Plein Air Cafe
If enchanting cafes tucked behind bookstores and surrounded by trees is your thing, then you’re going to want to check out Plein Air Cafe in Hyde Park. It’s nestled in the UChicago community, right behind one of the college bookstores. It’s a great place to get brunch and walk around (because you all know how much I love walking around UChicago).
The food is French inspired, and so is the name (“in the open air”), and delicious. I usually satisfy my sweet tooth by opting for a sugary breakfast. I ordered the Mascarpone Stuffed Brioche French Toast. It did not disappoint! I love a good french toast, and the mascarpone added a great texture and softness to it. Obviously, the berries were also the perfect touch.
Jason ordered the Chorizo Burrito and also really enjoyed it! You can’t go wrong with a breakfast burrito.
The drinks were pretty good too, although I do recommend getting them “to go.” Even though they’re way more aesthetic, everytime I get lattes in a glass, they don’t quite taste as good. Maybe it’s just the plastic particles floating around to-go that adds an extra something. Who knows!
The atmosphere inside was so cute and light and French. I loved their menu aesthetic, the font of “bakery,” and the little white window for taking orders. It’s just so cute there. The outside patio is also adorable, with a huge picnic table with greenery, and other smaller seating choices surrounded by nature. This is a great place if you want a bit of a city escape.
If you do come here for brunch, make sure to walk around Hyde Park! The architecture and the ivy is just so gorgeous (and a perfect photo op).
