Best Oatmeal In Chicago

Though Hallmark doesn't make a card for this, I thought you'd like to know that January is officially National Oatmeal Month. Look it up, it's a thing! Jam-packed with fiber, protein and heart-saving super powers, oatmeal is the reason they say breakfast is the most important meal of the day. No wonder it has its own month. Here are a few of the best places in Chicago to warm up with a cup of oatmeal. Happy oatmeal month!

At Protein Bar in the loop, they take breakfast seriously. The "One El of an Oatmeal" is made with organic steel-cut oats mixed with chocolate protein, choice of milk, organic agave nectar, cinnamon and topped with fresh fruit. This is one mean cup of oats.

If you prefer to guzzle your oatmeal in liquid form, Tiztal Café is the place for you. This Uptown gem, serves breakfast, lunch, fresh juices and their world-famous oatmeal shakes. The oatmeal shake at Tiztal comes in a portion that's big enough to share with the whole table (or take it down yourself, it's good for you after all).

Open daily from 7:00AM to 3:00PM, Brunch specializes in exactly what you'd think. Using quality local ingredients and produce may be one thing they're known for, but the oatmeal is a close second. The "McCann's Irish Steel Cut Oatmeal" comes in a steaming portion, topped with berry compote and honey.

Au Bon Pain

Various Chicagoland Locations
www.aubonpain.com

If you're a true oatmeal fan, chances are you've stumbled upon the amazing display that is the oatmeal bar at Au Bon Pain. With an extensive list of toppings from granola, fruit, honey and chocolate chips, there's no shortage of ways to change up the ordinary breakfast routine.

Starbucks

Various Chicagoland Locations
www.starbucks.com

I know what you're thinking. Corporate chains can't make the best list. When it comes to oatmeal however, I beg to differ. This coffee powerhouse makes America's favorite way to eat oats: easy, quick, affordable and delicious. I highly recommend you grab some for the road. You've got a long day ahead.

Don't worry suburban folks, I didn't forget about you. Located in downtown Geneva, Nosh is a fun place to grab breakfast or lunch while taking in the sites outside of the city. The "Bruleed McCcann's Irish Oatmeal" is made with creamy steel-cut bruleed oatmeal with dried blueberries and blonde raisins, served with an English muffin. Trust me, even if you're a city dweller, this oatmeal is worth the drive!

Lauren Wulf, CBS Chicago

Lauren Wulf writes about living in Chicago on a budget on her website, A Poor Girl's Guide Chicago.