Lula Cafe

Lula Cafe, located in Chicago's Logan Square, is a beloved farm-to-table restaurant known for its inventive, seasonal dishes.

While savoring dinner at Alinea, I asked two of the staff for their recommendation on a solid breakfast spot off of the Blue Line. After a brief back and forth, they both strongly suggested I check out Lula Cafe.

The next morning, I checked out of the Ambassador Chicago, hailed a ride share and made my way over to Logan Square.

The moment I stepped outside of the car and in front of Lula’s, I had an instinctive feeling that I was about to serve a cozy, delicious meal in a spot with a strong neighborhood vibe.

This was exactly what I had hoped for. As I was led to my table, the gentle hum of conversations and morning murmur warmed me.  I instantly felt as though I had stepped into a familiar space, even though it was my first time here.

After browsing the menu, I ordered what caught my eye. First up, a COFFEE, of course.

The MISO GLAZED GUNTHORP FARM PORK BELLY (genmai rice, tomatillo, grapes, cilantro, sliced avocado in place of the egg) was the epitome of a perfect Chicago breakfast. The plump pork belly slices burst with flavor, as the dish filled me up with each bite. There was a reason this dish caught my eye every time I’d browsed the menu – it was that good. It reminded me that dishes with outstanding quality – even when smaller portioned – can be even more filling than larger sizes.

While savoring the rich flavors of my pork belly dish, I took a moment to look around the space. The walls were adorned with unique expressions of artwork. Intrigued, I asked the server if there was an artist’s card available.

It sparked a new wave of reflection within me, through my artist expression on Spectrum of Sight. Seeing these pieces ignited a fresh sense of possibility for how I might showcase my art.

I took a MALTED VANILLA BOMBOLONE with me to go, so I could share it once I arrived back to Los Angeles.

Finishing up my breakfast, I glanced at my watch and felt a wave of surprise—time had flown by faster than I expected. I quickly settled my check, not wanting to rush but knowing I had to keep moving. With a sense of purpose, I made my way toward Logan Square, where I’d catch the Blue Line back to O’Hare. On the walk to the train platform, a vibrant Pokémon mural caught my eye, its playful colors and larger-than-life characters bringing a smile to my face. It was a perfect little slice of joy, a reminder of Chicago’s creative spirit, even in the most unexpected corners.

As I settled into my seat on the train, the city gradually receding behind me, I felt an overwhelming sense of gratitude. The last 24 hours had been a whirlwind—full of sights and tastes that had left me energized and inspired. Chicago had embraced me in its fast-paced rhythm, yet there was a beauty in every fleeting moment. As I moved forward on my path home, I took a selfie and I let myself relax.

It was a brief but meaningful adventure in a city I greatly cherish.

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