Takeout · Outdoor seating
Stylish Lincoln Park cafe with standout pistachio croissants, creative coffee drinks, and a small but appealing brunch menu; expect lines, tight seating, and occasional service speed inconsistencies.
Soloway delivers solid cafe quality anchored by strong food quality—the pistachio croissant and creative breakfast items earn genuine devotion—and stylish modern design in a desirable Lincoln Park corner. However, inconsistent execution across drinks and pastries, combined with notable wait times and tight seating during peaks, prevents a higher grade. It's a worthwhile destination for signature items during off-peak hours, but not a reliable all-day workspace or family brunch spot.
This modern Lincoln Park cafe feels warm and bustling, with lines that move and baristas who often get the details right. People rave about the pistachio croissant and creative drinks, sharing notes like "that breakfast sando hit every texture just right." However, at peak times you may wait and seating is tight, so expect a lively scene more than a lingering study hall. In the kitchen they pair classic cafe comfort with elevated touches: shakshuka with crisp bread, a truffle omelette tucked into a croissant, and fruity matcha specials. Coffee quality is frequently praised, though a few diners report barista-dependent swings. It is a stylish, ingredients-driven approach that suits pastry lovers and brunch seekers who enjoy playful flavors over strict tradition. For families, there are kid-friendly anchors like croissants, avocado toast, eggs, and sweet bakes. Space is limited and weekend waits can be tough with strollers, and the outdoor window has rules that can frustrate. If you come earlier in the day, simple items listed on the menu make it workable, but picky eaters may prefer the classic pastries over the more creative options.
Area: Bustling, upscale Lincoln Park strip with foot traffic from residents, students, and zoo visitors; strong cafe culture.
Safety: Well-traveled, generally safe, good daytime activity; typical urban caution at night.
Nearby: Near Lincoln Park Zoo, DePaul University, boutiques, and other cafes; sidewalks with seasonal patio use.
Available: Takeout, Outdoor seating
View full analysis on Seemor →