The Cincinnati-based Macaron Bar, home of the “American-sized” macaron, is getting ready to open its first Chicagoland location in Andersonville at 5152 N. Clark St.
The company’s eighth overall location will move into the former home of Frio Gelato, with only 650 square feet of space, according to Eater Chicago. Co-owner Michael Wagner confirms with What Now Chicago that not only will this location be open by late August or early September, but they’re actively searching to open new locations in the Chicagoland area. Wagners says the company will focus on establishing its first location before opening other sites. Macaron Bar will focus mainly on cosmetic changes for its first location.
Patrick Moloughney and executive chef Nathan Sivitz launched Macaron Bar in 2014, with Wagner and Kyle Oldfield joining the team in 2017. Wagner and Oldfield currently own the Pittsburgh and Columbus locations, while Moloughney and Sivitz own sites in Cincinnati, Indianapolis, and Louisville All of the Chicago products will be shipped from Indianapolis daily until the company can open its own onsite kitchen, which they hope to launch in early 2024 in Lakeview, Lincoln Park, or West Loop, according to Eater.
When the new Andersonville location opens later this year, customers can expect the company’s 14 “core flavors” available year-round and seasonal macarons like spiced pumpkin or summery Key lime pie. These macarons are about one-and-three-quarter inches and two inches, which is larger than traditional macarons. Inside, customers can expect ganache fillings rather than buttercream or jam. Some of the company’s core flavors include Earl Grey Tea, Madagascar Vanilla, Pistachio, Salted Caramel, and Toasted Coconut.
