As a food writer I get invited to dinners. It’s a perk I definitely enjoy. When I was invited to dine at LYFE Kitchen in Chicago, I eagerly accepted. How could it have been a full year and I haven’t made it into LYFE yet? This was the push I needed. I mean, come on, dinner was on the house!
LYFE Kitchen’s Chicago and Evanston locations turn 1 today. In honor of their first birthday they are giving away free samples of their most popular dishes. Smart move. Once you try it. You will likely be back.
I will go back as a paying customer. Here is why.
- The food is fresh and as local as they can source.
- They have a plethora of plant-based options. Try the unfried “chicken” and brussels sprouts with squash.
- Everything is under 600 calories and there are no deep fryers!
- They have Trefethen chardonnay on tap (YUM!)
- The menu is eclectic.You can have Thai and American comfort food in one sitting.
- LYFE is upscale fast-casual fare at affordable prices and in a classy but low-key setting.
- Service is very good. They cater to all diets and seem genuinely eager to please every guest that walks through the door.
- In Chicago there is a nice outdoor patio to sit on.
- You know Chef Art Smith? As in Oprah’s personal chef…yeah, he is one of their consulting chefs on staff. So is Chef Tal Ronnen. The Concious (vegan) Cook!
- The General Manager at the River North location, Brinker Wolf, is extremely knowledgeable on the operation and on the food that they serve. He is also quite passionate about the work he does to make his guests (you!) happy.
Let me know how you like your experience at LYFE below!
The Scoop: LYFE Kitchen is set to open a Streeterville location this March. The opening has been delayed from is original date this winter due to construction, according to Brinker Wolf.
The food is great, the patrons are a diverse, eclectic mix and the staff is uncommonly friendly. And Lyfe can cater business meetings and events as well. Great for office meetings.
Thank you for your feedback! The staff is uncommonly friendly. Good description.
I keep going back for the following reasons Ashley.
1- They purchase from US Foods
2- Their food is delicious and portions are perfectly sized
3- The Lyfe staff is well trained, knowledgeable and very hospitable
4- The experience leads to terrific food conversations with my kids that we usually only have at Lyfe
5- I feel satisfied after my dining experience. Not full, not bloated and not stuffed.
Mark, great reasons!! I agree the food is delicious and portions are perfect. I don’t like to feel bloated or sluggish after eating out either. It keeps me going back for more!
I actually have never been here, but heard good things and want to check it out. Looking forward to getting over there (more than once) over the summer
Thanks Pete! What have you heard about LYFE that was so good?
Please email me your address for the gift card!! hi@ashleygilday.com
Lyfe Kitchen offers many fresh, plant based options for any meal of the day. I especially enjoy their morning tofu wrap and chipotle potatoes! 🙂
Mmmm I haven’t tried that one yet!! I will make sure I do. Sound delicious!
I’ve been to the downtown one. I love that they have healthy options for everyone. I plan on going to the Evanston one soon. Gift card? 😀
You will have to tell me how the Evanston location is! I haven’t been yet!
A whole delicious and healthy vegan menu + vegan cesar + those brussels and squash!
Yes, I really love both of those items! Great choice!!!
I just moved from Vancouver BC and I’m interested in checking out all the veg/vegan places in Chicago! 🙂
Welcome to Chicago Dawn! I work for a Vancouver-based company full time. What a fantastic city!! Be sure to check out our list of “where to eat” in Chicago!