Everybody loves breakfast food. Ever hear someone (excluding vegetarians) say, "Man, I just can't stand bacon," or decline to opine on how they like their eggs? Probably not. So, since breakfast is attractive to people across all ways of life, why not construct a breakfast joint that also appeals to everyone? Enter Yolk, the kind of place with just enough charm to satisfy sophisticated city dwellers, enough friendly, talkative staff to please old fogies, and with the quick, painless service needed to please the suit-and-tie crowd.

This River North location mirrors its sister spot in the South Loop, offering the same eclectic blend of American classics, intriguing twists on breakfast favorites and health-conscious alternatives. Typical entrees exist all over the menu: pancakes, waffles, crepes, French toast, eggs, omelets, you know the drill. For a little variety, try the South of the Border Benny, a combination of sausage, English muffin and chipotle sauce topped with poached eggs for $9.99. Or start your day like a man: with an 8-ounce burger, topped with an over-easy egg. Yolk stays open till 3 p.m., meaning there are more standard lunch selections in there as well, including some killer salads, sandwiches and wraps.

Appropriately, Yolk's interior is dominated by agreeable yellow tones, and not just from the paint on the walls. The unhindered windows at the storefront allow easy access for layers of sunlight, letting patrons bask in the glow from the big yolk in the sky.

Average cost: $10-$20

Centerstage Reviewer: Andy Seifert