Chicago is a city renowned for its culinary diversity, and its dessert scene is no exception. From decadent pastries to innovative sweets, the Windy City offers a paradise for anyone with a sweet tooth. Here’s an extensive guide to Chicago’s best desserts, complete with detailed descriptions, where to find them, and practical information for visitors.
Original Rainbow Cone at Original Rainbow Cone
Description: The Original Rainbow Cone is a Chicago institution. This iconic dessert features five delicious flavors layered in a single cone: chocolate, strawberry, Palmer House (New York vanilla with cherries and walnuts), pistachio, and orange sherbet. The unique combination offers a delightful mix of textures and flavors, making it a must-try.
Where to Find It: Original Rainbow Cone, 9233 S. Western Ave, Chicago, IL 60643
Famous Recommendations: The Original Rainbow Cone has been a favorite among locals and tourists alike since 1926. It’s often featured in travel guides and food blogs as a quintessential Chicago treat.
Hours: Open daily from 12 PM to 9 PM
Chocolate Cake Shake at Portillo’s
Description: The Chocolate Cake Shake at Portillo’s is a rich, indulgent treat that combines two favorite desserts into one. It’s made by blending a slice of Portillo’s famous chocolate cake with vanilla ice cream and milk, creating a thick, creamy shake with bits of cake throughout.
Where to Find It: Portillo’s has several locations in Chicago, including the flagship restaurant at 100 W. Ontario St, Chicago, IL 60654
Famous Recommendations: Portillo’s Chocolate Cake Shake is beloved by many, including celebrities like Jay Leno, who has mentioned it on his show.
Hours: Vary by location, generally open from 10:30 AM to 10 PM
Chocolate Budino at Monteverde
Description: Monteverde’s Chocolate Budino is a luxurious Italian pudding topped with salted caramel, hazelnuts, and a dollop of whipped cream. The rich chocolate flavor, combined with the crunch of hazelnuts and the hint of salt, creates a perfectly balanced dessert.
Where to Find It: Monteverde, 1020 W. Madison St, Chicago, IL 60607
Famous Recommendations: Chef Sarah Grueneberg’s Monteverde is acclaimed for its desserts, and the Chocolate Budino has been highlighted in various food magazines and blogs.
Hours: Tuesday to Sunday, 4 PM to 10 PM
Caramelized Apple Tart at Boka
Description: The Caramelized Apple Tart at Boka features thinly sliced apples layered atop a buttery puff pastry, drizzled with caramel, and served with a scoop of vanilla ice cream. The tart’s warm, sweet flavors are perfectly complemented by the cool, creamy ice cream.
Where to Find It: Boka, 1729 N. Halsted St, Chicago, IL 60614
Famous Recommendations: Boka is a Michelin-starred restaurant, and its desserts, including the Caramelized Apple Tart, are frequently praised by food critics.
Hours: Monday to Sunday, 5 PM to 10 PM
Key Lime Pie at Joe’s Seafood, Prime Steak & Stone Crab
Description: Joe’s Seafood’s Key Lime Pie is a refreshing dessert made with a tangy, creamy lime filling and a graham cracker crust, topped with whipped cream. Its bright, citrusy flavor makes it a perfect end to any meal.
Where to Find It: Joe’s Seafood, Prime Steak & Stone Crab, 60 E. Grand Ave, Chicago, IL 60611
Famous Recommendations: This Key Lime Pie is a favorite among celebrities and has been featured on several “best of” lists.
Hours: Sunday to Thursday, 11:30 AM to 10 PM; Friday and Saturday, 11:30 AM to 11 PM
Pistachio Baba au Rhum at Le Sud
Description: The Pistachio Baba au Rhum at Le Sud is a delightful French dessert soaked in rum and topped with pistachio cream. The light, airy texture of the baba paired with the nutty, rich pistachio flavor makes it a standout.
Where to Find It: Le Sud, 2301 W. Roscoe St, Chicago, IL 60618
Famous Recommendations: Le Sud’s desserts, especially the Pistachio Baba au Rhum, have received high praise from local food critics and bloggers.
Hours: Tuesday to Sunday, 5 PM to 9 PM
Italian Rainbow Cookie Gelato at Black Dog Gelato
Description: Black Dog Gelato offers a unique take on the classic Italian rainbow cookie in gelato form. This gelato captures the almond, raspberry, and chocolate flavors of the cookie, providing a creamy, flavorful experience.
Where to Find It: Black Dog Gelato, 859 N. Damen Ave, Chicago, IL 60622
Famous Recommendations: Black Dog Gelato is frequently mentioned in best gelato lists, and this flavor is a particular favorite among patrons.
Hours: Monday to Thursday, 2 PM to 10 PM; Friday and Saturday, 2 PM to 11 PM; Sunday, 2 PM to 9 PM
Kouign-Amann at Lost Larson
Description: The Kouign-Amann at Lost Larson is a buttery, caramelized pastry from Brittany, France. It’s made with layers of dough and sugar, resulting in a sweet, crispy exterior and a soft, flaky interior.
Where to Find It: Lost Larson, 5318 N. Clark St, Chicago, IL 60640
Famous Recommendations: Lost Larson’s Kouign-Amann has been celebrated by food critics and has earned a spot on many must-try dessert lists in Chicago.
Hours: Tuesday to Sunday, 7 AM to 3 PM
Baked Alaska at RPM Steak
Description: RPM Steak’s Baked Alaska is a show-stopping dessert that features layers of cake and ice cream, covered in meringue and flambéed tableside. The dramatic presentation and delicious flavors make it a memorable dessert experience.
Where to Find It: RPM Steak, 66 W. Kinzie St, Chicago, IL 60654
Famous Recommendations: The Baked Alaska at RPM Steak is often recommended by food critics and has been featured in various dining guides.
Hours: Sunday to Thursday, 4 PM to 10 PM; Friday and Saturday, 4 PM to 11 PM
Cheesecake at Eli’s Cheesecake
Description: Eli’s Cheesecake is a Chicago classic, known for its rich, creamy texture and variety of flavors. Whether you choose the original plain cheesecake or a more adventurous flavor like the chocolate chip or pumpkin, you’re in for a treat.
Where to Find It: Eli’s Cheesecake, 6701 W. Forest Preserve Dr, Chicago, IL 60634
Famous Recommendations: Eli’s Cheesecake is a favorite among locals and tourists and has been served at several presidential inaugurations.
Hours: Monday to Saturday, 8 AM to 6 PM; Sunday, 11 AM to 5 PM
Conclusion
Chicago’s dessert scene is diverse and exciting, offering everything from traditional pastries to innovative sweets. Whether you’re a local or a visitor, these dessert spots are sure to satisfy your cravings and leave you with a sweet taste of the Windy City. Be sure to visit these iconic locations and indulge in some of the best desserts Chicago has to offer.
