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Italian Superior Bakery
Categories: Food Bakeries Restaurants Italian Restaurants Pizza Bakeries, Italian, Pizza [Edit]
931 S Western Ave1st Fl
(between Taylor St & Arthington St)
Chicago, IL 60612
Neighbourhood: Tri-Taylor
(312) 733-5092
Announcement
Tuesday:
Lasagna and Meatball
Wednesday:
Pulled Pork Sandwich w/ Garlic Corn
Thursday:
Meatball Sandwich
Friday:
Prime Rib Sandwich
- Nearest Transit:
-
Western-forest Park (Blue Line)
- Hours:
Tue-Fri 7 am - 3 pm
Sat-Sun 7 am - 1 pm
- Attire:
- Casual
- Accepts Credit Cards:
- No
- Parking:
- Street
- Price Range:
-
$
- Good for Groups:
- Yes
- Good for Kids:
- Yes
- Takes Reservations:
- No
- Delivery:
- No
- Take Away:
- Yes
- Waiter Service:
- No
- Outdoor Seating:
- No
- Good For:
- Dessert, Lunch, Breakfast
- Alcohol:
- No
- Noise Level:
- Quiet
- Ambience:
- Casual
- Has TV:
- Yes
- Caters:
- Yes
- Wheelchair Accessible:
- No
- Dogs Allowed:
- No
43 reviews for Italian Superior Bakery
Review Highlights
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"...Italian deli meat on fresh-baked bread, slathered in an an..." In 2 reviews -
"Pam was really great to talk to and helpful with my food..." In 3 reviews -
"...an amazing pizza there, probably one of the best I ever had." In 3 reviews
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43 reviews in English
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Review from Sheila B.
Chicago, IL
2/23/2012
This is a score! Family owned and they make you feel so welcomed. Great pizza for eating right away or popping in your freezer for that night when you don't want to cook. It's their freezer and deli case I'm getting seriously addicted to! Best homemade sauce, soups, meatballs to die for, lasagna....and in the deli case, the best potato salad just like you ma makes! Pasta salads and Southwestern bean salad is another tasty favorite...and I haven't gotten to the bread yet! No squishy, chemical tasting bread but old-fashioned bread for sandwiches and a loaf for dinner with good butter-comfort food.
This family knows how to cook. Get over here-it's so worth the drive. -
Review from Samuel M.
5/6/2012
Came here this afternoon to see what all the fuss is about; any joint that outranks Alinea in star average merits a visit. Sadly, my experience was far from superior.
Maybe it's just understocked because it's the end of the week, but the first thing that was readily apparent was the lack of items available; five total slices of pizza, one sandwich option, and a few loaves of bread. Sausage pizza did not stand up to being served cold, because it was way oversauced. Muffalata sandwich was heinously oversalted, with not much else discernible in the flavor profile.
I'd ordinarily boot an experience like this into one star land and not look back, but the owner was very nice, and I can tell the place brings it better during the week. I'll be back to see if that is the case, but if my experience is anything close to this bad, rest assured I will not be back. -
Review from Pascal M.
2/12/2012
ISB will make you feel right at home as they warmly greet you, spark up a conversation, and assure you the food you ordered is going to satisfy beyond expectation. The guys behind the counter are good people, your happy to give your cash and patronage to guys (and gal's alike) with that kind of friendly nature.
I caught them just before they closed yesterday. I ordered a Muffuletta sandwich and a couple slices of their roasted red pepper pizza, or pizza bread.
They were out of their Muffuletta bread, which didn't bother me in the slightest. It's evident they carry great bread, so I planned on being happy with whatever they used.
ISB's Muffuletta consisted of good quality Italian meats, along with equally sharp and rich Italian cheeses to complement the sandwich. The olive salad was good too. My only complaint was that it wasn't too hot, I'm a fiend for heat. Perhaps they just forgot to use the hot olive spread. I also would have liked the oil to soak into the bread more. Muffulettas are traditionally made 24 hrs. in advance so you get that effect. Like I said though, they ran out of bread. So they very well might make theirs in advance. I'm a little critical of my Muffulettas after a trip to the birth of this righteous sandwich, New Orleans. Plus my girl makes em' a couple times a year. Home made olive spread and all. ISB's is a damn good substitute for a city that needs to grow its respect for this fantastic sandwich.
Da pizza? I was close to punching my steering wheel it was so good. Not sure why I felt like getting violent while maxing a slice down, driving home on 290, listening to, "Roxanne." You can have full faith that any slice you get is going to be outstanding. The crust has a similar consistency and crunch to Lou Malnati's pizza, but less buttery (a good thing). The cheese is perfectly browned to give it a rich and slightly crisp but also chewy finish. Their roasted red peppers were tucked underneath. They had that nice sweet flavor you get after a good roasting takes place. I love that they keep their slices in a deli style cooler. Best eaten as is, no heat needed. The flavors have all rested and are in perfect harmony. If you do heat, they tell you do not even think about using that microwave. Skillet or oven would be the only way to go with their expertly crafted pizza.
ISB is a solid bakery in tri Taylor (located just off the corner of Western and Taylor). They treat you better than your own friends or family probably do. The food will instantly make you a regular. They've even got a selection of homemade soups and pastas to take home, along with some cold sides, or Gelato that will make you smile and close your eyes as you think of swimming in the clouds. Yup, its like dat. -
Review from Jose D.
Chicago, IL
5/25/2012
I have been to this family owned business several times and it is an excellent place for pizza or an amazing prime rib sandwich on Fridays! The owners are super friendly and make you feel at home. The food is amazing and everything is fresh and delicious! One of my favorite spots for a nice lunch! Highly recommended!!!
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Review from Brett H.
Chicago, IL
5/18/2012
This business is very well orchestrated. You will not find a better place that commits to consistency in their products as well as their customer service. They have exceptionally good bread, which makes each and every one of their lunch specials something above and beyond the ordinary. They offer a wide variety of pizza, each being tastefully unique. Also, a great place to come for lunch with FREE WiFi access and casual dining environment. I make the 10 min trip out of my way to get this bread and I would suggest to anyone to do the same.
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Review from Johnny T.
Minooka, IL
1/26/2012
Amazing pizza bread! Its the tomato sauce that sticks out the most, fresh, not processed tasting, and not lacking in flavor.
Would love to give 5 stars but have to dock off a star for the ridiculous 3:00 closing time. I've wanted to come her for awhile, hell, had Italian Superior Bakery bookmarked since August 2010, but its hard to show up anywhere earlier than 3 when you have work and all. Not asking to operate til 9 or 10 at night, but at a reasonable hour, say 6, so that the 9 to 5ers can patronize your establishment. -
Review from Moti B.
Los Angeles, CA
10/10/2011
This place pizza is the real thing.
They really have an amazing pizza there, probably one of the best I ever had. It kind of reminded me the great pizza places in NYC or Brooklyn which I love so much. Great atmosphere (not fancy at all, just very nice and laid back), very nice staff, kind of down to earth. Any time I'm in Chicago I try to stop by this place.
Too bad I can't take pizza 'to go' on the plane with me. -
Review from Joe S.
Cincinnati, OH
11/2/2011 1 Check-in Here
I stopped by for breakfast on a Saturday. Upon entering, I was warmly greeted right away and everyone there was quite friendly. The bakery is decorated with a lot of it's history on the walls.
Taking advantage of their Yelp offer, I ordered two slices - a colossal dietary mistake, but an amazingly good deal. One slice alone is a good size meal. Their Bakery style square pizza is served cold. Being a bakery, the pizza is heavy on the (very tasty) bread. Yet, the cheese & toppings hold their own. It made for a delicious and quite filling meal. And, Italian Superior Bakery is overall the best bakery style slice I've ever had. -
Review from Bryan S.
Lancaster, CA
8/13/2011 2 photos
Eating is like flying. When it comes to travel, you have many options. But I guarantee you won't regret choosing Italian Superior Bakery.
Put it this way: we had an item from our bucket list we badly wanted to scratch off. You know what it is because everybody who blows into the Windy City from elsewhere has the same singular mission: Chicago deep dish -- what else?
Superior Bakery was just supposed to be breakfast. A quick bite, a loaf of bread. Save the big appetite for Giordano's.
That was the plan. Boy, did things change once we stopped in here!
Some tastes are so indelible that you remember them forever. I have no doubt that the muffuletta sandwich I devoured will be emblazoned in my taste buds till I die.
It was literally one of the best meals I ever had. It consisted of a a variety of Italian deli meat on fresh-baked bread, slathered in an an olive spread. OMG -- my senses danced with joy!
We tasted their pizza too, finished the meal with a round of gelato and suddenly deep-dish became a distant memory. Another time, another visit. We were too full, our experience too rich to want or need anything on top of it.
It wasn't that we didn't want to do deep-dish. It's just that Giordano's is the Coliseum and we got to eat around the block at a homestyle place that filled our bellies and warmed our hearts. We couldn't bear to invite memories that would interfere with that.
The people who run Superior couldn't be more lovely. Fellow customers both local and from afar seem to savor the rarity of this experience. You get to chat, talk about where you're from with people who really do seem to care.
On food channels they always talk about how you can taste the love that a good chef puts into the meal. Well, at Superior you bask in the glow of the emotions that are poured into everything they do. For once I could finally understand what all those chefs have been saying.
Italian Superior Bakery is a stop in Chicago I will never regret. In fact, I have said a prayer to Mother Mary on the proprietess's behalf.
May they thrive and prosper! -
Review from Damian P.
Okay so now it's official, I have finally tasted their pizza and was really amazed at the taste. I mean "other" places in the neighborhood try, but are not even close to the taste of theirs. They usually serve them at room temperature but will oblige if you would like it heated up a bit. I have to say the crust was just right. I know of "other" places around the neighborhood who try to serve this up like this, but they usually fail. I had the Fresh Ricotta cheese slice which consisted of tomato slices, Garlic, and Basil strips. And oh man was this a really nice taste. I of course, added some pepper flakes and it took it "there". Now, what I did want to mention was that I used my YELP check in and received my slice free! Yes, my friend paid for one and I got the other one free. I mean come on, how can you not pass up YELP in this situation.
The gentleman at the register was telling me on how his grandfather started the business and how he ended up taking it over later on. I personally think it was upgraded to the next level and I am so glad that they did.
Afterwords we decided to have Gelato. Of course, we both had the pistachio that they have imported straight from Naperville. Wow, what a mix of taste. Lets just say, I was very pleased and if I had issues before this venture, of course that all dissipated after Gelato.
They have a small dining area that has photos I believe of the grandfather and other people. There is something about Black and White photos that can take them to the next level . -
Review from Jen F.
Chicago, IL
9/3/2011
This little bakery has the best bread around, hands down. Better than Labriola (although less variety). Better than any of the other little bakeries. It's absolutely delicious & fresh. The french loaves make perfect garlic bread. The round loaves make perfect grilled cheese.
Come early in the morning for the best selection of breads, especially on Sundays when all the Italian families nearby stock up for Sunday dinner. The most popular loaves sell out early.
The pizza is good too, although I don't love it room temperature. I like to get the slice to go & then crisp it up in the oven (7 minutes at 425 is enough to melt the cheese & just get a touch of crispness on the bottom).
Cash only, but the prices are very reasonable. -
Review from Joyce C.
Morton Grove, IL
7/15/2011
This review is based solely on 2 cupcakes.
My coworker said the peanut butter chocolate cupcakes here were better than mine so I made her take me to this place. Upon walking in, I was surprised that this place was more than just a cupcake place and that it was an actual bakery with pizzas, breads cakes and other types of pastries. My coworker neglected to tell me this was carb heaven!!
So I ordered the peanut butter and the Italian almaretto flavored cupcakes and they were ok, though I'm not sure that they were better than what I could do. The frostings were made of whipped cream which melted by the time I took them home, so I guess I did not get a true representation of what they were supposed to be like, but I got the gist of it. The peanut butter was way better than the Italian cupcake. The Italian cupcake was kinda dry and didn't have very much flavor.
I would definitely come back to try everything else, especially the pizza as they looked delicious! Hopefully then the star rating on this place would go up a notch or two. -
Review from Lupe d.
6/22/2011
When people talk about hidden gems, they are referring to places like Italian Superior Bakery. Whether it's your first time or hundredth time entering this bakery, you will receive a warm welcome from the staff. Everyone here is very kind, friendly and helpful, making every visit a great experience.There is a nice cozy little seating area where you can enjoy your food. Keep in mind, however, that they close pretty early, so if you are the type (like me) who does late lunches, you may miss out so if you want to try this place out you better make some plans.
From the pizza to the breads to the cookies, cupcakes and bundt cakes, everything here is top-notch, super delicious and affordable. A "slice" of pizza is huge, served room temperature which is my preference (can be warmed if you ask). I love, love, love that there are many veggie pizza choices at Italian Superior Bakery because often times, when you go to places there are a bazillion types of meat pizzas and maybe only 2 types of veggie pizzas - if you count cheese pizza.
I almost hate to let the cat out of the bag, but here it is...another of Chicago's best kept secrets.... Italian Superior Bakery is not to be missed! -
Review from Dennis J.
4/9/2011
We've had the pizza and cupcakes. Both are excellent. I deeply mourn the year that my then girlfriend lived by around the corner but since we hadn't heard about this place, we ate at Bacci's. What a waste!
We can't wait to try more: bread, sandwiches, cakes. Everything looked great, but they were about to close when we walked in so we ordered quickly.
The only thing that holds it back from that final star is that their hours are are pretty inconvenient. The only day that we can really go here is Saturday for lunch, but we can only dream of how awesome it would be to work by here! -
Review from Daniel W.
Glen Ellyn, IL
10/1/2011
I finally had a chance to stop into Italian Superior Bakery and it definitely won't be my last.
I had a slice of their Ricotta pizza and it was great! Real fresh ingredients, evenly spread out, chewy crust in the middle but nice and crispy edges. I also ordered their Mufuletta sandwich. It was my first time trying it and it did not disappoint! As soon as I opened the wrapper I was hit with a real fragrant smell that just drew in my appetite. (Might I mention that I was a little sick and could not really smell at the time). The sandwich was delicious. The meats were all imported from Italy and the bread was homemade. This sandwich was more than enough as well. It's about the size of a frisbee...maybe a little smaller but you get what you pay for. I also got a loaf of bread to go for my ma and she loved it. Nice and chewy crust but the inside was soft as a pillow. We could not finish the whole thing so we put it into the freezer. Their bread is so good you can freeze it and when you pull it out of the freezer it won't get all crumbly. It will be just as new. (the owner, Pam, informed me of this little tid bit)
Their gelato is bomb too! I found out from Pam that they get all their gelato from a place in Naperville called Gelati. Gelati so happens to be my favorite place for gelato in Naperville.
Great service and very friendly owner. Pam was really great to talk to and helpful with my food selections. I plan to go back on a Friday in the future because every Friday they offer special sandwiches or soups.
Keep up the good work! -
Review from Tera D.
10/30/2010
This place is pretty cool. They have lots of pre-made pizza squares availalble, along with an array of deserts. The boyfriend and I tried some pizza and the cannolis, which are filled to order. He would probably give it a 4 if he were reviewing, because this pizza style was right up his alley. The pizza slices are served room temperature, and they're made with this soft, tasty, almost bread-like dough. I personally like my pizza hot and cheesy, so this didn't totally hit the spot for me. However, I brought half of mine (they give you a ridiculous 2 slices when you order 1) home with me and toasted it in the oven a bit, and it was very good.
The cannoli were a little disappointing, but maybe just cause I like mine with pistachios, which they don't use. -
Review from Jewell H.
Chicago, IL
8/2/2011
I LOVED this place! Great food! Great staff! Great decor! Will definitely return!
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Review from Ken M.
Chicago, IL
9/28/2011
Italian Superior Bakery is amazing!! They literally have the best pizza, bread and desserts in Little Italy and that's a bold statement. The best thing I love about this place is the people that work there and the awesome Friday surprise sandwich (you will never go disappointed or hungry!). If you can get a hold of the lasagna try it, it is also the best in Chicago. Cash only but they have an ATM for your cash if you forget.
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Review from David G.
Chicago, IL
11/3/2011
My friends and I do enjoy coming here. Not only the pizzas here are superb, but our experiences has always been great. Having said that, the prices are a tad above expected, hence four star review rather than five. But I do recommend.
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Review from Lori S.
Chicago, IL
3/5/2011
This bakery is incredible! It is family owned, and is a neighborhood establishment. The food is delicious. I really enjoy the pizza, it is reasonably priced, good, and great to take with you for your lunch that day.
The service is second to none. When you walk in, they greet you like family, and if they don't know you, they make an effort to get to know you. -
Review from sherrie r.
Wheaton, IL
1/31/2011
As you walk into this fabulous place, between the smell of the bread and the luscious display of bakery ... you will loose your heart...To top that , Pam greets you with a most beautiful smile that says Welcome...
Do not pass up this bakery.... It is a legion in the chicago neighborhood .
They now have sandwiches and specials... you can sit and have a cup of coffee or a slice of pizza or just a piece of Dolce .. I feel no matter what part of they city you are coming from, I come in from Wheaton, it is so worth the ride... La Dolce Vita -
Review from Double L.
Chicago, IL
8/20/2010
I used to think there really wasn't a lot of good bread in Chicago, I don't think that anymore.
This place is great. I'm annoyed I've lived in Chicago for 4 years and never been until recently.
The people that work there are really nice, the bread and food is awesome, looking forward to trying some desserts next time. Prices are cheap: 8" Pork Cutlet Sandwich on one of their rolls, 2 round half pound rolls & an Italian Soda = $11.80.
Check it out. -
Review from Sean C.
Chicago, IL
6/11/2011 1 Check-in Here
This is a great neighborhood bakery, the staff is super friendly....on my first visit it was about 1/2 an hour to closing time and I ordered a slice of sausage pizza. Unfortunately, for me I didnt know it was cash only, but the owner told me that I could have it on the house! and needless to say the pizza was better than damenzo's and bacci's.....I wish I had found out about this place sooner!
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Review from Mags W.
Chicago, IL
7/22/2011
Great food! Friendly, family-like service! Took my mother here on her first visit to Chicago -- I'm a fan!!!
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Review from Jackie F.
Woodstock, IL
6/25/2011 1 Check-in Here
Great thick pizza! Non better in Chicago! Worth the drive!
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Review from Teri E.
Chicago, IL
11/8/2009
I just discovered this amazing little place. These people really care about their customers. I have never been treated so well by a business. The breads are baked fresh daily. The pastries are made by a real, live chef on site! The cookies are to die for, the pumpkin pie is the best I've ever had, and you can sample a variety of items (with condiments!). And you won't believe pizza (but get there early; it's gone before lunch!).
They always have something new (Olive oil Cake? yummmm) and you will feel like family the first time you visit. There seems to be a constant flow of locals in and out (fresh coffee anyone?) and, if you run out of olive oil, they have it by the bottle or the can.
How can such a great little place be such a secret? I wish I could give this place 20 stars. -
Review from Michael B.
Chicago, IL
6/25/2010
Delicious bread, tasty muffins, the best chocolate covered macaroons,rotating selection of pan pizza featuring classic and inspired toppings that never fail to impress, a pastry menu that simply begs you to bring home a few things for later and worth special mention .... the World's Best Peanut Butter Chocolate Brownie ! ! These Bakers aren't messing around ! Get in there and see for yourself..
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Review from J T.
Redlands, CA
2/6/2010
Great cannoli. I know I said I like Ferrara, but Italian Superior leaves the shells unfilled until you order. This means your cannoli has a nice crunch and isn't soggy. Yummy filling - ricotta, chocolate chips, little citrus (orange?). Also enjoy the bread boule - you won't get a round, 2 lb loaf this good for $5 many places! Enjoy!
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Review from Tiff D.
Chicago, IL
11/4/2009
Giordano's, Lou Malnatti's, etc.... HANDS DOWN Superior makes THE BEST PIZZA.
And I can't even tell you what it tastes like heated up because I always eat it before I get home... it is THAT GOOD!
For 3.10, they give you portion sizes equivalent to a frozen pizza. And it's ready to eat! Holy cow, I know I'm gaining 10 lbs from this place.
The guy before me said it right.... get there eraly because once it's gone, it's gone and they close shop around 3.
I haven't tried their pastries yet, and now i don't think i should, unless i want to be 20 lbs overweight......
I recommend this place!!! Try their delicious pizza! -
Review from MaryLu C.
Chicago, IL
9/15/2010
The bread is the REAL thing. Hand rolled hard crust. This is a must on your holiday or party table if you call your family Italian. The pastry chef is a fairly recent addition, but everything I have had on the pastry side is top rate. I call in orders for parties and special occasions and everything is ready on time and the staff very friendly.
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Review from kathy l.
Chicago, IL
8/22/2010
just recently moved into the the Chicago area and heard about Taylor street neighborhood and i ran into this quaint bakery that caught my eye. It so reminded me of my old neighborhood without the pressure and the cost. So warm and friendly! The owners know everyone by name and face. Watching from afar i noticed the "tight knight" Bond everyone shares. The cleanliness of the Bakery and the aroma was unreal. An added plus was that they had a restroom that was extremely clean and fully equip ed. Bottom line its hard to find a place these days were its affordable and cool at the same time. I will be back. Love the carrot cake and the sausage pizza.
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Review from Josclyn W.
Montgomery, IL
7/7/2010
While on Taylor street to grab a bite, we had our fill of Italian beef and needed something sweet, and I was in the mood for something old school. So we walked down to western turned right and this place called to me... we stepped inside and saw a small case of just want I was looking for. Macaroons with a dark chocolate base, Olive Oil cake and canoli, among other things. We could not leave with out taking home some of the amazing pizza, and fresh bread.
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Review from Al D.
Oshkosh, WI
8/25/2011
Exceptional pastries combined with some of the nicest people you'll ever meet behind the counter.
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Review from Bryan D.
Chicago, IL
Updated - 8/19/2010
They are now serving sandwiches & have opened up a little cafe next door. Very tasty so far.
1 Previous Review: Show all »
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6/5/2009 First to Review
This bakery is one of the hidden gems in the city. Fresh baked bread daily. The pastries are some… Read more »
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Review from frank v.
Chicago, IL
10/12/2010 2 Check-ins Here
This place is phenomonal!!! Every friday they have a food special that is to die for, and the pizza is great too. The owners and staff are soooo friendly, i felt like i was at home with family.
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Review from Noura K.
Buford, GA
3/6/2010
I simply loooooove this place for all the fresh and tasty sweet delights they make. I live right next door and everytime I pass by it I get a welcoming smile from the owner :) I tried the carrot cake, coffee cake, and the biscottis and they are the yummiest!! some friends were visiting from france and the owner was so generous with them and gave them some extra free pastries. I think that's one place I will miss a lot in chicago
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Review from Rob A.
Chicago, IL
6/21/2010 1 Check-in Here
We love this place! Phenomenal baked goods, superb pizza, deserts to die for, bread that'll make you cry, $1 coffee and sandwiches coming soon! To boot, Pam and her sons are kind and friendly while runnin the joint. Consider us regulars!
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Review from Miss M.
Chicago, IL
4/9/2010
Their bakery items are amazing. Their Red Velvet cake is good and they make awesome quiches and their pizzas are really yummy! And they are super cheap and the owners are very friendly and nice.
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Review from Chiara S.
Chicago, IL
5/19/2010
Whoaaaa.... seriously how have I not reviewed this place, yet?
I have been coming here since before I was in the womb. OK that makes no sense, but you get the idea. My family started getting their bread and pizza from Superior since my grandparents were young. We have been regular customers for as long as I can remember.
Their bread and pizza is authentic and delicious. Their bread is fresh-made, soft and almost fluffy on the inside, crusty on the outside -- great as French Toast! Try the broccoli pizza. Great prices! New owners to keep the tradition going! -
Review from Ben K.
Chicago, IL
3/21/2010
The real effing deal, the kind of place cynics like to think can't succeed, its like a time warp to chicago 1950, except the folks working there are young and will be doing great business for years to come!
I've brought guests there from NYC, LA, SF, Berlin, and they've all been floored, Superior is the Rick Bayless/Charlie Trotter of Chicago Bakeries. And they're dirt cheap - wow wow wow - too bad they close at 1p!
