Raised Bakery and Cafe — Restaurant in West Chicago

I had never visited the West Chicago downtown area prior to today but wanted to check out this brand new bakery called Raised Bakery and Cafe. The vibes inside are welcoming and modern (definitely “come in and stay a while"), and I was immediately greeted. There is a nice selection of high top tables and low tables with seating for groups of two or four with a larger table towards the back. Large, clean bathrooms too!

I ordered my baked goods to go and also got an Americano. They pulled a super tasty and smooth espresso for my Americano, but I would have loved for half-and-half to be offered. (I was told the options were whole, skim, and oat.) I did not check at the coffee cream/sugar station for half-and-half, so that may be on me!

The pastries were fantastic. The snickerdoodles had a great crunch on the outside but a soft and chewy interior. The chocolate chip cookies were thick but fully baked in the center. (I need to know their secret!) The scones and muffin were the perfect accompaniment to my coffee, and I will enjoy more tonight with some tea. Based on taste, the in-house bakery is clearly well-stocked with quality ingredients, and I overheard the owner telling another customer how she uses fresh-frozen berries in her pastries and not the dried option.

I heard people talking how the offerings of food will be expanded in the new year, and I can't wait to try more. I always love supporting small business and this one is not...

This cafe is a wonderful place to enjoy a delicious pastry and a cool beverage. My ham and cheese croissant and pomegranate ice tea were delicious! Great options to choose from for a morning or afternoon treat. Customer service was top notch and you can feel the small town community service from Yolanda and her team. Perfect environment to just hang out or bring your laptop to catch up on work. I highly recommend you stop by and stay a little while. Looking forward to next time to try...

Raised has great music and very friendly and kind staff, I greatly appreciate Yolanda the head hancho over there she is very nice and makes great frutatas for breakfast and cinnamon rolls also if you can eat all that in one sitting...if not definitely worth saving for later or to share with a friend or neighbor 😀 share the love, food is love music is love, today try to love in all the ways you...