Au Levain
4301 North Lincoln Ave, Chicago, IL
Crema's Take
“Au Levain transports you to a Parisian bakery the moment you step inside, where the aroma of butter and espresso mingles in a naturally bright, cozy space that fills up fast—especially on chilly mornings. The real magic is in their exceptional pastries, particularly the brie and apple butter Kouign-amann and their standout English muffins, paired with thoughtfully sourced espresso drinks that reward lingering over quick grabs. This is a place designed for slow mornings and meaningful meetings, not scrolling (there's no Wi-Fi), making it the rare coffee shop that actually encourages you to be present.”
What to expect
Google Reviews
The brie and apple butter Kouign-amann seriously changed my life. Other food and drinks also amazing! Such a bright, natural light filled, but cozy space.
Everything I've had here is very good. The standout stars are definitely the English muffins and the ham and cheese croissant. I don't where else you can get English muffins half as good and I think the ham and cheese croissant is my favorite pastry I've ever had, definitely while it's warm. The old fashioned doughnuts changed my mind on old fashioned doughnuts. I normally don't like them but these are so tender and delicious that I'll have try more
Ordered a breakfast wrap and a drip coffee (sparrow). Wrap was good. FYI: No Wi-Fi. Update: 2nd visit, ordered a egg sausage sourdough mufffin. Good chunk of meat and high quality. Passed on the Sparrow dark roast coffee this time. Wish they had something lighter, at least a medium roast. FYI: Owner says they now have WiFi
The cozy, bustling vibe and fresh, warm pastries are exactly what you want on a chilly fall or winter morning. I arrived a little after open at 8am, and by 9am, almost every table was occupied. Low music in the background, lively street views. Yeah, I'll definitely be back.
If you’ve ever been to Paris, you’ll understand. Au Levain isn’t just a bakery, it’s a whole experience. The second you walk in, you get that smell of butter and espresso that feels straight out of a Parisian morning. Every pastry is made with real love and skill no shortcuts, no fake sweetness, just pure perfection. The Crookie? Life-changing. The kind of pastry that makes you stop mid-bite and go, oh, okay, this is the real deal. It’s flaky, soft, and tastes like it was made by someone who’s actually been to France. it’s magnifique. 🥐✨
Crema Reviews
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