Cindy's
7 people recommend, 1 warns against itvia r/chicagofood, r/AskChicago10 comments cited below
What people say, in short
People recommend Cindy's rooftop at the Chicago Athletic Association hotel for brunch, and several praise the rooftop views. One diner praises its French toast, another says the dishes are meant for sharing, and one likes bringing visitors there before the Art Institute. One commenter finds the food only average and suggests going just for cocktails.
Address
Cindy's Rooftop, 12 S Michigan Ave, Chicago, IL 60603
At a glance
- Price
- Premium
- Signature dishes
- French toast
- Best for
- Brunch, Visitors
- Opinions divided
- Yes
Nearby on this map
Other places on this map closest to Cindy's, as the crow flies.
The evidence
Every point below is paraphrased from a real public comment, ordered by how much the community engaged with it. Caveats and negatives are kept in — follow any link to read the original for yourself.
- Recommendsu/If-By-Whisky in r/chicagofood · Feb 2024ambience
Recommends it, citing an unbeatable rooftop view.
- Recommendsu/AlanShore60607 in r/chicagofood · Sep 2024ambience
Urges trying for a rooftop seat; praises the views and food, noting dishes are meant for sharing.
- Recommendsu/m_i_r in r/chicagofood · May 2026taste
Favorite brunch spot; praised its French toast with a distinctive flavour and the rooftop views.
- Recommendsu/Virtual_Aide_7399 in r/AskChicago · Apr 2026ambience
Recommends bringing visitors there before the Art Institute; praises the lobby, seating and view.
- Mixedu/Grahamars in r/AskChicago · Apr 2026wait time
Calls it lovely, with a caveat about visiting on nice days.
- Mixedu/Expert_Ad_4986 in r/AskChicago · May 2025ambience
Calls the rooftop good, with lovely views on nice days, but food seems average; suggests just cocktails.
- Recommendsu/Craft-Serious in r/chicagofood · Feb 2024ambience
Suggests it as a brunch alternative to The Gage, citing its great views.
- Caveatu/DesignWeekly9737 in r/AskChicago · Jun 2025price
Says Cindy's did not suit them.
Show all 10 cited comments
- Recommendsu/sellmyhighyak in r/AskChicago · Jun 2025
Recommends Cindy's as a great pick, alongside Aba.
- Recommendsu/lin982 in r/chicagofood · Feb 2024ambience
Suggests its rooftop for brunch despite never eating brunch there; praises the views.
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Freshness
Details last checked 11 Nov 2026. Recommendations reflect what people said at the time; confirm current details before you go.