ZipPicks Awards
Best Brunch in Near West Side
Master Critic Review
Ferrara Original Bakery
7.9
A Little Italy bakery-cafe that fits brunch best as a pastry-and-coffee stop with a strong “grab a few things and share” rhythm. Come for the case, build a mix of sweet and savory, and treat it as a quick daytime reset rather than a linger-long table brunch.
Must-Try Dishes:
Cannoli, Italian cookies, Pastries from the bakery case
Scores:
Value: 8.2
Service: 7.4
Consistency: 8
Food Quality: 8
Atmosphere: 6.7
Cultural Relevance: 8.1
What makes it special: A bakery-case-driven brunch stop built for pastries, coffee, and quick joy.
Who should go: Pastry-first brunch people
When to visit: Late morning for freshest case
What to order: Cannoli, Italian cookies, mixed pastries
Insider tip: Build a small assortment and share—variety is the best move here.
Logistics & Planning
Parking: Street parking is the main option in the area and can be competitive during peak brunch hours—plan a short walk and a little extra time, especially on weekends.
Dress code: Casual and comfortable—anything from athleisure to jeans and a sweater fits right in.
Noise level: Moderate - lively bakery-cafe energy with people ordering and chatting, but you can still hold a normal conversation.
Weekend wait: Not applicable - best as a daytime bakery-cafe stop rather than a true dinner destination.
Weekday lunch: Typically a short line at the counter; seating can fill up in a rush but turnover is quick.
Dietary Options
Vegetarian options: Yes - plenty of pastry-forward options and some simple savory bakery items typically work well for vegetarians.
Vegan options: Limited - most items lean dairy/egg-heavy; your best bet is coffee + a carefully chosen baked good if available that day.
Gluten-free options: Limited - traditional Italian bakery menus are flour-forward; treat this as a low-confidence spot for strict gluten-free needs.
Best For
Better for: Building your own brunch experience from the case—quick pastries, easy sharing, and a fast ‘treat run’ that feels cheerful without requiring a full sit-down commitment.
Consider Alternatives If: You want a classic table-service brunch with eggs, cocktails, and a slow hang. Also skip if you need reliably strong vegan or strict gluten-free options—this is a traditional bakery-first stop.