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Lutz Cafe & Pastry Shop
Master Critic Review
Lutz Cafe & Pastry Shop
8.2
Lutz Cafe & Pastry Shop is a decades-old European-style bakery and cafe on Montrose known for tortes, marzipan cakes, and a shaded back garden. Generations of Chicagoans use it for celebration cakes, coffee and pastry dates, and relaxed afternoon desserts.
Must-Try Dishes:
Black Forest cannoli, Marzipan cake, Fruit tart
Scores:
Value: 8.4
Service: 6.5
Consistency: 8.6
Food Quality: 8.5
Atmosphere: 8.2
Cultural Relevance: 8.8
What makes it special: Long-running European pastry shop with a rare garden patio in back.
Who should go: Dessert lovers planning celebrations or lingering afternoon treats.
When to visit: Afternoons for relaxed coffee, cake, and garden seating.
What to order: Black Forest cannoli, marzipan cake slice, seasonal fruit tart.
Insider tip: Reserve whole tortes well in advance during holidays and graduation season.
Logistics & Planning
Parking: Street parking on Montrose and nearby residential blocks; generally easier midday than evenings
Dress code: Casual to smart casual; anything from jeans to date-night attire feels appropriate
Noise level: Low to moderate — conversations are easy indoors and very calm in the garden patio
Weekend wait: Usually no wait for pastry and cafe seating, but patio tables may have short delays in warm weather
Weekday lunch: Typically no wait
Dietary Options
Vegetarian options: Yes — many pastries and some savory items are vegetarian-friendly
Vegan options: Limited — most pastries contain butter, cream, or eggs
Gluten-free options: Very limited — most desserts rely on traditional European recipes using wheat flour
Good to Know
Is this good for a first date? Yes — it’s relaxed, charming, and low-pressure, especially if you sit in the back garden with coffee and cake.
Can I get a table without a reservation? Yes — seating is generally first-come, first-served, and reservations are rarely necessary except for large groups.
Is it kid-friendly? Yes — families are common, and the garden patio is especially welcoming. Best for children who can sit comfortably at a cafe table.
Best For
Better for: European-style tortes, marzipan cakes, and a leisurely dessert experience in a charming garden setting
Skip if: You’re looking for trendy pastry hybrids, extensive savory brunch menus, or vegan/gluten-free dessert options