Tiztal Café
4631 N Clark St, Chicago, IL, 60640
Tiztal Café Menu
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Chilaquiles
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Quesadillas
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Fajitas
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Wraps
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Savory Crepes
Healthy Meal suggestions for Tiztal Café
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Chilaquiles
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Quesadillas
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Fajitas
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Wraps
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Savory Crepes
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Address :
4631 N Clark St
Chicago, IL, 60640 - Phone (773) 271-4631
- Click To Get Directions
Opening Hours
- Mon :8:00 am - 4:00pm
Specialities
- Takes Reservations : No
Delivery : No
Take-out : Yes
Accepts Credit Cards : Yes
Good For : Breakfast, Brunch
Parking : Street
Bike Parking : Yes
Wheelchair Accessible : Yes
Good for Kids : Yes
Good for Groups : Yes
Attire : Casual
Ambience : Casual
Noise Level : Average
Alcohol : No
Outdoor Seating : Yes
Wi-Fi : Free
Has TV : Yes
Waiter Service : Yes
Caters : No
WE SERVE THE FOLLOWING STATES
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Jeanette M.
After reading several good reviews and dropping the ball on finding a spot for the New Years Day brunch w/ my friend we decided to go here. We both ordered the chorizo and eggs after reading all the reviews and drooling..lol Fantastic. And those potatoes! O M G Even after clearing our plates we ordered more! I honestly don't know where we put it all. On this trip I was not brave enough to try the oatmeal milkshake that everyone talks about but I did notice that almost every table had one! So, next trip I'm gonna have to try it........even though I just can't understand how an oatmeal shake could be tasty. I will be going back for sure!
(4)Shonda D.
The place is cute and quaint. But, nothing truly amazing here. I ordered the potatoes and a plain waffle. The potatoes were pretty good, not your average run of the mill. However, it took 20 minutes for me to get my waffle.... way too long. I was able to get a table, as it was in the middle of the day. But, the service was to be desired a little too informal for my taste. I was a bit disappointed after reading 3-4 of the reviews. My expectations can be pretty high, maybe they were having an off day... it was too hot outside... mayor Daly privatized the parking meters... one of the waitresses quit...etc. All in all, not sure if I will spend my hard earned cash here again. The food wasn't bad, but customer service is very important to me. And frankly, Tiztal missed the target.
(3)Adele n.
The breakfast food's been yelped over a lot (it was good!) so I will give a shoutout to the patio, which is tranquil and pretty. Service was super-friendly. Decor is nice. I will go again. This is a good place to take an out-of-town guest for a moderately priced brunch.
(4)Jerry B.
Very friendly, very good basic food, nice comfortable, casual diner atmosphere, Had feta/tomato omelette and huge fruit plate. Almost lost among in block with bars and vacant storefronts. Didn't see patio in back. Wife really liked the the oatmeal shake. Definitely would go back.
(4)Stephen R.
Thank you, fellow Yelpers! Uptown is like a nebulous mystery to me, especially on the Clark corridor. I wanted to try something new (e.g., NOT Lakeview/Lincoln Park, where I live, or Ravenswood/Lincoln Square, where my bestie lives) so I found the great reviews of Tiztal. All I can say is: FABULOUS! Dude, the Oatmeal Shake is totally amazing. It's got a bit of an horchata flavor at first, then you get all the oat goodness. And I'm not your natural health-freak (hello, big gulps and hot dogs from 7/11!) so trust me when I say it's divine. I was torn between Chillaquiles or the Zephyr (? I think? was a week ago) omelet. Went with the omelet. AMAZING. I typically despise omelets after the first few bites because the flavor becomes so "egg" and so redundant, but I consumed the hell out of that thing. It was glorious! But then, I am a cheese aficionado. And the roasted potatoes? Don't get me started. They smell like heaven when they arrive. WAY happy with this selection. She wanted to go to Kuma's for burgers (LOL 2 HOUR WAIT?!) and I demanded Tiztal based on the Yelp reviews. The reviews do not lie: absolutely loved this place! Muah! Kudos, Tiztal!
(5)Count Gregula ..
This place has a tasty blood-red drink called The Vampiro! If I ever become a vegetarian vampire I know vhat to order... And the garlic breakfast potatoes...AHHHHHH GARLIC!!!!!! RUN AVAY!!!! Just kidding, the breakfast potatoes vere very good. Thank you, Colleen C. for another vonderful Office Hours...now I gotta go shake my booty for another Oatmeal shake!
(4)John B.
If you want to be left alone, if you don't like receiving suggestions on what to order, and if you don't like making conversation when you eat out, Tiztal is not the place for you. Today was my first visit, and the owner greeted me, recognized that I had not been there before, asked how I heard about the place, and generally looked after me. If that's not something you like, leave Tiztal to those of us who do. The first time I passed this place on the bus, I had a little heart attack, because I thought it had replaced El Ranchero. Then I realized that was not the case (whew!) and looked it up on Yelp. All it took to make up my mind was two words: "oatmeal shake." Rosemary and I talked about the oatmeal shake at Irazu (which she had not had), and since it was my first time visiting, she had Theresa make mine in a large glass. Yes, it's my first visit and I'm on a first name visit with everyone. Rosemary also recommended their eggs benedict, because she is (justifiably) proud of their hollandaise sauce. It was a great choice. The dish comes with a healthy portion of fresh fruit -- strawberries, watermelon, mango, and pineapple -- and some of the best roasted potatoes I have ever had. Crispy on the outside, creamy on the inside, tossed with spices and topped with sea salt. Please sir, may I have some more? The decor is still in progress. They're hanging some art, and the patio isn't quite ready. Sign their email list, and they'll contact you when they have their "official" opening. And yes, once they get their feet wet, they are planning to stay open later. Note 1: Cops are already eating there. Always a good sign. Note 2: When the mail carrier came, Rosemary asked her if she wanted something to drink. Note 3: Keep your eye out for the chef. He's kind of hot.
(4)Lauren H.
I am not one to usually succumb to peer pressure, but I could no longer resist the siren call of these oatmeal shakes that everyone has been raving about. So I drove all the way to Tiztal on this sunny NYE Day. As I was sitting, she offered me coffee but I said nope, I have to try the famous oatmeal shake. I normally do not even like oatmeal, but OMGITWASSOGOOD! She even refilled my glass (since she said she gave the other customers free samples), and I couldn't resist drinking it all. I also ordered the chilaquiles which were OMGEVENBETTERSOAMAZING, smothered in chihuahua cheese and green salsa (which again, I normally am not a big fan of but this was so tasty). The accompany potatoes had fresh garlic and were fabulous as well. The portion of my main dish was quite large, and after the shake(s), I could not finish it (I am sure I will tonight though). Service could not have been friendlier. I will definitely make the trek back for the shakes and chilaquiles again soon, who is in with me?
(5)Gayle G.
Five stars it is! I love the oatmeal shake. I've been thinking about it constantly since having my first. I love you, you oatmealy goodness, you! We arrived about noon on a Sunday and were seated right away, no wait and were immediately greeted with water and coffee. The menu is small, but thorough. With the oatmeal shake, I figured we should add some extra nutrition with a small fruit plate. The combo of cantaloupe, mango, papaya, pineapple, watermelon and strawberries were fresh and perfectly ripe. With a squeeze of lime and chili, I'm a happy girl. The chorizo omelet was tasty, and those potatoes...I'm diggin' 'em. Bonus points for whipped butter served at room temp with toast. Nothing's worse than putting hard, cold butter on warm toast. Ok, so there are worse things, but it's all relative. I can't wait to come back to Tiztal again and again. Rosemary, who I believe is the owner is so sweet and accommodating. I overheard that they are looking to expand the hours, as they are currently open from 8 a.m. to 4 p.m. I can only assume that means adding a dinner menu. They're smart too. They came around during our meal and offered a sample of the oatmeal shake to everyone in the place. I saw at least three people order one.
(5)Jennifer Z.
They have the best chilaquiles ever! Definitely would come back just for them. Friendly staff. Owner gave us free smoothie samples. The avena smoothie it's the best! My mouth waters just from thinking about it! Definitely a great experience and definitely coming back!
(5)Mike D.
Wanted to go here for a few weeks after seeing the reviews. And they didn't disappoint. The food was really good and wonderfully fresh. I loved the ranchero omelet and as others have pointed out the potatoes were ridiculously good. The juice was great, too. We had orange and orange/carrot. The service isn't typical rush you in / rush you out, but that's ok by me. The waitress was also nice enough to bring some fresh mango over for our son while we waited for our meals. Very nice!
(5)James V.
Tiztal cafe is just a few blocks away from me every day, and I don't believe I'll make it over there again. It's not that the oatmeal smoothie isn't as good as everyone says it is. It's not that the food isn't good, because it is. It's not the free wi-fi or the nice atmosphere that will keep me away. It's the fact that I can't have one of those famous smoothies and a plate of anything and walk out having spent less than twelve bucks. The oatmeal smoothie tastes much better than I'd imagined it, with sweet oatmeal and what almost tasted like vanilla ice cream blended to cold perfection. Served in a traditional milkshake glass, I was halfway done with it before I knew it. Struggling to not gulp it down, I still managed to finish it off in just a few moments. While it was satisfying for what it was, I was already out $4.71 with tax. The majority of their dishes sounded very tasty, and they've got a great reputation for fresh ingredients, but with an eight dollar average, this college student was just not in the mood to splurge on breakfast items at 5 in the afternoon. I paid for my smoothie, thanked the nice woman behind the counter, and headed out on my merry way.
(3)R J.
I enjoyed my oatmeal shake and pesto cream cheese filled omelet here a couple of weeks ago. Excellent quality ingredients and a creative menu. With future visits, I look forward to trying the more adventurous Mexican/American comfort food menu here...
(4)Paige W.
Not bad, you know? I met the incomparable Colleen C. for a late breakfast at Tiztal Cafe on a drizzly summer Saturday, and let's be honest: I expected gold-flecked chorizo and magical eggs based on her glowing review. Well, the sausage was not gilded, and my eggs were a little greasy. Not magical. But my perfectly chilly, slightly chunky, subtly sweetened oatmeal shake made up for all that. (Not as good as Irazu's, but come on. How could it be.) In fact, the shake made me feel so much better about said chorizo and eggs that I actually finished everything on my plate. Shit, maybe the eggs WERE magical. Food aside -- obviously, that's not the only thing that lends itself to a good experience -- Tiztal is quite a lovely place. The decor is beautifully done, from the cappuccino-colored walls to the art adorning them. At least one piece was for sale. The restaurant was no more than half full, and it was quiet enough for a good conversation. But loud enough for PG-13 girl talk. Free wi-fi and the prospect of a high-class all-night dining option -- provided they do good enough business in the first few months, according to Colleen -- give this place some serious potential. I'd make the trek again, if for no other reason than to sample a juice blend with beet. I'm just so curious. It's a quick jaunt from all directions: Lincoln Square to the east, Uptown to the west, Andersonville to the north and Lakeview to the south. Give it a try.
(4)Rafael C.
I've been back a few times since my original review and I had to update Tiztal up to 5 stars. I brought some friends with me on one visit and they were blown away by the food and even more the service. The staff went way out of their way to formerly introduce them to Tiztal and they ate it up! So they don't have many sweet items on the menu but I'm now willing to forgive that because the savory items rock (yummy potatoes) and also the Oatmeal shake is good enough sweets for me! Oh one last thing, it is still not that hard to get seated even on a weekend so I'm somewhat happy for my sake but what is the sense on yelping if not to share a great breakfast joint. So check them out!
(5)Jess B.
My husband and I love this spot. The breakfast options are fresh and delicious...and the potatoes...yummy!! Recently a new chef began making a fresh red salsa, be sure to ask for this delicious accompaniment. Also, my husband claims the swiss and mushroom burger he had here was the best in the city! Friendly service...I don't mind different servers lending a hand throughout our meal as long as the food is good (and it is). Yes, for some strange reason the check does take longer to arrive than I would like. Perhaps they want to encourage lingering? Not sure. On warm days they open the patio in the back, which is a real urban oasis. Overall, great place!
(5)Becky R.
I so wanted to jump on the Tiztal bandwagon. I will probably give them another shot because the food was good, but there were other problems with the meal. Pros: 1. I had the chorizo scramble. I liked that there was a smaller version available, which I ordered. It was really tasty and pretty unusual. 2. The potatoes. Probably some of the bestest potatoes at a brunch spot in Chicago. 3. The decor is really warm and inviting. Cons: 1. The place was bumpin' at 10:30 on a Sunday. There was no wait because there was just one two top left -- it was crammed pretty much smack dab in the middle of the restaurant and in EVERYONE's way. In retrospect, we should have just waited. Or the restaurant should just take away this table. It was so cramped that the waitress actually knocked over our A-1 sauce with her bum while serving the next table. Luckily, it didn't break. 2. I ordered my chorizo scramble without tomatoes because I don't like tomatoes. Never have, never will. I wish I did. It would make life a lot simpler. Anyway, it came with the tomatoes. Not a huge deal, but annoying nonetheless. Strike One on my order. 3. I also ordered a glass of grapefruit juice with my meal. It didn't come, it didn't come. When our order finally arrived (it took a while), I reminded the waitress. Still no grapefruit juice. I had to ask several times. Strike Two on my order. 4. I ordered rye toast. I got white. At this point, there was no point in complaining. Strike Three with my order. Now, I realize that none of these things by themselves is particularly egregious, but I found it pretty spectacular that they managed to mess up my order in THREE different ways. Especially since the menu states right on it that all scrambles and omelets can be customized. They might want to work on that. When I pointed out the tomato problem to the waitress, I could tell she was afraid I was going to send it back. I didn't. 5. It took forever to get our check. We asked multiple times. I found it surprising that they could forget about our table when we were literally right in the middle of the restaurant. Like I said, I'll give them another shot because the food was good, but these mistakes were pretty much Restaurant 101.
(3)Mary F.
Lawd....I just had the chilequiles with grilled chicken and scrambled eggs, and hot sauce and salsa verde and onion, and I feel so delightfully satisfied. Their patio is open but we sat inside for the A/C. The pics on this review site just don't do the inside of this place justice. Very nice interior and great service. Open for breakfast and lunch. Hubby's hamburger looked yummy. He said it was yummy, and I believe him. Hooray to Tiztal. Well done.
(5)S. M.
If you like breakfast food this is a great place to go. The chiaquiles is very yummy but can get soggy if you try to take it home. The potatoes are very good and not bland at all. You should also try the oatmeal shake but share with a friend bc its pretty big!
(4)Lourdes A.
Went here for Saturday brunch after a long run with my running team. Staff is really friendly and accommodated our huge group of 20+ people. We took over their small but charming patio. Since our group arrived at different times, they were gracious enough to split the bill into like 4 tabs. They also brought out samples of their now famous oatmeal shake for our group to try as well as full sized pineapple shakes for a few random and lucky members of our group. Food was good and reasonably priced. They have a small but interesting selection of omelettes, which they stuff with everything from chorizo to feta. My friend and I split the feta, tomato and onion omelette and french toast. The omelette was served with garlicky diced potatoes, which were amazing! We split the dish before I tasted anything otherwise I might've kept more of those on my plate! The omelette itself was very good and one of our friends who had the chorizo omelette was raving about his. The French toast was only ok though. All in all, a good experience. I would return in a heartbeat. Parking was easy and the wait was next to none. It seems like one of Uptown's well-guarded secrets...for now.
(3)Brian P.
Yum. Had a good breakfast there this morning. Omelette was really nicely done, fresh and light. My friend got cheese quesadilas which he said were good. The menu looked like there was a lot more to explore, so I'll be back for breakfast or brunch.
(4)Aaron K.
In one word, Fresh. The amount of fruit this place goes through must be amazing. The omelets were good, but the accompanying potatoes really stole the show. The fresh fruit waffles looked great...definitely will return to give those a try. Don't be afraid of the beet juice in the vampiro. The day I was there, they came out with free samples which completely changed my mind on what beets would taste like. My only complaint was the wait. They were a bit understaffed during the Sunday brunch service when I was there, making what should have been a quick meal (juice and omelets for 2) take around 75 minutes.
(4)trina b.
Scrumdiliyumscious! Is that really a word? Is that how you spell it? You know what? I don't care! It's the only word that comes to mind when I think Tiztal Cafe that best describes it! So take that dictionary! I decided to check this place out after reading Colleen C's update on her already mouthwatering earlier review. I was locked in on this place at the mention of fabulous breakfast potatoes, but then she, and everyone else as I read others reviews, had to mention that oatmeal shake. I promptly made plans to get our bottoms over there to try out this legendary shake. And it did not disappoint! Once we found a seat that we liked, we were promptly visited by a woman offering samples of some sort of yummy fruity shake. That's my kind of place! But I couldn't be swayed from my pre-picked out shake flavor. I was daydreaming of it on the way there. And it was everything I could have hoped for. It was flavorful and just the right consistancy, not to thick and not to thin. There were still some bits of oats in the shake which was nice. It had the flavor to me of really good granola. Sweet, but not too sweet. It was WONDERFUL. Get it. Enough said. They also make fresh squeezed juices and my hubby had grapefruit juice and he was happy with it. But I saw him eyeing my oatmeal shake. I'm a nice wife and I let him have a couple sips. But that's it. I'm nice but I'm not crazy. The food is just as tasty. We both opted for more savory choices. He got the chorizo eggs etc etc and he really liked it. They have the option to get 4 eggs or 2 and he went with 2. It was plenty with the potatoes and the toast. Oh don't worry, I didn't forget the potatoes! Delish! They were cooked perfectly, not tough, not dried out, but crisp on the outside and soft on the inside. And they were smothered in real garlic. Not that powder crap. The real stuff! And other spices too but the garlic was the standout. I had eggs with feta, tomatoes and onions and it was large and flavorful and the feta chunks were the size of those 50 cent pieces that no one has anymore for good reason because they are huge, but they do finally come in handy to illustrate my point on the feta. We didn't have to wait for a table and the service was friendly and fast, what more can you ask for? They also said that soon they will be opening up a patio and will be extending their hours! I think that deserves a big, Wahoo! All in all, fantastic and we will be back again to partake in all that yumminess. Yum.
(5)Josh E.
I've been to Tiztal a couple times now, once by myself and another time with a group. Both times the service was excellent, given the different contexts. The first time the service was sparse, as expected, because I was deep into my book. The second time it was attentive, just as it should have been. I've had great service at Tiztal. The food was certainly delicious, but I wouldn't say it's the best breakfast in town...though maybe the best breakfast in Uptown (I don't venture there often). My waffles were plain, similar to the ones I can make for myself at a Marriott Courtyard's continental breakfast. I wasn't very impressed. The Chilaquiles, on the other hand, was scrumptious to the last bite. Waaaay too much food, which can be a good thing. I like the juices and shakes, but at about $4 a pop, weekend breakfast quickly starts to become a more expensive outing than I prefer. Call me cheap... When all is said and done, Tiztal is one of those small, family owned businesses that I'm proud to get behind. It's great, and it will improve. And I will be back.
(4)Vicki W.
My sister and I were looking for a new brunch place, so we decided to check out Tiztal after seeing a review in the Red Eye. We went on a late Saturday afternoon about two weeks ago. It was good timing since we got a nearby parking space and were seated immediately upon arrival. The coffee was solidly good, but it took a bit of time before I got a refill. When I did get a second cup, it was more like a half cup. That's okay. I'll take it as a sign that I don't need all that caffeine. I ordered an omelet with mushrooms and green bell peppers that was slathered with salsa. The eggs were good, but the salsa tasted bottled. Our toast didn't arrive until midway into our meal and we had to ask for it. The breakfast potatoes were probably the best I've ever had anywhere. They had the perfect amount of seasoning and ratio of exterior crunch to interior softness. Since my sister and I are greedy grubbers, we also ordered a "dessert" waffle. They brought loads of toppings out - ice cream, fresh fruit, syrup and a strawberry yogurt sauce. It was a nice end to a hearty and filling meal. This place has a warm, intimate feel (the owner came to our table to see if all was well, the teenage son seated us and the little girl helped clear the table / brought us the check) and is well on its way to becoming a popular Chicago brunch spot. I want to go back to try that oatmeal shake everyone has been raving about and maybe some of the lunch items.
(3)Mae N.
It was three in the afternoon. I didn't have breakfast or lunch yet, and my friends and I were getting hungry. Our usual standby, Over Easy, was closed already, but I remember a relatively new place that just opened by my neighborhood that had been getting pretty good reviews on Yelp. So off we went! It was relatively empty by the time we got there, we felt pretty bad that it was a half hour before closing time. Rosemary, the owner, took us in anyway and got us settled in. This place deserved each of those five stars. Our food came out pretty fast, but extremely delicious. We all pretty much took a bite out of each other's food (and more, I have to admit), and the shakes were DIVINE. My friends got the pineapple shake and the strawberry smoothie each, while I got the famous oatmeal shake. My god, I don't like oatmeal that much, but that shake was like an oatmeal cookie.. and I love those! Extremely delicious! Rosemary, bless her heart, gave each of us samples of the other people's shakes AND gave us the leftovers from the blenders. How awesome is that!? She was very nice and chatted with us about the place, and even gave us coupons for next time! Trust me, there will be a next time as I will definitely bring more people and spread the word about this place.
(5)Hugh M.
This place is just around the corner from us, and we've found it to be a great alternative to greasy diner breakfasts - they serve delicious juice beverages and make terrific omelets. Their potatoes are crispy and deliciously seasoned. The owner/cooks/servers are very friendly and the whole vibe is nice. It isn't on a main drag - I hope folks from Lincoln Square, Ravenswood, Lakeview, Andersonville, and other parts of Uptown come over to our neighborhood to check it out. Oh, and also - very few, if any, typos or errors in the menu. I don't know about everyone else, but I find this very refreshing - makes you feel like the proprietors are really trying.
(4)Elaine C.
Yes, I'm in love with Tiztal. The oatmeal shake, duh. It's more of a horchata shake with oats. It's delicious. I had Leslie's scramble with salsa and fruit. The scramble was awesome--fresh veggies and lots of them. Then the side of fruit was just amazing--fresh mango, pineapple, watermelon, etc. If more places served a side of fruit like this, then more people may be eating fruit instead of potatoes. My dining companion ordered the Chilaquiles which looked and tasted phenomenal. The coffee was filled up as fast as I can drink it and our waitress and probably one of the owners was the sweetest little thing. She even brought us samples of the milkshake before she brought out the whole thing. Here's what makes me want to add a 6th star: An older lady sat down at the table next to us. Much older. And she didn't look completely healthy. She ordered a grilled cheese with potatoes. When they brought her food, the nice waitress/owner asked if she could bring her some fruit complimentary. Way to spread the health, lady! I heart you, Tiztal. I'll be back for sure.
(5)Deepika T.
I hate waking up over the weekends. But ever since I discovered Tiztal around the corner from my home, I've been a very happy girl.. Seriously people, get moving - and get to Tiztal Cafe! - Its cozy without being too small - The service is really really good, the hot coffee just doesn't stop, and they actually remember you! - The food is yummy - not too greasy, but tasty at the same time - They are happy to substitue veggies in place of meat - And they have these mind-blowing potatoes. *Sigh* What a perfect way to start the day :)
(5)Courtney C.
This is a great brunch spot. Most of the table went for the chilaquiles with salsa verde and they were very impressed. They commented that the salsa verde is some of the best that they've had at a breakfast spot. I went for the eggs benedict and was not disappointed. I'm not quite sure what they did to the hollandaise sauce, but it was different from others that I've had and it was very tasty. We all tried a different fruit smoothie or shake as they have many different to choose from on the menu. I think the winner was the oatmeal shake. It kind of tasted like horchata, but a bit thicker. The staff are extremely friendly. My brother had some of his chilaquiles wrapped up, and our waitress even added some extra potatoes (which were delicious) for him to take home. I would definitely go back again.
(4)Jean Z.
We've been here several times. The potatoes are too salty but everything else is perrrrrfect! If its not on the menu, ask and ye shall receive. Steak benedict? No problemo. Get a carrot/orange juice. Yum. Their coffee is delishhhhh. Thanks to my bro for introducing us to this place the day after it opened.
(4)howard g.
I've been here several times recently and Im hooked on the chilaquiles. Everyone we were with enjoyed what they ordered as well. Friendly, casual and reasonable with great food and a nice atmosphere.
(5)Blake M.
I made my way up to Tiztal today after seeing some of the great reviews, but I wasn't impressed. Since it is November and was freezing out today, it was a bummer that the door opens in, letting in bursts of 35 degree air with it. The tap water tasted very strange, and I decided against drinking any more than one sip. I ordered the chilaquiles with chicken, and these were decent, but not great. The homemade chips drenched in semi-spicy green salsa and covered in cheese were average, as were the eggs. The chicken was simply pan-cooked, which is definitely not the way I like it. Maybe I just had too high of expectations. The side of roasted potatoes were a nice, garlicy touch. My opinion of the drinks is mixed. They do have very good fresh squeezed orange juice, and the smoothies looked good too. I had a chance to taste the oatmeal milkshake, which was also quite good. However, I also ordered a cappucino, which was not very well made. The foam was huge, but not thick at all. Even though the waitress (owner?) was very nice, I can't give this place more than 3 stars. Maybe I'll have better luck if I order something else.
(3)Annaliza F.
AGAIN, I am still SO lucky to have friends that live right next to this place!!!! I ordered takeout....HOT DAMN!!!! The Zephyrs Omellette....w/ the cheesey potatoes??? Wha?? While waiting at their bar to pick up my order, they made my oatmeal shake, my friends strawberry shake, & another friends banana shake, then took the remains in each blender & put it all in 1 cup, parked it right in front of me & said, "Here, while you're waiting, try this!" All the strawberry, banana, oatmeal goodness....Woo-hoo!!!! Free Shake!!!! Soooooogooood, but it is filling.... So the service, food, everything.... RIDICULOUS!!!! I am sooooo coming here again, & again, & again.....BYOB!!!!
(5)Meghan S.
I have been here several times since they were featured in TOC. The waffles are my favorite with the fresh fruit and yummy strawberries and cream dip. The eggs are fabulous and like everyone else said the potatoes steal the show. They are savory and crispy. The owners are super nice and take the time to actually talk to you. Last time I was in with a big group they let us have a sneak peak at their patio outback and then offered to serve us breakfast out there! They were patient with our weird and v. specific orders and even brought everyone at the table a sample of the vampiro juice. They are getting better at making sure water glasses are filled and the wait time from ordering to eating gets shorter every time. If I could go everyday I would.
(4)mollie l.
A while back, I heard from a friend of a friend that when i moved to my new apartment by Wilson and Paulina that i would be very close to this great new breakfast place... Well, based on the glowing Yelp reviews of Tiztal Cafe, i decided to check it out this morning. The less than 3 block walk was great! I basically went in my sleeping clothes and put on a scarf---as this isn't the sort of neighborhood where i feel like i have to compete in a fashion show as soon as i walk out the door : ) I was the only diner in the place at about 11am, which is fine with me. It appeared that the owner/employees were eating breakfast etc. as well. The server (who may have been the owner or manager) had some great recommendations, and i ordered the crepes (with spinach, cream cheese, mushrooms, no ham) veggie style. I also ordered the juice blend that had oatmeal in it. It was sort of a "healthier version of the oatmeal shake," the server told me. My food came quickly and was delicious. My crepes came with a side of fresh fruit and potatoes. I thought i would have too much food to handle, especially with the addition of the shake--but somehow i managed to eat most of it! The crepes were delicate, and the filling well seasoned (but simple). The potatoes were garlicky ant tasty. The fresh fruit was a mix of mango, strawberries, pineapple and watermelon...yum. The juice blend had a shake-like consistency. With the addition of the oatmeal, it was thick and creamy, yet non-dairy. From what i was told, they blend this juice and then strain it. It was an interesting breakfast beverage, i must say! Overall, this place is a great find on a strip of Clark ave. with not much else except wholesale knock off designer handbags, and cheap imports. I would most definitely make this place my new go-to breakfast and lunch joint!
(4)Mary B.
I have been wanting to try this place for awhile now and finally made it over. This place is wonderful! I had a feta, tomato, and onion omelet that I have been craving since living in AZ and when I saw this on menu I looked no further. Friends had eggs benedict and waffles- which were excellent as well. The waffles came with a strawberry sauce and looked great. The fruit is amazingly fresh and when we raved about the food to the co owner she said that they cut everything as it is ordered- and it sure shows. I tried the oatmeal shake and it was tasty-tasty- the smoothies looked amazing too and I will have to try one next time. The potatoes are amazingly good!!! These are the epitome of breakfast potatoes. We did have to ask for the check when it was obvious that we were done, but I feel they just want you to relax and enjoy, they kept asking if we wanted our coffee refilled instead of our check- no biggie. This is for sure a great place for a wonderful meal, you will not be disappointed! They care about the food they are serving and do not cut corners at all.
(4)Ben E.
This is a very solid place to get consistently good, if not great, brunch food. The service is amazing, and even during the rush periods on weekends you can easily get a table. Since I only live about two blocks away, Tiztal is a fantastic place to visit if you're craving a diverse, freshly prepared, and very affordable menu. I only give the place four stars instead of five because it doesn't offer the kind of creative, innovative options that my favorite restaurants in the city provide. That's not to say that what Tiztal offers isn't of excellent quality, only that it stays within the traditional bounds of brunch as opposed to pushing things a little further, as is the case with Lula Cafe, for example. I definitely plan on going back to keep exploring the menu. There are enough choices here to keep anyone from being bored, and most of them are really satisfying. I wasn't thrilled by their biscuits and gravy (the biscuits weren't of the best quality, and the gravy was far too salty), but their omelettes are fantastic, the garlic potatoes are addictive, and they have the best link sausage I may have ever been served. A lot of love and effort has been put into Tiztal, and it shows.
(4)Andrew V.
Still exceptional. There are few places where I repeatedly walk out from with a big smile on my face having so completely enjoyed my dining experience. This is one of those. Had the hankering for the chorizo scramble but was easily persuaded to try one of the specials, the chilaquiles. And glad I did - superb. Tiztal makes their own tortillas and the results prove why with this. I did get the chorizo scramble on the side. Perfect amount of kick between the two. This combination might become my standard order. On my way out I noticed they also have a monte cristo. I asked if this was a special for the day or if they frequently offer it. She said, if I order it, they will make it .I can't wait to return. I could eat here every day.
(5)Jina A.
Yum Yum Yum.......A friend and I went to this place sunday for breakfast after he checked out the reviews from yelp so we decided to give a it a try since he knew I loved chilaquiles. They did not disappoint me at all it was perfect!! Portions are great for the price and the service was good too. What I was amazed at is their oatmeal shakes delicious delicious I've never had one and this place made me love oatmeal again...Can't wait to take a few friends here who would appreciate the food portions and of course the shakes....
(4)Stefanie W.
WOW. Thank you Colleen C. for sharing the awesome, and thank you Julee M. for being hungry on Sunday! We were here for a late brunch. Parking was easy, and the restaurant was not crowded. The room is nicely done and feels very open. The service was great, I got the impression that we were being helped by the owner, but I'm not positive on that. I had the Famous Zephyr omelette (stuffed with spinach and cream cheese, topped with swiss) with a side of the absolutely heavenly garlic potatoes. We shared an oatmeal shake which I have been craving more of ever since. Everything tasted divine. I did not know until today that this place was related to Zephyr. I have to say the food at Tiztal was WAY better than Zephyrs was. I can't wait to go back to sample the rest of the dishes, and with them opening 24 hours on weekends, I can guarantee it won't be long before I'm back!
(5)Emily Y.
I'm giving this one 3.5 stars. Food was good, and no wait on a Sunday at 11 am is a huge plus. I had the chorizo scramble, which was yummy but not incredibly memorable. Not as much flavor as I was expecting. The breakfast potatoes on the other hand -- very memorable. Salty and garlicy, just the way I like 'em. They definitely outshine most other fancy schmancy breakfast place's potatoes. Fiance had the meat lover's omlette, which was HUGE. He was pleased. I was feeling a bit too full for the oatmeal shake, so I'm going to have to go back for that one. I did have the carrot-orange juice, which was very tasty, and served in a fun, tall milkshake glass. Coffee was decent and they were quick with the refills. Service was quick, friendly, efficient. My one problem was the atmosphere -- just a few too many tables crammed together, I thought. And I know people who gots kids need to get out too, but....five screaming babies/toddlers in this tiny place all at once was a little much for me to handle on a Sunday morning. I'll be back for the oatmeal shake, for sure. For breakfast, I think I'd be content to hit up a diner instead.
(3)Stacy C.
Been here for breakfast twice and have been very pleased each time. The oatmeal shake is awesome. Very filling though. I had the french toast the first time which was good and the last time i just had the potatoes - which are excellent. I've found the service to be top notch each time. All of the wait staff drop by to check on you, see how things are, refill your coffee. Very attentive. This last time we were, there our server made sure to get our order in before a table of 6 who just sat down ordered so we wouldnt be waiting long. Much appreciated.
(4)Lara S.
A couple of things to mention right off the bat - it's seat yourself, although they bring the menus to you, it's a very egg & meat-centric menu (though it does have some vegetarian offerings as well) and it can get loud really quickly. I went here with my boyfriend on Sunday afternoon for what should've been breakfast, but we'll call it "First Meal" since it took place at about 1:30p.m. and we were able to score a table right away, although that left only one other open that we could see. At first, it wasn't clear whether or not we were supposed to be greeted to get a table so we discovered that it's seat-yourself after a couple minutes of awkwardly standing by the front door with puzzled looks on our faces. We took our seats and a couple more minutes went by before we had menus to look at. They handed us two laminated menus which seemed somewhat similar to each other... I kept thinking one was breakfast and the other was lunch but I couldn't see a clear delineation as to why they were separate. Either way, my eyes went straight to the juices and after reading the names, I couldn't pass up a chance to order "Vampiro" - a garden variety juice that comes out fresh and frothy... and the color of blood. I gotta admit, it was fun to drink just for the sake of the color, but tasted great, too... Although that being said, my boyfriend made a face after tasting it that was akin to something you might see on someone who had just watched a gory scene in a film or was forced to rip the seeds out of a pumpkin by hand (ew). Getting someone to take the order was a bit of a challenge, however they did have two large parties to take care of and one of the waitstaff seemed very lost - perhaps he was new because he kept trying to auction off items to the wrong table. Having been a server for 8 years, I'll cut him a break but will be less willing to do so if I see that the next time we venture in here for "First Meal." My boyfriend had steak and egg chilaquiles and I had french toast with a side of Tiztal breakfast potatoes. The waitress asked him how he wanted his steak cooked, which I thought was odd in the first place considering the steaks in most steak'n'egg combos are so thin that the temperature always comes out well done, but decided to give it a chance. He said medium rare, and yep - it was definitely well done. I'm not saying that to imply that it wasn't juicy, though, as he said it was decent considering the cut of the meat (again, we're talking about breakfast steak, here) and the rest of his dish he said was good. My french toast had a great texture although was a little bland, relying fairly heavily on the maple syrup for a flavor worth mentioning, and I felt similarly about my breakfast potatoes. The potatoes, cooked with onions, cilantro and cheese, were again great in texture but a bit lacking in the taste department; a few teaspoons worth of Cholula sauce fixed that right up. Halfway through the meal, one of the very sweet and well-meaning servers came over to refill our waters and then left with half of my potatoes... She was in such a rush that we couldn't catch her and I was sad to see them go... And yet, when we were ready to call it quits and head out, another server came by to remove our finished plates (I had only finished about 40% of my french toast because I was full) and seemed a tad disappointed that we didn't want take-home boxes, however in our defense, we weren't sure that the food would make it to a fridge soon enough to be saved and so opted out of taking it with us. And then another 5 minutes went by or so before we could get our bill and pay. So overall, the service was distracted and a bit all over-the-place, the food was great in some areas and slightly off in others, and the juice was fresh and delicious. I'm certainly willing to give this place another shot to bump it up to 4 stars, and if nothing else, it's a great back-up for breakfast, as I live about one mile away.
(3)Mark M.
Great food and service. That idiot Mark who gave it 1 star is the biggest moron I've ever seen. He was expecting fine dining and thought that a $30 check was too high. LMAO!
(4)Jeff J.
My wife and I just tried Tiztal Cafe for the first time this morning. In summary: great service and great food. Absolutely loved the oatmeal shake. I'm not a shake person, but had read about this from other reviewers and thought we'd give it a shot. Super tasty. Had the chilaquiles - which I enjoyed. My wife had a crepe similar to the Zehphyr omelet, which she enjoyed, but noted that it was not what she was expecting.
(4)Rob R.
A friend of mine showed me this place for the first time today....took me there for lunch. I fell in love very quickly!! The food is good and plentiful, but my first love affair was the homemade salsa that they put on the side of my omelet. It is one of the most amazing hot sauces I have ever tasted! Chit chat with the owner was so charming, as is the decor. Then we got a small taste of a banana oatmeal shake....YUM!! I can't wait to get back there. They have a Facebook page, and a website is forthcoming. Do yourself a favor and stop in sometime....and if you like hot sauce, trying that is a must! LOL Enjoy!
(5)Elizabeth E.
Excellent chilaquiles! I will definitely be back!
(4)Greg R.
Very cool casual place for brunch. It felt like you were going to someone's mom's place for breakfast, but someone that could really cook. Very little wait and just homey. I can't remember what we got, so I apologize on the menu rec's but everything we had was very good and well priced. One thing you have to get is the oatmeal shake. If you ever go to Costa Rican places they usually have what seems to be a thin oatmeal shake, these are thicker and so much better.
(4)Karen H.
My girlfriends and I went here for a post-run breakfast and loved it! Quiet, inexpensive and has a lovely patio out back. I had a smoothie that was made fresh and my friends both had egg white omelets with their favorite veggies. It was a beautiful sunny morning and it was lovely to sit outside and enjoy a new spot we just happened to stumble across.
(5)Jo-Elle M.
Given the reviews here on Yelp I tried Tiztal on Saturday, and I was happy to discover that Tiztal did rock! My friend had a crepes dish - which he said was awesome, and I stuck with a basic omelet with the yummy garlic potatoes. We both had the oatmeal shake...oh yeah - yum city! Surpisingly no wait at 11am on Saturday, but soon after we sat down, the place filled up. We even got coupons for a free smoothie on our next visit. And yes, Virginia, there is going to be a next time. Thanks Yelpers, for the tip on this fab brunch find!
(4)Gonka D.
Ill keep this one brief - BREAKFAST POTATOES OATMEAL SHAKE Since the first time I have been there (opening day) and the many times after I have not been able to recreate the potatoes at home. I cook a lot and for some reason something as simple as a breakfast potato has escaped me...these are DIVINE! The oatmeal shake is something I hadn't tried until going with a friend and I am so glad I did...the only mistake was splitting it...dumb. Rosemary is a delight - always friendly and always remembers you. That's a big plus in our hood! My rating would be a definite 4.5 if it weren't for the total bill price. A little high for breakfast but in the long run worth every penny for those potatoes...what is in those!!!
(4)Rich Z.
I had brunch here with my brother, his Girlfriend and my Son last weekend. The Eggs Benedict with steak was PHENOMENAL!!! I had the Chilaquiles and they were excellent. My only complaint was the service, it was slow very friendly, but slow. It seemed to take a long time for our food to come out (my guess was that was caused by the fact they make the holandaise for the Eggs Bennies from scratch for each order) and I ordered my eggs over easy and they came scrambled. I'm not the kind that will make a big stink over that so I didn't send it back and it was really well done otherwise. Outside of that the experience was a real winner!!!
(4)Eric B.
Excellent breakfast place! Unique food that is maybe a little over seasoned, but very imaginative and tasty. You have to order the fresh squeezed orange juice. The chilaquiles are great with the chicken, and the potatoes are to die for; crispy and not bland like typical breakfast potatoes. The owner was there and very friendly, giving free samples of the oatmeal shake(much, much better than it sounds).
(5)miriam y.
Finally tried this place out last weekend--will definitely be back. Had classy huevos rancheros--so good with breakfast potatoes! You have to try the fresh jugo as well--carrot/orange was delightful.
(4)Alfonso G.
I one word: DYNAMITE!! I was born in Mexico and I have tried a big number of Mexican restaurants so when I found El Tizatl I though "Am I in Mexico" The flavor, service, and freshness of its food is just like being in Mexico, for those who are meet lovers try Scramble eggs with Chorizo by the way their chorizo is not greasy at all. Their shakes are phenomenal. Thank Dios there is a place that bring me memories of La Condesa neighborhood in Mexico City.
(5)Matt L.
What am I missing here? The service was more abominable than that snowman I built back in '87 that came to life and gave me a wedgie. The shakes and potatoes were very good, but the chilaquiles that everyone seems to love here were completely flavorless. I got steak with mine and it was Totes McNasty. Once again, I was burnt by trying to eat somewhere near mixteco without actually going to mixteco. It's a recipe for failure, which sucks, because I hate making failure!
(2)Ryan H.
The food here was excellent and the atmosphere was laid back. The service was slow once we had our food and it took forever to get our waitress to take our money. We did get attention from the owner who was pleasant and very amicable. I had the Chorizo scramble which was awesome. I asked for hollandaise sauce with it, but the sauce was served cold. The taste of the food more than made up for it though and I would definitely go there again. It is a great value for the money and a comfortable place for Sunday brunch without the press and crowding of places like Orange and m.henry.
(3)Sean H.
Tiztal is a solid alternative to your standard diner fare. It is a diner with a Mexican twist. The potatoes are awesome.
(4)Tracy C.
This place was excellent, all 3 of us thoroughly enjoyed our meals. Had a taste of the Oatmeal shake at the end of our meal and that was a nice surprise. Coffee was tasty and HOT! Service was fine, very pleasant. Great breakfast! Want to come back for chilliques! Yum!
(4)Lindsay M.
This place is awesome. I could just order an oatmeal shake and their potatoes and be in heaven. While the restaurant is hopping on weekends, I've enjoyed several quiet weekday lunches there with the owner excitedly bringing me samples of juice as requested and taking the time to describe her menu favorites. (Where else does this happen?!) To find out that they're now open 24 hours on the weekends...whoo hoo! You will find me there eating post-Cubs game celebratory waffles, wondering how I ever lived before Titzal's oatmeal shake. (Anything involving the strawberry creme sauce is also highly recommended.)
(5)TheCriticizer S.
Tiztal is my favorite place to go for fresh juice! The Vampiro brings me back to life everytime! Their oatmeal shake is the best shake I have ever had! The patty melt is the only patty melt that deserves to be called a patty melt! The potatoes with the chipotle sauce are the best! Everything there is awesome! Lastly, the service is extremely friendly and professional!!!! Thank you Tiztal!!!!
(5)Lita B.
Amazing food and liquados!!! So yummy.
(5)Alexandra B.
really amazing chilaquiles and delicious breakfast potatoes! yummy fresh-squeezed oj and a variety of other fresh juices too that i plan on trying next time. my boyfriend had steak and eggs - i tried his steak and it was AMAZING (ill be getting that next time)! he had a side of biscuits & gravy and said it was really good too. also really good, nice, attentive service and they only charged us for one coffee even though we had 2 :) pretty small-sized place - we didnt have to wait for a table because we got there around 10:30am, but by the time we were leaving every table was full - so if you come during the breakfast rush you may have to wait a few minutes. totally worth it though! really glad we tried tiztal cafe. we'll definitely come back!
(5)Rachel Y.
I'm amazed I haven't gone to this place for so long and I've lived around the corner from it for over two years! I finally went with my mom for brunch when she was in town and I'm so glad we went! She had the egg whites with feta cheese, tomatoes and mushrooms and I had a mushroom omelet with chorizo and cheddar cheese melted on top. Both of us loved our meals! We didn't have coffee but for one order of tea you got a whole tea pot that we shared which was nice. It was a very nice casual and comfortable experience - I recommend checking it out!
(4)Kay S.
Such a good breakfast place. We've been going since they opened. The oatmeal shake is like a little piece of heaven sucked through a straw. Yum. And the potatoes are seriously good. I do forget about it since it's in a weird location. We hadn't been in a while and attempted to go on the Sunday prior to labor day. It was closed and we went at 8am.
(4)Michelle Z.
Great breakfast! I had an egg white omelet with tons of veggies. It came with feta which I requested be put on the side. The omelet also came with potatoes or cottage cheese and toast, all for around $8. I thought the portion size was great, flavor was great and the service was good. I had a bite of my friends country fried steak. WOW. The best country fried steak ever! Next time I want to ruin my diet, that is what I am having! This place is not very fancy but the food was delish!
(5)Odette O.
I'm so happy that this place exists! It would deserve four stars, except they seem to put toooo much cheese on everything. Other than that, their smooth tunes, clean, bright and friendly restaurant is a much needed brunch spot in the neighbourhood.
(3)Kathryn M.
OMG! I love everything about Tizatal Cafe. Easy-peasy street parking right in front, no wait at noon on a Sunday, super friendly staff who dish out free samples of oatmeal shakes, art work for sale by local artists, cute decor that feels homey and relaxing, and FANTASTIC food that makes your bank account happy. I went slightly overboard when ordering my brunch, but everything looked delish. I had french toast which was really good and a big portion, sausage, and the breakfast potatoes with cheese. Definitely enough food for 2 meals, which makes the prices an even bigger steal! It was so nice to sit and enjoy a great meal with friends without feeling rushed. I will sooooo be back.
(5)Alex V.
This place has good food and is very close to my place. I usually get the chiliquiles when I come to Tiztal. If not that then the huevos con chorizo. Both of which are great. I won't order the bacon anymore cause most of the times it comes burnt. I will always get the cinnamon toast. It is sooo good. Now I'm not a big coffee drinker but some reason the coffee here is outstanding. I tried the oatmeal milkshake just cause everyone was talking about it but it just didn't do it for me. The service here is fast and friendly.
(4)LC S.
MMM oatmeal shake & chilaquiles!! And they always treat you sweet.
(4)Jessica R.
I came here today for an "Office Hours" Yelp event. My expectations were very high considering everyone (Maggie R.) had been talking about how excellent it was. My expectations were very much met. The much-talked-about Oatmeal Shake was nothing short of orgasmic. And the garlic potatoes were of the same caliber. The waitstaff was super friendly, even though we were kind of a pain in the ass. I shall return again and again for that awesome Oatmeal climax.
(5)Jessica C.
Yah....I'm all over Tiztal. I had read reviews a little bit ago when they first opened, but just never made it there. Last week I just moved right around the corner and figured I'd pop in and see what all the fuss was about. I went on a Sunday morning for brunch at about 10. There wasn't a wait, but every table was taken. I think we had just made it in time because as we sat down, I saw a handful of suckers waiting outside 'till they could come in and get a seat. We were greeted right away by our server and another women as well, I believe she may be the owner. Man, these ladies made me feel like I was in someone's mother's ktichen being served homemade food. That's a good thing. We take a look at the menu. Small, but complete. Sometimes thats the best way, quick and to the point. I actually ended up getting one of the specials that our server had mentioned to us. I would have rather it had been on a card or on the menu, as I didn't quite understand what it entailed and ended up getting enough food to feed an army. A happy army they would have been though, after eating Tiztal's Chiliquilles! They fry their own chips and they fry them to perfection. Any chip that can withstand being drenched in chili sauce and still hold a bit of a crunch is a chip indeed. Now, if the green chili sauce is too hot on Chiliquilles, you run the risk of burning your face off. This sauce was fresh and round with a little bit of kick, but not enough to built on your tongue and make you wanna suck on a firehose. Accompanying my chiliquilles were some scrambled eggs, a lightly sauted chicken breast and their signature garlic potatoes. AMAZING!!!!!! Among all this delciousness, I am observing shakes (yes they have oatmeal shakes) and juices flying around the place. I didn't have the chance to get one, but you better believe I'm go'n back for some of that. Whose with me? They don't have soy yet, but the owner (i think) said that they will be getting it soon due to many requests. Until then, I can't wait to go in again and order up some carrot and beat juice or their oatmeal/orange/apple juice. I'm pleased!
(5)Mike T.
Chilaquiles and Country Breakfast (Country Fried Steak and Biscuits and Gravy).....Mmmmmmmmmmmmmm!
(4)Julee M.
Thank you Yelp for introducing me to this place. I just had brunch with a friend here and it was seriously one of the best breakfasts/brunches I have ever had. The service was excellent. The coffee was top notch. The oatmeal shake was incredible. I had the daily special which was spinach and mushroom crepes with cream cheese. Out of this world! Best crepes I've had and they need to add it to the regular menu. The potatoes...phenomenal! What do they put on those things? Best part is that it's 3 blocks from my house! I will be back again...and again...and again.
(5)Nater P.
Seriously 5 stars all the way, this place is worth the trip north. The oatmeal shake is a must try - it'll fill you up, but oh so yummy. Following a friend's recommendation, we all had chilaquilles (steak, chicken, or chorizo), and wow- we could not stop raving. Potatoes were seasoned perfectly, and fresh squeezed juice was divine. To top it off, the owners/staff are so very very friendly - made us feel very welcome. I'll be back soon- for sure.
(5)K C.
Enjoyed the food, the mexican hot chocolate was particular delicious and the eggs very fluffy. I would've enjoyed my pecan waffle even more if they used real maple syrup - that said the waffle itself was pretty darn good! If possible, I highly recommend the couch as the place to sit. I was there with my Sig-O- and felt like we are at a B&B all cozy on a couch getting served good food!
(4)Tlafi K.
The food was yummy and reasonably priced. The oatmeal banana smoothie was so amazing. That's a great drink and it filled me up. Great breakfast drink.Couldn't even finish my food. The service was just ok If the service was exceptional, I would have given this place a 5 star. Will definitely come back.
(4)Donna L.
Always a good time when I come here.... Had the egg white omelet with feta with some yummy cottage cheese... Hit the spot. Service is always good. Eggs Benedict are delicious as well. Everything is so fresh and perfectly made. Of course the oatmeal milkshake brings everything together. We also shared an AWESOME waffle - OMG. They had our customized chocolate chips inside the waffle.. Not like places just throwing them on top! Great family place.
(5)Morgan D.
Loved the breakfasts here. Delicious oatmeal shake too. Very happy with the portion sizes. We split a order of pancakes and a breakfast plate. Yum
(5)Mike J.
Egg chilaquiles- -chips with cheese and mild salsa dressing-3.5 -eggs and hash brown- 5...
(5)Larry H.
I'm in a mexican-ish brunch phase of my life, and also an oatmeal shake phase. So it figures that Tiztal and I would cross paths. I was fully prepared for this place to be average, or a let down, but it was neither. The oatmeal shake (actually I got oatmeal pecan) was amazing, though priced fairly highly ($5 or so). However it was worth every penny because I am dreaming of oatmeal shakes forever now. I wish it was cheaper and there was more of it, but I guess that's what I want for everything. Their oatmeal shake differs from others in that it is heavier, I believe they use ice cream. Other places use oatmeal to provide the thickness, but here it is mostly for flavor. For food I got the... country fried steak/eggs/biscuit/gravy/potatoes plate thing. I guess when you write it out like that, it sounds pretty ridiculous. Was $10 but it did fill me up nice. Those with a mouth for texture (like me!) will note that the country fried steak maintained some crispness despite being in gravy, and also that the potatoes, cut in a homestyle way, were cooked with love/spices and had crispy skins. The biscuit was nice and soft but the top/bottom had that nice baked crust on it. A rare feat all around. I also tasted some Eggs Rancheros (not called huevos here) and the sauce was a step up from other places, which taste more canned. So good job there too. It was Saturday late morning when we went and there was no wait, maybe because some folk were sitting in their patio. I prefer to sit inside, so NO PROBLEM. So, most people know them for their oatmeal shake and that reputation is well deserved. However the brunch food is also excellent, so put them together and you got bumpin' all night (actually I think they are brunch only). Next time I come here maybe I try the chilaquiles. pet peeve side story: unaware of what credit cards they took, when the check arrived I saw it was in a black leather AMEX folder thing. Surely this means they take AMEX, right? wrong. I looked like a fool and had to use mastercard. MAN WHY YOU USING AMEX FOLDERS WHEN YOU DON'T TAKE AMEX??? (they take the other big3 though)
(4)Kelcie M.
Great Oatmeal Pecan Shake. For breakfast food, pretty good. I'm giving it 3 stars for the food, but the shake would totally be a 5 star!
(3)Gina S.
Great service...amazing food...we had a party of 10 and everything was great. We did have to send back eggs for being over cooked but all in all it was great#! Definitely recommend! ! Oatmeal shakes!!!
(5)Neha M.
PROS oatmeal shakes juices those garlicky potatoes the service - all the women who run and manage this place are kind and lovely very generous portions fresh ingredients outdoor seating reasonable pricing CONS the chorizo & eggs chiqaquiles that we had had some issues there was no taste of chorizo in the scrambled eggs eggs were slightly overcooked side of nachos, cheese and delicious salsa verde had become wet and soggy and was like a sloppy blob of great flavours but poor texture i will come back and perhaps not order the chiqaquiles. the oatmeal shakes are a mean in and of themselves and i'll go back for those for sure.
(3)Eizabeth K.
This might be my favorite brunch spot in the city. The milkshakes are amazing... Food is fresh,lots of flavor, and quality ingredients. Highly recommend for great brunch experience that doesn't break the wallet
(5)Shannon K.
I'm usually pretty wordy in my reviews. For this review, I will state some important facts and then get down to business. Facts: Cute place Super friendly staff Patio when it's nice out Good, solid breakfast options Takes credit cards Free wifi Getting down to business: The oatmeal shake is better than can be described! You must try it. You must wake early and trek out in the cold for this. It's that good. It comes in four flavors - regular, pecan, banana and granola. I prefer the banana. It's oh-my-god-so-good-I-dream-about-it-and-want-more good! The only downside - it's pretty small for nearly $6. I got lucky and the nice lady gave me the extra. I would suggest serving everyone the "extra" on a regular basis to make the experience even better! The oatmeal shake gets 5 stars. Yum.
(4)Adriana A.
My family and I love everything about this restaurant. I usually don't like to order chilaquiles from restaurants because they never taste authentic. But I never hesitate to order them from here! They're delicious especially with a side of their famous potatoes. I like to switch it up once in a while with French toast which are perfectly done and delicious as well. The service is also great!
(5)Daniella B.
Great little place! We all had omelets. The Ranchero Omelet was especially delicious. The potatoes were also delicious. We tried a pecan oatmeal shake which was all it was hyped up to be. We'll be back to try some of the juices. The only reason why this place gets 4 stars is because we showed up right at 8 when they open and they weren't quite ready for customers yet so service was a little slow.
(4)Kameron N.
My girlfriend and I stumbled upon this place one morning when we were looking for a good breakfast spot within walking distance of our place. We were babysitting for my nephew and wanted to walk somewhere that would be child friendly, casual, and delicious. Tiztal was all of those things, but most of all delicious! I ordered the meat lovers omelette and so good. I got an extra egg and it was too much but I love leftovers. 5 start breakfast, so good on Saturday I went back on Sunday.
(5)Pattie U.
Wow this place is a hidden gem! There's a great little patio out back for a sunny day. Fresh squeezed orange juice and attentive service. Really tasty home fries! Nice and crispy mmm.
(5)Aggie S.
It's a little place. Cozy. You have to save some room for the oatmeal shakes. Fantastic chilaquiles, very hardy. It's a must try!
(4)Frank B.
I can't believe I worked down the street from this place for three years and never even knew it was there. The breakfast scramble was great and I could not believe the oatmeal shake. The favorite among my friends were the chilaquiles. Service was friendly and accommodating too. When the server found that we hadn't tried the oatmeal shake before, she brought everyone a sample. I'll certainly go there again.
(5)Laura Lee S.
Food is awesome, slightly over- priced, but then again, everything is in Chicago compared to Austin. Can't wait to go back.
(5)Gwen D.
I wish I could eat Tiztal Cafe's Oatmeal Shake and Chilaquiles with Eggs and Chorizo each and every day for breakfast. It's that good, y'all. No, that perfect. Although we were seated immediately, my friend and I waited about 45 minutes for our meal, but we thought the food was worth it. Just don't go when you're in a rush!
(5)Adrienne M.
Today was my second time at Tiztal and after a long review dry spell I decided this joint is worth my Yelp reviewing return. First and foremost the oatmeal shake is ridiculous-ly good. Today my husband and I split the oatmeal with granola shake and I must admit I enjoyed the chewiness of the granola (on the first visit we ordered the original). The eggs ranchero is solid but honestly, it is the warmth of the space (today we sat inside, last time on the outdoor patio) and the good nature of the staff. They have been attentive and pleasant. I will come back again and again.
(4)Elise T.
I love this place!! When it's nice you can sit in the courtyard out back and the inside is cozy, too. I often dream of the chilaquiles--delicious!! We can take our whole family here on a Saturday morning and actually get in and not spend a fortune. I've also sampled the vampire smoothie which I need to get at a separate time BC when I go for breakfast I'm too full.
(4)Laura C.
According to my highly opinionated friend, Tiztal has the best chilaquiles in the city. So on a recent Saturday, ready to soak up the previous night's alcohol still coursing through my system, we went in search of the hangover cure. I ordered mine with chorizo, which was dry, and poached eggs which were perfectly cooked. The rest of the dish was super oily, I literally had to blot away a grease spill under my potatoes, which had absorbed so much already. The chips had a rancid taste, but as long as you cover them in enough salsa verde, you'll be okay. This place has potential with it's flavors, but the ingredient quality is lacking, as is the service.
(2)Renee F.
Delicious! Menu is limited. Space is small. But neither is a good reason to miss out on this place.
(4)Jaime G.
Man...god send on a holiday. Tiztal Cafe has the hangover cure that we needed. Try the green chili chilaquiles con chorizo and a cup a coffee. Super authentic sauce and large portions. It's a delicious and quality. Kid friendly with a nice outdoor deck. One not so good thing was service was a little slow - but note that we came on a holiday! Worth a try. Can't wait to come back!
(4)Ghosoon A.
4.5 stars. I went here with my friend while we were apartment hunting. We shared an order of french toast and the chorizo egg scramble... I also got their famous oatmeal banana shake (so good!). The french toast: simple, fluffy, with a light dusting of powdered sugar. Perfect. The chorizo egg scramble: perfect for two. It was so well seasoned and came with a delicious spicy sauce, tortillas, and their AWESOME homemade potatoes. You cannot go wrong here. Just make sure you have some patience because it took our food a long time to come out even though the restaurant was pretty empty.
(4)Sara S.
This place was great ant the chilaquiles amazing! I used to live in mexico, so I'm a harsh critic. Loved the outdoor seating!
(4)Andy M.
You heard it here first folks. I'm in love. Don't worry, I'm not leaving my wife (she would kill me first). I'm in love with the brunch at Tiztal Cafe. This place was amazing. I can't think of anyplace else that could appease my three day, Labor day hangover as well as Tiztal Cafe did. After three day's of hard partying, I needed Grub. Lot's of Grub. And the brunch they served up at the Tiztal Cafe was five star, belly sating Grub. I have no idea what I ordered. All I can do is describe it. My brunch came with three plates. The first plate featured Chips, cheese and delicious, green salsa. Plate two came with Chorizo and Eggs covered with cheese, and plate number three featured a plate of the best roasted potato's I've ever had. Everything was hot, spicy and mouthwatering. It was a ton of food that I devoured with ease. Nothing was going to escape my hungover, greedy hands on this morning. I walked away, stuffed, fat and extremely happy. We dined in the beautiful patio area in the back of the restaurant. Other than the Breeding Hipsters with the screaming Brat-child, my visit was perfect. Just to be safe, I'm ordering a side order of duct tape the next time I visit Tiztal Cafe. The staff is amazing. They're friendly and accomadating. The most gracious hosts. Here's the delicious bottom line: The next time you have a hankering for a top-notch Mexican breakfast. Give Tiztal cafe a try. The food was delicious, the staff is amazing and the patio area is beautiful. One piece of advice. You might want to bring earplugs, just in case the Hipsters decide to return with Satan's spawn.
(5)Andre W.
I have heard over the last couple of years that this place is where its at for breakfast/brunch by a few friends. After getting a phone call from a person that hardly writes reviews anymore (he knows who he is) we decided that my time had come to try Tiztal! Another friend saw me tweeting that I was coming here and she mentioned that I needed to try the chilaquiles and also that she was gonna show up as well...Lets party in this MF is what my response was. Before they got there I decided to have their famous oatmeal shake. It is what everyone says it is: AWESOME!!! I enjoyed every damn sip. My dining companions showed up and to my surprise one of them had two bottles of Andre champagne meaning byob mimosa time...damn thang was def bouts to get did! We all ordered the chilaquiles....I got the chicken version as you can choose from chorizo and steak as well. The serving was bigger than I thought it would be and pretty delicous. The dish came with very delicious potatoes. The service was more than stellar as they made sure we had a huge pitcher of OJ to go with our bubbles and also gave us samples of the oatmeal shake. I have to come back and try the omelet offerings!
(4)Jim Y.
Walked over based on the other good yelp reviews. The place was nicer inside than you'd think based on the surrounding stores in the area. I had the Tiztal chorizo scramble, which came with fried potatoes and corn tortillas. Wow the spuds were perfect. And the scramble was really good. Before I could reach for the Cholula sauce, the lady behind the counter pointed out that the sauce was made in the kitchen, "with 3 different peppers". It was delicious. Surprisingly delicious actually. I sampled the oatmeal shake sample they offered. It's sweet, but really good. I'm not a sweets eater, so I'll just say that the shake was probably the biggest hit among my friends. It was definitely worth the walk over.
(5)Derek G.
I have driven by this place countless times. As a result, after eating there, I could not help but feel as though, I have cheated myself out of this dining experience for years. The food in addition to being inexpensive is delicious. What I appreciate about places such as this are the minor details that chain restaurants often ignore. For example, they put some kind of lime in their water that gives it a great and distinctively delicious flavor. I highly recommend this place when you are in the mood for Latin themed breakfast or brunch.
(5)Imran K.
After much hype and paying for parking I walked in and was told they can not offer me breakfast. I am not sure why but if you are running a business please provide for customer until you are closed. Not good.
(1)Joan W.
Our group of nine, including a one-year old and a three-year old hemmed and hawed about where to go for breakfast. Never again. It is Tiztal Cafe hands down. When we arrived, they brought the two children little dishes of fresh fruit before we even got our coats off. Everybody ordered something different but everybody loved what they got. Yes, the potatoes are fabulous. The salsa they have on the cilaquiles is fantastic. One person ordered the oatmeal shake and they brought little samples to the whole table. Best of all, each person who works there us so nice and accommodating. Great place for families. So delicious!
(5)Rob B.
Very good for breakfast. Potatoes are great as well as the gravy on the biscuits. Try the oatmeal shake. Surprisingly good.
(4)Wayne H.
I have eaten here a few times before, particularly for thier chilaquiles. I took my girlfriend here last week and we split the oatmeal shake and they were kind enough to put them in two, separate, smaller glasses for us. I have been meaning to try their oatmeal shake, and I am glad I finally did. It was amazing! I have always been a fan of the chilaquiles here. My girlfriend didn't like them as much because she doesn't like things drowning in sauce and their chilaquiles definitely includes a lot of green salsa. She ordered the spanish omelette and we didn't like it at all. I have also been here with others that have tried items on their menu other than chilaquiles and we were not impressed. I am a fan of their chilaquiles and oatmeal shake. I would say definitely go if either of these sound inviting to you.
(3)Fred M.
Just has breakfast here with the Family. Tried the Oatmeal Banana shake, pancakes and Chorizo omelette. Everything was great. 2 of the boys got French toast but didn't share any of it and it was a big portion. Anyway, highly recommend.
(4)Jessica G.
I've been here several times now and never been disappointed. What brings me back time and again are these freakin' phenomenal potatoes. Sure, every Tom, Dick, and Diner has breakfast potatoes, but Tiztal really has something special going on here. Maybe it's the garlic, or the way they're served so fresh and hot and extra crispy (yet soft on the inside). Whatever it is, I wish I were eating some right now! The oatmeal shake is also really good - tastes like a heartier version of horchata. The quesadilla my husband tried was so-so, not bad but nothing special. But I'm telling ya, if you're not ordering breakfast here, YOU'RE DOING IT WRONG.
(4)Jdub U.
Get the oatmeal shake. It's filling but a must have. Plan accordingly. I've been for breakfast and the portion sizes don't disappoint this big boy's appetite. //belly pat// The steak and egg chilaquiles hit the spot. The garlic potatoes are perfectly done. Flavorful, not under- or over- done, and crispy (and I'm not even a potato fan). Only dinging one star for the slightly inflated prices for a Mexican breakfast. On the upside, there's not a wait for a table and the staff is friendly. Would I come back? Definitely. But Tiztal be warned, I may try to squeeze that oatmeal shake recipe from you! :)
(4)David R.
Tiztál is a simple, pleasant cafe in an easy-going neighborhood. The environment is relaxed, and the staff is very friendly. Though a very casual place, the industrial juicer shows how serious they are in regards to the menu. Fresh juices and smoothies are reason enough to drop by. The food is wonderful, whether for breakfast or lunch. A Belgian waffle or a generously sized omelet are both filling and reasonably priced. The quesadillas with chicken or steak make for a good lunch. For anyone with a sweet tooth, tye oatmeal shake is a surprisingly yummy treat. Overall, Tiztál offers good food at decent prices as well as juices for anyone on the go. It's worth a Sunday morning visit.
(4)Candice P.
I went here after the ravenswood 5k this weekend and it was one of the best brunch spots I've been! We didn't have to wait for a table at 9:30am on a Sunday (which I was shocked). They have a great menu with a ton of sweet and savory options. I had the chiliquilles which were delicious, flavorful and not too spicy. I took a bite of a friends chicken fried steak (covered in gravy) and about ate the rest off her plate. They also walked around with samples of their oatmeal smoothie. I was just sad I didn't have room to order a full one. Can't wait to go back.
(5)Jenny H.
I got their oatmeal shake- I was expecting the shake to be a bit more healthier than it was, more like a protein shake or something, but I thought it was like drinking a regular vanilla milkshake for breakfast- way to sweet for me! But it definitely had a nice cinnamony nutty flavor and you could taste the oatmeal in it as well- I would probably get it as a snack rather than breakfast food. I ordered the chicken chilaquiles- the GARLIC POTATOES ARE TO DIE FOR!! The best breakfast potatoes I've ever had, SO crispy, nice strong garlicky buttery flavor- excellently done. The chicken was moist but a large breast plunked on top of your platter, served with two eggs and tortilla chips with salsa verde and cheese melted on top. Great and unique place to check out for sure!! I would just order their potatoes ALL THE TIME!!!
(4)Isa B.
OMG the Oatmeal shakeee. Thanks Yelpers for recco this. It's worth the trip here. The service was really good, which is my pet peeve, and the food was good too, nothing wow, but definitely pleasant. I want to go back soon. We were about 8 for mother's day and a toddler, and all was great. The terrace in the back is the option for summer. Long waits ahead so arrive without hunger.
(4)Majelly P.
WOW. This is as good as it gets. "The best breakfast I've ever had in my life." Ever. Eggs Benedict and oatmeal shake.
(5)Sage J.
Had a egg white scramble with spinich and basil, it was soooo good! I am really trying to watch my diet so I ordered fruit rather than the potatoes. The proprietor offered their famous potatoes and woah, were they delicious! We also got a sample of juice. I will be going back again for sure. Just perhaps Ill ask for not salt on my eggs, they were a little more salty than I like. Overall, wonderful experience!
(4)mariah c.
At first I wasn't quite sure about the idea of an Oatmeal shake. I mean, I eat oatmeal, not drink it, right? What would the consistency of this be like? Lumpy? No way. It was plenty smooth (they grind the oatmeal up), and even tastier than I imagined. Kinda made me think of a drinkable oatmeal cookie. Or, rather a DOZEN drinkable cookies. By the time I was done, I was not only a believer, but also very, very full. I also sampled a little but of the Vampiro juice that Greg P. mentioned. I was a little scared when I heard that beets were the red ingredient, but it doesn't actually taste much like beets -- just like a good mix of whole lotta different fruit flavors. I was totally stuffed from the drinkable cookies, errr... oatmeal shake, but managed to sample a few bites of the garlicky cheese potatoes. All my favorite ingredients, how could you go wrong? Next time I'm uptown, I'll be sure to grab some drinkable cookies for whomever I'm visiting!
(4)iddells E.
Chilaquiles are amazing....who knew that this poor man's dish could be transformed into such refinement. I wasn't even considering ordering it (until the waitress suggested it) because from my experience, chilequiles were mediocre in taste, but at Tiztal Cafe, I was proven wrong. It was delicious, I would have preferred it to be spicier, but it was fine. The first time I went here, I ordered the chilequiles with steak, second time, with chorizo. Both were good, but I would recommend the chorizo over the steak. I also tried their infamous oatmeal shake and it tasted better than I expected. It did taste like a creamy horchata with pieces of oatmeal in it. Who knew an oatmeal shake could taste so good....I fell in love. A bit on the expensive side, but totally worth it. One thing I would have to say, though, is that I found a short gray hair buried in my chilaquiles. I wasn't too grossed out though because the dish was so good and because dining in third world countries has made me a bit immune to things like that.....gross, yeah, but, will it kill you? Nope! I'll definitely be back over and over again. I'll bring my family members and friends here so they can taste how delicious it is.
(4)Richard H.
Can't wait to go back. Thank you yelp for alerting me to a gem right around the corner. We went this morning and were the only two in the restaurant, so service was great. Everything was delicious.
(5)Cathy B.
Love it - HUGE portions at a reasonable price, attentively well-prepared and with good ingredients. The juices were delicious. The oatmeal shake is as good as people say, but do be warned that it is dairy-based and therefore quite filling. In other words, don't be as tempted to down it in a few slurps (as I was) because you might not have enough room for your eggs, potatoes AND a full plate of French toast. Bring it, Tiztal! I'll be back!
(4)Michael H.
Tiztal Cafe has earned a spot in our regular brunch rotation. There hasn't been a time that I haven't eaten every single thing off of my plate. My girlfriend's plate isn't that safe either, i usually get in a bite or 5 too. In addition to the best food north of Irving Park Road, the portions are very generous usually resulting in a much needed siesta. I hear that they are planning on a dinner service soon...I am anxiously awaiting that dream to come true. Without acting like a food critic I will say that Tiztal is pretty awesome, and if you disagree you need to go to rehab, because you're obviously on drugs.
(5)cassie r.
So, I understand the words "oatmeal shake" don't immediately strike food lust in the hearts of miliions, but ignore this unfortunate label and just TRY it. Chicago's Best recommended it, and it's no wonder they did. This sweet treat is delectable. Pair aforementioned oatmeal shake with one of their delectable omelettes (the Spanish version + chorizo was deliciously spicy and generously portioned), and make sure to try their potatoes. These babies might be a bit greasy, but they are slathered in garlic and seasoned to perfection. My tablemates enjoyed the chilaquiles, which seems to be a popular choice for brunchers at this Uptown spot. Based on visual alone (and the ravings of those around me), I'm not surprised. We arrived at 11:30 a.m. on a Sunday and got a table right away - another +1 for this spot. A solid five, and a fave for Mexican style brunch in the city.
(5)Sara H.
I am SHOCKED to see that I have not reviewed this fabulous breakfast gem! I was here last weekend for the umpteenth time accompanying a friend who had done some photography work for the amazing, caring, owner, Rosemary. She would not let us leave without a delicious breakfast and a hug. It doesn't get any more real than this and I am happy to keep spreading the word and supporting her dream. Ordering that day at Tiztal, like every other visit, is always a problem. You see, I love the Chiliquilles and can never seem to bring myself to order anything else. Although I have sampled the meat lovers omelet (oh yeah), the veggie omelet (fresh and good), the French toast served with strawberry crème fresh (amazing!) and of course every single smoothie each a flavor bomb that makes my mouth sing. But still I just keep going back to the Chiliquilles -- oh well that's why we eat brunch with friends -- to share! More than just the food though, the atmosphere at Tiztal is what keeps me coming back. From the comfy chairs to the warm yellow walls to the (hidden) patio in the back everything says "sit down, relax, good food is coming". Then, like last Saturday, you hear Rosemary greeting guests, cooing to babies and just generally spreading cheer and you know why you are there.
(5)Brett F.
BEST. BRUNCH. EVER. Okay, Okay... it is quite possible that I'm a bit biased since I also had the best company ever. A posse of us fab yelp ladies set off on Sunday for BYOBrunch with beaucoup champagne in hand... so for all intents and purposes really we could have been at a bus station and I would have had a blast with these gals, but add delicious brunchy options and a myriad of drinks (what, we were dehydrated?!) to the mix and you have 5 Stars on Mars, yo!! Our service got off to a bit of a slow start, but with the champers flowing I was happy as a clam to sit and chat. I surveyed the Tiztal surroundings which are humble and quaint... it has a bit of a coffeehouse/diner vibe and the personal service to match. The owner could not thank us enough for us for the business and just praise Yelp in general... gotta love that right?! The chit chat was nice, but my tummy was HUNGRY... In the nick of time a veritable feast was placed in front of us. Fabulously spicy chilaquiles, a velvety 'famous' zephyr omelet with mushrooms, spinach and cream cheese, the chorizo scramble all zesty and wonderful and - oh my land - those to-die-for sweet and savory mushroom crepes, like Jeff Buckley humming a lil' gospel diddy on my tongue! H A L L E L U J A H ! Everything you've heard about a) the Tiztal potatoes and b) the Oatmeal shakes are true! Don't miss out on either one... go today and if you can't finish yours, save the rest for me, because best brunch ever isn't just made for Weekends... Tiztal makes everyday a Sunday Funday.
(5)Christopher D.
What else can be said about THE spot to go to for breakfast in uptown? Large portions (which I end up breaking up into 2 meals most of the time), amazing food, and friendly service. Doesn't get much better than that. Like many others who have posted here, you must get an oatmeal shake. My go to dish is the Chicken and Eggs Chilauiles: a chicken breast served with your choice of eggs with a side of Totopos mixed with a green tomatillo sauce covered in onions and cheese.
(5)Angie M.
What do you get when you take 5 girlfriends, 3 bottles of champagne, 2 hours of gossip and 1 fabulous meal? My Sunday brunch at Titzal Café, a sweet new find for one of the best BYOB brunches I've had in a very, very long time. Although the menu is small, it is creative. No Denver omelets here! I opted for the chorizo scramble. If you like your meat, order this egg dish. They don't skimp on the zesty chorizo, onion, shredded cheddar and sour cream. Do yourself a favor and try the four-egg over the 2-egg scramble; you'll need it to share with your friends. And those potatoes? Sigh... I'm still fantasizing about them! Because Sunday really isn't a fun day without mimosas, don't forget to bring a bottle of champagne. Titzal Café can serve you a MASSIVE pitcher of fresh O.J. for about $12 so everyone can pour their own cocktails. And the owner didn't even bat an eye when two bottles of champers were polished off and our table got a bit, well, boisterous. The one complaint? The service is a little touch and go. It seems like it's a group effort at Titzal (one person brings coffee, another takes your order, the owner stops by to make sure everything is going well and tastes delicious), but its SUNDAY BRUNCH. Just relax, chill out and everything will come in its due time. Don't forget to order the orgasmic oatmeal shake, too. Yes, it really is that good. Thanks, Titzal Café, for providing me with one of the most fun, delicious brunches ever!
(5)David R.
I could tell you that the food is great, although the menu is rather small; or that the space is welcoming, although it has layout drawbacks and gets crowded at the usual brunch times. However, there are only two things that you need to know about Tiztal. 1. Oatmeal shake. One of the best things that you will ever put in your mouth. 2. The first time that I came here was just for a shake to go. The lady presented me with the plastic cup, lid off, and said, "Do me a favor and drink some of this so I can pour some more in." She was holding the blender pitcher which still had about three inches of shake in the bottom. So I downed three big slugs of oatmeal shake while she waited, and then she filled my cup again with the excess. How is that for generous service! Sure, it made my teeth hurt, but who cares. I got 1.33 shakes for the price of one and a very warm feeling about this place. I hope to make it a regular breakfast option, but they also have 24-hour weekend hours now. So when I'm craving something desserty late at night, I'll know to swing by Tiztal.
(4)Jelena Z.
On a bright and crisp fall morning, I woke up with an overwhelming desire for the oatmeal shake at Tiztal Cafe. Mostly craving some of the 'life-changing' oat legend I've read about and partly avoiding an imminent deadline. I need a treat. I just wrote 10 pages of.... crap. Time to get out of my writer's rut. So off I was. My friendly server Rosemary (who I later learned is also the owner) brought me coffee, stat. Happy me. Then, I heard a familiar voice ordering and turned to see John B.! I happily recruited John B. to my table and we enjoyed lovely conversation as we waited for (my) Zephyr omelette and (his) Monte Cristo sandwich. And... our oatmeal shakes! Oatmeal shake. Oh God yes. It reminded me of spiced rice pudding which I love, but in a thinner yet nubby oatmeal consistency. I embarrassingly sucked down my shake while John had only consumed a quarter of his. He's a pro at savoring the stuff, I am failure. My omelette was oozing with all of the gushy stuff: mushrooms, spinach, cream cheese AND swiss. And yes, even I, who usually turns down potatoes, adored my garlicky breakfast potatoes. John seemed to enjoy his Monte Cristo, which he said hailed from the savory school of the decadent sandwich. Served on egg bread. I'm not ashamed to admit I was eyeing it. Cute and comfy eatery, warm staff that I just want to hug all day, and an oatmeal shake that my taste buds have already memorized... Tiztal's a keeper.
(4)Michelle M.
AMAZING! I went here for breakfast and it was very good. I ordered an omelet and their house potatoes are so good. Service was friendly and prices are great for the food. Here is why I gave Tiztal 5 stars for the VERY first time I ordered an oatmeal shake and it was so damn amazing! I was wondering why there was so much hype over the oatmeal shake and oh my goodness...wish I would've tried it sooner.
(5)Andreea O.
Great breakfast place. If not the greatest in Chicago! MUST try the oatmeal shake! It is out of this world. Hubby and I just split one so that we won't fill up on just the shake and we save room for our food too. Everything we've had there is very tasty and fresh. I get the steak chillaquiles very often though: huge portion with eggs and potatoes, really yummmyy!! Husband gets the chorizo scramble, that's he's favorite. Service is always very pleasant. Try Tiztal Cafe, you won't regret it!
(5)Jill M.
I've only been to Tiztal once and I am already a SUPERFAN! I had an oatmeal shake and now I constantly crave it! If I could only drink one thing for the rest of my life, I would seriously give up drinking alcohol forever if I could drink oatmeal shakes anytime I wanted! And the best part about the oatmeal shake: IT'S GOOD FOR YOU! Yay! I also had the country fried steak, biscuits, gravy, eggs and potatoes because I was craving some serious meat. Very rich and I can feel my bad cholesterol levels going up! Yummy! It really hit the spot. My sister let me try her Chilaquiles w/ chorizo y huevos and I would like to try it again by ordering an entire plate just for me when I come back. Yay! OATMEAL SHAKE!
(5)annie r.
thanks to ayako m., i'm all over this place. now i keep taking new people here to share in my little secret. like everyone has said...the chilequiles (with chorizo please!) and the oatmeal shake: perfection. the potatoes are always garlic-y and salty, just the way i like, and the service is good. i have never encountered a wait here, but i wouldn't be surprised if it keeps getting busier and busier.
(5)Theresa W.
I agree that the food is tasty and fresh. I think the decor could use a little bit of work. I love the colors and the restaurant is very clean (including the bathroom). But the huge Grand Opening sign that covers the front window needs to go. They should replace it with a large sandwich board. Also, the space could use some more art work. The sound really bounces around in there and some wall hangings or table cloths might help dampen some of the noise.
(4)Nannette P.
The waitress was really friendly, and brought us some samples of their freshly made juice and shakes as we ate breakfast. Her selling tactics worked and we took an oatmeal shake to go. It was simply delicious and refreshing. For breakfast, I had the steak and chilaquiles. The tortillas were folded with slightly spicy green sauce and cheese. The steak was flank steak, prepared well and a large portion. I cringe when I ask for my eggs prepared "over medium", because I should have learned my lesson by now. Not everyone knows how to cook a good egg, and although it's a "basic ingredient", it's the easiest also to f-up. My "over medium" were actually "over easy". I was full by the time I was getting ready to eat them anyways, but it would've been nice to have a breakfast spot know how to properly cook the eggs. I informed the waitress about the eggs, just as a heads up. I didn't expect anything in return, but I wanted her to know. She acknowledged my slight compliant, but didn't really try to correct the situation before we left. As a side note, as we ate there, a jewelry peddler came into the place and was going up to every table to try and sell her goods. The waitress, and really only staff member we saw, acknowledged the peddler and never asked her to leave. I am a huge proponent of promptly asking a solicitor to leave your establishment. No guest wants to be inconvenienced or feel threatened in a restaurant.
(4)Julia O.
My friend and I popped over here on a late Sunday morning. The beer garden area is laid back and beautiful, with sunlight peeking through the overhanging trees on either side. We each had the oatmeal shake, which is fantastic and well worth the price. I topped this with a side of their garlic potatoes...heaven. The service is relaxed, but we didn't feel like we had to wait long for our food. My only regret is that I don't live closer...I've been dreaming about that shake ever since!
(5)sheena r.
i was really looking forward to these oatmeal shakes. i thought they would be life changing. but alas, i have realized i need to not depend so much on yelp reviews, because i felt it was hyped up a little too much. yes it was good, oatmealy, creamy, but it wasn't SOOO goood. the food on the other hand...yeah that was pretty good. i wasn't sure if i wanted to order the chilaquilles, country breakfast, or the biscuits and gravy. but again, i went with yelp reviewers suggestions, and went with the chilquiles with steak and poached eggs, served with garlic potatoes. it was all very good, very tasty, and a very good portion. unfortunately, in the back of my head i was kind of wishing i got the country fried steak or biscuits and gravy. the biscuits and gravy are only served on weekeends and are only $4.99! or was it 3.99? i can't remember. anyways. since i didn't get them this time, i now have a good reason to go back. i ordered my bf the meat lovers omelette to go, but he did say it was quite meaty. almost all meat, with very little egg. i tried it, and yes it was quite meaty, but quite good! good meats! it could have used a little green in there though. the service was kind of lacking, but since yelp reviewers had stated that, i knew to expect it. it wasn't terrible, since i didn't feel the need to sprint out of there, so it was alright. i also noticed they forgot to put the toast in my omelette order to go. i didn't bother to ask them for it, since i wasn't sure how long that would take -- and it's just toast. =] all in all, a good place to get some hearty breakfast at a decent price.
(4)kim s.
I would love a confirmation--are the breakfast potatoes deep fried in butter, before being sprinkled with coarse salt and minced garlic? Whatever the case, they are delicious. Definitely too decadent and salty to become a regular part of the diet, but exactly what a savory bruncher like myself wants on the occasional wknd morning out. These crunchity little morsels with the two-egg Leslie made for a fabulous meal. The hubby enjoyed a rather enormous plate of chilaquiles and chorizo eggs (he regretted not ordering the two-egg version as well). We've never had chilaquiles done this way, which is to say, we've probably never had them done right--tortilla/chihuahua/tomatillo served beside, rather than mixed in with the eggers. Coffee refills were a bit scant for the few tables occupied, but the familial owners running around were gracious and sweet, so we didn't mind. We should probably lay off the stuff, anyway. :) We wanted to order the oatmeal shake to take with, but didn't have room. Next time.
(4)o k.
oatmeal shake is great. like a cold oatmeal cookie smoothie, except better than I made it sound. the potatoes are really good too - very garlicky - and a nice amount of crispy. eggs benedict and zephyr omlet were pretty standard fare. our side of bacon was overcooked but they brought out anoher without any prompting, recognizing it right away. pretty decent food in an informal cafe setting for a good price (30$ for 2 and we were stuffed). I'll be back if I'm if neighborhood.
(4)Penney K.
I would give it a higher rating if it wasn't for the wait because of their 5 star chilaquiles. I love this place for breakfast, but apparently so does everyone else up in that hood (and with only two cooks in the kitchen--expect it to be a long time before your belly devours one of the best breakfasts up in the north side). The oatmeal shake is great--and I don't even like oatmeal--(ask for a sample if you are not sure--they will give you one). And most definitely get the CHILAQUILES, I am not kidding...they are the best in the city. The iced tea is ok (but I am not a fan of lime in my iced tea--so be prepared for that). Really, everything my husband and kid have always ordered has been good (but I always get the chilaquiles which they seem to always wish they had ordered). Now, if they just somehow learned how to run the line to get food out faster, I would make this one of my regular spots. It took them 40 minutes on Monday-- Labor Day just to get our food out after we actually ordered it...that's too long when you have a kid (or when you are hungry)....but nonetheless, it's damn tasty.
(4)Daniel H.
been there twice now and had the chilaquiles both times! they are that good... but when you look at other dishes from the tables around it appears that you can't go wrong with any order so I need to branch out. the oatmeal shakes are a nice touch on the belly as well!
(5)Christine F.
The chilaquiles here are really, really, really good. Plus, the composure of the plate is a winner-- in addition to the chilaquiles, you can get scrambled eggs with chorizo and potatoes (and some chopped onions on the side, for the sake of tradition). Having one of the fresh health juice mixtures with your chilaquiles helps you kid yourself into thinking you're being healthy, and is a great counterpoint to the food (the chilaquiles were on the spicy side). Can't wait to go back! Even though I think I personally liked the chilaquiles at Old Oak Tap a smidge better (less spicy and with more toppings), if pressed I still would probably say Tiztal wins for overall best chilaquiles in Chicago.
(5)Gunilla P.
We read about the great reviews and understand by doing that you are raising the bar for a place. We went there for our first meal of the day and the place was not even half full. I ordered scrambled chorizo omelet and my husband the meat lover omelet. It was served about 30 minutes later and my plate was cold. The only thing that was warm was the tortillas in a folded tin wrap. I left my plate almost uneaten because it was just not tasty enough to eat. They get two stars because they credit my plate so I didn't need to pay for it. They also made sure it would not happen again. I don't know if I am going to verify that.
(2)Jamie P.
A friend and I recently hit Tiztal for Sunday brunch. We were both pretty excited after reading the great reviews and seeing the spot featured on Chicago's Best. I am SO happy to report that neither of us were disappointed! We sat on the patio in back, and there was no wait (always a plus!) the servers were attentive friendly. Their orange juice was so amazing, you could tell it was freshly made. We both ordered the chilequiles. YUM YUM YUM! the breakfast potatoes are outstanding. And the salsa on the chips? yum! We got oatmeal shakes to go... which live up to the hype! yummy goodness in a cup! I'm so happy to have found such a gem just a few blocks from home. I can't wait to take my husband there next weekend!
(5)matty z.
Really an exceptional breakfast, and the chicken chilaquiles are wonderful. Each time I've had them, I'm reminded that yes, Virginia... I do love soggy nachos. Additionally, the oatmeal smoothie is wonderful. You'll also find an attentive staff that consistently keep your coffee filled and your face smiling.
(4)Sarah B.
I came for brunch on New Year's Day. Props to them for being open, it was busy! We walked in and sorta stood there waiting to be seated and when nobody acknowledged us we just found a table on our own. I get that it was busy but at least say hello or something! It took a while to get a menu and again to order. I went with orange juice (fresh squeezed--thank you!) and the feta and onion omelet with potatoes. The feta was weird. It was cubed and had the consistency of tofu. I didn't care for it and everything was really greasy. I should have gone the sweet route with some waffles. I think I would go back on a day that was less busy and try something else.
(3)Kourtney L.
Prepare yourself for the most phenomenal milkshake you've ever tasted when entering Tiztal. Oatmeal shake you say? Oh yes, it does indeed bring the boys to the yard. And girls, grandparents, etc. Yes, I did make that joke all these years later. Honestly, I could die happy after a side of their potatoes and the oatmeal shake but you must not discount the Leslie Scramble or the Chicken Chilaquiles. Holy hell, it's all scrumptious! They do have some lunch-type stuff but really, how can you go for that when they do breakfast so incredibly well?
(5)Mimi R.
Great little neighborhood place. I've been here a couple times and will always reorder the Chilaquiles w/Chorizo. They were super flavorful with just the right amount of heat. The breakfast potatoes were loaded with garlic - yum! And....that oatmeal milkshake. I'm pretty sure despite the name, it's not that healthy for you - it's too good! Service is ok - not great - not bad. They are pretty laid-back, no real sense of urgency. But...if you know that going in....relax and enjoy the meal.
(4)Michael A.
I have been here a couple of times and at first everything was great. Unfortunately service has just gone down below standards. the last couple of times that i have gone i have had to wait way too long for my food. At first i thought ok maybe they are just behind this one time, after a couple of visits i finally decided to write this review because of my most recent visit. We were seated right away. the place didn't seem busy except for the big table group that had already ordered and a couple of other tables. Next to us was a gentleman already waiting for his to go order, meanwhile we sat for about 8 mins before we were asked what we wanted to order. as a regular i usually order the Chilaquiles eggs only and an oatmeal shake. Honestly it is all delicious the chilaquiles are great and the oatmeal shake is a pleasant surprise but a little over priced. After we ordered, the guy next to us was still waiting. our drinks came quick but after 40 minutes of waiting for the food i had to go refill the meter! and when i got back the guy finally got his to go order after being told by the manager thet his order was up next 3 different times. finally we received our food, no complaints about the food because it was tasty but because it takes forever to get the food i don't think I'll be back until they hire another chef. the waitress never came during our 40 minute wait to ask how we were doing which was another no no. If you go here then prepare to wait and make sure you fill your meter for over an hour.
(3)Jim S.
I'm another lover of the Oatmeal Shake and their breakfast potatoes. I'd like to add the Chroizo Scramble. It's always slightly different, and I'll assume that's because they use fresh tomatoes and such. But it's always good and I've never regretted it. The 2 egg version (6.99) is plenty for me. The water they serve usually has a hint of lime, which puts this to 5 stars for me.
(5)Amy L.
I hadn't been to Tiztal in probably six months. I went in yesterday and got their chilaquiles. It's the only thing I ever get there because they are fricking amazing. Best tasting cheap breakfast in the area.
(5)Ellen B.
In this somewhat depressing strip of Clark, you might not expect a place that is this amazing. The space is comfortable and neighborhoody. You feel like there are regulars who get their spots saved. Yet there are also a number of people, like myself, that trekked over after reading the yelp reviews mentioning this famed oat meal shake. (OMFG, btw, but let's not get ahead of ourselves) I went on a Saturday morning. Good number of people, but not too crowded. It isnt a very big space, but it doesn't feel cramped. All of the employees seemed excited to be working. They must be sipping the juices and shakes in the back. Cause if I could have free reign of their drink menu, I'd be happy too. The menu covers all the basics, but the specials and juice/shake portion is where you want to focus. Side note: they also have a good kids menu. I ended up having an omelet and, of course, the oat meal shake. My friend got bananas in her oatmeal shake. Did I not mention that you can combine all their crazy options? Everything we ate was amazing. I finished it all. Probably shouldn't have, but you only live once. Go!
(4)Maria M.
I'm not giving it 5 stars only because I've only been once and need to try other things and confirm the experience, but it was really one of the best breakfast dining experiences I've had in Chicago. Went with my husband and children on a weekday and knew nothing about it going in. We had the Chilaquiles (one steak, one chorizo) and the Chocolate Chip pancakes. Everything was fantastic. Also, got a sip of the Oatmeal Shake - unbelievably good. Don't know if it was because it was relatively slow on a weekday but the service was excellent (nothing like what is described in some of the reviews below.) Can't wait to go back, this time with a group of friends for a Sunday brunch!
(4)CE K.
I left feeling so incredibly full and happy. I can't remember if I ate anything the rest of the day - oh my goodness! The oatmeal shake is a MUST try. The fresh juices are so good. I've only been for breakfast, which is off the charts. I can't wait to go back.
(5)Tori W.
BEST POTATOES EVER. I could have eaten platefuls of them. I got an omelette with tomatoes, onions, green peppers, and chihuahua cheese and it was very good! It also came with a side of toast and I highly recommend the cinnamon toast....tasted like a donut! So good. My boyfriend got the steak chiliquilles and they were amazing! The steak itself was delicious and the salsa verde on the dish was the best I had ever tasted. And we definitely got a lot of food...they don't skimp on that. The best part was that we were served free samples of their oatmeal shake as well as one of their juices. Definitely made me want to go back for an oatmeal shake, so I guess their tactic worked! The service was great and everyone was very friendly. We can't wait to go back again and take our friends there!
(5)Aimee R.
Super friendly and family oriented! My partner loved the chilaquiles, with chorizo/eggs/cheese....and the green sauce was greatl! I had the chorizo/cheese quesadillas and they were also yum. I really LOVED the potatoes...they were awesome = warm, flavorful, and fresh!
(4)Mel L.
We decided to try this place last Saturday after reading all the great reviews. The place is not too far from home and had a nice lady (the owner???) passing out little samples of some of their drinks. As for our order: Waffle with fresh strawberries - Standard but done well. It was especially good with the strawberry crema that came with it. Side of bacon - Slightly burnt. Chiliquilles w/ chicken - The chicken was a bit dry and sinewy. The potatoes that came with it were very good and tasty though. I really liked how they seasoned them (What can I say? I love my carbs). The dish came with a ton of baked tortillas covered in cheese. Good but way too much! Oatmeal shake - Everyone seems to rave about these so I had to give it a try. My boyfriend and I split one. It was good, but I don't think I would have been able to finish the whole thing. The taste is hard to describe...you can definitely taste the oats and vanilla. He drank it down though. Would I go back to Tiztal? Maybe. It's nice but not something I would go out of my for. Good thing about it is that there was no wait for a table. We arrived around 10:30am and there was only one other table of diners. But there's also a patio for outdoor dining we didn't know about until we were halfway through our meal.
(3)David K.
The owners used to manage the old Zephyr on Wilson. They clearly know what they're doing here.
(5)Mayra H.
Tiztal Cafe is delicious!! Their portions are perfect, price is amazing, yummy juices and shakes and overall a great breakfast/brunch spot! It might be hard to spot but don't miss out on this amazing cafe!
(5)Jacob J.
Yes, yes I see all the rave reviews. So with that and the excellent brunches enjoyed by my lovely company, I will give them a second chance to wow me. Wow me . Wow me, a bit more. Two things that struck a nerve was the initial wait and my entree. I explain now. Due to the reviews I went for my favorite brunch, Eggs Benny. AH! They overcooked the eggs and when I asked the waiter why, he simply responded that, they always cook their Eggs Benedict this way. WTF? No one eats this dish with overcooked eggs. Waiting for a new one would've taken way too long. We'd already waited twenty five minutes for this food. The fact that my eggs were hard and not runny only means that it was overcooked or, that and it sat too long. And then the hollandaise was extremely salty. Ugh. What saved the experience for me was the flavor and attitude of the "Belgian beauty". My company was enamored by the beauty. So, I'm calling it three stars for now, till next time. The tab looks to be calculated by hand or some archaic calculator. So, I'm wondering if it was added up correctly. Lastly, the wait before our order was taken and getting the food. They were waiting on a possible large group which took over an hour to arrive. We were seated and told many times they would take care of us and they dropped the ball. Simply annoying when you are starving for a meal. I may go back and try it again.. we'll see. The place has cute decor, alternating colored walls and I'm guessing local artists. The art is nature stuff, I liked that. They have outside seating out back, which is accessed from a thin walkway between buildings or through the restaurant.
(3)Lynne B.
I went to this restaurant at 1p.m. on Sunday-maybe that was the problem? Evidently, they had been very busy earlier. My friend wanted crepes and there were none left. I had an easy order, 2 scrambled eggs and a plain bagel. My friend rec'd her plate of French Toast and I rec'd a plate of scrambled eggs (both plates plain, no garnish, etc.). We had to wave a waitperson over and ask for syrup for the F.T. and my bagel. The waitperson brought out the syrup and a plate of toasted white bread. When I asked again for a bagel, not the toast; they brought me a plate of bacon?!. Finally, after we had finished eating-they brought me a plain bagel and a plate of breakfast potatoe s. The food was all good-but, the service? Again, after the meal, we had to wave a waiperson over for the check. I noticed several were trying to eat at a bar in the back.
(2)Amanda Z.
Confession: I ate ice cream for breakfast, Ma. But it's OK, don't be mad...there was oatmeal too! Yep, I'm fully on the oatmeal shake bandwagon...a little late to the game, but whatever, I'm there, I'm with the cool kids now. Chorizo in eggs? Yes please. Raisin bread toast with REAL butter? My ass is growing with that thought, but at this point I don't care. Top this all with some of those frickin' AWESOME potatoes, and you've got a damn awesome breakfast. Oh yeah, we split a pecan waffle too. Don't hate, we like to eat. (P.S. Sorry, Mom, for saying "damn" and "ass", but I will never be sorry for having an oatmeal shake for breakfast! Viva l'adulthood!!!!)
(4)Kathleen I.
You go for the food not the service. The food is AMAZING!!! The service, not so much. I really need my server to understand English. I get frustrated when they don't. I always eat the Chilaquillas. They are the best in the city. Great place and will be back.
(5)Jackie P.
You see I can't make waffles in my teeny tiny kitchen because there is barely enough room for myself in my kitchen. Just thinking about the mess waffles would make almost gives me a heart attack.Batter and waffle flour everywhere, plates hanging precariously on the edge of the counter and burnt waffles waiting to be thrown away, oh my! This little problem has led to many a waffle withdrawal. This is where breakfast and brunch come in. You see a couple of amazing restaurants have decided their kitchens are big enough to make waffles and pancakes in and sometimes they offer these delicious treats through lunch time. Alas we have come full circle and now you see why I have such love for Titzal. Yeah, yeah, yeah so most people talk about the oatmeal shake or the fresh squeezed juice (which makes my mouth water just thinking about it) but really their food needs to get more attention. The eggs were cooked wonderfully and the waffle was light and fluffy. My friend's chilaquiles with eggs looked like a kids vomit but she assured me it tasted like anything but and since she's literally 5'1" and 90 lbs soaking wet I'm going to assume it was delicious because she all but licked the plate clean. One of these days I'll return for another waffle and possibly an oatmeal shake but definitely for a waffle!
(4)John S.
Great Sunday brunch and no waiting.
(4)Franny S.
After reading all the reviews, I had to try the oatmeal shake. I got mine with bananas added and oh baby...was it good. It was huge and definitely could be a meal in itself. My friend also got one (sans bananas) and loved it. In addition, we ordered a spinach and swiss cheese omelette to share. We told the waitress we were gonna split it, and she actually divided it and served each half on its own plate (with an equal portion of delicious potatoes and toast for both of us). Now that's service!
(5)Alexis S.
Walked over for a late Sunday breakfast. We arrived just before a large party of 10 people so we were thankful to get our orders in first. I ordered the crepes with mushrooms, ham, cream cheese and spinach. It came with potatoes and a nice mix of fruit that included mango! My boyfriend ordered eggs, sausage, potatoes and a waffle covered in crema with strawberries. Of course, I tried his waffles and can say they were delicious! We both ordered the oatmeal milkshakes and mmmmmm!The food was really great and the atmosphere was cute as well. BUT, I cannot give this place 5 stars this time because of the service. Maybe it was because of the large party, but the service was terribly slow, inaccurate and unprofessional. In the end, they brought us our neighbors check instead of our own. Despite this, I know we will go back.
(4)Joanne J.
This is one of my favorite brunch places. Great service and delicious food - I've been coming for years and have consistently always had a great meal.
(4)Tyler S.
Chilaquiles = BOMB DOT COM The oatmeal shake and the fruit juices are amazing as well. Service can be slow at times, but well worth the wait.
(4)Kimberlee S.
I'm always looking for a new brunch spot and Tiztal Cafe did not disappoint. The service was attentive and the food was great. I had the chilaquiles with chorizo and eggs and when my plate arrived, I couldn't believe how much food there was. I could not finish it. My friend, however, had the waffles with fresh strawberries and finished every bite. The prices are low and we were able to get a table right away (although by the time we left every seat was filled and there was a wait). I definitely recommend you try this new addition to Uptown!
(4)Darlene R.
definitely one of my favorite places for brunch. i've only been here a couple of times but i've loved everything i've had. i've gotten the chiliaquiles and they were amazing and the portion was huge. it took all the self control i had not to finish them in one sitting, but really the amount they give is borders on being obscene. the potatoes that come with it are the BEST breakfast potatoes i've ever had. they are spiced perfectly and are crispy, not the usual soggy lack luster filler. i've tried the chorizo scramble and it was good. i've had a couple bites of the french toast and it was alright. do yourself a favor and get the the chilaquiles. just thinking about them makes me want them right now!
(5)Cheryl M.
The service was a little slow but that's typical for a small place like this. Lucky for us we got there a little before 10:30 am and sat down fairly quickly. And I'm not a fan of sitting at my table with people hoovering over me. All that put aside, they sure do crank up an excellent oatmeal shake!!! I ordered the oatmeal shake and it was on my table within a few moments. I would definitely recommend getting your own glass because it'll go super fast. The coffee wasn't the greatest and I always like a few cups while I'm sitting patiently but it took them awhile to notice my empty. Their garlic potatoes were too die for and I was helping myself to seconds from the plate across from me. I ordered a crepe with mushrooms, spinach and cream cheese, which was actually pretty tasty. Will most definitely be back to check out their Huevos Racheros.
(4)Brian H.
great little place in a area without any great little places. I had the monte crispo, one of the best interpretations on this sandwich I have ever had. The owners are down to earth, personable and know what they are doing. Expect good service, relaxed atmosphere and fun food.
(4)Bradley S.
They've earned the fourth star. We stopped by this past weekend and caught them in a lull. The food was top-notch as usual but the service was vastly improved. If I didn't know better, I'd have thought they knew I was a reviewer who was less than impressed on prior visits. The coffee cups never dropped below half-full and three different people asked how our experience was going.
(4)Daniel C.
I've been on the lookout for good brunch places. Noticing that Tiztal has gotten pretty solid reviews on Yelp, I decided to give it a try. I am glad to say that it did live up to my expectation. Tiztal offers brunch with a Mexican twist. I ordered the chorizo scramble and the chorizo chilaquiles. Having tried chilaquiles from a couple of different places, I really enjoyed Tiztal's version, which is served with a tomatillo sauce, as opposed to the standard tomato sauce. Its tanginess was mellowed out by the cheese, soupy yet crunchy at the same time. The chorizo scramble was well seasoned (chorizo dishes can sometimes be too salty). I also tried to oatmeal shake, which I highly, highly recommend. Decor wise, Tiztal cafe appears to be remodeled very recently. There are not many seats inside, so I can see it being filled up very quickly during peak brunch hours (though they do have a patio outside). Overall, it was a very pleasant experience. I will certainly be back.
(4)Deborah B.
I tried this place because it had gotten such good reviews from fellow yelpers. I was not let down. The breakfast potatoes are quite amazing, and the oatmeal shake a pretty good time. For me the best part is the fresh fruit. I got the waffle topped with fruit and it was absolutely splendid. The best part about the fruit is that YOU get to pick which kinds of fruit you want. I hate melon and it seems everytime there is some kind of a fresh fruit cup or topping it includes mostly melon. Here I was able to exclude all melon and received berries, mango, and pineapple. It was amazing. Also, my vegan friends do have options here. No vegan specific dishes, but the potatoes and fruit are great and lots of cool fresh squeezed juices like carrot, beet, etc.
(4)Erin K.
I have eaten breakfast here twice. The oatmeal shake is to die for. The omlets and egg scrambles are great. And lets not forget the roast potatoes. They have so much flavor..Not the standard dethawed kind at other places
(4)Aurore L.
Burt Lancaster (supposedly) said: "I always try to improve, to find new ways of expressing myself, to keep looking for truth and originality." Well I can't compare to the great Burt - and I guess you can call that a shame... I even tried to see if Tiztal was actually kinda sorta referring to something but no luck in this department either. Sigh. Can't shoot for originality so I'll go with the rest of the herd. Yeah... The oatmeal shake is truly that amazingly good - we shared one with nuts added and it was silky, smooth, divine. The potatoes were probably the best I have ever tasted in a breakfast place. I had the Zephyr omelet - 3 eggs, mushrooms, spinach, cheese topped with gooey Swiss goodness. Simple but perfect. Coffee faultless - lightly sweet, no bitterness whatsoever, didn't need any cream. And yes, Rosemary knows how to handle her kids! She served us three different samples - strawberry-oatmeal shake, mango shake and the infamous vampiro juice....and she gave to the TWO of us a coupon for a free drink on our next visit. She admitted that she pampered us because it was a week day and she actually had time to do so. So guys, if you can, skip the weekends and go there for a special treat Monday through Friday. Parking on the street is easy. And it's really worth it.
(5)Shannon D.
I got the chorizo scramble because all their egg dishes come with the potatoes that everyone here was raving about. I was definitely underwhelmed. The oatmeal shake was by far the tastiest part of the meal. I split it with a friend and that was the way to go. I think after reading all these rave reviews, I had higher expectations for the food. It wasn't bad, but it certainly wasn't amazing. Would I go back? Maybe. Oh yeah, and the service is nothing to write home about.
(3)Leah C.
4 for food with the high potential of hitting a 5. 10 for service and personality :)... the restaurant will give you the essence of dining at a small town eatery where everyone knows your name. that is the impression that we got and it was our first visit. arriving a bit before 1pm, we learned that the restaurant would be closed at 2pm for a private party. we just made the cut-off but in no way felt rushed. we were even given a sample of the infamous oatmeal shake and encouraged to stick around and have one as they set up for a wedding reception. too bad we were too stuffed from our huge helpings of chorizo and eggs and chilaquiles. when asked how the chilaquiles were prepared, the server asked ME how i'd like for them to be prepared! i substituted egg whites and spinach for the meat options. it was accompanied by a fruit bowl of finely diced mango, pineapple and other goodness. i can't give the restaurant 5 stars yet because i felt like the meals were a bit under-cooked - runnier than usual eggs and a bit room temperature. i am sure it's because they were trying to set-up for the reception. we will be back for sure to give it a chance to earn the 5th star.
(4)Joel S.
Ducked in on one of those endless rainy days last week or so... Tiztal Cafe is a nice, warm and friendly place to grab a bite to eat. Chiliquiles + Oatmeal Shake (thanks yelp) are the way to go in my book, and my book has great taste. I can appreciate the friendly service, but it sorta slowed down the whole operation as our waitress visited with her friends at the other table for most of our meal... otherwise really close to four stars, and I could even see this becoming one of my regular spots for breakfast or brunch. Check it out!
(3)rachel p.
now THAT is how you do chilaquiles! its not that my chorizo and eggs weren't tasty, its just that if you put them in a street fight against the chilaquiles, my breakfast was the one gettin' bitch slapped and walking away in shame. deeeelishus! the service was a bit slow, but honestly, i was happy do get a seat for brunch on mother's day. i'll be back to try the infamous shake everyone has been talking about.
(4)Justin W.
This is better than the place you have brunch now. I can only reiterate what everyone else said, great staff, great food, and good prices. ONLY issue, the volume inside because of space is rough but its Chicago.
(4)kate w.
This is a great brunch spot, and will be an AMAZING late night food place. The veg/fruit juices are really good and i just love having fresh juice with my breakfast meal. Luckily, when i visited this place, i was in my eating-eggs-again phase because there really aren't that many options for a vegan. In interest of full disclosure, i'm friends with Deborah B. and we went together... and i'm sorry Deb, but a roasted potato and a glass of OJ do not constitute a decent vegan meal. If this place only had a scrambled tofu option, or some sort of vegan pancake to offer, it would get a 5th star from me.
(4)Mike H.
Dined there for my third time today, and while I wish I could offer a review of some different dishes, I've become hopelessly addicted to the chorizo scrambler (it's that good, and served with warm tortillas, you can make breakfast tacos). I have vowed after today though to try something new on my next visit. At any rate, the outdoor eating area is now open in back. Unfortunately, I didn't realize this until after I finished eating, but I did check it out before I left and it's quite the urban oasis. Next time!
(5)Princess B.
Ok, here's the good and the bad. You know how Sunday brunch in Chicago is. Good luck going anywhere and not having to wait an exorbitant amount of time to get seated, only to be seated approximately 3 millimeters away from another party. Well, I went to Titztal at noon on a Saturday, and GOT SEATED IMMEDIATELY, with about three whole feet between us and the nest table! I was effing delighted! :) The servers were friendly. I ordered the Chorizo scramble, which was good. My friend got the Chilequiles, which he said were great. They kept our coffee and water filled. They also kept our french toast warm in the kitchen until we were ready to eat it (yes, we are breakfast beasts for sure). However. The service was a little disorganized, with different servers coming up to our table at different times. The water had a strange taste to it... It was cold in there. The food took a pretty long time to get to the table. When we first sat down they told us they were going to bring juice samples, but they never did. I wasn't fluffy about it, but I definitely noticed. So, overall I would say it was a positive experience, and the people there were nice, it just wasn't awesome or anything.
(3)Karen K.
After walking past the Titzal Cafe for months, I finally went in this weekend. It was well worth the wait. A great little place with excellent service with a very friendly staff. The food was great and the Titzal Potatoes [taste buds say "garlic potoatoes"] are worth going for by themselves. They're probably some of the best I have had ever. I had the Chorizo Scrambler the 2 egg version, which was more than enough food. My friend and I split a waffle, as well, which came with a fantastic strawberry sauce. I also liked the fact that the menu is small and all the choices looked great. I'll definitely be back soon to try the rest of the menu.
(5)Mark A.
Never Again!! After wanting to try this place for months and reading good reviews on here, we decided to try it this morning. We were greeted and seated right away and the place is cute in a mom and pop way. That's the end of the good news. The wait for menus and for someone to take our order was unreasonably long. I finally had to tell the busboy that we were ready to order. (?!?) The service is terrible. Keep in mind that this is a small one room restaurant where the staff can see you at all times. So there is no excuse to ignore a waiting table. I ordered the ranchero omelette and it was flavorless and filled with undercooked watery veggies. Nothing worse than a plate full of eggs swimming in water!! Side of garlic potatoes were good but nothing to rave about and why so few on the plate?? The prices are very high for a small local cafe. $2 for coffee and $9 for an omelette?? Really?? For 2 mediocre omelettes and 2 coffees our bill was $24!! Bottom line = The service and the food both suck. I can make a MUCH better breakfast at home for half the price. I will never return.
(1)Diana T.
Small little brunch spot that has a pretty small-medium sized menu. I had the meat lover's omelet which was the size of my head (great with chorizo), breakfast potatoes cooked in garlic and onions with cheddar cheese on top (yum), and the oatmeal shake! MUSTY TRY! I also tried the white scramble with mushrooms, spinach, and cheese and it was also very good. I think this place will be one of my new favorite brunch spots. I am looking forward to trying their desserts! I was too stuffed for more, but got another oatmeal shake on the way out =X
(5)Ralph M.
Back again this past Sunday. Sat down immediately and placed my order. My ranchero omelette was perfect and the potatoes, awesome as always. They were passing out samples of the oatmeal shake. I'm almost afraid to order one; it was so tasty that I could see keeping on those pounds I'm trying to lose!!! OK, maybe just one . . .or two! Rosemary is great. I've been there maybe 6-7 times in the last 4 months and she came over and greeted me, said it was great to see me again, and commented on my new glasses. WOW, what a welcoming, warm feeling. It's amazing she has such a good memory. I do need to get there more often and help keep this great little gem in business.
(4)Scott C.
Had a great breakfast here. The pecan waffles were fantastic! Great selection of fresh squeezed juices. Super friendly service. This place is very new and the owner is very optimistic. I hope success finds her. I will certainly be back.
(4)Marsha C.
LOVE, LOVE, LOVED it! The oatmeal shake is to die for - a must try. My husband had the eggs benedict which was stellar....the hollandaise sauce was extremely good - very creamy with just a hint of hot - excellent. I had the tomato, feta, onion omelet which was very good too. The potatoes were very good also. Perfect sized portions - not too much that it is wasted and just enough to satisfy. Great neighborhood place - you will not be disappointed - spread the word about this place!
(5)Carolyn T.
First of all, some background. I don't do oatmeal. Never have, never will. Ever since I was a kid, just a whiff of the stuff would send me dry heaving. And before you ask, no, it's not the texture. I love cottage cheese, cream of wheat, malt-o-meal, pudding, etc. I've tried flavored oatmeal, steel cut oatmeal, I've tried honey, cinnamon, milk, pumpkin, coconut milk... I don't do oatmeal. So when I read all these reviews about the oatmeal *cringe* shake, I was highly, highly skeptical. However, I was also hungry. Tiztal was just a couple miles away, and we snagged some primo parking. So, we went in, got a table and I girded myself for an oatmeal *shiver* shake. It was Sunday around noon, so the tail end of brunch...service was a little slow, but they were still remarkably friendy and pleasant. We ordered the oatmeal *twitch* shake, two coffees, chilaquiles, a waffle and a side of sausage. Total cost: $23. Here's the breakdown: Coffee: Decent. Waffle: Oh yum. $4.99 for the plain, and it was heavenly and delicious smothered in butter and syrup. Light on the inside, perfectly browned on the outside, and sooo good you could smell it a table away. I only managed to steal a wee bite before Jeff snarfed it all up. Bobos for me. Side of sausage: Two meaty links for $1.99. Can't be the price anywhere in the city, and they weren't your dinky brown-n-serves. Chilaquiles: Hm. $9.99 for the chilaquiles. I thought they were okay. I was thrown off that the steak and eggs were served separately from the tortilla/salsa smash. I was also surprised when they asked me how I'd like my steak cooked. I suppose everyone cooks it differently. The tomatillo sauce they used was a little too sweet for my taste, and I missed the blanket of melted cheese that I'm accustomed to seeing. However, I heard the folks at the next table over discussing them, and they raved about it. So, to each his own. I will say, however, that the food-to-price ratio was outstanding. I had enough leftovers for two more meals, and I am not a little eater. The piece of flank steak that came with the meal was the size of a small cow (Okay, I exaggerate. But it was at least a quarter pound.), and the potatoes were indeed very tasty and perfectly seasoned. Man, they nailed the potatoes. Mmmm mmm! They were delicious even the next day, eaten cold and mit fingers. Oatmeal shake: $3. I think my expectations were sky high here, and I was hoping that I would experience some sort of revelation that would reverse my previous aversion to oatmeal. Well, angels did not sing, but it was delicious! Creamy, smooth...just like granola blended with vanilla ice cream minus any chunky bits. Their service shined here though. We polished off half the shake while waiting for our meals, then owner came by and said, "You know what, I made that wrong. So we're going to re-do it so you can have the full experience." I'm thinking they've figured out "oatmeal shake" is code for "yelper." Anyway, we thought the shake was pretty good as is, but hey, who are we to argue? When she returns, she brings us a double portion and two straws. Turns out they didn't add any sugar the first time. I don't think the sugar made a tremendous difference, but it was still tasty. I'll have to try some of the other flavors. The pecan and walnut one intrigued me. All in all, good stuff. I wouldn't be surprised if they had lines coming out the door within the next month or so.
(3)Justin S.
Wasn't sure what I wanted for lunch and the roommate found this place and yelp. Well first let me thank him and all of you because this place was great. I'm not a breakfast person. I always try to be and think, ohhh maybe this time it will work, but it doesn't. Well the french toast here was awesome. The lemonade, WOW. So good and not what I was expecting. Its small and was cramped a little but well worth it. Thank you Yelp
(4)Ellen L.
Wouldn't have found this place without Yelp. Delicious! Delectable! Ambrosial! Scrumptious! Need I say it? Too die for!
(5)Cody M.
MMM. I could rave all day about this place. Although it is a little out of the way for me, I make sure to come here every time I visit Chicago! Everything I have had here is delicious, but the chilaquiles with chicken are definitely my favorite. They also have amazing fresh juice, smoothies, and milkshakes. Vampiro is a must have for vegetable juice lovers, and the oatmeal milkshake is a must have if you like food at all! The staff is really friendly but the best part is the price. You get quality and quantity for about less than less than 10 bucks for a meal. Juice and milkshakes add on about 3 bucks each, but they are totally worth it!
(5)Megan H.
Tiztal Cafe hosted my recent post-wedding brunch. I was in love with the place before, but now I wish I had married Tiztal instead of my husband! (Just kidding, darling.) (Maybe.) Rosemary, Teresa, Patti and the gang made brunch the perfect end to a fantastic day. The food was off-the-hook delicious, and the ladies couldn't have been more attentive and generous. Give them a buzz next time you need to plan a special event!
(5)bj f.
o.k., so after reading the raves about the oatmeal shake, i don't even have to glance at the menu to know that i have to order one. and it's good, and it's kind of like the equivalent of eating the contents of a bread basket before dinner! y'know, when you eat a piece, then another, exclaiming "i better stop now, or i'll be too full for the entree", only to find yourself fingering one more hunk. well, that was the oatmeal shake for me this morning, so good i couldn't stop sipping it, knowing all the while that i was waiting for my real breakfast to arrive. i ordered the egg white omelet, the name of which escapes me, and my hub ordered the meat lover's special, and as the reviews state, they were really good, and the potatoes were, as reported, that perfect combo of crisp but not dry, and really tastily seasoned. i also like that they only offer one piece of toast, cause then i don't feel like i'm wasting that slice that gets stranded on my plate. esp, after imbibing in a now almost drained oatmeal shake! and i dunno, i liked the decor, i thought it was homey, like the server. it also makes me happy to know that part of zephyr survived to live again and offer up its food and ice cream goodness. thanks for the tip, once again, i was not disappointed!
(4)anne h.
the best chilaquiles i've ever had. they were made with a salsa verde & had the perfect texture. the coffee was good & the potatoes that came with it were also amazing. (for real, coffee and potatoes are what i judge a breakfast by.) our server was really nice, too, filling our coffee cups - many times - with a smile. i can't wait to go back!
(5)Kristin P.
I wish I could give this place 4.5 stars. The food is good but doesn't really rate a 5. (The oatmeal shake is indeed worth trying.) I'm giving it a 5 for the people/service. You definitely get the impression that this place is run with love. The servers are so friendly, it makes you feel downright warm and fuzzy. I teach tv production and when one of my students was looking for a restaurant that would allow him to do a shoot inside, I sent him here because I had a feeling they would be nice enough to oblige. Sure enough, they were totally cool about it. Thanks, Tiztal!
(5)Andrea S.
I ate here a month back and enjoyed it. The fruit smoothies are so fresh. I had huevos rancheros. It wasn't authentic, I've had better... but I still enjoyed it. What really made my meal was the potatoes! MMMM , you can't go wrong with garlic and cilantro. Awesome. The decor was bright and the waitress was attentive and helpful also. I'd go back to try more !!
(4)Daniel S.
Tiztal is one of my favorite brunch places in the city, and I'm a brunch slut. The staff is always super friendly and the food is amazing. The chorizo scramble is fantastic. All my friends love the oatmeal shake, but it's a little thin and runny for me. (But take that with a grain of salt, as I don't know anyone who doesn't love it.) The strawberry crema that comes with the french toast is incredible. I'd put it on anything...waffles, hot dogs, cardboard, human flesh. It's fab.
(5)Erik B.
I had the chilaquiles and they were amazing! Very authentic. The roasted potatoes were very flavorful and crisp. My only complaint was that one of my eggs were overcooked. Normally I would send it back, but the dish was too good to send back and we were in a hurry. Not much on atmosphere, but the food is great.
(4)Mary-Margaret S.
A friend of mine brought me here. I live a little further north in Edgewater, so I wouldn't have found this place on my own--- so glad my friend knew about it! This place was awesome. I had the Leslie Scramble, and it was alright... I think I'll try the chirizo one next time. My husband had it and the small taste he allowed me before devouring the entire thing was great. The potatoes and the oatmeal shake, as everyone else has said, were amazing. Service was good; the waitress (who I think may have been an owner too) brought out a little sample of the oat meal shake to my husband, since he was the only one of us that didn't order one. Decorated really nicely... all around a nice place.
(4)Ellie L.
I had the Leslie scramble, and my husband went with the two eggs, bacon, toast, potatoes. The scramble was great, big portion, not too much feta, just the right amount of veggies vs feta vs egg. Due to the chunks of garlic visible on the potato we both really liked the potatoes. The price was right, the service was good. I am happy to read you can play with the menu a bit. I am a big fan of a good scramble and there were only two options-so next time i'll try the "make-your-own" approach, see how that goes. Oatmeal shake taste applied here as well, it was good. I definitely recommend you try Tiztal out for yourself. It's officially in our rotation.
(4)Audrey H.
I am not sure what all the fuss is about. The food is only ok. I liked the chilaquiles, but the side of chicken was odd. I expected it to be shredded and in the dish, but is was an odd overcooked side. Also, the poached eggs were overcooked- solid yolks. The service was slow and inattentive. I have to agree with a number of others that they spend most of their time talking to their friends and drinking the left overs from shakes and juice drinks made. There are so many better places to spend my hard earned $$. Head to Harmony Grill for chilaquiles or migas that are much, much better.
(2)Karah M.
I can't believe I didn't know about this place for the first 3 years I lived in this neighborhood - but now that I do, it's one of my favorite places and most frequented. Nice vibe, good coffee, fresh squeezed fruit juice and smoothies, perfectly cooked potatoes, delicious savory crepes, and everything in between. And yes, the oatmeal shake is as good as everyone says it is. I also really enjoy that the fruit cups are a good mix and cut into the right size pieces. This place is a gem.
(5)Dan B.
I AM IN LOVE WITH TIZTAL! I have been wanting to go here for quite some time mostly due to the raving yelp reviews. I met a friend here on Saturday around 12:30, walked in there was no wait and sat down. Water was delivered immediately along with menus and an offer of coffee. The waitress then noticed I had brought champagne for mimosas and offered to bring wine glasses along with the coffee. When my friend arrived we decided we were in the mood for something other than OJ with our champagne. The waitress listed off all the juices they had and we randomly decided to mix apple and pineapple juice. A few minutes later she came back with a pitcher of fresh squeezed deliciousness. It was so good that we actually poured one for the waitress so that she and the rest of the staff could try it out. We both had the chillquiles with chicken which was perfect. The chicken was so tender and the sauce was perfect, and those potatoes, oh they were good. Garlicky, buttery perfection! The service too was fantastic so warm and friendly, I felt as though we were guests in the staff's home. This is definitely my new go to brunch spot, I just hope it doesn't get too popular so that i can't score one of the limited number of tables. STAY AWAY "CHECK PLEASE"!! I had full intentions of trying the oatmeal shake as well but after everything else I was stuffed and couldn't fathom it. Next time I will be all over it.
(5)Erika W.
Well, after reading all the reviews on here, salivating over the thought of an oatmeal shake, and making it a point to try Titzal, I finally got around to it this past week. A friend and I met on a weekday morning and both agreed it must be packed on the weekends. I had called the day before because of a recent review on here that had mentioned it possibly had closed. It hasn't! When I called I was asked what time I was planning on coming in, which at first seemed weird. But she then warned me they were hosting a breakfast meeting at that time, but felt that they should fit us in. I appreciated her honesty and we had no trouble getting a table when we showed up. My first thoughts were, that while the atmosphere and decor are okay, it could be a little warmer and more inviting in overall tone (perhaps it's the tile floors?).However, the owner (I think) was the one to seat and serve us and she couldn't have been friendlier and all around attentive, without being instruisve. While we waited for our food she gave us a free sample of some other menu item, and chatted with us a bit about the food. And then the food came - my friend got the chilaquiles and I got the chorizo scramble and the oatmeal shake, and we agreed to share all of it. While very good, honestly, my favorite part were the potatoes that came with our entrees. That, and the shake, of course, which was all I could hope for! Oat-ey, like a cookie, but still ultimately a milkshake. Yum! The chilaquiles and scramble were HUGE and while not as good as the others, still very enjoyable. Towards the end of the meal the owner came over and gave my friend a free sample of the shake, not realizing we were sharing. It's little things like that ultimately make or break a restaurant for me, personally, and it (along with the shake!) will be the reason I return to Titzal.
(4)Elvia L.
The oatmeal shake is yummy! I'm not an oatmeal fan, but I was advised that I had to try it and so now I am advising you too! I love the chilaquiles they serve, it never disappoints me. I have been there about 4 or 5 times and I just love the chilaquiles so much that I don't want to try anything else. I think on my next visit I will venture out. The potatoes are very good. The service has been great for all my visits, it's clean, and delicious.
(5)Johnny T.
So, coming to Tiztal with Colleen C has got to be akin to going to the Dr. Oz show with Oprah. You know, she wouldn't say it publicly, but I think CC put this place (and its oatmeal shakes) on the map. I was a little chagrined that I had never been here before and my first time with with the Mistress of (oatmeal) Milkshakes herself. Egads! We were both sorta full from lunch, so Colleen suggested that we split a shake. I tentatively agreed. I mean, she knows what she's doing but I get sort of...grabby when it comes to sweet treats. I didn't want this to end poorly. We ordered the shake and got to brass tacks. As we tickety-tacked on our laptops, the no-nonsense proprietress brought out our oaty treats. Yet again, CC was right: I was too full to take down an entire milkshake. Even a half portion was rather large. I grabbed the glass and took a sip. Hot d@mn!! Wow!! This is freaking awesome -- sweet, creamy, bits of oat in every slurp. I couldn't help myself at this point. The genie was out of the bottle. I couldn't concentrate on work, my surroundings or what day it was. All I could focus on was "must...drink...milkshake...all...now...me...want.Â" I was devolving by the sip. As tasty as the treat was, I was here to work. Uh oh. This _isn't_ going to end well. The remainder of my time at Titzal went something like: [workstuffworkstuffworkstuffishouldbepayingattentiÂonto] [inner monologue] "Mmm. I love you, oatmeal milkshake. I want to come here tomorrow and get a regular-sized portion. I can't believe how good this is! Oh. Wait. Did someone address me? Smile and nod, man. Smile and nod!!" [workstuffworkstuffworkstuffishouldbepayingattentiÂonto] [inner monologue] "What am I going to do when I finish this shake? I am too stuffed to have more, but I want more. This is a conundrum. Hmm, maybe I can get one to go! That's an awesome idea. Ahh, man. It's gone! Did I just slurp really loudly? Oh, back to me saying something." [workstuffworkstuffworkstuffishouldbepayingattentiÂonto] [inner monologue] "So....sleepy...." [End of workstuffworkstuffworkstuffishouldbepayingattentioÂnto] [inner monologue] "I want another shake. Wait. I just said that out loud." Oatmeal shake, I now know to never divide my attention from you again.
(4)Bruce B.
If you like horchatas you need to get the oatmeal shake. It's the best thing ever. I don't have a show on the Food Network, but if I did, i would punch Giada in the her head (can't miss that globe sitting on top of her neck), take her segment, and come here and drink this shake. It's rich, thick, and tasty. This is the main reason I orignaly went. However, the breakfast was solid. I had a spinach omelete and it was cooked to perfection. The service is quick and there's not a crazy line to wait. Give this place a try.
(4)Nicole V.
Two words = four stars and those two words are: Oatmeal Shake. Yeah, the thing is incredible. I will go back for it, no two ways about it! The rest of the food was tasty and pretty standard for a casual dining destination. Colleen C. knows her stuff and she really pointed me in the right direction on this one. : ) I'll update my review as I taste more.
(4)Desiree G.
Oatmeal milkshake: $4.25 Chilaquiles w/ chorizo & egg: $8.99 Sunday brunch was a 10min wait. The staff was very friendly, service was a bit slow, but that was to be expected. I was really eager to try the raved about oatmeal shake. It has always interested me. Today was the day I finally go to try it! So it was goood, but it was too hyped up for what it really was. Everything on the menu sounded good, so it was hard to decide what to order and especially looking at other people's plates. I was just going to order the chilaquiles w/eggs but for a dollar more you can get it with chorizo too, so why not? It was soooooo much food! They are very generous with portions. The chilaquiles were good but not the best. I did enjoy the chorizo & eggs and the potatoes were pretty amazing. Next time I'd probably stick with the chorizo scramble w/potatoes and an oatmeal shake. Overall it was a nice brunch and I'd recommend giving it a try.
(4)Ehren M.
Great food, kind and helpful staff. The place has an awesome cozy feel that reminders of relaxing home cooked breakfast time with the family, or even better an up-lifting lunch to get your through the next stage of the day. I'm a fitness freak and the Oatmeal shake is perfect with a small scoop of protein powder and a mid-sized traditional breakfast. Go to Tiztal, try it then hit the gym great way to start the day
(4)Dallas F.
Is there something wrong with me? Wait, dont answer that. Are my taste buds faulty would perhaps be a better question. Whatever the case may be, I just don't get Tiztal Cafe's hype. Everything that many reviewers rave about whether it be the potatoes or the oatmeal shakes, were mediocre to me. My eggs were overcooked and my potatoes were incredibly salty. By the end of my meal I was severely disappointed with my brunch. Even though I was definitely not wowed by the food, I was impressed with the great service at Tiztal Cafe. My server was very nice and was quick to offer me refills of juice or just to make sure I didn't need anything. So it wasn't a completely bad experience just not great one.
(3)Denisha B.
From the Yelp reviews, I came in yesterday for some late brunch with my fella. We decided to order the chorizo and eggs scrambled (that came with four eggs) and split this. In addition, we ordered 2 orange juices. The place was very clean in the inside, and cozy. On the outside (and also the area) might look a tad suspect but once you get inside--it's rather cute. Kinda reminds me of a homey feel. Our food arrived, and the chorizo and eggs were perfect! It was delicious and reminded me of my best friend's mom's cooking (who I feel has the best Mexican cooking on the planet). It was served with tortillas and some of the best home style potatoes I EVER had! The orange juice tasted like it was juiced from the God's! I drank mine before my meal even came to the table. So why 3 stars? Well the service was SUPER SLOW...which is very irritating. It should not take a server 10 minutes to see your water is low and refill it. In addition, it should not take the server an additional 20 minutes after you have finished your food to bring the check! I was really pissed at this point, and that's why I have to knock a star off. You all need to get it together when it comes to speedy service, otherwise, people will leave out! This ruined my mood when I was eating here. I also had to knock a star off because it's very over priced (like one reviewer mentioned) for just an average Mexican breakfast. I don't think it's necessary to pay 10.00 bucks for a chorizo and egg dish unless all ingredients are organic...which I highly doubt! For two juices and one dish...was 19.50...pretty steep in my opinion. It has good food, but I'd rather go to a Ma and Pop Mexicano restaurant that serves more bang for your buck.
(3)Tim R.
Awesome shakes and smoothies. Best chilaquiles in Chicago. Love the staff.
(5)Hassan B.
Good food and great service at a nice and clean restaurant.
(4)Kel W.
Five stars, no doubt. I will start off by saying that our waitress wasn't the best - I had to stare over her way to make eye contact every time I wanted a fresh dose of coffee (twice) and even then she wouldn't look at me. A table that ordered after us got their food before we did. I have a feeling our order wasn't put in correctly or was forgotten about for a little while. However, they still get five stars from me, because the food was just that phenomenal. It more than made up for it - everything on our table did. The coffee was very good, the grapefruit juice freshly squeezed and totally delicious, and the food was AMAZING. Everything was so delicious. You can tell that the owners and cooks/chefs take pride in their menu and in their ingredients. Just come with a little patience. I would definitely come up here again, and I can't wait to try out other things on their menu. The guy got chicken chilaquiles and I got a tomato/onion/feta omelette. Way to do it right, Tiztal.
(5)Bethanie L.
Love love love this place! The waitresses are so friendly and nice and they're food is incredible! It was fun watching them make the juice. They make sure that the fruit they use is fresh before they make it for you. I love the eggs Benedict and the spinach and ham scramble. Also the potatoes are delicious because they use olive oil.
(5)Kathryn F.
I came in around 11:30 am on a Saturday morning and while the cafe was busy, I did not have to wait for a table. I was seated and offered coffee promptly. I ordered the chilaquiles with chorizo. My food arrived within 10 minutes and it was quality. Tiztal separated the eggs from the chips, salsa verde and cheese so that it was a huge mess of food and I could create my own egg to chip to raw onion ratio that I desired. The chorizo was scrambled in with the egg and like many other reviewers have stated, it wasn't greasy at all. The chorizo added a nice flavor to the egg. After I killed my meal, I left feeling full but not heavy even though I had chilaquiles. I would definitely order this breakfast again!
(4)Christina K.
Went there for brunch this morning. The service was attentive and fast, the coffee was awesome, the decor was cozy and authentic, and the food was fantastic. I had the chicken chilaquiles, and my boyfriend had the pecan waffle. His waffle was pretty good and light. My chilaquiles were seriously amazing, and came in a very generous portion. They use green sauce which we both appreciated; it was just spicy enough and very fresh tasting. The potatoes were also good, but I didn't finish them because I focused on the chilaquiles.
(5)Yanyao N.
Get the chilaquiles and the oatmeal shake, but save a little room because you'll want to eat all those breakfast potatoes with real GARLIC! Oh, and the steak and eggs that come with the chilaquiles. I've never seen such a large plate of breakfast. The whole time I kept telling myself: "I can't believe I've never had chilaquiles before" and "Holy hell these are so good, I should stop eating, but they're too good, keep going Yanyao, you can do it!" Basically I ate myself to the point of exploding and ended up falling into a 5 hour coma nap when I got home. The service was a little slow when we were in there, but I like a leisurely weekday brunch, and our waitress refilled out oatmeal shakes because she is wonderful. I also love how the iced tea comes in a giant goblet - very cool. I want to come back and try some of the chorizo items and eat more POTATOES... hopefully with a little more self-control.
(4)Brian B.
This is a great little breakfast spot that is easily overlooked. I've probably walked past this place 10 times before I found it on Yelp and decided to give it a try. We stopped in on a lazy Sunday and got the chilaquiles, chorrizo scramble and oatmeal shake. All of the sauces were super flavorful and the shake was a unique treat. The waitresses were very nice and we even got a sample of the shake before we ordered. I will definitely be coming back on a regular basis to try the rest of their menu.
(4)Jill S.
Finally made it here after seeing it on Chicago's Best months ago. I had to try the chilaquiles and Oatmeal shake everyone raves about. The reviews were spot on. Food is delicious. We came on a Friday morning around 11am and were the only folks in the place. Service was slow! Gave us pause to relax and enjoy our food. Eat the chialiquiles with the chorizo.
(4)Yevgeniy K.
One of the best Chicago breakfast places!
(5)Jason D.
This is a great place for breakfast in the heart of Uptown. Titzal serves breakfast and lunch (no dinner). The staff greeted us warmly as we arrived and was very attentive throughout our meal. The portions are huge, hot and full of flavors. OJ is fresh squeezed too! We had the chilaquiles (with chorizo) and salsa verde omelette, each served with house potatoes (red skins, chopped and pan fried so the skins were perfectly crisped but not burned). The chorizo flavored the eggs to add a nice zip. Plus, the chorizo was not greasy at all. Anyone who has had dishes with chorizo has assuredly had their fair share of grease-laden chorizo. Titzal made sure it was done the right way. As we got about halfway through our gigantic portions, one of the owners/staff approached to ask if we wanted to sample the oatmeal shake. "Sure!", we said. Upon finishing our sample we quickly agreed that it was a must have on our next trip. If you are looking for great food served by a friendly staff, give Titzal a try.
(5)Nick M.
WHAT the HELL PANTS?!? You didn't say anything about a oatmeal shake!?!! For a busy holiday weekend, I was surprised at how everything was top notch. The service was on the ball, though it probably helped that the manager remembered Rafael. She would stop by to chat here and there, but never being intrusive. Funny enough, she pretty much ordered for us and demanded that we shared. Then she also brought us out things to try. Egg Benedict- 2 poached Eggs with Canadian Bacon on an English Muffin topped with Hollandaise sauce. Florentine style (with Spinach instead of meat). I'm big on sauces and they nailed the Hollandaise! Chilaquiles- Eggs only (option to add Chorizo, Chicken, or Steak to the eggs), Tortilla Chips, Green Salsa, Topped With Baked Chihuahua Cheese, Chopped Onions And Fresh Cilantro. Served With Potatoes. Also, nailed it. BTW, the potatoes are brilliant here!! Add a nice seat on the patio and a glass of O.J. ... ah, this is the life! With 211 reviews with a average of 4 stars... I think it's a safe bet. If anything, Yelpers know their brunch!!
(4)Annie D.
A new Chicago brunch favorite. The boyfriend and I had a busy morning of moving furniture, and we arrived at Tiztal with mucho hambre. We were welcomed by the sweetest staff ever and no wait (WTF, Over Easy...). Of course, I had yelped brunchiness in the area and read that the oatmeal shake is a must, so we ordered one to share, plus some coffee (which was refilled on the regular). Hype there was... but this oatmeal shake is dang good, guys. I'd liken it to slightly spiced, delicious cousin to horchata rather than a lumpy mess my brain conjured up when I saw "oatmeal shake." I think we downed it in less than 60 seconds. I ordered the chilaquiles, which I highly recommend, but don't get it with chicken like I did because it was basically a plain split chicken breast on top. Boring. Get those eggs and salsa verde soaked tortilla bits with chorizo or steak like any sane person would do when given the choice. Chorizo, probably. Most all the dishes come with garlic breakfast potatoes on the side like little champions of starch. It's not obvious, but there is an adorable garden patio in the back too. Seriously, I saw it with my eyes.
(5)Pam D.
We had brunch here today based on reviews I had read, and OMG, we were not disappointed. If this place were 5 blocks further north there would be a line to get in. (I'm glad there was no line). We split an oatmeal shake. I had never heard of it before, but all I can say is YUM!!!!! For my brunch, I had the Tiztal Chorizo Scramble. It was delicious.... imagine this.... 2 scrambled eggs with chorizo, topped with tomato, onions, cilantro, shredded cheddar and side of sour cream. There is a 4 egg version, but I could not eat that much. Now, the cocky among you might say you could make this yourself just as well ... perhaps, but babies, the Tiztal breakfast potatoes.... I think not. They are beautifully garlicky with a bit of crunch and yet moist. I'd go back again just for them taters!!!!! The hubby had the Salsa Verde Omelet which consisted of eggs, filled with green peppers and chihuahua cheese topped with home made salsa verde. He normally is not an egg person, but he ate every bit and it was huge!! That also came with the taters . He loved it all. What I really loved about this place is the attention to detail and the good service. For example, the water is served with a hint of lemon, the toast is quality bread, the jam on the side is Dickinson, not some generic jelly you see in so many places. The interior is clean and attractive and there is nice artwork on the walls. The waitress came around with the fruit smoothie samples, which is a nice touch. On the way out we met the owner, a charming woman who told me that all the waitstaff are her nieces and nephews. We promised to come back soon and we will. next time i want to try one of the savory crepes. As it is hotter than hades today we did not check out the patio, but will get to that too, very soon.
(5)Amy H.
I'm going to burst the love bubble for Tiztal. This restaurant is either a hit or a miss. My favorite is the chilaquiles, but sometimes they are lukewarm and a little blah. The cinnamon raisin bread is always good and so is the oatmeal shake, but everything else on the menu is mediocre in an "I could have made this at home" kind of way.
(2)John C.
This is a good restaurant. I went for brunch with my family. A total of 5 people. We were seated fairly quickly even though they were busy. If you have a large number of people I would recommend calling ahead because they do take reservations for large groups. Now for the food. Great food and very good portions. They have terrific smoothies. I had the meat lovers omelet. Very good and would recommend it. The house potatoes are perfectly seasoned and baked. This is a must try restaurant and I really recommend the Tiztal Cafe.
(4)Erika G.
Headed here yesterday for brunch with my homegirl, fellow Yelper Kellie K., fiver, sistah! And, no wait for Saturday brunch (but probably not for long). Had been wanting to try this place for a long time, and was not disappointed in the least, verily, I was satiated! Started with delicious coffee, and ordered the 2 egg Chorizo scramble, which comes with garlic red potatoes - mon dieu! Perfect portion size and utterly delicious. Orange juice - fresh squeezed, what else? Those potatoes would have been enough of a taste sensation on their own, but the choizo and eggs (a favorite combo of mine anyway) were something else. Then, a sly waitress came around with small cups of the famous Oatmeal shake. Not fair! Or . . . perfectly fair, since they are in busineess to spread the love of these delicious cococtions! Line up another breakfast beverage - who knew you could drink your oatmeal (there's no alcohol in it, kids, come on, it's breakfast!) - really tasty. I'll be back!
(5)Mary T.
UPDATE 8/2/09: They are BYOB and now have an adorable little patio in back, woo hoo! I wavered on whether or not to give Tiztal that extra star and decided to stop being stingy since they are pretty great. This morning I was on a brunch mission and I didn't care where, or did I? I stopped by Toast, but the wait was horrendous, even for a counter spot for 1 (45 minutes? me no likey). So armed with my CTA pass I decided to hop on the first bus I saw and hoped for the best. Fortunately, my jaunt landed me back at Tiztal. Thanks The place wasn't too crowded, which is surprising, but nice since I didn't have to wait. This time there was no board outside about specials, but I asked about them anyway; I didn't make it past the first item - Chilaquiles, mmm... So am I the last person to figure out the Chilaquiles = Breakfast nachos? I had that epiphany as my plate came. They were sooo good and came with homemade chips, this yummy salsa verde with some heat, and their Tiztal potatoes *swoon* on the side. They were fantastic! Service was better, definitely more attentive. I think the main server is also the owner and I think she's stretched a little too thin covering all the tables. My only gripe is still the specials, I had to ask, and I saw them offered only 1 of the 2 tables sat near me. When I heard the other items on the list I was salivating - why aren't they talking these up more? Really? Sadly, my lactose intolerance keeps me from enjoying the shakes. From everything I hear the oatmeal one is the bomb. I would imagine their fruit ones are good too, the fresh fruit they serve looks awesome. To the parents with the 3 kids at their table: When you're eating in a small space (or anywhere for that matter) it's rude to let your kid obstruct the main aisle, not to mention tap dance (read stomp) with his soccer cleats on the tile floor. It's annoying, disruptive, and potentially dangerous. The servers/staff don't enjoy dodging him, trust me; just because they are too polite to ask him to knock it off and take a seat doesn't mean you shouldn't. Also, I wouldn't recommend letting your 2 smaller kids play by the door. Tiztal wants customers, that said, people should be able to enter/exit without worrying about inadvertently clocking one of your rugrats with the door.
(5)J O.
SOLID breakfast meal, nothing too fancy with the exception of the oatmeal shake (tastes like a horchata, yum) and chilaquiles. Very clean, good service, would go back if I'm in the area.
(4)Ali H.
I was totally stoked when Tiztal opened, right in my neighborhood. I went there a few times right after they opened, but after I moved further away have not been back until this past weekend. After a walk to see the Jade Buddha, we stopped by Tiztal to get an oatmeal shake, to go. As you may have read in other reviews, the main draw of Tiztal is their addictive oatmeal shakes. I don't know what it is, but I don't care. I just know that I need it. In years past, I've gotten food as well as the all-important oatmeal shake. Their chilaquiles are delicious and I remember some badass garlic breakfast potatoes. The rest of the menu is a bit odd; the sweet breakfast items seem plain and then there are random things with ice cream, etc. I say stick to the chilaquiles and shakes. So happy to patronize this place. Nothing hardly ever stays open along these blocks in Uptown... when I lived there I was so excited to have Tiztal around the corner. If only Chava had been open then too! Support these businesses!
(4)Leah B.
Wow this place is great! I've been here a few times and have yet to be disappointed!! Their food is very good, the service is friendly and the variety is nice and different from a lot of breakfast places around. They have a waffle with a fruit topping that is tasty and refreshing. Their egg dishes are made with fresh ingredients and you can taste the difference. Their potatoes are heavenly. The oatmeal shake is delicious and unlike anything else I have ever had. It is priced a bit high for breakfast but its worth it for the quality that goes in to their dishes. I highly recommend!!
(5)Mike P.
The wife and I got here over the weekend. She wanted an omelet and they delivered. I opted for steak chilaquillas and they made me moist in the pants. I think this will be my go-to spot for this dish. I love Tweet, but Tiztal has them beat on the chilaquillas front, beat like a mule, a dirty, dirty mule. Also if you like fresh fruit, these peeps got you covered. I was also please to see a more crowded restaurant. Hopefully word of mouth will keep Tiztal from succumbing to the fact it sits on the edge of the Uptown Clark Dead Zone. Then again, maybe the fine criminals that run the "import companies" on that desolate stretch of road appreciate a fine brunch.
(4)Boon K.
I grew up with Zephyr. I use to save $3.50 and ride by bike there from third grade and up just for the Belgium Beauty. I just love it. I was so happy to know that they have here just as perfect but with caramel instead of butterscotch but you really can't tell the difference. I love the ice sundae selection. The Zephyr omelette and Chorizo Scramble all yummy. Best part is coming here for smoothies when I am running late to work. I must say the oatmeal shake is awesome too.
(5)Rhonda G.
Yes, the Oatmeal shake is as good as everyone says. I could have easily had another but I only like to be a glutton in the comfort of my own home. Yes it is chock full of dairy goodness but lactose intolerant-ites don't fret, nothing that a couple of lactaid pills won't fix :) Yeah I went there.. Limited menu but I guess it's better to do a few things and do them well than to have a bunch of crappy food. People seemed to really enjoy the food and I can personally attest to the greatness of the Tiztal potatoes with roasted garlic and cheddar. Coffee is decent, water has lemon in it but because you don't see the lemon then it just seems a bit shady/off tasting. staff is very nice and they seem to try hard to be accommodating. However, the Oatmeal shake (licuado) is really the true star at this place. Outshining everything else...in my opinion.
(4)Mary T.
My girlfriend, who has a hard time with names, calls this 'That tits place' and so I have secretly renamed it because it makes me giggle and think of her. The food here is good, I always get the 2-egg chorizo scramble because it's still a big portion but won't make me long for a nap afterwards. The potatoes are good too. Haven't tried the shakes but just because I don't really like 'em in general. The staff are friendly, efficient and make you feel welcome.
(5)Susan L.
Oatmeal shake = awesome! But $5? Whoa.
(3)Jason W.
Simply put fantastic food and great staff. We try and go as many chance we get. The special...A+. The oatmeal shake...mmmmmmm Oh and fresh juices...great! I could go on and on, but keeping it simple makes more of an impact I think. Kudos Rosemary
(5)Erica T.
Tiztal is the Shiztal. I love salsa verde - so I got the chilaquiles. Their version is tons of salsa verde and cheese over tortilla chips with eggs on the side. I got the chilaquiles with chorizo, but next time I will just stick with plain eggs - they scramble the chorizo with the eggs, and it was just a bit much. Having read about the mysterious oatmeal shake in other reviews, I figured I should try this sucker out for myself. It was very tasty, but I found it weird that I had to chew my milkshake. And although it is pretty unique, now that I've had one I feel like I could make another one for myself at home. What I would really like to try though, is the vampire juice. I became intrigued when I saw some people drinking it at another table. It's a mixture of carrot/beet/fruit juice, and it literally looks like blood in the glass... They also have some other fun shake flavors to try like passion fruit and coconut.
(4)Alice D.
It wasn't like it was terrible, but with other nice places around, I don't feel convinced to return here. I had breakfast here several weeks ago, and honestly, if it were really good (Or I guess really horrible), I would remember exactly what I had and why I liked it, but I'm struggling to remember what I ate here. Not memorable at all. I went here with a friend because he looked at the yelp ratings and assumed it was be impressive, but it didn't quite impress either of us on anything.
(2)Aaron N.
Totally a hidden gem. Tiztal Cafe is the perfect neighborhood brunch spot, which I'm glad I gave a try. The service was amazing. Our waiter kept bring over "tester" cups of their weird combination smoothies, which were really good (get the oatmeal smoothie). Also the atmosphere was very inviting and everyone in this restaurant was just enjoying life. Now to the food. Freaking awesome. I had the meat lovers omelet with some breakfast potatoes and it was crazy good. I think I ate it all in literally 3 minutes flat. Although my dish was great, my buddy got the Egg Ranchero which is the best thing on their menu. The Ranchero sauce was so good, I wanted to put the leftover sauce in a zip lock bag and take it home to cuddle with. Overall, this place was slamming and we will definitely be back. Tiztal Cafe....good work. Boom.
(4)Dominique B.
Met a friend out here for a hang over cure. I'd agree with the rest of the reviews, service was spotty but I didn't mind it. Shakes (Oatmeal) blew my mind and was delicious start to my breakfast. Didn't find anything super interesting on the menu, but I feel like I need to go back when I'm not so hungover. I'll give an updated review then.
(3)Sarah B.
Two words: oatmeal shake. The rest of the food is quite good (I especially love the chilaquiles), but let's face it, the best part of the restaurant are the oatmeal shakes. Other than that, the service can be a bit slow, especially when it comes to bringing out the check. But the awesomeness that is the oatmeal shake helps to make up for the sometimes sub-par service.
(4)grant s.
I heart Tiztal Cafe. I went for lunch and had Vampiro licuado and carrot orange juice to start. Yummy! Then eggwhite and fresh veggie omlette. Very yummy! Then Swiss/cream cheese/veggie omlette. Also very yummy! But the potatoes. . .oh those potatoes. Perfectly seasoned, perfectly cooked. . . Most yummy! Rosemary took very good care of us. The juices and omlettes were fantastic. But those potatoes alone would keep me coming back if that was all they served! I'm glad I live close. Move over Bongo Room!
(4)Karisa B.
This place is a great little hole-in-the-wall in a neighborhood with not a ton of options. The food was excellent brunch fare - i had the chorizo chilaquiles. The green sauce was truly delicious, though the egg/chorizo combo was slightly on the bland side, which seems crazy. My husband tried the chorizo scramble which came with a yummy smoked chipotle-ish salsa. I had a fresh juice - the grapefruit cleanser - which tasted really fresh and bright. I can imagine enjoying this thoroughly while fighting a hangover. Husband had the oft-acclaimed oatmeal shake. I tasted it. I loved it. It's like an oatmeal cookie but in milkshake form. Really good. The owner or manager was a really nice woman who gave us samples of other shakes/juices that people in the restaurant had ordered. The ambiance is scrappy - you almost feel like you're eating in your aunt's home; we sat in the back patio. It was fun and kitschy featuring a mini replica of the David (well - not quite a replica...he was plus one fig leaf in this version), a strange little cartoonish fireman sliding down a pole with his pants coming off, that sort of thing. The food will certainly bring us back for future brunches.
(4)Sara C.
I've brunched at a lot of places and I have to say this may be my favorite. My friend and I had the chilaquiles with chorizo and eggs and to sum it up they were phenomenal. The sauce was made to perfection, the eggs and chorizo were flavorful, and the tortilla strips were crispy. This is my go to brunch item and I can't say enough on how excellent it was. From there we ordered the oatmeal shakes to go. I had the oatmeal banana and she ordered the oatmeal pecan. They were 100% worth it. They price around $5.25 and I plan on going back on weekends just to get that to go when I don't have time to sit and eat. The service was great but I do recommend trying to get there before 11:15 A.M. on weekends because it fills up fast. The vibe in the restaurant was casual and they are awesome about coming around with coffee and water. I highly recommend this place to everyone and plan on being back soon (hopefully sooner than later since I live 2 blocks away). Happy Brunching!
(5)Grant M.
We had a great brunch here. We loved the chilaques and the steak quesadilla. They have great side dishes, too and the service is great. This place is absolutely a diamond in the rough because there is not much around there. We heard they have great milkshakes too, but we didn't have room for it. Next time we will have to try one. I definitely recommend this place for lunch.
(5)Joe M.
- Their Oatmeal Shakes are the best I've ever had. Definitely try them. All the flavors are good, but I generally go with the standard or the banana. - Friendly servers. - Nice little outdoor section out back, if the weather is nice, I recommend it. - No
(5)Terry B.
Amazing. The food here is authentic and consistently tasty. We ordered the Chilaquiles and oatmeal shake and were overwhelmed with incredible flavors - it was one of the most satisfying breakfasts I have ever had and I highly recommend it. It's a little out of the way, but well worth the hike. We came at noon on Sunday and were seated right away. Great service and friendly atmosphere - one of my weekend favorites.
(5)Cynthia N.
I was lured into this place due to Groupon and was kind of hesitant because of its location but I am SO glad I went. The inside of this hidden gem is beautiful. They were modern with a ton of art pieces that included their marvelous paintings. I did not expect the interior to be this nice. Upon entering, there was only one table occupied and the rest was empty. This is a major problem! More people need to go here. Food We all ordered their chilaquiles since majority of yelp reviewers spoke about them. I ordered the chicken chilaquiles and my boyfriend ordered the steak. It was fantastic! My boyfriend finished his entire plate while I had half to take home. The garlicky potatoes were fluffy, yet still crispy. The green sauce and cheese complimented the tortilla chips perfectly, not too bland and not too salty. Service Amazing! The server (I think owner too) was so sweet. She gave us a pitcher of water so we can fill on our own. The chef even came by our table to say hi when she was leaving. As for the oatmeal samples, the server came by to let us try some and boy, was it delicious. It was my birthday and they even included a waffle topped with ice cream and candle, so sweet. :) Con Shakes are too overpriced! About $6 and they are pretty small in size. I also agree with a fellow yelper, add some music so I don't hear myself talking so loud lol. If you haven't stopped by, you have to. I'll be back without a groupon, for sure.
(5)Lamar S.
My fiancée stumbled upon this place using yelp. We came here for brunch on her birthday. It was a Monday when we came so it was not packed. The place is a decent size (enough to hold about 40 people) and is decorated nicely. The wait staff was friendly and efficient. Now let's get down to the real business, the FOOD!!! IT WAS DELICIOUS! I got the country breakfast and she got the steak and eggs Mexican style plus we ordered a side of pancakes (our motto: if you are going to try a place, try multiple things. If you can't eat it all, as long as it delicious, take it home). Everything was cooked with love and made me feel like I was in a little cafe somewhere in Mexico (minus the American touches on the food). The only downside to this place was the bathroom. They only have one and it was ok but nothing I would want to stay in for very long. Overall, it was a great experience! Go and enjoy!
(4)Jorge M.
I was looking for a breakfast in a different area so I check on groupon to see if they had any specials. Driving to lakeview we found this cozy mexican rest so I decided to buy the offer and try it. This rest was nice not like best of the best but staff were so nice and food portion was big I really couldn't eat the whole plate that much food I had. Their chilaquiles were awesome and and taste was very good. Only bad review I had to say is that they took to long to serve rest had like 6 people and food took almost 25 min probably more. They need to work a little more in timing but for the rest was pretty good.
(3)Judith S.
I have been here twice so far and every time I have left full and satisfied!! Their food is delicious and their oatmeal shakes are to die for! I've had the quesadillas and chillaquilles with steak and both dishes were amazing. The place is rather small, but they they have a back patio for extra seating and I've never had to wait to get a seat which is a plus!
(5)Rosa J.
Many people have asked me if the merchants who put their deals on Groupon are any good. I do admit that some are, but some are definitely not. Tiztal cafe is one of the affirmative ones. Well, I should say "Affirmative" with a capital "A" like Simom Cowell would. I did purchase a groupon recently when Groupon offered an additional discount toward the local deals. It was $12 groupon, but it can be used toward $20 worth of food...so...let's dig in! Tiztal Cafe was featured on one of the episodes of Chicago's Best. I remember that they recommended the original creamy oatmeal shake. Although it was pricy ($5.49 as of 01/31/2015), I wanted to try it since having a groupon allowed me to splurge a little. We also ordered the steak & eggs chilaquilles and omelet ranchero. Unlike their drink menu, the entrees are priced pretty reasonably; most entrees are between $9.99 to $11.99. Of course we had to have our morning coffee. Their entree portions are large. My chilaquilles were hearty and made just the way I wanted it. At once I thought I have finished it, yet underneath the steak there was more layers of goodness. On the other hand, hubby's omelet was awesome. The salsa sauce on the omelet was just right. He saw a plenty of options for vegetarians. Back to the oatmeal shake, you guys should really try it! It's worth it in my opinion. With an entree this large, the amount of shake I consumed was adequate. It's one of those "feel-good" drinks that doesn't overwhelm you. Overall, we had a very positive experience. Service we received was very attentive and coffee-refills were continuously non-stop. I definitely will come back, with or without a groupon. It's located one (1) block east to Lawrence Ave. The CTA 22 bus (Clark) or the CTA 81 (Lawrence) can get you there.
(5)Joly W.
Every time I come here I get the same thing: chilaquiles. There's nothing better than tiztals chilaquiles with two eggs over easy and their amazing oatmeal shakes. Sometimes they'll have little samples of their shakes (try it and become hooked!) It's a really cute family owned restaurant with great service and even better food. They have groupon deals quite often, which makes this place one of my favorite brunch places. Warning groupon not taken on Sundays!
(5)Sandra A.
Came in on Sunday around 12 and it was busy, of course. Only waited about 20 minutes for my party of 4. Was quickly greeted by a server with coffee, which was on point. Ordered the freshly squeezed orange juice and it was delicious. I got the chilaquiles Verdes with eggs & chorizo, french toast, and my boyfriend got the country fried steak breakfast. Their homemade potatoes are so good! The French Toast was fluffy and yummy! Really enjoyed this place and the friendly wait staff. Only thing is maybe play some music? But overall awesome place.
(4)Rae O.
I can't believe that I lived next door for almost 9 months and did not know this place existed! So thankful for my yelp friends for helping me find another gem in my neighborhood. The oatmeal smoothie is amazing! So flavorful. It was $6. I only did takeout and they made it really fast.
(4)Tom B.
The very best chilaquiles you will ever have in your life. Their breakfast potatoes are killer as well. A family establishment where everybody cares about what they do. You will be impressed...
(5)Natalia K.
Ever since I've discovered Chilaquiles, I've made it a mission in life to order it off every menu I see it on. Thus far, the steak and eggs Chilaquiles ordered here has been my absolute favorite. Though the steak was slightly overdone for my medium rare order, it was tasty and plentiful. Two over easy eggs sat ready to burst over my crunchy and cheese covered tortilla chips, all swimming in the most delicious salsa. I stuffed myself to an uncomfortable level because I did not want to waste a bite on my plate. There was a slight wait for brunch on a Saturday and the tables were set up quite close together to get the maximum number of people in such a small space, but it was worth it. I came here with a groupon and only want to come back for more.
(4)Alan D.
Pretty good quality for the area. I've gone a few times and am going to continue going back. Service staff is great and friendly. Food is reasonably priced and good value. I especially like the Leslie scramble (egg whites). Staff is polite, good and quick. Kitchen seems clean and decent. It's unlikely that they hide any dead bodies in the back.
(4)Phoebe W.
In the past, I may have been guilty of using "what's your favorite kind of potato?" as a personality barometer question on Tinder dates. Yes, Yelp world that's right. I am convinced that you can tell a lot about a person based on their favorite form of glorious tubers. And yes, I once got into a heated debate with a guy about waffle fries vs. shoestring fries. (Team Waffle Fries, obviously) This is probably why I'm single. But I will forever right swipe a guy if he mentions Tiztal's side of breakfast potatoes, always + forever. They are the perfect formula of fluffy and crispy, a textural paradise. These potatoes have so much flavor they don't even require ketchup, what is this witchcraft?! Dining companions (and hopefully future Yelp Elite peeps) swear by their oatmeal shake. The wait is tolerable, but not an excuse to miss out on these potatoes! Gets ta steppin!
(5)Sheila K.
I've been here twice now and both times I ordered the same item: The Florentine Omelette. It was delicious the first time and the second time was no different. My husband has had the Steak and Eggs and the Country Fried Steak. They were also both delicious. I like the consistently good food that comes out of their kitchen. A lot of people rave about the oatmeal shake but we have yet to try it. You can also get juices here. Service is on point and very friendly. This place is tucked away from the busy streets of Clark, but you will usually find a full house. I would definitely recommend this place if you are looking for a good meal.
(4)Justin G.
Just walking down Clark for a brunch place without a 3 hour wait, and dropped in to this great little place. We instantly took a table in the back patio seating, nice and secluded, quiet, and a good setting for any couple. We went with an omelet and a chorizo scramble. Absolutely delicious and plenty to fill you up. All the ingredients were fresh, and the salsa on the omelet was a nice touch. The staff is friendly and the just a nice place to sit, grab a coffee, and eat a nice, fresh breakfast! Check this place out, you will enjoy it! I have only been here once and try to reserve my 5 star ratings when I visit a couple times, but I anticipate changing to 5 stars after another visit.
(4)Amber L.
Chilaquiles forever! With steak, with chicken, with no meat at all. With poached, with scrambled, with fried. But always with excellent, never undercooked, perfectly seasoned, breakfast potatoes. Liquados are tasty and put some pep in your step. Breakfast milkshakes yes, because it's a milkshake, for breakfast. Interior is pleasant and bright. Not suitable for groups larger than 4. Service is friendly, but it's a very busy place. It may take a while for your server to get to you.
(5)Cynthia R.
Really cute spot! Delicious omletes and those oatmeal shakes are the boss! They gave us a sample of the beet juice concoction, which was delish as well. Service could be better...not bad but a little....off. We will definitely be back.
(4)Ale G.
Definitely try the Chilaquiles with eggs and steak. Don't forget to get a pecan/banana milkshake. This brunch will keep you full for the rest of your afternoon. Prices are extremely reasonable!
(4)Taryn F.
I LOVE Tiztal! Their shakes/smoothies and potatoes are the best. Sometimes if you're lucky, a waitress will come around with free samples of their oatmeal shake. They have patio seating in the back when it's nice out too.
(5)Nancy A.
This is hands down the best breakfast and brunch spot!! Filling and delicious. It's very authentic. I know this because their Chileaquiles taste just like my mom's! You must try their Chileaquiles with eggs or your choice of meat, steak or chicken or just eggs.
(5)Anwar J.
CHORIZO CHILAQUILES! Small and quaint. Great service. The shakes are very creative, outside the box, but very flavorful.
(5)Bee F.
Great! Food was fantastic. I went with the steak chiliqieles and vampiro for my drink. Loved it and so did the fam. Came on the Groupon but will come again. Prices are decent. Definitely worth every penny.
(5)Ektaa B.
Really awesome chilaquiles! The green sauce is delicious and has a bit of a kick to it.
(5)karen c.
If the service wasn't awful, they'd have 5 stars for food. Not one bit attentive and after 20 minutes with empty plates and no water refill, we finally had to go get someone in the empty restaurant for the bill. The waitress had her child with her, putting away condiments while they never checked up on us. It was 2 pm on a Sunday with multiple servers and barely any tables. Really? After many reviews of how they have Chicagos "best chilaquiles" we had to give it a try. The chilaquiles themselves were good, however only luke warm and the potatoes were overcooked. Meh, I'd rather go to other places where the chilaquiles AND service is great.
(2)LadyBird X.
Before I rip this place a new one, I want to point out that the wait staff were all somewhat nice and decently attentive. I ordered eggs and bacon... First of all, the bacon alone is enough for me to never return. I kid you not, it looked like Beggin' Strips dog treats: unbearably dry, cardboard texture, and mostly burnt. Portions were really small (my breakfast potatoes consisted of 8 potato cubes; about 3 bites worth). According to the waitress, they don't have rye toast. When I inquired what kind of toast they had she shrugged "wheat" - that's it?! Supposedly the draw here is their variety of fresh juices, but $5 per serving? Homie don't play that! My husband had the chorizo scramble (which is difficult to ruin) but their version was gross with a nasty aftertaste. I tried one bite and couldn't imagine eating any more of it. To top it off, the atmosphere was AWFUL: cramped and loud with tiny tables and uncomfortable chairs (and an arctic breeze every 5 minutes when the door swings open). There isn't a designated spot for those waiting for a table to hang out so some patrons waited outside in the cold and others crammed into the only standing room available at the front (a 3 x 3 ft area). This area just happened to be right next to my table so for the rest of my meal I was within 5 inches of a family talking loudly and waiting for their table; it felt like they were hovering over me (I'm not mad that they were there, I'm mad at the uncomfortable proximity). I cut my meal short and blew dodge when the family's 5 year old took off his shoes right next to me. While I was eating. Disgusting. Four stars?! You should all have better standards! For the price point I'd prefer a booth at Golden Nugget to this place any day (bigger portions, better atmosphere and way better quality).
(1)Monica G.
Love this family-owned business in Uptown. They serve brunch late, and thats my favorite for a slow-moving Sunday morning (probably afternoon). Love the fresh squeezed juices, my boyfriend had a delish Arnold Palmer. He always gets biscuits and gravy. I got the special - Waffle, two eggs and potatoes for 7 dollars. Do not miss the breakfast potatoes - seriously. So crispy, garlicky - topped with chopped onion, cilantro and shredded cheddar. I'm a potato-aholic and these are the best I've had. Got our check and took an oatmeal shake to go (duh).
(4)Eliza M.
I'm the 130th review for this place? Yes please! We refer to it as Titzal because it's more catchy... I wanted to visit Tiztal a couple times before I reviewed it, thus the tardiness of this review. It's probably the best brunch option in Uptown. Chilaquiles, country fried steak, pancakes, etc. are all good. And I like the fact that they don't serve you mass amounts of food--I'll take quality over quantity any day. We tried a sample of the Infamous Zomg Oatmeal Shake. It was tasty but I thought it was very rich and am not sure I could finish an entire shake, although I would probably try. It gets crowded during peak brunch hours so I recommend avoiding it at these times.
(4)Kelly S.
The milkshake brings all the boys to Tiztal. And they're like, it's better than yours. Damn right. It's better than yours. The oatmeal shake lived up to everything I have been hearing about it. I looovveee oatmeal. This was pure frothy goodness in a glass. Add a bowl of fresh fruit to complete my breakfast. Perfectamente. Parking was super easy. Pulled up right to a meter in front. $.25 for one hour! WHOA! I am used to Oak Don't Park prices where $.25 buys 20 minutes. I guess I can't complain about the Chicago meters anymore...
(4)Carly O.
I owe a visit to Tiztal to all of the great reviews by fellow Yelpers. In an attempt to find something close to my friends, but also a place I hadn't tried yet, Tiztal fit the bill. I was a little discouraged when we sat there for quite awhile before someone came by to take our order. It was smooth sailing after that though. I know everyone raved about the oatmeal shake, but I'm going to get order it next time. I was all about the savory that morning and went straight for the chilaquiles with chorizo and eggs after seeing the mouthwatering photos on this site. It delivered. Gooey Mexican white cheese, verde sauce, served with a side of crispy breakfast potatoes, I was more than pleased. My friends enjoyed steak and eggs ($10!), eggs benedict and biscuits and gravy. Good price, good food...when you're chillin' in Uptown and looking for brunch that'll satisfy the one person who wants Mexican fare and another who just wants a freakin' waffle, here's your compromise.
(4)Emily Y.
Monte Cristo!!! That is all.
(5)Jess M.
I agree with Monica D. Breakfast potatoes and oatmeal shake! The only downfall to this place its that it is slooooooooow.
(4)Jay S.
The Oatmeal Shake made me cream my underpants. The food was only okay.
(3)Nicole C.
Perhaps from all the raves the bar was just set a bit too high. I'd like to give a 3.5 but I rounded down like a curmudgeon. I did order and enjoy the much-touted oatmeal shake, but the fact of the matter is it's made with ice cream, so I think it would be pretty difficult for it not to taste good. Also I would've preferred it with cinnamon, which, if it did contain it, was in a quantity so small that I couldn't taste it. I split Chilaquiles with my dining companion and (prepare yourself for blasphemy again) to me they were just OK and personally I prefer the eggs all mixed in, traditional style. Perhaps it's the chorizo that makes them stand out to others (we had them with just eggs and cheese.) The potatoes served with the Chilaquiles were very good (unfortunately I'm supposed to avoid them and other nightshades...arghh...but I dont hold that against Tiztal.) We also shared a half order of French Toast that was solid, not spectacular. And I decided to get an order of cinnamon raisin toast and was glad I did, because I enjoyed it the most out of everything, and it's a steal at $2. In sum, if I'm around I'd go back for some cinnamon raisin toast and a shake if I'm craving it, and to linger in a nice, warm setting. But this isn't quite the breakfast nirvana I was expecting.
(3)Steph F.
Oatmeal shakes are highly addicting! Love to come here for sunday brunch. Good food and great service :)
(5)Pablo G.
Great family business, the fruit salad with yogurt is amazing. I have always wondered why the hipsterocracy hasnt embraced this place.
(5)Brian C.
Delicious breakfast, beautiful patio, friendly and attentive wait staff. Hidden gem in Ravenswood! AMAZING pancakes and Oatmeal Shake!
(5)Jeff A.
Absolutely! Chilaquiles! Chilaquiles! Chilaquiles! Mind blowing! the flavor and texture is an experience that everyone will get lost in! Coupled with those Potatoes, who knew you could do that with potatoes, amazing they are crisp on the outside, covered in a flavor of onion and greasy goodness with a smooth creamy inside they are just outstanding! If all that happiness leaves you less then tickled how about a mound of eggs and chorizo that seems never-ending both in quantity and flavor...OH SO GOOD! I have been several times now and the ladies who run and serve in this place are the only thing better then the food! and yes you must try an oatmeal shake! change up your boring mimosa and mix some pineapple apple mango juice with your champagne next time-a bubbly concoction that will take you there...Where ever there is..Don't forget to bring your own bubbly this is a BYOB which rocks!
(5)K W.
Good oatmeal shake, chilaquiles are awesome, and they make custom smoothies too. You really can't go wrong here for breakfast. The one super-annoying thing is that sometimes they bring your bill in an American Express bill holder thing, yet they DON'T take American Express. And when you put your Amex card down, they tell you they don't take Amex and look at you like you should already know that. Otherwise, Tiztal is a good neighborhood spot for breakfast, and their outdoor space is nice.
(4)Drew S.
A great gem hidden amidst the wholesalers and other assorted crap along this stretch of Clark St. The staff was incredibly friendly and flexible and brought us a little taste of fruit smoothie when they had some extra from another order. I enjoyed my french toast in a big way and the garlic potatoes were phenomenal in a serious way.
(4)Daphne L.
I finally made it over to Tiztal, after months of reading reviews that made me salivate. The husband and I had a break in an afternoon of errand-running last Saturday, we were both starving, and as luck would have it we drove right past Tiztal. It was okay; not fabulous or mind blowing, just okay. The food was delicious, but I wasn't overly impressed with the service. We walked in around 2:00, and there was only one other group of patrons in the place. There was, however, a table near the bar that was filled with employees and friends or family, laughing, talking, and, eating. We stood waiting to be seated. Stood some more. Still standing. Tumbleweed. After a while someone finally got up and asked if we wanted to sit...umm, yes. We weren't looking for shelter from the rain. I asked if we were supposed to seat ourselves, and got a "No" in response. Alrighty then. So we're seated, and at this point so hungry we're ready to eat our hands. I'd already decided on the chorizo scramble and the fantastic potatoes that I've read so much about, and of course we had to try this oatmeal shake. Unfortunately, the staff/family/friend gathering was still taking place at the table by the bar, so we waited. Waited more. Still waiting. I finally got up and approached the table to ask if we could order, and immediately regretted doing so, as the looks being thrown at me suggested I was interrupting UN peace discussions, or something of equally significant importance. Now, I admit we were there at that weird, twilight-zone like time that's after lunch but before dinner, but, hey, you're open and serving customers, so I don't really expect to be treated like I'm imposing. We order and the "shake" comes out. Yeah, I don't get it. It's cold, sweet, and tastes like the ingredients that go into oatmeal cookies, but, that's it. I think the disappointment was that it's not what I consider to be a shake: it wasn't thick or rich. It was basically really cold milk that maybe had ice cream? I don't think so, though. It wasn't bad by any means, it just wasn't what I was expecting. The chorizo scramble was delicious, truly yummy. It was perfectly seasoned, not at all greasy, and had the right amount of spice. The potatoes..ahhh, so so good. I could have ordered another plate to go with my meal. My hubby had the chillaquiles which were equally as good. We both felt full and happy. Our server came over to drop our check, and said "You can pay whenever you're ready." She then sat back down at her party table and proceeded to eat. With her back to us. For at least 10 minutes. I guess it's a good thing we didn't have to be anywhere. I will definitely go back to Tiztal, because there's no denying that the food was delicious. I wasn't, however, at all impressed with the service, and the fact that we were there during an off time during the afternoon is really no excuse for sub par service. Oh, and, it was FREEZING in there, like, someone forgot to pay the heat bill and it's 20 degrees outside, freezing. I can't enjoy a meal when I'm shivering.
(3)Katie B.
Dear Tiztal, Congratulations on earning my 100th review. I was hoping it would be a fiver, and you are. You have impeccable timing. Your lovely owner Rosemary was running a busy, busy lunch on Thursday when I came in like a purple tornado. You're walking distance from my abode, but this day I had a car. I'm a terrible driver and parker, so I had no driver's side mirror. The broken screws where the mirror used to be was distracting to me but I recognized you instantly as the oatmeal shake place I had read so much about on Yelp. So I pulled a U-y (that's what drivers call it), nearly taking out a few fully mirrored vehicles. (Must be nice, fancypants!) I needed this oatmeal shake to shake my driver's nerves and also to maybe eat a non-oat meal. At the counter with my coat still on, I started to say "I have heard so much about the shakes here..." and your Rosemary said "oh, the oatmeal shake? Everyone loves it." Oh baby waby! We're finishing each others' sentences already! I started thinking aloud about food and was urged to try the chilaquiles. The conversation and music was great so I finally just asked for a cup of coffee, called my office, took off my coat and stayed parked on my stool. I had one of those great-things-are-happening-and-not-because-I'm-Âplotting-my-Yelp-review moments. I could feel myself starting to unwind and enjoy the moment. I think I love you. I had never had chilaquiles before and I can safely say it's the best food on the planet. Chips and green salsa, mixed with chihuahua cheese and baked together into a savory crumble. If you don't believe me, ask Wikipedia. It's actually a very good description. They're served with eggs and meat, and at Tiztal, spicy amazing potatoes. How did I not know about this? They must be for drivers. Tears are welling up in my eyes just thinking about yours! My food was ready in like two seconds, despite how busy it was in there. You're scaring me a little. I'm afraid that I will never try anything besides the chilaquiles and oatmeal shake. That means I'll never get to the caramel waffle sundae or my former fave eggs benedict. But on this, our anniversary, why mess with tradition? Happy 100th my love. I'm so glad you moved to my neighborhood. This is going to make moving in together so much easier, me being a pedestrian and all. Very truly yours, me + u 4evs, KB
(5)jenny m.
There's not much I can say that hasn't already been said. But I like to put my two cents in anyway, so here goes. I'd go back in a heartbeat for the oatmeal shake and the garlicy, cheesy, potato goodness that was the breakfast potatoes. Heck, I don't even like oatmeal but I tried the shake based on all the rave reviews from other yelpers, and I slurped that thing down in like 5 minutes flat. I actually felt a little gluttonous that I finished it off so quickly, but whatever, it was goooood! As others have stated, service was a little on the slow side. But I was there on a beautiful Sunday morning and we sat out on the cute little back patio. And since I was in no rush, I really did not mind.
(4)Jo W.
"Friend, will you do me a favor?" "Yes, Jo?" "Will you call all my friends and tell them to make plans to come to my funeral? Because I just died and went to heaven." It's true. I came here this morning for a late breakfast with my friend before he flew back to NYC. I arrived before him, and took a seat at one of the tables with the wooden bench by the window. The woman working there (who I assume was the owner, Rosemary) got on her hands and knees under my table and plugged in a space heater. "It gets chilly by the window, this should keep you warm," she said. How sweet is that? While I waited I had the opportunity to just relax. I really like this space - it's small, but decorated tastefully, and I love the ceilings and the chandeliers. Very cozy. At the time I was the only customer in there, but over the next hour a couple people trickled in and I could tell they were regulars. At one point the chef came out to talk to one of the regulars, and ladies - he is VERY easy on the eyes. Why isn't he on the menu? When my friend arrived, we both perused the menu. I was STARVING, as I had not eaten the day before because I wasn't feeling so hot. So I was ready to put away some serious food. I was torn between pancakes and french toast, and ultimately ordered the french toast. And eggs. And bacon. Oh what's that, Rosemary? It's cheaper to get your famous garlic potatoes with the eggs? Sure, throw those in too. My friend looked at me, and I just smiled. He ordered the french toast. And that's all. Wimp. She brought the french toast first, and my eyes got wide and I thought perhaps I should have just stuck with the french toast... A huge plate of 6 thick half slices sprinkled with powdered sugar, with a sliced up strawberry as a garnish. I didn't even wait for the rest of my food and dug in. Mmmm... SO GOOD. A couple minutes later she brought out my other plate of food. Another huge plate with my eggs, bacon, and potatoes. She set it down in front of me, and I just laughed at the amount of food that laid before me. But my stomach was happily ready to take on the challenge. I ate bite after delicious bite of food, all while trying to keep my head from exploding so I could carry on a conversation with my friend. Finally, I was full. Ugh. It was a good fight, but I was unable to finish it all... Though I had saved those potatoes for last, and they were goooood, so I had to tell myself to stop. Rosemary came over to take our plates and asked me if I wanted to take home the remaining potatoes and french toast. "Tempting," I said. "But I'd rather have an oatmeal shake to go." What, you thought I was going to leave without trying one of these, even though I had just stuffed myself silly? So Rosemary whipped me up an oatmeal shake to go, and then brought over two cute glass mugs filled with the leftovers. "A free sample," she said. I took a sip... and sighed happily. It really is like an oatmeal cookie in shake form. YUM. My friend had been skeptical about the oatmeal shake, but he quickly inhaled his because it was so good. I love it when I'm right and he's wrong. We sat and relaxed and chatted for a while, until Rosemary finally brought over the check. The damage for his meal and my trip to heaven? $23. Totally not bad. As we left, Rosemary bid us farewell and said, "I hope to see you again!" I laughed. "Oh, I think you're going to be sick of me soon."
(5)KELLIE K.
If this place was next door to Simon's, I'd be in a lot of trouble. For now, I'll settle for the short trek down Clark to have a seat at one of my new favorite brunch spots. Being a chorizo fan, I opted for the 2 egg chorizo scramble. I'm glad I didn't order the 4 egg because my dish was a perfect size! And the potatoes...oh, the potatoes. Lots of garlic and cooked just right. Tiztal, you've easily created my new favorite brunch food. Sorry, Hamburg Inn (Iowa City people...hear this!), your home fries are now a long-forgotten memory. I had heard so much Yelp chatter about the oatmeal shake, I needed to try it. After a sample from our server, I knew I had to have one of my very own. So tasty and worth every second I had to wait! I love it here! I'll be back again and again. My next meal will simply be potatoes, coffee, and an oatmeal shake. I might even drag along a bottle to take advantage of the BYOB option. Just roll me out the door and push me north, will you?
(5)Joshua M.
Definitely an eclectic little joint. Odd breakfasty menu that is a mix of fruit, Mexican omelettes, and other traditional breakfast foods. It also has some lunch stuff too... presented on two separate menus. Well oddness aside the chorizo quesadilla was pretty good, and the service was definitely attentive. I don't find myself in this area very often, but I'd definitely eat there again if I was.
(4)Louis C.
Arrived with a buddy on a rainy Saturday morning. We were seated quickly and noticed that dining area looked clean. I ordered a the chilequilles with chorizo and my buddy ordered eggs with bacon and toast with a hot chocolate. Service was fast but jumbled. My friend ordered scrambled and the eggs came out sunny-side up. The toast somehow morphed into potatoes but no biggie as the potatoes are quite good. The bacon is good quality slab type stuff and the hot chocolate was rich and yummy. It definitely didn't taste like the instant variety. The chilequilles were outstanding. Wonderfully fried, fresh tortillas layered in Chihuahua cheese and salsa verde along with well executed scrambled eggs with high quality, tasty chorizo. Not greasy at all. I do like this joint but the downside is the service. This was perplexing because the restaurant was not crowded during the time of our visit. I noticed that in addition to getting our order wrong, they also had a problem getting the order right for the table next to us. The quality of the food demands another visit so I'll see if the spotty service I experienced was an aberration...also, I didn't get to try the oatmeal shake or fresh OJ!
(3)Kelly C.
What a little gem in uptown. Tucked away on Clark, this place served some amazing breakfast. I ordered the chorizo scrambled, comes with this garlic potatoes and a side of fruit, delicious ! If you're in the area, don't feel like waiting forever for breakfast at some other popular place, give them a try.
(4)Deborah E.
Two words - oatmeal shake. OMG. I will admit it - after reading all these Yelp reviews about this infamous shake, I was determined not to like it. I mean, oatmeal in a shake? Gross. Doesn't even sound good to me. Sounds too earthy crunchy healthy. And - what - no mention of chocolate in it? No, thanks. But today, fellow Yelper Michele L and I had the most wonderful scrumptious relaxing breakfast at Tixtal Cafe. Chorizo and eggs....steak chilaquillas...cinnamon toast....and those potatoes! Oh, god, I am a tatohead and these tatoes were scrumdillyicious - cooked to perfection, seasoned just right with garlic, and not a green pepper in sight. This was my first time at Tixtal and Michele has been here many times but never had the oatmeal shake. We asked to sample one...and the rest is history. From now on, I will never go there and NOT get one. Thank you to all you hip and happenin' Yelpers who have raved about this place. And to Yelp itself - I raise an oatmeal shake in your honor, for thanks to you, I spent a whopping five hours on a cold winter day in a cozy comfortable cafe, eating fantastic food, drinking a bottomless cup of coffee - and have found a new friend.
(5)Ceci R.
I live in the neighborhood and have been to Tiztal multiple times, all wonderful experiences! This review is long overdue! Six blocks away, lines are out the door at Bongo, and yet Tiztal, a gem, remains undiscovered.. I am happy about that for the sake of we regulars, but feel it's a massive oversight on the part of breakfast fans! The oatmeal shakes and crispy garlic potatoes have been amply covered here. My favorite is the fruit plate with all the trimmings including a yogurt sauce that is to die for! We order waffles, omelettes, chilaquilas and eggs benedict and love them all! The owner Teresa is very attentive and is very generous when we split dishes. They divide them in the kitchen and offer full servings of the sides--fruit and potatoes. The outdoor space in the back is nice, with a pergola, flowers and shade. Tiztal is on a block on Clark Street that isn't busy on weekend mornings, so it's easy to drive by. If you do, though, it's definitely your loss!
(5)Kate B.
Oh Tiztal you are a siren wooing me with your fantastic garlicky potatoes and oatmeal shake! First time here was a girls brunch, in fact one of the most fun, laughter filled brunches I have had in a long time. The food was glorious, and the coffee was never cold or our mugs half empty. The service was a bit slow at first, but that is to be expected on Sunday when the place is packed. The owner came over and introduced herself to the table and let us know that they were now open for 24 hour service on the weekends. What a great personal touch. The next time I came here was with the fiance... it was Saturday and we were in need of a tasty meal before running errands all day. I ordered their Zepher omelet (think thats the name...) and it was HUGE! In fact I ate half that day and heated up the rest the next day in the toaster oven. Now, the oatmeal shake is cinnamon heaven in a cup! Get one to split with your friend - they are HUGE!
(5)Megan G.
Tiztal's oatmeal shake lives up to the raves. It's like an oatmeal cookie in liquid form and it's to die for. Okay, so with that out of the way...I visited Tiztal this past Sunday at about 11 am. My first observation is that Tiztal needs more of a waiting area. They've become a bit of a victim of their own success in this regard - there were probably about 10 people waiting for tables and no space to accommodate all of them. As it was pretty chilly outside, we all crammed into the tiny area inside the front door. Fortunately Tiztal seems to turn tables pretty quickly, so we were soon seated. I noticed after that point that there was no wait - so Tiztal definitely has not gotten so popular as to be annoying (I'm looking at you, M Henry). Service is great. Everyone seemed really attentive and friendly and they kept my coffee so consistently refilled that I had caffeine jitters for the rest of the day (a full coffee cup endears any establishment to me). My chilaquiles were really good as was my companion's ranchero omelette. Prices were pretty reasonable. I'd say the smoothies are an amazing deal, though we didn't get one I was spying on a nearby table that did and they have to be double the size of a large Jamba Juice smoothie. The fact that Tiztal is in my neighborhood and the addition of 24 hour openings on weekends assures I'll be back soon. The rest of you all need to stay away, though, okay? I don't relish have to be out the door at 9 am to avoid brunch lines.
(4)Ayako M.
Yeah....what everyone else said and: The most awesomest freaking Chiliquiles in my life were eaten here. Not in Mexico, not in California, in freaking Uptown, Chicago. Get them with chorizo! You'll thank me later. PS, the people that work here are the best!
(5)Allan M.
My first ever experience with experiencing Tiztal was at The Raven street festival this past summer, when I briefly sampled one or 2 of their drinks at their booth. I just wish I had spent more time at their booth then, since I don't remember which drinks I sampled, but enjoyed them. Fast forward several months later, when I finally got around to coming here this month. First time around, I got an oatmeal shake to go, and (obviously) enjoyed it. Second time here, was when my attempt to eat at Pannenkoeken Cafe was thwarted, due to them being closed for the day. (boo) I then instantly thought of coming here as a backup option, due to all the things I'd previously heard about their food. It definitely did not disappoint as a backup option, since I enjoyed both the food my friend and myself ordered. The chilaquiles I got were enjoyable, and the fact I ordered chicken with them was a nice addition to its flavor. My friend ordered their pancakes, which were also decent. Although part of me wishes that their menu prices were slightly cheaper, I do like that the food portion sizes help to make up for that. Also interesting to see my suspicions of this place possibly being related to Zephyr was right, after looking at a review here! Rosemary, who is one of the 2 co-owners of this place, was a very nice woman to talk to. I had a nice talk with her, and I have to unfortunately note that Tiztal has temporarily stopped being 24 hours on the weekends, due to a robber that hit several businesses in the area. She did tell me that they are going back to weekend 24 hour operation in spring. Finally like that it's an easy walk to both Chase Park(entered from Leland Ave.) and to Saint Boniface Cemetery(2 blocks north on Clark).
(4)Unity O.
FINALLY, I had the much raved about oatmeal shakes--I begin to wonder how I ever lived without them before?!?!?! They are delicious, creamy, smooth, and taste very much what you would imagine a lovely bowl of oatmeal would be in shake form. The cinnamon goodness hits you right away--it is not too overpowering though--just the right amount and you can taste the sweet of some brown sugar as well. Thank goodness it was a Yelp Office Hours because I got to enjoy them with many Yelp friends & that makes the experience so much more enjoyable (especially when Colleen is paying--much love to you girl!). Also, big props to Rhonda G for helping out another lactose intolerant sister. They were a bit overwhelmed by our large group at first, but they rose to the challenge and served us up some warm tasty coffee, oatmeal shakes, and their specialty drink the Vampiro (contains pretty much all fruits & veggies--beets, carrots, orange juice and more). Their menu while not extensive is quite good. What they do, they do well. If you are looking for a new brunch spot try them out.
(5)Nikki C.
when you can come in at 3pm after just waking up from the night before, still riding the wave of your last 4 shots 3 hours earlier and wanting nothing more than the pounding of synaptic seizures in your brain to not be so loud.... get the oatmeal shake, order the leslie eggwhite omellete. let the friendly service pamper your soul and aaahh the rest of the sun away. free wifi to download free porn...yay porn! ;p
(4)Daniel C.
This is really a 3 1/2 star review...but 3 stars is more accurate than four. After all the great things I have read I just had to give Tiztal a try and I must confess...I don't think this place is quite as good as many people make it out to be. I had the Oatmeal shake....and yes, it was very, very good. But an Oatmeal Shake alone, a breakfast does not make. I had the Chilequiles which were decent. I really liked the salsa verde, but I was unhappy to see the eggs sitting off to the side, versus the traditional style of mixing the scrambled egg in the the sauce. Just not the same.... The eggs themselves were undercooked. I ordered medium and they were over easy. Conversely, my steak, which I ordered medium was cooked PAST well done, dry, and definitely an overall poor example of skirt steak...particularly at a place which is owned and operated by Latinos. AND the time it took to get mine and my dining partner's food was probably 25 minutes from the time we ordered. It was not very busy and neither item (she had an omlette) warranted the amount of time it took. Maybe they spent the 25 minutes cooking the shit out of my skirt steak.... Overall the meal was still good but I do not plan on going back unless I find myself in the middle of Uptown craving an Oatmeal Shake. Who knows....it could happen
(3)Linda P.
Thank you Colleen C. for introducing me to the goodness that is the Oatmeal Shake! Oh Mah Gawd. You ever have a foodgasm??? Well this definately induced one, it was SO good, creamy, cinnamony and literally tasted like breakfast in a glass! I had a look at their food menu (this is basically a breakfast-only place) and everything looked so tasty, we had a hard time deciding what we wanted! The mister and I decided to try the much-talked about breakfast potatoes. Holy moley this was another homerdroolworthy taste sensation...the potatoes were nicely browned and slightly crispy. Seasoned with garlic and covered with cheese it was a delicious mid-day treat. Bad for vampires, good for everyone else ;).And speaking of vampires (well vegetarian ones anyway), they offer a drink called the Vampiro which is a bloody red concoction made from beets and other assorted fruits and veggies. Cute place + Friendly staff + Open 24 hours Friday thru Sunday = Me coming back again.
(4)Kevin A.
WHAT'S THAT SMELL? Lo siento, Tiztal. I came expecting a 5-star worthy meal based on all the rave reviews, but I left disappointed. My first impressions of Tiztal were very good. The place is bright, welcoming, and the staff is very friendly. You get the sense that this is a family-run establishment. Unfortunately the luster started to wear off shortly after. First, we got some glasses of tap water which had an odd, almost crustaceany smell to them. Kind of like what water smells like after you steam crab legs. I'm not sure if it was municipal water or the plastic cups, but it was a big turnoff. Fine I said, I was going to order a shake or smoothie anyway. I had heard about the legendary Oatmeal shake, but alas I could not try it. It apparently is chock full of dairy-related evil and with no soy option, that dream was quickly shattered. I opted for a mango pineapple smoothie which was so-so. For my main course I got the meat lovers omelet which quite large, but a little overcooked. I like my eggs fluffy and light and these were firm and rubbery. To top it all off, breakfast for two came out to $30, which seems high. I suppose the cost of using fresh fruit in their juices is a reasonable explanation, but I still wasn't impressed with what I got for my money. On the plus side, the potatoes were wonderful. Crisp, garlicky, and delicious. Bottom line: I left scratching my head wondering what all the fuss was about. Perhaps I went on an off day?
(2)Jay L.
It's great to have a good brunch place on this stretch of Clark St. I've been here multiple times and always get the Oatmeal shake. It's probably 1000 calories but it's worth it. I really appreciate the variety and the Mexican breakfasts are especially good.
(4)Jerry M.
I've heard of the legend of the oatmeal shake here at Tiztal Cafe and I was immediately intrigued. After all, I stuff my face with oatmeal nearly every morning. So I know what a good thing oats are. But there's the thing about legends - they very rarely live up to the hype in my experience. With that in mind, I ventured up north to Tiztal. Oh dear God in heaven - this oatmeal shake was GOOD. Better than the hype that lead me here. I want that shake to be my boyfriend. Yep, it's that good. And I want to have a torrid affair with the cabana boy - the potatoes that were crusted in garlic. Afterall, who is going to want to kiss me after eating those breath destroying babies? Yum, yum, YUM.
(5)Lorie D.
I am giving this cafe a two but, before yesterday, I would have given it a five. We love the food and usually have been here around 9:00 on a weekend, when it is quite busy and we have always had great service. We went yesterday around 1:30 and the place was half empty, but the unsmiling woman who served us (who is a regular server there) was in quite a hurry to take our order. We had to ask her to come back twice while we were deciding and she actually rolled her eyes. This was followed by the most rude and surly service I have had at a restaurant in some time. The server didn't speak another word to us during our visit and after wordlessly delivering our food, ended up giving our table to another server to finish up (she didn't want to wait on us, I guess?). The surly server delivered half our breakfast order without telling us that the other half was coming out later (at least 5 minutes later). She also gave it to the wrong person. We were totally confused, because I had ordered something that is normally made with egg whites, but I asked for it with yellow eggs. My husband ordered something that looked like egg whites. We weren't sure at first which order had come out and it seemed like she had misunderstood our order or had only gotten half of it. No apology for causing this confusing, delivering only half the food without explanation and one of us having to wait for our breakfast. Our experience at Tiztal was an uphappy experience in an otherwise awesome Saturday. I would not have tipped this person, but my husband insisted that we leave a tip for the server that took over our table, who was nice and checked on us several times. Also, he wants to return based on our prior good experiences. As much as I liked the place in the past, personally, knowing the person who "served" us initially is part of their regular waitstaff, makes me never want to go there again.
(2)Ang R.
The green salsa on the chilaquiles is incredible. Really. I quite enjoyed the chilaquiles as a whole; the chorizo/egg scramble on the side, with the onions, cheese and salsa--as well as chips--really hit the spot. I didn't love the potatoes, but mine weren't the same as my boyfriend's, for some reason, and his were really good. Very odd. He had the Benedict (he's new to Benedict, so doesn't have much to compare it to), and enjoyed it very much, though he thought the eggs were slightly too soft for his taste. If you like your eggs a bit harder, I'd order them so. Boyfriend also had a smoothie, and it was fresh and tasty as well. The only thing I can say against Tiztal is that the food is slightly slow to come out. We were on a strict schedule, and as it wasn't crowded (at all, I mean, really), we figured it'd be no problem. But we did end up having to bolt our food down, because the service was just a little too slow. So budget some extra time, but I do think the wait is worth it. I'd like to try one of the scrambles, and the waffles as well. We'll probably pop in from time to time to try new things, as the mood strikes us.
(4)Beth G.
What a nice little find! In the no-man's land between Uptown and Andersonville lies Tiztal, nondescript in atmosphere but with awesome breakfast food. I showed up early for brunch with a friend, and offered to wait at the counter, since they were filling up. Graciously, they said it was fine to wait for him at a table. I did so, with a nice little pot of tea (they had a dozen or so varieties to choose from). I was tempted by several things on the menu, but opted for the well-reviewed chilaquiles. I got the standard vegetarian preparation, but you can add different meats if you want. This dish's reputation preceded it, and it did not disappoint. Cheesy, crispy, just the right amount of spice ... I nearly ate myself sick, because the portion was so generous but the dish was so good that I didn't want to stop eating. Our server was attentive but didn't ever make us feel rushed, even as a line congregated in the foyer. To be fair, my friend said it isn't typically that crowded, but they had just had a Groupon offer. If this place was in my neighborhood, it would be a frequent stop. I'd want to try their juices and smoothies as well, but I only have one appetite.
(4)Brenda G.
OMG. My favorite breakfast place by far. After reading about them in the Tribune I couldn't resist making a trip to the city. We went on a Sunday morning, so of course there was a wait. Especially for a group of 5 adults and a toddler. It is small cute place with a very welcoming environment. While we waited, a waitress brought us samples of their Vampiro fruit juice. How nice! We all ended up eating off of each other's plates everything was so delicious! Only drawback was that the ranchero omelette is not described to be smothered in salsa on the menu??? They then packed it to go and we ordered something else. They quickly brought out the new order. Great place definitely recommend it.
(4)Shwetha V.
I never thought oatmeal milkshakes would be good until had one at the Tiztal cafe. The staff is really sweet. The staff is very sweet and helpful. I had the banana oatmeal shake and the quesadilla. I would definitely recommend you to try their shakes.
(4)Scott S.
Best Chilaquiles in Chicago! Superb food and service! Cannot speak highly enough about this restaurant!
(5)Elizabeth A.
Food was delicious and prices were great, except for the drinks, which were almost the cost of the meals. :/ The chilequilles, omg! SO. GOOD.
(4)Edith s.
Great chilaquiles verdes!!! This place hits the spot right after a race at montrose harbor!!
(4)Brad S.
This place is great for breakfast/brunch. Do the outdoor patio (you have to sneak in through the tiny alley to get there) if you can, and the weather permits. Their oatmeal shakes really are amazing, and aside from that, their entire menu is delicious. If nothing else, get something that comes with their garlic potatoes. They are quite delicious.
(4)Angela A.
Delicious place for brunch with a Mexican flair. I had the huevos rancheros and it was perfectly cooked over medium, how I like it and wasn't spicy like some that I've tried before. The potatoes that came with it were perfectly cooked with a crunch on the outside and soft on the inside with not too much seasoning and not too salty. My sister had the eggs Benedict which was good too. The juices were freshly made; the vampire is made with beets and was good. It's a shall quaint place that has a patio in the back. I thought the service was good but not great. The waitress was very nice but took a whole for them to take our order and didn't come back to ask if we wanted the check and when we were done figuring the bill, it took a long time til we had to flag someone down to take our bill. Overall though I would come back because the food was tasty.
(4)Diana M.
The best chilaquiles in the city! I've tried many, let me tell you, spectacular! Make sure to ask for your chilaquiles extra crispy with sunny side up eggs. My grandma and I also had their banana oatmeal shake and it was delicious! Potatoes are great also. I loved it, this is my second time and deserves all 5 stars.
(5)richard i.
My friends and I tried it on a "search for brunch" whim, and it's one of our favorite places now. We go together, with new friends, separately, too much... The food is amazing, plentiful, and fairly priced. My friends always get the Chilaquiles. Thats not my thing, so I've gotten omelets and country fried steak, pretty standard, but awesome. Their potatoes give me feelings. The oatmeal shakes (which I didn't know was a thing) are magic unicorn juice. Best of all is the service. My friend said it felt like we were at "abuelita's house", which is totally true. Everyone takes care of you together like a guest in their home. They give you samples of the shakes, (my friend always gets a beet shake, which she loves--- I would never-- but they give me a sample of that too.) They brought my steak and asked if I wanted more gravy... MORE GRAVY?! Yes! Always! Everywhere I go acts like gravy is on rations. But not here. They get me. Small, but intimate but relaxed. I would go here hungover, I would go here on a date. (But not at the same time.)
(5)Angelica P.
The oatmeal shake was amazing!! So good and definitely a must order. The garlic side potatoes were really good too.
(4)Scott H.
Tiztal Cafe is by far my favorite brunch place in the city. I know that's a tall order considering the number of brunch places that the city has to offer, but they just do it for me. I pretty much get the same thing every time I go. I get the veggie omelet and the vampiro juice. Then I convince whoever I'm there with to get the oatmeal shake because I don't want to be the guy that orders 3 drinks (I also order coffee). I couldn't pick which item I like the most because they're all honestly that amazing. I really like my juice, but the potatoes at Tiztal are better than anything I've had at any other restaurant. Then of course there's the oatmeal shake. It's truly a must try item. You won't be disappointed. With all of those positive features, I will say that this restaurant isn't quite perfect. Their downfall that the service is a bit rough at times. Everyone is always friendly and helpful, but not always that attentive. It sometimes gets a little annoying, but I promise that the food will make up for it. FYI: If you want excellent service ask for Melissa!
(5)Daniel C.
The place was clean, the staff was very friendly, the Eggs were delicious and hot, the bacon was crispy, and the coffee was fresh and hot. The juice was fresh squeezed. A weeee bit slow (I had my food and had to eat before my friend got his), but they were so nice, and the food is soo good we didn't care. At the end, I put a $20.00 down and got a few bucks back. I will be back for sure!!!
(5)Garvin J.
This is my favorite brunch restaurant! I would have never found it, unless I was looking for a place really close to my house to have breakfast, but I'm so glad I stumbled in here. They have an industrial juicer, and the smoothies, shakes, and juice are half the reason to come here. Heck, probably enough reason to go if that's all they served, but they they have great food. I almost always get the chilaquiles. It's a lot of food, and it's all delicious. The best part is the garlic potatoes, I'll go so far as to order extra potatoes because they are that good. If it's open, the outdoor patio out back is pretty neat. Only downside is that service is not great on the patio, but food comes quick and it's great, so I'm not complaining. The people here are really nice, and the cooks are amazing. I'm typically really critical of restaurants, but this place is so good I've never had anything I don't like.
(5)Jean L.
I came here out of desperation, hungry desperation. It was one of the only restaurants that was open when I was in the area an early weekday morning. I walked over a mile from where I had been originally been, and when I got to Tiztal's door..boy oh boy was I hungry. The water was characteristically lemon-y, as if someone had squeezed in way too much lemon...but for some reason it worked! The coffee was just mediocre, which was a disappointment, but the free oatmeal shake sample made up for it. The portions were HUGE and yummy.
(4)Oksana D.
The oatmeal shakes are enough to bring me back here. The portions are hefty and the service is very quick and friendly. The food was tasty, but not spectacular...aside from the oatmeal banana shake of course! If in the area, definitely consider this place for your brunch needs.
(4)Cristiana B.
My favorite chilequiles with eggs & chorizo! No joke. Everything is delicious, their fresh-squeezed juices, oatmeal shakes, waffles, breakfast potatoes... on my birthday they treated me to a waffle with ice cream. Very well priced as well, can't lose!
(5)Ryan P.
Really love this spot. The food is terrific (very authentic) and the service is excellent. We found it to be less than busy, so you don't have to worry about a rush of folks. Get seated quick, food comes quick. Definitely worth a stop.
(5)RJ W.
Simply the best waffle I have had in Chicago, period. Great omelet, perfect breakfast potatoes... and great service for a very fair price... Run, don't walk, there!
(5)Vaidehi T.
Loved this brunch place. Went here on the 4th of july and it was not at all crowded. We sat in the patio, and it was perfect... like sitting in your backyard. The service is very friendly and the food is amazing. We ordered the chilaquiles and a veggie omelette. The chilaquiles are delicious, a definite must try. The omelet was perfect too. This is a brunch gem, and I would love to visit again.
(5)Shradha A.
really good chilaquiles, friendly service, easy parking, loved the local art showcased.
(4)Ritu R.
Been here uncountable amount of times and need to put this on here! They are fantastic! Great good. Great service. Great everything. Juice menu = awesome Oatmeal Shakes = must have Chilequeles = my hubbies favorie and he has tried too many other to count Zephyr Omlette = perfect just perfect Potatoes are amazing. Perfect size and seasoning. They are friendly and welcoming. Street parking is easy. I have brought my parents here and our best friends here. We have brought a baby here and they were fully accomodating. I highly recommend this place to everyone as we are brunch junkies and could be considered snobs!
(5)Chris H.
This place is the bee's knees!! Not sure what that means, but what I mean is this place is great!! It's BYOB, brunch, delicious and great service. Do you even need to keep reading? No, but you will. I've been here multiple times and the service is always very friendly and attentive. The food is wonderful; and the portions are very large (which is much needed after a late Saturday night of drinking). I literally don't have a single complaint. Try the Oatmeal Shake; it's amazing. Bring a bottle of champagne and get your brunch on!
(5)Gricelda R.
Went there for a second time. The first time I had a great expirience with my friend which is why I went back this time not so great... I dont know if its because i went with my lil brother and thought we wouldnt spend... Or if because they were too busy with their own family and kids all the attention was on them. The server not once came to check on us we had to ask for extra napkins. Of course we didnt receive a single welcoming smile eiher! You cant work in the industry and not crack a smile!!? We werent even greeted when we walked in and of course when we left!! Like I said they were too busy with their family to even notice that we left how rude! It's a shame because most likely I will not be going back.
(2)Roman M.
Awesome chilaquiles, as a lot of other reviewers have commented on, and my banana oatmeal shake was very satisfying as well. The wait to get in wasn't too bad for Sunday at about 1pm and it's nice that they stay open until 4pm for a later brunch-food crowd. Overall, nice Uptown gem tucked away amongst other small businesses on Clark with easy street parking right in front of the restaurant. Portions are very generous, although I wish the portion of the oatmeal shake was a little bigger for the price. The restaurant brings a great diverse crowd, no pretentious Lincoln Park brunch scene to be had. Would definitely come back for the nice Latin spin on traditional brunch food.
(4)Giampiero John V.
Great small Lil place. The green chillaquilles were c awesome the that I had in the city so far. Oh man and make sure you get the oatmeal shake that was so good
(5)Stu T.
Chilaquiles are solid. Oatmeal shakes kick ass--and I don't even eat/drink shakes. That good.
(5)Cindy M.
Love this place!! The waitstaff were very friendly and welcoming :) We just happened to see an episode of Chicago's Best & glad we just happen to be passing by. We were looking for a place to really get our feast on. We haven't found the perfect Breakfast spot. Yes, this one is a winner :) I ordered the Hash & Eggs and to my surprise the waitress told me that it was all homemade at the restaurant. None of the Canned stuff like other restaurants. It was a huge plate of Deliciousness.. My Honey ordered the Country Breakfast plate and he was SATISFIED!!! The white gravy over biscuits and Country Fried steak was DE-LISH!! Once they found out it was our first time there, they offered us a sample of their Famous oatmeal shakes. Yummy!! Come hungry...Leave absolutely satisfied!! Next time I need to make sure I have room to have one their yummy shakes.. Definitely 4 THUMBS UP :)
(4)Jon S.
Tiztal is one of the best brunch places in the neighborhood. Their atmosphere is great especially in the summertime. Try one of yheir fruit smoothies and the chilaquiles are the best I have ever had
(5)Natalie S.
Its my husbands birthday. He wanted breakfast. I wanted dim sum. It's his stupid birthday so he wins. Boo. He Yelped breakfast places around our place and came up with Tiztal. I wish he had told me about the oatmeal shakes... I'm just finding out about them now. Oh well. Anyways, so when we walked in I thought it was a pretty room. Nice and cozy. We had menus and a drink order with our server pretty much right away. That's when it all fell apart. I love it when places have big tea pots. I was pretty pumped when they sat that big hunk of shining metal in front of me. I plopped my teabag in... and nothing really happened. I touched the pot... tepid. After I flagged down our server to ask for hotter water, she took the pot and basically stood there in the corner looking helpless with it. She did this for a solid minute or so. Then she handed it off to another girl who stood there looking helpless. Then she handed it off to a dude... who stood there looking helpless. I finally got that pot back 10 minutes later with hot water. Thank goodness. Food came. I had the three meat omlette, the Mr. had the country fried steak. Both were very good. I was a big fan of the potatoes. However, it wasn't until I was more than halfway done with the eggs that my English muffin finally came. Why bother at that point? We never got water. The husband had to flag people down for coffee refills. I practically had to have a seizure to finally get our servers attention for the check. Wowza. $26 for two breakfasts, coffee and tea? Plus tip? We had breakfast at Pauline's yesterday... similar meals... $7 cheaper... better service too. We agreed to give it another go at a later date. I'm interested in trying the much discussed oatmeal shake. But if the service doesn't improve, the next time will be our last. There are too many delicious breakfast options around here to keep patronizing a place with such bad service.
(3)Jack P.
I came for the Chilaquiles. There are numerous varieties, such as eggs only, steak, and even chicken, I tried the chorizo. The chorizo was a minute amount, mixed into the scrambled eggs. And those were done to a rubbery consistency. The bed of soggy tortilla chips had a generous amount of melted chihuahua cheese and a green salsa. The salsa was excellent. It was some of the best green-cheesey mush I've ever had. The pan fries, which were presumbably deep-fried were also crispy good, of course, because they were deep-fried! The menu is limited to breakfast and lunch items and includes omelets and other Mexican street treats, like tacos, etc. For an informal Mex place in not exactly your high rent district (edge of Uptown/Ravenswood,) I thought the prices were a bit high. Almost all the breakfast items hovered around the $9-11 range, including Chilaquiles, which I'm used to seeing at $5-6 on other menus. Nuevo Leon's is $4.75. It is pretty cheap food, after all. So probably a good 1000% markup? $2.50 for mediocre coffee is no deal either. My inner caffeine aficionado was left with yearnings. The place is very homey and inviting, and the staff is pleasant. It's not "comida rapida," but I was in no hurry either. It's a nice neighborhood spot, but not a good value in my book. I probably could have had an Over Easy level breakast with superb ingredients and good coffee for about what I spent here. Or something better at Inspiration Cafe, too. If you are looking in this area.
(3)Reggie M.
I love chilaquiles got a fuckin' problem. But really, I do and Tiztal has the best! I'm definitely making Tiztal my go-to for brunch since it's much closer to my block than Bongo Room.
(4)Angelica E.
Two words....Oatmeal Shake!!! Yes ladies and gentlemen the Oatmeal Shake is a must when coming here. I took a train and a bus to get to this place and it was well worth trip. The shake was amazing and the food was awesome. I wish it was a lot closer so I can enjoy this place frequently...booo!
(5)ZZ K.
What an awesome discovery!!! This place is a true gem! The food simple, fresh and tasty. Our server was attentive and gave good advice. It is small and because of that very chilly ever time the dor opens and people walk-in - we ate with our coats on! :) None the less, 5 of us enjoyed our meals immensly and my husband is still talking about it!! What I really enojyed was the simplicity and great taste. I had chilaquiles with chorizo and if you like salsa verde soaked tortilla chips...this is your dish! YUMM!! They hubby had had eggs and hash and it was just fantastic! We loved the potatoes, which had a nice hint of garlic and we also tried a bite of the crepes our friend had...and yup folks, another winner! I think you can't go wrong with anything you order here! We were even given samples of the oatmeal cookie shakes, but we thought it tasted a bit chalky for our liking, but I know many people really love the shake. Others at our table had fruit smoothies and they were nice. Friendly, attentive service, tasty, fresh mexican food, and a small cozy resturant this is great for breakfast or brunch. If you have not been....I highly recommend it! Also, street parking was a breeze!
(5)Jules H.
Exquisite. Everything about this restaurant hits every mark... It is small...maybe 12 tables. There is rarely a wait, yet the place is always comfortably filled. You are greeted promptly and warmly. Their menu is inviting, creative, beautifully presented! The coffee they serve is hearty, tasty, central american brew. Their table water is as cold as ice, and lemon infused...fresh as it gets. Then, after being graciously attended to, food starts arriving...crepes filled with mushrooms, and fresh spinach. Chorizo scrambles with dazzling cilantro, cheddar cheese, peppers, sides of tortillas, fruit. Oh, and yes, the chefs here know how to make breakfast potatoes. Well done, with little tiny crispy onions bits, slivers of bacon, very tasty, very nice. Fancy in a way, and very good way. I am a breakfast person. I have been searching for the mecca of breakfast for awhile in chicago, and I have found it. This is a family run place, lovingly run with panache and flavor. I heart Tiztal Cafe...
(5)Tiffany S.
A hidden gem!! Great for juices! I got the energy juice and it was so refreshing. Had an omelette that was out of this world and the garlic potatoes on the side were nice and crisp. Not like some where they are soggy and not flavorful. I wanted to go back the next day. Wonderful service. Amazing!
(5)Deb D.
Stopped here on a whim, based on reviews from *ahem* another ratings site. There were 3 of us. We were seated immediately. I had the first item on the menu - the Zephyr Omelet. It was amazing. The potatoes were even better. Service was attentive and prompt. My coffee cup was never empty. The owner stopped over to check on our food, and when she heard it was our first visit, she brought us samples of the oatmeal shake. WOW! Next time, we will get one. I highly recommend this place. Family owned and family run - you can feel warm and fuzzy about supporting this business while eating a great breakfast!
(4)Damian S.
The banana oatmeal shake is really good...I didn't think it was overly filling, or weighty as some reviews say. My friend and I both had the Zephyr omelet and it was very tasty as well. His biscuits and gravy were more gravy than biscuit, but were ok. They lacked some scallions and salt and pepper, but were otherwise good stick-to-your-ribs fare. Overall we were pleased with this brunch spot and will definitely be back. The servers do tend to forget about you for awhile when you're out on the back patio, but maybe they're just trying not to hover like some servers do.
(4)Hesham A.
I ran into this restaurant while walking in the area. Nice little place for breakfast/brunch. I grew up around good Mexican food and there are good options for this here. Also classic breakfast items. The portions are really big. Good service. Get the oatmeal shake, it's so damn good (although a little overpriced, especially for the size).
(4)Dr Keith W.
This place has an incredible oatmeal shake! A must have if you stop by for any reason. The eggs are cooked to perfection. Fruit is off the vine and the patio is quaint and cute. Great food
(5)Katie P.
If I could come here and get an oatmeal shake everyday I would!!! Worth every cent! I also love the chorizo scramble and the super friendly staff :D
(5)Nancy F.
Service is great!! they are always giving free samples of the juices and shakes. Oatmeal shakes at the end is a sweet treat. The beet juice is amazing and def ask for help from the waitress, she knows best!
(5)Michael F.
Delicious...Delicious...Delicious... I love it.....I love it.....I love it......... This place has everything you would ever want in a small neighborhood diner. Cozy, affordable, great food and friendly staff. My friends live within walking distance from here and the place is worth the visit. My friend and I had the Leslie Omelet which contains egg whites, feta cheese, spinach, onions and mushrooms. It came with a side of cottage cheese and English muffin. My other friend ordered the steak and eggs. Everything was cooked to perfection and they even gave us samples of their healthy juices and roasted garlic potatoes. Staff were very attentive and made sure we were happy with our meal. Good coffee and a great tea selection. Support small businesses, Starbucks will do just fine without you.
(5)Arlene A.
Wow. I've been here twice, under two different circumstances and both were really enjoyable. Doing the Sunday group thing as well as weekday brunching were great experiences. The service is paced nicely, unrushed, but still attentive. I've had the Country Fried Chicken Steak, and the cream gravy is DELICIOUS. My Honey had the Chorizo scramble, and only offered the tiniest of bites to me, a sign of superior yumminess. The fresh juice offerings are not to be missed, and don't (seriously, DON'T) miss your opportunity to get the most amazing Horchata.
(4)Brandon B.
The best chilaquiles I've ever had, period. The oatmeal banana shake was fantastic as well.
(5)Faye B.
Went in on a Sunday and the experience overall was pretty good. I was thinking this place was more 3.5 stars, but I chalk part of that up to the fact that they were slammed with a large party along with the regular brunch time crowd. The place is small and the wait wasn't too bad. It's just that the wait for the food was just as long, but they did try to accommodate by giving samples of their shakes and potatoes. The oatmeal shake was definitely the way to go. After seeing reviews on Chicago's Best and fellow yelpers this drink did not disappoint. It was definitely tasty and not grainy like one would imagine upon hearing 'oatmeal shake'. The breakfast potatoes were quite tasty, crunchy, and had lots of flavor. I had the chorizo scramble, but my boyfriend had the chilaquiles and his dish was much better. The salsa verde on the nachos was flavorful and parts of the nachos still had a bit of crunch to it and weren't overly soggy. Definitely want to come back again because the staff was pretty nice and I may want to try a new smoothie or something else on the menu.
(4)Colleen C.
OMG. The oatmeal shake, a meal in itself, is $3 and will change your life for the bettter. Drop what you are doing (if between the hours of 8am-4pm) and go get one...you will NOT be sorry. Mmmmm, sweet mother of oats, good stuff.
(5)Nikkie H.
I moved into my new 'hood a couple months back and was a little concerned that the dining options were a bit more scarce than my old stomping grounds. I had a lot of great bars and restaurants within a few blocks, and that didn't seem to be the case in the new area. When my friends asked if I wanted to meet for brunch I turned to good ol' Yelp to help guide the way. It guided well...it guided me to Tiztal Cafe. After discovering Tiztal Cafe I went two weekends in a row. I would probably go every weekend if I could get people to go with me. Heck, I might just start going by myself. I can be independent like that! Both times I went with the crowd favorite chilaquiles and everyone is dead on. They are spectacular. They're different than the chilaquiles I've had in the past, because the ingredients are not all mixed together. I like that, because I can really get to taste the different flavors. Word to the wise though, they are filling so keep that in mind if you plan on getting one of their delicious oatmeal shakes. Save room, because you'll need it!
(5)Maggie D.
So good. So friendly. Oatmeal shakes are incredible. Strawberry pecan was especially good. Beet juice good. Potatoes delicious. I don't think they have bad food here. Stuffed.
(5)Brianna L.
OMG! This place is seriously like an orgasm in your mouth no lie. The oatmeal shake yum yum yum..I would seriously love to know how they get it to be that consistency. It's pure heaven in a cup. I ordered the chillaquiles with chicken. It was soooo flavorful. I couldn't believe it to be honest. The chicken was mariinated to perfection. The salsa verde on point. And those potatoes OMG those potatoes I could seriously talk about them days and I'll dream of them foreverrrrr..I can't wait to go back and another helping of this place!! Downside the chicken came as a full boneless chicken breast when I wish it had come pre-diced since they really fill your plate and the yummy sauce was spilling over the edge while I was cutting the chicken. I'm so glad that I randomly searched breakfast spots on saturday to find this pure gem!! Thank you yelp..you're my lifesaver (in super mario bros. princess peach voice) :) Stop reading and GO EAT THERE NOW!!!
(5)Michael E.
Love Tiztal! We live a block away and whenever we have guests from out of town staying with us, they always want to go to Tiztal for breakfast. Very reasonably priced, great smoothies and very friendly staff. There isn't much on Clark between Irving and Lawrence...this place is a gem.
(5)Phil S.
Food was very good; had the chilaquiles and Leslie scramble. Lots of food for kids too - the pancake meal was huge for my 3 year old! The oatmeal shakes are good but not AMAZING like people are saying. Prices are decent; service is lacking. Overall 4 stars.
(4)Marjorie F.
When my friend and fellow indulger Nicole asks me where I want to meet up, I never know where to go. This time my mission was to find a breakfast place. Thank goodness for Yelp!!! We were not disappointed. The food was delicious! My friend and I had similar cravings and ordered the chilaquillas with chicken. Yummmm... Unfortunately, I didn't have the belly space nor the lactaid to try the oatmeal shake. ;) But that's a good reason to go back, right? Plus there's a whole menu of dishes that I want to try! Service was friendly and fast. It's a great casual lazy Sunday morning catch-up-with-a-friend kind of place.
(4)Emily B.
Simple and well done. Loved the potatoes, the service, the prices, and the neighborhood feel. Sad I didn't try the oatmeal shake everyone raved about below, but will definitely be back!
(4)J.M S.
Food service and ambiance are all solid - the oatmeal shake makes this excellent breakfast spot a worthy destination.
(4)Leanne A.
otml shk! I said it as fast as I could so I could get it over with. Gots to learn how to make this thing. mmmmmmmmmmmm. garlicky potatoes. mmmmmmmmmm. sexy, adorable waiter with sexy, adorable accent. mmmmmmmmmmmmmmmmmmmm. quesadilla--eh, okay.
(4)Aaron N.
Totally a hidden gem. Tiztal Cafe is the perfect neighborhood brunch spot, which I'm glad I gave a try. The service was amazing. Our waiter kept bring over "tester" cups of their weird combination smoothies, which were really good (get the oatmeal smoothie). Also the atmosphere was very inviting and everyone in this restaurant was just enjoying life. Now to the food. Freaking awesome. I had the meat lovers omelet with some breakfast potatoes and it was crazy good. I think I ate it all in literally 3 minutes flat. Although my dish was great, my buddy got the Egg Ranchero which is the best thing on their menu. The Ranchero sauce was so good, I wanted to put the leftover sauce in a zip lock bag and take it home to cuddle with. Overall, this place was slamming and we will definitely be back. Tiztal Cafe....good work. Boom.
(4)Dominique B.
Met a friend out here for a hang over cure. I'd agree with the rest of the reviews, service was spotty but I didn't mind it. Shakes (Oatmeal) blew my mind and was delicious start to my breakfast. Didn't find anything super interesting on the menu, but I feel like I need to go back when I'm not so hungover. I'll give an updated review then.
(3)Sarah B.
Two words: oatmeal shake. The rest of the food is quite good (I especially love the chilaquiles), but let's face it, the best part of the restaurant are the oatmeal shakes. Other than that, the service can be a bit slow, especially when it comes to bringing out the check. But the awesomeness that is the oatmeal shake helps to make up for the sometimes sub-par service.
(4)grant s.
I heart Tiztal Cafe. I went for lunch and had Vampiro licuado and carrot orange juice to start. Yummy! Then eggwhite and fresh veggie omlette. Very yummy! Then Swiss/cream cheese/veggie omlette. Also very yummy! But the potatoes. . .oh those potatoes. Perfectly seasoned, perfectly cooked. . . Most yummy! Rosemary took very good care of us. The juices and omlettes were fantastic. But those potatoes alone would keep me coming back if that was all they served! I'm glad I live close. Move over Bongo Room!
(4)matty z.
Really an exceptional breakfast, and the chicken chilaquiles are wonderful. Each time I've had them, I'm reminded that yes, Virginia... I do love soggy nachos. Additionally, the oatmeal smoothie is wonderful. You'll also find an attentive staff that consistently keep your coffee filled and your face smiling.
(4)Sarah B.
I came for brunch on New Year's Day. Props to them for being open, it was busy! We walked in and sorta stood there waiting to be seated and when nobody acknowledged us we just found a table on our own. I get that it was busy but at least say hello or something! It took a while to get a menu and again to order. I went with orange juice (fresh squeezed--thank you!) and the feta and onion omelet with potatoes. The feta was weird. It was cubed and had the consistency of tofu. I didn't care for it and everything was really greasy. I should have gone the sweet route with some waffles. I think I would go back on a day that was less busy and try something else.
(3)Sara C.
I've brunched at a lot of places and I have to say this may be my favorite. My friend and I had the chilaquiles with chorizo and eggs and to sum it up they were phenomenal. The sauce was made to perfection, the eggs and chorizo were flavorful, and the tortilla strips were crispy. This is my go to brunch item and I can't say enough on how excellent it was. From there we ordered the oatmeal shakes to go. I had the oatmeal banana and she ordered the oatmeal pecan. They were 100% worth it. They price around $5.25 and I plan on going back on weekends just to get that to go when I don't have time to sit and eat. The service was great but I do recommend trying to get there before 11:15 A.M. on weekends because it fills up fast. The vibe in the restaurant was casual and they are awesome about coming around with coffee and water. I highly recommend this place to everyone and plan on being back soon (hopefully sooner than later since I live 2 blocks away). Happy Brunching!
(5)Grant M.
We had a great brunch here. We loved the chilaques and the steak quesadilla. They have great side dishes, too and the service is great. This place is absolutely a diamond in the rough because there is not much around there. We heard they have great milkshakes too, but we didn't have room for it. Next time we will have to try one. I definitely recommend this place for lunch.
(5)Joe M.
- Their Oatmeal Shakes are the best I've ever had. Definitely try them. All the flavors are good, but I generally go with the standard or the banana. - Friendly servers. - Nice little outdoor section out back, if the weather is nice, I recommend it. - No
(5)Terry B.
Amazing. The food here is authentic and consistently tasty. We ordered the Chilaquiles and oatmeal shake and were overwhelmed with incredible flavors - it was one of the most satisfying breakfasts I have ever had and I highly recommend it. It's a little out of the way, but well worth the hike. We came at noon on Sunday and were seated right away. Great service and friendly atmosphere - one of my weekend favorites.
(5)Cynthia N.
I was lured into this place due to Groupon and was kind of hesitant because of its location but I am SO glad I went. The inside of this hidden gem is beautiful. They were modern with a ton of art pieces that included their marvelous paintings. I did not expect the interior to be this nice. Upon entering, there was only one table occupied and the rest was empty. This is a major problem! More people need to go here. Food We all ordered their chilaquiles since majority of yelp reviewers spoke about them. I ordered the chicken chilaquiles and my boyfriend ordered the steak. It was fantastic! My boyfriend finished his entire plate while I had half to take home. The garlicky potatoes were fluffy, yet still crispy. The green sauce and cheese complimented the tortilla chips perfectly, not too bland and not too salty. Service Amazing! The server (I think owner too) was so sweet. She gave us a pitcher of water so we can fill on our own. The chef even came by our table to say hi when she was leaving. As for the oatmeal samples, the server came by to let us try some and boy, was it delicious. It was my birthday and they even included a waffle topped with ice cream and candle, so sweet. :) Con Shakes are too overpriced! About $6 and they are pretty small in size. I also agree with a fellow yelper, add some music so I don't hear myself talking so loud lol. If you haven't stopped by, you have to. I'll be back without a groupon, for sure.
(5)Lamar S.
My fiancée stumbled upon this place using yelp. We came here for brunch on her birthday. It was a Monday when we came so it was not packed. The place is a decent size (enough to hold about 40 people) and is decorated nicely. The wait staff was friendly and efficient. Now let's get down to the real business, the FOOD!!! IT WAS DELICIOUS! I got the country breakfast and she got the steak and eggs Mexican style plus we ordered a side of pancakes (our motto: if you are going to try a place, try multiple things. If you can't eat it all, as long as it delicious, take it home). Everything was cooked with love and made me feel like I was in a little cafe somewhere in Mexico (minus the American touches on the food). The only downside to this place was the bathroom. They only have one and it was ok but nothing I would want to stay in for very long. Overall, it was a great experience! Go and enjoy!
(4)Jorge M.
I was looking for a breakfast in a different area so I check on groupon to see if they had any specials. Driving to lakeview we found this cozy mexican rest so I decided to buy the offer and try it. This rest was nice not like best of the best but staff were so nice and food portion was big I really couldn't eat the whole plate that much food I had. Their chilaquiles were awesome and and taste was very good. Only bad review I had to say is that they took to long to serve rest had like 6 people and food took almost 25 min probably more. They need to work a little more in timing but for the rest was pretty good.
(3)Judith S.
I have been here twice so far and every time I have left full and satisfied!! Their food is delicious and their oatmeal shakes are to die for! I've had the quesadillas and chillaquilles with steak and both dishes were amazing. The place is rather small, but they they have a back patio for extra seating and I've never had to wait to get a seat which is a plus!
(5)Rosa J.
Many people have asked me if the merchants who put their deals on Groupon are any good. I do admit that some are, but some are definitely not. Tiztal cafe is one of the affirmative ones. Well, I should say "Affirmative" with a capital "A" like Simom Cowell would. I did purchase a groupon recently when Groupon offered an additional discount toward the local deals. It was $12 groupon, but it can be used toward $20 worth of food...so...let's dig in! Tiztal Cafe was featured on one of the episodes of Chicago's Best. I remember that they recommended the original creamy oatmeal shake. Although it was pricy ($5.49 as of 01/31/2015), I wanted to try it since having a groupon allowed me to splurge a little. We also ordered the steak & eggs chilaquilles and omelet ranchero. Unlike their drink menu, the entrees are priced pretty reasonably; most entrees are between $9.99 to $11.99. Of course we had to have our morning coffee. Their entree portions are large. My chilaquilles were hearty and made just the way I wanted it. At once I thought I have finished it, yet underneath the steak there was more layers of goodness. On the other hand, hubby's omelet was awesome. The salsa sauce on the omelet was just right. He saw a plenty of options for vegetarians. Back to the oatmeal shake, you guys should really try it! It's worth it in my opinion. With an entree this large, the amount of shake I consumed was adequate. It's one of those "feel-good" drinks that doesn't overwhelm you. Overall, we had a very positive experience. Service we received was very attentive and coffee-refills were continuously non-stop. I definitely will come back, with or without a groupon. It's located one (1) block east to Lawrence Ave. The CTA 22 bus (Clark) or the CTA 81 (Lawrence) can get you there.
(5)Joly W.
Every time I come here I get the same thing: chilaquiles. There's nothing better than tiztals chilaquiles with two eggs over easy and their amazing oatmeal shakes. Sometimes they'll have little samples of their shakes (try it and become hooked!) It's a really cute family owned restaurant with great service and even better food. They have groupon deals quite often, which makes this place one of my favorite brunch places. Warning groupon not taken on Sundays!
(5)Sandra A.
Came in on Sunday around 12 and it was busy, of course. Only waited about 20 minutes for my party of 4. Was quickly greeted by a server with coffee, which was on point. Ordered the freshly squeezed orange juice and it was delicious. I got the chilaquiles Verdes with eggs & chorizo, french toast, and my boyfriend got the country fried steak breakfast. Their homemade potatoes are so good! The French Toast was fluffy and yummy! Really enjoyed this place and the friendly wait staff. Only thing is maybe play some music? But overall awesome place.
(4)Rae O.
I can't believe that I lived next door for almost 9 months and did not know this place existed! So thankful for my yelp friends for helping me find another gem in my neighborhood. The oatmeal smoothie is amazing! So flavorful. It was $6. I only did takeout and they made it really fast.
(4)Tom B.
The very best chilaquiles you will ever have in your life. Their breakfast potatoes are killer as well. A family establishment where everybody cares about what they do. You will be impressed...
(5)Natalia K.
Ever since I've discovered Chilaquiles, I've made it a mission in life to order it off every menu I see it on. Thus far, the steak and eggs Chilaquiles ordered here has been my absolute favorite. Though the steak was slightly overdone for my medium rare order, it was tasty and plentiful. Two over easy eggs sat ready to burst over my crunchy and cheese covered tortilla chips, all swimming in the most delicious salsa. I stuffed myself to an uncomfortable level because I did not want to waste a bite on my plate. There was a slight wait for brunch on a Saturday and the tables were set up quite close together to get the maximum number of people in such a small space, but it was worth it. I came here with a groupon and only want to come back for more.
(4)Alan D.
Pretty good quality for the area. I've gone a few times and am going to continue going back. Service staff is great and friendly. Food is reasonably priced and good value. I especially like the Leslie scramble (egg whites). Staff is polite, good and quick. Kitchen seems clean and decent. It's unlikely that they hide any dead bodies in the back.
(4)Phoebe W.
In the past, I may have been guilty of using "what's your favorite kind of potato?" as a personality barometer question on Tinder dates. Yes, Yelp world that's right. I am convinced that you can tell a lot about a person based on their favorite form of glorious tubers. And yes, I once got into a heated debate with a guy about waffle fries vs. shoestring fries. (Team Waffle Fries, obviously) This is probably why I'm single. But I will forever right swipe a guy if he mentions Tiztal's side of breakfast potatoes, always + forever. They are the perfect formula of fluffy and crispy, a textural paradise. These potatoes have so much flavor they don't even require ketchup, what is this witchcraft?! Dining companions (and hopefully future Yelp Elite peeps) swear by their oatmeal shake. The wait is tolerable, but not an excuse to miss out on these potatoes! Gets ta steppin!
(5)Sheila K.
I've been here twice now and both times I ordered the same item: The Florentine Omelette. It was delicious the first time and the second time was no different. My husband has had the Steak and Eggs and the Country Fried Steak. They were also both delicious. I like the consistently good food that comes out of their kitchen. A lot of people rave about the oatmeal shake but we have yet to try it. You can also get juices here. Service is on point and very friendly. This place is tucked away from the busy streets of Clark, but you will usually find a full house. I would definitely recommend this place if you are looking for a good meal.
(4)Justin G.
Just walking down Clark for a brunch place without a 3 hour wait, and dropped in to this great little place. We instantly took a table in the back patio seating, nice and secluded, quiet, and a good setting for any couple. We went with an omelet and a chorizo scramble. Absolutely delicious and plenty to fill you up. All the ingredients were fresh, and the salsa on the omelet was a nice touch. The staff is friendly and the just a nice place to sit, grab a coffee, and eat a nice, fresh breakfast! Check this place out, you will enjoy it! I have only been here once and try to reserve my 5 star ratings when I visit a couple times, but I anticipate changing to 5 stars after another visit.
(4)Amber L.
Chilaquiles forever! With steak, with chicken, with no meat at all. With poached, with scrambled, with fried. But always with excellent, never undercooked, perfectly seasoned, breakfast potatoes. Liquados are tasty and put some pep in your step. Breakfast milkshakes yes, because it's a milkshake, for breakfast. Interior is pleasant and bright. Not suitable for groups larger than 4. Service is friendly, but it's a very busy place. It may take a while for your server to get to you.
(5)Cynthia R.
Really cute spot! Delicious omletes and those oatmeal shakes are the boss! They gave us a sample of the beet juice concoction, which was delish as well. Service could be better...not bad but a little....off. We will definitely be back.
(4)Ale G.
Definitely try the Chilaquiles with eggs and steak. Don't forget to get a pecan/banana milkshake. This brunch will keep you full for the rest of your afternoon. Prices are extremely reasonable!
(4)Taryn F.
I LOVE Tiztal! Their shakes/smoothies and potatoes are the best. Sometimes if you're lucky, a waitress will come around with free samples of their oatmeal shake. They have patio seating in the back when it's nice out too.
(5)Nancy A.
This is hands down the best breakfast and brunch spot!! Filling and delicious. It's very authentic. I know this because their Chileaquiles taste just like my mom's! You must try their Chileaquiles with eggs or your choice of meat, steak or chicken or just eggs.
(5)Anwar J.
CHORIZO CHILAQUILES! Small and quaint. Great service. The shakes are very creative, outside the box, but very flavorful.
(5)Bee F.
Great! Food was fantastic. I went with the steak chiliqieles and vampiro for my drink. Loved it and so did the fam. Came on the Groupon but will come again. Prices are decent. Definitely worth every penny.
(5)Ektaa B.
Really awesome chilaquiles! The green sauce is delicious and has a bit of a kick to it.
(5)LadyBird X.
Before I rip this place a new one, I want to point out that the wait staff were all somewhat nice and decently attentive. I ordered eggs and bacon... First of all, the bacon alone is enough for me to never return. I kid you not, it looked like Beggin' Strips dog treats: unbearably dry, cardboard texture, and mostly burnt. Portions were really small (my breakfast potatoes consisted of 8 potato cubes; about 3 bites worth). According to the waitress, they don't have rye toast. When I inquired what kind of toast they had she shrugged "wheat" - that's it?! Supposedly the draw here is their variety of fresh juices, but $5 per serving? Homie don't play that! My husband had the chorizo scramble (which is difficult to ruin) but their version was gross with a nasty aftertaste. I tried one bite and couldn't imagine eating any more of it. To top it off, the atmosphere was AWFUL: cramped and loud with tiny tables and uncomfortable chairs (and an arctic breeze every 5 minutes when the door swings open). There isn't a designated spot for those waiting for a table to hang out so some patrons waited outside in the cold and others crammed into the only standing room available at the front (a 3 x 3 ft area). This area just happened to be right next to my table so for the rest of my meal I was within 5 inches of a family talking loudly and waiting for their table; it felt like they were hovering over me (I'm not mad that they were there, I'm mad at the uncomfortable proximity). I cut my meal short and blew dodge when the family's 5 year old took off his shoes right next to me. While I was eating. Disgusting. Four stars?! You should all have better standards! For the price point I'd prefer a booth at Golden Nugget to this place any day (bigger portions, better atmosphere and way better quality).
(1)Beth G.
What a nice little find! In the no-man's land between Uptown and Andersonville lies Tiztal, nondescript in atmosphere but with awesome breakfast food. I showed up early for brunch with a friend, and offered to wait at the counter, since they were filling up. Graciously, they said it was fine to wait for him at a table. I did so, with a nice little pot of tea (they had a dozen or so varieties to choose from). I was tempted by several things on the menu, but opted for the well-reviewed chilaquiles. I got the standard vegetarian preparation, but you can add different meats if you want. This dish's reputation preceded it, and it did not disappoint. Cheesy, crispy, just the right amount of spice ... I nearly ate myself sick, because the portion was so generous but the dish was so good that I didn't want to stop eating. Our server was attentive but didn't ever make us feel rushed, even as a line congregated in the foyer. To be fair, my friend said it isn't typically that crowded, but they had just had a Groupon offer. If this place was in my neighborhood, it would be a frequent stop. I'd want to try their juices and smoothies as well, but I only have one appetite.
(4)Brenda G.
OMG. My favorite breakfast place by far. After reading about them in the Tribune I couldn't resist making a trip to the city. We went on a Sunday morning, so of course there was a wait. Especially for a group of 5 adults and a toddler. It is small cute place with a very welcoming environment. While we waited, a waitress brought us samples of their Vampiro fruit juice. How nice! We all ended up eating off of each other's plates everything was so delicious! Only drawback was that the ranchero omelette is not described to be smothered in salsa on the menu??? They then packed it to go and we ordered something else. They quickly brought out the new order. Great place definitely recommend it.
(4)Shwetha V.
I never thought oatmeal milkshakes would be good until had one at the Tiztal cafe. The staff is really sweet. The staff is very sweet and helpful. I had the banana oatmeal shake and the quesadilla. I would definitely recommend you to try their shakes.
(4)Scott S.
Best Chilaquiles in Chicago! Superb food and service! Cannot speak highly enough about this restaurant!
(5)Elizabeth A.
Food was delicious and prices were great, except for the drinks, which were almost the cost of the meals. :/ The chilequilles, omg! SO. GOOD.
(4)Edith s.
Great chilaquiles verdes!!! This place hits the spot right after a race at montrose harbor!!
(4)Brad S.
This place is great for breakfast/brunch. Do the outdoor patio (you have to sneak in through the tiny alley to get there) if you can, and the weather permits. Their oatmeal shakes really are amazing, and aside from that, their entire menu is delicious. If nothing else, get something that comes with their garlic potatoes. They are quite delicious.
(4)Angela A.
Delicious place for brunch with a Mexican flair. I had the huevos rancheros and it was perfectly cooked over medium, how I like it and wasn't spicy like some that I've tried before. The potatoes that came with it were perfectly cooked with a crunch on the outside and soft on the inside with not too much seasoning and not too salty. My sister had the eggs Benedict which was good too. The juices were freshly made; the vampire is made with beets and was good. It's a shall quaint place that has a patio in the back. I thought the service was good but not great. The waitress was very nice but took a whole for them to take our order and didn't come back to ask if we wanted the check and when we were done figuring the bill, it took a long time til we had to flag someone down to take our bill. Overall though I would come back because the food was tasty.
(4)Diana M.
The best chilaquiles in the city! I've tried many, let me tell you, spectacular! Make sure to ask for your chilaquiles extra crispy with sunny side up eggs. My grandma and I also had their banana oatmeal shake and it was delicious! Potatoes are great also. I loved it, this is my second time and deserves all 5 stars.
(5)K C.
Enjoyed the food, the mexican hot chocolate was particular delicious and the eggs very fluffy. I would've enjoyed my pecan waffle even more if they used real maple syrup - that said the waffle itself was pretty darn good! If possible, I highly recommend the couch as the place to sit. I was there with my Sig-O- and felt like we are at a B&B all cozy on a couch getting served good food!
(4)Tlafi K.
The food was yummy and reasonably priced. The oatmeal banana smoothie was so amazing. That's a great drink and it filled me up. Great breakfast drink.Couldn't even finish my food. The service was just ok If the service was exceptional, I would have given this place a 5 star. Will definitely come back.
(4)Donna L.
Always a good time when I come here.... Had the egg white omelet with feta with some yummy cottage cheese... Hit the spot. Service is always good. Eggs Benedict are delicious as well. Everything is so fresh and perfectly made. Of course the oatmeal milkshake brings everything together. We also shared an AWESOME waffle - OMG. They had our customized chocolate chips inside the waffle.. Not like places just throwing them on top! Great family place.
(5)Morgan D.
Loved the breakfasts here. Delicious oatmeal shake too. Very happy with the portion sizes. We split a order of pancakes and a breakfast plate. Yum
(5)Mike J.
Egg chilaquiles- -chips with cheese and mild salsa dressing-3.5 -eggs and hash brown- 5...
(5)Larry H.
I'm in a mexican-ish brunch phase of my life, and also an oatmeal shake phase. So it figures that Tiztal and I would cross paths. I was fully prepared for this place to be average, or a let down, but it was neither. The oatmeal shake (actually I got oatmeal pecan) was amazing, though priced fairly highly ($5 or so). However it was worth every penny because I am dreaming of oatmeal shakes forever now. I wish it was cheaper and there was more of it, but I guess that's what I want for everything. Their oatmeal shake differs from others in that it is heavier, I believe they use ice cream. Other places use oatmeal to provide the thickness, but here it is mostly for flavor. For food I got the... country fried steak/eggs/biscuit/gravy/potatoes plate thing. I guess when you write it out like that, it sounds pretty ridiculous. Was $10 but it did fill me up nice. Those with a mouth for texture (like me!) will note that the country fried steak maintained some crispness despite being in gravy, and also that the potatoes, cut in a homestyle way, were cooked with love/spices and had crispy skins. The biscuit was nice and soft but the top/bottom had that nice baked crust on it. A rare feat all around. I also tasted some Eggs Rancheros (not called huevos here) and the sauce was a step up from other places, which taste more canned. So good job there too. It was Saturday late morning when we went and there was no wait, maybe because some folk were sitting in their patio. I prefer to sit inside, so NO PROBLEM. So, most people know them for their oatmeal shake and that reputation is well deserved. However the brunch food is also excellent, so put them together and you got bumpin' all night (actually I think they are brunch only). Next time I come here maybe I try the chilaquiles. pet peeve side story: unaware of what credit cards they took, when the check arrived I saw it was in a black leather AMEX folder thing. Surely this means they take AMEX, right? wrong. I looked like a fool and had to use mastercard. MAN WHY YOU USING AMEX FOLDERS WHEN YOU DON'T TAKE AMEX??? (they take the other big3 though)
(4)Kelcie M.
Great Oatmeal Pecan Shake. For breakfast food, pretty good. I'm giving it 3 stars for the food, but the shake would totally be a 5 star!
(3)Gina S.
Great service...amazing food...we had a party of 10 and everything was great. We did have to send back eggs for being over cooked but all in all it was great#! Definitely recommend! ! Oatmeal shakes!!!
(5)Neha M.
PROS oatmeal shakes juices those garlicky potatoes the service - all the women who run and manage this place are kind and lovely very generous portions fresh ingredients outdoor seating reasonable pricing CONS the chorizo & eggs chiqaquiles that we had had some issues there was no taste of chorizo in the scrambled eggs eggs were slightly overcooked side of nachos, cheese and delicious salsa verde had become wet and soggy and was like a sloppy blob of great flavours but poor texture i will come back and perhaps not order the chiqaquiles. the oatmeal shakes are a mean in and of themselves and i'll go back for those for sure.
(3)Eizabeth K.
This might be my favorite brunch spot in the city. The milkshakes are amazing... Food is fresh,lots of flavor, and quality ingredients. Highly recommend for great brunch experience that doesn't break the wallet
(5)Shannon K.
I'm usually pretty wordy in my reviews. For this review, I will state some important facts and then get down to business. Facts: Cute place Super friendly staff Patio when it's nice out Good, solid breakfast options Takes credit cards Free wifi Getting down to business: The oatmeal shake is better than can be described! You must try it. You must wake early and trek out in the cold for this. It's that good. It comes in four flavors - regular, pecan, banana and granola. I prefer the banana. It's oh-my-god-so-good-I-dream-about-it-and-want-more good! The only downside - it's pretty small for nearly $6. I got lucky and the nice lady gave me the extra. I would suggest serving everyone the "extra" on a regular basis to make the experience even better! The oatmeal shake gets 5 stars. Yum.
(4)Adriana A.
My family and I love everything about this restaurant. I usually don't like to order chilaquiles from restaurants because they never taste authentic. But I never hesitate to order them from here! They're delicious especially with a side of their famous potatoes. I like to switch it up once in a while with French toast which are perfectly done and delicious as well. The service is also great!
(5)Daniella B.
Great little place! We all had omelets. The Ranchero Omelet was especially delicious. The potatoes were also delicious. We tried a pecan oatmeal shake which was all it was hyped up to be. We'll be back to try some of the juices. The only reason why this place gets 4 stars is because we showed up right at 8 when they open and they weren't quite ready for customers yet so service was a little slow.
(4)Kameron N.
My girlfriend and I stumbled upon this place one morning when we were looking for a good breakfast spot within walking distance of our place. We were babysitting for my nephew and wanted to walk somewhere that would be child friendly, casual, and delicious. Tiztal was all of those things, but most of all delicious! I ordered the meat lovers omelette and so good. I got an extra egg and it was too much but I love leftovers. 5 start breakfast, so good on Saturday I went back on Sunday.
(5)Pattie U.
Wow this place is a hidden gem! There's a great little patio out back for a sunny day. Fresh squeezed orange juice and attentive service. Really tasty home fries! Nice and crispy mmm.
(5)Erika G.
Headed here yesterday for brunch with my homegirl, fellow Yelper Kellie K., fiver, sistah! And, no wait for Saturday brunch (but probably not for long). Had been wanting to try this place for a long time, and was not disappointed in the least, verily, I was satiated! Started with delicious coffee, and ordered the 2 egg Chorizo scramble, which comes with garlic red potatoes - mon dieu! Perfect portion size and utterly delicious. Orange juice - fresh squeezed, what else? Those potatoes would have been enough of a taste sensation on their own, but the choizo and eggs (a favorite combo of mine anyway) were something else. Then, a sly waitress came around with small cups of the famous Oatmeal shake. Not fair! Or . . . perfectly fair, since they are in busineess to spread the love of these delicious cococtions! Line up another breakfast beverage - who knew you could drink your oatmeal (there's no alcohol in it, kids, come on, it's breakfast!) - really tasty. I'll be back!
(5)Mary T.
UPDATE 8/2/09: They are BYOB and now have an adorable little patio in back, woo hoo! I wavered on whether or not to give Tiztal that extra star and decided to stop being stingy since they are pretty great. This morning I was on a brunch mission and I didn't care where, or did I? I stopped by Toast, but the wait was horrendous, even for a counter spot for 1 (45 minutes? me no likey). So armed with my CTA pass I decided to hop on the first bus I saw and hoped for the best. Fortunately, my jaunt landed me back at Tiztal. Thanks The place wasn't too crowded, which is surprising, but nice since I didn't have to wait. This time there was no board outside about specials, but I asked about them anyway; I didn't make it past the first item - Chilaquiles, mmm... So am I the last person to figure out the Chilaquiles = Breakfast nachos? I had that epiphany as my plate came. They were sooo good and came with homemade chips, this yummy salsa verde with some heat, and their Tiztal potatoes *swoon* on the side. They were fantastic! Service was better, definitely more attentive. I think the main server is also the owner and I think she's stretched a little too thin covering all the tables. My only gripe is still the specials, I had to ask, and I saw them offered only 1 of the 2 tables sat near me. When I heard the other items on the list I was salivating - why aren't they talking these up more? Really? Sadly, my lactose intolerance keeps me from enjoying the shakes. From everything I hear the oatmeal one is the bomb. I would imagine their fruit ones are good too, the fresh fruit they serve looks awesome. To the parents with the 3 kids at their table: When you're eating in a small space (or anywhere for that matter) it's rude to let your kid obstruct the main aisle, not to mention tap dance (read stomp) with his soccer cleats on the tile floor. It's annoying, disruptive, and potentially dangerous. The servers/staff don't enjoy dodging him, trust me; just because they are too polite to ask him to knock it off and take a seat doesn't mean you shouldn't. Also, I wouldn't recommend letting your 2 smaller kids play by the door. Tiztal wants customers, that said, people should be able to enter/exit without worrying about inadvertently clocking one of your rugrats with the door.
(5)J O.
SOLID breakfast meal, nothing too fancy with the exception of the oatmeal shake (tastes like a horchata, yum) and chilaquiles. Very clean, good service, would go back if I'm in the area.
(4)Ali H.
I was totally stoked when Tiztal opened, right in my neighborhood. I went there a few times right after they opened, but after I moved further away have not been back until this past weekend. After a walk to see the Jade Buddha, we stopped by Tiztal to get an oatmeal shake, to go. As you may have read in other reviews, the main draw of Tiztal is their addictive oatmeal shakes. I don't know what it is, but I don't care. I just know that I need it. In years past, I've gotten food as well as the all-important oatmeal shake. Their chilaquiles are delicious and I remember some badass garlic breakfast potatoes. The rest of the menu is a bit odd; the sweet breakfast items seem plain and then there are random things with ice cream, etc. I say stick to the chilaquiles and shakes. So happy to patronize this place. Nothing hardly ever stays open along these blocks in Uptown... when I lived there I was so excited to have Tiztal around the corner. If only Chava had been open then too! Support these businesses!
(4)Leah B.
Wow this place is great! I've been here a few times and have yet to be disappointed!! Their food is very good, the service is friendly and the variety is nice and different from a lot of breakfast places around. They have a waffle with a fruit topping that is tasty and refreshing. Their egg dishes are made with fresh ingredients and you can taste the difference. Their potatoes are heavenly. The oatmeal shake is delicious and unlike anything else I have ever had. It is priced a bit high for breakfast but its worth it for the quality that goes in to their dishes. I highly recommend!!
(5)Mike P.
The wife and I got here over the weekend. She wanted an omelet and they delivered. I opted for steak chilaquillas and they made me moist in the pants. I think this will be my go-to spot for this dish. I love Tweet, but Tiztal has them beat on the chilaquillas front, beat like a mule, a dirty, dirty mule. Also if you like fresh fruit, these peeps got you covered. I was also please to see a more crowded restaurant. Hopefully word of mouth will keep Tiztal from succumbing to the fact it sits on the edge of the Uptown Clark Dead Zone. Then again, maybe the fine criminals that run the "import companies" on that desolate stretch of road appreciate a fine brunch.
(4)Boon K.
I grew up with Zephyr. I use to save $3.50 and ride by bike there from third grade and up just for the Belgium Beauty. I just love it. I was so happy to know that they have here just as perfect but with caramel instead of butterscotch but you really can't tell the difference. I love the ice sundae selection. The Zephyr omelette and Chorizo Scramble all yummy. Best part is coming here for smoothies when I am running late to work. I must say the oatmeal shake is awesome too.
(5)Rhonda G.
Yes, the Oatmeal shake is as good as everyone says. I could have easily had another but I only like to be a glutton in the comfort of my own home. Yes it is chock full of dairy goodness but lactose intolerant-ites don't fret, nothing that a couple of lactaid pills won't fix :) Yeah I went there.. Limited menu but I guess it's better to do a few things and do them well than to have a bunch of crappy food. People seemed to really enjoy the food and I can personally attest to the greatness of the Tiztal potatoes with roasted garlic and cheddar. Coffee is decent, water has lemon in it but because you don't see the lemon then it just seems a bit shady/off tasting. staff is very nice and they seem to try hard to be accommodating. However, the Oatmeal shake (licuado) is really the true star at this place. Outshining everything else...in my opinion.
(4)Mary T.
My girlfriend, who has a hard time with names, calls this 'That tits place' and so I have secretly renamed it because it makes me giggle and think of her. The food here is good, I always get the 2-egg chorizo scramble because it's still a big portion but won't make me long for a nap afterwards. The potatoes are good too. Haven't tried the shakes but just because I don't really like 'em in general. The staff are friendly, efficient and make you feel welcome.
(5)Susan L.
Oatmeal shake = awesome! But $5? Whoa.
(3)Jason W.
Simply put fantastic food and great staff. We try and go as many chance we get. The special...A+. The oatmeal shake...mmmmmmm Oh and fresh juices...great! I could go on and on, but keeping it simple makes more of an impact I think. Kudos Rosemary
(5)Erica T.
Tiztal is the Shiztal. I love salsa verde - so I got the chilaquiles. Their version is tons of salsa verde and cheese over tortilla chips with eggs on the side. I got the chilaquiles with chorizo, but next time I will just stick with plain eggs - they scramble the chorizo with the eggs, and it was just a bit much. Having read about the mysterious oatmeal shake in other reviews, I figured I should try this sucker out for myself. It was very tasty, but I found it weird that I had to chew my milkshake. And although it is pretty unique, now that I've had one I feel like I could make another one for myself at home. What I would really like to try though, is the vampire juice. I became intrigued when I saw some people drinking it at another table. It's a mixture of carrot/beet/fruit juice, and it literally looks like blood in the glass... They also have some other fun shake flavors to try like passion fruit and coconut.
(4)Amy L.
I hadn't been to Tiztal in probably six months. I went in yesterday and got their chilaquiles. It's the only thing I ever get there because they are fricking amazing. Best tasting cheap breakfast in the area.
(5)Johnny T.
So, coming to Tiztal with Colleen C has got to be akin to going to the Dr. Oz show with Oprah. You know, she wouldn't say it publicly, but I think CC put this place (and its oatmeal shakes) on the map. I was a little chagrined that I had never been here before and my first time with with the Mistress of (oatmeal) Milkshakes herself. Egads! We were both sorta full from lunch, so Colleen suggested that we split a shake. I tentatively agreed. I mean, she knows what she's doing but I get sort of...grabby when it comes to sweet treats. I didn't want this to end poorly. We ordered the shake and got to brass tacks. As we tickety-tacked on our laptops, the no-nonsense proprietress brought out our oaty treats. Yet again, CC was right: I was too full to take down an entire milkshake. Even a half portion was rather large. I grabbed the glass and took a sip. Hot d@mn!! Wow!! This is freaking awesome -- sweet, creamy, bits of oat in every slurp. I couldn't help myself at this point. The genie was out of the bottle. I couldn't concentrate on work, my surroundings or what day it was. All I could focus on was "must...drink...milkshake...all...now...me...want.Â" I was devolving by the sip. As tasty as the treat was, I was here to work. Uh oh. This _isn't_ going to end well. The remainder of my time at Titzal went something like: [workstuffworkstuffworkstuffishouldbepayingattentiÂonto] [inner monologue] "Mmm. I love you, oatmeal milkshake. I want to come here tomorrow and get a regular-sized portion. I can't believe how good this is! Oh. Wait. Did someone address me? Smile and nod, man. Smile and nod!!" [workstuffworkstuffworkstuffishouldbepayingattentiÂonto] [inner monologue] "What am I going to do when I finish this shake? I am too stuffed to have more, but I want more. This is a conundrum. Hmm, maybe I can get one to go! That's an awesome idea. Ahh, man. It's gone! Did I just slurp really loudly? Oh, back to me saying something." [workstuffworkstuffworkstuffishouldbepayingattentiÂonto] [inner monologue] "So....sleepy...." [End of workstuffworkstuffworkstuffishouldbepayingattentioÂnto] [inner monologue] "I want another shake. Wait. I just said that out loud." Oatmeal shake, I now know to never divide my attention from you again.
(4)Bruce B.
If you like horchatas you need to get the oatmeal shake. It's the best thing ever. I don't have a show on the Food Network, but if I did, i would punch Giada in the her head (can't miss that globe sitting on top of her neck), take her segment, and come here and drink this shake. It's rich, thick, and tasty. This is the main reason I orignaly went. However, the breakfast was solid. I had a spinach omelete and it was cooked to perfection. The service is quick and there's not a crazy line to wait. Give this place a try.
(4)Desiree G.
Oatmeal milkshake: $4.25 Chilaquiles w/ chorizo & egg: $8.99 Sunday brunch was a 10min wait. The staff was very friendly, service was a bit slow, but that was to be expected. I was really eager to try the raved about oatmeal shake. It has always interested me. Today was the day I finally go to try it! So it was goood, but it was too hyped up for what it really was. Everything on the menu sounded good, so it was hard to decide what to order and especially looking at other people's plates. I was just going to order the chilaquiles w/eggs but for a dollar more you can get it with chorizo too, so why not? It was soooooo much food! They are very generous with portions. The chilaquiles were good but not the best. I did enjoy the chorizo & eggs and the potatoes were pretty amazing. Next time I'd probably stick with the chorizo scramble w/potatoes and an oatmeal shake. Overall it was a nice brunch and I'd recommend giving it a try.
(4)Ehren M.
Great food, kind and helpful staff. The place has an awesome cozy feel that reminders of relaxing home cooked breakfast time with the family, or even better an up-lifting lunch to get your through the next stage of the day. I'm a fitness freak and the Oatmeal shake is perfect with a small scoop of protein powder and a mid-sized traditional breakfast. Go to Tiztal, try it then hit the gym great way to start the day
(4)Dallas F.
Is there something wrong with me? Wait, dont answer that. Are my taste buds faulty would perhaps be a better question. Whatever the case may be, I just don't get Tiztal Cafe's hype. Everything that many reviewers rave about whether it be the potatoes or the oatmeal shakes, were mediocre to me. My eggs were overcooked and my potatoes were incredibly salty. By the end of my meal I was severely disappointed with my brunch. Even though I was definitely not wowed by the food, I was impressed with the great service at Tiztal Cafe. My server was very nice and was quick to offer me refills of juice or just to make sure I didn't need anything. So it wasn't a completely bad experience just not great one.
(3)Kourtney L.
Prepare yourself for the most phenomenal milkshake you've ever tasted when entering Tiztal. Oatmeal shake you say? Oh yes, it does indeed bring the boys to the yard. And girls, grandparents, etc. Yes, I did make that joke all these years later. Honestly, I could die happy after a side of their potatoes and the oatmeal shake but you must not discount the Leslie Scramble or the Chicken Chilaquiles. Holy hell, it's all scrumptious! They do have some lunch-type stuff but really, how can you go for that when they do breakfast so incredibly well?
(5)Mimi R.
Great little neighborhood place. I've been here a couple times and will always reorder the Chilaquiles w/Chorizo. They were super flavorful with just the right amount of heat. The breakfast potatoes were loaded with garlic - yum! And....that oatmeal milkshake. I'm pretty sure despite the name, it's not that healthy for you - it's too good! Service is ok - not great - not bad. They are pretty laid-back, no real sense of urgency. But...if you know that going in....relax and enjoy the meal.
(4)Denisha B.
From the Yelp reviews, I came in yesterday for some late brunch with my fella. We decided to order the chorizo and eggs scrambled (that came with four eggs) and split this. In addition, we ordered 2 orange juices. The place was very clean in the inside, and cozy. On the outside (and also the area) might look a tad suspect but once you get inside--it's rather cute. Kinda reminds me of a homey feel. Our food arrived, and the chorizo and eggs were perfect! It was delicious and reminded me of my best friend's mom's cooking (who I feel has the best Mexican cooking on the planet). It was served with tortillas and some of the best home style potatoes I EVER had! The orange juice tasted like it was juiced from the God's! I drank mine before my meal even came to the table. So why 3 stars? Well the service was SUPER SLOW...which is very irritating. It should not take a server 10 minutes to see your water is low and refill it. In addition, it should not take the server an additional 20 minutes after you have finished your food to bring the check! I was really pissed at this point, and that's why I have to knock a star off. You all need to get it together when it comes to speedy service, otherwise, people will leave out! This ruined my mood when I was eating here. I also had to knock a star off because it's very over priced (like one reviewer mentioned) for just an average Mexican breakfast. I don't think it's necessary to pay 10.00 bucks for a chorizo and egg dish unless all ingredients are organic...which I highly doubt! For two juices and one dish...was 19.50...pretty steep in my opinion. It has good food, but I'd rather go to a Ma and Pop Mexicano restaurant that serves more bang for your buck.
(3)Michael A.
I have been here a couple of times and at first everything was great. Unfortunately service has just gone down below standards. the last couple of times that i have gone i have had to wait way too long for my food. At first i thought ok maybe they are just behind this one time, after a couple of visits i finally decided to write this review because of my most recent visit. We were seated right away. the place didn't seem busy except for the big table group that had already ordered and a couple of other tables. Next to us was a gentleman already waiting for his to go order, meanwhile we sat for about 8 mins before we were asked what we wanted to order. as a regular i usually order the Chilaquiles eggs only and an oatmeal shake. Honestly it is all delicious the chilaquiles are great and the oatmeal shake is a pleasant surprise but a little over priced. After we ordered, the guy next to us was still waiting. our drinks came quick but after 40 minutes of waiting for the food i had to go refill the meter! and when i got back the guy finally got his to go order after being told by the manager thet his order was up next 3 different times. finally we received our food, no complaints about the food because it was tasty but because it takes forever to get the food i don't think I'll be back until they hire another chef. the waitress never came during our 40 minute wait to ask how we were doing which was another no no. If you go here then prepare to wait and make sure you fill your meter for over an hour.
(3)Jim S.
I'm another lover of the Oatmeal Shake and their breakfast potatoes. I'd like to add the Chroizo Scramble. It's always slightly different, and I'll assume that's because they use fresh tomatoes and such. But it's always good and I've never regretted it. The 2 egg version (6.99) is plenty for me. The water they serve usually has a hint of lime, which puts this to 5 stars for me.
(5)Ellen B.
In this somewhat depressing strip of Clark, you might not expect a place that is this amazing. The space is comfortable and neighborhoody. You feel like there are regulars who get their spots saved. Yet there are also a number of people, like myself, that trekked over after reading the yelp reviews mentioning this famed oat meal shake. (OMFG, btw, but let's not get ahead of ourselves) I went on a Saturday morning. Good number of people, but not too crowded. It isnt a very big space, but it doesn't feel cramped. All of the employees seemed excited to be working. They must be sipping the juices and shakes in the back. Cause if I could have free reign of their drink menu, I'd be happy too. The menu covers all the basics, but the specials and juice/shake portion is where you want to focus. Side note: they also have a good kids menu. I ended up having an omelet and, of course, the oat meal shake. My friend got bananas in her oatmeal shake. Did I not mention that you can combine all their crazy options? Everything we ate was amazing. I finished it all. Probably shouldn't have, but you only live once. Go!
(4)Maria M.
I'm not giving it 5 stars only because I've only been once and need to try other things and confirm the experience, but it was really one of the best breakfast dining experiences I've had in Chicago. Went with my husband and children on a weekday and knew nothing about it going in. We had the Chilaquiles (one steak, one chorizo) and the Chocolate Chip pancakes. Everything was fantastic. Also, got a sip of the Oatmeal Shake - unbelievably good. Don't know if it was because it was relatively slow on a weekday but the service was excellent (nothing like what is described in some of the reviews below.) Can't wait to go back, this time with a group of friends for a Sunday brunch!
(4)CE K.
I left feeling so incredibly full and happy. I can't remember if I ate anything the rest of the day - oh my goodness! The oatmeal shake is a MUST try. The fresh juices are so good. I've only been for breakfast, which is off the charts. I can't wait to go back.
(5)Tori W.
BEST POTATOES EVER. I could have eaten platefuls of them. I got an omelette with tomatoes, onions, green peppers, and chihuahua cheese and it was very good! It also came with a side of toast and I highly recommend the cinnamon toast....tasted like a donut! So good. My boyfriend got the steak chiliquilles and they were amazing! The steak itself was delicious and the salsa verde on the dish was the best I had ever tasted. And we definitely got a lot of food...they don't skimp on that. The best part was that we were served free samples of their oatmeal shake as well as one of their juices. Definitely made me want to go back for an oatmeal shake, so I guess their tactic worked! The service was great and everyone was very friendly. We can't wait to go back again and take our friends there!
(5)Aimee R.
Super friendly and family oriented! My partner loved the chilaquiles, with chorizo/eggs/cheese....and the green sauce was greatl! I had the chorizo/cheese quesadillas and they were also yum. I really LOVED the potatoes...they were awesome = warm, flavorful, and fresh!
(4)Mel L.
We decided to try this place last Saturday after reading all the great reviews. The place is not too far from home and had a nice lady (the owner???) passing out little samples of some of their drinks. As for our order: Waffle with fresh strawberries - Standard but done well. It was especially good with the strawberry crema that came with it. Side of bacon - Slightly burnt. Chiliquilles w/ chicken - The chicken was a bit dry and sinewy. The potatoes that came with it were very good and tasty though. I really liked how they seasoned them (What can I say? I love my carbs). The dish came with a ton of baked tortillas covered in cheese. Good but way too much! Oatmeal shake - Everyone seems to rave about these so I had to give it a try. My boyfriend and I split one. It was good, but I don't think I would have been able to finish the whole thing. The taste is hard to describe...you can definitely taste the oats and vanilla. He drank it down though. Would I go back to Tiztal? Maybe. It's nice but not something I would go out of my for. Good thing about it is that there was no wait for a table. We arrived around 10:30am and there was only one other table of diners. But there's also a patio for outdoor dining we didn't know about until we were halfway through our meal.
(3)David K.
The owners used to manage the old Zephyr on Wilson. They clearly know what they're doing here.
(5)Mayra H.
Tiztal Cafe is delicious!! Their portions are perfect, price is amazing, yummy juices and shakes and overall a great breakfast/brunch spot! It might be hard to spot but don't miss out on this amazing cafe!
(5)Jacob J.
Yes, yes I see all the rave reviews. So with that and the excellent brunches enjoyed by my lovely company, I will give them a second chance to wow me. Wow me . Wow me, a bit more. Two things that struck a nerve was the initial wait and my entree. I explain now. Due to the reviews I went for my favorite brunch, Eggs Benny. AH! They overcooked the eggs and when I asked the waiter why, he simply responded that, they always cook their Eggs Benedict this way. WTF? No one eats this dish with overcooked eggs. Waiting for a new one would've taken way too long. We'd already waited twenty five minutes for this food. The fact that my eggs were hard and not runny only means that it was overcooked or, that and it sat too long. And then the hollandaise was extremely salty. Ugh. What saved the experience for me was the flavor and attitude of the "Belgian beauty". My company was enamored by the beauty. So, I'm calling it three stars for now, till next time. The tab looks to be calculated by hand or some archaic calculator. So, I'm wondering if it was added up correctly. Lastly, the wait before our order was taken and getting the food. They were waiting on a possible large group which took over an hour to arrive. We were seated and told many times they would take care of us and they dropped the ball. Simply annoying when you are starving for a meal. I may go back and try it again.. we'll see. The place has cute decor, alternating colored walls and I'm guessing local artists. The art is nature stuff, I liked that. They have outside seating out back, which is accessed from a thin walkway between buildings or through the restaurant.
(3)Lynne B.
I went to this restaurant at 1p.m. on Sunday-maybe that was the problem? Evidently, they had been very busy earlier. My friend wanted crepes and there were none left. I had an easy order, 2 scrambled eggs and a plain bagel. My friend rec'd her plate of French Toast and I rec'd a plate of scrambled eggs (both plates plain, no garnish, etc.). We had to wave a waitperson over and ask for syrup for the F.T. and my bagel. The waitperson brought out the syrup and a plate of toasted white bread. When I asked again for a bagel, not the toast; they brought me a plate of bacon?!. Finally, after we had finished eating-they brought me a plain bagel and a plate of breakfast potatoe s. The food was all good-but, the service? Again, after the meal, we had to wave a waiperson over for the check. I noticed several were trying to eat at a bar in the back.
(2)Amanda Z.
Confession: I ate ice cream for breakfast, Ma. But it's OK, don't be mad...there was oatmeal too! Yep, I'm fully on the oatmeal shake bandwagon...a little late to the game, but whatever, I'm there, I'm with the cool kids now. Chorizo in eggs? Yes please. Raisin bread toast with REAL butter? My ass is growing with that thought, but at this point I don't care. Top this all with some of those frickin' AWESOME potatoes, and you've got a damn awesome breakfast. Oh yeah, we split a pecan waffle too. Don't hate, we like to eat. (P.S. Sorry, Mom, for saying "damn" and "ass", but I will never be sorry for having an oatmeal shake for breakfast! Viva l'adulthood!!!!)
(4)Mary F.
Lawd....I just had the chilequiles with grilled chicken and scrambled eggs, and hot sauce and salsa verde and onion, and I feel so delightfully satisfied. Their patio is open but we sat inside for the A/C. The pics on this review site just don't do the inside of this place justice. Very nice interior and great service. Open for breakfast and lunch. Hubby's hamburger looked yummy. He said it was yummy, and I believe him. Hooray to Tiztal. Well done.
(5)S. M.
If you like breakfast food this is a great place to go. The chiaquiles is very yummy but can get soggy if you try to take it home. The potatoes are very good and not bland at all. You should also try the oatmeal shake but share with a friend bc its pretty big!
(4)Aggie S.
It's a little place. Cozy. You have to save some room for the oatmeal shakes. Fantastic chilaquiles, very hardy. It's a must try!
(4)Frank B.
I can't believe I worked down the street from this place for three years and never even knew it was there. The breakfast scramble was great and I could not believe the oatmeal shake. The favorite among my friends were the chilaquiles. Service was friendly and accommodating too. When the server found that we hadn't tried the oatmeal shake before, she brought everyone a sample. I'll certainly go there again.
(5)Laura Lee S.
Food is awesome, slightly over- priced, but then again, everything is in Chicago compared to Austin. Can't wait to go back.
(5)Gwen D.
I wish I could eat Tiztal Cafe's Oatmeal Shake and Chilaquiles with Eggs and Chorizo each and every day for breakfast. It's that good, y'all. No, that perfect. Although we were seated immediately, my friend and I waited about 45 minutes for our meal, but we thought the food was worth it. Just don't go when you're in a rush!
(5)Adrienne M.
Today was my second time at Tiztal and after a long review dry spell I decided this joint is worth my Yelp reviewing return. First and foremost the oatmeal shake is ridiculous-ly good. Today my husband and I split the oatmeal with granola shake and I must admit I enjoyed the chewiness of the granola (on the first visit we ordered the original). The eggs ranchero is solid but honestly, it is the warmth of the space (today we sat inside, last time on the outdoor patio) and the good nature of the staff. They have been attentive and pleasant. I will come back again and again.
(4)Elise T.
I love this place!! When it's nice you can sit in the courtyard out back and the inside is cozy, too. I often dream of the chilaquiles--delicious!! We can take our whole family here on a Saturday morning and actually get in and not spend a fortune. I've also sampled the vampire smoothie which I need to get at a separate time BC when I go for breakfast I'm too full.
(4)Laura C.
According to my highly opinionated friend, Tiztal has the best chilaquiles in the city. So on a recent Saturday, ready to soak up the previous night's alcohol still coursing through my system, we went in search of the hangover cure. I ordered mine with chorizo, which was dry, and poached eggs which were perfectly cooked. The rest of the dish was super oily, I literally had to blot away a grease spill under my potatoes, which had absorbed so much already. The chips had a rancid taste, but as long as you cover them in enough salsa verde, you'll be okay. This place has potential with it's flavors, but the ingredient quality is lacking, as is the service.
(2)Renee F.
Delicious! Menu is limited. Space is small. But neither is a good reason to miss out on this place.
(4)Jaime G.
Man...god send on a holiday. Tiztal Cafe has the hangover cure that we needed. Try the green chili chilaquiles con chorizo and a cup a coffee. Super authentic sauce and large portions. It's a delicious and quality. Kid friendly with a nice outdoor deck. One not so good thing was service was a little slow - but note that we came on a holiday! Worth a try. Can't wait to come back!
(4)Ghosoon A.
4.5 stars. I went here with my friend while we were apartment hunting. We shared an order of french toast and the chorizo egg scramble... I also got their famous oatmeal banana shake (so good!). The french toast: simple, fluffy, with a light dusting of powdered sugar. Perfect. The chorizo egg scramble: perfect for two. It was so well seasoned and came with a delicious spicy sauce, tortillas, and their AWESOME homemade potatoes. You cannot go wrong here. Just make sure you have some patience because it took our food a long time to come out even though the restaurant was pretty empty.
(4)Sara S.
This place was great ant the chilaquiles amazing! I used to live in mexico, so I'm a harsh critic. Loved the outdoor seating!
(4)Andy M.
You heard it here first folks. I'm in love. Don't worry, I'm not leaving my wife (she would kill me first). I'm in love with the brunch at Tiztal Cafe. This place was amazing. I can't think of anyplace else that could appease my three day, Labor day hangover as well as Tiztal Cafe did. After three day's of hard partying, I needed Grub. Lot's of Grub. And the brunch they served up at the Tiztal Cafe was five star, belly sating Grub. I have no idea what I ordered. All I can do is describe it. My brunch came with three plates. The first plate featured Chips, cheese and delicious, green salsa. Plate two came with Chorizo and Eggs covered with cheese, and plate number three featured a plate of the best roasted potato's I've ever had. Everything was hot, spicy and mouthwatering. It was a ton of food that I devoured with ease. Nothing was going to escape my hungover, greedy hands on this morning. I walked away, stuffed, fat and extremely happy. We dined in the beautiful patio area in the back of the restaurant. Other than the Breeding Hipsters with the screaming Brat-child, my visit was perfect. Just to be safe, I'm ordering a side order of duct tape the next time I visit Tiztal Cafe. The staff is amazing. They're friendly and accomadating. The most gracious hosts. Here's the delicious bottom line: The next time you have a hankering for a top-notch Mexican breakfast. Give Tiztal cafe a try. The food was delicious, the staff is amazing and the patio area is beautiful. One piece of advice. You might want to bring earplugs, just in case the Hipsters decide to return with Satan's spawn.
(5)Andre W.
I have heard over the last couple of years that this place is where its at for breakfast/brunch by a few friends. After getting a phone call from a person that hardly writes reviews anymore (he knows who he is) we decided that my time had come to try Tiztal! Another friend saw me tweeting that I was coming here and she mentioned that I needed to try the chilaquiles and also that she was gonna show up as well...Lets party in this MF is what my response was. Before they got there I decided to have their famous oatmeal shake. It is what everyone says it is: AWESOME!!! I enjoyed every damn sip. My dining companions showed up and to my surprise one of them had two bottles of Andre champagne meaning byob mimosa time...damn thang was def bouts to get did! We all ordered the chilaquiles....I got the chicken version as you can choose from chorizo and steak as well. The serving was bigger than I thought it would be and pretty delicous. The dish came with very delicious potatoes. The service was more than stellar as they made sure we had a huge pitcher of OJ to go with our bubbles and also gave us samples of the oatmeal shake. I have to come back and try the omelet offerings!
(4)Jim Y.
Walked over based on the other good yelp reviews. The place was nicer inside than you'd think based on the surrounding stores in the area. I had the Tiztal chorizo scramble, which came with fried potatoes and corn tortillas. Wow the spuds were perfect. And the scramble was really good. Before I could reach for the Cholula sauce, the lady behind the counter pointed out that the sauce was made in the kitchen, "with 3 different peppers". It was delicious. Surprisingly delicious actually. I sampled the oatmeal shake sample they offered. It's sweet, but really good. I'm not a sweets eater, so I'll just say that the shake was probably the biggest hit among my friends. It was definitely worth the walk over.
(5)Derek G.
I have driven by this place countless times. As a result, after eating there, I could not help but feel as though, I have cheated myself out of this dining experience for years. The food in addition to being inexpensive is delicious. What I appreciate about places such as this are the minor details that chain restaurants often ignore. For example, they put some kind of lime in their water that gives it a great and distinctively delicious flavor. I highly recommend this place when you are in the mood for Latin themed breakfast or brunch.
(5)Imran K.
After much hype and paying for parking I walked in and was told they can not offer me breakfast. I am not sure why but if you are running a business please provide for customer until you are closed. Not good.
(1)Joan W.
Our group of nine, including a one-year old and a three-year old hemmed and hawed about where to go for breakfast. Never again. It is Tiztal Cafe hands down. When we arrived, they brought the two children little dishes of fresh fruit before we even got our coats off. Everybody ordered something different but everybody loved what they got. Yes, the potatoes are fabulous. The salsa they have on the cilaquiles is fantastic. One person ordered the oatmeal shake and they brought little samples to the whole table. Best of all, each person who works there us so nice and accommodating. Great place for families. So delicious!
(5)Rob B.
Very good for breakfast. Potatoes are great as well as the gravy on the biscuits. Try the oatmeal shake. Surprisingly good.
(4)Wayne H.
I have eaten here a few times before, particularly for thier chilaquiles. I took my girlfriend here last week and we split the oatmeal shake and they were kind enough to put them in two, separate, smaller glasses for us. I have been meaning to try their oatmeal shake, and I am glad I finally did. It was amazing! I have always been a fan of the chilaquiles here. My girlfriend didn't like them as much because she doesn't like things drowning in sauce and their chilaquiles definitely includes a lot of green salsa. She ordered the spanish omelette and we didn't like it at all. I have also been here with others that have tried items on their menu other than chilaquiles and we were not impressed. I am a fan of their chilaquiles and oatmeal shake. I would say definitely go if either of these sound inviting to you.
(3)Fred M.
Just has breakfast here with the Family. Tried the Oatmeal Banana shake, pancakes and Chorizo omelette. Everything was great. 2 of the boys got French toast but didn't share any of it and it was a big portion. Anyway, highly recommend.
(4)Jessica G.
I've been here several times now and never been disappointed. What brings me back time and again are these freakin' phenomenal potatoes. Sure, every Tom, Dick, and Diner has breakfast potatoes, but Tiztal really has something special going on here. Maybe it's the garlic, or the way they're served so fresh and hot and extra crispy (yet soft on the inside). Whatever it is, I wish I were eating some right now! The oatmeal shake is also really good - tastes like a heartier version of horchata. The quesadilla my husband tried was so-so, not bad but nothing special. But I'm telling ya, if you're not ordering breakfast here, YOU'RE DOING IT WRONG.
(4)Jdub U.
Get the oatmeal shake. It's filling but a must have. Plan accordingly. I've been for breakfast and the portion sizes don't disappoint this big boy's appetite. //belly pat// The steak and egg chilaquiles hit the spot. The garlic potatoes are perfectly done. Flavorful, not under- or over- done, and crispy (and I'm not even a potato fan). Only dinging one star for the slightly inflated prices for a Mexican breakfast. On the upside, there's not a wait for a table and the staff is friendly. Would I come back? Definitely. But Tiztal be warned, I may try to squeeze that oatmeal shake recipe from you! :)
(4)David R.
Tiztál is a simple, pleasant cafe in an easy-going neighborhood. The environment is relaxed, and the staff is very friendly. Though a very casual place, the industrial juicer shows how serious they are in regards to the menu. Fresh juices and smoothies are reason enough to drop by. The food is wonderful, whether for breakfast or lunch. A Belgian waffle or a generously sized omelet are both filling and reasonably priced. The quesadillas with chicken or steak make for a good lunch. For anyone with a sweet tooth, tye oatmeal shake is a surprisingly yummy treat. Overall, Tiztál offers good food at decent prices as well as juices for anyone on the go. It's worth a Sunday morning visit.
(4)Candice P.
I went here after the ravenswood 5k this weekend and it was one of the best brunch spots I've been! We didn't have to wait for a table at 9:30am on a Sunday (which I was shocked). They have a great menu with a ton of sweet and savory options. I had the chiliquilles which were delicious, flavorful and not too spicy. I took a bite of a friends chicken fried steak (covered in gravy) and about ate the rest off her plate. They also walked around with samples of their oatmeal smoothie. I was just sad I didn't have room to order a full one. Can't wait to go back.
(5)Jenny H.
I got their oatmeal shake- I was expecting the shake to be a bit more healthier than it was, more like a protein shake or something, but I thought it was like drinking a regular vanilla milkshake for breakfast- way to sweet for me! But it definitely had a nice cinnamony nutty flavor and you could taste the oatmeal in it as well- I would probably get it as a snack rather than breakfast food. I ordered the chicken chilaquiles- the GARLIC POTATOES ARE TO DIE FOR!! The best breakfast potatoes I've ever had, SO crispy, nice strong garlicky buttery flavor- excellently done. The chicken was moist but a large breast plunked on top of your platter, served with two eggs and tortilla chips with salsa verde and cheese melted on top. Great and unique place to check out for sure!! I would just order their potatoes ALL THE TIME!!!
(4)karen c.
If the service wasn't awful, they'd have 5 stars for food. Not one bit attentive and after 20 minutes with empty plates and no water refill, we finally had to go get someone in the empty restaurant for the bill. The waitress had her child with her, putting away condiments while they never checked up on us. It was 2 pm on a Sunday with multiple servers and barely any tables. Really? After many reviews of how they have Chicagos "best chilaquiles" we had to give it a try. The chilaquiles themselves were good, however only luke warm and the potatoes were overcooked. Meh, I'd rather go to other places where the chilaquiles AND service is great.
(2)richard i.
My friends and I tried it on a "search for brunch" whim, and it's one of our favorite places now. We go together, with new friends, separately, too much... The food is amazing, plentiful, and fairly priced. My friends always get the Chilaquiles. Thats not my thing, so I've gotten omelets and country fried steak, pretty standard, but awesome. Their potatoes give me feelings. The oatmeal shakes (which I didn't know was a thing) are magic unicorn juice. Best of all is the service. My friend said it felt like we were at "abuelita's house", which is totally true. Everyone takes care of you together like a guest in their home. They give you samples of the shakes, (my friend always gets a beet shake, which she loves--- I would never-- but they give me a sample of that too.) They brought my steak and asked if I wanted more gravy... MORE GRAVY?! Yes! Always! Everywhere I go acts like gravy is on rations. But not here. They get me. Small, but intimate but relaxed. I would go here hungover, I would go here on a date. (But not at the same time.)
(5)Angelica P.
The oatmeal shake was amazing!! So good and definitely a must order. The garlic side potatoes were really good too.
(4)Scott H.
Tiztal Cafe is by far my favorite brunch place in the city. I know that's a tall order considering the number of brunch places that the city has to offer, but they just do it for me. I pretty much get the same thing every time I go. I get the veggie omelet and the vampiro juice. Then I convince whoever I'm there with to get the oatmeal shake because I don't want to be the guy that orders 3 drinks (I also order coffee). I couldn't pick which item I like the most because they're all honestly that amazing. I really like my juice, but the potatoes at Tiztal are better than anything I've had at any other restaurant. Then of course there's the oatmeal shake. It's truly a must try item. You won't be disappointed. With all of those positive features, I will say that this restaurant isn't quite perfect. Their downfall that the service is a bit rough at times. Everyone is always friendly and helpful, but not always that attentive. It sometimes gets a little annoying, but I promise that the food will make up for it. FYI: If you want excellent service ask for Melissa!
(5)Daniel C.
The place was clean, the staff was very friendly, the Eggs were delicious and hot, the bacon was crispy, and the coffee was fresh and hot. The juice was fresh squeezed. A weeee bit slow (I had my food and had to eat before my friend got his), but they were so nice, and the food is soo good we didn't care. At the end, I put a $20.00 down and got a few bucks back. I will be back for sure!!!
(5)Garvin J.
This is my favorite brunch restaurant! I would have never found it, unless I was looking for a place really close to my house to have breakfast, but I'm so glad I stumbled in here. They have an industrial juicer, and the smoothies, shakes, and juice are half the reason to come here. Heck, probably enough reason to go if that's all they served, but they they have great food. I almost always get the chilaquiles. It's a lot of food, and it's all delicious. The best part is the garlic potatoes, I'll go so far as to order extra potatoes because they are that good. If it's open, the outdoor patio out back is pretty neat. Only downside is that service is not great on the patio, but food comes quick and it's great, so I'm not complaining. The people here are really nice, and the cooks are amazing. I'm typically really critical of restaurants, but this place is so good I've never had anything I don't like.
(5)Jean L.
I came here out of desperation, hungry desperation. It was one of the only restaurants that was open when I was in the area an early weekday morning. I walked over a mile from where I had been originally been, and when I got to Tiztal's door..boy oh boy was I hungry. The water was characteristically lemon-y, as if someone had squeezed in way too much lemon...but for some reason it worked! The coffee was just mediocre, which was a disappointment, but the free oatmeal shake sample made up for it. The portions were HUGE and yummy.
(4)Oksana D.
The oatmeal shakes are enough to bring me back here. The portions are hefty and the service is very quick and friendly. The food was tasty, but not spectacular...aside from the oatmeal banana shake of course! If in the area, definitely consider this place for your brunch needs.
(4)Cristiana B.
My favorite chilequiles with eggs & chorizo! No joke. Everything is delicious, their fresh-squeezed juices, oatmeal shakes, waffles, breakfast potatoes... on my birthday they treated me to a waffle with ice cream. Very well priced as well, can't lose!
(5)Ryan P.
Really love this spot. The food is terrific (very authentic) and the service is excellent. We found it to be less than busy, so you don't have to worry about a rush of folks. Get seated quick, food comes quick. Definitely worth a stop.
(5)RJ W.
Simply the best waffle I have had in Chicago, period. Great omelet, perfect breakfast potatoes... and great service for a very fair price... Run, don't walk, there!
(5)Vaidehi T.
Loved this brunch place. Went here on the 4th of july and it was not at all crowded. We sat in the patio, and it was perfect... like sitting in your backyard. The service is very friendly and the food is amazing. We ordered the chilaquiles and a veggie omelette. The chilaquiles are delicious, a definite must try. The omelet was perfect too. This is a brunch gem, and I would love to visit again.
(5)Shradha A.
really good chilaquiles, friendly service, easy parking, loved the local art showcased.
(4)Ritu R.
Been here uncountable amount of times and need to put this on here! They are fantastic! Great good. Great service. Great everything. Juice menu = awesome Oatmeal Shakes = must have Chilequeles = my hubbies favorie and he has tried too many other to count Zephyr Omlette = perfect just perfect Potatoes are amazing. Perfect size and seasoning. They are friendly and welcoming. Street parking is easy. I have brought my parents here and our best friends here. We have brought a baby here and they were fully accomodating. I highly recommend this place to everyone as we are brunch junkies and could be considered snobs!
(5)Chris H.
This place is the bee's knees!! Not sure what that means, but what I mean is this place is great!! It's BYOB, brunch, delicious and great service. Do you even need to keep reading? No, but you will. I've been here multiple times and the service is always very friendly and attentive. The food is wonderful; and the portions are very large (which is much needed after a late Saturday night of drinking). I literally don't have a single complaint. Try the Oatmeal Shake; it's amazing. Bring a bottle of champagne and get your brunch on!
(5)Gricelda R.
Went there for a second time. The first time I had a great expirience with my friend which is why I went back this time not so great... I dont know if its because i went with my lil brother and thought we wouldnt spend... Or if because they were too busy with their own family and kids all the attention was on them. The server not once came to check on us we had to ask for extra napkins. Of course we didnt receive a single welcoming smile eiher! You cant work in the industry and not crack a smile!!? We werent even greeted when we walked in and of course when we left!! Like I said they were too busy with their family to even notice that we left how rude! It's a shame because most likely I will not be going back.
(2)Roman M.
Awesome chilaquiles, as a lot of other reviewers have commented on, and my banana oatmeal shake was very satisfying as well. The wait to get in wasn't too bad for Sunday at about 1pm and it's nice that they stay open until 4pm for a later brunch-food crowd. Overall, nice Uptown gem tucked away amongst other small businesses on Clark with easy street parking right in front of the restaurant. Portions are very generous, although I wish the portion of the oatmeal shake was a little bigger for the price. The restaurant brings a great diverse crowd, no pretentious Lincoln Park brunch scene to be had. Would definitely come back for the nice Latin spin on traditional brunch food.
(4)Giampiero John V.
Great small Lil place. The green chillaquilles were c awesome the that I had in the city so far. Oh man and make sure you get the oatmeal shake that was so good
(5)Stu T.
Chilaquiles are solid. Oatmeal shakes kick ass--and I don't even eat/drink shakes. That good.
(5)Cindy M.
Love this place!! The waitstaff were very friendly and welcoming :) We just happened to see an episode of Chicago's Best & glad we just happen to be passing by. We were looking for a place to really get our feast on. We haven't found the perfect Breakfast spot. Yes, this one is a winner :) I ordered the Hash & Eggs and to my surprise the waitress told me that it was all homemade at the restaurant. None of the Canned stuff like other restaurants. It was a huge plate of Deliciousness.. My Honey ordered the Country Breakfast plate and he was SATISFIED!!! The white gravy over biscuits and Country Fried steak was DE-LISH!! Once they found out it was our first time there, they offered us a sample of their Famous oatmeal shakes. Yummy!! Come hungry...Leave absolutely satisfied!! Next time I need to make sure I have room to have one their yummy shakes.. Definitely 4 THUMBS UP :)
(4)Jon S.
Tiztal is one of the best brunch places in the neighborhood. Their atmosphere is great especially in the summertime. Try one of yheir fruit smoothies and the chilaquiles are the best I have ever had
(5)Natalie S.
Its my husbands birthday. He wanted breakfast. I wanted dim sum. It's his stupid birthday so he wins. Boo. He Yelped breakfast places around our place and came up with Tiztal. I wish he had told me about the oatmeal shakes... I'm just finding out about them now. Oh well. Anyways, so when we walked in I thought it was a pretty room. Nice and cozy. We had menus and a drink order with our server pretty much right away. That's when it all fell apart. I love it when places have big tea pots. I was pretty pumped when they sat that big hunk of shining metal in front of me. I plopped my teabag in... and nothing really happened. I touched the pot... tepid. After I flagged down our server to ask for hotter water, she took the pot and basically stood there in the corner looking helpless with it. She did this for a solid minute or so. Then she handed it off to another girl who stood there looking helpless. Then she handed it off to a dude... who stood there looking helpless. I finally got that pot back 10 minutes later with hot water. Thank goodness. Food came. I had the three meat omlette, the Mr. had the country fried steak. Both were very good. I was a big fan of the potatoes. However, it wasn't until I was more than halfway done with the eggs that my English muffin finally came. Why bother at that point? We never got water. The husband had to flag people down for coffee refills. I practically had to have a seizure to finally get our servers attention for the check. Wowza. $26 for two breakfasts, coffee and tea? Plus tip? We had breakfast at Pauline's yesterday... similar meals... $7 cheaper... better service too. We agreed to give it another go at a later date. I'm interested in trying the much discussed oatmeal shake. But if the service doesn't improve, the next time will be our last. There are too many delicious breakfast options around here to keep patronizing a place with such bad service.
(3)Jack P.
I came for the Chilaquiles. There are numerous varieties, such as eggs only, steak, and even chicken, I tried the chorizo. The chorizo was a minute amount, mixed into the scrambled eggs. And those were done to a rubbery consistency. The bed of soggy tortilla chips had a generous amount of melted chihuahua cheese and a green salsa. The salsa was excellent. It was some of the best green-cheesey mush I've ever had. The pan fries, which were presumbably deep-fried were also crispy good, of course, because they were deep-fried! The menu is limited to breakfast and lunch items and includes omelets and other Mexican street treats, like tacos, etc. For an informal Mex place in not exactly your high rent district (edge of Uptown/Ravenswood,) I thought the prices were a bit high. Almost all the breakfast items hovered around the $9-11 range, including Chilaquiles, which I'm used to seeing at $5-6 on other menus. Nuevo Leon's is $4.75. It is pretty cheap food, after all. So probably a good 1000% markup? $2.50 for mediocre coffee is no deal either. My inner caffeine aficionado was left with yearnings. The place is very homey and inviting, and the staff is pleasant. It's not "comida rapida," but I was in no hurry either. It's a nice neighborhood spot, but not a good value in my book. I probably could have had an Over Easy level breakast with superb ingredients and good coffee for about what I spent here. Or something better at Inspiration Cafe, too. If you are looking in this area.
(3)Reggie M.
I love chilaquiles got a fuckin' problem. But really, I do and Tiztal has the best! I'm definitely making Tiztal my go-to for brunch since it's much closer to my block than Bongo Room.
(4)Angelica E.
Two words....Oatmeal Shake!!! Yes ladies and gentlemen the Oatmeal Shake is a must when coming here. I took a train and a bus to get to this place and it was well worth trip. The shake was amazing and the food was awesome. I wish it was a lot closer so I can enjoy this place frequently...booo!
(5)ZZ K.
What an awesome discovery!!! This place is a true gem! The food simple, fresh and tasty. Our server was attentive and gave good advice. It is small and because of that very chilly ever time the dor opens and people walk-in - we ate with our coats on! :) None the less, 5 of us enjoyed our meals immensly and my husband is still talking about it!! What I really enojyed was the simplicity and great taste. I had chilaquiles with chorizo and if you like salsa verde soaked tortilla chips...this is your dish! YUMM!! They hubby had had eggs and hash and it was just fantastic! We loved the potatoes, which had a nice hint of garlic and we also tried a bite of the crepes our friend had...and yup folks, another winner! I think you can't go wrong with anything you order here! We were even given samples of the oatmeal cookie shakes, but we thought it tasted a bit chalky for our liking, but I know many people really love the shake. Others at our table had fruit smoothies and they were nice. Friendly, attentive service, tasty, fresh mexican food, and a small cozy resturant this is great for breakfast or brunch. If you have not been....I highly recommend it! Also, street parking was a breeze!
(5)Jules H.
Exquisite. Everything about this restaurant hits every mark... It is small...maybe 12 tables. There is rarely a wait, yet the place is always comfortably filled. You are greeted promptly and warmly. Their menu is inviting, creative, beautifully presented! The coffee they serve is hearty, tasty, central american brew. Their table water is as cold as ice, and lemon infused...fresh as it gets. Then, after being graciously attended to, food starts arriving...crepes filled with mushrooms, and fresh spinach. Chorizo scrambles with dazzling cilantro, cheddar cheese, peppers, sides of tortillas, fruit. Oh, and yes, the chefs here know how to make breakfast potatoes. Well done, with little tiny crispy onions bits, slivers of bacon, very tasty, very nice. Fancy in a way, and very good way. I am a breakfast person. I have been searching for the mecca of breakfast for awhile in chicago, and I have found it. This is a family run place, lovingly run with panache and flavor. I heart Tiztal Cafe...
(5)Tiffany S.
A hidden gem!! Great for juices! I got the energy juice and it was so refreshing. Had an omelette that was out of this world and the garlic potatoes on the side were nice and crisp. Not like some where they are soggy and not flavorful. I wanted to go back the next day. Wonderful service. Amazing!
(5)Deb D.
Stopped here on a whim, based on reviews from *ahem* another ratings site. There were 3 of us. We were seated immediately. I had the first item on the menu - the Zephyr Omelet. It was amazing. The potatoes were even better. Service was attentive and prompt. My coffee cup was never empty. The owner stopped over to check on our food, and when she heard it was our first visit, she brought us samples of the oatmeal shake. WOW! Next time, we will get one. I highly recommend this place. Family owned and family run - you can feel warm and fuzzy about supporting this business while eating a great breakfast!
(4)Damian S.
The banana oatmeal shake is really good...I didn't think it was overly filling, or weighty as some reviews say. My friend and I both had the Zephyr omelet and it was very tasty as well. His biscuits and gravy were more gravy than biscuit, but were ok. They lacked some scallions and salt and pepper, but were otherwise good stick-to-your-ribs fare. Overall we were pleased with this brunch spot and will definitely be back. The servers do tend to forget about you for awhile when you're out on the back patio, but maybe they're just trying not to hover like some servers do.
(4)Hesham A.
I ran into this restaurant while walking in the area. Nice little place for breakfast/brunch. I grew up around good Mexican food and there are good options for this here. Also classic breakfast items. The portions are really big. Good service. Get the oatmeal shake, it's so damn good (although a little overpriced, especially for the size).
(4)Dr Keith W.
This place has an incredible oatmeal shake! A must have if you stop by for any reason. The eggs are cooked to perfection. Fruit is off the vine and the patio is quaint and cute. Great food
(5)Katie P.
If I could come here and get an oatmeal shake everyday I would!!! Worth every cent! I also love the chorizo scramble and the super friendly staff :D
(5)Nancy F.
Service is great!! they are always giving free samples of the juices and shakes. Oatmeal shakes at the end is a sweet treat. The beet juice is amazing and def ask for help from the waitress, she knows best!
(5)Michael F.
Delicious...Delicious...Delicious... I love it.....I love it.....I love it......... This place has everything you would ever want in a small neighborhood diner. Cozy, affordable, great food and friendly staff. My friends live within walking distance from here and the place is worth the visit. My friend and I had the Leslie Omelet which contains egg whites, feta cheese, spinach, onions and mushrooms. It came with a side of cottage cheese and English muffin. My other friend ordered the steak and eggs. Everything was cooked to perfection and they even gave us samples of their healthy juices and roasted garlic potatoes. Staff were very attentive and made sure we were happy with our meal. Good coffee and a great tea selection. Support small businesses, Starbucks will do just fine without you.
(5)Arlene A.
Wow. I've been here twice, under two different circumstances and both were really enjoyable. Doing the Sunday group thing as well as weekday brunching were great experiences. The service is paced nicely, unrushed, but still attentive. I've had the Country Fried Chicken Steak, and the cream gravy is DELICIOUS. My Honey had the Chorizo scramble, and only offered the tiniest of bites to me, a sign of superior yumminess. The fresh juice offerings are not to be missed, and don't (seriously, DON'T) miss your opportunity to get the most amazing Horchata.
(4)Brandon B.
The best chilaquiles I've ever had, period. The oatmeal banana shake was fantastic as well.
(5)Faye B.
Went in on a Sunday and the experience overall was pretty good. I was thinking this place was more 3.5 stars, but I chalk part of that up to the fact that they were slammed with a large party along with the regular brunch time crowd. The place is small and the wait wasn't too bad. It's just that the wait for the food was just as long, but they did try to accommodate by giving samples of their shakes and potatoes. The oatmeal shake was definitely the way to go. After seeing reviews on Chicago's Best and fellow yelpers this drink did not disappoint. It was definitely tasty and not grainy like one would imagine upon hearing 'oatmeal shake'. The breakfast potatoes were quite tasty, crunchy, and had lots of flavor. I had the chorizo scramble, but my boyfriend had the chilaquiles and his dish was much better. The salsa verde on the nachos was flavorful and parts of the nachos still had a bit of crunch to it and weren't overly soggy. Definitely want to come back again because the staff was pretty nice and I may want to try a new smoothie or something else on the menu.
(4)Colleen C.
OMG. The oatmeal shake, a meal in itself, is $3 and will change your life for the bettter. Drop what you are doing (if between the hours of 8am-4pm) and go get one...you will NOT be sorry. Mmmmm, sweet mother of oats, good stuff.
(5)Nikkie H.
I moved into my new 'hood a couple months back and was a little concerned that the dining options were a bit more scarce than my old stomping grounds. I had a lot of great bars and restaurants within a few blocks, and that didn't seem to be the case in the new area. When my friends asked if I wanted to meet for brunch I turned to good ol' Yelp to help guide the way. It guided well...it guided me to Tiztal Cafe. After discovering Tiztal Cafe I went two weekends in a row. I would probably go every weekend if I could get people to go with me. Heck, I might just start going by myself. I can be independent like that! Both times I went with the crowd favorite chilaquiles and everyone is dead on. They are spectacular. They're different than the chilaquiles I've had in the past, because the ingredients are not all mixed together. I like that, because I can really get to taste the different flavors. Word to the wise though, they are filling so keep that in mind if you plan on getting one of their delicious oatmeal shakes. Save room, because you'll need it!
(5)Maggie D.
So good. So friendly. Oatmeal shakes are incredible. Strawberry pecan was especially good. Beet juice good. Potatoes delicious. I don't think they have bad food here. Stuffed.
(5)Brianna L.
OMG! This place is seriously like an orgasm in your mouth no lie. The oatmeal shake yum yum yum..I would seriously love to know how they get it to be that consistency. It's pure heaven in a cup. I ordered the chillaquiles with chicken. It was soooo flavorful. I couldn't believe it to be honest. The chicken was mariinated to perfection. The salsa verde on point. And those potatoes OMG those potatoes I could seriously talk about them days and I'll dream of them foreverrrrr..I can't wait to go back and another helping of this place!! Downside the chicken came as a full boneless chicken breast when I wish it had come pre-diced since they really fill your plate and the yummy sauce was spilling over the edge while I was cutting the chicken. I'm so glad that I randomly searched breakfast spots on saturday to find this pure gem!! Thank you yelp..you're my lifesaver (in super mario bros. princess peach voice) :) Stop reading and GO EAT THERE NOW!!!
(5)Michael E.
Love Tiztal! We live a block away and whenever we have guests from out of town staying with us, they always want to go to Tiztal for breakfast. Very reasonably priced, great smoothies and very friendly staff. There isn't much on Clark between Irving and Lawrence...this place is a gem.
(5)Phil S.
Food was very good; had the chilaquiles and Leslie scramble. Lots of food for kids too - the pancake meal was huge for my 3 year old! The oatmeal shakes are good but not AMAZING like people are saying. Prices are decent; service is lacking. Overall 4 stars.
(4)Hassan B.
Good food and great service at a nice and clean restaurant.
(4)Tim R.
Awesome shakes and smoothies. Best chilaquiles in Chicago. Love the staff.
(5)Kel W.
Five stars, no doubt. I will start off by saying that our waitress wasn't the best - I had to stare over her way to make eye contact every time I wanted a fresh dose of coffee (twice) and even then she wouldn't look at me. A table that ordered after us got their food before we did. I have a feeling our order wasn't put in correctly or was forgotten about for a little while. However, they still get five stars from me, because the food was just that phenomenal. It more than made up for it - everything on our table did. The coffee was very good, the grapefruit juice freshly squeezed and totally delicious, and the food was AMAZING. Everything was so delicious. You can tell that the owners and cooks/chefs take pride in their menu and in their ingredients. Just come with a little patience. I would definitely come up here again, and I can't wait to try out other things on their menu. The guy got chicken chilaquiles and I got a tomato/onion/feta omelette. Way to do it right, Tiztal.
(5)Bethanie L.
Love love love this place! The waitresses are so friendly and nice and they're food is incredible! It was fun watching them make the juice. They make sure that the fruit they use is fresh before they make it for you. I love the eggs Benedict and the spinach and ham scramble. Also the potatoes are delicious because they use olive oil.
(5)Emily B.
Simple and well done. Loved the potatoes, the service, the prices, and the neighborhood feel. Sad I didn't try the oatmeal shake everyone raved about below, but will definitely be back!
(4)J.M S.
Food service and ambiance are all solid - the oatmeal shake makes this excellent breakfast spot a worthy destination.
(4)Leanne A.
otml shk! I said it as fast as I could so I could get it over with. Gots to learn how to make this thing. mmmmmmmmmmmm. garlicky potatoes. mmmmmmmmmm. sexy, adorable waiter with sexy, adorable accent. mmmmmmmmmmmmmmmmmmmm. quesadilla--eh, okay.
(4)Kathryn F.
I came in around 11:30 am on a Saturday morning and while the cafe was busy, I did not have to wait for a table. I was seated and offered coffee promptly. I ordered the chilaquiles with chorizo. My food arrived within 10 minutes and it was quality. Tiztal separated the eggs from the chips, salsa verde and cheese so that it was a huge mess of food and I could create my own egg to chip to raw onion ratio that I desired. The chorizo was scrambled in with the egg and like many other reviewers have stated, it wasn't greasy at all. The chorizo added a nice flavor to the egg. After I killed my meal, I left feeling full but not heavy even though I had chilaquiles. I would definitely order this breakfast again!
(4)Christina K.
Went there for brunch this morning. The service was attentive and fast, the coffee was awesome, the decor was cozy and authentic, and the food was fantastic. I had the chicken chilaquiles, and my boyfriend had the pecan waffle. His waffle was pretty good and light. My chilaquiles were seriously amazing, and came in a very generous portion. They use green sauce which we both appreciated; it was just spicy enough and very fresh tasting. The potatoes were also good, but I didn't finish them because I focused on the chilaquiles.
(5)Yanyao N.
Get the chilaquiles and the oatmeal shake, but save a little room because you'll want to eat all those breakfast potatoes with real GARLIC! Oh, and the steak and eggs that come with the chilaquiles. I've never seen such a large plate of breakfast. The whole time I kept telling myself: "I can't believe I've never had chilaquiles before" and "Holy hell these are so good, I should stop eating, but they're too good, keep going Yanyao, you can do it!" Basically I ate myself to the point of exploding and ended up falling into a 5 hour coma nap when I got home. The service was a little slow when we were in there, but I like a leisurely weekday brunch, and our waitress refilled out oatmeal shakes because she is wonderful. I also love how the iced tea comes in a giant goblet - very cool. I want to come back and try some of the chorizo items and eat more POTATOES... hopefully with a little more self-control.
(4)Brian B.
This is a great little breakfast spot that is easily overlooked. I've probably walked past this place 10 times before I found it on Yelp and decided to give it a try. We stopped in on a lazy Sunday and got the chilaquiles, chorrizo scramble and oatmeal shake. All of the sauces were super flavorful and the shake was a unique treat. The waitresses were very nice and we even got a sample of the shake before we ordered. I will definitely be coming back on a regular basis to try the rest of their menu.
(4)Jason D.
This is a great place for breakfast in the heart of Uptown. Titzal serves breakfast and lunch (no dinner). The staff greeted us warmly as we arrived and was very attentive throughout our meal. The portions are huge, hot and full of flavors. OJ is fresh squeezed too! We had the chilaquiles (with chorizo) and salsa verde omelette, each served with house potatoes (red skins, chopped and pan fried so the skins were perfectly crisped but not burned). The chorizo flavored the eggs to add a nice zip. Plus, the chorizo was not greasy at all. Anyone who has had dishes with chorizo has assuredly had their fair share of grease-laden chorizo. Titzal made sure it was done the right way. As we got about halfway through our gigantic portions, one of the owners/staff approached to ask if we wanted to sample the oatmeal shake. "Sure!", we said. Upon finishing our sample we quickly agreed that it was a must have on our next trip. If you are looking for great food served by a friendly staff, give Titzal a try.
(5)Nick M.
WHAT the HELL PANTS?!? You didn't say anything about a oatmeal shake!?!! For a busy holiday weekend, I was surprised at how everything was top notch. The service was on the ball, though it probably helped that the manager remembered Rafael. She would stop by to chat here and there, but never being intrusive. Funny enough, she pretty much ordered for us and demanded that we shared. Then she also brought us out things to try. Egg Benedict- 2 poached Eggs with Canadian Bacon on an English Muffin topped with Hollandaise sauce. Florentine style (with Spinach instead of meat). I'm big on sauces and they nailed the Hollandaise! Chilaquiles- Eggs only (option to add Chorizo, Chicken, or Steak to the eggs), Tortilla Chips, Green Salsa, Topped With Baked Chihuahua Cheese, Chopped Onions And Fresh Cilantro. Served With Potatoes. Also, nailed it. BTW, the potatoes are brilliant here!! Add a nice seat on the patio and a glass of O.J. ... ah, this is the life! With 211 reviews with a average of 4 stars... I think it's a safe bet. If anything, Yelpers know their brunch!!
(4)Annie D.
A new Chicago brunch favorite. The boyfriend and I had a busy morning of moving furniture, and we arrived at Tiztal with mucho hambre. We were welcomed by the sweetest staff ever and no wait (WTF, Over Easy...). Of course, I had yelped brunchiness in the area and read that the oatmeal shake is a must, so we ordered one to share, plus some coffee (which was refilled on the regular). Hype there was... but this oatmeal shake is dang good, guys. I'd liken it to slightly spiced, delicious cousin to horchata rather than a lumpy mess my brain conjured up when I saw "oatmeal shake." I think we downed it in less than 60 seconds. I ordered the chilaquiles, which I highly recommend, but don't get it with chicken like I did because it was basically a plain split chicken breast on top. Boring. Get those eggs and salsa verde soaked tortilla bits with chorizo or steak like any sane person would do when given the choice. Chorizo, probably. Most all the dishes come with garlic breakfast potatoes on the side like little champions of starch. It's not obvious, but there is an adorable garden patio in the back too. Seriously, I saw it with my eyes.
(5)Jill S.
Finally made it here after seeing it on Chicago's Best months ago. I had to try the chilaquiles and Oatmeal shake everyone raves about. The reviews were spot on. Food is delicious. We came on a Friday morning around 11am and were the only folks in the place. Service was slow! Gave us pause to relax and enjoy our food. Eat the chialiquiles with the chorizo.
(4)Yevgeniy K.
One of the best Chicago breakfast places!
(5)Nicole V.
Two words = four stars and those two words are: Oatmeal Shake. Yeah, the thing is incredible. I will go back for it, no two ways about it! The rest of the food was tasty and pretty standard for a casual dining destination. Colleen C. knows her stuff and she really pointed me in the right direction on this one. : ) I'll update my review as I taste more.
(4)Pam D.
We had brunch here today based on reviews I had read, and OMG, we were not disappointed. If this place were 5 blocks further north there would be a line to get in. (I'm glad there was no line). We split an oatmeal shake. I had never heard of it before, but all I can say is YUM!!!!! For my brunch, I had the Tiztal Chorizo Scramble. It was delicious.... imagine this.... 2 scrambled eggs with chorizo, topped with tomato, onions, cilantro, shredded cheddar and side of sour cream. There is a 4 egg version, but I could not eat that much. Now, the cocky among you might say you could make this yourself just as well ... perhaps, but babies, the Tiztal breakfast potatoes.... I think not. They are beautifully garlicky with a bit of crunch and yet moist. I'd go back again just for them taters!!!!! The hubby had the Salsa Verde Omelet which consisted of eggs, filled with green peppers and chihuahua cheese topped with home made salsa verde. He normally is not an egg person, but he ate every bit and it was huge!! That also came with the taters . He loved it all. What I really loved about this place is the attention to detail and the good service. For example, the water is served with a hint of lemon, the toast is quality bread, the jam on the side is Dickinson, not some generic jelly you see in so many places. The interior is clean and attractive and there is nice artwork on the walls. The waitress came around with the fruit smoothie samples, which is a nice touch. On the way out we met the owner, a charming woman who told me that all the waitstaff are her nieces and nephews. We promised to come back soon and we will. next time i want to try one of the savory crepes. As it is hotter than hades today we did not check out the patio, but will get to that too, very soon.
(5)Amy H.
I'm going to burst the love bubble for Tiztal. This restaurant is either a hit or a miss. My favorite is the chilaquiles, but sometimes they are lukewarm and a little blah. The cinnamon raisin bread is always good and so is the oatmeal shake, but everything else on the menu is mediocre in an "I could have made this at home" kind of way.
(2)John C.
This is a good restaurant. I went for brunch with my family. A total of 5 people. We were seated fairly quickly even though they were busy. If you have a large number of people I would recommend calling ahead because they do take reservations for large groups. Now for the food. Great food and very good portions. They have terrific smoothies. I had the meat lovers omelet. Very good and would recommend it. The house potatoes are perfectly seasoned and baked. This is a must try restaurant and I really recommend the Tiztal Cafe.
(4)iddells E.
Chilaquiles are amazing....who knew that this poor man's dish could be transformed into such refinement. I wasn't even considering ordering it (until the waitress suggested it) because from my experience, chilequiles were mediocre in taste, but at Tiztal Cafe, I was proven wrong. It was delicious, I would have preferred it to be spicier, but it was fine. The first time I went here, I ordered the chilequiles with steak, second time, with chorizo. Both were good, but I would recommend the chorizo over the steak. I also tried their infamous oatmeal shake and it tasted better than I expected. It did taste like a creamy horchata with pieces of oatmeal in it. Who knew an oatmeal shake could taste so good....I fell in love. A bit on the expensive side, but totally worth it. One thing I would have to say, though, is that I found a short gray hair buried in my chilaquiles. I wasn't too grossed out though because the dish was so good and because dining in third world countries has made me a bit immune to things like that.....gross, yeah, but, will it kill you? Nope! I'll definitely be back over and over again. I'll bring my family members and friends here so they can taste how delicious it is.
(4)Richard H.
Can't wait to go back. Thank you yelp for alerting me to a gem right around the corner. We went this morning and were the only two in the restaurant, so service was great. Everything was delicious.
(5)Cathy B.
Love it - HUGE portions at a reasonable price, attentively well-prepared and with good ingredients. The juices were delicious. The oatmeal shake is as good as people say, but do be warned that it is dairy-based and therefore quite filling. In other words, don't be as tempted to down it in a few slurps (as I was) because you might not have enough room for your eggs, potatoes AND a full plate of French toast. Bring it, Tiztal! I'll be back!
(4)Michael H.
Tiztal Cafe has earned a spot in our regular brunch rotation. There hasn't been a time that I haven't eaten every single thing off of my plate. My girlfriend's plate isn't that safe either, i usually get in a bite or 5 too. In addition to the best food north of Irving Park Road, the portions are very generous usually resulting in a much needed siesta. I hear that they are planning on a dinner service soon...I am anxiously awaiting that dream to come true. Without acting like a food critic I will say that Tiztal is pretty awesome, and if you disagree you need to go to rehab, because you're obviously on drugs.
(5)cassie r.
So, I understand the words "oatmeal shake" don't immediately strike food lust in the hearts of miliions, but ignore this unfortunate label and just TRY it. Chicago's Best recommended it, and it's no wonder they did. This sweet treat is delectable. Pair aforementioned oatmeal shake with one of their delectable omelettes (the Spanish version + chorizo was deliciously spicy and generously portioned), and make sure to try their potatoes. These babies might be a bit greasy, but they are slathered in garlic and seasoned to perfection. My tablemates enjoyed the chilaquiles, which seems to be a popular choice for brunchers at this Uptown spot. Based on visual alone (and the ravings of those around me), I'm not surprised. We arrived at 11:30 a.m. on a Sunday and got a table right away - another +1 for this spot. A solid five, and a fave for Mexican style brunch in the city.
(5)Sara H.
I am SHOCKED to see that I have not reviewed this fabulous breakfast gem! I was here last weekend for the umpteenth time accompanying a friend who had done some photography work for the amazing, caring, owner, Rosemary. She would not let us leave without a delicious breakfast and a hug. It doesn't get any more real than this and I am happy to keep spreading the word and supporting her dream. Ordering that day at Tiztal, like every other visit, is always a problem. You see, I love the Chiliquilles and can never seem to bring myself to order anything else. Although I have sampled the meat lovers omelet (oh yeah), the veggie omelet (fresh and good), the French toast served with strawberry crème fresh (amazing!) and of course every single smoothie each a flavor bomb that makes my mouth sing. But still I just keep going back to the Chiliquilles -- oh well that's why we eat brunch with friends -- to share! More than just the food though, the atmosphere at Tiztal is what keeps me coming back. From the comfy chairs to the warm yellow walls to the (hidden) patio in the back everything says "sit down, relax, good food is coming". Then, like last Saturday, you hear Rosemary greeting guests, cooing to babies and just generally spreading cheer and you know why you are there.
(5)Brett F.
BEST. BRUNCH. EVER. Okay, Okay... it is quite possible that I'm a bit biased since I also had the best company ever. A posse of us fab yelp ladies set off on Sunday for BYOBrunch with beaucoup champagne in hand... so for all intents and purposes really we could have been at a bus station and I would have had a blast with these gals, but add delicious brunchy options and a myriad of drinks (what, we were dehydrated?!) to the mix and you have 5 Stars on Mars, yo!! Our service got off to a bit of a slow start, but with the champers flowing I was happy as a clam to sit and chat. I surveyed the Tiztal surroundings which are humble and quaint... it has a bit of a coffeehouse/diner vibe and the personal service to match. The owner could not thank us enough for us for the business and just praise Yelp in general... gotta love that right?! The chit chat was nice, but my tummy was HUNGRY... In the nick of time a veritable feast was placed in front of us. Fabulously spicy chilaquiles, a velvety 'famous' zephyr omelet with mushrooms, spinach and cream cheese, the chorizo scramble all zesty and wonderful and - oh my land - those to-die-for sweet and savory mushroom crepes, like Jeff Buckley humming a lil' gospel diddy on my tongue! H A L L E L U J A H ! Everything you've heard about a) the Tiztal potatoes and b) the Oatmeal shakes are true! Don't miss out on either one... go today and if you can't finish yours, save the rest for me, because best brunch ever isn't just made for Weekends... Tiztal makes everyday a Sunday Funday.
(5)Christopher D.
What else can be said about THE spot to go to for breakfast in uptown? Large portions (which I end up breaking up into 2 meals most of the time), amazing food, and friendly service. Doesn't get much better than that. Like many others who have posted here, you must get an oatmeal shake. My go to dish is the Chicken and Eggs Chilauiles: a chicken breast served with your choice of eggs with a side of Totopos mixed with a green tomatillo sauce covered in onions and cheese.
(5)Angie M.
What do you get when you take 5 girlfriends, 3 bottles of champagne, 2 hours of gossip and 1 fabulous meal? My Sunday brunch at Titzal Café, a sweet new find for one of the best BYOB brunches I've had in a very, very long time. Although the menu is small, it is creative. No Denver omelets here! I opted for the chorizo scramble. If you like your meat, order this egg dish. They don't skimp on the zesty chorizo, onion, shredded cheddar and sour cream. Do yourself a favor and try the four-egg over the 2-egg scramble; you'll need it to share with your friends. And those potatoes? Sigh... I'm still fantasizing about them! Because Sunday really isn't a fun day without mimosas, don't forget to bring a bottle of champagne. Titzal Café can serve you a MASSIVE pitcher of fresh O.J. for about $12 so everyone can pour their own cocktails. And the owner didn't even bat an eye when two bottles of champers were polished off and our table got a bit, well, boisterous. The one complaint? The service is a little touch and go. It seems like it's a group effort at Titzal (one person brings coffee, another takes your order, the owner stops by to make sure everything is going well and tastes delicious), but its SUNDAY BRUNCH. Just relax, chill out and everything will come in its due time. Don't forget to order the orgasmic oatmeal shake, too. Yes, it really is that good. Thanks, Titzal Café, for providing me with one of the most fun, delicious brunches ever!
(5)David R.
I could tell you that the food is great, although the menu is rather small; or that the space is welcoming, although it has layout drawbacks and gets crowded at the usual brunch times. However, there are only two things that you need to know about Tiztal. 1. Oatmeal shake. One of the best things that you will ever put in your mouth. 2. The first time that I came here was just for a shake to go. The lady presented me with the plastic cup, lid off, and said, "Do me a favor and drink some of this so I can pour some more in." She was holding the blender pitcher which still had about three inches of shake in the bottom. So I downed three big slugs of oatmeal shake while she waited, and then she filled my cup again with the excess. How is that for generous service! Sure, it made my teeth hurt, but who cares. I got 1.33 shakes for the price of one and a very warm feeling about this place. I hope to make it a regular breakfast option, but they also have 24-hour weekend hours now. So when I'm craving something desserty late at night, I'll know to swing by Tiztal.
(4)Jelena Z.
On a bright and crisp fall morning, I woke up with an overwhelming desire for the oatmeal shake at Tiztal Cafe. Mostly craving some of the 'life-changing' oat legend I've read about and partly avoiding an imminent deadline. I need a treat. I just wrote 10 pages of.... crap. Time to get out of my writer's rut. So off I was. My friendly server Rosemary (who I later learned is also the owner) brought me coffee, stat. Happy me. Then, I heard a familiar voice ordering and turned to see John B.! I happily recruited John B. to my table and we enjoyed lovely conversation as we waited for (my) Zephyr omelette and (his) Monte Cristo sandwich. And... our oatmeal shakes! Oatmeal shake. Oh God yes. It reminded me of spiced rice pudding which I love, but in a thinner yet nubby oatmeal consistency. I embarrassingly sucked down my shake while John had only consumed a quarter of his. He's a pro at savoring the stuff, I am failure. My omelette was oozing with all of the gushy stuff: mushrooms, spinach, cream cheese AND swiss. And yes, even I, who usually turns down potatoes, adored my garlicky breakfast potatoes. John seemed to enjoy his Monte Cristo, which he said hailed from the savory school of the decadent sandwich. Served on egg bread. I'm not ashamed to admit I was eyeing it. Cute and comfy eatery, warm staff that I just want to hug all day, and an oatmeal shake that my taste buds have already memorized... Tiztal's a keeper.
(4)Michelle M.
AMAZING! I went here for breakfast and it was very good. I ordered an omelet and their house potatoes are so good. Service was friendly and prices are great for the food. Here is why I gave Tiztal 5 stars for the VERY first time I ordered an oatmeal shake and it was so damn amazing! I was wondering why there was so much hype over the oatmeal shake and oh my goodness...wish I would've tried it sooner.
(5)Andreea O.
Great breakfast place. If not the greatest in Chicago! MUST try the oatmeal shake! It is out of this world. Hubby and I just split one so that we won't fill up on just the shake and we save room for our food too. Everything we've had there is very tasty and fresh. I get the steak chillaquiles very often though: huge portion with eggs and potatoes, really yummmyy!! Husband gets the chorizo scramble, that's he's favorite. Service is always very pleasant. Try Tiztal Cafe, you won't regret it!
(5)Jill M.
I've only been to Tiztal once and I am already a SUPERFAN! I had an oatmeal shake and now I constantly crave it! If I could only drink one thing for the rest of my life, I would seriously give up drinking alcohol forever if I could drink oatmeal shakes anytime I wanted! And the best part about the oatmeal shake: IT'S GOOD FOR YOU! Yay! I also had the country fried steak, biscuits, gravy, eggs and potatoes because I was craving some serious meat. Very rich and I can feel my bad cholesterol levels going up! Yummy! It really hit the spot. My sister let me try her Chilaquiles w/ chorizo y huevos and I would like to try it again by ordering an entire plate just for me when I come back. Yay! OATMEAL SHAKE!
(5)Nannette P.
The waitress was really friendly, and brought us some samples of their freshly made juice and shakes as we ate breakfast. Her selling tactics worked and we took an oatmeal shake to go. It was simply delicious and refreshing. For breakfast, I had the steak and chilaquiles. The tortillas were folded with slightly spicy green sauce and cheese. The steak was flank steak, prepared well and a large portion. I cringe when I ask for my eggs prepared "over medium", because I should have learned my lesson by now. Not everyone knows how to cook a good egg, and although it's a "basic ingredient", it's the easiest also to f-up. My "over medium" were actually "over easy". I was full by the time I was getting ready to eat them anyways, but it would've been nice to have a breakfast spot know how to properly cook the eggs. I informed the waitress about the eggs, just as a heads up. I didn't expect anything in return, but I wanted her to know. She acknowledged my slight compliant, but didn't really try to correct the situation before we left. As a side note, as we ate there, a jewelry peddler came into the place and was going up to every table to try and sell her goods. The waitress, and really only staff member we saw, acknowledged the peddler and never asked her to leave. I am a huge proponent of promptly asking a solicitor to leave your establishment. No guest wants to be inconvenienced or feel threatened in a restaurant.
(4)Julia O.
My friend and I popped over here on a late Sunday morning. The beer garden area is laid back and beautiful, with sunlight peeking through the overhanging trees on either side. We each had the oatmeal shake, which is fantastic and well worth the price. I topped this with a side of their garlic potatoes...heaven. The service is relaxed, but we didn't feel like we had to wait long for our food. My only regret is that I don't live closer...I've been dreaming about that shake ever since!
(5)sheena r.
i was really looking forward to these oatmeal shakes. i thought they would be life changing. but alas, i have realized i need to not depend so much on yelp reviews, because i felt it was hyped up a little too much. yes it was good, oatmealy, creamy, but it wasn't SOOO goood. the food on the other hand...yeah that was pretty good. i wasn't sure if i wanted to order the chilaquilles, country breakfast, or the biscuits and gravy. but again, i went with yelp reviewers suggestions, and went with the chilquiles with steak and poached eggs, served with garlic potatoes. it was all very good, very tasty, and a very good portion. unfortunately, in the back of my head i was kind of wishing i got the country fried steak or biscuits and gravy. the biscuits and gravy are only served on weekeends and are only $4.99! or was it 3.99? i can't remember. anyways. since i didn't get them this time, i now have a good reason to go back. i ordered my bf the meat lovers omelette to go, but he did say it was quite meaty. almost all meat, with very little egg. i tried it, and yes it was quite meaty, but quite good! good meats! it could have used a little green in there though. the service was kind of lacking, but since yelp reviewers had stated that, i knew to expect it. it wasn't terrible, since i didn't feel the need to sprint out of there, so it was alright. i also noticed they forgot to put the toast in my omelette order to go. i didn't bother to ask them for it, since i wasn't sure how long that would take -- and it's just toast. =] all in all, a good place to get some hearty breakfast at a decent price.
(4)kim s.
I would love a confirmation--are the breakfast potatoes deep fried in butter, before being sprinkled with coarse salt and minced garlic? Whatever the case, they are delicious. Definitely too decadent and salty to become a regular part of the diet, but exactly what a savory bruncher like myself wants on the occasional wknd morning out. These crunchity little morsels with the two-egg Leslie made for a fabulous meal. The hubby enjoyed a rather enormous plate of chilaquiles and chorizo eggs (he regretted not ordering the two-egg version as well). We've never had chilaquiles done this way, which is to say, we've probably never had them done right--tortilla/chihuahua/tomatillo served beside, rather than mixed in with the eggers. Coffee refills were a bit scant for the few tables occupied, but the familial owners running around were gracious and sweet, so we didn't mind. We should probably lay off the stuff, anyway. :) We wanted to order the oatmeal shake to take with, but didn't have room. Next time.
(4)o k.
oatmeal shake is great. like a cold oatmeal cookie smoothie, except better than I made it sound. the potatoes are really good too - very garlicky - and a nice amount of crispy. eggs benedict and zephyr omlet were pretty standard fare. our side of bacon was overcooked but they brought out anoher without any prompting, recognizing it right away. pretty decent food in an informal cafe setting for a good price (30$ for 2 and we were stuffed). I'll be back if I'm if neighborhood.
(4)Penney K.
I would give it a higher rating if it wasn't for the wait because of their 5 star chilaquiles. I love this place for breakfast, but apparently so does everyone else up in that hood (and with only two cooks in the kitchen--expect it to be a long time before your belly devours one of the best breakfasts up in the north side). The oatmeal shake is great--and I don't even like oatmeal--(ask for a sample if you are not sure--they will give you one). And most definitely get the CHILAQUILES, I am not kidding...they are the best in the city. The iced tea is ok (but I am not a fan of lime in my iced tea--so be prepared for that). Really, everything my husband and kid have always ordered has been good (but I always get the chilaquiles which they seem to always wish they had ordered). Now, if they just somehow learned how to run the line to get food out faster, I would make this one of my regular spots. It took them 40 minutes on Monday-- Labor Day just to get our food out after we actually ordered it...that's too long when you have a kid (or when you are hungry)....but nonetheless, it's damn tasty.
(4)Daniel H.
been there twice now and had the chilaquiles both times! they are that good... but when you look at other dishes from the tables around it appears that you can't go wrong with any order so I need to branch out. the oatmeal shakes are a nice touch on the belly as well!
(5)John S.
Great Sunday brunch and no waiting.
(4)Franny S.
After reading all the reviews, I had to try the oatmeal shake. I got mine with bananas added and oh baby...was it good. It was huge and definitely could be a meal in itself. My friend also got one (sans bananas) and loved it. In addition, we ordered a spinach and swiss cheese omelette to share. We told the waitress we were gonna split it, and she actually divided it and served each half on its own plate (with an equal portion of delicious potatoes and toast for both of us). Now that's service!
(5)Alexis S.
Walked over for a late Sunday breakfast. We arrived just before a large party of 10 people so we were thankful to get our orders in first. I ordered the crepes with mushrooms, ham, cream cheese and spinach. It came with potatoes and a nice mix of fruit that included mango! My boyfriend ordered eggs, sausage, potatoes and a waffle covered in crema with strawberries. Of course, I tried his waffles and can say they were delicious! We both ordered the oatmeal milkshakes and mmmmmm!The food was really great and the atmosphere was cute as well. BUT, I cannot give this place 5 stars this time because of the service. Maybe it was because of the large party, but the service was terribly slow, inaccurate and unprofessional. In the end, they brought us our neighbors check instead of our own. Despite this, I know we will go back.
(4)Joanne J.
This is one of my favorite brunch places. Great service and delicious food - I've been coming for years and have consistently always had a great meal.
(4)Tyler S.
Chilaquiles = BOMB DOT COM The oatmeal shake and the fruit juices are amazing as well. Service can be slow at times, but well worth the wait.
(4)Kimberlee S.
I'm always looking for a new brunch spot and Tiztal Cafe did not disappoint. The service was attentive and the food was great. I had the chilaquiles with chorizo and eggs and when my plate arrived, I couldn't believe how much food there was. I could not finish it. My friend, however, had the waffles with fresh strawberries and finished every bite. The prices are low and we were able to get a table right away (although by the time we left every seat was filled and there was a wait). I definitely recommend you try this new addition to Uptown!
(4)Eliza M.
I'm the 130th review for this place? Yes please! We refer to it as Titzal because it's more catchy... I wanted to visit Tiztal a couple times before I reviewed it, thus the tardiness of this review. It's probably the best brunch option in Uptown. Chilaquiles, country fried steak, pancakes, etc. are all good. And I like the fact that they don't serve you mass amounts of food--I'll take quality over quantity any day. We tried a sample of the Infamous Zomg Oatmeal Shake. It was tasty but I thought it was very rich and am not sure I could finish an entire shake, although I would probably try. It gets crowded during peak brunch hours so I recommend avoiding it at these times.
(4)Kathleen I.
You go for the food not the service. The food is AMAZING!!! The service, not so much. I really need my server to understand English. I get frustrated when they don't. I always eat the Chilaquillas. They are the best in the city. Great place and will be back.
(5)Deepika T.
I hate waking up over the weekends. But ever since I discovered Tiztal around the corner from my home, I've been a very happy girl.. Seriously people, get moving - and get to Tiztal Cafe! - Its cozy without being too small - The service is really really good, the hot coffee just doesn't stop, and they actually remember you! - The food is yummy - not too greasy, but tasty at the same time - They are happy to substitue veggies in place of meat - And they have these mind-blowing potatoes. *Sigh* What a perfect way to start the day :)
(5)Isa B.
OMG the Oatmeal shakeee. Thanks Yelpers for recco this. It's worth the trip here. The service was really good, which is my pet peeve, and the food was good too, nothing wow, but definitely pleasant. I want to go back soon. We were about 8 for mother's day and a toddler, and all was great. The terrace in the back is the option for summer. Long waits ahead so arrive without hunger.
(4)Jackie P.
You see I can't make waffles in my teeny tiny kitchen because there is barely enough room for myself in my kitchen. Just thinking about the mess waffles would make almost gives me a heart attack.Batter and waffle flour everywhere, plates hanging precariously on the edge of the counter and burnt waffles waiting to be thrown away, oh my! This little problem has led to many a waffle withdrawal. This is where breakfast and brunch come in. You see a couple of amazing restaurants have decided their kitchens are big enough to make waffles and pancakes in and sometimes they offer these delicious treats through lunch time. Alas we have come full circle and now you see why I have such love for Titzal. Yeah, yeah, yeah so most people talk about the oatmeal shake or the fresh squeezed juice (which makes my mouth water just thinking about it) but really their food needs to get more attention. The eggs were cooked wonderfully and the waffle was light and fluffy. My friend's chilaquiles with eggs looked like a kids vomit but she assured me it tasted like anything but and since she's literally 5'1" and 90 lbs soaking wet I'm going to assume it was delicious because she all but licked the plate clean. One of these days I'll return for another waffle and possibly an oatmeal shake but definitely for a waffle!
(4)Monica G.
Love this family-owned business in Uptown. They serve brunch late, and thats my favorite for a slow-moving Sunday morning (probably afternoon). Love the fresh squeezed juices, my boyfriend had a delish Arnold Palmer. He always gets biscuits and gravy. I got the special - Waffle, two eggs and potatoes for 7 dollars. Do not miss the breakfast potatoes - seriously. So crispy, garlicky - topped with chopped onion, cilantro and shredded cheddar. I'm a potato-aholic and these are the best I've had. Got our check and took an oatmeal shake to go (duh).
(4)Elvia L.
The oatmeal shake is yummy! I'm not an oatmeal fan, but I was advised that I had to try it and so now I am advising you too! I love the chilaquiles they serve, it never disappoints me. I have been there about 4 or 5 times and I just love the chilaquiles so much that I don't want to try anything else. I think on my next visit I will venture out. The potatoes are very good. The service has been great for all my visits, it's clean, and delicious.
(5)Kelly S.
The milkshake brings all the boys to Tiztal. And they're like, it's better than yours. Damn right. It's better than yours. The oatmeal shake lived up to everything I have been hearing about it. I looovveee oatmeal. This was pure frothy goodness in a glass. Add a bowl of fresh fruit to complete my breakfast. Perfectamente. Parking was super easy. Pulled up right to a meter in front. $.25 for one hour! WHOA! I am used to Oak Don't Park prices where $.25 buys 20 minutes. I guess I can't complain about the Chicago meters anymore...
(4)Carly O.
I owe a visit to Tiztal to all of the great reviews by fellow Yelpers. In an attempt to find something close to my friends, but also a place I hadn't tried yet, Tiztal fit the bill. I was a little discouraged when we sat there for quite awhile before someone came by to take our order. It was smooth sailing after that though. I know everyone raved about the oatmeal shake, but I'm going to get order it next time. I was all about the savory that morning and went straight for the chilaquiles with chorizo and eggs after seeing the mouthwatering photos on this site. It delivered. Gooey Mexican white cheese, verde sauce, served with a side of crispy breakfast potatoes, I was more than pleased. My friends enjoyed steak and eggs ($10!), eggs benedict and biscuits and gravy. Good price, good food...when you're chillin' in Uptown and looking for brunch that'll satisfy the one person who wants Mexican fare and another who just wants a freakin' waffle, here's your compromise.
(4)Emily Y.
Monte Cristo!!! That is all.
(5)Jess M.
I agree with Monica D. Breakfast potatoes and oatmeal shake! The only downfall to this place its that it is slooooooooow.
(4)Jay S.
The Oatmeal Shake made me cream my underpants. The food was only okay.
(3)Nicole C.
Perhaps from all the raves the bar was just set a bit too high. I'd like to give a 3.5 but I rounded down like a curmudgeon. I did order and enjoy the much-touted oatmeal shake, but the fact of the matter is it's made with ice cream, so I think it would be pretty difficult for it not to taste good. Also I would've preferred it with cinnamon, which, if it did contain it, was in a quantity so small that I couldn't taste it. I split Chilaquiles with my dining companion and (prepare yourself for blasphemy again) to me they were just OK and personally I prefer the eggs all mixed in, traditional style. Perhaps it's the chorizo that makes them stand out to others (we had them with just eggs and cheese.) The potatoes served with the Chilaquiles were very good (unfortunately I'm supposed to avoid them and other nightshades...arghh...but I dont hold that against Tiztal.) We also shared a half order of French Toast that was solid, not spectacular. And I decided to get an order of cinnamon raisin toast and was glad I did, because I enjoyed it the most out of everything, and it's a steal at $2. In sum, if I'm around I'd go back for some cinnamon raisin toast and a shake if I'm craving it, and to linger in a nice, warm setting. But this isn't quite the breakfast nirvana I was expecting.
(3)Steph F.
Oatmeal shakes are highly addicting! Love to come here for sunday brunch. Good food and great service :)
(5)Pablo G.
Great family business, the fruit salad with yogurt is amazing. I have always wondered why the hipsterocracy hasnt embraced this place.
(5)Brian C.
Delicious breakfast, beautiful patio, friendly and attentive wait staff. Hidden gem in Ravenswood! AMAZING pancakes and Oatmeal Shake!
(5)Jeff A.
Absolutely! Chilaquiles! Chilaquiles! Chilaquiles! Mind blowing! the flavor and texture is an experience that everyone will get lost in! Coupled with those Potatoes, who knew you could do that with potatoes, amazing they are crisp on the outside, covered in a flavor of onion and greasy goodness with a smooth creamy inside they are just outstanding! If all that happiness leaves you less then tickled how about a mound of eggs and chorizo that seems never-ending both in quantity and flavor...OH SO GOOD! I have been several times now and the ladies who run and serve in this place are the only thing better then the food! and yes you must try an oatmeal shake! change up your boring mimosa and mix some pineapple apple mango juice with your champagne next time-a bubbly concoction that will take you there...Where ever there is..Don't forget to bring your own bubbly this is a BYOB which rocks!
(5)K W.
Good oatmeal shake, chilaquiles are awesome, and they make custom smoothies too. You really can't go wrong here for breakfast. The one super-annoying thing is that sometimes they bring your bill in an American Express bill holder thing, yet they DON'T take American Express. And when you put your Amex card down, they tell you they don't take Amex and look at you like you should already know that. Otherwise, Tiztal is a good neighborhood spot for breakfast, and their outdoor space is nice.
(4)Drew S.
A great gem hidden amidst the wholesalers and other assorted crap along this stretch of Clark St. The staff was incredibly friendly and flexible and brought us a little taste of fruit smoothie when they had some extra from another order. I enjoyed my french toast in a big way and the garlic potatoes were phenomenal in a serious way.
(4)Gunilla P.
We read about the great reviews and understand by doing that you are raising the bar for a place. We went there for our first meal of the day and the place was not even half full. I ordered scrambled chorizo omelet and my husband the meat lover omelet. It was served about 30 minutes later and my plate was cold. The only thing that was warm was the tortillas in a folded tin wrap. I left my plate almost uneaten because it was just not tasty enough to eat. They get two stars because they credit my plate so I didn't need to pay for it. They also made sure it would not happen again. I don't know if I am going to verify that.
(2)Jamie P.
A friend and I recently hit Tiztal for Sunday brunch. We were both pretty excited after reading the great reviews and seeing the spot featured on Chicago's Best. I am SO happy to report that neither of us were disappointed! We sat on the patio in back, and there was no wait (always a plus!) the servers were attentive friendly. Their orange juice was so amazing, you could tell it was freshly made. We both ordered the chilequiles. YUM YUM YUM! the breakfast potatoes are outstanding. And the salsa on the chips? yum! We got oatmeal shakes to go... which live up to the hype! yummy goodness in a cup! I'm so happy to have found such a gem just a few blocks from home. I can't wait to take my husband there next weekend!
(5)Daphne L.
I finally made it over to Tiztal, after months of reading reviews that made me salivate. The husband and I had a break in an afternoon of errand-running last Saturday, we were both starving, and as luck would have it we drove right past Tiztal. It was okay; not fabulous or mind blowing, just okay. The food was delicious, but I wasn't overly impressed with the service. We walked in around 2:00, and there was only one other group of patrons in the place. There was, however, a table near the bar that was filled with employees and friends or family, laughing, talking, and, eating. We stood waiting to be seated. Stood some more. Still standing. Tumbleweed. After a while someone finally got up and asked if we wanted to sit...umm, yes. We weren't looking for shelter from the rain. I asked if we were supposed to seat ourselves, and got a "No" in response. Alrighty then. So we're seated, and at this point so hungry we're ready to eat our hands. I'd already decided on the chorizo scramble and the fantastic potatoes that I've read so much about, and of course we had to try this oatmeal shake. Unfortunately, the staff/family/friend gathering was still taking place at the table by the bar, so we waited. Waited more. Still waiting. I finally got up and approached the table to ask if we could order, and immediately regretted doing so, as the looks being thrown at me suggested I was interrupting UN peace discussions, or something of equally significant importance. Now, I admit we were there at that weird, twilight-zone like time that's after lunch but before dinner, but, hey, you're open and serving customers, so I don't really expect to be treated like I'm imposing. We order and the "shake" comes out. Yeah, I don't get it. It's cold, sweet, and tastes like the ingredients that go into oatmeal cookies, but, that's it. I think the disappointment was that it's not what I consider to be a shake: it wasn't thick or rich. It was basically really cold milk that maybe had ice cream? I don't think so, though. It wasn't bad by any means, it just wasn't what I was expecting. The chorizo scramble was delicious, truly yummy. It was perfectly seasoned, not at all greasy, and had the right amount of spice. The potatoes..ahhh, so so good. I could have ordered another plate to go with my meal. My hubby had the chillaquiles which were equally as good. We both felt full and happy. Our server came over to drop our check, and said "You can pay whenever you're ready." She then sat back down at her party table and proceeded to eat. With her back to us. For at least 10 minutes. I guess it's a good thing we didn't have to be anywhere. I will definitely go back to Tiztal, because there's no denying that the food was delicious. I wasn't, however, at all impressed with the service, and the fact that we were there during an off time during the afternoon is really no excuse for sub par service. Oh, and, it was FREEZING in there, like, someone forgot to pay the heat bill and it's 20 degrees outside, freezing. I can't enjoy a meal when I'm shivering.
(3)Katie B.
Dear Tiztal, Congratulations on earning my 100th review. I was hoping it would be a fiver, and you are. You have impeccable timing. Your lovely owner Rosemary was running a busy, busy lunch on Thursday when I came in like a purple tornado. You're walking distance from my abode, but this day I had a car. I'm a terrible driver and parker, so I had no driver's side mirror. The broken screws where the mirror used to be was distracting to me but I recognized you instantly as the oatmeal shake place I had read so much about on Yelp. So I pulled a U-y (that's what drivers call it), nearly taking out a few fully mirrored vehicles. (Must be nice, fancypants!) I needed this oatmeal shake to shake my driver's nerves and also to maybe eat a non-oat meal. At the counter with my coat still on, I started to say "I have heard so much about the shakes here..." and your Rosemary said "oh, the oatmeal shake? Everyone loves it." Oh baby waby! We're finishing each others' sentences already! I started thinking aloud about food and was urged to try the chilaquiles. The conversation and music was great so I finally just asked for a cup of coffee, called my office, took off my coat and stayed parked on my stool. I had one of those great-things-are-happening-and-not-because-I'm-Âplotting-my-Yelp-review moments. I could feel myself starting to unwind and enjoy the moment. I think I love you. I had never had chilaquiles before and I can safely say it's the best food on the planet. Chips and green salsa, mixed with chihuahua cheese and baked together into a savory crumble. If you don't believe me, ask Wikipedia. It's actually a very good description. They're served with eggs and meat, and at Tiztal, spicy amazing potatoes. How did I not know about this? They must be for drivers. Tears are welling up in my eyes just thinking about yours! My food was ready in like two seconds, despite how busy it was in there. You're scaring me a little. I'm afraid that I will never try anything besides the chilaquiles and oatmeal shake. That means I'll never get to the caramel waffle sundae or my former fave eggs benedict. But on this, our anniversary, why mess with tradition? Happy 100th my love. I'm so glad you moved to my neighborhood. This is going to make moving in together so much easier, me being a pedestrian and all. Very truly yours, me + u 4evs, KB
(5)jenny m.
There's not much I can say that hasn't already been said. But I like to put my two cents in anyway, so here goes. I'd go back in a heartbeat for the oatmeal shake and the garlicy, cheesy, potato goodness that was the breakfast potatoes. Heck, I don't even like oatmeal but I tried the shake based on all the rave reviews from other yelpers, and I slurped that thing down in like 5 minutes flat. I actually felt a little gluttonous that I finished it off so quickly, but whatever, it was goooood! As others have stated, service was a little on the slow side. But I was there on a beautiful Sunday morning and we sat out on the cute little back patio. And since I was in no rush, I really did not mind.
(4)Jo W.
"Friend, will you do me a favor?" "Yes, Jo?" "Will you call all my friends and tell them to make plans to come to my funeral? Because I just died and went to heaven." It's true. I came here this morning for a late breakfast with my friend before he flew back to NYC. I arrived before him, and took a seat at one of the tables with the wooden bench by the window. The woman working there (who I assume was the owner, Rosemary) got on her hands and knees under my table and plugged in a space heater. "It gets chilly by the window, this should keep you warm," she said. How sweet is that? While I waited I had the opportunity to just relax. I really like this space - it's small, but decorated tastefully, and I love the ceilings and the chandeliers. Very cozy. At the time I was the only customer in there, but over the next hour a couple people trickled in and I could tell they were regulars. At one point the chef came out to talk to one of the regulars, and ladies - he is VERY easy on the eyes. Why isn't he on the menu? When my friend arrived, we both perused the menu. I was STARVING, as I had not eaten the day before because I wasn't feeling so hot. So I was ready to put away some serious food. I was torn between pancakes and french toast, and ultimately ordered the french toast. And eggs. And bacon. Oh what's that, Rosemary? It's cheaper to get your famous garlic potatoes with the eggs? Sure, throw those in too. My friend looked at me, and I just smiled. He ordered the french toast. And that's all. Wimp. She brought the french toast first, and my eyes got wide and I thought perhaps I should have just stuck with the french toast... A huge plate of 6 thick half slices sprinkled with powdered sugar, with a sliced up strawberry as a garnish. I didn't even wait for the rest of my food and dug in. Mmmm... SO GOOD. A couple minutes later she brought out my other plate of food. Another huge plate with my eggs, bacon, and potatoes. She set it down in front of me, and I just laughed at the amount of food that laid before me. But my stomach was happily ready to take on the challenge. I ate bite after delicious bite of food, all while trying to keep my head from exploding so I could carry on a conversation with my friend. Finally, I was full. Ugh. It was a good fight, but I was unable to finish it all... Though I had saved those potatoes for last, and they were goooood, so I had to tell myself to stop. Rosemary came over to take our plates and asked me if I wanted to take home the remaining potatoes and french toast. "Tempting," I said. "But I'd rather have an oatmeal shake to go." What, you thought I was going to leave without trying one of these, even though I had just stuffed myself silly? So Rosemary whipped me up an oatmeal shake to go, and then brought over two cute glass mugs filled with the leftovers. "A free sample," she said. I took a sip... and sighed happily. It really is like an oatmeal cookie in shake form. YUM. My friend had been skeptical about the oatmeal shake, but he quickly inhaled his because it was so good. I love it when I'm right and he's wrong. We sat and relaxed and chatted for a while, until Rosemary finally brought over the check. The damage for his meal and my trip to heaven? $23. Totally not bad. As we left, Rosemary bid us farewell and said, "I hope to see you again!" I laughed. "Oh, I think you're going to be sick of me soon."
(5)KELLIE K.
If this place was next door to Simon's, I'd be in a lot of trouble. For now, I'll settle for the short trek down Clark to have a seat at one of my new favorite brunch spots. Being a chorizo fan, I opted for the 2 egg chorizo scramble. I'm glad I didn't order the 4 egg because my dish was a perfect size! And the potatoes...oh, the potatoes. Lots of garlic and cooked just right. Tiztal, you've easily created my new favorite brunch food. Sorry, Hamburg Inn (Iowa City people...hear this!), your home fries are now a long-forgotten memory. I had heard so much Yelp chatter about the oatmeal shake, I needed to try it. After a sample from our server, I knew I had to have one of my very own. So tasty and worth every second I had to wait! I love it here! I'll be back again and again. My next meal will simply be potatoes, coffee, and an oatmeal shake. I might even drag along a bottle to take advantage of the BYOB option. Just roll me out the door and push me north, will you?
(5)Joshua M.
Definitely an eclectic little joint. Odd breakfasty menu that is a mix of fruit, Mexican omelettes, and other traditional breakfast foods. It also has some lunch stuff too... presented on two separate menus. Well oddness aside the chorizo quesadilla was pretty good, and the service was definitely attentive. I don't find myself in this area very often, but I'd definitely eat there again if I was.
(4)Louis C.
Arrived with a buddy on a rainy Saturday morning. We were seated quickly and noticed that dining area looked clean. I ordered a the chilequilles with chorizo and my buddy ordered eggs with bacon and toast with a hot chocolate. Service was fast but jumbled. My friend ordered scrambled and the eggs came out sunny-side up. The toast somehow morphed into potatoes but no biggie as the potatoes are quite good. The bacon is good quality slab type stuff and the hot chocolate was rich and yummy. It definitely didn't taste like the instant variety. The chilequilles were outstanding. Wonderfully fried, fresh tortillas layered in Chihuahua cheese and salsa verde along with well executed scrambled eggs with high quality, tasty chorizo. Not greasy at all. I do like this joint but the downside is the service. This was perplexing because the restaurant was not crowded during the time of our visit. I noticed that in addition to getting our order wrong, they also had a problem getting the order right for the table next to us. The quality of the food demands another visit so I'll see if the spotty service I experienced was an aberration...also, I didn't get to try the oatmeal shake or fresh OJ!
(3)Deborah E.
Two words - oatmeal shake. OMG. I will admit it - after reading all these Yelp reviews about this infamous shake, I was determined not to like it. I mean, oatmeal in a shake? Gross. Doesn't even sound good to me. Sounds too earthy crunchy healthy. And - what - no mention of chocolate in it? No, thanks. But today, fellow Yelper Michele L and I had the most wonderful scrumptious relaxing breakfast at Tixtal Cafe. Chorizo and eggs....steak chilaquillas...cinnamon toast....and those potatoes! Oh, god, I am a tatohead and these tatoes were scrumdillyicious - cooked to perfection, seasoned just right with garlic, and not a green pepper in sight. This was my first time at Tixtal and Michele has been here many times but never had the oatmeal shake. We asked to sample one...and the rest is history. From now on, I will never go there and NOT get one. Thank you to all you hip and happenin' Yelpers who have raved about this place. And to Yelp itself - I raise an oatmeal shake in your honor, for thanks to you, I spent a whopping five hours on a cold winter day in a cozy comfortable cafe, eating fantastic food, drinking a bottomless cup of coffee - and have found a new friend.
(5)Ceci R.
I live in the neighborhood and have been to Tiztal multiple times, all wonderful experiences! This review is long overdue! Six blocks away, lines are out the door at Bongo, and yet Tiztal, a gem, remains undiscovered.. I am happy about that for the sake of we regulars, but feel it's a massive oversight on the part of breakfast fans! The oatmeal shakes and crispy garlic potatoes have been amply covered here. My favorite is the fruit plate with all the trimmings including a yogurt sauce that is to die for! We order waffles, omelettes, chilaquilas and eggs benedict and love them all! The owner Teresa is very attentive and is very generous when we split dishes. They divide them in the kitchen and offer full servings of the sides--fruit and potatoes. The outdoor space in the back is nice, with a pergola, flowers and shade. Tiztal is on a block on Clark Street that isn't busy on weekend mornings, so it's easy to drive by. If you do, though, it's definitely your loss!
(5)Kate B.
Oh Tiztal you are a siren wooing me with your fantastic garlicky potatoes and oatmeal shake! First time here was a girls brunch, in fact one of the most fun, laughter filled brunches I have had in a long time. The food was glorious, and the coffee was never cold or our mugs half empty. The service was a bit slow at first, but that is to be expected on Sunday when the place is packed. The owner came over and introduced herself to the table and let us know that they were now open for 24 hour service on the weekends. What a great personal touch. The next time I came here was with the fiance... it was Saturday and we were in need of a tasty meal before running errands all day. I ordered their Zepher omelet (think thats the name...) and it was HUGE! In fact I ate half that day and heated up the rest the next day in the toaster oven. Now, the oatmeal shake is cinnamon heaven in a cup! Get one to split with your friend - they are HUGE!
(5)Megan G.
Tiztal's oatmeal shake lives up to the raves. It's like an oatmeal cookie in liquid form and it's to die for. Okay, so with that out of the way...I visited Tiztal this past Sunday at about 11 am. My first observation is that Tiztal needs more of a waiting area. They've become a bit of a victim of their own success in this regard - there were probably about 10 people waiting for tables and no space to accommodate all of them. As it was pretty chilly outside, we all crammed into the tiny area inside the front door. Fortunately Tiztal seems to turn tables pretty quickly, so we were soon seated. I noticed after that point that there was no wait - so Tiztal definitely has not gotten so popular as to be annoying (I'm looking at you, M Henry). Service is great. Everyone seemed really attentive and friendly and they kept my coffee so consistently refilled that I had caffeine jitters for the rest of the day (a full coffee cup endears any establishment to me). My chilaquiles were really good as was my companion's ranchero omelette. Prices were pretty reasonable. I'd say the smoothies are an amazing deal, though we didn't get one I was spying on a nearby table that did and they have to be double the size of a large Jamba Juice smoothie. The fact that Tiztal is in my neighborhood and the addition of 24 hour openings on weekends assures I'll be back soon. The rest of you all need to stay away, though, okay? I don't relish have to be out the door at 9 am to avoid brunch lines.
(4)Ayako M.
Yeah....what everyone else said and: The most awesomest freaking Chiliquiles in my life were eaten here. Not in Mexico, not in California, in freaking Uptown, Chicago. Get them with chorizo! You'll thank me later. PS, the people that work here are the best!
(5)Allan M.
My first ever experience with experiencing Tiztal was at The Raven street festival this past summer, when I briefly sampled one or 2 of their drinks at their booth. I just wish I had spent more time at their booth then, since I don't remember which drinks I sampled, but enjoyed them. Fast forward several months later, when I finally got around to coming here this month. First time around, I got an oatmeal shake to go, and (obviously) enjoyed it. Second time here, was when my attempt to eat at Pannenkoeken Cafe was thwarted, due to them being closed for the day. (boo) I then instantly thought of coming here as a backup option, due to all the things I'd previously heard about their food. It definitely did not disappoint as a backup option, since I enjoyed both the food my friend and myself ordered. The chilaquiles I got were enjoyable, and the fact I ordered chicken with them was a nice addition to its flavor. My friend ordered their pancakes, which were also decent. Although part of me wishes that their menu prices were slightly cheaper, I do like that the food portion sizes help to make up for that. Also interesting to see my suspicions of this place possibly being related to Zephyr was right, after looking at a review here! Rosemary, who is one of the 2 co-owners of this place, was a very nice woman to talk to. I had a nice talk with her, and I have to unfortunately note that Tiztal has temporarily stopped being 24 hours on the weekends, due to a robber that hit several businesses in the area. She did tell me that they are going back to weekend 24 hour operation in spring. Finally like that it's an easy walk to both Chase Park(entered from Leland Ave.) and to Saint Boniface Cemetery(2 blocks north on Clark).
(4)Unity O.
FINALLY, I had the much raved about oatmeal shakes--I begin to wonder how I ever lived without them before?!?!?! They are delicious, creamy, smooth, and taste very much what you would imagine a lovely bowl of oatmeal would be in shake form. The cinnamon goodness hits you right away--it is not too overpowering though--just the right amount and you can taste the sweet of some brown sugar as well. Thank goodness it was a Yelp Office Hours because I got to enjoy them with many Yelp friends & that makes the experience so much more enjoyable (especially when Colleen is paying--much love to you girl!). Also, big props to Rhonda G for helping out another lactose intolerant sister. They were a bit overwhelmed by our large group at first, but they rose to the challenge and served us up some warm tasty coffee, oatmeal shakes, and their specialty drink the Vampiro (contains pretty much all fruits & veggies--beets, carrots, orange juice and more). Their menu while not extensive is quite good. What they do, they do well. If you are looking for a new brunch spot try them out.
(5)Nikki C.
when you can come in at 3pm after just waking up from the night before, still riding the wave of your last 4 shots 3 hours earlier and wanting nothing more than the pounding of synaptic seizures in your brain to not be so loud.... get the oatmeal shake, order the leslie eggwhite omellete. let the friendly service pamper your soul and aaahh the rest of the sun away. free wifi to download free porn...yay porn! ;p
(4)Daniel C.
This is really a 3 1/2 star review...but 3 stars is more accurate than four. After all the great things I have read I just had to give Tiztal a try and I must confess...I don't think this place is quite as good as many people make it out to be. I had the Oatmeal shake....and yes, it was very, very good. But an Oatmeal Shake alone, a breakfast does not make. I had the Chilequiles which were decent. I really liked the salsa verde, but I was unhappy to see the eggs sitting off to the side, versus the traditional style of mixing the scrambled egg in the the sauce. Just not the same.... The eggs themselves were undercooked. I ordered medium and they were over easy. Conversely, my steak, which I ordered medium was cooked PAST well done, dry, and definitely an overall poor example of skirt steak...particularly at a place which is owned and operated by Latinos. AND the time it took to get mine and my dining partner's food was probably 25 minutes from the time we ordered. It was not very busy and neither item (she had an omlette) warranted the amount of time it took. Maybe they spent the 25 minutes cooking the shit out of my skirt steak.... Overall the meal was still good but I do not plan on going back unless I find myself in the middle of Uptown craving an Oatmeal Shake. Who knows....it could happen
(3)Linda P.
Thank you Colleen C. for introducing me to the goodness that is the Oatmeal Shake! Oh Mah Gawd. You ever have a foodgasm??? Well this definately induced one, it was SO good, creamy, cinnamony and literally tasted like breakfast in a glass! I had a look at their food menu (this is basically a breakfast-only place) and everything looked so tasty, we had a hard time deciding what we wanted! The mister and I decided to try the much-talked about breakfast potatoes. Holy moley this was another homerdroolworthy taste sensation...the potatoes were nicely browned and slightly crispy. Seasoned with garlic and covered with cheese it was a delicious mid-day treat. Bad for vampires, good for everyone else ;).And speaking of vampires (well vegetarian ones anyway), they offer a drink called the Vampiro which is a bloody red concoction made from beets and other assorted fruits and veggies. Cute place + Friendly staff + Open 24 hours Friday thru Sunday = Me coming back again.
(4)Kevin A.
WHAT'S THAT SMELL? Lo siento, Tiztal. I came expecting a 5-star worthy meal based on all the rave reviews, but I left disappointed. My first impressions of Tiztal were very good. The place is bright, welcoming, and the staff is very friendly. You get the sense that this is a family-run establishment. Unfortunately the luster started to wear off shortly after. First, we got some glasses of tap water which had an odd, almost crustaceany smell to them. Kind of like what water smells like after you steam crab legs. I'm not sure if it was municipal water or the plastic cups, but it was a big turnoff. Fine I said, I was going to order a shake or smoothie anyway. I had heard about the legendary Oatmeal shake, but alas I could not try it. It apparently is chock full of dairy-related evil and with no soy option, that dream was quickly shattered. I opted for a mango pineapple smoothie which was so-so. For my main course I got the meat lovers omelet which quite large, but a little overcooked. I like my eggs fluffy and light and these were firm and rubbery. To top it all off, breakfast for two came out to $30, which seems high. I suppose the cost of using fresh fruit in their juices is a reasonable explanation, but I still wasn't impressed with what I got for my money. On the plus side, the potatoes were wonderful. Crisp, garlicky, and delicious. Bottom line: I left scratching my head wondering what all the fuss was about. Perhaps I went on an off day?
(2)Jay L.
It's great to have a good brunch place on this stretch of Clark St. I've been here multiple times and always get the Oatmeal shake. It's probably 1000 calories but it's worth it. I really appreciate the variety and the Mexican breakfasts are especially good.
(4)Karisa B.
This place is a great little hole-in-the-wall in a neighborhood with not a ton of options. The food was excellent brunch fare - i had the chorizo chilaquiles. The green sauce was truly delicious, though the egg/chorizo combo was slightly on the bland side, which seems crazy. My husband tried the chorizo scramble which came with a yummy smoked chipotle-ish salsa. I had a fresh juice - the grapefruit cleanser - which tasted really fresh and bright. I can imagine enjoying this thoroughly while fighting a hangover. Husband had the oft-acclaimed oatmeal shake. I tasted it. I loved it. It's like an oatmeal cookie but in milkshake form. Really good. The owner or manager was a really nice woman who gave us samples of other shakes/juices that people in the restaurant had ordered. The ambiance is scrappy - you almost feel like you're eating in your aunt's home; we sat in the back patio. It was fun and kitschy featuring a mini replica of the David (well - not quite a replica...he was plus one fig leaf in this version), a strange little cartoonish fireman sliding down a pole with his pants coming off, that sort of thing. The food will certainly bring us back for future brunches.
(4)Alice D.
It wasn't like it was terrible, but with other nice places around, I don't feel convinced to return here. I had breakfast here several weeks ago, and honestly, if it were really good (Or I guess really horrible), I would remember exactly what I had and why I liked it, but I'm struggling to remember what I ate here. Not memorable at all. I went here with a friend because he looked at the yelp ratings and assumed it was be impressive, but it didn't quite impress either of us on anything.
(2)Marjorie F.
When my friend and fellow indulger Nicole asks me where I want to meet up, I never know where to go. This time my mission was to find a breakfast place. Thank goodness for Yelp!!! We were not disappointed. The food was delicious! My friend and I had similar cravings and ordered the chilaquillas with chicken. Yummmm... Unfortunately, I didn't have the belly space nor the lactaid to try the oatmeal shake. ;) But that's a good reason to go back, right? Plus there's a whole menu of dishes that I want to try! Service was friendly and fast. It's a great casual lazy Sunday morning catch-up-with-a-friend kind of place.
(4)Christine F.
The chilaquiles here are really, really, really good. Plus, the composure of the plate is a winner-- in addition to the chilaquiles, you can get scrambled eggs with chorizo and potatoes (and some chopped onions on the side, for the sake of tradition). Having one of the fresh health juice mixtures with your chilaquiles helps you kid yourself into thinking you're being healthy, and is a great counterpoint to the food (the chilaquiles were on the spicy side). Can't wait to go back! Even though I think I personally liked the chilaquiles at Old Oak Tap a smidge better (less spicy and with more toppings), if pressed I still would probably say Tiztal wins for overall best chilaquiles in Chicago.
(5)Majelly P.
WOW. This is as good as it gets. "The best breakfast I've ever had in my life." Ever. Eggs Benedict and oatmeal shake.
(5)Sage J.
Had a egg white scramble with spinich and basil, it was soooo good! I am really trying to watch my diet so I ordered fruit rather than the potatoes. The proprietor offered their famous potatoes and woah, were they delicious! We also got a sample of juice. I will be going back again for sure. Just perhaps Ill ask for not salt on my eggs, they were a little more salty than I like. Overall, wonderful experience!
(4)mariah c.
At first I wasn't quite sure about the idea of an Oatmeal shake. I mean, I eat oatmeal, not drink it, right? What would the consistency of this be like? Lumpy? No way. It was plenty smooth (they grind the oatmeal up), and even tastier than I imagined. Kinda made me think of a drinkable oatmeal cookie. Or, rather a DOZEN drinkable cookies. By the time I was done, I was not only a believer, but also very, very full. I also sampled a little but of the Vampiro juice that Greg P. mentioned. I was a little scared when I heard that beets were the red ingredient, but it doesn't actually taste much like beets -- just like a good mix of whole lotta different fruit flavors. I was totally stuffed from the drinkable cookies, errr... oatmeal shake, but managed to sample a few bites of the garlicky cheese potatoes. All my favorite ingredients, how could you go wrong? Next time I'm uptown, I'll be sure to grab some drinkable cookies for whomever I'm visiting!
(4)Jeanette M.
After reading several good reviews and dropping the ball on finding a spot for the New Years Day brunch w/ my friend we decided to go here. We both ordered the chorizo and eggs after reading all the reviews and drooling..lol Fantastic. And those potatoes! O M G Even after clearing our plates we ordered more! I honestly don't know where we put it all. On this trip I was not brave enough to try the oatmeal milkshake that everyone talks about but I did notice that almost every table had one! So, next trip I'm gonna have to try it........even though I just can't understand how an oatmeal shake could be tasty. I will be going back for sure!
(4)Shonda D.
The place is cute and quaint. But, nothing truly amazing here. I ordered the potatoes and a plain waffle. The potatoes were pretty good, not your average run of the mill. However, it took 20 minutes for me to get my waffle.... way too long. I was able to get a table, as it was in the middle of the day. But, the service was to be desired a little too informal for my taste. I was a bit disappointed after reading 3-4 of the reviews. My expectations can be pretty high, maybe they were having an off day... it was too hot outside... mayor Daly privatized the parking meters... one of the waitresses quit...etc. All in all, not sure if I will spend my hard earned cash here again. The food wasn't bad, but customer service is very important to me. And frankly, Tiztal missed the target.
(3)Adele n.
The breakfast food's been yelped over a lot (it was good!) so I will give a shoutout to the patio, which is tranquil and pretty. Service was super-friendly. Decor is nice. I will go again. This is a good place to take an out-of-town guest for a moderately priced brunch.
(4)Stephen R.
Thank you, fellow Yelpers! Uptown is like a nebulous mystery to me, especially on the Clark corridor. I wanted to try something new (e.g., NOT Lakeview/Lincoln Park, where I live, or Ravenswood/Lincoln Square, where my bestie lives) so I found the great reviews of Tiztal. All I can say is: FABULOUS! Dude, the Oatmeal Shake is totally amazing. It's got a bit of an horchata flavor at first, then you get all the oat goodness. And I'm not your natural health-freak (hello, big gulps and hot dogs from 7/11!) so trust me when I say it's divine. I was torn between Chillaquiles or the Zephyr (? I think? was a week ago) omelet. Went with the omelet. AMAZING. I typically despise omelets after the first few bites because the flavor becomes so "egg" and so redundant, but I consumed the hell out of that thing. It was glorious! But then, I am a cheese aficionado. And the roasted potatoes? Don't get me started. They smell like heaven when they arrive. WAY happy with this selection. She wanted to go to Kuma's for burgers (LOL 2 HOUR WAIT?!) and I demanded Tiztal based on the Yelp reviews. The reviews do not lie: absolutely loved this place! Muah! Kudos, Tiztal!
(5)Count Gregula ..
This place has a tasty blood-red drink called The Vampiro! If I ever become a vegetarian vampire I know vhat to order... And the garlic breakfast potatoes...AHHHHHH GARLIC!!!!!! RUN AVAY!!!! Just kidding, the breakfast potatoes vere very good. Thank you, Colleen C. for another vonderful Office Hours...now I gotta go shake my booty for another Oatmeal shake!
(4)John B.
If you want to be left alone, if you don't like receiving suggestions on what to order, and if you don't like making conversation when you eat out, Tiztal is not the place for you. Today was my first visit, and the owner greeted me, recognized that I had not been there before, asked how I heard about the place, and generally looked after me. If that's not something you like, leave Tiztal to those of us who do. The first time I passed this place on the bus, I had a little heart attack, because I thought it had replaced El Ranchero. Then I realized that was not the case (whew!) and looked it up on Yelp. All it took to make up my mind was two words: "oatmeal shake." Rosemary and I talked about the oatmeal shake at Irazu (which she had not had), and since it was my first time visiting, she had Theresa make mine in a large glass. Yes, it's my first visit and I'm on a first name visit with everyone. Rosemary also recommended their eggs benedict, because she is (justifiably) proud of their hollandaise sauce. It was a great choice. The dish comes with a healthy portion of fresh fruit -- strawberries, watermelon, mango, and pineapple -- and some of the best roasted potatoes I have ever had. Crispy on the outside, creamy on the inside, tossed with spices and topped with sea salt. Please sir, may I have some more? The decor is still in progress. They're hanging some art, and the patio isn't quite ready. Sign their email list, and they'll contact you when they have their "official" opening. And yes, once they get their feet wet, they are planning to stay open later. Note 1: Cops are already eating there. Always a good sign. Note 2: When the mail carrier came, Rosemary asked her if she wanted something to drink. Note 3: Keep your eye out for the chef. He's kind of hot.
(4)Lauren H.
I am not one to usually succumb to peer pressure, but I could no longer resist the siren call of these oatmeal shakes that everyone has been raving about. So I drove all the way to Tiztal on this sunny NYE Day. As I was sitting, she offered me coffee but I said nope, I have to try the famous oatmeal shake. I normally do not even like oatmeal, but OMGITWASSOGOOD! She even refilled my glass (since she said she gave the other customers free samples), and I couldn't resist drinking it all. I also ordered the chilaquiles which were OMGEVENBETTERSOAMAZING, smothered in chihuahua cheese and green salsa (which again, I normally am not a big fan of but this was so tasty). The accompany potatoes had fresh garlic and were fabulous as well. The portion of my main dish was quite large, and after the shake(s), I could not finish it (I am sure I will tonight though). Service could not have been friendlier. I will definitely make the trek back for the shakes and chilaquiles again soon, who is in with me?
(5)Gayle G.
Five stars it is! I love the oatmeal shake. I've been thinking about it constantly since having my first. I love you, you oatmealy goodness, you! We arrived about noon on a Sunday and were seated right away, no wait and were immediately greeted with water and coffee. The menu is small, but thorough. With the oatmeal shake, I figured we should add some extra nutrition with a small fruit plate. The combo of cantaloupe, mango, papaya, pineapple, watermelon and strawberries were fresh and perfectly ripe. With a squeeze of lime and chili, I'm a happy girl. The chorizo omelet was tasty, and those potatoes...I'm diggin' 'em. Bonus points for whipped butter served at room temp with toast. Nothing's worse than putting hard, cold butter on warm toast. Ok, so there are worse things, but it's all relative. I can't wait to come back to Tiztal again and again. Rosemary, who I believe is the owner is so sweet and accommodating. I overheard that they are looking to expand the hours, as they are currently open from 8 a.m. to 4 p.m. I can only assume that means adding a dinner menu. They're smart too. They came around during our meal and offered a sample of the oatmeal shake to everyone in the place. I saw at least three people order one.
(5)Jennifer Z.
They have the best chilaquiles ever! Definitely would come back just for them. Friendly staff. Owner gave us free smoothie samples. The avena smoothie it's the best! My mouth waters just from thinking about it! Definitely a great experience and definitely coming back!
(5)Jerry B.
Very friendly, very good basic food, nice comfortable, casual diner atmosphere, Had feta/tomato omelette and huge fruit plate. Almost lost among in block with bars and vacant storefronts. Didn't see patio in back. Wife really liked the the oatmeal shake. Definitely would go back.
(4)Mike D.
Wanted to go here for a few weeks after seeing the reviews. And they didn't disappoint. The food was really good and wonderfully fresh. I loved the ranchero omelet and as others have pointed out the potatoes were ridiculously good. The juice was great, too. We had orange and orange/carrot. The service isn't typical rush you in / rush you out, but that's ok by me. The waitress was also nice enough to bring some fresh mango over for our son while we waited for our meals. Very nice!
(5)James V.
Tiztal cafe is just a few blocks away from me every day, and I don't believe I'll make it over there again. It's not that the oatmeal smoothie isn't as good as everyone says it is. It's not that the food isn't good, because it is. It's not the free wi-fi or the nice atmosphere that will keep me away. It's the fact that I can't have one of those famous smoothies and a plate of anything and walk out having spent less than twelve bucks. The oatmeal smoothie tastes much better than I'd imagined it, with sweet oatmeal and what almost tasted like vanilla ice cream blended to cold perfection. Served in a traditional milkshake glass, I was halfway done with it before I knew it. Struggling to not gulp it down, I still managed to finish it off in just a few moments. While it was satisfying for what it was, I was already out $4.71 with tax. The majority of their dishes sounded very tasty, and they've got a great reputation for fresh ingredients, but with an eight dollar average, this college student was just not in the mood to splurge on breakfast items at 5 in the afternoon. I paid for my smoothie, thanked the nice woman behind the counter, and headed out on my merry way.
(3)R J.
I enjoyed my oatmeal shake and pesto cream cheese filled omelet here a couple of weeks ago. Excellent quality ingredients and a creative menu. With future visits, I look forward to trying the more adventurous Mexican/American comfort food menu here...
(4)Paige W.
Not bad, you know? I met the incomparable Colleen C. for a late breakfast at Tiztal Cafe on a drizzly summer Saturday, and let's be honest: I expected gold-flecked chorizo and magical eggs based on her glowing review. Well, the sausage was not gilded, and my eggs were a little greasy. Not magical. But my perfectly chilly, slightly chunky, subtly sweetened oatmeal shake made up for all that. (Not as good as Irazu's, but come on. How could it be.) In fact, the shake made me feel so much better about said chorizo and eggs that I actually finished everything on my plate. Shit, maybe the eggs WERE magical. Food aside -- obviously, that's not the only thing that lends itself to a good experience -- Tiztal is quite a lovely place. The decor is beautifully done, from the cappuccino-colored walls to the art adorning them. At least one piece was for sale. The restaurant was no more than half full, and it was quiet enough for a good conversation. But loud enough for PG-13 girl talk. Free wi-fi and the prospect of a high-class all-night dining option -- provided they do good enough business in the first few months, according to Colleen -- give this place some serious potential. I'd make the trek again, if for no other reason than to sample a juice blend with beet. I'm just so curious. It's a quick jaunt from all directions: Lincoln Square to the east, Uptown to the west, Andersonville to the north and Lakeview to the south. Give it a try.
(4)Rafael C.
I've been back a few times since my original review and I had to update Tiztal up to 5 stars. I brought some friends with me on one visit and they were blown away by the food and even more the service. The staff went way out of their way to formerly introduce them to Tiztal and they ate it up! So they don't have many sweet items on the menu but I'm now willing to forgive that because the savory items rock (yummy potatoes) and also the Oatmeal shake is good enough sweets for me! Oh one last thing, it is still not that hard to get seated even on a weekend so I'm somewhat happy for my sake but what is the sense on yelping if not to share a great breakfast joint. So check them out!
(5)Jess B.
My husband and I love this spot. The breakfast options are fresh and delicious...and the potatoes...yummy!! Recently a new chef began making a fresh red salsa, be sure to ask for this delicious accompaniment. Also, my husband claims the swiss and mushroom burger he had here was the best in the city! Friendly service...I don't mind different servers lending a hand throughout our meal as long as the food is good (and it is). Yes, for some strange reason the check does take longer to arrive than I would like. Perhaps they want to encourage lingering? Not sure. On warm days they open the patio in the back, which is a real urban oasis. Overall, great place!
(5)Becky R.
I so wanted to jump on the Tiztal bandwagon. I will probably give them another shot because the food was good, but there were other problems with the meal. Pros: 1. I had the chorizo scramble. I liked that there was a smaller version available, which I ordered. It was really tasty and pretty unusual. 2. The potatoes. Probably some of the bestest potatoes at a brunch spot in Chicago. 3. The decor is really warm and inviting. Cons: 1. The place was bumpin' at 10:30 on a Sunday. There was no wait because there was just one two top left -- it was crammed pretty much smack dab in the middle of the restaurant and in EVERYONE's way. In retrospect, we should have just waited. Or the restaurant should just take away this table. It was so cramped that the waitress actually knocked over our A-1 sauce with her bum while serving the next table. Luckily, it didn't break. 2. I ordered my chorizo scramble without tomatoes because I don't like tomatoes. Never have, never will. I wish I did. It would make life a lot simpler. Anyway, it came with the tomatoes. Not a huge deal, but annoying nonetheless. Strike One on my order. 3. I also ordered a glass of grapefruit juice with my meal. It didn't come, it didn't come. When our order finally arrived (it took a while), I reminded the waitress. Still no grapefruit juice. I had to ask several times. Strike Two on my order. 4. I ordered rye toast. I got white. At this point, there was no point in complaining. Strike Three with my order. Now, I realize that none of these things by themselves is particularly egregious, but I found it pretty spectacular that they managed to mess up my order in THREE different ways. Especially since the menu states right on it that all scrambles and omelets can be customized. They might want to work on that. When I pointed out the tomato problem to the waitress, I could tell she was afraid I was going to send it back. I didn't. 5. It took forever to get our check. We asked multiple times. I found it surprising that they could forget about our table when we were literally right in the middle of the restaurant. Like I said, I'll give them another shot because the food was good, but these mistakes were pretty much Restaurant 101.
(3)Lourdes A.
Went here for Saturday brunch after a long run with my running team. Staff is really friendly and accommodated our huge group of 20+ people. We took over their small but charming patio. Since our group arrived at different times, they were gracious enough to split the bill into like 4 tabs. They also brought out samples of their now famous oatmeal shake for our group to try as well as full sized pineapple shakes for a few random and lucky members of our group. Food was good and reasonably priced. They have a small but interesting selection of omelettes, which they stuff with everything from chorizo to feta. My friend and I split the feta, tomato and onion omelette and french toast. The omelette was served with garlicky diced potatoes, which were amazing! We split the dish before I tasted anything otherwise I might've kept more of those on my plate! The omelette itself was very good and one of our friends who had the chorizo omelette was raving about his. The French toast was only ok though. All in all, a good experience. I would return in a heartbeat. Parking was easy and the wait was next to none. It seems like one of Uptown's well-guarded secrets...for now.
(3)Brian P.
Yum. Had a good breakfast there this morning. Omelette was really nicely done, fresh and light. My friend got cheese quesadilas which he said were good. The menu looked like there was a lot more to explore, so I'll be back for breakfast or brunch.
(4)Aaron K.
In one word, Fresh. The amount of fruit this place goes through must be amazing. The omelets were good, but the accompanying potatoes really stole the show. The fresh fruit waffles looked great...definitely will return to give those a try. Don't be afraid of the beet juice in the vampiro. The day I was there, they came out with free samples which completely changed my mind on what beets would taste like. My only complaint was the wait. They were a bit understaffed during the Sunday brunch service when I was there, making what should have been a quick meal (juice and omelets for 2) take around 75 minutes.
(4)Vicki W.
My sister and I were looking for a new brunch place, so we decided to check out Tiztal after seeing a review in the Red Eye. We went on a late Saturday afternoon about two weeks ago. It was good timing since we got a nearby parking space and were seated immediately upon arrival. The coffee was solidly good, but it took a bit of time before I got a refill. When I did get a second cup, it was more like a half cup. That's okay. I'll take it as a sign that I don't need all that caffeine. I ordered an omelet with mushrooms and green bell peppers that was slathered with salsa. The eggs were good, but the salsa tasted bottled. Our toast didn't arrive until midway into our meal and we had to ask for it. The breakfast potatoes were probably the best I've ever had anywhere. They had the perfect amount of seasoning and ratio of exterior crunch to interior softness. Since my sister and I are greedy grubbers, we also ordered a "dessert" waffle. They brought loads of toppings out - ice cream, fresh fruit, syrup and a strawberry yogurt sauce. It was a nice end to a hearty and filling meal. This place has a warm, intimate feel (the owner came to our table to see if all was well, the teenage son seated us and the little girl helped clear the table / brought us the check) and is well on its way to becoming a popular Chicago brunch spot. I want to go back to try that oatmeal shake everyone has been raving about and maybe some of the lunch items.
(3)trina b.
Scrumdiliyumscious! Is that really a word? Is that how you spell it? You know what? I don't care! It's the only word that comes to mind when I think Tiztal Cafe that best describes it! So take that dictionary! I decided to check this place out after reading Colleen C's update on her already mouthwatering earlier review. I was locked in on this place at the mention of fabulous breakfast potatoes, but then she, and everyone else as I read others reviews, had to mention that oatmeal shake. I promptly made plans to get our bottoms over there to try out this legendary shake. And it did not disappoint! Once we found a seat that we liked, we were promptly visited by a woman offering samples of some sort of yummy fruity shake. That's my kind of place! But I couldn't be swayed from my pre-picked out shake flavor. I was daydreaming of it on the way there. And it was everything I could have hoped for. It was flavorful and just the right consistancy, not to thick and not to thin. There were still some bits of oats in the shake which was nice. It had the flavor to me of really good granola. Sweet, but not too sweet. It was WONDERFUL. Get it. Enough said. They also make fresh squeezed juices and my hubby had grapefruit juice and he was happy with it. But I saw him eyeing my oatmeal shake. I'm a nice wife and I let him have a couple sips. But that's it. I'm nice but I'm not crazy. The food is just as tasty. We both opted for more savory choices. He got the chorizo eggs etc etc and he really liked it. They have the option to get 4 eggs or 2 and he went with 2. It was plenty with the potatoes and the toast. Oh don't worry, I didn't forget the potatoes! Delish! They were cooked perfectly, not tough, not dried out, but crisp on the outside and soft on the inside. And they were smothered in real garlic. Not that powder crap. The real stuff! And other spices too but the garlic was the standout. I had eggs with feta, tomatoes and onions and it was large and flavorful and the feta chunks were the size of those 50 cent pieces that no one has anymore for good reason because they are huge, but they do finally come in handy to illustrate my point on the feta. We didn't have to wait for a table and the service was friendly and fast, what more can you ask for? They also said that soon they will be opening up a patio and will be extending their hours! I think that deserves a big, Wahoo! All in all, fantastic and we will be back again to partake in all that yumminess. Yum.
(5)Josh E.
I've been to Tiztal a couple times now, once by myself and another time with a group. Both times the service was excellent, given the different contexts. The first time the service was sparse, as expected, because I was deep into my book. The second time it was attentive, just as it should have been. I've had great service at Tiztal. The food was certainly delicious, but I wouldn't say it's the best breakfast in town...though maybe the best breakfast in Uptown (I don't venture there often). My waffles were plain, similar to the ones I can make for myself at a Marriott Courtyard's continental breakfast. I wasn't very impressed. The Chilaquiles, on the other hand, was scrumptious to the last bite. Waaaay too much food, which can be a good thing. I like the juices and shakes, but at about $4 a pop, weekend breakfast quickly starts to become a more expensive outing than I prefer. Call me cheap... When all is said and done, Tiztal is one of those small, family owned businesses that I'm proud to get behind. It's great, and it will improve. And I will be back.
(4)Mae N.
It was three in the afternoon. I didn't have breakfast or lunch yet, and my friends and I were getting hungry. Our usual standby, Over Easy, was closed already, but I remember a relatively new place that just opened by my neighborhood that had been getting pretty good reviews on Yelp. So off we went! It was relatively empty by the time we got there, we felt pretty bad that it was a half hour before closing time. Rosemary, the owner, took us in anyway and got us settled in. This place deserved each of those five stars. Our food came out pretty fast, but extremely delicious. We all pretty much took a bite out of each other's food (and more, I have to admit), and the shakes were DIVINE. My friends got the pineapple shake and the strawberry smoothie each, while I got the famous oatmeal shake. My god, I don't like oatmeal that much, but that shake was like an oatmeal cookie.. and I love those! Extremely delicious! Rosemary, bless her heart, gave each of us samples of the other people's shakes AND gave us the leftovers from the blenders. How awesome is that!? She was very nice and chatted with us about the place, and even gave us coupons for next time! Trust me, there will be a next time as I will definitely bring more people and spread the word about this place.
(5)Hugh M.
This place is just around the corner from us, and we've found it to be a great alternative to greasy diner breakfasts - they serve delicious juice beverages and make terrific omelets. Their potatoes are crispy and deliciously seasoned. The owner/cooks/servers are very friendly and the whole vibe is nice. It isn't on a main drag - I hope folks from Lincoln Square, Ravenswood, Lakeview, Andersonville, and other parts of Uptown come over to our neighborhood to check it out. Oh, and also - very few, if any, typos or errors in the menu. I don't know about everyone else, but I find this very refreshing - makes you feel like the proprietors are really trying.
(4)Elaine C.
Yes, I'm in love with Tiztal. The oatmeal shake, duh. It's more of a horchata shake with oats. It's delicious. I had Leslie's scramble with salsa and fruit. The scramble was awesome--fresh veggies and lots of them. Then the side of fruit was just amazing--fresh mango, pineapple, watermelon, etc. If more places served a side of fruit like this, then more people may be eating fruit instead of potatoes. My dining companion ordered the Chilaquiles which looked and tasted phenomenal. The coffee was filled up as fast as I can drink it and our waitress and probably one of the owners was the sweetest little thing. She even brought us samples of the milkshake before she brought out the whole thing. Here's what makes me want to add a 6th star: An older lady sat down at the table next to us. Much older. And she didn't look completely healthy. She ordered a grilled cheese with potatoes. When they brought her food, the nice waitress/owner asked if she could bring her some fruit complimentary. Way to spread the health, lady! I heart you, Tiztal. I'll be back for sure.
(5)Courtney C.
This is a great brunch spot. Most of the table went for the chilaquiles with salsa verde and they were very impressed. They commented that the salsa verde is some of the best that they've had at a breakfast spot. I went for the eggs benedict and was not disappointed. I'm not quite sure what they did to the hollandaise sauce, but it was different from others that I've had and it was very tasty. We all tried a different fruit smoothie or shake as they have many different to choose from on the menu. I think the winner was the oatmeal shake. It kind of tasted like horchata, but a bit thicker. The staff are extremely friendly. My brother had some of his chilaquiles wrapped up, and our waitress even added some extra potatoes (which were delicious) for him to take home. I would definitely go back again.
(4)Jean Z.
We've been here several times. The potatoes are too salty but everything else is perrrrrfect! If its not on the menu, ask and ye shall receive. Steak benedict? No problemo. Get a carrot/orange juice. Yum. Their coffee is delishhhhh. Thanks to my bro for introducing us to this place the day after it opened.
(4)howard g.
I've been here several times recently and Im hooked on the chilaquiles. Everyone we were with enjoyed what they ordered as well. Friendly, casual and reasonable with great food and a nice atmosphere.
(5)Blake M.
I made my way up to Tiztal today after seeing some of the great reviews, but I wasn't impressed. Since it is November and was freezing out today, it was a bummer that the door opens in, letting in bursts of 35 degree air with it. The tap water tasted very strange, and I decided against drinking any more than one sip. I ordered the chilaquiles with chicken, and these were decent, but not great. The homemade chips drenched in semi-spicy green salsa and covered in cheese were average, as were the eggs. The chicken was simply pan-cooked, which is definitely not the way I like it. Maybe I just had too high of expectations. The side of roasted potatoes were a nice, garlicy touch. My opinion of the drinks is mixed. They do have very good fresh squeezed orange juice, and the smoothies looked good too. I had a chance to taste the oatmeal milkshake, which was also quite good. However, I also ordered a cappucino, which was not very well made. The foam was huge, but not thick at all. Even though the waitress (owner?) was very nice, I can't give this place more than 3 stars. Maybe I'll have better luck if I order something else.
(3)Annaliza F.
AGAIN, I am still SO lucky to have friends that live right next to this place!!!! I ordered takeout....HOT DAMN!!!! The Zephyrs Omellette....w/ the cheesey potatoes??? Wha?? While waiting at their bar to pick up my order, they made my oatmeal shake, my friends strawberry shake, & another friends banana shake, then took the remains in each blender & put it all in 1 cup, parked it right in front of me & said, "Here, while you're waiting, try this!" All the strawberry, banana, oatmeal goodness....Woo-hoo!!!! Free Shake!!!! Soooooogooood, but it is filling.... So the service, food, everything.... RIDICULOUS!!!! I am sooooo coming here again, & again, & again.....BYOB!!!!
(5)Meghan S.
I have been here several times since they were featured in TOC. The waffles are my favorite with the fresh fruit and yummy strawberries and cream dip. The eggs are fabulous and like everyone else said the potatoes steal the show. They are savory and crispy. The owners are super nice and take the time to actually talk to you. Last time I was in with a big group they let us have a sneak peak at their patio outback and then offered to serve us breakfast out there! They were patient with our weird and v. specific orders and even brought everyone at the table a sample of the vampiro juice. They are getting better at making sure water glasses are filled and the wait time from ordering to eating gets shorter every time. If I could go everyday I would.
(4)mollie l.
A while back, I heard from a friend of a friend that when i moved to my new apartment by Wilson and Paulina that i would be very close to this great new breakfast place... Well, based on the glowing Yelp reviews of Tiztal Cafe, i decided to check it out this morning. The less than 3 block walk was great! I basically went in my sleeping clothes and put on a scarf---as this isn't the sort of neighborhood where i feel like i have to compete in a fashion show as soon as i walk out the door : ) I was the only diner in the place at about 11am, which is fine with me. It appeared that the owner/employees were eating breakfast etc. as well. The server (who may have been the owner or manager) had some great recommendations, and i ordered the crepes (with spinach, cream cheese, mushrooms, no ham) veggie style. I also ordered the juice blend that had oatmeal in it. It was sort of a "healthier version of the oatmeal shake," the server told me. My food came quickly and was delicious. My crepes came with a side of fresh fruit and potatoes. I thought i would have too much food to handle, especially with the addition of the shake--but somehow i managed to eat most of it! The crepes were delicate, and the filling well seasoned (but simple). The potatoes were garlicky ant tasty. The fresh fruit was a mix of mango, strawberries, pineapple and watermelon...yum. The juice blend had a shake-like consistency. With the addition of the oatmeal, it was thick and creamy, yet non-dairy. From what i was told, they blend this juice and then strain it. It was an interesting breakfast beverage, i must say! Overall, this place is a great find on a strip of Clark ave. with not much else except wholesale knock off designer handbags, and cheap imports. I would most definitely make this place my new go-to breakfast and lunch joint!
(4)Jerry M.
I've heard of the legend of the oatmeal shake here at Tiztal Cafe and I was immediately intrigued. After all, I stuff my face with oatmeal nearly every morning. So I know what a good thing oats are. But there's the thing about legends - they very rarely live up to the hype in my experience. With that in mind, I ventured up north to Tiztal. Oh dear God in heaven - this oatmeal shake was GOOD. Better than the hype that lead me here. I want that shake to be my boyfriend. Yep, it's that good. And I want to have a torrid affair with the cabana boy - the potatoes that were crusted in garlic. Afterall, who is going to want to kiss me after eating those breath destroying babies? Yum, yum, YUM.
(5)Kelly C.
What a little gem in uptown. Tucked away on Clark, this place served some amazing breakfast. I ordered the chorizo scrambled, comes with this garlic potatoes and a side of fruit, delicious ! If you're in the area, don't feel like waiting forever for breakfast at some other popular place, give them a try.
(4)Jina A.
Yum Yum Yum.......A friend and I went to this place sunday for breakfast after he checked out the reviews from yelp so we decided to give a it a try since he knew I loved chilaquiles. They did not disappoint me at all it was perfect!! Portions are great for the price and the service was good too. What I was amazed at is their oatmeal shakes delicious delicious I've never had one and this place made me love oatmeal again...Can't wait to take a few friends here who would appreciate the food portions and of course the shakes....
(4)Stefanie W.
WOW. Thank you Colleen C. for sharing the awesome, and thank you Julee M. for being hungry on Sunday! We were here for a late brunch. Parking was easy, and the restaurant was not crowded. The room is nicely done and feels very open. The service was great, I got the impression that we were being helped by the owner, but I'm not positive on that. I had the Famous Zephyr omelette (stuffed with spinach and cream cheese, topped with swiss) with a side of the absolutely heavenly garlic potatoes. We shared an oatmeal shake which I have been craving more of ever since. Everything tasted divine. I did not know until today that this place was related to Zephyr. I have to say the food at Tiztal was WAY better than Zephyrs was. I can't wait to go back to sample the rest of the dishes, and with them opening 24 hours on weekends, I can guarantee it won't be long before I'm back!
(5)Lorie D.
I am giving this cafe a two but, before yesterday, I would have given it a five. We love the food and usually have been here around 9:00 on a weekend, when it is quite busy and we have always had great service. We went yesterday around 1:30 and the place was half empty, but the unsmiling woman who served us (who is a regular server there) was in quite a hurry to take our order. We had to ask her to come back twice while we were deciding and she actually rolled her eyes. This was followed by the most rude and surly service I have had at a restaurant in some time. The server didn't speak another word to us during our visit and after wordlessly delivering our food, ended up giving our table to another server to finish up (she didn't want to wait on us, I guess?). The surly server delivered half our breakfast order without telling us that the other half was coming out later (at least 5 minutes later). She also gave it to the wrong person. We were totally confused, because I had ordered something that is normally made with egg whites, but I asked for it with yellow eggs. My husband ordered something that looked like egg whites. We weren't sure at first which order had come out and it seemed like she had misunderstood our order or had only gotten half of it. No apology for causing this confusing, delivering only half the food without explanation and one of us having to wait for our breakfast. Our experience at Tiztal was an uphappy experience in an otherwise awesome Saturday. I would not have tipped this person, but my husband insisted that we leave a tip for the server that took over our table, who was nice and checked on us several times. Also, he wants to return based on our prior good experiences. As much as I liked the place in the past, personally, knowing the person who "served" us initially is part of their regular waitstaff, makes me never want to go there again.
(2)Ang R.
The green salsa on the chilaquiles is incredible. Really. I quite enjoyed the chilaquiles as a whole; the chorizo/egg scramble on the side, with the onions, cheese and salsa--as well as chips--really hit the spot. I didn't love the potatoes, but mine weren't the same as my boyfriend's, for some reason, and his were really good. Very odd. He had the Benedict (he's new to Benedict, so doesn't have much to compare it to), and enjoyed it very much, though he thought the eggs were slightly too soft for his taste. If you like your eggs a bit harder, I'd order them so. Boyfriend also had a smoothie, and it was fresh and tasty as well. The only thing I can say against Tiztal is that the food is slightly slow to come out. We were on a strict schedule, and as it wasn't crowded (at all, I mean, really), we figured it'd be no problem. But we did end up having to bolt our food down, because the service was just a little too slow. So budget some extra time, but I do think the wait is worth it. I'd like to try one of the scrambles, and the waffles as well. We'll probably pop in from time to time to try new things, as the mood strikes us.
(4)Mary B.
I have been wanting to try this place for awhile now and finally made it over. This place is wonderful! I had a feta, tomato, and onion omelet that I have been craving since living in AZ and when I saw this on menu I looked no further. Friends had eggs benedict and waffles- which were excellent as well. The waffles came with a strawberry sauce and looked great. The fruit is amazingly fresh and when we raved about the food to the co owner she said that they cut everything as it is ordered- and it sure shows. I tried the oatmeal shake and it was tasty-tasty- the smoothies looked amazing too and I will have to try one next time. The potatoes are amazingly good!!! These are the epitome of breakfast potatoes. We did have to ask for the check when it was obvious that we were done, but I feel they just want you to relax and enjoy, they kept asking if we wanted our coffee refilled instead of our check- no biggie. This is for sure a great place for a wonderful meal, you will not be disappointed! They care about the food they are serving and do not cut corners at all.
(4)Ben E.
This is a very solid place to get consistently good, if not great, brunch food. The service is amazing, and even during the rush periods on weekends you can easily get a table. Since I only live about two blocks away, Tiztal is a fantastic place to visit if you're craving a diverse, freshly prepared, and very affordable menu. I only give the place four stars instead of five because it doesn't offer the kind of creative, innovative options that my favorite restaurants in the city provide. That's not to say that what Tiztal offers isn't of excellent quality, only that it stays within the traditional bounds of brunch as opposed to pushing things a little further, as is the case with Lula Cafe, for example. I definitely plan on going back to keep exploring the menu. There are enough choices here to keep anyone from being bored, and most of them are really satisfying. I wasn't thrilled by their biscuits and gravy (the biscuits weren't of the best quality, and the gravy was far too salty), but their omelettes are fantastic, the garlic potatoes are addictive, and they have the best link sausage I may have ever been served. A lot of love and effort has been put into Tiztal, and it shows.
(4)Andrew V.
Still exceptional. There are few places where I repeatedly walk out from with a big smile on my face having so completely enjoyed my dining experience. This is one of those. Had the hankering for the chorizo scramble but was easily persuaded to try one of the specials, the chilaquiles. And glad I did - superb. Tiztal makes their own tortillas and the results prove why with this. I did get the chorizo scramble on the side. Perfect amount of kick between the two. This combination might become my standard order. On my way out I noticed they also have a monte cristo. I asked if this was a special for the day or if they frequently offer it. She said, if I order it, they will make it .I can't wait to return. I could eat here every day.
(5)Emily Y.
I'm giving this one 3.5 stars. Food was good, and no wait on a Sunday at 11 am is a huge plus. I had the chorizo scramble, which was yummy but not incredibly memorable. Not as much flavor as I was expecting. The breakfast potatoes on the other hand -- very memorable. Salty and garlicy, just the way I like 'em. They definitely outshine most other fancy schmancy breakfast place's potatoes. Fiance had the meat lover's omlette, which was HUGE. He was pleased. I was feeling a bit too full for the oatmeal shake, so I'm going to have to go back for that one. I did have the carrot-orange juice, which was very tasty, and served in a fun, tall milkshake glass. Coffee was decent and they were quick with the refills. Service was quick, friendly, efficient. My one problem was the atmosphere -- just a few too many tables crammed together, I thought. And I know people who gots kids need to get out too, but....five screaming babies/toddlers in this tiny place all at once was a little much for me to handle on a Sunday morning. I'll be back for the oatmeal shake, for sure. For breakfast, I think I'd be content to hit up a diner instead.
(3)Stacy C.
Been here for breakfast twice and have been very pleased each time. The oatmeal shake is awesome. Very filling though. I had the french toast the first time which was good and the last time i just had the potatoes - which are excellent. I've found the service to be top notch each time. All of the wait staff drop by to check on you, see how things are, refill your coffee. Very attentive. This last time we were, there our server made sure to get our order in before a table of 6 who just sat down ordered so we wouldnt be waiting long. Much appreciated.
(4)Lara S.
A couple of things to mention right off the bat - it's seat yourself, although they bring the menus to you, it's a very egg & meat-centric menu (though it does have some vegetarian offerings as well) and it can get loud really quickly. I went here with my boyfriend on Sunday afternoon for what should've been breakfast, but we'll call it "First Meal" since it took place at about 1:30p.m. and we were able to score a table right away, although that left only one other open that we could see. At first, it wasn't clear whether or not we were supposed to be greeted to get a table so we discovered that it's seat-yourself after a couple minutes of awkwardly standing by the front door with puzzled looks on our faces. We took our seats and a couple more minutes went by before we had menus to look at. They handed us two laminated menus which seemed somewhat similar to each other... I kept thinking one was breakfast and the other was lunch but I couldn't see a clear delineation as to why they were separate. Either way, my eyes went straight to the juices and after reading the names, I couldn't pass up a chance to order "Vampiro" - a garden variety juice that comes out fresh and frothy... and the color of blood. I gotta admit, it was fun to drink just for the sake of the color, but tasted great, too... Although that being said, my boyfriend made a face after tasting it that was akin to something you might see on someone who had just watched a gory scene in a film or was forced to rip the seeds out of a pumpkin by hand (ew). Getting someone to take the order was a bit of a challenge, however they did have two large parties to take care of and one of the waitstaff seemed very lost - perhaps he was new because he kept trying to auction off items to the wrong table. Having been a server for 8 years, I'll cut him a break but will be less willing to do so if I see that the next time we venture in here for "First Meal." My boyfriend had steak and egg chilaquiles and I had french toast with a side of Tiztal breakfast potatoes. The waitress asked him how he wanted his steak cooked, which I thought was odd in the first place considering the steaks in most steak'n'egg combos are so thin that the temperature always comes out well done, but decided to give it a chance. He said medium rare, and yep - it was definitely well done. I'm not saying that to imply that it wasn't juicy, though, as he said it was decent considering the cut of the meat (again, we're talking about breakfast steak, here) and the rest of his dish he said was good. My french toast had a great texture although was a little bland, relying fairly heavily on the maple syrup for a flavor worth mentioning, and I felt similarly about my breakfast potatoes. The potatoes, cooked with onions, cilantro and cheese, were again great in texture but a bit lacking in the taste department; a few teaspoons worth of Cholula sauce fixed that right up. Halfway through the meal, one of the very sweet and well-meaning servers came over to refill our waters and then left with half of my potatoes... She was in such a rush that we couldn't catch her and I was sad to see them go... And yet, when we were ready to call it quits and head out, another server came by to remove our finished plates (I had only finished about 40% of my french toast because I was full) and seemed a tad disappointed that we didn't want take-home boxes, however in our defense, we weren't sure that the food would make it to a fridge soon enough to be saved and so opted out of taking it with us. And then another 5 minutes went by or so before we could get our bill and pay. So overall, the service was distracted and a bit all over-the-place, the food was great in some areas and slightly off in others, and the juice was fresh and delicious. I'm certainly willing to give this place another shot to bump it up to 4 stars, and if nothing else, it's a great back-up for breakfast, as I live about one mile away.
(3)Mark M.
Great food and service. That idiot Mark who gave it 1 star is the biggest moron I've ever seen. He was expecting fine dining and thought that a $30 check was too high. LMAO!
(4)Jeff J.
My wife and I just tried Tiztal Cafe for the first time this morning. In summary: great service and great food. Absolutely loved the oatmeal shake. I'm not a shake person, but had read about this from other reviewers and thought we'd give it a shot. Super tasty. Had the chilaquiles - which I enjoyed. My wife had a crepe similar to the Zehphyr omelet, which she enjoyed, but noted that it was not what she was expecting.
(4)Rob R.
A friend of mine showed me this place for the first time today....took me there for lunch. I fell in love very quickly!! The food is good and plentiful, but my first love affair was the homemade salsa that they put on the side of my omelet. It is one of the most amazing hot sauces I have ever tasted! Chit chat with the owner was so charming, as is the decor. Then we got a small taste of a banana oatmeal shake....YUM!! I can't wait to get back there. They have a Facebook page, and a website is forthcoming. Do yourself a favor and stop in sometime....and if you like hot sauce, trying that is a must! LOL Enjoy!
(5)Elizabeth E.
Excellent chilaquiles! I will definitely be back!
(4)Greg R.
Very cool casual place for brunch. It felt like you were going to someone's mom's place for breakfast, but someone that could really cook. Very little wait and just homey. I can't remember what we got, so I apologize on the menu rec's but everything we had was very good and well priced. One thing you have to get is the oatmeal shake. If you ever go to Costa Rican places they usually have what seems to be a thin oatmeal shake, these are thicker and so much better.
(4)Karen H.
My girlfriends and I went here for a post-run breakfast and loved it! Quiet, inexpensive and has a lovely patio out back. I had a smoothie that was made fresh and my friends both had egg white omelets with their favorite veggies. It was a beautiful sunny morning and it was lovely to sit outside and enjoy a new spot we just happened to stumble across.
(5)Jo-Elle M.
Given the reviews here on Yelp I tried Tiztal on Saturday, and I was happy to discover that Tiztal did rock! My friend had a crepes dish - which he said was awesome, and I stuck with a basic omelet with the yummy garlic potatoes. We both had the oatmeal shake...oh yeah - yum city! Surpisingly no wait at 11am on Saturday, but soon after we sat down, the place filled up. We even got coupons for a free smoothie on our next visit. And yes, Virginia, there is going to be a next time. Thanks Yelpers, for the tip on this fab brunch find!
(4)Gonka D.
Ill keep this one brief - BREAKFAST POTATOES OATMEAL SHAKE Since the first time I have been there (opening day) and the many times after I have not been able to recreate the potatoes at home. I cook a lot and for some reason something as simple as a breakfast potato has escaped me...these are DIVINE! The oatmeal shake is something I hadn't tried until going with a friend and I am so glad I did...the only mistake was splitting it...dumb. Rosemary is a delight - always friendly and always remembers you. That's a big plus in our hood! My rating would be a definite 4.5 if it weren't for the total bill price. A little high for breakfast but in the long run worth every penny for those potatoes...what is in those!!!
(4)Rich Z.
I had brunch here with my brother, his Girlfriend and my Son last weekend. The Eggs Benedict with steak was PHENOMENAL!!! I had the Chilaquiles and they were excellent. My only complaint was the service, it was slow very friendly, but slow. It seemed to take a long time for our food to come out (my guess was that was caused by the fact they make the holandaise for the Eggs Bennies from scratch for each order) and I ordered my eggs over easy and they came scrambled. I'm not the kind that will make a big stink over that so I didn't send it back and it was really well done otherwise. Outside of that the experience was a real winner!!!
(4)Eric B.
Excellent breakfast place! Unique food that is maybe a little over seasoned, but very imaginative and tasty. You have to order the fresh squeezed orange juice. The chilaquiles are great with the chicken, and the potatoes are to die for; crispy and not bland like typical breakfast potatoes. The owner was there and very friendly, giving free samples of the oatmeal shake(much, much better than it sounds).
(5)miriam y.
Finally tried this place out last weekend--will definitely be back. Had classy huevos rancheros--so good with breakfast potatoes! You have to try the fresh jugo as well--carrot/orange was delightful.
(4)Alfonso G.
I one word: DYNAMITE!! I was born in Mexico and I have tried a big number of Mexican restaurants so when I found El Tizatl I though "Am I in Mexico" The flavor, service, and freshness of its food is just like being in Mexico, for those who are meet lovers try Scramble eggs with Chorizo by the way their chorizo is not greasy at all. Their shakes are phenomenal. Thank Dios there is a place that bring me memories of La Condesa neighborhood in Mexico City.
(5)Matt L.
What am I missing here? The service was more abominable than that snowman I built back in '87 that came to life and gave me a wedgie. The shakes and potatoes were very good, but the chilaquiles that everyone seems to love here were completely flavorless. I got steak with mine and it was Totes McNasty. Once again, I was burnt by trying to eat somewhere near mixteco without actually going to mixteco. It's a recipe for failure, which sucks, because I hate making failure!
(2)Ryan H.
The food here was excellent and the atmosphere was laid back. The service was slow once we had our food and it took forever to get our waitress to take our money. We did get attention from the owner who was pleasant and very amicable. I had the Chorizo scramble which was awesome. I asked for hollandaise sauce with it, but the sauce was served cold. The taste of the food more than made up for it though and I would definitely go there again. It is a great value for the money and a comfortable place for Sunday brunch without the press and crowding of places like Orange and m.henry.
(3)Sean H.
Tiztal is a solid alternative to your standard diner fare. It is a diner with a Mexican twist. The potatoes are awesome.
(4)Tracy C.
This place was excellent, all 3 of us thoroughly enjoyed our meals. Had a taste of the Oatmeal shake at the end of our meal and that was a nice surprise. Coffee was tasty and HOT! Service was fine, very pleasant. Great breakfast! Want to come back for chilliques! Yum!
(4)Lindsay M.
This place is awesome. I could just order an oatmeal shake and their potatoes and be in heaven. While the restaurant is hopping on weekends, I've enjoyed several quiet weekday lunches there with the owner excitedly bringing me samples of juice as requested and taking the time to describe her menu favorites. (Where else does this happen?!) To find out that they're now open 24 hours on the weekends...whoo hoo! You will find me there eating post-Cubs game celebratory waffles, wondering how I ever lived before Titzal's oatmeal shake. (Anything involving the strawberry creme sauce is also highly recommended.)
(5)TheCriticizer S.
Tiztal is my favorite place to go for fresh juice! The Vampiro brings me back to life everytime! Their oatmeal shake is the best shake I have ever had! The patty melt is the only patty melt that deserves to be called a patty melt! The potatoes with the chipotle sauce are the best! Everything there is awesome! Lastly, the service is extremely friendly and professional!!!! Thank you Tiztal!!!!
(5)Lita B.
Amazing food and liquados!!! So yummy.
(5)Alexandra B.
really amazing chilaquiles and delicious breakfast potatoes! yummy fresh-squeezed oj and a variety of other fresh juices too that i plan on trying next time. my boyfriend had steak and eggs - i tried his steak and it was AMAZING (ill be getting that next time)! he had a side of biscuits & gravy and said it was really good too. also really good, nice, attentive service and they only charged us for one coffee even though we had 2 :) pretty small-sized place - we didnt have to wait for a table because we got there around 10:30am, but by the time we were leaving every table was full - so if you come during the breakfast rush you may have to wait a few minutes. totally worth it though! really glad we tried tiztal cafe. we'll definitely come back!
(5)Rachel Y.
I'm amazed I haven't gone to this place for so long and I've lived around the corner from it for over two years! I finally went with my mom for brunch when she was in town and I'm so glad we went! She had the egg whites with feta cheese, tomatoes and mushrooms and I had a mushroom omelet with chorizo and cheddar cheese melted on top. Both of us loved our meals! We didn't have coffee but for one order of tea you got a whole tea pot that we shared which was nice. It was a very nice casual and comfortable experience - I recommend checking it out!
(4)Kay S.
Such a good breakfast place. We've been going since they opened. The oatmeal shake is like a little piece of heaven sucked through a straw. Yum. And the potatoes are seriously good. I do forget about it since it's in a weird location. We hadn't been in a while and attempted to go on the Sunday prior to labor day. It was closed and we went at 8am.
(4)Michelle Z.
Great breakfast! I had an egg white omelet with tons of veggies. It came with feta which I requested be put on the side. The omelet also came with potatoes or cottage cheese and toast, all for around $8. I thought the portion size was great, flavor was great and the service was good. I had a bite of my friends country fried steak. WOW. The best country fried steak ever! Next time I want to ruin my diet, that is what I am having! This place is not very fancy but the food was delish!
(5)Odette O.
I'm so happy that this place exists! It would deserve four stars, except they seem to put toooo much cheese on everything. Other than that, their smooth tunes, clean, bright and friendly restaurant is a much needed brunch spot in the neighbourhood.
(3)Kathryn M.
OMG! I love everything about Tizatal Cafe. Easy-peasy street parking right in front, no wait at noon on a Sunday, super friendly staff who dish out free samples of oatmeal shakes, art work for sale by local artists, cute decor that feels homey and relaxing, and FANTASTIC food that makes your bank account happy. I went slightly overboard when ordering my brunch, but everything looked delish. I had french toast which was really good and a big portion, sausage, and the breakfast potatoes with cheese. Definitely enough food for 2 meals, which makes the prices an even bigger steal! It was so nice to sit and enjoy a great meal with friends without feeling rushed. I will sooooo be back.
(5)Alex V.
This place has good food and is very close to my place. I usually get the chiliquiles when I come to Tiztal. If not that then the huevos con chorizo. Both of which are great. I won't order the bacon anymore cause most of the times it comes burnt. I will always get the cinnamon toast. It is sooo good. Now I'm not a big coffee drinker but some reason the coffee here is outstanding. I tried the oatmeal milkshake just cause everyone was talking about it but it just didn't do it for me. The service here is fast and friendly.
(4)LC S.
MMM oatmeal shake & chilaquiles!! And they always treat you sweet.
(4)Jessica R.
I came here today for an "Office Hours" Yelp event. My expectations were very high considering everyone (Maggie R.) had been talking about how excellent it was. My expectations were very much met. The much-talked-about Oatmeal Shake was nothing short of orgasmic. And the garlic potatoes were of the same caliber. The waitstaff was super friendly, even though we were kind of a pain in the ass. I shall return again and again for that awesome Oatmeal climax.
(5)Jessica C.
Yah....I'm all over Tiztal. I had read reviews a little bit ago when they first opened, but just never made it there. Last week I just moved right around the corner and figured I'd pop in and see what all the fuss was about. I went on a Sunday morning for brunch at about 10. There wasn't a wait, but every table was taken. I think we had just made it in time because as we sat down, I saw a handful of suckers waiting outside 'till they could come in and get a seat. We were greeted right away by our server and another women as well, I believe she may be the owner. Man, these ladies made me feel like I was in someone's mother's ktichen being served homemade food. That's a good thing. We take a look at the menu. Small, but complete. Sometimes thats the best way, quick and to the point. I actually ended up getting one of the specials that our server had mentioned to us. I would have rather it had been on a card or on the menu, as I didn't quite understand what it entailed and ended up getting enough food to feed an army. A happy army they would have been though, after eating Tiztal's Chiliquilles! They fry their own chips and they fry them to perfection. Any chip that can withstand being drenched in chili sauce and still hold a bit of a crunch is a chip indeed. Now, if the green chili sauce is too hot on Chiliquilles, you run the risk of burning your face off. This sauce was fresh and round with a little bit of kick, but not enough to built on your tongue and make you wanna suck on a firehose. Accompanying my chiliquilles were some scrambled eggs, a lightly sauted chicken breast and their signature garlic potatoes. AMAZING!!!!!! Among all this delciousness, I am observing shakes (yes they have oatmeal shakes) and juices flying around the place. I didn't have the chance to get one, but you better believe I'm go'n back for some of that. Whose with me? They don't have soy yet, but the owner (i think) said that they will be getting it soon due to many requests. Until then, I can't wait to go in again and order up some carrot and beat juice or their oatmeal/orange/apple juice. I'm pleased!
(5)Mike T.
Chilaquiles and Country Breakfast (Country Fried Steak and Biscuits and Gravy).....Mmmmmmmmmmmmmm!
(4)Julee M.
Thank you Yelp for introducing me to this place. I just had brunch with a friend here and it was seriously one of the best breakfasts/brunches I have ever had. The service was excellent. The coffee was top notch. The oatmeal shake was incredible. I had the daily special which was spinach and mushroom crepes with cream cheese. Out of this world! Best crepes I've had and they need to add it to the regular menu. The potatoes...phenomenal! What do they put on those things? Best part is that it's 3 blocks from my house! I will be back again...and again...and again.
(5)Nater P.
Seriously 5 stars all the way, this place is worth the trip north. The oatmeal shake is a must try - it'll fill you up, but oh so yummy. Following a friend's recommendation, we all had chilaquilles (steak, chicken, or chorizo), and wow- we could not stop raving. Potatoes were seasoned perfectly, and fresh squeezed juice was divine. To top it off, the owners/staff are so very very friendly - made us feel very welcome. I'll be back soon- for sure.
(5)Darlene R.
definitely one of my favorite places for brunch. i've only been here a couple of times but i've loved everything i've had. i've gotten the chiliaquiles and they were amazing and the portion was huge. it took all the self control i had not to finish them in one sitting, but really the amount they give is borders on being obscene. the potatoes that come with it are the BEST breakfast potatoes i've ever had. they are spiced perfectly and are crispy, not the usual soggy lack luster filler. i've tried the chorizo scramble and it was good. i've had a couple bites of the french toast and it was alright. do yourself a favor and get the the chilaquiles. just thinking about them makes me want them right now!
(5)Cheryl M.
The service was a little slow but that's typical for a small place like this. Lucky for us we got there a little before 10:30 am and sat down fairly quickly. And I'm not a fan of sitting at my table with people hoovering over me. All that put aside, they sure do crank up an excellent oatmeal shake!!! I ordered the oatmeal shake and it was on my table within a few moments. I would definitely recommend getting your own glass because it'll go super fast. The coffee wasn't the greatest and I always like a few cups while I'm sitting patiently but it took them awhile to notice my empty. Their garlic potatoes were too die for and I was helping myself to seconds from the plate across from me. I ordered a crepe with mushrooms, spinach and cream cheese, which was actually pretty tasty. Will most definitely be back to check out their Huevos Racheros.
(4)Brian H.
great little place in a area without any great little places. I had the monte crispo, one of the best interpretations on this sandwich I have ever had. The owners are down to earth, personable and know what they are doing. Expect good service, relaxed atmosphere and fun food.
(4)Daniel C.
I've been on the lookout for good brunch places. Noticing that Tiztal has gotten pretty solid reviews on Yelp, I decided to give it a try. I am glad to say that it did live up to my expectation. Tiztal offers brunch with a Mexican twist. I ordered the chorizo scramble and the chorizo chilaquiles. Having tried chilaquiles from a couple of different places, I really enjoyed Tiztal's version, which is served with a tomatillo sauce, as opposed to the standard tomato sauce. Its tanginess was mellowed out by the cheese, soupy yet crunchy at the same time. The chorizo scramble was well seasoned (chorizo dishes can sometimes be too salty). I also tried to oatmeal shake, which I highly, highly recommend. Decor wise, Tiztal cafe appears to be remodeled very recently. There are not many seats inside, so I can see it being filled up very quickly during peak brunch hours (though they do have a patio outside). Overall, it was a very pleasant experience. I will certainly be back.
(4)Deborah B.
I tried this place because it had gotten such good reviews from fellow yelpers. I was not let down. The breakfast potatoes are quite amazing, and the oatmeal shake a pretty good time. For me the best part is the fresh fruit. I got the waffle topped with fruit and it was absolutely splendid. The best part about the fruit is that YOU get to pick which kinds of fruit you want. I hate melon and it seems everytime there is some kind of a fresh fruit cup or topping it includes mostly melon. Here I was able to exclude all melon and received berries, mango, and pineapple. It was amazing. Also, my vegan friends do have options here. No vegan specific dishes, but the potatoes and fruit are great and lots of cool fresh squeezed juices like carrot, beet, etc.
(4)Erin K.
I have eaten breakfast here twice. The oatmeal shake is to die for. The omlets and egg scrambles are great. And lets not forget the roast potatoes. They have so much flavor..Not the standard dethawed kind at other places
(4)Aurore L.
Burt Lancaster (supposedly) said: "I always try to improve, to find new ways of expressing myself, to keep looking for truth and originality." Well I can't compare to the great Burt - and I guess you can call that a shame... I even tried to see if Tiztal was actually kinda sorta referring to something but no luck in this department either. Sigh. Can't shoot for originality so I'll go with the rest of the herd. Yeah... The oatmeal shake is truly that amazingly good - we shared one with nuts added and it was silky, smooth, divine. The potatoes were probably the best I have ever tasted in a breakfast place. I had the Zephyr omelet - 3 eggs, mushrooms, spinach, cheese topped with gooey Swiss goodness. Simple but perfect. Coffee faultless - lightly sweet, no bitterness whatsoever, didn't need any cream. And yes, Rosemary knows how to handle her kids! She served us three different samples - strawberry-oatmeal shake, mango shake and the infamous vampiro juice....and she gave to the TWO of us a coupon for a free drink on our next visit. She admitted that she pampered us because it was a week day and she actually had time to do so. So guys, if you can, skip the weekends and go there for a special treat Monday through Friday. Parking on the street is easy. And it's really worth it.
(5)Bradley S.
They've earned the fourth star. We stopped by this past weekend and caught them in a lull. The food was top-notch as usual but the service was vastly improved. If I didn't know better, I'd have thought they knew I was a reviewer who was less than impressed on prior visits. The coffee cups never dropped below half-full and three different people asked how our experience was going.
(4)Shannon D.
I got the chorizo scramble because all their egg dishes come with the potatoes that everyone here was raving about. I was definitely underwhelmed. The oatmeal shake was by far the tastiest part of the meal. I split it with a friend and that was the way to go. I think after reading all these rave reviews, I had higher expectations for the food. It wasn't bad, but it certainly wasn't amazing. Would I go back? Maybe. Oh yeah, and the service is nothing to write home about.
(3)Leah C.
4 for food with the high potential of hitting a 5. 10 for service and personality :)... the restaurant will give you the essence of dining at a small town eatery where everyone knows your name. that is the impression that we got and it was our first visit. arriving a bit before 1pm, we learned that the restaurant would be closed at 2pm for a private party. we just made the cut-off but in no way felt rushed. we were even given a sample of the infamous oatmeal shake and encouraged to stick around and have one as they set up for a wedding reception. too bad we were too stuffed from our huge helpings of chorizo and eggs and chilaquiles. when asked how the chilaquiles were prepared, the server asked ME how i'd like for them to be prepared! i substituted egg whites and spinach for the meat options. it was accompanied by a fruit bowl of finely diced mango, pineapple and other goodness. i can't give the restaurant 5 stars yet because i felt like the meals were a bit under-cooked - runnier than usual eggs and a bit room temperature. i am sure it's because they were trying to set-up for the reception. we will be back for sure to give it a chance to earn the 5th star.
(4)Joel S.
Ducked in on one of those endless rainy days last week or so... Tiztal Cafe is a nice, warm and friendly place to grab a bite to eat. Chiliquiles + Oatmeal Shake (thanks yelp) are the way to go in my book, and my book has great taste. I can appreciate the friendly service, but it sorta slowed down the whole operation as our waitress visited with her friends at the other table for most of our meal... otherwise really close to four stars, and I could even see this becoming one of my regular spots for breakfast or brunch. Check it out!
(3)rachel p.
now THAT is how you do chilaquiles! its not that my chorizo and eggs weren't tasty, its just that if you put them in a street fight against the chilaquiles, my breakfast was the one gettin' bitch slapped and walking away in shame. deeeelishus! the service was a bit slow, but honestly, i was happy do get a seat for brunch on mother's day. i'll be back to try the infamous shake everyone has been talking about.
(4)Justin W.
This is better than the place you have brunch now. I can only reiterate what everyone else said, great staff, great food, and good prices. ONLY issue, the volume inside because of space is rough but its Chicago.
(4)kate w.
This is a great brunch spot, and will be an AMAZING late night food place. The veg/fruit juices are really good and i just love having fresh juice with my breakfast meal. Luckily, when i visited this place, i was in my eating-eggs-again phase because there really aren't that many options for a vegan. In interest of full disclosure, i'm friends with Deborah B. and we went together... and i'm sorry Deb, but a roasted potato and a glass of OJ do not constitute a decent vegan meal. If this place only had a scrambled tofu option, or some sort of vegan pancake to offer, it would get a 5th star from me.
(4)Mike H.
Dined there for my third time today, and while I wish I could offer a review of some different dishes, I've become hopelessly addicted to the chorizo scrambler (it's that good, and served with warm tortillas, you can make breakfast tacos). I have vowed after today though to try something new on my next visit. At any rate, the outdoor eating area is now open in back. Unfortunately, I didn't realize this until after I finished eating, but I did check it out before I left and it's quite the urban oasis. Next time!
(5)Diana T.
Small little brunch spot that has a pretty small-medium sized menu. I had the meat lover's omelet which was the size of my head (great with chorizo), breakfast potatoes cooked in garlic and onions with cheddar cheese on top (yum), and the oatmeal shake! MUSTY TRY! I also tried the white scramble with mushrooms, spinach, and cheese and it was also very good. I think this place will be one of my new favorite brunch spots. I am looking forward to trying their desserts! I was too stuffed for more, but got another oatmeal shake on the way out =X
(5)Princess B.
Ok, here's the good and the bad. You know how Sunday brunch in Chicago is. Good luck going anywhere and not having to wait an exorbitant amount of time to get seated, only to be seated approximately 3 millimeters away from another party. Well, I went to Titztal at noon on a Saturday, and GOT SEATED IMMEDIATELY, with about three whole feet between us and the nest table! I was effing delighted! :) The servers were friendly. I ordered the Chorizo scramble, which was good. My friend got the Chilequiles, which he said were great. They kept our coffee and water filled. They also kept our french toast warm in the kitchen until we were ready to eat it (yes, we are breakfast beasts for sure). However. The service was a little disorganized, with different servers coming up to our table at different times. The water had a strange taste to it... It was cold in there. The food took a pretty long time to get to the table. When we first sat down they told us they were going to bring juice samples, but they never did. I wasn't fluffy about it, but I definitely noticed. So, overall I would say it was a positive experience, and the people there were nice, it just wasn't awesome or anything.
(3)Karen K.
After walking past the Titzal Cafe for months, I finally went in this weekend. It was well worth the wait. A great little place with excellent service with a very friendly staff. The food was great and the Titzal Potatoes [taste buds say "garlic potoatoes"] are worth going for by themselves. They're probably some of the best I have had ever. I had the Chorizo Scrambler the 2 egg version, which was more than enough food. My friend and I split a waffle, as well, which came with a fantastic strawberry sauce. I also liked the fact that the menu is small and all the choices looked great. I'll definitely be back soon to try the rest of the menu.
(5)Mark A.
Never Again!! After wanting to try this place for months and reading good reviews on here, we decided to try it this morning. We were greeted and seated right away and the place is cute in a mom and pop way. That's the end of the good news. The wait for menus and for someone to take our order was unreasonably long. I finally had to tell the busboy that we were ready to order. (?!?) The service is terrible. Keep in mind that this is a small one room restaurant where the staff can see you at all times. So there is no excuse to ignore a waiting table. I ordered the ranchero omelette and it was flavorless and filled with undercooked watery veggies. Nothing worse than a plate full of eggs swimming in water!! Side of garlic potatoes were good but nothing to rave about and why so few on the plate?? The prices are very high for a small local cafe. $2 for coffee and $9 for an omelette?? Really?? For 2 mediocre omelettes and 2 coffees our bill was $24!! Bottom line = The service and the food both suck. I can make a MUCH better breakfast at home for half the price. I will never return.
(1)Carolyn T.
First of all, some background. I don't do oatmeal. Never have, never will. Ever since I was a kid, just a whiff of the stuff would send me dry heaving. And before you ask, no, it's not the texture. I love cottage cheese, cream of wheat, malt-o-meal, pudding, etc. I've tried flavored oatmeal, steel cut oatmeal, I've tried honey, cinnamon, milk, pumpkin, coconut milk... I don't do oatmeal. So when I read all these reviews about the oatmeal *cringe* shake, I was highly, highly skeptical. However, I was also hungry. Tiztal was just a couple miles away, and we snagged some primo parking. So, we went in, got a table and I girded myself for an oatmeal *shiver* shake. It was Sunday around noon, so the tail end of brunch...service was a little slow, but they were still remarkably friendy and pleasant. We ordered the oatmeal *twitch* shake, two coffees, chilaquiles, a waffle and a side of sausage. Total cost: $23. Here's the breakdown: Coffee: Decent. Waffle: Oh yum. $4.99 for the plain, and it was heavenly and delicious smothered in butter and syrup. Light on the inside, perfectly browned on the outside, and sooo good you could smell it a table away. I only managed to steal a wee bite before Jeff snarfed it all up. Bobos for me. Side of sausage: Two meaty links for $1.99. Can't be the price anywhere in the city, and they weren't your dinky brown-n-serves. Chilaquiles: Hm. $9.99 for the chilaquiles. I thought they were okay. I was thrown off that the steak and eggs were served separately from the tortilla/salsa smash. I was also surprised when they asked me how I'd like my steak cooked. I suppose everyone cooks it differently. The tomatillo sauce they used was a little too sweet for my taste, and I missed the blanket of melted cheese that I'm accustomed to seeing. However, I heard the folks at the next table over discussing them, and they raved about it. So, to each his own. I will say, however, that the food-to-price ratio was outstanding. I had enough leftovers for two more meals, and I am not a little eater. The piece of flank steak that came with the meal was the size of a small cow (Okay, I exaggerate. But it was at least a quarter pound.), and the potatoes were indeed very tasty and perfectly seasoned. Man, they nailed the potatoes. Mmmm mmm! They were delicious even the next day, eaten cold and mit fingers. Oatmeal shake: $3. I think my expectations were sky high here, and I was hoping that I would experience some sort of revelation that would reverse my previous aversion to oatmeal. Well, angels did not sing, but it was delicious! Creamy, smooth...just like granola blended with vanilla ice cream minus any chunky bits. Their service shined here though. We polished off half the shake while waiting for our meals, then owner came by and said, "You know what, I made that wrong. So we're going to re-do it so you can have the full experience." I'm thinking they've figured out "oatmeal shake" is code for "yelper." Anyway, we thought the shake was pretty good as is, but hey, who are we to argue? When she returns, she brings us a double portion and two straws. Turns out they didn't add any sugar the first time. I don't think the sugar made a tremendous difference, but it was still tasty. I'll have to try some of the other flavors. The pecan and walnut one intrigued me. All in all, good stuff. I wouldn't be surprised if they had lines coming out the door within the next month or so.
(3)Ralph M.
Back again this past Sunday. Sat down immediately and placed my order. My ranchero omelette was perfect and the potatoes, awesome as always. They were passing out samples of the oatmeal shake. I'm almost afraid to order one; it was so tasty that I could see keeping on those pounds I'm trying to lose!!! OK, maybe just one . . .or two! Rosemary is great. I've been there maybe 6-7 times in the last 4 months and she came over and greeted me, said it was great to see me again, and commented on my new glasses. WOW, what a welcoming, warm feeling. It's amazing she has such a good memory. I do need to get there more often and help keep this great little gem in business.
(4)Scott C.
Had a great breakfast here. The pecan waffles were fantastic! Great selection of fresh squeezed juices. Super friendly service. This place is very new and the owner is very optimistic. I hope success finds her. I will certainly be back.
(4)Marsha C.
LOVE, LOVE, LOVED it! The oatmeal shake is to die for - a must try. My husband had the eggs benedict which was stellar....the hollandaise sauce was extremely good - very creamy with just a hint of hot - excellent. I had the tomato, feta, onion omelet which was very good too. The potatoes were very good also. Perfect sized portions - not too much that it is wasted and just enough to satisfy. Great neighborhood place - you will not be disappointed - spread the word about this place!
(5)Justin S.
Wasn't sure what I wanted for lunch and the roommate found this place and yelp. Well first let me thank him and all of you because this place was great. I'm not a breakfast person. I always try to be and think, ohhh maybe this time it will work, but it doesn't. Well the french toast here was awesome. The lemonade, WOW. So good and not what I was expecting. Its small and was cramped a little but well worth it. Thank you Yelp
(4)Ellen L.
Wouldn't have found this place without Yelp. Delicious! Delectable! Ambrosial! Scrumptious! Need I say it? Too die for!
(5)Cody M.
MMM. I could rave all day about this place. Although it is a little out of the way for me, I make sure to come here every time I visit Chicago! Everything I have had here is delicious, but the chilaquiles with chicken are definitely my favorite. They also have amazing fresh juice, smoothies, and milkshakes. Vampiro is a must have for vegetable juice lovers, and the oatmeal milkshake is a must have if you like food at all! The staff is really friendly but the best part is the price. You get quality and quantity for about less than less than 10 bucks for a meal. Juice and milkshakes add on about 3 bucks each, but they are totally worth it!
(5)Megan H.
Tiztal Cafe hosted my recent post-wedding brunch. I was in love with the place before, but now I wish I had married Tiztal instead of my husband! (Just kidding, darling.) (Maybe.) Rosemary, Teresa, Patti and the gang made brunch the perfect end to a fantastic day. The food was off-the-hook delicious, and the ladies couldn't have been more attentive and generous. Give them a buzz next time you need to plan a special event!
(5)bj f.
o.k., so after reading the raves about the oatmeal shake, i don't even have to glance at the menu to know that i have to order one. and it's good, and it's kind of like the equivalent of eating the contents of a bread basket before dinner! y'know, when you eat a piece, then another, exclaiming "i better stop now, or i'll be too full for the entree", only to find yourself fingering one more hunk. well, that was the oatmeal shake for me this morning, so good i couldn't stop sipping it, knowing all the while that i was waiting for my real breakfast to arrive. i ordered the egg white omelet, the name of which escapes me, and my hub ordered the meat lover's special, and as the reviews state, they were really good, and the potatoes were, as reported, that perfect combo of crisp but not dry, and really tastily seasoned. i also like that they only offer one piece of toast, cause then i don't feel like i'm wasting that slice that gets stranded on my plate. esp, after imbibing in a now almost drained oatmeal shake! and i dunno, i liked the decor, i thought it was homey, like the server. it also makes me happy to know that part of zephyr survived to live again and offer up its food and ice cream goodness. thanks for the tip, once again, i was not disappointed!
(4)anne h.
the best chilaquiles i've ever had. they were made with a salsa verde & had the perfect texture. the coffee was good & the potatoes that came with it were also amazing. (for real, coffee and potatoes are what i judge a breakfast by.) our server was really nice, too, filling our coffee cups - many times - with a smile. i can't wait to go back!
(5)Kristin P.
I wish I could give this place 4.5 stars. The food is good but doesn't really rate a 5. (The oatmeal shake is indeed worth trying.) I'm giving it a 5 for the people/service. You definitely get the impression that this place is run with love. The servers are so friendly, it makes you feel downright warm and fuzzy. I teach tv production and when one of my students was looking for a restaurant that would allow him to do a shoot inside, I sent him here because I had a feeling they would be nice enough to oblige. Sure enough, they were totally cool about it. Thanks, Tiztal!
(5)Andrea S.
I ate here a month back and enjoyed it. The fruit smoothies are so fresh. I had huevos rancheros. It wasn't authentic, I've had better... but I still enjoyed it. What really made my meal was the potatoes! MMMM , you can't go wrong with garlic and cilantro. Awesome. The decor was bright and the waitress was attentive and helpful also. I'd go back to try more !!
(4)Daniel S.
Tiztal is one of my favorite brunch places in the city, and I'm a brunch slut. The staff is always super friendly and the food is amazing. The chorizo scramble is fantastic. All my friends love the oatmeal shake, but it's a little thin and runny for me. (But take that with a grain of salt, as I don't know anyone who doesn't love it.) The strawberry crema that comes with the french toast is incredible. I'd put it on anything...waffles, hot dogs, cardboard, human flesh. It's fab.
(5)Erik B.
I had the chilaquiles and they were amazing! Very authentic. The roasted potatoes were very flavorful and crisp. My only complaint was that one of my eggs were overcooked. Normally I would send it back, but the dish was too good to send back and we were in a hurry. Not much on atmosphere, but the food is great.
(4)Mary-Margaret S.
A friend of mine brought me here. I live a little further north in Edgewater, so I wouldn't have found this place on my own--- so glad my friend knew about it! This place was awesome. I had the Leslie Scramble, and it was alright... I think I'll try the chirizo one next time. My husband had it and the small taste he allowed me before devouring the entire thing was great. The potatoes and the oatmeal shake, as everyone else has said, were amazing. Service was good; the waitress (who I think may have been an owner too) brought out a little sample of the oat meal shake to my husband, since he was the only one of us that didn't order one. Decorated really nicely... all around a nice place.
(4)Ellie L.
I had the Leslie scramble, and my husband went with the two eggs, bacon, toast, potatoes. The scramble was great, big portion, not too much feta, just the right amount of veggies vs feta vs egg. Due to the chunks of garlic visible on the potato we both really liked the potatoes. The price was right, the service was good. I am happy to read you can play with the menu a bit. I am a big fan of a good scramble and there were only two options-so next time i'll try the "make-your-own" approach, see how that goes. Oatmeal shake taste applied here as well, it was good. I definitely recommend you try Tiztal out for yourself. It's officially in our rotation.
(4)Audrey H.
I am not sure what all the fuss is about. The food is only ok. I liked the chilaquiles, but the side of chicken was odd. I expected it to be shredded and in the dish, but is was an odd overcooked side. Also, the poached eggs were overcooked- solid yolks. The service was slow and inattentive. I have to agree with a number of others that they spend most of their time talking to their friends and drinking the left overs from shakes and juice drinks made. There are so many better places to spend my hard earned $$. Head to Harmony Grill for chilaquiles or migas that are much, much better.
(2)Dan B.
I AM IN LOVE WITH TIZTAL! I have been wanting to go here for quite some time mostly due to the raving yelp reviews. I met a friend here on Saturday around 12:30, walked in there was no wait and sat down. Water was delivered immediately along with menus and an offer of coffee. The waitress then noticed I had brought champagne for mimosas and offered to bring wine glasses along with the coffee. When my friend arrived we decided we were in the mood for something other than OJ with our champagne. The waitress listed off all the juices they had and we randomly decided to mix apple and pineapple juice. A few minutes later she came back with a pitcher of fresh squeezed deliciousness. It was so good that we actually poured one for the waitress so that she and the rest of the staff could try it out. We both had the chillquiles with chicken which was perfect. The chicken was so tender and the sauce was perfect, and those potatoes, oh they were good. Garlicky, buttery perfection! The service too was fantastic so warm and friendly, I felt as though we were guests in the staff's home. This is definitely my new go to brunch spot, I just hope it doesn't get too popular so that i can't score one of the limited number of tables. STAY AWAY "CHECK PLEASE"!! I had full intentions of trying the oatmeal shake as well but after everything else I was stuffed and couldn't fathom it. Next time I will be all over it.
(5)Erika W.
Well, after reading all the reviews on here, salivating over the thought of an oatmeal shake, and making it a point to try Titzal, I finally got around to it this past week. A friend and I met on a weekday morning and both agreed it must be packed on the weekends. I had called the day before because of a recent review on here that had mentioned it possibly had closed. It hasn't! When I called I was asked what time I was planning on coming in, which at first seemed weird. But she then warned me they were hosting a breakfast meeting at that time, but felt that they should fit us in. I appreciated her honesty and we had no trouble getting a table when we showed up. My first thoughts were, that while the atmosphere and decor are okay, it could be a little warmer and more inviting in overall tone (perhaps it's the tile floors?).However, the owner (I think) was the one to seat and serve us and she couldn't have been friendlier and all around attentive, without being instruisve. While we waited for our food she gave us a free sample of some other menu item, and chatted with us a bit about the food. And then the food came - my friend got the chilaquiles and I got the chorizo scramble and the oatmeal shake, and we agreed to share all of it. While very good, honestly, my favorite part were the potatoes that came with our entrees. That, and the shake, of course, which was all I could hope for! Oat-ey, like a cookie, but still ultimately a milkshake. Yum! The chilaquiles and scramble were HUGE and while not as good as the others, still very enjoyable. Towards the end of the meal the owner came over and gave my friend a free sample of the shake, not realizing we were sharing. It's little things like that ultimately make or break a restaurant for me, personally, and it (along with the shake!) will be the reason I return to Titzal.
(4)Karah M.
I can't believe I didn't know about this place for the first 3 years I lived in this neighborhood - but now that I do, it's one of my favorite places and most frequented. Nice vibe, good coffee, fresh squeezed fruit juice and smoothies, perfectly cooked potatoes, delicious savory crepes, and everything in between. And yes, the oatmeal shake is as good as everyone says it is. I also really enjoy that the fruit cups are a good mix and cut into the right size pieces. This place is a gem.
(5)annie r.
thanks to ayako m., i'm all over this place. now i keep taking new people here to share in my little secret. like everyone has said...the chilequiles (with chorizo please!) and the oatmeal shake: perfection. the potatoes are always garlic-y and salty, just the way i like, and the service is good. i have never encountered a wait here, but i wouldn't be surprised if it keeps getting busier and busier.
(5)Theresa W.
I agree that the food is tasty and fresh. I think the decor could use a little bit of work. I love the colors and the restaurant is very clean (including the bathroom). But the huge Grand Opening sign that covers the front window needs to go. They should replace it with a large sandwich board. Also, the space could use some more art work. The sound really bounces around in there and some wall hangings or table cloths might help dampen some of the noise.
(4)