Mindy’s Bakery

"The rotating menu at Mindy’s reads like an Encyclopedia of Bread, with everything from donuts to pot pies, and fleeting standouts like a mortadella and giardiniera turnover and a honey, brie, and apricot jam danish. This Wicker Park bakery also happens to have one of the best bagels in Chicago. Unfortunately, because everyone shares our opinion, the small space is usually crowded. There are only a couple of window seats, so be prepared to eat over the steering wheel and catch some crumbs in the car." - veda kilaru, john ringor

"Bagels are part of the “first bake” at Mindy’s, meaning they’re available right when they open at 7:30am (or 8am on weekends). And you’ll need to get to this specialty bakery early because these bagels sell out fast. They’re incredibly soft and light, with lots of air pockets, and a golden, chewy crust. Our preferred method of consumption is a gentle tear and dunk—pick your cream cheese wisely (the chive pesto or lox is never a bad choice). There are usually five staple bagel flavors every day, like garlic challah and an everything bagel that includes fennel, plus a few rotating specials and gluten-free options. Mindy’s is only open Wednesday through Sunday, and there’s limited seating, so be prepared to fight off the Wicker Park crowds and eat in your car." - veda kilaru, john ringor

"Mindy Segal left the restaurant world behind after closing HotChocolate, and now the acclaimed bakery has opened a takeout-oriented spot full of cookies, cakes, bagels, and more. The display case at Mindy’s Bakery is full of treasures. Get there early, or get burned." - Ashok Selvam

"A top spot for sweets, known for its delicious bakery offerings." - Michael He

"Chicago baking queen Mindy Segal made her many fans nervous in 2020 when she closed Hot Chocolate, her adored Bucktown restaurant, after 15 years. But those fears have since been more than assuaged with her follow-up spot, Mindy’s Bakery, where patrons form long lines for her bagels, doughnuts, and laminated pastries. Segal also features a rotating lineup of specials, which can include treats like six-inch strawberry and rhubarb pies." - Naomi Waxman, Ashok Selvam