Where to find the best paczki and Mardi Gras treats in Chicago

With Fat Tuesday fast approaching, Chicago and its suburbs are serving up some of the season’s most irresistible treats, from classic Polish pączki to festive Mardi Gras delights. For those unfamiliar, pączki (pronounced “poonch-kee”) are rich, fluffy, deep-fried pastries, often filled with fruit or custard and topped with powdered sugar, glaze or icing. Traditionally enjoyed on Fat Tuesday, these indulgent donuts are a sweet way to celebrate the last day before Lent. Whether you’re stocking up for a party or just craving something special, here’s where to find the best in the area.

Pączki & Donuts

Stan’s Donuts & Coffee – Chicago

Stan’s Donuts is back with its highly anticipated annual paczki lineup, a fan favorite among Chicagoans. This year, you can choose from five decadent flavors: Pastry Cream, Cannoli, Raspberry, Strawberry, and Chocolate Pastry Cream. Pre-orders are now open, with pickup available from February 4–17.

Pricing:

• $3.75 each
• $10.50 (3-pack)
• $20 (½ dozen)
• $38.95 (dozen)
• $77.85 (2 dozen)

 Locations:

• 181 Michigan Ave, Chicago, IL 60601
• 259 E Erie St, Chicago, IL 60611
• 750 N Rush St, Chicago, IL 60611
• 15 W Washington St, Chicago, IL 60602
• 1560 N Damen Ave, Chicago, IL 60622
  (stansdonuts.com)

Jarosch Bakery – Elk Grove Village

A beloved Chicago-area institution for more than 60 years, Jarosch Bakery celebrates paczki season with traditional, yeast-raised donuts known for their generous filling-to-dough ratio. Flavors include raspberry, strawberry, custard, lemon, plum, and more. Jarosch recently opened a new location at: 111 E. Higgins Rd, Elk Grove Village, IL 60007 Paczki are available both in-store and by pre-order. For ordering details, visit jaroschbakery.com or call 847-437-1234

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Morkes Chocolates – Palatine

Family-owned Morkes Chocolates is offering handcrafted Pączki for Fat Tuesday. These light, fluffy pastries feature sweet fillings and finishing options like chocolate fudge, cream cheese topping, glaze, or powdered sugar.

Pączki are available by pre-order, with limited walk-in availability on Fat Tuesday only. Pre-orders are recommended to guarantee your pastries. Orders can be placed online, by phone at 847-359-3454, or in person, with local delivery options available.1890 N Rand Rd, Palatine, IL 60074 (morkeschocolates.com)

Mardi Gras Specials

Daisy’s Po’ Boy and Tavern – Hyde Park, Chicago

If you’re craving something with a Mardi Gras twist, Daisy’s Po’ Boy and Tavern brings the flavors and spirit of New Orleans to Chicago. Their petite King Cakes, crafted by Virtue pastry chef Becky Pendola, are available now through Ash Wednesday, February 18.

Offered in cinnamon and cream cheese flavors, some cakes include the traditional baby — when discovered, Daisy’s donates a full meal to a family in need in the guest’s honor. Pair your King Cake with live music and Mardi Gras specials for a festive celebration.

5215 S Harper Ave, Chicago, IL 60615

(daisyspoboychicago.com)

Whether you’re chasing that classic pączki experience or celebrating with King Cake and jazz, Chicago and its suburbs are serving up plenty of delicious options. Pre-order early — these beloved seasonal treats tend to sell out fast! Enjoy a sweet Fat Tuesday and a festive Mardi Gras season!