XO Marshmallow, located in Rogers Park, is Chicago’s first marshmallow-themed cafe and dessert spot. It’s a wonderland devoted to ooey, gooey, fluffy, squishy, melt-in-your mouth marshmallow treats. Menu items include hot drinks like the Toasted Marshmallow Latte (need I say more?), iced drinks (frozen hot chocolate, anyone?), s’mores (think donuts and tacos) and more.
It’s #NationalToastedMarshmallowDay (wait… who comes up with these holidays?) and I can’t think of a better place to be than XO Marshmallow, where all your soft, pillowy dreams come true. You will feel the nostalgia of sipping hot chocolate on a cold Chicago day, making s’mores by a roaring campfire, or stuffing countless marshmallows in your mouth to see how many would fit (or was that just my childhood?).
Fab Review: XO Marshmallow // Exterior // Photo: @fabsoopark
Meet Lindzi and Kat, co-owners of XO Marshmallow aka #girlbosses. Lindzi, who is also the Founder of The Trendy Sparrow, does all the marketing and photography and is an expert at roasting marshmallows with a torch. Thus, earning the title, S’mores Sommelier (how cool is that?). Kat is THE Expert Marshmallowist Maven. She comes up with all the recipes and makes sure all the flavors are executed perfectly. Did I mention she also has a law degree? She began experimenting with marshmallows back in law school, where she would make unique creations for her classmates. Needless to say, they were a hit.
Lindzi and Kat joined forces in 2016 and started their online store. Customers would constantly ask if they had a physical store where they could purchase the marshmallows. So they started a Kickstarter campaign and XO Marshmallow was born.
Fab Review: XO Marshmallow // Co-Owners: Lindzi and Kat // Photo: Courtesy of XO Marshmallow
{Ambiance}
The space is small but adorable. You’ll find pops of bright colors on the doors and walls.
Fab Review: XO Marshmallow // Interior // Photo: Courtesy of XO Marshmallow
You’ll also find cute sayings like “i love you s’mores” and “you have great taste, darling” adorned throughout the whimsical space. #thatsdarling
Fab Review: XO Marshmallow // Interior // Photo: @topchicagoeats
{Treats}
Marshmallows
The gourmet marshmallows are handcrafted and made in-house in small batches. Some of their flavors include vanilla, salted caramel, lavender honey, bourbon, strawberry, champagne, and my personal favorite… coffee kahlua.
FAB TIP: Marshmallows can be bought as a single serving or a set of 12.
Fab Review: XO Marshmallow // Interior // Photo: @fabsoopark
They also feature rotating monthly flavors like passion fruit, ube, and green tea. And if things couldn’t get any sweeter… they have chocolate dipped marshmallows on a stick.
Fab Review: XO Marshmallow // Marshmallows // Photo: @fabsoopark
Donut S’more
The Donut S’more is delightful and absolutely the cutest. Sandwiched between the gluten-free donut cookies are a squeeze of chocolate and a soft, toasted Mars’halo (marshmallow halo). You donut want to miss out on this menu item!
Fab Review: XO Marshmallow // Donut S’more // Photo: @fabsoopark
S’maco (S’more Taco)
Now, let’s taco ’bout how creative the S’maco is. The crispy waffle taco shell is filled with divine chocolate, and three delectable toasted marshmallows. We chose the create-your-own where you can pick your flavors and toppings because who doesn’t love sprinkles.
Fab Review: XO Marshmallow // S’maco // Photo: @fabsoopark
Frozen S’more
The Frozen S’more is a refreshing drink with a little energy kick. I don’t know about you, but I need my coffee every day. The drink is made with dark roast cold brew and a drizzle of chocolate. Then it’s topped with torched OMG (ooey marshmallow goodness) and graham cracker crumbs. Who wants s’more?
Fab Review: XO Marshmallow // Frozen S’more // Photo: @fabsoopark
And, here’s how it’s made. Watch it in full screen.
{Experience}
XO Marshmallow is a fun place where you’ll have happy thoughts like rainbows and unicorns. The decor and service will put a smile on your face and the treats will make your taste buds dance. The menu is creative, and you’ll want to keep coming back to the try each and every one of their marshmellowy goodness. The owners are super nice and helpful so don’t be afraid to say “hello”.
FAB TIP: Closed on Mondays.
{Location}
XO Marshmallow
Rogers Park || 6977 N Sheridan Rd, Chicago, IL || P: (872) 484-0011
{Price Range}
$$ ($11-$36)
{Fab Rating: 4 Fabs}
Have you been? Who wants to go back with me? Share your thoughts below.
Live the Fab Food Life,
Soo
Note: These treats were complimentary. However, the views and opinions expressed herein are those of the writer.
