CheekyChicago

“Do they put gold in the pancakes?” some lady in line (approximately an hour) says to me at m. henry last Sunday morning. She’s serious. “I think they might,” I say back. I’m serious too. Because last Sunday at m. henry is like every Sunday at m. henry. Before the doors open at 7:00 a.m. until closing time at 3:00 p.m., the lines wrap around the corner with mobs of people of all walks of life from all parts of the city, salivating for some gourmet breakfast. m. henry sure looks like a gold mine. It also happens to be one of the most amazing (if not the most amazing) brunch spots in town.

Located in the oh-so adorable Andersonville neighborhood, this one-of-a-kind brunch spot serves up delectable sweet and savory breakfast, as well as an eclectic, hearty lunch menu. Among many things, the place is known for their “bliss cakes”: the fluffiest, gooiest, buttery-est pancakes on the block. m. henry gives them a seasonal spin, adding in mangos, strawberries, guava, blackberries, or sometimes, batching them with sweet potatoes and merlot wine. You think I’m kidding? Let’s not forget their savory side of things. Highlights are the bacon wrapped eggs over polenta, crab cakes topped with hollandaise and poached eggs and black bean cakes mixed with plantains and Chihuahua cheese. Every Sunday a special brunch menu is offered, with even more overwhelming delicious choices. Think “Key Lime Brioche French Toast” with vanilla whipped cream and graham cracker crumbs and the “Breakfast Stuffed Poblano Pepper” with adobo sauce, eggs and chorizo. m. henry is also very vegetarian and vegan friendly, offering tempeh, soy sausage, yuba, tofu and more, which can be substituted into all of their delectable options. Best of all, m. henry is dedicated to using organic and natural ingredients and using locally produced products whenever possible.

Lunch is pretty impressive too. With hearty sandwiches (think a veggie stacked “dagwood”, triple grilled cheese and a tango tilapia wrap), peasant bowls (bowls of organic brown rice or pasta with veggies, meats and sauces), salads and soups (their black bean soup is a must-have), the food at m. henry is pretty much close to perfection.

Due to the incessant demand for out-of-this-world food, m. henry was kind enough to open a counter bake shop in the front of the restaurant a few years ago. A great place for carry-out (or to buy a treat to tie you over during your long wait), you can find fresh muffins, brioche, flat breads, cookies, homemade soups, sandwiches and unbelievable coffee. As for the gold – well, I’m still looking for it. But I know it’s gotta be in there somewhere.