Introduction to Blackberry Market Glen Ellyn
Located in the heart of downtown Glen Ellyn, Illinois, Blackberry Market Glen Ellyn is a cherished fast-casual cafe and bakery that has become the pillar of the surrounding community. Known for its handcrafted meals, premium coffee, and irresistible baked goods, this charming spot at 401 N Main St offers a welcoming atmosphere for breakfast, lunch, and everything in between. Whether you’re a local seeking a cozy place to work or a visitor exploring Glen Ellyn’s vibrant food scene, Blackberry Market delivers a delightful experience with its focus on fresh, healthful ingredients and exceptional hospitality. In this guide, we’ll dive into what makes Blackberry Market Glen Ellyn a must-visit, its menu highlights, and tips for enjoying this culinary gem.
The Story Behind Blackberry Market
Blackberry Market was founded by Anna and Bob Davidson, inspired by Anna’s childhood memories of picking blackberries in Northwest Arkansas and crafting homemade pies and jams. This enthusiasm for whole, well-considered food resulted in the opening of Blackberry Market, initially in Glen Ellyn and eventually in La Grange, Naperville, Oak Brook, and North Little Rock, AR. The original Glen Ellyn store, opened more than a decade ago, continues to be the soul of the company, a place with a mission to serve wholesome meals while creating a sense of gathering place and community. As Anna had imagined, it’s “a place to belong, a place to exhale, to grab a bite, and to connect” [].
What Makes Blackberry Market Glen Ellyn Stand Out?
1. Handcrafted Meals and Market Sides
The cafe has a specialty in fresh, non-processed, handmade food, with an emphasis on seasonal produce. Its “Market Sides” case is the best, providing pre-prepared, grab-and-go meals such as salads, soups, and entrees that are ideal for busy lives. Some of its popular dishes are:
-
Signature Farmhouse Breakfast: Two biscuits made from buttermilk with smoky bacon, eggs, and blackberry jam [].
-
Caprese Panini: A delicious sandwich with fresh ingredients and farm-to-table flavors [].
-
Blackberry Salad: Field greens, goat cheese, spiced nut brittle, and blackberries with blackberry vinaigrette [].
The menu also accommodates dietary requirements through vegan, vegetarian, and gluten-free foods, e.g., raspberry lemon and chocolate chip gluten-free muffins [].
2. Irresistible Baked Goods
Blackberry Market’s bakery is a treat for pastry enthusiasts, with baked goods prepared from scratch with premium ingredients. The cinnamon rolls are a favorite, with people going as far as saying they are the best in town, while the blackberry bars and chocolate chip cookies are just as renowned for their ideal blend of taste and texture [,]. Baked goods come available at the counter or for special order, including wholesale.
3. Premium Coffee Experience
Combining with Intelligentsia Coffee, Blackberry Market Glen Ellyn provides a specialty coffee experience with hand-brewed espresso beverages and pour-overs. The barista staff is serious about coffee, guaranteeing a well-balanced and consistent cup every time. Seasonal beverages, such as the strawberry latte, provide a playful spin on the menu [,].
4. Solid Catering and Events
Blackberry Market prides itself on catering, with the option for customized box lunches, appetizers, and desserts for get-togethers from corporate events to parties. The event area of the cafe is perfect for hassle-free gatherings with a team that will take care of all the details. There is alcohol with a $50/hr bar service charge, but no food is allowed to be brought in [].
5. Charming and Inviting Ambiance
The interior and the outdoor seating areas of the cafe are well kept, fresh, and clean, giving the place a cozy, warm atmosphere. With free internet, it’s a favorite among remote workers, casual catch-ups, or dinner dates. Recent remodels have added to the atmosphere, combining rustic character with contemporary accents such as charcoal shiplap and copper lighting [,].
Menu Highlights at Blackberry Market Glen Ellyn
Blackberry Market Glen Ellyn’s menu is crafted to provide options for all, with breakfast available every day until 1:30 PM and lunch offered all day long. Below are some key items to try:
-
Breakfast: The Farmhouse Breakfast with biscuit sandwiches, or the Chorizo Breakfast Wrap with scrambled eggs, spinach, roasted potatoes, and cheddar [].
-
Lunch: Chicken Salad Sandwich with mayo, dijon mustard, apples, currants, and almonds on bread, croissant, or greens [].
-
Salads: The Greek Salad with feta, roasted chickpeas, and red wine vinaigrette, or the Caesar Salad with housemade croutons [].
-
Bakery: Cinnamon rolls, blackberry bars, and gluten-free muffins [].
-
Coffee: Intelligentsia pour-overs or a fancy latte with seasonal flavors [].
The Dinners-To-Go menu is a lifesaver for hurried evenings, providing family-friendly meals that are easy to reheat with clear instructions [].
Tips for Visiting Blackberry Market Glen Ellyn
1. Plan Your Visit
The cafe is open every day (see blackberry.cafe for specific hours) and may become crowded, particularly on weekend brunch mornings. Go early for a more peaceful visit or to reserve a prized cinnamon roll []. There is outdoor seating in front and back that is ideal for nice weather days [].
2. Order Online for Convenience
Blackberry Market provides online ordering via Toast for delivery or pickup, so it is convenient to pick up Market Sides or baked items on the way []. View the current monthly Market Sides and soups online for the most recent selection [].
3. Venture Dietary Options
There are vegan, vegetarian, and gluten-free options from The menu accommodates varied requirements. Inquire about eggless or plant-based alternatives, such as the balsamic reduction avocado toast [,].
4. Book Catering Early
For events, book the catering staff in advance to personalize your menu. Box lunches are marked with guests’ names, providing a personal touch [].
5. Enjoy the Ambiance
Bring a friend or a laptop to enjoy the warm atmosphere. Blackberry Market’s inviting ambiance and friendly staff make it the perfect spot for lingering over food or coffee [].
Why Blackberry Market Glen Ellyn Matters
Blackberry Market Glen Ellyn is not just a cafe—it’s a gathering place that embodies the warmth and character of downtown Glen Ellyn. Its dedication to fresh, handmade cuisine and top-notch hospitality has given it a 4.5-star rating on Yelp and Tripadvisor with 492 and 150 reviews, respectively [,]. The cafe’s emphasis on local produce and inclusive dining resources is something Chicagoland can appreciate, and its catering and event services make it a favorite for special events.
From an SEO point of view, “Blackberry Market Glen Ellyn” is a high-value keyword for local search terms such as “best cafes in Glen Ellyn” or “brunch near me.” The online prominence of the cafe’s active social media and good reviews improves its presence, helping it rank highly for foodies and event planners in the Western Suburbs.
Conclusion: Visit Blackberry Market Glen Ellyn Today
Blackberry Market Glen Ellyn is a culinary haven where fresh food, premium coffee, and community spirit come together. Whether you’re savoring a cinnamon roll, grabbing a healthy lunch, or hosting an event, this cafe delivers an experience that’s both delicious and meaningful. Plan your visit to 401 N Main St, Glen Ellyn, IL, and discover why locals rave about this charming spot. Tell your story with #BlackberryMarket to become part of a community embracing delicious food and community.