posted by Archana on Breakfast, Brunch, Chicago, Drinks, Fruit, Lunch, Vegging Out

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I spent four years living in Chicago and my trip back a couple weeks ago for a wedding was much needed after a year away from the Windy City. It was the perfect opportunity to catch up with all of my fave eats…oh yeah, and my friends.

The number one spot on my to-eat list was Orange, an amazing brunch restaurant in the city with a fine dining vibe in a casual setting. I used to go there almost every weekend without fail, so there’s no way I couldn’t pay my respects with a visit.

What in it for you: Cinnamon roll pancakes, chai tea French toast, huevos rancheros, stuffed with asparagus & forest mushrooms that are sauteed with garlic & marjoram (wild oregano)
mixed with dry-aged jack cheese, topped with toasted almonds and a rich balsamic reduction (had to post the whole description because it sounds so amazing)

What’s in it for them: Roasted ham omelet, steak and eggs benedict, chopped bacon omelet with avocado mousse

Like I said, they’re food is pretty gourmet stuff. Where else have you seen fruit sushi? That’s right–sushi made of fruit and rice!

One of my staples there has been the pancake flight. Like a wine and cheese flight, this dish gives you four samplings of different pancakes, which are all connected to a particular theme, like chocolate or nuts, that changes weekly. It’s a bit overwhelming for one person but perfect to share.

As for what we actually ordered, Orange does such a gourmet, non-gloopy huevos rancheros that we had to order our classic. Love the dome-shaped scrambled eggs and potatoes!

But just because we ordered one staple didn’t mean we couldn’t try something new, so I chose the coconut-infused French toast with kabobs of pineapple and strawberry. It sounded way too good to pass up, especially after my 12-mile run by Lake Michigan. It comes with drizzled honey, which I ordered on the side for dipping.

The other thing I love about Orange is its drink selection. As soon as you’re seated, you can fill out a form for fresh fruit juice. You get standard fruit juices (i.e. apple and orange) for free but pay extra for more exotic additions like mango and kiwi. Those drinks are incredible, though, so I recommend creating it just the way you want, even if it’s slightly pricier. And get the large! The small is way too small.

Even their water is festive with its sliced cucumber, which by the way, is an amazing flavor addition to a plain glass of water.

Mmm…just looking at these pictures makes me want to go back. Bon appétit!

Orange (see site for other locations)
2413 N. Clark St. (at Fullerton)
773.549.7833