"Open since 1948, Cindy’s is an Eagle Rock landmark where the retro diner atmosphere is better than the food itself—a completely fine attribute considering your child ate a grape out of the litter box last night. This isn’t to say the food is bad, it’s just that the place itself is magical. Bright orange booths (which are very durable to spillage, might we add) surround a long linoleum bar where locals congregate to eat omelets and grumble about traffic. It’s also pretty loud on the weekends, which means if little Timmy decides to have a complete meltdown, the group of ladies eating carrot cake and doing crosswords won’t be too disturbed." - garrett snyder, brant cox, cathy park
"The Eagle Rock diner’s interior appeared in the Super Bowl ad for Poppi soda; readers are directed to check the full footage to spot the space." - Mona Holmes
"Cindy’s in the Loop has one of the best panoramic views of everything that makes this city great. It’s located on the roof of the Chicago Athletic Association Hotel, and because this place is incredibly busy there can be an hour-long wait just for the elevator. But once you’re upstairs, you’re rewarded with an unbeatable view of the illuminated skyscrapers (during the day, the twinkling skyline is traded for the beautiful view overlooking Millennium Park and Lake Michigan). Aside from its fantastic view, this airy, greenhouse-like bar also has good cocktails. The food probably won’t blow you away, but the atmosphere makes up for it." - veda kilaru
"This restaurant on top of the Chicago Athletic Association hotel has beautiful views overlooking Millennium Park and Lake Michigan. And it's a great place for groups, as the menu has dishes meant to be shared among three or four people. Come here for brunch and get a giant serving of stuffed french toast, or half roasted chicken for dinner. The food won’t blow you away, but the atmosphere makes up for it." - adrian kane, veda kilaru
"If you're interested in having a solo meal that doesn’t involve cousin Dan’s rant about ChatGPT controlling humans, make a reservation at Cindy’s. Besides a special a la carte Thanksgiving menu with seasonal options, they’re offering a $45 “Thanksgiving Plate For One.” It comes with cider-brined roasted turkey breast and sides like brioche stuffing, cranberry relish, and truffle gravy. With zero dishes, zero arguments, and zero leftovers to dole out, you can focus all of your energy on enjoying one of Chicago’s best views. The meal: Thanksgiving-specific a la carte menu, plus a $45 “Thanksgiving Plate For One”" - adrian kane, veda kilaru