
5

"Set to open a walk-up window in Avondale at 3453 N. Albany Avenue in early 2021, this shop is the project of Chicago pastry chef Angela Diaz, who grew a grocery-shelf cookie business into a brand sold in 15+ Chicago markets and shipped nationwide. The to-go window will center on cookies, ice cream sandwiches, and a specialty coffee blend, with staples including triple chocolate chip, oatmeal blueberry, and vegan chocolate chip cookie dough alongside rotating flavors like s'mores and a panadería-inspired sprinkle crunch. An on-site soft-serve machine will produce whole-milk and oat-milk soft serve to be sandwiched between cookies, and Diaz plans collaborations with other chefs on unusual ice cream flavors and a potential partnership with a local roaster for a signature coffee blend. Having worked at spots such as Cherry Circle Room, Owen & Engine, and the now-closed Trenchermen, and driven by her own gluten sensitivity, she emphasizes inclusive, allergy-friendly options. Largely a one-person operation aided by friends, the business weathered pandemic-related wholesale losses but remains focused on delivering playful, nostalgic treats designed to make customers feel like a kid." - Naomi Waxman