Where to Brunch on New Year’s Day

Don’t kick off the new year hungover in bed! We’ve got event options down below — including a silk pajama brunch at St. Regis Chicago. But you can wear whatever you want to these go-to brunch spots, all open on New Years Day.

Best Spread: Cafe Ba-Ba-Reeba! in Lincoln Park

As this perfect post says, “in Chicago every five years a fresh group of women in their 20s think they discovered cafe ba ba reeba and I think that’s beautiful.” Well, it’s true. But some things are classic for a reason. Kill your hangover with brunch tapas at the OG Cafe Ba-Ba-Reeba! in Lincoln Park.

Best Drinks: Taqueria Moran in Logan Square

Taqueria Moran is my casual go-to. I love their huevos a la Mexicana and their chilaquiles torta. (Yes, chips on bread. Deal with it.) But I really love their strong margaritas.

• The Duplex, also in Logan Square, is closed New Years Day but is hosting a brunch party on the 31st.

Cutest Pics: Honeybear Cafe in Rogers Park

The name, the painted paisley facade, the colorful interior … Everything about Honeybear Cafe is cute. Formerly The Captain's Table, then A&T Pancake House and Grill, Honeybear Cafe continues a 50-year Rogers Park diner tradition — and keeps up the retro signage. It’s also BYOB! 

An Old-School Classic: Valois

Keep it simple, steak ’n’ eggs style, at Valois, one of the country’s oldest cafeteria-style restaurants. The Obamas made this place world-famous, but Chicagoans have always known what’s good. It’s bound to be packed so get there early.

No Reservations? Best Walk-in Options

If, like me, you like to play things by ear, you rely on walk-in brunch spots. Put your name down at one of these gems: 

• Batter & Berries in Lincoln Park and South Loop. If you like sweet over savory, you’ll enjoy their French toast.
• Dove’s Luncheonette in Wicker Park. Get the hash with brisket burnt ends 🤤
• Pochos in Pilsen. Expect a wait — but you’ll have fun on 18th Street.
• La Catedral Cafe in Little Village and North Lawndale. La Catedral is at the top of my chilaquiles bucket list. Also, you semi-planners can join the waitlist day-of online.