Tied for my favorite diner in America only with my childhood diner in MA. S&G's family friendly environment is why I will always come back. Frances and another amazing woman (I caught her name but I am now forgetting, sorry!) always greet my kids with a smile and conversation. The entire staff is incredibly kind especially Mimi. A quick story: my toddler was getting restless and I do my best to respect other patrons so I took him outside briefly. When we came back he was still restless but Frances walked him behind the bar and got him some additional coloring books. They are incredibly busy but they will go above and beyond to make you feel comfortable. The food is awesome as well. So many great options and it's quick to your table but not rushed. And even if you don't have kids, this is a great spot. I can't recommend Sam & George's enough Easily my favorite diner because of the people! read more

Food: 4.0/5. Ambiance & Service: 4.8/5. "Just good food," as their slogan promises - and they deliver. I always order the Denver omelet, and it's consistently prepared the way I like it. Nothing on the menu is especially show-stopping, but the food is reliably solid, classic diner fare. What truly makes S&G one of my favorites is the diner itself. It's a warm, family-run spot with the same familiar faces behind the counter, and you can feel how deeply rooted it is in the community. It's probably the most community-connected restaurant I know in Chicago read more

Sam & George's - Denver omelet, Two Over-Easy Eggs With Sausage - Breakfast & Brunch Near Me - Chicago, Illinois

Went to Sam & George's for breakfast on a Sunday morning and the experience was a bit underwhelming. The wait was long, which is understandable for a popular brunch spot, but once seated we were placed right next to the kitchen where it felt very hectic. The wait staff seemed a bit short with us, possibly due to how busy it was. I ordered the Gypsy skillet and it was just alright, it had a bit of a greasy taste that took away from the overall flavor. read more

Sam & George's - Outside - Breakfast & Brunch Near Me - Chicago, Illinois

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Recently stopped here for a hearty breakfast and still impressed how great the food is for a diner. On this occasion, I went with their 'El Presidente' skillet and was not disappointed. It was a heaping plate that didn't skimp on the meat and jalapeño peppers. With a side of bacon and standard diner coffee this meal was perfect for me. Great service. Multiple waiters served me at the counter and made sure my drinks were refilled constantly. All above is clearly not just my opinion. The place was packed and there was a line out the door when I left. Such a great neighborhood spot. read more

Visiting Chicago and had my first visit at Sam & George's with family. I'm thinking this could be the quintessential midwestern, urban grill/diner experience. It's a popular place and patrons were pretty much elbow to elbow and the background noise was at a high level. However, staff were courteous and efficient, and we were promptly seated and served. The menu was extensive with a wide array of breakfast and lunch items. I had a traditional breakfast, which was good, and my wife had a really good (and prodigiously proportioned) Greek salad that was quite tasty. Kids ate off the children's menu and enjoyed their burgers, etc. The location can make parking challenging at times, but the experience was a good one. read more

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Staff are so rude and dismissive that I can't not leave a review. From the moment I stepped into this restaurant it was clear I was "bothering" them. It was an hour before closing and they did not want any more customers. Visible eye rolls and exhausted sighs... will never step foot in here again. read more

You should definitely stop here if you're hungry! The portions are huge, and the staff are lovely. There's also a lot of seating for such a small space, including an outside area where you can people watch comfortably. This is a good diner feel, and centrally located to the rest of your daily errands! read more

The ambiance is so perfectly old school. Hard to find now-a-days. Loved everything I ordered and the service was so friendly. Nothing beats that authentic vintage diner feel. read more

Sam & George's - Breakfast & Brunch Near Me - Chicago, Illinois

This is comfort food central. Great service, excellent breakfasts in a classic Chicago dinner. Everything is good here, can't go wrong with trying something new every time you come here. The owner and staff are super friendly and make you feel like you're family! read more

Sam & George's - Breakfast & Brunch Near Me - Chicago, Illinois

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Classic midwestern diner on Lincoln in Lakeview. Hearty fare at reasonable prices with friendly staff in a classic diner atmosphere. Had the open faces meatloaf sandwich and a cup of bean soup. Both were solid and enough meatloaf for two meals. Huge selection. I'll be back for breakfast soon. read more

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Amazing breakfast spot with a proper homey diner feel. Gyros skillet is amazing, staff is so friendly. Best breakfast spot in the area!

Went to breakfast with a friend that lives in Andersonville and mentioned we should come to Sam & George's. This place is a neighborhood treasure. The waitresses are sassy and I love it. They're super friendly and they hustle. The waitresses know who the regulars are and it's so nice to see them interact with them. They really do seem to care about the regulars like to see. The Porky Pig Skillet was meaty and so good. Great place to go for a breakfast or lunch. read more

Sam & George's - Porky Pig - Breakfast & Brunch Near Me - Chicago, Illinois

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Great place took my family all 15 of us got in,made a reservation fabulous service Great food couldn't ask for more. Enjoy will ho back!

One of my go-to breakfast places, especially if you're looking for a skillet! I've sat both indoors/outdoors, and the servers are always friendly/attentive. Never had a problem walking-in to get a table either. read more

Sam & George's - Porkys Cousin - Breakfast & Brunch Near Me - Chicago, Illinois

S&G's is your classic weekend, family brunch spot. The menu is GINORMOUS, so you'll definitely be able to find something you like. I settled on the Spartan Skillet which came with a generous amount of feta. It was good, just a little on the pricier side. If you're looking for a place to bring your family for good company and bottomless coffee, give this mom&pop spot a shot! read more

Sam & George's - Breakfast & Brunch Near Me - Chicago, Illinois

I really wanted to love this place. It has that retro diner charm -- the kind that makes you imagine you're in a 1950s sitcom. But unfortunately, the food was more "crime scene" than "classic." The pancakes were a sad, rubbery mess. I'm pretty sure they came from the same factory that makes tire treads. As for the service, our server was about as warm as a frozen TV dinner. Not rude, just... "meh," with a side of indifference. I get it, diners are supposed to have that gritty, throwback vibe, but when the food tastes like it's been sitting under a heat lamp since 1987, it's hard to pretend it's part of the charm. Would I go back? Only if I need to relive my worst breakfast experience. read more

Sam & George's is hands down one of the best diners in Chicago. Walking in, you're immediately greeted by friendly staff and swift service. Their wide variation of menu items and unique selection of flavorful skillet breakfasts ensures that each visit will bring you a new twist to timeless diner classics. The warm and cozy atmosphere of the place lends to its image as a relaxing diner to have your morning brunches at. The portions are hefty at a great price as well. Definitely worth your business! read more

Sam & George's - Breakfast & Brunch Near Me - Chicago, Illinois

S&G gave me the best classic diner vibes. I came here around noon on a Sunday for brunch. The place was *packed* and there were at least 15 people waiting. With a selection of 29 skillets, that is the go-to item here. Be aware that you can definitely get vegetarian items here, however, they offer meat on 25+/29 skillets and they do not allow for substitutions. I very much enjoyed my food, the bottomless coffee, and the hardworking staff! Kudos! Highlight: The Pecan Roll! It was sliced up and toasted. I added butter, and omg, delicious. read more

Love this neighborhood gem. I've been going here since I was born, my dad has been going here since he was a kid! Family owned, super welcoming staff, clean as well and all the meals are delish and comforting! Love their biscuits and gravy, and the skillets. My fav is the Kevin L skillet it has gyro meat, feta and jalapeños! Love the sandwiches and soup too! read more

Sam & George's - Kevin Ls Special skillet, Two Biscuits with Gravy, and The Athenian skillet - Breakfast & Brunch Near Me - Chicago, Illinois

Evidently there are 3 good reasons to dine here: Breakfast, breakfast, and breakfast. This old school diner has perhaps the most extensive breakfast/brunch menu in Lakeview. Heck, they could get away with renaming this place "Skilletville USA" because 29 different skillet combos are listed. No one at our table ordered a skillet (big mistake?) but our dining companions gave their omelets and French toast nods of approval. Most lunch/dinner items come with a small bowl of soup and a starch. Both soups of the day - tomato beef barley and chicken bowtie - were nothing special (and we were not offered crackers). I ordered a "King Crabmeat Salad Croissant" ($16.95). No, I'm not naïve ... I assumed this would be imitation crab. Actually it was better than grocery store "crabmeat" salad. I upgraded my starch to onion rings (+$1.50) which were freshly prepared, hot and crisp. My Missus said her olive burger and tater tots ($14.95) were quite good. Their coleslaw is very good but the half-filled paper ramekin contained less than a forkful. Service was friendly and swift. I will not become a loyal S&G fan because I prefer diners in Chicago's 'burbs where parking is plentiful and free, the chow is as good or better, and menu prices average 20-25% lower. read more

Sam & George's - King Crabmeat Salad Croissant, onion rings. - Breakfast & Brunch Near Me - Chicago, Illinois

Absolute solid neighborhood diner all around. After a long morning exploring Chicago, I desperately needed an energy boost. A cheeseburger and chocolate malt from S&G did the trick! You get exactly what you're expecting- nothing more nothing less. Their menu is quite the read with over 300 options, but you can at least take comfort in knowing that anything you order will be satisfying. I can recommend the bacon cheeseburger or avocado cheddar burger! Around 2PM on a Saturday was the perfect time to avoid crowds. We had our pick of tables and the wait for our food wasn't bad at all. read more

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Pancakes were awful. Service is gruff, and they pack you in like sardines. Try other diners in the city instead.

Fast breakfast spot with a good size patio! It was extremely busy on a Sunday morning for breakfast. My boyfriend and I luckily were able to get a seat outside and our sweet server was prompt and quick taking our order. I ordered the panhandler with skirt steak, sautéed onion, green peppers, and lots of melted cheese. The food came out super fast and it was pretty good! They don't skimp out of the meat which I appreciate. Everything was about $50 including tip and tax. read more

Sam & George's - The Panhandler - Breakfast & Brunch Near Me - Chicago, Illinois

Aisha was our server and she was very friendly, and definitely will go again because of her. The food was very good and came out relatively fast. However, the last time I came here the service was not so great the waitress was wearing a blonde ponytail, and was an older woman. in general, the ambience is very hectic and you cannot make a reservation. The space is pretty tight so the smaller the party the faster you will get seated. Weekends are definitely more busy. The way people talk is just abrupt and can come off harsh but i think it's a part of teh culture there! Definitely a lot of history so I give it a solid 4. read more

Sam & George's - Breakfast & Brunch Near Me - Chicago, Illinois

What can you say about S&G, other than it's fantastic! Fran and her staff are always welcoming, no matter how busy they are. Food options are endless, no matter if you want breakfast, brunch, lunch or dinner and he rotating list of homemade soups are out of this world. read more

All these years of dining at Sam and George's and I've never yelped! Well these 5 stars are long overdue. S&G is the classic Chicago diner and I'm so happy it's still around while so many have closed. S&G has been with the same family for decades, and each customer and employee is treated like family. The food here is good! We usually come for breakfast but have visited for lunch and dinner. I am usually hangry and so get one of the skillets. These are large skillets with a base of hash browns then topped with 2 eggs any style plus meats, veggies and or cheeses. I've tried almost all of them but my go to is the avocado skillet. The Greek yogurt, fruit and honey plate is yummy if you want something light. Coffee is bottomless and you can even get a cup to go! read more

Sam & George's - Avocado skillet - Breakfast & Brunch Near Me - Chicago, Illinois

Ordered through Postmates on a Saturday morning and the food arrived warm and quick! There was a $3 off special if your order was $15 or more. The food was really good. I asked for extra tzatziki sauce for my skillet and they gave me 7 side cups!! One downside was that the waffle tasted like absolutely nothing. Nevertheless, the skillets were so tasty, I would definitely order again!! The 'Tex-Mex' skillet has chili on it. And I know that sounds a little out there, but it was SO GOOD and I wish I ordered it. read more

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If you are looking for a family friendly restaurant Sam And George is for you. The food is comfort food and always great. It's a great breakfast or lunch place that you can go with friends or bring your children! Maria and Fran are sisters, who welcome you and make you feel that you are a part of their family! It is a classic Chicago Diner that makes you feel at home. read more

They are very attentive to customers and the wait is never to long to get a table. It is also a nice volume and my dad never has to tap on the table to hear us better. I love how it always feels calm in there and the food is always delightful to eat. Obviously you aren't getting amazing food but it's great for a breakfast place so I definitely recommend going here for breakfast! read more

Small town feel in the big city. Wonderful food, better people. Really enjoyed our meal

Sam & George's Diner is a family run Diner in Lincoln Park /Lakeview border. It is a smaller restaurant that gets very crowded on weekends so if your party is larger than four, make sure to get there early and be ready to wait. The food here is what I like to call a "hangover cure." This means that the food is heavy, hearty, and greasy. The menu does feature some healthier options, but the skillet's are where the action is at. They're all delicious but my go to move is the Porky Pig and you add bacon. It's very heavy but it hits the spot. Make sure to give S&G's a try, it won't disappoint! read more

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Decade long fan of this establishment. The staff is super friendly. The AC is in the summer is perfect. The food is hearty. Lastly, they are super close to the best thrift store in Chicago...the Brown !! read more

Sam & George's - The Chicken Coop - Breakfast & Brunch Near Me - Chicago, Illinois

Best breakfast skillets around. Friendly staff and owners. Great to have a family owned restaurant that cares about their customers and quality of food. read more

This is a great local breakfast spot, and the friendly staff make it feel cozy and like home! The menu includes a wide variety of classic diner options, but they're best known for their skillets. I'd definitely recommend the chicken noodle soup on a cold Chicago day too! read more

Sam & George's - Kevin L's Special - Breakfast & Brunch Near Me - Chicago, Illinois

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Lives up to the hype. Veggie skillet was great. Good service and decent coffee. Love the mom and pop atmosphere. read more

Sam & George's - Veggie skillet - Breakfast & Brunch Near Me - Chicago, Illinois

Such a good old school diner. You walk in and immediately are transported to a different era. The menu is huge and there is 100% something for everyone. Service was incredible - everyone was super friendly and attentive. Food was 10 out of 10. Affordable and pretty big sizes. My new favorite brunch spot! read more

Sam & George's - Mozz Cheese Sticks, chili skillet - Breakfast & Brunch Near Me - Chicago, Illinois

Love this place , the breakfast is great love the owners so friendly they know you by name Soup is delicious read more

Sam & George's - Wow you made it well deserved - Breakfast & Brunch Near Me - Chicago, Illinois

Warm service treats everyone like family. Skillets of every kind are wonderful and menu is wide ranging. Never a bad meal.

I ordered the lox platter and fresh squeezed OJ. Plenty of lox. That's the good part. One bagel with 1 to-go Philly cream cheese 1 oz. packet. A $26 sandwich. HUGE rip-off. Then I added two cups of "fresh squeezed " OJ for $9.00. Tropicana AT BEST. I am all for supporting local restaurants. Especially now. With my generous Grub Hub tip, I had a $65 sandwich. Which was just okay. Do not order from this place unless you have no more room on your wallet for your money and no other restaurant in Chicago will take it. read more

Sam & George's - a sandwich and salad - Breakfast & Brunch Near Me - Chicago, Illinois

So yum!!! Service is outstanding! I grew up in the south and this reminded me of home. The food is outstanding.