First Slice Café is not only a great place to grab a cup of coffee or delicious food, but it is actually a nonprofit organization that supports the art community in Chicago.  Their offerings satisfy artists attending classes, or using the studios at Lill Street Art Center, and cool folks like you and me that want to be a part of the action.

For patrons like me, it is a great place to peruse the gallery, meet a friend in the café and enjoy their freshly prepared meals and treats. I can never get enough of their curry chicken salad which is one of their “retro” salad options. They have other great café menu options ranging from freshly prepared quiches, homemade soups, sandwiches and wraps, as well as freshly prepared salads.

Of course this article would not be complete without mentioning the sweetest part which happens to be referenced in their name… the pie. Baked fresh daily, they offer a wide variety of savory and sweet pies from their infamous coffee toffee to Michigan sour cherry. I can also attest to the stellar selection of cookies, bars and other treats to be enjoyed as well. My go-to grab and go faves are the kitchen sink and flourless peanut butter cookie with an iced tea when it’s hot out, or a freshly brewed hot tea to warm up in the winter months.

They have two other locations to visit for their tasty treats. (4664 N Manor and 5357 N Ashland.)