Stopped in looking for a quick meal and ended up finding a place worth coming back to. The food came out surprisingly fast without feeling rushed or thrown together. I kept it simple with the chicken tenders, and they were done right--crisp breading on the outside, tender and juicy inside. They had a solid lineup of dipping sauces, but the BBQ was the clear winner for me. Good food, fast service, and a relaxed atmosphere. Definitely hit the spot and earned a return visit. read more

RJ Grunts is a classic spot!!! Great bar / american food with a big menu! Casual on the inside with a family friendly free. We sat at the bar and ordered to go salads. It was a Sunday afternoon and it was pretty busy inside. I loved my salad they had tons of topping options & sooo many other things I wanted to try. If you are craving a sandwich or salad - this is the perfect place!! read more

RJ Grunts - Build Create Your Own Salad - American Near Me - Chicago, Illinois

I hadn't been here in over 20 years and just remembered it being busy, both in action and decor. We arrived for a Saturday lunch and I saw that part is still true. They still have a 1990s menu, but with 2026 prices. (Honestly on the low side for 2026.) Notable: Cocktails are $10. We didnt have any, but $10 is looking like a very good deal these days. Fried pickles came recommended. On one hand they weren't greasy and the breading stayed on. On the other hand, they really lacked flavor. Like almost no discernible flavor, and the breading was on the thick side. Wouldn't get them again. If I eat fried pickles, I want them to taste at least a little pickle-y. Happy to see that the "salad bar" is now a thing where you order a custom salad with a little sheet and a golf pencil and don't have to march around the room with a plate and make your own salad. We split an entree salad and a buffalo chicken wrap. The salad was very good, and exactly as ordered. The pico de gallo we ordered with it had no heat. Heat would have been nice, but maybe the giardinara would have neen a better option for us. The wrap was pretty good. Buffalo sauce was on the sweet side. They split the wrap order for us without us having to ask for it and gave us each an enormous mound of fries. Shoestring style fries that accommodates fans of McDonald's fries. We had to take most of the wrap home and found it worked even better chopped up on a salad for dinner. With extra hot sauce. I kept getting the feeling at RJ Grunts that the menu is skewed toward children's tastes. Or just homogenized. It used to be a pretty big tourist destination. And the food wasn't bad; it just wasn't incredible. The service, however, was incredible. From the moment we walked in, we were engaged warmly with a clear focus on customer satisfaction. Especially for how busy it was, our server was hugely attentive to detail and never seemed rushed or made us feel rushed. The next time we're in the area, we will probably be back. Even though the food didn't blow us away, they make it just incredibly easy to eat there. read more

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This restaurant is what began the Lettuce Entertain You restaurant group. I'm surprised I've never been here or even heard about it, especially with it being in such a popular area of Lincoln Park right across from the zoo and conservatory. I loved the vibe and decor in here. I also loved the menu design, although it is a bit chaotic to read. It was super crowded in here at around 4pm on a Saturday and it felt like they really had us stuffed in there with the tables super close to each other. The service and food were average. I tried the french onion soup and that was really good! I ordered the buffalo chicken tenders and I didn't like that they just drizzled the buffalo sauce over the tenders. Either drench them in buffalo sauce or just don't put any on and let me dip them in myself lol. I don't think they were worth the $18 price either. They tasted okay and the fries were meh (even though they charge extra for fries, there was nothing special about them). Maybe I'd come back to try their milkshakes and get the french onion soup again. My sisters got cheeseburgers and liked them, which is what they are known for apparently. They're also known for their house-made potato chips, which were pretty interesting and super crunchy. read more

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Great neighborhood spot for lunch, casual dinner, or after dinner drinks! I love the "reverse" happy hour from 8-10pm. It can get pretty busy and service can get a little slow, but it's worth it for the happy hour deals. I love the bacon cheddar burger, potato skins, and nachos. Can never go wrong with a dirty martini or glass of wine. read more

RJ Grunts - Bacon Cheddarburger - American Near Me - Chicago, Illinois

Such a Lincoln Park staple. Perfect for after the zoo or beach but would definitely recommend a reservation. Love the decorations and graphic design of it all. Everything is so good, you can't go wrong with any of the dishes. read more

We had a great lunch at RJ Grunts after spending time exploring the Lincoln Park Zoo. My daughter highly recommended it. We sat at the bar and began with a couple of beers. I chose the Grunt Burger, which was amazing, with blue cheese and onion straws. My friend had the Mr Chicken sandwich, which was finely cut chicken breast that he said was delicious. We both chose the fries. Cool retro decor and old school music. We really enjoyed it, and I'd highly recommend a visit! read more

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Ambiance - intimate, cozy, offers bar Service - our server was super nice, loved that they timed the burgers to come out at same time Food - Bacon Cheddarburger was slightly too dry even though I ordered medium rare, also lacking in some kind of sauce read more

RJ Grunts - Bacon Cheddarburger - American Near Me - Chicago, Illinois

We go several times a year as we really like Grunts. Food is always good and like their cocktails. Great location and. Atmosphere!

Our server was Ryan. He was on point. Excellent service. Food is always on point! I love their French dip sandwich with their horseradish sauce. The atmosphere, fun music and food were all perfect! read more

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What a wonderful little gem! We decided to give their happy hour a try and while we were there, we tried their burger and tuna melt. The happy hour was amazing. All the drinks on the happy hour menu are five dollars, and they were very well made. Our server, Jill, was so friendly and attentive; she checked on us frequently and always with a big smile Thank you, Jill... it was a wonderful experience and we can't wait to return soon! read more

RJ Grunts - American Near Me - Chicago, Illinois

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I was super excited to try this place, but unfortunately I left really disappointed. We were told they were cleaning off a table for us, and once they said it was ready, I sat down and realized the chair was completely wet. My pants were soaked, and I had to sit through my entire lunch cold, wet, and extremely uncomfortable. No one really seemed concerned about it either. I was hoping the food would at least make up for the experience, but we ended up waiting about an hour for our food even though we ordered right away because we were trying not to be there too long. I asked for my Dr Pepper to come out with my burger, and our server eventually brought it over because she said the food would be out shortly. Another 20 minutes went by and still no food, so she had to go check on it. When the food finally came out, it was just alright and definitely not worth the wait or the overall experience. Between sitting in wet clothes for the entire meal and waiting so long for our food, I unfortunately won't be coming back. read more

Super great food a good variety and the happy hour has great deals. I recommend getting the guac it's really good. The ambiance is cool, feels like a place I could go with my family or with my friends read more

I so want to like RJ Grunts. Tonight's tuna melt is not going to get it done. A tablespoon of tuna over non-melted cheese is unfortunately disappointing. read more

RJ Grunts - Tuna melt - American Near Me - Chicago, Illinois

Always have great food here and great service. The dining room can be pretty packed given the age of the place, but the patio is beautiful. This time around we ordered the chili cheese fries which were amazing. My boyfriend craves the ribs and orders them about once a month as well and swears they are the best in the city. Other than that, great shakes, the Mr, chicken is amazing, grilled cheese is meh, and the chicken Caesar wrap (special) is great. Also have great soups!! read more

RJ Grunts - Chili Cheese Fries - American Near Me - Chicago, Illinois

Unbeatable Happy Hour deal! All of their signature cocktails are $5. They do not allow modifications to the drinks, and you can't just get classic vodka soda. No food on HH menu. Less of a positive experience with their food, the fries were stringy, and soggy. 1/5 My friend said her Chili was good, but it was a bit cold. Lovely bar ambiance and vibe, fun decorations. Service was fine! read more

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I take no joy in saying RJ Grunts seems to be past its sell by date. We were a party of 8 last night. Despite having a truly affable waiter, service was spotty ( at best). One dinner arrived so late that nearly everyone else had finished their meals. My burger ordered medium rare came well done with cold fries. And, while the menu is 1970's cute, it is pure chaos. If nostalgia is really important for you, then this is the place. read more

Solid! For those not from the Chicago area, like myself, this is a must-visit. It is within walking distance from the zoo. My friends and I ended up stopping in just for a quick drink and everyone was super satisfied! A cider, margarita, amaretto sour, and cosmo were ordered. All great! The interior is so cool, lot's of old photographs and unique decor to gander at while you eat/drink. In the future I'd love to come back for a burger. I was EYEING the table by me's spread of them. Looks killer. read more

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Do not let the tinted windows around this restaurant deter you from coming here as they are probably open. Stopped in here after passing by near Lincoln Park Zoo for a burger and was not disappointed. The young man who was my waiter was knowledgeable, patient and attentive to customers who may be coming in for the first time trying to digest a very hectic menu. If you're able to maneuver it (you will be able to, I'm being dramatic), I would suggest the Grunt Burger. I ordered it rare with a side of chips and I was very pleased. The burger was cooked perfectly and the fried onions and sauce that accompany the patty are delicious. The chips are the perfect side dish with this. These are the kind of chips that are crunchy around the edges but soft and chewy in the middle because of the way they're cooked in the oil. The atmosphere of the bar is very homey and the walls are cluttered (in a good way) with Chicago celebrities who have stopped in for a bit to eat, as well as newspaper articles and Chicago themed decorations. Very good place and would definitely come back if I'm in the area or after a trip to the zoo. read more

RJ Grunts - Gruntburger with chips - American Near Me - Chicago, Illinois

For a burger and brunch place this was great. This place has a "local" feel. I had an old school vibe. We got there around 11 on a Saturday and they were serving brunch items and their regular menu. I tried the Belgium waffles with a side of bacon. The waffles were great and the bacon were thick cut slabs of goodness. My son got a cheeseburger with fries, pretty standard but he enjoyed it. We also shared a fudge sundae. It wasn't the best ever, but still hit the spot. I would definitely recommend this place. It's within walking distance from the Lincoln Zoo. read more

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Called about the status of an order (May 5th around 12:20) and the girl that answered the phone was very short with me and rude even though I was very cordial. She hung up the phone loudly before I even got a chance to reply. 2 stars instead of 1 because this isn't the restaurant's fault necessarily but they definitely need to train their employees better. read more

We stopped into R.J. Grunts for happy hour and had such a great experience. The drinks were really well priced, which was a nice surprise for the area. The vibe inside was warm, cozy, and very Christmassy, honestly the perfect place to go right after visiting the Christmas lights at Lincoln Park Zoo, especially since it's right across the street. For food, we got the Grunt Burger, which was really good, and the buffalo chicken wings, which were delicious with great flavor. We also tried their signature chips, and even though I'm not usually a chips person, these were surprisingly amazing, super fresh and addictive. Service was fast and very friendly, which just made the whole experience even better. Overall, a great spot for happy hour, especially during the holidays. We'll definitely be back! read more

We stopped by RJ Grunts on a whim before heading to the lake to see the beavers, and it was the perfect pre-adventure meal. The place has this great vibe overall and nothing short of big character. The menu is like a safari hunt. It feels like flipping through a diner-themed Where's Waldo book. It's packed with personality, and finding what you want is half the fun. Once you do, though, the food hits every time. Overall, it's a great place for a drink and comfort food. Just try to go on the weekday before it gets too crowded! -AD read more

RJ Grunts - Tuna Sandwich - American Near Me - Chicago, Illinois

Located near Lincoln Park Zoo, this neighborhood favorite is cozy and vintage with past waitstaff members posted on the wall. The menu descriptions are very descriptive and the portion for fries are huge. The sandwiches, shakes, and chili are legendary. It's extremely busy and yet you can find a table. The chandeliers give the place a splash of class. Staff was not wearing masks. The rest rooms are gender neutral. Parking nearby can be an issue. The special Thanksgiving sandwich was delicious with moist turkey, cranberry sauce, and tasty gravy. read more

RJ Grunts - Time for dinner - American Near Me - Chicago, Illinois

Finally stopped by RJ Grunts. The place is very functional they have pictures of their past waiters/waitresses on the walls. We went with: - Cup of chili - Smash Burger - Buffalo Chicken Wrap The chili was warming on a cold windy day. While the Buffalo Chicken Wrap was surprisingly light. Not the best burger in the city but still was very good, it was a special so not on the menu. read more

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Great historic place. Nice menu. Staff was great. Loved the French onion soup. Fried pickles were great. Everyone enjoyed their food!

Happy 4th of July pleasantly spent in my beloved and favorite happy place. Food and service as delicious and friendly as ever. Will forever love the view of Lincoln Park and the location of this sweetest of sweet spots. All of this, and the outstanding music that continually plays, drops my dopamine and leaves me euphorically wanting more. Until next time... read more

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Really a fun restaurant with good food! We walked from the zoo for lunch. We had great service and the dood was really good! Will try it again! read more

What a great little place to grab lunch. We found this place by accident and happy we did. Menu is huge and service was friendly and quick. Fun fact: instead of celebrities, pictures on the wall are employees. Definitely worth a stop if your in LP area read more

RJ Grunts is infamously known for its late night happy hour and diy chopped salad! The happy hour is pretty great. It's Thursday through Saturday from 8 to 10 PM and it's very rare that you can find a late night happy hour so love that! They have really good deals on drinks! The chopped salad is a fun feature of the restaurant because they give you a little menu where you can select everything you want in your salad. It's very interactive and fun. That said, I would recommend reservations for this place especially on weekend nights it can fill up pretty quickly. read more

RJ Grunts - Sweet potato fries, fried pickles, and chopped salad - American Near Me - Chicago, Illinois

This place is and has always been solid. If you want a typical American meal come here. It's just good. I got a patty melt and the patty's were thick and juicy burgers. It came with fries or homemade chips, which in this economy is getting less and less of a thing. We also ordered onion rings which were delicious. All in all the food is great. I'm taking away one star because they murdered their salad bar and replaced it with a salad survey which is both not as fun, less historic, and has worse options. But I get it. All in all definitely come here, it's such a good option when you go to the zoo. Also, they take reservations now, which is a huge deal! read more

All the food was very very good! Chili was super flavorful with a good amount of spice. Pickle fries were delicious! It was quite busy, so there was a little bit of a wait to get seated & to get our food but I would go back again! read more

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At midway airport. The young lady working the front has an attitude and is disrespectful. She snapped that they didn't take vouchers and we went to the next business and was told by a manager that they do take vouchers. We came back and she didn't like that we came back. After the manager showed her how to take the voucher she said "don't talk to me that way". I am over the bratitude. Then she went to talk to all her colleagues and had our food made last. read more

R.J. has the best salads in Chicago! They have a number of toppings to pick from, and they chop them all up for you. Their Thursday-Saturday night late night happy hour is a great deal. Service is always friendly, though always on the move as they're usually busy. It has a fun casual vibe that you don't often get in the city. Definitely check it out for salad and happy hour read more

The virtual salad bar is the best. Very crowded interior but a classic. Always go after the zoo read more

RJ Grunts - RJ Grunts Chopped Salad Bar - American Near Me - Chicago, Illinois

This is the place to go after visiting the zoo. It is practically across the street and is one of the few options within walking distance. Get one of the milkshakes and a burger and you won't be disappointed. Be warned that the place is tiny so the booths and aisles are quite cramped. read more

RJ Grunts - American Near Me - Chicago, Illinois

Our server Kylie Super Sweet, All our Food Cold and LACKLUSTER!! Fries, chips, cold! Tortilla wrap, not even like warmed up or toasted, but filled with cold chicken! Kids grilled cheese, huge Texas type bread and one slice of American cheese! Very underwhelming place read more

It was my first time in and it is adorable inside. Old time photos and chandeliers. Small bar with tvs with the cubs on! We had onion rings, classic cheeseburgers and vanilla shake. All were outstanding. Was afraid this place was going to be a disappointment but it's a classic that is still vibing! read more

RJ Grunts - American Near Me - Chicago, Illinois

I ordered a California wrap, fried pickle chips, a cup of broccoli cheddar soup, and two Sprites. Everything came fresh and packaged perfectly. The Cali wrap was hands down the star, it was super flavorful, fresh, and those homemade chips on the side? Literally addicting. The pickle chips had the perfect crunch, and the soup was cozy and cheesy in the best way. Delivery was smooth and quick too. Definitely adding this to my go-to comfort food spots in Lakeview. read more

Really solid casual food and fun ambiance with nice servers. Great place to stop by after or before the zoo! Was told the onion rings were some of the best in the city and I have to agree. Burger was also one of the best I've had! Nothing unique just a good solid thick burger. The Mr. chicken was also great! Sounds strange but worked as an homage to an Italian Beef with chicken slice sandwich dipped into au jus. Really great! Everything was great and cannot wait to go back! read more

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