When I recommend a new restaurant, I always make sure to remind people to save room for dessert. Since dessert really should not be an everyday indulgence, it is important that when you do decide to indulge, you want to make it count. Though some people may argue that there is no such thing as a bad dessert, there are some desserts that are just far better than others. Rather than add a few inches to your waistline trying to find which dessert spots in Chicago are the standouts, I have done my share of taste testing and narrowed it down for you. Read on to learn about the top dessert spots in Chicago.
This play on words combines Italy with Eat. And that is what this spot is all about. Though they do have options for those who are in the mood for something savory such as fine cheeses and salami, their dessert options are absolutely top notch. On a warm day, treat yourself to their rich, creamy gelato. You also can’t go wrong with their authentic cannoli but one of my all time favorite desserts from here is their nutella crepe. Filled with chocolatey goodness, this is the dessert to get if you're trying to indulge. They even have a grocery section so that you can take home all of the ingredients needed to make these delightful sweets at home. If for some reason you want a sandwich to go with your desserts, they have an amazing prime rib sandwich that I take to-go sometimes when I want to knock out two birds with one stone. From pistachio cream to hazelnut nougat, the variety of sweet treats can be quite overwhelming. The good news is that there are no wrong choices at Eataly because everything is delicious.
What I recommend: Nutella crepe or any of their gelato, prime rib sandwich
Location: 43 E Ohio St Chicago, IL 60611
With multiple locations around the Chicago area, Molly’s Cupcakes will have a dessert option for the whole group. They boast traditional cupcakes alongside gluten free and vegan options, so there is always something for everyone. My personal favorite is their blueberry cheesecake cupcake. This one features vanilla cake that has cheesecake baked into the middle. It is topped with graham cracker pieces and glazed blueberries. Each cupcake is made with so much care and I wish they had these in California because they're absoultely delectable! They are not only just cupcakes, of course. They also have ice cream, freshly baked cookies, pies, and full cakes if you're not a cupcake lover.
What I recommend: Any of their weekly or special monthly cupcakes
Location: 2536 N Clark St Chicago, IL 60614
You may be tempted to let the name fool you. Though they do offer an amazing hot chocolate that you most certainly should try when you visit this spot, they are more than just hot chocolate. Located on Damen Avenue, they are a full-service bakery. While sipping your hot chocolate, you will want to try an order of their babka. They also offer a great selection of fresh baked cookies and coffeecake. If you do not have the time to spend indulging in sweets on your visit, they offer their hot chocolate blends to go so that you can enjoy them at home.
What I recommend: Chocolate soufle
Location: 1747 N Damen Ave Chicago, IL 60647
If your travels will soon bring you to the Chicago area, then I encourage you to add any one of these dessert shops as a must-visit destination. Treating ourselves to dessert is not something we get to do every day, so when the time comes to finally entertain that sweet tooth, you will want to make sure you are doing so at one of the above spots.