A marble bar dating to 1928, reclaimed materials, and mix-and-match flatware are all part of the charm at this modern-day soda fountain, where all-day breakfast and seasonal pies serve as staples. Key Lime Hibiscus and S’mores Pies are always on deck, and in December, many more join the old reliables: White Chocolate Peppermint Mousse, Brandied Apricot Cheesecake, Cranberry Cherry Crumble, and Butterscotch Cream (with pecan praline, no less). While you’re at it, sample other crowd-pleasing picks, from Sourdough Cinnamon Rolls to Maple Pecan Scones.Cost: $$How to order: Pre-order holiday pick-up online.

Spinning J is a little bakery and soda shop on a quiet Humboldt Park corner with hand-stenciled walls, a rehabbed 1920s counter, and a display case of freshly made, seasonal pies. Diners have traveled far and wide for these bad boys, made by owner Dinah Grossman and her team, but neighbors are just as likely to swing through for a slice of thick, cloud-like quiche or steaming pot pie. And like any soda fountain worth its fizz, Spinning J makes all of its syrups in-house.

Spinning J is known primarily for their great pie, so that’s what normally comes to mind when we think of this bakery in Humboldt Park. And while you should definitely consider putting a key lime hibiscus in your virtual basket, also include some of their frozen sourdough cinnamon rolls, ham and cheese or blueberry scones, or biscuits for Christmas morning.

Retro-cute as can be, little Spinning J harks back to a 1950s soda fountain, with a line of counter stools and a smattering of booths where you can sip…

Whether you’re visiting from out of town or just want to try something new, Spinning J is a special experience. Walking into this Humboldt Park bakery and soda fountain is like stepping in a time machine to an old-school soda shop, complete with spinning stools at the soda bar (that dates back to 1928) where you’ll find old-fashioned milkshake machines and a collection of vintage plates. They’ve always got an awesome selection of their homemade pies available like s’mores meringue or fresh blueberry pie.

There’s a retro vibe and decidedly modern spin on classic baked goods at this popular spot, where sourdough cinnamon rolls with malted vanilla icing, matcha almond tea cake and savory pesto rolls are among the daily fresh selection. Quiche, stratas, and breakfast and lunch sandwiches are also on the menu (the roasted beet reuben is a vegetarian delight), but be sure to save room for pie. The selection changes seasonally, which is a perfect excuse to keep returning.

Spinning J is a restaurant that doesn’t usually show up on top brunch lists—but it should. This is a hidden gem in Humboldt Park that absolutely kills it on amazing pastry and baked goods (pictured in the post’s banner image). Their menu is small with daily specials and seasonal options, but every time I have ordered the quiche or strata, I have LOVED it.

Address: 1000 N California Ave, Chicago, IL 60622Phone:+1 (872) 829-2793Website:spinningj.comDetails: $$, Breakfast restaurant. Spinning J Bakery and Soda Fountain is a charming, retro-modern bakery and restaurant located in the Humboldt Park neighborhood of Chicago. The atmosphere is warm and friendly, with a diverse and laid-back clientele and staff.

In addition to shakes and sodas (flavored with house-made syrups), Spinning J serves an array of breakfast and lunch sandwiches plus quiche and pie. Order a day ahead and the offerings include enough to stock up for a while: whole dessert pies, pot pies and loaves of bread.

- Rating: 4.6/5 (489 reviews)- Price level: $$- Address: 1000 North California Ave. Chicago, Illinois - Categories: Bakeries, Coffee & Tea, Breakfast & Brunch- Read more on Yelp. You may also like: Most expensive homes for sale in Chicago