If you want a presidential breakfast while visiting Chicago, we have just the place.
Valois Restaurant in Hyde Park.
This isn’t just a diner—it is officially Barack Obama’s favorite breakfast spot in the world, and it’s hidden in plain sight right in Hyde Park.
This isn’t a “he visited once for a photo op” situation; this was his local.
Before he was the leader of the free world, he was just a guy from the neighborhood grabbing a tray and sliding it down the metal rail at 1518 E. 53rd St.since 1921.
Here is why you need to add this legendary spot to your Chicago bucket list:
The “President’s Table” is Waiting for You
There’s no velvet rope.
There’s no “Reserved” sign.
But everyone in Hyde Park knows exactly which table belongs to 44.
Located toward the back, near the legendary murals, this humble four-top is where Obama sat for his famous 2017 farewell interview.
It’s the ultimate “Secret Chicago” power move: if the seat is open, it’s yours.
Sit down, drink your tea, and soak in the vibe of the room that helped shape a presidency.
Eat President Obama’s Favorite Breakfast
You don’t even have to guess what he likes.
Valois literally has a “President Obama’s Favorites” menu board hanging right by the line. If you want the authentic experience, you order one of these:
The Obama Standard: Two eggs over easy, hash browns, bacon, wheat toast, and a hot tea.
The Victory Lap: When he won, the restaurant served up Steak and Eggs to the masses. It’s still the best deal on the menu.
The Vibe: “See Your Food”
The motto here has been “See Your Food” since 1921. It’s a cafeteria-style setup where the cooks sling eggs at lightning speed right in front of your face. It’s loud, it’s chaotic, and it’s the ultimate Chicago equalizer—you’ll see billionaires from the University of Chicago sitting elbow-to-elbow with bus drivers and students.
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Tips For Visiting
BRING CASH: They don’t care who you are; they don’t take cards. Bring green or prepare to use the ATM in the corner.
Don’t Hold Up the Line: This is a high-speed operation. Know your order before you reach the cook. If you want the “Obama Special,” say it loud and clear.
The Walls are a Museum: While you wait for your hash browns, check out the framed photos and clippings. It’s a timeline of Obama’s journey from a local regular to the White House.
📍 Where: 1518 E. 53rd St, Hyde Park
💰 Price: Dirt cheap for the amount of food you get.
