13 Illinois Bakeries Crafting Pastries Worth Every Mile You Travel
Illinois might be known for deep-dish pizza, but its bakeries quietly steal the spotlight with pastries that turn any trip into a delicious adventure.
From flaky croissants to decadent cakes, these thirteen bakeries whip up creations that locals can’t stop raving about.
Each stop promises a sweet reward worth the drive, blending tradition, flavor, and a touch of magic that makes every bite unforgettable. Prepare your taste buds for a real treat.
1. Bennison’s Bakery (Evanston)
Walking into this Evanston institution feels like stepping into a Parisian patisserie, minus the jet lag and overpriced airfare.
Since 1938, Bennison’s has been slinging some of the most gorgeous French pastries in the Midwest.
Their almond croissants are legendary, stuffed with sweet almond paste and topped with crunchy sliced almonds.
People line up before dawn on weekends, which tells you everything you need to know. Grab a pain au chocolat while you’re at it.
2. Weber’s Bakery (Chicago)
Operating since 1930, Weber’s is a Chicago treasure that refuses to quit. This family-run bakery cranks out traditional German and European treats that taste like Grandma made them, assuming your Grandma was a pastry wizard.
Their strudels are ridiculously good, with paper-thin dough wrapped around juicy apple or cherry filling.
Don’t sleep on their butter cookies either. They’re simple, buttery, and dangerously addictive. They take cash and cards, so no need to hit the ATM first.
3. Roeser’s Bakery (Chicago)
Roeser’s has been baking since 1911, which means they’ve had over a century to perfect their craft. Spoiler alert: they nailed it.
Famous for their intricate cakes and traditional European pastries, Roeser’s is where Chicagoans go for special occasions and random Tuesday cravings. Their cream puffs are cloud-like perfection, filled with real whipped cream that doesn’t come from a can. The old-school charm and amazing pastries make this spot absolutely worth the trip across town.
4. Lutz Cafe & Pastry Shop (Chicago)
Lutz has been serving up authentic German and Austrian pastries since 1948, and they haven’t lost their touch. This cozy cafe feels like a secret hideaway where locals gather for coffee and conversation.
Their Black Forest cake is the real deal, with layers of chocolate, cherries, and whipped cream that’ll make you weep with joy.
The apple strudel is equally phenomenal. Grab a table, order a latte, and pretend you’re in Vienna for an afternoon.
5. Hewn (Evanston)
Forget everything you thought you knew about bread. Hewn is a modern bakery obsessed with doing things the old-fashioned way, using organic grains and natural fermentation.
Their sourdough loaves are crusty, tangy, and absolutely perfect. But don’t overlook the pastries. The morning buns are sticky, cinnamon-sugar bombs of happiness.
Everything here is made from scratch with serious attention to detail. Yes, there’s usually a line. Yes, it’s worth waiting in it.
6. Jarosch Bakery (Elk Grove Village)
Jarosch has been a suburban favorite since 1959, pumping out traditional European pastries that taste like they came straight from a German village.
Their apple fritters are massive, golden, and gloriously messy. The custard-filled doughnuts are dangerously good too.
This place gets packed on weekends because word has spread about their quality and generous portions. Show up early or risk missing out on the best stuff. You’ve been warned.
7. Central Continental Bakery (Mount Prospect)
This family-owned gem has been serving Mount Prospect since 1979, specializing in Polish and European baked goods that’ll transport your taste buds overseas.
Their paczki are legendary, especially during Fat Tuesday when people line up around the block. But honestly, everything here slaps.
The kolaczki are buttery and delicate, filled with fruit or poppy seed. The prices are shockingly reasonable too, which makes the drive even more worthwhile. Cash and cards are both welcome here.
8. Kruta Bakery (Collinsville)
Kruta has been a Collinsville staple since 1974, dishing out Czech and European pastries that locals guard like precious secrets.
Their kolaches are stuffed with sweet fruit fillings or savory options, and both are absolutely amazing. The apple strudel is another must-try, with a flaky crust that shatters at first bite.
This bakery feels like stepping back in time, in the best possible way. It’s a bit of a drive, but your stomach will thank you.
9. Bittersweet Pastry Shop (Chicago)
Chef Judy Contino opened Bittersweet in 1992, and it quickly became a destination for serious pastry lovers. This isn’t your average neighborhood bakery. It’s where pastry dreams come true.
Their eclairs are works of art, filled with silky pastry cream and topped with glossy chocolate.
The macarons are delicate, colorful, and perfectly chewy. Everything here is made with precision and passion. Bring your appetite and maybe a friend to share with, though you might not want to.
10. Floriole Cafe & Bakery (Chicago)
Floriole brings serious French pastry techniques to Chicago’s Lincoln Park neighborhood. Chef Sandra Holl trained in France, and it shows in every buttery bite.
Their caneles are crispy on the outside, custardy inside, and totally addictive. The croissants are flaky perfection, and the seasonal fruit tarts are almost too pretty to eat. Almost.
The cafe itself is bright and welcoming, perfect for lingering over coffee and pastries. Weekend mornings here are pure bliss.
11. Sweet Mandy B’s (Chicago)
Sweet Mandy B’s is Chicago’s answer to nostalgic American baking done right. This cheerful bakery specializes in cupcakes, cookies, and cakes that taste like childhood memories.
Their cupcakes are moist, generously frosted, and come in flavors like red velvet and chocolate peanut butter. The sugar cookies are thick, soft, and decorated for every holiday imaginable.
It’s not fancy European pastry, but sometimes you just need a really good cupcake. This place delivers every single time.
12. Hoosier Mama Pie Company (Chicago)
Hoosier Mama takes pie seriously. Like, really seriously. This cozy spot bakes fresh pies daily using seasonal ingredients and old-fashioned techniques that produce incredible results.
Their fruit pies have perfectly flaky crusts and fillings that actually taste like real fruit. The salted caramel apple is a personal favorite.
The chocolate chess pie is rich and decadent. Slices are huge, so come hungry or plan to take half home. Either way, you win.
13. Lost Larson (Chicago)
Lost Larson is Chicago’s Scandinavian bakery dream, serving up Nordic-inspired pastries and breads that are both beautiful and delicious.
Their cardamom buns are fragrant, slightly sweet, and utterly irresistible. The cinnamon rolls are huge, sticky, and worth every calorie.
The rye bread is hearty and perfect for sandwiches. Everything here feels special, from the minimalist decor to the carefully crafted pastries. It’s a newer spot, but already a must-visit destination.