Valois Restaurant

“I’m here 1 to 3 times per week because the hash browns, eggs, and links are so good.”

I’m here 1 to 3 times per week because the hash browns, eggs, and links are so good. It’s generous portions, wholesome food, and flawless every time. I always get a coffee no matter what time of day it is or what I’m ordering. They have very good coffee.

Benjamin Bakaitis

Dec 2025

“An iconic diner for UChicago people.”

An iconic diner for UChicago people. Came here with a friend who went to UChicago, and he described this place as more of an institution than a restaurant. Somewhere students head after a long night out for a full, comforting meal. It’s also known as Obama’s favorite diner in Chicago, and they even have a section of the menu dedicated to dishes he liked. We all went with the No. 1: steak and eggs, and it was one of the best versions I’ve had from a diner in a long time. The ordering system wasn’t like a typical diner. It was more like a college cafeteria. You walk up, tell the kitchen staff what you want, and they fire it up on the grill. Then you slide over to grab sides and bread. I went with the regular white toast, but my friend insisted the “secret move” is asking for the cornbread. It wasn’t mind-blowing, but it was definitely better than plain toast. I ordered my steak medium-rare, but it came out closer to medium-well. Still, it was surprisingly good. Pretty sure they use frozen steaks, but for how thick it was, it stayed moist and tender. No dry edges or weird freezer taste. My favorite part of the plate was actually the home fries and the Louisiana hot sauce they keep on every table. The fries were thick and starchy, perfect for soaking up the hot sauce. Highly recommend stopping by if you’re in the area and want a proper diner steak-and-eggs breakfast.

Jea Kim

Nov 2025

“Lovely place. It is cafeteria style, it is cash only, it is a throwback. Prices are exceptional,...”

Lovely place. It is cafeteria style, it is cash only, it is a throwback. Prices are exceptional, the people are friendly and food comes very quickly. Loves the veggie omelet, and the potatoes are delicious!

Zinger Learns

Nov 2025

“affordable decent breakfast.”

Pearl N O

Oct 2025

“First - CASH ONLY.”

First - CASH ONLY! They do have an ATM inside. We went to Valois because it came recommended as President Obama's favorite place! It was a nice cafeteria style restaurant. We waited in line, but not that long and they made your orders by the time you made it to the register. I had the Obama #5 and my husband had #1. We actually sat at the President's Table.

Beth Wallace

Oct 2025

“Great food, amused by Obama's favourite being an American cheese steak omelet but it is what it is.”

Great food, amused by Obama's favourite being an American cheese steak omelet but it is what it is. Pronounced val-oise despite being in IL.

Ernest Lee

Sep 2025

“Another great meal today.”

Another great meal today! And sat at the table with President Obama's image built into the table top. Valois is my go-to-lunch spot, just next to my office, very informal, reasonably priced, many many choices, cafeteria style ordering, you get your food within minutes, and it has a list of Barack Obama's favorite menu items which makes me smile every time I go to Valois.

Keith Evans

Jul 2025

“My first time here was excellent.”

My first time here was excellent. I ordered the French toast, eggs with cheese and hash browns. Delicious! I love the cafe setting.

Miss Sage

Jan 2025

“Glad to have made it here.”

Glad to have made it here! My experience was the best! I didn't really know how to order and they gave me a quick lesson which was cool and appreciated. They made me laugh and the food was really good. The mac n cheese, I thought had a jalepeno taste, that was different and appreciated. The ribs were tender the chicken and bbq sauce! Chefs kiss! I really enjoyed it all! Oh and my french toast were just what I needed as well. After a night of partying. We did not dine in but if I ever make it back I said that I would!

Nessa Knight

Nov 2024

“This is President Obama's favorite restaurant in Hyde Park when he is in town.”

This is President Obama's favorite restaurant in Hyde Park when he is in town. The first is what remains of a three egg Denver omelet. The second in the hot Turkey plate, extra gravy, mashed potatoes and a side salad. It was brought to my table piping hot!😋😋😋😋😋 FYI: This is a cash only establishment! They do have an ATM 😊

S.J. McConner, Jr.

Jun 2024

“I love this place so much.”

I love this place so much. Everyone I bring here from out of town loves it too! No frills, cash only and damn good food. The sergeant who runs the line keeps the service moving and the grill hot. What more can you want from a breakfast spot? I love the steak and eggs, but I’ve truly never had a bad meal here.

Keaton McCoy

May 2024

“Established in 1921 this spot is certainly a Chicago institution..”

Established in 1921 this spot is certainly a Chicago institution... what surprised me was how tasty the food was. It's clear why so many people LOVE this place. First, you should know it's cafeteria style... you wait in line, grab a tray, and order from an "assembly line" counter. Everything moves extremely fast. Ordered the everything omelette - bacon, ham, spinach, onions, peppers, and American cheese. Also comes with a choice of hash browns or grits. My meal was shockingly delicious. Can't wait to return to try more of the lunch options...

Paul Manning

May 2024