Best Dessert in Chicago
4 restaurants compared
Price range: $16.00 – $435.00
Avg recommendation: 87%
Top 4 Dessert in Chicago (Quick Answer)
Based on diner recommendations across 4 restaurants:
- Sepia, $16.00 (West Loop)
- Alinea — 93% recommended, $435.00 (Lincoln Park)
- Elske — 85% recommended, (West Town)
- Schwa — 82% recommended, (Wicker Park)
Scroll down for detailed comparisons, prices, and diner tips for each restaurant.
All 4 Restaurants Compared
#1
Sepia
West Loop·$$$$
Sweet Pea Pavlova with Meyer Lemon Sorbet
$16.00
Light dessert featuring sweet pea meringue, pea gel, and bright Meyer lemon sorbet.
Tip: The pea-lemon combination is surprising. Let yourself be surprised by the vegetable forward approach. It's refreshing rather than heavy.
#293% recommend
Alinea
Lincoln Park·$$$$
The Edible Balloon
$435.00
Green apple taffy balloon filled with helium, served with apple fruit leather.
Tip: Avoid spoilers on this one — treat it like avoiding a movie ending for maximum impact.
#385% recommend
Elske
West Town·$$$$
Anna Posey Dessert Course
Multiple dessert courses showcasing pastry chef Anna Posey's playful, refined approach.
Tip: The dessert progression is the emotional peak of the meal — Anna's playfulness balances David's refinement.
#482% recommend
Schwa
Wicker Park·$$$$
Sea Urchin Ice Cream in Pine Cones
Sea urchin ice cream served in edible pine-flavored cones shaped like pine cones.
Tip: This is one of the most memorable 'wow' moments in fine dining — savory ice cream with a playful presentation.