Chicago's Cafe Selmarie

Where do you go when you're looking for a quick bite? What about a creamy latte? Or, even better, where do you go when you're looking to relax and enjoy a whole meal? If you live or work in the trendy Lincoln Square neighborhood of Chicago, the answer is a simple one. The Cafe Selmarie offers a little something for everyone, whether you're looking for a coffee to go or a relaxing hot breakfast.

Located just off the Western stop of the Brown Line, right in Lincoln Square, the Cafe Selmarie excels at coffee drinks of all sorts, as well as a variety of teas. Pastries also top the list of their offerings. I'm personally partial to the Selmarie Morning Bun and their various muffins, perfect for a light breakfast. If you're wandering in closer to the middle of the day, they have a wide variety of cookies, cakes, cheesecakes, and tarts to choose from as well. Make yourself at home at the counter, and enjoy your selection over the morning paper. Or, if the weather's nice, and you have the time, take your selections to go. You can always enjoy your breakfast on one of the many benches in the square as well.

If you're looking to stay awhile, let them seat you in their cozy dining room. The cafe isn't a large place, but the space is well divided. There is plenty of natural light from the many windows, and work by local artists adorns the bright, cheerful walls. If you come by in the warmer months, there is outdoor seating as well, allowing you to enjoy the ambience of the square along with your meal.

The menu can get a little pricey, but the food is more than worth it. If you're in at breakfast time, I highly recommend their daily omelette. Selection varies by the day, but I've never had one I didn't enjoy. Particularly good was the Asparagus and swiss omelette, a combination of fluffy eggs, crisp yet tender asparagus, and creamy swiss to tie it all together. Breakfast is usually served with a side of potatoes. Also of note is the orange juice, which is fresh squeezed.

The service is prompt, and the servers friendly. You will always find a cheerful face at the pastry counter. Things can get a little hectic in the middle of the day, but I've never known the staff to be short. Each individual customer is valued, and I've always had a pleasant experience.

Where do you go when you want a quick bite? A creamy latte? Or a hot, satisfying meal? Well, if you're in Lincoln Square, you go to the Cafe Selmarie.

Café Selmarie
4729 North Lincoln Avenue
Chicago, IL
phone: 773.989.5595