Let me start by saying that we're a huge fans of small businesses and want to see them succeed. I've also worked in plenty of restaurants and coffee shops in my day. Definitely not trying to be a hater. My friend and I were on our way home from Chicago, looked up some bakeries along our route. We stopped here to get some goodies to take home to family, and to snack and have a coffee while we drove 6 hours. My friend ordered: white chocolate coconut latte, 2 donut holes, a strawberry, a salted caramel, and a pink velvet cupcake. I ordered: chocolate pretzel iced latte, a big chocolate chip cookie, tropical fruit (?) danish, coconut, pink velvet, and French silk cupcakes. I'd say between the two of us we probably spent $60+? Walking in the shop is adorable and colorful, an employee had a brightly colored tie dye shirt on and we said hello to them first, commented on how much we liked their shirt, and barely got a response back, let alone a greeting. The employee at the counter wasn't rude but definitely not overly eager to greet or offer up information. Questions were answered when we asked, that was it. When I received my iced latte I asked if they had any straws and just got a head shake in response. Totally fine with no straw, but my friend found a stir stick for me, which was honestly the main reason I wanted a straw so I could stir up what was clearly sitting on the bottom of the cup. Lattes were fine. We tried the chocolate chip cookie in the car and the texture was good, crispier on the edges and the middle was chewy enough. But it tasted very bland, so we didn't finish it. A little while later we decided to try the donut holes, they had good flavor but they were so dry and crumbly, presumably because they were sitting out in the open air, who knows for how long. Also didn't finish those. Even later we decided to try the salted caramel cupcake because I'd read on the case that they had Swiss meringue buttercream so I was really excited about that, and thought for sure this would be where they would excel. While the flavor of the cake was fine, I wouldn't say it tasted like salted caramel, there was some kind of cream in the middle that was good, again not salty or caramely. But that was the heaviest, most dense cupcake I've ever had, and not in a good way. The buttercream was good, and the caramel drizzle on top did taste salty. My husband was so excited that I was bringing home that tropical fruit danish and the coconut cupcake. We tried the coconut cupcake together and again, it had a lot of actual coconut in the batter, it was dense but also dry. We abandoned the cake and ate buttercream, which was good but not coconutty. So we moved onto the French silk cupcake. This cake had a great texture, light and soft, good flavor, some kind of chocolate mousse in the middle was good too. Again, good buttercream, but the top had a bunch of dry, flavorless pie crust chunks all over it. I understand that it was supposed to mimic a French silk pie, but it was such a good cake without the crust chunks. My husband had his pastry today (next day) and though dry he said the middle was good, other than the pineapple in the middle he couldn't taste any other flavor. We tried the pink velvet after dinner tonight and again with the super heavy and dense cake texture, no real flavor, but the cream cheese frosting was yummy. I cannot say how the other cupcakes were, as my friend was so disappointed in the one we shared and the report we gave her about the ones we tried, that she hasn't eaten them. Ultimately the French silk one was the only item that was eaten completely. Keep making that buttercream, it was the best part of everything we bought. I sincerely hope your employees weren't having a hard day, I try to be understanding that you never know what someone is going through, but that's the only reason I can think of for them to be so completely disinterested in helping or talking to paying/tipping/polite customers. read more

Needed a pick me up and knew Courageous Bakery is what I needed. I've been getting The Lorraine since high school and it never disappoints. I'd go so far as to say it's the best breakfast sandwich in Elmhurst. I would order it without the greens since I personally don't like how soggy they get on the sandwich. Tried the dirty chai for the first time and dare I say it may be better than a certain local coffee shop's. I do think $22 for a sandwich and coffee is a bit expensive, but I'm always very satisfied with my meal. It does come with a large side of home fries, but I usually end up not eating them, so I'd love to see more side options to choose from. Also had cupcakes catered a few months back including some gluten free options and they were all a big hit. Definitely on the expensive side, but they were good quality and absolutely devoured. The environment is always welcoming and open plus the staff are very kind. read more

Courageous Bakery & Cafe - Bakeries Near Me - Elmhurst, Illinois

See all

While in downtown Elmhurst, I stumbled upon this place and decided to step in to grab some breakfast. I ordered two of their breakfast sandwiches to go; one without cheese since my significant other is not a fan. Both of them, unfortunately, came without cheese. I thought perhaps they misunderstood that only one of them should not have had it, but when I saw the receipt in my email they had made the no cheese notation only on one so it looks like it was their mistake. I also didn't realize that they came with ham on them--I haven't actually seen a lot of breakfast sandwiches that come with ham, so I didn't even consider it. I don't like ham so I ended up taking that off, but of course the fact that it has ham wasn't their fault--I should have asked what came on it. Having said all that, it was in my opinion way overpriced. It came with some breakfast potatoes, which I didn't realize, but still it was not a $15 meal (each, so $30+ total). The potatoes were good, but not that good. Their pastries were interesting, and they had some fancy cupcakes. I got a strawberry shortcake (I think) one that had some strawberry jam or compote inside and it was good. We got a salted caramel as well, which was excellent; I'm not sure if I could pick a favorite between the two but it may have been the salted caramel. They were fairly rich so splitting them in half worked perfect for me. They had quite a few other fancy cupcakes and I think that's definitely their strong point. I can't say I wouldn't come back if I was in the area; if I was around and looking for a breakfast spot, I might stop in again but just choose something else instead of the breakfast sandwich. Though it's not high on my list for a breakfast outing it's worth a stop if you're looking for some delicious cupcakes. read more

See all

Good atmosphere and food! staff are friendly. I genuinely love this little shop, it's very cozy and well-decorated, and the food is made from scratch. When I think of a quality small local business this place is the model! I will say some of the pastries are of questionable quality, I wouldnt buy a croissant from here. The last one I had was undercooked and layers were fusing. But most stuff is reliably good! Breakfast and lunch food, cakes and cupcakes are all excellent. Doughnuts controversial at my house, but I think they're great. (def better than Dunkin and fair price) Cinnamon rolls, cookies, scones are all good. Drinks are decent enough but if you're a tea/coffee snob and just looking for a beverage you're probably better off going next door (Brewpoint), cos this place's main event is the food. It's also pretty quiet after the morning rush, so good place to snack and get some work done. Has only 3 power outlets by tables, but they're usually not in use anyway 9/10 read more

Courageous Bakery and Cafe has some solid breakfast and pastry choices. My husband is a huge sucker for breakfast burritos and I am a huge fan of buttery, flakey biscuits. Courageous has both so it's a win-win for us! Besides breakfast, we would typically order croissants, cupcakes, and/or 4 inch birthday cake to go. None of those have disappointed us. The only downside is the horchata loca latte was somewhat mediocre in which both horchata and coffee flavors were underwhelming. read more

Great food. Came in for coffee and ended up with a corned beef omelette. Excellent! We decided everyone would get breakfast and the traditional was perfect, French toast was great as well. We will be back soon. read more

Please bring back the biscuits and gravy! The best I've ever had and I think about them all the time.

The food was amazing and the service was just as good, I was welcomed and the ambiance was inviting. They had everything that you could think of in their self service and even gave me a recommendation for my coffee once I told them what I was thinking. Will definitely be back. One thing that shocked me is that they have an amazing breakfast chicken sausage if you don't eat pork that you can get substituted for the bacon on the Lorraine croissant. read more

Came here on a whim on a weekday afternoon. Parking luckily was ample out front and free. Walked in, and while there were a few patrons who were dining in and or sitting inside, I have to say the ladies who worked here that day were so incredibly friendly and helpful. We did not dine inside we took all of our items to go, and even though we didn't dine inside, the lady working, there told us it had we decided to stay we would've been given free, donut holes. And even though we didn't stay, she still gave us the free, donut holes to go. Everything looks super delectable super delicious and pricing is very fair Took everything home ate some the same day and the next morning and let me tell you everything was amazingly delicious. Considering all the competition with bakeries both in and out of the city, this was worth the visit and worth the stop. If I'm ever in this area again, which is a very cute part of the downtown area this is a must stop. read more

See all

Was actually our 3rd choice(1st was out of business,2nd too long of a wait). We had quiche, omelette, and cappacino. Wow! the side salad was also quite good. Fast service; great atmosphere. Hope to return soon. read more

Dr. Jekyll and Mr. Hyde were the employees today. One was super nice, one was rude and surly. Food was ok, but not good enough to go back and put up with the service. read more

Stopped in here today and what an amazing treat Great treats Great price Great staff Thanks to Natalie and Amanda , great meeting you today Bob (Treasurers Office) read more

Amazing coffee and even more amazing baked goods!! Treat your mouth and tummy, YUMMY. You won't be disappointed.

OUTSTANDING CHILAQUILES!!!! Always the perfect balance of flavorful shredded chicken, eggs, sour cream, cheese and avocado with slightly spicy salsa verde. They never disappoint! You can tell they are prepared with care and dedication. read more

A good bakery with a good cause. Courageous Bakery is another bakery in downtown Elmhurst. It's own by women. Get something good from these nice ladies. There's a lot of homemade baked items and you can get a full breakfast with a bowl of hot oatmeal. Good for a morning date. I brought one here recently and hung out awhile having some of the coffee and food. The drip coffee has a nice full flavor and isn't watery. It's $2 a cup. The coffee isn't why anyone comes though. Among the pastries, there were typical ones like croissants and doughnuts. It has a few gluten free ones. Also they have more substantial food. We had the Steel Cut Oats. It's $7 for a large bowl. This is made with agave syrup and soy milk. It's topped with bananas and granola. This is a good vegan choice if you're looking for it. Has a convenient location in downtown Elmhurst. It's close to Brewpoint, so if you regularly go there change your routine. This also is close to the Metra station. read more

Courageous Bakery & Cafe - Coffee And Steel Cut Oats - Bakeries Near Me - Elmhurst, Illinois

Such an adorable bakery and cafe located in downtown Elmhurst!! They have pastries on pastries and they're best known for their cupcakes. They also have breakfast and lunch options which I see other Yelpers raving about. I got their almond croissant and it was *chef's kiss*! I paired it with an almond milk latte and it went together perfectly. The cafe itself is pretty spacious with a lot of natural lighting and cute decorations. It doesn't have its own parking lot, so you would have to find street parking which was very easy for me to do. Courageous Bakery and Cafe is the perfect spot for meeting up with a friend for coffee and a pastry, getting a lowkey lunch or breakfast, or bringing in your laptop to study with a side of coffee. I can't wait to come back and try their cupcakes and more of their meals! read more

Courageous Bakery & Cafe - Latte with almond milk - Bakeries Near Me - Elmhurst, Illinois

See all

Cute and comfortable cafe. Great service and good selection for breakfast and lunch and of course cupcakes and other pastries. Had the eggs & pepper, tasty. Soft scrambled eggs done perfectly, not runny not over cooked, with a generous amount of chopped colorful sweet peppers, served on a cheese buttery croissant. Choice of potatoes or fruit and a latte which, for my taste, is a bit weak. As I eat very low carbs I gifted the salted caramel cupcake and most of the croissant for my husband. His review: Delicious. read more

See all

While I came initially for a Yelp Elite event of a latte and pastry, I had to stay for breakfast because the cafe was so welcoming! You place your order up front at the cash register and then sit wherever you'd like. Your food will then be brought out to your table. As a fun appetizer, complimentary warm donut holes were served to us. It was a lovely, delicious surprise! Our breakfast entrees were delightful. My yogurt parfait bowl was extremely filling--and a wonderful balance of fresh fruit, granola, yogurt with a honey drizzle throughout. The tacos with a side of potatoes were flavorful and executed well. The double tortillas on each taco were a nice touch. read more

See all

The food is amazing. The service was excellent. Fabulous dining options. The staff is so wonderful.

I came for breakfast with a friend and had the chai latte. It was so soothing and yummy. Ordered some pancakes with bananas and strawberries. My friend ordered an omelette with bacon. We both took home some cupcakes because that's what the bakery is known for our breakfast was amazing. The pancakes melted in my mouth, so nice and fluffy, I just love this place downtown Elmhurst right by the tracks. We came in for breakfast around 9:30 AM. Not busy at all good for us read more

Courageous Bakery & Cafe - Bakeries Near Me - Elmhurst, Illinois

See all

I enjoy coming here a lot! I recommend the breakfast burrito! The Lorraine sandwich is good too! read more

Courageous Bakery & Cafe - Lorraine sandwich and breakfast burrito - Bakeries Near Me - Elmhurst, Illinois

The food and service was lackluster at best. You order and pay at the counter and it's self service for cutlery, drinks, and tables. But the tip suggestion started at 20%. read more

This store is wonderful! It begins with the grace and kindness of the staff and ends with casual comfortable adorable decor. I can confidently bring my parents here for their new favorite cake. I was delighted the second I entered the shop and melted into smiles when I interacted with the staff. I had such a bad time at the Oak Park store and Elmhurst washed that right out of my hair! 10/10 customer service read more

Courageous Bakery & Cafe - Gluten-free carrot cake (yum!) - Bakeries Near Me - Elmhurst, Illinois

Was so excited to try their sweets . Purchased a chocolate mini cake today got home and tried it . Taste like the fridge so old tasting . So disappointed. I spent $ 21 and straight in the garbage it goes . read more

Courageous Bakery & Cafe - Bakeries Near Me - Elmhurst, Illinois

We came here for brunch when the Stray Hen had a 30 minute wait (which was longer than some in our party could wait). It's a very cute shop with a great menu. The avocado toast that my friends ordered looked AMAZING. I had the Texas French toast, which was super sweet but very good (apparently it's dipped in vanilla custard, which is genius). The dirty chai was also very tasty. I tried the vegan survivor cupcake as well, which was a bit too sweet and more doughy than I would typically prefer, but it was still very good. They have a huge range of cupcakes on their menu. The prices are a bit steep ($12 for avocado toast vs $8 for the same thing at Stray Hen), and I wish that the french toast came with some sort of side (potatoes, fruit, etc.). But, overall it was very good. read more

See all

Haven't been excited about a cupcake place in ages! The flavors and quality here are top notch. I only noticed on my second visit this weekend that the bakers here appeared on Food Network's Cupcake Wars too! All the baked goods are prepackaged right now. Not only are there cupcakes, but donuts, cookies, scones, and muffins are available, along with an extensive coffee and espresso menu. But back to what led me here in the first place: the cupcakes! The rainbow funfetti survivor has a pastry cream filling, and so do my 2 favorite from here (so far): the strawberry shortcake has a strawberry jam filling, and the s'mores has a chocolate pudding like filling. Chocolate cake on the French silk is sweet and tasty, though the pie crust didn't taste tip top fresh after refrigeration. I also thought the cake portion of the pink velvet was a little bland and wasn't baked that same day I purchased it. Can't wait to try some of the other treats offered here! read more

See all

I heard about the story behind Courageous a while back, then Courageous came up in one of my wife's searches, so I made it a point to go. We purchased a Vanilla Bean cupcake and a French Silk cupcake. I really wanted a Survivor, but those were sold out. The Vanilla Bean was okay; nothing too special and no center filling. The French Silk was amazing. It was decadent and the center filling was nice. Service was friendly and pricing was fair. The interior is very colorful and there's plenty of seating. It was also cool to see the Union Pacific train go by. read more

See all

The s'mores cupcake was disappointing. I expected a rich chocolate and graham cracker crust or crumble and didn't get that flavor at all. Sad that this was the choice for my birthday. The sprinkle sugar cookie was pretty good, but I can make just as good at home. I've heard their breakfast sandwich offerings are better than their baked goods. I'll try one next time. Overall, the cupcakes are mediocre for a bakery. I'm hoping they will improve over time as the company grows. read more

5 for the baked goods (sprinkle cookies and cinnamon roll) and lattes and 3 for the food (biscuits and gravy) where the biscuit was nice and fluffy but the gravy was bland. read more

Stopped in Sunday afternoon for a latte. My husband had the White Chocolate Coconut Latte . I did try it and it was so smooth. The coconut milk added an additional flavor, but was not the main taste. I had the Chocolate Covered Pretzel Latte. I have had it before and it is one of my favorite all time lattes. The combination of white and dark chocolate is so rich and creamy. It is not too sweet, but the perfect balance. The coffee is rich and strong, but not bitter. Almost every table in the cafe was occupied and the breakfast food items looked delicious. The cafe is so warm and welcoming, especially on a cold, wintery day. I will definitely stop in for brunch one day. read more

See all

Gluten-free treats, oh my!!! I stopped earlier in the week for the first time and was thrilled to find so many gluten-free options! Great location, just steps from the Metra. The pumpkin cupcake was out of this world! Great service. Super cute location. Staff was masked, which was much appreciated. I'll definitely be back for more! read more

Courageous Bakery & Cafe - Bakeries Near Me - Elmhurst, Illinois

See all

Great doughnuts, friendly service. Omelet was very filling and priced . Nice decor and a laid back atmosphere in the dining area. They appeared on cupcake wars do you know it's good read more

Courageous Bakery & Cafe - Main area - Bakeries Near Me - Elmhurst, Illinois

WOW! - the very best cupcakes around. Lots of delicious flavors. Soft, moist. and scrumptious. The perfect birthday party treat! We ordered two dozen of these beauties. The staff are over the top friendly and helpful. The cafe is super clean. The mango ice tea is super good. read more

Courageous Bakery & Cafe - Cupcakes! - Bakeries Near Me - Elmhurst, Illinois

Courageous Bakery Elmhurst and Oak Park = fabulous dining experience. The food is so delicious. Everything on the menu is amazing and homemade. My favorites are the breakfast tacos, the breakfast burrito, Corned beef omelette, the Reuben Sammie (the latter 2 dishes are specials for Saint Patrick's), and the chilaquiles verses. I like to substitute sautéed mushrooms instead of chorizo, and I like to add avocado. The cupcakes are so decadent as well. My favorites are the Banana Cream, the Chocolate Peanut Butter, and the French Silk Pie cupcake.​​ read more

Great location and super friendly staffing. We stopped and liked the items we ordered. My wife ordered pumpkin spice bread and I got a chocolate hazelnut croissant, it was amazing. The coffee was good and strong, the way I like it. If we are in the area this a good stop to try. They have breakfast and lunch items and train Station is very close. read more

See all

I love love love this place. We come here for brunch and it never disappoints. I'm yet to try any of the cupcakes but the breakfast/brunch is def something you should come and try out! read more

Courageous Bakery & Cafe - Bakeries Near Me - Elmhurst, Illinois

See all

Such a cute little breakfast place (they serve lunch too)! I've gone a few times and the service is fantastic! All the people there are welcoming and the food is great! The breakfast tacos are definitely my favorite and an easy go to goe breakfast or brunch! The atmosphere is super cute too and perfect for families or guest of any age! read more

Courageous Bakery & Cafe - Bakeries Near Me - Elmhurst, Illinois

Kicking myself for not ordering from here earlier! Blta was delicious! Biscuits are overly good. And omg this sprinkles cookie- yum! Can't wait to try the cupcakes. I will be ordering from here more often! read more

Love their many cupcakes. Had breakfast here a few times and it was a surprise as to how good it was. I had one of their savory dishes with eggs and potato hash with a southwest sauce. Man was that good. They also have very good pancakes. I used to just go to pick up cupcakes, but now if I have time to grab some breakfast, I will eat here. read more

I absolutely love this place! I ordered a pesto chicken sandwich and the kiddie combo for my son which consisted of a fluffy pancake, turkey/chicken sausage Pattie, a scrambled egg , fruit cup and juice box. My sandwich came with a side of potatoes and it was absolutely delicious. Everything in our order was so fresh and so perfectly seasoned. I didn't even get to finish my other half because I was full but I took it to go and will enjoy it later. I really recommend this place to anyone that's looking for a comfortable place to eat or simply enjoy a nice cup of coffee and perhaps a delicious sweet treat ( they have many amazing options!) . You won't regret giving it a try . read more