The hip new diner in Wicker Park has been on my list for up-to a year now – Dove’s Luncheonette.  A wildly popular breakfast and Chicago brunch nook, Dove’s Luncheonette has been known for it’s long (but worth it) wait.  I lucked out when I had some visitors arrive early on a Saturday morning from out of town before the rest of Chicago was up.  We took advantage of the quiet morning and got to Dove’s right before it opened up at 9 am.  We weren’t the only early doves – even though we sat right down, the adorable small diner filled up within 15 minutes.

We started with Dove’s House Blend Dark Matter Coffee and the staff kept our delicious cups filled to the top throughout our experience.

Dove has it figured out with its menu of Southern-inspired Mexican options.  It only offers a handful of choices and for the most part they all have a spicy twist on a standard menu item. It’s a great way to get people to order outside of their comfort zone and try something new. Think fried egg with brisket, or onions, eggs, and queso.

I ordered the Avocado Toast  on multigrain bread with smoked ham and something called an almond-ancho vinaigrette with a side of grits. Perfection!

I will definitely be back!