Sarkis Cafe

  4.5 – 1,091 reviews   • Diner

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Small mainstay draws crowds for its classic breakfast fare served in a diner-style environment.

✔️Breakfast ✔️Brunch ✔️Lunch ✔️Dine in ✔️Take out Sarkis Cafe 60201

Address and Contact Information

Address: 2632 Gross Point Rd, Evanston, IL 60201

Phone: (847) 328-9703

Website: http://cafesarkis.com/

Menu Photos

cafesarkis.com

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Related Web Results

Sarkis Cafe – Restaurant – Evanston, Illinois

2632 Gross Point Road, Evanston, Illinois 60201, United States (847) 328-9703 Hours Monday – Saturday: 8:00am – 4pm Sunday: 8:00am – 4pm

Sarkis Cafe | Evanston IL – Facebook

We have everything from pancakes to specialty sandwiches (Animal and special hash browns pictured). You can’t go wrong with anything on our menu! www.cafesarkis …

Sarkis Cafe (@sarkis_cafe) · Evanston, IL – Instagram

Sarkis Café will remain open for business! However, we will only offer our food via online delivery or pick-up service. *Expired 3/19/2020* Because our …

Reviews

Hagz
Sarkis is a Armenian local Evanston hole in the wall Institution breakfast spot perfect for Potheads and Hangovers! But their breakfast was quick, affordable, and delicious. I got the Animal sandwich with side of cheesy well done hash brown. Also get everything on your sandwich, the combo of ingredients works perfectly together. Service was awesome and remember first come first serve tables. 100% recommend!
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Anthony Elisarraras
If you’re searching for an authentic, down-home breakfast experience, this local gem is a must-visit. The moment you step inside, you’re greeted with the mouthwatering aroma of sizzling goodness and a vibe that immediately tells you this place is the real deal. It’s a small business, cash-only, but trust me, they deliver on flavor and atmosphere in a way that’s hard to beat. They serve their meals on adorable cast iron skillet-style plates, giving each dish an “off-the-griddle” authenticity that feels both rustic and inviting. The cooks behind the counter are hard at work, flipping and clinking their greasy spatulas, filling the space with a comforting, nostalgic feeling that lets you know you’re in for something special.

Ordering here is a relaxed, casual process—just walk up to the counter, place your order, grab a number, and find a spot to settle in. There’s plenty of seating, both indoors and outside, so whether you prefer the bustling interior or fresh air, you’ll find a cozy spot to dig into your meal. The packed parking lot speaks volumes; word is clearly out that this spot has mastered the art of breakfast. And if you’re a coffee lover, don’t miss the subtle hint of cinnamon in the brew—a Mexican-inspired touch that adds a warm, comforting note to your morning cup.

The food arrived promptly, and I couldn’t help but marvel at the sheer volume of hash browns on their grill. It’s something you have to see to believe—an incredible mound of crispy, golden potatoes, perfectly prepared to accompany any breakfast plate. While the kitchen staff politely declined my request for a photo or video of the hustle, I respected their focus and dedication to their craft. Honestly, this spot doesn’t need photos to convey its charm; it’s a local treasure that’s best experienced in person. For anyone seeking a unique, unchained breakfast spot with authentic flavors and a welcoming, lively atmosphere, this place should be high on your list.
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Mo Wagdy
Sarkis is steeped in tradition as this restaurant dates back decades into the fabric of Evanston history. There’s not much to the place, in fact it looks like a little house on the intersection of Gross Point and Crawford. The interior is adorned with HUNDREDS of photos of customers throughout the years, many of them washed out but still discernible as to who is pictured. The menu is fantastic. There’s so many uniquely named items – such as my favorite sandwich the Loretta – that are oddly familiar the first time you eat it. And the taste is absolutely fantastic. Apparently they’ve kept the same recipes and quality throughout the years, and the pride they put into the business is evident with every bite. Very simple diner setup otherwise. Only a few tables inside, a few more in the tent outside, and an even more on the sparse patio out back. Highly recommend anyone who likes fun and tasty diner food.
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steven hoffman
Nothing last forever I have been a loyal customer for going on 5 decades I can tell you this in their efforts to be operationally excellent they have lost sight of what this great Armenian immigrant started and developed. The food is definitely not the same as it used to be. The Omelettes taste like the ingredients are Run through a food processor instead of being hand cut. The bacon used to be chunked now it is in little bits and pieces. The cheese is now added on top instead of inside with the ingredients. The disaster sausage was precooked then flattened completely dried out void of flavor. On the bright side The French bread has not changed
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ChiGuy
Cafe Sarkis offers a laid-back and cool atmosphere that immediately reminded me of a spot you’d find in the Florida Keys. During my visit, I ordered the steak sandwich and was surprised when a Philly Cheese Steak arrived at my table. As someone who isn’t a huge fan of Philly Cheese Steaks, I was initially disappointed by the mislabeling. However, despite my initial reservations, the sandwich turned out to be quite tasty and really hit the spot.

While I enjoyed my meal, I believe it’s important for Cafe Sarkis to accurately label their dishes. If you’re serving a Philly Cheese Steak, just call it that to avoid any confusion. Despite this minor issue, the overall experience was positive, and I will definitely be back to try their other dishes. The ambiance and the food quality make it worth another visit.
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Curtis Park
Sarkis Cafe is fire. I appreciate the staffs and managers kindness to me even though I have autism and their food is amazing and really good. They cook the food fresh and ready to eat and they maintain the restaurant clean. Owner Maria and Abe is nice. Amazing bacon Loretta. Must come back. 10/10.
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Bunker Blake
I grew up in the northern Chicago suburbs, and Sarkis is an absolute institution. I’m pretty sure the original owner, Sarkis, is no longer involved and that the business was purchased by longtime employees years ago, but the soul of the place hasn’t changed one bit.

This is the quintessential no-frills neighborhood breakfast spot. It’s a diner in setup and vibe, counter seating, quick service, familiar faces, but the menu is uniquely Sarkis. While they can make standard breakfast fare, they’re truly known for their outstanding signature sandwiches.

Two classics stand out. The Disaster is excellent and lives up to its reputation, but my personal favorite is the bacon Loretta with an egg. It’s perfect. Bacon, cheese, diced peppers and onions, plus an egg if you order it, all served on a fresh Italian white roll. I add the hot sauce that sits on the table and pair it with a side of cheesy hash browns. From a health perspective, it’s completely reckless. From a taste and nostalgia perspective, it’s flawless.

If I had to compare Sarkis to a movie genre, it’s the John Hughes equivalent of a restaurant. It belongs in the same North Shore nostalgia collage as The Breakfast Club, Ferris Bueller’s Day Off, Home Alone, and Planes, Trains, and Automobiles. It’s iconic in the way it marks transitions, junior high to high school, high school to college, first hangovers, and early adulthood.

Over the years, Sarkis has made some thoughtful upgrades, including outdoor seating when the weather’s nice, which is a great addition. It’s cash only, though I believe there’s an ATM on site. The staff is welcoming, kind, and efficient, and it’s a natural reunion spot for people who grew up in the area.

Prices are fair, the food is consistent, and it’s just as delicious as you remember.

The only minor note, and this is truly nitpicking, is the coffee. I believe the default is hazelnut. It’s fine for a quick caffeine fix, but I’d personally love a plain regular coffee option as well.

I absolutely love this place and make a point to meet old friends here every time I’m back in Chicago. Sarkis is a reminder of how special it was to grow up in this area. It’s one of a kind, deeply nostalgic, and uniquely Chicago.
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Andrew Kuby
Cheezy hashbrowns are perfect anytime. Cash only, bring cash. Super quick service. Omlettes are fantastic but get a Loretta and you will be coming back for life. Excellent coffee with a hint of cinnamon, now I sprinkle some in my coffee pot at home because of them.
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Adam Castile
Always bringing my beautiful wife to dinner, obviously! Sarkis blew us away with how simple yet delicious the food is. Maybe it’s just because we don’t have to make it ourselves; or maybe they’ve got some kind of secret ingredient?!? Either way, it’s absolutely flavorful in it simplicity.

She had the Loretta, I had the Animal — both were incredible.
Definitely not a miss. A must-try.
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Thania Martinez
CASH ONLY there’s an ATM in the establishment if you need to get cash. First time trying Sarkis Cafe. Limited free parking lot. Available seating inside or patio. I tried the French toast with a side of bacon, French toast was yummy there were other options to add to your French toast. I will be visiting again great spot. Staff were great.
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