Plein Air Cafe: A Charming Brunch Spot

If enchanting cafes tucked behind bookstores and surrounded by trees is your thing, then you’re going to want to check out Plein Air Cafe in Hyde Park. It’s nestled in the UChicago community, right behind one of the college bookstores. It’s a great place to get brunch and walk around (because you all know how much I love walking around UChicago). 

The food is French inspired, and so is the name (“in the open air”), and delicious. I usually satisfy my sweet tooth by opting for a sugary breakfast. I ordered the Mascarpone Stuffed Brioche French Toast. I love a good French toast, and the mascarpone added a great texture and softness to it. The berries were the perfect finishing touch. 

Jason ordered the Chorizo Burrito and also really enjoyed it! You can’t go wrong with a breakfast burrito. 

The drinks were pretty good too, although I do recommend getting them “to go.” Even though they’re way more aesthetic, every time I get lattes in a glass, they don’t quite taste as good. Maybe I just love micro-plastics.

The atmosphere inside was so cute and light and French. I loved their menu aesthetic, the font of “bakery,” and the little white window for taking orders. It’s just so cute there. The outside patio is also adorable, with a huge picnic table with greenery, and other smaller seating choices surrounded by nature. This is a great place if you want a bit of a city escape. 

I definitely recommend eating here for brunch, or if you feel like being in a cute garden/cafe for a bit.

Until next time - may your weekend be full of creativity and style.