Sometimes a momma just wants to have a cup of coffee. And sometimes it’s not easy finding a coffee joint that the kids will enjoy too. Enter The Heart of Europe Café. Not only did I find a place suitable for parents and kids, but as the name suggests, they are more than just a coffee shop. The owners, sisters Kasia and Emilia who are originally from Poland, moved here about eight months ago to pursue their dream of owning a bakery and cafe. And now, you can find them bringing a little bit of Europe to downtown Barrington.
If you go
113 S. Cook St., Barrington, IL
www.facebook.com/heartofeuropecafe
And what do you know? We are absolutely smitten with the cafe! Here are five reasons why you’ll love the family bakery as well.
Kids will be kept busy
My three kiddos immediately made themselves at home in their little play area complete with a play kitchen, blocks and a coloring station. And for once the kids didn’t mind waiting for the food to come.
Cool décor
Once I stepped into the shop, I felt totally at home with the cute furnishings everywhere I turned. Just my style!
Hello, chimney cakes
We love trying new food and how often can you say you’ve had a chimney cake? These spiral Hungarian pastries are not only delicious, but they are fun to eat. When it comes to your table, you’ll see the steam coming out from the middle like a chimney. As you start to eat at the top, it spirals out.
Homemade goodness
Everything is homemade, from the pastries to their fresh fruit (and veggie) smoothies.
Something for everyone
The bakery tries to accommodate many different diets, and you’ll find many of their items (including the pastries) are vegan and gluten free.
They also offer baking and cooking classes for kids. Your aspiring bakers will be able to make, bake and decorate cookies, while parents relax.
At the end of the day, I was able to enjoy a cup of coffee, and the kids were happy to try out a new treat. And as you know, happy kids = happy mom. We can’t wait to come back to The Heart of Europe Cafe.
