Protein Bar & Kitchen

My go-to lunch spot! Takes the edge off of my multiple hospital visits... Great balance of protein and veggies in the bowls. Fast service and comfortable seating.

Review written 01/20/2025. Some of the best food I’ve ever had in my life. I got a 2nd bowl to go to take home. Absolutely decisions. Fresh. Customizations available. For example I swapped out chicken to get tofu as a vegetarian. They have a rewards program through the app. This location is in Northwestern Memorial Hospital

Great customer service. I had a slight problem with my order (was missing an ingredient), my whole order was remade immediately, no questions asked and many apologies given. Food is delicious! Definitely be back again next time!! Thank you!! ❤️❤️

I tried this twice same dish. Buffalo bowl. Today it was mostly buffalo drenched quinoa and 2 pathetic pieces of chicken. There was so much sauce and so little protein I couldn’t enjoy it. It was good the first time. Anyway considering the price of the dish and the name of the restaurant I’m trying to figure out where is the protein in this bowl?

Went to the hospital to visit someone and since I was hungry I decided to stop by the protein bar and kitchen that is inside the hospital. There was nobody at the front desk but didn't take long for someone to come out and help take my order. Once my order was made the wrap I ordered was made fast as well as the green juice. Both of these were good so if I'm ever around I'll stop by again at this location. The decor is nice and hip. The service was nice and fast. The juice gave me the energy I needed for the day.

Experience is always great. BTW Julian makes the best sonic refresher. The others not so much. He really needs to teach the female employees how to make it.

Ordered two tasty bowls here while my husband was a patient at Northwestern Memorial Hospital and it was so refreshing to have a healthy, affordable option in a healthcare environment! My only recommendation for management would be to remind your front line team members to be as friendly, warm and kind as possible because so many of your guests have loved ones in the hospital. It’s easy for everyone to get rushed and forget that, but a little kindness goes a long way. Pro Tips: - They serve meals with all single-use plastic, so bring your own utensils if you have them or request that they withhold the plastic lid - They use plastic straws, so consider requesting your beverage without one

Pretty solid food! I wouldn’t get the chicken chili, it’s solid but just not what I was expecting which is on me. Get a burrito or a bowl!

I'm surprised at how good these reviews are, I was looking forward to pure egg scramble and a top notch matcha. The eggs are of the powdered egg variety-gross- not enough salsa, salt or hot sauce to help the flavor, which I put all three on! The matcha I ordered without honey, if matcha is good it's pure and smooth without the sweetener. This one was too sweet even without the honey. This location is in a hospital which I did not realize when I ordered so it was a bit of a chore to pick up my food. I am sure their smoothies and açaí bowls are good. Disappointed in the microwave style egg breakfast.

This was my first time ever having Protein Bar. I think y'all's definition of a smoothie is wildly different than mine. Straight liquid is a juice. I prefer an actual smoothie texture. Put it in the freezer to see if it will help at all. If I wanted to drink oat milk through a straw I would go somewhere and buy it. Gross.

Protein Bar used to be so great once upon a time but now ingredients taste stale, and the bowl was just loaded up on spinach and sauce. It tasted off and wasn't the bowl I used to have 1-2 a week for lunch.

I had to run and leave a review! Mind you my food was delivered via Uber Eats so I cannot speak to the customer service at the physical location, this is purely on the food itself. For context, I am on a health journey and so is really important for me to find delicious food that would not put me over my calorie limit . I appreciate it straight off the back that all of the items showed a breakdown of calories and protein and carbs! I ended up going with the spring bowl with some customization, specifically, adding in some chicken and avocado and the corn and black bean. Yallllllll!!! This bowl looks so healthy. I was concerned about the flavor, but it's actually pretty decent. The seasoning isn't bomb, but that's not the point of it. The point of it is to be healthy and for that I am thoroughly enjoying it. I learned that I actually like sautéed mushrooms so win is a win! I also got the Wrigly peeled protein smoothie which pretty much taste like you're typical Jamba Juice PB chocolate love protein shake. Probably order here again whenever I come to Chicago just for the healthy choices!

I wish I could take this place back home with me to Houston ! The smoothie and wrap were the best and great service via grubhub.

Not worth it. Breakfast burrito is tiny, even with additional eggs. Almost felt like it was a single portion of eggs. The price was $11+ .

My favorite little pick-me-up I need during work! The overall vibe inside is nothing too fancy, considering it's inside a hospital. I usually order ahead and grab my lunch/shake whenever I get a chance to sneak away. The service is great. They will keep my shake usually in a little mini fridge they have to keep it nice and fresh. The meals also always feel so fresh! My favorites on the menu are: the egg scrambles for breakfast, the matcha, the berry smoothie, the Mexicali bowl, and chicken chili.

Decent food options. Usually fresh, but sometimes (as shown in the picture) not fresh. Love that there are some organic things. Service is usually very prompt and courteous. Located inside NW hospital so decent location for a quick lunch. Clean.

Great food choice at the hospital. Delicious salads and smoothies. Two things I don't like: loud music and service isn't the friendliest, though they are organized and quick. I wish the management would play less annoying tunes or at least turn it down.

Ahh! This used to be Argo Tea remember that? This is the thirteenth location in the Chicago Area and the twelfth location here. Staff and service is great. PS. Not to mix up there's another one on the pathway second floor between Fienberg and Galter.

Quite cool and convenient healthy place! It was hard to find as it is located inside the Hospital complex but once there it's worth it. Not crowded place. We were looking for something refreshing after a long tourist walk and the smoothies here were just perfect for that. I tried the energy one with fruits and vitamins add-ons and did help me reboot the energy.

Protein Bar, as the name suggests offers a wide variety of protein shakes and protein-packed bowls. As much as I understand the whole health food trend, which is undoubtedly very beneficial and nutritious, I still find the taste somewhat lacking, in both flavor and texture. As an example, the protein shakes, such as the Wrigley Peeled (peanut butter, banana, chocolate protein, almond milk, agave) or the Avo Matcha (matcha powder, avocado, honey, vanilla protein, almond milk), taste not that bad upon the initial slurp. But then, as you keep drinking, there's just this slightly strange aftertaste that you wouldn't find in a typical milkshake. Now of course, these are much healthier, so that's always a perk, but for me personally, flavor/texture/taste always reign supreme and the primary foundation on which my reviews are based.

Peanut butter & açaí with organic peanut butter açaí puree banana and hemp seed. Tastes amazing. This is healthy and is very satisfying.

Have dropped by a couple of times. They are located in the second flor food court inside the Northwestern hospital. I like dropping by here when I pass it at the end of my run for a bite to eat. There's a ton of seating in the food court as well. The store itself is sometimes a little messy. I've never seen it get very busy, but staff get food out pretty quickly. Food here is fast casual version of health food - high protein and high fiber bowls, and a ton of variety and options. They also have wraps and a bunch of protein shakes. I really like their shakes, although some of them are very sweet and taste like they have way too much sugar for a protein shake. I like the mexicali bowl they have, although one caveat is the avocado topping is NOT avocado but guac - it's a pretty different texture and flavor so it's a bit of a pet peeve when restaurants advertise one and actually use the other. Their bowls come with a riced cauliflower option which is a pretty unique option. However, every time I've ordered the riced cauliflower, it comes out extremely soggy. Tends to happen if you don't drain or crisp up the cauliflower enough and then let it sit - it gets extremely soupy. I'm pretty glad the protein bar is here, and love the menu variety and options. It's definitely fast food-y in quality, but very affordable for what it is. Just wish they would drain their cauliflower.

Fantastic place to eat! A lot of great, healthy options that taste delicious. Definitely recommend.

I must say I am very surprised at how good this place is. I was here on business and my coworker took me here for lunch. It is located inside Northwestern Hospital on the second floor in the food court area. We came around 11:30 and there wasn't that much people in line yet. I ordered the jokes acai'd smoothie which had acai berry, banana, blueberry, vanilla protein, and greek yogurt. OH MY GOODNESS! It is to die for. It was sweet enough and light and refreshing all at the same time. I wish I got more of it. I also got the salmon TLC bowl which had salmon, pickled onions, pickled carrots, roasted peanuts, spinach and kale. I opted out the black lentils and chickpeas. The portions are definitely smaller and the prices are pricier. But it is hospital food court so that may be why. Other than that, I would highly recommend this place and its healthy!

Love the Acai shake. Being able to easily order online and have the order ready and waiting leads to a great experience.

Went to the hospital to visit someone and since I was hungry I decided to stop by the protein bar and kitchen that is inside the hospital. There was nobody at the front desk but didn't take long for someone to come out and help take my order. Once my order was made the wrap I ordered was made fast as well as the green juice. Both of these were good so if I'm ever around I'll stop by again at this location. The decor is nice and hip. The service was nice and fast. The juice gave me the energy I needed for the day. Yey

I love protein bar! I am always left feeling full. I love the quinoa bowls and wraps! They are delicious! I had the el verde bowl this time and it was a little bit spicy for me but not unreasonable. I loved all the ingredients in the bowl. I had the wrigley smoothie which had peanut butter and banana in it. It was so tasty and not overly peanut butter tasting. The only downside to this location is I have no cell service/internet in Northwestern so I ended up taking my food to go. Prices are also steep $8.99 for a bowl and $5.99 for a smoothie but to have a filling healthy meal is a win for me!

Located in Northwestern Hospital's food court area. Can get confusing, definitely call the shop and ask for particulars if you are directionally challenged like me. I asked the bellman at the hotel and he pointed me towards Michigan Ave. I walked an extra three quarter mile because of it. If I jay walked from the hotel, I would have landed neatly there. I wanted a juice/smoothie in the mornings within walking distance, so PB was it. The combinations are simple and they are willing to vary it as you please, if you are adding ingredients, it's $0.40/ea item, still under $13 for a large and a small smoothie, but due to the extras, they provided a whole extra cup for the overflow. Love how they have almond milk. Skip the vegan protein powder, disgusting. They also have whey and soy protein. Not organic. When asked, they said it was too expensive. Sigh. Juice was similar to a watered down smoothie, but still good, just not strained like juice. It's green, so not complaining. Overall, it served it's purpose, not sure how many nutrients and pollutants my body absorbed.

Found this eatery at the food court located in Northwestern Medicine. I thought it could be "fake" diet food but it offers organic, gluten-free, preservative free ingredients. The protein options caters to carnivores as well as herbivores. You can get a menu item or create your own...beverages too!

Ordered two tasty bowls here while my husband was a patient at Northwestern Memorial Hospital and it was so refreshing to have a healthy, affordable option in a healthcare environment! My only recommendation for management would be to remind your front line team members to be as friendly, warm and kind as possible because so many of your guests have loved ones in the hospital. It's easy for everyone to get rushed and forget that, but a little kindness goes a long way. Pro Tips: - They serve meals with all single-use plastic, so bring your own utensils if you have them or request that they withhold the plastic lid - They use plastic straws, so consider requesting your beverage without one

Eating fast food doesn't have to be unhealthy anymore thanks to protein bar! I could eat here breakfast lunch and dinner and never get tired of their healthy dishes that leave me full and satisfied. For breakfast go for the mexicali bowl filled will great flavors. For lunch or dinner I like the buffalo chicken salad or bowl. My new favorite thing that they offer is to sub riced cauliflower for quinoa- low carb but still delicious. If you're having a sweet tooth the Wrigley peeled is fantastic and practically taste like a milk shake... talk about having your cake and eating it too. All the locations are great and the staff is always really friendly and gives great recommendations. A great to go lunch spot but also has a few tables if you want to stay and eat.

I've been here a bunch since I work near by and used to live in the hood. Their smoothies are amazing!! Love the millennium perk and wrigley peeled. My first love was the perk but the peeled is my new favorite. Hard to beat smoothies with coffee and peanut butter! You can't go wrong either way. I've also had their wraps and bowls. Loved the Mexicali and Spicy Korean. Super fast service. Only reason for five 4 stars vs 5 stars was an issue we had with the app. Was double charged and took 3 visits with the store manager to correct their error. On the 3rd visit they gave us a meal...that we already paid for since we were double charged. Just be cautious when using the app. I might just avoid the app all together!

If you haven't been to the Protein Bar do yourself a favor and go! Their chili is unbelievable I could seriously eat it forever. For breakfast my go to is the steak and bean scramble which is also amazing. The food always leaves me feeling full without feeling like I over ate. It's my go to spot when I need a fast but healthy and filling meal. I have class starting at 8:15 am and so it's perfect for breakfast. Plus, their honey oat latte can get me through even my longest, most lecture and study filled days. Reviewed 4 starts instead of 5 because at this location the cashier wasn't the most polite, but it is early and everyone has their off days so it's totally understandable, just a heads up if you're a morning person don't expect chit chat or if mornings aren't your thing, it may rub you the wrong way. But overall truly great!

I love this location. They are conscientious, friendly, able to "read the room" of patients and healthcare workers, and orders come out fast and accurate. They've even made favorite items for me that have been taken off the menu!

So disappointed on my last visit. My $8 smoothie was half foam and by the time I got back to my desk the foam was gone and less than half cup remained! My $10 salad was only half a bowl too. Felt like they need higher margins but sneaking to reduce portions instead cutting their supply costs or raising prices. After being a customer for over 10 years, I am switching to Panera (steps away).

I usually stop by here when I have an appointment at the hospital. Service was quick today with only one other person in line. Staff was quite knowledgeable about menu selections for certain diet restrictions so that was helpful when choosing what to eat.

This place is great! This is my go to spot for breakfast when I'm in Chicago. It has a great assortment of delicious food and the service is quick. And when I say quick, I mean they are speedy. The interior is nicely decorated, very clean and modern looking. You order from the large menu (not in # of items, but rather it is very large on the inside) and the order is ready (made fresh) the next minute on the other side of the counter. I always order the Mexicali in a burrito and it is very delicious. Highly recommend it! I also love how they include the calorie counts for all their items there as well.

***UPDATE*** So I was feeling like having a quick smoothie and was nearby, so I ordered one online. The only issue is that I accidentally ordered from the Protein Bar on Clybourne Ave... I called them when I arrived and Carlos came downstairs only to tell me that they didn't have any orders from me. Once I realized my mistake, he insisted that he makes me one anyway. Wow... When was the last time anyone had a customer service like that?! Dear manager, please give Carlos a promotion, he knows how to make customers happy, and I'm willing to bet I'm not the only one who had this type of exceptional service. Their smoothies are among the best I've ever had! I ordered through GrubHub for pickup, and they were ready within 10 minutes. Simple and nice service, and the quality is amazing. The employees are very friendly too. Definitely going to be ordering again.

Fact: the only incentive for going to the doctor is getting to eat here. Yeah yeah, there's that whole "caring for myself" thing too, buuut I can't eat it sooooo... I digress. Anyway, Protein Bar is aces because it's fast, customer service is friendly, and their variety of food options are all delicious and healthy. Don't think you like quinoa? I don't buy it, my friend. Veggies and grains are hubby's kryptonite and even *he* adores their burritos. I don't know what magical crack they use to make everything taste so good, but these contemplations merely cut into my munch time, so I choose to remain in blissful oblivion. *My* personal faves are their chili and the spinach pesto quinoa bowl. Not only yummy, nutritious, but best of all they really keep me full for a while, which is a major plus because I don't like to feel hungry, but do like to fit into my pants. As other Yelpers note, it's within the galter building of Northwestern (675 N St Clair) on the 2nd floor, and not terribly fancy digs, but if someone as directionally challenged as me can find it, I have faith in you too.

Uptown Funk Dedicated to Protein Bar It is too hot (hot damn), Go to Protein Bar and get juice! It is too hot (hot damn), Make me wanna drink Avo Matcha! It is too hot (hot damn), Add Vanilla Protein and Almond Milk! It is too hot (hot damn), Am I bad to get Fruit Loop'd too, Drink it up! Market hit you with Kale (wuhoo), Outta Sight hit with you with Carrot (wuhoo), Beetbox hit you with Apple (wuhoo)! Cause Protein Bar gon' give it to you, Cause Huron St gon' give it to you, Cause Clark St gon' give it to you! Saturday night and we in Chicago, Believe me and just come to Protein Bar!

Protein bar provides the perfect breakfast when you're on the go. There are so many options and it's delicious. My favorites are the Millennium Perk and the Wrigley Peeled! Addicted!

I've already been here way too many times, but i plan to keep coming back! It's great to finally have convenient healthy food in the hospital, instead of my usual routine of grabbing anything Starbucks has to eat and running off to something I'm late for. I'd say this place is better than Freshii, their competition for fast healthy food, the flavors are better here. I won't go into which burritos I like best, because honestly they all taste similar. Which isn't a bad thing, because I've yet to be unsatisfied with any of them. I usually go with the Guac & Roll, Ivy or Original. And don't forget to add some sriracha to give it a little kick, they have several bottles on the counter where you pick up your order. Juices are all great too with one exception: Cherry Limeade is just toooo sweet. I couldn't even finish it.

When I'm looking for a healthy meal option for lunch I like to hit up Protein Bar. I like the fact that they list the calories of each menu option. My go to items at Protein Bar are: -BBQ (grilled) Bar-ritos: All-natural chicken, organic quinoa, shredded cheddar, house-made agave BBQ sauce, Super 6 Salad Mix wrapped in a whole-wheat flax tortilla, then grilled. This "Bar-ritos" is the best one that they serve...in my humble opinion. It's delicious, filling and only 570 calories -Chicken Chili: Hearty, chef-crafted chili packed with all-natural chicken, beans, healthy veggies and spice. This is a great option on a negative degree weather day. If you get the 16oz portion it'll cost ya 300 calories -Blended Drink: The Red Line, which consists of vanilla protein, choice of milk, strawberries, and banana. This is a tasty treat that washes down the BBQ Bar-ritos perfectly. I recommend you stay away from the: -Capone Bar-rito (grilled): All-natural chicken, organic quinoa, house-made marinara, spinach, and shredded parmesan wrapped in a whole-wheat flax tortilla, then grilled. While this sounds good, it didn't taste good. -Blended Drink: Millennium Perk, which consist of chocolate protein, espresso protein, choice of milk, and house-made cocoa malt. I'm a chocolate lover, but my stomach wasn't loving this drink. The cashier saw the look on my face when I took the first sip and was nice enough to let me pick another blended drink off the menu at no charge.

As a student here, I come here pretty often when I need some lunch or even dinner if I"m studying for a while. If I'm looking for healthier options, I think Protein Bar is great place to go. My favorite order is the Mexicali bowl (quinoa, whole eggs scrambled with organic ghee, black beans, cheddar, kale, salsa, spicy tomatillo lime sauce, chipotle Greek yogurt and avocado). It tastes slightly like a burrito bowl, but a little healthier. If you're the type of person who doesn't like "healthy foods," I think you should try this bowl out. Great-tasting and filling. I have also had the Hi-5 Smoothie. Very delicious and refreshing. This is located on the second floor the hospital, and the area in front of it is under construction, but it's still open during construction.

I was in town for work and searching for a healthy breakfast option. I'm so happy I found Protein Bar! The Mexicali bowl is delicious, healthy and super filling. It kept me full until noon, and I usually have a morning snack. Staff was pleasant and the location was clean. I suggested it to colleagues, and they said it was great too!

Any place that focuses on helping me eat more nutritiously automatically has a leg up on the competition. Protein Bar does just that, and serves up healthy, amazing food. I opted for the black bean quinoa bowl. It came out within five minutes, and it was a huge portion! I can't believe it was only 360 calories. This bowl was simple - a bed of quinoa, topped with black beans, and garnished with a little salsa, cheddar cheese, and fresh cilantro - but the flavor was out of this world. I've officially been inspired to use more quinoa and black beans in my own cooking at home. This cafe-style eatery is clean and not quite inviting. It suggests a quick meal in-house, or (more likely) that you should take your meal to go. The staff was friendly enough, but not overly enthusiastic to be working here (at least at this location). I would definitely return and try more lunch items. Their raw juices looked yummy as well.

Although they have good drinks here this review is based on customer service, And the reason I will not be going back. I walked in, and the cashier just standing there looking at me. Doesn't say hello she doesn't say anything I guess waiting for me to initiate conversation. A young guy comes from the back and ask have I been helped and that's when she wants to chime in. There are hundreds of other places that have as good as a menu and will greet ALL customers equally.

This place is quick, fast, and I think healthy? Great place to grab a quick bite to eat.

If you are trying to eat healthy and stay on the right track this is the place to go. They have a lot of options for the health conscious. I enjoy their smoothies and bowls. Portions are small which is good if your watching what you eat.

This place is located inside Northwestern hospital 2nd floor. Protein bar is one of your "healthier" food options here. All of the food choices are high in protein as the name states and packed with the good stuff. If you are not a Health nutt or healthy eater, you probably won't enjoy this place. They serve breakfast and lunch which include lots of grain, leafy vegetables and of course proteins. The menus includes protein bowls, raw juice, salads, protein bar-ritos, blended drinks and coffee. Treat your body right and it will return the favor.

LOVE this place! It's a block away from where I work and a much healthier option compared to corner bakery, m burger etc... I have loved everything I've tried on the menu so far. Oh, their raw juices are a must try! I recommend either the Greenberry or Hi-5

Visited the Denver location and happy to find a few locations in Chicago. Just ordered from Postmates - so can't comment on the actual storefront. But the selection of juices, oatmeal, acai, salads and bowls make for great healthy alternatives when you are traveling. Ordered a couple of times throughout my stay in Chicago. Love the pesto spinach wrap with chicken, the acai oatmeal with bananas and the rich health nut smoothie. Also a nice selection of cold pressed green juices!

If you're like me, the second hunger sets in, all desire to eat healthy goes out the window. It doesn't sound satisfying enough to eat a salad. Not so here. This place is great for lunch. You also get to give yourself a pat on the back for choosing something healthy. I assumed that this place would have bland, weird food and it took me awhile to try it. I finally went because a friend was craving their spinach pesto bowl and I didn't want to be rude. Thank god for friends. This place is one of my go to weekday lunch places when I'm feeling really hungry. It definitely hits the spot. I love all the bowls. My husband likes their BBQ burrito and el verde bowl. The quinoa chili is more quinoa than chili, but I'm a chili fan so I don't mind. The staff is always super friendly, even during lunch rush. The lines moves really fast and you typically get your food within 4 minutes.

Usually I would avoid a chain! Like those sequels...never good! However this place is cool! Definitely must! You will be glad to be hungry again type of place! Considering they are everywhere, people like me who are hungry by the time you come out of the restaurant..... They are located almost every other street!! Veggies and Vegans! Finally we are considered important!!

Agree with others that the items tend to lean on the bland side. I add hot sauce just to give some more flavor. So far I've tried the breakfast chilaquiles item and for lunch, the guac and roll barrito. Next time, I'll try the breakfast acai bowl since one of the employees recommended. Overall, it's just "ok."

Used GrubHub to order this to my hotel so I haven't actually been to the restaurant, but the salad I just inhaled was amazing. The superfood vegan salad is definitely a great choice! Their menu is great for vegans and non-vegans alike and so healthy! I will absolutely order again any chance I get. Their customer service is great too. GrubHub didn't drop off my complete order, and Melissa at Protein Bar reached out to GrubHub for me and gave me a $5 credit.

I'm SO happy this place opened in Galter Pavilion (Northwestern Medical Faculty Foundation/Memorial Hospital). I've only ever had their vegetarian chili because it rocks, so this review is mostly based on that. Also pluses: I like that they provide nutritional information, that you can order online for pickup instead of waiting in line, that they have a 10-punch card for a free item (including chili, yay!), and they are suuuuper fast. p.s. Just be sure to watch the sodium; a 16 oz chili has 1310 mg of sodium. That's almost all of the CDC's "recommended adequate" level of 1500 mg PER DAY and more than half the maximum 2300 mg! Could be better about this, imho.