Handlebar Chicago: Your Wicker Park Hub for Creative Vegetarian & Vegan Delights

Nestled in the beating heart of Chicago’s vibrant Wicker Park neighborhood, Handlebar Chicago stands as a beacon for food lovers seeking creative, comforting, and consciously crafted vegetarian and vegan fare. Located at the bustling crossroads of culinary innovation and local charm, specifically at **2515 W North Ave, Chicago, IL 60647**, this beloved eatery has cultivated a reputation as a must-visit destination. From the moment you approach its distinctive exterior, often adorned with a quirky bicycle or two, you sense the welcoming, laid-back vibe that permeates every aspect of the restaurant. Handlebar isn’t just a place to eat; it’s a community hub where delicious food, good company, and a relaxed atmosphere converge seamlessly. The ambience inside is a perfect reflection of its Wicker Park roots: effortlessly cool, unpretentious, and always buzzing with an energetic yet comfortable hum. Exposed brick, rustic wooden tables, and an eclectic array of bicycle-themed art and memorabilia create a unique visual tapestry that’s both charming and engaging. Whether you’re settling in for a leisurely brunch, a quick lunch, or a cozy dinner, the setting invites you to unwind and savor the moment. Handlebar is deeply committed to offering a fantastic dining experience throughout the week, catering to early risers, lunch crowds, and dinner dates alike. Their doors are open from **Monday to Thursday, 10:00 AM to 10:00 PM**, providing ample opportunity to enjoy their diverse menu. On **Fridays, they extend their hours until 11:00 PM**, perfect for starting your weekend early. And for those cherished weekend brunch moments, Handlebar truly shines, opening bright and early at **9:00 AM on both Saturdays and Sundays, serving their legendary brunch menu until 3:00 PM**, before continuing dinner service until 11:00 PM on Saturday and 10:00 PM on Sunday. Planning your visit or have a question? Reaching out is easy; you can contact the friendly team at Handlebar Chicago directly via phone at **(773) 384-9546**, or for general inquiries and feedback, drop them an email at **info@handlebarchicago.com**. Their attentive staff are always ready to assist and ensure your experience is nothing short of exceptional. With its inviting atmosphere, convenient location, and dedication to serving up incredible plant-based dishes, Handlebar Chicago is more than just a restaurant—it’s an integral part of the Wicker Park culinary landscape.

Calculate Your Calories & Protein Here!

Menu Highlights: A Culinary Journey at Handlebar Chicago

Embark on an extraordinary culinary adventure at Handlebar Chicago, where the menu is a vibrant tapestry woven with fresh ingredients, imaginative plant-based creations, and heartwarming comfort food. Every dish is a testament to their philosophy that vegetarian and vegan dining can be incredibly diverse, flavorful, and deeply satisfying, appealing to all palates, not just those adhering to a plant-based diet. Handlebar’s chefs meticulously craft each item, ensuring a balance of innovative twists on classics and entirely unique offerings, all designed to tantalize your taste buds and leave a lasting impression. From the sun-drenched mornings of their legendary brunch service to the cozy evenings filled with hearty entrees, the menu is a dynamic exploration of global flavors and local favorites, all executed with a keen eye for quality and sustainability. They pride themselves on sourcing fresh, often local, ingredients to ensure the highest quality and most vibrant tastes in every bite. Whether you’re craving something light and refreshing or a dish that truly sticks to your ribs, Handlebar Chicago has thoughtfully curated a selection that promises to delight. Dive into the various categories below and discover the incredible array of dishes that make Handlebar a standout in Chicago’s thriving food scene. Prepare to be impressed by the creativity, passion, and sheer deliciousness that defines dining at Handlebar Chicago.

Brunch Favorites (Served Weekends until 3 PM)

Handlebar Chicago’s weekend brunch is nothing short of legendary, drawing crowds eager to savor their creative and robust morning offerings. It’s an experience that perfectly encapsulates the laid-back yet vibrant spirit of Wicker Park, making it a beloved ritual for locals and visitors alike. The brunch menu goes far beyond typical breakfast fare, transforming classic dishes into extraordinary plant-based masterpieces. Imagine fluffy pancakes, savory scrambles, and inventive burritos, all crafted with the freshest ingredients and Handlebar’s signature culinary flair. Whether you’re starting your day with something sweet and indulgent or prefer a hearty, savory option to fuel your weekend adventures, the brunch selection at Handlebar Chicago promises a delightful start to your day. They’ve perfected the art of making plant-based brunch feel incredibly satisfying and utterly delicious, proving that you don’t need traditional ingredients to create a truly memorable meal.

Chilaquiles Rojas: Tortilla chips, spicy red sauce, tofu, avocado, lime crema.
Handlebar Scramble: Tofu, fresh vegetables, home fries, toast, flavorful and filling.
Biscuits & Gravy: Fluffy buttermilk biscuits smothered in savory mushroom gravy, pure comfort.
Breakfast Burrito: Scrambled tofu, black beans, salsa, avocado, hearty and portable.
Vegan Pancakes: Stack of fluffy, golden pancakes with fresh fruit, maple syrup.
Breakfast Sandwich: Tofu patty, vegan cheese, hash brown patty, toasted bun.
Huevos Rancheros: Crispy tortillas, black beans, spicy salsa, avocado, vibrant flavors.
French Toast: Thick-cut bread dipped, grilled, topped with powdered sugar, berries.
Oatmeal Bowl: Warm steel-cut oats, fresh fruit, nuts, brown sugar, wholesome start.
Breakfast Tacos: Soft tortillas, scrambled tofu, pico de gallo, cilantro, fresh goodness.

Appetizers & Small Plates

Before diving into the main course, Handlebar Chicago offers an array of appetizers and small plates that are perfect for sharing or enjoying as a flavorful start to your meal. These selections are designed to tantalize your taste buds, showcasing the kitchen’s creativity and commitment to bold flavors. From crispy fried delights to savory, comforting bites, each appetizer is a miniature culinary statement, perfectly preparing your palate for the delicious journey ahead. They are ideal for gathering with friends, sparking conversation, and truly getting a feel for the diverse flavors Handlebar Chicago masterfully presents.

Buffalo Cauliflower: Crispy florets tossed in spicy buffalo sauce, served with ranch.
Chili Cheese Fries: Hand-cut fries, house-made chili, vegan cheddar cheese sauce.
Fried Pickles: Tangy dill pickle spears, lightly battered, perfectly fried, served with dip.
Garlic Knots: Warm, doughy knots brushed with garlic butter, served with marinara.
Hummus Plate: Creamy hummus, warm pita, fresh vegetables, Kalamata olives, refreshing.
Pretzel Bites: Soft, warm pretzel bites with spicy mustard and cheese sauce.

Salads & Fresh Bowls

For those seeking lighter, yet equally satisfying options, Handlebar Chicago’s salads and fresh bowls are a testament to how vibrant and flavorful plant-based cuisine can be. These dishes are packed with nutrient-rich ingredients, colorful vegetables, and thoughtfully crafted dressings, making them perfect for a healthy and delicious meal. They are not just side dishes; they are hearty, fulfilling creations designed to be a complete and refreshing dining experience, ideal for a wholesome lunch or a lighter dinner option at Handlebar Chicago.

Handlebar House Salad: Mixed greens, fresh vegetables, house vinaigrette, simple and crisp.
Caesar Salad: Romaine lettuce, vegan Parmesan, croutons, creamy Caesar dressing, classic.
Power Bowl: Quinoa, roasted vegetables, chickpeas, avocado, tahini dressing, super nutritious.
Southwest Salad: Mixed greens, black beans, corn, avocado, tortilla strips, zesty dressing.

Sandwiches & Burgers

Handlebar Chicago truly excels in the realm of handheld delights, offering a spectacular lineup of sandwiches and burgers that redefine comfort food with a plant-based twist. These aren’t just substitutes; they are culinary creations designed to impress even the most discerning palates. Each sandwich and burger is thoughtfully constructed, boasting layers of flavor, satisfying textures, and fresh, high-quality ingredients. From savory plant-based patties to expertly grilled seitan, these options are hearty, flavorful, and incredibly satisfying, perfect for a fulfilling lunch or a casual dinner. They are a core part of the Handlebar Chicago experience, showcasing their ability to turn simple concepts into extraordinary meals.

Handlebar Black Bean Burger: House-made patty, lettuce, tomato, onion, pickles, special sauce.
BBQ Seitan Sandwich: Shredded seitan in tangy BBQ sauce, coleslaw, toasted bun, flavorful.
Fried Avocado Sandwich: Crispy avocado, pickled onions, chipotle mayo, fresh greens, unique.
Tempeh Reuben: Grilled tempeh, sauerkraut, vegan Swiss, Russian dressing, marble rye, classic reimagined.
Chicago Dip: Thinly sliced seitan, giardiniera, au jus, French roll, local favorite.
Mushroom Philly: Sautéed mushrooms, onions, peppers, vegan cheese sauce, hoagie roll.
Spicy Chickpea Burger: Zesty chickpea patty, fresh greens, hot sauce, cooling ranch.

Hearty Entrees

For those moments when you crave something truly substantial and deeply satisfying, Handlebar Chicago’s entree selection delivers. These dishes are the culmination of thoughtful recipe development, turning humble ingredients into rich, complex, and incredibly flavorful meals. They embody the essence of comfort food, reimagined with a plant-based approach that doesn’t compromise on taste or heartiness. Each entree is a carefully balanced plate, designed to be a complete and fulfilling dining experience, perfect for a cozy dinner or a celebratory meal. These main courses showcase Handlebar Chicago’s dedication to making vegan and vegetarian cuisine approachable, exciting, and utterly delicious for everyone.

Mac & Cheese: Creamy vegan cheese sauce, elbow macaroni, toasted breadcrumbs, pure comfort.
Seitan Stir-Fry: Sautéed seitan, fresh market vegetables, savory ginger-garlic sauce, rice.
Shepherd’s Pie: Lentil and vegetable base, topped with creamy mashed potatoes, baked golden.
Jambalaya: Spicy Creole rice dish, seitan sausage, peppers, onions, bold flavors.
Vegan Steak Frites: Seitan steak, crispy hand-cut fries, chimichurri sauce, satisfying.
Tofu Vindaloo: Spicy Goan curry with tofu, potatoes, aromatic spices, served with rice.
Gnocchi Pomodoro: Soft potato gnocchi, rich tomato sauce, fresh basil, garlic bread.

Sides & Sweets

No meal at Handlebar Chicago is complete without exploring their tempting array of sides and desserts. The sides are perfect accompaniments to any dish, offering both classic comforts and unique flavors that enhance your meal. And for those with a sweet tooth, Handlebar’s dessert menu provides the perfect concluding note, proving that plant-based sweets can be just as decadent and satisfying as their traditional counterparts. They are the final flourish, ensuring your dining experience at Handlebar Chicago ends on a high note.

Hand-Cut Fries: Crispy golden fries, perfectly seasoned, ideal companion.
Sweet Potato Fries: Sweet and savory, served with a zesty dipping sauce.
Side House Salad: Fresh mixed greens, light vinaigrette, a refreshing addition.
Collard Greens: Slowly simmered with spices, tender and flavorful, Southern comfort.
Vegan Brownie: Rich, fudgy, chocolatey goodness, served warm with ice cream.
Pie of the Day: Seasonal fruit or decadent cream pie, always freshly baked.
Bread Pudding: Warm, comforting, with a sweet sauce and often seasonal fruits.

Handlebar Chicago’s interior design beautifully marries rustic charm with a distinctly urban, bicycle-themed flair, creating an atmosphere that’s both cozy and eclectic. Exposed brick walls, vintage cycling memorabilia, and warm lighting contribute to a laid-back, inviting vibe, making it feel like a cherished neighborhood spot. The service is consistently friendly, attentive, and knowledgeable, with staff eager to guide you through the extensive menu and craft beer selection without being overbearing. Pricing is generally moderate, offering excellent value for the quality and portion sizes of their creative, scratch-made dishes, making it accessible for casual dining and special occasions alike. The overall vibe is unpretentious and genuinely welcoming, encouraging guests to relax and savor their experience.

A Concluding Ride Through Handlebar Chicago

In summary, Handlebar Chicago is far more than just a restaurant; it’s a culinary institution in Wicker Park, celebrated for its innovative and deeply satisfying vegetarian and vegan comfort food. While the entire menu is a testament to their culinary prowess, certain dishes truly stand out as fan favorites. The **Chilaquiles Rojas** from their brunch menu are legendary, a vibrant explosion of flavors that perfectly encapsulates the Handlebar experience. For a comforting classic, their **Mac & Cheese** is unparalleled, boasting a rich, creamy vegan cheese sauce that satisfies every craving. And you absolutely cannot leave without trying the **Black Bean Burger**, often hailed as one of the best plant-based burgers in the city.

Handlebar Chicago is an ideal destination for a remarkably diverse clientele. It’s perfect for vegans and vegetarians seeking delicious, creative options that go beyond the usual, but equally fantastic for omnivores curious to explore the incredible world of plant-based cuisine. Foodies looking for innovative dishes, families seeking a relaxed and welcoming atmosphere, friends gathering for a casual meal, or couples enjoying a cozy date night will all find something to love here. Its dog-friendly patio also makes it a haven for pet owners who want to bring their furry friends along.

As a friendly mini-review, Handlebar Chicago consistently delivers an exceptional dining experience. The food is consistently fresh, flavorful, and passionately prepared, proving that plant-based dining can be both exciting and incredibly comforting. The atmosphere is authentically charming, and the service is always top-notch, making every visit a genuine pleasure. It’s a place where you feel instantly at home, where every dish tells a story, and where you leave feeling nourished, happy, and already planning your next visit. Handlebar Chicago isn’t just serving meals; they’re creating memorable experiences, one delicious, plant-based dish at a time.

some of the images and information is taken from other sources

Explore the Handlebar Chicago menu, discover Handlebar Chicago brunch, find Handlebar Chicago reviews, experience Handlebar Chicago vegan options, visit Handlebar Chicago Wicker Park, taste Handlebar Chicago comfort food, learn about Handlebar Chicago opening hours, contact Handlebar Chicago, enjoy Handlebar Chicago patio, indulge in Handlebar Chicago desserts, savor Handlebar Chicago appetizers, feast on Handlebar Chicago sandwiches, enjoy Handlebar Chicago entrees, try Handlebar Chicago craft beer, find Handlebar Chicago specials, plan a trip to Handlebar Chicago, read about Handlebar Chicago atmosphere, check Handlebar Chicago contact details, experience Handlebar Chicago dining, and fall in love with Handlebar Chicago cuisine.