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Molly's Cupcakes (Streeterville)
Master Critic Review
Molly's Cupcakes (Streeterville)
8.5
The Streeterville outpost of Molly’s brings the brand’s stuffed center cupcakes, swings, and schoolhouse-inspired room to the Illinois and McClurg corner. It functions as a dessert stop and casual hangout, with a long list of signature flavors and build-your-own options for people heading to or from Navy Pier.
Must-Try Dishes:
Crème Brûlée cupcake, Award-winning red velvet cupcake, Tres leches cupcake
Scores:
Value: 7.4
Service: 6.8
Consistency: 8.4
Food Quality: 8.8
Atmosphere: 8.2
Cultural Relevance: 8.3
What makes it special: Stuffed cupcakes in playful flavors served in a whimsical, swing-lined Streeterville space.
Who should go: Cupcake fans and groups heading to Navy Pier or the river.
When to visit: Afternoons and early evenings for best flavor selection.
What to order: Crème Brûlée cupcake, red velvet, daily seasonal special.
Insider tip: Grab a filled cupcake and a coffee, then walk a block east to enjoy it along the river or on the way to Navy Pier.
Logistics & Planning
Parking: Street parking is limited and metered; most guests use nearby paid garages along Illinois St. and McClurg Ct., especially during evenings and weekends.
Dress code: Casual — come as you are; most people stop in before/after nearby attractions.
Noise level: Moderate — generally conversational, but can spike when groups and families cycle through.
Weekend wait: 10–25 minutes at peak dessert hours after 7pm, especially in summer and Navy Pier event nights.
Weekday lunch: Typically no wait, with steady but quick-moving traffic.
Dietary Options
Vegetarian options: Yes — most cupcakes and desserts are vegetarian-friendly.
Vegan options: Limited — availability varies by day; expect 1–2 rotating vegan options at most.
Gluten-free options: Occasional gluten-free options; not prepared in a dedicated gluten-free facility, so cross-contact is possible.
Good to Know
Is this good for a first date? Yes — it works well as a playful, low-pressure dessert stop with counter seating and swings, better for casual dates than long conversations.
Can I get a table without a reservation? Yes — it’s walk-in only. Seating is first-come, and tables turn quickly; plan to wait a few minutes during evening rushes.
Is it kid-friendly? Yes — very kid-friendly, with bright decor and plenty of shareable cupcakes; strollers fit best during off-peak hours.
Best For
Better for: Playful, stuffed-center cupcakes and a fun, photo-friendly space near Navy Pier that works as a destination dessert stop.
Skip if: You need extensive vegan or gluten-free selections, or prefer a quiet sit-down bakery experience with long stays.