givengrace

We have Chicago Magazine to thank for this dinner: Coal Fire was featured in its recent “best pizza in Chicago” write-up. The crust was crunchy, slightly wood-burnt, and the sauce/toppings were delicious. We got a pizza with tomatoes and garlic. The food helps with the so-so service; as a first-time visitor, you’re not really sure where to go to order. No one waits on your table, but it’s not a self-service, either. You go to the counter to order (drinks, too, unless you BYOB, which is cool with them) and you have to go up to ask to pay.

What I love about breakfast is you can get two scrambled eggs, a bowl of fruit and a heaping plate of cinnamon rolls, all for the low price of $5.49. Yum.

Vanille’s flaky crust pastries stand out for their buttery flavor. I don’t recommend the cake donut (it was an accidental order) but the sunrise and the pecan roll were great. Plus, Vanille is set in the beautiful Beacon Hill neighborhood.

You must try the super soft brownies that taste like heaven. So, so good!

If long lines are any indicator of quality bakeries, Roeser’s is the finest in Chicago. It’s small but busy, and its cakes, donuts, breads and pastries are incredibly affordable.

Great service, great selection, cool experience! The ingredients, I’m told, are shipping straight from Sicily. My cannoli was hand-filled, right when I ordered it. I enjoyed the shop, but the food wasn’t the best ever.