Gale Gand’s Little Pound Cakes

Gale Gand’s Little Pound Cakes

I was out at the Westin in Wheeling this morning and had a few moments, so I snooped around Tramonto’s place (looks beautiful; way better than you’d expect in a suburban hotel) and stopped at Gale’s Coffee bar where, according to the counter people, Gand works on a regular basis (“once a day”).

I bought a pair of pound cakes, each about 2. oz or so, each in its own little baking box, $3.00/per.

These were excellent little snacks – somewhat dry, but I liked that, almost like a cookie bar, and with good flavor, crumb and tooth. Because they're so small, there's a high ratio of crisp outer shell to interior. Worth eating.

Gale Gand’s Coffee Bar
Westin Chicago North Shore
601 N. Milwaukee Ave, Wheeling

David,

I've been to the Westin twice for dinner (once to each of the Tromonto restaurants), but Gale's coffee bar closes very early (6:00 P.M.) so I haven't been able to sample any of the wares. It's good to hear that it's good. If I'm ever in Wheeling during the day, I'll try to stop in.

I was at the Westin North Shore yesterday morning too. I was looking at the place as a possible spot for our work holiday party. As David mention, in addition to being the hotel's pastry chef, Gale has her own little shop. They even sell her sodas.

I agree, the place is beautiful. The suites are great and they pay attention to detail. I loved the lobby fireplace and the fresh orchids on each lobby table.

If you've eaten here, I'd love to hear about your meal. Venture upstairs to Bar Osteria di Tramanto. The waterfall behind the bar is impressive as is the decor.

I have been there and I like the lemon cookies!
I bought a little banana bread and it was really dry.

LAM026 wrote:I have been there and I like the lemon cookies!
I bought a little banana bread and it was really dry.

I think dry is a style choice. A lot of Gale's pastries that I have tried in the past (even at Tru) have been on the dry side.

stevez wrote:I think dry is a style choice. A lot of Gale's pastries that I have tried in the past (even at Tru) have been on the dry side.

You must be right; I can't imagine that the dryness was a mistake. I enjoy that crunchiness. The pound cake had an almost cookie-like crispness, making it an excellent accompaniment to coffee or tea.