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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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

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

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

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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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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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

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

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

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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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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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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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

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

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

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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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

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

The Diet Coke machine ran out of the syrup but the waitress still asked us to drink it? Food was kind of mid, bill QR code didn't work, pricey. Good location but it's for tourists read more

The food was soggy and cold. Nothing was hot and fresh. Probably the worst meal I have ever had in Chicago.

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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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

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

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

Food is not bad but pricey for small portions. Look at the tuna that was included in my tuna melt for $16. read more

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

No reservation, but thought we'd try to get a table on a Friday night at 5:30pm. Greeted by host, who asked how many. Told her 2 and she responded very short with, "ok, we have a table, but need it back in an hour". Never experienced that before. Wow! Luckily our waitress was great and said not to worry abt that. We ordered chili and onion soup to start followed by a build your own salad. Salad was large, could have shared between us. Great options for salad. Good service by waitress. Host should go to hospitality school. read more

RJ Grunts - Table number and QR - American Near Me - Chicago, Illinois

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Great little spot! Very cool vibe, lots of artwork, big space! Food was brought out in 3 minutes after we ordered. I got a spicy bloody. This was great. You only get garnishes and rim during brunch hours. We got the California wrap with sweet potato fries and the buffalo wings. The wrap was great! Everything was very fresh! Fries were eh. The wings were good, nothing special but tasted good! read more

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I am an RJ Grunts fan since childhood. It was my mom's favorite restaurant as she was a salad bar aficionado. I had not visited in a number of years and saw upon arrival that the salad bar is now gone, although you can place an order from a list on your table. Another thing to know is that large parties are difficult to sit together. There is a very cozy booth for 6, otherwise it's multiple tables. I have always been happy with everything I ordered. This time I had a burger and it was cooked perfectly. And the house made chips are always the best. A Chicago staple and a great location to include when visiting Lincoln Park, the Zoo and or the Historical museum. read more

We love this place as a family although we go rarely because it is not near us. The service is always SO kind and welcoming. My kids are big fans of the menu including my big kid who loves the chopped salad bar selection. Just a great casual table service spot! read more

Best happy hour and popping even on a Thursday night! Bar staff were very friendly and sweet potato fries were really crispy! Highly recommend! read more

Sooo hit or miss. Drinks are reasonable but their food is so overpriced. but these chicken tenders for nearly $20 are a huge miss read more

RJ Grunts - Chicken Tenders - American Near Me - Chicago, Illinois

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This spot has been on my radar for so long. This restaurant has a Saturday night (8pm to 10pm) Happy Hour. Woot Woot. The Happy Hour covers the whole establishment, so you don't have to sit in the bar to get the special. Btw the bar is super tiny. Anyway, we put our name on the list for a table. We were sat in under 5 minutes. In all honesty we were just coming for the $5 cocktails. Had I knew that we could sat down and ate, we would of gotten food. By the time we got here, we were already tipsy and fed. For drinks we I decided on the Malbec ($5 bucks) and my husband got the Old Fashion ($5 buckaroos). Decided to get dessert and one more drink before ending our night. I would come back here or another late moght happy hour. Everyone was super friendly and the atmosphere was old school. read more

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Quick stop while walking to the Navy Pier! Personable atmosphere and bar person. Drinks are cold and delicious. Beautiful place and a pure staple in the Chicago area. Loved it! This place have so much personality even reading the menu was great. Every dish explained via menu and funny. read more

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