Restaurant Information
Chicago, Illinois 60647
⏰ Opening Hours
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ℹ️ About This Restaurant
Stepping into Handlebar, you're immediately enveloped in a cozy, laidback atmosphere that immediately puts you at ease. The warm lighting, rustic-chic decor, and casual vibe create an inviting ambiance that's perfect for a relaxed dining experience. Whether you're grabbing a quick bite or settling in for a leisurely meal, Handlebar's welcoming presence makes it a standout amongst Chicago's vibrant dining scene.
At Handlebar, the menu is a delightful showcase of creative, flavor-packed vegan dishes that cater to a wide range of tastes. From hearty comfort food staples to innovative plant-based interpretations, there's something to satisfy every craving. Their signature items, like the mouthwatering Handlebar Burger and the indulgent Mac & Cheese, have earned rave reviews from both vegan and non-vegan diners alike. Beyond the main courses, the restaurant also boasts an impressive selection of small plates, salads, and desserts that are equally impressive in their quality and creativity.
Handlebar's commitment to exceptional service and value makes it a true gem in the city. The staff is knowledgeable, attentive, and eager to provide recommendations, ensuring a seamless dining experience from start to finish. With its reasonable price range and generous portions, Handlebar offers an outstanding value proposition that keeps customers coming back time and time again. Whether you're a local looking for a reliable neighborhood spot or a visitor seeking a standout vegan dining experience, Handlebar is sure to leave a lasting impression and solidify its status as a must-visit destination in Chicago.
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🏮 Atmosphere & Ambiance
Handlebar boasts a warm and inviting atmosphere that seamlessly blends industrial chic and cozy charm. The restaurant's interior is marked by exposed brick walls, polished concrete floors, and an array of sleek, modern light fixtures that cast a soft, intimate glow throughout the space. The overall vibe is one of casual sophistication, creating an atmosphere that is both relaxed and refined.
The seating arrangements at Handlebar are designed to foster a convivial and social dining experience. The spacious dining room features a mix of communal tables, cozy banquettes, and intimate two-tops, each offering a slightly different ambiance. The outdoor patio, with its lush greenery and string lights, provides a charming al fresco option for those seeking a more casual and laidback setting. Throughout the restaurant, the attention to detail and thoughtful design elements create an inviting and welcoming atmosphere that encourages guests to linger and savor their dining experience.
🌿 Dietary Accommodations
- Gluten-Free Options - A variety of gluten-free dishes made with alternative flours and grains.
- Raw Food Choices - Selection of fresh, uncooked vegan salads, smoothies, and desserts.
- Nut-Free Alternatives - Nut-free sauces, dressings, and protein options for those with allergies.
- Keto-Friendly Items - Low-carb, high-fat vegan entrees and sides, perfect for those on a ketogenic diet.
⏰ Best Times to Visit
- Weekday lunch - With its quick service and healthy menu options, Handlebar is an ideal lunchtime destination for office workers and students looking for a nutritious and delicious meal.
- Weekend brunch - The restaurant's relaxed atmosphere, tasty vegan brunch dishes, and great coffee make it a perfect weekend brunch spot for a leisurely catch-up with friends or family.
- Happy hour - Handlebar's extensive selection of craft beers, creative cocktails, and discounted small plates make it a popular choice for an after-work happy hour gathering with colleagues or friends.
⭐ What Makes Us Special
- Expansive Vegan Menu: Handlebar offers an extensive vegan menu that caters to a wide range of dietary preferences, featuring innovative plant-based dishes that showcase the restaurant's commitment to sustainable and ethical dining.
- Craft Cocktails and Beers: In addition to its vegan fare, Handlebar boasts an impressive selection of craft cocktails and locally-sourced beers, creating a unique dining experience that appeals to both vegans and non-vegans alike.
- Community-Focused Atmosphere: The restaurant's cozy and inviting atmosphere, along with its emphasis on supporting local producers and community initiatives, sets Handlebar apart as a socially-conscious destination that resonates with Chicago's vibrant and environmentally-conscious diners.
📍 Local Area & Neighborhood
Handlebar is located in the heart of Chicago's vibrant West Loop neighborhood, known for its diverse culinary scene and trendy art galleries. The area is home to a bustling mix of residential lofts, boutique shops, and some of the city's most acclaimed restaurants. Just a short walk from the restaurant, visitors can explore the vibrant Fulton Market District, with its iconic street murals, indie coffee shops, and design showrooms.
Handlebar attracts a diverse crowd of health-conscious locals, eco-conscious professionals, and adventurous foodies seeking a unique vegan dining experience. The restaurant's commitment to sustainability and its cozy, casual atmosphere make it a popular gathering spot for the neighborhood's vibrant community, as well as a destination for tourists looking to immerse themselves in Chicago's thriving plant-based culinary scene.
💬 Customer Reviews
"We enjoyed our breakfast and the attentive service. The food was yummy. A lot of the meat substitutes are saitan based. ..."
"Handlebar was one of those places where the first visit easily earned the second. We popped in Saturday afternoon for Bl..."
"My favorite restaurant in all of Chicago! I always come here for comfort/ to treat myself. My friend visited from Louisi..."