When you’re spacing out on the Red Line, it feels like Andersonville is so. far. away. But it’s honestly not that far, and it’s certainly a more that justifiable distance to travel for pastries, at least in my book. Then again, we’re the kind of people who go out of our way for a good bakery with pretty interiors. And Lost Larson more than fits the bill.

If the strip of North Clark St carries an old world charm, Lost Larson brings a refreshingly modern perspective to the Scandinavian roots. Part bakery, part daytime cafe, part nighttime wine bar, it caters to the foodie crowd and has racked up accolades in and beyond Chicago for it. It’s an intimate space, but that just means you’re that much closer to the pastry case, which let me tell you, is drool-worthy. From Scandinavian classics to creative flavors (ie: dark chocolate blood orange croissant ) to an impressive selection of fresh baked breads, Lost Larson is right up there with Floriole in my Chicago favorites.

On second thought, it’s probably better that it’s a little out of the way, or I’d be systematically eating my way through their pastry case on a daily basis.

Update December 2020: They have opened a second brick and mortar location in Wicker Park, making it 3 places to curb your pastry cravings (the second being the stall at TimeOut Market)