I loved that little muffin :)
(4)Ria C.
This is 4 blocks from my apartment so the location is a huge plus. The patio waiting area is so perfect for a fall day, with unlimited coffee while you wait-very quaint and urban (we thought it was free, but they end up charging you when presenting your check.) There's this strange little oblong wood burning contraption that really fascinates me, and this little pig sculpture that hides I don't know what...anyways, I am rambling. The only con here is the wait. I got the eggs benedict with pork belly and spinach hollandaise, but it took over 30 minutes for us to get our meals, I thought they were killing Wilbur outside in the little pig structure contraption and then firing him up in the oblong thing...I'm a huge fan of porkbelly and this was good, not great, but something different for brunch. The hungover bubby had the biscuits & gravy which really had a fantastic shiitake mushroom glace, kind of vinegary, but paired with the dish very well. I would come back here for the spanish omelet and add the white anchovy, which distracted me every time it was served out. I have food ADD and this one really caught my attention and made me mentally cheat on my pork belly. Sorry Wilbur. Good solid brunch at very reasonable prices-we came out at about $25 with coffee, tax, and tip, and also came out with the kitchen stench of breakfast grease-it is an open kitchen which is cool, but not cool to my dry cleaner.
(4)Stephen P.
A group of five of us went there yesterday for Easter brunch and had a great experience. The food was delicious and the ambiance was great. We had the French toast to start which was delightful. Then I had the egg sandwich. Definitely going back and trying the Jamburger.
(5)Luis B.
So good, but not the cheapest. I had their German Chocolate pancakes which were SO good. The price was reasonable at about $10. The person I was with had the corn beef dish, and while it was good it was way overpriced. $15? When it comes to food, decor, ambiance and customer service it gets five stars. But I had to take one star off just because this place has many dishes that are just overpriced.
(4)Marshall D.
Went to JAM on New Year's Day for brunch. As expected there was a wait, so we ordered coffee at the bar. Coffee was nothing special. It appears to have a full bar, and the bartenders were busy whipping up a variety of drinks. I ordered a Pecan sticky bun and the buckwheat pancakes, while my friend ordered an Omelet. She is a vegetarian, and she did not have many choices, i mean like 2-3 things to choose from for breakfast. I did not like her omelet, it was a bit undercooked. My pancakes were fine, but no syrup. I've never had pancakes without syrup, I doubt I will again. The food took awhile to come out, but it was January 1st and expected. Our waiter Ryan was attentive and knew the menu well. The space is small, and they have stuffed as many Ikea tables, chairs, and stools as they can into it. It was loud, at times difficult to hear my friend right across from me. I am unlikely to return.
(2)Ashley A.
Since we had a 30 minute wait and we were 'jamming' brunch in before my friends flight we took the thirty minutes to peruse the whole menu. Everything looked so good, it was truly difficult to decide. After seating us and placing our orders immediately, there was a little glitch in the kitchen and our food took quite sometime (I think around 40 minutes). Our server handled it well (as did the three other servers) by bringing out a crumb cake to the tables that were experiencing a delay. I was glad to see that the man plating the works de arte decided to continue putting out quality dishes rather than rushing and putting out crap. We had the eggs benedict -- kind of a play on green eggs and ham. It was our least favorite at the table however the eggs were done to perfection. We also had the veggie panini and the biscuits with mushroom gravy. All were gorgeous to look at and equally appealing to the palate. Now, how can I bypass that line--will they have a frequent diner card or something for those within a four block radius??
(4)Michele G.
My new, hands-down favorite breakfast place in Chicago. Classy, modern, beautiful space; so many delicious items on the menu (where to begin?), great coffee, wonderful food and attentive, friendly and informed service. Michele, our waitperson -- who should be cloned -- was so honestly and sweetly enthusiastic about this morning's pork chop offering, that it broke my heart to say, "thanks, but no thanks" as I don't eat pork. The custard French toast was wonderful and there are at least six other menu items that will beckon me back.
(5)Edward L.
I debated between two and three stars for an inordinate amount of time but ultimately settled on two. Most of what others have said is true, which I noticed before reading other reviews. Highlights: The food was generally quite tasty and unique without being too avant garde and weird. In the end, it should taste good and it did. Unique ingredients combined to pretty tasty flavors. The coffee was pretty good too, from a casual drinker's perspective. The server was helpful and nice, offering advice and friendly. Low-Points: The service (not necessarily the server) was slow. The meal took almost an hour to come out and it did not seem busy. The kitchen is small so I can understand the delay, but did not take away from the time looking awkwardly at the modern fixtures at other impatient diners. The space is not equipped to handle more than four people in a party (two would be optimal). We had five and it was cramped with knees going in awkward places. Final Say: Food is good but experience wasn't great.
(2)mandee m.
I loved this place and it moved out of my hood without any notice! Their site doesn't reflect the closing of the Damen Ave location so when I went there for a lunch date, it was all locked up. I wish they would've had some sort of flyer posted for it's wicker park/uk vill customers. sad day.
(4)Sarah M.
This place was nice. I enjoyed my Malted Custard French Toast, they serve Metropolis coffee which I love and we didn't feel rushed even though the place was super busy and small. I will say though, as much as I enjoyed the product, I didn't enjoy the bill. I'm sorry, but this isn't downtown. Breakfast shouldn't cost $20. Like I said, it was good, but it wasn't BETTER than most other brunch/lunch places in the area. And for the price tag, I expected it to be. I wouldn't rush back but I'm glad I tried it.
(3)Chiyo T.
As a new restaurant, this place seems to be doing pretty well. Decided to stroll in for breakfast on the rare occasion that I actually woke up in time for "breakfast." Arrived a few moments before the friend I was meeting got there, and was greeted right away. Once my friend finally arrived, we sat there for about ten minutes without a server greeting us and taking our drink order. Now, I know what its like to be in the weeds, but this was not the case at all. I'm sure it was just a mix up of who's section we were in, but in any case, the female server took the initiative to just take us. The menu was small and concise which was actually relieving. Too many choices gets to be too complicated, so I just went with the (three)dom of choice, which I chose two eggs over easy, the homemade sausage and fingerling potatoes. Once the food came, I couldn't tell if the portions were small or because it was plated on such a large plate, but it ended up being the perfect portion. One thing I particularly liked that caught me off guard was that, there weren't any condiments on the table. No salt, no pepper, no ketchup. I usually throw some salt and ketchup on my potatoes, but didn't really have the option here. THANK GOD. The potatoes and the eggs and the sausage were all perfectly seasoned. It was amazing, really. I just want to thank the kitchen staff for being so on top of their game. I mean, honestly, even the mini coffee cake they gave out in samples was sooo delicious. And whoever the guy in the back is, with the beard, and longer brown hair. You are god damned beautiful. I couldn't stop staring, sorry if I'm creeping you out. Anyway, if you want a good breakfast, definitely check this place out.
(4)William W.
Allow me to describe this place in a single word: Precious. The big problem is the portion size-price ratio. Two buttermilk pancakes do not a stack make, nor are they worth five dollars. The quiche was literally a half-inch rectangular slice. The egg-white frittata probably had about 3 egg whites in it. It's not that the flavor and quality of the food was bad - it wasn't, but this is hardly likely to sate the average Chicagoan's expectations for brunch. Even my friend and I, who are two health-conscious, Pollanites left quite hungry. What's more, the service was appallingly bad. Rather than taking our orders and delivering our food in a prompt manner, our waiter fussed over the symmetry of our silverware. Those five dollar pancakes were forgotten in the mix and had to be re-ordered (lord knows we needed the food!) Overall, the money spent on having this restaurant restrict your diet would be better spent on a dietician. A twee, Brooklyn knock-off.
(1)Eric G.
For breakfast I normally prefer traditional, simple, American style breakfast. Hot and plenty of it, and I'm usually happy with just a diner. A friend took me to Jam and I was really impressed. I don't usually like what I refer to as "chef-y" places, meaning I don't like creative takes on my old favorites, but there was just enough creativity to be interesting without detracting from tradition. I had the french toast, and it was excellent. Thick slices, cooked perfectly, served with a very light whipped cream and diced cherries in a slightly sweet sauce, and these pink peppercorns that gave it just a hint of a savory edge. At first I balked at the missing syrup, but the syrup would have totally overpowered the bread. The cream and cherries were perfect, I don't remember the last time I enjoyed french toast this much. My friend got the same french toast with scrambled eggs, which were scrambled in such a way that they looked like yellow swirls that could have been painted by an impressionist painter. It was crowded at 11:30 on a Saturday, but not packed, and we were seated right away. Quarters are tight and you have to be friendly with the people seated next to you when you want to get up, because either you're going to have an ass pass close by your face or one is going to pass by yours. The service was excellent, maybe even a little too excellent as there was someone constantly refilling my water glass. Many of their entrees have prices for full or half orders, which worked perfectly for us. We each had a half order of french toast, two eggs, and coffee and the bill was less than $25. It's not college student cheap, but very reasonable for a brunch not made by a short order cook.
(4)Miss A.
This place is a hidden gem. The outdoor patio is SO wonderful. It manages to feel chic without being pretentious.The food is amazing for what you are spending on it. I've tried the french toast, lamb crepes, and mexican omelette (this WINS). The servers are attentive and knowledgeable, yet laid back. It would be nice to see some more things listed on the menu, but I'll still keep going back.
(4)Mallery I.
Brunch makes me happy, and I was thrilled to see that Jam was opening so close to my place! I dragged my boyfriend to Jam on their third day of business, and we were both sorely disappointed. I am cutting them some slack as it was their first weekend, but I will not return for a loooong time (if ever). We waited about 45 minutes for a table, which is not unusual at noon on a Sunday. When we were finally seated, I appreciated the ambience and the prompt cup of coffee. Looking around, I noticed one table had their food. I should have left at that point. Instead, we placed our order immediately, and then waited ANOTHER 45 minutes for our food. In the meantime, the tables on either side of us were given an "I'm-sorry-we're-so-slow-please-forgive-us" amuse bouche. Where the heck was MY tasty snack?! Before I could flag down my ditzy waitress and beg for an amuse bouche, our food finally arrived. I had the Custard French Toast, which was VERY tasty. A bit of lime zest made it taste fresh and delicious. Unfortuantely, my bf's three-dom plate wasn't nearly as good. His fingerling potatoes were rock hard, and the pancakes and eggs were only mediocre. Even paying took unnecessarily long. The place is cash-only, and the cashier was clearly struggling to calculate and count my change. He also took the unnecessary time to break two $20's while I waited. The service at this place can only improve, so I may try it again in a few months. I would recommend only going here if you have plenty of time and are not starving.
(3)Chrissy H.
I am a server, and I find it really insensitive when Yelpers write detailed, play-by-play accounts of their bad service experiences. So I'm just going to say this: The service was non-existant. Maybe the dude was having a bad day, or was distracted with personal issues. I don't know...but he barely acknowledged us the whole time. We're lucky we were able to place our orders at all. That's all I'm saying about that. However, the menu had a lot of tempting options, and the items we chose were all very tasty. Orange juice--fresh squeezed deliciousness. Eggs benedict--a solid A. Jam Burger--serious comfort food. If you don't mind sitting 8 inches from the table next to you, (and assuming the service is not consistently poor), this is a decent brunch option.
(2)Megan S.
Jam is pretty great. It can be a bit busy, but both times I went (both Sunday brunch) we got seated right away. They give you a little treat from the bakery. The coffee is good and so is the service. The scotch egg was really tasty. It's a little expensive, but has always been worth it. Cash only.
(4)Laura W.
Hi. So Jam is open for dinner now (open Monday, Wednesday through Sunday from 7 am to 9 pm). I've heard of Jam before but never really found myself in the area around breakfast/brunch time (mostly because around breakfast time I'm either working or sleeping, depending on the day). It's just never worked out, know what I'm saying? I'm about to move to Kansas City and a friend offered to take me here for dinner. (Note to Jam staff: update your website! Argued for a minute that Jam wasn't open for dinner. No, it is.) Cool, I took her up on the offer. Holy crap. Please go here immediately and order the tasting menu before they realize they are charging $25. I will say no more. Okay, no I will. I. Just. Ugh. Seriously, every moment was filled with "OMGWTFISTHISIDON'TEVEN" and then a lot of chewing and sighing. The asparagus soup was fantastic. I love the prosciutto but the best part was the citrus zest. It looks a little like Exorcist-barf but is really great. My friend and I got both the duck breast AND the seared escolar. The duck breast was really delicious-- cooked well and the thigh confit perogi was tasty. But if I had to pick one, I'd go with the seared escolar MOSTLY because of the pineapple gnocchi, ricotta and pecan emulsion that compliment the dish. I couldn't even begin to recreate it. You must try. The dessert was an olive oil cake with chocolate sauce and an orange marmalade. It was not SUPER AMAZING but the flavors were interesting and definitely after the meal I had, I wasn't looking for something intense. The meal was filling but not heavy so I didn't feel like dying afterward. The best part, however, had to be the second course-- the foie gras tortellini with the snap pea puree. The foie gras filling is just sooooo good. It's creamy and a teeny bit sweet. The tortellini shell is made from duck skin. It sounds bizarre but, as I told my dining partner, it is probably one of the best things I've ever eaten. At least in the top five. Behind my grandmother's gumbo (she paid me to say that). Reading some of the other reviews of dinner at Jam, I have a few comments to make: 1) There were two of us and we both ordered the tasting menu. At no time were we ever asked to order from another menu. 2) Yes, BYOB. Plan ahead or there is a liquor store a few steps away. No big thang. 3) Yes, cash only. Uh, their ATM is cool looking and the charge is only $1.00. 4) Portions for a tasting menu are going to be small. You know, about the size of tasting portions...BECAUSE THEY ARE PORTIONS FOR A TASTING MENU. Logic? ;) 5) There were not any other customers there (7:00 pm on a Monday). I suppose that might feel awkward for some people but I loved it. Our waiter paid us a ton of attention and answered questions and humored me when I made really bad jokes. I enjoyed being able to waltz right in and act as if I owned the place because I feel like, in a few months, there will be a line out the door. Enjoy the atmosphere and peace now, WHILE YOU STILL CAN. (so many caps) Thank you, Jam, for the wonderful meal (and the foie gras tortellini cravings I expect to take place in about thirty minutes).
(5)Maggie N.
met some friends here b/c it was in his 'neck of the woods' & so glad I did! we shared the french toast & it was really good! I had the biscuits & (mushroom) gravy & gave the sausage to my friends since I don't eat pork & it was a really tasty gravy!!! I wish I could just have this as a cream of mushroom soup it was so yummy! My friends marveled at the beauty of their poached eggs! they seriously oohed & ahhed over it, but I do have to say, they were glistening! :P The decor is cool too , especially for a brunch spot! our food did seem to take awhile to come out, but since we weren't in a hurry, we didn't mind, but hopefully this doesn't happen often.
(4)Josh J.
I think this place is fantastic... the food is great, at reasonable prices. I've been twice, and have had (or shared) the egg sandwich (amazingly good), the savory crepe (also great) and the spanish omelette (good). The service has been friendly and attentive. Not sure about some of the complaints - I thought the temperature was fine but maybe it wasn't a hot day? I'm sure those of us who came to Dodo appreciate the improvement. Regarding cash-only - it was clear to me, and Jam is far from the only brunch place with that restriction. Lastly - yes there is no alcohol. It is a BYO - which is a huge bonus for me - but I guess some may disagree? All in all, really excited that this is here, I will definitely return
(5)Margot A.
I would definitely give Jam a solid 3.5 stars if possible, but alas, Yelp, it is not. It's right around the corner, which is a plus, and the decor is darling. But let me tell you, this place is TINY. I would not attempt to go with a large party, which we did not, but still we waited thirty minutes for a table. They do share a patio with the bakery next door, which is nice, and they allow you to wait there and have coffee. So once we were seated, our waiter was very prompt in getting us drinks and taking our order. The interior temperature is really warm in the front part of the restaurant, but it was pretty chilly in the back where we were seated because they had the back door of the prep kitchen propped open. I think this is an attempt to air out the greasy cooking smell, which is pretty prominent. We did have to wait longer than average for our food, but if you look at the menu, you will see why. It's definitely not your average brunch spot. I ordered the Jamburger, which was definitely the correct choice if you're feeling like lunch. In-credible. The quality of the beef was outstanding, and the bun was perfection. Add cheese and a fried egg on top, plus a little homemade ketchup and you have one tasty sandwich. At first I was a little weirded out that it did not come with lettuce, tomato, etc. but honestly, it was completely unnecessary. The fries are also good....we couldn't figure out what seasoning they put on them, and came up with sugar, salt, a hint of cinnamon and maybe fennel? Tasty dipped in ketchup for sure! My sister had the chorizo omelet which was also quite good. The chorizo was great, and there was a LOT of it. Shockingly, the omelet was a bit too salty which is a ridiculous statement because we are salt-lovers....i mean, we LOVE salt. But regardless, it was a very nice menu item. It comes with breakfast potatoes which are also delicious. Our friend had the savory crepes, which were good, but very meaty. They have braised lamb and some other stuff (sorry I wasn't paying much attention because of my JAMBURGER) and come pre-wrapped in two little burrito-like crepes. Then they are kind of swimming in some sort of sauce. The flavor is really gamey, as lamb is, but it feels like you're eating lamb brisket wrapped in a crepe. It's not bad, by any means! I just think he was expecting something different. Overall, the food gets two thumbs up. The service was good, although the food prep was a bit slow, and the wait time is fairly long. The prices are reasonable, and what you would expect. We will definitely go back, but probably not regularly. Enjoy!
(4)annie c.
After reading the other reviews, I think they have worked out some of their kinks since they opened. Got right in and service was pretty speedy, perhaps too speedy. My only complaint was they cleared the table while I was still eating, but I understand that it's breakfast and they have to make money by turning their tables. This isn't a typical breakfast spot, it's a little on the fancy side, which is a nice change for the other places in the neighborhood. The food is very clean! I had the egg white omelette with beets, usually a terrine but today it was an omelette and I devoured it! I usually like a breakfast that comes with all the extras but typically I end up stuffed with potatoes and toast, that won't happen here since it doesn't come with your dish but, it's an option. The fresh squeezed orange juice is amazing! Oh, and they give an amuse bouche...for breakfast!! All around good experience except now that I'm sitting here typing this minutes after leaving, I realize one other complaint...they need a better hood to ventilate b/c my t-shirt reeks of grease. !
(4)nick a.
move over, bongo room. the chocolate pancakes were insane. well worth the price! their eggs benedict are also incredible. Gorgeous outdoor seating. There can be a line sometimes...
(5)Jane L.
They have really unique dishes. I ordered their Egg Whites, which is one of their breakfast options. I enjoyed it! The egg whites were seasoned very well and it comes sweet potato buckwheat crepe and a salad. Its a good combination and also a healthy option, since I am somewhat health conscious.
(3)Ashley L.
Very friendly staff, unique menu, tasty food.
(4)Matt J.
Better than the average brunch. We are serial-brunchers and we came on a Saturday morning. My GF got the house specialty panini and my son got the chocolate pancakes (he's a chocolate pancake connoisseur) and I got the Spanish omelet. The panini was well received, the chocolate pancakes got two thumbs-up, but the Spanish omelet blew me away. Maybe one of the best omelets I've ever had. I can't remember all the ingredients, but I do remember the chorizo because it was just perfect. I'd come back for that omelet alone. It's pretty small (but not too loud) and they have a small kitchen. I imagine it wouldn't take much for them to get overwhelmed on a Sunday morning, but we got good service and the food didn't take too long to come. We were also pretty promptly seated, though shortly thereafter they had the dreaded bunch-of-people-standing-on-the-sidewalk.
(4)Dina I.
Don't know what happened to this place. Used to come here a lot when they first opened and it was amazing-I still dream about the blueberry pancakes on one of their first menus. The last 3 visits have been disastrous-undercooked pancakes, then overcooked/browned pancakes, cold food...disappointing...my dining companion refuses to ever go back.
(2)Meg G.
Some reviews have mentioned Jam's inconsistency, so my experience may be an off-day for them. But I'll never know, because I'll never go back. This was the absolute worst brunch experience I've had in any metropolitan city. Long waits for brunch are to be expected, but I want to get an accurate picture of the wait. The host gave us an estimate (30 min) that was half what our actual wait was (1 hr). And then he didn't give us menus when he sat us or mention that the wait for food would be another 30 minutes. Meanwhile, we watched while three tables sat open for twenty minutes while the line grew. Our waitress brought out little muffins to tide us over until the food came, which is a nice touch - unfortunately, those muffins were the best part of the meal. When we finally got our food, one dish was delicious, one was good once the creme was scrapped off (it tasted like Lemon Pledge smells), and one was awful (the sickly blue, dense pancakes with little flavor). The impression we got was that everyone there was either overwhelmed or didn't care about what they were doing. Service industry jobs aren't easy, and I don't expect false enthusiasm, but I do expect that the customer not get blamed for a restaurant's lack of organization. Our server complained to us about people complaining to her about the long wait, and then said "It's brunch in Chicago, what do you expect?" as though the problem isn't Jam's poor management or communication but our expectations. Wrong. If Milk & Honey, Flying Saucer, Flo's, or any of the other numerous brunch places in the neighborhood can manage to get us seated and fed before 3 HOURS have passed, then so can you. Everyone has an off day, and if there had just been one or two missteps I'd definitely give them another chance. But the combination of bad service, bad attitude, and bad (not cheap) food is too much. There are so many delicious places to eat in Chicago, this isn't worth the bother.
(1)Delia C.
judging from other reviews, the thing to do is visit this place during off-peak hours. which is what i did with my Guy a few weeks ago, playing hooky from work. it was a brisk wed morning (around 10ish), we walked over from my place and were immediately seated inside the near-empty dining room. our coffees were filled contantly, our waitress(es) were smiley and helpful, and the food came quickly - and to the correct table. i had the buckwheat pancake with the risotto (just call it grits, dudes) and my Guy had something that came with 3 different jams on the side. (sorry i can't remember what he had - the excellent dollops of jams obliterated my brain.) generally, i need to go to a place more than once before i like it, but this place is on my list of revisits. the food was sophisticated, yummy and above average. (hear that, Cleo's?)
(3)Darlene L.
Loved this new breakfast place which was not crowded on a Wednesday morning at 9:30. So, no wait and no slow service. The egg white omelet rocks and is served like a crepe with fresh sweet potatoes inside. Yummy, healthy and beautiful . The oatmeal is steel cut oats with lovely accompaniments like fresh cream, dried or fresh fruit, and brown sugar. It was probably some of the best I have had. Coffee is hearty and fresh with quick refills. Service is friendly and knowledgeable. Good whole grain toast and jam top off a nice comforting breakfast on a cold Chicago January morning. Oh, by the way, it is cash only, but I did spot an ATM inside the restaurant.
(5)sarah d.
I wanted to like Jam. It's so close to where we live and it has a cute name and seemed to be the place that was going to fill the void of cute brunch places south of Division. But I didn't like Jam. And I won't go back. Here's why: -My son's pancakes were raw in the middle. Raw pancakes? At $6 for two silver dollar sized ones? Stop it. -My husband got the egg sandwich and hated it. (So much so that later on that day I reminded him of how we went out to breakfast and he told me to never speak of it again because it grossed him out.) It was like a Top Chef Quickfire gone wrong. Might have looked good on paper but just wasn't good in execution. -I got the trout quiche. The trout was cured and had a funny consistency, as did the quiche (more of a pudding texture). It was yucky. (And I eat anything and love almost everything.) Things they got right: -Our waitress was really nice and helpful with seating for our son. etc. -The amuse-bouche was good -Inside it is cutely decorated Like I said, I want Jam to be my new brunch place. My husband and I are foodies: We cook from Ad Hoc, we try new restaurants every chance we get. And I love and respect new twists on old classics (like at The Bristol or Avec) but Jam is trying too hard, and the results indicate either a lack of culinary skills or experience.
(3)Rachael S.
I was so unsatisfied with the food and service that I won't even justify it with a descriptive review. Never again.
(1)Jenna H.
Well hel-lo! I am in BRUNCH LOVE. Brunch is my favorite meal, so that is a serious declaration. This place was on my to do list, and we wandered over on a sunny June Saturday morning and were promptly seated in what appears to be an eccentric backyard on the grass, under the trees. It is a delightful change of pace here in the city. The service was fantastic, our server gave great details and was super efficient. The food ...was out of this world. It blew away my already high expectations. We did a breakfast pastry, the french toast and the benedict. Each was inventive and fantastic with twists on the traditional. I can't wait to go back!
(5)Marina M.
The staff is nice and the place is cute and cozy. However, the wait is ridiculous (not to mention there is no space to wait in). The menu was interesting but depending on what you order the food is either good but average or trying to hard to be creative and the flavors don't mix well.
(3)Burr B.
Liked it. Food was good. Half french toast order stephie and I killed was nice, her whitefish quiche and salad was outstanding, and I liked the eggs benedict with pork belly. Our only issue, and enough to knock experience down a star, was our waiter lacked the fierce urgency of now. The guys busing the table seemed annoyed with him too - they delivered his bills for him, checked in on his tables for him, made the change we needed when he went missing etc. I did get the sense he was an anomaly - the other staff seemed pretty on the spot. So instead of looking at another table, envying their food, we ended up doing that about their server. We'll be back but hope we get more attentive service.
(3)Chris H.
We had breakfast there this morning. The service was very nice and expedient. That's about the only good comment I can make. I had the Spanish Omelet. It was cold on the inside. My girlfriend had the quiche stuffed with salmon...which turned out to be all egg and bits of salmon. And I thought it was very pricey ($45 for two people for breakfast). I would not recommend.
(2)Cassie B.
Showed up at 11:30 on a Sunday, was told the wait was 30 minutes but ended up being seated in less than 10. Small (cozy?) and a little crowded, but most good brunch places are. I like the decor - spare with clear chairs and granite-slab tables. Everything on the menu looked good - I literally couldn't decide what to get - and contained complex flavors and ingredients. My egg sandwich with pork cheek was excellent, as were the fingerling potatoes on the side, but there were so few of them. Companion had the panini sandwich, which came with a very small bunch of mixed greens. C'mon, guys, bump up the sides! Would like to try a sweet entree next time. Coffee was only okay (Metropolis) but if you get a soft drink it comes in an 8-oz. glass bottle - NOT worth $3. $30 tab for two people, one entree and one (non-alcoholic) drink each, not including tip. Not horrible, but the portions could definitely be bigger. I'll be back, but I'm not rushing there.
(3)Tommy D.
I don't get it. Or I'm sorry.. I don't get waiting 45min in a super crowded space for what is offered. There is nary a vegetarian option on the menu. And the prices are a little steep considering what you are getting. Plus, its not like you can even enjoy your meal.. while being pushed together like sardines and having a phalanx of waiting patrons looking over my shoulder. Eff that noise, dudes. All ya'll waiting for them $12 eggs are insane.
(2)Brandon B.
I give this place 3.5 stars. 3 for service and 4 for food. My girlfriend and I are visiting Chicago from NYC and we are eating at A LOT of places. This place was recommended by food and wine magazine plus staff from a very awesome restaurant. And it was good. My pork cheek and fried egg sandwich was AWESOME. Cheeks cooked perfect with i believe a granny-smith apple-something that i dont really remember, but it was early in the morning and we had a very tiring day previous to eating here. My girlfriend got the eggs benedict. The eggs were perfect. I think they were cooked the Arzak method by being tied in plastic and steamed and it was served with excelent crispy pork belly and an awesome english pea hollandaise. We also ordered the french toast for us to share plus more of the pork belly. The problem i had with the place was not really the food. It was the atmosphere (which the restaurant couldnt really be faulted for) and the service. There was a family sitting next to us and they let their kid basically sit at our table for ten minutes while i was eating and the kid kept coughing. No one said anything. And the parents kept looking over as i was seriously annoyed and did NOTHING!!! Then the waitress asked if i wanted hot sauce or ketchup for my fingerlings and i said sure to the hot sauce (later realizing that they did not really need anything else because they were delicious) and when she set it down it splattered everywhere including my milk for my coffee and the table. She just walked away and did not return until she had the check in her hand. The other upsetting thing was that i made a comment to the waitress inquiring how they make the hollandaise to where it doesnt break on the plate because it was cold. Which i kind of thought was awesome until she just looked at me like an idiot and said "they make it fresh every morning and they keep it in a water bath". So what i thought was some inventive cold hollandaise was just a mistake. All in all i would go back though. The food was great. We got in easy and for two it only cost us 60 dollars for three entrees, two coffees, a side, tax, and tip.
(3)cina p.
Breakfast should not be pretentious. I have been here twice and the first time my husband and I just stopped in on a Tuesday night and dinner was fine. Friday my best friend and I stopped in for breakfast. Now, I am a lifelong Chicagoan, specifically in Logan Square and I get the neighborhood has surely changed and we have enjoyed the changes, but some changes...like pretentious breakfast are just annoying. First off, I didn't want Creme Fraiche with my French Toast. I hate the stuff and when I requested my dish without the server appeared frightened to ask the chef to nix it. So, she insisted that I have it on the side. Fine. Whatever. Then, when they brought the French toast out it was COLD oh, and I wanted maple syrup. I asked for it and again, the server was hesitant to ask for any because "the chef doesn't want it served with any." I don't care what the hell the chef wants...that's what I want and I'm the customer. So, she told me to try it without the syrup, I did and I wanted some anyway. She said it would cost a $1 and who cares...it's a dollar and so I asked for it again. When she did bring it out she apologized because it was only a tablespoon's worth. Ugh. Whatever. I still tipped her appropriately, but even the first time, at dinner with my husband, the server was reluctant to give me my salad without cheese when I asked for it...because of the chef. Who the hell is the chef at this place that he/she is such a dick that they've scared their waitstaff? If you want people to keep coming to your place you are going to have to accommodate folks, especially for simple requests that are easily feasible elsewhere. I live walking distance from this place and you have likely lost a good recurring customer. I'll stick with Lula, Longman & Eagle and a ton of other great places in the neighborhood.
(1)Ken R.
I had brunch at Jam today, Saturday, and it was just what I needed. The french toast was some of the best french toast I've had to date, and the corned beef sandwich was savory as well. My gf had their eggs benedict with a glass of freshly squeezed orange juice, and she couldn't stop raving about it. The server was extremely friendly. The place itself is designed very nicely and their kitchen is out in the open, right as you walk in. FYI, it is cash only. I'm a big fan of small shops like this that serve quality food to their patrons at reasonable prices. Check it out.
(5)Katie H.
"HEY BEHBEH! YOU CAN AMUSE MAH BOUCHE ANYTIME YOU WANT." I went to Jam twice and both times the voice inside my head was screaming the above statement. Can't be helped though. I had a LOVELY (just lovely) view of the line when I came in and one of the chefs had me fantasizing about erotic dancing on the table tops singing La Bouche's "Be My Lover" while he flings mini cranberry muffins drizzled in honey into my mouth...naked? No not naked, "nude**." My roommate and I came here twice in one week. The first time was on quieter Wednesday morning which was superior to bumpin' Saturday morning when sadly there was no mini treat from the kitchen (though the table next to us did receive one). Aw, poop. Next time I'll flash the chef to ensure proper goodies. It's a risk though, I might get banned for life... or arrested. At the risk of not receiving even one "Useful" on this review, I'll take the ferry home from Whackjob Island for a minute here. Yes, yes the egg sammich with the pork cheeks is quite remarkable but I urge you to go for the less obvious choices. Try the savory buckwheat crepes with braised lamb. Total darkhorse of the brunch menu. Haven't had anything off the lunch menu yet but soon! My overly particular roommate greatly enjoyed his steak and eggs and also his Spanish Omelette with white anchovies. This is going to sound poncey as hell but I like that Jam cooks the steak THEIR way... not yours. Learn how to appreciate rare meat, dullards, before you foray into cultured society. Scoff. Seriously though, they're taking some risks here and so far I'm down with that. They probably won't win over people who want to mod the hell out of everything they order and have it come with extra ketchup. Sometimes I think it's nice just to go to a place and have them be like "Eat this. I assure you, it will be tasty the way I make it." Maybe that makes me a Food Sheep but at least I'm a cannibalistic Food Sheep. Mmm, lamb, baaaahhhh. I'll offer up the fifth star if I can still gape at the chef every time I come. I hope he reads this and gets thoroughly creeped out. * youtube.com/watch?v=N0R_… ** youtube.com/watch?v=lAuC…
(4)Nancy T.
three words: my breakfast sucked. if i was in the mood for fancypants, i would have gone to the peninsula. okay, i guess i didn't do my research. i was flippin starving and thought i'd pop into jam's new location. when i'm wearing my pajamas and have unbrushed hair, i just want a big plate of yumminess. i should have gone to flo. the scotch egg left such a bad taste in my mouth that i had to pop in a piece of gum on the way out (seriously!). and for $12 (incl. tip), i shouldn't be hungry on my way home. yep, i ate the entire teeny, tiny plate of greens, boiled egg encased in breading, and some paltry pieces of diced potato. last: too many personnel standing around (maybe that's why it's so expensive). annoying. i am pissed. but i love love love chickpea (same owners). sorry to be a be-yatch re jam but it truly sucked maybe sight-seeing suburbanites will like it.
(1)Chrissy D.
Best Chicken in the neighborhood! The srevice was fantastic. The staff really know there stuff and was more then happy to share details about every dish. They brought mini cupcakes with homeade mint icing! Too die for. Overall I thought the value was right on. The atmosphere was really nice- I have yet to eat in the garden but I will be hitting it up soon. The food doesnt come out super fast so bring the paper or someone to chat with.
(5)Gray G.
Good service. Good food. Eggs, pork belly and fingerling potatoes were quite tasty. The malted custard french toast was also good. Food + Wine magazine named it one of the top ten dishes in the country of 2010. For me it was not that. The marinated fruit was too tart and overpowering for the dish. There was pink peppercorn on it, but I didn't taste it maybe because I don't know what they are supposed to taste like (regular black peppercorns?). I was expecting a taste sensation and I got something I'm not sure I would recommend. There were other dishes I would like to come back to try. This review is a little unfair since it was tainted by the hype of the french toast, so I may revise this review after my next visit!
(3)Christy S.
Jam was an afternoon delight! Typically I shy away from brunch because anything worth eating requires an hour wait and a loud crowded restaurant. At noon on Saturday Jam was full, but not too full. We were seated right away and greeted promptly by our very personable waiter. We were then presented with a teeny tiny pumpkin muffin compliments of the house. We then eased into our brunch with a 1/2 order of their world famous french toast which lived up to its reputation. Then I ordered the corned beef hash which was hands down the most delicious corned beef I have ever had. My friend ordered the pork belly eggs benedict and they were also outstanding. I give Jam five stars and two thumbs up.
(5)Crystal M.
First of all, they do not have a liquor license so no Bloody Marys and Mimosas for you! For some this may not matter, but for me it's kind of a big deal. Second of all, the service is...bad. Our waiter seemed confused by not only his job, but maybe life itself. He was extremely disengaged and clearly had no serving experience. Our orange juice was fresh squeezed, as in I could see someone squeezing it in the back, so that was a plus. However, since it was room temperature, that kind of ruined it for me. I really don't like hot juice, but maybe that's just me. We ordered about the simplest thing on the menu (basically just eggs, toast and a plain pancake) because the savory dishes are pretty meat centric, and we do not eat meat. (I don't fault them for that) But, it took about 30 minutes to get our food, meanwhile the person next to us had been seated 10 minutes after us, and was already finished eating by the time we were served. Even in the face of this glaring evidence that something had gone wrong, our waiter made no apologies. Keep in mind that all the while, we are sitting in a boiling room. I understand that it was a nice day so they had the windows open, but that doesn't eliminate the necessity for some A/C. That combined with the three drops of "real maple syrup" that we got with our pancakes leads me to believe that the owners of this establishment are...how should I put this....CHEAP. But, that doesn't mean your bill will be cheap. $30 before tip with no alcohol. Oh, and don't even think of using plastic because of course, to add to the annoyance of it all, they only accept cash.
(2)Ginger L.
I don't understand how the average rating for Jam is only 3 stars. I went with friends who had been before and it was great. I am a big breakfast person but I ended up having lunch instead. I ordered the turkey club which sounds like a boring selection until you read the description and actually taste it. I loved every bite including the fries. We were also served an amuse bouche which was yummy. The service was very attentive. I liked everything about the place from the deceiving entrance, to the simple but elegant decor and the cool outdoor space. I plan to go back and am hoping it will be a bit warmer so I can sit outside with my kids. They had a ton of high chairs by the entrance so that impressed me too. Walking into Jam I would not think it was super child-friendly but they had plenty of menu options for kids.
(5)Rachel R.
My friend and I decided to go somewhere new and since this place is just around the corner we thought we should try it. Big mistake! Although the service was great, the food was practically inedible. My friend ordered fish and chips, which was the chef's recommendation. Her fish was too salty, and the coleslaw tasted perfumery. I have a severe gluten allergy and the waitress was very accommodating. However I ended up just requesting a chicken salad. The chicken was boiled and the skin was still on it.It tasted really bad. I couldn't even eat it. My friend took it home and she said the same. My meal was a few pieces of lettuce and then a hunk of chicken, not exactly the right proportions for a salad. The ambiance in this place is weird. The tables are situated in a strange way and the restaurant seems to be a weird mix between fancy and casual. I felt underdressed in a sundress but my friend said she felt okay in a blouse and jeans. After eating here I was sick the next day. My friend and I have also seen them put their pots and pans out in the alley way on the ground and sitting on the trash can. Disgusting! Avoid this place if you can.
(1)Larson T.
Awesome little dishes. Very exciting combinations of flavors. Lamb Crepes were amazing, and crispy pork belly in-stead of bacon! How awesome is that?!?!
(4)Jen G.
Disregard my plea for a dinner menu online...it's there and so are the new hours! swak
(5)arc g.
This was an incredible find. Had the French Toast and Steak and Eggs. Sounds like your average breakfast right. Well this was far from average. For starters, the coffee and fresh squeezed orange juice were perfect. They brought out a complemetary banana and chocolate cupcake. This was a great way to keep me happy while I waited. I ordered the special cupcake. It was a lemon and cranberry, it was excellent. The french toast had spices and was perfectly brown. I could have used more syrup but I didn't want to drown the spices. The steak was cook perfectly, although I was not terribly impress with the sauce. The eggs were cooked just right and were complimented by the rice grits and corn. The only thing that was missing was some bread. I was going to ask for it but, God, I had too much to each already. Anyway, let's just say that it exceeded all expectations.
(4)Lindsay D.
All we could think about on our drive over, was how much we wanted jam; rasberry, blueberry, boysenberry, it didnt matter what kind. Although there actually isnt an overwhelming plethora of jams sadly, the 3-spice and ricotta scone was SO good, and yes, it came with rasberry jam. The sweet plus the savory was excellent. I also ordered the sweet potatoe egg white omelet and I couldnt have been happier with my choice. Even the coffee was excellent. The reason Im giving this 3 stars, is because WOW was it hot in there. I was sweating while eating; not a pretty combo. I was also told the kitchen was 101 degrees...not something I want to hear as a patron! I would go back because of the friendly staff and host (who sat us right away even though there was a wait!) and the fabulous food, but when the temperature gage hits 50 and below.
(3)Creighton G.
Once a dump, always a dump. This location used to be a real pig called Dodo. The lipstick they slathered on it to open Jam is already rubbed off on its teeth. Ridiculous wait times, shoddy service, and unpleasant flavors all make for a bad experience. I had the turkey club and the predominant flavor wasn't creamy avocado or salty bacon, rather, the sizable sandwich was overpowered by a rancid note to the turkey. My companion had the amish chicken--a lackluster dish that required "an extra 25 minutes" to prepare. Do they coax the live chicken to walk itself onto the stove? What justifies the extra time? It certainly wasn't for the incorporation of flavor. Here's my reco: hit up Jam on a weekday, get seated, thoroughly enjoy the amuse bouche, order the amish chicken so that they comp you a chive and bacon scone, enjoy, skip the entrees and leave.
(2)Andrew M.
This place sucks donkey tits.
(1)Sarah M.
LOVE LOVE this place! I've been twice, and both times were awesome. 1. Brunch: the french toast is FAB, so is the corned beef hash. Everything on the menu involves unique combinations of ingredients and flavors. I was a little nervous about all of the descriptions, but EVERYTHING we ordered was awesome. 2. Dinner: Same story as brunch (they're closed for dinner though until the spring/summer months). Interesting combos of ingredients and flavors. A little scary for anyone who is a cowardly eater like myself, but SO worth it. EVERYTHING on the tasting menu was fabulous. My husband and I each ordered a different tasting menu and we shared bites and everything was delicious. 3. Decor: really cute, cozy, and a nice cross between a casual and upscale feel. 4. Service: everyone was very kind and very happy to be there! I would go back here 100 times because they always change the menu, and it's BYOB!
(5)John C.
Enjoyed breakfast at the new location on Logan. We sat in the glass enclosed front area and the view over the boulevard is very pretty. The omelettes were great. Service was sweet, although a little slow. The interior is very crisp, modern and well designed. Love being able to choose between Lula and Jam in the same area. Who knew Logan Square would become the mecca for fine breakfasts?
(5)Amanda C.
Amazing food but don't go if you are in a hurry!
(4)Jackie S.
We ate at Jam for dinner last night and minus a few kinks it was delicious. We tried the tasting menu and were not disappointed. We started with the fennel soup with tarragon. I thought the flavors in the soup were underdeveloped but the presentation was nice. They bring you two bowls with concentrated spices and fennel in the bottom and then pour in the broth. Next we had the foie gras tortellini with pea pods and pea pure. I thought it was excellent and an interesting dish. For dinner we tried both the Ono with pineapple gnocchi and the pork tenderloin. The Ono was amazing. Never in my life have I found a fish dish delicious but this was it. It had a great crisp and although I was not crazy about the gnocchi being pineapple flavor it was excellent. The pork was also wonderful. It came on a crostini with figs which I would have preferred be hot rather then ice cold but the bits of olive and I think rosemary were a great touch. The major gripe during dinner though was I could not see a damn thing. Our waiter was very apologetic and tried to bring more candles but it really took away from the amazing food by not being able to see. Literally I could only make out shapes and nothing more. With an extra candle the dessert was amazing!!! I am hit or miss with dessert and Jam had me figured out. We had the chocolate donuts with a caramel sauce and ground hazel nut. It also came with a very thick chocolate custard. I thought that was a little thick and the flavor had a hint of a tootsie roll taste which I don't like but bottom line I ate the whole thing and it was fabulous. We also got the buckwheat cakes which were more of a cream puff with a homemade strawberry preserve with basil. Great pair. I always looked forward to going to Jam for breakfast but I am happy to see it is open for dinner. Great food but the kitchen is really slow and they need lights on the patio. The restaurant was not even half full so I have a feeling on some nights you might wait a long time. Bottom line though, it's worth the wait. Also there is no corkage fee.
(4)mls s.
The food is good but there are several tips for having a good experience. My boyfriend lives across the street and we like to go but decided that we needed rules to ensure a good experience. 1. You can go at anytime during the week but on the weekend try to go before 10:20 or after 1:30. 2. If you have large parties who want to try it on Saturday and Sunday go before 10. There is a tipping point between 10am 10:20 where it gets packed and expect a long wait. 3. Always have the coffee, its really good. 4. Remember to carry enough cash, because it is cash only. 5. If you want to go during prime time expect to wait a long time but while you wait go next door to sweet cakes and have a mini cupcake. Sweet Cakes is a great place to wait during the summer because its has a beautiful patio and you can sit in the sun while you wait. My only suggestion for the chef at Jam is I wish there were more veggie options.
(4)Jennifer L.
I just threw my husband a surprise 40th birthday party at the patio at Jam and everything was OUTSTANDING! The service, the food, the setting was all beyond... These guys nailed it! Everyone who worked there was super helpful and so nice and accommodating. The food was amazing! All the guests keep emailing me to tell me what a great event it was. Jamtastic!
(5)Cora B.
I'm a sucker for a new and/or exciting brunch place, so Jam has been on my short list since Daily Candy told me about it a few weeks ago. They told me not to miss the malted custard French toast; who was I to disobey? Between me and my two friends, I tried the egg sandwich, the blueberry pancakes and the aforementioned malted custard French toast and was more than impressed by everything - especially the French toast. I don't care how much other food you order when you come to Jam, you MUST order this French toast. It's gooey on the inside, caramelized on the outside, and imbued with the most delicious, mellow, happy malted milk flavor I have ever had the pleasure of experiencing. Really like nothing else I've ever had. The egg sandwich came with an expertly done over-easy egg on top of tender, melty roasted pork cheek with juicy slices of peaches and a sort of peachy-ketchup sauce. The first bite was fine, the second bite was good, the third was great, and so on and so forth until I ran out of positive adjectives. The potatoes which accompanied the sandwich were fine, but nothing special. An original, thoughtful menu, and a good value for the quality. Not terribly large portions, but who wants to be overstuffed at brunch? FYI, Jam is CASH ONLY! Watch out, M. Henry!
(4)Jake T.
Delicious breakfast cooked up in a tiny kitchen.
(4)Evangeline L.
We decided to check this place out yesterday so as to avoid the masses of the weekend. I like the space; its very minimalistic and modern with simple decorations. The service was a little shaky and our server a bit quirky but she was nice so whatever. We didn't get this infamous amuse bouche that everyone keeps talking about but perhaps that's a weekend only thing? My gf had the buckwheat crepes stuffed with lamb and pears which was quite tasty. My bestie had eggs, pancakes and bacon which were fine; however its a big ole problem if you screw that up. I decided to try something a little more adventurous...the egg white omelet with goat cheese and beets. It was tasty and healthy. Plus, I felt great after, which is sometimes unusual after brunch! All in all, I'm happy that its in my neighborhood (we're lacking in the brunch department) and I'll probably stop by again. However, I don't have that blissful in love mouth watering feeling about it. For that, Lula Cafe will always have my heart. Jam will do in a pinch though and who knows, perhaps after a few weeks they too will find space in my heart of hearts!?!?
(3)Mara R.
I just came back from brunch at JAM. I was looking forward to trying a new place in my neighborhood, but was quickly let down. My overall impression--over-rated, over-priced, and below-average food. Ambiance was cold and sterile. Service was sub-par. Staff was unfriendly and distant. Our waitress had an attitude, like she was doing us a favor by serving us. She disappeared shortly after we ordered and did not resurface until the end of our meal It took about 20 minutes for coffee re-fills and the coffee was bitter and burnt. The scrambled eggs were under-cooked, lukewarm and salty and the oatmeal was tasteless. I will be sure to let my friend in the area know of my experience and tell them not to waste their money . I chose Lulu Cafe, hands down, over JAM and will not return for seconds.
(1)Tiff B.
I went to Jam for brunch and really enjoyed it. It was semi-fine dining brunch in my opinion. We went on a Friday, so there was no wait. Our server was very attentive but not pushy. The menu had some interesting dishes, but I wasn't in an adventerous mood. So I went for the pancakes, eggs and sausage combo they had available. It was very well done. Tasty and the portions were just right. You could eat the whole meal and not feel uber stuffed and like you needed to be wheeled outta there. Which is what I find happens at some of the other brunch spots that give you huge portions. Just be warned that the sausage isn't your typical breakfast sausage, but very good nonetheless. The cash only thing is kind of a bummer, but it won't stop me from returning. Next time I go, I'll try some of the more interesting dishes on the menu.
(4)Nathan S.
The food is bland. We tried the eggs benedict, sausage & gravy and the jam burger. Nothing tasted bad but everything tasted bland, all 4 of us thought so. The food sounds good on the menu and looks good on the plate, but is a big let down when you eat it. Maybe they'll tinker with the recipes and fix this, but as it stands the food is bland.
(2)Gabby B.
I am really confused by positive reviews. We didn't have to wait long for a table, but it took over an hour for us to get our food after we ordered. The service all around was terrible. The interior is incredibly loud, but cute. I really wanted to find a new cute brunch spot, but our food was meh and with the bad service there is no way I will be going back.
(1)Julia H.
I brought my parents to eat brunch at Jam. They are older, conservative and live in a small town. They are uncomfortable with hipness yet they loved Jam. Our waitress Amelia was one of the nicest, most attentive servers you could ever have. She was gracious to them and attentive and didn't act like a snotty hipster that had to "deal" with older people that tend to be fussy. The food was outstanding as was the service and Amelia was right on with all of her suggestions for our meal. We will go back to Jam as often as possible.
(5)HEATHER S.
Delicious and very friendly. We were the only ones in there today, but it was great! They even gave us a little carrot cake muffin. Very tasty. Love the roasted almond tea.
(5)Matthew C.
The only thing stopping me from giving this restaurant a 5 was the long wait time to get a table and the fact that it is cash only. Outside of that, this place was awesome. By far my favorite brunch in the city. Every item ordered by our group was delicious (egg sandwich, omelet, french toast, pancakes, and eggs benedict). Service was solid, ambiance was upscale and trendy. One person in my group mentioned that it reminded them of NYC. I took a bit of offense to that statement. Just because something is cool, trendy, and delicious, doesn't mean it's like NYC. Having said that, I agreed with her.
(4)jeff c.
i wasn't really sure what to expect...the yelp reviews for jam are kind of all over the place! walking in at 9:30am this morning (a saturday, but it was pretty chilly out), there was no wait for our party of 3. the inside of the place is interesting; the mirrors are a good addition for making the place seem not quite as cramped as well, it was. :) the decor was minimal, but i thought it was tastefully done (even if the clear pieces in the lighting elements looked better from far away). the inside of this place kind of reminded me a little of lokal on north. this is not really a traditional breakfast place, but if you want that, you will probably be at the hollywood grill or somewhere similar. i had a tough time deciding on what i wanted, but i eventually decided on the buckwheat crepes (with lamb) on the recommendation of our server. we found the wait staff super attentive...no issues there. out first was a little mini muffin - banana chocolate chip with some lemon cream cheese on top. it was so small that at first we laughed about it, but it was actually quite excellent. my crepes were plated very nicely, although my friend alan asked if they were grape leaves. i told him they were crepe leaves...anyway, they were very good. the combination of the tender lamb, the sauce, the arugula, pearl onions, and hazelnuts was quite pleasing and not as heavy as i would expect. last up, we ordered some zucchini bread. after quite a lengthy wait (during which our coffee cups were never empty for more than 17 seconds), it appeared, piping hot...steaming profusely when we cut into it. it was...spectacular! totally worth the wait. so even though jam is maybe a little fancier of a place than i would ordinarily choose, i though the food and service were excellent, and i will likely go back.
(4)BenoitTro W.
Cute place, very nice staff, but, as many others have already said, the food simply misses. The items on both the breakfast and lunch menu sound absolutely exquisite, but the execution misses. Glad we went, had a nice walk, won't be back!
(2)Ryan W.
We had brunch here this past weekend, and I am a big fan of this place. The service is a little slow, but very attentive. We were served two--yes two--amuse bouches, just as we were thinking, "where's our food?" Our waiter was funny and engaging, the place is adorable, and the food was well worth the wait. I don't really have anything negative to say about this place!
(4)joann h.
This place is like the fine dinning of brunch spots, any place that has an amuse bouch (not spelled right I'm sure but you get the point) to start your breakfast is doing something right. Great staff and well thought out food. A must for the food savvy Chicagoan. Don't complain about the coffee being three dollars because our culture obviously pays more than that for a form of a cup of coffee each day. The coffee here was so good its worth every bit of three dollars, and the two dollars I spent on my coffee the next day was so bad it made me want to spit it out and cry. And I would also like to add if your going to complain about a two hour brunch wait on a Saturday or Sunday morning in Chicago, either make your own breakfast or go to Mcdonald's!
(5)Christopher B.
Jam is absolutely first-rate. A group of 3 of us went for Brunch today at 10:30 am - prime dining time. We were told a 45 minute wait, we were seated in 30 minutes. Everyone we encountered, including the roving server targeting hungry folks waiting with coffee, etc., was gracious and professional. The first thing you notice is the elegant room, balancing a chic spartan aesthetic with wonderful attention to detail. The room is painted in soothing gray and cream tones, which offset the modern light fixtures, chairs and table settings making the room comfortable and fashion-forward without being fussy or trying too hard. 3 entrees, all excellent, preceded by a tasty amuse bouche, which came as an unexpected surprise. French Toast with macerated fruit and lime leaf cream; a deconstructed Biscuits & Gravy, and the Egg terrine with beets, goat cheese and crushed macadamia were all just right. Jam has done something rare for brunch: Elegant presentation, innovative approaches to old standards, and just the right quantity to feel sated and not groaning in agony. All in a comfortable, sophisticated room without boho hipster attitude and at a price point which defies belief. $10 for an entree - very reasonable and worth every penny. If you view Brunch exclusively as an opportunity to overindulge on mountains of pancakes and 12-egg omelettes, this isn't the place for you. If you want a chic, urban eatery with great service, innovative cuisine at reasonable prices in a comfortable setting, go go go. Please come to Lakeview Jam, you're desperately needed here !!!
(5)Amy S.
Came here for a late brunch. Really appreciated their unique menu offering for a non traditional brunch. I ordered the lamb crepes which were delicious. The Asian apples added a nice texture to the very tender pieces of braised lamb. My sister ordered the sweet potato egg white omelette. A good fall dish but was too salty for me. Prices without coffee are reasonable...three dollars is a rip off. Though the dishes are good, I guess the three stars is just because it's not a traditional omelette and pancakes brunch place. The serving sizes are a bit small (or maybe normal?) so as long as you're in the mood for an atypical brunch menu offering, you'll really enjoy this place.
(3)Brad C.
Came here for a late brunch on a Monday. There were just a few other people there. Some were eating inside and couple were eating outside. We ended up sitting inside but really should of ate outside on their great patio and enjoyed the early summer weather. I was glad to see they served Metropolis coffee. It's always great to see local businesses supporting other local businesses. Jam starts you off with a complimentary mini muffin which is very tasty and goes great with the coffee. As far as the menu goes, it felt a little limited on classic breakfast fare. I went with the egg sandwich, it came with pork and rhubarb. Really this was more of a pork sandwich with an egg on it. Much more of a lunch dish then a breakfast item. But it was basically lunch when I was there so I wasn't complaining. The sandwich was excellent and there wasn't a bite left on my plate when it was taken away. My fiancé ordered the veggie panini and she also enjoyed it but didn't love it. Glad I got to check it out but I don't think I would have waited in the typical weekend brunch line for it. Be sure to bring cash. Its cash only but there is an ATM inside.
(4)Becky A.
I went here because a friend and I wanted to try a new brunch place. First, we waited about 45 minutes for a table for 2. When the host came out to call names, many names were called where no one claimed it, showing many people had given up an left. I know you have to wait some times, but it got a little ridiculous. When we sat down, we had to wait for menus. Someone came to take our drink order, and then another person came to take our drink order. Clearly there was no communication. The same thing happened once we ordered entrees. Plus, right up front as we ordered our entrees, the server suggested we order a bread/scone to start because it would take a while for the food to come. She mentioned they expanded the restaurant but not kitchen capabilities, which I think is an interesting move for a business. I did have the zucchini bread which was quite tasty and glad I ordered it. The egg sandwich was good. My friend had the eggs Benedict and the amount of food on my plate vs. hers was 4 times bigger. If I were her, I would have felt cheated. I got potatoes, she didn't. I literally would have finished the eggs Benedict in 4 bites. The two tables on either side of us had brought champagne (it's BYOB), but they waited a long time for their servers to actually find it. Overall, food is good. Service is slow and I'll look for some other brunch places.
(2)Maura S.
I came here for a late brunch on a Saturday and had a great time. The service was wonderful- my coffee cup was never empty! We were served a tasty amuse bouche upon arrival, and our dishes were great. Many of the items on the menu were creative and interesting. I had oatmeal and got to choose three items to put in it (cream, fruit, and brown sugar). It was delicious and I would go back again!
(5)Ivanka B.
Pleasantly surprised by the spiced chocolate bread pudding amuse bouche with caramel sauce. Also impressed by the presentation of the eggs benedict but it ends right there - at the appearance. Pork belly was OVERcrisped and dry and barely edible. I have had much pork belly and really don't think it was meant to be served this way. Also the eggs were overpoached and did not spill out all over my plate like I had anticipated :-( boo. The tiny English muffin that they sat on was very good though. I really wanted to love this dish but sadly it missed the mark.
(2)J T.
Holy what!!! I don't know who this chef is but I am going to jump this counter and kiss him. This food is crazy good. Scotch egg, the French toast is nuts, and if biscuits and gravy is your thing..do it. Oh, my friend got the pork belly eggs Benedict (homemade biscuit) and seriously...I'm blown away.
(5)Julie H.
The interior is simple and charming, and the food is actually really good. I really wanted to like this place, but we waited 2 hours at the table for my food. We hardly saw our waitress the whole time we were there. We sat down at 1:00 and left at 3:00, and they weren't even that busy. The guy who owns this place also owns a joint called Chick Pea (Chicago/Damen). It's the same way....I'm always waiting FOREVER for my food and there's hardly anyone in the restaurant. Both places aren't worth going to anymore...I've tried a few times...that's just how the guy runs the place. I'm stickin to places with better and faster service.
(2)Barry Z.
Tried it out for the first time, since I live real close. I had been to Dodo before, which was well-named, in my opinion (I never got what was so great about that place - hey, I melted cheese in an omelette! Look at me!). Starting out, Jam was not looking like a winner. We had difficulty entering, due to all the yuppie parents with their double-wide SUV strollers clogging the entrance. I don't get bringing babies to cramped expensive restaurants, but I digress. When we came in and asked for a seat, they took our names and said 20 min. I looked at the empty 2-seater table right next to us, and looked at the hostess. She asked us to leave and go to the courtyard. At this point, I need coffee. We navigate around more strollers, hit the cool little courtyard, and contemplate buying coffee from the bakery next door. And then, they came out and told us to come in. And guess where we sat....at the same empty 2-seater I glanced at when we came in. No idea what that pointless 5 minute wait was about. Anyway, I really want coffee. And so we sit. And wait. About 5 minutes later, we get water. Nice, but wrong color. I need coffee! Finally, our waitress comes by. Clearly a Buddhist monk in training, she moved with GREAT deliberation. I mean, extreme deliberation. It took a minute for her to put our silverware down. I beg for coffee. Luckily, the coffee guy is not a Buddhist monk, and when we finally get cups, from that point on the coffee poured freely. The Metropolis stuff is very good - high points. Also got an amuse bouche, which I thought too sweet - some sort of poppy bread w/ peach sauce, but I will never complain about free food, so no points deducted. I ordered the eggs benedict, and my gf got the blueberry pancakes, and here, despite the coffee delay, Jam earns its stars. This place approaches Lula's in its level of attention to detail. I was really impressed. At first, I thought the portions small, but by the time we finished, we were both stuffed. I liked how the dishes were greater than the sum of their parts. The egg with the amazing pork belly (they do all their own charcuterie and meats), which had a light sprinkling of salt crystals, with the bread, and the light spinach hollandaise all tasted better together. Similarly, the blueberry pancake elevated itself with the combination of lemon creme fraiche (can we just call it rich man's sour cream?) and an excellent blueberry compote, w/ maple syrup. Anyway, definitely worth a return visit. Looking at some of the other reviews, I agree there are some kinks in their seating and service, which hopefully will improve with age. I just like having somewhere closer than Lula to go for thoughtful food. By the way, if you are complaining about the amuse bouches (free food), the decor (who freaking cares), the cash only, or the effect of un-conditioned air on your precious yuppie skin - GO BACK TO LINCOLN PARK, and take your strollers with you!
(4)Christina M.
A disgrace to the space. Filling the void left by Dodo was not an easy task, but the new occupants are a far cry from even being close to a worthy replacement. Their strained, weird-for-weird's-sake ingredient combinations are eye-rolling, and the dishes themselves are simply bland and uninspired. Such is the same with their desperate attempt to have a trendy interior: they desecrated what was once a really unique, cozy, genuinely cool space with exposed brick and interesting artwork and gave it a sterile cosmetic makeover with the apparent help of Delia Deetz from Beetle Juice- white everything peppered with cheap stainless steel. If you don't feel like a sugary waffle or something that once had eyeballs, you are out of luck. But anyone is better off saving the wait for a table and getting an egg muffin from next door.
(1)Frances C.
What makes a restaurant fabulous is that it offers a complete package: from having just the right ambience, providing impeccable service, to memorable food (either because of unique twists on classic cuisine, or just downright amazing bite after bite). Jam has the complete package. The bonuses are it's located in one of my fave neighborhoods in the city and that they have a kids menu thus welcoming my 19 month old with open arms. What sets Jam apart, and why I highly recommend it to anyone for brunch/lunch is their service. From Jerry (cool dude behind the counter) who answered my probing questions by email (!!) promptly and with a sense of humor, to our server (I'm sorry I didn't get your name, but cool dude with a blue checked shirt and gave my daughter a free OJ to go) they were friendly and made all of us at the table feel like we were eating in someone's dining room. Go for the mouthwatering savory buckwheat crepes stuffed with braised lamb and the fluffy melt-in-your-mouth buttermilk pancakes (really, the entire menu); stay for the charming and bustling ambience; and return (over and over) for the awfully friendly service. I'll be back for sure!
(5)Jen P.
Pretension potential is high, but Jam delivers... - SOLID food with unique flavor combinations (who knew I'd love white anchovies atop a chorizo omelet?!) - leafy courtyard with complimentary coffee while you wait - respectable service amidst modern mod decor - damn fine people watching Looking forward to coming back in the summer and brunching outside... Make no mistake: you'll probably wait and you'll pay more than you would at Golden Angel, but they put your money where your mouth is. Go. Taste for yourself.
(4)Jacqueline G.
I am in love... Fell in love yesterday and can't wait to go back. It was literally the best brunch I have had in years. The decor is perfect - clean, crisp, with a touch of trend. The servers all look like they should be actors or models yet have fantastic personalities and are attentive and honest. The food - perfection. I had the Eggs Benedict, my boyfriend had the french toast. Not only was our food beautiful to look at, but it was delicious. I felt like the chef had prepared my meal with the utmost attention to detail. Everything was perfect. Can't wait to go back next weekend :)
(5)Nicolas H.
the jamburger is delicious. one of the best burgers i've had in chicago, no question. the egg sandwich was damn good too. the cheeks tasted at times like briscuit and then other times like short ribs. sure it takes a while, as do most good things, but its worth the wait...
(4)Beth D.
I never got to sample the food here, so I can't speak to that. What I do know is that the big guy who takes names at the counter is extremely unorganized. We came in after these two other guys, just steps behind them. Waited for them to give their names, then we gave ours. 30 minutes later, the counter guy sat those guys and then said we would be next. Then he sat two other tables. I asked the the heezy...he said we were way down on the list and it would be ANOTHER 45 minutes. I said we came in after those guys. He didn't remember. I couldn't read his writing on the list so I couldn't argue. They clearly weren't interested in our business since he said, oh well. Nice service.
(1)Courtney B.
This was a great start to a totally lazy Saturday with nowhere to be. It may have been the best 'wait' I have experienced, sitting in an adjoining courtyard sipping on Cafe Au Lait and sampling mini cupcakes at the bakery next door. I had read that there was no AC so was pleasantly surprised to be seated in the table right next to the window at the front. I am not sure what my comfort level would have been further in the back. Our service could not have been better. Our very cute and attentive waitress was there every step of the way, bringing extra this or that and answering all our questions, such as, "What is Bollo bread?" which is served with the egg sandwich. "French bread basically," if you're curious. All of the ingredients inside this stacked sammy got my attention and I had to check it out. For $10 I got the Egg Sandwich which included Pork cheeks, ricotta salata, pickled plums, bollo bread and fingerling potatoes. The plums and pork together were heavenly. Sweet and savory. I also had a bite of my gal pal's egg white omettette with golden beets, marscapone served in a beet puree with macadamia nuts. That was kind of a show stopper along with the lemon Creme Fraich that came with the blueberry pancakes. What a sweet sensation! I enjoyed the combinations of flavors and would definitely come back here another time. I was unprepared for the harsh reality of not having a bloody mary (or any booze) for breakfast on a weekend, so note this going in. Also, cash only.
(4)Caroline G.
Went to Jam on Saturday for a late brunch...its BYOB brought a bottle of Rose and they were quick with a bucket of ice to chill it. Waitress was a bit awkward but attentive and pleasant nonetheless... Ordered their special scone (more of a biscuit I'd say) of the day: bacon and chive with raspberry jam and butter, AMAZING, thought the sweet jam with the savory scone might be an odd combo, but it was delicious. Ordered the egg sandwich, which was also delicious, only complaint is the thick crusty bread which its served on...tasty but hard to cut/bite through. Overall, would definitely recommend if you like dishes with a little twist on the classics!
(5)rebecca s.
you can basically copy and paste word for word what lauren p just said into my review because we ate here together. -i got here a bit before my party and was hounded for a drink before i even got settled in my chair. - i agree they were waaaaaay overstaffed. im a restaurant manager at a 700 seat restaurant and ive never had that much staff on at 10am on a monday ever before. - any time we started a conversation or tried to enjoy the company of my party we were interrupted by someone...either refilling our drinks after one sip or asking us if we were ready to order 30 seconds after we told you we werent. -aside from the annoying service...i ordered the biscuits and gravy. it was delicious, minus the egg. i like a runny egg but i dont like it when the white isnt even cooked. i was really hoping to enjoy this place but i feel like im going to have to give it a few more months before i go back. hopefully some improvements will be made after they have been opened a little bit longer.
(2)Becky C.
The food here is amazing, and the portions were very large. Although I noticed other tables getting an amuse bouch as we were leaving, and we didn't get any! The two stars are really for the ambiance. First of all, there is nothing soft on the walls to absorb sound, so it was ridiculously loud. Second, it is really crowded and cramped in the space. We were placed at a table that was right in the middle of the walkway. People kept bumping into our chairs and our table - seems like they could take out a few tables and give people some breathing room. And finally, while our waitress was really nice, the service was a bit slow. It's too bad that we were so put off by the atmosphere, because the food was great...but we won't be going back.
(2)Michael R.
This place is excellent. Sophisticated yet unpretentious food for not much $$. With careful plating & attention to detail, Jam really knows how to execute. I only wish it were open for dinner too.
(5)Susan F.
We had a great dinner at Jam the other night. The menu is interesting, the food well prepared and friendly, knowledgeable, attentive service. And since we brought our own wine, the value is excellent for the price! Well worth visiting--you can even get brunch for dinner!
(5)Rose G.
I live in Logan Square and have now eaten at Jam three times- Breakfast, and twice for dinner. The food is excellent- the menu is creative but still does the classics well (classic brunch dishes done with an artsy flair, dishes like pot roast for dinner- but really elegant and beautiful presentation.) I have spent about 15 dollars on each visit- so I think prices are totally reasonable. The room is absolutely gorgeous- modern, welcoming and light filled. Love the charcoal grey and pale pink walls so much that I am tempted to ask for the paint colors so that I can do it at home! It's a beautiful space, great food, and three times in two weeks means I expect I'll be there often.
(5)hachem h.
If I could I'd go with 4.5 stars. I've been twice and tried several different items. This is not a hangover spot, if hangover comfort food dictates your likes in a brunch this isn't your place. It's a more upscale spot with smaller portions, but they pay a lot of attention to the ingredients and presentation. Like any restaurant this one shines brighter on certain dishes. The eggs benedict, pancakes and in-house braised pork cheek are amazing! Avoid the french toast.
(4)Andrew S.
Awesome corn beef hash sandwich. REALLY good. Thats all im gonna say.
(5)Masha F.
The entire seating area reeked of pork being fried. As a non pork eater the smell really got to me. The breakfast menu also has some kind of pork/bacon in 75% of the selections. I was the only patron there in the morning and was not greeted very graciously, not offered a water, not spoken to and overall ignored for a good 10 minutes. Again, I was the only person in the place. I agree with another reviewer they need the AC up, it was much warmer inside than it was outside. In the future I am sticking with Flo for early bird grub.
(1)R K.
These are 2 things a burger with fried egg should not contain: 1. An overcooked egg (should be sunny side up, not over hard) 2. Undercooked (ie completely raw) hamburger patty Each of the multiple orders of the Jam burger at our table were prepared exactly like this. I'm not sure what's more concerning - the fact that it's highly recommended by the waitstaff or that some girl in our group compared the uncooked meat patty to steak tartare. Yikes.
(1)Law S.
We went to brunch and got the pressed apple juice, bloody mary with Stroh's sidecar, pearl tea, amuse bouche was a little apple muffin, custard french toast (app size), Jamburger, and Turkey club. Every single thing was amazing, as was our service from John L. I cannot recommend this enough and is now my go-to place for brunch/ breakfast. Outstanding!
(5)Den B.
I like this place, very quality and tasty food! The best breakfast place ever!!! French toast unforgettable! Highly recommended!!!
(5)Harry L.
One of my favorite restaurants, I've been going to Jam for breakfast and lunch since they opened and now they are serving dinner! Here's the thing. They are creative, they put great flavors together on the plate and they cook everything perfectly. I cannot emphasize the last point enough. Example, the Amish Chicken. It's a chicken breast and I usually am leery of chicken breast, but theirs is always perfect, tender JUICY and flavorful. I was in recently for dinner and had the tasting menu, which at $25 for 4 courses is a steal. The fish was so awesome; the flavor combination a fantastic surprise (I'm usually not likely to order fish, for some reason) and was again, perfectly cooked. The duck breast (i opted for the 5th course) was again so good and again perfectly cooked. By the way, the server, Paulina, was really, really attentive, friendly and at the same time, professional. I love Jam and cannot overstate how good it is. Whether it's breakfast, lunch or now dinner, it remains one of my favorite restaurants anywhere. I've always found the quality, creativity and care of the kitchen as well as the level of service and the atmosphere to be way above and beyond the price point.
(5)Jeff S.
I stopped by here a couple of weeks ago but couldn't do the 45 minute wait. Went over there this morning to grab a biscuit. Just a biscuit. They wanted to charge me $4 for a biscuit to go. Absurd. I went over to Sunrise Cafe around the corner. They were much more accommodating.
(2)Kristina D.
The menu items are plated very nicely. The food was totally acceptable. I would definitely be willing to bring people to eat here, but the flavors weren't really anything new. However, i just don't think the food id worth the wait. We waited a total of 2 hours to get our food- 30 minutes for the table + 1hr 30 min after being seated. They apologized for the long wait time and brought an amuse bouche so that our stomachs didn't eat us alive, but it really was unacceptable to be getting food that isn't amazing after such a long wait. The waitress was nice but way too over apologetic in the form of refilling our waters and coffee too soon (think two sips consumed between refills). I might come back if they add more savory vegetarian options but I'll probably just skip it and go somewhere with less of a wait and slightly better food.
(3)Tiffany A.
My husband and stopped into Jam around for breakfast this past weekend. I passed it couple of times and we LOVE brunch, so we thought we would check it out. I love the decor - and when we arrived we were seated right away in a cozy table near the door. The waiter was very personable and the service in general was great. After we ordered they brought us each a mini chocolate chip muffin with vanilla cream cheese. Yum! However, I wasn't terribly impressed when it came to my main dish (Eggs Benedict). I felt the "beet hollandaise" sauce lacked flavor and there wasn't much else to it. My husband doesn't eat eggs and so his options were limited. He had the Granola and Yogurt with a side of Fingerling Potatoes - which he said were fine. I just don't know that it was enough for us to go back again. A couple of specifics: - It's cash only (but there's an ATM by the bathroom if you forget to come with cash on hand) - It seemed pretty kid friendly and they even had a kids menu with some more simplified dishes
(3)Lauren H.
I wanted to love this place so much that I was willing to overlook the lack of air conditioning or them running out of ice (seriously though how the hell do you run out of ice?!?) because the menu sounded so inventive. The menu was chock full of crazy combination and fascinating ingredients that I found myself torn between a number of dishes. The food itself was so terrible that I had to force myself to eat it (we're in a recession here and the food there is pricey). The eggs on both our dishes were way overcooked. The whole point of poached eggs and sunny side up eggs is the runny yoke. If you can't cook an egg and hold yourself out as a breakfast place you should be shot. Secondly, stop calling it pork belly when you are just giving me an overcooked piece of rib meat. It's not pork belly just because you call it that. Overall, go here if you are a masochist/ bulimic who wants a guaranteed way to toss your cookies after a meal
(1)shai h.
Came for brunch on a Monday afternoon. The outdoor seating is kind of weird. The true patio feel gives it character, but it also made me feel like everything was dirtier or something. The ambience was also off-putting. My boyfriend said it was because there was no music. I always feel awkward when I can hear other tables' conversations when I'm eating. The food was nothing special. The brownie they brought out was dry. The steak and eggs I ordered was over cooked and chewy. The grits were really good though. My boyfriend's food was better although he said he'd never be coming back. We were both disappointed because we'd been looking forward to trying this place forever.
(2)Anthony B.
Just wow. The food is amazing, the atmosphere is amazing. I just have a great time there. The service is so far beyond what you would expect for the level of dining. I tip my hat to the owner; who is usually there and is as nice as he can be. I'd give it 6 stars if I could.
(5)Claire Y.
We went for a morning-after-Christmas brunch. Still fatigued from the previous nights' festivities, we were quick to request bottomless coffee and sat quietly looking out the windows at the lovely snowfall. Silence and tranquility broke when our food came. My pork cheek sandwich (with roasted fingerling potatoes) looked succulent, and so did his eggs benedict with pork belly. Looks aside, the flavors and textures were superb as we both found ourselves fully focused on our food. Fun, modern interior and friendly service. Prices are very reasonable for this caliber of brunch offerings.
(4)Ryan F.
I'm less than 5 blocks from this place and I am addicted. There isn't one thing on the menu that isn't amazing. My favorites are the corned beef and hash, scotch egg and guisado verde. The wait is never too long and the staff is amazingly friendly. This is why I am not giving it a 5 star rating: ITS CASH only.... BUT they do have an ATM basically on top of the women restroom.... Its mounted uncomfortably low so you have to kind of squat down to use it and you end up looking extra creepy when that amazingly beautiful woman walks out... --true story...
(4)Olha S.
Failed expectations.... This is a fairly new restaurant in the neighborhood. We went there on Sunday night. There were twice as more of waiters than customers. Felt awkward. All waiters were standing the whole time in front of our eyes (café is small) - annoying. It did not feel private. Kitchen is right inside of the restaurant, but no seating, as you would imagine around it. PROS: cute looking modern design and nice service. CONS: cooks the carried dirty or steamy huge pans with food back and forth from the "back" kitchen to the "inside kitchen" just few inches behind our backs all our diner time. Not pleasant. CONS: Food was so-so. I have eaten far better prepared duck in other restaurants. I did not like the taste of foie grass at all. CONS: Portions are so tiny even of the regular menu, really like a tasting portion. Not filling. Would not recommend to go there if you are hungry. CONS: Our waiter told us that if one orders the tasting menu ($25 sounds like a bargain but indeed so TINY), other people at the table are obligated to order an entrée from a regular menu, or another tasting menu. PRO: There is only one positive side of this restaurant. Its Patio. I love to sit outside. Their patio still needs some repair work, it does not look as neat or clean, as one would wish for. Bottom-line I would not recommend this restaurant for its food but I would visit their patio for a cup of coffee.
(3)James B.
My parents were in town and we wanted to grab some breakfast close to home before we went out to the burbs to visit family. We got there at 8:30am on a Saturday and the place was full (not slammed, full) .. with maybe 2-3 parties ahead of us in line. We put our name down and the host told us 25 minutes. Ok fine, so we wait. It was raining outside, so we waited in the small alley-way near the front door. We waited for 30 minutes and none of the 2-3 parties in front of us in line had been seated. We asked the host again .. he said probably 10 more minutes. After waiting a total of 45 minutes and seeing absolutley no turnover whatsoever, we decided we had waited long enough for a little breakfast... and took off. So, we never actually tasted the food so I really can't comment on that other than it looked small and overpriced. But overall, its amazing how such a tiny restaurant can be so grossly inefficient. I mean, this is Breakfast guys, you gotta turn and burn .. its not like I'm sitting down for a 3 hour marathon at Trotter's. The incompetence overall was painfully obvious, so I really have no desire to even go back and actually order anything.
(1)Rudy S.
I paid $10 for 2 small slices of French Toast, that wasn't even out of this world. Try the egg dishes - you'll get more food with those orders. This place doesn't have liquor and is not BYOB. also CASH ONLY. I'l say this - the owners are really nice and for only being open a short time they seem to have it together. it's too bad when you have a bad server who ruins the experience. I think i'll give this place a second chance in a few weeks.
(2)Vera P.
Jam was just OK. I really wanted to looove them, but sadly, I think it's just OK. It's a beautiful space and certainly a welcome addition to the neighborhood. The servers were all very nice and they bring by a pre-meal bite of some yummy baked good, which is a nice touch. Our meals, however, fell a bit short. We had been to their previous location in Ukranian Village with some friends who raved about the food. Unfortunately, my husband and I both felt there was a whole lot of salt and not enough flavor in our dishes. Because we totally heart Logan Square we were happy to see this space being renovated for JAM... we anxiously awaited their opening and went to try dinner this time, well, I was the only one who ordered dinner, actually. The restaurant was nearly empty, but that was fine by us, because we could actually carry on good conversation without screaming. They were very accommodating - I can be a little difficult when it comes to ordering and at that time they were only offering one dinner option nightly. I really wanted Saturday's special, the pot roast, and it was Sunday. Our server checked with the chef and told me he would be able to do the pot roast - they now offer multiple dinner options nightly, which is definitely a good thing. I was very happy with my pot roast, tender and delicious, but again, just a touch too heavy on the salt. We went again for brunch with some friends in the neighborhood who wanted to check it out - they have two little ones and although we had to wait a little for a table, they were able to get us a nice comfy spot, pretty quick for a late Sunday morning, although the restaurant was rather crowded and loud. That's brunch I guess. Again, the presentation was terrific, but I felt my dish lacked oomph. I definitely enjoyed my dinner at JAM more than brunch (and I love me my eggs!). I will not give up on you, JAM. The dishes are unique and creative. Hopefully they will continue to improve as they get into the groove in their new location.
(3)Joscelyn M.
The next time I'm in the mood for a sugar-loaded brunch - I'm here. I liked this place, but I think it's better for sweets (v. savory). The good: The amuse bouche: mini pumpkin banana cupcake. Wow. If this were all I had, this place would get 6 stars. The coffee cake with cranberries & pecans - great combo of flavors & textures. The service: sooooo nice. The meh: Biscuits and gravy: overall flavor was a bit vinegar-y, but I would get it again. Cash only: I really like my plastic. The not so good: The spanish omelet: the cheese flavor in it was way over-powering. The "savory" menu: a bit too odd for me. That said, still 4 stars.
(4)Amanda G.
I give this place 4 stars. I am subtracting one star because we had to wait a long time for our food (about 35 min). But when we did get it, the food was great. I thought the service was decent. The water and coffee was re-poured regulary during our meal. Our server was nice and explained to us some of the popular items on the menu. I chose the savory crepes with braised lamb and pear sauce. My boyfriend chose the egg sandwich, also very tasty. The food quality here is excellent. They definitely have a great presentation and use an awesome combinations for their menu items. The place is cash only though. They do provide an ATM at the back to withdraw money. I just wish they had a bar so I could have mimosas or bloodies with my wonderful food!
(4)Issy G.
This is a gem. Loved the decor, the atmosphere and best of all the food was fabulous! I went on the lighter side of the menu for brunch. The wedding is coming...but a girl has to eat right? Jam did not miss a beat. The food was healthy, visually appealing and awesome! I had the sweet potato buckwheat crepe (party in my mouth!), a kohlrabi salad w/ hazelnuts, and egg whites. It was filling and it was delish...did I say that already? I can not wait to try the other stuff! The downside; parking around there bites... 60 max seating so expect a wait...
(4)Lisa H.
JAM is another hyped up brunch spot that I had to go try out and decide for myself. It is located in Logan Square, so looking for parking will require some patience. The restaurant itself is a little difficult to find because there isn't much signage. Just look for the big white building with some green accent. Upon entering through the glass doors on a Sunday afternoon, my party of three was seated promptly. Score! No waiting. The service here was one of the worst I had experience in a while. Our waiter came by shortly after we sat down to take drink orders. The table all just took water, but I ordered coffee with soy milk. I don't know where they were getting this coffee from, but I didn't receive my cup of coffee until 15-20 minutes later. Upon receiving the cup of coffee, I never received the soy milk or sugar. 10 minutes later, I finally received my soy milk without any sugar. Had to wait again for another couple of minutes for the sugar. Great! Now my coffee is cold. In between this whole entire process with my coffee, our waiter never came by to take our food order. We flagged him down a couple of times and he kept telling us he'll be with us in a moment. Finally, after almost 40 minutes, he came back to take our order. I ordered the egg sandwich. It came with pork shoulder, ricotta salata, and plum preserves on French bollo bread. It also was accompanied with some roasted fingerling potatoes. They didn't go cheap with the pork and it was really tender, but the sandwich itself was lacking flavor and dry. Overall, JAM was a huge disappointment. I expected more from the famous Chef Jeffrey Mauro (formerly of Charlie Trotter and North Pond.) The presentation of each dish was stunning, but the food wasn't on par. The service lacked even more. Definitely steer clear of this place unless you just want some mediocre food and horrible service.
(1)Matthew M.
Cold food, undercooked egg whites and no adjustment on the check. Disappointed and still hungry :(
(2)Ashley R.
The Chicken and Waffles special is amazing. Best Bacon I have ever had in my life! Also love the breakfast sandwich :) Soooo yummy!
(5)Andrea S.
Decided to give Jam another try. My fiance works 3rd shift and it's the only place in the neighborhood where we can get breakfast and he can get a beer at 7:00a.m. I don't think there's actually been other customers at the time we go. I feel like 2 out of the last 3 times we've been, their credit card machine wasn't working so we needed to get cash. I've been ordering the egg whites, which are pretty good. I really like the bacon and bacon sausage.
(4)Maria A.
Excellent brunch spot with a beautiful sun-filled front room, best area to snag a table if you can. Recommend getting a half order of their acclaimed french toast to share and a savory dish. Normally I don't go sweet at brunch but their french toast was light and interesting enough that it was worth it. Great little neighborhood spot that is better than Lula's in my opinion and with the open kitchen you can see the love the chefs are putting into their creations.
(5)Kristin H.
Cute brunch spot in Logan SQ. Our server was excellent! Very accommodating, super sweet and friendly. I ordered the Egg Sandwich and it was very hearty and delicious. My friend ordered the Eggs Benedict and it was yummy but very small. I recommend it if you're watching your figure. We split the Malted Custard French Toast and wow!! Yummmmy! Definitely going back next time I'm home.
(4)Steve M.
JAM at first seems full of potential. It's a cute little storefont location with a pleasant outdoor seating area, modern decor and good music playing. The menu has tasty-sounding options. My roommate and I stopped by this afternoon for a late brunch. Tasty-sounding, but not tasty-tasting. My potatoes were waaay overcooked, my roommate's highly-anticipated brown sugar bacon sausage tasted neither of brown sugar nor bacon ("Man, did they pick this up at Aldi?"). His eggs benedict were "passable, but nothing special". My egg sandwich with pork shoulder was a little better, but the pork shoulder was probably braised in too much liquid, since about a half cup of water was pooled on my plate after the first few bites. All in all, pretty mediocre food. Our waiter was nice enough, but we wondered why the coffee took longer to serve than the food we ordered. My roommate joked that if we'd walked over to New Wave and ordered coffee there, we could have drank it and walked back to our table without missing a beat. All in all this place probably deserves another chance. Maybe the kitchen was just having an off day. We both walked away agreeing that it wasn't the worst meal we'd ever had, but that's not much of a compliment. Final thought: I'm glad I tried JAM, but for brunch in the square I'm sticking with Lula next time.
(2)Yen L.
First, I am just going to put in my own gripe based only on my preferences and personality. We had the misfortune of being seated right next to a very loud couple, less than two feet away. Her laugh pierced my ear, I couldn't hear my husband, the language was a tad strong for me. She seemed well aware of her volume, but laughed it off. Unfortunately, the couple on the other side of them joined in and increased the volume by a couple of decibels. It made my overall experience terrible. I didn't really enjoy the food as much as I probably could have since I just wanted to get out of there. Now, on to what you probably really care about: service and food. Server was attentive and timely, though the place was pretty busy. Their menu was a bit limited, I guess in the interest of doing a few things very well. For the price, I felt the portions were small. My omelet looked like they had cooked it, folded it, and then cut off the end. It just seemed short. Furthermore, I couldn't really taste the Spanish chorizo. The onions and peppers were delicious, but I was disappointed by the lack of chorizo. My husband got their chicken n waffle special, and it was respectable. The portions were lacking. We didn't feel completely satisfied. The taste wasn't exceptional to us. We probably will not make an effort to return, though I'm glad this place seems to have found a niche in Logan Square.
(3)Joseph A.
Jake is awesome! French Toast was phenomenal. Breakfast sandwich was good but messy, next time I will do over hard on the egg. Burrito was great as well. A cool place to sit and relax. Oh, pretty cool beer selection too.
(5)Lisa B.
First review on Yelp :-) ... I love JAM. We've been about 4 or 5 times and does not disappoint. Everything is good. Excellent service. Will return again and again. Chef Mauro well done!
(5)Stella K.
Jam is pretty good. They usually have a seat for you for brunch without any wait time on the weekends. The Bloody Mary's are always on point, the meals are filling and the servers are always nice. I have noticed that their menu doesn't change, or if it does, it doesn't change often. Also, food is usually lukewarm/cold.
(3)Nichole W.
I went here with a good friend of mine and we both had our babies with us, which usually poses an issue in Chicago restaurants. Our server was very gracious in helping us get situated in the tight tables and relocated our strollers for us. She also was great in giving us suggestions for food as neither of us had been there before. You are greeted with a super mini orange walnut biscotti. It was pretty cute and tasty. There was a carafe of water on the table, which is always nice as someone who only drinks water...and a lot of it. I went for the custard french toast as per our server's recommendation. Apparently, Food and Wine Magazine rated it as one of the best breakfast dishes in all of Chicago. This is a very rich dish with a stunning presentation. It has fresh whipped cream on the side with lime zest over the top. My friend opted for the Egg Whites. As much as I liked my own food, I certainly was experiencing some food envy when I tasted her food. It was OUT OF THIS WORLD good. I'm going back, just for that. There was poached egg whites, a beet emulsion, asparagus and so much more.
(4)Melanie A.
Nothing spectacular here. I ordered the French toast and had the nerve to ask for maple syrup. After a lecture from the waitress about how it didn't need maple syrup she offered to get me some for a fee, obnoxious. I don't like being told how to eat my food, that's right I put ketchup on my hot dogs with pride!! My friend had the pancakes which she wasn't impressed with either. Based on other reviewers I'd try Lulas instead.
(3)Q D.
Pros: Trendy Professional staff Good ambience On par food Cons: Variety Hidden location Sn: i ordered a bloody mary that didnt taste quite like it should (not enough vodka and missing another ingredient) instead of fixing my drink he charged me for extra vodka and it still didnt taste right. Had to order a beer just to subside the bad taste of the first drink
(3)Stephanie G.
The restaurant is truly fabulous!! I ate here this past Monday with my boss. We had the best food. We tried the waffle of the day, which was a chicken and waffle. I know that "chicken waffle" does not describe it's deliciousness. I can't even explain what this masterpiece was, but it was unlike any chicken and waffle that I had ever had or heard of. We also got the malted custard french toast. This is award winning and as good as it sounds. I was in food heaven! We had these items for lunch. The portions were huge, but I did not leave Jam overly stuffed, which is a good thing since we were headed back to the office. Our server was amazing! His name was Brandon, and you will be lucky to get him if you visit Jam. He made great recommendations. I will definitely be back!!
(5)Matt B.
All the food was unique. Eggs Benedict, Bloody Mary's and the Biscuits and Gravy were all very good! The Chicken and Waffles looked great but I'm not a fan of dark meat. Lets try them with white meat and I'm sure I'll be a raving fan!
(4)Lexie V.
I remember coming here years ago when they were at their old location and LOVING it. I just went to the newer location for the first time and I was so disappointed. If this was a review for the french toast alone I would give them 4.5 stars. It's amazing. Unfortunately everything else sucked. The bloody mary was one of the worst I've had. It was thick and bland and I'm not convinced that there was any booze in it... and if I remember correctly it was over $10. The service was mediocre at best. There weren't many people there but somehow the ordering and payment processes were extremely drawn out. I went in August on a hot day. Somehow it was hotter inside than it was outside. I was dying. I'm much more a summer person than I am a winter person, but I was so uncomfortable that I just wanted to leave. The waitress said "Oh yeah, we only turn up the AC to a certain level and then we just leave it". Great. Overall I was disappointed. I wont be going out of my way to come back here again.
(2)Amelia H.
I've brunched all of the brunches in Logan Square and Jam is my favorite hands down. The menu is classic with ingenious twists, and the weekly waffle is always a must order. I've had a scotch egg waffle, a waffle with cranberry gastrique, poached eggs and pork tenderloin, and, most recently, a potato -hash waffle topped with poached eggs and corned beef. And then there's the French toast: nationally ranked! And it's no exaggeration. I'd go there just for the food, but the service is also superb. Even when I come in at the busiest hour (11am - noon on weekends) they manage to squeeze me in at the bar and keep my coffee cup full. Three thumbs up!
(5)Bob M.
Jam is a very cool, sort of eclectic street front cafe that has amazing menu choices including drink selections and amazingly prepared foods. I would definitely return on any sunny morning for a breakfast cocktail and fresh burrito suiza or pork shoulder and egg sandwich. Amazing!
(4)Derek S.
I went here for my girlfriend's birthday brunch after a night of some rambunctious fun and I was so into the food (french toast, chicken & waffles, and egg pork sandwich) that I feel like I might have experienced a sort of dysphoria, forgetting where I was and who I was with and zeroing in on the food as if it were the only thing that existed and my sole source of pleasure in the universe. I recovered.
(5)Marie B.
Disappointing. Pecan sticky bun was stale (or maybe the Publican sticky bun has ruined me). The omelette was bland. The waitress was very nice. However the pouring of water with her blue lighter in the same hand was kind of different. Smoke your heart out I say, but please put your lighter away when you're at work. Especially when you're serving a table. When I got there my water glass was dirty, total turn off but I tried for it to not be. Kind of hard considering Lula Cafe, Reno, and Longman & Eagle are nearby. I wanted to try something new, guess I should of stuck to my old favorites! Here's a plus: Fantastic outdoor seating on this beautiful 80 degree day.
(2)Erick N.
I had been hearing lots of accolades about Jam from some friends of mine who work in the industry and today my wife and I decided to trek out to Logan Square to experience it firsthand. I have to say that I am really surprised with the relatively mediocre reviews here on Yelp and find Zagat's rating of 28 out of 30 for food (with ratings of 24 for service and decor) to be right on the mark. Jam is run by Chef Jeffrey Mauro who spent time at now shuttered Chicago stalwart Charlie Trotters as well as at North Pond (which happens to serve my absolute favorite brunch in the city). The influence of these high end venues are apparent at Jam; while Jam is a casual venue, the brunch is extremely high quality cuisine and creative, intriguing menu items (think braised antelope with polenta cake, poached egg, black Tuscan kale and celery root puree for example) . Definitely a gourmet brunch. There certainly are more "plain" options for those who do not enjoy exotic dishes and also a few vegetarian items and some choices that are healthy without being boring (such as egg whites with a root vegetable hash gratine, roasted brussel sprouts and fennel soubise). The only problem I had with the menu was there were at least a half dozen items that were calling my name that I was really struggling to choose just one! Fortunately some of the items have half portion options in the event you want to sample multiple small plates and on Tuesdays they even offer a breakfast tasting menu! When our server came by she informed us of today's special - fried, boneless chicken and waffles and the description really sounded appealing so I opted for the special. My wife went for the eggs Benedict. Both courses had beautiful presentations (see my photos I added - the spinach hollandaise sauce on the eggs Benedict really made for a colorful, appealing plate) and everything was well seasoned, cooked to perfection and tasted phenomenal. Prior to our entrees we were served a small cookie as an amuse bouche that also was great and my wife ordered a cinnamon roll; the pastry chef had just finished the batch so it was fresh out of the oven; hot, gooey and served with caramel sauce on the side - this too was amazing. Sure the food is going to cost a few bucks more than if you opt for brunch at your run-of-the-mill diner or waffle house type venue, but for a few bucks more you are receiving fresh, well prepared, interesting, gourmet food - well worth the small upcharge (our two entrees, pastry and two coffees came to $39 before gratuity). Portion sizes are reasonable; they certainly are not hefty servings, but neither are they dainty. They have lots of housemade fresh pastries available as well as sides to choose from, so if you are particularly hungry be sure to order a little something extra in addition to your entree and you will be satisfied. Jam features Metropolis coffee (very good) and has a liquor license so if you are in the mood to indulge you can enjoy Mimosas, Bloody Mary's (served with Tito's vodka, housemade mix, smoked mussels and pickled green tomato), craft beers or their specialty cocktails with your brunch. A great plus about Jam is that it does not become nearly as crowded as some of Chicago's other highly acclaimed brunch venues such as Bongo Room or M Henry where waits on the weekends can exceed an hour; today we arrived just before 10:00am on a Sunday and while Jame was mostly full, we were seated immediately. The space at Jam is bright and cheerful. One review mentioned blaring music (a pet peeve of mine) but at least today the music was quiet and simply background noise. While tables are a bit close together (making the venue a little bit on the noisy side), it was comfortable. My wife and I both enjoyed the contemporary decor and found the ambiance quite pleasant. Service was extremely friendly and attentive; we had Rachel as our primary server and you are sure to be well cared for if she is assigned to your table. We also had the opportunity to chat with Chef Mauro for a few minutes after eating and he seemed like a really nice, genuine person. As we had such a wonderful brunch and there is so much more on the menu we want to try we will definitely be back within the next couple of weeks despite residing a few miles away.
(5)Sherry M.
I tried the malted custard French toast with macerated cherries the best French toast I have ever had in the waiter was right when he said it was the best.
(5)Ashley P.
I was introduced to Jam last year and it quickly rose to the top of my favorite brunch spots in the city. I ordered the Eggs Benedict on my first visit and was not disappointed. Another favorite is the Egg Sandwich. I recently went with a group of friends and we tried the French Toast, which is *to die for*. There just isn't a comparison. What really stood out was the service. Our server, Brandon, was simply amazing. Let's be honest: there are a myriad of delicious restaurants in the city, but service can really make or break a place. Brandon was polite, charming and very knowledgeable about every inch of the menu. Not one of us ever saw the bottom of our coffee cups. His recommendations were spot on and everyone was beyond delighted with the food and his attentiveness to our table on a "jam"-packed Sunday morning. Overall: Menu Selection - 5 stars Quality of Food - 5 stars Ambience - 5 stars Service - 25 supernovae Outstanding experience.
(5)Laura L.
I keep coming back to Jam for the egg sandwich, the burrito suizo, malted French toast, salad nicoise, corned beef sandwich, the crispiest house made chips, GREAT coffee and fresh squeezed juice. I'd skip the dry, bland club sandwich but with the rest of the menu that's no loss. The service is always top notch, my coffee always full. It's a great place for families and we always bring our toddler who loves the light fixtures and complimentary amuse bouche cupcakes. Now I'm hungry. Dammit.
(5)Benjamin D.
What's funny about JAM is that all of it's online presence is off-putting, yet the actual experience is great. When you look at the menu and pictures of the food online, the place comes off as over priced with very small portions. I can say that the price was very fair for a nicer brunch and I was so stuffed and satisfied after my meal that I didn't eat again till very late that evening. My girlfriend and I went to this past weekend and really enjoyed ourselves. Was it a cheap brunch so to speak, certainly not, but it was well worth the go. The egg sandwich and bacon I ate was excellent. I didn't try the "famous" french toast though but it did look good on other people tables. Finally the service was great and we really enjoyed our waiter. I will go again soon and you should try it now. Looks like Logan Square is becoming the brunch capital of the city...
(4)Tim H.
Awesome food but NOT DOG FRIENDLY. I brought my for-legged buddy with me to sit on the patio and had him tied up to the planters just outside the seating area, but near me. Our waitress kindly asked that I tie him up further away as the chef doesn't like having dogs on the patio. I was SHOCKED and a little frustrated, especially since my dog was just laying there. It's just another one of those "its out policy" B.S. things that get under my skin. The breakfast sandwich was amazing though.
(3)Jamie B.
The service was stellar, excellent vibe and beautiful indoor/outdoor areas. The food was amazing. My boyfriend had the French toast which was recommended and I had the pork shoulder, egg, plum preserve sandwich, we were both over pleased with our food and we plan to add JAM to every weekend. They also have loose leaf teas in cast iron pots and you must have the orange juice!
(5)Eric B.
Who knew bourbon goes with carrot juice? After my latest brunch here, I do. And, as a result of my binary generosity, you do, as well. I refer specifically to JAM's bourbon cocktail, whose name escapes me, but whose ingredients are bourbon, carrot juice, and maple sugar (or syrup). It is a delightful concoction which will allow me to put my juicer to good use. Highly recommended. The pleasure here does not stop with the cocktails, however. My amuse bouch was a muffin for munchkins, and had lovely sweet notes of brown sugar. The pecan sticky bun was sweet without being cloying, and the eggs benedict, while being small, are delicious - some of the best in the city. The eggs are not at all watery, the greens are delicious, and it comes with a hefty serving of sausage. Add to this Metropolis coffee and not too long a wait and you have yourself an excellent brunch option in Logan Square when Lula and Longman are overwhelmed.
(4)Cara L.
I love trying new and interesting dishes and the chef here really is creative. Their brunch is fun and really tasty. It's really close to home and right on the square so it's very convenient as well. But sometimes you just want a basic brunch meal, here you will get a turned up version and for quite a bit more money. Oh yea, try their famous french toast, it's amazing!
(4)Brett P.
Good food and some interesting options. Definitely worth stopping in for brunch if you are hitting up the farmers market on Sundays.
(4)Kaya T.
The food was lukewarm, the flavors were off and the prices were absurd. Very disappointing. Don't even bother with this place. Their only possible saving grace was their Bloody Mary.
(2)Julie M.
There's really not much I can add as far as ranting and raving about how good this place is... I'm just going to put my 2 cents in... It's really as good as everyone says. 3 of us went. We had waffles, poached salmon, and the omelette. All were amazing and cooked to perfection. We sucked down some cocktails and I can't remember which one I had but it had grapefruit juice and by the end of brunch, both of my buddies switched to what I was drinking...
(5)Emily Z.
Lately I have been giving perfectly decent restaurants 3 starts and feeling bad... but I guess that is accurate. We started out with fresh squeezed orange and apple juice which were both delicious. Everything on the menu sounded good and inventive but I was not impressed with the execution of either of our entrees. We shared the Egg Sandwich, $13, Pork Shoulder, Ricotta Salata, Plum Preserve, French Bollo, Roasted Fingerling Potatoes. The pork shoulder was plentiful and very tender but I thought the sandwich overall lacked flavor with just an egg and smidge of plum preserve. We also split an appetizer portion of the special which was Pot Roast and Waffle for $9. A large portion of tender pot roast in gravy over 1/4 waffle, it was good but just didn't really come together for me, no wow factor. We were in the front room which was nice though a bit chilly on a cold winter day. Our server was very chromaticism and helpful. There was a very odd smell of something cooking coming from the bar or adjoining open kitchen which definitely did not improve my dining experience. If I were to find myself at Jam again I would be ordering off the sweet section of the menu as it sounds like that might be where they shine.
(3)Sharon G.
My husband and I went here for lunch and were pleasantly surprised with an awesome brunch. One thing I can say about Jam is they are doing it right. We ordered the french toast as our server recommended it and it was absolutely by far the best french toast we have ever had. It delivered on every note and the best part was you do not even need syrup - it is that flavorful. We also split the egg sandwich with pork shoulder . The pork was so good - flavorful and tender. You have to try it- it is just that good. There were several other items on the menu that caught our attention and based upon this visit we would go back. We ordered the Bloody Mary with a Schlitz beer chaser - yes the whole can of beer. We got a complimentary cookie which was a nice touch and yummy. I did think for a brunch type restaurant that the decor was a bit odd....but when you are serving such good food it really does not matter.
(5)Claire G.
I went here last weekend for a nice Saturday brunch with my friend. And it was a nice brunch. We got seated right away - it helps we got their early (11:30 am) by Logan Square standards. The service was fine, if a bit effusive. "Welcome to JAM!", our server exclaimed. "We've got the best brunch in Logan Square!" Orly? Wow, with Lula and L&E right around the corner, thems fightin' words, Charlie! And no, it's not the best brunch in Logan. But it's good. They have a nice little beer list and their cocktails looked pretty tasty. I got the Jamburger and it was, you know, okay. There was an egg on it and some fries on the side. My friend really liked her corned beef sandwich. We sat inside, but they have some nice patio seating overlooking the square. See where I'm going with this? Nice. Nice. Nice. That's basically it. It didn't blow me away, but hell, I'm okay with that. I'd go back, if I were in the area.
(3)Mollie W.
I had breakfast at Jam October28,2009. I thought it would close soon after but it didn't ,i was not surprised most of the people in that area are not use to Good food and Good service. I wrote to the restaurant about my experience and did not receive a reply. I should have called the health department because I was ill for days after having buttermilk pancakes sausage, and eggs. I can cook better with my eyes closed! I hope the cook has gotten better or they have finally hired someone who has cooked before.
(1)Evelina L.
I love Jam. #1 because of the food. #2, because you can almost always get seated right the way and almost always outside. Of course, the earlier you go the better, but its a great option. Yes, the service might not be the best, especially outside, but as long as you go there with that expectation (and bring something to drink with you), things will go as smooth as ever :) Amouse bouche is always yummy and prepares you nicely for the work of art food that Jam delivers. I love pretty food, especially when it combines with good tasting food. I also love perfect bites :) Ultimate favorite is the benedict, with the sauce flavor that changes depending on what's in season. (beets are my fav) The crepes are also divine + the sandwiches with the pork shoulder or the terrine - yum! Enjoy this neighborhood gem (or jem, in this case), but come with the right expectations!
(4)Luchenzo D.
Dear JAM, Why are you trying to ruin French Toast? It does not need lime and peppercorn flavors. What kind of person does that to something so sweet and delicious? It's like a cruel trick you are playing on my tastebuds and, thereby, my heart. The bread itself is so fantastic I couldn't believe how wildly off base the rest of the dish was. Also, $6 for a SINGLE SLICE? The cruelty abounds! I will now provide a short list of toppings that better pair with French Toast: maple syrup, whipped cream (not infused with lime or other citrus), chocolate, vanilla sauce of some kind, mascarpone, butter, bananas, strawberries. I understand that these are all standard fare and JAM is about breaking the mold. You are welcome to try, as you are well aware given that you've already opened and been operating for some time, but playing around with something so inherently perfect makes you subject to me comparing your food to that time Pitbull remixed Daft Punk's "Get Lucky." Side note, your omelette with Spanish chorizo, onions, peppers, etc. should be at least a little spicy. I found mine to be rather bland, and I do not appreciate the audacity you have to suggest adding an achovy on top. Your coffee is fantastic as is your decor. Even your name is awesome in its simplicity. Have you considered just making your French Toast with a variety of awesome JAMs that don't try to mess with my psyche? I really wanted to like your food, as evidenced by me ordering more food after trying a slice of that French Toast. Alas, it was not meant to be.
(2)Erin B.
This place is awesome! The food was amazing, the service was excellent, and the atmosphere on the patio reminded me of a cafe in France. I ordered the Burrito Suizo and a cappuccino, both amazing. Jam is one of my new favorite spots in Logan Square.
(5)Mercedes S.
It only took a second date to be introduced to this fabulous place. I was suggested the chicken and waffles by the young lady taking our order. I have never had the combination and was instantly intrigued. I ordered it and it was delicious. We did get a mini chocolate muffin, which made me giggle because it looked like it must have shrunk in the oven. The free pastry touch is actual really nice. The coffee was constantly being refilled which was great since we are both heavy coffee consumers. The gentleman friend is a chef himself so it was quite a treat when he said he highly recommended the place. The gentleman friend ordered the smoked salmon, which I also tried a bite of. I think that was just not for me as I didn't find it as yummy as my chicken and waffles. But he was very pleased with his breakfast. Service was fast, pleasant, and the food came pretty quick and warm. Parking is not the best but I managed to find a spot right outside the restaurant. After sitting there for a while chatting away we left to make room for the people that started arriving. It did get pretty busy after around 11:30-12ish. Hope you enjoy your experience. I would definitely come again.
(5)Peter H.
Our waitress was super friendly and helpful, but never mentioned the special that was written on the wall that we had no idea existed, I may've actually ordered it. She did recommend that we try this -- Malted Custard French Toast -Macerated Cherries, Lime Leaf Cream, Pink Peppercorns It was SPECTACULAR. My girlfriend got the egg whites dish -Sweet Potato Buckwheat Crepe, Kohlrabi, Manchego, Hazelnuts It looked very pretty, she didn't seem blown away by it, but said she enjoyed it. I had an Omellete with chorizo and roasted red peppers...was pretty good. It's not the most extensive brunch menu, but we enjoyed ourselves nonetheless. Very nice modern vibe in there, friendly staff, good service. They serve metropolis coffee. We agreed we would like to go there for dinner sometime and try some other stuff.
(4)Jane K.
LOVED this place! A group of us came here on a Sunday morning for some brunch and had a great experience =) There was a group of 8 of us and they were able to seat us right away (thank god) I had ordered they pork-belly egg Benedict (drooling). The presentation of the food was great, made me feel like I was at a 5 star rest. the pork-belly was cooked to perfection. My boyfriend ordered they french toast and it was delicious. I would love to come back here again and bring some new friends.. Def recommend this place =)
(4)Joel M.
Solid breakfast spot in Logan Square. Pros: - The building/space is incredibly well designed and decorated - The menu goes way beyond your typical breakfast fare - The coffee is delicious and strong Cons - The wait can be super long during busy times - The service is not great (we waited 20 minutes to get menus) - The servings are pretty small for the price Overall, I would check the place out for the food and ambiance but don't expect it to completely blow you away.
(3)Bri B.
They're pretty good. I think they can put a higher end twist on things that I don't particularly care for, but I'd go back. I've been twice already. The first time I ordered a soup and sausage. I'm glad I got the sausage to pair with the soup because it was a bit too sweet, but together, I enjoyed it. When I went back, we actually ordered off the kids menu. We got the french toast sticks, grilled cheese sandwich, and pancakes. All was very good. I thought for a kids menu grilled cheese, again, it was a bit over the top for a simple kid's meal, but I could eat it. However, those french toast sticks...now if I could rate food alone, those would get a 5 star rating. I don't know why, but they were perfectly crunchy on the outside and so moist and gooey on the inside, I just felt like I was in french toast stick heaven! They should take that fancy french toast off the menu of adults and make an adult order of those!!! I'll take those with a side of more ANY DAY!
(3)A R.
11:00am on a Saturday and an hour wait. That just means it's probably really good so we stuck it out. It took a little while for our server to come to us but once things got going, we had our bloody mary's in no time. Speaking of which, they were...meh. Average. But the food, was quite delish. We split a half order of malted custard french toast. That was pretty good. I got the vegetable melt (incredible!) and my friend got the scallops special. Everything (minus the average bloodies) was tasty and I might go back if I'm in the neighborhood.
(4)Emily H.
The restaurant decor is beautiful, classy and modern, and also apparently acoustically sculpted to blast at the front door like a megaphone. As you walk in, the sheer violent volume of the place is enough to knock you off your feet. Holy guacamole! That aside, everything is more than edible. I cannot attest to understand why every modern restaurant has this obsessive need to use arugula and ONLY arugula has their plate greens, but it worked well enough with the Eggs Benedict smeared with beet hollandaise sauce. My plate looked like an abstract murder scene of beet and yolk by the end. The small slivers of hand-cut, home-smoked bacon were scintillating, but the Guisado Verde was writing flavor checks that its actual taste could not cash. I liked how the kitchen was open to the eye, and as I watched the chefs stomp around and manage the breakfast rush, I made up names and personalities for them all. Grumps, the big Papa-looking guy seemed continually upset at their French Toast offering. But he had a heart of gold deep down, and wielded his caramelizing torch like a gentle giant.
(3)Laurice M.
Love this place! I think it's the perfect brunch place for my husband and I. We ordered 4 different entrees: the pancakes, french toast, eggs benedict, and the burger. Everything was delicious! The portions were just right, the servers were attentive, and we didn't have to wait to be seated. We'll definitely be back!
(5)Karen T.
Logan Square isn't a normal haunt for me, but I'm glad I made the trek out to brunch with some friends a weekend ago. We sauntered in around 12:15 and landed the last open 4-top without a problem on a Saturday morning, though we did see a bit of a line pick up after that. Jam's decor is both whimsical and welcoming. Think CB2 meets a Pier 1. Service was average. A man taking our drink orders mistakenly brought me coffee after I said "just water" twice, but the confusion was settled quickly and I wasn't charged for a drink I didn't order, so it wasn't a big deal. Now for the best part: the food. The amuse of a biscotti with homemade apricot jam whetted our appetites. A guisado verde of pork, sunny-side egg and corn risotto with tomato crema was a delight to my gluttonous belly. I tried my friends' dishes too - a beef hash was an extremely generous portion of meat and the vegetarian biscuits and gravy made from oyster mushrooms was savory and delicious. Even the day's special, a venison omelette, was cooked to perfection and tasted great. All in all, a solid choice at a reasonable price point. I wouldn't wait in line for a table here when there's so many great brunch spots in this culinary mecca, but I'd certainly be up for a repeat trip.
(4)January S.
Came here for my birthday brunch and loved it! I got the eggs Benedict, which was delicious. Bloody Mary's are tasty...I also had this champagne drink with lavender in it (forgot the name) but it was unforgettable! My husband had their Scotch Egg and it was really good as well. Love this little spot!
(4)Fitzgerald B.
The food is fantastic--the french toast is my absolute favorite. I only wish they took reservations. That fact keeps it from getting the coveted fifth star.
(4)Esther K.
The wait for four (though it ended up being three) on Easter Sunday at about noon was 30minutes, which I didn't think was bad at all. Our server was attentive (constantly stopping by to refill our glasses with our BYOB champagne), and I thought the interior was very nice. My friends and I shared the french toast, jamburger, and guisado verde with braised beef for a taste of both savory and sweet. My piece of french toast was unfortunately very soggy, which is a pet peeve of mine, especially when I'm dining out. The combination of the cherries and cream was delicious, however.The jamburger was the highlight- beautiful presentation and a burst of flavor, and the fries were super tasty as well. In the 5 minutes that the guisado verde sat on our table it became cold, which was really unfortunate. It makes me wonder if it was warm enough to begin with. The beef, however, was extremely tender. As it's been said (over and over again), cash only makes no sense to me. The food was good enough that I wouldn't mind coming back if I was in the area, but not good enough that I would purposely make a point of returning.
(3)Cassandra M.
Here for a private party on Saturday night. Delicious sliders, mini chicken sandwiches, pulled pork sliders. Lots of yummy apps, creative cocktails. Cool, fun space!!
(4)Sean A.
Amazing menu, execution and staff. Brandon Lee is one of the most consistently friendly and helpful servers in the city and he is one of the main reasons I love spending my time and money at Jam. Not to mention the Amuse is usually to die for and the tasting menus are fantastic.
(5)Andy M.
Pancakes at 6 p.m. on a Friday night. Can I get an Amen!!! This place is quirky but a lot of fun. Jam tries to bill itself as a typical diner, but it's a lot more than that. It's a cozy little eatery that's perfect for a casual, relaxing dining experience. The first thing our server says to us is that breakfast is still available. Well, you don't have to ask me twice. I jumped on the Breakfast train and ordered a heaping, hot stack of flapjacks. Not a bad way to start the weekend. Here's the bottom line: Jam is quirky, eclectic and fun. It fits in with the surrounding neighborhood perfectly. I wouldn't necessarily call it five star dining, but I enjoyed myself. If you are looking for something out of the ordinary, give this place a try.
(4)Racheal C.
Amazing coffee, food and service!
(5)CatwomanRoar M.
Let me preface this with... I believe in this place! I plan on going back & trying dinner. The menu sounded pretty amazing. Brunch... C Got the Egg & pulled pork breakfast sandwich & side salad (instead of the potatoes). Besides being bland... I am a texture girl. Part of good "flavor", is good texture. This was a mushy mess. Decor/Ambiance... B Not quite sure why so many are drinking the haterade on this. It's not awful. It's style is similar to most of the post-food network craze that has hit has major cities by storm. Trendy, minimalist but somehow ornate.... Wait staff was nice enough, service not quick, but not slow & nice patio. Pretty typical for restaurants in the Logan Sq area.... We got there at 10 am waited about 10 min? Not too shabby for a popular Sunday brunch haunt. p.s. they accept Credit Cards now.
(3)Joel W.
Great outdoor seating, Tuesdays is no waffles but they have a tasting menu French toast is essential for me, every time. Mary Beth was great.
(4)Tommy W.
I went here with friends for brunch and had a great time. It's very hard to see, the sign is really small, but it's very good. We are from out of town and our waiter was very friendly and helpful. He talked us through the menu and gave us A LOT of great suggestions for other places to eat on our trip. He get could get this place five stars on his own. The food was really good too. They give you a small mini apple spice muffin with butter cream to start which is really cool of them and tasted great. I had the French toast which could not have been more fluffier and my wife had the chicken and waffles which was also really good along with the jowl bacon which was also really good, though mine was beyond burnt. All-in-all, I loved this place. Really good food and great service. It's worth the trip out from downtown to go to this place.
(5)Matthew C.
I've since been here twice and the food was better and the service was markedly better. Glad they improved things.
(4)Janel S.
I've lived in Logan for 5 years and I am mad I haven't been to this place before today. Loved the ambiance. Lots of other reviews I saw subtracted points for the layout and the tight seating, that should not be a factor when reviewing. Sorry, I've been in the service and food industry for the majority of my life and it has nothing to do with quality of service and food. These guys went above and beyond to provide good food and fantastic service. They did well with the layout the building provided. The open kitchen was charming and had a great ebb & flow for production and service. Everything was clean and perfectly executed. I couldn't have been happier with my meal. I just wished I had a bigger appetite to taste more! Not enough breakfast places in Chicago have an emphasis on the waffle so kudos on the daily waffle selection. Service time! Our waiter was awesome! Attentive, without being over bearing. Answered all the questions I had about the food. Made suggestions without hard selling. He was one of those people that seemed to genuinely enjoy his job, which is hard to come by. That is really what made the whole experience worthwhile and I will for sure recommend Jam to people looking for rock star brunch places in Chicago!
(5)Emily H.
It's the weekend, so that means: brunch time. I was meeting a friend and we had decided on going to JAM. I'd heard great things, so I mean, why NOT? I arrived there around 11:15am and it was busy, but not incredibly so. However, by the time we left around an hour later, it certainly was jam packed. Now... with all of the hype I'd been hearing I was expecting way more. I ordered the eggs benedict and it was good, but the portion sizing was just entirely too small for $12. I still left hungry after the meal (but maybe that's my own problem... WHO KNOWS). The presentation was beautiful, though so I'll have to give 'em major points there. Our waitress was fine- not too friendly, not too cold. The hostess on the other hand, as frazzled as she was, was constantly laughing and making sure we were comfortable during our short wait. All in all, I tried Jam, but I certainly wouldn't go back any time soon.
(3)Josh N.
The food was excellent... The wait time for the food wasn't so excellent 25 minutes....
(4)Katie K.
I really enjoyed this breakfast place. I thought the atmosphere and the wait staff were extremely friendly. The coffee was delicious and the juices were made fresh and also good. I recommend carrot and apple, sounds weird, but ya it was good. I had the french toast, a half order, and that was plenty!! So tasty. Yums, I was hesitant at the combination of flavor, but it was really good. My friend got the Scottish Egg which was quite good, I tried a bite. Very flavorful. Overall, I would recommend this place for a solid fancy breakfast joint. (my favorite fancy breakfast joint is still M Henry, however). Oh also, they now accept credit cards which is good because to be charging that high and expect you to pay cash--seemed a little absurd.
(4)Geoffrey E.
A great brunch spot, but a bit bougie. Regardless, this place has THE BEST homemade Bloody Mary mix I've ever had.
(4)Maytee M.
We had our wedding rehearsal dinner at JAM last Thursday February 13th. The food was AMAZING the drinks kept flowing and our families were so happy! We were so grateful to have this wonderful experience at such a beautiful venue. Hands down among the best places in the city to host a private event! M&G
(5)Paul M.
I love this place! Def a neighborhood gem! One of my Favorites. The employees are professional and patient! They held my RSVP even though my party wasn't available yet. The food is incredible and fun!
(5)Rekha V.
Went for brunch with two of my cousins. We were considering Lula but decided against it because of the wait, and I'm so happy that was the case. We were seated right away and welcomed by our friendly server. A great start to the morning. I loved what I ordered. I got the zucchini pancakes and they were delicious, the only con was that I was a little too stuffed from the full order, so I would recommend getting a half-order instead. But overall a great experience!
(5)Ellen V.
A friend introduced Jam to me few weeks ago. I still have the perfect taste of Cafe au lait in my mouth. It is THE Best one I had in years. The food, the service, the atmosphere - all were fantastic. The tables by the window are very cozy. Cannot wait to be back!
(5)S S.
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(3)Erika K.
Value: It's not terribly expensive, but the portions were pretty small and I didn't leave completely satisfied. There are definitely more tempting deals out there. Jam has some pretty good breakfast, but the lovely presentation might work against the dish when it gets to the table styled but cold. Overall, I left a little bit disappointed. Check out the full review with some XXX food porn here: thebuckwheater.com/jam
(3)Nikki L.
Interesting place. Best donut I have ever had , which was a special today. The food and service were both excellent.
(4)Erika G.
Whatever. Really. This place did not impress. First of all, mumbling waiter was completely incomprehensible. None of us could figure out what the hell he was saying. And then, he disappeared. Finally, we got our beverages. Nothing special, coffee and tea. I will say, the coffee was DELICIOUS! My brother got the Eggs Benedict with Pork Belly. That was the standout meal. Creatively presented, and good flavors. I got the pulled pork sandwich, which was bland. My sister in law got the quiche, which she was not overly impressed with. She shared an order of pancakes with her man that they both seemed to enjoy, but . . . Overall . . . a resounding MEH. Just not worth the hype. Maybe this restaurant will improve once it opens a Logan Square outpost, 'cos that is the new cool, happening 'hood, as far as I can see. So . . . . yeah, I probably won't go back, sadly, 'cos the interior was cute, and the outdoor space looked sweet. But the food . . . just MEH.
(2)Kevin M.
Very attractive people eating very attractive food in a very attractive place. Interesting note: A thimble size portion of syrup is $1 extra.
(3)Penelope S.
I'm on a mission to use my giftie dollars and this place rocks!!!! I had 10 giftie dollars to use towards my meal. Started off with OJ and coffee and then french toast crispy around the edges and soft in the middle with syrup...OMG... they have toppings for the french toast but I like some things just plain. Then I had the apple dessert pancake!!!!! you guys don't know what you are missing here. They also have an eclectic menu which I like. Get the giftie app and try some new places!!!!!
(5)Christine K.
Finally got to try JAM! Ordered the eggs benedict, and I feel slightly conflicted. I really appreciated the mini English muffins and the poached eggs, but the sausage a bit too salty for me. I just wish there was some citrus or acidity in the dish to cut the saltiness and richness of the food. While I did enjoy the service here (thanks, Ryan!), I don't think I'd come back a second time. Once is sufficient is all I have to say. I wish I could give this place 3.5 stars, but the service today made me feel generous enough to bump it to 4 stars.
(4)Anna E.
Upscale and Creative Brunch... I thought this place was great. It's not overtly advertised that it's BYO (or at least it wasn't a month or so ago when I went), because they don't really have any mixers, but we brought our own bloody mary mix and vodka and had no problems. I had the steak and eggs...delicious and my BF had the pork cheek sandwich. The bun didn't really match the sandwich...I'm not sure what would've been better, but they have the right idea. The meat was nice and tender tho. Definitely give it a try!
(4)Delitronix X.
Delicious food and coffee,can't wait to come back.. Great addition to logan square!
(5)Tim H.
Good food, friendly service, and no wait early on a Sunday. Nice to have the farmer's market to go to right outside the restaurant after an early Sunday brunch. Every dish I tried here was good and I would have it again. The malted custard french toast is their signature dish and we had a half portion to start with. It was really good, but glad I just got the starter half portion. Wife had the burrito which was packed with beef and very tasty. I had the poached egg white with Spätzle and veggies. The egg white dish was one of the most novel brunch dishes I have seen in a long time. I would come back just to have that again.
(4)Liliana P.
I think my Google Maps was confused, because I got a little lost trying to figure out how to get here. But other than that, we had a late lunch on a weekday, so not many people were around and the two workers at the time were very friendly and useful in helping us decide what we should get. Because our waiter liked the french toast, we shared a small order of it. We both liked it, but I wasn't completely blown away, I've definitely had better. On the other hand, that waffle of the day was absolutely divine. The waffle of the day when I went had asparagus, a poached egg and pork belly. I normally don't like waffles, but this was divine! I'd come back for this any day. And the Metropolis coffee they served was never-ending! If the waffle of the day sounds good, I say go for it!
(4)Jaclyn D.
This place seems impressive when you walk in, and they even give you a little amuse bouche while you are waiting for your food...but I always feel underwhelmed. I've eaten here two or three times, and I felt like I was sort of choking down food that was all the same texture. The menu is ambitious, like french toast with pink peppercorns, etc, but the experience, overall, wasn't very enjoyable. That being said, it seems like a nice enough brunch spot, and I wouldn't refuse to go back, it just isn't necessarily first on my list.
(2)Alyssa C.
Amazing brunch! Went there with 2 others and we all had great meals. Cool venue. A bit swanky. Delicious juices but amazing food. French toast was nice and fluffy. Eggs Benedict- one of the best I've had!
(5)Christine D.
Went here for breakfast and the service was great. The food and selection are pretty good but I felt it was overpriced, especially for breakfast. Also, a lot of folks said it was cash only but they now accept credit cards.
(4)Colleen D.
We have been wanting to try this place for a long time - there is always a wait to get in - if you want to sit outside. Well we went early and got seated right away out side. The out side was okay - certainly a little disappointed after waiting so long to see it - just nothing special and there was a very loud air conditioning unit that made conversation difficult. The food was good - french toast very good / but a little strange (no syrup and some sort of seeds) and eggs benedict. Again good but a little strange. As my previous post a little too expensive and not worth the wait. Sun shine cafe around the corner is a better bet.
(3)Helen C.
Two 5 star brunches in 2 weeks? With all these poached eggs, Chicago, you are spoiling me. I do always fall for the poached eggs. Though at Jam, I think I seriously considered eating every dish on the menu one by one; every dish sounded delicious, and having now dined there I think they probably ARE delicious. The 'amuse bouche' (ugh, sorry) was a nice little cheese scone thing, tasty enough. We were lucky enough to also get to try the custardy french toast and - wow. I need to go back for a full portion. The toast was fluffy and the fruit compote with it was delicious, sweet but with enough lime and flavour to make it very interesting to eat. Plus, anythng that comes with a glob of whipped cream wins, in my book. When my main course was put down, I had a moment of 'uh-oh' - for brunch, nay, for any meal at all, this is fancy pants food. A smear of green sauce, hollandaise which was more like a quenelle of butter, and some scattered pieces of pork. Eggs Benedict has been messed with many times but I thought this might be taking it too far. Thankfully I was wrong. It was an artful dish and beautifully executed, also a perfect portion size. Aside from the food, which everyone loved (kudos to the chef for cooking poached eggs exactly to order, soft and hard), the service was great. I may never have consumed as much coffee or water in an hour sitting before: refills frequent. Coffee - meh. The open kitchen does mean you may smell of food when you leave; but it does also mean you can get a live chefs' show (if you crane your neck). Nursing a hangover so the lack of alcohol didn't bother me; the general atmosphere, decor, food and service more than made up for a lack of mimosas. And it really isn't any more expensive than other places - for the quality, well worth it.
(5)Brett F.
Thoroughly mediocre. As a huge brunch advocate (yes, I'm very official about my breakfast), I can honestly say I've had a lot of brunches that ooze fabulosity here in our fair city. The mascarpone french toast at Toast? Phenom! The trout benedict at Lula? Divine! The zephyr omelette at Tiztal? Got nothin' but love for you, Baby! I was hoping this would be right up there with my list of favs, but Jam? The wind was hardly knocked out of my brekkie sails. Le Sigh. The Highlights ------------------------- + Cute Décor - Fantastically hip and monochromatic with hints of lime green and those ubercute ghost chairs that I just adore! common.csnstores.com/com… + Eggs Benedict with crispy pork belly. Y U M M Y ! Artfully presented with a lovely brushstroke of mild spinach hollandaise and 100% irresistible. The crowing glory of Jam, indeed. + Really efficient coffee service. I've never had my cup refilled so frequently... like, literally in between sips frequently. Go Java Jam Go! The Lowlights -------------------------- - No amuse bouche. I've heard Jam does a brunch service amuse which I was wholly looking forward to. Sounded unique and enticing, but alas, none for our table. No pre taste for this brunch fan makes Brett a sad girl. - Jam is hotter than a whore bathing in habaneros in July. Seriously. No a/c? Not sure what was going on here but it's gross. Temps were probably close to mid-to-high 80's inside Jam this weekend. Sweaty brekkie? Eh, I'll pass. - Odd service. When asked to omit an ingredient from the egg white omelette (comes with beets, goat cheese, macadamia nuts and watercress) due to a food allergy I was responded to by our server with a flat out 'No'... Not an "I'll ask the chef" or "Lemme see what I can do", just No. Hmmm. The necessity to instruct her on how to do her own job was frustrating and trying to say the least. - Malted Custard French Toast. The self-proclaimed 'best french toast in Chicago' was the biggest disappointment of all. Odd sour taste, mushy texture, zero crispy, caramelized exterior. Aside from the 3 bites that were tested by myself, Hilary and Martha it went entirely uneaten. Wasted money, wasted precious stomach real estate. Brunch Fail. - Cash Only. Bah! At a dive bar? Yes. For a (supposed to be) nice brunch? Confusing. Oh Jam, you lured with me promises of french toast wishes and chorizo dreams but alas, I was unsated. I'd come back for your amazing benedict - on a cool day - and that alone... everything else, in my opinion, can Jam on along. Later Skater!
(3)Colleen C.
When an 'amuse bouche' arrives pre-brunch in the form of a delightfully petite cranberry muffin with real honey drizzle, I find this to be perhaps the best foodie foreplay...ever. Not that I'm a foodie, but I can be warmed up just like 'em, mmmk? Luckily, I have some likeminded co-workers...which means we always split something sinful with the entire table: *a plate of french toast with real maple syrup, berry compote and lemon fraiche. Mmmmm, i suggest splitting this and going for the savory buckwheat crepes or steak 'n eggs as the meal... *This arrived "pre-split," onto four small plates, which was most appreciated. The service from start to finish was impeccable, as noted afterwards when I could barely type due to the 19 coffee refills I managed to consume in a 1.5 hour time period. Zingggggggggggg! Main: Oatmeal with dried cranberries, nuts and brown sugar. (get the real honey!) There are a plethora of "mixings" to choose from, and all arrive beautifully in a teensy line of bowls. Adorable. Truly. These guys have very adequately managed to replace the beloved Dodo, and are doing a splendid job of brunching this 'hood up, right quick. The understated sleek design (don't rock those plastic chairs, ma friends, oops) mixed with approachable 'foodie-friendly" items, and a commitment to culinary prowess at a decent price point will have you forgetting the minor flaws, I assure you. minor flaws: *cash only. *no BYOB. *no AC. *You've been warned...but, in this ONE case, I'll take Jam anytime, no matter the obstacles. I hear they may be throwing around the idea of a late night menu...so stay tuned!
(5)Elaine C.
Dang. I once heard someone say, "I was a vegetarian, until I tried pork cheek. I realized how very wrong being a vegetarian was in the natural order of things." Try a pork cheek + egg sandwich with ricotta and pickled plums. Wtih fingerling potatoes. There's just no way you could ever go back. Welcome, carnivore. We also tried a French Toast sandwich with prosciutto, sauteed greens and sweet mustard jam. This was also delectable although a little on the salty side. The arugula salad it came with was a perfect balance. The whole menu was filled with interesting, irresistable options. There was nothing on there that sounded like something I've had before. The service was impeccable. There was a half hour wait at around noon on a Saturday, but we went next door to Sweet Cakes for some coffee and they came and got us from next door in about 15 minutes. Yes, it's cash only but our bill was like $22 dollars or something so not at all a big deal. We got seated in the front of the restaurant which I highly recommend because I think the back of the restaurant was a lot hotter due to the open kitchen. The light coming in the through the windows was beautiful as well. I plan on making this a regular destination. Viva, pork cheek!
(5)Andrea R.
New breakfast place! New breakfast place! One of the benefits of working from home is that I get to try these places during the week and don't have to join the crowds of people waiting hours to be seated on the weekend. My just as lucky work-from-home colleagues and I showed up around noon this past Friday and were immediately seated in this half empty restaurant. Your jealous, aren't you? If not, keep reading cause jealously will surely set in once I start describing my delicious meal. First, a complimentary mini cranberry muffin. Mmmm...this is so much better than bread. Jam is on to something! For an appetizer (yes, you can even have appetizers at brunch!) I made my 3 colleagues split the malted crusted French toast with me. Believe me,I heard no complaints about this...only murmurings for more. It was a bit rich to be my whole meal, but splitting it really was the perfect taste. For my main entree I ordered the oatmeal. I've been a bit of an oatmeal fanatic as of recently. I even had the Starbucks oatmeal 3 times just this week, which actually happens to be quite good. But shame on me for comparing Jam's oatmeal to Starbucks because it really doesn't fit into the same category. Dare i say it...Jam served me one of the best bowls of oatmeal ever. I got to pick from a variety of sides and I went with brown sugar, honey, and fruit. I mixed it all up and was in oatmeal heaven...seriously. Alas it was time to leave my lovely brunch and colleagues behind. The bill came and the all knowing Colleen C reminded me it was cash only. Oops...unfortunately the $8 in my wallet wouldn't cover much of this $50 brunch. Fortunately, Colleen saved the day with a few $20s, but next time I"ll remember to load up the wallet for an uhmazing brunch.
(4)Ryan L.
Damn, Second. The LOL guy is quite fleet-footed when it comes to brunch. May be the only race he beats me in. I'll review the food once I finish my beer @ whole foods. Ok, that was good. They give you a mini cranberry muffin with creamy sage sauce on top to start. Pretty good, and i took a fork to the remnants of the sauce leftover on my plate. Yes, shameful. With the "Three"dom of choice, i picked pancakes, bacon, sausage. There are so many choices (eggs, potatoes, etc.) I easily could've gone with a "five"dom. Bacon was very crispy and delicious and the pancakes were good. Apparently the syrup is $78 a gallon (wow, the cost of a city sticker), so they bring out a syrup dispenser that is 10% full. They were gracious to bring out a little more for free, but it'll cost $1 for extra syrrrrup in the future. I tasted the buckwheat crepes with lamb and it was awesome. I'll throw up a pic of that dish soon. The eggs benedict with pork belly looks like it'll be the big winner at this place. My companions seemed to enjoy the panini. I will be back to try the other foods, as well as their lunch menu. It did get a little hot by the end...we sat in the front and it was a little cooler. If we sat near the kitchen (in the middle or in the back), we may have had the first shirtless LOL brunch.
(4)Andre W.
Decided to make a trip over to this spot this morning since I took a day off of work and knowing on the weekend I probably would have to wait awhile for food. As my pal and I walked in there were many seats available (weekday mornings are obviously the best times to go), but the place is small. They have those really cool see through, clear seats that I like a lot. We were greeted as soon as we walked inside by a cool guy and a very nice waitress. The menu is pretty slick and I saw lots of things I wanted to try.They gave us a complimentary mini orange muffin to start, which was pretty good. I decided on the Egg Sandwich, which was very delicious, but it had more meat than expected (still very good). Pickled plum inside of the sandwich gave it a nice flavor. The sandwich came with some very nice potatoes that were out of this world. The sandwich was very filling, so if you choose it for your meal make sure you are hungry and can handle it. Our server was spectacular!!! She helped my buddy figure out which dish he should choose and was very attentive. Make sure you bring cash as well because they don't take plastic yet. Very small spot and easy to miss. It is right next door to that Sweet Cakes joint on Damen. Just look for the sign that says Jam!
(5)Gregory S.
Tasty offerings, if a little bit overly precious. Beautiful space, pretty staff.
(3)Jen P.
CASH ONLY! which sucks, but everything else is pretty awesome. cute decor, very tasty food. portions a little on the small side...but its fancy brunch food. whaddaya expect
(4)Ericka J.
Certainly a good solid brunch. The service was just as good as the food. There were three of us dining mid afternoon on a Saturday. No wait. Great location for a table. We had - French Toast. It was good. I wish a little less soggy. I like mine well done. But it was a full order and enough to share between 2 adults and a very hungry teen! Lots of fresh fruit and cream. Salmon Eggs Benedict - There was just one order left at 2pm Saturday when we arrived. My bestie loved it! Very large portion. The teen had the burger which was a duo-party stack with an egg sunny side up on top. Food Envy all around...It was certainly a beautiful presentation! Fries galore too and they were also well seasoned and crispy. I had the quiche with a white fish salad... OM.... It was good! I mean I was surprised by the fluffy texture of the quiche and the little salad that accompanied it was just the perfect paring. Things can make Jam a 5: 1-Credit Cards. Please accept plastic SOON. 2-Decor. Do away with the IKEA glasses and plastic place mats. With such fine munchies dining out should feel just a tad bit dressed up especially when the menu is so perky. Jam, you are good!
(4)Stacey A.
A few weekends ago, I was walking my dog and my roommate texted me about brunch and asked if I wanted to go to the crepe place that's around the corner from our house that we have been to a hundred million times. Now don't get me wrong. I like the crepe place. The crepe place and I are old friends. But dammit, I am that asshole who always wants to go to eat at somewhere that is completely new in an area of town that I haven't been to before. So I suggested we go to Jam. I don't remember how I heard of Jam or why it popped into my head that morning but I am SO GLAD IT DID, because I told her to check out the menu online and her response was, "This is happening." So we hopped on the Damen bus for what seemed like forever (because it's the Damen bus and the Damen bus shows up approximately three times all day, which is horseshit considering the fact that it connects three train lines) and went down to Ukrainian Village. Jam is like two separate worlds. The inside world has an open kitchen and those weird clear plastic chairs and it's clean and minimal and it makes you feel like you're in the weird lovechild of CB2 and Anthropologie. (Note: This is okay because I dig both of those stores.) The outside world is like your insane artist aunt is having a backyard party and threw a bunch of tables out back among her weird cowhide sculptures and stacks of trucks. (Note: Not kidding. Cow sculptures. Stack of trucks.) Sit outside if it's not a million degrees out - because the inside has no AC. Eat the adorable amuse (ours was a teeny carrot-ginger muffin with cream cheese frosting) and marvel at the idea of an amuse served with brunch. If you want savory, get the lamb crepes. Do not pass go. Do not look elsewhere on the menu. Maybe ask for extra pears to better balance out the savory perfection of the crepes. Do not be put off by the fact that the sauce looks like tomato bisque. (It isn't tomato bisque.) If you can't decide if you want sweet or savory and aren't super hungry - get the Scotch Egg. It's soft-boiled and battered and lightly fried and served over an herbed waffle with strawberry balsamic vinaigrette and manages to hit every spot correctly. Bring cash. Bring champagne (it's BYOB). Bring your A-Game, because Jam sure the fuck does.
(4)Marie M.
Since the boo had already started a pot of coffee on our lazy Saturday mid morning, we were just walking down Logan Boulevard planning on grabbing some pastries. But then the brunch monster snuck up on us and reminded us what lovely brunchy things we could be enjoying in Saturday Brunch Village. Luckily this happened right in front of Jam and even more fortunately, they had room for two. We started off with mimosas with fresh squeezed oj- so delicious! They have the perfect ratio of sparkling wine to oj down, so you taste how amazing the juice is, but also get a little morning buzz from the fizzy confection. The menu is tough- it all sounds amazing and each item seems to have an ingredient that pulls you in with intrigue. We finally settled on the French toast and eggs benedict. Wow. The eggs benedict looks a little small on arrival, but the flavors are so delicate and balanced, that it is perfect. The English muffins are heavenly and the beet hollandaise is a perfect symmetry of rich and creamy with earthy goodness. The eggs were cooked flawlessly, so the yolk just poured out as soon as you cut in. And the pork belly... It just melts in your mouth. The French toast is clearly soaked for an extended amount of time in malted custard, so the entire toast is saturated and perfectly soft. The boo remarked that this may be the first time that he had ever indulged in French toast without syrup and wondered if he should ask for some. I told him to just try it and he could not believe how delicious it was. The lime leaf cream, floral pink peppercorns and slightly lemony and sour macerated cherries easily blow normal maple syrup out of the water by providing different textures and more exciting flavors. We loved that Jam took our two favorite breakfast items to new heights! On our way out, we saw the egg sandwich with pork shoulder, and it looked huge and fabulous, so we will definitely be trying that on our next trip to Jam.
(4)Rajiv H.
I went to Jam for dinner which was clearly a mistake. There was nothing overwhelmingly wrong here. The service was kind, the company and the weather were great. Their outdoor patio is really cool. But, and this is a big but, the food is "meh." At these prices, you cannot be "meh." The dishes sound good, but every single one was quite bland. Because of the good service and the very positive brunch reviews, I'd come back here for brunch, but I doubt I'll ever be back for dinner.
(2)Nicole M.
Our waiter is the only person I will forgive for having those feather things in his hair, because he was a great waiter-- helpful & friendly with great suggestions. The place is a bit hipster, but not that more-obscure-than- thou hipster. It's more like your little brothers gone foodie. All good. The lamb crepes-- kind of a one note dish, but that one note was amazing. Lots of lovely lamb, and lovely buckwheat in the crepe. The french toast is so rich and decadent. The quiche was very custard-like. I could see where someone who was used to heavy, scrambled eggy quiches would not like it, but i thought it was light and divine. The only clunker was the trout and arugula underneath-- the fish was too strong. The coffee was off the hook and the OJ was fresh squeezed. (It's BYOB, so we brought champagne for mimosas. Yeah, we're lushes. Stage an intervention.) Prices were good, so like, like like.
(4)Jonathan D.
Wonderful breakfasts and service. Amuse bouche with breakfast was a first but very welcome. A superb start for exploring an interesting part of Chicago.
(5)Ariel L.
I have been to Jam twice in the last month before reviewing it. So obviously the food was good enough for me to want to come back, but the fact that i gave it three stars only means the place also has some issues, namely the service. The first time i was there i had the Eggs Benedict. It was a very interesting and original take on the dish, with crispy pork belly instead of Canadian bacon, and it was also serve with a light split pea sauce instead of tradditional hollandaise. I also had a savory scconee which was fresh, buttery and delicious. My wife equally enjoyed her egg white omelet. The OJ was fresh and the cofee was good. We sat outside in their beautiful outdoor garden. What a pleasure on a nice day, although we came within inches of a bird pooping on us from the trees above (it splattered on the ground next to our table). What made me hesitate to write a review was that the waitress for got to put in our order and our food took an hour because of that. If i had been the waiter, i would have brought out a scone on the house and apologized profusely. They did no such thing. So we decided to give it another try and came back with 4 friends this time. The food was again good, although people didn't love their dishes as much as our the first time, but the food again took at least 45 minutes. We waited, waited, and waited. And the funny thing was that the restaurant was no totally packed. It was 1pm when we ordered on a Saturday. This is when kitchens should be prepared for the rush. Instead we starved ourselves by sitting there, and our waitress never came out to tell us what was going on. By the time the food arrived, everyone was annoyed and cranky from hunger. So after reading the other reviews, i see many people have the same complaint. Good food, slloooooowwwwwww service. I guess i would recommend going here, but not on an empty stomach. Make sure you have a lite snack beforehand and plenty of time to spare.
(3)Stuart E.
This place tries oh so hard, but still manages to miss the mark. To begin, the space is pretty damn cramped - it may be nice in the summer, with the possibility of patio seating, but in the winter you have other tables elbowing you throughout the meal. And to make matters worse, they owners have elected to bring silver out with the meal, making the poor waitstaff reach over everyone at the table. In addition, the decor is bizarre - it's like a cross between the Korova Milk Bar and a 70s porno set. As for the food, everything was just pretty average. And for $15 a person, pedestrian food is not sufficient, particularly when you can eat like a king for $6 at Johnny's Grill a block away. All of the food just seemed to be a bit over-the-top: like too much ham in the ham omelet with brussel sprouts; or way too much seasoning on the fries. And the turkey club sandwich is almost impossible to eat because there is so much bread. I would only recommend this place if you don't want to wait for Lula or Longman & Eagle when you're in Logan Square.
(2)Crystal W.
If you've been up all night and hungover and want simple tasty breakfast options, go somewhere else. That being said, we went Saturday around 1:30pm. Lots of glass and mirrors, kinda like walking into a funhouse maze in the state I was in, albeit a trendy looking one. Got seated quickly, attentive and friendly staff. My bf ordered the chicken/waffle entree. You shoulda seen the look on the waiter's face when he asked for maple syrup (FYI, they didn't have any). I had a taste, I liked it. Tasted like Thanksgiving if that makes any sense. He was disappointed with the portion size. Now on to my meal. I ordered a cup of the white bean soup. Roughly about 2-3tbs of actual beans and such, with the broth in a separate cup to pour over. But don't attempt to eat it right when you get it (like they scooped it outta the pit of a volcano scorching hot!). Alright, but kinda bland. Never in my life have I eaten something where I had no idea what it consisted of. Ever! I ordered the meal with egg whites in it and a side of bacon sausage. That's the only thing I was certain on as far as what the ingredients were. I was gonna ask questions on what everything else in it was but figured screw it, can't be too bad right? And as I've stated before, we were hung over and tired and starving, and I was in no condition to be asking questions on what the heck this bird/rabbit food was on the menu. Btw, the bacon sausage neither looked nor tasted of bacon. And it was bland! Total letdown on that for sure. Well, it wasn't bad. My bf hated it, said it had no flavor at all. I ate it all, but he was right. Definitely tasted like the healthiest thing on the menu... Over all, I liked the decor and the waitstaff were friendly. My bf thought maybe it was avant-garde and maybe we were supposed to eat with our hands, the waiter forgot to bring our silverware (which I'd imagine were the kind Fred and Wilma Flintstone would use at a fancy caveman restaurant-big and heavy). Would have been better off going to Hollywood grill. Kinda hoity-toity.
(2)Isla E.
I am tempted to give 5 stars to offset the one-star review from the person that didn't even eat there, just complained about the wait. However, that would just be perpetuating insanity. So I am going with 4 very strong stars. At about 11am on a beautiful Saturday there was plenty of seating as the patio was open. Warning: if you come in winter, seating may not be so plentiful. Another warning: a vegan will struggle to find something to eat. Third warning: cash only, as many people have already stated. The people I was with cleaned their plates. For some tastes, the brunch portions may be a little small, but I thought they were perfect. I got the wheatberry salad and if you've never had wheatberries, this is a great first experience. What a grain! I asked for the salad without onions, and the waiter actually returned to our table to ask me if I had an aversion to onions or an allergy. The chef requested he find out. What I take from that is, if you have a food allergy, this place may double check that they aren't going to kill you. It makes all the difference knowing that one's food is being prepared by someone that cares. So while a reviewer may give one star because of the wait, I am of the opinion that quality work takes time at Jam.
(4)Tera D.
It was cute and unique, no debate there. It's upscale, culinary focused breakfast, with standard brunch prices. The menu was interesting, with lots of appealing options for both sweet and savory appetites. Also, they bring out a little taste portion before your food, which makes it feel so classy. As for the food itself, I got the biscuits and gravy. The concept and plating was cute, and very different from standard biscuits and gravy. Unfortunately the dish was absurdly salty, so I couldn't really enjoy the natural flavors of any of the ingredients, and frankly don't really know what the dish tasted like. My dining companions had the eggs benedict and the panini cristo. The eggs benedict was described as good but not out of this world, and the bite of the panini I tried was flavorful and interesting, but I wasn't a big fan of the sweet mustard jam on it. Overall, if they add a few things to the menu or change it up seasonally, I would go back and try it again.
(3)Diana R.
I don't know what the big deal is about this place. The furniture is weird, plastic clear chairs, not comfortable, small aisles to walk through (I need my space!), and the food was meh. French toast was good but not spectacular. The egg sandwich was alright and the potatoes just okay, not soft enough for me. It just wasn't my type of brunch place and too bad because I've been dying to try this place forever! P.s.- They only take cash.
(2)Lauren M.
Today I decided to treat myself since I've been eating cheaply and nothing of substance all last week. It was a Monday afternoon of no make-up, oily hair and a ratty sweater (I'm saying this like it's uncommon for any other day) which clearly stated the message I was trying to deliver: I don't give a FUCK. Due to my attire, I figured I'd take something out and return to my cave filled with blankets and Arrested Development for the umpteenth time. But the friendly waiter seemed so jovial, the place mostly empty aside from a table of detestable Logan Square people and the menu said something about a waffle. I guess if I was going to subject anybody to my "I love you but I've chosen comics" shirt from Challengers Comics, it would be these people. Free advertising wink. My server Ryan was friendly and accommodating. I, of course, returned the hospitality by never looking him in the eye once because I was busy staring out the window or at my food. Every time he was forced to put a plate down in front of this bogtrotter who was constantly texting, I sent out invisible waves in my mind saying "It'll all be worth it! Somehow!" Note: An amuse bouche cookie will always help. If it didn't, then you'd have really been in trouble. But a good little lemon cookie, mmm. First, I had the chicken and waffle half portion, which some people complain how slightly more upscale restaurants control plate sizing, it actually helps me at times because my mind's eye of appetite is much bigger than actually available stomach hard drive. The chicken was beautifully cooked, even the horrible hipsters next to me took a break from talking about tumblr portfolio stats and "the nazi pope" to notice. The waffle was good too but I just wasn't vibing the seasoning, I tasted a little bit of it in the chicken. Maybe it was the container it was cooked in, no idea. There was also very slight drizzled syrup which again worked for me because l'm not a sweet & savory person. It all paired wonderfully with my slightly overpriced glass of fresh squeezed OJ to make it feel like l was doing my body a favor. I don't know if I'd order the whole dish again but certainly the chicken. There's a decorative salad garnish on the side of the dish l would throw in the trash like where all vegetables belong. Then I went ahead and ordered maple sausage and bacon because it's not a meal if pork isn't at the party. More staring out the window and hearing discussion about being too cool for Instagram and a future photo of all their dogs around a computer. I quietly pondered what slicing their faces off would look like. Also you pour your own water from the carafe, for some this may be a grave insult, I actually prefer it since I know my own water intake. Casual in the right instance. The bacon maple sausage, as Ryan commented, was his fave. I didn't hear much about that because l was wondering why l didn't order a whole meal of just this. It's more a commercial sausage in that there's no grain or anything to mix up the texture like some homemade sausage but it was nonetheless delicious. It was cooked medium which was probably on the best side of caution since it'd have to be smoked to take on more heat. However the jowl bacon was, I don't want to say terrible, but yeah it was not great. As someone who has been called "bacon girl" since childhood, I feel fit to say this. Jowl bacon can be cooked like regular bacon, but it's tender in a way that needs gentle guidance like a mama's boy of the pig. Though it's great pan fried, which many people like myself prefer a smoother texture, the oven rack tends to be better suited to its fat content. It'll get crispy with dark brown edges. But the bacon l was served was a lot black. Girl, no. I'll go to a diner if I want decimated bacon char. Cook it like you're incubating your pork child. Also the faint aftertaste that l had in the chicken I was tasting in the bacon, which l liked even less here. Since the service was superb, I had a pleasant window view and had mostly decent parts of the meal, I'll give it a tentative 4 stars. I definitely felt positive about having eaten there. I don't know whether it was the cold, dry air but when I was walking I was already running out of breath. I would never say sweatpants outside no matter how disheveled l may have looked but maybe pick something flowy.
(4)Debra M.
Food-Fantastic, seriously. Volume of the music- Ear-splitting, ruins the whole experience. You seriously have to wonder if the management has suffered hearing loss, and consequently, has to jack up the volume. I have frequently asked the server to have the music turned down, but this will not happen because the music is not there to create an ambience for the customers, it's there solely for the management. Too bad for the customers who do not want environmental hearing loss.
(1)Leah G.
We had a great brunch here at Jam. They brought us out some complimentary chocolate biscotti...nice touch. I ordered the waffles of the day: Rice flour, pork liver ,melted onions, mustard gastriouf, sunny side eggs. A real delicious and creative blend. My dining partner ordered French toast which was perfectly cooked and melted in your mouth. Their coffee blend was great. Nice clean restaurant with friendly service. Would recommend making the trip over here. Some good character.
(4)Kean M.
So, new local restaurant 200yds from house, had to try it out. Ambiance: I liked the decor from waist down, tables, chairs, flatware etc...the walls / mirrors above waist height seem a little sterile and uninteresting. No art, colour etc. Staff: Seemed like a good bunch of staff, a little bit of first week nerves and getting used to the layout I'd guess, but all in all a good experience, staff polite and professional. Kitchen: well, it's right there next to you so you get to eyeball everything!! quite fun actually. Food: After a very tasty amuse bouche we had the eggs benedict with pork belly and skirt steak with grits and eggs, flavours very good , nicely presented. Drinks: no mimosas but the orange juce was fresh and the coffee good. Cash only, but that's ok, need to speed up returning with change but as I said, they just opened here and it was pretty busy up front by 9:30am! Will be back to test lunch and dinner! maybe up to 5 stars once everyone has bedded in.
(4)S. E.
Hmmm, where to go on this one? After having attempted several times to get in here without having to get up at the crack of dawn for a seat, husband and I finally bit the bullet and waited between 30-40 minutes for a late brunch seating today. We'd heard and read good things about this place, so here's the rundown: 1) Restaurant too crowded, tables shoved too close together, and as a result--too noisy. That isn't the restaurant's fault. But really, I'd love to see them try and accommodate either a wheelchair patron or a hugely fat person. Would be very amusing. 2) A little precious for my taste. Any restaurant that doesn't put salt and pepper on the tables gets a star taken away. We had to ask for salt. Ditto for places that refuse to put fake sweetener out, or for places that don't carry a normal soft drink selection (see Uncommon Ground and Longman & Eagle, respectively). 3) Price. An 8-ounce bottle of Coke goes $3. My husband's burger was $12, and my turkey club was $12. Now, it was a pretty good sandwich, and a good size. But I've had better turkey sandwiches elsewhere in the city that were either cheaper, or didn't involve a 35-minute wait. Same goes for the burger--he said it was good, but not SO good that he feels the wait is necessary when as-good or better-than can be gotten elsewhere faster and cheaper. We split the raspberry coffeecake muffin after lunch. It was pretty tasty. Don't know if we will be back for brunch, but we might try to stop in later at night to sample some of the sweet items for dessert. I think JAM will do just fine and have a long run at their place in Logan Square.
(2)Danielle S.
Jam's best asset is enthusiastic hard-working staff that truly wants everyone to enjoy their meals. They're excited about the menu and with good reason -- it features inventive takes on classic breakfast fare. My whitefish quiche was delightful, light, and fresh and the french toast is famous for good reason. I'll miss Jam at this location because it's within walking distance of my sister's apartment.
(5)Jennifer R.
I just had the most mind-blowingly delicious french toast on JAM's lovely outdoor patio this morning. Malted Custard French Toast with macerated pineapple, lime leaf cream, and pink peppercorns. Hands down best french toast I've ever had. So light and not too sweet. Try it. Thank me later.
(5)Jeff K.
Horrible service, decent food Went with a group of 4; my wife and I ordered the egg whites and they were delicious (this is why they are getting 2 stars instead of 1). The other order was the blueberry pancakes that did not taste like blueberry and lamb crepes that were weird and just okay. Service: Sat down right away but took a very long time to order. Took forever to get water and refills on both water and coffee. When we finally ordered, the crepes came out 10 minutes after everything else did and no apology. Also they forgot the syrup for the pancakes and didn't bring it until it was too late. Overall, okay food, horrible service, great outdoor space, probably will never return especially since they are so many other places in the area with better service. All we needed was an apology, something.
(2)Graciela V.
As the rating itself (when rating a place on Yelp), explains it perfectly, - Meh, I've experienced better. We had brunch at Jam this past weekend and it pretty much was disappointing. So many other places that are much better than this place and not worth the trouble in trying to locate it because it's a bit hidden on Logan Blvd and definitely not worth the price for brunch. I give it two stars because it was nice decor and the service was pretty good but just did not enjoy the food. My sandwhich came out somewhat luke warm and the potatoes were a bit on the cold - & on top of that it was pretty bland. I needed to add hot sauce to my sandwhich to give it some flavor and the coffee tasted a bit burnt as well. My friend had the french toast and it was meh as well - she's had better. Sorry, won't be going back.
(2)Gayatri D.
I'd probably have given Jam 3 stars had the food not been DELICIOUS! We were a party of 6 and ordered about 10 things from juices to sweet pastries. But the good food doesn't justify slow service, general chaos and it being cash only.
(4)Sarah L.
We loved this place. The top reasons: BYOB service that provides respectable glasses and proactively volunteers a chiller for sparkling wine. The patio is cozy and cool. And the coffee was outstanding. (Surprisingly rare.) Food: my pork shoulder egg sandwich was tender and yummy, but really needed the hot sauce we requested. It was a touch on the bland side. The spanish omelette was flavorful and perfectly prepared. And you have to love an amuse bouche to start a brunch. Very nice touch.
(4)Kendra C.
I had hopes for this place. The ambiance was nice, the drinks were good. But the food was boring and uninteresting, and they seriously screwed up my potatoes...I mean, how do you manage to screw up breakfast potatoes? They tasted hard and leathery. I had a pulled pork and egg sandwich, which was ok, just kind of boring. The menu was inventive enough, maybe they'll improve over time.
(2)Melissa L.
I was googling for good brunch places in Chitown and came across Jam. Based on the reviews and the website I had high hopes but was a bit disappointed. The eggs benedict was so measly and the french toast while very doughy is served without maple syrup - it cost extra. Um, who easts french toast without syrup, even if there is cherry preserve? I don't know, maybe its a Canadian thing. Speaking of which, I felt like I was in Toronto again as the servers were a bit aloof and not like the friendlines I had grown accoustomed to after a few days in Chicago. Its not terrible but certainly not worth the effort to go there unless you live in the neighbourhood. Im sure there is better in Chicago and there is certainly better brunch in Toronto.
(2)Drew M.
Cool environment, great coffee, fantastic food. We went when there was only one other table, so I can't comment on how they handle pressure, but the service was good. The only thing I would comment on is it is slightly overpriced. Buckwheat pancakes are fantastic, nonetheless, but certainly does not warrant a $10 price tag.
(4)Aaron D.
What a wonderful little spot! Tasty, inventive food, attentive service, lovely decor. Most everything on the menu was intriguing and wanted to order way too much. The only cons.. cash only is unfortunate. $40 is enough to reasonably want to use a card... And, avoid the venison sausage.. We can't wait to go back!
(4)Kunal K.
Love. LOVE. No really, I LOVE (!) this place. Yeah, yeah, "hipster/yuppie" crowd, "small" portions, "long" waits, cash only with a "overcharging ATM machine," "they couldn't seat my walk-in group of 24 and now I am pissy!" What-the-hell-ever. 1. Hipster/Yuppies. I am not here for the crowd. I could care less who else I find eating here. I am here for the food. 2. Small portions. Yeah, if you want to over eat till the point where you can only feel the heartburn and not be able to see your feet, this may not be the right choice for you. 3. Long waits. This place is small, the kitchen is smaller and the food is fantastic. Do the math. I usually show up at 12:30-1 and the wait is not too bad. 4. Cash only. So? Big whoop. Overcharging ATM machine? $1 is about the most reasonable ATM fee you could find in a private establishment. 5. Walk-in group of 24. Read #3. Small restaurant. Small kitchen. Do the math. Do everyone a favor and rate your deduction skills as a 2 rather than this perfectly fine establishment. Every time I have been here, the service has been between good and excellent. I love their selection of teas and the server has always been kind enough to bring out their little plank of the varieties of tea for us to check out before we can make our decision. The food, as you may have guessed by the tone of my review, is phenomenal. I have never been a big fan of quiche but Jam has certainly changed my opinion. The texture is perfect and has just the right amount of tart to make an excellent meal. I have also had the braised lamb crepe and that is complemented magnificently by the pear and the hazelnut glaze. So. Damn. Good. Every time I have been here I have been unable to resist to get one of their pastries because they are always spectacular. Warm delicious gooeyness. Just thinking about it is making me hungry. If I am doing brunch in Wicker Park, this will be at the top of my list. And I will be able to walk out without feeling like a thanksgiving parade float.
(5)TC S.
Spectacular service and value. An amuse-bouche before a $13 brunch? Marking the silverware for every course? Delicious food. Beautiful plating and execution. Do you see the words I am using here? We are not talking "the eggs were ok." We are talking full-on service and flavor design. This is like a bloody 4-star brunch FOR UNDER FIFTEEN BUCKS A PERSON. GO. AS OFTEN AS YOU CAN. Also, fantastic almond tea.
(5)Paul L.
Hubba hubba, eating breakfast never felt so important. This place is senior varsity kick-ass. Have the french toast. Or eggs. Or anything.
(5)Jim K.
If you're looking for a frou-frou brunch in Logan Square head here. But if the wait is long don't expect to get a drink at the bar since that space is mostly wait station. Me? I prefer more food and less frou but I can see why folks are diggin' on this joint.
(3)Myra M.
If you like fine dining at affordable prices then you'll like Jam. For sure try the four course tasting menu for $25. The tortellini spring pea dish is one of the best things I've ever put in my belly. And if you're a beef loving person, then don't miss out on the Steak and Frites. Sure, it's just beef and potatoes, but Jam does them to perfection. And all the bad reviews here based on service are sort of BS. I go somewhere for the food, not the people waiting on me. This is a small, independent place just trying to get off the ground. Sure, the service isn't 5 star, but the food is and that's what counts.
(5)Khadijah L.
THE FOLLOWING IS A REVIEW OF JAM ON DAMEN, WHICH IS NO LONGER. *** The ratings are not faulty, and the reviews are not mixed up. I actually find it consistent with the restaurant's character albeit subjective in star factor. Let me explain. I came with 2 other friends on a Sunday (1pm-ish) and were seated within 10-15 minutes (which is a vast improvement from other typical brunch places). The interior is cute and all, and I love the open kitchen area- I like to know where my food comes from and who's making it. Immediately I noted the crowd, they are definitely here to see and be seen. Its like a Disneyland of the yuppie-hipster types, and I had to stop myself from gawking. Red cowboy boots, fedora hats, keffiyehs, babies. No es importa. (but take note). I just rolled out of bed with my jeans and faded hard rock tshirt, no cash and nursing a hangover. Voila! An ATM machine that charges only $1 fee!!! I wanted to kiss this beautiful machine.. They serve Metropolis coffee. We got each, a mini muffin each amuse bouche. I forget what kind, it was citrusy, like orange and honey. I thought it was a nice touch. We proceeded to order... quince french toast, braised lamb crepes, crisp pork belly (for my friend), apple coffee cake, a sticky bun, between us 3. The food, was really good. It had been meticulously planned to taste the way it tasted. It wasn't too complicated, it was simple and complex enough, and delicious. Standard american portions (XXL) leave me with much guilt, especially with breakfast/brunch because who eats leftover brunch? in my opinion the portions are perfect and appropriately sized. So what is with the average 3 stars? Aside from the star rating, observe the rating distribution, trend and read the individual reviews.. Instead of consistently being average, the average 3 stars are comprised of almost equal parts high and low ratings. Here is why: this place attracts trendy yuppie hipsters. It is simply a natural behavior for hipsters to criticize in order to demonstrate their depth of a particular subject. Ergo raving or complaining. Decide yourself. I would definitely come here again, and would especially love to take advantage of the outdoor patio in the warmer months. The food was lovely and that was the impression I left with.
(4)Jim C.
I had a Spanish omelet that was excellent as was the service. Expensive. 24 bucks for an omelet, a side of sausage and coffee including tip. Ouch!
(3)Kim W.
notes: the french toast is to die for. the vegetable hash is to be avoided. the decor/atmosphere is great even if the chairs are an abomination. the service is a-ok. this place is cash-only with an atm in the back. BYOB BITCHES a great alternative if lula cafe is busy.
(3)Billy M.
If you are going to try as hard as this place does to look the part, you would think that the service and food would follow suit. Not the case. Had no wait which was a nice start considering the popularity of this place. Ordered the butternut squash soup, the braised antelope, and the reuben with horseradish creamcheese. Soup took 15 minutes to get to our table and the HEAD CHEF IS EXPEDITING!!! How is this possible? Then, after this guy gives us our soup, 3 minutes later here is our sandwich and antelope dishes...thanks man...appreciate it. As for the taste? The soup was so basic it was sad...no taste. The antelope is a gamey cut of meat...why have a sauce that makes it taste MORE gamey? When you have a reuben on the menu, with horseradish cream cheese, you would think you would be able to taste the horseradish...nope...just as bland as the corned beef was... The Bacon of the day was very good, hence the second star...other than that, this place needs to work on its service and its food...stop trying so hard with the decor if you wont try as hard to make the food taste good. Boo.
(2)Kristin J.
I went on a Friday morning for brunch, so they only had four other tables occupied. With one waiter, the service was super attentive, but since I went on a Friday, this might be atypical. Coffee was great, and the cute little sweet potato mini-muffin amuse bouche was a great touche. My boyfriend got biscuit with sausage, mushroom gravy, and fried egg with some sort of really refreshing cauliflower and straw mushroom salad. I got the eggs benedict with pork belly and winter squash puree. The presentation on both dishes was beautiful, and both were delicious. I think the eggs benedict was the clear "winner," but that might just be because any dish with pork belly in it is awesome. One note: Cash only!
(4)Patrick P.
There are things I liked about Jam: -cute space (they have outdoor seating in summer) -all male wait staff (i hate sorority-girl waitresses) -cute arrangement of food (looked cute on plate) -food was decent. not great, but decent. the fruit was very fresh. -the coffee is strong (i think it might have killed some cancer cells) However, there is one thing I didn't like about Jam: -CASH ONLY (boo!!! it's 2011, take credit cards) Give it a try. But bring cash! :(
(4)Desire' M.
The gross stuff is at the end... The inside of the restaurant had a classy feel but we ate on the patio, which was more rugged and earthy. Even getting there was a rugged trip because the patio stones are all uneven and I lost my balance a few times and later watched the waiters trip on up turned stones. I can't really comment on the food because I only got the fresh fruit and an orange juice which I have no complaints about. The presentation of my friends dishes was classy. The waitstaff definitely needs training! The set the water pitcher on the rim of each persons glass at the table. Gross! I probably shared germs with everyone on the patio that day. The waiters are dressed like couch potatoes with t-shirts, jeans and dirty sneakers. One lifted his shirt to wipe the sweat from his face and bared his belly to the table he was waiting. Ew! Oh yeah, it was 50 minutes before we got our food. Cash only.
(1)Aurore L.
First night in my new digs, followed by the first morning. As I woke up, my first thought was: breakfast. And Jam. Pump it up and make my day, babe. Around Christmas time, I usually slave behind the stove to cook up my favorite jam recipe, lovingly laden it up in crystalline pots. Its rich, deep, shiny purple color is a holiday ornament by itself. Its name: Heavenly Fig. Well, Jam on Damen is exactly that: heavenly. I couldn't have dreamed of a better welcome in the neighborhood than this one: a breezy walk, a push on the door, a bright smile, a lovely table warmed up by a touch of green, and a menu that made me (mental) back flips in their gorgeous patio (mentally emptied of all its customers too, I am not much of an entertainer; I leave that to Matt L. who does an excellent job and is pretty talented.) I was highly anticipating the amuse I read so much about, and was delighted to see an old fav' on the plate: banana chocolate muffin with peanut butter icing. Two bites. Then, under my advice of her waitress (she was a darlin') I ordered the Panino Cristo, and was blown away. Not only is the combination thoughtful (the contrast of flavors is remarquable and extremely balance: salty prosciutto, sweet honey mustard, creamy tellagio, crunchy rapini) but the ingredients in themselves were extremely high quality: the bread was so freaking good that I thought for a while that I had been transported to Europe......extremely moist, a perfect little bite to it, buttery, rich, complex. A gem. I am not a fan of Metropolis coffee so that would be the only negative but it's definitely not enough to keep me away from this little urban paradise. I'll be back again and again to eat a lot of Cristo and co., with cash in tow.
(5)Scott N.
Intimate little location reminded me of Toast in LP which I've been going to for years. The menu is like Elate at The Hotel Felix except its breakfast. We split two items and both were superb. The ingredients were creative and went perfectly but there was also enough on the plate to be full rather than stuffed which is perfect. I will definitely be back!!
(5)Kristin S.
Thumbs up to this hip little Logan Square diner. I had a little trouble finding it, probably more due to me than the small signage, but needless to say we got free parking right out front. So my friend and I started off with a breakfast appetizer (don't you love having apps at breakfast!) of macerated cherry (yes, that is the liquor soaked kind, which intensifies the flavor!) lime leaf foamy cream with pink peppercorn french toast! Holla! Oh yeah. First, devine bread. Fresh and fluffy yet solid. The flavors here are expertly crafted together. I don't know who thunk this one up, but yo' a genuis. I would come back again and again for this. I want this for my birthday cake. So that peppercorn mind you, is not harsh and come to find out, it is not a true pepper at all. Oh, no. It is a berry of the shrub Schinus molle. Okay, no I did not know that, I had to look it up as the dish so intrigued me. Mind you, this comes with no syrup. But I swear, you definitely don't need it and don't want to kill the trifecta going on here. So then my main dish. I had the poached egg whites with lemon zest and pepper, spring greens, macadamia nuts, parmesan cheese, nice vinaigrette accompanied by a buckwheat crepe filled with sweet potato puree and cheese. This was the perfect size, about 2 inches long. Seriously, I am done with breakfasts bigger than your head. I am after the unique goodness of some quality ingredients, which is what JAM is. Coffee was consistently pipping hot. Metropolis. Service was great. We were told 20 minutes wait as we arrived around 10:20. We only waited 15! We sat at the community table, which was actually excellent as 1) we got to watch the kitchen and see what was going out 2) look at our co-diners meals 3) get some good area restaurant recommendations 4) be out of the crowded main dining area. I don't know why people rate based on cash only or one the crowdedness of the restaurant. Yes to both. But hell yes to top notch food!!!
(5)Maureen S.
This place has really good french toast, and they've won a lot of awards for it. The patio is impeccable, albeit a total health hazard because of all the rocky paths that the servers have to balance on while juggling plates of delicious food. The restrooms were weird, disorganized, and kind of dirty, but the service was really great and the food is amazing. Come early to grab a beautiful seat without a wait on the patio.
(4)Gerald P.
Yes. I love every bite of every breakfast item I've ever ordered here. Especially the Malted French Toast with macerated rhubarb, lime leaf cream and pink peppercorn... Scandalous! I have late night cravings for this french toast. There have been a few occasions when I've tried to make plans to wake up extra early just so I could be at JAM as soon as they opened to enjoy some of that french toast. Many friends have rejected the invite so, It hasn't panned out yet. But, doesn't it sounds like a delicious way to start the day? (pvt msg me if you're down for this plan!!) Fortunately, I have no shortage of friends that love brunch at JAM. BTDubs, the staff here are really friendly and professional - you will always be greeted with a smile. The chefs are cuties and boy!, can they macerate the shit out of some rhubarb!
(5)Jims L.
DO NOT eat here UNLESS, you are (1) going as a party of 2 OR (2) really don't mind waiting 45 minutes while watching 10 other 2 top parties that get seated before you as they come in and wait maybe.. 30 seconds. I've had much better eggs Benedict, the meat in the crepes was underseasoned and.. I don't even remember what the third person in our party ordered. Cash only.
(2)Nikki R.
I went to Jam this past Saturday with three of my girlfriends. We got there around 11:30am and were seated promptly outside on the patio. Our server was attentive and quickly brought us some wine glasses so we could mix up our BYOM (bring your own mimosas). The amuse-bouche was a yummy banana nut muffin with butter cream. I chose the Spanish omelet. It was pretty good. The chorizo inside was delish. One friend got the jamburger, which looked like it was the heartiest thing on the menu. Another got the buckwheat crepes and said they were pretty good. The last got the eggs benedict. Two of us joked that if we had ordered the eggs benedict we would've been disappointed because the portion was tiny! One thing that was disappointing was that they didn't have the "(Three)dom of Choice" on the menu when I was there, but it was on the menu they had on the website. Note to Jam- please keep an updated menu on the website, so future customers know exactly what their options will be when they dine.
(3)Raana A.
I had a great brunch at Jam a few weeks ago. I had such a great meal and that I was surprised by the mixed reviews. The egg white omelet was like non other I've ever had with it's caramelized sweet potatoes, macadamia nuts and goat cheese. And then the buckwheat lamb crepes - my mouth waters just thinking about them. We also tried a smaller portion of their custard french toast with rhubarb and pink peppercorn to end the meal - heavenly. I've only been here once, so I might have lucked out or it might have been the beautiful weather that brought out the best in everything - the food and service, namely, but I can't wait come back to Jam. Dishes are sized reasonably and it's cash only.
(5)David A.
Went here on a weekday for brunch. It wasn't crowded. It's nice looking inside. The food is good, some dishes were stronger than others. Zucchini bread pancakes were good, kind of desserty. Italian sandwich was awesome and I actually took half of it home, kind of unheard of for a fatty like me. I wouldn't be surprised if weekend brunch is overcrowded and service slows down. But, this seems to be what happens at popular brunch spots. If you don't like busy places with waits, don't go to popular, no reservation restaurants during peak hours. Seems pretty straight forward?
(4)Bethany B.
Love this place for brunch! The french toast is literally the best I've ever had. I am more of a savory brunch person, and I only ventured out of my comfort zone because of the rave reviews I read here of the french toast at Jam. Boy am I glad I did! I go back solely for this dish. The service has been very nice, it's BYOB, and the music playing always makes me say "I LOVE this song!" - so there is much to go back for. The only thing that keeps this from 5 stars is one bad experience (one out of three, so this could change). Went for brunch a few months ago and the server(s) were nonexistant, and my delicious french toast came out cold (aka no longer delicious and amazing). I was so heartbroken that I couldn't go back for several months. However, a few weeks ago I decided to block this from my memory and give them another try - and Jam delivered. So, 4 stars because of the inconsistency...but after a few more visits I'm hoping I can rule that bad time out as a fluke :)
(4)Ryan H.
Perfectly poached eggs!!!
(3)Brandon B.
Perfect place for Chicago brunch with friends, meaning: 1) you have all the time in the world and have lots of things to say to all your bright eyed buddies, 2) you don't mind at least a 90 minute time going through the whole deal (not including time to wait for the check, which we short-circuited by going to the register after waiting for 10 minutes), 3) you enjoy well proportioned and well crafted dishes that are very reasonable for the price. Downsides; see the above (if you have any sort of urgency; we bypassed the outside wait for 30 minutes by sitting inside), the cursed location of this space with no reasonable air conditioning and a kitchen right in the eating area (hot and sweaty, the 2 establishments before this as well, in the summer). I'm not a fan of Chicago brunch-er establishments for this slow processing even on the most relaxed days with good friends.
(3)Anisha A.
The space at 935-937 N Damen is hexed; just note the feline that grazes the patio grounds. A cat once tried to murder me, hence I'm a strong believer that these creatures are the devil's spawn. Regardless, it was bittersweet dining at Jam, which took over Dodo, which took over Sweet Cakes Bakery, which took over some restaurant that began with a P, which took over our beloved, short-lived Grasshopper. Hopefully Jam eludes the turnover curse and is here to stay. It's done wonders with the space and patio, which (ignoring the evil cat) may be the most charming in the city. Though, like everything else, could further benefit from music and more thoughtful lighting. The polarizing, whimsical brunch menu is the work of a mature Willy Wonka. Regardless of the hits and misses, you have to admire the audacity of pairings being served before sundown: French toast with pink peppercorn; buckwheat crepes with Asian pear and braised lamb. Even more effective is the dinner, the $24 four course tasting- featuring an impeccable asparagus prosciutto soup, foie gras tortellini, and escolar- is highway robbery. Bring your own booze, go wild, and make sure the cat doesn't kill you.
(4)Tracey S.
I feel bad only giving two stars, because the first time I ate here I had an extremely positive experience. The food was great, the service was great and the music was great. This time...the music was great. I ordered the blueberry pancakes. They were very large and dense and in spite of a lot of blueberries they were bland. I think if they'd been served with syrup, like normal pancakes I might have loved them. Unfortunately they were served with a tiny amount of a lemon cream thing and a tiny amount of blueberry jam. Overall it was a big let down. My boyfriend had an egg white omelet that he was very underwhelmed with , plus a side of pork belly since they don't serve sides of bacon or sausage (?). The service was very slow and not as friendly as it was on our first visit. With all the brunch options in the city I don't think we will be back.
(2)Kristin W.
Jam is open for dinner now and I could not be happier! My husband and I went on a whim Monday night and had a fantastic experience. We ordered the tasting menu which is a crazy deal at $25 for four courses. The dinner consisted of: Asparagus Soup with crispy prosciutto, Foie Gras Tortellini, your choice of either Pan Roasted Duck Breast or Seared Escolar with Pineapple Gnocchi (whoa!) and then finally Olive Oil Cake with orange marmalade. The food was all completely awesome. My favorite was the tortellini, but the Pineapple Gnocchi definitely comes in second place because it was just so original and was a total compliment to the fish. I'm totally down with this new dinner menu and now that its getting warmer out I can't wait to bring a bottle (it's BYOB) and sit outside in their garden while enjoying the food. The service was fantastic and the food was filling without overstuffing me. Hurray for Jam!
(5)Alex R.
Jam is everything and more. yes if you go during high traffic times it will be overwhelming, but that's the case ALMOST anywhere. Amelia is an amazing waitress, with attention to detail, and could sell an airconditioner to an eskimo! Phenominal baked goods, service with a smile not to mention AMAZING FRENCH TOAST. Heck don't come, leaves more for me :)
(5)Mary Ann C.
This place is fabulous! I have been trying to find the time to try it since it opened and am so glad I finally got the chance! Service was fabulous and helpful. The dining room was small and cute. Loved the tea (green mint), pastry of the day (two scones--double yumm), and the french toast (server recommended it as an appetizer for the table). The eggs benedict was very good, beautifully plated, and creative. Can't wait to return!
(4)Natro I.
This is the worst meal I have ever eaten in Chicago. Actually, that's a lie because I couldn't eat it. I took one bite. (that after waiting 45 minutes for the food to arrive). When the waiter asked if I liked the dish (about 30 minutes after the food came out) I said that I thought it was terrible and couldn't eat it (this has never happened to me). He said he would take the dish off our check (his suggestion) but then the host told him he couldn't do it. Fine - I get it. But he didn't offer anything else. I would have been happy with just a mini cinnamon bun...anything. I live a block away but you will never see me in there again and I will definitely make sure the people I love don't go there either.
(1)Andrew H.
Had the Jamburger, it was fantastic. This was not your normal burger, the "Butterkäse" (essentially buttery cheese), and "smoked tomato sauce" really gave it a great flavor. Fries were seasoned nicely as well. Atmosphere was enjoyable, kind of a nicer brunch place then your average destination. Staff was extremely friendly, did a nice job of describing the food / flavors and even brought a tiny pastry snack for us to sample while waiting for our food. Small place so I could see the wait can getting long if you go at a peak time.
(4)N P.
Well Chicagoans are known, if not around the country then at least to each other as being huge on brunch, and I am no exception. It comes with the territory that you are going to wait at least 30 minutes for a table at the best places in the city, and usually it's worth it (there wouldn't be a wait if it weren't). Said places are also loud as a rule. That being said, I have some mixed feelings about this place. I went here with some friends about a week ago to check them out. We were told a 45 minute wait, which I expected, but got seated in 15. So far, pretty good. The decor is nice, especially the light fixtures, and I am partial to the color scheme ( I notice these things) as well. I did read the reviews on here days before, so I went curious to see what my experience may be. So, the server arrived and took our order, and while we got our drinks pretty fast, we waited forever for the food to arrive. I think I would have almost rather spent that time waiting to be seated than waiting for the food. I know they were slammed but oh well. Our server realized we were waiting a long time, and brought out a tiny madeline (cookie) for each of us to tide us over- I have to point out though that said madeleine was only slightly larger than my thumb, so it is rather comical that anyone would think it could hold you over. Anyway, I am not saying this to be mean. I worked in the service industry most of my adult life, so I have some sympathy for those who are in it. Okay, so at last our food has arrived. I am looking forward to the malted custard french toast that is in front of me, with its dollops of whipped cream topped with pink peppercorns and macerated cherries. My brunch companions ordered a turkey club with seasoned fries and eggs benedict respectively. The french toast was very good, but I have to note here that there was no syrup of any kind to be seen for it. Now I am not closed minded about getting creative with food but after a few bites sans syrup I suspected there was a good reason why it's been an accompaniment to french toast for as long as it has. I used the whipped cream as a substitute (I was too hungry to sit and wait til our server came back) but it sadly ran out before the toast did. The pink peppercorns were a very nice touch though, so if you order this eat them with the toast, don't just cast aside as a garnish. They may have actually been the best thing about my breakfast. When our server came back, I inquired about syrup- she said it is an extra charge. Okay,, I've never heard of a restaurant charging extra for syrup. I think a cherry syrup would be a good accompaniment because of the macerated cherries, but who am I to say that if you're charging 12 bucks for french toast that it shouldn't be an extra? I don't know. Well, I didn't try anything off my friends' plates except the fries since I am vegetarian. And the fries, I'm sad to say, had way too much spice rubbed on them. As in she and I were scraping it off with a knife too much. This is not something that should be happening in a restaurant that sports haute cuisine, should it? Anhow, we get the bill and luckily my friends boyfriend was insistent on paying- good thing since I was planning on paying with my card and they apparently are a Cash Only establishment. Now that's one thing that may give me pause about going back. I don't want to have to run to an ATM in the freezing cold and pay the stupid ATM fee because a place doesn't take credit card. I mean it would be one thing if they were some old mom and pop joint in the sticks, but this is a modern restaurant in one of the largest cities in the world, so what is the reason folks? Check them out if you are curious I guess, just don't forget to bring some cash.
(2)Jerry C.
Been here for brunch. Right around the corner from me. Have had the cherry French toast, the Zucchini pancakes and the quiche. French toast was creative, tasty and fun, the peppercorns being an interesting surprise. The zucchini pancakes were fluffy, light, tasty with a spicy jam on top along with a small slab of toasted marshmallow. Substantial. The quiche was surprisingly custard-like, which I have never experienced, even in France. The only thing about the quiche was that I thought the slice was a bit too small, and a bit too salty (I think they were using some kind of black sea salt which provided an interesting texture, but too much sodium). Service here both times was excellent: attentive and helpful without being overbearing. Bring a bottle of prosecco/cava/champagne and they sell you a carafe of OJ.
(4)Christine K.
Been here twice for breakfast on a Saturday. The place was hidden by some scaffolding a little while ago, but once you step inside, you are pleasantly surprised by the modern decor. Almost CB2ish with a little mirror and flourish action. The kitchen is right out front right behind the register so you can sort of see the chefs cooking food. The food is somewhat more upscale than your typical breakfast/brunch place...or at least it is laid out on fancier plates with fancier names. The first time I went there I ordered an egg sandwich with the pork belly. It was nice but a little on the fatty side. Granted pork belly has fat on it, but this was a little too much. The flavors were pretty good though. The second time we went, my friend and I both ordered the biscuits and gravy. I remember this dish being disappointing as I was expecting some soft right-out-of-the oven hot biscuits with creamy gravy. Instead the biscuits were harder than expected and the gravy was dark and just didn't give me that comforting feeling. I read also that they give some diners amuse bouche...and while the table right next to us got theirs, they somehow missed us on both of our trips. Another note: the service is on the slow side. While the chefs and waiters do look busy, it seems that they simply do not have enough chefs to feed hungry diners promptly on a busy morning. That does not make a pregnant woman happy. All in all, a cute dining atmosphere but after my 2nd trip, I give it 3 stars.
(3)Amanda Z.
Banana. Cocoa. Muffin. Caramel. Cream. Cheese. Alright, those words separately mean nothing to you, but in one beautiful little baby muffin a la a brunch amuse bouche, they are perfection. Trust me here. Oh, and try the pork belly benedict and steak and eggs where they so kindly agreed to poach my eggs to more of a medium (Hey, no judgment, I'm just getting on board the "runnier yolk" bandwagon. As our sweet server said "baby steps."). Yessss....good stuff. Pork belly benedict was perfect with a marvelous beet hollandaise and beautiful little english muffins (made in house). Steak was done to a perfect medium rare and served with rice grits and poached eggs done to my liking. Lotsa coffee with real cream, place mats that I contemplated stealing, and a menu with half the menu being a "not really sure what that is but I think I'll try it" item. Truly, this is a brunch that will make the snootiest bruncher smile. Do it up kids. (Just hit up the ATM first.)
(5)James C.
I gave it 1 star based on the fact that we are a family of 5 and this place is NOT kid friendly. We go out to brunch often and nice restaurants, but the entire atmosphere and attitude was poor based on the fact that we came with young kids and were immediately treated like 2nd class citizens. The service was poor, as we heard about the specials for our server telling the tables next to us when they were seated. And they sounded great. The atmosphere is modern with thick plastic chairs that look like glass and really cool and heft silverware. The food looks good on the menu but is rather tasteless when eating. Due to the poor service, it took way to long for us to get anything our children, who go often to another local brunch place, were constantly asking to leave and the place seemed welcome to the idea. Too bad our normal spot was closed and too bad we couldn't add this to our arsenal.
(1)Miss M.
We went there for the first time today and let me tell you: their food is amazing! I had their lamb crepes with asian pear and hazelnut sauce and I had never experienced anything like that before. I tried their peppermint iced tea which really complimented the lamb of the crepes. Their pancakes and hash browns are very good. The downside is that they take cash only, but luckily I had cash with me so that was not an issue. Also, it is a hipster hangout, but ignore the patrons and focus on your food and you will not be dissappointed! I would definitely be going back! The service was good and in fact, the waitor we had was pretty darn sexy. Too bad they didn't serve him on a platter :)
(4)Elliott R.
Eh.. I'm not hating on Jam. I want to like this place and it seems like it's gonna be an awesome experience cause it looks cool but it just left me underwhelmed. I got the eggs benedict which were quite good but small portions so I was still hungry. My lady friend got the spanish omelette which was terrible. I eat anything and always finish her meals, but I wouldn't touch it. Then they make you pay cash so you have to go to the little ATM in the back and get charged $5 to get cash out. Then we waited for like 15 minutes for them to bring change. I just wanted to get out of there and go to Sunrise diner or something where I get real portions of good food.
(2)Tracey S.
French toast! Kale salad! Egg sandwich! The best brunch ever! Service was tremendous, relaxed atmosphere, cannot wait to go back!
(5)Alaina F.
I've been hearing good things about this place for a while, and seeing that breakfast is by far my favorite meal, I had to try it. Last Saturyday, I was in a serious pancake mood (not to mention had a miz hangover and was starving) and my friend suggested we go to Jam. Fine. We arrive to this hole-in-the-wall and spend at least 15 minutes look for parking. when we finally walked in, it wasn't terribly crowded and the host said it would be no longer than 20 minutes. im crabby and hungry but okay. the place started to fill up while we waited. so.... maybe 45 minutes later, the host finally calls us to sit down. we had a group of 4 and he must've sat at least 3 other groups of 2 before us. needless to say, i was very irritated at this point. honestly it's pissing me off to go through the play-by-play of this miserable experience so let me sum it up: we waited forever. the waitress was a fucking retard and incredibly rude and slow. (i despise that shit wicker park attitude of "you're in wicker park and we're a popular restaurant so you should be honored to wait around here.") UM no thank you, unwarrantedly self-righteous hipsters. anyways we waited at least 20 minutes to order from this idiot after telling her twice that we were ready to order (after looking at the menu while waiting 45 min, we knew what we wanted). finally, the food came out. it was cold and sub-par. AND expensive. FUCK this place. I am kind of a snob and understand patience for good food, but this place is kidding itself. get over yourself, Jam. you aren't trendy and original and you aren't upscale. i don't even want to give you one star, but there isn't an option for zero. thanks for ruining my saturday.
(1)Connie M.
I'm with Sandra O--this place is so inconsistent. It has a lot of pluses: great outdoor space, lovely decor. All true. And our food, once we got it, over an hour after being seated, was actually tasty. But the ridiculous chaos surrounding our bunch today--long waits, excruciating service, our food actually being delivered to the wrong table... everything other than the food itself went so wrong that I could never recommend this place. The people at McDonald's are more competent. If you do bother to go, definitely BYOB, as you have NO IDEA how long it's gonna take for you to be seated or get your food. And by the way: what's with the obligatory need for once off-the-grid meat cuts? Porky bits (cheeks, belly) were in almost everything, really limiting the options for non-omnivores and... kinda tired. Overly wrought. I know I've ranted enough, but here's one more rant: whenever a place has so many 5-star ratings and 1-2 star ratings, that should be a tip off. Their s*&# simply isn't together.
(1)Jovanna F.
Jam......I went two Sundays ago. We got there at around 2 and had to wait maybe 15 minutes for a table. When the hostess came to seat us, we were lead outside. This was odd since we never requested to sit outside. It wasn't even nice out-- it was overcast and cold. Whatever...we were hungry so this was a step in the right direction...or so we thought. This is where things went down (a steep) hill. My friend and I had to wait a good, oh, 20 minutes to just order our food. The waitress kept milling about around our table but failed to acknowledge us until we got her attention. Mind you, it is 2:30 in the afternoon-- we're starved, hungover, tired and just want to EAT. Ok, so we order. And, we wait.. and wait.. and wait some more..... after 45 minutes of waiting, I asked the waitress (who was very sweet) what the deal was. She said something about the restaurant expanding and the kitchen not being big enough to accomodate the influx in orders..I don't know- not my problem-- just bring me my French toast! I thought we were getting close to having some food when my friend noticed an employee come in with groceries (I think he said he saw avocados??). I wasn't surprised- I had suspected that they had run out of food because, there really is no other excuse for having to wait over an hour for French toast and an egg sandwich. So, finally after at least an hour of waiting, we got our food. Hallelujah. The food was above average but it was completely overshadowed by the ridiculous wait. This was the kind of situation where the manager should have come out and apologized for us having to wait or, they say your meal is on the house-- SOMETHING-- that's how insane the wait was. We got none of that. I would have been much more understanding had we gotten a sincere apology from the manager but since we didn't get that, I felt like my patronage wasn't valued. So, yeah, won't be going back unless I feel like getting reacquainted with their patio and drinking cup after cup of coffee while I fantasize about food....
(2)Dominique B.
So first impression: Meh Didn't really greet us when we came in, waited about 20 minutes to get sat and our waiter didn't greet us for about 5 minutes. Which is only significant since he was all over the table next to us, who got sat at about the same time. Eating experience: Phenomenal. I sort of felt I was on top chef. Great presentation, the flavor bomb that exploded in my mouth was amazing. I had the apple pancakes with a side of chicken sausage and Paul had the pork breakfast sandwich. Pancakes were amazing, chicken sausage melted in my mouth, and Paul demolished the sandwich. Final assessment: 2 "entrees", two cups of coffee and a side = $40/tip. Pricey breakfast. Service was meh. Could have been slightly more attentive given its the size of a living room. I wouldn't rush to go back or be a regular there, but would advise going to check it out. if you have more then 4 peeps, I'd go somewhere else.
(3)Eric V.
A rainy Saturday morning in Ukie Village served as the perfect opportunity to satiate our breakfast cravings at Jam. It was early enough before the lunch crowd hit so we had no issues getting a table. Brunch started with a mini spiced orange muffin amuse bouche. I can't name one other place that presents a non-dinner amuse - nice touch and a great way to welcome your guests. Being a lover of all things pork, I went with the Eggs Benedict and the wifey ordered the Blueberry Pancakes. Now Jam is no greasy spoon diner, so you can expect their food to have an up-scale twist. In the case of their Eggs Benedict, that means a somewhat deconstructed presentation and the canadian bacon gets replaced with some tasty pork belly. I do appreciate that everything wasn't drowned in Hollandaise (not that there's anything wrong with that), so you could portion off as much as you wanted with each bite. While I thoroughly enjoyed my dish, the same couldn't be said for my wife's pancakes. I tried a bite and the flavor was just flat. There were definitely blueberries in there, but their flavor just didn't pop. I would normally end the story there and finish up a 3-star review, but things changed when our waitress stopped by and asked if everything was alright. Ever so polite, my wife gave the "it's ok" reply with a cordial smile but our waitress wasn't buying it. She could clearly tell my wife wasn't enjoying her meal and gladly took it back to the kitchen, saying that if we're paying good money for a meal then we better enjoy it. After a second review of the menu, and a recommendation from our waitress, my wife went with the Malted Crusted French Toast. Our waitress was nice enough to comp us with a tasty Pecan Sticky Bun so my wife could nibble on something while I went to town on my eggs benedict. The French Toast hit the table a few of minutes later and it was fantastic. I was told that before they hit the griddle, the french toast is first sous-vide to set the custard batter. The end result is non-mushy french toast that has body, but is still very light and delicate. Additional layers of flavor came in from macerated cherries and pink peppercorns that added some light peppery accents and crunch. While there might be a few "misses" on the brunch menu, there are surely more hits. It's also worth asking your server for recommendations so you can get right to the goods. Service gets a big 'ol gold star for actually caring about the customer's dining experience and not just the bottom line.
(4)Erica W.
I enjoyed the food at Jam - what I didn't enjoy was the wait. When I got there w/my party of 2 on a Sunday at 12:30, they told us we would have a 30 minute wait, which turned into over an hour. Not cute. Thank goodness I had eaten a granola bar before I went, but the hungry monster was starting to rear it's ugly head. I noticed that Jam has 3 1/2 stars, and I think that's pretty accurate. The food was good - we had the spanish omelette and the french toast w/custard and cherries (very rich). Decent portion sizes, and the service was good as well- nice staff. I would go back if it wasn't for the wait - maybe during an off time of the day.
(4)Claire M.
So.. The menu is amazing looking, a pretty great variety to choose from. The environment is lovelyish (although I kind of hate plastic chairs, even 'hip' ones..) Very white and clean with hints of green and black. Ok. This place wants to be a bit upscale, that is apparent.. upscale with a coolness that says 'we're upscale but we aren't assholes.' My example of this done perfectly is Nightwood in Pilsen. Upscale and cool as hell without any pretension. The problem is that what makes a restaurant classy are the details. The presentation. The price & giving the customer what they want. So, price, sure we can lean towards upscale. Breakfasts for $9 & $13? That's moving towards it.. The food presentation was lovely, absolutely, to be sure. OK, check. But our silverware was just sort of thrown onto our place mats at some point (which i kind of hated) and when we asked to get a half order of pancakes because we were getting an entire other entree plus two sides, so a half order would have been plenty, we were told no. They will only do pancake half orders for the table, ie, we have to order another full entree. I just think that's bullshit. Totally not classy. We ordered the lamb crepes and they were DELICIOUS. We also got the chocolate pancakes and they were mediocre. Dry.. They came with butter and a 'banana milk jam', and graham crust crumbles, all on the side, but we wished for something that made them moist. Or for them to be moist. We had a side of the handmade sausage and it was good, although not appetizing looking, kind of wet, and I think could have been spiced better. No espresso machine. That hurts a little. I don't know. I think that if it didn't feel like they were trying so hard to be 'classy' and just were what they were it would be better. It was fine though, a good alternative to the norms of my breakfast adventures, and I do want to try that cheek & egg sandwich. So, I will return. But my expectations were maybe a bit higher than were met. I think you should try it, mixed bag of reviews to be sure.. My friends that went on a separate occasion liked everything except for the fact that the restaurant was playing the radio. It appears no one had their ipod that day. For future reference-- Silence is WAY better than ads. Radio? Not classy.
(3)Erin S.
Never written a Yelp review before but after my second amazing visit, I had no choice but to write one for JAM. As someone who doesn't eat pork or red meat, many servers raise an eyebrow when I ask for my options but our waitress gave me several solid choices. I landed on the veggie melt the first time which was out of this woorrrrld. Order. This. When I went back for breakfast, I got the smoked salmon over potatoes with bernaise and my friend got the waffle special which was an unbelievable take on chicken and waffles. Needless to say, I'll be back with friends for more silly-awesome creations from JAM.
(5)Joyee L.
Unfortunately, I did not enjoy my breakfast here. I went after hearing about this restaurant from a friend and I did not look up reviews before I went here. I asked the waitress for a suggestion and was told about the Panini Cristo. Bad idea, the prosciutto was SO salty it overwhelmed everything else. I wasn't a fan of the coffee that much either. I am glad I came here during a weekday because having to wait forever to eat what I did would have probably made me really grumpy.
(2)Lucy M.
Ok, I want to give this place 3 stars, my friends wanted to give it 5, so I'm splitting the difference... but this is probably going to sound more like a 3 star review. I had never heard of Jam, living as I do on the other side of town, but my friend in Wicker Park said the eggs benedict here were the best she'd ever had, so we went. The eggs benedict were ordered by two of our group, and when they arrived, served with pork belly, they were enjoyed immensely. My boyfriend ordered the braised lamb buckwheat crepes and declared that it was the best breakfast he'd had in Chicago. I went with the amish chicken after it came highly recommended by our server, but I was disappointed by it. It was served over a grain that I think was quinoa, which was great, but the whole dish was pretty bland. Seeing how much everyone else enjoyed their meal I think I (and my server) might have made a mistake choosing this dish. Then there was the serving size. All the plates were very beautifully prepared, arriving at the table like little works of art, but all the dishes were on the smaller side. If I go out for brunch, especially on days when I have to work all evening (in a restaurant, surrounded by food, no less), I really want a big meal that sets me up for the day, but only a little while after leaving Jam I was hungry again, which I felt was a shame. The coffee was good, and the amuse bouche they served us while waiting for our food (tiny chocolate cupcakes with peanut butter frosting) were delicious. We sat out on the patio, which is decorated with some very eclectic art pieces and all agreed it was cute, except for the back corner which apparently belongs to the apartment building that overlooks the patio and was filled with old junk. This, we agreed, would be much enhanced by some sort of screen. All in all, I'm glad I tried it once, but probably won't trek across the city to try it again.
(4)India K.
Blech! My love of brunch + optimism generally leads me to write generous reviews. I can't on this one. I will start with the pros first in moment of yelp diplomacy. Pros- GREAT renovation! Has a classy vibe with noticeable amounts of thought put into color scheme, great floors, blend of contemporary and classic elements. GREAT coffee & have Splenda available. GREAT bathroom. Cons- quiche was a DISASTER. Too heavy and gelatinous. Plain gross with flavors peeking through that seemed like they were last night's left overs...from two nights before. Pretty little salad. Tiny little coffee cups. Some of the worst customer service I've had in Chicago despite 7 staff for floor, register, hosting for what couldn't be more than total seating of 35 people. Had to flag and beg for everything we needed. CASH ONLY with a fair $1.00 fee for customers on a kinda shady looking cash machine by bathroom. If I lived nearby, I would definitely give it a couple more chances. Coming from Gold Coast to relax in the Ukranian Village, I won't waste my time for the travel time.
(2)Vivian Y.
The coffee is good. But that's about it. oh, there was also a carrot cake muffin amuse bouche. I think it's unacceptable to wait 40 mins for french toast and biscuits and gravy. When we arrived at 10am, the couple next to us had just received their plates. Looked scrumptious! couldn't wait to get my order! They ate and the left. The table was quickly filled with another two patrons. They ordered and they received their food around minute 30. Meanwhile, James and I were on our 4 or maybe even 5th cup of coffee. Finally the food came at minute 42. Meh. Mediocre. It can't be that we ordered wrong. Our server said that the French toast was 'the best French toast in the city". I was convinced. He also recommended the biscuits and gravy. I admit, I don't order French toast *ever* in a restaurant - I'm a savory breakfast person - but because this was so highly recommended here, I agreed to order something sweet. Tell me - is French Toast supposed to be soggy? It was beautifully toasted on the outside but it was wet and goopy on the inside. Not impressed. And $10 for French Toast? Please. Biscuits and gravy were not traditional. it was ok. I prefer a white gravy over brown. Our server had to have known that we were waiting SO long for our food. At least come by, apologize and and offer some fruit on the house or something. I won't be coming back.
(2)Aram E.
Recently, Chef Jeff along with his crew did a private tasting menu for my family and I for dinner. The meal was out of this world. I know everyone raves about the brunch because the brunch at Jam is top notch, but I wanted to give a nod to the dinners they do as well. If you haven't had a chance to eat there yet, make plans to do so real soon.
(5)Katie C.
Food: Mine was SO salty. I ordered the spanish omelet - it had homemade chorizo, some peppers, and cheese...I couldn't even finish it because the saltiness was SO overwhelming. Jam: Have you tasted this dish??? It's insane! Loved the mini carrot muffin with cream cheese frosting amuse b. Nice touch to start. My bf had the pork cheek egg sandwich. I tried it. Wasn't blown away. It had some green apple ketchup on it that sounded interesting but it really wasn't all that great. Service, etc: Food took forever. We were in there over an hour. Jersey shore looking waiters wearing super tight Ed Hardy t-shirts, spray tans, and trendy hats. Pretty bizarre. We got there early on a Saturday morning (around 10AM) and had no wait. By the time we left, there was a line out the door... I'll go back once more to try a few different dishes, then I'll decide. PS - CASH ONLY
(3)Carolyn C.
very unhappy with the brunch menu. not too much to choose from. It's quite stuffy in Jam. The food was edible, but nothing special. Much happier at Johnny's Grill or Longman & Eagle.
(1)Amy D.
French toast is one of my fave dishes to order for breakfast, and when i heard that there was a restaurant that was serving it sous vide style, i was intrigued. Jam is a hip restaurant in the popular area of Logan Square. The decor is modern, and their is a fair bit of seating considering the size of the space. We started with the French toast and it is served with pink peppercorns, lime zest and macerated cherries. You would think that the components would make it savoury but it didn't. French toast can be overly sugary and with the addition of the peppercorns and the zest it truly counteracted the sweetness. We also had the scotch egg with greens and garlic dressing. I had never had one prior and i am now a fan. The coating was crunchy, and their was a layer of meat around the egg, it was like having corned beef and eggs all in one morsel. The garlic dressing on the greens was great and the hashbrowns provided just the right amount of texture. Overall Jam is reineventing the breakfast game and i cannot wait to come back and try some more of their concoctions.
(4)Lois A.
I've been wanting to try Jam for so long that I really expected great things and felt pretty let down by my brunch today. I ordered the eggs benedict and it certainly looked amazing on the plate. The way it looked was the high point. There were two sauces drizzled on the plate...both completely lacking in flavor. One was made of winter squash and the other I can't remember. Each bite I took only tasted of egg, no pop, no burst of something special, just the taste of poached egg. I tasted each sauce alone just to make sure I wasn't crazy. Nothing to taste. The pork belly that came with it was ok but again, nothing special. You know when places are so sure that everything tastes so amazing out of the kitchen that they don't put any salt or pepper on the table? Here it would have been useful. My boyfriend had the quince french toast and it was pretty good. He always orders eggs benedict and said he was glad he hadn't today. Service was good, coffee was good. Prices were fine but I wouldn't go back given that I can think of 20 other places I wish I had spent my money at instead.
(2)Erin A.
This was one of the worst dining experiences I have had in Chicago. I went there with my boyfriend for brunch and we decided to sit outside. We put in our order and people were seated, served their meals, and left while we were waiting for our food. The server must have realized that they forgot to put in our order, and when we finally got it we had been waiting for well over an hour. I had the eggs benedict, a recommendation of our server, and it was the worst.... tasteless and small. The pork belly was almost raw, not good. My boyfriend got the biscuits and gravy which he liked... until a bird decided to shit on his eggs. The waiter was nice and immediately replaced them... but we were so hungry/frustrated by that point we were done. Skip it. I like interesting "foodie" food and it was not good...
(1)melissa m.
So, I'm not a fan of giving negative reviews to neighborhood establishments, but I'll do it if it helps lead to some positive changes to improve the place and keep it around. My friends and I showed up at 10:45ish on a Sunday. The wait for a table outside was only 15 minutes, which was good b/c other times we've tried to pop in here the wait was a good hour. However, the Big Wait came AFTER we placed our orders. We sat down a little after 11 and we didn't get our food until after noon!!! They brought us a little banana muffin with chocolate cream cheese halfway through our wait, but it just made our stomaches more grumbly for food (though it was tasty and we did appreciate it). Our food came, and the poor hungry boy who was with all us girls unbeknownst got the menu item with one of the smallest portion sizes (the eggs benedict). The presentation was nice but there is something off about have such a small portion for one item and then have other items with much larger portions (egg sandwich, panini) but similar price points. The proscuitto on the panini was VERY overwhelming and my friend couldn't eat it. Another friend got the scotch egg and it came with a half waffle underneath (like they only poured half the batter in when they were making it. Pluses: the outdoor patio, friendly host. Minuses: previously mentioned. I think you need to do better when you have so much competition around you.
(2)Jaime E.
jam rules: 1. go on a wednesday, around 8am. be the only people in the restaurant. 2. enjoy the sounds of Rush and Zepplin, before they put on Coldplay for the weekday brunch crowd. 3. try not to be disappointed by their lack of specialty coffee drinks 4. forget about the coffee drinks when a little complimentary amuse bouche arrives at your table and it involves a tiny biscuit with fancy butter 5. order the savory buckwheat crepes with braised lamb and asian pear, or the panini cristo (very nice rendition of the monte cristo-- only with sauteed rapini, prosciutto and sweet mustard jam. 6. be relieved your dining buddy brought cash because it's cash only. 7. go next door to Sweet Cakes and pass the people who just cooked you breakfast. 8. buy your cash toting friend a cherry scone because those buckwheat crepes were satisfying but she DEFINITELY has room for dessert. 9. that's right, dessert. after an 11 dollar breakfast. on a wednesday morning. 10. skip lunch. jam rules.
(4)Lucy Z.
Was excited to try Jam. Very friendly host made the 40-minute wait tolerable. We sat in the patio and there was a really strong stench coming from the kitchen which ruined my appetite. I thought we smelled it because we were right outside the air vents, but it was even worse inside. That was my biggest complaint, however, the menu to be a less interesting than I had hoped for, and it took about 25 minutes for our food, a long time to wait for breakfast food. The waitress had warned us of the long wait due to their recent kitchen expansion, so maybe this will improve over time. With all the delicious places to go in the city, I probably won't return.
(2)michelle m.
firstly, if you'd like to use your card at this restaurant which has mid-priced to overpriced plates of food, sorry- apparently a credit card system is too expensive. rather than recount my morning/afternoon visit to jam, just read everything below that is 3 stars or less- i'm noticing i probably had the same waitress as half these folks ("the kitchen is too small") & the fact that the complaints are CONSISTENT pretty much says they have management and kitchen issues that aren't being addressed. I'm pretty easy going about eating out, but my table's food looked like an acid flashback (rhubarb puree should not look like vomit amidst an unsweetened, sour yuzu spew, blueberry pancakes should not be green and the density of scones), couldn't melt butter and tasted like hell. The kitchen at my apt. is bigger and i'm glad the employees in both the kitchen & front of house seemed to be having a relaxing shift while i got coffee and hunger jitters, b/c i've never seen a sweat-free, unrushed, more devil-may-care open kitchen. it just had the wrong energy to it as a kitchen and i'm betting this explains all the waiting from start to finish. i don't want excuses, jam, fix your shit for these prices.
(1)Jenni Q.
Such a cute little restaurant with clean, modern decor and a touch of spring (pale greens, black and white). The menu was very original and creative....it was great to see so many interesting options (buckwheat crepes with lamb, trout quiche, etc). We started off with the complimentary "amuse bouche" - mini carrot cupcakes with creamy frosting. What an unexpected surprise! MMM MMM MMM....light and yummy and the perfect size to start off our meal. I got the egg white omelette (sweet potato, goat cheese and watercress) and my boyfriend got the malted custard french toast (rhubarb topping). Both were extremely good however, we each had one thing that we didnt particular care for. I LOVE goat cheese however, I wish that it had been creamier instead of stringy....that would have bumped up my dish from a 4 to a 5. My boyfriend loved the rhubarb topping but they had some type of lime zest in the whipped cream which kind of threw our taste buds off. Without it, the dish would have been perfect. But overall, presentation and taste were excellent. The orange juice here was also freshly squeezed with just the right amount of pulp and sweetness. I will definitely be back to try some of their other tantalizing dishes (especially the eggs benedict with fried pork belly)!
(4)Hilary H.
wonderful brunch. how can you not love french toast soaked in custard?? the smoked fish quiche is phenomenal. had bites of the egg sandwich and nicoise. all delicious, great service, classy decor. love the amuse bouche. logan square is lucky to have it. and byo!! can't wait to try dinner-
(5)Ceda X.
I've been here about three times in the past three months and I've never had any problems with either service or food. To answer the one star review of the $3.50 coffee: um, its bottomless, so drink up to get your $3.50's worth. I absolutely adored the hostess with mostess, (and glasses to boot) who was fantastic to us during our waiting ordeal (our friends were suppose to meet us, but were stymied by the marathon). I talked to her no less than 5 times during the whole escapde, and she was gracious and accomodating during every turn. I love the decor of this place, modern, but not coldly so. I need to branch out of eating just the Egg sandwich (pork cheeks, fried egg, pickled tomatoes) and Eggs benedict, but it is so hard when those two items are so good. If you don't want to wait for an hour, go on a weekday. The wait is worth it on the weekends if you know to go to Sweetcakes next door, enjoy a cup of coffee and look at the cool horse-installations.
(4)Alya A.
came here on a weekday morning, expecting to be able to beat the rush and experience the best of Jam. not sure if that was the best they have to offer, but if so, please avoid this place. first the food itself - the egg sandwich was just a strange over-complication of flavors (I and I really do think I have an adventurous palate, more than most), and my friend's poached egg was just too too runny. eeek. besides the so-so food, the service was way off. our server was nervous and overly-attentive, constantly asking us if we needed anything while water and coffee were refilled at every sip, probably because our food took an eternity to arrive. now in a half-full restaurant on a weekday, with what looked like full kitchen staff working, why is that? I noticed a guy at the front of the kitchen who looked responsible for plating the food taking an absurd amount of time with each dish, seriously it looked like he placed every potato just *so*. maybe he was the culprit. hey buddy, I'd rather get my food hot and on time!!
(2)j s.
This place is just not that good. I have heard so many wonderful things about it and was very let down when my dinner was okay. I was wanting salt, but didn't want to ask. The beet salad was good.
(2)Liz C.
The first word that comes to mind is overrated. Although the servers were pleasant, the food was pretentious and underwhelming. I returned my "panini christo," which did not taste good at all, and got the jam burger instead, which I would describe as bland. The seasoned fries were good, though. Also, we waited a long time for our food and the restaurant was so hot and muggy we opted to eat outside (on a 90 degree day) because it was cooler. Now I can say I tried it, but I can't say I'll be back.
(2)Andy W.
Disappointed. Menu looked great. French toast kind of blah and turkey sandwich so so. Nice server though.
(3)Mary Rose V.
What a delightful & delicious dinner. My first thought when I looked at the menu was that there were only a few choices. There were four of us, we each ordered a different entree & we all were extremely pleased! My friend made the comment, "best chicken she has ever eaten". Service was great even though the house was full. Highly recommend!!!
(5)Jessica H.
We went on the basis of a few rave word-of-mouth reviews but doubt we would ever go back--you can see what they are aiming for, but where they land seems to be wide of the mark. A couple notable things: 1. Van Halen at 9 am on a Sunday is just kind of a mood killer 2. The busser/water guy we had on had cologne so strong that it made me gag. Given the narrow space where the wait staff all is forced to cluster and squeeze past one another, it meant he was basically hovering behind us for our meal, along with the other half dozen wait staff. 3. Food was really so-so for the price. The flavors in the french toast were inventive, but it was uneven--the occasional really strange, soggy bite, so $10 for french toast with 2 dollops of pastry cream and a little compote seemed ridic. The omelet I got was bland and all 7 microsized cubes of the chorizo in it were really tough, after 3 of them, I gave up. Potatoes were probably overdone in prep--incredibly dry--I wondered if they were even from that morning. To mess up potatoes is really saying something.The 10$ omelet was on par with say, $4 one at Sunrise, the greasy diner around the corner in terms of taste, despite all it's garroxta cheese and farm eggs. 5. Placemats are a bad idea--ours were dirty and didn't appear that they had even been cleaned that day--crusted with food and stained and had other peoples syrup and sugar and salt all over them-- and the table underneath was clearly dirty. 6. Having the napkins on the table but not the silverware within them means the staff must present you, direct from their hands, your silverware. It's just bad form. Given you can drop $30 at Lula and have an unparalleled brunch--no reason to go here.
(2)Miss O.
a-ok. not great. not horrible. this comes as a 4th to bongo room. a bit overpriced for okay food.
(3)Laura L.
After waiting for an hour and fifteen minutes (being told the wait was 45-60min), we were finally seated. We were seated well after the two tables on either side of us, yet received our meals before either table. This made for a very uncomfortable experience and it was very difficult to enjoy the meal. The food was alright, but definitely not worth the wait!
(2)Kourtney V.
Went to Jam for brunch on a snowy Sunday around 10am. I enjoyed almost everything about the experience-- food was delicious, well priced and came out quickly. Service was attentive and helpful (she recommended the buckwheat crepes with lamb- fantastic!). Atmosphere was comfortably posh. Both my husband and I commented on how nice it was to not be disappointed by a restaurant's press. Only thing that wasn't stellar was the coffee and the temperature of the place- we were both chilly and ate with our hats and scarves on. We'll be back and this will be a place to bring guests.
(4)Penny C.
We ate breakfast there today. I really want to like this place, it is adorable and the menu reads so well, however, the food just doesn't measure up to the delicious descriptions. The plating and presentation of the food was beautiful and apparently took a lot of time because everything we ate was BARELY WARM. The biscuits were dense and covered in a heavy mushroom/wine gravy with flavorless and unattractive sausage. The skirt steak was very tasty, but again it wasn't hot. It was also a little expensive for the portion sizes - $57 for three people, no bloodys or mimosas. The service was okay, but the waiters and hostess stood right behind our table near the wait stand and talked loudly (instead of refilling our coffee). One last thing, it was FREEZING in there. Hard to relax and enjoy breakfast while shivering.
(2)Mary C.
First of all, thank god dodo is gone, because that place sucked. I was nervous going into JAM, thinking that it might be dodo redux. But it got a facelift and a pretty color palate. The food was great - I had the egg white terrine with beets and goat cheese. Yep, I had beets for breakfast, and I liked it. Hubby got the egg sandwich with pork cheeks, which he said were juicy and tender. As a vegetarian, the thought of eating anything's cheeks makes me want to vomit, but he really seemed to enjoy it. Oh! I also liked the amuse bouche - a little olive oil cake with creme fraiche. I will definitely go back.
(4)Anna J.
i live in the area so i have been wanting to try this place. i finally had a brunch date with a friend so it was a good excuse to try it out. it was very good. the place is pretty busy so usually it means it's a good spot. we had to wait a half hour...which was not too bad. the service was good. i really liked our waitress....she had suggestions and also made a point to let us know that since they had expanded to patio service that our food would take a while. i liked that she let us know. they continued to come by to fill our water and coffee and our food tasted great. the interior also looks really nice. i will totally be back. the menu is limited but it just means that they specialize in the stuff that they have. don't come here if you are looking for a denver omlette. go to a diner down the street....the food is unscale and they mix with different ingredients that you would have never thought of. yay!
(4)Natalie P.
So the first time I went here we were told the wait would be 15-20 minutes and instead we waited over an hour. That said, they did apologize and send over a complimentary dish (pancakes). Since it had been just newly opened we let is slide, and they did apologize and the food was pretty good. So last weekend we went back and had an awful experience. We waited for our table about 45 minutes which was fine (they said it would be that long) but then it took 1 hour and 15 minutes to get our food! Our waitress didn't say anything to us until 40 minutes had passed and she said that "they lost our ticket" but it really didn't matter b/c the chefs just take orders as they get them? She made zero sense and she was so insincere it was laughable. We finally got our food which was just okay (nothing spectacular) and instead of doing the right thing , which would be taking off our drinks for us having to wait for over an hour our waitress gave us tiny pieces of zucchini bread b/c she said "I know you guys were freaked out b/c of the wait so here is some zucchini bread". Awesome. I think people like this place b/c of its location but the service is awful and the food is really not that amazing.
(2)Sam T.
So we miss the old Dodo and decided to try Jam. Don't frigging bother, especially if you're a vegetarian. In looking through the menu, nothing grabs you -- each starts to look good until you keep reading the ingredients. The amuse-bouche is not so amusant and downright bland. More importantly, we never actually got to the meal beyond ordering and the "amuse." After having waited half an hour for a table, we were seated. There was nothing on the menu for my wife the vegetarian except for the kid's menu grilled cheese sandwich. We put in our order and ten minutes later the waitron comes back only to tell us that the chef won't make it for my wife since she's not a child. Of course, how would the chef know that? Does he patrol the dining room to ensure that each person is of appropriate age given the fare they've ordered? We, of course, offered to pay an "adult" price for the sandwich. The waitron went back to check with the chef. Upon her return, we were told, "no go." WTF?! Who runs this bloody place? We canceled our remaining order and spoke with the manager, who shrugged and said the chef runs the kitchen. Great. And also turns away diners. Simply out of principle, don't go to this place and don't give the clearly egomaniacal chef the satisfaction of dining in "his" restaurant. And judging from those bland amuses, the rest of the food would be pretty bloody ho-hum as well. Dine at Jam at your own risk, do NOT go if you're a vegetarian, and definitely don't go unless you want to support a jackass chef and business owner who puts up with this nonsense.
(1)beth s.
have eaten at jam several times for brunch, lunch and dinner. the service is excellent and the food is usually just as good. it is especially nice now that they have the outdoor garden. you can bring your own wine for dinner and the price fixe is an excellent value. the chef puts interesting combinations together and the muffins that are served (for no charge are terrific). the only compaint is that bread is not served for dinner and if you request some they will give you wheat or white toast.
(4)gregory f.
Arrived at the restaurant with a party of 6. We were told it would be a 20- 30 minute wait. While we were waiting 2 parties of 2 and a party of 3 came in after us. There were no tables for 6 so I assumed when the table for 4 emptied they would grab one of the tables for 2 and put them together and seat us. Instead they sat all 3 parties before us. When I asked why people who arrived after us were sat before us the host became defensive and told me he had been seating for 20 years and didn't have to explain himself to me. When I told him he should have put the 2 tables together and sat us he told me he didn't need or want our business and then called me a "dick". Needless to say, we left... stunned. I worked in the restaurant industry for 5 years (2 years for Lettuce Entertain You - the king of customer service) and I have never seen or heard of such horrible behavior. I was taught if 1 cutomer walks away dissatisfied they will tell 10 and so on. So pass it along.
(1)Leigh K.
This is my first live yelp. Sample of the cherry muffin with a sage sauce was awesome! Sweet meets savory! The menu is actually similar to Dodo who used to be in this location. If my memory serves me, this is a wee bit pricier with less vegetarian options. Still it sounds intriguing. I ordered blueberry pancakes and asparagus soup. The soup with apricot puree is so insanely good. Nom nom nom! Just had a bite of my friend's french toast. A+. Diving into my pancakes. Hmm, not the best actually. Presentation is really nice. Will be coming back again. I'll try something else next time. CASH ONLY.
(4)Jennifer T.
Ok. So my boyfriend was going to work during the week and got a coffee to go since nowhere else is open by us. Not only did he have to wait for the coffee, but it was $3.50 for a 12-oz cup of coffee. I was pissed that he would pay for it! Seriously. I don't get it.
(1)Anemone T.
chicago: what is your obsession with pork belly?
(3)Jason W.
Well, this is one of those super fancy, tiny portion, food places with a dirty hipster twist. Some people like that, but it's not my cup of tea. It's the kind of place you bring a trendy brunch loving hipster girl to, but not the place you should go when you're actually hungry. The food was good, but the overall ambiance, portions and price will not bring me back. And be careful about going on hot days. No Air conditioning will not make that much fun.
(2)Alia K.
I'm not feeling the love for Jam and neither was the rest of my table. Our food was under-seasoned and boring. If a place bills itself as a more eclectic menu, I'd expect the food to actually taste... well, yeah, just "actually taste" would be great. Go elsewhere.
(2)Sabrina M.
Two words: jowl bacon. Oh. You still want to know more? Well. Let's start with the jowl bacon. I never knew the jowl of the swine was THAT flavorful & utterly delicious. So yep. Go to JAM. Get the jowl bacon. You still feel like you need more? Well, ok. The omelettes are good, the French toast is really decadent. They have seasonal specials that are always good & even the coffee is outstanding. And the service is great. And it is a really cute, comfortable, welcoming spot. And (drumroll, please): Jowl bacon. That is all. #JowlBacon
(5)Johnny R.
This place has flown under my nose for awhile now as a hidden gem on the Logan Square. I had nothing but an outstanding experience here, starting and ending with quality / timely service and delicious / outstanding food. The menu items suggested by our server were beautifully prepared and presented. The French toast was unbelievable; an absolute must-try but the kicker was the burger and I'm saying this as someone who has tried every listed burger in the city, Jam's needs to be on everyone's list. Mouth watering, double stacked, perfectly cooked. Skip the lines at Lula and the basic brunch at Dunlay's - spend a bit extra and get your money's worth at Jam.
(5)Linda T.
One word: Amazing! Delicious and innovative menu, beautiful and bright restaurant, adorable location, pleasant service. Chef Jeffrey Mauro works wonders at JAM Restaurant. We visited for brunch on a weekday, and so we were fortunate that the restaurant was fairly empty. We were seated by the window at the front near the door, so there was plenty of sunshine to enjoy with our meal. Special of the Day - Waffle with roasted eggplant, heirloom tomatoes, poached egg, truffled pecorino cheese and basil. OMG, the best waffle I have ever eaten! The waffle had an amazing soft texture, and the veggies were super fresh. I loved the creaminess of the egg yolk with the sweet herbs. So good! Still dreaming of this waffle! Malted Custard French Toast with macerated cherries, lime leaf cream, pink peppercorns - A regular dish on their menu for a reason, the french toast is sweet and dense. The combination of cherries, lime leaf and pink peppercorn is unique and delicious. Service was friendly and they came by to check on us regularly, only for me to praise how amazing our food was. They even wrote down the description of the special waffle on a buisness card for me to take home as a souvenir. Overall I enjoyed brunch here very much. Definitely one of the best meals I have ever had, and can't wait to come back again.
(5)Victoria G.
Very modern place hidden in the middle of Logan Square. Great food, nice servers and they provide good non pushy suggestions on what to order depending on what you are hungry for.
(4)Carol K.
What a cute little place! Stopped in here for lunch the other day and was surprised at just how cute this breakfast/lunch spot was on the inside. We were lucky enough to grab a table on the smallish outdoor patio and proceeded to take a look at the menu. I liked that the service was quite good. They even brought out a couple of complimentary super mini muffins, and when we both said we were "gluten free" they replaced it with some fruit. Don't get too excited as "some fruit" was only 1/4 of one strawberry . . .but it was fruit! (made me laugh that they actually got a plate dirty for that!) Guess super mini applies to all things complimentary. But the real star was their take on a salad nicoise. This was delicious with potatoes, octopus and a poached egg. Delicious! Lunch came to about $15 which was also super reasonable. And if you drive, street parking is still pretty easy in the area. Jam. You surprised me, and in a good way. And that doesn't happen often!
(4)Sanny W.
Who are these idiots giving these low ratings and complaining about BS!?? I have been coming here every Sunday and I can only say- wow!! Everything is amazing- drinks, food, service!!! Cannot pick one over the another!! Great, great place! Highly recommend it for Sunday afternoon Drunch! Yes Drunch- Brunch combined with drinking!:)) Awesome, awesome, awesome!!!
(5)Morganne B.
We came here on a hot hot Saturday afternoon for brunch and sat in the front room which was really gorgeous. The place has a modern vibe, and luckily was not crowded at all. Our server made some great suggestions--the Bloody Mary with a PBR back was on point. I also ordered the corpse reviver which was really tasty but just very very small. This theme carried through the meal as well... We loved our food, we just wished we got more of it! The portions were extremely small, so don't go here if you're starving. I got the egg whites, which came with a chive spaetzel and this amazing beet emulsion. The emulsion was so good I could've drank it. My boyfriend got the pork belly benedict which was good but small, and not really hot enough when it was served. The way they poach their eggs here is pretty sweet though and makes them taste amazing. I don't know if I'd come back here but glad we tried it once!
(4)Amanda M.
Very clean and inviting ambience. We were given two complimentary mini chocolate cupcakes to start, which was nice. These were ordinary but the coffee-like buttercream was divine. Got the omelette and thought it was pretty tasty, although most of it attributing to the piquillo peppers. The chorizo and onions were lackluster. However, I enjoyed that it wasn't your traditional omelette. It was light and refreshing, but packed with ingredients. The accompanied corn bread was very good, considering I don't usually care too much for corn bread. Cousin enjoyed his pork shoulder egg sandwich. We also split the full order of French toast and that was delish. It was amazing on its own, but the lime leaf cream and macerated cherries really kicked it up a notch. Service overall was decent. A little slow towards the end but nonetheless, friendly.
(4)Sarah G.
If you are looking for a modern, trendy looking spot to grab some pretty well crafted brunch dishes, and you don't mind waiting since this place is pretty small inside, then Jam is your Jam. This place has a small bar area you can wait for a table at or order food at, and their calm gray and white color interior really does have this calming feel over you while you wait for your table. They do take credit card, but a max of two, but they do have one of the craziest looking atms here that I swear looks like some sort of futuristic safe or something like that. Just go to the bathrooms to check out that atm since it is pretty unique indeed. But you don't go here for the atm, you go here for the food! I got their cheddar waffle of the day which came of course with some fried chicken and that fried chicken was so juicy and tender and perfect. The waffle itself actually could have been a little crispier especially to hold up to the fried chicken on top. But that dish was pretty great. And then Matt J. got their burrito suizo which was a wheat crepe packed and I mean PACKED with all kinds of braised beef, tomato crema, gouda, and an egg. There was so much meat in that bad boy it was so incredibly filling, and we definitely had to go home and take a nap after that one. Their raspberry coffee cake was a little bland to be honest, but if you want a pastry their pecan sticky bun comes out of the oven warm and gooey and heavenly and this was one we were all fighting over the last bite :-) And if you don't want to be as big of an eater as we were, our friend got their egg whites with chiven spatzle with lots of spinach and broccoli and she loved it and it and it was definitely one of the more novel brunch dishes I have seen on a menu. So thanks Jam for being our Jam!
(4)Jenna S.
My first thought, upon regarding the menu: this place is prett-y expensive. I've been to some 'fancy' brunch places before, but this one is a bit pricey for what it's doing. The Bloody Mary was like $11. Seriously? It's like tomato juice, spices, and vodka. I can't imagine more than $7, tops. The server also asked if I wanted a "chaser" beer, which I agreed to thinking it was a tiny, cute bottle of Miller High Life, but it was actually just a full-size, $5 beer which was too much all around. The menu was large enough but, again, all the entrees were super expensive. They said they had the "best waffles in the city" so maybe that's just what I should have ordered, but I went with something that looked intriguing. The spaetzle with beets and a poached egg ended up being watery and oddly sweet. I wasn't impressed with the overall flavor, even though the individual ingredients seemed promising together in a dish. I definitely wouldn't order it again. My experience here makes me think a lot of their menu items are similarly overdone, even breakfast classics like eggs Benedict or other things. I don't know if I'll be back and that's alright with me. Also, parking is near impossible on Sundays, so beware.
(3)Erin H.
Wow! This place was a wonderful brunch spot. The specialty waffle was outstanding and the service was refreshing.
(5)Gino W.
Chicken and waffles. (Pause) (Fireworks) We're not talking about a plate of crispy chicken wings over a large Eggo waffle. Yes, this was fancy. Pulled chicken over coriander and flour waffles and drizzled with a fennel gastrique. Loved the fact that this version of chicken and waffles puts all "those other" attempts to shame. Loved the fact that the green apple juice, chicken and waffles, and coffee afterwards didn't leave me with eyes wide shut when the bill came. I went early in the week, so there wasn't a packed room when I arrived. The same cannot be said by the time I left, though. I imagine JAM is a hot spot, so I recommend going as early as possible to get ahead of the crowd. I will be going back, for sure.
(4)Linh L.
A lot of quality and care with their dishes and service. I really enjoyed this place. The food doesn't seem so heavy either. Parking is very easy. The only thing I don't like about this place is the design. For a breakfast place, it felt like I was at a hotel. I prefer breakfast settings to be cozy. Not a big deal. It's just not my cup of tea.
(5)Priti N.
The experience was great. The service was efficient and friendly. My savory waffles with pork and a soft egg were amazing. The ingredients were fresh and flavorful. The ambience is very relaxed.
(5)Rich C.
A modern gourmet brunch spot. I enjoyed the colors and flavors of the lime cream and pick peppercorns on the malted custard French toast. The jowl bacon was amazing. The locally roasted (Metropolis) coffee was kept filled. Sadly, their credit card processing was down, but everything else that morning was great.
(5)Angela L.
I went to Jam for brunch and I am looking forward to returning. Jam is in a small quaint nook space just off of "The Square" in Logan Square. The decor is all white and modern -- Plastic chairs, rustic lighting, and big windows that really open up the space and let a lot of light in. I'd imagine this space would get very crowded on weekends, but I went on a cold Tuesday morning and there were only a few other people there. Our waiter was very friendly and we were seated as soon as we walked in. I ordered a tea and my brunch date ordered a Goose Island Root beer. Upon returning with our drinks, our waiter told us what the special was: Rice flour waffles topped with pork tenderloin, poached eggs, jalapeño gastrique, and maple syrup, on a cauliflower purée. I had to have it! My date ordered the Pumpkin Pancakes with dark chocolate sauce, candied pepitos, and a large cinnamon marshmallow on top. Everything was great! My special was very good: Sweet and savory, and did not sit heavy in my stomach. Really hit the spot. My friend enjoyed the Pumpkin Pancakes, but said he could do without the candied pepitos. We both cleaned our plates. Jam is a great go-to for weekday brunch or lunch. The food is not heavy (like you might find at many other brunch hotspots), but still filling and satisfying. Closed on Wednesdays!
(5)Roy S.
Great food, nice vibe, great neighborhood. One of the better breakfast places I have been to recently. Fortunately, I had read up on Logan Square and noticed it was a stop off the Blue Line when I took the train into the city from ORD. Started off with a complimentary red velvet amuse bouche and a cup of good coffee...followed that up with 2 egg whites and their signature French Toast--complete with malted custard, macerated cherries and other accompaniments. Requested a side of Vermont maple syrup and the French Toast was to die for. Very good service and I got there early enough on Sunday morning (before 9AM) so as not to have to wait for a table. Would definitely go back and highly recommend this place. A Chitown breakfast institution.
(5)Ammir G.
This was the best breakfast I had during my stay in Chicago. The service was great and the restaurant had a great patio. We started with the French toast. You MUST get the French toast. Our server was telling us how it won the award for best French toast in the country. That was hands down the best French toast I've ever had. Everything on the plate made sense, it came with macerated cherries on the side and it really made the toast pop. I also ordered the special of the day which was waffles with a side of pork belly with a bourbon maple syrup and a side of salad. It was delicious. My girlfriend ordered the smoked salmon and she was amazed by it. All in all, you can't go wrong here. Everything is good. Definitely check it out!
(5)Daniel C.
I LOVE JAM. They have such interesting brunch items. I also love the space and the service is on point. I need to go back soon they are amazing. Delicious food.
(5)Catherine B.
I think there are better places to get brunch in Logan Square - namely Chicago Diner, Cozy Corner, Longman and Eagle, and Lula. As a vegetarian, the only real option here is the French toast unless they are having a special waffle that doesn't have meat. Yes, the French toast has won awards, but it didn't really wow me. It's good, but I've had better. I though it was a little sour/lacking sweetness. Boyfriend liked his pork belly. Coffee was good. But like I said, there are better places in the neighborhood so I probably won't be back.
(3)Elliott D.
My sis brought me here for brunch one morning. She has good taste, but my standards are quite particular. Could JAM withstand the rigor? ***MALTED CUSTARD FRENCH TOAST - Macerated Cherries, Lime Leaf Cream, Pink Peppercorns I asked for some maple syrup when our server mentioned that this dish wouldn't be served with any. She said I wouldn't need any and brought only a tiny portion. I requested a bit more. But dammit, she ended up being right, it didn't need even one drop! Dear reader, human language cannot express the beauty and warmth that I felt as this soft, velvety French toast entered my mouth. The bread tasted like they'd made it from scratch--thick, supple, & mildly sweet. I don't even care for cherries generally, but these macerated beauties were absolutely gorgeous, not too tart or bold, just right. And that glorious cream with the essence of lime and pink peppercorn--I remember sneering to myself that pink peppercorn on whipped cream was just a play for indie street cred, but upon tasting it, I repented in sackcloth and ashes--this flavor, along with the lime, defined the dish and changed my life. ***JOWL BACON Don't get me wrong, it was really solid bacon, but it tasted just like, errr, bacon. It's my belief that the jowls of this animal are best celebrated in ramen, which preserves the golden essence of this cut. ***BURRITO SUIZO - Buckwheat Crêpe, Braised Beef, Tomato Crema, Jardinière, Smoked Gouda, Sunnyside Egg I'm generally not a big fan of breakfast burritos, and this dish (which my sister ordered) didn't sound very appealing whatsoever. But when she offered me a bite, I quickly repented of my hasty judgment--the beef was tender enough to cut with a spoon, incredibly savory and a bit tangy. And that smoked Gouda, oh sweet divine--it felt almost like Emmentaler in this presentation. I found myself begging for bite after bite, and it's not like my dish wasn't the best ever. ALL IN ALL: These two dishes, one sweet and one savory, were the perfect balance for the perfect brunch. I'm trying to wrap my head around the negative reviews here--usually I'm usually the one to play the heel. Yet, righteousness will prevail, and JAM will expand to fill the universe.
(5)Mikey R.
If you're looking for a standard American Breakfast with eggs, bacon and a pile of hash browns for $6.99 this place is NOT for you. This place is not a greasy spoon diner, their culinary creativity is far beyond that. I had the omelette with Spanish chorizo topped with anchovies...it was AWESOME! Incredible service, our server was on point and very friendly. My brother and I posted up on our computers after our meal and our server continuously checked in and refilled our drinks. Cool modern interior, I like that the kitchen is visible from the dining area and you can see the food as it is expo'd to the table. Will definitely be back!
(5)Girish J.
Brunch like a boss at this friendly neighborhood spot. The brunch has a gourmet twist and the service is warm, a little unusual for ultra hip Logan Square. You have a lot classics like eggs bene, but all in all the menu runs a little sweet (lemon curd pancakes are dangerously close to delicious cake).
(5)Tina G.
Food and service was excellent. Atmosphere relaxed, clean, upscale neighborhood breakfast.
(5)Alycia P.
This place is fantastic. Decor is modern and sunny, and the servers were attentive and knowledgeable. I had their special of the day, which was a cheese-stuffed waffle covered with sauteed mushrooms, two beef patties, more cheese, and a creamy ancho chili sauce. There was also a pickled onion and frisee salad on the side, which was the perfect fresh counterbalance to all the savory heartiness of the waffle. Perfect serving size - not gigantic, but definitely enough to fill me up. I also had a cocktail with gin, lavender liqueur, champagne, and blueberries. Refreshing and boozy! One of my brunch companions ordered a bloody mary, which was unfortunately pretty mediocre. Skip those and go for the specialty cocktails. This is a small restaurant, so you're looking at a 20-40 min wait on the weekends. 100% worth it.
(5)Shaza O.
Jam was jammin. I'm often hesitant to venture as far as Logan Square on a hungover Sunday (I live in Ukie Village) but was certainly not disappointed on this trip. Was hungry (that's a given) and as was my boyfriend (he's usually hungrier than me) so we ordered the soup of the day, pork and egg breakfast sandwich along with a delicious smoked salmon dish with potato leek cakes. All of this was simply divine. The coffee and casual bloody mary with a casual Schlitz beer back were also just what the doctor ordered. Not cheap, per say, but when it comes to the right brunch with the right vibe and all the right tastes, this Logan gem hit our collective spot.
(5)Olga Z.
Nice location, fantastic food, great service and atmosphere! Came here on a trip, ordered the smoked salmon and the custard French toast (best French toast I ever had). The dishes were well put together and very tasty. Will definitely visit again next time I'm in town.
(5)Alexander Z.
First off the Jam Burger is amazing and is a strong rival to Au Chavel's (minus the thick cut bacon). They do that whole double patty thing I'll never get as I'm usually a 1 patty, super rare kind of burger eater. That being said, the burgers were incredibly juicy and visibly medium rare. Having eaten this twice now, I can say it's simplicity & freshness make it one of my favorite Chicago burgers. Not to mention the fried egg on top visually is rivaled only by Little Goat. On my second visit I ordered essentially a burrito suizo. It was much smaller than I expected but then again this is fancy food so I wasn't too surprised. It was also exceptionally tasty, although i felt it needed some more spice kick. My only real complaint was the bacon maple Manhattan. It was super heavy on maple syrup and tasted good but was sweet. That being said, it has nothing on The Southern's maple bacon bourbon Manhattan's dry bacon-centric taste. The ambiance is pretty cool here and one of my favorite spots. It's this mix of suble yet high fashion simplicity that I really enjoy. Overall, I love this place for brunch (only ever been), and would definitely recommend going during the summer to eat outside.
(4)Gloria Z.
I don't understand why Jam's rating is so low - both of my experiences were phenomenal! The first time I went, it was over the summer. My friend from school was visiting for the weekend, and after much deliberation between Jam and Lula's we decided to go to Jam. They had opened up their patio, so even though we were technically sitting indoors, the fresh breeze and summer lightheartedness of Logan Square still put a smile on our faces (as cheesy as that sounds). My friend ordered the chicken and waffles, I ordered the quiche, and we split a half order of the french toast. I still rave about that quiche to all my friends when the topic of brunch comes up! The bagel chips added crunch to the otherwise soft quiche, and the bits of trout added the perfect amount of flavor to the dish. Jam's quiche is by far the tastiest quiche I've ever had. We were similarly pleased by the french toast - the custard was perfectly creamy and the entire thing just exploded in our mouths. We raved about our food for pretty much the remainder of the meal! The next time I went, it was with a few more friends from school and everyone was highly complimentary of my decision to go here. I wish I could take the credit, but it was all Jam's for making such delicious brunch!
(5)Emilie W.
Hands down, my favorite breakfast place in Logan Square. Fantastic food, classy vibe, great service. This is the first place I bring all of my guests who visit from out of town!
(5)Noel R.
Jam is definitely towards the top of my favorite brunch spots. I've been here several times and have always ordered a different item. The eggs benedict is a good choice if you find yourself on the struggle bus when deciding. Not once was I ever disappointed with regards to food. There was one occasion where I was absolutely mortified by a drink... sadly I don't recall what it was so I can't warn you to stay away from it. Service has always been outstanding. Brandon has been simply amazing and consistent with each time I've had him as a waiter. Polite, charming, very knowledgeable and on point with everything on the menu. A good sport as well... particularly when my friend's mother's friend (Southern California housewife) became a bit aggressively friendly over the course of our brunch last summer. Errr... these things happen? I have never had a terribly long wait but maybe I've just been lucky? I would still play it safe or prepare myself to wait on weekends.
(5)Faye Z.
Thank you, Chicago, for a brunch place that doesn't make you wait a million years in line. Came here at 10:30 on Saturday and were quickly seated. Nice location, friendly servers, good food. Will come again. Here's we had: BOSTON CREAM DONUT (5/5) - I kid you knot, a finer donut will never grace your lips. Heavenly fluffy dough, filled with a perfectly light cream filling that is subtle and not too sweet. You can eat that filling straight with a spoon it's so good and light. Poached egg whties with chive spätzle, mustard jam, almond-beet emulsion, swiss chard (5/5) - Amazing. Colorful, bright-tasting, light but still satisfying. Breakfast that leaves you feeling good inside, because let's be honest, you skipped your morning run and just can't justify dessert for breakfast. Malted custard french toast with macerated cherries, lime leaf cream, pink peppercorns (4/5) - The weakest part of this was actually the bread itself. The cherries were good, the lime leaf cream was phenomenal, but the middle part of the bread was slightly too soft with richness/butter. Maybe that's just me - I'm more of a savory breakfast kinda gal.
(5)Cristie F.
If there could only be one brunch place I could go to for the rest of my life, it would be JAM. This little Logan Square nook gets 2 thumbs up, 5 stars, 7 cartwheels, and an endless amount of kudos. This is brunch done right. Food & Drinks: Generally, this is the number one thing I come to a restaurant for (obviously). When it comes to brunch, I come for egg whites. Not only does JAM deliver on having egg whites, they take them to a whole new level. Between the some form of poaching, chive spätzle with kale, and almond-beet emulsion - I'll never look at your standard "veggie egg white omelet" again. It's truly a dish to die for. Let's also talk about the jowl bacon. I'm not a bacon kind of girl (shocking, I know) - but there are no words for the smokey, tender chunks of pig jowl. Get three orders. Hell, get 4. It's that good. Other rave worthy items: chicken & waffles, bacon sausage, eggs benedict, and the quiche. Oh - and let's not forget the Bloody Marys - also worth ordering. Service: Fast, friendly, knowledgeable, and willing to re-run your check after one more...and then one more...and then one more round of drinks. With no complaints. I always love a restaurant that brings an amuse bouche as well - especially for brunch...think mini pastries.... Overall - Solid 5 stars.
(5)Monica R.
I've been to Jam maybe four or five times in the past five or so years. I'm always pleased with the service, the free bakery item, the beermosas, and the food. The chicken and waffles are especially delicious and the recipe is always changing, making for a fun experience each time. I only rate Jam 4 stars because it's pretty pricey. I think I've spent around 100 dollars (including tip) on breakfast for two here- but keeping in mind that we each had two beermosas which surely skyrocketed the price.
(4)Justin B.
I've been sitting on how to best describe JAM to the masses now that I've had two days to think about it, so here's what I'll go with: If you are a foodie, you'll love everything about JAM, and you'll love being able to tell your friends about the macerated fruit, the ____-____ emulsions and the tasting items before your meal. And you won't mind paying $12 for an omelette. If you just like to eat breakfast, don't go to JAM, because the food will be mostly inaccessible to you. You'll notice the fact that your food is served lukewarm (intentionally, from all that I can tell), and be unhappy about that, because at the diners you normally hit for breakfast, hotcakes are served hot, etc. But if you are with friends who are foodies, order the French toast, because it is exceptional no matter how high-end your tastes are. Our server was great, and was kind to explain to me the three or four terms on the menu that I had never seen before (note: I've been to 300+ restaurants since moving to Chicago 19 months ago, so this is saying something). The space is nice and if you go at 9 AM on a Saturday, you can walk right in. But the food--the Funfetti tasting item, the omelette, the bacon sausage, the eggs benedict--was mostly okay to the three of us, but none of us are foodies in the traditional sense. But the six-star French toast was so good (did that as an appetizer) that I'm willing to give JAM four stars.
(4)Jaime G.
Good coffee and service. Decent breakfast and specials. I had the irish breakfast while i was there it was it tasty...but in true irish fashion, i was a bit bland. My wife had eggs and toast and she was pleased with it but nothing special.
(4)Kat L.
If you need cash, they have a very futuristic ATM in the back that only charges $1. I had brunch here on a weekday with a foodie friend while visiting Chicago from Seattle. We got a seat right away and the waiter was so nice. He asked my opinion on their coffee compared to what I can get in Seattle. I personally thought their coffee was great -- he then informed me it was a personalized blend from Metropolitan. A+! My friend and I shared a half plate of their French Toast and I got the eggs benedict. Their maple bacon sausage is probably the most delicious sausage I have ever ate in my life! They also make perfect poached eggs! But in the end -- it's all fancy schmancy breakfast. The culinary creativity was great and fun. But if you just want a normal breakfast covered in maple syurp, this is not the place for you.
(4)Emily J.
Short version: overpriced brunch with service that leaves something to be desired. I went here on Sunday afternoon with my boyfriend. We got to JAM around noon and when we walked in I immediately noticed there were empty tables. Nevertheless, I was told there was a 30 minute wait and to check back in about 20 minutes. I figured maybe they were saving tables for a larger party and that's why there was a wait with empty tables in plain sight. We returned in 20 minutes and tables were still empty. We noticed there were empty seats on the patio and when I asked if we could be seated outside I was told that we couldn't because JAM "needs to save those seats for larger parties." Ok. (When we left we saw two parties of two sitting out on the patio at the table we had asked about. I have no idea why they lied to us and refused to seat us outside). Our server told us the restaurant is known for its malted custard french toast so we ordered a slice to share and we both got the breakfast burrito. The french toast was nothing special and was fairly unremarkable. I have no idea how this is a famous dish. You would be better off going to M. Henry or Bongo Room for a dessert brunch treat. The burritos were also unremarkable. I've had better at Bongo Room and The Boundary-- at a cheaper price point. The only thing that really stood out was the cocktail we both ordered: it was called a Lunchbox and was beer, fresh OJ and some Disarono. It was the highlight of an otherwise expensive, ho hum brunch. The service was slow. It wasn't terrible, just frustrating to see our drinks sitting out at the bar and our server chatting and not taking them to us after several minutes. I sort of regret tipping 20%. I am really surprised this place got a Bib Gourmand designation from the Michelin guide and I will less surprised once it gets taken off for the 2015 guide.
(2)Jackie D.
This place was absolutely delicious, but be prepared to wait. It's fairly small, with only 15 or so tables in the whole place. The waitstaff managed the rush pretty well with us, but there were some other tables that had to wait a while to order/get drinks/etc. Once we were seated, I ordered a bloody mary, as I normally do if offered, and it wasn't my favorite. Reasonably priced but one of the garnishes (I forget what it was) was smoked, and it overpowered the entire drink. Fortunately, when our food arrived, it more than made up for my cocktail. There was a chicken and waffle special posted on the board that day and the more I saw it while we were waiting for our table, the more I had to have it - and boy was it worth the wait. I believe the waffle was lemon thyme flavored, and then the chicken thigh was perfectly fried, moist and delicious. THEN its all topped off with this absolutely fabulous syrup. SO WONDERFUL. My sister had pancakes that were also delicious and then tried the bacon of the day which I strongly suggest trying. Jam is definitely a cute little place with really tasty food, but I would suggest getting there VERY early and steering clear of the Bloody Mary.
(4)Emma G.
Jam's menu is somewhat pretentious with pretty basic ingredients. I found some items are a bit of too much trying to come together all for one dish. I have the lemon pancakes with vanilla marshmallow fluffs and blueberry sauce. It was delicious but not quite worth the price for something pretty simple. My menu options were limited since i don't eat beef or pork and I'm sure other menu items are just as delicious but maybe upscale service from upscale prices and ambiance would make me a more happy customer. Server was friendly and helpful when assisting with the complicated menu items but lacked luster when it came to making us feel welcome to come back again. We were dressed nice and didn't ask for any special accommodations. Might try again only if someone wanted to go for their first time.
(3)Patrick R.
I've been here twice and I had the same thing. The French toast and the jowl bacon. Best French toast I've ever had and the best bacon as well. I may never get a chance to try their other food since I don't know that I can turn down these items. Portion size of the French toast is perfect. If they gave me more I would probably eat myself sick by stuffing my face with it's deliciousness going past full to food coma stuffed.
(5)James T.
Great place for brunch! The chicken and waffles are amazing. I also love the french toast and the burrito! This is far from diner style brunch. Clean, artistic and thoughtful presentaion. Enjoy.
(5)Liliana G.
I been here twice and it gets better each time. Egg Benedicts (wow) French Toast (Amazing) you have to try them I'm addicted to their coffee
(4)Arvind P.
A different kind of brunch. This restaurant was Michelin rated. Food was top notch and I really don't understand why its rated 3.5 on yelp!
(5)Clarissa B.
One of my favorite places to go for breakfast or brunch! Grew up around here and it was always my place to go. Love Jam and the food!
(5)Angie K.
Recently moving to Logan Square, I jumped at the first opportunity I could to visit the highly-rated Jam. I brought along my hubby, recently transplanted friend (from miami, she crazy like me) and her date. I always try to pick an exceptionally good spot when I have a crowd and I knew I'd be getting praised for this one. We went for Sunday brunch and got there around noon. We were quoted a 30 minute wait, which was another reason why I picked this and not another popular place around the corner with hour-long waits *cough*. Precisely 31 minutes after, we were prompted to take a seat. The restaurant was really cute, with a minimalist, modern feel. The sleek, simplistic decor gave it an extra trendy feel. The patrons varied from couples, to big groups of BYOBers to parents sippin' bloody maries while holding their infants, your typical Logan Square mixture of peeps. Our server approached us and right from the start was amazing. Even though we knew he was probably up to his ears with guests, he made it seem like we were the most important priority at the moment. After ordering coffees, we were brought amuse brouche, essentially mini brownies sent from the pastry gods. These little bites leave you needing (more like fiending) a sweet meal after, so I was thrilled when my friend ordered the pumpkin pancakes (a seasonal item, score!). I ordered the smoked salmon as did her date and my hubby ordered the burrito suizo. When our food arrived, I noticed the silverware was the exact one I had in my house! I knew i had good taste when I picked that out ;). Anyway, the food was amazing. My salmon was perfect, and I'm exceptionally picky about smoked salmon as I've been traumatized with freezing fish before. The pumpkin pancakes were divine. They're now in my top 5 pancakes in the city. OMG, I need them in my life on a regular basis. My only gripe was my hubby's suizo. He said felt the meat was a little fatty, but in Jam's defense, he has been on a mostly-vegetarian diet and his belly may have not been used to such a big, meaty dish. At this time, there were still a lot of other people waiting to be seated, so after we enjoyed our yummy meals, we got out to let another group have a seat. Thanks for making me love my new 'hood even more, Jam. I will be back!
(4)Jenn P.
Food was served nothing close to warm. Service staff was completely unfriendly. Will NEVER go back again....
(1)Kate W.
When I told the waitress I'd "just have the breakfast sandwich" she replied, "Oh, it's not JUST a breakfast sandwich." IT WAS NOT. No dry toast, bacon or cheddar cheese here. Pork belly served on a ciabatta roll with apple slices and some fancy cheese I can't remember. With amazing fingerling potatoes to boot. And big enough to have leftovers. Which will last all of two hours before I gobble them up. The bf ordered the Eggs Benedict on a whim and loved it. But you can read his review for more on that. And they're open at 7 a.m., which is nice because we're old people who go to bed early and wake up early. We rolled in around 9 a.m. and had a short (but understandable) wait for a table outside. Finally, speaking of sitting outside. The patio is lovely, as is the inside. Modern and classy but still comfortable and welcoming. I usually prefer jelly, but Jam is great. Groan.
(5)Deb A.
If you want bacon foam, this place is for you. If you want simple bacon & eggs go somewhere else. Long wait, slow service, food was bland and portions are small ish. Fail.
(2)Aaron G.
Better than the old location. My steak was so well seasoned!
(5)Lillian P.
The food was terrific and beautiful. The design and atmosphere are very cool but friendly. We got their early and didn't have a wait at all (though a line formed almost immediately after we sat down.) Two problems. One: very few vegetarian options, so few that it means there is almost no chance I will ever go back. I know that I am in the minority on this one but given the neighborhood and the clientele I'd think that they'd be a little more flexible. We couldn't even get the delicious sounding omelet without the chorizo. They do offer their biscuits and gravy vegetarian, which were great, and the french toast was top notch, covered with a remarkable rhubarb sauce. Two: it was full of, pardon my French, douche bags. Which isn't such a huge deal, and you can't fault a place for it but man was it annoying.
(3)Kasey O.
Being an avid fan of both patios and brunch alike, I can't believe it took me so long to discover this place. The outdoor eating area is protected from the traffic of Damen Ave by a wall and there are many funky decorations (including a leaning tower of Tonka trucks) that make the atmosphere quite pleasant. A friend and I sat on the spacious patio only to realize that this was a BYOB and we should have come prepared with a bottle of wine, which I noted for my next visit. Our server was a Rick Moranis look-alike, making him just as fun and entertaining as he was efficient. We both had the vegetable panini which came out quickly and piping hot. The sandwich was delicious but fairly light, so I left feeling like I should have started with an appetizer or something. Oh, and the coffee was excellent.
(4)Tim M.
I went to Jam for my birthday brunch last month and it was very good. All around. I got the Jam Burger (Great burger with an egg over easy on top), a bowl of fruit (all very fresh. Might possibly be the best grapes I have ever tasted actually), and some pancakes (yes. I was very hungry and hungover). This meal was fantastic. All around, the food was great. My only regret is that I was too hungover to bring my body to allow me to get a mimosa or something of the sort. Definitely recommend this place. Go there. This Sunday.
(4)M S.
This place takes itself way too seriously and underdelivers on taste - especially considering the price point. We hit up Sunday brunch today , it was busy, but we were seated right away. The waitress was not able to keep up with her workload and service suffered as a result. But I would not have written a bad review if lackluster service were the only problem. The food here was underwhelming bordering on unappealing. As a vegetarian there were few options for me, I tried the egg white dish. I love egg whites, but these were a little too undercooked, and were floating in a pool of some sort of beet foam jam. I love beets, but the combination was too earthy for an egg dish. My companion's egg and chorizo omlette was not tasty and the optional sardines that were not asked about, were front and center on the top of the dish. gross. she said the eggs and chorizo both tasted cheap - which is inappropriate considering the small brunch portions averaged $13 each. I also found it really pretentious and rude that apparently Jam frowns upon substitutions and omissions, but doesn't just have a written policy on the topic. My companion tried to order 2 separate dishes and omit the cheese because it doesn't agree with her. Instead of just politely saying substitution could not be accommodated, instead the waitress wrinkled her nose and looked conflicted. She promised to check with the kitchen to see if this could be done, but in the end the food was delivered with cheese and without comment or apology. Sooo many better places for brunch in Logan Square! Go to Reno for the $4 egg & cheese bagel sandwiches!
(1)Katie H.
Ever since I visited Jam this summer, I've been jonesing to go back. In a city where I, and many other brunch patrons may wait up to, or even longer than 60 minutes for a table, I appreciated that Jam didn't have a wait even at 10 am. I guess those Ukranian Village kids don't wake up as early as we do in Lincoln Square. Their Metropolis coffee drinks are delicious. Our server was really friendly and helped us choose what to get, since every single menu item looked amazing. We ended up with one sweet, one savory - and I was even happier to get rhubarb sauce on my waffles. It was raining when we visited, but I'd love to go back and check out their cute shady garden this spring.
(4)Thomas M.
This place actually convinced me to write my first Yelp review. I've held off for a while and really hate that fact that my first review is negative since I have frequently used this site to find some of my favorite restaurants in the city. Guess it's time I start giving back... I've been wanting to try this place for a while but held off based on the number of mixed reviews. My wife and I woke up early and decided to give the place a shot since they open at 7:00 and we couldn't hold off until our favorite brunch spots opened at 10:00. The servers and staff were friendly enough but both dishes dishes we ordered were terrible. I ordered the biscuits and gravy and she ordered the french toast. I am from the south and a huge fan of biscuits and gravy. When our plates arrived I was in shock, the gravy covering my ONE biscuit was brown and looked like sludge. I took a bite and almost gagged, the gravy was made from a mushroom puree, which the menu did not specify. How the hell do you completely ruin one of the best breakfast dishes known to man? And without warning? I'll admit that I'm not a huge fan of mushrooms so my opinion might be a little tainted but come on, it's biscuits and gravy not biscuits and some nasty mushroom sauce. Luckily my wife loves mushrooms as well so we switched and I ended up eating some of the french toast, which we'll get to in a moment. She was disgusted by it as well. So let's talk about Jam's "the best french toast in the city" as touted by our neighbors' server. Not even close, the toppings were fine, some kind of rhubarb puree and cream. The french toast itself was very soggy, the insides looked like uncooked pancake batter. Nothing like raw egg for breakfast... That's about all I have to say about that, If you're signature dish is a soggy, undercooked mess of dough and eggs, you have some problems. Overall based on our food and the other dishes on the menu, the place seems to think that creativity in your dishes' ingredients means good food. Wrong... Quality and taste have to factor in somewhere... They did seem to have a nice patio though if you're intrested in sitting outside and eating bad food. So bad experience, we barely touched the food it was so bad. When we were leaving the cashier asked how everything was and we told her. She said she'll let the chef know. Thanks... They could've at least sprung for the McDonald's we went to immediately following one of the worst dining experiences I've had in Chicago. Yep, that bad.
(1)Blanca R.
I went here for the first time today. My friend and I had a delicious lunch. She had the special which was trout with a creamy polenta. I had the Amish Chicken with quinoa. We of course shared eachother's meal, and they were both delicious. The portions are perfect and the presentation is perfect. I can't wait to go again and try more of their amazing dishes. Oh, the service is wonderful too. And the best part was that we got a complimentary cute mini-banana muffin to open our palette. And that was delicious too. Keep in mind though, that this is a BYOB and cash only. But no worries, there is an ATM machine right by the bathroom.
(5)Lindsey W.
Really like the food here. The servers are very polite and seem to know what they are talking about. Once I asked for no bacon on my sandwich and my server explained to me that the bacon was all part of a well planned out taste sceme. I still got the sandwich with no bacon, but totally respected where the restaurant was coming from. The seasonal pancakes were *AWESOME* we had the blueberry pancakes and they were probably the best pancakes I've ever had.
(4)tracy g.
I have walked past JAM before it opened, seeing the corner spot turn into this fabulous restaurant. My friend and I decided to try it. When you walk in there is a Door and then another door and then a glass wall. To the front of the restaurant there is a few ceiling to floor windows and it has a few tables in this area that gives you the opportunity to see outside. We had a table in the main part of the restaurant. They have these very comfortable plastic chairs. The table has lime green place mats and the silverware is very modern and sturdy. The wall is this great gray color with white trim. There are also mirrors on the walls. The lighting is gorgeous and makes the place very classy looking. Now to the food.... Yummy. My friend and I both had the eggs Benedict. It has crunchy pork pieces as well as a winter squash hollandaise sauce. I gobbled the meal right up. The service was good and the price was decent too. I would go back.
(4)Natalie G.
The review below i wrote a few years ago, I finally gave JAM another chance and the service was absolutely horrible horrible worst worst worst. I'm changing my 3 star even lower. I walked in and wasn't acknowledged. Like 3 waiters walked by and didn't even look at me. Once we were sat we had to ask the waiter after 30 minutes of looking ready to take our order. He came back about 6 minutes later to take our order. Then we waited an additional 50 minutes to get our food, which was some pretty average brunch. Our waiter never apologized for the wait. We were offered nothing. When we asked him when our food was coming he said that this is normal for their restaurant. So yea if you want to sit at a table for an hour and 45 minutes and eat some average brunch- go here. Bad service central. **************************************************Â******************** I went here for brunch and it was fun to try it out, but I probably won't come back. The first thing I was turned off by, was I came with a group of four. A couple walked in befoe us, and they were quickly told that there was a 30 minute wait, while there were two empty tables right at the front. Then they sat our table of four right away, I guess since they have two person and four person tabes. Regardless, I thought it was weird and off that they would make couples stand outside for 30+ minutes while there were open tables inside and they were losing that business. The food was good, although the boys I went with left hungry. The plates are very small, but the food was interersting and worth a try.
(1)Janet X.
Just ho-hum for me. I had the eggs benedict, which were good, but I've had better for $12. (Also, the portion size are left a bit to be desired -- I'm not a huge eater and I was still a bit hungry afterwards.) Service was fine but perhaps that was because it was about 9 am on a Saturday. But what I don't understand is how a restaurant that serves $15-20 items is cash-only. Do they not want people to tip? Bottom line: okay, but not somewhere I would look forward to coming back to.
(3)Ashley H.
My first brunch in town. Everything was great except that it was too hot (of coz it's no one's fault :p) Love the French toast and poached egg there, and the service was good too
(4)Rob L.
I needed lunch. I was famished. I was starving. I was bleary eyed and weak in the knees. I had been wanting to come here for a few weeks since it opened and now life had presented me with an opportunity. Opportunity, don't knock, I know you are there and I am coming for you. Walking in around 11:30am, I was an eager beaver. I was excited to snag a spot for a quick solo lunch before heading on a multitude of errands. Being spotted by the lovely Amanda H, who was finishing up her lunch, I knew if she had been eating here I had made a wise decision. I savored the menu, breakfast on one side, brunch on the other, flip a coin which would win? Brunch it is. Hmmmm, simple yet tasty... okay that doesn't narrow it down. Nothing seems outrageously complicated, but all of it sounds tasty.... hmm turkey club. Nueske bacon? Someone hold me. I think I might cry out of happiness. Done. As I wait and drink some water, an amuse bouche of a banana mocha muffin with a peach compote... one bite and done and the light and yet subtle flavors made me smile with a twinge of glee. Then as I look around at all the other dishes I begin to worry. Wow. His biscuit and gravy looks great, did I make the right choice? Nah... my turkey club will be amazing. It has Nueske bacon in it. Ohhh but look at her chicken with the quinoa underneath, that chicken looks so perfectly cooked yet tender.... I wonder if I could snag a piece before she notices.... no... that wouldn't be right. Oh good, my sandwich is here. Slapped within some slices of toasty multigrain bread, there is some tasty goodness going on. Guacamole and tomatoes and turkey and some tangy spread that whips this all together with that bacon. I'd like to say that I ate it calmly and quietly. I'd like to say I still savored that sandwich after the third bite. But I don't like to lie. Lying kills baby elves, and who likes to do that? I would like to say the service is top notch, but to be honest, these people are moving at a fast and furious pace that would keep most marathon runners ready to call it quits after ten minutes so they may not be spending ten minutes of your time to answer questions, they were still friendly and quick. The managers were down to earth and happy to be there and happy to dish out the food in this modern sleek styled place. The place is lovely, the food keeps calling me, I'm glad I will be answering that call sooner rather than later.
(4)Lala S.
I was excited to hear that another breakfast spot opened up in the neighborhood. Although I love Milk n' Honey, I wanted something a little different. The menu at Jam sounded similar to the Bristol's so I wanted to check it out. Know the area pretty well, I decided to go during a week day because I just didn't feel like waiting 40 mins for breakfast. When we got there we were greeted. Those host was super nice. Now the food. The food sounded so delicious and the ideas were there. The problem is the execution. There were only 2 other tables that were seated. It took over 45 minutes for us to get our food. 45 minutes for breakfast! So to start things off, our waitress seemed a little out of it. We placed our order, our soup came out, then she came with complementary chocolate muffins with spice caramel--we decided to save that for dessert (duh!). I ordered the Eggs Benedict and my cousin order the Steak n' Eggs. To start things off, the portions are on the smaller side, but I guess they had to save room for all their pretty sauce splatters. I think it was a bit pricey for the portion. It would be one thing if it was amazing but it wasn't (believe me, I wanted this place to be m-f-ing amazing). Both dishes came with poached eggs, which were extrememly over-cooked. I could have sworn that poached eggs are like the first test in culinary school. May be our meals would have came out in like 40 mins if they didn't overcook our poached eggs (just a thought). And it's not like they were slightly overcooked but they were almost hard boiled inside. So moving beyond my OVERCOOKED POACHED egg, the Eggs Benedict were just OK. The hollandaise sauce was super rich, it taste like whipped butter, which in most cases I would like but I seriously felt like I was eating a stick of butter. The pork belly were measly little chunks. The homemade English muffins were the size of Triscuits (which by the time I got my food, wished I had some in my purse to satiate me). Eggs Benedict get a C-. The Steak n' Eggs were not my cup of tea. The rice grits--blah. The sauce just not the right flavor. Steak n' Eggs get a C- to a D+ I ordered the Turkey Club to go for my boyfriend. His comment, it's like they had too many ideas and threw it in this sandwich. Cranberry and Guac? and Red Pepper? I just figured they would have made it work. It just was under par. The sandwich gets a C-. So overall the place gets a C-...I guess it still passes. Not sure if I'll give it another shot considering how un-busy the place was when we were there. I'll just get off my lazy butt and drive over to the Bristol. mmmmmmmmmmmmmmmmmmmmmmmmmmmmmmmmmmmmmmm
(2)Anne P.
Wow, Jam server, you don't know what a scramble is? I asked if they would be able to make the omelette that she recommeded into a scramble and she looked at me like I had two heads. Sensing this might be a problem I said, "if it's a problem I'll choose something else from the menu." she replied that it wouldn't be a problem but that she just wanted to make sure I got what I wanted so did I just want it all mixed in a skillet? Um, yes, what part of scramble aren't you understanding? My order arrived as....an omelette. I didn't want her brain to explode from confusion so I just ate the damn omelette. Not dying to go back.
(3)Rafael C.
Pump up the Jam Pump it up While your feet are stompin' And the Jam is pumpin' Look at here the crowd is jumpin' Sorry but somehow this tune kept popping in my head while I waited about 90 minutes to finally get fed at Jam. It was about a 45 minute wait to get in and then another 45 minutes for the food to arrive after ordering. This was only on the third day of opening and I certainly can be forgiving. The wait aside, the food choices was mind bogglingly good. I usually crave the sweet side of breakfast and the malted custard french toast seemed my likely choice but then I was overwhelmed by many new and different savory choices. I needed to decide between the egg sandwich or the buckwheat crepes with lamb ... I chose the sandwich and I must say I was happy to scarf it down after a long wait. I enjoyed the pork cheeks even though it was just slightly overcooked and even better, I liked the pickled plum in the sandwich. Note one thing, the pork makes this sandwich a bit messy so I did see some eat it open face. My friend got the eggs benedict and it was plated very nicely. The taste was there but I have no idea why my sandwich came hot and her dish felt like it was waiting on the counter. Perhaps is just one of the kinks they need to figure out. I will happily come back and give this place another go at some point. Their menu is certainly interesting and worth a couple of looks for sure and I have to think they will be much more seasoned to handle the masses.
(4)Shauna B.
I first took notice Jam when their diners-in-waiting starting to take over the courtyard of my beloved Sweet Cakes; and, as a true breakfast devotee, I put it on my to-try list. If I could rate my experience here in categories, it would be: aesthetics=4 stars, food=3(ish), service=1. It took the waitress a while to notice us, and we made a big mistake by not giving her our food orders when she asked what we wanted to drink. When we did finally place our order, the kitchen took so long that we started joking about the chef driving to Indiana to pluck the eggs from the hens. And all of this on a weekday, when the place was less than full. The food itself, when it arrived, was passable but not great. My boy got the granola and yogurt, which was nothing more or less than what you'd expect. I got the Spanish omelette, which was okay, but not to my taste. I prefer the ingredients to be cooked in with the egg, and at Jam they're folded into the middle wrap-style. It was kind of saucy and kind of salty and, truth be told, I didn't finish it. All through the meal we had to get their attention to ask for things like drink refills, condiments, salt and pepper... Our needs were met, but not anticipated; and I felt like a high-maintenance diner when I asked for things that should be standard. I have to say too, that I think it's ridiculous that it's a cash-only establishment. Not only are they cash-only, but they have an ATM next to the bathroom. Instead of being convenient, I think it's a huge disservice to their customers. They're not willing to shoulder the the transaction fee of a credit card machine, but they don't mind sticking their customers with much higher ATM service fees. All in all, I wouldn't eat here twice. Sunrise Cafe, Flying Saucer, Old Oak Tap and Handle Bar are all within walking distance from Jam, and every one of them puts this place to shame.
(2)Deanna G.
Just finished brunch with a group of 5. I wouldn't recommend going in with more than 4 people, as it limits where you can sit. They told us 35-40 minutes, so we went next door for some coffee to this cute bakery while we waited. Came back 15 minutes later, and he had crossed off our name and said 'someone must have pretended to be you'. Seriously? there were NOT many people waiting at this time. So when we were finally seated 45 minutes to an hour later, we were put at a 4 person table with a folding chair on the side. I guess that's fine, but it seems like they could have seated us sooner then. once we were seated - the service was good. Water was refilled proptly, waitress friendly and helpful. We even got a cute little banana cupcake appetizer. As for the food, this place is FANCY-ish. Which is ok, but that just means ingredients you won't recognize, and small, overpriced portions. We ordered: Chorizo omelet: they are sort of pushy on the anchovies, which he diceded NOT to get. 3.5/5. Decent portion, safe dish. Egg Sandwich: 3.5/5: decent portion, not as amazing as the fancy description leads you to believe. Pick 3 sides: egg, pancakes, toast. Can't really go wrong. 3/5 due to $9 price. Eggs Benedict with Pork: 2/5. SHe didn't like it much, small portion, beet hollandaise. Nothing amazing. Steak and eggs: 2/5. They cook it medium rare, fine i'll try it. It was super fatty. The poached eggs were a little undercooked with the egg whites still slimey. I don't like that...but maybe it's the norm? I substituted the pancakes for the rice grits..so no idea how those would have tasted, but pancakes were good and helped fill me due to the small portion. I probably wouldn't go back. Super cute place, but a little fancier/pricier than i would like to fill me up on a sunday hangover brunch.
(3)hafsa a.
It was alright. not great but not bad either.
(3)Colter S.
New neighborhood brunch and dinner joint in Logan Square. It was smart of them to move to the square, its like a foodie explosion around this intersection. I had their special, which was lamb/pear/cashew buckwheat crepes. This was pretty much all my favorite things combined. When it arrived, my first impression was that this was a small dish, not enough food. However, the first bite changed my mind. They were very rich and packed to the gills with tasty lamb meat. They were dressed with an extremely rich savory pear sauce as well. It was very unique and delicious. My companions enjoyed everything they ordered. Service was friendly and prompt, although we had to ask our waitress for "full" cups of coffee, which was awkward (she filled each cup about 2/3. huh?). I'll be going back for the "blue plate" dinner for sure.
(4)Cakeeate R.
Jam is one of the best breakfast places in Chicago. Simplicity at it's best. The chefs put their love and passion for food straight from their soul on to your plate. The Eggs Benedict is creative, colorful, textural, and oh so tasty! The chef's homemade cotechino sausage is simply artisinal. These chefs are a talented bunch and dining there warms my heart, thank you Jam for staying true to your culinary wisdom and sharing it with the rest of Chicago.
(5)Audre L.
Came in around 1 on a Saturday with a girlfriend and we were immediately seated in the bright front seating area. The decor is inspiring, and the food is just as amazing. Presentation of the food was ridiculous. It's like a foodie brunch with excellent service. It's casual, fresh, fine and sophisticated without being stuffy. Amazing.
(5)Alysha P.
Right around the corner from my bf's house and we finally got around to brunching here...... Food Eggs Benedict w/ Pork Belly & Spinach Hollandaise: This was my dish.....and it was delicious!! Eggs were poached to perfection and when I cut them they caused a gooey little mess :) Pork belly was....well it was pork belly.....which is always good.....and I liked that they served it on the side so I could decide how much fatty goodness I wanted in each bite! The hollandaise sauce was also a hit for me.....the only thing I wish was that the english muffins were bigger or that they gave me more.....these were some saucy ass eggs and I wanted to clean up every last bite but in the end I had nothing to sop with. Steak and Poached Eggs w/ Grits, Smoked Tomato Sauce & Truffled Pecorino: My bf's dish.....he only gave me 1 bite.....apparently he did not want to share his plate of delicious-ness : ) But that bite was perfect.....I would probably order this the next time I came in. Steak was as juicy as a skirt steak can be.....and the smoky tomato coupled with the truffled pecorino elevated this dish from good to excellent! Again though....this was a saucy dish....so def needed some extra bread for sopping. Service We came in on a Saturday....but towards the end of service....so we didn't have to wait......thank god! The host was friendly and our waiter was a doll.....attentive without being annoying....and genuine....love that! Ambiance It's a small space.....we didn't feel crowded but I could see that that could be a problem if it was uber busy. Open kitchen....which I like...but don't like that it left me smelling like food for the rest of the day. Overall I am so sick of run of the mill brunch places that serve the same tired old dishes......Jam is a little beacon of hope.....casual space with food that has interesting flavors, is well thought out and ups the ante on brunch.....makes me do my happy food dance.......yay!
(4)E L.
Excellently done brunch. A wide variety of flavors for a small menu place. First, the kitchen is tiny, as you can clearly see. On hot summer days, especially with humidity it just gets too hot. but now they are open for dinner which is an amazing deal at $25. Now the service. I've had some great service here, but mostly its pretty crappy. The small kitchen and great care that goes into each dish, may be why they are so slow (perhaps they are keeping up or slowing down for the kitchen?). But the food is great! I've tried over half the menu and been there for brunch and dinner and I recommend it to everyone. Celery Root and Asparagus soups were both amazing! Pure and fresh with added textures (ex. crispy prosciutto) and flavors (ex. Myer lemon). Breakfast, Sandwiches, Pancakes and Omelets are really good. For me, the Eggs Benedict / Pork Belly and savory Lamb Crepes are my favorites. Cristo is really good, too. This is not your ordinary brunch meal. I also really dig the JamBurger which puts a nice easy egg on two Delicious patties. Dinner - this was a steal!. perfect small portions for my girl and I. We brought a bottle of wine and had the tasting menu. Soup was delicious! Foie Gras Tortellini tastes with crispy duck skin and English pea.... Duck Breast for me / Fish for her and then .... Desert - they have a Pasty Chef who is having fun with great combinations! The muffins are killer and the desert choices (when available) are nice and new. They have outdoor seating now as they bought the bakery space next door. the wait for me hasn't been bad. Time it out right and enjoy a great affordable meal
(4)Lauren H.
This is only their third day open, so I will cut them a little slack, as they were clearly not prepared for the onslaught. The wait was very long to get a table, but the place is small so that will happen. But once we were seated, it still took a really long time to get our food, and that did not make me happy. We were given an amuse bouche of a peach muffin with a balsamic glaze, and I don't usually like peaches but this was light and moist. I had the eggs benedict which was good, but it was lukewarm and I think the pork belly should have been crispier. I liked the black sea salt on top of the egg, it was a nice touch. My friend had the egg sandwich and I think that was the better choice, it was quite tasty. They were out of one dish and wanted to make another dish into an omelet, so they need to work the menu kinks out as well. They were apologetic, but that doesn't sate my belly after waiting so long. I will give them another shot as I want to try some more of the menu options, but I would go on an off time and will wait until they have time to work things out first.
(3)Matt S.
Mixed reviews all over the place! EEK! I was a little hesitant to hit this place after reading some of the negative reviews--slow service, crappy food, etc. But I was pleasantly surprised. I wasn't bowled over, but it is definitely a place I would go back to. The menu is fun and offers a lot of varied options, making it difficult to choose. Which is why I was very excited one of my companions agreed to order two different things and share--MY FAVORITE! :) I ordered the Jam Burger, while she had the blueberry pancakes--can't really have two more diverse orders! While the food it good, what I enjoyed most were the little amuse-bouches (is this the correct plural form?) they offered during the meal. One was a mini-dark chocolate lava cake--heaven. One of the best parts of the eating experience was the flirtatious, snarky waiter. As a former server (got about seven years under the belt) I'm a big proponent of being nearly invisible to a table--provide great service and don't add to the experience. But in this case, our guy was hilarious. He'd jump into conversations to razz someone and always had perfect timing for entering/leaving our experience. Wish I remembered his name, but the management should make sure he's happy there--he's a keeper!
(4)K K.
I finally went to Jam last week. It wasn't that great. Overpriced, small portions, pretentious, and the food was just average. The cauliflower soup tasted exactly like Campbell's soup out of a can (which is fine for $1.50, but not for $7) and the presentation was silly. Waiter was not attentive, we had to flag down a cook to order toast. My husband's eggs were good, but how hard is it to make an egg taste good, really? Having worked in the service industry my entire life, I realize that any place can have an off day. I will give them another chance in a few weeks.
(2)Miles H.
While I will certainly come off as smarmy, I'm a little embarrassed to even be writing relative to you who are complaining about size!?, price?!, service/wait??!! This is Chicago, a major metropolitan city with sophisticated tastes. Have you people ever been to a resto (no, McDonalds and 7/11 don't count) before? Bottom line for the rest of us...got to Jam, enjoy the superior quality, detail, and flavor combinations at prices that are insanely low. I'm not going to give away each and every aspect of our experience, details difficult to find even at the best, chef-driven dinner establishments in town... But for those who understand, you'll be beyond delighted.
(5)Julie S.
I am going to preface my four stars with a "this is probably more like a 3.5 for me, but I am rounding up because I like the place" statement. I think the space is lovely. I love the open kitchen. The service was polite and friendly. Neither overbearing nor dismissive. I liked the little amuse we got. It made me excited for the meal. I wish that the whole meal had lived up to it. I ordered the benedict. It sounded so delicious. Bacon sausage, acorn squash, etc. When it came to the table, it was just a little swirl of the squash on the plate. It added nothing to the dish, beyond the visual. I was bummed because I was looking forward to that actual flavor component in the dish. It was a good benedict, but not my favorite. I got a side of the potatoes and they were great. A little salty, but so good. I also ordered the signature cocktail because it listed beet juice as an ingredient. It must have just been a drop to add color because it added no texture or flavor to the drink. The drink was still delicious. Just tarter and not as I expected it to be when I ordered. Several of my friends had similar comments about how they thought the dish they ordered would be different than what it actually was. The only actual complaint was on the egg sandwich. As another reviewer mentioned, it was a soggy pile of meat with not a ton of flavor. We wished it had more flavor and the proportions of the sandwich were more balanced. I realize that my review is sounding more negative than positive. That wasn't the case. With the exception of the sandwich, the food was good. I just wish the descriptions were more accurate, so we had the right expectations. I was torn between a few dishes and I probably would have chosen differently if I would have known what I was really getting.
(4)Liz O.
I got a Daily Candy about this place and took my 3 friends along to check it out on Sunday. We had to wait 45 minutes and the host was nice enough to come over and get us next door so we could have a coffee. That's the only thing good that happend to us, and this was before we actually entered the restaurant. The service was scattered, the restaurant was hot, none of us were aware that it was cash only, and for a place that is not cheap, it was a suprise. And the topper was that I got food poisoning and was sick the entire day and had to call off work today. Never. Again.
(1)Eric K.
Here is a rough timeline of highlights from our evening at Jam. 7pm - Arrive with our party of four, begin waiting for an outdoor table and for our wine to be opened. 7:20pm - Get seated outside, still waiting for a wine key. 7:40pm - While using the wine key lent to us from another table, we meet our server, who was very nice and apologetic about what we deduced as 'kitchen issues'. 8:00pm - Manage to get our order in. 8:30pm - After a couple of conversations about how long it could possibly take to heat and serve soup, we get our soup course. 9:00pm - Second course is served. To half of our party. 9:10pm - Second course is served, to the other half of our party. 10:00pm - Dessert and wine are finished, so are we. I have never spent so much time NOT eating in a restaurant. We were there for three hours and the three course meal took about 30 minutes total to eat. The servers were nice and apologetic, although something like an offering of bread would have been nice. They clearly have some major logistical issues to figure out regarding the kitchen and how to run a restaurant. Oh, yes - the food. The ingredients were high quality, but in general the dishes themselves were lacking in flavor. To be honest, we had a nice time overall because it was a beautiful night and we had good company. The 'restaurant' portion of the evening was more like a distraction than a reasonable dining experience.
(1)Annette L.
What is not to like about Jam? BYOB and no corkage fee...adorable plaid wearing hipster boys working their tails off to make sure my water glass was full and I had everything I needed...excellent prices and creative and delectable dishes. It may be the BYOB speaking but Jam was firing at all cylinders. Loved the charm of the patio and the seriously excellent customer service. I'll be back again.
(5)Hugh B.
It always amazes me how many people will wait outside in the cold at someplace like Toast for a fine-but-nothing-special plate of eggs or bacon. Jam, however, takes breakfast to a better place. The menu is adventurous but not too much so, but def more than just eggs and hash browns. Like today I had a spanish omelet which they make with house-smoked chorizo, some sort of basque cheese, roasted peppers, and white anchovies. Tablemates had a scone (perfect), the panini with proscuitto and broccoli rabe (very enjoyable-I had it last time), and the biscuits with gravy and a side of pork cheeks. Everyone enjoyed everything. Service is friendly. The coffee is strong. The music is loud. All in all, something actually worth waiting for (although I still wouldn't wait longer than 5-10 mins for breakfast). The only problem is that the place needs better ventilation because my coat still smells like Jam five hours later...
(4)M L.
45 minute wait yet there were empty tables all over the place. We finally asked if we could just sit down and have some coffee at one of them while we waited. It was on the patio and the weather gorgeous so we were content w/ our coffee. When they called our name we asked if we could just stay put. The reply was no and they had us move ONE table over. Laughable but we didn't mind. Everything took forever. Our server told us the daily scone/pastry and then ran off. We had to flag her down to finally place an order. Tables around us having same problem too. When our neighbor's food finally came, they commented that the service was very slow. The reply was that nothing is pre-made and they are a restaurant. REALLY? You're a restaurant? That makes FOOD? To ORDER? How compelling. I had the quiche and it was good but the consistency a little strange. The scone of the day was marvelous. And they brought a little cookie in between the scone and entree course. Which brings me to my next point. This is brunch, not a candlelit dinner. The scones should come immediately, not after 15 minutes, and there's no need to wait until I finish the scone course to bring out the other food.
(3)Amy H.
Despite the evilest of all hangovers I met some friends here for a breakfast this Saturday. The 45 minute wait was in reality a quick half hour. However, for food this tasty I would be happy to wait the full 45 minutes. Due to a pounding head and lurching tummy, I wasn't sure I would make it through the entire meal, but I did rally and was richly rewarded with yummerific (yes I did just invent that for Jam) tastes of my friends blueberry pancakes with lemon creme fraiche and blueberry compote. I opted for the lightest and most flavorful egg white omelet layered with delicate beets and cheese. For my side dish I had the pork cheeks braised to perfection, tender and super tasty. Nom nom nom
(5)Amused Bouche X.
Hello, Yelpers! I was the first! to have breakfast this morning at Jam, a sweet little spot that opened just today in one of my favorite 'hoods, East Village/Ukrainian Village. (You could almost call this area Wicker Park. Whatever.) I found out about the opening just last night and couldn't wait for the usual warm-up you normally want to give a new kitchen. But they didn't need it -- everything seemed to run just fine. I shared a foodgasmic Eggs Benedict with crispy pork belly. OK -- pork belly seared to a crisp was not my dining companion, but rather one of the luxury ingredients that made this a breakfast beyond. (I have to admit -- they had me at "Pork Belly Eggs Benedict"...) Even the English muffin was something special-- dreamily dense, a worthy vehicle for sopping up the last drops of egg yolk and the emerald-colored fresh spinach puree that was drizzled over the entire dish and expertly balanced the savoriness of the coarse black lava salt sprinkled on the eggs. The hollandaise was delicately flavored with basil. Pure, unvarnished win. The other dish I sampled was a thick french toast with a warm black cherry compote punctuated with globes of lime-leaf creme fraiche. This was, as they say, off the hook. There was a lot of nuance to the spices used in the french toast. It was at this point in the meal that I knew this wasn't another breakfast spot drowning some pancakes or french toast in some sweet sauces and calling it a creative brunch. This place is for people who know the difference between an Vosges organic 72% cacao dark chocolate bar and a crusty Hershey's kiss from last Halloween. (I relent that sound like a complete foodie @-hole now.) Let me put it this way-- it is as if every single ingredient in everything we ordered was well thought-out and they just stone cold found the best version of every single element and ran with it. The owner is the former impresario of Narscisse (remember that place?) In my opinion, he raised the stakes on brunch around here. Rumor has it that he is going to open late for post-clubbing noshes. I just hope God doesn't deduct any virgins from his allotment of 72 or whatever in heaven on account of the pork cheeks, pork belly, coticchino sausage, et al...Based on the lime-leaf creme fraiche alone, he deserves all the accolades heaven can provide!
(5)Matt T.
First off, food was good, not great. Went with my sisters for brunch on the hottest day of the summer. Only waited 30 mins, which was fine. Inside it was extremely noisy (terrible acoustics) and the music was too loud. Most importantly, no A/C and the kitchen is basically in the middle of the tiny restaurant. We sat down, ordered right away and the server ws nice enough to offer suggestions and answer questions. It took well over an hour to get our food. I looked over and barely any other table had their food. Something was amiss in the kitchen as I turned around and it looked frantic. After a while the server offered us a piece of decent but dry coffee cake. It was needed and it was hot as hell and the three of us had not eaten yet. The time to food delivery must be improved. the food was good but not great. As did another reviewer, the server said flatly they could not subsitute or remove an ingrediant. Are you serious, what kind of BS is that? I understand trying to be different but this is ludicrous. We got the french toast whic was actually very good, the lamb braised crepes with pear and macadamian nuts...those were filled with plenty of meat that made up for the small portion. the crepes were good, but slightly bland. The third dish was the bisucuits and gravy. Definitely not the kind you are used to be good nonetheless. It was failry tasty but it seemed that more time was spent on the presentation of the food then actual flavor. The plating was fancy but the biscuits and gravy were lacking a real kick to them. We did get the fingerling potatoes as a side dish and they were probably the best part. We did not try anything from the lunch menu. It was pretty underwhelming. I might go back once this place has some time to get their stuff togehter.
(2)Samantha G.
I really don't know why this place is so popular. We waited a full 40 minutes outside, and while I wanted to leave, my companions insisted that if it could draw a line like this, then it must be worth it. Also - some people were served coffee while waiting in line, but others weren't. We weren't. WTF, Jam? That shit is super frustrating when you've been waiting forever and then you have to watch other people in line slurping away happily. The food was presented well, our server was super nice. I ordered the french toast which was good but not great. I appreciated the tiny cakes delivered to the table. My companions were not at all impressed with their food, the quiche was not that good, imho. The decor inside was pretty cheesy. If it was 30% cheaper and not a long ass wait, I would like this place a lot more.
(2)Lauren L.
Here's why this place only gets 3 stars as opposed to the 4 stars I would've given it because my chorizo omlette was amazing: I think that with a name like Jam, toast with their delicious flavored jams should come on the table, with every meal. I didn't feel like ordering a side of toast, but I did stare longingly at the table next to ours wishing I could stick my spoon in their mini jam dishes. Also, as a pregnant lady who can't eat lots of different kinds of cheeses (soft cheeses are off limits when pregnant), and who already doesn't eat red meat, my menu options were limited. I asked the waitress if I could substitute the cheese that the dish came with for another cheese. She gave me a little bit of attitude and explained that the dishes were prepared so that the tastes would "balance". I totally get that, but I'd rather have an unbalanced meal that I can eat rather than a balanced one that I can't! Boo. But as I said, my chorizo omlette was delicious (after she finally subbed out the cheeses), and my husband's chocolate french toast with banana milk jam was unbelievable.
(3)Michael V.
Welcome to the neighborhood, Jam! You rock! Took my first trip there today on their third day open. While the owner mentioned that they were busier than they expected so things might not run as smoothly as they'd like, I was more than happy. As others have mentioned, things start with a fabulous little amuse bouche. Today's was a mini peach muffin with balsamic glaze -- perfect. The coffee was strong, the service was great (although the food was a little slow -- third day and all), and the meal was incredible. I had the spanish omelet (sans anchovies) which was expertly made, and my friend had the custard French toast, which was really more of a dessert than anything else. Personally, I would have found it too sweet for breakfast, but she was in the mood for it and loved it. The space took a big step up from its Dodo days, with mirrors and these cool lit crystal wall decorations set into framed wall panels. And they shut off that entry into the gallery next door, which makes the whole place seem less hectic. Take my advice and go soon, because I foresee long lines for this place in the near future.
(5)Cleo H.
Been here 6-8 times so far, for brunch/lunch, usually on weekends. Fantastic service and excellent food. Decor is stunning. They were BYOB with no corkage fee, but no more. Now they begrudgingly charge you $6 if you wander in without being aware of the policy change. Have no complaints other than that. On par w Longman, Lula. Love having this place so close to me!
(4)Stan W.
Based on some of these other reviews, I must have come on a good day (Saturday 10:30AM) and they must have lowered their prices a bit. I liked Jam. If you're a picky eater, or just looking for a simple breakfast - you'll hate it. This is NOT the place to get 2 eggs, bacon, and wheat toast. You gotta be in the right mood for their unconventional and sometimes intense flavors. You also gotta be careful because their portion size varies wildly. I got the Spanish omelet and couldn't put the whole thing down, laughing at the big guy at the other table who got the eggs benedict which was a piddly little joke - some kind of smear paste across the plate with bits of meat and tiny little eggs that looked like have the white had been cut off - they probably consider that "deconstructed". The french toast (which was really good) was big but the pancakes looked little. We also got biscuits and gravy, which had some very interesting flavors. The service was fine when I came - and it was pretty busy. And the check didn't seem too unreasonable in the end. Very glad I didn't order that benedict.
(4)lauren p.
In an attempt to keep this review brief, I was just going to tell you all to take your money to Publican instead. But I feel that I should try to tell you why. - The menu is very heavy on the heavy. As a bride to be (who ate her weight in deep dish pizza the night before) I'm trying to watch my girlish figure, and I just wasn't feeling the 'pork cheek breakfast sandwich' or whatever they had. I went with yogurt + granola, which was fine, but it would have been nice if they added some fruit, considering it was $7. Oh wait, there were 4 raspberries. Sorry, my bad. - They are way overstaffed. We counted about 7 people behind the counter, and given that it was 10 am on a Monday, that seemed a bit much. In fact, our waitress wouldn't leave us alone. Every time we started to have a conversation, she popped up to ask us how things were or the busboy showed up to top off our coffee. I know the coffee was $3, but we each had about 14 cups, which is a lot of coffee. - The waitress, while very nice, couldn't explain the different breakfast pastries to us. All that's listed on the menu is 'breakfast pastries' so obviously you need some explanation. She checked with the chef to see what they had, and came back with three different flavors. But when I asked her what they were, as in what kind of pastry, she just repeated the flavors. So at this point I'm assuming that they're all Danish-type things, just different flavors. We decided to get one of each to share. When they arrive at the table, we see that one is a muffin, one is a pound cake, and one is a scone. Those are very, very different. The waitress couldn't tell the difference? Maybe the chef didn't tell her, and just told her the flavors. I don't know. It was weird. The total bill came to $75. For 4 people. For breakfast. For that price, you'd be better off at Publican, where the portions are hearty and the food is delicious. See, it all comes full circle.
(2)Christine P.
The quality of the food definitely took this place from a 2-star to a 3-star in my book. The service was so-so. It took a little too long to get the attention of a server to get more coffee, let alone order our meal. Redeeming factor - we got mini muffins for free and the food was 5-star restaurant quality. I had the lamb crepes - very delicious and different. My husband had the eggs benedict - LOVED the crisped pork belly. I think they would be better served with a larger kitchen but it is pretty cool to be able to watch your food being cooked.
(3)Mike W.
I'm giving this a higher rating because i've been here a few times since and they've been super friendly and the food wonderful. I'll keep the review up though. The good: The food is creative and excellent The Bad: The wait can be pretty harsh. Plenty of other good spots like sunrise right down the street for my dollar. The Ugly: Sweet Cakes closed it's doors next door, so Jam is posting a piece of paper saying that they offer to go cups of coffee and pastries so I said OK, cool. I ordered, waited, finally got the joe, and they rang me up for nearly 4 bucks. Psshh, screw them. What a nice deed to prey on the former customers of sweet cakes by ripping them off-NOT.
(4)Dan M.
Ok, sorry but it's time to get my hate-on. I will preface all of this by saying, yes, I know they just opened and it sometimes takes a bit for a new place to get into the groove... BUT.... I had an all around irritating/unsatisfying/unappetizing lunch/breakfast experience so I will share. I ordered the Jam Burger which is a 2 patties of beef with an egg on top, tomatoe sauce, and a mild white cheese. (sry, forgot which one) and served on a thick hunk of bread (not really a good bun). The presentation was very nice and it honestly looked really tasty sitting there on the plate. The dining area is very nice, drastic improvement over the old place. (still a bit warm in there, not as bad as DoDo was though) We've already reached the climax of this story......it's all downhill from here. The burger was undercooked, underseasoned, and all around unappealing (I'm sure I could think of a few more "un's" to put in there, but you get the point). The bread, egg, sauce, and seasoning were all far too mild to compensate for the huge hunk of ground beef I was eating. I could taste nothing at all but half-cooked hamburger meat. I am by all means a carnivore, but c'mon give me some damn flavor. My girlfriend had the breakfast omelette.... Sorry to say things did not improve... She didn't hate it, but to me it looked really bland. I had a few bites and surprise surprise, it was. It was also pretty small, I wouldn't call it omelette size, really. I had had enough by now and just wanted to go home. Then the check arrives. It was around $21, so I dropped my card in and chalked it up as a loss. Not so fast!! I was then told they are cash only. Guess what? I had no cash on me and was told there is a sign on the door that says so. Well, they weren't lying. In letters that were 1/2 inch tall and placed at knee level there was indeed a reminder for those 3' tall or less that they are cash only. Great. So now I go next door to the gas station and drop and extra $2 on atm fees for an already shitty meal. Anyway, I'm getting annoyed all over again so I'll stop. I would actually give them 1 1/2 stars because the fries weren't bad, the host-guy was nice, and I like the interior space but that is as far as I can reasonably go. Maybe the bad taste will go away after a few months..... or not.
(1)Peter K.
I geek out on brunch pretty hard - I straight up giggle for good breakfast food and a mindblowing bloody mary can take me to a new level of nirvana. So the thought of finding a new brunch spot relatively near my hood got me pre-emptively giddy with excitement. Not so fast. Jam is good, for sure, but it's pretty far from great. It's a tiny space, which has its charm for sure, and I love the completely open kitchen - it makes the otherwise cramped room inviting and honest. While we waited for a table, a nice fella came around with coffee, which as far as I'm concerned, was a big plus and maybe the places saving grace. Maybe I'm being too hard on the place, and I'll likely give it another try sometime, but I was simply whelmed with the food. Not overwhelmed nor underwhelmed, but simply satisfied and not much more. The ingredient choices are creative and excellent, but somewhere in the execution the dishes don't seem to match their potential. At our table we had the Egg Sandwich, the Eggs Benedict, the Panini, and the Biscuits & Gravy, and the general consensus was mild satisfaction all around. I had the egg sandwich and it was pretty good, a nice sized meal with tasty bread and delicious fingerling potatoes on the side, but it fell short of a solid mindblow. As noted elsewhere, the coffee rocks. Tasty and bold. The atmosphere was pretty good and everyone was friendly. However the server was just a little lacking. Granted, it looked like there were only two servers on the floor and it was crazy busy so I was giving her the benefit of the doubt all the way through (plus some of our party gave her a bit too much guff), but speed issues aside, she was kind of abrasive. Ultimately, we all enjoyed ourselves and, like I said, I'm sure I'll be back, just not anytime soon while there are more enticing places ot check out. If you have the opportunity to go, don't turn it down, I just can't imagine seeking it out in a moment of crave-craziness.
(3)Benita T.
i was excited about eating here because it had been highly recommended. The restaurant itself was attractive but everything else about it was over-priced and pretentious. Our server wouldn't bring us coffee because the third person in our party was parking - I could understand in a full restaurant but we were the only people there the entire time. We had a hard time getting refills on everything and there was an upcharge for everything too (more maple syrup, more butter, etc.) - the prices weren't high but maybe if they gave more than a teaspoon of butter or maple syrup to start with there wouldn't have been an issue. The pancake was tasty but the middle was raw - totally gooey and liquidy. The scotch egg which by description is a hard boiled egg was totally runny - more like a raw egg than a boiled one and the deviled eggs were covered with salmon roe. Not bad for an adult but when purchased for a child you tsort of wish they had mentioned it. All in all, not impressed. If the server had been the slightest bit friendly we might have tried it again, but not after her unpleasant, I'm doing you a favor attitude.
(2)R B.
I was eagerly anticipating something good from this restaurant but was disappointed to find a place that is: -very expensive for what they serve -small portioned -made up of a menu where many of the ingredients are unknown (i was not expecting this at a place called jam) -only accepts cash (wait, are you fancy or not) -seems to only add to the gentrification of logan square. Half of the ppl that live in logan square could never afford to eat here and I was disappointed at yet another high priced yuppie establishment being added to what was once a beautiful diverse neighborhood.
(1)Cory D.
are you kidding me? they should change their name to go f yourself. we were seated quickly, however it took about 10 minutes to be greeted by our server. finally, when we attempted to order, several menu items were unavailable. after figuring out what was not sold out, the server returned to inform us our meal would take 20 minutes to prepare as the kitchen was backed up. at this time she suggested ordering a scone to tide us over which we did. the meal arrived 30 minutes later and although somewhat tasty, was not worth the wait. additionally the runner who delivered the food had a complete chip on his shoulder when my friend jokingly asked, "what's going on in that kitchen". no apologies were given from him, our server or the management. they also gave no compensation for the horrific service we received, charged us full price for everything including the recommended scone. perhaps if the kitchen cannot serve the amount of tables the restaurant has on the floor they should put some in storage until they get it together.
(1)Amy Elizabeth S.
I feel bad writing a two star review for such a new establishment, but the food needs a bit of work. The sweets are divine and the coffee is good, but they need help with "savory." My over medium eggs were hard, and my bacon came black. I was really surprised that they sent the food out of the kitchen, quite honestly. Our service was friendly, and the place got a much needed face lift. I will be back, since it is new and it has kinks.... but I will give it a month or so.
(2)Jack M.
Can't quite put my finger on this one, but it just fell short of a good breakfast experience. We went on a weekday morning and were the only people in there, adding to the literal and figurative cold feeling. The menu was small, which is understandable for such a small venue, but I was not terribly impressed by the meal. My pancakes were a little burnt & the sausage was interesting (made in-house, as I was told). I wouldn't say the meal, overall was terrible - It just fell short of expectations. My biggest irk was how literally cold this place was, coupled with the somewhat sterile feel of the place. It may be worth a 2nd whirl - coulda just been an 'off' day (?)
(3)heather s.
In short, I would not recommend Jam to anyone who is hungry, and especially not if they were vegetarian. My girlfriend and I arrived here at 11:30am on Sunday, knowing full well that there would be a half-hour wait. So we put in our name and went next door to Sweet Cakes to get coffee, and returned to Jam with 10 minutes to spare. They had just called our name. That was our fault, I know. But then we waited another half an hour to be seated, even though we were then next on the list. It seemed to strange--it was like nobody was leaving the restaurant. We realized why once we ordered our food. The service is ridiculously slow. They did take our order pretty quickly once we sat down, but then we waited 45 minutes for our food to arrive. 45 minutes for a bowl of oatmeal and a vegetable panini? really?! The food was lackluster. Nothing special. The menu was so meat-driven that we didn't have many options though.
(2)Robyn T.
Jam's not just for brunch anymore. No more waiting in obscenely long lines and cramming into a tiny table next to your neighbor. Now you can relax and enjoy a leisurely dinner. You can actually have a relaxing dining experience, see the decor of the restaurant and watch the chef prepare your meal. Charming yes? I was impressed that the seasonal dinner menu was as inventive and inspired as the brunch items. I didn't try it but may go back for the $35 four-course dinner. It's BYOB to boot so you can't really argue with that. Instead I ordered a la carte opting for the asparagus soup (lovely presentation but bitter bits of lemon I can do without - garlic puree was nice) and the foie gras ravioli (ooh yes, so rich and so delicate at the same time). Don't forget there is the delicious Metropolis coffee to enjoy with dessert too. Downsides to Jam...they're cash only. What? Yes, so be sure and stop at the ATM before you head here. In this day and age it's almost unheard of, I know. The other oddity was the service. The staff here is usually super friendly but our waitress was a little...odd. She told my dining companion not to order the burger and suggested an $18 fillet instead. The dining area is also a little small so you can see basically everything that's going on....not always a good thing because she would touch her hair or face and then bring some food over. Oh yum.
(4)Bryan H.
The decor is stunning and the food is fresh and delicious. I love everything about this place. The service was also wonderful!
(5)George F.
Driving around the neighborhood on a Saturday morning and ran across this restaurant. Service was good and the food was better. Had an opportunity to get a seat outside. Very nice beginning to a day.
(4)K G.
Staff: Attentive, friendly, helpful, informed. Space: Cute, not over-air conditioned, prep in front a nice touch, close to my house! Food: Blueberry pancakes with lemon creme fraiche: Pancakes a hearty texture loaded with blueberrries. Creme fraiche, berry compote and soft butter served in tiny glass bowls set into a wooden server. Lovely presentation! Oatmeal with fresh fruit and almonds: Steel cut oats, served chewy, not gooey! Fruit, brown sugar and almonds in same little glass bowls. Coffee: Metropolis, and it kept coming. 5 stars. Eat it.
(5)David S.
The food we were served at Jam has to be some of the most beautifully plated breakfasts and lunches we've ever had. It was a treat just looking at it! My meal was a delicious heart attack on a plate that I'd willingly eat again and again...the Jamburger: two beef patties, Butterkasse cheese, and a fried egg on a bun. This sandwich was best eaten - strike, savored - with a knife and fork. The fries were an absolute treat too. When ordering, I was torn between this and the biscuits and gravy. Thank goodness I got this, because I hate mushrooms and it turns out the gravy on the biscuits is a portobello mushroom gravy. Not my thing, but no worries, I'll grab another Jamburger!
(4)Krishna A.
I Came here with my sister and my BIL (bro in law) the morning after Thanksgiving.... Q: "Wait - you were still hungry??" A: "Yes - I'm always hungry. Stop interrupting." There was no wait, and were seated real quick, but I hear that is abnormal and it quickly got pretty packed. The atmosphere is pretty minimalist/modern, which is cool. I liked the juxtaposition of the concrete tables with plexiglass chairs. The chef started us off with an amuse-bouche of a chocolate muffin with a raspberry jam. So soft and delicious. Rule # 14 - there are few things better than chocolate in the morning. My sister ordered the french toast with lime-leaf cream (the cream was the best part). It was ALMOST as soft as the amuse bouche - I'd place it somewhere between a baby's bottom and a delicate earlobe. It was VERY sweet - maybe even too sweet. I ordered the chocolate pancakes - (See Rule #14 above). They were not chocolate chip pancakes as I originally thought, but rather the batter was completely chocolate. I like the chip variety, so consider yourself warned. There was a roasted marshmallow on top which was nice. They came with graham, caramel butter and syrup. I added all of that on top. They were OK - and were kind of on the small side. My BIL ordered the Eggs Benedict with pork belly. WHOA. Presentation was spot on. And it was cooked perfectly. It was my favorite dish of the 3. We also ordered a side of the sausage and scrambled eggs...oh yeah - and fruit (gross), The sausage was a bit undercooked, the eggs were standard, and the fruit made nice bird feed for the pigeons outside... All in all, I liked the place - 3.5 stars. I'd stick with the egg dishes as you might walk away hungry if you listen to your sweet-tooth. Plus, the owners also run Chickpea - which is a chill Middle Eastern kitchen in the area that I really like (the food is great, but mostly because of the Middle Eastern posters of 80's classics such as First Blood part 2, and Commando).
(4)Aaron B.
Went here for brunch on Monday morning and the place was near empty. I like it because you can see the cooks from your seats, messing around in the "kitchen". I imagine it would be a pretty noisy room, when full, but on Monday morning we had the place to ourselves. Very fast service :) We came because Stephanie Izard said this was the best French Toast she ever had, and certainly it did not dissapoint. It was light and fluffy, with amazing cream and, of course, Jam. I really enjoyed it. It filled me up without weighing me down. The pork and egg sandwich, I'm told, was also very good. This month they also had a pumpkin bread side which we ordered and loved. I definitely recommend this place for a fun spin on breakfast food.
(4)Steve M.
Since I live in Logan Square I really wanted to love this place. I really tried to find the positive in the newest restaurant to hit The Square but I struggled to see a reason why I would go back. The first issue is that there are not a lot of breakfast selections to choose from. I had the egg sandwich which was just OK. I couldn't really differentiate any of the flavors that were described to me in the menu. It tasted like an egg with meat on it. Nothing special. The second issue the place was very loud and it wasn't even that crowded. I can't imagine what the place is like when it is hopping. I think the issue is the music was set so loud that everyone felt the need to talk over everyone else. I really don't care about what people are talking about but I do wish I could have held a nice conversation with the people I was with or at least not have to yell to be heard. The third issue it is cash only and the place isn't that cheap for breakfast. Hopefully that will change soon but make sure you have cash if you go. I can't imagine how expensive their dinners would be but that would mean for a table of four you need a lot of cash on hand. The positive was the service which I thought was great. The free carrot cake cupcakes were a nice plus and the apple coffee cake we ordered was the best thing I ate. There are more and more brunch locations opening in The Square and I think for the money you get better deals and selections elsewhere.
(2)MA H.
three of us went for my 'birthday breakfast'. Two foodies, and one sweets-only-picky-eater. And all three of us cannot wait to go back: Food: buckwheat lamb creps - wow wow wow - perfect combination of flavors blueberry pancakes - the sweets-only-picky-eater practically licked her plate the egg sandwich - so good that the foodie asked for the menu to identify the 'sweet' bite she was getting from it (green apple catsup) Presnetaion: beautiful on all three plates! Service: quickly seated (9am saturday); water glasses never less than 25% empty before being refilled; coffee perpetually topped off; cream brought rapidly for coffee; pacing of food delivery not too fast, not too slow; friendly helpful waitstaff Ambiance/ decor: one was trying to figure out how to do the wall-light/shaddows at her own house - perfect!
(5)Michael W.
Oh no you diiiiiit----nt, fellow yelpers?????? You've really landed on 3 stars for JAM????? Seriously? Let's try some perspective....Golden Nugget Pancake House has 3 stars. I just found 3 instances of Denny's restaurant with 3.5 stars. Feast has 3.5 stars. F'in Bongo Room has 4 freakin' stars!!! OK....deep breath. I apologize for dropping the f-bomb. I do love my fellow yelpers. But just like your brother or sister that you love in the grand scheme, sometimes you really know how to push my buttons. So simply put....in my opinion(not feeling humble at this point),Jam is some of the BEST brunch you can get in Chicago. Period. My wife and I are close to double digit visiters to Jam, and it's really our favorite brunch spot to hit. The decor is simple, but kind of cool and different for brunch. Somebody mentioned CB2 "ish" and I agree. It creates a feel of quaint, but sort of modern and clean at the same time. The kitchen is right out there in the open, so you can see all the action as it happens. Walk in and you will be most likely greeted by the same tall guy that I've seen there for years. Sorry man...don't know your name, but you've always been extremely nice and accurate in your estimate on wait time. Yes...there is sometimes a wait time. That's because this food is good and people want to come here. So they have a little courtyard next to the restaurant that you can ajourn to while you wait if it's not too cold outside. And as we sat in that slightly eclectic and interesting, spacious courtyard, they brought us water. 2 points for sevice beginning even before our table inside has become available. And you are not standing outside like cows on Milwaukee Ave milling around aimlessly looking at soap carvings at whatever the frick that store near Bongo room is supposed to be(no offense in particular to that store...I'm sure your carved soap is beautiful and cleans with the best of soaps...just not my thing). Anyway....after enjoying a short 10 minutes out in the courtyard, we were ushered to our table and the deliciousness begins. Coffee....excellent. Amuse bouche today happened to be a mini lemon poppy cake like bite. Yes...you get a little amuse bouche at Jam. And no...it's not pretentious. I'm sorry yelpers but that's crap. The staff are tatt'd up dudes that are totally chill. They give you a little taste of what's to come. On this particular visit, I had something I hadn't seen before. Pork Terrine with over easy eggs on pretzel bread. There was some kind of carmelized veg and some whole grain mustard in the mix. Pork Terrine for breakfast??? Are you kidding me? It was awesome. My wife got the pork belly eggs benedict with a fennel hollandaise sauce. Beautiful plating and absolutely delicious. In addition we had fresh made PB&J scones that were warm, fresh and packed with fruity and nutty goodness. So some folks seem to complain that it's just too expensive for the quantity of food you get.. OK.....yes.....this is not Bongo Room where you wait around for 45 minutes to get seated and pull up to your trough and then if they sprinkle an excessive amount of Dill on everything, apparently that makes it special in some way. Look....I don't mean to rip on Bongo. I like Bongo. They offer some good food, no question. And it's lively and fun there, for sure. But if you like good food. And you want something a little different and a little more thought out than your typical brunch spots, then you most assuredly can appreciate Jam. Sure....it's not gonna be a dirt cheap brunch, but the chef creates thoughtful, creative, and unique brunch dishes. But if you prefer the Dill and the trough.....go Mooooooo on with your bad self. To each their own...I won't hate on you. Or at least not to your face. Moooo!
(5)Rachel W.
YUM!!!!! Had the Tuesday tasting and loved every course! Especially the caraway waffle with corned beef. Melt in your mouth amazingness!!!! Staff was great, loved our server Melonie (?)-sorry if I didn't spell it right. We were grubby from moving the day before and had my snotty 2 year old, and everyone was really nice and treated us great. As a server, I know its easy to judge customers, and I'm sure we were a sight to see, but again, got treated like friends. LOVE THIS PLACE!!!
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