Great pastries, old world style crusty breads, good coffee, sandwiches, service is excellent. Well organized and efficient.

There sandwiches are really good and fairly priced. Unfortunately, for reasons I still can't fathom, they discontinue serving my favorite sandwich, Caprese on baguette, during the fall through winter. I think its a bit bizarre they claim they can't source tomatoes! read more

An example of a place that does well and the quality goes down. I used to rave about this place, encourage others to go get bread there, even when I've felt some items were not as good as other items. They are opening up a new location (closing current location), so I don't know if that's has something to do with the decline. Perhaps, there's been some cost savings as a measure. Today I get what I get often enough over the years, not only was it stale, like 2 day stale, but when I asked about an ingredient which at times is skimpier than others, today it was non-existent...instead of offering me any kind of consolation (I've only been coming there since it opened), I was told I must be mistaken. I honestly feel gaslighted by this place as I swear I have had the almond croissant where there has been almond paste inside, not much but it's been there. You should note they also don't use any almond milk in lattes. I've heard counter help tell people they don't offer it because of the amount of water used to grow almonds/droughts etc. I feel like this ingredient has been omitted at times or over time to save $ or based on a personal belief of owner. If that's the case don't offer any almond croissant because who the Heck has a plain croissant with a few almond slivers on outside & calls it an almond croissant? Is the chocolate croissant a plain croissant with chocolate slivers on outside? Nope! Even when I asked about it today, the clerk said, "are you referring to the marzipan?" Do yourself a favor and bypass the overpriced $4 stale almond croissants and get a box of 4 at Trader Joe's for the same price and better quality. You can bake those fresh yourself at home. There used to be one or two friendly people working the counter there. Today, I felt unheard & actually saw them chuckling when I complained. I've only once politely asked if there was a way to have my latte hotter as it's almost always on the cool side (and I've heard this from someone else). Otherwise, that's the extent of my complaints in all the years I've gone there. Oh, and the coffee, lattes are average & you'll be lucky if it's hot or not over-foamy. read more

Holy YUM!!!!! everything is amazing and I get have the best Covid-safe set up I've seen. Bravo

I really wanted to like this place, as the exterior was charming ( it has kind of a Grant Wood/Andrew Wyeth feel to it). Plus the baked goods looked fantastic. However, when I went in to Hewn, the lady who waited on me was cold and rude and I believe it is due to the fact that I'm Black. Additionally I was the only Black person in the bakery at the time. To begin with, I told her it was my first time to Hewn and wanted to know where to pick up my coffee. The lady just rudely pointed to another counter. When I asked about a particular pastry I wanted to purchase, the same lady at first ignored my question and then when I asked again, she replied in a very fast past, with a tight lipped expression. I should also point out that the lady was extremely nice and welcoming to both the people in front of me, as well as behind me, both of whom happened to be white. When I went to the location to pick up my coffee I asked to the other lady working at the counter if my business was welcomed here and this lady became extremely defensive regarding my question. She questioned my perception or my experience in a sharp tone, rather than simply ask me. Clearly I'm not returning to Hewn. I'm not found of ' a side of microaggression ' with my morning coffee. As I mentioned before, Hewn has a charming rustic atmosphere. Too bad Hewn has allowed some of their employees to adopt what seem to be 'rustic,' radicalized ideas. I guess the theme some of the employees are going for is; reminiscent of they type of bakery my grandparents wouldn't have been allowed in. read more

If you want "real bread" without the chemicals that extend the shelf life, skip the grocery store and buy the delicious and healthy bread at Hewn. This is a wonderful neighborhood bread (and more) shop. I love the people, the products, the atmosphere (you can't stay there, but it's a very pleasant place to buy bread!) and of course the BREAD. read more

Hewn is possibly my favorite bakery in the area. I initially heard about it through a colleague that goes their weekly for their fresh breads. She brought a loaf in and it was exceptional. When I first went to the bakery, I was impressed with the display and variety of pastries, breads, and sandwiches they had. I first had the Picholine-Olive Country and then the Whole Wheat Gruyere. I normally, I wouldn't have chosen the Polenta, Pumpkin Seed and Rosemary one because I thought it would be two many flavors together but they make it work! More important than bread for me is the pastries. The have the second best almond croissant that I've had in Chicagoland. It's second only to Floriole in that regard. However, Hewn has the best chocolate almond croissant! Wonderfully flaky crust and delicious chocolate filling. My other favorite item to get here is the bostock. I'd never had it before and I didn't think I'd pick it as my go to over a croissant but theirs is delectable. It's a slice of brioche with almond and fresh fruit. I love to get it when they have the ones with blueberries. If you're a Northwestern student, you'll get 10% off with your Wildcard too! read more

Wonderful Guyere gougeres that we keep going back for again and again. Other items as well--all excellent!!!!

This is the best bread in the area, period. Ellen (the baker) and Julie (her partner) have created a bakery of remarkable quality and integrity. All of the breads are made from scratch daily, from locally sourced and seasonal ingredients. The techniques are truly artisial - all breads are from hand-mixed dough, hand-shaped, and fermented without commercial yeast. The result is just outstanding. If you haven't been here, go. I really wasn't sure whether to write this review, since I don't want competition for the bread, but when something is so good, you have to share it. read more

Great bakery in Evanston. Had their chocolate croissant and enjoyed it! They do only take out and mask must be worn.

Decided to come to a different place to get coffee than Starbucks and I had a quick and easy experience! There was no line when I went around 11:30 which was great (there were other customers in the bakery just nobody in an actual line ready to order). Got a 12oz mocha for ~$4.50 (don't 100% remember price), waited literally one minute for the barista to make it, and walked out with a mocha and a foam heart on top. One thing that I LOVED about the mocha is that it wasn't overly sweet like it is at Starbucks. The reason why I get mochas is because I need sweetness to cover the taste of biter coffee, and this mocha has a great balance between sweetness and taste. read more

After following Hewn on Instagram for months, I finally had a chance to try it out. The place is small and currently standing room only. (I do know they are in the process of expanding to a bigger location which will be nicer. ). We went there on Saturday morning around 9:30 am and there was a line inside. If there is one thing they do really well is laminated dough pastries. I got the chocolate croissant and it was awesome! It was a good size with a crispy, flaky outside and a soft, buttery inside. Yum!!! I very highly recommend it! We also got a kouign amann and while it was good I would liked it with more caramelized butter like I have had at other places. We also had the cherry galette and it was very good. A bit tarts but had a great crust. They also offer coffee which was a bit slow but was good. This is a place where you go and pickup and take with you as there is nowhere to sit at this location. It is definitely worth trying out. read more

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Jackpot! This morning we scored a seeded baguette (they are always sold out before I'm even awake in the morning)! While I'm sad Hewn will be moving to Central St, the upside of a new and expanded location is the expected ENDLESS SUPPLY OF SEEDED BAGUETTES!!! Oh, I can't wait. I love everything about Hewn - the local/friendly atmosphere, the people who work there, the bread & pastry, and the almond croissants. Especially the almond croissants! We have friends who live in Wash DC who actually come to Evanston to get Hewn's almond croissants (well, and they come to see us too!). read more

Fresh bakery! I can't believe how great everything was. It was like I was back in Europe! I definitely recommend.

Hewn is a favorite! I love the variety of breads and pastries. They are fresh and well crafted. I look forward to their continued success. read more

Always friendly, always delicious! The savory morning buns (when available) and the kouign amann are always our favorites and leave us always wishing we ordered more. read more

Everyone seems to love this bakery and I have been enjoying their expensive Heritage breads, said to be less irritating to those who are gluten sensitive. Today, I decided to try the kids' ham and cheese sandwich and I was very disappointed by the butter and extremely fatty ham. I had thought what turned out to be butter was mayo. I know people do like butter on sandwiches, but not me! The ham was rather disgusting. Yuck! read more

The bread here is delicious! Everything is. Savory croissant is one of my favs and is sooo freakin yummy. This bakery is the best. Period.

After reading lots of great reviews I decided to give this place a try. I got the Midwest blend loaf and it was hands-down the best bread I have ever eaten within my 22 years of living. The crust was perfectly crunchy and the inside was so fluffy and melts in your mouth. They sell an assortment of pastries, nut buuters, maple syrup, etc. Highly recommend! read more

Hewn is absolutely the best place for bread, sandwiches and pastries. It's always my first stop when traveling to or through Chicago and well worth the trip up to Evanston. Expert tip: They ALWAYS sell out! Everything they make is that good. So get there early. And please . . . Don't be lame by blaming them because you got there late. Go early - before they sell out - you'll be glad you did! read more

On this early and cold Saturday morning, this place is packed. It seems with mostly regulars. I should have chosen a career that these people chose to be able to regularly purchase $10 loaves of bread, $5 croissants and $$ coffee. For me, I cannot justify it often, but today I went for the honey wheat loaf, a plain croissant and the most popular monkey bread. I can see why people come here in herds. Posted on the wall shows their sources for ingredients, real food. If you need a gift, honey and syrup, the real kind, books, coffee and organic ingredients abound. I would say it is worth it. Will I become a regular? Outlook likely. read more

Great artisanal baked goods and breads! Love the challah and mini monkey bread ! Great staff!

My husband and I frequent Hewn when we are in Evanston. We've always been greeted warmly and the food/beverages never disappoint. My favorite items are the beautiful breads and pastries--the lemon, ginger scone is amazing! I look forward to their continued growth and success, it is well deserved. They also offer take and bake items and you can place an order in advance to ensure they don't run out of something you like. read more

A group of people, baking and caring for their customers and community! Amazing breads and goodies , you MUST visit Hewn, sooner rather than later, It will become a regular stop !! read more

I visited this bakery twice on my recent trip to Illinois. It was fantastic. I loved the coffee and all the pastries I tried! I will be back for more as soon as I can! read more

Good intentions, less than stellar execution. I was so excited to find this place on Yelp and once inside thrilled to see a bakery that reminded me of my gustatory tour of last year through Montreal and Quebec but that's where the excitement stops. The kouign amann was too dense and didn't achieve easily pliable and visible layers of dough, like I would have expected. It didn't puff up to the level I have come to anticipate. The sticky bun was indeed sticky but it too felt heavy and did not taste super fresh. The service was good and prompt though, and like I said, they have a nice variety of offerings. read more

Love this place. Their maple lattes are delicious and not too sweet. I love the everything bagel croissant. It just smells like heaven when you walk into this bakery. Great Gem in Evanston. This is a grab and go place though so keep in mind. It is small and no seating read more

Stopped here during one of my trips to chicago and was not disappointed. Not only do they have a bad ass and empowering mission, but their products are absolutely delicious. I got a croissant wrapped bagel - which is a definite recommend - along with assorted pastries and just could not pick a favorite! Will certainly be back during my next trip! read more

What is better than a morning bun? Two buns. I think I am going to try and just live off these yummy creations.

A few weeks ago I complained about there being no sandwiches without dairy. Today I had a VERY delicious sandwich, turkey cranberry, no cheese in it. Hit the spot after a bike ride. So I'm giving you a 5-star review, thank you for keeping us lactose intolerant folks happy! read more

Where to start? Got to the bakery around 9 am and it was perfect timing because a rush of people came as I was walking up to the counter. The croissants are flaky, not too buttery and the almond croissant was perfection and not overly sweet. I also got some spelt bread (low GI and high in fiber) had a manageable taste and will definitely get it again! Staff is super sweet! I also grabbed an ice coffee and it was great and not overly acidic! Would highly recommend read more

Love this neighborhood bake shop. Staff are super friendly. Great coffee. Monkey bread is to die for! read more

Hands down the best croissant in Evanston. I love their almond croissant, so fresh, and I love how flaky and buttery it is. Also appreciate that they don't dust too much powder sugar on the croissant. I also love the monkey bread and sugar pie... or just everything in the shop? It is a very small shop but it offers a great variety of breads and pastries. I def can see myself going back to try more of their goodies in the future. It is a 10 min walk from Northwestern, right by Dempster EL station. read more

Hewn Bakery - Sugar pie, almond croissant, monkey bread, ready to get heated up before we enjoy them at home. - Bakeries Near Me - Evanston, Illinois

Best kouign amann I've had. I've eaten Bad Wolf's and Dominique Ansel's (in NYC). What I didn't like about previous kouign amanns is the top crusts were too thick, hard, or chewy due to all the pastry dough layers coming together. Hewn's is delightfully light all around, subtly sweet, and very flaky. I also highly recommend the chocolate almond croissant - not overly sweet and also flaky. We came here mainly for the loaves of bread, which they bake several varieties of. They take their bread seriously, as there are instructions on their website on how to store your loaf. At a separate counter you can order coffee drinks. I had a chai latte and asked for less sweet - perfect! 1 loaf of country bread ($6), 4 pastries ($3.50ish), and 2 drinks was $27. Great little artisan bakery and coffee bar! read more

Hewn Bakery - bisections of chocolate almond croissant (L) and kouign-amann (R) - Bakeries Near Me - Evanston, Illinois

Amazing!!! Everything single thing we have had from here so tasty. They also have the best sandwiches and during non covid times press them.

Hewn is our go to bakery!! Love their seeded whole wheat bread and my boys like their savory croissants and brioches. The new chicken pot pie is excellent and is great dinner option after a 10 hr work day. Thanks also for offering the Neighbor loaf for the Hillside Food Pantry. We love walking over for a breakfast treat. read more

I have been fortunate to be a customer at Hewn. I was there in the small space on Dempster, there when they expanded to add an adjacent space and now their dream location on Central. Throughout that journey their menu of products expanded exponentially BUT their humanity, quality and customer service has remained or if possible... grown Please go give these young women a chance and be similarly rewarded... Oh, while you're at it, buy a few "neighbor loaves". Just because we are rolling out the vaccines, people are hungry... And that's wrong and here is a simple way to help Ciao y grazie read more

Truly the most unpleasant customer service. Owner needs to be present or the staff needs a class in customer service. Bread isn't the best in the area either. Won't be going back. read more

Without a doubt, the finest bakery in the region! They have ruined my life since they established themselves directly on my walking route. My solution has been to keep my eyes raised toward the bread shelves so as to avoid a close look at the fabulous croissants, muffins & cookies, not to mention the stecca & delicious grilled sandwiches they construct for lunch. The breads are the heart of the matter, however. My favorites are baked with heirloom grains that Ellen King (proprietor & chief baker) favors. The gluten avoiders seem to favor those, as do I. Particularly delicious are the Red Fife, Turkey Red & (best of all) Midwest Blend. And my fall back is the Whole Wheat Seeded, which can last a week (I'm not joking) if wrapped in Bee's Wrap. I just pop it in the toaster. You will not find tastier bread anywhere: perfect moisture in the crumb & crisp, crunchy, chewy crust. And the coffee!! The baristas make a perfect latteccino, with dense, thick foam, just the way I need it to support a sprinkle of raw sugar. And, finally, the staff are absolutely delightful - from owners Ellen King & Julie Matthei through servers & baristas, Kaitlyn, Hannah, Janie, Lissa, to bakers, Justin, Spencer, Josh, all are friendly, solicitous, hard-working lovers of the art of fermentation. Hewn Bakery is one of Etown's brightest jewels. read more

The staff at Hewn are absolutely wonderful! Always helpful and honest about the best items to get. Everything is delicious; definitely my go-to bakery! read more