Seemor
Medici On 57thBWorth Trying
1327-1331, 1327 E 57th St, Chicago, IL 60637
· Family restaurant, American restaurant, Bakery
· 4.4/5 Google (3177 reviews)
Delivery · Takeout · Outdoor seating
Beloved Hyde Park staple for pizza, burgers, and casual comfort fare with good value and lively vibe, though service speed and consistency can vary.
Why it gets a B for overall quality
Medici On 57th delivers solid neighborhood dining with strong food quality in its core offerings—pizza, calamari, and select pastas earn consistent praise—and appealing neighborhood charm near the university. However, inconsistent execution during busy periods, occasional service lapses, and mixed results on secondary menu items prevent a higher grade. The restaurant succeeds as a reliable local institution rather than a destination standout.
Restaurant Summary
The room feels warm and bustling, a classic Hyde Park hangout where students, families, and alumni mix over pizzas and shakes. Service skews friendly, and one diner noted, "Staff was welcoming and the vibe was easygoing." Expect lively energy at peak times and a cozy, lived-in aesthetic. The cooking leans comfort-forward with a broad American menu: thin and pan pizzas, hearty burgers, loaded salads, and pastas. The culinary approach leans traditional and portion-driven: solid standbys over culinary theatrics. Pizza, calamari, and certain pastas win the most praise; burgers and breakfast can be hit-or-miss when busy. For families, it is very kid-friendly. The actual menu backs this up: chicken fingers and fries ($10.95), cheese pizza options, mac and cheese, burgers, and milkshakes (~$6.50). Plenty of familiar choices for picky eaters, with vegan and vegetarian picks like the Beyond Burger and veggie chili.
At a Glance
- Neighborhood institution with loyal regulars and a lively, friendly vibe
- Pizza and appetizers consistently praised; portions are generous
- Service and pacing can slip during rush; occasional order errors
- Some items (burgers/breakfast) are inconsistent
- Possible 20% service charge for large parties surprised at least one diner
What Sets It Apart
- decades-long_neighborhood_institution
- adjacent_bakery_plus_restaurant_combo
- rooftop_patio_experience
What People Love
- The prosciutto arugula and loaded Garbage pizzas
- Big portions at fair prices
- The cozy, eclectic college-town atmosphere
- Friendly servers who keep it relaxed
Points of Concern
- Waits and slower service when crowded; make reservations at peak
- Inconsistent execution on some burgers and breakfast dishes
- Occasional takeout issues (delays, temperature)
- Reports of bathroom cleanliness and graffiti on a visit
Service & Dining Experience
Service StyleTable Service
Average Cost$28-42 per person
ReservationsNot required
What to Order
- Pizza-focused meal plus a shared appetizer for value
- Beyond Burger or Veggie Chili for plant-based diners
- Chicken Fingers & Fries for kids
- Milkshakes (~$6.50) for dessert without overspending
Perfect For
- Casual group dinners before or after the museum
- Laid-back date night on the rooftop patio
- Family meals with kids who want pizza and fries
- Alumni revisiting Hyde Park favorites
Location Insights
Area: Academic neighborhood centered on University of Chicago; lively student and local traffic, casual hangouts, day-to-night footfall.
Safety: Generally busy and fine along 57th; typical urban vigilance at night.
Nearby: Near 57th Street Books and Museum of Science and Industry; bakery next door; mix of cafes and student services.
WoodlawnWoodlawn is a primarily residential neighborhood adjacent to the University of Chicago, with a mix of historic homes and new developments. The dining scene is emerging, with a focus on local eateries, soul food, and increasingly diverse culinary options reflecting the community's cultural heritage. The area is community-focused with ongoing revitalization efforts.
East WoodlawnEast Woodlawn is the section closest to the University of Chicago campus, featuring a blend of student housing and family residences. It has a quieter, more academic atmosphere with small cafes and casual dining spots catering to students and faculty.
Practical Information
Opening Hours
Monday08:00–20:30
Tuesday08:00–20:30
Wednesday08:00–20:30
Thursday08:00–20:30
Friday08:00–21:00
Saturday09:00–21:00
Sunday09:00–20:30
Available: Delivery, Takeout, Outdoor seating
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