Living in Chicago, there are so many different options for desserts. From hot to cold and sweet to savory, there’s something for everyone! For me, I always go for the cold and unique desserts. If you are looking for a delicious way to satisfy your sweet tooth, then read on. Here are some of my all-time favorites:
5. Korean Shaved Ice AKA Bing-Soo
Photo: @vansventures at Java N Mug Cafe
If you ever need a delicious treat to cool you down, bingsoo is a must-have! Bingsoo is Korean shaved ice, topped with sweet ingredients. At Java N Mug, the bingsoo is topped with fresh fruit, red bean paste, scoops of ice cream, and condensed milk. If desired, they’ll also mix the ice with milk, to make it creamier! It’s a refreshing dessert that comes in a single, double or family-sized serving! If you want to get it as a meal, get the family-sized serving for yourself. I won’t judge. I would do the same! The sweetness from the toppings and the crunch from the ice, make an unbeatable pair.
FAB TIP: If you have more than 4 people sharing, order the family-sized serving and save some money.
{Location}
Java N Mug
North Park || 3247 W Bryn Mawr Ave, Chicago, IL || P: (773) 539-0407
{Price Range}
$ (Under $10)
{Fab Rating: 3.5 Fabs}
4. Funnel Cake Sundaes
Photo: @vansventures at Sugar Shack on 26th
If you’ve never had funnel cake, you’re missing out. It’s an old school traditional dessert found at summer festivals, fairs, and gatherings. My favorite is from Sugar Shack, on 26th street in Bridegport. They are opened only certain months of the year but they have some of the best old school ice cream, a dessert lover can ask for. They serve Edy’s ice cream which reminds me of going to grandma’s house for dessert. I grew up going with my family, so it brings up memories of my childhood. One of my favorites is the funnel cake, topped with Cookies ‘n Cream ice cream, granola, Nutella, whipped cream, and a cherry. Talk about irresistible. You’ll be fighting with your friends (if you’re sharing that is) on who will be getting that last bite! Better start practicing those fork techniques!
FAB TIP: Cash only. Opened seasonally, from summer to late fall only.
{Location}
Sugar Shack
Bridgeport || 630 W 26th St, Chicago, IL || P: (312) 225-6568
{Price Range}
$ (Under $10)
{Fab Rating: 3.5 Fabs}
3. Gelato
Photo: @vansventures at Amorino
Gelato, which is richer than ice cream, is a great option for dessert. My go-to spot is Amorino, which opened earlier this year. If you like the aesthetics of your dessert, then you should definitely check this place out! Not only is the gelato shaped like a flower, the flavor combinations are amazing. The colors are vibrant and the flavors are well executed. The creamy flavors are rich, while the fruity flavors are sweet and tart. I recently tried a fruity flavor combination which included mascarpone, mango, and raspberry. The thickness and creaminess of the mascarpone were well balanced by the fruity flavors of the mango and raspberry. I devoured the entire cone!
FAB TIP: Order first and pay at the register. Then pick your flavors. You can pick as many as you want but the suggested combo for the small is three!
{Location}
Amorino
Gold Coast || 838 N State St, Chicago, IL || P: (312) 266-7466
{Price Range}
$$ ($11-$35)
{Fab Rating: 4 Fabs}
2. Dessert Arepas
Photo: @vansventures at Puesto Sandwich Stand
Arepas are flatbreads that are made with cooked flour or ground maize dough. Although it is usually used for savory dishes, you have to try it in dessert form! Puesto Sandwich Stand in Lakeview makes a great dessert arepas. It’s an sweet arepa sandwich with sliced bananas and a slather of Nutella in between. Then, it’s topped with a scoop of house-made coconut ice cream. The contrast between the warmth of the arepas and the coolness of the ice cream, bring a whole new sensation to your taste buds. This is a great dessert for any weather!
FAB TIP: Eat it quickly. The ice cream melts on top of the arepas almost immediately.
{Location}
Puesto Sandwich Stand
Lakeview || 3349 N Sheffield Ave, Chicago, IL || P: (773) 661-2490
{Price Range}
$ (Under $10)
{Fab Rating: 4 Fabs}
1. Ice Cream
Photo: @vansventures at Jeni’s Splendid Ice Cream
Ice cream is an old childhood favorite for many people. You didn’t think I’d leave it off the list, did you? My favorite place to go for ice cream is Jeni’s. Jeni’s Ice Cream started in Ohio in 2002 by Jeni Britton Bauer. Since then, she has expanded her scoop shops all over the United States. The first location in Chicago opened on Southport Avenue in Lakeview. It became so popular, they opened a second location in Wicker Park. They serve some seriously different ice cream flavors such as sun-popped corn, root beer, black currant frozen yogurt and more. By the way, the waffle cones are made in-house. My favorites include the brambleberry crisp, wildberry lavender and Savannah buttermint. Dessert is always a treat at Jeni’s!
FAB TIP: Get the waffle cone. It’s made fresh, in-house every day.
{Locations}
Jeni’s Splendid Ice Cream
Lakeview || 3404 N Southport Ave, Chicago, IL || P: (773) 348-7139
Wicker Park || 1505 N Milwaukee Ave, Chicago, IL || P: (872) 802-4668
{Price Range}
$ (Under $10)
{Fab Rating: 4.5 Fabs}
Do you have any unique desserts that you think deserve some attention? Share with me in the comments below!
Until the next venture!
With love,
Van
Note: These desserts were not complimentary. The views and opinions expressed herein are those of the writer.
