Cafe Robey, located in the heart of Chicago's Wicker Park neighborhood, is a culinary gem that has been delighting locals and visitors alike since its opening. This trendy cafe is nestled within the historic Robey Hotel, a 12-story building that has been beautifully restored to its original 1929 Art Deco glory. The hotel and cafe are named after Robey Street, which was named after the Robey family, early settlers of the area.
A Brief History of Cafe Robey
Cafe Robey is the brainchild of Chef Bradley Stellings, a Chicago native who has worked in some of the city’s top kitchens, including the Michelin-starred restaurant, Blackbird. Stellings’ vision for Cafe Robey was to create a casual, yet upscale dining experience that showcases the best of Midwestern cuisine. The cafe’s menu is deeply rooted in the region’s rich agricultural heritage, with a focus on locally sourced ingredients and creative twists on classic dishes.
Cafe Robey’s Menu and Dining Experience
The menu at Cafe Robey is a love letter to the Midwest, with dishes like the “Wicker Park” burger, featuring a dry-aged beef patty topped with cheddar cheese, bacon, and a fried egg, all served on a brioche bun. Other popular items include the cafe’s signature “Robey” sandwich, made with roasted turkey, avocado, and bacon, and the “Lake Michigan” whitefish, served with a side of tangy slaw and crispy fries. The cafe also offers a variety of vegetarian and vegan options, including a delicious roasted vegetable quinoa bowl and a vegan “cheeseburger” made with a black bean patty.
| Dish | Description | Price |
|---|---|---|
| Wicker Park Burger | Dry-aged beef patty, cheddar cheese, bacon, fried egg, brioche bun | $18 |
| Robey Sandwich | Roasted turkey, avocado, bacon, mixed greens, whole wheat bread | $15 |
| Lake Michigan Whitefish | Beer-battered whitefish, tangy slaw, crispy fries | $22 |
Cafe Robey’s Drinks and Desserts
In addition to its inventive menu, Cafe Robey also offers a wide range of creative cocktails and craft beers. The cafe’s drink menu features classic cocktails with a twist, such as the “Robey” old fashioned, made with bourbon, Aperol, and a splash of citrus, and the “Wicker Park” mule, featuring ginger beer, lime juice, and vodka. The cafe also offers a variety of wine and champagne options, including a selection of Midwestern wines.
Cafe Robey’s Ambiance and Atmosphere
Cafe Robey’s interior is a beautifully designed space that perfectly captures the essence of the Art Deco era. The cafe’s walls are adorned with vintage photographs and artwork, and its floors are made of beautifully polished hardwood. The atmosphere is lively and welcoming, with a friendly and attentive staff that is always happy to help with menu recommendations or answer questions about the cafe’s history and inspiration.
- Cozy atmosphere with vintage decor
- Knowledgeable and friendly staff
- Beautifully designed interior with polished hardwood floors
What is the history of Cafe Robey?
+Cafe Robey is located within the historic Robey Hotel, which was built in 1929. The hotel and cafe are named after Robey Street, which was named after the Robey family, early settlers of the area.
What type of cuisine does Cafe Robey serve?
+Cafe Robey serves Midwestern cuisine with a focus on locally sourced ingredients and creative twists on classic dishes.
Does Cafe Robey have vegetarian and vegan options?
+Yes, Cafe Robey offers a variety of vegetarian and vegan options, including a delicious roasted vegetable quinoa bowl and a vegan “cheeseburger” made with a black bean patty.
