2607 N Milwaukee Ave.
Chicago, IL 60647
(773) 697-4234
http://renochicago.com/

$ – Cash Only

During a recent trip to Chicago we had a great brunch at Reno Chicago. In the interest of full disclosure Reno is co-owned by my brother in-law’s nephew Jason Normann. That being said, it was a great meal. Reno Chicago is in the up and coming Logan Square area next to the upscale Telegraph also owned by Normann and his partner.

We settled on two sandwiches for breakfast that came quickly. I ordered one called the Cowboy Killer which came with maple fennel sausage, fried egg, bacon, American béchamel, and rajas on a trinity bun. The maple fennel sausage was a treat. It had a wonderful sweet taste that blended nicely with the roasted poblano chili peppers (rajas). I tried to single out the taste of the American béchamel sauce but could not identify it. Béchamel is a French roux often mixed with cheese for flavor. Since it did not have the color of Kraft Macaroni and Cheese I assume its name is not derived from American cheese.

The rest of the crew ordered the Egg BLT on a tasty bagel with cheese melted onto it. Everyone was happy and said they would not hesitate to order the same things again.

The Stumptown Coffee served is rich and full bodied. I need this to get going in the morning. The noise level was on the high side and by 11am the place was hopping and things were moving fast. The staff was all friendly and our waitress was on top of every need. The busboy was like a Ninja hovering nearby but never intrusive always making sure I had coffee in my cup. It was several minutes before I noticed he had cleared our table.

Our meal was an excellent value for high quality well prepared food. My one complaint is they do not accept credit cards. I have not carried cash for 5 or 6 years. Luckily my wife carries cash and she paid. If I lived in the neighborhood I would be disappointed I could not stop in and eat.