Atly Logo
New Yorkers 1st Choice
Loved by locals

Breakfast spots in Illinois

A breakfast spot that serves a fresh baguette that hasn't been sitting out since the day before.

Based on 653 Opinions
+650
User
User
User
Updated April 2026
01
Verzênay Chicago image 1
Verzênay Chicago image 2
Verzênay Chicago image 3
View all

French patisserie cafe offers a cozy, family-friendly atmosphere with beautiful decor and artistic dessert designs. Light and airy space features lovely piano music and a small sitting area suited for casual meetups or relaxed business conversations. Seating is limited but the ambiance remains pleasant and inviting.

Crusty exterior and airy interior define the authentic baguettes here. The bread stays crispy when warmed, enhancing the rich flavor in simple sandwiches like the turkey baguette.

Breakfast features flaky buttery croissants and pillowy brioche with soft eggs and creamy goat cheese. Sandwiches include flavorful chicken sausage and offer a classy spot for quick bites or sweet treats.

People are saying

"The pastries here are so flaky and delicious."

"You have to try the breakfast sandwich; it's delicious."

"The baguette here is delicious, with a crisp crust and airy interior."

Good to know

1

Private tea events can be arranged for small groups or pairs.

2

Expect long queues on weekends, especially during brunch hours.

3

All food options are 100% halal, catering to dietary preferences.

02
Toni Patisserie & Cafe image 1

Small bakery with Parisian atmosphere and cozy vibe offers both indoor and outdoor seating with shade and breeze. Busy but not crowded, it draws people for European-style cakes and fresh pastries made mostly in-house.

Freshness stands out with every bite. The vegetarian baguette offers a delicious and well-baked option.

Several choices for savory snacks and quick breakfast options make it a cute spot to meet for a morning drink or bite.

People are saying

"The cake here is so tasty and amazing."

"The baguette here is so fresh and delicious."

"I loved the tasty croque monsieur and delicious quiche."

Good to know

1

Expect a line during peak hours, especially on weekends.

2

The bakery offers a variety of vegetarian options on the menu.

3

The cafe has limited seating, so plan accordingly.

03
Floriole Cafe & Bakery image 1

Bright, airy café with high ceilings and plenty of seating across two floors creates a calm, welcoming atmosphere. Neighborhood vibe with friendly staff and a quiet music level makes it suitable for conversation and work. Small rooftop garden and artisanal goods add unique touches to the experience.

Baguettes have a perfectly crunchy outside and a soft inside with a crusty texture. The ham and cheese baguette rates a perfect 10 out of 10 and costs around $7.

Breakfast features a Honey Pecan Sticky Bun made from flaky croissant dough with cinnamon-sugar filling. The breakfast sandwich stands out with a broad bread selection and a divine tomato jam.

People are saying

"I found the pastries here to be delicious and unique."

"The breakfast sandwich here is one of the greatest I've ever had."

"I thought the baguette was perfect, with a crunchy outside and soft inside."

Good to know

1

Prices are higher than most bakeries, with a latte and pastry costing around $20.

2

Expect limited seating, especially during peak hours on weekends.

3

The cafe is closed on Mondays and Tuesdays.

04
The Praline Cauldron image 1

Spacious pastry shop with well-lit interior and plenty of seating offers an inviting, clean, modern atmosphere reminiscent of France. Displays feature artfully crafted French pastries alongside savory options, creating a calm environment suited for sitting and chatting.

Crusty outside and chewy inside define the baguettes here. They work well for European deli sandwiches and pair nicely with tea or coffee.

Flaky breakfast pastries and croissants stand out for morning meals. A gorgeous quiche also offers a savory option to enjoy at home.

People are saying

"I found the pastries here to be delicious and always fresh."

"The quiche here is fantastic, creamy, and flavorful."

"The breakfast pastries are flaky and taste even better than they look."

Good to know

1

There is plenty of parking nearby, making it convenient for visitors.

2

The bakery offers a wide selection of pastries, sandwiches, and croissants.

3

Free samples are provided to enhance the tasting experience.

05
Sunflour Bakery and Cafe image 1

Cozy cafe with plenty of natural light and small tables suits solo visits or groups. Atmosphere feels warm and positive, filled with friendly energy and smiles. Offers a charming, neighborhood vibe distinct from typical chain coffee spots.

Fresh baguettes serve as the base for sandwiches, offering options like egg and cheese or bacon. The bread pairs well with iced coffee and stands out as a key menu item with varied bread choices available.

Breakfast sandwiches feature exceptional texture and flavor that stand out in the city. Coffee options include an iced vanilla latte and caramel apple cider alongside fun seasonal items.

People are saying

"The staff making your sandwich are so friendly and sweet."

"I found their breakfast sandwiches to be some of my favorites."

"The staff here are always super friendly and wonderful to talk to."

Good to know

1

Each Wednesday, they offer a $6 sandwich special that rotates weekly.

2

Grab a punch card at the counter for discounts on future purchases.

3

They offer plenty of options for vegans, gluten-free, and other dietary preferences.

06
Levain Bakery image 1

Bright, cozy bakery with a warm, inviting vibe and irresistible chocolate and brown sugar aroma. Small indoor space with limited seating and a few outdoor seats on a patio. Known for exceptional cookies that set a high standard for deliciousness.

Soft inside and perfectly crisp outside, the baguette pairs well with butter and jam. It rivals breads found in France and works great for breakfast or a snack.

Offers a quick breakfast option with a baguette with butter and jam that stands out as a simple, satisfying treat. Serves well for breakfast, lunch, or a casual snack.

People are saying

"I thought these cookies were the best I had ever tried."

"The baguette with jam and butter was amazing."

"The blueberry muffin for breakfast was moist and perfectly balanced."

Good to know

1

Levain Bakery opened in the River North area in September 2023, between Kinzie and Hubbard Streets.

2

The cookie costs over $5 each, so plan your budget accordingly.

3

Levain Bakery only offers one vegan flavor for those with dietary restrictions.

07
Paris Baguette image 1

Corporate bakery style blends with French café decor and clean, fresh design. Atmosphere shifts from quiet and relaxed to enthusiastic and lively, suitable for breakfast or casual meetups. Seating includes indoor comfort and outdoor patio, with self-serve pastry selection adding convenience.

Baguettes here feature excellent ingredient quality and come out well-prepared and clean. The bread has a delicious, fresh taste that stands out among other options.

Breakfast offers a quiet, relaxed atmosphere with a pleasant interior ambiance. The sausage and cheese stand out as highlights in a delightful meal that balances quality and value.

People are saying

"I found the selection of food and coffee amazing."

"Their flaky pastries and delicious croissants make for a perfect breakfast."

"Their baguettes are delicious and well-prepared."

Good to know

1

Reservations are required for special cake orders.

2

The bakery is open until 8pm on weekdays.

3

Expect limited pastry selection later in the day.

08
Au Levain Bakery & Cafe image 1

Bright space with large windows and a green ceiling creates a cozy, bustling vibe. Warm atmosphere fills with the smell of butter and espresso, attracting a steady crowd early in the day. Popular for fresh, high-quality pastries and breakfast sandwiches, it feels like an instant neighborhood classic.

Baguettes here have an underproofed texture with a hardened matte crust. Two types sell for $12 but feel overvalued for the quality.

Breakfast features savory and sweet options like wraps, sandwiches, and daily soup. The breakfast sandwiches stand out as incredible and often considered among the best in the city.

People are saying

"I found the pastries here to be amazing."

"I thought their breakfast sandwich was incredible."

"I found the baguettes here to be life-changing."

Good to know

1

The bakery tends to get busy on weekend mornings, so expect a wait.

2

Reservations are not accepted; it's first-come, first-served.

3

Prices are on the higher side, reflecting the quality of ingredients used.

09
Lea French Cafe image 1
Modern French restaurant

Modern French restaurant offers a cozy, classic French atmosphere with comfortable seating and a small patio that evokes Paris. The vibe stays relaxed and pleasant, welcoming couples, families, and people on the go. Self-service kiosks streamline ordering, while the environment remains warm and inviting.

Baguettes come fresh and housemade with artisan flour, crisp outside and tender inside. Options include a ham and cheese baguette sandwich and a baguette egg sandwich, both flavorful and well-priced.

Breakfast features croissant sandwiches with fresh, tasty ingredients and a croque monsieur option. Coffee pairs well with the bacon croissant sandwich for a solid morning meal.

People are saying

"I thought the breakfast sandwich was excellent."

"The baguettes here are beautifully crisp outside and chewy within."

"The breakfast croissant sandwich is flaky and tasty."

Good to know

1

They only accept credit cards and do not accept cash.

2

You can place an order at the counter or use a self-service kiosk.

3

Finding parking can be challenging when the lot is full.

10
Léa French Cafe Lake Street image 1

French cafe with Parisian decor, high ceilings, and marble floors creates a cozy, energetic atmosphere. Self-order kiosks speed up service amid a lively crowd. Bread and pastries stand out as authentic European-style offerings.

Baguettes here are fresh and crusty, closely resembling those found in France. Sandwiches like the ham and cheese or Le Saint German use these baguettes, making for hearty, delicious options.

Breakfast features exquisite croissants, including a standout almond croissant. The menu offers tasty breakfast sandwiches and coffee, all at reasonable prices in a cozy setting.

People are saying

"The French food quiche is thick, smooth, and flavorful."

"This baguette is fresh, airy, and chewy, just like in France."

"I loved the crispy, tasty breakfast sandwiches and croissants."

Good to know

1

Reservations are not accepted; it's first-come, first-served.

2

Expect limited seating, especially during peak hours on weekends.

3

Self-service ordering is available via terminals.

11
Cafe Paris - French Café image 1

Small coffee shop offers a cozy interior with big glass windows and a quiet back patio adorned with flowers and street lamps. Atmosphere stays relaxed and calming, often accompanied by soft French music. Seating by windows invites people watching while enjoying fresh pastries and quality coffee.

Perfectly fresh baguettes serve as the base for tartines topped with ingredients like marinated avocado, egg, goat cheese, and cherry tomatoes. These baguettes hold up well in sandwiches and come with sides like salad.

A relaxing and quiet atmosphere sets the tone for breakfast here. Options like croissants and coffee make it a solid spot for a light breakfast or brunch.

People are saying

"I found the quiche to be seriously creamy and rich."

"The pistachio croissants and quiches are rich and delicious for breakfast."

"I found the baguette sandwich to be amazing and perfect."

Good to know

1

The café only accepts credit cards; no cash payments allowed.

2

The food menu is available all day until closing time.

3

Expect prices to be higher than average, with croissant sandwiches around $18.

12
Plein Air Cafe image 1

Outdoor patio offers extensive seating with views of a Frank Lloyd Wright house, creating a vibrant atmosphere popular for socializing and working. Indoor space is small and crowded, leading to a busy, lively vibe. The cafe attracts a mix of campus community and street visitors, often resulting in long lines.

Small baguettes hold sandwiches with prosciutto and manchego or roasted red peppers with goat cheese and arugula. Veggie baguettes come paired with drinks like strawberry matcha and cappuccino.

Offers a wide selection of croissants, breakfast sandwiches, and pastry options. Serves breakfast with sides like breakfast potatoes in a low key, casual setting.

People are saying

"I found the coffee here to be really great."

"The outdoor seating is so charming and shady, perfect for enjoying a baguette."

"I had a really good breakfast here."

Good to know

1

Expect long queues during peak hours, especially around lunchtime.

2

The cafe gets very crowded from 11:00 to 13:00, making it difficult to find a table.

3

Seating inside is very limited, so plan accordingly.

13
Publican Quality Bread image 1

Small bakery with open windows showing bakers at work creates a quiet, cozy atmosphere. Outdoor seating with heaters and bike racks supports quick bites and casual visits. Bread stands out as exceptionally high quality, often considered the best in the city.

Fresh baguettes come out warm with steam on the bag. They have a perfectly crunchy crust and a satisfying texture. Other breads like sourdough and rye also stand out, but the baguette holds its own.

Wonderful assortments of pastries start the day well. The breakfast bun stands out and sells out fast, so arriving early helps. Every loaf offers incredible texture and flavor, great for breakfast or sandwiches.

People are saying

"I found the bread here to be the best in Chicago."

"Their pastries and sandwiches are amazing for breakfast."

"I found the baguette to be perfectly crunchy and fantastic."

Good to know

1

Thursday night pizza night offers a special menu.

2

There is no indoor seating; only outdoor seating is available.

3

The bakery only accepts credit cards and does not accept cash.

14
La Boulangerie & Co Wilson image 1

Small space with cozy indoor and outdoor seating offers a French bistro charm and a calm, inviting atmosphere. Fresh, authentic pastries like croissants and macarons stand out for their quality and variety. The setting feels like a European cafe with a welcoming vibe despite occasional chaos.

Baguettes here range from excellent to hard depending on the day, with some days showing noticeable quality shifts within hours. Prices can be higher than traditional baguettes, and sometimes the regular baguette is out of stock.

Breakfast features bacon avocado croissant sandwiches and lox with brie and caramelized onion croissants. Pastries, quiche slices, and Brie and fig sandwiches offer fresh, flavorful options.

People are saying

"The chocolate croissant is divine, buttery, and crunchy."

"Their breakfast croissants and pastries are delicious."

"The baguettes and croissants here are the best."

Good to know

1

Free street parking is available nearby, but can be limited during peak hours.

2

Paid parking lots are located behind the building for convenience.

3

Expect prices to be on the higher side, with croissants costing over $5.50.

15
Maison Parisienne - French Café Armitage Ave image 1

Bright, cozy space with authentic Parisian décor and soothing French music creates a serene, inviting atmosphere. Small seating area offers a quiet spot to enjoy fresh croissants and classic French pastries. Energy stays calm and welcoming, making it easy to linger and chat.

Baguettes come out hot and toasted with a soft, warm, chewy center and a perfect crisp crust. Sandwiches like the ham and cheese "La Dinde Fumee" highlight the quality of the bread.

Breakfast includes a full service with options to sit at the bar or order to go. The breakfast platter offers good visuals and a perfect taste, though choices can be limited early in the morning.

People are saying

"I loved the buttery, delicious French pastries and croissants."

"The breakfast quiche and croissants were really good."

"The baguette's crust is perfectly crisp, with a soft, warm center."

Good to know

1

Expect to pay over $40 for a coffee and pastries.

2

Seating stops at 3pm on Thursdays; plan your visit accordingly.

3

An automatic 3% service fee is added to every order.

16
La Boulangerie & Co Hyde Park image 1

Bakery offers an intimate, vibrant space with retro French decor and a mural of the Eiffel Tower. Warm, inviting atmosphere fills the air with the scent of fresh butter and bread. Outdoor seating with free WiFi provides a relaxed spot for chatting and enjoying life.

Baguettes here have a perfect crust and a taste like Paris. They come fresh daily and pair well with sandwiches like tomato and mozzarella.

Breakfast croissants come with egg, Swiss cheese, avocado, ham, and bacon. Some breakfast sandwiches have a burnt flavor and texture that stands out.

People are saying

"The breakfast croissant with egg and cheese is a must-have."

"I found the baguette to be perfect, just like in Paris."

"The breakfast croissant is delicious and a must-have."

Good to know

1

Expect wait times of at least 30 minutes during busy hours.

2

Credit cards and mobile payments are accepted, but cash is preferred.

3

The cafe has limited indoor seating that fills up quickly.

17
Lea French Cafe Michigan Avenue image 1

Small space with quaint Parisian decor and warm lighting creates a cozy, charming atmosphere. Outdoor terrace offers a lovely view of the Bean and nearby park. Self-service ordering and cashless payment speed up visits despite occasional crowding.

Baguettes here have high quality and a Parisian feel. Sandwiches like ham and Swiss or breakfast baguettes come in large portions and taste very good.

Breakfast features delicious croissant sandwiches and fresh baked goods like overnight oats and baguettes. Portions are generous, and coffee pairs well with the meals.

People are saying

"I loved the delicious, authentic French pastries and croissants here."

"I thought the ham and cheese baguette was perfect, just like Paris."

"The baked goods for breakfast are delicious and fresh."

Good to know

1

Parking is available nearby in an underground garage.

2

Expect a wait time of 15-30 minutes during busy brunch hours.

3

The menu features a variety of pastries, including croissants and éclairs.

18
Nutella Cafe Chicago image 1

Nutella-themed decor creates a bright and inviting space with personalized Nutella jars as a unique feature. The cafe feels cramped and crowded, with small tables placed very close together, often leading to a noisy atmosphere. Outdoor patio seating offers an alternative to the tight indoor space.

Grilled baguettes have a chewy inside and crispy edges. Nutella pairs well with baguettes, often combined with bananas or whipped cream for a sweet touch.

Breakfast features Nutella jars and sweet options that blend dessert with morning meals. The menu offers a complete and flavorful start, ideal after a run or for midday brunch.

People are saying

"You have to try the Nutella Crepe with bananas; it's very tasty."

"The breakfast here is delicious, especially the waffles."

"The grilled baguette was chewy inside with crispy edges."

Good to know

1

Expect a wait time of 30-45 minutes during peak hours.

2

The cafe opens at 8 am daily.

3

You can personalize your Nutella with your name for a unique souvenir.

Discover more

Illinois

Area guide
Loading Map...