CHICAGO — After more than four decades cooking for the Northwest Side, Ernesto Mendoza has finally opened the doors to his dream: Chicago Breakfast Restaurant, a neighborhood diner with heart — and a menu just as rich in tradition as it is in flavor.
The newly opened eatery at 5419 W. Devon Ave. in Edgebrook is already drawing in loyal fans from Mendoza’s earlier stints at Jefferson Park’s Big Top Diner and Morton Grove’s Kappy’s American Grill. And while the name screams “breakfast,” don’t be fooled — this kitchen is open well past brunch.
Mexican Roots Meet Diner Tradition
Mendoza, who grew up in Mexico learning recipes from his grandmother, started in Chicago kitchens at the age of 14, eventually working his way up from dishwasher to head cook at Big Top. Now, his own menu is a loving fusion of Mexican heritage and American comfort food — and locals are eating it up.
“When I see someone order chilaquiles and the other person gets a spinach, mushroom, and feta omelet, it makes me excited,” Mendoza said. “They decided to go half and half — just like the menu.”
Some of the restaurant’s standouts include:
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Bistec ranchero — skirt steak topped with homemade spicy sauce
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Denver omelet and banana pancakes
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Huevos rancheros
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Carne asada torta and seafood salad
A Longtime Dream Come True
After Big Top’s closure in 2019, Mendoza ran Los Cuates taco stand in Niles for nearly two decades before returning to diners as a cook at Kappy’s. But it was just a few months ago that he stumbled on the available Edgebrook storefront and decided it was time to build something of his own.
“I think we found the perfect spot,” Mendoza said. “The people over here are really nice.”
The restaurant has already become a magnet for familiar faces — former customers from Big Top, Los Cuates, and Kappy’s — and is open:
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Monday: 7 a.m. – 4 p.m.
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Tuesday–Sunday: 7 a.m. – 7 p.m.
Classic Food with Community Flavor
Chicago Breakfast Restaurant aims to be more than just a place to eat — it’s quickly becoming a local fixture. The menu, ambiance, and Mendoza’s presence reflect a business rooted in family, consistency, and cultural authenticity.
Locals have taken note of the care that goes into every plate, and with its broad offering of both Mexican dishes and American diner staples, the restaurant serves as a culinary bridge between cultures.
You can explore their full menu or learn more at ChicagoBreakfastRestaurant.com.
Have you visited Chicago Breakfast Restaurant yet? What dish surprised you the most? Share your go-to order or breakfast favorite in the comments — we’d love to hear from you at ChicagoSuburbanFamily.com.
