Stray Hen Cafe - Elmhurst, Illinois

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

The food was absolutely delicious (and unique). Prices were well aligned to the quality. The staff were very nice and efficient. I was a bit surprised that the hostess was wearing pink leggings that were thin enough to see her underwear through, as it didn't match the professionalksm of the rest of the staff. Plates were brought and cleared quickly. And when I found a piece of plastic in my pumpkin French toast, they brought a new one and removed the cost from the bill. Overall, it was a great place and I'll be back again.

The food was delicious. I got the shrimp po boy and side salad place can get busy and loud

Atmosphere: 4

Food: 5

Service: 5

Food was great. Bloody Mary and mimosa were good. 10/10 recommend.

Atmosphere: 5

Food: 5

Service: 5

The menu is extensive with so many delicious selections for breakfast. Large place with a good outside seating area. It is also less expensive than other comparable restaurants in the area. Service from Angelica and at a later time Jennifer was fast, responsive, and friendly. When it’s full, it can be loud.

Atmosphere: 4

Food: 5

Service: 5

First off, the Veggie Hash is amazing, add egg of your choice. I haven't had a vegetarian option this good in a long time.
Service needs help when it's busy but otherwise great place... Highly recommend.

Atmosphere: 5

Food: 5

Service: 3

Very good breakfast food . Big variety and unique options

Atmosphere: 5

Food: 5

Service: 5

Been here many times before and although the food is good, the wait is always >30 mins long. Do yourself a favor and just walk across the street and check out Courageous Bakery and get breakfast/brunch there instead. Service is great and plenty of seating without any wait. Not to mention the food and bakery options are bomb.

Wonderful food. Well worth the 60 minute wait. To their benefit it was Sunday morning.

Atmosphere: 5

Food: 5

Service: 5