I don't like baseball. I find it exhausting and frustrating to spend $11/beer while watching an insanely long "sporting" event where being an athlete doesn't seem like a prerequisite. However, I know this is not a majority opinion in Chicago and have more than a few cohorts who not only appreciate a live game, but train like marathoners to fully enjoy the elusive double-header opportunity.
If you're staying with us at Ray's, chances are you plan on catching a game, but I want to go ahead and challenge you to the double header of breakfast/brunch in the neighborhood. For repeat guests, you know that we do not mess around with breakfast, we will feed you straight into a mid-morning food coma, so what better challenge than to follow that up with one of the great brunch places in the neighborhood? (Extra points if you can pull it off on Sunday, after starting off with our Eggs Benedict) Here are a few within walking distance
Dos Urban Cantina: Sundays 10am-2pm there is a $24 Bruch BUFFET. And it's one of the best Mexican Restaurants in the area (being staunchly Arturo's loyal this is tough to admit). 2829 W Armitage Ave.
Saved by the Max: We love theme-bars/restaurants. If you were allowed to watch Saved by the Bell as a kid (I wasn't) you'll especially appreciate this spot-on (so I've been told) homage to their local hangout on the show. Originally planned to be a short-lived popup, Saved by the Max has stuck around a thrived for months now. This place is normally packed with people who think ahead and make reservations, (sorry, book tickets for their "experience") but they are allowing a limited number of people in for brunch walk-ins on the weekend. 1941 W North Ave
Harvest Moon: Looking for less of a epilepsy-inducing atmosphere and more of a sleek warm farm-to table existence for your gluttony? Try Harvest Moon. They're new, and based loosely off of an Eastern-European mentality. And they have sweet potato waffles. Enough Said. 1805 W Division St.
Dove's Luncheonette: This is a big favorite of locals, and offers the benefit of being just about as close to the Blue Line as possible, so if you are planning on going downtown or (heaven forbid) back to the airport after brunch you only have to put forth the effort of like 65 steps to be sitting down again and whisked to your destination. Fun atmosphere, delicious food, solid choice. 1545 N Damen.
Or just linger in the kitchen long enough to gain a second wind and order more Ray's breakfast!