0 Followers
Hendrickx Belgian Bread Crafter
Master Critic Review
Hendrickx Belgian Bread Crafter
8.8
Opened in 2010 by Belgian chef Renaud Hendrickx, this tiny Gold Coast bakery turns out hand-crafted Belgian breads, croissants, and pastries just off Michigan Avenue. Locals and hotel concierges send people here for croissants, country loaves, and sweets that feel more Old World than tourist strip.
Must-Try Dishes:
Nutcracker cake, Handmade Belgian croissants, White chocolate bread
Scores:
Value: 8.4
Service: 7.8
Consistency: 8.8
Food Quality: 9.2
Atmosphere: 7.2
Cultural Relevance: 8.6
What makes it special: A Belgian-run bakery focused on long-fermented breads and 13-plus croissant varieties, tucked just off Michigan Avenue.
Who should go: Travelers and locals chasing serious croissants near the Mag Mile.
When to visit: Morning through early afternoon before favorites sell out.
What to order: Nutcracker cake, any croissant, Belgian country bread.
Insider tip: Call ahead for whole loaves or specialty cakes if you’re shopping nearby—they often sell out by midafternoon.
Logistics & Planning
Parking: No dedicated lot — limited metered street parking and nearby paid garages along Michigan Avenue; plan a short walk during peak hours.
Dress code: Casual — bakery and takeaway-focused; comfortable daytime wear is typical.
Noise level: Low to moderate — small space with light counter-service chatter, still fine for conversation.
Weekend wait: Not applicable — bakery operates primarily daytime hours.
Weekday lunch: Short line at peak hours; 5–10 minutes when popular croissants are releasing from the oven.
Dietary Options
Vegetarian options: Yes — most pastries and breads are vegetarian, though some items contain ham or meats; ask at the counter.
Vegan options: Limited — most croissants and pastries use butter; a few breads may work for vegan diners.
Gluten-free options: Very limited — bakery specializes in traditional wheat-based baking and does not advertise a dedicated gluten-free program.
Good to Know
Is this good for a first date? Yes — better for a casual morning pastry stop or short coffee-and-croissant date than a long sit-down outing, given the compact space and takeaway focus.
Can I get a table without a reservation? There are no reservations — seating is minimal and first-come, first-served; many guests take pastries to go.
Is it kid-friendly? Yes — families stop in for pastries and sweets, but there’s limited space for strollers and no dedicated children’s menu.
Best For
Better for: Authentic Old World–style croissants, hand-crafted breads, and pastry quality that feels more artisanal than nearby tourist-heavy bakeries.
Skip if: You want full café seating, savory meal service, or extensive vegan/gluten-free options — a larger café or sit-down bakery may be a better fit.