How to Find Chicago's Best Paczki
Mardi Gras is on Tuesday, but many Chicagoans know the holiday as Paczki Day. That’s because Chicago once had the largest Polish population outside of Warsaw, and their Fat Tuesday (and Thursday) pastry of choice was this cross between a classic donut and brioche bun with a cream or fruit filling. Host Jacoby Cochran and journalist Joanna Marszałek decided to avoid the Paczki Day lines and met up in Logan Square for a paczki taste test.
Where We Went:
- Bennison’s Bakery in Evanston
- Laramie Bakery and Deli in Belmont Cragin
- Polish Paczki Cafe in Norwood Park
Other Suggestions:
- Racine Bakery in Garfield Ridge
- Weber’s Bakery in Garfield Ridge
- Delightful Pastries in Jefferson Park
- Baranowski in Franklin Park
- Hanna's Bakery in Bloomingdale
- KD Market (several suburban locations)
Good News: Lunar New Year Celebrations
Want some more City Cast Chicago news? Then make sure to sign up for our Hey Chicago newsletter.
Follow us @citycastchicago
You can also text us or leave a voicemail at: 773 780-0246
Become a member of City Cast Chicago.
Interested in advertising with City Cast? Find more info HERE
Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
Subscribe To Our Newsletter
Stay connected to City Cast Chicago and get ready to join the local conversation.
Latest Episodes
Is Chicago Still Broke? Plus, ICE Arrests Increasing
What have we learned in the last week about the city’s financial position, and what does that mean for the growing field of mayoral candi...
Mayor’s Transit and Public Health Picks. Plus, ‘Love Island’ Mania and Chicago’s Next Hit Show
Today we’re talking about some new appointments coming out of the Johnson administration, including a new Public Health Commissioner and...
Is Chuy Garcia Controlling Congressional Race? Plus, a Visit to Feld
U.S. Rep. Jesus “Chuy” Garcia (4th) has been accused of thumbing the political scales in favor of his chosen successor. In November, Garc...
Why Massage Parlors Are Getting Raided in the 12th Ward
Two illicit massage parlors on Archer Avenue were raided within weeks of each other — including one next door to 12th Ward Ald. Julia Ram...
Who Will Replace Retiring Police Chief? Plus, Chicago's New Gayborhood?
The Chicago Police Department will be without a permanent police superintendent starting July 15, as current superintendent Larry Snellin...
'Your City Could Be Better': The Ultimate USA Trivia Battle. How Much Do You Know? — Presented By City Cast Chicago
See if your Chicago knowledge serves you well! In the first-ever Your City Could Be Better trivia episode, City Cast CEO David Plotz goes...
What Is a Tenant Bill of Rights? Plus, Cold Treats For the Heat
This week, Mayor Brandon Johnson pitched the Protecting Renter’s Ordinance, which the city calls a “comprehensive modernization” of Chica...
Your Guide to July 2026 in Chicago
As summer really takes off, the food fests, fireworks shows, and WNBA All Star Weekend have us really excited for July. Here’s your guide...
Extreme Heat, Indiana Fireworks, and 'The Bear' Finale
Extreme heat warnings, corn sweat, and potential thunderstorms could make this the most volatile weather week of the summer so far. Execu...
Seriously, More Parking Meter Drama? Plus, More Mayoral Candidates
Chicago’s infamous parking meters are up for sale. In a City Council committee meeting last week, alders got more insight into the mayor’...