WARM YOUR SPIRIT WITH A TRIP TO YORKVILLE When it’s brisk out the perfect place to curl up with a great book and sip some hot pomegranate cider is just around the corner. Meet a friend for lunch, warm soup and conversation, or start your day with a perfect coffee. Get inspired about your New Year resolutions in this uplifting cozy café. Belladonna Tea and Coffee has a small town feel with artisan lunch items, a broad loose leaf tea selection and specialty coffee that will beckon you back.
Belladonna first opened in Sandwich in late 2016. With a desire for larger kitchen and gathering spaces they moved to Yorkville and reopened September 2018. The new location includes a warmer weather outdoor terrace and a rooftop garden, while taking a step inside provides a peaceful backdrop to the delectable items on the menu.
The dynamic duo behind the Belladonna philosophy, “an experience for the mind, body and spirit” is Jarrod Johnson and Adrian Frost. Johnson uses his creative talents in the kitchen while developing the specialty coffee beverages and menu. Frost finds his creative passion in the garden, the loose leaf tea and the marketing end. What Adrian grows in his garden Jarrod then utilizes in his seasonal selections. As the seasons change, so does the menu, aura and aromas that surround you at Belladonna.
The pomegranate mulled cider is a definite favorite and only around as long as the fresh apple cider is available. Looking for a specialty espresso beverage the Caramello Latte is not too sweet with the perfect hint of Vietnamese cinnamon. The soup du jour, Sweet Curry Cauliflower, is smooth, well balanced and tantalizing to the taste buds. Pair a Chai Tea Latte with a bagel and some cream cheese made in house. The orange cranberry and the garlic and chive both were bursting with flavor. One of our many favorites is the flatbread topped with caramelized onions; roasted acorn squash drizzled with maple syrup, brussel sprouts, bacon, Chevre and a balsamic reduction. The combination is extraordinary.
A local pastry chef from Ginger and Soul provides the sweet treats that shouldn’t be ignored. A warm cinnamon roll goes quite well with a cup of coffee. The New Year will bring weekend small plate, cheese and wine nights that are sure to be enchanting.
Belladonna Tea & Coffee 101 W. Van Emmon St., Yorkville (630) 882-9217 • www.belladonnateaandcoffee.com Dynamic Duo: Adrian Frost & Jarrod Johnson
ABOUT THE CRITICS
Stephanie (right) & Tiffany (left) Schmoker are west suburban sisters who have always shared a love for dining out and they also enjoy cooking together. They came from a family of 7 and grew up on farm with fresh fruits, veggies and more. Watch for their review of a different west suburban restaurant in each issue of Glancer Magazine. Invite them to your eatery at editorial@glancermagazine.com.
