5% Cash Back at Chicago Waffles

The first waffle iron was patented in 1869, and the waffle was a huge hit at the Chicago World's Fair in 1893. It's still a huge hit today, thanks in no small part to the little slice of heaven that is new Chicago Waffles location in the West Loop.The original Waffles location was chosen Best New Breakfast in Time Out Chicago's 2012 Eat Out Awards. This is not your stereotypical hash house; this is a go-to spot for hungry people who want great food with a world-class flair. Here the distinction is drawn between the Brussels waffle -- made with yeast-leavened batter, light, thick and crispy with large pockets -- and the Liege waffle -- rich, dense, sweet and chewy, made with pearl sugar, which caramelizes on the inside and the outside. Varieties include red velvet, green tea, Mexican chocolate, cheddar and short rib (really?), and albondigas -- pork and lamb meatballs in a spicy tomato stew served over a Chihuahua cheese waffle topped with mint. Oh my! Non-waffle breakfasts and sandwiches are there too, as are dinner plates with such savory comfort-food combinations as fried chicken and waffles with a side of mac and cheese. Waffles is a BYOB place, but be advised: the B does not stand for batter. They've got you covered on that.