Ever since Little Branch has gotten alcohol back I have been in at least once a week. They have great drink specials wed-sun...I am a huge fan of $5 mojitos on Thursdays and $5 margaritas on Fridays. Plus, the $5 bloody marys and mimosas for weekend brunch are a steal!! Despite being small and off the main road, the bartenders mix up superior cocktails with all fresh ingredients. It almost has a speak-easy feel with the cafe part serving coffee in the front and a small bar, almost hidden, in the back. Definitely would recommend a stop by for cozy experience! read more

I love having a place like this in the neighborhood! I'm generally not a big coffee guy, but appreciate and enjoy their Metropolis coffee (which is just so hard to find around here!). However, the best thing about this place is their mini-cakes. Pick any of the flavors - you can't go wrong. This place is a must for any south loop dweller. read more

Live across the street....used to love their food, last two times, food quality poor. Scrambled eggs were like the kind you get free from hotels out of carton. Toasted bread soggy. My wife has been there a few times, giving them benefit of doubt, same issue with food read more

I previously enjoyed Little Branch Cafe and recommended it to others. However, it has unfortunately gone down hill. After waiting FORTY minutes for our food today, we were very disappointed. For that amount of time and the quality of food, Scout down the street would have easily been a better choice. A) The cash register associate specifically told me there is no other vodka available except what goes in the Bloody Mary. When at the bar waiting to receive said Bloody Mary, there is clearly a call vodka - Belvedere Bloody Mary vodka that is an option. B) Do not advertise brioche bread for French Toast if you are using plain white bread. C) Not once did we complain about the amount of wait time (as others did) assuming that when our food came out it would be quality. Not so. My French Toast had merely been slapped on the grill to give it a brown color rather than actually cooked in French Toast style. Overall, after previously enjoying this cafe, we will no longer be going here. read more

I was hoping to find a congenial cafe in the South Loop to take a nice break when biking to the South Side along the lakefront path. I try to find places with decent food and outdoor seating (to be considerate of non-biking guests). After reading the positive reviews, I thought the Little Branch Cafe had potential, but it turned out to be a big disappointment. There are no bike stands anywhere near the cafe. The outside seating is the equivalent of Siberia to the service staff. The grilled cheese sandwich was congealed by the time it got to my table. The sides were a wafer thin pickle slice and nondescript chips. The dessert was a Betty Crocker worthy cupcake. Then the wind started blowing the trash from another table that had not been cleared. Part of it landed on my table. Yech. I bused my own table, so my stuff wouldn't ruin someone else's meal. When I complained to the owner, no apology was offered. She just told me they were 'very busy' that day. Don't bother with this place. If you are passing through, just keep on going. You'll get friendlier service from one of those lakefront guys selling bottled water from a cooler. read more

I visited this café just this past Sunday for the first time. I'd been eager to check it out because (1) I live in the neighborhood, and (2) because of the (mostly positive) reviews. I was, however, greatly disappointed with the service and the price. But, mainly the service! As soon as I walked in, I was impressed with the low-key, swanky décor, and couldn't wait to get seated to survey the place. Since it's my first time, I was not aware of the fact that it's not a full-service restaurant. Neither did the friend that I came with, so we waited to be seated. The lady behind the counter, who is one of the owners, greeted us with a smile - but instantly shoving us the menu (yeah, just one for us to share) and instructed us to order first. I was a little taken back by her condescending behavior. I conveyed immediately - and with a smile - that this was our first visit, as my subtle way of hinting that we don't know your "rules of engagement". She then immediately and politely explained, in her barely audible voice, how we should order first, then sit anywhere we want...but no "Welcome" before going blah, blah, blah. But since we ordered lattes, she then added that we should stand by the other end of the counter to wait for our lattes first. So, after we paid, we moseyed down to the other end of the counter, behaving like two good school kids. While waiting for the lattes, which took a good while, we saw ice water and tea dispensers on the counter. We were pretty thirsty by then as we walked 10 blocks to get there so we really wanted some water. We were afraid to get the water though as we weren't sure what the "rules" were. Then, we saw another patron getting up to get water, so we then did the same. (Phew!) We finally got tired of waiting, so we decided to sit at the available table right across from the counter. Just as I was about to sit down, this other lady, who is one of the other owners, told me I couldn't sit there; it's for a bigger party. She led us to another table and said: "Sit here, it's only the two of you, right?" I was flabbergasted. (Darn! We were doing so well, and we screwed up again, lol!) Later on, I saw that she was putting the tables together - combining the two other tables on each side of where we weren't supposed to sit - for a party of eight. I wish she was more tactful in letting us know. I think saying something like: "Sorry, but I'm actually preparing these tables for a large group. Would you mind sitting over here instead?" would have been much more easy on the ear. We ordered the bacon-and-egg croissant, the mascarpone-stuffed French toast, and two lattes, and it was over $27. The French toast was very good but heavy. The breakfast sandwich was nothing out of the ordinary. The lattes were a bit too muddy and bitter for my taste. I actually did already make plans to meet another friend for breakfast there this coming Monday, but I have now suggested another place. I don't think I'll ever go back on account of the rude, militant service, especially when the rudeness comes from the owners. Good job on first impression, Soo and Sang Choi! P.S. This is my very first review. This place actually prompted me to sign up just to write up my experience. read more

Fantastic smoked salmon panini, although the mexican hot chocolate was pretty spicy and that was unexpected. I would definitely visit again for the panini and I'd like to try their lox bagel platter because it looked delicious read more

What a disappointment. This used to be the go-to neighborhood breakfast spot for me and my friends/neighbors. It holds so many good memories. I hadn't been in awhile and decided to go back. The last couple of times I went, the customer service was actually disturbing. The host/cashier/server is downright rude, abrupt, even snotty. Just bizarre. Do you have a disdain for customers? I don't get it. Luckily there are so many other options in the neighborhood these days. read more

As there aren't too many options in the south loop we decided to give it a try. We just ordered food to go, two egg sandwiches and it took about 30-35min. The food was fair but the wait time was ridiculous especially since they didn't seem to appear to be busy. Probably wouldn't go back. read more

Decided to come here after randomly searching for a place to eat in between two attractions while I vacationed in Chicago. I then searched on Yelp and per the reviews I decided to go. The staff is really friendly and they work efficiently- the time for our food to come out was in no time. I ordered some mozzarella sandwich ( I forgot the name) and it was awesome, my boyfriend ordered the grilled cheese and that was amazzzinggg, I loved it. Definitely recommend yelpers to check out this place. For 2 drinks + 2 sandwiches = $19.50. read more

My husband and I lived across the street from LBC in a condo for the past 6 weeks so came here often. The food is very good, do not get me wrong, but the service is so horrible that we had to stop going. I mean, it's a cafe, it shouldn't be too hard to get good service when you're pretty much serving yourself, right? I ordered the waffle four different times and each time received a different waffle...only one of the four times were the toppings correct - it shouldn't be so complicated. Oh, and note that it's waffle not waffles (plural)...for $9 you get one thin waffle. The scones are delicious but stay away from the chai lattes...mine tasted like warm milk, I ask them to re-make it for me and the barrista tries it, says "Gross, how did she mess up that one?" (referring to his colleague) then proceeds to make me another one. The one he makes ends up being the same so my husband goes to take the drink back a second time and the female barrista (who may have been the manager) actually argues with him that "this is the new way to make chai and everybody likes it." Ummm, we didn't like it and even your co-worker said it was gross what you made, and why are you arguing with us anyways? Just make us another drink or offer us something else! Getting a simple glass of OJ instead of having them make another nasty chai latte seemed like a HUGE ask of them...WOW. Too bad because this place really does have delicious food...save yourself the hassle and go to one of the MANY other wonderful brunch places within walking distance of here. read more

Just moved to Chicago (to the South Loop) within the last two weeks. There is definitely a need for more cafes in this area. One of the first days I arrived I wanted to explore and try and walk to the Lake from my apartment. I mistakenly took 13th street (thinking I just take an Eastward direction and it would take me straight through to the Lake) and happened upon the Little Branch Cafe, in a very strange location. Due to its bizarre location (for a cafe) in a more upscale residential area, and next to a dry cleaner, and due to the fact that the Lake was in fact my destination, I literally thought "how cheesy" then headed onward and away. However, when it came time for me to find a cafe in my area in which I could get out of the apartment and hang out and do some work, I kept coming across this oddly-located cafe on Yelp. AND... it had great reviews by most people. So, I gave it a shot this morning. With outdoor seating that was not super comfortable looking (nor shaded at all) and a mirror-windowed outside, the place looked mostly unappealing. Inside there's plenty of little two-person tables all along the windows, as well as a small bar area. I had a hot chai tea (took a while to make, which was a common complaint I found on Yelp prior to visiting) and was almost lukewarm. Still, I had brought my computer to do some work (Yay free WiFi!!!) I buckled down for the next hour/hour and a half or so and drank my tea and did stuff on my computer. There were a couple other folks there with computers and other paperwork as well, so it didn't feel like I was forcing anything not usual for this place. I was getting hungry so I ordered a nutella and banana sandwich on ciabatta bread. It was SUPER yummy (and came pretty fast from the kitchen). I read the RedEye and did the crossword while I ate. I would have stayed even longer if I wasn't getting so chilly because of the AC. I think overall I really liked the place, for what it was, and for its convenient location for where I live. I'm not quite understanding some of the other reviews by people who travel some distance to visit this place, however. I didn't think it was anything special. I've lived in other cities (Boston, NYC, San Diego), and unlike a good rib joint or a place that makes amazing tater tots or something like that, I didn't think there was anything at Little Branch that you couldn't get closer to home. As I said though, it's close to me, has good food (so far), a decent atmosphere (although I do like big plushy chairs as well as the tables in a cafe), and free WiFi. I will be going back! read more

if there was convenient parking nearby, i'd give it 5 stars. otherwise, the food (sammys and salads) is tasty and the coffee-caramel gelato is especially DELISH. really cute interior design! its a lovely place. read more

This is my South Loop hangout! It is oddly placed in the middle of hi rises but definitely a place one should not miss! They have everything to satisfy my cravings - lattes, scones, paninis, and gelato! I wish there were more cute neighborhood joints like this in the Sloop. Food is consistently good and the staff is super friendly. I also like that there's some outdoor seating:). read more

This used to be a really great place. Coffee is still good, but stay away from the food. Everything looks old. Smoked salmon platter came with a very sad looking salmon and hardened old cream cheese, and when asked to have it replaced, the person behind the counter tried to convince me that it's chives that are responsible for the appearance. Then the new cream cheese had the same old hardened layer hidden on the bottom. Husband's eggs looked and tasted rubbery with a strong flavor of old reused oil. Considering the location and the prices, this should be embarrassing for the owners. More and more 1 star reviews are posted and clearly nobody cares to address the problems. The fact that one has to pay before actually seeing and tasting the food, only reinforces the issue. It almost feels like they trap the customer. Who wants to spoil their breakfast and whole morning trying to fight and get your money back? It's not worth it. Take your money elsewhere. There are plenty of better places in the area. read more

Little Branch Cafe - Discolored hard old cream cheese. And that was a replacement too! Waiter said "it's chives". Really? It's old and nasty. - Breakfast & Brunch Near Me - Chicago, Illinois

i almost do not want to review this place bc it is a hidden, tucked away gem! i have tried all the fad brunch places in chicago, yolk and whatnot and they do not stand a chance next to this place! I have never had such fluffy well cooked eggs, and the french toast? wow. its a little place with limited seating but my parents still talk about how amazing their meal was here. no parking around the place without a zone so be prepared to park on michigan or further if you are driving! read more

Very good with a little but of everything. Had the breakfast platter and French Toast for brunch and all was delicious. Will definitely be back. read more

I have given this place two tries. The first time, I was served a sightly stale croissant and burnt coffee. The second time, they actually sold me a bagel that was half frozen and so stale it was starting to smell moldy. The stale pastries are not even the worst feature. The cafe is not well maintained, the counter and the seating are are not tidy, and the service is terrible. It is such a shame, because the location of this place is amazing. I am patiently waiting for someone to buy it and change it into a real coffee shop. read more

Cozy place with nice decor and ambience. Had pancakes (very small portion) and a coffee for brunch which were good, however cost ~$13.. which is reflective of the uppety Prarie District clientele. 3-4 stars for food and ambience, 1 star for value. read more

Brought the wrong order to our table twice (intended for another table). Third time the food came to our table it matched our table number, but they handed me an omelette with bacon and tomato (I'm vegetarian, had ordered an omelette with spinach and feta). At that point, I was too exhausted and impatient to fight, so I just ate the side of hash browns and left. This was at 11 a.m. on a Sunday. read more

Stuffed French toast...how to express how much I love you! I went to little branch for the first time over the weekend and had heard about the aforementioned stuffed French toast so I tried it...from now on I will try not to stalk you each and every weekend and will only visit when my cravings get too intense to deny. You were worth each and every bite, delicious sauce, blubbery compote, bread and egg deliciousness! Coffee and bloody mary...thank you as well! Yum! read more

This place is a hidden gem, tucked away from the busy streets inside a highrise condo complex. The coffee is great, but the dinner is even better. Service is excellent and the food is made with fresh ingredients. The best part is its BYOB and home is only a few stumbles away for me. My wife and I come here weekly. Can't get enough. Their lunch menu has some really solid sandwiches. I'm a fan of the BLT and turkey reuben. The water with cucumber is so refreshing. read more

A great little spot in the South Loop to sit down with a tea or coffee and work on your laptop. I've always found that the Wireless Internet is reliable, and their chai lattes and hot chocolates are excellent (not sweet, but flavorful). read more

Off the beaten path and tucked away on a quit corner, this cute little cafe makes my heart sing. The breakfast burrito was freshly prepared and delicious! Will be coming here again whenever I visit my daughter. read more

I live in the building so I stop in all the time. It's nice for a quiet place to work and have one of their well-crafted lattes or organic coffee. The food is pretty over-priced for what you are getting. The staff is hit or miss- and be prepared to wait a while for whatever you order (unless its coffee). The breakfast burrito is my fave breakfast item. Overall a nice coffee shop. :) read more

I want to love this neighborhood place. Twice I have ordered bakery items and they are not only stale and cold, but they also have the very strong flavor of the blueberry muffins/scones that sit in the case with them. read more

Not sure if there was a change in owner, chef, etc but this place used to be delicious over a year ago, with fresh ingredients. But the last few times I've been there recently featured not fresh fruit, omelette with not real eggs, and just unseasoned dishes. What happened? read more

Very disappointed in quality of meat. Ordered Wasabi burger - meat tasted old, lacking flavor. For over 10 dollars expect a high quality meat which is definitely not the case. Employees seem disinterested and more worried about closing the restaurant and getting people out by closing time than providing a quality experience. Will not return. read more

I have to say this place has everything well done. Starting from the decoration inside and the great service I experienced! Not to mention the good coffee I had. I had the "Vanilla Cappuccino" and it didn't make me feel sick like the one from Starbucks did in the past. So, I will definitely go back for some more soon! read more

I just wish this was in my neighborhood! I LOVE this place and wish I could start every day here. Their coffee is fantastic and every sweet treat I've ever had has been amazing. I love their sandwiches and can't wait to have some wine here very soon! The staff is always oh so friendly! read more

This is a great neighborhood cafe and coffee shop. If you live in the South Loop and wonder where your neighborhood coffee shop or cafe is, wonder no longer. All you have to do is find it! It's kind of tucked away in one of the Museum Park buildings on 13th, just east of Indiana. The space itself is very open and bright with tons of natural light, which makes it very comfortable and inviting. Every food item we've tasted, whether the breakfast/brunch items, sandwiches, soups, sweets, gelato/ice cream, etc is excellent. As far as cafe/coffee shops go, this is five star in its class. The gelato/ice cream is by far the best in the neighborhood. They serve Metropolitan coffee, which is top notch. read more

omg you have to try the chicken and waffles on their dinner menu. it is to die for. andrew makes the best martini's, and james makes the best desserts. this is a great place to relax and enjoy a great meal with friends or family. they also have the nicest staff. read more

One of my fave brunch spots! It's tucked away so kind of a neighborhood hidden gem. Love that there is never a long wait, unlike some of the other brunch spots in the south loop. I highly recommend the salmon lox, breakfast buritto and their French toast. Yum! read more

This is a great cafe hidden in Museum Park with tasty scones and sandwiches. The service is excellent and the food is always good. I appreciate the fine tea selection and also enjoy the hot chocolate. Its often hard to find a good glass of ice tea but they serve several version and all I have tried are perfect. read more

They have good food, and the ambiance is nice. It is just over priced. I've gotten the Lox platter and yogurt dishes. We've mainly gone for breakfast. Their lattes are fantastic! My wife and I only come here once in a great while when we don't want to cook breakfast for ourselves. It's not a place I'd go out of my way for though. read more

Amazing French Toast!! Vegetarian sandwich also a winner. Cozy yet spacious neighborhood spot, perfect for a first date, brunch with friends, or study session. read more

The shrimp salad was out of this world. Very fresh and delightful. Chicken curry soup is very tasty. Not too much curry. Lots of chicken in it, like homemade. Vegetables were very fresh. Crab cake sandwich was one of the best I ever had. Will be back for sure when I'm in the neighborhood. read more

My mom lives in one of the high rises next door. I come here most mornings for my Latte and blueberry scone! Excellent service and free Wi-Fi! Prices are reasonable, $4 for a 20 oz Latte is similar to Starbucks. They also have full brunch and adult beverages. Cozy atmosphere. read more

The restaurant is hard to find. The sandwiches were very filling, with a lot of meat! I was very disappointed to find out that after buying a glass of regular tea for almost $3 that they wanted you to pay 25 cents for a refill. It seemed ridiculous! read more

I am here in Chicago with some of my closest buddies for a bachelor party and we stumbled upon this place. I got the Noblesse and it is one of the best cafe sandwiches I've had on a while. The sweet butter in the croissant compliments the spicy pickle and honey mustard very well. The other sandwiches my friends got was also well received. Very highly recommended especially if you're heading to the nearby Field Museum. read more