Brunchlust returned to one of our favorite cities, Chicago, and our passion for brunch took us to Southport & Irving. Also known as SIP, short for Southport and Irving Park, the cross streets that the restaurant and bar sits on, I was treated to what easily might be one of the best things I’ve ever eaten.
SIP’s philosophy is to feature “global foods through the lens of American produce, and through the seasons”. The restaurant and bar is decorated like a vintage cocktail lounge with two indoor seating areas and a patio that fared well on the gorgeous day that we visited Chicago.
Let’s start with the brunch cocktails. While waiting for our entire party to arrive, I ordered a pear mimosa. Once we were seated, the nearly bottomless mimosa is available with the purchase of a meal. It’s called nearly as you have a two hour limit and are allowed three refills per hour. Not bad for $15. No juice subsititutes available. But it was served just how we like it at Brunchlust…easy on the orange juice.
I opted for the braised brisket hash. This is easily one of the best things I have ever eaten. The hash featured 6-hour beef brisket, breakfast potatoes, 2 eggs any-style (I chose scrambled hard as I hate runny eggs) and giardiniera. For the uninitiated, giardiniera is kind of a huge deal in Chicago. It’s sort of like a mildly spicy pickled veggie relish. You’ll find different versions throughout the city but it usually features carrots, cauliflower, celery and peppers. The spicy tang mixed with the tender and juicy brisket gave it just the right amount of kick, without being too overpowering. My mouth is watering as I’m typing this. It seriously is one of the best things I have ever eaten. I can’t wait for my return.
I highly recommend reservations, but be warned. SIP is a stickler for waiting until everyone in your party has arrived before they will seat you so make sure you’re on time so the rest of your party won’t be hangry by the time you arrive.
Brunch is available on Friday from 10 a.m. – 3 p.m. (that’s awesome) and Saturday and Sunday from 9 a.m. – 3 p.m.
Brunchlust Rating: A Because again, seriously, one of the best things I have ever eaten.
4000 North Southport Avenue
Chicago, IL 60613
(773) 857-2890
