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Levain Bakery

4.3 (361 reviews)
ModerateBakeries
Open • 7:30 am - 11:00 pm
Updated 2 weeks ago

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Cookies
James A.

My first visit to Levain Bakery was to this location in the West Loop area of Chicago. My brother, his son, my wife, and I had some time to kill while waiting to dine at a popular nearby lunch spot. So we stopped into Levain Bakery, and found the cookies to be very good. Founded in 1995 in NYC, it has expanded its cookie empire to 17 locations, including 3 in Chicago. The young cashier was very friendly. As mentioned by others, the cookies are very thick, but still taste like a cookie (vs a cake or brownie) and the flavor was very good. I was content just breaking up a chunk of my chocolate chip walnut ($5.75) every once in a while, and appreciated the rich chocolate taste. My brother ended up buying a small tin as a house gift for our uncle/aunt. I finally finished my cookie couple days later, and it was still good.

Chocolate Chip Walnut Cookie
Grace C.

Levain Bakery was one of the highlights of our Chicago trip. It absolutely lived up to the hype and exceeded our expectations. The chocolate chip walnut cookie was phenomenal--crispy on the outside, warm and gooey in the center, with rich chocolate in every bite. The banana bread was incredibly moist, flavorful, and paired perfectly with a scoop of vanilla ice cream. We also ordered a sandwich, and although it took a little while to come out, it was fresh, delicious, and absolutely worth the wait. The staff was friendly and welcoming throughout our visit. Another huge plus is that they're open late, making it a perfect stop for a late-night dessert or snack. The prices were also very reasonable for the quality and portion sizes. Pros: * Amazing cookies and banana bread * Delicious sandwiches worth the wait * Friendly staff * Open late * Reasonable prices * Fresh, high-quality food Cons: * Sandwiches can take a little longer to prepare Levain Bakery is a must-visit if you're in Chicago. Whether you're craving dessert or a great sandwich, this spot delivers. We would definitely come back on our next trip.

Cookie menu
Raymond N.

I remember waiting in long lines for Levain cookies in New York City and was happy to see a location in the West Loop with essentially no line. I came on a Sunday wanting a sweet treat after having lunch nearby. The shop was nicely air conditioned but didn't offer indoor seating for customers. I like the open kitchen concept so customers can watch the cookies and other items being prepared. I ordered the caramel coconut chocolate chip cookie, oatmeal raisin cookie, dark chocolate peanut butter chip cookie, and their new carrot cake cookie. I wanted the chocolate chip walnut cookie but unfortunately they were out at the time (the cookies in the glass case are just for display since the workers grab the purchased cookies off the trays in the back). Each cookie was very well crafted and I enjoyed the dense but soft consistency. The cookies were also large and felt like they were worth the cost. I especially enjoyed the carrot cake cookie since it had the carrot cake flavor while still in the form of a cookie. Levain cookies are a nice treat and I wish there were more locations throughout the country, especially on the west coast. I know that Cookie Gift Boxes can be ordered and delivered but nothing beats cookies which are freshly baked the same day.

Lana T.

Absolutely love their cookies and it's right in West Loop. They have a variety of cookies or even drinks to get.

Leslie A.

Came here on a random weekday for the very first time. While I am fully aware of all the hype and excitement people have across the US about this place I really had to check it out. I have posted the pictures of what was on display this day. I personally, however, did buy a chocolate chocolate chip cookie ate oatmeal raisin cookie, a cinnamon butter brioche a blueberry muffin half of a coffee cake and a slice of the lemon loaf. With tax those few items actually came out to $59. So this place is definitely pricey as expected because they are located on Randolph and they come from New York. At this price point I also expected everything to be absolutely amazing. Everything was amazing with the exception of their cookies which is our number one item. I found the cookie clump to be actually over baked and rather dry. I would definitely come back for all the other items. Another disappointing thing was that the coffee cake was only sold in half or full loaf. The half loaf was I believe 27 or $29. That's a hell of a price for a half a loaf of of coffee cake and when I asked the person they're working, who was helping me if it was any good he said it was good and I was very clear to tell him that I was debating whether I should buy a half a loaf for a full loaf because I wasn't sure if it was good because I had never tasted it before. He had no point ever bothered to offer me a slice or a sample of the coffee cake. If this is their practice or their motto, I suggest that they change this. Because there are many bakeries and patisserie and chocolate shops that actually give you a sample so that you can in fact, enjoy it like it and buy it. This place is not top-tier and they can afford to give me a sample. As with all places located on Randolph, there is absolutely no parking. So be prepared to either find parking somewhere and pay a high price or have a driver bring you so you can run out and get your stuff and leave. There is barely any seating on the inside, but they did set up a few tables out on the sidewalk. So if you want to sit out there in the heat and have everybody walking by you caulking at what you're eating and drinking this is the place to do it.

roger t.

Trying local places to eat since we were at this side of town and this place came up on our Yelp query for deserts. Staff was friendly. I went and straight up asked what to get and the guy recommended the chocolate cookie which was so rich and delicious. There was like no one here which was surprising. We took our treats to go but enjoyed our cookies at the hotel!!

Leeza D.

I was window shopping and everything looked so good. The displays were gorgeous. The cookies look amazing. They open early and close late Please come and create your own adventure.

Vegan chcolate chip cookie $6.25
Magda G.

​We were looking for a place on a Thursday around 9:30 p.m. to be able to hang out with an 18-year-old, and this was one of the very few places that was open, and off we went. ​It is a small shop with limited seating. I ordered a decaf Americano with pistachio milk and a vegan chocolate chip walnut cookie. Yes; they have a vegan massive cookie ! The cookie was incredible! Even this late at night, the chocolate chips were just super soft and the cookie was delicious but 6.25 for a cookie, darn. ​But the staff--oh my goodness, the staff! The girl that helped us was so, so absolutely sweet. She really made the visit even more memorable. CC accepted No public restrooms

Chocolate Chip Walnut Cookie
Suha M.

I finally got to try Levain Bakery in Chicago! I tried their walnut chocolate chip cookie and two chocolate chip cookie. Although I'm not the biggest fan of walnuts in cookies (but love them otherwise), I still wanted to try their classic cookie. The cookies were baked well and priced the same as other higher-end cookie shops. They were yummy, but didn't blow me away. The bakery was small but clean and cute. Service was nice and quick.

Levain store
Mel J.

Walked here in the winter night at 9:30pm to get my fix of my favorite cookies! The staffs were very friendly and the cookies were still warm even at night! I've been to Levain in NY & DC and the quality was also consistent here: buttery with crispy outer layer and soft inside layer! I got the promo winter tin with 8 cookies: dark chocolate chocolate chip cookies & walnut chocolate chip cookies. They were yummy! My favorite chocolate chip cookie in the world!

Coffee menu
Kenyata F.

West loop location. Paid street parking. Nice and cute inside. I loved the blue color. We order d two cookies and a cortado. The coffee was very good and the cookie had great crunch on the edges. The middle could have been cooked a little more for me but it's not as gooey as Crumble. Overall the cookie was a large size with a good taste. I'll say a 3.75/5. I had the chocolate coconut caramel cookie and my friend had the chocolate Chip cookie. She loved the cookie. Cookies cost around 6 bucks each.

Baguette With Butter and Jam Turkey and Cheddar Sandwich
Alex R.

MUST stop every time I am in Chicago! Some of the best cookies - almost has a scone like texture. I am a big fan of the two chip chocolate chip and the seasonal lemon and spiced cookies. Don't discount their other items either! We loved the Turkey Cheddar sandwich and baguette with butter and jam. Shop is set up to grab and go with not much space to linger but there is a bench outside of the weather is nice.

Raspberry Pistachio Cookie
Sara G.

Truly obsessed. Every time I'm craving a sweet treat, this is the place. The staff are always friendly and always work hard to make things right if something is off. They're quick and delicious! Definitely try the raspberry pistachio

Dark Chocolate Peanut Butter Chip Cookie

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2 months ago

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21 days ago

These chunky cookies were nothing short of amazing. They are hearty! My favorite was easily the chocolate chip.

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Levain Bakery Reviews in Other Languages

Ask the Community - Levain Bakery

How is the wait time like?

Not bad at all!! I have been on weekends at 8pm twice and there were maybe 3 people in line

Does this location offer the 4 piece assortment for gifting?

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4.4(733 reviews)
3.5 mi•Lakeview
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Excellent though expensive cupcakes Coffee is good…read more Plenty of seating and tables if you're eating in Service is very good

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Chiu Quon Bakery & Dim Sum - Individual servings of cakes and desserts

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We came here for a quick breakfast and were satisfied with what we got. There was a bit of a line…read moreinside, but it moved quickly. We got a few buns and pastries, then ate them inside at the standing counter they had along the window by the front door. This did feel very mych like a grab and go spot, but it was raining so we stayed a bit longer. Food was nice and tasted correct. Prices seemed fair, and the space was clean - felt like your typical Chinese bakery. Overall, we left feeling full with our choices and it was a nice experience. Thanks, Chiu Quon!

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Kasama - longanisa breakfast sando

Kasama

4.5(1.5k reviews)
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We had an amazing experience during our recent trip to Chicago at Kasama. Our dinner consisted of…read more13 courses. Each dish was thoughtfully prepared, beautifully presented, and delicious. It was such a fun experience getting to try the chef's own take on Filipino cuisine. The quality of the food really stood out. My personal favorites were the nilaga and halo halo. The service was also excellent -- everyone was attentive, welcoming, and made the entire dinner feel special. I also couldn't help but notice how different the ambiance was. The kitchen area was open to where you could directly see the chefs. I usually feel chaos at times watching their every move along with them shouting over each other, but I felt a sort of calmness here. No one looked stressed or angry - just a bunch of chefs doing what they do best in a calm and quiet manner.. which I appreciated! Overall, a wonderful dining experience from start to finish. Definitely worth trying if you're in Chicago!

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4.3(84 reviews)
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A very cute place that I'm so happy to have found! It was small, intimate, and cozy. Definitely the…read morekind of place you'd want to hang out in for a bit while you sip some coffee and chat. The staff were super kind and patient! It was my and my friend's first time there. We both got the raspberry cinnamon roll and she got a latte. She loved her coffee, and the cinnamon roll was amazing! It was just the right amount of tart and sweet, and the cream cheese frosting was very light. Can't wait to come back and try the other options!

One of my favorite bakeries in Chicago!…read more The vibes were 9.5/10. Kerrie, the owner, was so nice ringing us up and all the employees were super kind. We got there 10 minutes before opening and were second in line. We even saw the first customer get a free drink, which was such a nice touch. The space feels really welcoming and homey, and I loved the aesthetic. There are only 3 tables though, so seating is limited. The Banana Bread (9.9/10) was ON CLOUD 9. So moist and chocolatey, with a light chocolate cream and roasted candied pecans that had the perfect crunch. Absolutely loved this one. The Raspberry Cinnamon Roll with Espresso Cream Cheese (9/10) had a nice laminated pastry and espresso cream wasn't overly sweet. Such a good combo. The Cookies & Cream Cheesecake Danish (9/10) tasted like a chocolate fudge danish topped with cookies and cream, which I loved. It had the firmest shell of the pastries we got and that extra crunch was perfect. The Hot Dog Pastry (8.5/10) was super flaky, and I loved the crunchy pieces on top. The Guava Custard Danish (8/10) had a great guava flavor and was solid. The Breakfast Pastry (8/10) had hashbrown, ham, and cheese inside a flaky crust. It was a really good flaky breakfast sandwich and WAY better heated up. The Atomic Cake (7/10) had vanilla cake, banana, strawberry cream, cheesecake, chocolate, and a light whipped cream topping. The cake layers were moist and it wasn't overly sweet.

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Sugar Moon Bakery - Espresso cornflake cookie

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4.8(125 reviews)
4.7 mi•Logan Square
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We came by about 20 minutes before opening, and was inside around 40 minutes after. The line moved…read morefairly quickly. Interior is very small, so only a few can fit inside. However, they don't rush you when you're inside at all so you can take your time to look through the options. What I love about Sugar Moon is all of their pastries are very unique. They have great flavor combinations beyond the usual selection of laminated pastries. There was extensive savory options as well. I loved their focaccia bread. I've had some weird options at other bakeries (Kasama looking at you) but I genuinely enjoyed eating everything at Sugar Moon even if they were an interesting mix of flavors There is a lot of hyped bakeries in Chicago right now but Sugar Moon is absolutely worth the line.

Is it worth the hype?? It sure is hard to argue against it. We came on a Friday around 10am and…read moretook us about 30 minutes to get our order in and our food. Street parking wasn't too bad, and my wife got coffee up the block while I waited. Their menu rotates often so here's what we got (and I may be getting my pastry names wrong here): Espresso cornflake cookie Smores cookie Banana pudding croissant Jalapeno cheddar galette Southwest brioche Miso mushroom brioche There's a bit of outdoor seating around the corner from the cafe. Honestly? Not a miss among them. Just reading that list again is making my tummy grumble, and everything was chock full of flavor and toppings. Maybe we ordered too much this trip since my preschooler wouldn't touch the spicy stuff, and no way I was giving them a coffee cookie, but otherwise everything was perfectly soft and a great start to our day in the city. Hard to say if it beats the other popular bakeries in the city, but really we're all winners with so many great spots around now.

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3.4(1.6k reviews)
1.1 mi•The Loop
•$$

We happened to pass this bakery when walking around downtown. I had their banana pudding in New…read moreYork before and like it so much. There was a banana pudding bar where you could add different flavors to the banana pudding. There were cupcakes and other yummy desserts also. The service was very swift. - banana pudding: smooth, creamy, and good amount of sweetness. It was the same delicious pudding as I had in NY. - hot chocolate banana pudding: just okay. It tasted a bit of chocolate but the M&M's pieces gave a weird texture to the hot chocolate theme (just not my liking).

Magnolia Bakery is known for its banana pudding, and for good reason! After recently trying banana…read morepudding somewhere else that honestly didn't impress me, coming to Magnolia's and enjoying their banana pudding was exactly what I needed. My companion ordered the classic banana pudding, while I tried the banana pudding with a brownie bar. Let me tell you, that brownie version was AMAZING! It was delicious, and I'm disappointed I forgot to take a picture because it deserved its moment. Both options were enjoyable, but the brownie addition was definitely a highlight for me. The bakery is always clean, and I love that it's relatively spacious for a bakery. The customer service was also top-tier. We arrived when they were getting ready to close, but the staff still welcomed us in to grab our desserts. We were able to get in and out quickly, and I really appreciated them accommodating us so close to closing time. Between the delicious banana pudding, clean environment, and excellent customer service, Magnolia Bakery continues to live up to its reputation. Five stars from me!

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Magnolia Bakery
Magnolia Bakery
Magnolia Bakery

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Bittersweet Pastry Shop - Bittersweet's beautiful pastries and tarts!

Bittersweet Pastry Shop

4.1(919 reviews)
3.9 mi•Lakeview
•$

Our experience with Bittersweet Bakery was exceptional from beginning to end. We ordered our…read morewedding cake from Bittersweet, and they made the entire process enjoyable and stress-free. The cake tasting was a wonderful experience, giving us plenty of delicious options to choose from while helping us create the perfect cake for our special day. Throughout the entire process, their communication was outstanding. They kept us informed every step of the way and worked directly with our wedding venue, "Firehouse Chicago", to coordinate the delivery and logistics. Everything was handled seamlessly, and our cake arrived exactly as planned without a single issue. Planning a wedding can be overwhelming, but Bittersweet's professionalism, organization, and proactive approach gave us one less thing to worry about. Their attention to detail and commitment to excellent customer service truly stood out. One feature we especially love is that they keep the recipe and design of your wedding cake on file. Every anniversary, they can recreate your wedding cake or a cake in any size you choose. We've continued this tradition, and each anniversary cake has been just as delicious as the original while bringing back wonderful memories of our wedding day. If you're looking for a bakery that is responsive, dependable, and delivers an outstanding product, I highly recommend Bittersweet Bakery for your wedding cake or any bakery needs. They responded promptly to our questions and requests, unlike some businesses that never replied to estimate inquiries. Their customer service and quality were truly exceptional. A heartfelt thank you to Samuel who conducted the Cake Tasting and the entire staff at Bittersweet Bakery for helping make our dream wedding a reality. We will always be grateful and look forward to celebrating many more anniversaries with your incredible cakes.

The pastries at bittersweet will never disappoint. I grew up going to this bakery and the quality…read morehas never wavered. The quiche is always fantastic, and anything out of the pastry case is a must. Drinks are good as well! Such a cozy spot to grab coffee with a friend (or give in to the temptation of snagging a pastry on your way to the brown line)

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Bittersweet Pastry Shop
Bittersweet Pastry Shop
Bittersweet Pastry Shop - Beautiful and delicious - a sweet table by Bittersweet

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Beautiful and delicious - a sweet table by Bittersweet

Levain Bakery - bakeries - Updated November 2026

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