When asking yourself about something to do near me in Chicago with a group of friends or family, consider
Insomnia Cookies
Why Insomnia Cookies is a fun option when searching for things to do near me with friends and family
Insomnia Cookies offers a unique and inviting experience for friends and cookie lovers looking to share a special treat. Founded in 2003 by college students, it has grown into a beloved bakery chain primarily across the United States, with over 265 stores including international locations in Canada and England. What makes Insomnia Cookies an exceptional meeting spot is its focus on delivering warm, freshly baked cookies, alongside brownies, cookie cakes, and ice cream — catering perfectly to late-night cravings. Many stores are strategically located near university campuses, making them an ideal choice for students and night owls to gather and enjoy indulgent desserts well into the early morning hours, with delivery available until 3 a.m. daily. Its cozy and accessible storefronts invite friends to come together over a shared love of sweet, soft, and flavorful cookies, bridging the gap between casual meetups and celebratory moments. The variety also includes options for vegans and gluten-free preferences, ensuring that everyone can partake in the delicious offerings. These qualities and the warm, comforting atmosphere make Insomnia Cookies a great place to reconnect and enjoy delightful treats with friends, whether visiting in person or ordering online for convenient delivery.
Here's what people think of Insomnia Cookies
As of recent, Insomnia Cookies holds a 4.1-star rating based on 171 reviews.
Consumer reviews reflect a generally positive experience with Insomnia Cookies, earning an average rating of 4.1 from 171 reviews. Many customers praise the warmth and freshness of the cookies, highlighting how the late-night availability fills a unique niche for those seeking sweet snacks after typical bakery hours. Positive reviews often mention the wide variety of flavors and the option to order for late-night delivery, which resonates strongly with college students and night owls. Reviewers appreciate the quality of the cookie texture, describing them as soft and satisfying, and enjoy the inclusion of vegan and gluten-free options. However, some negative feedback centers on variability in cookie consistency, with a few customers noting a crumblier texture compared to more chewy cookies they have tried elsewhere. A minority report occasional delivery delays or service inconsistencies. Despite these criticisms, many conclude that the overall experience, flavor selection, and convenience outweigh the drawbacks. The business's ongoing expansion and innovative marketing efforts, including student ambassador programs, further reflect its dedication to maintaining customer satisfaction and staying connected with its core audience. Altogether, reviews endorse Insomnia Cookies as a reliable and enjoyable option for late-night sweet cravings with a generally favorable reception from consumers.
Highlights from reviewers (Most Relevant)
John H
Cookies were cold, hard, and boxed up broken. Frankly, unacceptable for these prices. First time ordering insomnia cookies in this city, after being a customer for years where we used to live. One of my favorite places, very disappointed
Ashley M.
S/O to Kayla!!!! You're the absolute best!!!! Thank you for making my 1st Insomnia Cookie experience one to remember!!!! The cookies were the best, but your customer service was even better!!!! Don't walk, run to this location and ask for Kayla!!!
Edwin Lopez Rodriguez
Amazing and delicious cookies, still warm! The server Lily made the experience a better one with a kind and generous service; even added us an extra cookie. One of a kind first time visit!
Heather Alanis
Smells like heaven! Warm cookies and warm smiles. Great cookie and ice cream flavors. So happy they have multiple gluten free options too. Thank you Tanner and Lily for great customer! We can’t wait to come back.
Jason Hartman
I think the cookies here are really top notch, better than Crumbl in my opinion. Their prices are a bit high though. I wish they would put out better deals more frequently. The staff is pretty young, college age. Sometimes a little too relaxed in professionalism in my opinion, but I’ve never had anyone there treat me rudely. Their delivery drivers have also been pretty friendly. Lines can get pretty long at night on the weekends. Sometimes there’s a security guard there. I guess people can get a little wild in there!
How to reach Insomnia Cookies
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Website: None
Why Insomnia Cookies may become Your Favorite Meetup Place for Catching Up, Celebrating or Just Hanging Out
Why rally at Insomnia Cookies with your friends?
Insomnia Cookies is an ideal venue to gather with friends because it offers a unique combination of warmth, comfort, and shared enjoyment centered around universally loved treats—fresh, warm cookies. The business was founded on the premise of satisfying late-night cravings, especially for college students, but its appeal extends far beyond campuses to cookie enthusiasts of all ages. When you come together here, you’re not just grabbing a snack; you’re indulging in a cozy atmosphere that encourages connection through something sweet and special. The joy of sharing warm, gooey cookies—delivered fresh or enjoyed in-store—creates a communal experience that can turn a simple meetup into a memorable occasion. Whether you’re looking to celebrate a milestone, reward a long study session, or just catch up late into the evening, Insomnia Cookies provides a casual, inviting space with a fun, vibrant energy that makes spending time with friends or family both relaxed and delicious. Plus, the extended hours, often until 3 AM, accommodate all schedules, making it convenient for various lifestyles while still creating a fun, late-night vibe that enhances social gatherings.
What activities make Insomnia Cookies perfect for group meetups?
Group meetups at Insomnia Cookies are designed around shared indulgence and fun. The primary activity is, of course, enjoying a variety of freshly baked cookies, cookie cakes, brownies, and ice cream tailored to satisfy diverse tastes, including vegan and gluten-free options. This wide range of choices means everyone in your group can find something they love, fostering a sense of inclusion and shared happiness. The shop’s design, often cozy and inviting near college campuses or community hubs, offers a welcoming space where groups can relax comfortably. Beyond eating, the informal setting encourages lively conversations, laughter, and bonding — whether you’re reminiscing or planning ahead. Additionally, Insomnia Cookies supports delivery and takeout, offering flexibility for groups to meet onsite or gather elsewhere while still enjoying the treats together. Some locations host sampling events and seasonal promotions, adding an element of excitement, and occasionally even partnering with local events or student groups to enhance the social vibe. These elements combine to make Insomnia Cookies more than just a bakery; they create a hub where people come together seamlessly around their love for quality, warm desserts.
What kind of menu and food options does Insomnia Cookies offer?
Insomnia Cookies is famous for its freshly baked cookies served warm, setting it apart from typical cookie shops. The menu is rich and varied, catering to a broad spectrum of palates. Classic cookies include favorites like chocolate chunk, mint chocolate, sugar cookie, and M&M, while seasonal and deluxe flavors rotate regularly, offering something new and exciting with every visit. The company also offers cookie cakes, which are perfect for celebrations and group sharing. To complement these sweet treats, Insomnia Cookies provides brownies and ice cream, including ice cream cookie sandwiches that combine their signature cookies with creamy ice cream for an indulgent twist. Recognizing the importance of inclusivity, the menu includes vegan and gluten-free options, ensuring everyone in a group can find something that suits their dietary needs without compromise. The quality and freshness of the products are paramount, as the cookies are baked daily to remain soft and warm, enhancing the experience of savoring them together.
How does Insomnia Cookies support late-night cravings and socializing?
One of the biggest draws of Insomnia Cookies is its commitment to late-night service, designed to cater to those moments when most other food options are closed. Unlike many eateries limited to standard operating hours, Insomnia Cookies often stays open until 3 AM, embracing the late-night lifestyle common in college towns and urban settings. This late availability makes it a go-to spot for friends looking to extend their evenings, whether after a night out, study sessions, or casual hangouts. The convenience of late-hour delivery and open storefronts ensures that groups can count on this spot when other places have shut down, making it a reliable choice for spontaneous gatherings. Its nurturing environment invites people to relax while enjoying the warmth of freshly baked treats, helping turn ordinary late nights into social highlights. Whether you’re fueling a study group or celebrating after a bustling day, Insomnia Cookies provides the perfect backdrop for bonding over shared cravings and lively conversation well into the night.
What makes Insomnia Cookies a community-focused business?
Insomnia Cookies’ roots as a college dorm startup remain deeply woven into its community focus. Founder Seth Berkowitz’s initial idea centered on meeting the specific needs of his campus peers by delivering warm cookies at late hours, fostering a strong connection to the student community. This close tie to college campuses is still evident as most locations strategically open near universities and collaborate with student organizations for sampling and promotional events. These partnerships encourage word-of-mouth marketing through campus representatives who share the brand’s promise and build authentic rapport with customers. Beyond college towns, Insomnia Cookies attracts diverse urban groups, maintaining its welcoming, inclusive ethos. It prioritizes customer experience and accessibility, offering customizable options to cater to individual preferences and dietary restrictions. By embedding itself in local culture and responding to community needs, the company builds a loyal base that views Insomnia Cookies as more than just a store—it’s a friendly neighbor and a communal gathering place where everyone is invited to savor a sweet moment together.
Why is Insomnia Cookies a great choice for celebrations and special occasions?
Celebrating at Insomnia Cookies adds a delightful sweetness to any occasion. The availability of customizable cookie cakes makes it an excellent choice for birthdays, anniversaries, or even informal celebrations with friends and family. Cookie cakes can be personalized with messages or decorations, offering a unique and delicious centerpiece that adds charm and flavor to your party. The shop’s inviting atmosphere and large variety of cookie flavors mean everyone can indulge in their favorites while exploring new tastes, promoting a share-and-try experience that enhances group fun. Deliverability and late-night hours provide flexibility for last-minute festivities or gatherings extending into the night. Whether you’re organizing a casual get-together or a themed event, Insomnia Cookies serves as a sweet, convenient, and crowd-pleasing choice that helps mark special moments with joy and warmth.
How does Insomnia Cookies combine convenience and quality for group visits?
Convenience is a cornerstone of Insomnia Cookies’ appeal, particularly for groups. Its multiple ordering options—including in-store pickup, online ordering, and late-night delivery—allow friends or family to meet up in the way that suits them best. This flexibility means groups can plan ahead or spontaneously decide to indulge together with minimal hassle. Despite this convenience, quality is never compromised. Freshly baked cookies, made from scratch daily using premium ingredients, ensure every bite is soft, warm, and flavorful, fostering satisfaction throughout the group. The thoughtful inclusion of diverse menu options ensures all dietary preferences receive attention, making it easy to accommodate all members of your gathering. Timely delivery with insulated packaging preserves warmth, amplifying the fresh-baked experience. This combination of accessible service and high-quality products makes Insomnia Cookies a dependable and enjoyable option for social gatherings.
What is the atmosphere like inside Insomnia Cookies stores?
The atmosphere inside Insomnia Cookies locations is casual, cozy, and inviting—perfect for relaxed socializing with friends or family. Typically designed with warm lighting and comfortable seating areas, the shops encourage patrons to stay, chat, and savor their treats at a leisurely pace. Background music is carefully curated to complement the vibe without overwhelming conversation, striking an ideal balance between energetic and laid-back. Many stores feature modern décor with an emphasis on comfort and fun, reflecting the brand’s youthful and approachable personality. The staff add to the welcoming ambiance by being friendly and attentive, ready to guide customers through the menu or assist with custom orders. This atmosphere transforms a routine cookie purchase into a pleasant and memorable social experience, ideal for making the most out of your meetup.
What makes Insomnia Cookies a standout business in the dessert market?
Insomnia Cookies stands out in the crowded dessert market due to its singular focus on delivering warm, fresh cookies late into the night, a niche few competitors have effectively filled. Its origin story—born from a simple but powerful idea in a college dorm room—gives it a relatable and authentic brand identity that resonates especially with a youthful audience but also appeals broadly. The company’s innovative approach to marketing, particularly through campus ambassadors and targeted partnerships, creates dynamic engagement and loyal customer bases. Consistently opening new locations near college campuses guarantees proximity to core consumers. The product range, including cookie cakes and ice cream, diversifies offerings without losing focus. Moreover, the company’s strong commitment to quality, customer service, and inclusivity—offering vegan and gluten-free options—is another factor elevating it above conventional bakeries. Together, these elements create a brand that is not just about cookies but about creating joyful, communal experiences around a beloved treat.
How has Insomnia Cookies grown since its founding?
Since its founding in 2003 by Seth Berkowitz in his University of Pennsylvania dorm room, Insomnia Cookies has grown from a small delivery service to a national phenomenon with over 295 store locations across the United States. Starting with the simple goal of providing warm cookies late at night for fellow students, the business model evolved from delivery-only to include brick-and-mortar stores strategically located near college campuses and urban centers. The company continues to expand rapidly, opening approximately two new stores each month, with plans to grow to nearly 1,800 locations in the coming decade. Throughout this expansion, Insomnia Cookies has maintained its mission of delivering fresh, warm cookies late into the night while diversifying its menu to include cookie cakes, brownies, and ice cream. The company’s persistent innovation, commitment to customer satisfaction, and savvy marketing have transformed it into a $350 million brand, a testament to the power of a simple idea executed with enthusiasm and care.
Why should you choose Insomnia Cookies for your next group meetup or event?
Choosing Insomnia Cookies for your next group meetup or event guarantees a combination of convenience, quality, and an unforgettable sweet experience. Its extensive menu appeals to varied tastes and dietary needs, ensuring everyone in your group finds something they enjoy. The warm and cozy atmosphere creates a welcoming environment ideal for socializing, while the late-night hours provide unique timing flexibility. Whether you want to meet in-store for an impromptu gathering or have treats delivered to your location, Insomnia Cookies makes coordination easy and stress-free. Its established reputation and consistent product quality make it a reliable choice that elevates any occasion with delightful flavors and shared moments. Hosting your meetup here taps into a fun, youthful energy while savoring one of the most beloved comfort foods—freshly baked cookies—that naturally bring people together.