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312 Eats
Back of the Yards

Tom’s Place

4.5272 reviews ·Opens at 8AM tomorrow
Their breakfast and empanadas are SO delicious, plus the owners have a history of giving back to the community
WonderGalWonderGal · 108 Google reviews
Read the reviews on Google →

Tom’s Place — well-regarded brunch & breakfast in Back of the Yards. Order the Pancakes. You can tell the sourcing is thoughtful, and good value. Adam Thompson: "DARE I say that the pancakes were the best on the planet" [patio]

☀️Patio — a Back of the Yards classic in summer.

What 272 diners keep saying

Great valueFamily runCozyFamily friendlyOutdoor diningQuick bite
Plan your visit
1509 W 47th St, Chicago, IL 60609
Back of the Yards
Today8AM-2PM
Sun8AM-2PM
MonClosed
Tue–Sat8AM-2PM
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What 272 diners keep saying

verbatim, from Google
Review photo by Nayeli Vazquez
Jun 2026

My favorite place in Chicago

Nayeli Vazquez

Nayeli Vazquez

14 reviews on Google

Review photo by Bryan Schneider
May 2026

A great place in Back of the Yards. Great pancakes — try the orange nut. The proprietor is Bruce (the place is named after his father) and chances are if he’s in he will say hello. At busier times, like on weekends, I think calling ahead for a table would be well advised.

Bryan Schneider

Bryan Schneider

27 reviews on Google

Review photo by Laura Garcia
Mar 2026

Best pancakes in Chicago! They NEVER disappoint!

Laura Garcia

Laura Garcia

12 reviews on Google

Review photo by Itz Hollywoood
Feb 2026

Tom's Place, a culinary gem, stands as a heartfelt tribute to Tom, the father of Bruce, and a beacon of love and community. Honoring Tom's legacy, this establishment embodies the values he cherished: love, welcome, and exceptional food. In his later years, Tom's visits to Chicago were marked by his dedication to preparing pancake breakfasts for the neighborhood youth, a gesture that ranged from feeding a few to as many as forty children. His profound belief, encapsulated in his final words to Bruce, "There is only love," serves as the guiding principle behind this remarkable project. Arriving at Tom's Place at just the right moment, after a light breakfast and a morning of activity, we were immediately struck by its vibrant atmosphere. Discovered through a search on Google Maps, the reality of Tom's Place far exceeded the enticing images online. The restaurant is not merely a place to eat; it's an artistic haven where fresh, high-quality cuisine takes center stage. The menu, while celebrating its pancake house roots, also boasts a diverse array of other delectable options, ensuring there's something for every palate. Tom's Place is truly one-of-a-kind, and it's no surprise that it's a popular destination. The experience is elevated by the exceptional staff, whose dedication and warmth leave a lasting impression. We extend our heartfelt gratitude to them and vow to return, forever cherishing the memory of Tom and the love-filled environment he inspired.

Itz Hollywoood

Itz Hollywoood

163 reviews on Google

Review photo by Porschia D
Dec 2025

Top tier food! Be patient here, the wait is worth it. Super quaint spot & will be back. I ordered -Cinnamon coffee (meh) - Orange nur pancakes (TO DIE FOR) - Eggs & Bacon (solid) - Chorizo empanada (incredible), fresh, flakes and top top tier Impressed is an understatement.

Porschia D

Porschia D

32 reviews on Google

Review photo by Maria Santos Murillo
Dec 2025

Son los mejores pancakes que he comido en toda mi vida El omelette de chorizo con sus hash browns yum yum yum!!!

Maria Santos Murillo

Maria Santos Murillo

4 reviews on Google

Review photo by hope stutzman
Dec 2025

This place does not disappoint! The food, was top tier, the staff super friendly, and just overall it was a great experience. We had the gingerbread pancakes, cheesecake stuffed french toast, and the sunrise burrito and all of it was PHENOMENAL!! We can’t wait to come back! :)

hope stutzman

hope stutzman

2 reviews on Google

Review photo by Esther Song
Aug 2025

Really enjoyed the pancakes- esp the seasonal blueberry! I love how this restaurant brings together such a wide range of people. Staff are very kind and hospitable. Definitely will be back

Esther Song

Esther Song

14 reviews on Google

Review photo by Jeyson Ortiz
Jul 2025

A Local, small, quite place with wholesome and delicious food at great prices.

Jeyson Ortiz

Jeyson Ortiz

12 reviews on Google

Review photo by Ahmvd K
Jun 2025

Food was absolutely excellent, no complaints! 100x better than IHOP, and half the price.

Ahmvd K

Ahmvd K

38 reviews on Google

Review photo by Cassandra Wall
May 2025

We were in Chicago on a trip & looking for a place with stuffed French toast & fun pancakes away from downtown & came upon this place. Not the best neighborhood but decided to trust the reviews & so glad we did. My spouse, child, & I all ordered different meals & loved it. This is the best food we had the whole trip: absolutely delicious, original, well priced, & filling. I’m so glad we went away from downtown. If I lived there I’d be a regular. The atmosphere was so cheerful & bright & immediately felt welcomed. The owner & workers were very friendly. 100% recommend.

Cassandra Wall

Cassandra Wall

42 reviews on Google

Review photo by Amador Padron
Feb 2025

Family the sun found out that Mr. Tom had passed away at a young man by the name of Salvatore and enjoyed buying experience had grits and eggs, and everything was wonderful. Definitely will return the service the atmosphere and the food were terrific.

Amador Padron

Amador Padron

121 reviews on Google

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