La Esperanza is a Mexican spot in Pilsen with some of the best mole we’ve ever had.

Peach’s on 47th in Bronzeville is a great Southern breakfast spot.

Roy’s Soul Food is a soul food breakfast and lunch spot in Greater Grand Crossing.

West Town Bakery has locations all over the city with lots of vegan options to boot.

Eméché in Bronzeville has a full breakfast menu and plenty of great pastries, along with numerous vegan options as well.

Don Churro in Pilsen makes arguably the best churros in Chicago, including a few great vegan varieties.

Defloured in Andersonville is a gluten-free bakery with plenty of vegan options too.

Bot Bakery is a vegan and gluten-free bakery that we’re big fans of. Make sure to try the cinnamon buns.

Gotham is a fantastic carryout bagel spot in Old Town.

Lizzy J is a great breakfast and brunch spot in North Center.

Fremont is a club in River North with an over-the-top brunch.

Hutch is an all-day spot in Andersonville.

Foxtrot Market is like an upscale mini-mart with booze and breakfast sandwiches.

Pierre Gourmet is a French cafe in the bottom of the Peninsula Hotel.

Spoken is a small cafe in Ravenswood with great sandwiches and coffee.

Cellar Door Provisions is an excellent cafe and restaurant in Logan Square that’s useful for a lot of situations.