Welcome to Fresh Start Cafe
At Fresh Start Cafe, we believe in nourishing both body and soul. Located in Elmhurst, Illinois, our charming eatery offers a delectable blend of Mediterranean flavors, hearty burgers, and comforting breakfast classics. Each dish is crafted with fresh, high-quality ingredients, ensuring a memorable dining experience. From our standout Gyro Skillet to the beloved Portobello Crepe, there's something for everyone. Our friendly staff, highlighted by exceptional service, fosters a welcoming atmosphere that keeps our customers coming back. Whether you’re here for a quick breakfast or a leisurely lunch, Fresh Start Cafe is your go-to destination for wholesome, delicious meals that start your day off right.
- 1038 S York St, Elmhurst, IL 60126 Hotline: (630) 279-9997
Welcome to Fresh Start Cafe, a delightful culinary hideaway nestled in Elmhurst, Illinois. This cozy eatery, located at 1038 S York St, invites you to experience a vibrant menu that creatively intertwines Mediterranean flavors with the comfort of traditional American breakfast and brunch favorites. Whether you're a local or just passing through, you're in for a treat at this bustling spot.
Fresh Start Cafe is not just a restaurant; it’s a community gathering place where friendly service meets hearty, scrumptious dishes. Patrons rave about the Simple Skillet, a filling breakfast option that's perfect for those with a hearty appetite. The Portobello Crepe shines with its fresh and light toppings, showcasing the cafe’s commitment to quality ingredients. It's clear that this place values the importance of freshness, as seen in their generous Greek Salad and well-crafted sandwiches.
- Signature Dishes:
- Gyro Skillet - A breakfast revelation that takes the classic gyro experience to new heights with delightful tzatziki sauce and feta cheese.
- California Focaccia Sandwich - Soft and chewy bread that perfectly complements tender turkey and creamy avocado, delighting your palate with every bite.
- Chicken Salad Sandwich - A favorite among patrons, renowned for its incredible flavor that rivals even the most popular contenders in the game.
- Juicy Beverages: From fresh-squeezed juices to rich chocolate milk, the drink menu ensures you start your meal on the right note.
Dining at Fresh Start Cafe is more than just a meal; it’s a welcoming experience. Many regulars have found their second home here, returning not just for the food, but for the warmth and attention provided by dedicated staff like June C. and Janet, who are often praised for their exceptional service. This bustling cafe is usually full, a testament to its popularity and the heartfelt connections it fosters within the community.
In an era where dining can often feel impersonal, Fresh Start Cafe manages to provide a cozy atmosphere filled with great music and positive vibes. It’s the perfect place to grab breakfast before heading to Elmhurst Hospital or to indulge in a relaxing weekend brunch with family. So the next time you’re in the area, be sure to swing by and enjoy a refreshing start to your day at Fresh Start Cafe. You won't leave disappointed!

Solid breakfast & lunch located a block from Elmhurst Hospital. Simple Skillet was filling. Portobello Crepe was light and tasty, with lots of fresh veggies in the filling. Greek Salad was sizable. What makes this place really stand out is the excellent service. Our server June C is the quintessential hardworking restaurant professional who is efficient and engages her customers with just the right amount of friendly, personable banter. Restaurant was bustling on a Monday for lunch, which says a lot. Many of the lunch crowd seemed to be regulars. Food came out fast, but we didn't feel rushed. We'll be back.

Best Chicken Salad Sandwich in the game. Better than the blackberry market chicken salad - and that's saying a lot. I also love their oatmeal. It comes with a ton of toppings on the side. Super friendly and reliable service.

Amazing sandwich California focaccia, bread is soft and chewy, The turkey is tender and juicy, creamy avocado, which adds a rich, buttery texture that enhances every bite.

Went here with my family. My boyfriend ordered the skirt steak and eggs, the kids ordered the Ole Skillet, banana and Nutella crepes, and I ordered corn beef hash and eggs. Everything was delicious and the service was great

Whenever I'm in Chicago I search for hidden gem foodie spots. I mean Chicago is literally foodie Heaven. We didn't dine in because we were trying to prepare for an event but I'm kind of glad we didn't. It's small and dark inside, and I felt like the tables were too close together. But they made up for it all with an AMAZING breakfast. I got the gyro skillet. Absolutely delicious!! The picture does it absolutely no justice.. I never thought of gyro as a breakfast item and now I know I need it often. There were huge portions of meat and amazing tzatziki sauce and nobody will ever call them stingy with the cheese because for every bite I got delicious feta cheese chunks mixed in. It was amazing. The pancakes were basic, there was nothing wrong with them but I'm not going to reminisce on them. But that gyro skillet!!! I can't wait to get it again

Went to Fresh Start Cafe on May 16th, 2023, for a breakfast meeting with my colleagues. We ordered Strawberry Fruit Crepes, the portion of fresh strawberries and crepes was very generous. So much that I had enough for a late lunch. The 2+2+2 pancakes, sunny side-up eggs & bacon portions were also generous, but my colleague must have been hungry because he ate it all up. The same went the scrambled eggs, hash browns (extra crispy) with sausage links. This is a great old fashion neighborhood breakfast place. The owner and several of his friends were seated at the table next to ours discussing world events and eating and drinking bottomless cups of coffee. A shot out to our waitress Janet, who always made sure our coffees were hot & full. Next time I am in this area I will make sure to stop by for breakfast.

Been in this area for a while, first time here. Great spot for a good old fashion breakfast. Nice service. Loved their radio station . All about positive messages. Which is very much needed today. Enjoyed June's service and recommendations. Spot on!. Like I said, just a good old breakfast. I had pancakes, turkey patties and eggs. My gurl had a build your own omlette with gyro meat. I'll be back for sure!!