When asking yourself about something to do near me in Chicago with a group of friends or family, consider
BomboBar
Why BomboBar is a fun option when searching for things to do near me with friends and family
BomboBar is a distinctive and popular spot in Chicago perfect for meeting up with friends who appreciate unique, high-quality treats and a lively atmosphere. Originating as a dessert concept inside Bar Siena in the West Loop, BomboBar has expanded with a second location in Old Town, serving breakfast, lunch, and dinner daily. What truly sets this place apart is its signature bomboloni—holeless Italian doughnuts infused with various delicious fillings like salted caramel, raspberry, nutella, and vanilla bean custard. Besides these standout doughnuts, BomboBar offers a rich variety of gelato flavors such as coconut pistachio and cookie monster dough, along with creative hot and cold chocolate beverages that have become Instagram-famous. For those less inclined toward sweets, the savory menu features enticing options including breakfast sandwiches, a Bombo Burger with bacon and Dijon mustard, and late-night pizza by the square. The Wells Street location's extended hours, from morning until around midnight or later on weekends, make it an excellent, flexible destination for casual hangouts, dessert cravings, or a cozy dinner. With its inviting ambiance and stellar treats curated by Executive Chef Fabio Viviani, BomboBar has become a celebrated Chicago favorite for both locals and visitors looking to indulge or enjoy a social outing.
Here's what people think of BomboBar
As of recent, BomboBar holds a 4.2-star rating based on 1771 reviews.
Users consistently praise BomboBar for its delicious and unique bomboloni and gelato offerings, highlighting the generous portion sizes and creative flavors as major draws. Many reviews emphasize the fun food experience, especially the combination of doughnuts with gelato, which delights dessert lovers and those seeking a novel treat. Positive comments often mention the cozy atmosphere, friendly vibe, and the convenience of extended hours, as well as the variety available from breakfast through to late-night dining. Several reviews appreciate the savory options too, noting that the breakfast sandwiches and Bombo Burger provide satisfying alternatives to sweet treats. On the downside, some reviewers have pointed out wait times due to the high popularity of the spot and occasional inconsistencies in service speed or attentiveness. A few found the location less convenient if not near downtown, and some expected a more refined setting given the creative menu. However, these negatives are generally outweighed by the overall quality and appeal of the food. The reviews paint a picture of BomboBar as a trendy, must-visit venue for those eager to try innovative Italian-style doughnuts and artisanal desserts in a laid-back setting. Overall, customers find BomboBar worth the hype, especially for gathering with friends around its signature sweet and savory dishes.
Highlights from reviewers (Most Relevant)
Liv Beya
Great for the gram, bad for your pocket and mouth. I wish I had better things to say but the hype is in the aesthetic and the taste just ain’t all there. The hot chocolate is water based so it tastes like a fancier version of concession stand hot chocolate and the donuts are alright but the ratio of donut to topping is off. They look great and I’d say if you’ve never been then try it but I wouldn’t go back. This a one and done type of place.
Jainif Marediya
Really cool spot for dessert. The idea of going to a side window at a restaurant is a dope concept! We got the s’mores and Nutella bombolonies which were awesome. Think we preferred the Nutella one but they were both really good. Highly recommend this spot! Went at 2:30pm on a Friday and there was no line
Daniel Lopez
I’ve seen many people post this location and decided to give it a shot! Though, we had already ate and wasn’t hungry for some doughnuts I got a hot chocolate and my partner a gelato cookie sandwich. We both like it! It was very delicious! Next time we’re sure trying the doughnuts! Staff helped me out as it was my first time ordering and helped me create my order. Overall an above average dessert joint. Slightly on the pricey side but you pay for quality here!
Marina M
Came here just for the Bombolini!! I'd say it's best to share as it is a big portion and lots of sugar. A bit pricey for a doughnut but had tons of fun with the 'squeeze me' bottle. Worth going once if you near by in Chicago.
Natalie Austin
The charcoal oreo ice cream was delicious!! Everything tasted great. I left a star off because of the location. The space was small and packed. But will definitely visit again.
How to reach BomboBar
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Why BomboBar may become Your Favorite Meetup Place for Catching Up, Celebrating or Just Hanging Out
Why rally at BomboBar with your friends?
If you are looking for a vibrant and inviting place to gather with your friends or family, BomboBar in Chicago stands out as an excellent choice. The moment you step into this trendy dessert destination, you are welcomed by an atmosphere buzzing with youthful energy and a vibe that’s perfect for a memorable social outing. Its reputation for delightful and innovative treats makes it a hotspot where friends can bond over unique flavors and playful, artistic desserts. The ambiance is casual yet creatively designed, encouraging guests to relax, snap photos, and share their experiences both in person and on social media. Whether you come for a casual meetup or a special celebration, BomboBar’s fun and lively environment ensures your group feels connected and entertained. Moreover, the venue’s focus on personalization — such as adding your own drizzle to donuts — invites interaction and enjoyment beyond just eating. This combination of excellent dessert craftsmanship and a sociable setting makes BomboBar a destination worth rallying around for a sweet escape with your favorite people.
What activities and treats can you enjoy at BomboBar?
BomboBar specializes in a range of exquisite and creative treats that appeal to groups looking to share new dessert experiences. Their signature offering is the Italian-style donuts, renowned locally for being exceptionally light and fluffy. These donuts are no ordinary fare — they showcase inventive toppings and flavors such as S’mores, Raspberry, Vanilla, Salted Caramel, Fruity Pebbles, and Lemon Meringue. Ordering multiple flavors to share is an ideal way to keep conversations flowing as your group samples a variety of tastes, sparking fun debates about which are favorites. Apart from donuts, BomboBar also offers artisan gelatos — rich, handcrafted ice creams that provide a refreshing contrast to the sweeter, bready donuts. One of their celebrated treats is the “Cooler Chocolate,” a frozen hot chocolate dessert layered with toppings like marshmallows, chocolate pearls, and sometimes even a chocolate donut. This playful dessert exemplifies BomboBar’s knack for inventiveness, making your visit not just a meal but an experiential indulgence. The menu also includes specialty coffees and other sweet beverages, rounding out options for all preferences within your group.
How does BomboBar accommodate group meetups?
Despite its cozy and somewhat narrow space, BomboBar’s layout and vibe foster close interactions that are perfect for intimate or medium-sized groups. The key to a smooth meetup here is timing your visit strategically to avoid peak crowd times, which can sometimes lead to lines and limited seating. When done thoughtfully, your group can enjoy the semi-casual seating arrangements designed to encourage sharing and socializing over your chosen treats. Many visitors enjoy the experience of customizing their donuts by squeezing on different drizzles themselves, which adds a fun, interactive element to the gathering. The energetic and creative environment is designed to be both stimulating and comfortable, making it easy for friends and family members to engage with each other while enjoying the visually appealing and delicious food. The combination of high-quality desserts and a playful atmosphere turns BomboBar into more than a dessert stop—it becomes a memorable social event.
Why is BomboBar a great fit for making memories and social media moments?
In today’s digital age, a venue that offers not only great food but also Instagrammable moments is highly sought after, and BomboBar fits this need perfectly. The desserts here are as visually impressive as they are flavorful, adorned with vibrant colors, unique toppings, and whimsical presentation styles. The donut creations, in particular, seem tailor-made for capturing on camera, making every group visit an opportunity to create shareable memories. The bar also earns praise for its dedication to the art of dessert-making, which combines classic techniques with modern twists that excite the senses and the lens alike. Guests often come not only to enjoy the sweets but also to showcase their experience online, adding to the venue’s buzz and making it a trendy destination. This dynamic blend of tasty treats and photo-ready dishes creates a vibrant backdrop for meetups, inspiring group members to engage both in-person and virtually.
How does BomboBar’s location and accessibility help your group meetup plans?
Located in Chicago’s lively West Loop neighborhood, BomboBar benefits from being in a trendy and accessible area known for its bustling restaurant scene. This convenient location makes it easy for groups coming from various parts of the city to gather without hassle. While parking may sometimes be challenging due to the popularity of the area, public transportation and rideshare options provide ample alternatives to reach the venue. The West Loop itself offers a plethora of activities and venues, so meeting at BomboBar can be easily combined with pre- or post-dinner plans, shopping, or a stroll in nearby parks. Being situated in such a hip district amplifies the social energy around your meetup, allowing your group to feel part of a vibrant urban setting. This accessibility and the option to extend your outing beyond just a dessert stop make BomboBar an attractive hub for both locals and visitors looking for a fun, engaging gathering spot.
What do customer ratings and reviews reveal about the BomboBar experience?
With a solid rating of 4.2 out of 5 from over 1,700 reviews, BomboBar enjoys a strong reputation among Chicago diners. Customers consistently praise the creativity and quality of the donuts and desserts, highlighting the light, delicate texture of the donuts and the richness of their gelatos. Many note that BomboBar delivers exactly what it promises: a playful and indulgent sweet escape. However, some reviews mention that the space can become crowded during peak times and that seating is somewhat limited, suggesting visitors plan accordingly. The experience of personalizing donuts with drizzles is often mentioned as a joyful, interactive part of the visit. Reviewers also commend the lively and trendy vibe, which contributes to the venue’s popularity on social media and among young crowds. Overall, the positive feedback reflects a place that balances quality, creativity, and atmosphere, making it consistently recommended as a destination for groups looking for something fun and delicious in Chicago.
How is BomboBar uniquely positioned compared to other dessert spots?
BomboBar sets itself apart with its combination of Italian-style donuts, artisan gelato, and innovative frozen chocolate creations — a multi-faceted dessert menu that goes beyond standard expectations. Unlike typical donut shops, BomboBar offers elevated, visually striking toppings and interactive elements that transform a simple sweet into an event. The quality and delicacy of its products provide a gourmet touch rarely found in casual dessert venues. Moreover, its social media popularity and the creative design of desserts help attract a crowd eager for new experiences and photo-worthy moments rather than just quick treats. This unique blend of quality, creativity, and social engagement caters perfectly to groups seeking both delicious food and an entertaining, stylish ambiance. While some reviews highlight space limitations, the overall charm and inventiveness of BomboBar create an experience that many other dessert places do not offer, making it a perfect rallying point for friends and family alike.
What additional services support a smooth group visit to BomboBar?
Though BomboBar is primarily a dessert café focused on quality and atmosphere, its service style supports groups by offering quick counter orders and an approachable menu that invites sampling. While the menu might appear a bit busy, it includes clear options for half-dozen packs and individual donuts, facilitating easy sharing and mix-and-match experiences. The staff is known to be friendly and helpful, assisting visitors who may be overwhelmed by the abundance of innovative options. Additionally, the venue provides an environment conducive to quick get-togethers where waiting times are usually manageable outside of peak hours. For groups interested in a shared social experience, the ability to personalize some of the desserts adds another layer of engagement. While parking and seating limitations require some logistical planning, BomboBar’s overall service model encourages fun, fast, and tasty meetups that keep your group satisfied and entertained.
How can groups make the most of their visit to BomboBar?
To maximize the enjoyment of your time at BomboBar with friends or family, consider arriving during off-peak hours such as weekday afternoons or early evenings to avoid long lines and limited seating. Ordering a variety of donut flavors in shared packs encourages tasting and conversation while fostering a festive atmosphere. Don’t miss trying the frozen hot chocolate creations for a unique twist not found in most dessert cafes. Bringing along wipes or sanitizer might be handy, as some reviewers noted tattered menus and food residue on tables, but this minor inconvenience rarely overshadows the overall experience. Finally, be sure to capture your visually stunning treats on camera to commemorate your outing and share your buzz-worthy experience online. By approaching your BomboBar visit with a spirit of adventure and timing in mind, you enhance your group’s bonding and create lasting memories centered around fun, flavor, and friendship.