Chicago Bakery Tour

Honestly, would you say no to a bakery crawl?  Think pub crawl, but instead of adult beverages, cupcakes!  No way was I turning this down.

First stop The Doughnut Vault.  If you haven’t been, it’s at the top of my list of amazing doughnuts.   They sell piping hot, as large as your head doughnuts in a ridiculously tiny, but fashionably cute space.  It’s a vault.  They are only open until they sell out, which is fast.  I highly recommend this spot.

Sprinkles Cupcakes.  They have a cupcake vending machine.  Need I say more?

Molly’s Cupcakes.  Molly’s has an interesting mix of flavors.  I thoroughly enjoyed the Cookie Monster Cupcake and highly recommend a second visit to try more.

Sweet Mandy B’s.  If you haven’t been, it’s a worthwhile stop.  They have a cute set-up with plenty of space.  They also offer a wide variety of sweets, from cookies, to brownies, to cupcakes, to cakes.  A great variety for a group of people. 

Swedish Bakery.  They specialize in European style pastries and desserts.  If you’re looking for something other than the traditional cupcake or cake, this is the spot for you.

Bittersweet.  Bittersweet is not just a bakery.  They serve lunch and even have a small gift section, which is perfect for a little Kitchen pick me up!

Bake!  This is a hidden gem.  This bakery is small, but quaint.  My pick is the chocolate cupcake with chocolate frosting.  Although, I have yet to try the chocolate peanut butter – rumor has it this is the way to go.

New York City – Travelling for Food

I had the privilege to attend an amazing luncheon with Catherine Fulvio and a dinner with Clodagh McKenna this March.  My role at my company afforded me with an opportunity to attend both, as we (Kerrygold) hosted the luncheon and were the main sponsor of the dinner.  

The week leading to St. Patrick’s Day was extremely busy.  However, it was one fantastic week for food.  We started the week with dinner at Marrow, where Chef Harold Dieterle and Alicia Nosenzo perfectly mix a German and Italian menu. 

Next on the menu (quite literally) - a luncheon hosted by Kerrygold, featuring Chef Catherine Fulvio.  Catherine started with a selection of Kerrygold cheeses paired with a Rosemary & Plum Chutney.  The chutney was a perfect pair for the cheese board.  This was followed by the most magnificent soup duo I have ever seen.  Two soups, split right down the middle – Spinach & Bacon greets Carrot & Thyme.  Fresh baked breads were also on the table.  My favorite was the Leek & Dubliner Scones, served with Kerrygold Butter, of course.  The main course was mouthwatering Lamb Loin Chops with Hazelnut Herb Crust.  Let’s not forget dessert; Apple and Mango Crumble that was so delicious, I wanted seconds (or maybe even thirds).    

We ended the week with Clodagh McKenna preparing a five star, five course meal for the prestigious Les Dames d’Escoffier group in New York.  Highlights of the meal included Baked Black Sole and Mini Chocolate Guinnesses. 

Happy St. Patrick’s Day!