The hometown classic Bennison’s Bakery has been residents’ favorite provider of sweet treats and baked goods for five years and counting in The Daily’s Best of Evanston.
Iconic for its burgundy and white cloth trimmings and red neon sign illuminating its corner on Maple Avenue and Davis Street, Bennison’s has been an Evanston staple since 1938.
Established by Wisconsinite baker Larry Bennison, the bakery was sold to the Downer family in 1967. It has been operated by three generations of the Downer family since, including the late Guy Downer Sr., his son and current owner Jory and his son, Guy Jr. The family prides itself on quality baking practices which led Jory Downer to win Paris’ Coupe du Monde de la Boulangerie in 2005.
From its seasonal hot cross Easter buns and authentic Stockholm Limpa to its brightly multicolored parisian macarons — there are endless options for any sweet-toothed visitor.
Bennison’s speciality lies within its seasonal offerings, including its Swedish semlor or “semla,” a baked bun split at the top and filled with whipped cream and almond paste, which is sold during the Catholic season of Lent from Fat Tuesday to Easter Sunday.
It is also famous for its annual Paczki Eating Contest, where contestants eat round, sugar coated and fruit filled Polish pastries before the Lenten season.
Whether residents want to pick up splendidly-decorated cupcakes for birthdays, a multicolored king cake for Mardi Gras or just enjoy a croissant and a cup of coffee in the morning, Bennison’s is an obvious and favorite choice.
