Edgewater’s favorite longstanding establishment has been in business since 1960. Breakfast skillets, half-pound burgers, freshly-squeezed orange juice, and Grecian specials like the Kayana — an egg scramble with sautéed onions, tomatoes, and feta cheese — are all on offer here. Like any good neighborhood spot, Alexander’s won’t let patrons down.

“Meat free since ‘83” is the slogan at this venerable vegan diner. For 35 years, guests with dietary restrictions have been able to indulge in creative versions of burgers, wings, country fried steak, gyros, and more. In addition, vegan milkshakes and desserts are also available as well as gluten-free options.

After briefly shuttering most of its locations, Clarke’s returned to its old Lakeview stomping grounds in 2016. The retro-themed diner is happy to fulfill any eggy desires that arise in the middle of the night. Other highlights include cinnamon rolls, mac and cheese, and the Avocado Abby sandwich.

Nestled in the heart of the South Side, Daley’s has been serving residents homestyle fare since 1892. Generations upon generations of Chicagoans have grown up on its skillets, waffles, chicken wings, and patty melts. If that doesn’t whet the appetite, daily specials like boiled turkey necks, chicken and dumplings, and braised oxtail stew rise above the diner norm.

It may surprise folks to learn that Glenn’s Diner is home to some of the finest seafood in town. Of course breakfast is served all-day, and there’s an assortment of cereals, but the real highlights are the fresh catch. Walleye, mahi-mahi, swordfish, striped bass, and more are imported from around the country, and guests can feast on all-you-can-eat crab legs on Tuesdays and endless shrimp on Thursdays as well.

With several locations across the city, Golden Nugget has been a Chicago staple for more than 50 years. There’s something for everyone as the expansive menu has buttercream waffles, crepes, fried steak, liver and onions, “Flavors of Italy” and “South of the Border” dishes, and daily specials.

Although it’s missing the glitz and glam of Beverly Hills, this Hollywood-themed diner is the late-night star of Wicker Park. Sure, eating jumbo fried shrimp, nachos supreme, or a pulled pork sandwich at 1 a.m. isn’t the healthiest choice, but damn if it isn't difficult to resist. More importantly, the extensive number of options means it’s a restaurant everyone can agree on.

有時,甜點是梅一樣重要n course. This diner mini-chain has three locations on the South Side that provide patrons with a satisfyingly sweet finish to every meal. Chow on golden brown pancakes, club sandwiches, and burgers but make sure to save some room for a donut delight. The signature treat features one of Huck’s donuts topped with choice of ice cream and whipped cream. And since it’s open 24 hours, a late-night sugar rush is always in play.

It doesn’t get more old school than the experience at one of Chicago’s oldest restaurants. Nearly a century since opening, Lou Mitchell’s continues to operate like a well-oiled machine. Guests are treated to complimentary Milk Duds and donut holes upon arrival before sitting down to fluffy pancakes, jumbo omelets, fresh eggs, homemade pastries, and cups of the self-proclaimed “world’s finest coffee.”

Located just minutes from the United Center, Palace Grill feeds fans before and after Blackhawks and Bulls games. Nosh on “heart stopper” breakfast sandwiches at any hour of the day or classics like meatloaf, mac and cheese, and fish and chips.

Eggs and bacon will always be a good choice but for something a little different, head to this small Mexican spot in Pilsen. Along with all of the traditional morning fare, the menu offers items such as chilaquiles, chile relleno, and tortas. And if diners want to start the day with some tacos, those are available too.

Greasy spoons are usually a dime a dozen but the Silver Palm is a unique experience that takes place inside a railroad dining car. Get on board and try the famous artery-clogging Three Little Piggy sandwich, a behemoth filled with double-smoked ham, pork tenderloin, bacon, onion ring, fried egg, and gruyere cheese. Hungry eaters who manage to finish the whole thing should pat themselves on the back and prepare for the accompanying food coma.

A giant fist clenching eating utensils invites guests into this popular Lakeview eatery. Inside, they’ll find a warm dining room and items ranging from stuffed French toast and marvelous milkshakes to giant quesadillas and zucchini parmigiana. Go during off-peak hours or be prepared to wait since there’s usually a line.

It's counter-service only but Hyde Park’s beloved institution has all the makings of a greasy spoon. Breakfast, lunch, and dinner are served cafeteria-style and customers should look forward to reliable omelets, a mean plate of steak and eggs, and daily specials like lamb shank spaghetti. Need more convincing? It’s one of President Obama’s favorite haunts.

Whether it’s 3 p.m. or 3 a.m., there’s always an eclectic mix of students, workers, and nightlifers at this iconic greasy spoon. It’s comfort food at its best, which means a varied selection that includes Tex-Mex dishes, pastas, burgers, fried chicken, meatloaf, beef sandwiches, and everything but the kitchen sink. Fast, filling, and cheap, White Palace Grill is everything a diner strives to be.