Shokolad - Ukranian bakery/eatery

Longtime lurkey, virgin poster ... be gentle. I couldn't find anything posted about Shokolad. Too bad - I think this place deserves some notice.

After reading about Shokolad's scones in a TOC "best of 2008", I had to check it out. Cute corner bakery/eatery with a comfortable laid back neighborhood vibe. I ordered a couple of scones and was told they are in the oven, can I wait - SURE (drool). Gave me an opportunity to look over the menu - nice brunch (eggs, crepes)/lunch (sandwiches, salads, soups) along with some Ukranian specialties.

The scones were lovely, light (not overworked), buttery goodness. I went back for lunch and had a cup of borscht and the Tuesday special - potato pancakes. The borscht was flavorful and bright tasting, with dill and ribbons of beet for accent and texture. The potato pancakes were greaseless and served with an addictive mushroom sauce. I was reticent to give up sour cream, so I asked for that on the side but promptly forgot about it after dipping the pancakes into the earthy gravy.

I will be back to sample some of the other menu items such as the pierogies (in butter or bacon - is it wrong to ask for both?)

Shokolad
2524 W Chicago Ave
(773-276-6402)

very descriptive first post, wendy. i've only had the sweets at shokolad but would definitely agree this place is a neighborhood gem. i love the high ceiling, brick walls (am i remembering that correctly?) and lots of windows. it has real european charm with a very welcoming staff. i'll have to go back soon for a full meal. thanks for the report, justjoan

I'll second (or 3rd) the recommendations of Shokolad. As the others have said, it's a very nice space, and the dessert case alone make it worth a stop. Very reasonably priced pastries. Standouts for me were the cheesecake lollipops and the ginger cookies, along with the crepes, for a more substantial bite.

Thanks for the review on the menu items. We walked in to check out the bakery case, but I was not impressed. Nothing called out my name, and I did not like that the prices were not listed. I walked out disappointed and empty handed. I will have to return to order off their menu.