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Belgian-inspired waffle shop BEL 50 opened its doors last week, bringing sweet and savory waffle sandwiches prepared by chef Joey Altman to River North. Though early visitors praise the spot's innovative concept and soul-satisfying meat toppings, some think its steep pricing and limited fried chicken supply detract from the experience. Here's what people are saying about BEL 50:
The Good News: One Twitter user explores new possibilities: "Blown away by @BEL50Chi...one of the great new lunch places in Chicago. [Twitter]
The Bad News: A Yelper is disappointed by the meal's value: "The fillings are very sparse, so you could leave hungry after dropping $8.95 for a waffle sandwich, plus fries, drink. Panera Bread offers far more food for the money. It's their first week in business, so hopefully they can make some portion size or pricing adjustments." [Yelp]
The Returning News: On Facebook, the restaurant has a devoted customer: "Braised short ribs were fantastic. Great job everyone! can't wait to work my way through your entire menu!" [Facebook]
The Memorable News: A Twitter user plans her next visit: "Still thinking about my delicious #waffle sandwich @Bel50Chi! Wished I'd had an #applecompote 1 for breakfast this am. Can't wait to return!" [Twitter]
The Chicken Waffle News: Will C. on Foursquare suggests: "Chicken and waffle sandwich is a must get" [Foursquare]
The Limited News: A Yelper thinks the restaurant has some kinks: "I finally got to try this place on day 3 of its existence, and I'm still a huge fan of the concept, and I think once they work out some of the kinks, this place will be a 5 star spot without question. First, they were out of the fried chicken, so that was pretty disappointing. I suspect that that will be their signature/most popular sandwich, and I imagine they will account for that demand going forward. So instead, I ordered the short rib sandwich with horseradish creme fraiche and a side of tator tots." [Yelp]
The Not Bad News: An Instagram user approves a sandwich: "Fried chx waffle sandwich at BEL 50, new concept on N. Side. Not bad. @ Bel 50" [Instagram]
The Sweet News: On Twitter, @chicagopana wants to try the shop's sweeter side. "Just had an awesome waffle sandwich for lunch @BEL50Chi. Def coming back to try the dessert ones..." [Twitter]
· All BEL 50 Coverage [~ECHI~]
· Bel 50 [website]
