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Truth Chicago

3.5 (479 reviews)
Closed 8:00 am - 3:00 pm
Updated 2 weeks ago

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TRUTH CHICAGO ATMOSPHERE

What's the vibe?
Moderate noise
Casual
Intimate
Classy

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Recommended Reviews - Truth Chicago

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Reviews With Photos

Brielle B.

After leaving Level Up Coffee, my friend and I walked down the block to Truth Italian Restaurant. I've been once before inside, but this time we were seated in their insulated outdoor tent, which has much more space than the cozy indoor area with a small bar and a few tables. The food was really good, but the service started off rocky. We were seated and no one came to our table due to a mix up, so we had to find someone. Our server was sweet and apologized, but there were several issues...my sidecar didn't come out with our drinks, our food arrived with chicken instead of the shrimp we ordered, and it took a while to fix. Even after that, my drink still hadn't arrived while my friend was already getting her second. Eventually, our server disappeared, and we had to ask another staff member for help. We later found out she was new, got overwhelmed, and left mid shift, which left us without a server. A manager stepped in, apologized, took care of us, and comped our drinks, which we really appreciated. Another manager also checked in before we left. Despite the service issues, the food was great, and once I finally received my drink, it was good too. I understand that things happen, especially with new staff, and everyone we interacted with was kind and apologetic. It wasn't the smoothest experience, but based on the good food and my friend's better past visits, I'd still give Truth another chance and recommend trying it out.

Spicy Chicken Alfredo with Added Salmon
Sade J.

I will eat Truth Italian any given morning! If you're looking for real brunch packed with flavor and soul! Go here! They're also great on UberEats as well. They deliver quickly! I've had their breakfast, I've had their dinner! Always pleased with both! Yum! Favorite breakfast is the lamb chops trio, as well as the Mela French toast! Yum

Catfish Executive, Sautéed spinach,  catfish and cheesy hashbrowns
Sharon W.

Located along a busy street, parking can be a challenge at times but it's at no charge. No reservations were required but if you have a large group, it'd be best to plan ahead by contacting the restaurant. I'd recommend parking along one of the side streets and just walk. Here's my truth about Truth, I won't dine here again. A total let down and in contrast to what the proprietor has shared for her vision. Hindsight is 20/20 and I found the dining experience to be underwhelming and a sign of problems internally. My sister dined here some years ago and she had a different experience that made me want to support this business. Spoiler alert, there is very limited "Italian" fare offered and seems like a hodgepodge of whatever the cook can tackle. Nothing wrong with diversifying the menu but if you have Italian in your name, then make sure it's more than Alfredo and calamari. While the owner Peyton Willborn was on sight, she and some of her good girlfriends sat at the entrance cackling and ki-ki'ing. Nothing wrong w/that but when I brought it to the attention of one of the workers (her son), he recommended that I go over and talk to her. Dude, that's your job! If a worker has intimidation about bringing issues to the manager's attention and she won't address it, that's a huge red flag to take your money elsewhere. I make it a point to support all businesses and with this being a black, woman owned business it saddened me that no one here thinks anything is wrong #Everything's Fine Seating was quick and you use your phone to scan a QR code for the menu. They advertise an 18% gratuity and a 90 minute sitting time during peak times. Is it really an omelet if it's deconstructed w/the ingredients piled on top? There are televisions and music playing to give an idea of the ambiance. It is dimly lit and you're seated in close proximity to others. There is a bar area that supports seating too. I ordered the catfish, cheesy grits and substituted eggs for sautéed spinach. Anyone who enjoy fresh, fried fish knows that the fish should still be sizzling a little bit when your order arrives. None of my food was hot and lukewarm is an overstatement. I am among the many that dislike when your server asks you "How's your food?" When you're chewing. I let the guy know and he tried to remake my food but I didn't have time to wait and hope they get it right. I went so far as to inquire if the fish was cooked today. Because the food wasn't hot, it took away a lot of the potential to be good. All items could have benefitted from a tad more seasoning but there was no saving cold fish. I asked the couple to my right if they had dined here before. It was their first time and they stated their food wasn't hot either. The couple to my left ordered alcoholic drinks and we watched as the pseudo bartender did a search for how to make a Sidecar. It wasn't the server's fault so I did tip him. No acknowledgement or adjustment on the food. I paid the bill and when waiting to sign, watched Peyton showcase by fussing at the guy to hurry up and bus tables. When employees aren't treated well, it trickles down to the customer, and it's evident here that the level of care for employees and customers is limited. This review is from my perspective and experience and not embellished. It may garner a canned reply or stern rebuttal. Either way, I am unable to refer someone to dine here nor will I dine here in the future when in the area. Welcome to my one and done list, and that's the truth!

Gregory J.

Food was INCREDIBLE. I had the deconstructed jerk omelette, cheese hash browns and split a french toast flight...wow. The neighborhood is still developing and the ambiance could use some work, but don't let that discourage you from an absolutely amazing brunch meal. Definitely will be here every brunch I can.

BreNae S.

I love going into a restaurant having in mind what I think I want but the menu takes me a different direction. I had my mouth ready for wings but the Philly chicken omelet and buttermilk waffle ended up winning that battle. The omelet was cooked perfectly with very well seasoned tricolor bell peppers and red onions. The chicken was seasoned very well and cooked just right. It wasn't dry or overcooked. Easy to cut into with my knife I sat inside and the atmosphere wasn't too loud or over crowded. There is an outdoor seating option that's an enclosed patio. I opted for a mimosa due to ingredients. It being available for a spiked coffee but I was very pleased with my mimosas. The waiter Kai, created some unique flavors for me. I even received a complimentary mimosa as well which was a pleasant surprise. I will be back to try other food and beverages soon

Volo French Toast (Flight) Jerk Shrimp and Grits

Really good brunch food. French toast gets a little soggy after a while from all of the toppings but still enjoyable. Friendly staff with a diva at the front who greeted us

Lobster
Dari H.

Truth Italian is definitely a hidden gem in Chicago! The food was absolutely amazing--full of flavor and cooked to perfection. Prices were fair, and while it's kind of a hole-in-the-wall spot, it's 100% worth it. Sometimes the best places aren't the flashiest, and this is one of them. Can't wait to go back!

Cajun Crawfish Omelet
Gino W.

I had Truth Italian Restaurant on my restaurant list to try for several months now. As much time as I spend going to Bronzeville and Hyde Park, it should not have taken me so long to get there. Today, I went and I can't reiterate how much I kicked myself for delaying trying this restaurant. I went for breakfast and, as usual, I arrived shortly after the doors opened for business. This was so that I wouldn't have to be held hostage to the late morning/early afternoon brunch crowd. I had a seat in an otherwise empty restaurant and I was okay with that. For this visit, I had the Cajun crawfish omelet with cheesy hashbrowns. This was a welcomed switch from having chicken and waffles, shrimp and grits, and the longer list of items that are common staples on brunch menus. They did not hold back on the crawfish at all. I would have sauteed the bell peppers until they were more tender, but the were still good in the dish. There was enough seasoning in the omelet that the cheesy hashbrowns didn't require much salt and pepper. There was a nice balance that really made the dish a highlight. The seating area is rather dark. I believe they have a patio that is open when the temperatures warm up. However, if bright spaces are your thing, that won't be the case here. For me, the food more than made up for the dim setting. Service was perfect and I will attribute that to me having arrived before crowds, indecisive patrons, and angry patrons. I saw some other menu items that I would like to try, so that means I will make my way back to Bronzeville in a few weeks for a second round.

Maronda H.

I promise to the truth and nothing but The Truth. In my opinion overrated. This has been on the top of list since last year. There was alot of buzz around Chicago that this place was The Truth. I was happy to finally get my chance to experience the food and ambience. Warm Greeting at the door always a plus. We were immediately seated at a small table for two. Scanned the barcode to view the food and drink menu. Many food selections on the menu. I ended up ordering the traditional breakfast. Bacon, eggs shredded hash browns and toast. A glass of blueberry mimosa. My friend ordered the chicken sausage, strawberry French toast, eggs and a watermelon mimosa. The mimosa had no flavor just a basic champagne. Nice music and vibes. The spacious patio on the side was nice. The food was meh. I looked around and most people were leaving with food still on their plates. Nothing super special about the food. It's all about supporting a black owned business around The Chicagoland. I finally got my moment to come and experience.

Lamb Chop Trio
Rockie D.

Interesting.....not at all what I was expecting (in a confused way). Not really sure why it's called an Italian restaurant!!! I was expecting a glamourous beautifully decorated restaurant but got the total opposite. It was a little hole in the wall. Some kind of gnats were taking over the restroom. I was disappointed. The menu was a combination of simple mixed with "why would they put these ingredients together???? I had the lamb chops on spinach instead of the eggs.... I just ate the over dressed lamb chops. They were a bit underdone just ate around it. The staff were very nice they made it more tolerable. This was an I been there done that, don't need to do it again type experience. Restaurant is located across the street from Pearl's Place.

Adele B.

One of my favorite brunch places but not consistent. I've had bee problems in the summer, food being brunt with pick up orders and once I'm positive they accidentally used gravy instead of cajun sauce for the crawfish and grits. When you catch them on a good day they're 10/10 but most of the time it 6/10.

Be careful ordering online they just give you anything sometimes. I suppose to have cheesy hashbrowns and they gave me these instead .
Zeborrah E.

Be careful ordering through Uber eats they send you anything sometimes. I ordered cheesy hashbrowns and they sent these .

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Only complaint was had to wait a while for a table and food took awhile to come but it was the weekend and place is small but has good food.

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Food was prompt I had the veggie omelette very tasty, drinks were great I enjoyed the spiked coffee was and the service was excellent

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Ask the Community - Truth Chicago

Is there bottomless mimosas?

No, they're BYOB now. There's also a liquor store right up the street that's walking distance -- not sure if they sell juice. I'd suggest bringing your own to the restaurant.

Does this place have long waits on Saturdays during brunch?

No there is never a long wait, they have the heated tent attached and it's HUGE and full of seats & tables.

Do they have reservations?

No they don't take reservations but the have a HUGE tent that is heated during the winter. You'll have no problem walking in and getting a seat.

View All 4 Questions

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La Malinche Coffee & Tea House

La Malinche Coffee & Tea House

4.6
(122 reviews)
2.4 mi
$$

A beautiful, eclectic coffee house just outside of Chinatown, La Malinche was the perfect place for…read morea casual late breakfast. With a cozy locals vibe, there was a mix of young professionals on laptops and families starting the morning. The bright aesethics of Mexican heritage and decor celebrating local artists make the space inspiring and energizing. The coffee was great. I got the horchata latte, which tasted even better than I hoped. I also ordered a El Chavo Torta, a deceptively simple sandwich that was incredibly delicious. I don't know what they put in the bread or what magical place they bought the cheese from, but my mouth is watering just thinking about it. When I'm in Chicago again, La Malinche is on my list of must visit spots.

Stopped by La Malinche Coffee & Tea House in Pilsen to try something new. Place is nice and quiet…read more Bright pink walls, little decorative hearts, alebrijes all around and full piano in the room. Felt cozy right away. The staff were really welcoming, for an early morning. I got the hot chocolate. Honestly that's exactly what I needed that morning. It had that real Mexican chocolate taste. Thick, creamy, smooth and rich. The cinnamon came through warm but not too strong, plus a little extra on top that hit your nose before the first sip. Sweet and it almost had this slight earthy note too... hard to explain but good. It even had that little design on top, like the ones they do on cappuccinos. Didn't expect that but it was cool. I finished it slow. Didn't wanna rush it. Just sat there taking small sips and enjoying it while it was still hot.

Photos
Beautiful colorful vibes
Beautiful colorful vibes
La Malinche Coffee & Tea House
Horchata matcha

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Horchata matcha
Dolce Arte

Dolce Arte

4.1
(71 reviews)
1.5 mi

Not sure why I had not reviewed this soot earlier, I come here often, in fact I'm here right now…read more Great spot! Set in an old warehouse that is now an art gallery event space and restaurant nestled in an older warehouse district in Bridgeport neighborhood of Chicago. Beautiful decor and laid out perfectly. The natural wood floors furniture ie tables chairs etc and iron work throughout sets the ambiance for old meets new. It works. The wide spacing between tables makes for a comfortable dining experience. So many folks come in to do their work and dine here. What a super addition to the neighborhood that less than a decade ago was essentially a street that was more a run down semi-truck alley. Great menu with neighborhood favorites leaning toward the old school Italian dishes. Sandwiches, soups, salads, and breakfasts just to name a few are all excellent. The pastries are insane and a must take home deal. I love the American Breakfast. Three eggs your way, thick diced America potatoes, thick cut bacon, and sourdough toast. Accompanied by what I believe to be home made jelly and for sure homemade gardiniera. Caruso's gardiniera actually. Diced into a relish unlike most standard gardiniera it's easier to eat with many dishes. Excellent flavor and just the right kick to it. FYI Dolce Arte also sells a to go line of homemade Caruso products from their gardiniera to past and past sauces and more. Yes, their coffee is really good too. Lavazza products I believe. The service is always on point. Casual but on point. Very friendly staff from diverse backgrounds. This is the place you bring people close to you, business lunches, meetings, formal ir informal, or like me, save it for myself as my own getaway spot. It's an artists dream and sets a positive time for any gathering.

The staff is amazing and so is the food! The twins and I…read moreate everything! There was so much left over we ate it for breakfast the next morning! Next time I'm adding photos! Sorry it was so good I forgot to take any .

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Pastries
Pastries
Stockyard Skillet
Stockyard Skillet
I have had their pastries many times (the BEST in neighborhood), only  2nd time having reg food.

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I have had their pastries many times (the BEST in neighborhood), only 2nd time having reg food.
Chiu Quon Bakery & Dim Sum

Chiu Quon Bakery & Dim Sum

4.2
(645 reviews)
1.9 mi
$

This is the best bakery in Southside Chinatown, without a doubt, the line just never stops like…read morethey're handing free food but they're not. Although the prices are very reasonable, you could come here everyday...BTW, make sure to bring cash as it's cash only. I really love coming here after a meal because the buns are soft, light, airy, and sweet. Thus far, my favorites are: - egg custard topping with a red bean filling and - the coconut bun with whipped creme Wow, those are really good but do try their other offerings and determine your own favorite item. I have to try their Argyle location to see if they're consistently great!! Oh, one more thing, there is a ledge by the window where you can eat quickly whilst standing up but it can get very crowded in there. Xie xie Chiu Quon!!

This is a staple if you visit chinatown in Chicago. It has fast service and the workers are all…read moresweeter than sugar, and has wonderful atmosphere to it. It was incredibly bustling, which was ambient and also a sign that the pastries here would be good. The egg tart I had was the perfect amount of flakiness and wasn't too sweet. The texture reminds me of flan. There is a wide selection of bakery items to choose from, so I reccomend you try mutiple. It is worth the price. Please go here.

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Custom order cakes
Custom order cakes
Portuguese egg tarts with their tantalizing brulee tops and tasty BBQ pork bun filling
Portuguese egg tarts with their tantalizing brulee tops and tasty BBQ pork bun filling
Portuguese egg tart, coconut bun & BBQ pork bun

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Portuguese egg tart, coconut bun & BBQ pork bun
Honey Berry Pancakes and Cafe

Honey Berry Pancakes and Cafe

3.5
(589 reviews)
3.2 mi
$$

I absolutely love a great breakfast and this establishment provided just that! The cinnamon pancake…read moreand berry pancakes were some of the best I've had!! The south of the border skillet was delicious as well. Service was great 5/5 experience.

Extremely disappointing experience at Honey Berry. As a…read morefirst-time visitor to Chicago during Juneteenth weekend, I was looking forward to breakfast here, but the experience fell far short of expectations. Service Issues:The service was inattentive throughout the meal, and concerns were not adequately addressed when brought to the staff's attention. Basic items such as water, napkins, and straws took an unreasonable amount of time to arrive, with water alone taking more than 10-15 minutes. Food Quality Issues:The food and cleanliness were equally disappointing. I requested extra crispy bacon in my omelet, but the bacon was undercooked and appeared raw. Both coffee cups also arrived dirty, with dried coffee residue inside, raising concerns about cleanliness and attention to detail. Closing Takeaway:Adding to the frustration, gratuity was automatically included despite the poor service. I rarely leave reviews, but I hope management uses this feedback to improve service standards, food quality, and overall guest experience. But I will never visit again!! There's so many other great places around #Roux #Brulee # Batter & Berries

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Dining Area at Honeyberry Chicago
Dining Area at Honeyberry Chicago
Veggie Skillet w/ sunny side up eggs
Veggie Skillet w/ sunny side up eggs
Honey Berry Pancakes and Cafe

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Truth Chicago - italian - Updated July 2026

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