Leonidas

My next stop is Leonidas Chocolaterie, a small chocolate shop in Near North, close to Loyola Chicago's campus. When you walk in, you feel like you've been transported to Europe - little cafe tables spot the L-shaped sitting area that wraps around the chocolate counter (that is fully stocked, I might add). It smells delicious, but not as strongly of waffles as Baladoche. That is, however, because their main item is not the Liege waffle - it's chocolate. The young people working the counter are very nice and helpful, but not in a pushy way. They make your waffle fresh to order, and will bring it out to you when it's ready.


Again, I ordered a plain Liege sprinkled with pearled sugar (at $3.95, cheaper than Baladoche). Even the options with gelato/fancy toppings are less expensive! Plus, you can order a homemade, REAL hot chocolate to go with your waffle. Hard to beat that.

The atmosphere is quite cozy and fun. I would not recommend coming here with a large group though - the space and seating is quite limited. Nor can you come here late night - it closed at 8 p.m. the evening I went. BUT, I must say, my experience at Leonidas was much better than Baladoche - the people, the atmosphere, and even the waffle. Definitely my favorite so far! I can't wait to go back when it's warmer, and they have their outdoor seating area set up...


Take the el here - it's barely a block from the Chicago Red Line stop (and for me, a very short walk!!!), but parking would be difficult and/or expensive.


Leonidas Chocolaterie
59 E Chicago Ave.
(between Wabash Ave & Rush St) Chicago, IL 60611


www.leonidas-usa.com