Kasama pastries have become one of Chicago's most talked-about indulgences. Located in the East Ukrainian Village neighborhood, Kasama stands out not only for its Michelin-starred Filipino tasting menu but also for its exceptional daytime pastry lineup. Every morning, locals and tourists line up for a chance to get their hands on these delicate, creative, and highly Instagrammable baked goods.
The pastry lineup at Kasama shows the same kind of care and creativity that made their dinner tasting menu so famous. Every pastry mixes classic French techniques with bold Filipino and Asian flavors, giving Kasama pastries a unique place in Chicago’s packed food scene.
What makes Kasama pastries so special is the unique balance they strike between technical perfection and approachable flavors. Take their Ube and Coconut "Ensaymada," for example. This laminated brioche is filled with rich ube and coconut, offering a nod to Filipino heritage while delivering buttery, flaky layers that rival any Parisian bakery.
Then there’s the Black Truffle Croissant, which elevates the traditional croissant with a filling of Delice de Bourgogne cheese, fresh shaved black truffle, and a drizzle of truffle honey. The flavors are rich without ever feeling too heavy, which keeps people coming back for more. Kasama pastries also play with textures in a way that makes each bite interesting. Take the Banana Tart for example, with its oat tart dough, saba banana, and caramelized white chocolate mousse. It’s both cozy and refined at the same time. For those with a sweet tooth, the Berry Crème Fraiche Cheesecake layers a tangy crème fraiche cheesecake with raspberry sauce and assorted berries, sitting atop a graham crust.
Many Chicagoans make Kasama a weekend ritual, stopping by for their limited weekend-only options like the Foie Gras Danish or Salmon Danish. These exclusive offerings including their famous breakfast sandwich further fuel the buzz around Kasama pastries, encouraging return visits to catch the rotating menu items.
The availability of Kasama pastries is Wednesday through Sunday from 9am to 3pm. Unlike many bakeries that operate throughout the day, Kasama operates on a morning-to-early-afternoon schedule for its bakery service. Most pastries are available from the time doors open until they sell out, which can often happen quickly on busy weekends.
Their weekend-only specials like the Foie Gras Danish and Salmon Danish are served exclusively on Saturdays and Sundays, creating additional excitement for those planning a weekend visit. It's not uncommon for pastry fans to arrive right at opening to ensure they can snag their favorites before they disappear for the day.
Even with so many rich options on the menu, Kasama still makes room for guests with dietary needs. A few of the Kasama pastries are gluten-free, so more people can enjoy the creative flavors without missing out. Here’s a look at what’s available:
These options still reflect Kasama's inventive style while being mindful of dietary needs. The Black Sesame Coconut Macaroon offers a rich, nutty flavor profile without gluten or dairy. Meanwhile, the Chocolate and Raspberry Whoopie Pie delivers a decadent dessert experience using flourless chocolate cake as its base.
Kasama’s pastry menu is both extensive and constantly evolving. Here’s a snapshot of what you might find:
Kasama’s menu is always changing. They’ll often add seasonal specials or limited-time pastries, so even regulars find something new to try.
If you're new to Kasama, it's more than just a bakery. The Filipino fine-dining tasting menu has earned international acclaim, but the daytime pastry program stands as its own must-visit destination in Chicago's food scene. We've previously covered Kasama's broader impact in our full Kasama feature here, which dives into the restaurant's rise, its husband-and-wife chef duo, and how they've redefined Filipino dining in America.
Whether you're drawn in by the precision-laminated croissants or the inventive Filipino-inspired flavors, Kasama pastries offer something truly unique for Chicagoans and visitors alike. Whether you're going for the laminated croissants or trying something new like the ube and coconut pastries, Kasama always finds a way to keep things fresh. No two visits are exactly the same, which makes it part of the fun. If you're heading to Chicago, Kasama pastries are absolutely worth a stop.