“Dinkel’s Bakery, one of the most iconic bakeries in Chicago, is closing April 30 after more than 100 years on the North Side.
“The bakery, at 3329 N. Lincoln Ave. on the border of Lakeview and Roscoe Village, opened in 1922 under Joseph and Antonie Dinkel. It’s been run by four generations of the family, and questions about it being sold have come up before — but a closing sign was posted in the window Tuesday.
“‘To our customers and neighbors. Thank you …… 101 years serving you,’ the sign read. ‘But it is time. Dinkel’s will close Saturday, April 30th.’
“The bakery has become a mainstay in Chicago, with lines going out on the doors on weekends — when people snapped up treats like pastries and doughnuts — and during foodie holidays like Fat Tuesday. Dinkel’s was also a longtime member of the Bakers Dozen, a secret society of leaders from the oldest family-owned bakeries in and around Chicago.
“Word of the closure spread quickly on social media, where Chicagoans lamented the loss. Customers poured into the shop Tuesday afternoon to stock up on their favorites.
“Norman Dinkel, 79, and the longtime owner, said it was closing so he could retire. ‘It’s never a good time to close, so I’ve got a lot of mixed emotions,’ Dinkel said. ‘It’s a very traumatic day for me personally, for my stay and my customers. No one wants to see this, but it’s time.’
The future of the iconic Dinkel’s sign, which hangs vertically on the side of the building, is uncertain, Dinkel said. ‘I’ve still got to figure out what’s going to happen to it,’ Dinkel said. ‘I’m told there might be some collectors interested, but I don’t know yet.’
“‘When we walked in and they told us they’re closing, we couldn’t believe it,”’ Staar said. ‘It’s absolutely devastating because it’s always like this — full of people and good, local vibes.’ (Wittich & Bauer, Block Club Chicago)