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Cafe Ballou

939 N. Western Ave.
Chicago, IL 60622
773-342-2909
Named after a ship that sailed to America after WWII, this sweet, Euro-style cafe offers a light menu and pleasant, conversation-friendly atmosphere. Owner Christine Kordiuk speaks fluent Polish and Ukrainian, often to her customers, a mix of neighborhood old-timers and hipsters.

Sandwiches (the dill tuna salad contains a secret ingredient) and salads comprise most of the menu. The Ballou salad includes mixed greens, chicken, candied walnuts, apples, Gruyere cheese and the house vinaigrette. The Ballou bread basket comes with Nutella, herbed cheese, jam and butter. Traditional Turkish coffee is made on a hot plate inside a mound of sand and served with ice water and a piece of dark chocolate. Lace curtains, a preserved tin ceiling, a cushy couch and marble tables create a convincingly European tone. Free wi-fi access.

Getting There

Cross Streets:
Western and Augusta.
Parking:
Street
Public Transportation:
CTA Bus: 49 Western.
Wheelchair Access:
Yes

The Basics

Hours:
7 a.m.-7 p.m. Monday through Friday; 8 a.m.-8 p.m. Saturday; 8 a.m.-6 p.m. Sunday; closed Wednesday.
Cuisine:
Bagels, Ice Cream/Frozen Yogurt, and American Traditional and Classic
Meals Served:
Breakfast, Dinner, and Lunch
Price Range:
$ (Under $9)
Reservations:
Not Accepted
Smoking:
No
Restaurant Style:
Cafe and Snack Shop
Audience:
Families

Features

Carryout:
Yes
Features:
Catering
Payment Methods:
Cash
Outdoor Seating:
Yes. Sidewalk cafe seats 20
Delivery:
No
Seating :
For 30