Toast Two is a no-brainer to spot a distance—a giant slice of perfectly toasted bread hangs above the front door and vintage toasters line the shelves behind the bar and over the windows. This popular brunch spot is the second outpost of Lincoln Park's Toast and sports the same menu (minus the alcohol).

While a long wait may scare off less serious fans, true brunch-die-hards know that a French toast orgy is worthy any wait. (Though, a curved counter helps cut the hour-plus wait). Strawberry- or mascarpone-filled French toast comes topped with yogurt, granola, fresh fruit and honey; the pancakes come in a bevy of tongue-tingling flavors, including lemon poppy seed, banana, pecan, strawberry and blueberry buckwheat. Those craving savory more than sweet won't be disappointed with the omelets, benedicts and an awesome breakfast burrito on the menu. Entrees cost $8-$12.

Don't feel bad about skipping breakfast all together and heading straight to lunch, where Toast Two whips up phenomenal sandwiches, each accompanied with homemade chips. Popular options include the chicken cobb club sandwich on challah and the seared ahi tuna with mango chutney.

Centerstage Reviewer: Kate Rockwood