Your Guide to Paczki Day in the Western Suburbs

Paczkis (pronounced "poonch-kees") are traditional Polish pastries, typically enjoyed on Fat Tuesday before the beginning of Lent. These deep-fried, round doughnuts are filled with various sweet fillings like jam, custard, or cream, and often dusted with powdered sugar or glazed.

In the Chicago area, paczkis have a special place due to the city's large Polish-American population. Chicago has historically been a hub for Polish immigrants, and the traditions of Polish culture. This year, "Paczki Day" is on March 4th! In the Chicago area many bakeries sell them in large quantities, offering a variety of fillings. 

In some parts of the city, lines can stretch outside of bakeries, but the the festive nature of the day, combined with the deliciousness of the paczkis, makes it a unique cultural event in Chicago. These are some top spots to indulge in paczki day in the western suburbs of Chicago!

DeEtta’s Bakery in Naperville is a beloved local bakery known for its high-quality, handcrafted desserts and baked goods. Established in 2009 by DeEtta Krol, the bakery has earned a loyal following for its commitment to using fresh, high-quality ingredients and creating delicious, from-scratch treats. They dedicate the ENTIRE day to paczkis--nothing else is sold, and they open bright and early!

Chicago Pastry in Bloomingdale is a well-known family-owned bakery that has been serving the community since 1976. Specializing in traditional European-style pastries, Chicago Pastry is famous for its quality, authenticity, and variety of baked goods. The bakery has built a strong reputation for crafting classic desserts, with an emphasis on attention to detail and fresh ingredients. Paczkis will be sold in a variety of flavors all day including Nutella french cream if you want a modern and indulgent flavor to the more traditional prune (don't write it off until you try it!)

Toni Patisserie & Café in Hinsdale is a charming, European-inspired bakery and café that has gained a reputation for its sophisticated pastries, desserts, and delicious café offerings. Located in the heart of Hinsdale, it is a popular spot for both locals and visitors looking for high-quality, handcrafted pastries and a relaxing atmosphere. Their Mardi Gras menu has everything from King Cakes to paczkis in sophisticated flavor combinations like white chocolate strawberry and cherry chocolate chip.