"At this Lincoln Park patisserie, you’ll find textbook versions of all the French classics. But besides things like chocolate eclairs and crackly kougin amann, slices of apple pie and mango passionfruit cheesecake find their way into the display case—and everything is in high demand. Verzênay is busy on the weekends, but it’s worth braving a 7am Saturday alarm for a chance to snag a warm sourdough baguette and a “Chicago” macaron (an homage to Garrett Popcorn) that comes with a unique combination of caramel, popcorn, and cheddar for the filling. It’s the most non-classic thing on the menu, and maybe one of the best." - veda kilaru, john ringor
"This casual cafe has light sandwiches, salads, and pastries. The primary influence is French, but chef and owner Arshiya Farheen also occasionally instills South Asian influences using produce from Green City Farmers Market to create specials. There’s also a sidewalk patio." - Ashok Selvam
"Verzenay in Lincoln Park might be home to Chicago’s best croissant. This criminally underrated bakery is run by chef and owner Arshiya Farheen, a pastry chef trained in France, but attuned to Chicago produce. She’s active with Green City Market and she often features specials that aren’t only seasonal, but a bit unique and esoteric. You’ll find ramps used unusually, for example. Farheen is also South Asian, so the pastries will find spices and ingredients that most bakeries won’t incorporate. Folks fixated with old-world pastries, and traditions are great, but Verzenay keeps an eye on innovation which is why it’s one of the best bakeries in Chicago." - Ashok Selvam
"In Lincoln Park, one of the best bakeries in the city, Verzanay Chicago, is hosting tea service on select days through January. Reservations are available via Tock but expect an onslaught of food with scones served with preserves and housemade whipped butter, canapes, lobster bisque, cucumber sandwiches, and more." - Eater Staff
"As long as you order by November 21, you can feature a pie (or a few) from this great Lincoln Park patisserie in your holiday feast. They have sweet options like apple almond or french silk, as well as a veggie pie if you want something savory in the mix. You can place your order here." - john ringor