When demand for pastries at Soloway Coffee became overwhelming, owners Artur and Iryna Yuzvik didn't just add more ovens—they opened an entirely new all-day cafe next door. Abrah, their 26-seat bakery and bistro at 2269 N. Lincoln Avenue, has quickly become one of Lincoln Park's most beloved destinations.
The Ukrainian-born couple, who brought their coffee expertise to Chicago in the wake of the conflict in Ukraine, have created something special: a space where European cafe culture meets refined American hospitality.
"Think of Abrah's vegan toast as a sophisticated European cousin to ho-hum avocado toast," explains one diner. White bean hummus serves as the base for sauteed mushrooms and artichoke hearts on thick-sliced homemade malt bread, finished with pickled red onions for brightness.
But it's the Ukrainian touches that truly distinguish Abrah. The cherry varenyky—plump dumplings made with cherry juice-infused dough and filled with sour cherries—sit on a bed of vanilla cream. Close your eyes, and you'll swear you're eating the finest cherry pie.
The laminated pastries are dreamy works of art. The 'pear' dessert is a playful trompe l'oeil: a thin coating of yellow-tinged white chocolate encases pear sauce surrounded by whipped almond praline ganache. The honey buckwheat cake elevates simple ingredients to special occasion status with alternating layers of sour cream frosting and vanilla caramel.
Homemade breads—country sourdough, Guinness bread, and cranberry-studded malt bread—sell out fast on weekends. The savvy check the freezer case if they sleep in.
Beverage creativity extends beyond coffee. The kvass lemonade combines toasted bread, sugar, yeast, and grape vinegar with fresh lemon juice and sparkling water. The iced Night Bloom takes caffeinated drinks into uncharted territory with berry, citrus, and pomegranate juices splashed with coffee.
In summer, DJ-fueled parties on the sidewalk patio have made Abrah a neighborhood gathering place. Reservations are highly recommended.