Best Gelato in Downtown Chicago

We've collected top 10 mentioned gelato in Downtown Chicago from other articles such as Condé Nast Traveler, Eater Chicago, Chicago Tribune.

Best Gelato in Downtown Chicago

BomboBar
BomboBar
4.3 (1473 ratings)
Donuts with sundae-style toppings, plus gelato & coffee, doled out in hip digs with sidewalk seats.
832 W Randolph St, Chicago, IL 60607, USA
Ice cream shopCoffee shopDessert shopDonut shopEspresso bar
Mentioned by 10Best
From Apple Pie to Zeppole: Chicago Dessert Options Satisfy Day and Night
"Bar Siena's walk-up dessert window, BomboBar, offers a riff on doughnuts - the "bomboloni" - an Italian hole-less doughnut Top Chef alum Fabio Viviani serves at his restaurants, Siena Tavern and Bar Siena. It's the specialty of the house at BomboBar and works wonderfully in the West Loop for dessert or post-party hunger pangs. Order one, four, six or a dozen and any of six rotating custard flavors that you inject into the doughnut."
Mentioned by Secret Chicago
10 Incredible Ice Cream Shops To Try In Chicago
"The fast-casual eatery by MasterChef’s Fabio Viviani has recently reopened its walk-up window in the West Loop with a brand new seasonal menu that will shake your summer right up with mouthwatering cups of Frozé, irresistible gelato shakes and their brand new Italian ice slushies. The bar even has released a vegan, summer version of their famous hot chocolates that looks so amazing its no wonder they call it “The Choc of the Town”."
Original Rainbow Cone - Navy Pier
Original Rainbow Cone - Navy Pier
4.4 (69 ratings)
600 E Grand Ave, Chicago, IL 60611, USA
Ice cream shop
Mentioned by Thrillist
The 15 Best Ice Cream Shops in Chicago
"Navy Pier, Beverly, Lombard, & Darien Five flavors in one—that’s really all you need. A Chicago institution since 1926, the Original Rainbow Cone is known for serving a thick stack of chocolate, strawberry, Palmer House (AKA vanilla with walnuts and cherries), and pistachio ice creams plus orange sherbet atop a sturdy cake cone. While you can get your paws on the prized classic at the spot’s Navy Pier stand, it’s worth making your way to the OG South Side location to marvel, if briefly, in its timeless charm while waiting for your order."
Mentioned by Trip101
10 Best Ice Cream Shops In Chicago, Illinois - Updated 2021
"Editor's Note: There's no photo available at the time of writing. Original Rainbow Cone is an iconic seasonal ice cream shop in Chicago that serves a wide array of desserts including banana splits, cones, sundaes, and shakes. This long-standing ice cream parlor offers layers of delectable orange sherbet, pistachio, Palmer House, strawberry, and chocolate flavors in a deliciously looking sugar cone."
Margie's Candies
Margie's Candies
4.5 (1802 ratings)
Iconic 1920s ice cream parlor & candy counter in a cozy space with nostalgic, time-warp decor.
1960 N Western Ave, Chicago, IL 60647, USA
Ice cream shop
Mentioned by Thrillist
The 15 Best Ice Cream Shops in Chicago
"BucktownFounded in 1921, the original Margie’s Candies comes with tales of visitors like the Beatles and Al Capone (we also named it one of the best ice cream shops in America.) This Bucktown staple has maintained the old-fashioned decor and vibes, as well as a knack for serving handmade confectionery candy, chocolate, and fudge. On the ice cream side, you can go for classic scoops or make room for any of the shop’s famous banana splits. Bring a group for “the world’s largest terrapin,” a gargantuan indulgence featuring 15 scoops of French vanilla ice cream topped with a deluge of hot fudge, caramel, whipped cream, nuts, and banana before being crowned with a cookie.How to book: Stop by for first come, first served seating."
Mentioned by Spoon University
The 50 Best Foods to Eat in Chicago
"Sit in the same chair where gangster Al Capone enjoyed homemade ice cream and toppings. Marshmallow is the best addition to any one of Margie’s 13 ice cream flavors. #SpoonTip: Try to avoid going on weekends where wait times can be over an hour."
Jeni's Splendid Ice Creams
Jeni's Splendid Ice Creams
4.7 (473 ratings)
Chain scooping creative flavors of ice cream & frozen yogurt made from local ingredients.
908 W Randolph St, Chicago, IL 60607, USA
Ice cream shopRestaurant
Mentioned by Time Out Chicago
The 14 best ice cream shops in Chicago
"Restaurants Ice cream parlors Lake View. When Ohio-based Jeni's moved to Chicago, it immediately upped the city's ice cream scene. Sweet corn ice cream with black raspberry swirls?"
Mentioned by Thrillist
The 15 Best Ice Cream Shops in Chicago
"Multiple locationsInitially started in 2002 in Columbus, Ohio, this “splendid” venture entered the Chicago market in September 2013 with its first scoop shop on Southport and hasn’t looked back since."
Mentioned by Spoon University
The 21 Best Ice Cream Shops in Chicago
"Jeni’s has expanded to being sold in many grocery stores, but nothing beats enjoying it fresh from the shop. Try one of their specialty treats like their ice cream cookie sandwiches."
Scooter's Frozen Custard
Scooter's Frozen Custard
4.7 (606 ratings)
Frozen custard shop with sundaes, floats, concretes (thick shakes) & loads of different toppings.
1658 W Belmont Ave, Chicago, IL 60657, USA
Ice cream shop
La Michoacana Premium
La Michoacana Premium
4.5 (1072 ratings)
1855 S Blue Island Ave, Chicago, IL 60608, USA
Ice cream shop
Mentioned by Secret Chicago
10 Incredible Ice Cream Shops To Try In Chicago
"This Mexican ice cream shop and its colorful paletas are a total must-try. La Michoacana’s extensive options, ranging all the way from tangy Michelada to creamy strawberry, will have you coming back and back again for more!. The shop also sells tangy mangoneadas, with blended mango sorbet, diced fresh fruit, lime juice and Tajin chili powder, another incredible option for cooling down in the hot summer weather!"
Mentioned by The Infatuation
The Best Ice Cream In Chicago - Chicago
"There are a few La Michoacanas in Chicago, but the location we really like is in Pilsen. It has a drive-thru (much appreciated this year), the staff is friendly, and they have great paletas and regular ice cream. The treats here are very sweet, perfect for when you want a dessert that tastes like dessert because not everyone wants their treats to taste like goat cheese or earl grey tea."
Mentioned by MVMT Blog
25 Most Instagrammable Restaurants, Bars, and Cafes in Chicago
"There is so much color, fun, and creativity in every dessert that you won’t be able to resist squeezing in a quick photoshoot before everything melts!. Looking for more fun things to do in Chicago?. Check out these posts to read more:"
Tcby Frozen Yogurt
Tcby Frozen Yogurt
3.6 (38 ratings)
Bright chain yogurt shop serving up varied frozen treats & chilled coffee drinks.
152 N Wabash Ave, Chicago, IL 60601, USA
Frozen yogurt shopIce cream shop
Mentioned by Spoon University
The 21 Best Ice Cream Shops in Chicago
"Always a big city staple, Pinkberry never fails to disappoint as a refreshing and healthy warm-weather treat. Their changing flavors allow you a slight variety throughout the summer."
Legend Tasty House
Legend Tasty House
4.6 (1780 ratings)
Colorful counter serve specializing in hand-rolled Thai ice cream with a variety of toppings.
2242 S Wentworth Ave, Chicago, IL 60616, USA
Ice cream shop
Mentioned by Thrillist
The 15 Best Ice Cream Shops in Chicago
"ChinatownThai-style rolled ice cream had a moment a couple years back, and as far as we’re concerned, it’s still the belle of the sweet, sweet ball. This Chinatown hotspot was one the first to introduce Chicago to the curious confection, curling luscious portions of Matcha Queen (green tea and strawberry), Double Trouble (Oreo and Nutella), Key Lime Pie, and other originals into neat rolls by hand to the delight of admiring onlookers.How to book: Stop by for counter service, order take-out online, or get delivery via GrubHub, Postmates, DoorDash, and Uber Eats."
Mentioned by Secret Chicago
10 Incredible Ice Cream Shops To Try In Chicago
"If you’re a fan of hand rolled ice cream then you should definitely check out Legend Tasty House. At this Chinatown ice cream shop, employees hand roll the ice cream in front of you and finish it off with mix-ins such as fresh fruit, oreo cookies, taro and a bunch of other amazing toppings!"
Insomnia Cookies
Insomnia Cookies
4.5 (11 ratings)
Bakery chain known for late-night deliveries, with some locations selling ice cream.
30 E Balbo Dr, Chicago, IL 60605, USA
Cookie shopDessert shopIce cream shop
Mentioned by Chicago Parent
Where to buy your holiday cookies in Chicago
"A post shared by Insomnia Cookies (@insomniacookies) on Jul 17, 2019 at 12:04pm PDT. If even picking up cookies is low on your to-do list, Insomnia Cookies comes to the rescue. This chain specializes in late-night cookie delivery (yes, you read that right), including sugar cookies, double chocolate mint cookies and drool-worthy smores cookies."
Mentioned by The World and Then Some
The best desserts in Chicago! 20 Amazing places that you HAVE to try
"Insomnia cookies are next on this list of the best desserts in Chicago. Cookies are the perfect addition to any day, so why not stop by Insomnia Cookies for an ice cream sandwich fix?. Unlike some other joints that offer ice cream sandwiches, Insomnia Cookies lets you customize your treat every step of the way!"
Andy's Frozen Custard
Andy's Frozen Custard
4.6 (1083 ratings)
Frozen custard sundaes, concretes & more, plus a choice of toppings (with a drive-thru window).
9507 S Cicero Ave, Oak Lawn, IL 60453, USA
Ice cream shopDessert restaurantDessert shopFrozen dessert supplier
Mentioned by Make it Better
The 11 Best Spots for Ice Cream Around Chicago
"With more than a dozen locations in Illinois, including Evanston, Naperville, Mount Prospect, and Bolingbrook, Andy’s is spreading the love of frozen custard throughout Chicagoland. Frozen custard is creamier than traditional ice cream, with more butterfat and less air. At Andy’s the slow-churned custard is made fresh hourly to maintain the rich texture."
Mentioned by Spoon University
The 50 Best Foods to Eat in Chicago
"With five Chicago-land locations, Andy’s is very accessible. The Jackhammer is one of many flavors of concretes. Choose from a list of over 25 seasonal toppings to add to a frozen custard of your choice."
Mentioned by Spoon University
The 21 Best Ice Cream Shops in Chicago
"Classic chocolate and vanilla custard with all the fun mix-ins one could possibly want. From concretes to malts to sundaes, Andy’s offers every possible way for you to enjoy your custard."

Best Breweries in Downtown Chicago

Great Central Brewing Company
Great Central Brewing Company
4.6 (155 ratings)
A variety of brewers' beers offered in a funky setting with bench seats & an occasional food truck.
221 N Wood St, Chicago, IL 60612, USA
Brewery
Mentioned by Choose Chicago
Chicago Breweries with Incredible Taprooms | Craft Beer
"Taste some of the best craft beers from all around Chicago at Grand Central’s taproom, located in the West Loop. This contract brewery, which helps brewery clients with their production, also turns out its own small batch beers. Choose from 24 craft beer on taps, including local favorites include the Free Bird American pale ale from Begyle Brewing Company and Maplewood’s award-winning Charlatan APA. Great Central’s own offerings (available on draft and in cans) include a German-style Helles lager and citrusy hefeweizen."
Lo Rez Brewing and Taproom
Lo Rez Brewing and Taproom
4.4 (188 ratings)
Housemade craft brews are tapped in a funky, warehouselike space with distressed brick & ductwork.
2101 S Carpenter St, Chicago, IL 60608, USA
BreweryBar
Mentioned by Choose Chicago
Chicago Breweries with Incredible Taprooms | Craft Beer
"The founders, former tech co-workers turned brewers, rehabbed much of the 19th-century industrial building themselves. The result is a soaring but cozy space that features brick walls, a 40-foot-long oak bar, a patio, and picnic tables that encourage mingling. They also encourage you to bring your everything, including food, games, darts, kids, and dogs — but they’re got the beer covered."
Mentioned by Do312
The Best Breweries, Distilleries & Wineries In ...
"Lo Rez has spent the last year posting snapshots of their great events so we're so excited that they have reopened their space (with precautions!). They are also offering cheap home delivery throughout the Chicago area."
Right Bee Cider
Right Bee Cider
4.9 (41 ratings)
1830 N Kostner Ave, Chicago, IL 60639, USA
BreweryCider mill

Best Bakery and Cake Shops in Downtown Chicago

Aya Pastry
Aya Pastry
4.8 (99 ratings)
1332 W Grand Ave, Chicago, IL 60642, USA
BakeryWholesale bakery
Mindy’s Bakery
Mindy’s Bakery
4.5 (1449 ratings)
Hip family-friendly American eatery known for its seasonal fare, rich desserts & hot chocolate.
1747 N Damen Ave, Chicago, IL 60647, USA
BakeryAmerican restaurantBagel shopCafeCoffee shopRestaurant
Mentioned by The City Lane
Best Chicago Breakfast & Brunch Spots
"Mindy’s Hot Chocolate in Bucktown has been a brunch favorite since 2005, and has long been supportive of local producers who supply its seasonally changing menu. Founder Mindy Segal honed her craft by working at Chicago culinary institutions such as Charlie Trotter’s and Ambria and later went on to receive a James Beard Foundation award for “Outstanding Pastry Chef”. Mindy has now brought her sweet and savory offerings to the Loop at the recently opened Revival Food Hall on Clark Street."
Mentioned by Spoon University
The 50 Best Foods to Eat in Chicago
"The warm, bite-sized doughnuts accompanied by hot fudge dipping sauce are the perfect pairing for Mindy’s famous hot chocolates. There are nine different hot chocolate options, all served with their homemade marshmallows. This is a true Chicago, cold-weather dessert."
Mentioned by Fodor’s Travel
Top Restaurants in Chicago
"The city's most celebrated pastry chef, Mindy Segal, goes solo at Hot Chocolate, and as you might expect, it's a hit for a really great dessert...Read More"
Cinnaholic
Cinnaholic
4.9 (52 ratings)
1295 N Milwaukee Ave, Chicago, IL 60622, USA
BakeryDessert shop

Best & Cool Bars in Downtown Chicago

Old Irving Brewing Co.
Old Irving Brewing Co.
4.5 (749 ratings)
Funky warehouse spot serving house beers & gastropub fare with a beer hall, TVs & a cornhole game.
4419 W Montrose Ave, Chicago, IL 60641, USA
BrewpubAmerican restaurantBarBrewery
Mentioned by UrbanMatter
14 Best Breweries to Visit in Chicago
"High up there on the other end of the Chicago spectrum, Old Irving resides just east of Portage Park and offers plenty of beers for all kinds of hops lovers. Favorites include the Being Ernest, a Hemingway-inspired Belgian tripel made in collaboration with Forbidden Fruit, Marz, Maplewood, and Off Color, and ‘Til Death, a Pilsner worthy of wedding bells. It’s homey and delightful and a perfect hideaway spot."
Mentioned by Time Out Chicago
Kid-friendly restaurants in Chicago
"Bars Breweries Portage Park. While you're munching on shishito peppers and charcuterie, the kids will be tucking into crispy chicken tenders, a cheeseburger or buttered noodles at this Irving Park brewery. All kids' meals are just $8 and include a drink and your choice of fries or fresh fruit."
Mentioned by Food Com
Chicago's Best Kid-Friendly Restaurants
"The food is often very kid-friendly, and parents can kick back with a few craft beers. Old Irving is no exception. It’s bright and spacious with plenty of room for squirmy little ones."
3 Squares Diner
3 Squares Diner
4.5 (175 ratings)
1020 W Lawrence Ave, Chicago, IL 60640, USA
DinerBarBrunch restaurant
Old Town Ale House
Old Town Ale House
4.6 (544 ratings)
Laid-back, cash-only dive bar near Second City with a storied past, old-school jukebox & funky art.
219 W North Ave, Chicago, IL 60610, USA
Bar
Mentioned by Eater Chicago
The 28 Essential Bars in Chicago
"This late-night den was a favorite of the late Anthony Bourdain who filmed several TV segments here as it’s the antithesis of many of the yuppie Old Town bars around the corner on Wells. The dive sports inappropriate paintings of Chicago history, including depictions of incarcerated ex-Gov. Rod Blagojevich and is a destination for many, drawing a diverse group of patrons from all walks of life."

Vacation Rentals, Airbnb, Hotels & Cabins near Downtown Chicago

Modern 2B/2B w amazing skyline view & optional parking
Guest Suite · 2 Guests · 2 Bedrooms
$750 /night*
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4.3 (752 reviews)
Le Meridien Essex Chicago
Hotel
$149 /night
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4.0 (248 reviews)
Fairfield Inn & Suites Chicago Midway Airport
Hotel
$89 /night
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* The displayed nightly rate may be estimated based on a future travel date. Narrow down your search with checkin and checkout dates to see the exact price.