Nestled in the vibrant neighborhood of Chicago’s Lakeview at 2863 N Clark St, Bluebird serves up a mouthwatering array of contemporary American comfort food with a special focus on expertly crafted chicken sandwiches and wraps. This beloved local spot has quickly become a go-to destination for those craving bold, flavorful dishes that marry classic techniques with inventive twists.
The heart of Bluebird’s menu lies in its signature sandwiches, where each bite bursts with layers of texture and taste. The Fried Chicken Sandwich features a buttermilk fried chicken thigh tossed in their unique, house-blended spice mix, complemented by crisp house slaw, tangy pickles, and a luscious chipotle ranch dressing, all nestled on a soft brioche bun. Fans rave about “The Bluebird” sandwich, which elevates fried chicken with rich Merkt’s beer cheddar, smoky applewood bacon, honey chipotle mustard, and fresh greens—a combination that one satisfied customer crowned “the best chicken sandwich I’ve ever had.” For those who seek a bit of heat, the Nashville Hot offers a flaming kick of Nashville hot sauce paired with crunchy house pickles, though some diners find it milder than expected, allowing even more guests to enjoy its flavorful warmth.
Bluebird’s lineup extends beyond sandwiches to delightful wraps that deliver fresh, vibrant ingredients wrapped for convenience and taste. The Buffalo Chicken Wrap dazzles with grilled chicken tossed in housemade buffalo sauce, blue cheese crumbles, and crisp Roma tomatoes, all accompanied by creamy ranch. Meanwhile, the Santa Fe Wrap balances roasted chopped chicken, creamy avocado, white cheddar, and sweet corn in a smoky chipotle ranch, offering a delightful southwestern flair that customers continually crave.
Complementing the mains is an enticing selection of sides, from perfectly golden and crispy Tater Tots to the indulgent Duck Fat Fries kissed with sea salt for an extra savory crunch. The Sweet Potato Tots provide a deliciously sweet and savory contrast, while the Bacon Cheddar Fries bring a decadent touch of melted cheese and smoked bacon. These sides pair beautifully with Bluebird’s sandwiches and wraps, rounding out a full meal experience that satisfies both comfort and curiosity.
Beyond the food, Bluebird offers a welcoming and casual café-style vibe that encourages guests to linger. Comfortable seating, including cozy couches near the window, invites visitors to relax and savor their meal. Diners often praise the attentive and friendly staff, who provide helpful recommendations and flexible ordering options—whether through attentive bartenders or easy mobile payment solutions. This laid-back yet polished atmosphere makes Bluebird perfect for everything from quick takeout to a relaxing lunch or casual dinner.
What truly sets Bluebird apart is not just its well-crafted dishes, but the consistent quality and attention to detail that customers repeatedly highlight. From the perfectly cooked chicken with just the right spice balance to the generous portions of sides and refreshing housemade lemonades, every visit feels deliberate and satisfying. As one enthusiastic guest describes, their cheeseburger is “one of the better cheeseburgers I’ve had at a great value price,” and the “truffle macaroni is sublime”—a testament to the menu’s breadth and Bluebird’s commitment to flavor excellence.
Whether you’re a devoted fried chicken aficionado, a wrap enthusiast, or someone seeking hearty yet modern comfort food, Bluebird is a Chicago gem that delivers rich flavors, inviting atmosphere, and consistently rave-worthy meals. Each dish entices with complex, layered tastes and textures that leave you eager for your next visit. For those looking to experience the best in casual dining with a focus on quality and creativity, Bluebird stands proudly at the top.
My go to for chicken/regular burger. I ordered from here many times and it's mostly consistent and good. Stuff I tried from the menu: The Bluebird - really good. Fried chicken sandwich - it's okay. Coleslaw is a nice topping. Nashville hot - it's okay, not that spicy or interesting. Pajaro Verde sandwich - pass, not interesting. California club - nice, chicken has good texture. Smoked gouda burger - really good (my go to choice). Bacon jam burger - it's nice. Candied bacon and brie - it's okay. Habanero Parmesan burger - good. Have nice spice. Shrimp Po' Poy - it's meh. Kodachrome salad - nice, but too much bacon. Elote - this is probably the dish that changes the most. Not your typical elote but it's tasty. Fries - not crispy and I love that. Duck fat fries - same as the regular fries (the duck fat isn't worth the extra money). Mac N' cheese - not great. Overall good food
My wife and I tried this new spot in Portage Park recently and loved it. Originally we ordered via grubhub and the food arrived fast hot and right. The bluebird cheeseburger is one of the better cheeseburgers I’ve had at a great value price. While I’ve not tried everything I do know that the truffle macaroni is sublime as are the sweet potato tots. I went back for lunch today to discover they have a nice seating area both inside and outside patio area. I found that bluebird was clean and I liked pretty much everything about Bluebird. It’s nice to have a new higher end feeling place here in Portage Park. Feels gourmet without the gourmet prices. I think it should be on your must try list, you won’t be disappointed.
Since the first time I ordered here I have been craving Bluebird wraps more or less constantly. It seems to be more of a takeout place, but dining in here is a great experience. The woman behind the bar was very helpful and attentive; she gave the option to order from her or on our phones. You can also pay on your phone if you want. Comfortable seating, including a couch in the front window. Can’t wait to go back!!!
The Bluebird Sandwich is the best chicken sandwich I've ever had in my entire life! You think Popeye's does it up, right?? Then consider this next level!! Do you think that chain restaurant that just opened down the street from your house that sells Nashville Hot Chicken is special? Think again!!! The Bluebird holds the gold!!
Bluebird has a great casual, café-style vibe. We loved the cheeseburger and the elote—both were flavorful and satisfying. The mac n cheese leans more on the noodle side, which we enjoyed, especially with such generous portions. Their homemade lemonade was refreshing and rounded out the meal perfectly.
2 years after I discovered this place, it is still the best burger I’ve had. No question Original review below ——— Tops my list of fav places to eat. The burgers and sandwiches are unbelievably good. The Gouda burger is to die for. Same with the Bluebird fried chicken . The Philly Cheesesteak is better than 99% of cheesesteak I've had in Philly. All mains are impressive. Unique quality and flavors Sides are great but not on par with the main dishes. The curried chicken is my favorite, large portions. The Mac and cheese was ok. Salads at bluebird are the only items I don't recommend. Definitely coming back again and again. The staff put a lot of love and care into the food they prepare.
Popped in really quickly, ordered really quickly, thinking that it was “just another” joint. Boy was I wrong. Decor is not great, but otherwise the menu is more interesting & extensive than I thought it would be, and the food was really really good. Excellent burgers I must say. Elote too. Service was sincere and friendly. Really a nice spot with great food - worth it