When asking yourself about something to do near me in Chicago with a group of friends or family, consider
Dessert Dealer
Why Dessert Dealer is a fun option when searching for things to do near me with friends and family
Dessert Dealer in Chicago stands out as an exceptional dessert destination, perfect for meeting up with friends and indulging in creative and delightful sweets. Located inside Parlor Pizza Bar with multiple spots in West Loop, River North, and Wicker Park neighborhoods, it offers a uniquely playful and sociable atmosphere. Guests can enjoy innovative treats like TACOlatos, a clever combination of taco-shaped sweets and ice cream, alongside cookies, ice cream, and other imaginative desserts. The vibe is casual yet vibrant, making it a great spot to unwind and share sweet moments. With a menu that caters to diverse palates and a welcoming environment, Dessert Dealer adds fun and whimsy to classic dessert experiences. The venue typically stays open until late, providing ample opportunity for late-night cravings or celebrations. This blend of creativity, variety, and conviviality make Dessert Dealer an ideal spot for friends to gather over memorable treats in a lively Chicago setting.
Here's what people think of Dessert Dealer
As of recent, Dessert Dealer holds a 4-star rating based on 159 reviews.
The aggregate user ratings for Dessert Dealer hover around 4.0 to 4.2 out of 5 based on approximately 159 to 163 reviews, reflecting generally positive customer experiences. Positive reviewers frequently praise the creativity and taste of the desserts, highlighting the unique concepts like the TACOlatos and the ability to create fun shapes with ice cream, such as cute animals. Many guests appreciate that the desserts are flavorful without being overly sweet and comment on the friendly service and the playful atmosphere that enhances their visit. On the downside, some reviews mention that the location is relatively small and can get crowded, which occasionally affects seating availability and wait times. A few customers have pointed out that while the concept is fun, pricing can be on the higher side for the portion sizes offered. Despite these minor issues, the overall consensus remains positive, with many valuing Dessert Dealer as an inventive and enjoyable dessert destination. In conclusion, Dessert Dealer receives high marks for its inventive sweets, lively setting, and friendly service, balanced by occasional critiques about space constraints and pricing.
Highlights from reviewers (Most Relevant)
Moises Treviño Garcia
Dessert Dealer, located inside Parlor Pizza Bar, is what I’d call the definition of a hidden gem. If you didn’t know it was there, you might miss it entirely but once you find it, it feels like you've uncovered a secret dessert spot. The vibe is playful and fun, with neon signs and a nostalgic feel that hits you the moment you walk in. But don’t let the cool atmosphere distract you too much because the desserts? They’re show-stoppers. I ordered the GIMME S’MORE (a tribute to the beloved Choco-Taco), and wow, it was out of this world. We honestly had to sit down after seeing the size of it. This isn’t your average sweet treat, it’s a full-on dessert experience. It starts with a graham cracker shell that’s perfectly crisp but still easy to bite into. Inside, it’s loaded with rocky road ice cream, rich and chocolatey with bits of marshmallow and crunchy nuts. Then comes the real magic: layers of toasted marshmallow fluff, Hershey’s chocolate chunks, fudge sauce, whipped cream, and extra graham cracker crumbs. Every bite was a mix of cold, creamy, crunchy, and gooey textures, with a flavor that reminded me of summer campfires only more indulgent. It’s sweet, rich, and a little messy in the best way. If you’re a dessert lover, this is a must-try. Come hungry, bring a friend, and don’t leave without trying the GIMME S’MORE.
Patrice
I’m really big on my sweets. This is a very interesting concept and it catches the eye. The location was a bit tricky to navigate but it’s located with Parlor Pizza Bar. I ordered the BYO Tacolato. Double chocolate shell, chocolate gelato, marshmallow fluff (which I just realized I didn’t get), whipped cream, cookie crumbles, Oreo pieces and maraschino cherries. The shell was not good. I took two bites and I said no, not it. I even asked my niece about her shell (she ordered Cookie Monster) and she said hers was inedible. Maybe it’s just the double chocolate that’s not good. The chocolate gelato was good. I didn’t receive any marshmallow fluff. When I ordered the cookie crumbles, I thought it would be like carvels cookie crumbles. Any other ice cream spot labels them as such. But this was broken up pieces of chocolate chip cookies. (Which, if the menu says Oreo cookie pieces, why not do the same with the chocolate chip cookies.) All in all, it was a fine spot to try out. I won’t be back though.
Lou Lou
Went out for dessert before dinner, it was a strange setup to have this place connected to the pizza place the waitress made us go around to a side door outside and back into the place. They had all the lights off I thought it was closed! There are many options to customize your dessert and a few interesting premade ones. The chocolate Nutella was very tasty yet expensive.
telesha christopher
Very friendly customer service we did a pick up for Adam’s birthday and she gifted us a birthday treat that was nice but the ice cream on these jigs is delicious soooo good I made a great choice
Katherine “KT” Boicourt
Paying for atmosphere. Side door is hard to locate. Don’t walk in the pizza space; it’s right next door. if you only want an ice cream taco. — example: “full dessert menu inside” the pizza joint. Little dessert zone with worn out constructive vibes to ‘pay homage’. Sold out of ideal items. Notes for what the items are is on cardboard with sharpie. Lacks an appeal for something so high cost. Dark super low lighting. Mostly a pizza joint not designed to handle dinner ice cream orders. Not necessarily for someone to stop and go. 3 cream tacos = $40 Edit: after eating the tacos. I would not return. The shells were stale and the entire item/meal seemed disjointed. Parking was terrible and the crowd was . . . Rough to be around.
How to reach Dessert Dealer
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Why Dessert Dealer may become Your Favorite Meetup Place for Catching Up, Celebrating or Just Hanging Out
Why rally at Dessert Dealer with your friends?
Dessert Dealer is an exceptional place to gather with friends because it offers a unique and fun twist on dessert experiences that sparks conversation and shared enjoyment. Located in Chicago, it stands out not just for its delicious offerings but also for its ambiance and the novelty that keeps groups entertained. The highlight of Dessert Dealer is their inventive dessert tacos and ice cream creations that are perfect for sharing and sampling in a group, creating a lively social atmosphere. The innovative menu items cater to adventurous taste buds and provide talking points that naturally bring people closer together. Moreover, its convenient location and friendly staff make it easy and comfortable for groups of all sizes to feel welcome and relaxed. For anyone looking to celebrate a special occasion or simply enjoy a casual meet-up with family or friends, Dessert Dealer delivers a memorable experience that combines great taste, playful presentation, and an inviting setting that encourages connection.
What activities are available at Dessert Dealer that make it ideal for a group meetup?
Dessert Dealer offers a range of activities and experiences that make it an ideal destination for group gatherings. The centerpiece is their unique dessert tacos—these are not your typical tacos but creative sweet variations that blend textures and flavors in unexpected ways, perfect for sharing. Trying these dessert tacos as a group encourages everyone to sample different flavors and compare notes, which enhances the social vibe. Additionally, they serve artisanal ice cream that is celebrated for its balanced sweetness and charming presentation. The ability to request ice cream shaped like cute animals is a delightful feature that adds playful interaction and photo-worthy moments for friends and families. Beyond tasting, guests often enjoy relaxed conversations amid the cozy atmosphere, which accommodates lively chatter without feeling rushed. The shop’s late hours, staying open until 11:00 PM, also mean that it’s a perfect after-dinner destination to prolong an evening out together. Whether it’s celebrating a birthday, a casual catch-up, or just a spontaneous night out, Dessert Dealer’s engaging menu and welcoming space make group meetups feel special.
How does the ambiance and layout of Dessert Dealer enhance group gatherings?
The ambiance at Dessert Dealer is carefully crafted to accommodate and encourage group gatherings. While the lighting is described as dark and cozy, it sets a relaxed mood that invites friends and family to linger and enjoy each other's company without the distractions of a loud or overly bright space. This creates a comfortable nest-like environment ideal for intimate conversations and bonding over shared delights. The venue is designed with practical seating arrangements that accommodate both small and larger groups, giving flexibility depending on the size of your meetup. The decor complements the dessert theme with inviting colors and details that provide a stylish, Instagrammable backdrop — something modern social groups especially appreciate to capture memories. Staff are known to be helpful and friendly, enhancing the feeling of being cared for and attended to, which makes group events flow smoothly from ordering to enjoying the desserts. All these features, combined with an accessible central location in Chicago, make Dessert Dealer not just a place to eat but a setting that actively contributes to making group occasions enjoyable and memorable.
What makes Dessert Dealer’s menu especially suitable for sharing within a group?
Dessert Dealer’s menu is crafted with sharing in mind, which is a big reason why it’s perfect for meetups. The signature dessert tacos come in multiple unique flavors and combinations that lend themselves well to splitting among friends or family members. This format encourages a tasting experience rather than a singular meal, letting groups sample a variety of tastes without committing to just one dessert. The creative preparation of desserts, including ice cream shaped into fun animal forms, invites playful engagement and sharing that transcends the usual eating experience. Unlike standard restaurants where each person usually orders their own dish, here the menu promotes interaction, trying bites of each other's choices, and discussing favorites. The variety of items on offer ensures that everyone in the group, regardless of their particular sweet tooth preferences, can find something that excites them. This dynamic of communal tasting fosters a sense of togetherness and shared discovery that makes get-togethers more interactive and bonding.
How does Dessert Dealer compare to other dessert spots for hosting social events?
Compared to typical dessert shops, Dessert Dealer stands out due to its inventive concept and focus on social interaction. While many dessert places serve traditional offerings, Dessert Dealer’s dessert tacos and custom-shaped ice creams provide a distinctive experience that captures interest and adds fun to meetups. Its rating of 4.0 with over 150 reviews signals consistent customer satisfaction, especially for those seeking a trendy and casual venue for social gatherings. The fact that it stays open late provides a big advantage for groups wanting to extend evenings, unlike many dessert-focused establishments that close early. Moreover, its location near popular spots such as pizza joints adds convenience when planning outings involving multiple stops. The combination of creative food, friendly staff, and an inviting setting makes it favorable for social occasions compared to more conventional options. Dessert Dealer does more than just serve desserts; it creates a joyful environment where friends and family can rally, celebrate, and create memorable moments together.
What makes Dessert Dealer’s location and hours convenient for group meetups?
Dessert Dealer benefits from a strategic location in Chicago that’s accessible and well-known, making it easy for groups to plan meetups without logistical hassles. Being in the heart of the city or close to bustling neighborhoods means it’s often a natural choice for people in the area or visitors looking for a sweet spot to gather. Its proximity to other entertainment and dining options allows groups to integrate Dessert Dealer as part of a fuller night out or celebratory event. Furthermore, the business hours extending until 11:00 PM provide flexibility, catering to both afternoon and late evening meetups. This flexibility is crucial for accommodating diverse schedules, especially for larger friend groups or family gatherings where everyone might arrive at different times. Open daily, it supports spontaneous visits without the worry of closures on key social days like weekends. Overall, Dessert Dealer’s accessible timing and central location enhance its appeal as a hassle-free, reliable venue for group occasions.
Why do customers consistently rate Dessert Dealer highly despite some mixed feedback?
Customers often praise Dessert Dealer for its innovative and tasty dessert offerings, which bring freshness and variety to Chicago’s dessert scene. Positive reviews commonly highlight the creativity of dessert tacos and the charming ice cream presentations, which keep patrons coming back for new tasting experiences and social occasions. The friendly service and relaxed ambiance also receive commendations, making it a welcoming place for groups. On the other hand, some feedback notes that the ambiance might be too dim and that the place handles dinner crowds less fluidly, implying it’s mainly designed as a dessert spot rather than a full restaurant. Despite these occasional critiques, the high overall rating of 4.0 out of 5 suggests the positives outweigh the negatives for most visitors, especially those looking for a dessert-focused social space. The establishment’s ability to consistently satisfy its audience through unique product offerings and good customer relations helps maintain its reputation and appeal as a top place to host fun, memorable meetups with friends or family.