Victory's Banner Restaurant

Well, sometimes I have to sing, in the accent of the commercial's jingle, "OVER-RATORZ!" and this is one of the time. Sorry dudes, this is one of those places that everyone loves to love because it has such a neat story and it's so nice in there and blah blah, but I have eaten there twice, months apart, and it just wasn't great. I'm not saying it's bad--it's not--but I'm sorry to say I found nothing special about this place. And it's soooo darn crowded in there, it really sucks the fun out of it for me. Very similar (similar annoying group of diners, similar crowdedness, similar food ideas) but vastly superior is Lula's Cafe in Logan Square.

Fun fact! One of the other restaurants operated, like V's B, by the students of that meditating master dude, is located in Paris and also has Victory in the name: La Victoire Supreme du Coeur, which I'm pretty sure is the best restaurant name ever. Back on topic: just my $.02, but I wouldn't bother to make a huge trip out here for this place.

LOVE this neighborhood place. Truly awesome breakfasts -- everything is fresh, tastes like someone in the kitchen actually cared about the preparation, and the atmosphere is serene. The french toast is outstanding, but everything on the menu is wonderful. The waitstaff is kind and accomodating. If you're in a rush, this might not be for you, this is a restaurant to sit back, relax, and have a beautiful, leisurely meal.

Although I'm vegetarian, I often bring my meat eater friends here and everyone agrees that this place has the freshest, tastiest, most delicious breakfast ever. They use the best ingredients, usually organic everything. Be prepared, such love and attention to ingredients makes the menu items a little pricey then your regular diner; all I can say is that it is worth it. When you go, have the Award wining french toast. Oh and the coffee is wonderful. Do not go if you are in a hurry. Good things will come to those who wait.

PROS: Great for vegetarians, organic ingredients
CONS: Be prepared to wait for a table, small dining area

Some may be put off by the New Agey vibe or the all-vegetarian menu. Get over it. To deny yourself the chance to dine at one of Chicago's best breakfast spots for any reason would be a real shame. Everything on the menu--from the fantastic French toast to the delicious egg scrambles--is made fresh, tasty and with love.

PROS: food, price, service
CONS: