Courageous ELMHURST

Courageous is one of our favorite local spots for both breakfast and dessert. The restaurant is adorably decorated and welcoming. The one time I had an issue with my order, they went above and beyond to make it right. The strawberry shortcake cupcake is our go-to for birthday celebrations!

Sandwiches and baked goods made with craft and care. I always enjoy a great brunch here! They are also wonderful for cakes and cupcakes for parties and events. I get compliments every time I bring them over to family parties. It also has an old school coffee shop feel - while adding a more modern sort of dopamine hit to the experience with cheerful decorating. Thanks for creating the kind of place you’d want to spend time in, comfortable and homey! Great music coming over the speakers too when I visited today. Love it!

Had a wonderful breakfast experience. Amanda took my order and offered some donut holes while I waited. The food came out in a timely fashion. Best breakfast I’ve had in a long time!!! The bacon had a sweetness to it and matched well with the biscuit and eggs. The home potatoes were yummy. Great food and experience. I’ll be back!

I had a nice experience at this cute, colorful breakfast spot. They offer a lot of styles of lattes and have s delicious house drip. The menu had the usual breakfast offerings: breakfast burrito, Avocado toast with egg, omelette, delicious croissant breakfast sandwiches. I really enjoyed my chilaquiles, after spending a mins trying to decide. The cashier/server was super nice and was not pushy at all. The place had a chill Vibe and nice late and early 90s soundtrack playing; next time I’d like a cookie or cupcake!

Great place for a easy going healthy breakfast or coffee. Large and diverse food menu selection. They have unique twists on their coffee, the Oxaxcan is my favorite with cayenne pepper (interesting right?). Ambience is very nice and uplifting.

Shocked. I’ve always loved the quality and taste of your food, and the care that I could see you put into preparation and presentation. I became a fan during the pandemic, and ordered frequently through DD. Regrettably, I can’t help but notice the decline in your quality and service. My order was totally thrown together, (as in, looked like someone who is not a cook, stepped in to ‘help out’), you missed giving me the side of bacon that I paid for, the potatoes inedible, either refried and/or fried then microwaved, or just old, we tossed them, as you should have, my croissant was burned, and for good measure, why not throw my potatoes in a paper pastry bag instead of bothering to put them in a real food container designed to help them stay warmer as I wait the hour for DD? Better yet, what about putting the Sammie that comes with the side, in one Styro container together, like it’s really the one order that it is, like you used to do? Trust we can tell the difference when you are doing it right. Never again, totally not worth it at all!

Good Morning. I went back and forward about whether or not to leave this review. With so much negativity in the world I try my best to focus on the small amounts of positivity that my days bless me with. This visit failed to be a blessing. Normally with my work schedule I always miss this place. The business hours just don’t align with my random start times. On my way in to work today I was happy to be able to stop in. I love the breakfast burritos. Huge and delicious. Upon entering there was one other customer and what appeared to be his daughter. Keep in mind the windchill was -20 plus. After making my way to the register the individual working asked if I was placing an order or picking up. Then informed me that when my order was ready it would be on the shelf behind me. Her appearance or mannerism is not one I’m use to seeing or experiencing here but…okay. After waiting about 10 mins I re-approached the counter and asked if I could try one of the special lattes I noticed on the sign. I received a hostile reply “hey man I have to get these orders out first.” I dismissed the tone of the reply and simply stepped back for a moment. I took a picture of some decor as I further waited. I then asked the lady is it was okay to swap out the doughnut holes I ordered online for the banana bread. The only option for treats available when I placed my order was the doughnut holes…given the amount I purchased it would have been equal to, if not more, than the cost of the slice of bread. After a few taps of a screen, and a heightened amount of physical frustration, she informed me that she was not the owner and couldn’t make that decision. I simply responded okay. As I looked to my left I noticed the sign displaying the QR code for a survey. I opened my phone to retrieve it and that’s when this experience became one of the most unwelcoming experiences I’ve every had in my life. (To include the 14 years I spent in the US Army) Upon turning my phone to the posted survey link, the individual working the counter highly…HIGHLY aggressively looked at me and ask “so what now you’re mad cause you couldn’t get your way?!” In disbelief I questioned her allegation. What do you mean? I asked. “You’re mad now so you’re filling out the survey” I’m 38 years old. It’s been a long time, if ever, I remember being so belittled/chastised for an assumed action/response. I replied: “I simply opened the survey. You do not know whether I sought to leave negative or positive feedback. Nothing about my mannerism or body language gave off that demeanor am I correct?” I received a silent nod. Another gentleman, who enter just prior to this exchange, looked at me in huge disbelief as well to what I was experiencing…and he had witnessed. I playful greeted him with saying “we’ll just blame it on the cold.” This is not the experience I sought nor assumed I would encounter here…Unsure nor will I assume what drove the displaced emotions of the individual working the counter this Mid-West Arctic morning…but it left me in fear of even consuming the food given to me…

10/10 highly recommend. I’m new in the area and I am a major foodie and I’m always looking for gluten free options and omg I’ve found my local hidden gem this place is AMAZING!!!! Avocado toast is amazing, house fries are my kryptonite and theirs are amazing and such a large serving! See pictures for how I devoured this food. That lemonade is amazing!!! All this food for such a low price without having to cut corners on quality is a 10/10 for me.

While in downtown Elmhurst, I stumbled upon this place and decided to step in to grab some breakfast. I ordered two of their breakfast sandwiches to go; one without cheese since my significant other is not a fan. Both of them, unfortunately, came without cheese. I thought perhaps they misunderstood that only one of them should not have had it, but when I saw the receipt in my email they had made the no cheese notation only on one so it looks like it was their mistake. I also didn't realize that they came with ham on them--I haven't actually seen a lot of breakfast sandwiches that come with ham, so I didn't even consider it. I don't like ham so I ended up taking that off, but of course the fact that it has ham wasn't their fault--I should have asked what came on it. Having said all that, it was in my opinion way overpriced. It came with some breakfast potatoes, which I didn't realize, but still it was not a $15 meal (each, so $30+ total). The potatoes were good, but not that good. Their pastries were interesting, and they had some fancy cupcakes. I got a strawberry shortcake (I think) one that had some strawberry jam or compote inside and it was good. We got a salted caramel as well, which was excellent; I'm not sure if I could pick a favorite between the two but it may have been the salted caramel. They were fairly rich so splitting them in half worked perfect for me. They had quite a few other fancy cupcakes and I think that's definitely their strong point. I can't say I wouldn't come back if I was in the area; if I was around and looking for a breakfast spot, I might stop in again but just choose something else instead of the breakfast sandwich. Though it's not high on my list for a breakfast outing it's worth a stop if you're looking for some delicious cupcakes.

Needed a pick me up and knew Courageous Bakery is what I needed. I've been getting The Lorraine since high school and it never disappoints. I'd go so far as to say it's the best breakfast sandwich in Elmhurst. I would order it without the greens since I personally don't like how soggy they get on the sandwich. Tried the dirty chai for the first time and dare I say it may be better than a certain local coffee shop's. I do think $22 for a sandwich and coffee is a bit expensive, but I'm always very satisfied with my meal. It does come with a large side of home fries, but I usually end up not eating them, so I'd love to see more side options to choose from. Also had cupcakes catered a few months back including some gluten free options and they were all a big hit. Definitely on the expensive side, but they were good quality and absolutely devoured. The environment is always welcoming and open plus the staff are very kind.

The food was amazing and the service was just as good, I was welcomed and the ambiance was inviting. They had everything that you could think of in their self service and even gave me a recommendation for my coffee once I told them what I was thinking. Will definitely be back. One thing that shocked me is that they have an amazing breakfast chicken sausage if you don't eat pork that you can get substituted for the bacon on the Lorraine croissant.

Was actually our 3rd choice(1st was out of business,2nd too long of a wait). We had quiche, omelette, and cappacino. Wow! the side salad was also quite good. Fast service; great atmosphere. Hope to return soon.

Courageous Bakery and Cafe has some solid breakfast and pastry choices. My husband is a huge sucker for breakfast burritos and I am a huge fan of buttery, flakey biscuits. Courageous has both so it's a win-win for us! Besides breakfast, we would typically order croissants, cupcakes, and/or 4 inch birthday cake to go. None of those have disappointed us. The only downside is the horchata loca latte was somewhat mediocre in which both horchata and coffee flavors were underwhelming.

Came here on a whim on a weekday afternoon. Parking luckily was ample out front and free. Walked in, and while there were a few patrons who were dining in and or sitting inside, I have to say the ladies who worked here that day were so incredibly friendly and helpful. We did not dine inside we took all of our items to go, and even though we didn't dine inside, the lady working, there told us it had we decided to stay we would've been given free, donut holes. And even though we didn't stay, she still gave us the free, donut holes to go. Everything looks super delectable super delicious and pricing is very fair Took everything home ate some the same day and the next morning and let me tell you everything was amazingly delicious. Considering all the competition with bakeries both in and out of the city, this was worth the visit and worth the stop. If I'm ever in this area again, which is a very cute part of the downtown area this is a must stop.

Amazing coffee and even more amazing baked goods!! Treat your mouth and tummy, YUMMY. You won't be disappointed.

OUTSTANDING CHILAQUILES!!!! Always the perfect balance of flavorful shredded chicken, eggs, sour cream, cheese and avocado with slightly spicy salsa verde. They never disappoint! You can tell they are prepared with care and dedication.

The food is amazing. The service was excellent. Fabulous dining options. The staff is so wonderful.

Stopped in here today and what an amazing treat Great treats Great price Great staff Thanks to Natalie and Amanda , great meeting you today Bob (Treasurers Office)

The food and service was lackluster at best. You order and pay at the counter and it's self service for cutlery, drinks, and tables. But the tip suggestion started at 20%.

Was so excited to try their sweets . Purchased a chocolate mini cake today got home and tried it . Taste like the fridge so old tasting . So disappointed. I spent $ 21 and straight in the garbage it goes .

A good bakery with a good cause. Courageous Bakery is another bakery in downtown Elmhurst. It's own by women. Get something good from these nice ladies. There's a lot of homemade baked items and you can get a full breakfast with a bowl of hot oatmeal. Good for a morning date. I brought one here recently and hung out awhile having some of the coffee and food. The drip coffee has a nice full flavor and isn't watery. It's $2 a cup. The coffee isn't why anyone comes though. Among the pastries, there were typical ones like croissants and doughnuts. It has a few gluten free ones. Also they have more substantial food. We had the Steel Cut Oats. It's $7 for a large bowl. This is made with agave syrup and soy milk. It's topped with bananas and granola. This is a good vegan choice if you're looking for it. Has a convenient location in downtown Elmhurst. It's close to Brewpoint, so if you regularly go there change your routine. This also is close to the Metra station.

I enjoy coming here a lot! I recommend the breakfast burrito! The Lorraine sandwich is good too!

Such an adorable bakery and cafe located in downtown Elmhurst!! They have pastries on pastries and they're best known for their cupcakes. They also have breakfast and lunch options which I see other Yelpers raving about. I got their almond croissant and it was *chef's kiss*! I paired it with an almond milk latte and it went together perfectly. The cafe itself is pretty spacious with a lot of natural lighting and cute decorations. It doesn't have its own parking lot, so you would have to find street parking which was very easy for me to do. Courageous Bakery and Cafe is the perfect spot for meeting up with a friend for coffee and a pastry, getting a lowkey lunch or breakfast, or bringing in your laptop to study with a side of coffee. I can't wait to come back and try their cupcakes and more of their meals!

Cute and comfortable cafe. Great service and good selection for breakfast and lunch and of course cupcakes and other pastries. Had the eggs & pepper, tasty. Soft scrambled eggs done perfectly, not runny not over cooked, with a generous amount of chopped colorful sweet peppers, served on a cheese buttery croissant. Choice of potatoes or fruit and a latte which, for my taste, is a bit weak. As I eat very low carbs I gifted the salted caramel cupcake and most of the croissant for my husband. His review: Delicious.

While I came initially for a Yelp Elite event of a latte and pastry, I had to stay for breakfast because the cafe was so welcoming! You place your order up front at the cash register and then sit wherever you'd like. Your food will then be brought out to your table. As a fun appetizer, complimentary warm donut holes were served to us. It was a lovely, delicious surprise! Our breakfast entrees were delightful. My yogurt parfait bowl was extremely filling--and a wonderful balance of fresh fruit, granola, yogurt with a honey drizzle throughout. The tacos with a side of potatoes were flavorful and executed well. The double tortillas on each taco were a nice touch.

We came here for brunch when the Stray Hen had a 30 minute wait (which was longer than some in our party could wait). It's a very cute shop with a great menu. The avocado toast that my friends ordered looked AMAZING. I had the Texas French toast, which was super sweet but very good (apparently it's dipped in vanilla custard, which is genius). The dirty chai was also very tasty. I tried the vegan survivor cupcake as well, which was a bit too sweet and more doughy than I would typically prefer, but it was still very good. They have a huge range of cupcakes on their menu. The prices are a bit steep ($12 for avocado toast vs $8 for the same thing at Stray Hen), and I wish that the french toast came with some sort of side (potatoes, fruit, etc.). But, overall it was very good.

The s'mores cupcake was disappointing. I expected a rich chocolate and graham cracker crust or crumble and didn't get that flavor at all. Sad that this was the choice for my birthday. The sprinkle sugar cookie was pretty good, but I can make just as good at home. I've heard their breakfast sandwich offerings are better than their baked goods. I'll try one next time. Overall, the cupcakes are mediocre for a bakery. I'm hoping they will improve over time as the company grows.

I heard about the story behind Courageous a while back, then Courageous came up in one of my wife's searches, so I made it a point to go. We purchased a Vanilla Bean cupcake and a French Silk cupcake. I really wanted a Survivor, but those were sold out. The Vanilla Bean was okay; nothing too special and no center filling. The French Silk was amazing. It was decadent and the center filling was nice. Service was friendly and pricing was fair. The interior is very colorful and there's plenty of seating. It was also cool to see the Union Pacific train go by.

Courageous Bakery Elmhurst and Oak Park = fabulous dining experience. The food is so delicious. Everything on the menu is amazing and homemade. My favorites are the breakfast tacos, the breakfast burrito, Corned beef omelette, the Reuben Sammie (the latter 2 dishes are specials for Saint Patrick's), and the chilaquiles verses. I like to substitute sautéed mushrooms instead of chorizo, and I like to add avocado. The cupcakes are so decadent as well. My favorites are the Banana Cream, the Chocolate Peanut Butter, and the French Silk Pie cupcake.​​

Haven't been excited about a cupcake place in ages! The flavors and quality here are top notch. I only noticed on my second visit this weekend that the bakers here appeared on Food Network's Cupcake Wars too! All the baked goods are prepackaged right now. Not only are there cupcakes, but donuts, cookies, scones, and muffins are available, along with an extensive coffee and espresso menu. But back to what led me here in the first place: the cupcakes! The rainbow funfetti survivor has a pastry cream filling, and so do my 2 favorite from here (so far): the strawberry shortcake has a strawberry jam filling, and the s'mores has a chocolate pudding like filling. Chocolate cake on the French silk is sweet and tasty, though the pie crust didn't taste tip top fresh after refrigeration. I also thought the cake portion of the pink velvet was a little bland and wasn't baked that same day I purchased it. Can't wait to try some of the other treats offered here!

5 for the baked goods (sprinkle cookies and cinnamon roll) and lattes and 3 for the food (biscuits and gravy) where the biscuit was nice and fluffy but the gravy was bland.

Great doughnuts, friendly service. Omelet was very filling and priced . Nice decor and a laid back atmosphere in the dining area. They appeared on cupcake wars do you know it's good

I came for breakfast with a friend and had the chai latte. It was so soothing and yummy. Ordered some pancakes with bananas and strawberries. My friend ordered an omelette with bacon. We both took home some cupcakes because that's what the bakery is known for our breakfast was amazing. The pancakes melted in my mouth, so nice and fluffy, I just love this place downtown Elmhurst right by the tracks. We came in for breakfast around 9:30 AM. Not busy at all good for us

Stopped in Sunday afternoon for a latte. My husband had the White Chocolate Coconut Latte . I did try it and it was so smooth. The coconut milk added an additional flavor, but was not the main taste. I had the Chocolate Covered Pretzel Latte. I have had it before and it is one of my favorite all time lattes. The combination of white and dark chocolate is so rich and creamy. It is not too sweet, but the perfect balance. The coffee is rich and strong, but not bitter. Almost every table in the cafe was occupied and the breakfast food items looked delicious. The cafe is so warm and welcoming, especially on a cold, wintery day. I will definitely stop in for brunch one day.

Gluten-free treats, oh my!!! I stopped earlier in the week for the first time and was thrilled to find so many gluten-free options! Great location, just steps from the Metra. The pumpkin cupcake was out of this world! Great service. Super cute location. Staff was masked, which was much appreciated. I'll definitely be back for more!

WOW! - the very best cupcakes around. Lots of delicious flavors. Soft, moist. and scrumptious. The perfect birthday party treat! We ordered two dozen of these beauties. The staff are over the top friendly and helpful. The cafe is super clean. The mango ice tea is super good.

This store is wonderful! It begins with the grace and kindness of the staff and ends with casual comfortable adorable decor. I can confidently bring my parents here for their new favorite cake. I was delighted the second I entered the shop and melted into smiles when I interacted with the staff. I had such a bad time at the Oak Park store and Elmhurst washed that right out of my hair! 10/10 customer service

Great location and super friendly staffing. We stopped and liked the items we ordered. My wife ordered pumpkin spice bread and I got a chocolate hazelnut croissant, it was amazing. The coffee was good and strong, the way I like it. If we are in the area this a good stop to try. They have breakfast and lunch items and train Station is very close.

I love love love this place. We come here for brunch and it never disappoints. I'm yet to try any of the cupcakes but the breakfast/brunch is def something you should come and try out!

I absolutely love this place! I ordered a pesto chicken sandwich and the kiddie combo for my son which consisted of a fluffy pancake, turkey/chicken sausage Pattie, a scrambled egg , fruit cup and juice box. My sandwich came with a side of potatoes and it was absolutely delicious. Everything in our order was so fresh and so perfectly seasoned. I didn't even get to finish my other half because I was full but I took it to go and will enjoy it later. I really recommend this place to anyone that's looking for a comfortable place to eat or simply enjoy a nice cup of coffee and perhaps a delicious sweet treat ( they have many amazing options!) . You won't regret giving it a try .

Such a cute little breakfast place (they serve lunch too)! I've gone a few times and the service is fantastic! All the people there are welcoming and the food is great! The breakfast tacos are definitely my favorite and an easy go to goe breakfast or brunch! The atmosphere is super cute too and perfect for families or guest of any age!

Kicking myself for not ordering from here earlier! Blta was delicious! Biscuits are overly good. And omg this sprinkles cookie- yum! Can't wait to try the cupcakes. I will be ordering from here more often!

Enjoyed breakfast here today with a friend. I had a skillet and friend had veggie omelette. Food came out very hot and cooked perfectly. Generous portions. The biscuit was enormous--enough for 2 people. The fruit was very fresh and a a nice variety. The free donut holes were a nice touch. The ambiance is acceptable. I can imagine that in the cold weather it could be a little drafty due to the fact the door opens directly into the dining space. My only complaint would be that an iced tea is $4.50 for a cup ¾ filled with ice and about 8 oz of tea. When I asked for a refill, they refused. I found it ironic that there are 2 coffee urns where you could refill your mug, yet iced tea is not treated the same way. This issue won't prevent me from returning, but I would hope they would change this one thing. I will just no longer purchase a drink when I return.

When you're in need of coffee and are stuck behind a train for 8mins, you start searching for over options. I came across this great little shop! I ordered a veggie Lorraine, a salted Carmel coffee, and two cupcakes. The service was great! The girl assisting me was darling and describes the drinks so well I wanted them all!! My coffee was amazing! The perfect amount of everything! Great recommendation!!! My breakfast sandwich was alright. It didn't have enough seasoning so it tasted a bit bland. The roasted red peppers were the highlight. I brought the cupcakes home for my son and husband. My son picked the red velvet and he was pretty happy w it. I was only allowed a little bit and it tasted great! The frosting was too sweet for my taste buds. The other cupcake will be enjoyed this evening. Can't wait to come back for coffee again!!

We stumbled upon this gem a few months ago. Initially stopped in to check out what the bakery had to offer, but was equally if not more impressed with the phenomenal breakfast they make. We have been back several times, and will continue to do so. Place is immaculate, staff is funny, attentive, and extremely polite. Many of you know me as a food lover and an industry lifer. Do yourself a favor and check out this unicorn asap.

Chilaquiles! So good sunny side up eggs! My kid's favorite breakfast spot. Laura is soooo cool love it when she wears her beanie. Been to both locations never dissatisfied

Have been wanting to stop by for a while. This coffee shop did not disappoint. The dining areas is super cute along with the outdoor seating area. I only tried the horchata loca hot latte and I have found a new favorite drink! Will be back with friends and family to try the delicious pastries and breakfast items on the menu and the display case!

My boyfriend and I got the chorizo skillet and wow, it was amazing! I was amazed at the presentation of the food, and the kindness of everyone! It was so filling and we had a crap ton of leftovers.

Love this breakfast place. Something for everyone, breakfast, or pastries. Great place to take the kids. The metro station is right in front so the kids love to look out the window. Order online is a plus!

Came here on a invite on a weekday afternoon. Parking luckily was ample out front and free.

Seems like owner Laura had a great idea 10 years ago and business was born!! But, looking at health department review ( didn't realize that was part of YELP!), doesn't appear she has pursued any business acumen. Sanitation, quality control, rolling list to maintain cleanliness and pest control. Hire right. Train right. Upholding sanitation, quality of product, and business standards is a job that continues for owners as owner is ultimately responsible. More times than not, you get what you pay for as employees go. Cheap pay doesn't have the buy in necessary.

Expected this place to be nice, friendly, and fun-not really. It was a borderline annoying and disappointing visit. Customer service makes all the difference sometimes.

One word: adorable! Stopped by this place for brunch with my little brother and an Elmhurst friend who recommended it. We were able to park around the corner on the street after circling a few times. I got some pancakes with a side of potatoes and eggs. My brother got the kid's French toast sticks. We both agreed that our food was very tasty! After our meal, my little brother got a cookies and cream cupcake-- I can only assume it was yummy because it was gobbled up within minutes of purchase. Overall, service was great, and I loved the causal setting. The decor was too cute, and the bakery items looked incredible. Great value!

I've been looking for a new local coffee spot and Courageous Bakery and Cafe did NOT disappoint! The barista ( I think her name was Amanda) was so sweet and helped me decide which drink to try. I ended up getting the chocolate covered pretzel drink and it was delicious! Definitely give this place a try if you are like me and are done supporting the huge conglomerates of the world.

Courageous bakery is absolutely amazing. The story behind the business is great and we love going there weather it be for a weekend morning or going there to get some work done. Would highly recommend their cherry scone and any coffee beverages.

I knew of this place for awhile just never ventured over til a few days ago! And man I was not disappointed! First it's so close to me, which just went over my head , when I first heard of this place. My daughter and I went out for breakfast before heading to work. Parking was right in front so very convenient. We both ordered a dish that was going off the menu same day but they were fine with making them. And they were so delicious! I had savory and she had sweet. Prices were around norm. People were real friendly and helpful! I will definitely head back! Check it!

I ordered a pumpkin pie (carry out) and a French silk pie (also carry out) for Thanksgiving and Christmas respectively. Both were delicious! Picking up was so easy and fairly quick, even when there was a bit of a line inside. Staff wears mask and the inside is super clean with all tables pushed to one side, but the cupcake counter and coffee bar is still open. I did get a peanut butter chocolate cupcake and a latte for the road -- both delish! Will go back, for sure. Ordering online for the holiday pick up was a bit confusing, but I got it eventually -- you have to pick catering and your location (Elmhurst or Oak Park), and then your item(s). For Thanksgiving there were issues choosing a time -- it said all slots were full but when I called they said it was a bug on the site, just use the note section to choose a pick up time -- but by Christmastime that looked to be addressed.