Zymi Bakery

For residents across the Illinois region, the search for a truly authentic, high-quality bakery offering both familiar favorites and unique international treats often leads to one special spot on the Northwest Side of Chicago: Zymi Bakery. Located in the welcoming Jefferson Park neighborhood, Zymi Bakery has quickly become a beloved local institution, celebrated for bringing a slice of genuine Greek and European pastry craftsmanship to the Chicagoland area.

More than just a bakery, Zymi is the creation of acclaimed pastry chef and owner, Giannis (Ioannis) Tasopoulos, who reportedly comes from a family with a long baking tradition in Filiatra, Greece. This deep heritage is evident in every hand-crafted item, from the flaky, honey-drenched Baklava to the creamy Galaktoboureko. Chef Tasopoulos is not just a baker but a certified pastry chef and cake artist, blending extensive formal training in the U.S. with the rich, traditional flavors of his home country.

The core of Zymi Bakery’s appeal is its diverse menu that caters to every sweet and savory craving. It beautifully fuses classic Greek pastries with beloved European-style cakes and American bakery standards. This variety, combined with a commitment to fresh ingredients and traditional techniques, ensures that every visit is a delightful experience. Whether you're seeking a quick breakfast bite, a centerpiece cake for a special occasion, or simply an afternoon coffee and treat, Zymi Bakery offers a warm, welcoming environment for the Illinois community.

Zymi Bakery is conveniently situated on the far Northwest Side of Chicago, making it a highly accessible spot for local residents and those traveling from the surrounding suburbs of Illinois. Its location in the Jefferson Park/Gladstone Park area positions it well for easy access and community engagement.

The bakery’s full address is:

5806 N Milwaukee Ave, Chicago, IL 60646, USA

This address places Zymi directly on North Milwaukee Avenue, a primary route through the neighborhood, offering simple navigation for drivers. Being in the 60646 ZIP code area, it serves a large residential base and is a great option for those coming from neighboring communities like Niles, Park Ridge, and Harwood Heights. The owner and staff are noted by customers for their friendly and welcoming nature, which enhances the overall feeling of a true neighborhood gem.

Zymi Bakery understands the need for modern convenience and offers flexible service options to accommodate the busy schedules of Illinois patrons:

• Takeout: Ideal for a quick visit to grab a coffee and a pastry.
• Dine-in: A spacious, nice large area is available for enjoying your treats and coffee in a comfortable atmosphere.
• Delivery: Offering convenience for those who want their favorite Greek and European pastries brought right to their home or office.

Zymi Bakery prides itself on an expansive menu that showcases its Greek roots while embracing wider European and American baking traditions. The offerings span both sweet and savory categories, ensuring there is something for every taste and time of day.

Key menu and service categories include:

• Signature Greek Pastries (Single Serve and By the Pound): Highlighting authentic specialties such as Baklava, Galaktoboureko (custard pie in phyllo), Bougatsa (sweet or savory phyllo pie), Tulumba (honey syrup-soaked churro), and the unique Baklava Cheesecake.
• Savory Pies and Appetizers: Including freshly made savory phyllo pastries like Spanikopita (Spinach and Feta Pie), Cheese Pie, and the boat-shaped savory bread Peinirli.
• Classic Cakes (Single Serve and Whole): A wide variety of European-style layer cakes, including Black Forest Cake, Tiramisu, Apricot Cake, Strawberry Cake, Raspberry Cake, and Vasilopita (a traditional New Year's or celebratory bread).
• Biscuits and Cookies: Offering various biscuits and cookies sold by the dozen or single serve, such as Double Chocolate Biscuits, Vanilla Biscuits, Paximadi (Greek hard bread/biscuit varieties), Kourabedes (powdered sugar shortbread), and Melomakarona (honey-soaked spiced cookies).
• Specialty Coffee Bar: A full range of high-quality coffee and espresso drinks, featuring Greek favorites like Freddo Espresso and Freddo Cappuccino, along with Frappe and Iced Lattes.
• Daily Baked Goods: Featuring European staples like Croissants, Chocolate Croissants, Eclairs, and various cheesecakes (e.g., Oreo Cheesecake, Strawberry Cheesecake).

Zymi Bakery has earned its reputation in Chicago by consistently delivering on quality, authenticity, and customer service. The following highlights are what make it a must-visit bakery for the Illinois community:

• Authenticity of Greek Pastry: The bakery’s strength lies in its commitment to traditional Greek recipes, providing an authentic experience for those familiar with the cuisine and a delicious introduction for newcomers. Specialties like Galaktoboureko and various forms of Baklava are prepared with expertise.
• Award-Winning Craftsmanship: The owner, Ioannis Tasopoulos, is a formally trained and certified pastry chef, whose high level of skill is recognized in the industry. This expertise is reflected in the sophisticated quality of the cakes and pastries.
• Innovative Dessert Creations: A highlight like the Baklava Cheesecake demonstrates the shop's creativity, blending the nutty, honey-syrup flavor of Baklava with the rich, creamy texture of New York-style cheesecake.
• Savory Offerings for Any Time: It provides excellent savory options—like the "crispy and delicious" Spinach and Feta Pie—that make it an ideal spot for breakfast, lunch, or a quick snack, not just dessert.
• Exceptional Customer Service: Customer reviews frequently praise the owner, Giannis, for being "very welcoming and friendly," often going the extra mile, even offering samples, which fosters a strong sense of community.

For residents across Illinois planning a visit or needing to place an order for a large cake or a tray of pastries, here is the essential contact information for Zymi Bakery.

Address: 5806 N Milwaukee Ave, Chicago, IL 60646, USA

Phone: (773) 628-7405

Mobile Phone: +1 773-628-7405

The bakery accommodates payments via Credit cards, Debit cards, and NFC mobile payments, ensuring a quick and easy transaction for all patrons.

If you are an Illinois resident looking for your next go-to bakery, Zymi Bakery is well worth choosing for several compelling reasons that go beyond a standard coffee shop or doughnut store.

You should visit Zymi Bakery if you:

• Crave Authentic Greek Flavor: This is arguably the best reason to visit. Zymi is a dedicated source for traditional and expertly prepared Greek sweets and savory pastries that are often difficult to find outside of specialty shops. Their Galaktoboureko or a generous slice of classic Baklava are must-tries.
• Need a Show-Stopping Cake: Given the owner’s background as a certified pastry chef and cake artist, Zymi is a reliable choice for custom cakes and special desserts that require a high degree of technical skill and artistic vision.
• Appreciate a Full Experience: Zymi offers more than just sweets; the inclusion of breakfast options, a full coffee menu featuring Greek iced coffee specialties, and a welcoming dine-in area makes it a destination for a relaxed start to the day or an afternoon break.
• Value Quality and Freshness: The commitment to making all goods freshly, as highlighted by reviews on their savory and sweet items, ensures you receive a product that is perfectly crisp, moist, and flavorful every single time.

Zymi Bakery is a culinary asset to the Jefferson Park community and the wider Illinois food scene, offering a delightful blend of tradition, quality, and exceptional service. It's truly a sweet gem you’ll be glad you discovered.

Zymi Bakery

5806 N Milwaukee Ave, Chicago, IL 60646, USA