It’s rare I find a new spot in Chicago that I instantly fall madly in love with.
It’s not that I’m hard to impress. Just that I’ve seen and worked in the restaurant world for so long, novelty is hard to come by.
But today’s spot, while not necessary “novel”, is certainly note-worthy. And one you’ll fall instantly in love with if you like good vibes, good beer, and good pizza.
(Who doesn’t?)
Meet Middle Brow Bungalow. A haven for no-nonsense pizza, beer, and some swoon-worthy decor.
Sandy brought Lourdes, Alina, Nadia, and I here for a lunch date last month and we all agreed: this place knows GOOD PIZZA!
Let’s start with my favorite part though, shall we?
The Decor.
Middle Brow Bungalow is a stunning space — large windows, an open air vibe, and plenty of vintage finishes to boot.
Not to mention the loveliest pillows I’ve yet seen in a restaurant.
Much of the space is covered in gorgeous foliage and cacti too, adding to the unpretentious boho vibe.
Can’t you envision working here for hours on a rainy day? Or a sunny one, for that matter?
Since we came in for lunch, we forwent the beer (though I am absolutely going to try it on my next visit!) and opted for coffee and a few of Middle Brow’s toasts to start.
This is Middle Brow’s Prickly Pear Jelly and Ricotta Toast.
Served on a thick piece of country bread and garnished with bits of candied lemon rind for crunch and a little zest.
And this is their Turmeric Milk Jam Toast with cream cheese served on whole grain toast.
This was my first time trying turmeric milk but I’m already a convert. Not only is this superfood something we should ALL be incorporating more into our diets but in a format this delicious, it’s a superfood that tastes… well… SUPER.
And addictive!
Not to mention unique — I’ve yet to see turmeric milk on any other Chicago menus (but please message me if you know a spot! I really am THAT addicted).
But the pizza is the REAL highlight at Middle Brow. And — coming from a city known for it’s pizza — that’s saying something.
We tried the traditional Margherita in a slightly less traditional way… with an egg on top!
And this butternut squash pizza which took ALL FIVE OF US by surprise.
Topped with arugula and a pecan sage salsa verde that is TO DIE FOR, this pizza is all that I never thought pizza could be.
It’s sweet, tangy, and somehow rich without relying on heavy amounts of dairy.
And it’s worth the trip to Middle Brow Bungalow alone.
So if you’re searching for a spot off the beaten path… A spot that serves it’s own in-house brewed beer… A spot that makes delectable pizzas in flavors you won’t find anywhere else (I’m trying the vegan papas bravas pizza next!)… head to Middle Brow Bungalow.
For breakfast, lunch OR dinner.
Or all THREE.
