The Gaudi Café and Grill

All photos by Bianca Sedano

624 N. Ashland Ave., Chicago, IL 60642
(312) 733-9528

If you are looking for a filling breakfast, tasty bite for lunch, or cozy spot to enjoy some sangria and tapas with friends, look no further than Gaudi Café and Grill. In a city and area overrun by so-so taquerías, stale greasy spoons and snooty bistros, Gaudi stands out as a refreshing alternative. This charming East Ukie joint is family-owned and operated by Betty and Veronica Gomez-Romo. (And, yes, those are their real names.) The ever-friendly sister/owner duo has seen their vision for a Spanish and Mexican-influenced bistro come to fruition in this relatively new restaurant. With a wide selection of tapas, classic grill fare like sandwiches, wraps, salads and desserts, there are plenty of choices to explore for breakfast, lunch and dinner. Portion sizes are generous for entrees and sandwiches so come with your eating-pants on. Don’t worry about the cash situation; their prices are unbeatable. The establishment is BYOB with no corkage fee. And, if you want to fancy up that dranky drank, they will take your bottle of wine and turn it into sangria for a reasonable $6. Sweet!

Need to check your email or get some work done? Gaudi is Wifi enabled. Want to just chill and catch up with a friend? The traditional and contemporary Latin music they play and colorfully warm decor make for a pleasing atmosphere. They even have board games in case, you know, your friend is a lame conversationalist. The Gaudi displays and sells art by local artists and hosts small events. Currently, paintings by Jovan Mihailovic are up and new artists are typically featured monthly. Recently, a teenage violinist from the neighborhood made use of their intimate space for a performance and additional events are on the horizon. If you haven’t checked this place out, put it on your to-do list, pal. Although, I doubt there’s a need to hurry. This place should be around for years to come.