Café Selmarie, a popular mainstay of Chicago's Lincoln Square neighborhood for the past 40 years, has announced its plans to shutter its doors in early 2024 and retire as well as the owner and co-founder, Birgit Kobayashi via the Block Club Chicago.
Having begun its journey as a small storefront serving mouth-watering pastries and coffee in 1983, Café Selmarie has since evolved into a cherished bakery and restaurant. From two neighbors on Giddings Street who opened a storefront with the first espresso machine in the neighborhood, the establishment expanded its reach in 1999 beyond just the delicious pastries.
According to NBC Chicago, Kobayashi felt the time was right to close this chapter on Café Selmarie and embark on a new adventure. "After cooking and baking for decades, it is time to sit down. I want to travel with my husband and have time to indulge in otherinterests." She expressed her deep gratitude towards her patrons who have supported the café over the years and allowed them to make special memories together.
With the assistance of Eatz Associates, one of the country's largest restaurant brokers, the lease of the space, commercial kitchen equipment, and restaurant furnishings will be sold. Notably, the Café Selmarie name and recipes will not be included in the sale. Kobayashi hopes the space will offer new opportunities for another entrepreneur to create a successful business in the area.
Over its 40-year history, Café Selmarie has become an integral part of the Lincoln Square community, attracting loyal patrons for heartwarming meals, indulgent weekend brunches, and a vast range of pastries and baked goods. Although the passing of Kobayashi's co-founder, Jeanne Uzdawinis, in 2017 left a void in the Café's heart, her legacy continues to thrive as part of the Café's history.
The final months of this long-standing culinary retreat will be a celebration of its 40th anniversary, its history, and its talented staff. As part of the festivities, the café plans to serve a special three-course dinner from September 21 to 28, a cookie giveaway, and a photo exhibit in their dining room showcasing their remarkable journey. A few classic menu favorites will also be making a comeback, including the hazelnut cheesecake and apricot-hazelnut tartlets.
Café Selmarie's devoted followers will be pleased to learn that the upcoming holiday season will remain "business as usual in the bakery," as mentioned by Kobayashi. Customers can expect to enjoy the café'spopular Stollen, Linzer Torte, Yule Logs, and Eggnog during the festive period.
