Letizia's Natural Bakery, 2144 W. Division St, Chicago

Letizia's Natural Bakery has come a long way since it first opened it doors in 1998. What was originally a simple place to relax with a cup of coffee and a pastry has expanded to include sandwiches, pizzas, and gelato—not to mention a newly opened wine bar next door. The "natural" aspect ensures that the customer gets only the freshest ingredients, no preservatives—including, as the sign on the front door says, no margarine. Sandwiches, all in the $4 - $7 range, include smoked turkey, Italian meats, and the best grilled cheese in the city—fresh mozzarella, tomato, and onion on perfectly salted foccacia. Roman-style pizzas come whole or by the slice, and homemade soups offer delicious comfort on a cold winter day. Letizia's serves Caffe' Umbria coffee and espresso—the perfect compliment to a raspberry almond muffin, chocolate espresso cookie, and a variety of cakes and tarts made fresh daily. Saturday and Sunday mornings are often jammed with hipsters and baby strollers alike, but additional seating is available in the newly opened wine bar next door, and in the summer, outdoor seating is plentiful.

Review by: Lauren Prett

Posted: Thursday, October 06, 2005