A self-proclaimed culinary risk taker and self-styled ‘Chief Meatloaf Maker’, Cynthia Kallile often found herself wondering, “Does meatloaf always have to be baked as a loaf?” If her inventive ‘Loafies’, cupcakes, and pastries are any indication, then her answer—in the form of beloved Windy City landmark The Meatloaf Bakery—is a resounding “no”.

In an unassuming storefront nestled in Lincoln Park, patrons relish curious cupcakes of a savory persuasion. Recognized by the 2011 Michelin Restaurants Guide as one of the best bakeries in the city, The Meatloaf Bakery is no stranger to accolades that extol its intriguing creations as “some of the best and most gratifying food in town”. Satiate comfort cravings through recipes that marry meaty morsels with creamy mashed potato icing for a scrumptious treat.

Chicagoans indulge a weakness for comfort food with meatloaf flavors that range from classic to buffalo chicken and hearty hamburger. Health-conscious foodies feast on the Omega-3 Loaf, a concoction of Alaskan wild salmon topped with wasabi mashed potatoes, or the Yentl Lentl Loaf, a gluten-free lentil and brown rice loaf. Sample a full spectrum of bite-size Loafies and discover a modern approach to a time-honored staple whose aroma warmly evokes Mom’s home cooking.

• The Mother Loaf | beef, pork, and veal cozy up to onions, ketchup, and a special blend of seasonings and herbs, topped with Yukon mashed potatoes and served with demi-glace
• A Wing and a Prayer Loaf | hot and spicy wing sauce teams up with crumbled blue cheese, ground chicken, and celery for an easy-to-eat hot wing treat, topped with a buttery blue cheese crust and served with ranch dressing
• Loaf-A-Roma | gooey, fresh mozzarella cheese, sun-dried tomatoes, fresh basil, and a splash of red wine make this beef and Italian sausage meatloaf a favorite, topped with a swirl of angel hair pasta and served with housemade marinara sauce
• No Buns About It Burger Loaf | bacon, cheddar, onions, mustard, ketchup, pickles and beef make a premier burger loaf, topped with cheesy mashed potatoes and served with special sauce
• See full menu.

5 stars and 7 reviews on Citysearch

"Perfect place to pick up a full meal. A well-conceived and unique idea that works because of terrific flavor, wide variety of meatloaf choices...Everything is so fresh. A delightful little shop, and great addition to the Chicago food scene." - Citysearch Reviewer RaeS, Chicago, IL, 09/23/09
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"I was overwhelmed by the tastes of these unique meatloaves—and by the meticulous preparation and presentation. This is a must-try...Won't find this anywhere else." - Citysearch Reviewer Urockapulco, Chicago, IL, 09/24/09
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"If you haven't sampled their wonderful meatloaf cupcakes, you are missing a treat...The names for the different flavors are a hoot...The store is quite clean, the staff warm and friendly...The food is worth every penny." - Citysearch Reviewer Bluememaw, Chicago, IL, 10/11/09
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"...It was amazing! We were greeted by the one of the friendly staff members, were able to speak to the owner as well...there are great options that are filled with flavor and look adorable!...Definitely will go back again..." - Citysearch Reviewer xodhxo, Chicago, IL, 10/09/09
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