A Thousand Tales Restaurant / Bakery & Cafe — Restaurant in Elk Grove Township

A 1000 Tales Bakery & Restaurant - A Culinary Gem in Chicago

A 1000 Tales Bakery & Restaurant, located in the heart of Chicago, is a delightful destination that masterfully combines the art of baking with exceptional dining. This charming establishment at has quickly become a favorite among locals and visitors alike, offering a warm and inviting atmosphere that makes you feel right at home.

As you step into 1000 tales, the enticing aroma of freshly baked goods immediately welcomes you. The bakery section is a visual and olfactory delight, showcasing an impressive array of pastries, breads, and cakes. Each item is crafted with care and precision, using high-quality ingredients to ensure the best flavors. From flaky croissants and buttery Danish pastries to hearty loaves of sourdough and multigrain bread, there's something to satisfy every craving.

The star of the bakery, however, is the selection of cakes and specialty desserts. Whether you're looking for a decadent chocolate cake, a light and airy fruit tart, or a classic cheesecake, 1000 Tails delivers on all fronts. Their custom cakes are particularly noteworthy, perfect for celebrating special occasions with a personal touch. The talented bakers are always eager to create something unique and memorable for their customers.

Beyond the bakery, 1000 Tales boasts a full-service restaurant that offers a diverse and delectable menu. The ambiance is cozy yet elegant, making it an ideal spot for both casual meals and special gatherings. The breakfast and brunch options are a highlight, featuring everything from fluffy pancakes and perfectly cooked eggs benedict to healthy smoothie bowls and fresh fruit platters. The emphasis on fresh, locally sourced ingredients is evident in every dish, ensuring a satisfying and nutritious start to your day.

Lunchtime at 1000 Tails is equally impressive, with a menu that caters to a variety of tastes and dietary preferences. Whether you're in the mood for a hearty sandwich, a crisp and refreshing salad, or a comforting bowl of soup, the offerings are both delicious and beautifully presented. Standout dishes include their gourmet grilled cheese, packed with flavorful cheeses and served on freshly baked bread, and the vibrant quinoa salad, bursting with fresh vegetables and a zesty dressing.

Dinner at 1000 Tails elevates the dining experience even further. The menu features a range of carefully crafted dishes that highlight seasonal ingredients and culinary creativity. From succulent roasted chicken and tender steaks to flavorful vegetarian options and exquisite seafood dishes, there's something to please every palate. The attentive and knowledgeable staff enhance the experience, providing excellent service and thoughtful recommendations.

One of the unique aspects of 1000 Tails is its dedication to community and sustainability. The restaurant frequently collaborates with local farmers and suppliers, ensuring that ingredients are fresh and responsibly sourced. Additionally, the bakery and restaurant are committed to minimizing waste and implementing eco-friendly practices, making it a conscientious choice for diners.

In conclusion, 1000 Tails Bakery & Restaurant is a true gem in Chicago's vibrant culinary scene. Whether you're stopping by for a morning pastry, enjoying a leisurely brunch, or indulging in a memorable dinner, this establishment delivers an exceptional experience every time. The combination of outstanding baked goods, delicious meals, and a welcoming atmosphere makes 1000 Tails a must-visit destination for anyone...

Just had THE most incredible first experience at A Thousand Tales. I understand the name now, because it feels like we just stepped into a whole world and I can’t wait to go back. Came around brunch time and decided to sit on the enclosed terrace of the restaurant side and then head to the bakery side after for coffee and dessert (you can bring bakery items and order coffee in the restaurant, but you cannot take the restaurant food into the café). Both have such a beautiful and distinct vibe and setting.

On the covered patio we were greeted by lots of sunlight and high ceilings with hanging planters and a couple birds sweetly flying high above which really made it so charming. Our server, Yusuf (not sure if I’ve got the right spelling) was a delight. So kind and precious. The food was OUTSTANDING. I can’t remember the last time I enjoyed a meal that much. We ordered the beet spread for appetizer and it came along with their complimentary basket of fresh and delicious bread, and then split the Iskender for lunch. Oh. My. Gosh. One of the most flavorful and texturally balanced meat dishes I’ve ever ordered. I think it was actually better than the Iskender I had in Turkey that made me fall in love with this dish 😅 They were so sweet to offer a complimentary tea after, which was such a nice way to finish the meal. Walking out and to the bakery I was ogling everyone’s breakfast and lunch spreads on each table.

The bakery side is much more happening and vibrant of a vibe, with a few really cozy places to sit. The food from this side wasn’t as pleasing to me (we took a couple rolls to go), but I did enjoy the Princess baklava and olive paste stuffed bread. The feta stuffed bread didn’t have much feta, the almond cookie (can’t remember the name) tasted almost stale, and the pistachio dream wasn’t for me. But my mom’s coffee was delicious and the company was even better. Made casual friendly conversation with the people seated next to us and had a beautiful conversation about Central Asia, and now may plan to go there one day soon.

After finishing our coffee, we decided to check out Istanbul Market just down the corner as our table neighbors told us it was owned by the same people, and the journey continued as we were greeted by a whole new vibe and groceries and foods we had never seen before, and plenty of offerings to sample them.

I can’t wait to go visit Turkey again, just 20 minutes away from my mom’s Chicago suburb. Thank you to all the staff at A Thousand Tales. You truly gave us a memorable experience and are a part of something very special. We...

I can’t with a party of 12 for my cousins birthday, who made a reservation in advance, and were told only an HOUR before we arrived that we were limited to an iftar dinner menu (less options) for our 6 PM reservation as it was the first day of Ramadan. We understood and did not push back even though we believe we were not given ample warning about the limited menu options. We arrived and the table was set, the appetizers were alright but I’ve had much better (and from cheaper establishments than what they charge here), and the service at the beginning was receptive and engaging. However, as the evening progressed we became increasingly ignored, and felt increasingly disrespected, by the staff and waiters/waitresses. Ultimately, we continued to try and enjoy the evening and then time came to order our entrees (again, of which there were only 5 options max). First, they tell us they don’t have the döner kebab, which was the one thing I was looking forward to, and then to add insult to injury - after 5 of our guests ordered the braised beef option instead - the waitress comes back to notify us that they don’t have braised beef available either! At this point, the manager got involved and was apologetic about the situation - however their lack of an ample and sufficient substitution or resolution to the matter at hand, as well as his reluctance to want to accommodate a discount for the trouble that was beyond our control - as well as their attempt to charge me at the end for a plate/entree I ended up NEVER ordering, I was compelled to write this review. I get it, it’s the first day of Ramadan and iftar time, but as a business it is THEIR GODDAMN RESPONSIBILITY to be prepared. Have they been in business for many years or just a few months? For a place that has such hyped reviews, a history, and large enough space to accommodate hundreds, you would expect they would be run by competent management who know how to anticipate demand and are properly prepared and stocked for business. This is the last time I will ever be here, but the cost is not worth the time nor service quality. You’re better off eating at any other Turkish establishment,...