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Best Instagram Worthy Wonders Restaurants in North Center

2 hand-picked restaurants, critic-reviewed and ranked

Last Updated: February 2026

Our Top Pick
Au Levain Bakery & Cafe
French-style laminated pastries with serious technique in a casual cafe.

Notable Picks

$$ North Center Bakery, Brunch
Au Levain Bakery & Cafe in North Center focuses on classic French laminated pastries, cakes, and a small cafe menu built around high-quality ingredients. Locals line up for croissants, kouign amann, and coffee in a bright counter-service space that works best for quick visits and small catch-ups.
Must-Try Dishes: Plain croissant, Kouign amann, Breakfast sandwich on house English muffin
What makes it special: French-style laminated pastries with serious technique in a casual cafe.
$$ North Center Ice Cream
An old-school ice cream parlor and candy counter that wins on hot-fudge sundaes, banana splits, and the full retro experience. Treat it like a sundae-first stop: pick one classic build, lean into the warm fudge, and let the portions do the rest.
Must-Try Dishes: Hot Fudge Banana Split, Turtle Sundae, Royal George Sundae
What makes it special: A long-running Chicago ice cream parlor built around big sundaes and hot fudge.