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Nestled in Chicago’s vibrant Lincoln Park neighborhood, Nookies on Wells is a beloved American café and diner that masterfully blends classic comfort food with a welcoming, cozy atmosphere. Whether you’re craving an indulgent breakfast, a leisurely brunch, or a relaxed lunch, this charming spot delivers an inviting dining experience where every bite feels thoughtfully crafted.
The menu at Nookies on Wells is a celebration of American breakfast and brunch favorites, elevated with fresh ingredients and creative flair. Signature dishes like the Ernesto’s Chilaquiles provide a vibrant, zesty kick, while soulful options such as Biscuits and Gravy and the hearty Corned Beef Hash offer comforting warmth that feels like a hug on a plate. Pancake lovers will be delighted by an array of choices—imagine fluffy Strawberry or Blueberry Pancakes piled high, their sweetness balanced perfectly without overpowering the buttery richness. The Stuffed French Toast has rightfully earned a loyal following, combining indulgent textures with layers of flavor that make every bite irresistible.
Beyond the food, Nookies on Wells impresses with its beverage selection—whether it's savoring a meticulously crafted Cappuccino or a robust Nookies Blend Coffee sourced from Metropolis, each cup is a moment of pure comfort. The Chai Latte here even offers a pleasant hint of spice, enhancing the typical warmly spiced profile to something a little more memorable.
Atmosphere is another gem at Nookies. The space strikes the perfect balance between casual diner charm and a cozy café rendezvous. Attentive and friendly staff like Georgie and other team members elevate the experience with their prompt service and pleasant demeanor, making you feel valued from the moment you walk in. Diners appreciate not only the generous portions but also how the vibrant, friendly ambiance complements the satisfying dishes.
Outdoor enthusiasts will enjoy the delightful patio seating, a lovely nook to enjoy Chicago’s fresh air while savoring a Mediterranean skillet or one of their unique breakfast sandwiches served with your choice of toast or croissant. The broad menu caters to a diverse range of tastes—from the smoky savory notes of the Patty Melt Burger and Pulled Pork Sandwich to lighter fare like the refreshing Green Goddess salad.
Though nearly everyone leaves satisfied, some guests note areas for refinement—the steak and hash browns have occasionally missed the mark, reminding us that Nookies on Wells is a real, human-run establishment where there is room for perfection in progress. Importantly, the overall dining experience remains solid, thanks to the consistently fresh, flavorful offerings and warm hospitality.
In summary, Nookies on Wells stands out as a trustworthy haven for anyone seeking a deliciously nostalgic American breakfast or brunch with a modern twist. It’s a place where the food delights your palate, the staff lifts your spirits, and the ambiance embraces you in a relaxed, inviting way. Whether you're a local regular or a visitor exploring Chicago’s food scene, make sure Nookies on Wells is on your list—you won’t want to miss their famed Stuffed French Toast, the rich and satisfying frittatas, or their expertly brewed coffees. It’s more than a meal; it’s a comforting experience that feels like a cherished tradition, rediscovered daily.
Georgie, our server was great. He was friendly, prompt, attentive. Everything we had was great. Pepper Benedict (special) was amazing. Paris Benedict (special) was great. French toast, eggs, hashbrowns all very good. Chai Latte excellent. Had a little more spice than usual, which I like.
Watching the staff was its own show! They have customer service dialed in to a T. Service was great! Our waiter was funny and kind. I have never had my coffee cup filled more and still never found the bottom of my cup! Amazing place, tucked away on a beautiful street. DO NOT SKIP ON THE STUFFED FRENCH TOAST!!!!
The food was mostly great, but I couldn’t give 5 stars because the steak tasted off, which was disappointing. The hash browns were also a little weird. Besides those two things, everything else was really good. So I’m taking off two stars for the steak and hash browns, but overall the rest of the meal was solid. Enjoy the food!
This is a cozy spot that’s perfect for breakfast, brunch, or a casual lunch. The menu is loaded with classic favorites, from eggs and omelets to sandwiches and salads, all served fresh and flavorful. The portions are generous, the staff is friendly, and the atmosphere feels comfortable and welcoming. It’s a reliable place to enjoy a relaxed meal any day of the week.
Loved it here! We got the Mediterranean skillet along with the Stuffed french toast! Best skillet ever, we enjoyed it very much. Service was great, very attentive and nice. Definitely will come back! Also patio seating is wonderful!
The food was incredible. We got the goddess skillet and Aimee’s omelette. Lots of cheese were cooked really well. Toast was amazing. The smoothie was great all in all just so good.