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Caramel treats in Illinois

A touch of caramel that elevates an American dessert without turning the entire dish into a sugar-heavy mess.

Based on 567 Opinions
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Updated May 2026
01
Afro Joes Coffee & Tea image 1
Afro Joes Coffee & Tea image 2
Afro Joes Coffee & Tea image 3
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Coffee shop occupies a unique space set back from the street in an old auto shop with Black art on walls and a spacious, comfortable layout. Atmosphere stays calm and friendly with live music and an outdoor area featuring a dog run. Seating includes a cozy spot past the barista for chatting, working, or relaxing.

Short rib grilled cheese stands out with rich, tender meat and melty cheese. The macaroni brisket sandwich offers a hearty, flavorful option paired well with a spicy cucumber side salad.

Caramel macchiatos stand out with a rich, smooth flavor. The caramel apple butter cappuccino and caramel apple cider offer a decadent, sweet twist that pairs well with coffee.

People are saying

"I loved the short rib sandwich, it was so satisfying."

"The caramel macchiato was delicious and decadent."

"You have to try the short rib grilled cheese; it's phenomenal."

Good to know

1

Live music happens every Saturday and Sunday, featuring various bands.

2

During summer, expect DJs and live music on weekends, especially on the patio.

3

Community events like movie nights and book readings are regularly hosted.

02
Gourmet Butter Delights Soul Food and Bakery image 1

Small space with few tables and an impeccably clean environment offers authentic soul food with a drive-thru option. Atmosphere feels like family, creating a warm and welcoming vibe. Consistent quality and standout desserts add to the overall experience.

Fried chicken comes fresh to order and stands out for its quality. Cornbread muffins are moist and not too sweet, reminiscent of homemade style. Sides include macaroni, collard greens, and sweet potatoes.

Caramel cake stands out with rich, smooth flavor. Desserts like red velvet cheesecake and banana pudding also feature caramel notes that complement their sweetness.

People are saying

"You have to try the mac and cheese; it's unreal."

"You have to try the Banana Pudding Cheesecake; it's addictive."

"The caramel cake was perfect."

Good to know

1

The drive-thru is available for quick service.

2

Parking is limited due to other businesses in the strip.

3

Desserts include a great selection of cakes and cookies.

03
Soul & Smoke - Avondale at Rockwell on the River image 1

Outdoor patio overlooks river with spacious seating and fire pit creating a relaxing vibe. Music blends 80's to 2000's R&B with live DJ enhancing the atmosphere. The setting combines beautiful views and a lively energy near water and wineries.

Smoky, tender brisket sandwiches pack bold, rich flavor showing real skill behind the smoker. Creamy, cheesy mac and cheese stands out as comfort food at its finest. Southern flair shines in flavorful shrimp and grits, gumbo, and dirty rice.

Caramel desserts include a caramel cake that tastes very good and a smaller caramel dessert priced at $8. Portions tend to be on the smaller side but the flavor is strong.

People are saying

"You have to try the brisket; it's outstanding."

"The patio space overlooks the river and has seating."

"The caramel cake was really good."

Good to know

1

Reservations are recommended for larger groups, especially on weekends.

2

Expect limited food options late in the day as they may run out.

3

The venue hosts events like bingo and DJ nights on specific days.

04
Kleinโ€™s Bakery & Cafe (LakeviewEast) image 1

Elevated home bakery with cozy atmosphere and vibrant urban vibe offers several seating options including outdoor space. The place suits both quiet work sessions and casual chats, featuring lovely music and a welcoming environment.

Apple and pumpkin pies feature strong flavoring and consistent texture. Grilled cheese with tomato stands out as a delicious sandwich option. Large orders of cookies, brownies, and cakepops exceed expectations in quality.

Caramel flavors stand out in the caramel latte, served hot or iced, with a rich and smooth taste. The Tres Leches cake pairs well, complementing the caramel drinks.

People are saying

"I loved their pastries; they were always delicious and fresh."

"I loved the flavoring and consistency of their American Food pies."

"I adored the caramel here; it's a great spot."

Good to know

1

Limited seating is available, especially during busy times.

2

Expect a wait time during weekends due to high demand.

3

Prices for coffee and sandwiches can reach around $20.

05
Big Mama's BBQ Express image 1
Barbecue restaurant

Small barbecue spot with a lively, family-friendly atmosphere and friendly staff. The space feels cozy and quaint, offering well-regarded barbecue and homemade cakes. Some areas like flooring and drive-thru need updates, but the vibe remains positive and welcoming.

Pulled pork stands out with its sweet and tangy sauce and melt-in-your-mouth texture. The bbq brisket sandwich and fried okra also deliver classic American flavors alongside baked beans and house-made salad dressing.

Caramel cake has a rich, nostalgic flavor that brings back childhood memories. Its delicious sweetness makes it easy to enjoy multiple pieces in one sitting.

People are saying

"I thought the BBQ here was the best I've ever had."

"I thought the barbecue brisket sandwich was the best."

"I've never tasted a caramel cake this delicious."

Good to know

1

Expect long wait times during peak hours, especially for lunch.

2

They often run out of popular items like rib tips and brisket.

3

Credit cards are accepted, but cash is recommended for quicker service.

06
Candy Cloud - Glenview image 1

Coffee shop offers a cozy, modern interior with intuitive self-service tablets and comfortable seating. Atmosphere feels friendly and adorable, attracting both adults and kids. Space balances chic design with a casual, fun vibe.

Grilled cheese sandwiches come on soft Texas Toast and taste really good. The cookie butter shake and Horchata drink pair well with the sandwiches.

Salted caramel appears in drinks like the Salted Caramel Crunch Frappe, which is sweeter than coffee and has a powdered milk sugar taste. Some caramel frappes can be bitter and hard to drink.

People are saying

"I found the coffee here to be amazing and delicious."

"I loved the grilled cheese sandwich and horchata."

"I loved the Salted Caramel Crunch Frappe; it was sweeter than coffee."

Good to know

1

The shop is located in the Target plaza for easy access.

2

Expect minimal wait times even during busy hours.

3

Candy Cloud offers a variety of drinks and food options.

07
14 Parish image 1
Caribbean restaurant

Modern, stylish space with Caribbean bookshelf of bottles and Island vibes sets a lively tone. Music ranges from Afrobeats to House, often loud, creating an energetic atmosphere. Crowds enjoy spacious dining and a mix of casual and romantic moods.

Cornbread stands out with a moist texture and rich flavor. Beef short rib comes with sautรฉed cabbage and a cornbread muffin. Jalapeno Mac and cheese offers a firm texture without being overly creamy.

Rum caramel cake offers a generous portion at $12, with a rich, delicious flavor. It pairs well with savory dishes and often leaves no leftovers.

People are saying

"The food here was amazing and delicious."

"You have to try the caramel cake; it's huge and delicious."

"The American food here, especially the beef short rib, was flavorful."

Good to know

1

Reservations are recommended, especially for larger groups.

2

Happy hour runs until 6:00 PM, but extensions may not be honored.

3

Trivia night occurs weekly, providing a fun social atmosphere.

08
Old Fashioned Donuts image 1

Donut shop with nostalgic atmosphere and old-school charm offers a cozy, inviting vibe despite a worn, unrenovated interior. The place feels genuine and chill, with fresh donuts made on site adding to its authentic appeal.

Quick bites include cheeseburgers, double cheeseburgers, hot dogs, and breakfast sandwiches. Polishes and pizza puffs also appear on the menu.

Caramel donuts stand out with a rich, sweet glaze that tops several varieties including cake and regular donuts. The caramel cake donut earns particular praise for its flavor and texture.

People are saying

"These donuts are the best I've ever had, so fresh and warm."

"These American Food donuts are huge and melt in your mouth."

"I thought the caramel donut was the best I've ever had."

Good to know

1

Breakfast is served on Saturdays.

2

Donuts cost between $1.45 and $1.60 each, including tax.

3

The shop has been a family business since 1972.

09
Truth Chicago image 1
Restaurant

Small restaurant with intimate seating and a covered patio offers a chill vibe filled with live soul and jazz music. Atmosphere feels like a close-knit family gathering with diverse, pleasant energy. Outdoor space provides a unique setting for eating and relaxing under music.

Shrimp and grits come in several versions like jerk shrimp, lobster, and crawfish, all with tender seafood and balanced sauces. Cajun breakfast dishes include a Cajun omelet** and a French toast flight that pairs well with the grits.

Caramel shows up in sweet dishes like the Caramel French toast and caramel apple waffle. These items are very sweet and stand out among the menu options.

People are saying

"I found the food here to be amazing and delicious."

"The American Food, especially the shrimp and grits, is a must-have."

"The Caramel French toast is sweet and delicious."

Good to know

1

Reservations are recommended as the space is limited and gets packed quickly.

2

Truth Chicago is BYOB, so bring your own drinks.

3

The restaurant offers large portion sizes at reasonable prices.

10
McDonald's image 1
Fast food restaurant

Spacious and modern fast food restaurant with wireless charging stations built into tables and self-service kiosks for ordering. Atmosphere feels premium and clean, with plentiful comfortable seating and a rotating international menu offering unique items not found elsewhere. Energy is relaxed with efficient flow and a stylish, open design.

A Chicago deep dish pizza offers a filling meal that costs more than a typical fast food option. The setting features a sleek, modern design that aligns with the nearby Hamburger University, enhancing the dining experience.

Salted caramel stands out with a balanced saltiness and sweetness. The Salted Caramel Dipped Cone features soft serve with a smooth texture that complements the flavor well.

People are saying

"You can try unique international burgers here without leaving Chicago."

"I tried their international menu with items from overseas."

"I loved the salted caramel cone; it had the right balance."

Good to know

1

This McDonald's offers unique international menu items not found elsewhere in the US.

2

Parking in the area costs a few bucks per hour.

3

The restaurant is known for its cleanliness and friendly staff.

11
Batter & Berries South Loop image 1

Restaurant offers a cozy yet elegant atmosphere with upbeat music that energizes the space. Seating is close together, creating a lively and sometimes noisy environment. Decor includes pretty wall art, enhancing the authentic American vibe.

Cheese-crusted hash browns stand out with a crispy, cheesy edge. Crab cakes offer a rich, flavorful bite. Scrambled eggs come out perfectly cooked, complementing the hearty sides.

Melt-in-your-mouth Caramel French Toast shines with a rich whiskey caramel flavor. The caramel sauce pairs perfectly with maple butter, making syrup unnecessary.

People are saying

"I had the best French toast I ever experienced."

"The caramel French toast is heavenly and my favorite."

"The French toast here is fresh and tasty."

Good to know

1

Parking on the street is available near the restaurant.

2

Brunch for two can cost nearly $100 with sides and drinks.

3

Reservations are recommended during peak brunch hours to avoid long waits.

12
Batter & Berries South Suburbs image 1
Breakfast restaurant

Small space with bright yellow walls and a partial wall bar creates a lively setting. Atmosphere ranges from friendly and energetic to occasionally loud due to staff activity. Music plays a notable role, featuring house tunes that enhance the vibe.

Crab cakes come out delicious and the brisket sandwich also tastes great.

Caramel shows up in French toast varieties like caramel walnut and caramel pecan, offering a sweet and soft texture. It pairs well with savory dishes like catfish or lobster omelets.

People are saying

"I found the French toast to be amazing and delicious."

"You have to try the French toast; it's their main attraction."

"The caramel French toast is soft, sweet, and bursting with flavor."

Good to know

1

Happy Hour on Thursdays offers discounted drinks and appetizers from 4-7pm.

2

Expect a 45-minute wait during peak brunch hours.

3

Credit cards are accepted, but there's a 3% fee for card payments.

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