Stray Hen Cafe - Elmhurst, Illinois

An overall disappointing brunch here. “30-40 minute wait time” turned into 70, and it turns out that there are two different waiting lists on two different apps - so even when ours said “0 parties ahead of you” there were still parties ahead of us. Irritating.
Waitstaff came quickly and took drink orders. Coffee was downright nasty, burnt and also fairly cold. Sadly, cold temperatures were a constant throughout my meal here. Biscuits and gravy (which I had been told were excellent) got dropped on the table with the gravy literally cold and the biscuits overdone but also cold. I would have sent them back but one of my dining companions with whom I was sharing the B&G was starving at this point and ate them anyway. My breakfast sliders were also not very hot, tasted like thay had sat for at least 10 minutes before being brought to the table. Again, hungry enough at this point that I just couldn’t wait any longer and ate.
DEFINITELY will not be returning here. I don’t mind paying 2026 exorbitant prices for restaurant food if it’s good - this place isn’t good.

Atmosphere: 3

Food: 2

Service: 3

In the area and did a Google search for breakfast. The name sounded fun so we gave it a try. At the time we went seating was no wait. Our wait staff was exceptionally friendly and attentive but not overbearing. Service was quick and the food was fabulous. What a lucky find. We had the Oh Yams skillet and avocado toast with cucumber and radish. The yams skillet had brussel sprouts, yams, cheese and peppers topped with an egg. The avocado toast had cucumber, radishes, tomato also topped with an egg. Both meals were well done and definitely will get a return visit. Did I say our wait staff was awesome. Good job Stray Hen, keep it up.

Atmosphere: 5

Food: 5

Service: 5

Maybe we caught them on a bad day. The coffee was burnt, the pan cakes tasted like flour, the jelly was store bought and the potatoes were drowning in oil. The omelet itself was fantastic

Atmosphere: 4

Food: 2

Service: 4

Great food! A little noisy. Mediocre service. I did not see one server walking around refilling coffee cups. Had an ask for more coffee twice.

Atmosphere: 4

Food: 5

Service: 3

Food was only ok for the price. Staff were really friendly.

Atmosphere: 3

Food: 3

Service: 4

My friend and I had an impromptu meet up in Elmhurst and decided to brunch at Stray Hen, which my first time there. The service was great and the food selection was unique and very good for the price! I ordered the Oh Yams skillet and my friend order the Zeus on Fire - tasty dishes! I'll definitely come back to try others!

Atmosphere: 5

Food: 5

Service: 5

Absolutely UNACCEPTABLE how long a wait was. We came in with 6 people and waited around an hr and 20 min when they said it was a 30 min wait. So many more people came in after us and were seated before us. Not really happy about this. Hosts in front didn’t seem to care but again management needs to figure THAT out and correct it. I do like coming here but like I said at the beginning unacceptable on how lax they were about people waiting patiently. Also trying a
New staff and not have any seasoned employees on a busy Saturday NOT one of the smarter moves.

Atmosphere: 2

Food: 4

Service: 2

This cozy spot tucked away in Elmhurst perfect for the early risers to meet for breakfast and conversation.

Atmosphere: 5

Food: 5

Service: 5

We usually head to Stray Hen Cafe in Elmhurst for their great breakfast and coffee—but today we decided to stop in for lunch, and we are happy we did.

Tried the Double Cheeseburger and it was phenomenal! Two perfectly grilled patties, melted cheese, raw onion, and mustard on a soft toasted bun — every bite was juicy and packed with flavor.

Friendly service, cozy café vibe, and clearly a lunch menu worth exploring. Whether you’re a regular breakfast-goer or just passing through Elmhurst, this spot deserves a visit any time of day.

Atmosphere: 5

Food: 5

Service: 5

Wow, the food was good! The server, Pauline D gave my grandson extra whipped cream and he loved it! She was really nice, would give infinite stars if I could!

Atmosphere: 5

Food: 5

Service: 5

There are so many outstanding breakfast venues in the Chicago area. They don't receive as much praise as pizza parlors or hot dog stands or steakhouses but they serve a genuine purpose just the same. Take Stray Hen Cafe in Elmhurst, for example. Located at 105 South York Street, at 1st Street, in the western suburb, it has been catering to breakfast lovers since 2023. Open daily from 7 to 3, Stray Hen also offers a delightful luncheon menu that includes Patty Melts, Reuben sandwiches and double cheeseburgers. But breakfast is the big seller...omelets, skillets, pancakes, French toast, waffles, Benedicts and breakfast sandwiches. A signature dish is two sausage patty biscuits covered with sausage gravy with scrambled eggs and potatoes. I started with a bowl of old-fashioned oatmeal with brown sugar, raisins, banana and blueberries. Then a fruit cup, two scrambled eggs with corned beef hash and sausage links. Also toast with strawberry jam. And a 10-ounce glass of fresh squeezed orange juice. A great way to start the day. Any day.

Best breakfast ever!

Atmosphere: 5

Food: 5

Service: 5

Angelica & Evelyn we’re awesome! Great consistent service multiple times. Suggestions were spot on.

Atmosphere: 5

Food: 5

Service: 5

Wonderful Service by Paulina. Highly recommend coming here and great prices.

Atmosphere: 5

Food: 5

Service: 5

Ordered the Ruben with fries, pumpkin pancakes, and pumpkin spiced caramel macchiato. Everything was sooo delicious! I enjoyed it very much! Great place to come with family, friends, or alone. Service is attentive and they have a barista there making all the drinks to order. They do have alcohol for those who want a lil something with their brunch.

Atmosphere: 5

Food: 5

Service: 5