Buzz Cafe

By Christine Escobar

A nine year old fixture in Chicago's historic suburb Oak Park, Buzz Cafe’s website boasts that they are “very kid-friendly.” Owned by a family with three young children, the small cafe is a vital part of the local Oak Park community and hosts a weekly Monday morning story time for preschoolers.

The Buzz Cafe Atmosphere

The deep purple and bright green walls are covered in local artists’ paintings. This makes for great conversation with your preschooler while waiting for your food. In addition, your preschooler may enjoy helping choose a table with one of the many hand painted colorful chairs to sit on.

There is a cozy nook at the rear of the cafe with cushy chairs and bookshelves filled with children’s books. A bin of toys and a collection of stuffed bumble bees in various shapes and sizes are a draw to preschoolers as well.

The Buzz Cafe Menu

Kids items are served with a choice of two sides: chips, fresh fruit, or carrot & celery sticks with ranch dipping sauce. All include an all natural fruit leather for dessert. Sandwiches include turkey and cheese, pb and j and toasted cheese. An all natural organic macaroni and cheese completes the kids menu choices. All kids sandwiches are half sandwiches, but can be served whole for an additional $1.

Adult menu items include wraps, organic burgers, paninis, soups, salads and appetizers. Many are vegetarian and include organic or locally grown ingredients.

General Information for Buzz Cafe

Breakfast is served from 6 to 11 a.m. with preschooler favorites such as pancakes and yogurt parfaits. Brunch is served Sundays from 8 a.m. to 2 p.m.

High chairs are available and a changing table is located in the restroom.

905 S. Lombard Ave, Oak Park, IL.

Phone: 708-524-2899

1/2 block from the CTA Blue Line train (Austin/Lombard stop)

Hours: Monday-Friday: 6 a.m. to 9 p.m. Saturday: 7 a.m. to 9 p.m. Sunday brunch: 8 a.m. to 2 p.m.

Website: www.thebuzzcafe.com