Chicago | Why Everyone's Lining Up at Del Sur Bakery
Del Sur Bakery
Chicago’s coffee and pastry scene is on a roll, literally. From buttery croissants to flaky buns stuffed with all sorts of delicious surprises, this is one city that knows how to do breakfast ( and snack time) properly. Sure, you can still find your classic drip and a plain scone, if that’s your thing, but why settle for basic when you can have a longanisha stuffed croissant or a latte that is the epitome of balanced and silky smooth. Maybe you’re a caffeine purist or someone who orders “ extra oat milk, light foam and two pumps of pumpkin spice syrup,” don’t worry, because inevitably there’s a spot in Chicago ready to impress your taste buds.
Del Sur Bakery
One of the best parts? Each neighborhood has its own flavor, sometimes literally. You’ll find Scandinavian buns in Andersonville, Black Truffle Croissants in Ukrainian Village, and ube pastries popping up all over. Many of these cafés and bakeries are passion projects from locals putting a fresh spin on family traditions, so it’s not just tasty, it’s personal. Just don’t be surprised if there’s a line out the door, especially if the pastries are limited.
In Chicago, great coffee and extraordinary pastries are worth the wait.
I first discovered Del Sur Bakery on TikTok, where it seemed like every other video was someone showing off flaky, golden pastries with fillings I’ve never seen before. Think Longanisa Stuffed Croissants and Turon Danishes packed with banana jam and flan.
Of course, I had to find out if Del Sur was worth the hype.
I hopped on the Brown Line and made my way to Lincoln Square. Who knew a girl would be famished after a 40-minute ride north? As soon as I stepped out of the train station, I knew I was in the right spot, as there was a line. Frankly, I expected a longer line, but given that it was Friday morning and most people were making their way to the office, it was manageable.
Del Sur Bakery
Del Sur is the brainchild of pastry chef Justin Lerias, who turned his pandemic-era pop-ups into one of the hottest bakeries in Chicago. While most of us were feeding our sourdough starter and learning TikTok dances, Justin was perfecting laminated dough and dreaming up ways to sneak longanisha into a croissant ( doing the Lord’s work for pastry lovers everywhere). He started popping up at local spots like Side Practice Coffee, and word got around fast. When pastries taste this good and look like they belong in a museum, the good news starts to spread.
Fast forward to March 2025, and Del Sur opened its doors in Lincoln Square. The name means “from the South,” a nod to Lerias’ Filipino heritage. His concept centers around mixing bold Filipino flavors with classic French techniques. Think Ube Oatmeal Cream Pies, Calamansi Chamomile Buns, and croissants so flavorful they should come with a warning label. To me, it’s one of those places that feel fresh and welcoming, yet familiar, and one thing’s for sure, Chicagoans can’t get enough.
A Few Things To Know Before You Go:
Del Sur Bakery
Customers are limited to one of each pastry type. If you want two Adobo Brownies, make sure you bring a friend with you.
Del Sur has developed quite a cult following and can often have long lines with waits up to an hour. I’d recommend going on a Thursday or Friday morning for shorter wait times. I arrived around 9:30 and moved through the line within 30 minutes.
I realize this is a common theme throughout Chicago, but consider walking, biking, or taking transit as parking is limited.
If you’ve already perused the menu, check out the bakery’s Filipino cookbooks and assorted candles on display, not to mention the unique floral arrangements. STUNNING!
Currently, Del Sur is takeaway only, and there’s no seating available. However, I’ve heard that this is likely changing as the bakery is expanding to the space next door once city permits are approved.
After you’ve committed to waiting in line at Del Sur, the only logical move is to order one of everything. Truly, you can’t go wrong. The pastries are small enough to share (or not), and each one has its own personality. You’ve got sweet, savory, spicy, flaky, and gooey. It’s like a party in a pasty box. Plus, you will never know which one will end up being your favorite, and with how fast they sell out, it’s not always easy to go back for round two.
Out of the assorted pastries that I chose, I fell in love with the Longanisa Croissant. There's just something about a savory pastry that makes me swoon. The Calamansi Chamomile Bun and the Turon Danish were my next favorites. The Calamansi was obviously bright and refreshing, while the Turon Danish was a bit more subdued and creamy. If you’re on the go like I was, the Adobo Brownie travels well. It made it to the airport in one piece, but not back to Nashville (whoops!)
Clear your calendar, bring a friend (especially if you want more than one of a particular item), and treat yourself!
Del Sur Bakery | Calamansi Chamomile Bun (Top) + Longanisa Croissant + Adobo Brownie + Turon Danish + Pandan Basque Cake
Until Next Time!
