Plein Air Cafe

Light and loveliness abound at this U of C-adjacent spot, courtesy of a southerly wall of windows that offers diners a profile view of Frank Lloyd Wright’s Robie House. Inside, rows of diminutive drawers, taxidermied birds beneath glass domes and a dramatically coiled cold brew drip tower impart a cabinet of curiosities vibe that’s balanced by a fresh white palette and minimalist furnishings. The menu features hale and hearty items like savory pies from Pleasant House Bakery and a tartine of tangy sourdough wheat dressed with spinach pesto, crunchy pepitas and a pile of balsamic-laced roasted root vegetables. On the downside, seats can be tough to come by, making us wish someone would clue in the patrons hunkered down over laptops while nursing the dregs of a coffee during the lunch rush.