Chicago - March 21, 2008

Sweet Spot

Shokolad Pastry & Cafe

They say breakfast is the most important meal of the day. But for some reason (a.k.a. the snooze button), you always leave the house on an empty stomach (grr).

You’ll have no problem waking up for a feast at Shokolad, the Ukranian Village’s latest (and hottest) answer to midmorning munchies.

Owner Halyna Fedus (pastry chef, Limelight Catering) churns out European dishes with American flair. In addition to regulars (eggs, salads, sandwiches, panini), find daily specials like borshch, pierogies, maple-walnut praline crepes, and gelato — all made with natural ingredients.

The pastry case is where Fedus really shines. Dark chocolate-covered cheesecake lollipops, Drunken Cherry Cake, tiramisu, and Opera Cake (layers of chocolate, vanilla, and almond biscuits with coffee buttercream) are just a few of the sweets on offer.

Come summer, you can expect patio seating and a lighter menu.

It’s hot, that Shokolad.

Shokolad, 2524 West Chicago Avenue, between Campbell and Maplewood Avenues (773-276-6402).