Hidden away in Chicago is an incredible little chocolate shop that will make you daydream of cocoa day in and day out. This little shop is more than a labor of love—it’s a whole life’s passion all wrapped up into one deliciously chocolatey little truffle of wonderfulness. I’m speaking, of course, of our very own Katherine Anne Confections, an incredible chocolate shop in Illinois that’s sure to blow you away with every bite.
Katherine Anne started at age 10, using cream from her family’s farm to craft delectable caramels that soon became the talk of the town. From there, she expanded to truffles, and the rest is history—tasty, tasty history. Today, you can visit two incredible physical locations—or, if you’re out of state, you can always order a batch or 10 online.
Personally, I enjoy the in-person experience most of all. Walking in, you’re immediately immersed in the incredible scent of all things chocolate, like a big, loving hug you didn’t know you needed. Behind the counter and nestled beneath glass, you’ll see an assortment of chocolates, all of which are crafted by hand, in-house, unlike any others you’ve ever experienced.
You won’t find generic samplers here. Instead, prepare your palate for daring combinations like Goat Cheese Walnut, Toasted Coconut Rum, or the sweet-and-spicy kick of a Cayenne Caramel. The shop prides itself on using Fair Trade cacao and locally sourced dairy and honey, ensuring that every bite supports Midwestern farmers while tasting absolutely divine. Whether you crave the brightness of a citrus-infused ganache or the earthy comfort of a stout beer truffle, the menu is a testament to culinary imagination. The creative variations and flavors are to die for; you’ll find so much joy in every little morsel that I’d be shocked if you didn’t come back shortly… and again. And again. And so forth.
What started as a clandestine operation—working out of rental kitchens and through proxies—became a brick-and-mortar reality in 2012, when the first of two Katherine Anne Confections locations opened in the famed Logan Square neighborhood of Chicago. In 2023, Chicago’s Irving Park was the lucky recipient of a brand-new shop location. Take your pick from an assortment of caramels (of course!), marshmallow treats, and legendary truffles. You’ll never want to leave; when you do, you’ll depart with at least a couple of armfuls of take-home delights.
While you’re here, you’ll want to try one – or all, I’m not here to judge – of the numerous unique hot chocolate flavors. And let’s be clear: this isn’t thin, watery cocoa. It is a decadent “drinking chocolate” made with real melted chocolate and milk, resulting in a thick, luxurious sip that warms you to your core. Top it with one of their famous, pillowy-soft homemade marshmallows—available in flavors like salted caramel or vanilla—and you have the ultimate winter survival tool. Each cup is unique and new, and you’ll never find it boring around here: these master chocolatiers release six new truffles, sweets, and other goodies each month to keep things fresh and novel. I can’t get enough, and no matter what they do next, we can all be certain it’ll be incredible.
I don’t blame you if you’re planning to visit Chicago just for this shop. While you’re here, be careful—you might fall in love with Chicago. When you’re ready for your next Windy City adventure, make your first stop Only In Your State’s itinerary planner…