Inside This Unpretentious Illinois Diner, You’ll Find The Best Cinnamon Roll
Tucked into Chicago’s vibrant dining scene, Little Goat Diner may not look like a place where legends are baked, but one bite of their cinnamon roll proves otherwise.
It’s warm, gooey, and unapologetically oversized, with swirls of sweet spice that feel like a hug on a plate.
This unpretentious spot delivers comfort with a twist, and the cinnamon roll has quietly become its crown jewel, drawing regulars and newcomers alike for a taste worth remembering.
Celebrity Chef Credentials
Behind those mouthwatering plates stands Stephanie Izard, the culinary powerhouse who conquered both Top Chef and claimed a James Beard Award.
Her impressive background brings serious kitchen credentials to this neighborhood joint.
What makes her approach special is how she balances high-end techniques with accessible comfort food.
Regulars appreciate that despite her fame, the food remains unpretentious and deeply satisfying rather than fussy or intimidating.
Fresh Digs in a Historic Spot
April 2023 marked a new chapter when Little Goat relocated to Lakeview’s bustling Southport Corridor.
The move brought fresh energy while maintaining the diner’s beloved character and menu favorites. Locals celebrated the arrival, quickly making it a neighborhood staple.
The relocation didn’t diminish what made the original special – if anything, the new space enhanced the warm, welcoming vibe that keeps tables filled from morning till night.
Bowling Alley to Breakfast Haven
History whispers through the walls of Little Goat’s current home – the iconic former Southport Lanes building.
For nearly a century, this space housed a combination bowling alley, bar, and speakeasy beloved by generations of Chicagoans.
Izard’s team thoughtfully preserved architectural elements while adapting the space for its new culinary purpose.
Look for subtle nods to its bowling past integrated throughout the dining room, connecting past and present in deliciously meaningful ways.
Globe-Trotting Comfort Food
Forget boring diner standards! Little Goat’s all-day menu dances across continents with playful global twists on American classics.
Korean bulgogi might meet French technique in one dish, while Mexican flavors transform a traditional breakfast plate in another.
Morning favorites include the absurdly good Fat Elvis waffles with banana, peanut butter, and bacon.
For lunch, the patty melt achieves cult status among regulars who appreciate how familiar dishes become extraordinary adventures.
Take the Flavors Home
Smitten with those unique flavor combinations? You’re in luck! The diner sells their house-made “This Little Goat” sauces and spice crunches for home cooking adventures.
These bottled flavor bombs let fans recreate some of that Little Goat magic in their own kitchens.
The most popular include their Everything Crunch and Tokyo Hot sauce, which transform ordinary Tuesday night dinners into something special with just a sprinkle or dash.
Part of Chicago’s Culinary Royalty
Little Goat shines as a jewel in the crown of Boka Restaurant Group, one of Chicago’s most respected culinary collectives.
This association places it alongside celebrated siblings like Girl & the Goat and Duck Duck Goat. Being part of this prestigious family means consistent quality and innovation across the board.
While each restaurant maintains its unique identity, they share a commitment to exceptional hospitality and creative, crave-worthy food that keeps Chicago’s dining scene nationally relevant.
The Famous Cinnamon Roll Legacy
Since opening its doors in 2012, one menu item has achieved legendary status: their impossibly gooey, perfectly balanced cinnamon roll.
Originally created for the West Loop location, this pastry phenomenon followed the diner to its new home.
What makes it special? The perfect ratio of buttery dough to cinnamon filling, topped with cream cheese frosting that melts just enough without becoming soupy.
Arriving warm to the table, this sweet masterpiece has inspired countless Instagram posts and weekend pilgrimages.