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Top picks in Chicago

Caramel treats

You want the comfort of American food finished with the right touch of caramel.

Based on 505 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
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.

03
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.

04
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.

05
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.

06
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.

07
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.

08
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.

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