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The Bakehouse Chicago
Master Critic Review
The Bakehouse Chicago
8.3
The Bakehouse Chicago is a Latin-leaning bakery and café where egg-and-cheese bagels, smoked salmon plates, and breakfast bagels share space with laminated pastries and strong coffee. It’s a go-to in Roscoe Village for a slightly upgraded bagel breakfast in a casual, sunlit room.
Must-Try Dishes:
Egg & Cheese Bagel, Smoked Salmon Plate on bagel, Breakfast Bagel sandwich
Scores:
Value: 8.4
Service: 8.3
Consistency: 8.6
Food Quality: 9
Atmosphere: 6.5
Cultural Relevance: 7.5
What makes it special: Family-run bakery where bagel breakfasts sit beside serious pastries.
Who should go: Brunchers wanting real bagels plus strong coffee and pastries.
When to visit: Early mornings for fresher bagels and easier seating.
What to order: Egg & Cheese Bagel, Smoked Salmon Plate on bagel, Breakfast Bagel.
Insider tip: Ask for your smoked salmon plate on a toasted everything bagel.
Logistics & Planning
Parking: Street parking in Roscoe Village; generally available but can tighten during brunch rush.
Dress code: Casual and relaxed — coffee shop attire is perfectly fine.
Noise level: Moderate — conversational but can get lively during peak brunch hours.
Weekend wait: Not applicable — primarily a breakfast/lunch café.
Weekday lunch: Usually minimal wait, though the pastry/coffee line may move steadily during rush.
Dietary Options
Vegetarian options: Good options — egg sandwiches, pastries, and customizable bagels.
Vegan options: Limited — some bagels and spreads may work, but most breakfast sandwiches contain dairy or eggs.
Gluten-free options: Limited — traditional bagels and pastries are wheat-based, and gluten-free substitutes are not standard.
Good to Know
Is this good for a first date? Yes — it works well for a casual daytime date with coffee and pastries, especially if you want something low-key and not overly formal.
Can I get a table without a reservation? Yes — seating is first-come, first-served. Arrive earlier on weekends for the best chance at a table.
Is it kid-friendly? Yes — families are common, and the menu is approachable for kids. Space is casual, but strollers may feel tight during peak hours.
Best For
Better for: A slightly elevated bagel-and-pastry brunch where the baked goods feel more artisan than your average bagel shop.
Skip if: You want New York-style purist bagels only or need extensive gluten-free or vegan options.