Lindy's Chili & Gertie's Ice Cream

Located in the heart of Bridgeview, Illinois, Lindy's Chili & Gertie's Ice Cream is a cherished local institution that offers a one-of-a-kind dining experience. This iconic establishment is a testament to the idea that some of the best culinary pairings are born from seemingly different worlds: the comforting warmth of a hearty bowl of chili and the sweet, creamy joy of a classic ice cream sundae. For decades, this dual-concept restaurant has been a go-to spot for residents of the Illinois region, providing a satisfying blend of savory and sweet that has created a loyal following. The atmosphere is often described as "chill," with friendly staff and a nostalgic feel that makes it a perfect hangout spot for friends and families.

The story behind Lindy's and Gertie's is a unique part of Chicago's culinary history. As two separate, long-standing businesses with different peak seasons and times, they were combined in 1974 to create a concept that would thrive year-round. Lindy's, with a legacy dating back to 1924, was a lunch and dinner favorite, while Gertie's, established in 1901, was popular in the evenings. The combined business was an instant success, and the Bridgeview location carries on this rich tradition. Customer reviews consistently praise the quality of the food, from the flavorful chili to the "rich, sweet, and chocolatey" milkshakes. Patrons also appreciate the large portions and affordable prices, highlighting the overall value of the dining experience. The combination of a substantial menu, friendly service, and a welcoming atmosphere makes Lindy's Chili & Gertie's Ice Cream a true gem in the local community.

Lindy's Chili & Gertie's Ice Cream is conveniently situated at 7208 W 87th St, Bridgeview, IL 60455. This location is easily accessible for people living in Bridgeview and the surrounding areas. W 87th St is a major road, and the restaurant is located on a prominent corner, making it simple to find by car. The establishment has a dedicated parking lot, providing a hassle-free visit for those driving. For a local, the address is a familiar landmark, making it a natural choice for a quick bite or a planned meal.

For those relying on public transportation, a customer review mentioned that it is a lengthy but manageable trip from downtown Chicago, highlighting its accessibility even for those without a car. The fact that it's an easy bus ride from the Midway Orange Line stop means that residents from a wider area can make the trip to enjoy the unique dining experience. Its location is a key factor in its success, serving as a well-known spot in the community that is both convenient and easy to get to.

The menu at Lindy's Chili & Gertie's Ice Cream is extensive, offering a comprehensive selection of both savory and sweet items. The restaurant is a true diner, providing a wide array of options to satisfy any craving at any time of day.

• Lindy's Famous Chili: The centerpiece of the savory menu is their chili, which is described as having "tons of flavor and nice textures." It's available in bowls, pints, quarts, and even "5 lb. Party Buckets," with or without beans, and can be customized with cheese, onions, and sour cream. It's also a key ingredient in many of their other dishes.

• Diner Classics and Sandwiches: The menu includes a variety of traditional diner fare, such as broiled burgers, Polish sausages, and a range of sandwiches like the breaded fish and the Philly cheesesteak. The chili is also a popular topping for hot dogs and cheese fries.

• Gertie's Ice Cream Creations: The ice cream menu is equally impressive. They offer a wide selection of sundaes, including the classic Double Hot Fudge Sundae, Turtle Sundae, and the unique "Three Queens," which features a mix of chocolate, lime, and cherry syrups. They also serve floats, shakes, and malts, with an extra-large size often provided in a separate bowl to minimize waste.

• Specialty Desserts: Beyond the standard sundaes, the menu features special items like the Brownie Sundae and the "Sweet Sixteen" sundae, which combines vanilla ice cream with strawberries, bananas, Brazil nuts, and chocolate and marshmallow syrups. They also offer hand-packed pints and quarts of ice cream for customers to take home.

• Catering and Large Orders: The restaurant offers catering services and "Chili Party Buckets," making it a great option for local parties, events, or gatherings where a crowd needs to be fed with delicious, comforting food.

This diverse menu ensures that customers can get a full meal and dessert all in one place, making it a highly convenient option.

Lindy's Chili & Gertie's Ice Cream is defined by several key features and highlights that set it apart from other establishments in the area.

• Historic Combination of Concepts: The unique combination of two historic Chicago brands, Lindy's and Gertie's, is a major highlight. This allows the restaurant to serve a full menu of both savory and sweet items, making it a versatile dining destination. The combination of chili for the cold months and ice cream for the warm ones ensures its year-round popularity.

• High-Quality and Delicious Food: Customer reviews consistently praise the quality and flavor of the food. The chili is noted for its "tons of flavor," and the ice cream is celebrated for being "rich, sweet, and chocolatey." The attention to quality ingredients, like fresh-cut fries, is a key selling point.

• Friendly and Welcoming Staff: As noted by a customer, the staff are "so kind and friendly," which contributes to a positive and inviting atmosphere. This high level of service enhances the overall dining experience and is a reason for repeat business.

• Affordable and Generous Portions: The restaurant is known for providing large portions at an affordable price, which offers excellent value. This makes it an attractive option for families and those on a budget who still want a delicious and satisfying meal.

• Nostalgic Diner Vibe: The establishment has a classic diner-style ambience that evokes a sense of nostalgia. For many, it's a place that feels familiar and comfortable, making it more than just a restaurant—it's a destination for a relaxing and enjoyable time.

These features make Lindy's Chili & Gertie's Ice Cream a cherished and unique part of the Bridgeview community.

For those planning a visit or needing to get in touch, here is the essential contact information for Lindy's Chili & Gertie's Ice Cream.

Address: 7208 W 87th St, Bridgeview, IL 60455, USA

Phone: (708) 430-0019

This information can be used to find the restaurant's location, check for current hours of operation, or place an order for pick-up or catering.

Lindy's Chili & Gertie's Ice Cream is an ideal place for locals in the Illinois region, particularly in and around Bridgeview, because it offers a rare and delightful combination of savory and sweet comfort food. It serves as a community hub where residents can enjoy a satisfying meal and a delicious dessert all in one stop. The establishment’s commitment to quality, large portions, and friendly service makes it a fantastic value for families and individuals. The historic legacy of the two brands also gives it a special place in the hearts of many Chicago-area residents. For a casual and enjoyable dining experience that feels both familiar and unique, Lindy's Chili & Gertie's Ice Cream stands out as a genuine local favorite that is well worth a visit.

Lindy's Chili & Gertie's Ice Cream

7208 W 87th St, Bridgeview, IL 60455, USA