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# Rustle + Roux – A Hidden Gem Cafeteria in Chicago
Rustle + Roux, located on the second floor of the Franklin Building in Chicago, IL, is a unique cafeteria-style restaurant that offers a diverse selection of dining options. Known for its fresh salad bar and rotating food stations, this hidden gem has become a favorite among local professionals seeking quality meals at reasonable prices. With a history of serving delicious, made-to-order meals in a spacious setting, Rustle + Roux has garnered a reputation for being a go-to lunch spot, despite its somewhat hidden location. The cafeteria is praised for its ample seating and variety of choices, making it a convenient option for busy workdays.

## History
### The story of Rustle + Roux
Rustle + Roux was founded with the vision of providing a quality dining experience in a cafeteria setting, catering primarily to the bustling workforce in downtown Chicago. The establishment aims to combine convenience with a diverse menu that changes regularly, ensuring that patrons have fresh options to choose from during their lunch breaks.

### Milestones and growth
- Established in the early 2010s, Rustle + Roux quickly became known for its unique approach to cafeteria dining.
- The introduction of various food stations allowed for a rotating menu, keeping the offerings fresh and exciting.
- Over the years, it has adapted to the changing tastes of its clientele, incorporating feedback to improve the dining experience.
- Despite competition from newer food halls, Rustle + Roux has maintained a loyal customer base, thanks to its quality food and spacious environment.

### Cultural and local influence
Rustle + Roux has become a staple in the Chicago Loop, influencing local dining habits by promoting healthier lunch options. Its salad bar, in particular, has set a standard for freshness and variety, encouraging other eateries in the area to elevate their offerings. The cafeteria's presence has also contributed to the community's appreciation for convenient yet quality dining experiences, particularly for those working in the fast-paced downtown environment.

### Continuing the tradition
As Rustle + Roux continues to evolve, it remains committed to its founding principles of quality and variety. The establishment regularly updates its menu based on seasonal ingredients and customer preferences, ensuring that it stays relevant in the competitive dining landscape of Chicago. Its dedication to providing a welcoming atmosphere for both solo diners and groups reflects its ongoing mission to serve the community effectively.

## Community
### Community involvement
Rustle + Roux actively engages with the local community by sourcing ingredients from nearby suppliers when possible. This not only supports local businesses but also enhances the freshness of the meals served. The cafeteria often participates in community events and initiatives, fostering a sense of connection with its patrons.

### Community notion about the place
Many locals view Rustle + Roux as a hidden treasure, often referring to it as the "Secret Cafe" due to its tucked-away location. Regular customers appreciate the quality of food and the variety offered, often recommending it to colleagues and friends. The cafeteria's spacious seating and relaxed atmosphere make it a preferred spot for lunch meetings and casual gatherings.

### Events and gatherings
Rustle + Roux hosts occasional events that highlight special menu items or seasonal themes, encouraging community participation. These events not only draw in regular patrons but also attract new customers who may not have previously visited. The cafeteria's ability to adapt its offerings for special occasions showcases its commitment to creating a vibrant community hub.

## Offerings
### What Rustle + Roux offers
Rustle + Roux provides a diverse range of dining options, including a robust salad bar, made-to-order breakfast items, and various food stations featuring different cuisines. The cafeteria's layout allows customers to customize their meals, making it a popular choice for those looking for healthy and satisfying lunch options.

### Dining and food experience
The dining experience at Rustle + Roux is characterized by its cafeteria-style setup, where patrons can choose from multiple food stations. The salad bar is particularly popular, offering a wide selection of fresh vegetables, toppings, and dressings. Customers can also enjoy hot meals from various stations, including Mexican, deli, and grill options. The ability to order ahead at kiosks adds to the convenience, allowing for a quick lunch break.

### Events and packages
Rustle + Roux occasionally offers special meal packages or promotions, particularly during holidays or local events. These packages often feature themed menus or discounts, encouraging patrons to try new items. The cafeteria's flexibility in accommodating group orders makes it an attractive option for office lunches or gatherings.

### Facilities and features
- Spacious dining area with ample seating
- Multiple food stations offering diverse cuisines
- Salad bar with a wide variety of fresh toppings
- Made-to-order breakfast options
- Convenient ordering kiosks for quick service

## Pros and Cons
### Key insights from reviews
Reviews of Rustle + Roux reveal a mix of experiences, highlighting both strengths and areas for improvement. Many customers appreciate the variety and quality of food, particularly the salad bar. However, some have noted inconsistencies in service and food quality over time.

### Compliments and strengths
Patrons frequently commend Rustle + Roux for its fresh ingredients and diverse menu options. The spacious seating area is also a significant advantage, allowing for comfortable dining even during peak hours. The affordability of meals, particularly lunch options under $10, is another highlight that resonates with the working crowd.

### Contrasts and notable mentions
While many reviews are positive, some customers have expressed dissatisfaction with specific experiences, such as food quality or service delays. Instances of food being out of stock or poorly prepared have been mentioned, indicating that there may be room for improvement in consistency. Additionally, the ambiance has received mixed feedback, with some patrons finding the noise levels distracting.

### Summary evaluation
Overall, Rustle + Roux is regarded as a solid choice for lunch in downtown Chicago, particularly for those seeking a variety of healthy options. While there are occasional service hiccups, the cafeteria's strengths in food quality and atmosphere generally outweigh the negatives, making it a worthwhile stop for local professionals.

## Location & Nearby Attractions
Rustle + Roux is conveniently located at 227 W Monroe St, Fl 2, Chicago, IL 60657, in the heart of the Loop. This area is known for its vibrant business environment and proximity to various cultural attractions. Visitors can easily access nearby landmarks, including Millennium Park and the Art Institute of Chicago, making it an ideal spot for a lunch break before or after exploring the city. The location's accessibility via public transportation further enhances its appeal, drawing in both locals and tourists alike.

## FAQs
**What are the hours of operation** Rustle + Roux typically operates during standard lunch hours on weekdays.
**Is there a salad bar available** Yes, Rustle + Roux features a well-stocked salad bar with fresh toppings.
**Can I order food ahead** Yes, customers can order ahead at kiosks for convenience.
**Is seating available** Yes, there is ample seating for individuals and groups.
**Are there vegetarian options** Yes, Rustle + Roux offers various vegetarian and healthy meal choices.

## Visit Rustle + Roux Today
Discover the hidden gem of Rustle + Roux in Chicago, where you can enjoy a diverse selection of fresh and delicious meals. With its welcoming atmosphere and commitment to quality, this cafeteria-style restaurant is perfect for a quick lunch or a leisurely meal with friends. Experience the community spirit and culinary variety that Rustle + Roux has to offer, and make it your go-to spot for satisfying dining in the heart of the city.

f42111f5-cefb-4e65-a13c-d44c917d36cd

My work colleagues call this place the "Secret Cafe" since it is a hidden spot and can be hard to find on your own. The Secret Cafe has different food stations that vary by day or the week. On my visits I have ordered the chicken quesadilla from the Mexican food station and on another day I helped myself to the salad bar. Both lunches were very good. For the quesadilla, they include chopped onions which gives a nice bite and added flavor. The salad bar had plenty of salad toppings available; the lettuce, spring mix and spinach also appeared to be fresh. Overall the meals are pretty reasonable for a lunch downtown. It cost me $10.00 each for both meals. They also have stations that serve a hot breakfast until mid-morning. For seating, there is plenty of space for tables and chairs that can fit up to 10 people.

328e4f91-232b-46ef-b401-fa9d19897400

This place has really gone downhill the last few months. I used to come here everyday last year for breakfast when Michelle was working the breakfast bar. The quality and preparation of the food just isn't there anymore.

7658c62b-f0bb-4d2d-9d56-2a8b8646d413

Great salad bar, soups, and some good stations like diner fare, all day breakfast made-to-order, deli, &c. Order ahead at the kiosk and collect at the respective station (except for salad bar). Used to be higher end vendors, but Revival took much of that business I think. Upside: prices aren't awful, and not as crowded. Huge seating area. If the people waiting in long lines at Just Salad and Sweetgreen knew about this place... Downside: bad music on the speakers, fighting with several TV's scattered about, each blasting a different station, each one obnoxious. I don't enjoy the sensory overload when I'm trying to relax from work mid day. Could be a "just me" problem. Maybe turn on captioning and mute the TV's, or tune them all to music videos, and play that over the PA instead?

771e79b2-f510-4771-836f-6e7fd259201d

Tucked away on the second floor of the Franklin Building, a lot of Loop dwellers don't even know that this exists. When I worked at 311 S. Wacker, I kept Rustle + Roux in my back pocket of slightly elevated lunch options in the area. Whether you're building your own salad, sandwich or panini, or hitting up Mercadito, it's pretty good- but not as good as having them fire up one of the pizzas, although they do take a little bit of time. I liked coming here for lunch with a work group, or alone with a good book- as R+R is pretty quiet. Since the opening of Revival Food Hall, I'm sure this place gets further overlooked.

968b9722-9a78-4d7a-8b81-7b391421bbba

TL:DR - Here for the salad bar. Amazing number of salad toppings and dressings. Everything is super fresh. Also has non-salad options (swedish meatballs or roasted potatoes) at the end that rotate daily. Can usually get a good meal under $10. Get there before 12 otherwise it gets crowded and salad bar options after 12:45 are slim. This is slowly becoming my go to option for lunch. It's a fancy cafeteria style establishment that routinely rotates their lunch options every few days. I myself love it due to its generously stocked salad bar. I prefer a salad bar simply because I can control the portions. A lot of places really pack in their salads to the point where I just can't finish it, and no one likes left-over salad. I can routinely get the right amount of salad for just around $5, which is great for downtown Chicago. In addition, their options are plenty. They have cauliflower, ham, blueberries, pickled root vegetables, sweet potatoes, and so much more. The dressing options are also plentiful. The other reason I love this spot, is that it always has 3 options at the end of the salad bar to accompany your salad. Which is perfect because I hate eating JUST salad, but I also don't want another WHOLE sandwich to go with it. But items they have had over the last few days have been bbq chicken bites, fried shrimp, roasted potatoes, foccia bread, Swedish meatballs, and roasted veggies. The only thing I'd recommend is to get there before 12. I usually try to get there at 11:30 or 11:45, to where the salad bar is still stocked, and the crowds are low.

5ed8a3b5-5bde-4b76-8c9c-5bfd0961dc19

My rye bread had mold on it, i think i ate some of it to. They gave me a refund of half a sandwich bc i ate the other half. That is a big issue! I eat here a lot. Staff are nice though, Please check the dates on your foods.

a13d04ae-c077-4489-bdd8-038abdabee3b

It's a great place to go on my lunch break everything that I've had there is good. Great Salmon Sandwiches and Sushi Fridays !

20637796-cef6-49c6-855e-798620a4dc8a

I met a friend here last week for lunch and I enjoyed it. I never knew this place even existed! It's on the 2nd floor of the building and it's a pretty large area for a cafeteria where I don't think tons of people know it exists. You can definitely get a seat there during prime lunch time hours. They also have several TV's on that you can watch. I got the Latin Special - which was a baked taco salad shell filled with spicy beef, tomatoes, onions, and hot sauce. I thought it was quite good and I liked that they had a baked shell. I will say it was pretty pricey - at $11 - and that included the 19 cents they charged me for ice water. Will I be back? Probably - but certainly not that often.

fd04a974-af77-49b3-921b-17cfe9014373

A "corporate cafeteria" is how I would best describe Rustle + Roux! There are quite a few dining options (grill, deli, salad, etc), so you can order anything you're in the mood for. Everything looked delicious, but I opted for a wrap made at the deli. It was super filling (I didn't even finish my meal), and with a side of pasta salad it was still all under $10. I thought my wrap was pretty mediocre, and the pasta salad was also just average. I would love to try something else next time I'm here. I came here with a group from work and found the location to be super convenient. The building R + R is located in is beautiful, and the large space is also well utilized for the cafeteria and seating. I found ordering to be pretty easy, and even though there were a lot of people here during the lunch hour, the wait was not long at all and there was no line when checking out. There wasn't too much seating, but we were able to grab a table. I imagine this is a great place for professionals working in the area to come to for a filling, healthy, and not too expensive meal.

e4b776f8-7748-4268-948e-a78d8dfa9ab8

So I met my bud for lunch on Election Day, and we decided to go to Rustle + Roux. It was well into the noon hour, so the place was quite crowded. We decided to line up at the same food station, though we would choose different selections. The line we were in seemed to move very slowly, even by typical downtown Chicago lunchtime standards. My bud was noticing that the cooks at our station were tossing out food that they were preparing. Was the pasta burnt? Was the pizza imperfectly shaped? Was the staff disorganized, or just a bunch of perfectionists? One pregnant woman who was waiting for her order may have been wondering which would arrive first, her food order or the birth of her child. I ordered the meatball sandwich, which was tasty when I had ordered it previously from here. My bud was interested in the tapas menu, which was puzzling to read. Would you get a bite of the three listed tapas selections? No, he was able to select only one so he went with the short rib, a hunk of saucy meat that came with potatoes and a half lemon. At least he received his order. After some shuffling around, one of the staff at the counter looked out at the crowd of people standing around and took a straw poll to see who had ordered a meatball sandwich. Three persons raised a hand (including myself). But the guy said there were only enough ingredients for two meatball sandwiches. So on this Election Day, I was voted out. No meatball sandwich for you. I COULD NOT BELIEVE IT. We stood in line and waited about fifteen minutes for our food (my friend was at first perplexed when his tapas box came out ahead of a would-be sandwich), but I did not even receive my order. What made it worse was that no one made an effort to apologize to me, or to ask if I wanted to make an alternate food selection. After realizing that I was the loser of this round of meatball sandwich musical chairs, I decided to vote with my feet - by walking out of Rustle + Roux to get my lunch elsewhere. I turned the tables on them and will vote R + R off my lunch list. There are far too many good lunch places to eat in downtown Chicago, so I sincerely doubt that I will be back here. What an interesting Election Day!

Discover Rustle + Roux in Chicago's 60657 area for a unique dining experience. Savor delicious cuisine in a vibrant setting. Book your table now!

Rustle + Roux Restaurant in Chicago, IL - Unique Dining Experience

Chicago

Rustle + Roux

Illinois

Discover Rustle + Roux at 227 W Monroe St, Chicago. Enjoy innovative dishes in a vibrant setting. Perfect for food lovers exploring Chicago’s culinary scene.

Rustle + Roux Restaurant in Chicago, IL | Unique Dining Experience

Learn about Rustle + Roux at 227 W Monroe St, Chicago. A cozy spot offering unique dishes and warm hospitality. Your next favorite dining destination in Chicago.

About Rustle + Roux, Chicago | Culinary Delights & Cozy Atmosphere

Opening hours for Rustle + Roux, Chicago. Find opening hours for Rustle + Roux, Chicago at 227 W Monroe St, Chicago, IL.

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