I can only speak about the apple pancakes because they're so unthinkably good I've never tried anything else. The apple pancake descends through an eldritch portal from the Dreamlands where pancakes aren't the bland, flat slabs of dough we're accustomed to here. The Walker Bros apple pancake is a thick, moist, opulent demigod of the breakfast table. These pancakes haunt my dreams.
(5)
Samantha H.
I've been wanting to come to Walker Bros Pancake House ever since I realized it was real place, as referenced in Mean Girls! Yes, I'm easily excitable... You could even call me basic. Anyways, the bf surprised me with a visit here after a very hangry morning that started much later than anticipated. I was so excited when I walked in! The interior is very "old school" looking and reminds me of the Perkins restaurants. Between the two of us, we tried the potato pancakes, blueberry pancakes, eggs and bacon, and the hash browns. The bf loved the potato pancakes but in my opinion they were a bit gummy. They come with sour cream and applesauce. Neither of us were brave enough to try applesauce on our savory pancakes but it sounds interesting. I am not the biggest fan of powdered sugar on my pancakes. I still enjoyed the blueberry pancakes despite this addition. I especially liked the fresh, hot blueberry sauce and the maple syrup. Let's talk about these THICK CUT bacon strips, and four of them no less! Oh my. They aren't crispy like the thin ones, but it's a different kind of appreciation. The hashbrowns were crispy on the outside and very tasty. Not sputtering with grease like a common southern chain I know... The WB Pancake House gets a gold star for this visit. Even with all that we ordered, the bill came to $20. I would make a return visit if ever given the opportunity, but probably wouldn't go out of my way again.
(4)
Edmond L.
Most over rated restaurant. This is the 3rd and last time i visit Walker Bros. I went on a Friday around 10:30am. I was sat immediately. The waitress came by in decent time. I didn't get any coffee for 10 minutes. The food then took 20 minutes. Keep in mind they're not that busy. My omelette was a dry flat brown pillow with hard cheese in the middle. I went with my friend whose corned beef hash was barely cooked. My waitress was no where to be found. I had to walk to the server station and grabbed my own sauces and napkins. Some other customers asked me to take their order! I had to tell them I didnt work there and I was just grabbing my own condiments. Im usually not too upset about these things but if youre charging me that much for breakfast my expectations are a bit higher. My bill came to $23.57 without tip. Thats for a sausage omelette, hash browns and coffee with a side of pancakes. I think Walker Bros have gotten too complacent. They expect people to keep coming no matter what. I think wealthy people like the fact that the high prices drive away families who are on a budget. So if you don't want to sit with the IHOP or Dennys crowd and want mediocre/bad breakfast food and pay almost double for your food this is the place for you.
(1)
David L.
Our family tradition to come to Walker Bros on our birthdays. For some locals it's an everyday spot but we have decided to make our visit a special one by bringing our kids here for a memorable time with family. Our boys will always order waffle with strawberries on the side (doesn't soak up the waffle); and our daughter will have something with hash brown & bacon. For us adults; my wife will almost always get the Vegetarian Omelette with broccoli & swiss/cheddar cheese. Can't forget their never ending coffee (Tip - before you leave; ask for a to-go cup / server will give a fresh coffee on a to-go styrofoam cup). I usually will ordered either the Bacon & Basted Eggs or Venetian Benedict. Never toast; Always Pancakes. Also need to order extra bacon & corn beef hash. Recommendation - Join the E-club ( walkerbros.net/E-Club.ht… ) / You will get special offers each month about their special discounts & a $5-off coupon for your birthday. Your bill will add up at the end so it's nice to have a $5 off coupon at hand. You can't go wrong with any of the Walker Bros. I have been to the Evanston, Glenview, Hyde Park & Lincolnshire. All of their restaurants should be proud of their consistency - very hard to find a chain of restaurants that can provide the same great food and great service on every visit. Great job to management, serving staff & kitchen crew - should be proud!!!!
(5)
Angela S.
Sometimes it seems silly to review a restaurant that's already super established and greatly loved by all. But, then I guess that just means here's one more review to validate the reason this place has been around forever. Walker Bros is a breakfast institution. It's a favorite stop for families and families of families. It's a very respectable place for pancakes, with prices that are a little above average but worth every single penny. For a family of 4 we spent around $35 all in. We ordered up three $5 kids chocolate pancake meals, a side of three very thick bacon strips for $4.50, and an oatmeal trio that included a fantastic bowl of thick steel cut oatmeal with a side of yogurt and fruit - somewhere around $8. Final notes: The coffee is sinfully good, and you'll leave feeling well taken care of. The customer service is great!
(4)
Mouse M.
Love love love their pancakes. My boyfriend and I came in on a Saturday afternoon, the place was PACKED with a line out the door. The line took us at most 10 mins to get through, incredibly fast! We both ordered eggs Benedict with pancakes. The eggs Benedict were cooked to perfection with the most amazing holland aide sauce, you can tell its homemade. The pancakes are so buttery and to die for! Indescribable. They're just that good! Come here for breakfast! Freshly squeezed orange juice, and very friendly service. Our server was very attentive and kind. We drove an hour to have breakfast here, I would do it again.
(5)
Matthew R.
The apple cinnamon pancake is a delicious monstrosity which I'm glad I got the chance to try. Because of the molten sugar on top it's pretty much guaranteed to burn your mouth but because it's so delicious it's hard to stop eating it. Once it cools it gets even better as the sugar gets a sticky caramel consistency. It's defiantly large enough to serve 2. The corned beef hash had a good flavor and was cooked well but they dice everything so small that the texture was off-putting. My friends got the french toast which I didn't care for, it seemed like they quickly dipped the bread in batter instead of soaking it. 3 stars for sure if it wasn't for the pancake which is my new breakfast obsession.
(4)
Bryan B.
This place is a bit overpriced, but the food and service are quite good. if you like giant Belgian waffles and creative options like that, you should be quite happy here They also do all the great omelets!
(3)
Rahul G.
I know people LOVE this place but it's alright IMO. The reason I say that is that for ME, I don't go crazy over all the sweet stuff for breakfast. Sure, the apple pancake is pretty good, but again, not for me. I like good egg dishes and I actually think Walker Brothers misses the mark here big time. The omelettes are okay, nothing crazy good. Not a great selection either. And the hash browns are not good, simply put. Way to soft. I even asked for it to be crispy and just the top was; the rest was still extra stringy and slimy almost. No thanks.
(3)
Adam S.
Service was great. Everything was good but you could tell some items were not made in house (hollandaise for example). The French toast coated in corn flakes and the Apple pancake were very tasty.
(4)
Kanghwan W.
Yeaaaaaa, looovve me some pancakes from walker brothers! There's so much variety in the kinds of pancakes, but I normally go with the original. Not too sure what they put in them, but sooo good and unique. The place is can get expensive, if you get their oj. But man, fresh squeezed like that I can't resist. I always leave this place happy!
(4)
Tony M.
Food was decent, waiter was subpar and bill was expensive.. We had to retrieve our own silverware when the food came and we never received more syrup or refills because our waiter was no where to be found. The kids plates and drinks seemed to be for a toddler. Omelette was very plain and oven baked. I don't know if that's standard but I prefer a regular pan cooked omelette. The apple cinnamon pancake is the only good thing I can say about this place.
(2)
Todd P.
Definitely try to breakfast sandwich. And make sure you order the hashbrowns with no onions!
(5)
Erik K.
I ordered the blue crab meat Benedict, the english muffin was nice and crispy, crab meat was tasty; I like my poached eggs with runny yolks so I feel the eggs could have been cooked 30 seconds less. Nice rich hollandaise sauce paired with capers and lemon juice gave the dish a bright balance. The hash brown with onions was okay. I like my hashbrowns even crispier. Service was good. We were greeted right away and the waitress was approachable.
(4)
Arthur L.
The food here is just okay. It's hot, the service is awful - good luck getting a refill on your coffee, the wait is usually terrible regardless of how busy they are, and it feels claustrophobic. Also, stick to the basics - eggs bacon pancakes - don't get adventurous. Many an out-of-town visitor has left disappointed in the rest of the menu. Yet I've been here with my daughter probably 20 times in the past year because this is the only place she'll eat a full meal. If 20 seems like a lot for a two star rating, it's a reflection of the lack of options nearby and an unwillingness to give up on eating out after leaving the city. For scale, we've probably been to breakfast at Country Kitchen 30 times, the Botanic Gardens cafe 10 times, and other places around 30. Two stars for the best bacon north of Nashville and a bacon lovers plate that would make Ron Swanson shed a tear. Real time update: we just walked out for the second time this summer, after being seated with water, bringing the total number of times we've abandoned hope of being served to 3 out of 20. So the probability that you even get service after being seated is about 85%. We went to Country Kitchen and had a great breakfast with wonderful kid friendly service (bendy straws and a toy from the treasure chest are great, at Walker Bros you get straight straws that are too long for little kids and a bunch of overpriced junk placed strategically so that every kid sees them as you pay). Bottom line: if you're a city transplant and you're expecting breakfast in the north shore to be more Prasino (generic upscale) than Denny's, you are in for disappointment. I recommend Country Kitchen for better service and kid friendliness. For out of town guests, take them to the Botanic Gardens for breakfast; they have a more creative menu with healthy options other than egg whites and subbing tomatoes for hash browns/pancakes.
(2)
Kristen M.
Just moved to highland park and have already been here 5 or 6 times. Everything we get is phenomenal. The bacon waffle is so good I have dreams about it. Beware, you'll be addicted after one bite.
(5)
Sarah Beth B.
I don't like pancakes but I love walker bros. here are a few reasons why: 1. I can walk there from my house. I love anything in HP that I can walk to. 2. THE VEGGIE OMELET. It is heaven. There are so many vegetables and so much cheese. Top it with some ketchup and you dont' need any other foods. 3. Excellent coffee, fresh juices, real cream. 4. The little pots of syrup and dishes of jam are cute. Now remember, it's always full of teenagers and babies, so stay away if that's not your thing (but if it's not, then what are you doing in highland park??)
(4)
Anthony B.
We went here because it was Labor Day and everything else was closed in Highland Park. I really didn't want a breakfasty type place (was more in the mood for Thai), but I do enjoy pancakes so I figured I would give it a chance. I didn't want my typical post-pancake food coma so I ended up ordering the "Healthy Start Medley" which had (2) egg whites scrambled, a small fresh fruit medley and a side of (5) wheat germ granola pancakes for $8.25. It wasn't bad. The issue was we had to flag someone down in order to be seated. It looked as if a nuclear bomb came down at several of the larger tables with un-bussed glasses/dishes left in utter chaos and disarray. All the large parties must have left at once. I guess being the only restaurant open in all of Highland Park created this disaster (and a lack of staff). We walked around, flagged down a manager and he sat us. Also you need to go up to the counter to pay at the end.
(3)
E ..
One word - Mediocre. Absolutely noting was wrong with my breakfast. It was simply unremarkable. In a era where everyone, goes out of their way, to impress diners with presentation and tricky recipes. Walker Bros. I am guessing, its trying to bore you to death. In an odd way, it was refreshing. Unfortunately, I was on the hunt for a GREAT breakfast in the Chicago land region, While I cannot bash Walker Bros., I also cannot recommend it, nothing stood out. I opted for the Signature Southwest Style Omelette, I can hardly remember one thing about it, unremarkable. I felt like I was at your typical, random, personality free, homogenized hotel restaurant, they took the basic model, and offered it at street level, for a premium price, why? Think High End Denny's: Absolutely clean and nice, comfortable climate control, somewhat tasty... Just plain old unremarkable.
(2)
Dave P.
This is one of the best places in Highland Park for breakfast. Have been to this location on multiple occasions and have never been disappointed. Their Venetian Benedict is the best item on the menu though their pancakes are also delicious with blue berry and wheat germ (with granola) at the top of the list. Every server is friendly, service is quick, and the food is top notch.
(5)
Brenda T.
WEAR ELASTIC PANTS! As a southerner, I thought a breakfast without grits would not be complete. Well, I'm a new Walker Brothers fan. I discovered this place as I walked past the shops in downtown Highland Park. I went with their special: Eggs Benedict with blue crab meat and a sliced tomato over an English muffin. The crab was meaty, the eggs perfectly poached, and it was covered with a sinfully rich hollandaise sauce. They sprinkled just enough capers to add a salty and tangy twist. Order pancakes on the side if you want to go all out, or consider the fruit cup to ease your conscience. One of my top breakfast experiences for sure.
(5)
Marisa P.
The atmosphere here is nice, with big booth seating and wooden tables. Breakfast was tasty with fluffy pancakes and crispy bacon. The eggs were a bit runny, but nothing a little tobasco couldn't save. What threw me off was the coffee. For a long-standing breakfast joint the coffee was really bitter. Maybe I just got the bottom of a standing pot, but good coffee is definitely a part of the breakfast experience at this price point. I will definitely be back, but maybe I will stick with that fresh squeezed OJ.
(3)
Joshua R.
Some of the best pancakes I've ever had. Wide variety of flavors and even some seasonal varieties (I had pumpkin spiced). You wait to be seated in a formal wrap around line which looks intimidating, but goes fast. As long as its not out the door, you should be seated in reasonable time.
(4)
Robert A.
The Highland Park Walker Brothers is, hands-down, my favorite breakfast place on the North Shore--and my favorite breakfast-for-lunch and breakfast-for-dinner place as well. The decor is much nice than that at the nearby Country Kitchen, and on a sunny day the eastern room with stained glass overlooking Port Clinton Square is a very pleasant place to be. Portions are large (the "continental" breakfast combo--two eggs, hash browns, pancakes and juice--is a favorite, but I can't think what "continent" they could be referring to, except North America, since nobody tucks away this much food at breakfast but us). And, for when you don't want crepes or waffles or eggs, they make several very good and quite substantial salads. Also, you can swap out a totally credible bialy for your toast--you're not going to get that at IHOP!
(5)
Carmen S.
All I have to say is Dutch Baby!!! If you get a chance to stop here you gave to try the Dutch baby and the apple cinnamon pancake. It's to die for !!! Every time I go to Chicago I eat here at least once. I have not had one bad meal here.
(5)
Rachael B.
The first time I stopped in here was a VERY happy "lets just try this place" kind of thing. We left thrilled with the fact that we just happened upon it. The orange juice is fresh squeezed and you can seriously tell, and the coffee is great too. The real star is their BACON! Best bacon around, it's what I think about when I think of Walker Bros. The pancakes are light and fluffy, French toast is great, all in all everything I've tried here has been amazing! We alway try to stop here when were in town and always leave happy and full!
(5)
Valerie W.
You really can't go wrong with Walker Brothers. Their quality is consistent. Their service is consistent. The food is GOOD. The menu is big enough that you can go regularly and not get tired of it, but also, not so huge that it is overwhelming. There are standards, new favorites, and there is definitely something for everyone. My Grandmother likes to go here because of the atmosphere, the old world pictures and stained glass. I like to go for the thick cut bacon. No, really. No matter what I order, I always get the bacon. And coffee. Always coffee. On my most recent trip to this location, I had the spinach crepes, which are stuffed with fresh spinach, onion, and cheddar cheese, topped with a taste of Hollandaise, and served with three potato pancakes. I was able to eat one crepe (they were stuffed to the GILLS,) one potato pancake, and one and a half slices of bacon, and then I too was stuffed. Leftovers are always good. Don't be intimidated by the line, it ALWAYS moves fast!
(4)
Alyssa L.
Would be so great if not so needlessly EXPENSIVE! I've loved everything I've eaten here, but lets face it...it's a pancake house! How hard is it to have a good breakfast?!? I'm sorry but $50 for two people, at breakfast is just insane to me! Also, the service is spotty. Sometimes they are wonderful and are always ready to help with whatever you need! Other times, they will stick you in a corner and forget about you..where you actually have to flag someone down for a coffee refill. My advice, go to EGG Harbor in Lake Forest. Wonderful staff, innovative and fresh breakfast food; all at a far more reasonable price!
(3)
Sonny P.
I came here with a friend after running the Turkey Trot this past Wednesday. We were seated without wait and service was very good. I would say the portions are big enough and prices were average. The place does have good coffee so that is definitely a PLUS!
(4)
Yumi R.
WOWWWWWW Famous Dutch Apple Pancake. Big enough for 2. Granny smith apples, fluffy, chewy pancake, and topped with gooey carmeleized crisp sugars. The wait is long on the weekends, but it is worth it. This was the best brunch I've had all year.
(5)
Dan R.
Meh. I used to love this place, and the apple pancake is still a unique dish to try. But I was disappointed last time I went to find out they don't use real maple syrup. For a place that bills itself as old fashioned and dedicated to quality ingredients, this was a real disappointment. Next time I'll go to Egg Harbor in Lake Forest, an all around better restaurant.
(3)
Bleep S.
Why wasn't this place in existence when I was growing up in Highland Park. I might not have left... Loved the french crepe: A sweet crepe rolled with fresh strawberries topped with tangerine suzette sauce, strawberries and a light dusting of powdered sugar ..I would like to try other items on the menu ,but I think these would have to be ordered every time. (see photo) Our coffee cups were never empty. Excellent service. My bro liked the buckwheat pancakes with a side of blueberries. Honestly, this was the best breakfast in a restaurant in recent memory. Beautiful atrium atmosphere as well..
(5)
Elaine M.
The real problem with Walker Bros is the attitude. They have been in Highland Park so long and have so many loyal customers that (though not blatant) they give off the vibe that you are lucky to get a table and be served. Over the years I have had many interactions with them that have left me saying "I'll never come back". Somehow, though something comes up that brings me back in. Attitude aside, I do love their "Danish Garden". Filled with veggies on top and covered with creamy Havarti cheese it's the best item on the menu! I do actually crave it at times. Problem: twenty minutes to cook (but worth it if you have the time). If I don't have time to wait for the Danish Garden my go to item is the Continental, Two Eggs any style with hash browns, three buttermilk pancakes & a regular-sized juice of your choice- just good home style cooking. Prices, I think are a little on the high side.
(3)
William E.
A great family restaurant that provides a variety of dishes, including fresh strawberry Belgium waffles, buttermilk and potato pancakes, and a great pico de gallo hash brown. My family comes here at least once a month and we are never disappointed by the food or service.
(5)
Katie R.
Let's just start off by stating the obvious - this may not be the healthiest choice in the world. With that said, the food is great. The menu is pretty standard, so you've got to be in a mood for a classic breakfast. I've had egg white omelets, spicy pico de gallo hashbrowns, oatmeal, pancakes, waffles, bialys, potato pancakes, the whole nine yards.. Everything is great. The pancakes are my favorite - though I'm not one to douse my pancakes in butter, their light fluffy butter is phenomenal and the flavor of the pancakes is spot on. We've only had bad service once in the many times that we've been here. The decor is pretty standard of a pancake house, although if you get to sit in the sun room with all the stained glass the experience is much nicer.
(4)
Jennifer L.
It's a typical Walker Brothers.... GREAT food. I love their food. My biggest complaint, and my hinderance from coming here more often - is the cost. All WB's are SO bloody expensive, they should be ashamed. It's highway robbery. Every now and then - usually at the suggestion of someone else - we'll go here. But I do not go very often. But, if you don't mind paying $30 for two for a breakfast - then by all means, come here 5 times a week.. because the food is absolutely delicious! And the food seems pretty consistent across all locations.
Apple Pancake "Get it, get it, get it!" (imagine that to the Jaws theme) But that wasn't a threat, a suggestion, and the only predators were us devouring that monster. The Apple Pancake is their specialty filled with fresh apples and covered in Sinkiang cinnamon and sugar glaze. This is not a typical pancake. It reminded me of those old sci fi movies or cartoons where two people would enter a transposer device to exchange bodies and unfortunately it goes awry and they're melded together. Meaning it's a cross between monkey bread and an apple fritter. A mutant behemoth. That happens to taste great and feed two or more. But even though it was just two diners we also ordered the Vegetarian with cheese omelet with fresh broccoli, tomatoes, onions, and mushrooms. With a choice of Swiss or Cheddar. We got Cheddar. Again huge, but good. If I got an omelet again I'd get the Medi Omelet because it sounded to me like more interesting flavors. Or sub the tomatoes in the Vegetarian (I'm mildly allergic). The atmosphere is so quaint with all the wood work, stained glass, and big booths. Service terrific. Coffee piping hot and fresh. There's a branch in Wilmette and Lincolnshire and all are great. It's a north shore institution for a reason (why else would a gift certificate to Walker Bros. be the prize for Spring Fling in Mean Girls? I keed it's just a classic). "Try it, try it, try it!"
(5)
Cassie S.
Apple pancake, dutch baby, really any of their pancakes and waffles, you just can't go wrong. The omelettes are only OK - gigantic but the cheese is not very evenly distributed and they don't come with potatoes or anything (just toast). I'd rather have slightly smaller omelette plus potatoes (but maybe that's just me). This location is rarely as crowded as the one in Wilmette - we usually come for dinner on weekends and never have trouble getting a table. Brunch time may be different but that's to be expected at a brunch staple like this (which, incidentally, is a huge step up from anywhere else I've ever breakfasted in H ighland Park).
(4)
Joel A.
If you have a choice between Lincolnshire or Highland Park go to Lincolnshire. The service, staff and atmosphere in The Highland Park Walker Brothers just sucks. Never been to a restaurant with such good food have such a lousy feel to the place. Noisy and rude customers. A wait staff that is numb to reality. Just not fun to eat good food with such a cruddy atmosphere.
(2)
Emily G.
A pancake house with fake maple syrup? I'm not a food snob, but that's surprising and disappointing, especially in upscale Highland Park. If I return, I'm bringing my own bottle. The pancakes are fine and the OJ fresh-squeezed, but the corn syrup makes everything taste like a cafeteria.
(2)
Mark H.
Definitely a great way to finish that overnight date, a special occasion or if you are simply a breakfast lover. Walker Bros has perfected making breakfast. No hyperbole. Everyone loves their pancakes from Apple to German but their omelets are a major hit as well. The quality. The freshness. The Kona coffee. On top of that if you have that fix for a lox and bagel this spot competes with the best of them. Prices are reasonable. Expect long lines though.
(5)
Gillian D.
Baked Mediterranean omelet was wonderful. Mitchell had the Danish breakfast and it was even better. Gorgeous views and extra clean restaurant. Expect to wait in line for up to 30 minutes during peak breakfast hours but it's worth it.
(5)
J M.
Almost always perfect. Good solid quick meal any time other than sat/sun mornings. As others have said, priced are a bit steep. $45 for two people is a lot. We'd definitely would go more often if it wasn't so expensive.
(4)
Jimmy B.
A friend and I spent the morning at a car show nearby and were getting hungry. he suggested Walker Brothers and I couldn't remember the last time I had been to one so I said sure. The place was pretty busy for a Saturday morning and we waited about 5-10 minutes to get a seat. I remember waiting 30-40 minutes in the past at the Glenview location so this was a good sign. I am a huge hash brown fan. I loved cheese, mushroom, and onions mixed in so that was the first thing I ordered. I have to admit, I was more pleased with the end result than I thought I would be. I also ordered the Crispy-Crunchy French toast. As you might guess, it's like french toast sprinkled with crumbs of corn flakes. It was topped with bananas powder sugar, and whipped cream. Again, I had no idea it would be that good. You can't go wrong with the food at Walker Brothers. It may not be the first choice for breakfast, but it is in the top 3 for me.
(4)
Ide C.
Yes sometimes u hv to wait on the weekend but it is always worth the wait. The best pancakes in town. Also the French toast and waffles are excellent. U must hv a side of bacon. Yum! Eggs are terrific too. U will come back again and again!
(5)
John G.
The menu needs an update. The pancakes are great but the rest is so underwhelming! You can chose between plain and more plain.
(3)
Lila S.
Awesome service! Apple pancake, and omelette were excellent! They have a very efficient seating arrangement and we were in and out really quickly even though it was Sunday brunch time. Coffee was also freshly brewed and tasty.
(4)
Jimmy M.
My wife and I decided to try out Walker Bros. on the fly one Saturday morning. We got there a bit early compared to the normal breakfast crowd, so we were seated immediately. The staff was nice and very attentive. I ordered a cup of coffee, the crab eggs benidict and a side of corned beef hash. The coffee was decent but a bit bitter. The eggs benidict was good, with a good sauce and quality crab. Pancakes came on the side and though i wasn't impressed, they were nothing to push away either. The corned beef hash was a bit of a let down. It was very oniony and the corned beef was almost a paste. Also the corned beef was $5.50. That seems a bit steep for just a side order of sub-par corned beef hash. We walked out spending about $40 for the two of us. If i would have been impressed that price would have been very palatable, but almost $3 for a soda and about the same for a bitter cup of coffee? I will keep searching for a go-to breakfast spot.
(3)
Jim M.
So much has been said, but I've only been here a handful of times during my visits home. Their food is excellent and the service is pretty good. In their defense, they're quite busy, so it's fine. A great place to get a good breakfast, especially if you enjoy pancakes the size of your face. (I prefer the eggs benedict myself)
(4)
Linda H.
All the staff except the hostess is wonderful. She was extremely difficult, jockeying us around unnecessarily before seating us, with a condescending smile on her face. With people looking for jobs, you would think she would have more respect.
(2)
Alan S.
Very good food. Great service. Reasonable cost. Tasty hash browns. The germs pancakes are very good. Will definitely come back.
(5)
Mike P.
On par with the other great locations in the Northern burbs. Service with a smile and hot food and coffee. The jam and butter they give you with your toast is the best. Prices are a little more than my typical greasy spoon, but the napkins are also a little whiter. It's no deal-breaker. Love the location in the heart of downtown Highland Park. Easy access to and from the Metra, lots of shops and cafes in the area.
(4)
Frank N.
Love the foods here... The crowds are insane if you go at peak breakfast time - But WELL worth it. The fresh squeezed juice is perfect and the waffles, crepes, pancakes, etc are to die for. The only thing missing from this place is Southern grits!
(5)
Luke S.
Be ready for a huge line on the weekends, but this place is a North Shore must! If you're in the mood to pig out the apple pancake is one of the best menu items you'll find at any restaurant. You really can't go wrong with anything. Be forewarned, the omelets are different in that they are much fluffier than most breakfast places.
(5)
Brittney E.
My boyfriend and I went 2/7/13..at 9:30 AM it wasn't busy. We where seated very fast but in a part with no windows? It was very dark and we didn't feel comfortable at all. The waitress was very pushy as soon as we sat. We told her to give us a few minutes but she insisted to take our drink orders...the Latte tasted like dirt and the green tea after being in hot water for 15 min. tasted like water and lemon? She then came to take our order... I told her I was allergic to gluten...at the time she didn't mention they had a gluten free menu? Which I found out later... I then told her what I wanted...but she then started to argue with me about it? Saying they can't add things to an omelet? So ordered what she told me to order and my boyfriend order. Then he went to look for a bathroom and noticed their was a table on the other side with a beautiful view...so we moved our own things over after asking the waitress if we could move....she didn't offer to help? So we moved hen our food came....we got everything plus the receipt? OK....so your rushing us out ? Both of us left still hungry....our food was very bad:( $40.00....for bad service, felt rushed, food horrible, waitress name: Anne .....won't be back!
(1)
Diana P.
Sorry Walker Bros fans, I'm not into this place. I find it to be a "dirty diner" with flavorless food, nothing special and def not a healthy option. Crowds are insane on weekends and I always wonder, WHY!? Is it because of the hype this place gets or maybe the quality of how it USED to be? Who knows...either way, I don't want to come back.
(2)
Allison M.
I don't get what all the hype is about. Maybe it's that, for most Highland Park residents, this place is seen through the foggy rose-colored lens of childhood. To me, it always feels a little dark and dingy, a little long-in-the-tooth, with all the wood paneling and old discolored windows. The selection of food on the menu is good-- nothing outrageously great; their breakfast items beyond pancakes are a little lacking. The food quality is definitely quite good; last time I came I got the 'healthy start' breakfast, simply because I couldn't decide what I wanted. It comes with two scrambled egg whites (which I swapped out for two eggs over easy-- the waiter asked me if I wanted yolks. I wanted to say no just to see what happened), a side of fruit, and some of their granola pancakes, which were actually fairly mindblowing (although it may just be that I haven't tasted butter in a while). The whole meal, though, they never refilled my water, and it was just a random Tuesday, not busy at all. And even though you pay up front, unlike at IHOP, you have to split up your check at the table. It doesn't make any sense. There are much better breakfasts in the North Shore, even if it means driving up to Lake Forest or down to Evanston, I think it's worth it.
(3)
Spencer H.
The atmosphere is very nice with all the stained glass & special wood work. There are more restaurants in Schaumburg, Lincolnshire, Buffalo Grove & a few other places & they are all pretty good but this is one of my favorite. The location in downtown Highland Park adds to the atmosphere & after breakfast you can walk around & go to the various shops. The coffeee was hot & fresh & the hot chocolate was delicious. Even the whip cream on top tasted fresher than most places. The service here was great & they were very hospitable. The food is the best part. I got the eggs benedict & it was one of the best that I have had. Overall the service was good & the food was great & I look forward to eating here again.
(4)
Duncan M.
Apple Pancake, French Crepes, Eggs Benedict, oh, and BACON : ) Those are definitely my favorite things at Walker Bros. Been going to this location since I was a kid. It can definitely get crowded on the weekends. Also, I feel like the coffee is maybe not as good as it was say ten years ago. Although this may just be psychological since they switched from nice coffee cups with saucers to just regular diner coffee mugs. Kinda miss the old cups, they were a bit classier, but I guess it was more dishes for the kitchen staff to do. I sometimes prefer the Lincolnshire location. For some reason it doesn't seem as crowded, I think the space might be bigger. Also they have a private lot so it's a lot easier to find parking. Very good food, and a good place to catch up with family.
(4)
Sandy O.
Breakfast is my FAVORITE meal of the day. I travel now for work and have vowed to ditch the drive thru and make time to stop for breakfast when traveling! So, while in Highland Park for business, I used the handy iphone YELP app and found Walker Bros Original Pancake House! What a find!!!!! I read reviews that this place can get very busy but luckily I arrived mid week at 9am and there were no lines! My waiter was so attentive and made me feel welcome, which is always nice when dining alone. I love french toast and rarely order it out because my fiancee and I make "to die for" french toast at home. But, once I saw the crispy french toast on the menu (battered with corn flakes) - I had to try it. I also ordered my bacon extra crispy with an unsweet iced tea. I love the way the iced tea came to the table - set on an adorable bowl-like cup holder. So dainty and cute garnished with a nice fresh lemon. The french toast came topped with fresh whipped cream and caramelized bananas. My bacon was super crispy just like I requested. It was hard to stop eating the french toast because it was that good! I did leave behind two slices because it was so filling, but trust me - I wanted to fit it in or share it with someone because I really didn't want to waste it. The interior of the restaurant is adorable and quaint. Stained glass windows surround the walls and the hard wood moldings were beautiful. The place was immaculately clean and homey. The service was excellent. It really had a home town feel and very friendly staff from the hostess, to the waiter, to the bus boy, to the cashier. I just love this place and wish we had something like this at home. Please view my pictures posted on this site as well.
(5)
Coleen A.
All the hype I heard from friends, reviews, articles, etc., I wanted to love this place. The wait for seating is kind of odd. Most places, you walk in and, if there's a wait, you give your name and be patient. Here, they kind of herd you like cattle through a maze. Once we were seated, I noticed the stained glass right away - very pretty! The coffee is really good: some kind of Kona blend. My husband and dining companion had the cherry kijafa crepes. He liked them a lot; I sampled them and they were quite tasty! I however, had the bacon pancakes. What did I expect? A contrast in sweet/salty taste and fluffy/crispy texture. What did I get? Tasteless cake, overdone bitter exterior and chewy bacon. I know this place has the knack to present great food, but the bacon pancakes aren't it. I'll definitely try another dish next time. Service was menza menza: our server never did stop back to check on us before presenting the check.
(3)
Arthur L.
My wife and I out for a drive from the city, and found this place. A little crowded (expected for a Sunday). Line move fast, seated in nice atrium. Food was good and piping hot. One complaint, Corn beef is grinder to much!!! Still had good flavor but, felt as though I was eating mush!!! Shame, would've been much better if not for that.
(3)
Allen B.
Best to avoid the busy brunch crowd, but otherwise this place is great. But even when they are busy, once seated I never felt rushed. Where else can you get a baked omelet? Baked, not fried, much heathier, with a lot of good options. They also have a gluten free menu, but you have to ask for it. Consistently good everytime I've been there. Not overly friendly staff, but pleasant enough, in fact absolutlely fine considering how efficient they are even when busy. A little pricey, but worth it for what you get.
(5)
Dave P.
Great food, great service. The manager Hank was very nice and accommodating for our unique situation, much appreciated. Will keep coming back.
(5)
David B.
Walker Brothers is always good. I go to the one in Highland Park and the one in Vernon Hills. The food is consistent and tasty. I've only had breakfast here, but I'm never disappointed. They do a great job accommodating kids. I bring mine here and I think it is their favorite place to eat out for breakfast. Also, when relatives visit, I usually bring them here. The staff is a typical sort of staff for a pancake house. They get the job done.
(4)
Stephen P.
When a friend asked us to meet here, the "Walker Bros" part of the name made it a surprise that this is the chain that goes simply by "Original Pancake House" in the rest of the country. The Walker Brothers were early franchisees, although this Highland Park location isn't nearly as old as you'd first think. The menu, as far as I can recall, is the same as I've encountered in locations in other states -- which is to say, quite a delicious variety of pancakes. The line can get long, but it's a big restaurant and it moves along quite quickly.
(3)
Andrea B.
Ever since my days living in Oregon I've been a big fan of OHOP. Nothing compares to the Portland original that kicked it all off, but it is great to these franchises across the country so I don't have to be homesick for delish pancakes. For some reason this particular group of franchises doesn't list strawberry pancakes on their menu, but they have all the fixings for it listed under their Belgian waffles. Get the buttermilk pancakes with fresh strawberries and strawberry syrup and you will be in breakfast heaven. I tend to skip the breakfast meats though, they are pricey and always taste like they were cooked hours ago and then reheated.
(4)
Shanna K.
GLUTEN FREE PANCAKES?!?!?! WTF?!?!?!?! So this place - yes - serves Gluten Free Pancakes and they're actually not too shabby especially with the yummy maple syrup! APPLE CRAZY DUTCH OVEN PANCAKE! So this thing is the size of a miniature cake with warm soft apple slices and this Cinnamon glaze sugar crust that is SO UNHEALTHY FOR BREAKFAST that you just can't help but love it. Bottom line, It tasted great. BUT I do not suggest you eat it on your own (we split it between 3 people) OTHER STUFF: Their breakfast stuff is pretty standard and tastes similar to a breakfast you can get anywhere else, so I suggest going for their signature dishes.
(3)
Liz K.
Went with my aunt to have a late breakfast/breakfast for lunch with our cousins. I had a lot of morning stuff, but no pancakes. Probably should've tried those since that's what this place is known for... Very busy when we got there - yet only waited for about 10 minutes before we were seated. Good breakfast place, but wouldn't be one to go out of my way to return.
(3)
Melissa F.
The fact that there is a line out the door and the fact that this place (OK, this chain) was mentioned in Mean Girls? Neither are coincidences. There is a lot of hype surrounding Walker Brothers, but it's because it's good at what it does - make a kickass breakfast. I've had bites of the apple pancake before. If I had the entire thing, I'd go into a food coma, which would be unfortunate. The pancakes are fantastic and come with butter and syrup. I strayed from the comparatively healthy side (part?) of the menu featuring omelettes (the Santa Fe is excellent and comes with surprisingly good salsa)...I broke down and got wheat germ pancakes. Sounds sketchy...but actually delicious. And you can pretend you're healthy. Win win! Even the sides are good and don't receive the afterthought treatment. Turkey sausage links are a leaner alternative and just as seasoned and yummy, for instance. Sometimes there are annoying lines, but I just don't go early on during weekends. Even if you wait in line, though, it's worth it. The service is usually prompt and courteous - I've never experienced problems.
(5)
Dan D.
Never was a waitress so rude (waitress name is Lily) and so unprofessional to me at a restaurant. Although Walker Bros is a well-worthy famous establishment, I need to really give a 1-star review simply for failing to not only to give a good experience, but to correct it.... Lemme fill you in the details... We came here on a Saturday around 5pm for dinner (not a big crowd for dinner on weekends, so we thought ti'd be perfect). My friends ordered omelets and I ordered the grilled cheese with hash-browns. The omelets were not cooked completely... still gooey and runny on the inside. Further, they had no flavor, even with the additional ingredients. But more depressing was my grilled cheese sandwich. Like really, How can a great restaurant mess up a grilled cheese sandwich? Surprisingly, Walker Bros found a way! :-( The bread was super soggy, and the cheese was burned - not to mention in the shape of the packaged square slices that you buy at the grocery... and just two tiny slices of cheese. To recap... soggy bread, two burned pieces of cheese, and a quarter slice of bacon for the price of $7! Oh geez Walker Bros. Of course, maybe it was just that we came during the afternoon service instead of the morning rush. HOWEVER, we had the waitress (named LILY) with a severe resentment. Upon sitting down, she took our orders in a very depressing voice and physically expressed her dissatisfaction with being at work. All of us at the table noticed this.... But we understand. Sometimes we all have a bad day. Then, I asked for a refill for water. She said in a very immature way, "Really?.... Fine..." Wow, sorry for inconveniencing you for doing your job. Swing and a miss -- STRIKE ONE. Then when the food arrived, I asked for ketchup and hot sauce for the hash-browns. Lily (the waitress) slowly walked away, came back 5 minutes later, and without even stopping, SLAMMED the ketchup and tobasco on the table. Not an accidental drop, but a definite SLAM with attitude. Geez, I never knew that asking for ketchup/hotsauce was an insult in Highland Park! Another swing and a miss -- STRIKE TWO. LIly (the waitress) stepped up to bat one last time. After giving us the check, I noticed that the bill had an incorrect charge for extra soup instead of extra hash-browns (not a big $ difference, but money is still money). When I kindly mentioned this to the waitress, she said, "Well, after I enter it on the computer, I cannot make any changes." I said, "But YOU put the incorrect charge on the bill...." She said, "Well, once its done, its done." I said, "Really? But why should I overpay even if it isn't my fault???" Finally I talked to the manager and this situation was corrected without any problem. The way it should have been. Upon leaving the restaurant, the waitress barked "You ONLY saved 49 cents" and walked off as if that justified her aggressiveness on not wanting to change the bill. Lily swung hard and missed again -- STRIKE THREE! SHE'S OUT! (And we were out too.... OUT of a pleasant dinner experience and OUT of 49 cents ----- this was now Lily's tip left on the table).
(1)
Caroline J.
This restaurant is very close to my heart. I grew up eating here. When I did well in school, my parents would take me here for Chocolate Chippies (a chubby child's dream come true). In high school, when my friends and I wanted to grab something for breakfast before school, we would come here (and eat Chocolate Chippies). When I had a bad breakup with a mean guy, I came here to eat...Chocolate Chippies. Walker Brothers has been delicious since day one, and even as the time, servers menu and management change, this restaurant stays the same. Obviously I like the Chocolate Chippies; I'm sorry, I'm sorry of a dark chocaholic. These pancakes are not overwhelmingly chocolatey, which I love. There is just enough to smother across each pancake, and don't forget to add just a little bit of butter to help the smothering process along. Syrup? Not necessary, but a little bit can't hurt. As my palette matured and my waist line just couldn't take it anymore, I moved onto something more simple like the Continental Breakfast which is two hash browns, toast and a glass of comforting freshly squeezed orange juice (who needs apple or cranberry with that kind of OJ?!?). Also, I became a favorite of their oven baked omelettes. Yes, oven baked. Come with an appetite. because you will need it. A little bit of a crust of cheesy, eggy happiness with the soft tender loving of a good omelette on the inside. Their eggs in The Continental, when scrambled, are PERFECT. NEVER runny, soft, fluffy and addicting. Hash browns? No cheese and onions necessary unless you need an extra helping of cheesy love to start your day. My favorite though? Why, PANCAKES of course! Now, when I found out I needed to eat gluten-free, I thought my longstanding, never wavering relationship with Walker Brothers was over. Oh no, it was just beginning. Who has a GF menu and servers who are actually knowledgeable about GF? WALKER BROTHERS! Oh those pancakes. OH THOSE PANCAKES! Anyone who is GF knows how terrible GF pancakes can be. They either A. Taste like chickpeas or B. Are too heavy, carby and lack a buttery flakiness that makes a pancake a pancake. Walker Brothers took the love they have in their regular pancakes and tossed it into the gluten free pancakes. These GF pancakes are so good that you need only a couple drops of syrup and just a whole lot of butter...because who would waste fluffy whipped butter? Right? Oh, and just in case, they'll make their Venecia Benedict gluten free (no English Muffin) and maybe slide you a side of pancakes to make up for your English Muffin loss. So if you're looking for breakfast, start a tradition amidst the beautiful stained glass windows of Walker Brothers and find comfort in every single morsel you eat at this restaurant. Every calorie and extra jiggle in your step is worth it if it comes from here.
(5)
Fate O.
Husband had potato pancakes. He said there's hardly any pancake flavor but it was not too bad. Ate them all. I had chocolate crepe. It was a bit too chocolatey for me though it was not too bad either especially with strawberries included. Fate said IHOP is better but I've always like non-chain restaurants. By the way, they're offering 25% off on apple pancakes b/c tis the season of apples! I didn't try it b/c picture of it didn't look appealing to me! :) (This was written in October 2011, Yelp on iphone only do drafts, not submission.
(3)
Dave C.
I grew up in Highland Park and this place is a staple for breakfast on the weekends. The lines can be crazy and the people are usually even crazier so don't try and roll the dice and hit this place Saturday morning. This is a warning if you are one of those "don't talk to me until after the first cup of coffee" people. Kids are usually crying and parents are usually oblivious to it. It is the HP way I guess... That being said, on to the review. The service here is excellent. They are super fast and the bus boy can take your order, the waitress can take your order. I think even the Host will take your order. They are all about turning the tables here but for some reason I never feel rushed. They know the exact right time to stop by the table to see how you are doing. I usually go with the Coffee which is quite good here. Their chocolate milk is also amazing. It is like half whipped cream which sings to the inner fat kid in everyone :-) The Forty-Niner Flapjacks are a favorite of my brothers. Super thin and delish pancakes that are laid out over a big ass plate. The Belgium waffles are gigantic and very good. They are also light and airy with a nice crisp. I usually like to get the omelets here, the western omelet is crazy good. From what I can remember, don't expect an omelet to have cheese if it doesn't state it, make sure to just have em add it in. Every once and a while I like to take a trip back to my childhood and get the "Chocolate Chippy" pankcakes. These are just silver dollar pancakes packed with chocolate chips and covered in whipped cream. Health food at it's best. The corn beef hash is also quite good here, since the eggs they make are cooked to perfection. Corn Beef Hash with an egg over easy on top... nom nom nom. If you are in HP for some reason I recommend this place if you have an hour or two to kill for b-fast. Check it out.
(5)
Corey B.
Good food, but the service is poor and the place is typically being overrun with kids. Maybe it's me, but I remember walker bros from my youth being a classier place.
(3)
Pamela I.
I grew up going to the Wilmette Walker Bros and of course I love it. I now live far away, but return when I visit the North Shore. I usually go to the HP location. The last few times I was unimpressed. The hosts have practically ignored me on my most recent visits, until the last time a few Saturdays ago when I was helped by a nice (manager?) blond woman who helped me and my friends to find the perfect table. I also had a large to go order and she was very helpful and I ended up with exactly what I needed. I thought I was going to have to start driving all the way back to Wilmette. I would recommend the omelets, apple pancakes, pigs in a blanket, German pancakes, I don't think I have ever made it to lunch. I have one problem though! Why oh why do you not serve avocado? For the life of me I can't figure it out.
(5)
Ruby C.
Seriously, the wheat germ and granola pancakes are soooo good, they make me want to slap my mother. They are literally one of the best things I ever ate.
(4)
Robert B.
Love the dutch baby since I was a kid
(5)
Carolyn G.
I LOVE breakfast. In fact, I love breakfast so much that I suggested we go out to breakfast for lunch one afternoon. A co-worker suggested Walker Bros. I'd heard rave reviews of Walker Bros., and I've driven by the Wilmette location and have seen horrendous lines so I figured it must be really good, right? Wrong. When we walked in, I was immediately overcome with this feeling that we had walked into a Denny's. Not that there's anything wrong with Denny's, but it just didn't seem to fit in Highland Park. I perused the menu and struggled to find exactly the right dish... one that combined eggs or french toast, hashbrowns, and sausage. Let's be real, that's my idea of heaven. But, alas, none of the options offered all of these things. And, to add either hashbrowns or sausage as a side dish was ridiculously expensive (in mind anyways). So, I settled on the spinach crepes which came with two potato pancakes. The spinach crepes were good, but the melted cheese inside was overwhelming. The potato pancakes were okay, but they were a little overcooked (they were JUST this side of burned). The service was good, but I doubt I'll go back. I prefer Lucky Platter (Evanston) or Mrs. D's (Wilmette).
(2)
Amy G.
I remember coming to Walker Brothers as a gawky, awkward teenager with my gawky, awkward friends during high school (Go Giants?) on late-start days and between final exams. Yum. The service can be a little slow and the lines are often horrendous but the pancakes are completely worth the wait. The star of the menu, of course, is the ever-famous apple pancake, a huge slab of cakey breakfast goodness covered in cinnamon, brown sugar, and caramelized apples. The Dutch Baby is something to contend with; a huge, thin, light pancake topped with powdered sugar. And finally, my favorite, the chocolate crepes, light and sweet, filled with melted chocolate, and covered in strawberries and powdered sugar. Definitely pick up a frozen apple pancake too. They make great desserts for small gatherings of people-- seriously, they're that rich!-- and your house will smell heavenly for a good day after baking.
(4)
Lynn S.
Restaurants you frequent everytime you return to your hometown are so comfortable and familiar that you take them for granted. That is exactly why I missed reviewing an old favorite, this particular Walker Brothers restaurant. You can get much more than pancakes from their extensive menu, but the Dutch Baby (served with lemon wedges and powdered sugar on the side) is wonderfully light. I have never had trouble getting my coffee cup refilled or my bacon extra crispy (not burned). They do a traditional eggs Benedict or a delicious eggs Valencia, as well as Pigs in a blanket (code for: three sausages wrapped in a pancake). Arrive at off-hours if you hate waiting. It's not unusual for there to be a 20 minute wait at mealtimes and on weekends. What I most enjoy about this particular location is the magnificent leaded glass that distinguishes their entry lobby and dining room. This restaurant is one of a group that you can count on for a great breakfast or lunch. Located along the main street in the upscale town of Highland Park, there's a public garage for parking just around the corner. Walker Brothers has certainly earned a spot in any list of Northshore institutions and I never miss a chance to indulge...
(5)
Jen C.
The apple pancake is probably enough for a crowd of six, but I've had no problem polishing it off with groups half that size. It's also a good excuse to have what's essentially a rich dessert for breakfast/brunch. Bonus points since Robert Redford shot some scenes for his Oscar-winning Ordinary People here.
(4)
Ronni G.
Great pancakes and waffles. Try the apple pancake. Dutch pancake or bacon waffle. Experience is marred, however, by inattentive staff. A refill on my cup of coffee would have been appreciated. They did make my son a new batch of pancakes when they put on the butter and powdered sugar he asked them to leave off.
(3)
Mr H.
Breakfast for dinner! What a novel idea ! I can't believe it took me YEARS to think about coming here for dinner. I only thought about Walker Bros for Sunday Mornings ! 6:30pm, Crisp bacon, pancakes and eggs !
(4)
Karen K.
Ok, so I didnt order the fancy pants pancakes. We did order an omelette combo that was pretty decent. The bacon was strange though, baked I believe.
(3)
Patrick C.
My friends and I used to have a Saturday morning routine here all through high school... Now living in the DC area, I still can't find a place that comes even close to Walker Bros. I'm a huge fan of the German Pancake. Their buttermilk pancakes and potato pancakes are excellent as well. You also can't go wrong with their fresh squeezed juice. I came back to Chicago recently and it's still the same as when I left for college... Excellent food at a reasonable price.
(4)
Mike L.
Always a good breakfast spot. Venetian benedict is my favorite here followed by belgian waffle with a scoop of vanilla ice cream.
(4)
Liz S.
Oh goodness, who would've thought that an apple pancake could conjure up drool from a grown woman. But, indeed it does. Walker Brother's apple pancakes are as big as a dinner plate and about two inches high. There's enough brown sugar on one pancake to last you a week. Also, if you're able to finish a whole pancake then you are my new hero. Bless Walker Brother's soul, cause they now have take home pancakes. They honestly are heaven sent, cause when you just don't want to go anywhere you can just pop these delicious goodies in the oven and eat them in bed. Almost anything else you get from here will be good too, but don't pass up the apple pancake. Oh, and they have fresh squeezed apple juice.
(5)
Joyce L.
So talk about comfort food...this takes comfort food breakfast to a whole new level. I have been going to Walker Bros since I was a kid and you know what, it hasn't changed! Still yummy, still cookin' it up with real butter and of course, you will be consuming thousands of worth-every-calorie with each bite. IMHO, stick with the pancakes. Any kind.
(5)
O B.
this place was always a favourite of mine, often ordering an omlette or eggs of some kind. to my delight on my last visit i noticed they had introduced a gluten free pancake. and boy was i impressed! wonderful fluffy pancakes. certainly a must for any gluten free foodie who misses their pancakes at breakfast
(5)
Kathy M.
The food is good here and the portions are very large - but the service is absolutely horrible. Since the food here isn't cheap - service really needs to be bumped up a notch (actually, a lot more than a notch). We used to eat here more frequently, but stopped a few years ago because I hate to frequent places when the wait staff acts like they are doing me a favor to wait on me or they flat out forget that I'm there. A friend insisted on going for a birthday lunch recently. It was early afternoon - very slow for a Friday. The waitress took our order, dropped off the food and drinks and then just disappeared. We had to flag down another waiter for a refill and to go boxes. Then, the manager-type person walked over to our table and moved the bill from the edge of the table to in front of one of my friends. That was the ultimate in rude - considering his employee forgot we were even there. He then took off before we could complain. When we went to pay our bill - the check out person asked us how everything was - and we told her. The service was horrible - we were forgotten. "Thank you for coming" (end of discussion) Service is just awful here whether they are busy or slow - I don't understand why anyone would stand in line for this. Next time some one suggests this place for a special occasion, I'll come up with a convenient excuse.
(1)
Stefanie W.
YES. Walker Brothers rules! I don't know what they do to their eggs, but they are always fluffy perfection. Pancakes or crepes covered in fruit - the options all sound so delicious, I always have a hard time figuring out what to order. You have not lived until you've had a Walker Bros apple pancake. Service is usually cheery and prompt, with the occasional ornery waitress. If you insist on having a weekend meal here, be prepared for a (well worth it) wait.
(5)
Daddy O.
A North Shore Staple! Whenever I come to Chicago to visit family and friends, the trip is not complete without a visit to Walker Bros. Traditionally I visit the HP location because it's close to my grandmother's place. OMG their apple pancakes are TO DIE FOR. Seriously. It's so sweet and gooey and rich and and and...see now I'm drooling. You may wish to consider sharing. Also, a line forms to get in for brunch on weekend mornings. Expect a wait to get in.
(5)
E M.
Best potato pancakes and corn beef hash to be found. German pancake is really big and light, too. A must visit spot whenever I'm in the area. I prefer this location to the others, too.
(5)
Lindley E.
Lingonberries. Ikea and Walker Brothers...who knew they had anything in common...Go for the dutch baby.... Get in line on the weekends...be prepared to wait. This is pancake fare, served proper-like.
(4)
Susan K.
Great, consistent food and good waiters. Nice decor. The hostesses on the weekends seem tired and as if they can't believe they have to lower themselves to do this job. You don't have to deal with them much though.
(4)
Jonathan F.
Reliable and family-friendly, this is my regular spot to take the kids for our "dinner w/daddy" Wednesdays when we give mommy a couple of evening hours to herself. Even though they usually get pancakes and bacon, both kids enjoy eating some of the matzoh ball soup, too. There are lots of families with young kids and older folks here at the early end of the dinner hour.
(4)
Anne W.
I give the apple pancake, specifically, 5 stars. Everything else here is pretty much a 3 - so we'll compromise and go with 4 stars. They now have frozen apple pancakes to go - and you heat them in the oven for a 1/2 hour and everyone who doesn't know better will be begging for the recipe - fabulous! I recently had a brunch at our house for people from out of town, and everyone raved about the apple pancakes we offered up for dessert ;) If you eat-in, the line moves fast, even when it is out the door. This is not a place to linger over coffee, they keep the tables moving, but waitstaff is polite and efficient. Pancakes in general and fresh juices are good. Omlettes are okay. Crepes, not as good as I wanted them to be but okay, as well. Really, this is a pancake place - take it at face value and you'll enjoy.
(4)
Stephen D.
Great food, but fake maple syrup? That's pretty disappointing. And true -- I asked the waiter for real maple syrup, and he said "sorry, we don't use it." Service is also hit or miss, but it seems better than it used to be.
(4)
Phillip B.
Service can be slow at times, but besides that, you know what you are getting at Walker Brothers. The breakfast food is awesome and I never have problems, but I am sure if you did they would bring a brand new order right back out for you. I love the location and its a great place to go for breakfast on the weekends.
(4)
Steve O.
Really good food. Honestly I prefer a breakfast place that isn't too clean, rough around the edges, and a little greasy. This is the exact opposite. So squeaky clean that my wife has to drag me there. But I always leave full and happy.
(5)
Nancy B.
a little pricey great decor but worth both the wait ????? often especially on the weekends but the food is always spot on.....wonderful everyone should go!!!!!!!!!!!!!!! I have been going to Walker Bros the 1st one in Wilmette for way too long to admit go
(5)
Rachel H.
I've been to several of the other locations but this is my usual. Where was I the day my sister was born way back in 1984? Celebrating at this very restaurant with my babysitter by chomping on a Walker Bros. apple pancake of course. Since then I've dared to try other things such as the challah french toast and I always love a side of crispy hashbrowns with onions. While I agree that the fresh squeezed OJ is top notch, my heroin like addiction to tomato juice keeps me away from it. Sometimes its pretty busy but its always worth the wait.
(5)
Kathryn M.
The boy and I used to have a HP Sunday morning routine. The gist of our morning was: roll out of bed, decide that we're hungry, call Walker Brothers, order 2 apple pancakes, throw on some clothes, pick up apple pancakes 15 minutes after the phone call, get Starbucks, go home, eat till we burst. Seriously, the apple pancake is the way to go. No other apple pancake comes close. They have tons of other delicious options as well. The only time I change my order is when I'm trying not to eat thirty thousand calories at once. If you're going to dine in, I suggest going a little early, or a little after typical "brunch" hours because there will be a wait. However, it's well worth it.
(5)
Jasmine L.
Best pancake house ever, hands down. Always a treat when my cousins come into town - they live for the monthly trek to Walker Bros as well. Their German Pancake is obscene, it's so good. I like it with a topping of salsa, oddly enough. Their Flapjacks are amazing as well - light, battery, and mmmmmm! Potato Pancakes are lovely and crispy. Crepes are divine. Love that their oj is freshly squeezed. Only thing I don't like is the massive amounts of whipped butter they feel compelled to drop on top of the pancakes. And the line. But, it's a great place to either catch up on a good book or make some new friends. Still, when I get cravings for pancakes and don't want to whip up a batch, this is the place to go.
(5)
Leah J.
This breakfast spot is a hit with me and my family. Walker Bros. is giving my good old S & G a run for it's money! I have to give a one up to the W bros. for there quality dishes.Unbelievable food, quality and service...all for an inexpensive price. I ordered the Chipotle Chicken crepe (comes with potato pancakes). It wasn't an easy decision, what with the famous Apple Pancake starring at me from the table across, the Belgian Waffles calling me from the table to my left, and the fluffy omlettes throwing themselves at me. But alas my choice was absolutley delicious! Everything at my table was superb. Blueberry pancakes...you get condiments of whipped butter, maple syrup and a blueberry compote to drizzle over. Strawberry Belgian Waffles...huge mounds of fruit and whipped cream a top a to die for waffle. I haven't tried everything, but I can already feel everything at W Bros. will be moan-groaning good! Go, go, go! Don't be intimidated by the line when you walk in, it moves fast. The hostess did a great job of keeping folks informed on available tables. Poor girl started her first day on a Sunday! Busy, busy, busy.
(5)
Jeremy S.
The best breakfast on planet earth. Try the waffles with fresh strawberries. Orange juice is fresh squeezed and the syrup is the real deal!
(5)
John M.
This place is pretty overpriced and beat. Country Kitchen just down the road does a much better breakfast anyways. I usually have an omelet here with hashbrowns (was not fully cooked last time I ordered). One time I was at this place and some guy at the next table ordered this huge german pancake that was inflated. When he punctured this cake it totally deflated. He had this look on his face like he thought that the pancake was filled but it turned out to just be air. It was a classic.
(2)
molly c.
so, highland park is like half way between my home (chicago) and my parent's home (racine, wi). mom and i will sometimes meet there and have breakfast/lunch. the blueberry pancakes are SO good...made with real, fresh, whole, non-pie filling blueberrys....INSIDE the pancake! not on top, not on the side... and if you want to get REALLY sassy, get that special orange syrup (aka breakfast crack) to go on your blueberry pancakes. AND I DON'T EVEN LIKE SWEET BREAKFAST!
(5)
Jennifer F.
Always loud and busy for weekend brunch. The food is fine but not great. It's not worth the noise, wait or mediocre service.
(2)
D J.
Absolutely the best breakfast food I've ever eaten anywhere. Their pancakes are unbeatable, melt in your mouth is the best way to describe them. Their scrambled eggs are the fluffiest I've ever tasted, and the hash browns are just to die for. Their hot chocolate with whipped cream is a must try, even if you don't like hot chocolate, you'll like this stuff. I've never been disappointed by any type of pancake I've tried here. They make a killer crepe, and have the best, freshest hand squeezed orange juice I've ever had anywhere. Their prices are pretty reasonable, but they do tend to mark up their drinks a LOT, which is where they get you. If you're alright sticking with water, its reasonable. Good place to go for a celebration, morning breakfast or other special occasion. They get really crowded on weekend and holiday mornings, so get there early or come in the afternoon, the morning rush is to be avoided. For a 3 time winner of the Silver Platter award, you'll definitely taste it in their food. A simply must-try one of a kind place that I have always enjoyed dining at.
(5)
Marcus C.
One of my dining companions ordered the spinach omelette with swiss cheese. It was like a big egg and spinach blob with a river of cheese oozing from the center. And on the side was a dollop of cream of mushroom condensed soup mix!
(4)
Mike P.
This place is a knockout when it comes to breakfast. Eggs are tasty here, and the pancakes leave you full for hours. They also have really good thick slab bacon here (if you like that sort of thing).The service I had the handful of times I was there was always very good despite it being usually very busy.
(5)
Tom A.
One of the best breakfasts. The omelettes are HUGE. It's worth the wait in line on weekend mornings.
(4)
Tom A.
I love coming here for breakfast. Their apple pancake is delicious and is very filling. This place is often busy on Saturday and Sunday morning but is worth the wait. I normally go to the one in Lincolnshire but I like this location better. At the Lincolnshire they have a high ceiling which causes an echo. This can cause the place to get really loud when it is busy. This location is a lot quieter.
(5)
Maria L.
Ah, Walker Bros....The have several locations, but the HP one is the one I usually go to. They have HUGE portions (you pay for that), but it's soo damn good! Their omelettes are to die for AND you can subsitute your toast for chocolate chip pancakes...Beat that!
(5)
John K.
Oh my god the best apple pancake in the world. Get it with a side of Ice Cream and you are in heaven. If you haven't been you must try this one. You can eat any time of the day.
(5)
YR Z.
Not knowing the area well, I came here after a concert at Ravinia for some dinner. The menu boasts mostly of breakfast fare but the pancakes here are delicious!
(4)
gnat c.
best. breakfast. ever. oh walker bros, why aren't you on the left coast? this is one of my favorite breakfast joints of all time...always a wait, but so worth it. the line moves quickly and service is great. the pancakes are so tasty and the eggs delicious. the orange juice alone gets 6 stars.
(5)
David L.
Great food period. If you have two in your party and you like to share, go with a mixture of sweet and savory. My favorite (at any time of the day) is an apple pancake and a chef salad. If you have a third, go with an omlette or order of potato pancakes.
(5)
Chris C.
EXCELLENT breakfast place. If you love pancakes, you will be floored.
(4)
Michelle F.
Delicious is hardly the word for it. They are spectacular for breakfasts, and have good lunches, too. Many types of pancakes - my favorite artery-clogger is one with bacon IN the pancake. Mmmmm....
Takes Reservations : No Delivery : No Take-out : Yes Accepts Credit Cards : Yes Good For : Breakfast Parking : Garage, Street Bike Parking : Yes Wheelchair Accessible : Yes Good for Kids : Yes Good for Groups : Yes Attire : Casual Ambience : Casual Noise Level : Average Alcohol : No Outdoor Seating : No Wi-Fi : No Has TV : No Waiter Service : Yes Caters : No
Ben G.
I can only speak about the apple pancakes because they're so unthinkably good I've never tried anything else. The apple pancake descends through an eldritch portal from the Dreamlands where pancakes aren't the bland, flat slabs of dough we're accustomed to here. The Walker Bros apple pancake is a thick, moist, opulent demigod of the breakfast table. These pancakes haunt my dreams.
(5)Samantha H.
I've been wanting to come to Walker Bros Pancake House ever since I realized it was real place, as referenced in Mean Girls! Yes, I'm easily excitable... You could even call me basic. Anyways, the bf surprised me with a visit here after a very hangry morning that started much later than anticipated. I was so excited when I walked in! The interior is very "old school" looking and reminds me of the Perkins restaurants. Between the two of us, we tried the potato pancakes, blueberry pancakes, eggs and bacon, and the hash browns. The bf loved the potato pancakes but in my opinion they were a bit gummy. They come with sour cream and applesauce. Neither of us were brave enough to try applesauce on our savory pancakes but it sounds interesting. I am not the biggest fan of powdered sugar on my pancakes. I still enjoyed the blueberry pancakes despite this addition. I especially liked the fresh, hot blueberry sauce and the maple syrup. Let's talk about these THICK CUT bacon strips, and four of them no less! Oh my. They aren't crispy like the thin ones, but it's a different kind of appreciation. The hashbrowns were crispy on the outside and very tasty. Not sputtering with grease like a common southern chain I know... The WB Pancake House gets a gold star for this visit. Even with all that we ordered, the bill came to $20. I would make a return visit if ever given the opportunity, but probably wouldn't go out of my way again.
(4)Edmond L.
Most over rated restaurant. This is the 3rd and last time i visit Walker Bros. I went on a Friday around 10:30am. I was sat immediately. The waitress came by in decent time. I didn't get any coffee for 10 minutes. The food then took 20 minutes. Keep in mind they're not that busy. My omelette was a dry flat brown pillow with hard cheese in the middle. I went with my friend whose corned beef hash was barely cooked. My waitress was no where to be found. I had to walk to the server station and grabbed my own sauces and napkins. Some other customers asked me to take their order! I had to tell them I didnt work there and I was just grabbing my own condiments. Im usually not too upset about these things but if youre charging me that much for breakfast my expectations are a bit higher. My bill came to $23.57 without tip. Thats for a sausage omelette, hash browns and coffee with a side of pancakes. I think Walker Bros have gotten too complacent. They expect people to keep coming no matter what. I think wealthy people like the fact that the high prices drive away families who are on a budget. So if you don't want to sit with the IHOP or Dennys crowd and want mediocre/bad breakfast food and pay almost double for your food this is the place for you.
(1)David L.
Our family tradition to come to Walker Bros on our birthdays. For some locals it's an everyday spot but we have decided to make our visit a special one by bringing our kids here for a memorable time with family. Our boys will always order waffle with strawberries on the side (doesn't soak up the waffle); and our daughter will have something with hash brown & bacon. For us adults; my wife will almost always get the Vegetarian Omelette with broccoli & swiss/cheddar cheese. Can't forget their never ending coffee (Tip - before you leave; ask for a to-go cup / server will give a fresh coffee on a to-go styrofoam cup). I usually will ordered either the Bacon & Basted Eggs or Venetian Benedict. Never toast; Always Pancakes. Also need to order extra bacon & corn beef hash. Recommendation - Join the E-club ( walkerbros.net/E-Club.ht… ) / You will get special offers each month about their special discounts & a $5-off coupon for your birthday. Your bill will add up at the end so it's nice to have a $5 off coupon at hand. You can't go wrong with any of the Walker Bros. I have been to the Evanston, Glenview, Hyde Park & Lincolnshire. All of their restaurants should be proud of their consistency - very hard to find a chain of restaurants that can provide the same great food and great service on every visit. Great job to management, serving staff & kitchen crew - should be proud!!!!
(5)Angela S.
Sometimes it seems silly to review a restaurant that's already super established and greatly loved by all. But, then I guess that just means here's one more review to validate the reason this place has been around forever. Walker Bros is a breakfast institution. It's a favorite stop for families and families of families. It's a very respectable place for pancakes, with prices that are a little above average but worth every single penny. For a family of 4 we spent around $35 all in. We ordered up three $5 kids chocolate pancake meals, a side of three very thick bacon strips for $4.50, and an oatmeal trio that included a fantastic bowl of thick steel cut oatmeal with a side of yogurt and fruit - somewhere around $8. Final notes: The coffee is sinfully good, and you'll leave feeling well taken care of. The customer service is great!
(4)Mouse M.
Love love love their pancakes. My boyfriend and I came in on a Saturday afternoon, the place was PACKED with a line out the door. The line took us at most 10 mins to get through, incredibly fast! We both ordered eggs Benedict with pancakes. The eggs Benedict were cooked to perfection with the most amazing holland aide sauce, you can tell its homemade. The pancakes are so buttery and to die for! Indescribable. They're just that good! Come here for breakfast! Freshly squeezed orange juice, and very friendly service. Our server was very attentive and kind. We drove an hour to have breakfast here, I would do it again.
(5)Matthew R.
The apple cinnamon pancake is a delicious monstrosity which I'm glad I got the chance to try. Because of the molten sugar on top it's pretty much guaranteed to burn your mouth but because it's so delicious it's hard to stop eating it. Once it cools it gets even better as the sugar gets a sticky caramel consistency. It's defiantly large enough to serve 2. The corned beef hash had a good flavor and was cooked well but they dice everything so small that the texture was off-putting. My friends got the french toast which I didn't care for, it seemed like they quickly dipped the bread in batter instead of soaking it. 3 stars for sure if it wasn't for the pancake which is my new breakfast obsession.
(4)Bryan B.
This place is a bit overpriced, but the food and service are quite good. if you like giant Belgian waffles and creative options like that, you should be quite happy here They also do all the great omelets!
(3)Rahul G.
I know people LOVE this place but it's alright IMO. The reason I say that is that for ME, I don't go crazy over all the sweet stuff for breakfast. Sure, the apple pancake is pretty good, but again, not for me. I like good egg dishes and I actually think Walker Brothers misses the mark here big time. The omelettes are okay, nothing crazy good. Not a great selection either. And the hash browns are not good, simply put. Way to soft. I even asked for it to be crispy and just the top was; the rest was still extra stringy and slimy almost. No thanks.
(3)Adam S.
Service was great. Everything was good but you could tell some items were not made in house (hollandaise for example). The French toast coated in corn flakes and the Apple pancake were very tasty.
(4)Kanghwan W.
Yeaaaaaa, looovve me some pancakes from walker brothers! There's so much variety in the kinds of pancakes, but I normally go with the original. Not too sure what they put in them, but sooo good and unique. The place is can get expensive, if you get their oj. But man, fresh squeezed like that I can't resist. I always leave this place happy!
(4)Tony M.
Food was decent, waiter was subpar and bill was expensive.. We had to retrieve our own silverware when the food came and we never received more syrup or refills because our waiter was no where to be found. The kids plates and drinks seemed to be for a toddler. Omelette was very plain and oven baked. I don't know if that's standard but I prefer a regular pan cooked omelette. The apple cinnamon pancake is the only good thing I can say about this place.
(2)Todd P.
Definitely try to breakfast sandwich. And make sure you order the hashbrowns with no onions!
(5)Erik K.
I ordered the blue crab meat Benedict, the english muffin was nice and crispy, crab meat was tasty; I like my poached eggs with runny yolks so I feel the eggs could have been cooked 30 seconds less. Nice rich hollandaise sauce paired with capers and lemon juice gave the dish a bright balance. The hash brown with onions was okay. I like my hashbrowns even crispier. Service was good. We were greeted right away and the waitress was approachable.
(4)Arthur L.
The food here is just okay. It's hot, the service is awful - good luck getting a refill on your coffee, the wait is usually terrible regardless of how busy they are, and it feels claustrophobic. Also, stick to the basics - eggs bacon pancakes - don't get adventurous. Many an out-of-town visitor has left disappointed in the rest of the menu. Yet I've been here with my daughter probably 20 times in the past year because this is the only place she'll eat a full meal. If 20 seems like a lot for a two star rating, it's a reflection of the lack of options nearby and an unwillingness to give up on eating out after leaving the city. For scale, we've probably been to breakfast at Country Kitchen 30 times, the Botanic Gardens cafe 10 times, and other places around 30. Two stars for the best bacon north of Nashville and a bacon lovers plate that would make Ron Swanson shed a tear. Real time update: we just walked out for the second time this summer, after being seated with water, bringing the total number of times we've abandoned hope of being served to 3 out of 20. So the probability that you even get service after being seated is about 85%. We went to Country Kitchen and had a great breakfast with wonderful kid friendly service (bendy straws and a toy from the treasure chest are great, at Walker Bros you get straight straws that are too long for little kids and a bunch of overpriced junk placed strategically so that every kid sees them as you pay). Bottom line: if you're a city transplant and you're expecting breakfast in the north shore to be more Prasino (generic upscale) than Denny's, you are in for disappointment. I recommend Country Kitchen for better service and kid friendliness. For out of town guests, take them to the Botanic Gardens for breakfast; they have a more creative menu with healthy options other than egg whites and subbing tomatoes for hash browns/pancakes.
(2)Kristen M.
Just moved to highland park and have already been here 5 or 6 times. Everything we get is phenomenal. The bacon waffle is so good I have dreams about it. Beware, you'll be addicted after one bite.
(5)Sarah Beth B.
I don't like pancakes but I love walker bros. here are a few reasons why: 1. I can walk there from my house. I love anything in HP that I can walk to. 2. THE VEGGIE OMELET. It is heaven. There are so many vegetables and so much cheese. Top it with some ketchup and you dont' need any other foods. 3. Excellent coffee, fresh juices, real cream. 4. The little pots of syrup and dishes of jam are cute. Now remember, it's always full of teenagers and babies, so stay away if that's not your thing (but if it's not, then what are you doing in highland park??)
(4)Anthony B.
We went here because it was Labor Day and everything else was closed in Highland Park. I really didn't want a breakfasty type place (was more in the mood for Thai), but I do enjoy pancakes so I figured I would give it a chance. I didn't want my typical post-pancake food coma so I ended up ordering the "Healthy Start Medley" which had (2) egg whites scrambled, a small fresh fruit medley and a side of (5) wheat germ granola pancakes for $8.25. It wasn't bad. The issue was we had to flag someone down in order to be seated. It looked as if a nuclear bomb came down at several of the larger tables with un-bussed glasses/dishes left in utter chaos and disarray. All the large parties must have left at once. I guess being the only restaurant open in all of Highland Park created this disaster (and a lack of staff). We walked around, flagged down a manager and he sat us. Also you need to go up to the counter to pay at the end.
(3)E ..
One word - Mediocre. Absolutely noting was wrong with my breakfast. It was simply unremarkable. In a era where everyone, goes out of their way, to impress diners with presentation and tricky recipes. Walker Bros. I am guessing, its trying to bore you to death. In an odd way, it was refreshing. Unfortunately, I was on the hunt for a GREAT breakfast in the Chicago land region, While I cannot bash Walker Bros., I also cannot recommend it, nothing stood out. I opted for the Signature Southwest Style Omelette, I can hardly remember one thing about it, unremarkable. I felt like I was at your typical, random, personality free, homogenized hotel restaurant, they took the basic model, and offered it at street level, for a premium price, why? Think High End Denny's: Absolutely clean and nice, comfortable climate control, somewhat tasty... Just plain old unremarkable.
(2)Dave P.
This is one of the best places in Highland Park for breakfast. Have been to this location on multiple occasions and have never been disappointed. Their Venetian Benedict is the best item on the menu though their pancakes are also delicious with blue berry and wheat germ (with granola) at the top of the list. Every server is friendly, service is quick, and the food is top notch.
(5)Brenda T.
WEAR ELASTIC PANTS! As a southerner, I thought a breakfast without grits would not be complete. Well, I'm a new Walker Brothers fan. I discovered this place as I walked past the shops in downtown Highland Park. I went with their special: Eggs Benedict with blue crab meat and a sliced tomato over an English muffin. The crab was meaty, the eggs perfectly poached, and it was covered with a sinfully rich hollandaise sauce. They sprinkled just enough capers to add a salty and tangy twist. Order pancakes on the side if you want to go all out, or consider the fruit cup to ease your conscience. One of my top breakfast experiences for sure.
(5)Marisa P.
The atmosphere here is nice, with big booth seating and wooden tables. Breakfast was tasty with fluffy pancakes and crispy bacon. The eggs were a bit runny, but nothing a little tobasco couldn't save. What threw me off was the coffee. For a long-standing breakfast joint the coffee was really bitter. Maybe I just got the bottom of a standing pot, but good coffee is definitely a part of the breakfast experience at this price point. I will definitely be back, but maybe I will stick with that fresh squeezed OJ.
(3)Joshua R.
Some of the best pancakes I've ever had. Wide variety of flavors and even some seasonal varieties (I had pumpkin spiced). You wait to be seated in a formal wrap around line which looks intimidating, but goes fast. As long as its not out the door, you should be seated in reasonable time.
(4)Robert A.
The Highland Park Walker Brothers is, hands-down, my favorite breakfast place on the North Shore--and my favorite breakfast-for-lunch and breakfast-for-dinner place as well. The decor is much nice than that at the nearby Country Kitchen, and on a sunny day the eastern room with stained glass overlooking Port Clinton Square is a very pleasant place to be. Portions are large (the "continental" breakfast combo--two eggs, hash browns, pancakes and juice--is a favorite, but I can't think what "continent" they could be referring to, except North America, since nobody tucks away this much food at breakfast but us). And, for when you don't want crepes or waffles or eggs, they make several very good and quite substantial salads. Also, you can swap out a totally credible bialy for your toast--you're not going to get that at IHOP!
(5)Carmen S.
All I have to say is Dutch Baby!!! If you get a chance to stop here you gave to try the Dutch baby and the apple cinnamon pancake. It's to die for !!! Every time I go to Chicago I eat here at least once. I have not had one bad meal here.
(5)Rachael B.
The first time I stopped in here was a VERY happy "lets just try this place" kind of thing. We left thrilled with the fact that we just happened upon it. The orange juice is fresh squeezed and you can seriously tell, and the coffee is great too. The real star is their BACON! Best bacon around, it's what I think about when I think of Walker Bros. The pancakes are light and fluffy, French toast is great, all in all everything I've tried here has been amazing! We alway try to stop here when were in town and always leave happy and full!
(5)Valerie W.
You really can't go wrong with Walker Brothers. Their quality is consistent. Their service is consistent. The food is GOOD. The menu is big enough that you can go regularly and not get tired of it, but also, not so huge that it is overwhelming. There are standards, new favorites, and there is definitely something for everyone. My Grandmother likes to go here because of the atmosphere, the old world pictures and stained glass. I like to go for the thick cut bacon. No, really. No matter what I order, I always get the bacon. And coffee. Always coffee. On my most recent trip to this location, I had the spinach crepes, which are stuffed with fresh spinach, onion, and cheddar cheese, topped with a taste of Hollandaise, and served with three potato pancakes. I was able to eat one crepe (they were stuffed to the GILLS,) one potato pancake, and one and a half slices of bacon, and then I too was stuffed. Leftovers are always good. Don't be intimidated by the line, it ALWAYS moves fast!
(4)Alyssa L.
Would be so great if not so needlessly EXPENSIVE! I've loved everything I've eaten here, but lets face it...it's a pancake house! How hard is it to have a good breakfast?!? I'm sorry but $50 for two people, at breakfast is just insane to me! Also, the service is spotty. Sometimes they are wonderful and are always ready to help with whatever you need! Other times, they will stick you in a corner and forget about you..where you actually have to flag someone down for a coffee refill. My advice, go to EGG Harbor in Lake Forest. Wonderful staff, innovative and fresh breakfast food; all at a far more reasonable price!
(3)Sonny P.
I came here with a friend after running the Turkey Trot this past Wednesday. We were seated without wait and service was very good. I would say the portions are big enough and prices were average. The place does have good coffee so that is definitely a PLUS!
(4)Yumi R.
WOWWWWWW Famous Dutch Apple Pancake. Big enough for 2. Granny smith apples, fluffy, chewy pancake, and topped with gooey carmeleized crisp sugars. The wait is long on the weekends, but it is worth it. This was the best brunch I've had all year.
(5)Dan R.
Meh. I used to love this place, and the apple pancake is still a unique dish to try. But I was disappointed last time I went to find out they don't use real maple syrup. For a place that bills itself as old fashioned and dedicated to quality ingredients, this was a real disappointment. Next time I'll go to Egg Harbor in Lake Forest, an all around better restaurant.
(3)Bleep S.
Why wasn't this place in existence when I was growing up in Highland Park. I might not have left... Loved the french crepe: A sweet crepe rolled with fresh strawberries topped with tangerine suzette sauce, strawberries and a light dusting of powdered sugar ..I would like to try other items on the menu ,but I think these would have to be ordered every time. (see photo) Our coffee cups were never empty. Excellent service. My bro liked the buckwheat pancakes with a side of blueberries. Honestly, this was the best breakfast in a restaurant in recent memory. Beautiful atrium atmosphere as well..
(5)Elaine M.
The real problem with Walker Bros is the attitude. They have been in Highland Park so long and have so many loyal customers that (though not blatant) they give off the vibe that you are lucky to get a table and be served. Over the years I have had many interactions with them that have left me saying "I'll never come back". Somehow, though something comes up that brings me back in. Attitude aside, I do love their "Danish Garden". Filled with veggies on top and covered with creamy Havarti cheese it's the best item on the menu! I do actually crave it at times. Problem: twenty minutes to cook (but worth it if you have the time). If I don't have time to wait for the Danish Garden my go to item is the Continental, Two Eggs any style with hash browns, three buttermilk pancakes & a regular-sized juice of your choice- just good home style cooking. Prices, I think are a little on the high side.
(3)William E.
A great family restaurant that provides a variety of dishes, including fresh strawberry Belgium waffles, buttermilk and potato pancakes, and a great pico de gallo hash brown. My family comes here at least once a month and we are never disappointed by the food or service.
(5)Katie R.
Let's just start off by stating the obvious - this may not be the healthiest choice in the world. With that said, the food is great. The menu is pretty standard, so you've got to be in a mood for a classic breakfast. I've had egg white omelets, spicy pico de gallo hashbrowns, oatmeal, pancakes, waffles, bialys, potato pancakes, the whole nine yards.. Everything is great. The pancakes are my favorite - though I'm not one to douse my pancakes in butter, their light fluffy butter is phenomenal and the flavor of the pancakes is spot on. We've only had bad service once in the many times that we've been here. The decor is pretty standard of a pancake house, although if you get to sit in the sun room with all the stained glass the experience is much nicer.
(4)Jennifer L.
It's a typical Walker Brothers.... GREAT food. I love their food. My biggest complaint, and my hinderance from coming here more often - is the cost. All WB's are SO bloody expensive, they should be ashamed. It's highway robbery. Every now and then - usually at the suggestion of someone else - we'll go here. But I do not go very often. But, if you don't mind paying $30 for two for a breakfast - then by all means, come here 5 times a week.. because the food is absolutely delicious! And the food seems pretty consistent across all locations.
(4)R. S.
Best bacon ever. Perfectly cooked and crispy. Mushroom omelet with béchamel sauce is delicious -- even early in the morning. Best basted eggs and coffee on the North Shore. Love the Strawberry Salad for lunch. Danish Garden is a bit rich, but worth every calorie. Have been going for nearly 15 years and don't believe we've ever had a meal with which we weren't completely satisfied. Efficient, friendly servers. Best to get there early, particularly on the weekends. Tends to get a bit noisy and crowded.
(5)Adriane P.
Apple Pancake "Get it, get it, get it!" (imagine that to the Jaws theme) But that wasn't a threat, a suggestion, and the only predators were us devouring that monster. The Apple Pancake is their specialty filled with fresh apples and covered in Sinkiang cinnamon and sugar glaze. This is not a typical pancake. It reminded me of those old sci fi movies or cartoons where two people would enter a transposer device to exchange bodies and unfortunately it goes awry and they're melded together. Meaning it's a cross between monkey bread and an apple fritter. A mutant behemoth. That happens to taste great and feed two or more. But even though it was just two diners we also ordered the Vegetarian with cheese omelet with fresh broccoli, tomatoes, onions, and mushrooms. With a choice of Swiss or Cheddar. We got Cheddar. Again huge, but good. If I got an omelet again I'd get the Medi Omelet because it sounded to me like more interesting flavors. Or sub the tomatoes in the Vegetarian (I'm mildly allergic). The atmosphere is so quaint with all the wood work, stained glass, and big booths. Service terrific. Coffee piping hot and fresh. There's a branch in Wilmette and Lincolnshire and all are great. It's a north shore institution for a reason (why else would a gift certificate to Walker Bros. be the prize for Spring Fling in Mean Girls? I keed it's just a classic). "Try it, try it, try it!"
(5)Cassie S.
Apple pancake, dutch baby, really any of their pancakes and waffles, you just can't go wrong. The omelettes are only OK - gigantic but the cheese is not very evenly distributed and they don't come with potatoes or anything (just toast). I'd rather have slightly smaller omelette plus potatoes (but maybe that's just me). This location is rarely as crowded as the one in Wilmette - we usually come for dinner on weekends and never have trouble getting a table. Brunch time may be different but that's to be expected at a brunch staple like this (which, incidentally, is a huge step up from anywhere else I've ever breakfasted in H ighland Park).
(4)Joel A.
If you have a choice between Lincolnshire or Highland Park go to Lincolnshire. The service, staff and atmosphere in The Highland Park Walker Brothers just sucks. Never been to a restaurant with such good food have such a lousy feel to the place. Noisy and rude customers. A wait staff that is numb to reality. Just not fun to eat good food with such a cruddy atmosphere.
(2)Emily G.
A pancake house with fake maple syrup? I'm not a food snob, but that's surprising and disappointing, especially in upscale Highland Park. If I return, I'm bringing my own bottle. The pancakes are fine and the OJ fresh-squeezed, but the corn syrup makes everything taste like a cafeteria.
(2)Mark H.
Definitely a great way to finish that overnight date, a special occasion or if you are simply a breakfast lover. Walker Bros has perfected making breakfast. No hyperbole. Everyone loves their pancakes from Apple to German but their omelets are a major hit as well. The quality. The freshness. The Kona coffee. On top of that if you have that fix for a lox and bagel this spot competes with the best of them. Prices are reasonable. Expect long lines though.
(5)Gillian D.
Baked Mediterranean omelet was wonderful. Mitchell had the Danish breakfast and it was even better. Gorgeous views and extra clean restaurant. Expect to wait in line for up to 30 minutes during peak breakfast hours but it's worth it.
(5)J M.
Almost always perfect. Good solid quick meal any time other than sat/sun mornings. As others have said, priced are a bit steep. $45 for two people is a lot. We'd definitely would go more often if it wasn't so expensive.
(4)Jimmy B.
A friend and I spent the morning at a car show nearby and were getting hungry. he suggested Walker Brothers and I couldn't remember the last time I had been to one so I said sure. The place was pretty busy for a Saturday morning and we waited about 5-10 minutes to get a seat. I remember waiting 30-40 minutes in the past at the Glenview location so this was a good sign. I am a huge hash brown fan. I loved cheese, mushroom, and onions mixed in so that was the first thing I ordered. I have to admit, I was more pleased with the end result than I thought I would be. I also ordered the Crispy-Crunchy French toast. As you might guess, it's like french toast sprinkled with crumbs of corn flakes. It was topped with bananas powder sugar, and whipped cream. Again, I had no idea it would be that good. You can't go wrong with the food at Walker Brothers. It may not be the first choice for breakfast, but it is in the top 3 for me.
(4)Ide C.
Yes sometimes u hv to wait on the weekend but it is always worth the wait. The best pancakes in town. Also the French toast and waffles are excellent. U must hv a side of bacon. Yum! Eggs are terrific too. U will come back again and again!
(5)John G.
The menu needs an update. The pancakes are great but the rest is so underwhelming! You can chose between plain and more plain.
(3)Lila S.
Awesome service! Apple pancake, and omelette were excellent! They have a very efficient seating arrangement and we were in and out really quickly even though it was Sunday brunch time. Coffee was also freshly brewed and tasty.
(4)Jimmy M.
My wife and I decided to try out Walker Bros. on the fly one Saturday morning. We got there a bit early compared to the normal breakfast crowd, so we were seated immediately. The staff was nice and very attentive. I ordered a cup of coffee, the crab eggs benidict and a side of corned beef hash. The coffee was decent but a bit bitter. The eggs benidict was good, with a good sauce and quality crab. Pancakes came on the side and though i wasn't impressed, they were nothing to push away either. The corned beef hash was a bit of a let down. It was very oniony and the corned beef was almost a paste. Also the corned beef was $5.50. That seems a bit steep for just a side order of sub-par corned beef hash. We walked out spending about $40 for the two of us. If i would have been impressed that price would have been very palatable, but almost $3 for a soda and about the same for a bitter cup of coffee? I will keep searching for a go-to breakfast spot.
(3)Jim M.
So much has been said, but I've only been here a handful of times during my visits home. Their food is excellent and the service is pretty good. In their defense, they're quite busy, so it's fine. A great place to get a good breakfast, especially if you enjoy pancakes the size of your face. (I prefer the eggs benedict myself)
(4)Linda H.
All the staff except the hostess is wonderful. She was extremely difficult, jockeying us around unnecessarily before seating us, with a condescending smile on her face. With people looking for jobs, you would think she would have more respect.
(2)Alan S.
Very good food. Great service. Reasonable cost. Tasty hash browns. The germs pancakes are very good. Will definitely come back.
(5)Mike P.
On par with the other great locations in the Northern burbs. Service with a smile and hot food and coffee. The jam and butter they give you with your toast is the best. Prices are a little more than my typical greasy spoon, but the napkins are also a little whiter. It's no deal-breaker. Love the location in the heart of downtown Highland Park. Easy access to and from the Metra, lots of shops and cafes in the area.
(4)Frank N.
Love the foods here... The crowds are insane if you go at peak breakfast time - But WELL worth it. The fresh squeezed juice is perfect and the waffles, crepes, pancakes, etc are to die for. The only thing missing from this place is Southern grits!
(5)Luke S.
Be ready for a huge line on the weekends, but this place is a North Shore must! If you're in the mood to pig out the apple pancake is one of the best menu items you'll find at any restaurant. You really can't go wrong with anything. Be forewarned, the omelets are different in that they are much fluffier than most breakfast places.
(5)Brittney E.
My boyfriend and I went 2/7/13..at 9:30 AM it wasn't busy. We where seated very fast but in a part with no windows? It was very dark and we didn't feel comfortable at all. The waitress was very pushy as soon as we sat. We told her to give us a few minutes but she insisted to take our drink orders...the Latte tasted like dirt and the green tea after being in hot water for 15 min. tasted like water and lemon? She then came to take our order... I told her I was allergic to gluten...at the time she didn't mention they had a gluten free menu? Which I found out later... I then told her what I wanted...but she then started to argue with me about it? Saying they can't add things to an omelet? So ordered what she told me to order and my boyfriend order. Then he went to look for a bathroom and noticed their was a table on the other side with a beautiful view...so we moved our own things over after asking the waitress if we could move....she didn't offer to help? So we moved hen our food came....we got everything plus the receipt? OK....so your rushing us out ? Both of us left still hungry....our food was very bad:( $40.00....for bad service, felt rushed, food horrible, waitress name: Anne .....won't be back!
(1)Diana P.
Sorry Walker Bros fans, I'm not into this place. I find it to be a "dirty diner" with flavorless food, nothing special and def not a healthy option. Crowds are insane on weekends and I always wonder, WHY!? Is it because of the hype this place gets or maybe the quality of how it USED to be? Who knows...either way, I don't want to come back.
(2)Allison M.
I don't get what all the hype is about. Maybe it's that, for most Highland Park residents, this place is seen through the foggy rose-colored lens of childhood. To me, it always feels a little dark and dingy, a little long-in-the-tooth, with all the wood paneling and old discolored windows. The selection of food on the menu is good-- nothing outrageously great; their breakfast items beyond pancakes are a little lacking. The food quality is definitely quite good; last time I came I got the 'healthy start' breakfast, simply because I couldn't decide what I wanted. It comes with two scrambled egg whites (which I swapped out for two eggs over easy-- the waiter asked me if I wanted yolks. I wanted to say no just to see what happened), a side of fruit, and some of their granola pancakes, which were actually fairly mindblowing (although it may just be that I haven't tasted butter in a while). The whole meal, though, they never refilled my water, and it was just a random Tuesday, not busy at all. And even though you pay up front, unlike at IHOP, you have to split up your check at the table. It doesn't make any sense. There are much better breakfasts in the North Shore, even if it means driving up to Lake Forest or down to Evanston, I think it's worth it.
(3)Spencer H.
The atmosphere is very nice with all the stained glass & special wood work. There are more restaurants in Schaumburg, Lincolnshire, Buffalo Grove & a few other places & they are all pretty good but this is one of my favorite. The location in downtown Highland Park adds to the atmosphere & after breakfast you can walk around & go to the various shops. The coffeee was hot & fresh & the hot chocolate was delicious. Even the whip cream on top tasted fresher than most places. The service here was great & they were very hospitable. The food is the best part. I got the eggs benedict & it was one of the best that I have had. Overall the service was good & the food was great & I look forward to eating here again.
(4)Duncan M.
Apple Pancake, French Crepes, Eggs Benedict, oh, and BACON : ) Those are definitely my favorite things at Walker Bros. Been going to this location since I was a kid. It can definitely get crowded on the weekends. Also, I feel like the coffee is maybe not as good as it was say ten years ago. Although this may just be psychological since they switched from nice coffee cups with saucers to just regular diner coffee mugs. Kinda miss the old cups, they were a bit classier, but I guess it was more dishes for the kitchen staff to do. I sometimes prefer the Lincolnshire location. For some reason it doesn't seem as crowded, I think the space might be bigger. Also they have a private lot so it's a lot easier to find parking. Very good food, and a good place to catch up with family.
(4)Sandy O.
Breakfast is my FAVORITE meal of the day. I travel now for work and have vowed to ditch the drive thru and make time to stop for breakfast when traveling! So, while in Highland Park for business, I used the handy iphone YELP app and found Walker Bros Original Pancake House! What a find!!!!! I read reviews that this place can get very busy but luckily I arrived mid week at 9am and there were no lines! My waiter was so attentive and made me feel welcome, which is always nice when dining alone. I love french toast and rarely order it out because my fiancee and I make "to die for" french toast at home. But, once I saw the crispy french toast on the menu (battered with corn flakes) - I had to try it. I also ordered my bacon extra crispy with an unsweet iced tea. I love the way the iced tea came to the table - set on an adorable bowl-like cup holder. So dainty and cute garnished with a nice fresh lemon. The french toast came topped with fresh whipped cream and caramelized bananas. My bacon was super crispy just like I requested. It was hard to stop eating the french toast because it was that good! I did leave behind two slices because it was so filling, but trust me - I wanted to fit it in or share it with someone because I really didn't want to waste it. The interior of the restaurant is adorable and quaint. Stained glass windows surround the walls and the hard wood moldings were beautiful. The place was immaculately clean and homey. The service was excellent. It really had a home town feel and very friendly staff from the hostess, to the waiter, to the bus boy, to the cashier. I just love this place and wish we had something like this at home. Please view my pictures posted on this site as well.
(5)Coleen A.
All the hype I heard from friends, reviews, articles, etc., I wanted to love this place. The wait for seating is kind of odd. Most places, you walk in and, if there's a wait, you give your name and be patient. Here, they kind of herd you like cattle through a maze. Once we were seated, I noticed the stained glass right away - very pretty! The coffee is really good: some kind of Kona blend. My husband and dining companion had the cherry kijafa crepes. He liked them a lot; I sampled them and they were quite tasty! I however, had the bacon pancakes. What did I expect? A contrast in sweet/salty taste and fluffy/crispy texture. What did I get? Tasteless cake, overdone bitter exterior and chewy bacon. I know this place has the knack to present great food, but the bacon pancakes aren't it. I'll definitely try another dish next time. Service was menza menza: our server never did stop back to check on us before presenting the check.
(3)Arthur L.
My wife and I out for a drive from the city, and found this place. A little crowded (expected for a Sunday). Line move fast, seated in nice atrium. Food was good and piping hot. One complaint, Corn beef is grinder to much!!! Still had good flavor but, felt as though I was eating mush!!! Shame, would've been much better if not for that.
(3)Allen B.
Best to avoid the busy brunch crowd, but otherwise this place is great. But even when they are busy, once seated I never felt rushed. Where else can you get a baked omelet? Baked, not fried, much heathier, with a lot of good options. They also have a gluten free menu, but you have to ask for it. Consistently good everytime I've been there. Not overly friendly staff, but pleasant enough, in fact absolutlely fine considering how efficient they are even when busy. A little pricey, but worth it for what you get.
(5)Dave P.
Great food, great service. The manager Hank was very nice and accommodating for our unique situation, much appreciated. Will keep coming back.
(5)David B.
Walker Brothers is always good. I go to the one in Highland Park and the one in Vernon Hills. The food is consistent and tasty. I've only had breakfast here, but I'm never disappointed. They do a great job accommodating kids. I bring mine here and I think it is their favorite place to eat out for breakfast. Also, when relatives visit, I usually bring them here. The staff is a typical sort of staff for a pancake house. They get the job done.
(4)Stephen P.
When a friend asked us to meet here, the "Walker Bros" part of the name made it a surprise that this is the chain that goes simply by "Original Pancake House" in the rest of the country. The Walker Brothers were early franchisees, although this Highland Park location isn't nearly as old as you'd first think. The menu, as far as I can recall, is the same as I've encountered in locations in other states -- which is to say, quite a delicious variety of pancakes. The line can get long, but it's a big restaurant and it moves along quite quickly.
(3)Andrea B.
Ever since my days living in Oregon I've been a big fan of OHOP. Nothing compares to the Portland original that kicked it all off, but it is great to these franchises across the country so I don't have to be homesick for delish pancakes. For some reason this particular group of franchises doesn't list strawberry pancakes on their menu, but they have all the fixings for it listed under their Belgian waffles. Get the buttermilk pancakes with fresh strawberries and strawberry syrup and you will be in breakfast heaven. I tend to skip the breakfast meats though, they are pricey and always taste like they were cooked hours ago and then reheated.
(4)Shanna K.
GLUTEN FREE PANCAKES?!?!?! WTF?!?!?!?! So this place - yes - serves Gluten Free Pancakes and they're actually not too shabby especially with the yummy maple syrup! APPLE CRAZY DUTCH OVEN PANCAKE! So this thing is the size of a miniature cake with warm soft apple slices and this Cinnamon glaze sugar crust that is SO UNHEALTHY FOR BREAKFAST that you just can't help but love it. Bottom line, It tasted great. BUT I do not suggest you eat it on your own (we split it between 3 people) OTHER STUFF: Their breakfast stuff is pretty standard and tastes similar to a breakfast you can get anywhere else, so I suggest going for their signature dishes.
(3)Liz K.
Went with my aunt to have a late breakfast/breakfast for lunch with our cousins. I had a lot of morning stuff, but no pancakes. Probably should've tried those since that's what this place is known for... Very busy when we got there - yet only waited for about 10 minutes before we were seated. Good breakfast place, but wouldn't be one to go out of my way to return.
(3)Melissa F.
The fact that there is a line out the door and the fact that this place (OK, this chain) was mentioned in Mean Girls? Neither are coincidences. There is a lot of hype surrounding Walker Brothers, but it's because it's good at what it does - make a kickass breakfast. I've had bites of the apple pancake before. If I had the entire thing, I'd go into a food coma, which would be unfortunate. The pancakes are fantastic and come with butter and syrup. I strayed from the comparatively healthy side (part?) of the menu featuring omelettes (the Santa Fe is excellent and comes with surprisingly good salsa)...I broke down and got wheat germ pancakes. Sounds sketchy...but actually delicious. And you can pretend you're healthy. Win win! Even the sides are good and don't receive the afterthought treatment. Turkey sausage links are a leaner alternative and just as seasoned and yummy, for instance. Sometimes there are annoying lines, but I just don't go early on during weekends. Even if you wait in line, though, it's worth it. The service is usually prompt and courteous - I've never experienced problems.
(5)Dan D.
Never was a waitress so rude (waitress name is Lily) and so unprofessional to me at a restaurant. Although Walker Bros is a well-worthy famous establishment, I need to really give a 1-star review simply for failing to not only to give a good experience, but to correct it.... Lemme fill you in the details... We came here on a Saturday around 5pm for dinner (not a big crowd for dinner on weekends, so we thought ti'd be perfect). My friends ordered omelets and I ordered the grilled cheese with hash-browns. The omelets were not cooked completely... still gooey and runny on the inside. Further, they had no flavor, even with the additional ingredients. But more depressing was my grilled cheese sandwich. Like really, How can a great restaurant mess up a grilled cheese sandwich? Surprisingly, Walker Bros found a way! :-( The bread was super soggy, and the cheese was burned - not to mention in the shape of the packaged square slices that you buy at the grocery... and just two tiny slices of cheese. To recap... soggy bread, two burned pieces of cheese, and a quarter slice of bacon for the price of $7! Oh geez Walker Bros. Of course, maybe it was just that we came during the afternoon service instead of the morning rush. HOWEVER, we had the waitress (named LILY) with a severe resentment. Upon sitting down, she took our orders in a very depressing voice and physically expressed her dissatisfaction with being at work. All of us at the table noticed this.... But we understand. Sometimes we all have a bad day. Then, I asked for a refill for water. She said in a very immature way, "Really?.... Fine..." Wow, sorry for inconveniencing you for doing your job. Swing and a miss -- STRIKE ONE. Then when the food arrived, I asked for ketchup and hot sauce for the hash-browns. Lily (the waitress) slowly walked away, came back 5 minutes later, and without even stopping, SLAMMED the ketchup and tobasco on the table. Not an accidental drop, but a definite SLAM with attitude. Geez, I never knew that asking for ketchup/hotsauce was an insult in Highland Park! Another swing and a miss -- STRIKE TWO. LIly (the waitress) stepped up to bat one last time. After giving us the check, I noticed that the bill had an incorrect charge for extra soup instead of extra hash-browns (not a big $ difference, but money is still money). When I kindly mentioned this to the waitress, she said, "Well, after I enter it on the computer, I cannot make any changes." I said, "But YOU put the incorrect charge on the bill...." She said, "Well, once its done, its done." I said, "Really? But why should I overpay even if it isn't my fault???" Finally I talked to the manager and this situation was corrected without any problem. The way it should have been. Upon leaving the restaurant, the waitress barked "You ONLY saved 49 cents" and walked off as if that justified her aggressiveness on not wanting to change the bill. Lily swung hard and missed again -- STRIKE THREE! SHE'S OUT! (And we were out too.... OUT of a pleasant dinner experience and OUT of 49 cents ----- this was now Lily's tip left on the table).
(1)Caroline J.
This restaurant is very close to my heart. I grew up eating here. When I did well in school, my parents would take me here for Chocolate Chippies (a chubby child's dream come true). In high school, when my friends and I wanted to grab something for breakfast before school, we would come here (and eat Chocolate Chippies). When I had a bad breakup with a mean guy, I came here to eat...Chocolate Chippies. Walker Brothers has been delicious since day one, and even as the time, servers menu and management change, this restaurant stays the same. Obviously I like the Chocolate Chippies; I'm sorry, I'm sorry of a dark chocaholic. These pancakes are not overwhelmingly chocolatey, which I love. There is just enough to smother across each pancake, and don't forget to add just a little bit of butter to help the smothering process along. Syrup? Not necessary, but a little bit can't hurt. As my palette matured and my waist line just couldn't take it anymore, I moved onto something more simple like the Continental Breakfast which is two hash browns, toast and a glass of comforting freshly squeezed orange juice (who needs apple or cranberry with that kind of OJ?!?). Also, I became a favorite of their oven baked omelettes. Yes, oven baked. Come with an appetite. because you will need it. A little bit of a crust of cheesy, eggy happiness with the soft tender loving of a good omelette on the inside. Their eggs in The Continental, when scrambled, are PERFECT. NEVER runny, soft, fluffy and addicting. Hash browns? No cheese and onions necessary unless you need an extra helping of cheesy love to start your day. My favorite though? Why, PANCAKES of course! Now, when I found out I needed to eat gluten-free, I thought my longstanding, never wavering relationship with Walker Brothers was over. Oh no, it was just beginning. Who has a GF menu and servers who are actually knowledgeable about GF? WALKER BROTHERS! Oh those pancakes. OH THOSE PANCAKES! Anyone who is GF knows how terrible GF pancakes can be. They either A. Taste like chickpeas or B. Are too heavy, carby and lack a buttery flakiness that makes a pancake a pancake. Walker Brothers took the love they have in their regular pancakes and tossed it into the gluten free pancakes. These GF pancakes are so good that you need only a couple drops of syrup and just a whole lot of butter...because who would waste fluffy whipped butter? Right? Oh, and just in case, they'll make their Venecia Benedict gluten free (no English Muffin) and maybe slide you a side of pancakes to make up for your English Muffin loss. So if you're looking for breakfast, start a tradition amidst the beautiful stained glass windows of Walker Brothers and find comfort in every single morsel you eat at this restaurant. Every calorie and extra jiggle in your step is worth it if it comes from here.
(5)Fate O.
Husband had potato pancakes. He said there's hardly any pancake flavor but it was not too bad. Ate them all. I had chocolate crepe. It was a bit too chocolatey for me though it was not too bad either especially with strawberries included. Fate said IHOP is better but I've always like non-chain restaurants. By the way, they're offering 25% off on apple pancakes b/c tis the season of apples! I didn't try it b/c picture of it didn't look appealing to me! :) (This was written in October 2011, Yelp on iphone only do drafts, not submission.
(3)Dave C.
I grew up in Highland Park and this place is a staple for breakfast on the weekends. The lines can be crazy and the people are usually even crazier so don't try and roll the dice and hit this place Saturday morning. This is a warning if you are one of those "don't talk to me until after the first cup of coffee" people. Kids are usually crying and parents are usually oblivious to it. It is the HP way I guess... That being said, on to the review. The service here is excellent. They are super fast and the bus boy can take your order, the waitress can take your order. I think even the Host will take your order. They are all about turning the tables here but for some reason I never feel rushed. They know the exact right time to stop by the table to see how you are doing. I usually go with the Coffee which is quite good here. Their chocolate milk is also amazing. It is like half whipped cream which sings to the inner fat kid in everyone :-) The Forty-Niner Flapjacks are a favorite of my brothers. Super thin and delish pancakes that are laid out over a big ass plate. The Belgium waffles are gigantic and very good. They are also light and airy with a nice crisp. I usually like to get the omelets here, the western omelet is crazy good. From what I can remember, don't expect an omelet to have cheese if it doesn't state it, make sure to just have em add it in. Every once and a while I like to take a trip back to my childhood and get the "Chocolate Chippy" pankcakes. These are just silver dollar pancakes packed with chocolate chips and covered in whipped cream. Health food at it's best. The corn beef hash is also quite good here, since the eggs they make are cooked to perfection. Corn Beef Hash with an egg over easy on top... nom nom nom. If you are in HP for some reason I recommend this place if you have an hour or two to kill for b-fast. Check it out.
(5)Corey B.
Good food, but the service is poor and the place is typically being overrun with kids. Maybe it's me, but I remember walker bros from my youth being a classier place.
(3)Pamela I.
I grew up going to the Wilmette Walker Bros and of course I love it. I now live far away, but return when I visit the North Shore. I usually go to the HP location. The last few times I was unimpressed. The hosts have practically ignored me on my most recent visits, until the last time a few Saturdays ago when I was helped by a nice (manager?) blond woman who helped me and my friends to find the perfect table. I also had a large to go order and she was very helpful and I ended up with exactly what I needed. I thought I was going to have to start driving all the way back to Wilmette. I would recommend the omelets, apple pancakes, pigs in a blanket, German pancakes, I don't think I have ever made it to lunch. I have one problem though! Why oh why do you not serve avocado? For the life of me I can't figure it out.
(5)Ruby C.
Seriously, the wheat germ and granola pancakes are soooo good, they make me want to slap my mother. They are literally one of the best things I ever ate.
(4)Robert B.
Love the dutch baby since I was a kid
(5)Carolyn G.
I LOVE breakfast. In fact, I love breakfast so much that I suggested we go out to breakfast for lunch one afternoon. A co-worker suggested Walker Bros. I'd heard rave reviews of Walker Bros., and I've driven by the Wilmette location and have seen horrendous lines so I figured it must be really good, right? Wrong. When we walked in, I was immediately overcome with this feeling that we had walked into a Denny's. Not that there's anything wrong with Denny's, but it just didn't seem to fit in Highland Park. I perused the menu and struggled to find exactly the right dish... one that combined eggs or french toast, hashbrowns, and sausage. Let's be real, that's my idea of heaven. But, alas, none of the options offered all of these things. And, to add either hashbrowns or sausage as a side dish was ridiculously expensive (in mind anyways). So, I settled on the spinach crepes which came with two potato pancakes. The spinach crepes were good, but the melted cheese inside was overwhelming. The potato pancakes were okay, but they were a little overcooked (they were JUST this side of burned). The service was good, but I doubt I'll go back. I prefer Lucky Platter (Evanston) or Mrs. D's (Wilmette).
(2)Amy G.
I remember coming to Walker Brothers as a gawky, awkward teenager with my gawky, awkward friends during high school (Go Giants?) on late-start days and between final exams. Yum. The service can be a little slow and the lines are often horrendous but the pancakes are completely worth the wait. The star of the menu, of course, is the ever-famous apple pancake, a huge slab of cakey breakfast goodness covered in cinnamon, brown sugar, and caramelized apples. The Dutch Baby is something to contend with; a huge, thin, light pancake topped with powdered sugar. And finally, my favorite, the chocolate crepes, light and sweet, filled with melted chocolate, and covered in strawberries and powdered sugar. Definitely pick up a frozen apple pancake too. They make great desserts for small gatherings of people-- seriously, they're that rich!-- and your house will smell heavenly for a good day after baking.
(4)Lynn S.
Restaurants you frequent everytime you return to your hometown are so comfortable and familiar that you take them for granted. That is exactly why I missed reviewing an old favorite, this particular Walker Brothers restaurant. You can get much more than pancakes from their extensive menu, but the Dutch Baby (served with lemon wedges and powdered sugar on the side) is wonderfully light. I have never had trouble getting my coffee cup refilled or my bacon extra crispy (not burned). They do a traditional eggs Benedict or a delicious eggs Valencia, as well as Pigs in a blanket (code for: three sausages wrapped in a pancake). Arrive at off-hours if you hate waiting. It's not unusual for there to be a 20 minute wait at mealtimes and on weekends. What I most enjoy about this particular location is the magnificent leaded glass that distinguishes their entry lobby and dining room. This restaurant is one of a group that you can count on for a great breakfast or lunch. Located along the main street in the upscale town of Highland Park, there's a public garage for parking just around the corner. Walker Brothers has certainly earned a spot in any list of Northshore institutions and I never miss a chance to indulge...
(5)Jen C.
The apple pancake is probably enough for a crowd of six, but I've had no problem polishing it off with groups half that size. It's also a good excuse to have what's essentially a rich dessert for breakfast/brunch. Bonus points since Robert Redford shot some scenes for his Oscar-winning Ordinary People here.
(4)Ronni G.
Great pancakes and waffles. Try the apple pancake. Dutch pancake or bacon waffle. Experience is marred, however, by inattentive staff. A refill on my cup of coffee would have been appreciated. They did make my son a new batch of pancakes when they put on the butter and powdered sugar he asked them to leave off.
(3)Mr H.
Breakfast for dinner! What a novel idea ! I can't believe it took me YEARS to think about coming here for dinner. I only thought about Walker Bros for Sunday Mornings ! 6:30pm, Crisp bacon, pancakes and eggs !
(4)Karen K.
Ok, so I didnt order the fancy pants pancakes. We did order an omelette combo that was pretty decent. The bacon was strange though, baked I believe.
(3)Patrick C.
My friends and I used to have a Saturday morning routine here all through high school... Now living in the DC area, I still can't find a place that comes even close to Walker Bros. I'm a huge fan of the German Pancake. Their buttermilk pancakes and potato pancakes are excellent as well. You also can't go wrong with their fresh squeezed juice. I came back to Chicago recently and it's still the same as when I left for college... Excellent food at a reasonable price.
(4)Mike L.
Always a good breakfast spot. Venetian benedict is my favorite here followed by belgian waffle with a scoop of vanilla ice cream.
(4)Liz S.
Oh goodness, who would've thought that an apple pancake could conjure up drool from a grown woman. But, indeed it does. Walker Brother's apple pancakes are as big as a dinner plate and about two inches high. There's enough brown sugar on one pancake to last you a week. Also, if you're able to finish a whole pancake then you are my new hero. Bless Walker Brother's soul, cause they now have take home pancakes. They honestly are heaven sent, cause when you just don't want to go anywhere you can just pop these delicious goodies in the oven and eat them in bed. Almost anything else you get from here will be good too, but don't pass up the apple pancake. Oh, and they have fresh squeezed apple juice.
(5)Joyce L.
So talk about comfort food...this takes comfort food breakfast to a whole new level. I have been going to Walker Bros since I was a kid and you know what, it hasn't changed! Still yummy, still cookin' it up with real butter and of course, you will be consuming thousands of worth-every-calorie with each bite. IMHO, stick with the pancakes. Any kind.
(5)O B.
this place was always a favourite of mine, often ordering an omlette or eggs of some kind. to my delight on my last visit i noticed they had introduced a gluten free pancake. and boy was i impressed! wonderful fluffy pancakes. certainly a must for any gluten free foodie who misses their pancakes at breakfast
(5)Kathy M.
The food is good here and the portions are very large - but the service is absolutely horrible. Since the food here isn't cheap - service really needs to be bumped up a notch (actually, a lot more than a notch). We used to eat here more frequently, but stopped a few years ago because I hate to frequent places when the wait staff acts like they are doing me a favor to wait on me or they flat out forget that I'm there. A friend insisted on going for a birthday lunch recently. It was early afternoon - very slow for a Friday. The waitress took our order, dropped off the food and drinks and then just disappeared. We had to flag down another waiter for a refill and to go boxes. Then, the manager-type person walked over to our table and moved the bill from the edge of the table to in front of one of my friends. That was the ultimate in rude - considering his employee forgot we were even there. He then took off before we could complain. When we went to pay our bill - the check out person asked us how everything was - and we told her. The service was horrible - we were forgotten. "Thank you for coming" (end of discussion) Service is just awful here whether they are busy or slow - I don't understand why anyone would stand in line for this. Next time some one suggests this place for a special occasion, I'll come up with a convenient excuse.
(1)Stefanie W.
YES. Walker Brothers rules! I don't know what they do to their eggs, but they are always fluffy perfection. Pancakes or crepes covered in fruit - the options all sound so delicious, I always have a hard time figuring out what to order. You have not lived until you've had a Walker Bros apple pancake. Service is usually cheery and prompt, with the occasional ornery waitress. If you insist on having a weekend meal here, be prepared for a (well worth it) wait.
(5)Daddy O.
A North Shore Staple! Whenever I come to Chicago to visit family and friends, the trip is not complete without a visit to Walker Bros. Traditionally I visit the HP location because it's close to my grandmother's place. OMG their apple pancakes are TO DIE FOR. Seriously. It's so sweet and gooey and rich and and and...see now I'm drooling. You may wish to consider sharing. Also, a line forms to get in for brunch on weekend mornings. Expect a wait to get in.
(5)E M.
Best potato pancakes and corn beef hash to be found. German pancake is really big and light, too. A must visit spot whenever I'm in the area. I prefer this location to the others, too.
(5)Lindley E.
Lingonberries. Ikea and Walker Brothers...who knew they had anything in common...Go for the dutch baby.... Get in line on the weekends...be prepared to wait. This is pancake fare, served proper-like.
(4)Susan K.
Great, consistent food and good waiters. Nice decor. The hostesses on the weekends seem tired and as if they can't believe they have to lower themselves to do this job. You don't have to deal with them much though.
(4)Jonathan F.
Reliable and family-friendly, this is my regular spot to take the kids for our "dinner w/daddy" Wednesdays when we give mommy a couple of evening hours to herself. Even though they usually get pancakes and bacon, both kids enjoy eating some of the matzoh ball soup, too. There are lots of families with young kids and older folks here at the early end of the dinner hour.
(4)Anne W.
I give the apple pancake, specifically, 5 stars. Everything else here is pretty much a 3 - so we'll compromise and go with 4 stars. They now have frozen apple pancakes to go - and you heat them in the oven for a 1/2 hour and everyone who doesn't know better will be begging for the recipe - fabulous! I recently had a brunch at our house for people from out of town, and everyone raved about the apple pancakes we offered up for dessert ;) If you eat-in, the line moves fast, even when it is out the door. This is not a place to linger over coffee, they keep the tables moving, but waitstaff is polite and efficient. Pancakes in general and fresh juices are good. Omlettes are okay. Crepes, not as good as I wanted them to be but okay, as well. Really, this is a pancake place - take it at face value and you'll enjoy.
(4)Stephen D.
Great food, but fake maple syrup? That's pretty disappointing. And true -- I asked the waiter for real maple syrup, and he said "sorry, we don't use it." Service is also hit or miss, but it seems better than it used to be.
(4)Phillip B.
Service can be slow at times, but besides that, you know what you are getting at Walker Brothers. The breakfast food is awesome and I never have problems, but I am sure if you did they would bring a brand new order right back out for you. I love the location and its a great place to go for breakfast on the weekends.
(4)Steve O.
Really good food. Honestly I prefer a breakfast place that isn't too clean, rough around the edges, and a little greasy. This is the exact opposite. So squeaky clean that my wife has to drag me there. But I always leave full and happy.
(5)Nancy B.
a little pricey great decor but worth both the wait ????? often especially on the weekends but the food is always spot on.....wonderful everyone should go!!!!!!!!!!!!!!! I have been going to Walker Bros the 1st one in Wilmette for way too long to admit go
(5)Rachel H.
I've been to several of the other locations but this is my usual. Where was I the day my sister was born way back in 1984? Celebrating at this very restaurant with my babysitter by chomping on a Walker Bros. apple pancake of course. Since then I've dared to try other things such as the challah french toast and I always love a side of crispy hashbrowns with onions. While I agree that the fresh squeezed OJ is top notch, my heroin like addiction to tomato juice keeps me away from it. Sometimes its pretty busy but its always worth the wait.
(5)Kathryn M.
The boy and I used to have a HP Sunday morning routine. The gist of our morning was: roll out of bed, decide that we're hungry, call Walker Brothers, order 2 apple pancakes, throw on some clothes, pick up apple pancakes 15 minutes after the phone call, get Starbucks, go home, eat till we burst. Seriously, the apple pancake is the way to go. No other apple pancake comes close. They have tons of other delicious options as well. The only time I change my order is when I'm trying not to eat thirty thousand calories at once. If you're going to dine in, I suggest going a little early, or a little after typical "brunch" hours because there will be a wait. However, it's well worth it.
(5)Jasmine L.
Best pancake house ever, hands down. Always a treat when my cousins come into town - they live for the monthly trek to Walker Bros as well. Their German Pancake is obscene, it's so good. I like it with a topping of salsa, oddly enough. Their Flapjacks are amazing as well - light, battery, and mmmmmm! Potato Pancakes are lovely and crispy. Crepes are divine. Love that their oj is freshly squeezed. Only thing I don't like is the massive amounts of whipped butter they feel compelled to drop on top of the pancakes. And the line. But, it's a great place to either catch up on a good book or make some new friends. Still, when I get cravings for pancakes and don't want to whip up a batch, this is the place to go.
(5)Leah J.
This breakfast spot is a hit with me and my family. Walker Bros. is giving my good old S & G a run for it's money! I have to give a one up to the W bros. for there quality dishes.Unbelievable food, quality and service...all for an inexpensive price. I ordered the Chipotle Chicken crepe (comes with potato pancakes). It wasn't an easy decision, what with the famous Apple Pancake starring at me from the table across, the Belgian Waffles calling me from the table to my left, and the fluffy omlettes throwing themselves at me. But alas my choice was absolutley delicious! Everything at my table was superb. Blueberry pancakes...you get condiments of whipped butter, maple syrup and a blueberry compote to drizzle over. Strawberry Belgian Waffles...huge mounds of fruit and whipped cream a top a to die for waffle. I haven't tried everything, but I can already feel everything at W Bros. will be moan-groaning good! Go, go, go! Don't be intimidated by the line when you walk in, it moves fast. The hostess did a great job of keeping folks informed on available tables. Poor girl started her first day on a Sunday! Busy, busy, busy.
(5)Jeremy S.
The best breakfast on planet earth. Try the waffles with fresh strawberries. Orange juice is fresh squeezed and the syrup is the real deal!
(5)John M.
This place is pretty overpriced and beat. Country Kitchen just down the road does a much better breakfast anyways. I usually have an omelet here with hashbrowns (was not fully cooked last time I ordered). One time I was at this place and some guy at the next table ordered this huge german pancake that was inflated. When he punctured this cake it totally deflated. He had this look on his face like he thought that the pancake was filled but it turned out to just be air. It was a classic.
(2)molly c.
so, highland park is like half way between my home (chicago) and my parent's home (racine, wi). mom and i will sometimes meet there and have breakfast/lunch. the blueberry pancakes are SO good...made with real, fresh, whole, non-pie filling blueberrys....INSIDE the pancake! not on top, not on the side... and if you want to get REALLY sassy, get that special orange syrup (aka breakfast crack) to go on your blueberry pancakes. AND I DON'T EVEN LIKE SWEET BREAKFAST!
(5)Jennifer F.
Always loud and busy for weekend brunch. The food is fine but not great. It's not worth the noise, wait or mediocre service.
(2)D J.
Absolutely the best breakfast food I've ever eaten anywhere. Their pancakes are unbeatable, melt in your mouth is the best way to describe them. Their scrambled eggs are the fluffiest I've ever tasted, and the hash browns are just to die for. Their hot chocolate with whipped cream is a must try, even if you don't like hot chocolate, you'll like this stuff. I've never been disappointed by any type of pancake I've tried here. They make a killer crepe, and have the best, freshest hand squeezed orange juice I've ever had anywhere. Their prices are pretty reasonable, but they do tend to mark up their drinks a LOT, which is where they get you. If you're alright sticking with water, its reasonable. Good place to go for a celebration, morning breakfast or other special occasion. They get really crowded on weekend and holiday mornings, so get there early or come in the afternoon, the morning rush is to be avoided. For a 3 time winner of the Silver Platter award, you'll definitely taste it in their food. A simply must-try one of a kind place that I have always enjoyed dining at.
(5)Marcus C.
One of my dining companions ordered the spinach omelette with swiss cheese. It was like a big egg and spinach blob with a river of cheese oozing from the center. And on the side was a dollop of cream of mushroom condensed soup mix!
(4)Mike P.
This place is a knockout when it comes to breakfast. Eggs are tasty here, and the pancakes leave you full for hours. They also have really good thick slab bacon here (if you like that sort of thing).The service I had the handful of times I was there was always very good despite it being usually very busy.
(5)Tom A.
One of the best breakfasts. The omelettes are HUGE. It's worth the wait in line on weekend mornings.
(4)Tom A.
I love coming here for breakfast. Their apple pancake is delicious and is very filling. This place is often busy on Saturday and Sunday morning but is worth the wait. I normally go to the one in Lincolnshire but I like this location better. At the Lincolnshire they have a high ceiling which causes an echo. This can cause the place to get really loud when it is busy. This location is a lot quieter.
(5)Maria L.
Ah, Walker Bros....The have several locations, but the HP one is the one I usually go to. They have HUGE portions (you pay for that), but it's soo damn good! Their omelettes are to die for AND you can subsitute your toast for chocolate chip pancakes...Beat that!
(5)John K.
Oh my god the best apple pancake in the world. Get it with a side of Ice Cream and you are in heaven. If you haven't been you must try this one. You can eat any time of the day.
(5)YR Z.
Not knowing the area well, I came here after a concert at Ravinia for some dinner. The menu boasts mostly of breakfast fare but the pancakes here are delicious!
(4)gnat c.
best. breakfast. ever. oh walker bros, why aren't you on the left coast? this is one of my favorite breakfast joints of all time...always a wait, but so worth it. the line moves quickly and service is great. the pancakes are so tasty and the eggs delicious. the orange juice alone gets 6 stars.
(5)David L.
Great food period. If you have two in your party and you like to share, go with a mixture of sweet and savory. My favorite (at any time of the day) is an apple pancake and a chef salad. If you have a third, go with an omlette or order of potato pancakes.
(5)Chris C.
EXCELLENT breakfast place. If you love pancakes, you will be floored.
(4)Michelle F.
Delicious is hardly the word for it. They are spectacular for breakfasts, and have good lunches, too. Many types of pancakes - my favorite artery-clogger is one with bacon IN the pancake. Mmmmm....
(5)