Spinning J Bakery and Soda Fountain

1000 N California Ave, Chicago, IL

★★★★★4.8(1,133 Google reviews)

Crema's Take

Spinning J is a nostalgic soda fountain and bakery where the real magic happens at the bar—think classic root beer floats and inventive breakfast sandwiches (the blue cheese biscuit is legendary) paired with a genuinely fun, quirky atmosphere complete with fun house mirrors. Beyond the coffee, their homemade pastries like cinnamon rolls and their made-from-scratch approach to every drink keep locals coming back, though it's the kind of place where you'll want to linger over your meal rather than rush through it.

What to expect

Traditional drinksSpecialty drinksSlow sitPastriesLight foodFamily friendlyMeetingsFull breakfast

Google Reviews

Maja Ivanovic
★★★★★a month ago

We had a lovely time at Spinning J! We went for dinner service on Friday night. The dinner menu was somewhat limited (pot pies, salads, and sandwiches - tuna melt, beet Reuben, ham). We got the paneer pot pie and chicken pot pie, both were delicious. The homemade sodas were excellent (we got root beer and egg cream). Our favorite was the hibiscus key lime pie for dessert. Seating is somewhat limited, several small booths and counter seating - might be tough for a group of >4. The service and atmosphere were great. We had an awesome time and will definitely be back to try more.

Isabella Nelson
★★★★★5 months ago

I always enjoy coming here and sitting at the bar. The food is great - I am a fan of root beer floats and breakfast sandwiches, and this is the place to get them!

Alexander Hume
★★★★★6 months ago

Fun house mirror wall and delicate and delicious breakfast sandwich, got it with sausage and the blue cheese biscuit. Damn. Very green tasting matcha, yummo. Invigorating brekky

Omar Saeed
★★★★★7 months ago

This spot is extremely hyped. We went Sunday afternoon. We the spinning J breakfast sandwich and Poblano sandwich to go. Both were extremely average. Not sure if it has anything to do with getting carry out vs. dine in but underwhelmed. Atmosphere inside seemed great and lively though.

Michael Tayo
★★★★★9 months ago

cute little quaint spot close to Humboldt Park. The staff was super friendly and were helpful when navigating the menu. The cinnamon roll is a must if you’re into sweets like me, but honestly, you can’t go wrong with any of the baked goods. I’m a big fan of breakfast sandwiches and their English muffin egg and cheese really hit the spot .

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