Bakery and Pickle

This has been a constant spot for myself and my girlfriend. If you’re looking for the best cocktail bar in Bloomington/Normal, great food and atmosphere this is the place. Cullen, one of the bartenders there, whipped me up a fantastic rye New York sour with a dash of ginger liqueur. One of my favorites so far. Definitely give this place a try!

This is such a fun experience!! We have visited previously for "the experience," but this time, we ordered items off the menu. (BLT, smashburger, roasted broccoli, brownie) Both times, we loved our dishes and would absolutely recommend this restaurant to anyone who likes to try new foods. Fun for a date night, special occasion, or just because. I love the decoration from the Edison bulbs to the artwork to the speakeasy aesthetic. The bar is beautiful. The dishes are delicious. It's definitely worth checking out!!

Arrived early to drink at the bar, Cullen made sure we didn't leave the bar. Dinner was excellent (steak frites), and the bespoke cocktails matched every dish. Bakery and Pickle is not to be missed!

Such a fun and unique experience I definitely recommend stopping in! Don’t forget the password when you make your reservation or the hostess will make you do a dance or tell a joke so be prepared! They had a future cocktail of the evening, but also an extensive full bar! The bar itself is beautiful and I would definitely come back just to sit there for cocktails in the future. The food was delicious even though it’s not a large menu there’s definitely something for everybody. The main highlight though was our server Kaitlin. She really made the experience exceptional - she was friendly, prompt with her service, offered great suggestions and ensured that we had a wonderful experience for our first time. The experience was very unique and I highly recommend stopping in - Just don’t forget the password!

Our fourth visit and once again it did not disappoint! They have a small menu done really well with fresh ingredients. (The only complaint would be some things were a bit salty for our taste.) The cocktails were unique and delicious and the service was awesome. We will definitely be back soon!

I came in tonight with my wife and we had an excellent time! Cullen was an exceptional bartender. He made us 2 Peach Cobbler cocktails and they were outstanding. Highly recommend 🥂

Title: A Beautiful Meal, Ruined by Horrible Service I rarely write reviews, but after this experience, I felt compelled to warn others about the disastrous service at this bakery and pickle. The food here is genuinely good—fresh, flavorful, and clearly prepared with care. But that’s where the positives end. Our experience was marred from the moment we were seated. My sister asked our server about the prix-fixe courses, and he responded by rudely cutting her off, saying, “There’s an order to things. No need to rush. Let her choose her drink first.” It was an unnecessarily harsh and condescending way to speak to a guest, especially one who was simply trying to understand the menu. Throughout the meal, the service only worsened. While we saw the server checking in on the other tables with multiple questions about their meals, he barely acknowledged us. He only asked how everything was once, during the fourth course. Between courses, our water glasses sat empty for 20 minutes, and the table remained unrefilled, which felt like a basic courtesy that was sorely neglected. Then, when the steak arrived, it was cold and the side dish was completely different from what we were told it would be. We waited another 15 minutes to get his attention and let him know, only for him to dismiss our concerns. He insisted that the prix-fixe was different from what we had ordered (though this was never explained to us in the first place) and said he would get the manager—without offering an apology. The “manager,” who came over 15 minutes later, didn’t introduce himself. He didn’t ask us what went wrong. Instead, he just picked up our plates and offered a digestive drink “on the house” without any context or consideration for my sister’s allergies. When we declined, he simply walked away. We still hadn’t been apologized to for the terrible service. Finally, after being ignored for so long, we asked for a manager again. The same man returned, saying he didn’t realize it was a “needing a manager type of situation.” His response to our frustration? “I’m sorry you feel that way.” That was it. No genuine apology, no acknowledgment of the poor service or the mistakes made. When he mentioned they were short-staffed because a colleague had experienced a family tragedy, it still didn’t excuse the rudeness and neglect we endured. This was the first time I’ve ever felt the need to call over a manager in my life, and as a young woman in my early 20s, I’m disappointed to say that I’ve never been treated with such disrespect. I saved up for this meal to treat my sister, and what should have been a special experience was ruined by a lack of professionalism and basic hospitality. Cullen, the server, and Shane, the manager, have certainly left a lasting impression—unfortunately, not for the right reasons. If you’re looking for a pleasant dining experience with thoughtful service to match the good food, I would strongly recommend looking elsewhere. This place may have potential, but it’s clear that customer service isn’t a priority here.

Perfect for a special night out. The atmosphere is very sophisticated yet relaxed. And honestly the prices aren't that bad given how nice it is here! The charcuterie board (adult lunchables) was beautiful. Forgot to take a picture of the pickled onion rings, but they were fantastic!!

Such a fun and unique experience I definitely recommend stopping in! Don't forget the password when you make your reservation or the hostess will make you do a dance or tell a joke so be prepared! They had a future cocktail of the evening, but also an extensive full bar! The bar itself is beautiful and I would definitely come back just to sit there for cocktails in the future. The food was delicious even though it's not a large menu there's definitely something for everybody. The main highlight though was our server Kaitlin. She really made the experience exceptional - she was friendly, prompt with her service, offered great suggestions and ensured that we had a wonderful experience for our first time. The experience was very unique and I highly recommend stopping in - Just don't forget the password!

From the moment you check in and give the password, to get into the restaurant, it is a fun experience with great food great cocktails, and great service! We had shrimp cocktail, grilled oysters, and my boyfriend had MahiMahi which he loved. I had the chicken and it was delicious. Epiphany farms owns this restaurant and the food is just as yummy! Definitely recommend! Our waitress was sensational and made the experience even better!

A speakeasy and restaurant!!? Yessss please! I won't let the secret out but getting into the restaurant is an adventure on its own, which I love! The service was impeccable! We had our waiter and others checking on us constantly. They also gave great suggestions as we had several questions. There are several unique options for food and drink. Don't be afraid to drive in! All the food and drinks that we had were amazing. Atmosphere is a cool cozy romantic vibe. Good for girls night or a romantic date. 10/10 would recommend

First off, WOW. So my family and I were traveling back from Chicago and we found this spot on Yelp. To be fair, I had no idea about the speakeasy component, I just saw good looking food. We walk in to what appears to be an extremely small shop; confused, we asked if food was only for takeout. The sweet hostess hinted that it was a speakeasy and asked for a password (which we very evidently did not know). After a few minutes, she told us to find a way in, which to our surprise, we did. Once we were in, we were met with a gorgeous, moody ambiance and more amazing staff. When we ordered and got our food I was blown away by the intense flavors and unique pairings like bone marrow cornbread and squash flatbread. Everything was delightful!

Had the two for ten bucks which was very good. Two Shrimp which was good, service was great.

I love speakeasy's. This little hidden gem was all the rage. We entered through a book shelf and we're sat at a table. All the drinks were delicious and they have a mock tail list. The food is more tapas and family style sharing. The vibe is amazing. If the muscles are on the menu GET THEM. The adult lunchable is a huge charcuterie board and is had the most delicious pickles.

Damn good! Everyone was outstanding...as well,the food! I could have licked my plate! Big portions and piping hot! Need to go back! ...and don't forget your password!

Went for my birthday. They sure did it right. Everything about this place is excellent. Over the top.

What a fun place! Cool vibe and great food. We shared a lot of food. Oysters, shrimp, beet ceviche, corn bread Madeline's, shishito peppers and pickle bowl. I had the gnocchi for my main and let's not forget dessert, peach dream cake and brownie. Yes, a lot of food. My favorite was the corn bread ceviche, gnocchi and peach dream cake! They had great cocktails as well. Have fun and order a few things. They also did a nice job in helping with dairy free options.

This is a very interesting, unique place! The bread and butter appetizer was amazing! The fried chicken sandwich was also really good and I appreciate that they could make it plain. The menu is fairly limited. I wish the menu had more options for those that are not adventurous with food. The place was also kind of dark and loud and it was difficult to talk among our table. It was also very odd that they charged $2 to pour whiskey neat. Why does that cost an additional $2???!!

This was a nightcap stop for us. The dessert menu had plenty of options. We had a banana croissant with fruit. It was tasty. There were plenty of drink specials. I had a whisky sour with egg whites. It's rare to find a bar that mixes drinks with egg whites. It was delish. The service was good and atmosphere was very speak easy.

Amazing atmosphere. If you are looking for something cool, interesting, and upscale this s the place for you. They nailed the speak easy environment. The service was great. They have an excellent selection of liquor. The food was incredible. We went with the salmon and smash burger. Both were incredible, their fries are amazing.

The best restaurant in Bloomington. It has the best food in Blono and it is all organic. The bar is excellent and the bartenders are well trained. The cocktails are unique and delicious. James the bartender is awesome, and Vincent is one of the coolest guys you'll ever meet. I cannot recommend this place enough for someone interested in a different dining experience with incredible food.

Excellent staff and ambience! Nice little hidden gem in downtown Bloomington. Bartender is awesome!

Cool Experience I've been to a couple speak easy style bars like this. You always end up paying up for the experience. The only thing I missed with this place was selection of cocktails. There was a lack of options in my opinion, and there were much less liquor options than most speak easy style bars offer. Usually there are multiple extra premium items that are mixed to create a 12-16 dollar cocktail. This was more run of the mill standard fair that every bar has to offer. I would definitely be willing to give it another try if the menu was buffed up, the decorum is great.

So impressed with the food service and above and beyond love they showed to our graduate! Served a bottle of venue champagne to our family. Totally unexpected and fully appreciated!!!!

Love the atmosphere and love the speakeasy entrance. Music notes on the wall were nice. The drinks are great and so is the bartender and waitress

Second best in Bloomington Normal. The little password thing at the door is charming. Good and drinks are great.

Bakery and Pickle provides an amazing dining experience! Great food, exceptional service, and a fun atmosphere. If you want to really treat yourself on a special occassion, order "the experience". It's an incredible culinary experience.

Never in my life... $2.00 extra to pour whiskey neat... I need 34 more characters to post this. I didn't want to take that much time. Do not recommend.

Always a great experience here, delicious food, good selection of quality spirits, the bread and sexy butter are amazing, definitely try the cheese plate, and the tasting experience is always a ton of food! Welcoming service and a quaint ambiance with the cool speakeasy feel.

BloNo, get slightly dressed up ( bus casual) and sashay in here! We had a great 2 hours of feasting and drinking and then waddled home. It's a nice space with comfy atmosphere - not stuffy or pretentious at all. The excellent: Walk in and get greeted with an apertif cocktail and small pintxos nibble plate before being escorted to your table. The tables are set with actual silver and a mix of old timey china. The apertif was light and lemony topped with prosecco. The nibbles consisted of a variety of meats, seafood, pickled veggies and cracker. We sat first at the bar to start with some giggle water. ;) Super comfy barstools! I had The Final Word. It was light, fruity and had a yummy, dark, sweet cherry garnish. There's an option to add on egg white but I skipped that this time. Once settled at our table, The Experience menu ($35/person) was looked over to decide entree. Everything else on the menu comes out so the only choice you make is the entree. All courses are served family style with one entree per two people. So a vegan and a carnivore have to arm wrestle for it! Kidding! All the entrees that we saw come out to other tables looked fantastic. We opted for the prime grade NY strip steak ($10/person upcharge). It was buttery soft, moist, PERFECTLY cooked medium rare (possibly cooked sous vide). Best NY strip I've ever had. However, the shape of it was odd and the texture really threw me because it was sooo soft. We also ordered an additional course - house baked bread with sexy butter. Very nice but it's a lot of bread for two people especially along with the meal. Then came the three 1st course items: flatbread, salad loaded with farm to table goodies and crispy bluegill sliders. Desserts were a delightful funnel cake and chocolate cake with frozen custard. Neither was overly sweet - just right! Servers/bartenders were great and everything was timed nicely. We were told their late menu, after 8:30, includes snacky items plus a steak and a burger option. The ONLY flaws: sexy butter, while excellent, came out too hard. And they are having a/c issues so it was a little warm in there. Otherwise, a most excellent evening. Thanks, B&P!

Incredible experience. The atmosphere was warm, dimly lit, and inviting. The dining area was intimate. Our service was excellent-so prompt and friendly. The food. How can I even describe how delicious? We ordered "The experience" and it truly was. From the fresh veg, to the sexy butter to the shrimp on grits I was in heaven. My husband said the banana tiramisu was the best he had ever had. We enjoyed two Old Fashions throughout. I will recommend this gem to everyone I know and we will be returning. Epiphany Farms you have done it again!

I was really excited to try this place. The ambiance was okay, food was a 5/10. First course, the corn bread was really dry and the dessert was such a let down. The waitress and staff were fabulous. Really wish it was a 10/10, bur left feeling let down.

The food was good, and I really want to like this place, but the service and ambience were lacking. The service was amateurish. The waiter rushed us even though there were empty tables and our drinks were taking forever (pushing us to order before we had our drinks, asking us if we wanted dessert while we were only halfway through our meals) and the timing was off. The music was uncomfortably loud -like we were in a late night bar or nightclub, rather than a restaurant at 6:30pm -which made it difficult to converse without shouting. We asked several times, and several staff members, if they could lower the volume. They'd say sure, and then wouldn't. The food can't compensate for an unpleasant experience, sadly.

The atmosphere and concept were absolutely amazing. Retro speakeasy vibes, elegant and creative decor. The waiter and waitress were well dressed too. The food had a wonderful presentation. Very cool ideas but too many options. I'm slightly upset about some of the food, such as the mussels. They're just average in terms of taste. But the pickle bowl, pork flatbread, and peanut butter chicken were very tasty. Another thing that upsets me is that how exclusive they try to be. It's hard to be walk in, and you will feel judged by the waitress if you underdress. Those things make the eating not fun

I should have written this review 3 months ago. I would probably have more to say and more details. I had gone all out for Valentine's Day to give my lady something special. The only thing I had not done it make reservations anywhere to eat. I don't know why I thought that any places would have availability. I stumbled across Bakery and Pickle. They were offering "The Ultimate Valentines Day Experience." I had never heard of it and knew very little about the restaurant. The price tag for the experience was pretty high. However, I had very little options so I decided to make reservations. I parked in the parking garage like the website suggestions. I was not quite sure where it was located. They do not have sign outside which was confusing at first. We were greeted by the friendly hostess. My wife informs me that she has heard of the place before and it's a speakeasy-style restaurant. The no sign made sense after that. I did not need the password provided. I do not want to give away all the fun of entering the dining room. Even though, I'm sure other reviews give it away. The Bakery and Pickle has appeared to remove the list of the food provided for The Ultimate Valentines Day Experience. I will say this...AMAZING. I have tried foods that I thought I would never eat. I'm not a seafood fan but I had the most delicious oyster. Best thing I have tasted in years. There were around 6 courses including dessert. Our server was really friendly and attentive. A gentleman...not sure if he was the owner...came to our table to get our opinion of the place. When I discuss my experience here, I rate it as my top dining experience. I read someone knock the place giving the vibes you can be under-dressed. I thought getting dressed up was part of the fun. I rarely eat anywhere that requires more than a shirt and jeans. I bought some new clothes just to wear for it. I want to return for one of there regular dining experiences soon. I am glad Bloomington has place like this now.

Grading on a curve here as this is Blo-No. . .There is a cheese/kitsch factor; mismatched dinnerware, silly speakeasy-style entry and password, use of the word "experience" in abundance. Nonetheless, the atmosphere/aesthetic is super cool and unmatched in this geographical area. The vibe is chill and sophisticated. (Side note: loud backward baseball hat people/t-shirt people, please go elsewhere) I was impressed with the skill of cookery, flavors were solid, and the ingredients were fresh and well thought out. It was great to see the diversity in the staff. Definitely going back and so pleased that this town even has a place as cool as this.

I loved Bakery and Pickle! A work partner of mine recommended this spot, and it did not disappoint. When you first enter the restaurant they offer you your first course in front of one of the chefs at a bar with a drink. Once you sit down they bring several seasonal dishes and one large entree that you choose to share. My coworker and I chose the vegan risotto and were not disappointed. I think this was one of the best meals I've ever had.

Great experience. Hoping they are able to open up more evenings and hours Food, service, environment were great

Simply put. A fun dining experience and great atmosphere. Food was DELICIOUS! Went for my birthday and the made it special!

We were very excited to try " the experience " but unfortunately disappointed. I'm glad that there is a different twist on dinning in Bloomington but the service and staff was a let down. The food was delightful maybe everyone wasn't on their "A" game? Just my opinion of course.

The waitress looked confused throughout our dinner. This experience was over 3 hours and had it been enjoyable that would be a different story, it was painful. Managers weren't present to apologize for mistakes made. It was frustrating to see staff just standing around in the kitchen talking amongst themselves while we waited for stacks of plates to be cleared and dishes served.

Great concept with a creative menu of fresh, high quality foods and drinks at reasonable prices. It is likely that B&P will appeal to a very narrow segment of the B/N market plus it's not a place you would frequent (maybe once per quarter or less). It will definitely be busy Friday and Saturday evenings. Not sure about the late evening "Speakeasy" format. Sounds interesting but will it play in B/N? The upscale atmosphere and vibe of B&P does not fit in with the rough neighborhood it's in. The wall thumping rock music of the adjacent bars competed with the soothing piano music in B&P. If B&P were in a larger metro, it would be packed consistently. We hope it gets traction in B/N but it will take time. Expect to spend at least $50 per person for the multi course "experience" menu plus drink and supplements.

This was one of the best meals we have had in a VERY long time - and we are serious foodies. The salad was so fresh, the veggies perfectly prepared and on and on. It's an amazing restaurant imagined by some very creative minds! Thank you for an exquisite experience on all levels!

I love the speakeasy style entrance (you pull a book to open a door to dining room), and make sure you note the address because there's no outdoor signage. The food was decent, though not stellar (especially for this acclaimed restaurant group) I did enjoy having raw oysters as those are so difficult to find in central Illinois

This is one of the most unique and delightfull dining experiences in Bloomington/Normal. I've been all over and never had anything like it. A very exclusive list of fine whiskeys/wines/cocktails andat a shockingly low price. The dinner they call an "experience", which is just that. Without ruining the bit of surprise it offers, it's many courses each more interesting and delicous than the last. This is a must go!

My family & I stopped in for a drink after having dinner at sister restaurant, Anju Above. We had a small charcuterie plate, and some amazing drinks! A very gorgeous bar and the restaurant is decorated so well. Cannot wait to come back for the full experience!

My first speak easy experience. It's always fun to experience new adventures. After a secret entrance the world of Bakery & Pickle started off at the bar, with a great bartender name Chewy. He poured a perfect whiskey sour with egg whites ($10). The experience ($35) was our choice for dining. That price includes a meal with appetizers, all first course choices, a choice of one entree, & dessert. We then headed to chefs table for a lovely plate of appetizers which included a drink. The very generous tasting menu included a flatbread, salad, and veloute. Every course was plated beautifully! Each item was described and explained by the server eloquently. The add on menu (aka À la cart menu) is full of excellent choices. We chose the pickle bowl ($5) and the oysters with kimchi ($6). Our dinner cost about $65 each. A wonderful change of pace in dining. The atmosphere is quiet and relaxed. Most guests were a little dressed up. Definitely a wonderful experience! Don't forget your password

Spoiler alert if you read any of these reviews, the "experiences" are better as surprises, just trust me, it is amazing! We picked this on a road trip, driving from Chicago to St. Louis, and when we arrived at 4:00 we thought the place must've gone out of business. All of a sudden the lock clicked open and we stepped inside to ask if we were at the right place. The experience was magical, the food was delicious, the drinks were exceptional, the staff was friendly, and the ambience is amazing-- old timey, speak-easy, that makes you forget there's a world outside. It's two hours away from where I live but I'm determined to go back, it was that good!

Lovely experience. Service was professional, warm, and efficient. Food presentation was unique and interesting. The whole concept is a little unusual, so bring an open mind and a willingness to try new things. Cocktails are interesting, well-made, and pretty to look at. Dessert was excellent.

No chicken entree $11 cocktails should be $8. dry burger and ratio of burger to bread was not good. Do you want some meat with your bread. couldn't taste the bluegill and once agin too much bread for a bun ambience was good for a speakeasy.

Absolutely love this place. Great atmosphere and even better food. I recommend it to everyone. Make sure you make reservations in advance and book the experience. Food is so unique and fresh. Oh and the sexy butter is to die for.

I love the ambiance! It's such a unique and inviting place. We sampled a lot of the bar menu and a couple drinks, all were delicious. I really wish I could remember our servers name because he was fantastic and definitely added to our experience. We can't wait to go back!

An unusual place but quite fine. Fixed price menu of high-quality food. It is part of the Epiphany group, with fresh food. I believe it is a good value for $35 fixed price menu plus alcohol, since I value quality over quantity. Starters, entree and dessert. Up charge if you go with steak.

I have been here twice now - I really want to like this place - we had a much better experience last week. Last night, the bartender cast a pall on the night from the beginning- he was not nice or welcoming. Seemed annoyed at having to deal with patrons who did not have seats at the bar. once seats became available at the bar, the female bartender at he other end of the bar was much nicer. Our waitress seemed to be a bit distracted. We went on to have a weirdly timed meal - not sure if it was her, or the kitchen but our dishes appeared to come out randomly, often without items that were listed on the menu, the wrong condiments with the burger, etc... Also - no salt and pepper on the tables? I think this is a cool idea for a restaurant but the execution seems all mixed up - being a speakeasy should bring with it a certain vibe - this restaurant hasn't nailed a welcoming vibe yet.

If you enjoy food, you must go to Bakery and Pickle. Wasn't quite sure what to expect. Usually speakeasys are gimmicky. This restaurant is total food sophistication. Every course was a surprise. Every morsel was so well thought out and quite unexpected. The staff was attentive and taught us so much, from the farming technique to the preparation. No pretension whatsoever. Unforgettable tastes. I couldn't suggest one dish. The carrots alone were the best carrots I've tasted. Great night. Thank you. We will be back. Just writing this made me have waterfall mouth. Seriously that good. And that different. Total food experience.

Fantastic time at Bakery and Pickle tonight with a creative, delicious menu pairing seasonal dishes and drinks featuring local brewery White Oak. I mean inventive cocktails riffing off the beer? Who does that? These folks! And they were delicious. The food was also creative and fun, and paired perfectly with the food. Music was so nice, kept at a complimentary volume and hey, who would ever complain about Tame Impala anyway? Bang up job!

What a fun experience! Make your reservation for The Experience & Dave the A La Carte for another time. Don't walk past the place, it's easy to do. Once in the door be greeted by the host or hostess or better yet use the speak easy entrance-it's a secret. Be sure to know your password prior to going! Enjoy a drink at the bar, then be escorted to have tour aperitif. Small sampling plate. Then be escorted to tour table. The only decision to make is the entree. You'll split one between two of you. We paid the upcharge for the bacon wrapped filet mignon & it was well worth it. We also ordered bread & sexy butter-delish! From soup to nuts we were not disappointed! We plan on making this a regular stop!