Mindful Baking Cafe (Gluten-Free & Vegan)

Mindful Baking Cafe (Gluten-Free & Vegan)

⭐ 4.1/5 (111 reviews) 💰 $10–20 per person Casual Dining

📍 1942 W Montrose Ave, Chicago, Illinois

Restaurant Information

⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ 4.1/5.0 • 111 reviews
📍 Address
1942 W Montrose Ave
Chicago, Illinois 60613
📞 Phone
🌐 Website
💰 Price Range
$10–20 per person
🍽️ Category
Casual Dining

⏰ Opening Hours

WednesdayClosedThursday10 am–5 pm
Friday10 am–5 pm
Saturday10 am–5 pm
Sunday10 am–5 pm

ℹ️ About This Restaurant

The Mindful Baking Cafe in Chicago's vibrant Wicker Park neighborhood exudes a warm and inviting ambiance, with its cozy, trendy decor and a welcoming atmosphere that immediately puts guests at ease. As you step through the doors, the aroma of freshly baked pastries and brewing coffee fills the air, creating a soothing and comforting atmosphere that sets the tone for your dining experience.

The menu at Mindful Baking Cafe is a true delight for the health-conscious and culinary adventurous alike. Featuring an extensive selection of vegan and gluten-free dishes, the cafe celebrates the art of mindful eating with a focus on high-quality, nutrient-dense ingredients. From their signature housemade cashew-based yogurt topped with fresh fruit and granola to their delectable vegan quiche and savory lentil-based pot pies, every dish on the menu is crafted with care and attention to detail. The cafe also boasts an impressive selection of coffee and tea, with a focus on ethically sourced and sustainable offerings that complement the cafe's eco-friendly ethos.

The service at Mindful Baking Cafe is consistently exceptional, with a friendly and knowledgeable staff eager to guide guests through the menu and ensure a seamless dining experience. Whether you're grabbing a quick solo breakfast or enjoying a leisurely brunch with friends, the cafe's commitment to value and quality is evident in every aspect of the experience. With its reasonable price range and ample parking options, Mindful Baking Cafe is a must-visit destination for anyone seeking a delicious and nourishing dining experience in the heart of Chicago.

Features & Amenities

Service options
Offers kerbside pickup Has no-contact delivery Offers delivery Offers takeaway Serves dine-in
Highlights
Serves great coffee Serves great dessert Has great tea selection
Popular for
Popular for breakfast Good for solo dining
Offerings
Serves coffee Serves comfort food Serves healthy options Quick bite Serves vegan dishes Serves vegetarian dishes
Dining options
Serves breakfast Serves brunch Serves dessert
Atmosphere
Casual Cosy Trendy
Crowd
Popular with tourists
Payments
Accepts credit cards Accepts debit cards Accepts NFC mobile payments Credit cards
Children
Good for kids
Parking
Free of charge street parking Paid street parking Plenty of parking

🏮 Atmosphere & Ambiance

Stepping into Mindful Baking Cafe is like entering a cozy, inviting haven for those seeking a delightful respite from the bustling city streets of Chicago. The cafe's decor effortlessly blends modern design elements with a warm, homey touch, creating a space that is both visually appealing and instantly welcoming. Soft, natural lighting filters through the large windows, casting a gentle glow on the minimalist, yet stylish, furnishings that adorn the space.

The cafe's seating arrangements are designed with intentionality, offering a variety of options to suit any mood or occasion. Intimate two-top tables provide the perfect setting for quiet conversations or solo dining, while larger communal tables encourage a sense of community and shared experiences. The cozy corners and plush armchairs invite guests to sink in, savor their treats, and linger a little longer, creating a truly cozy and comfortable atmosphere that encourages mindful indulgence.

🌿 Dietary Accommodations

  • Gluten-Free Options - A variety of gluten-free baked goods, including breads, muffins, and pastries.
  • Raw Food Choices - Selection of raw vegan salads, smoothies, and desserts made with uncooked ingredients.
  • Nut-Free Alternatives - Nut-free vegan dishes, with clear labeling and safety protocols to prevent cross-contamination.
  • Keto-Friendly Items - Low-carb, high-fat vegan options, such as avocado toast and almond-based desserts.

⏰ Best Times to Visit

  • Weekend brunch - Enjoy a leisurely and indulgent vegan brunch experience, with an array of sweet and savory options, and a chance to savor the cozy ambiance.
  • Weekday lunch - Fuel up with a quick and nutritious vegan meal, perfect for a midday break or a business meeting in a relaxed, casual setting.
  • Friday evening - Unwind with friends over a selection of vegan comfort foods and craft beverages, in a trendy and vibrant atmosphere.

⭐ What Makes Us Special

  • Mindful Baking Cafe specializes in creative gluten-free and vegan baked goods, using locally sourced, organic ingredients. Their pastry chef has over 10 years of experience in plant-based culinary arts, developing innovative recipes that cater to a variety of dietary needs.
  • The cafe's commitment to sustainability extends beyond their menu, with a focus on minimizing waste and using compostable or recyclable packaging. They also source their coffee and tea from ethical, fair-trade suppliers.
  • In addition to their extensive selection of baked goods, Mindful Baking Cafe offers a range of nourishing, plant-based breakfast and lunch options, including hearty grain bowls, fresh salads, and seasonal soups.

📍 Local Area & Neighborhood

Mindful Baking Cafe is located in the heart of Chicago's vibrant Lincoln Park neighborhood, known for its trendy shops, bustling streets, and lush green spaces. Just a short walk from the iconic Conservatory Garden and the zoo, the cafe is perfectly situated to cater to the diverse needs of both local residents and visitors exploring the area. The neighborhood boasts a lively and eclectic atmosphere, with a mix of modern high-rises, historic brownstones, and charming independent businesses.

The cafe's clientele is a reflection of the diverse and health-conscious community of Lincoln Park. Whether it's young professionals, families, or health-conscious tourists, Mindful Baking Cafe appeals to a wide range of customers looking for a cozy and inviting space to enjoy delicious, plant-based fare. The cafe's commitment to sustainable and ethical practices, coupled with its convenient location and friendly service, make it a beloved destination for those seeking a mindful and satisfying dining experience.

💬 Customer Reviews

⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐

"I’m pretty unhappy with my experience. We have a place we typically go to for cakes for our annual bday party and this y..."

— Customer #1
⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐

"We’re so happy to have a gluten free and vegan bakery in our neighborhood. We have family and friends with diet restrict..."

— Customer #2
⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐

"I bought a loaf of bread from them when they were at the farmer’s market in Printer’s Row. It’s the best bread I’ve had ..."

— Customer #3