I’ll be the first to admit it: I have a rather large sweet tooth that struggles to be kept in check, and searching out really good bakeries is one of my favorite pastimes in the city. After all, who doesn’t love a good cup of coffe and a sweet pastry very now and then?
Five Fulton Market Bakeries Worth Checking Out
These five bakeries in Chicago’s Fulton Market area are some of my favorites in the city and offer both sweet and savory treats. Whether you dine in or carry-out, need breakfast, lunch or brunch, you’ll find something to delight you in these spots.
Levain
Address: 840 W Randolph St, Chicago, IL 60607
Mouth-wateringly good cookies are my favorite thing about this French bakery in Fulton Market. From a chewy Oatmeal Raisin so thick it could be a whole meal to an unforgettable Peanut Butter Dark Chocolate Chip, you’ll find something to satisfy your sweet tooth.
That’s not all you’ll find here, though. They also have sweet treats like moist loaf cakes (the sour cream coffee cake is amazing), brioches, muffins and sticky buns; as well as fresh breads and baguettes.
Levain also has a location in River North at 408 N Clark St, Chicago, IL 60654
Beatrix
Address: 834 W Fulton Market, Chicago, IL 60607
Casually elegant and always comfortable, Beatrix has four restaurants around the city and one in the western suburb of Oak Brook, as well as a four restaurant/markets around the city including this one in Fulton Market.
This Beatrix location is my favorite, with loads of comfortable seating and full breakfast, lunch and dinner menu. It’s the pasties here, though, that I love best. If you’ve ever tried an Angel Food Muffin, you’ll agree that this is the lightest and fluffiest around. Sadie’s Walnut Crunch Cake is another favorite with a rich and nutty flavor and chunks of walnut throughout.
Cookies, cakes, croissant and muffins also come in Vegan options, so there is something for everyone here.
Good Ambler
Address: 216 N Peoria, Chicago, IL 60607
Sometime I like to carry out, and sometimes the warm and cozy ambiance of the Fulton Market bakery is exactly what I need. Tucked away on a side street just around the corner from the popular Duck Duck Goat restaurant, Good Ambler has both sweet and savory treats, including croissants, cookies, cakes and more.
In addition to delicious standard menu items like their one-of-a-kind Ham and Cheese Croissant and rich Almond Coffee Cake, they also offer inspired specials. My favorites include BLT Danish with flaky pastry and the Concord Grape Brioche. You can also choose from fresh salads, quiche and sandwiches…I’m craving their roasted veggie sandwich right now!
Howdy Breakfast Buns
Address: 817 W Fulton Market, Chicago, IL 60607
I wandered in here early one morning last summer and it has quickly become a favorite stop when I am in the Fulton Market and West Loop area. Specializing in stuffed breakfast sandwiches in varieties like Potato, Egg and Cheese; Bacon, Egg, Cheese and Jalapeno; and others, you an also find more savory options like Gluten-free Breakfast Tacos and Texas-Czech-style Kolaches.
I love the open-faced sweet pastries: the Blueberry Cheesecake pastry has a fresh blueberry filling on a rich cream cheese topped with a brown sugar streusel. Other sweet pastry options include Strawberry, Apple Pie, Chocolate and even Fruity Pebbles.
D’Amato’s Bakery and Subs
Address: 1124 W Grand Ave, Chicago, IL 60642
My husband is a Chicago Italian, and D’Amato’s passes his high standards so it will definitely pass yours. They have a full menu of subs and sandwiches made fresh: choose from standards like the amazing Chicken Parm and Corned Beef to inspired options like the Prosciutto and Bocconcini to the D’Amato Veggie with roasted red peppers, artichokes and fresh bocconcini.
You’ll also find fresh soups made daily and sheet pan pizza by the slice or in full and half-sheets. There are also many treats to satisfy your sweet tooth: my favorite here is the Tiramisu Slice, a perfect mix of creamy mascarpone and coffee-soaked, spongy lady fingers.
Did we miss anything? Wher’s YOUR favorite Fulton Market Bakery? Use the comment section below to let us know!