Ingram’s Busy Bee Bakery
5126 Main St, Downers Grove, IL, 60515
Ingram’s Busy Bee Bakery Menu
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Address :
5126 Main St
Downers Grove, IL, 60515 - Phone (630) 968-8830
- Website https://www.busybeebakery.com
- Click To Get Directions
Opening Hours
- Tue
Specialities
- Delivery : No
Accepts Credit Cards : Yes
Parking : Street
Bike Parking : Yes
Wheelchair Accessible : Yes
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Bill M.
I've never been to this bakery in Downers Grove, but our bosses brought in a box of fresh paczkis on "Fat Tuesday/Paczki Day" last week. These donuts-on-steroids are yummy and rich. There seemed to be some "extras" in the box so I had an opportunity to try different flavors after the other co-workers were paczki-ed out. I liked the strawberry/cream cheese version the best, followed closely by blueberry/cream cheese. The strawberry was good as was the bavarian cream, though the chocolate custard was surprisingly disappointing.
(4)Johnny T.
I walked in right when they were about to close (lights were off), which I didn't realize at the time. I saw the young girl that I think Zach and j.m. were probably referring to and she did seem eager to get out of there. One of the older ladies took care of me and was very personable and professional. I was asking about the differences between the certain mini chocolate chip cookies out there and she gave me one of each to sample to help me decide which to get. I got a pound of mini chocolate chip cookies, which were $10.95 lb. and 2 full sized custard creme donuts for $2 each. The creme donuts were in fact pretty big and the filling inside tasted quite fresh. The mini chocolate chip cookies were ok, just were lacking flavor. Was gonna give a 3.5 rating but gets rounded up to 4 stars for accepting Credit Cards, which is something not too many bakeries accept.
(4)Gail L.
Every year for my birthday, I get the exact same birthday cake from here: Chocolate Cake Fudge Filling Chocolate Buttercream icing "Happy Birthday Gail" No pink flowers. I hate pink. No pink on my birthday cake! It is always the very best birthday cake I've ever had. I literally will eat the small cake myself over the next few days, grudgingly letting other folks share. I'm such a nice birthday girl. I also adore their pastries. They have this one pastry, which has a special name I can't remember, that is layers of flaky crust and a huge amount of white buttercream icing. I LOVE that pastry. I try to get it anytime I go, and I eat it, and then moan from the sugar overload. It's completely worth it. Just make sure to leave time in your schedule for laying down afterwards.
(5)Sara D.
I'm writing this review based soley on their wedding cakes. The cake itself was to die for. So delicious and we were given a bunch of cakes and fillings to chose from. Even the frozen cake on our 1 year anniversary was super yummy, although that might have been partially due to the wonderful wrapping job of the banquet hall. The only reason I can't give a full 5 stars is that they don't have a lot of options for cake design. They only offered one "modern" (ie. non-1990s) looking cake design. My sister and I had our weddings 6 months apart and had the same exact cake since they didn't offer any other options that were appropriate to current cake styles. Granted, this was in 2008, so this may have changed. If not, I hope they look into updating their cake design. ps. their Boston Cremes are ginormous! And yummy!
(4)Nicole A.
Cute bakery in downtown Downers Grove. Ordered birthday cake for my 2 year old, and it came with icing only on the top. When asked why the sides were left undone, they said "you didn't specify that you wanted the sides done too." Didn't think I needed to specify that I wanted the whole cake iced for a simple yellow birthday cake. Not good for presentation at the party. Are they serious?
(3)Patty S.
Who would have thought that donuts could taste THIS good? When you bite into a Busy Bee donut, it's like eating a delicate pastry. A treat from here and a cup of tea is the perfect Saturday morning.
(5)Zach T.
Great Cookies and Cakes! Go there and patronize this place! Little places like this are dying out and it's a shame. You'll think so too once you're charmed by Ingram's. Bonus, they gave a free cookie to my daughter. They know what will bring me back in.
(4)Stef F.
Support small local bakeries because they are quickly disappearing! I was soooo excited to see a bakery after moving to this area, because they are so nonexistent anymore. And this one is super cute to boot. Old style and tiny. Happy yellow sign. It called to me with a sugary sing-song voice. When I was there, they were busy. Service kinda sucked. There was no order in the place. BUT... Anyone remember those brightly sprinkled small sugar cookies you could get at the bakery? Well, they have 'em! And I bought a dozen and promptly ate them all. Like a piggy. This place reminds me of the bakeries my grandma used to take me to when I was little. And she'd buy me a carton of chocolate milk and those damn delicious sugar cookies with rainbow happy sprinkles on top. That's all I tried there. But I left satisfied. At least check it out...
(4)Katrina B.
Was not disappointed this past weekend. Ordered an Atomic Cake from here and picked up some more of my absolute favorite cookie in the world (their butter cookies). I recently saw a documentary on 'last meals' of people who were on death row. I'm serious when I say Busy Bee's butter cookies would be on mine. I'm not planning on that last meal anytime soon, so I'll keep eating them on a regular basis until then.
(5)Maura S.
Great Doughnuts, eh...pretty good service..Wonderful cakes!!
(4)Juli k.
Did you know that if you ask for "lot's of roses" on your cake, they will use those hard, pre-made sugar things? Totally gross. And when you find that out, and press for the buttercream kind? They charge you more. Come on...even Cosco and Sam's Club bakers can make buttercream flowers...I don't get it. The cake is good, no doubt and I guess that's all that matters, but when I custom order a special cake I don't like surprises. They do not even mention this little fact, even as we discussed adding flowers to the top of the cake...Well now you know...so be careful!
(4)Amanda K.
They have the best bakery cookies in the area! They are so good and buttery. It is hard to stop eating them once you start. They are kind of expensive but totally worth it, a very special treat!
(5)Angela P.
So finally tried their cake at my baby shower which was both cute to look at and DELICIOUS to eat! It was half yellow and half chocolate and was super moist and delicious...the only thing they could do different is to not put such a thick layer of frosting in the middle...but besides that, it was yummi!! And, of course, had another doughnut the other day...AMAZING!! =]
(5)Michelle Marie R.
When I lived in Chicago there were no better Kolackys than Weber Bakery...I was certain of this. I have found powdered sugar raspberry filled bliss. Not to mention the Atomic Cake. Chocolate cake layered with banana and strawberry AND creme filling with another layer of white cake...heaven! Get it by the slice! I can't write this review without mentioning the staff, they are fantastic and super friendly. Make this a stop on your list!
(4)Jen F.
I just love this place. Best donuts EVER. It gets crowded around bakery-centric holidays. They always have really tasty seasonal flavors too - great pumpkin donuts in the fall for example. Pre-order your paczkis for Mardi Gras because it is insane otherwise! So worth the wait though.
(5)Michele H.
The doughnuts are so worth the visit! Love this bakery soooo good.
(5)Courtney W.
I have personally never been inside of this bakery...However, my manager picked up some donuts from here and brought them to work. I seriously DIED of Deliciousness!!! These must be the best donuts I have EVER HAD IN MY LIFE! I will be there soon to see what other yummies they have!
(5)Steven M.
I got a dozen of the pasteries. OMG! The carmel nut and the pecan had me going insaine driving to the office. I told her not to put tape on the box so I could scrounge around. All the girls at the office were raving about them. They have a large cookie selection also. Very fast and friendly service.
(5)Terri G.
My daughter wanted a fun "girlie" birthday cake. I ordered over the phone so I didn't know what I would get. The cake was great not exactly what I wanted but my daughter was thrilled. It was moist and delicious. I called on a Wednesday and they were able to have it ready by Saturday Morning. When I went to pick up the cake I ended up buying cookies and blueberry loaf. Great place and very nice people.
(4)Chris M.
Two words for you: Atomic Cake! Whipped cream covered, three layer cake and each layer is a different flavor (Chocolate, vanilla, banana) with three distinct fillings as well (strawberries, fudge, custard). Sounds like overkill, but it works perfectly and it's NOT too sweet. Amazing stuff. Super pastries, too.
(4)Sarah C.
You walk in and the wonderful aroma makes your mouth water right away. Everything I have scarfed down from Busy Bee was as good or better than it smelled. The doughnuts and cookies seemed to almost float, that was until they hit my hips. Oh well. We have ordered a few special occaision cakes and our guests just raved. One thing, though, I would order some filling other than the buttercream because it is just a little too much to go along with the icing. The only reason for the 4 stars instead of 5 is that, as several other reviews mentioned, the service is hit or miss. One of the teen girls was disinterested and borderline rude while an older woman went out of her way to be helpful. It certainly wouldn't stop me from going back again, but I might hang around back and wait for a nice one if I was going to order anything.
(4)Angelique S.
Their atomic cake is fantastic and a great alternative to a standard, boring birthday cake. I got a large one for my son's first birthday and it was a hit! The filling is fresh and delicious. Sometimes you have to deal with cranky customer service to get to it. Two times I've called to order something, I feel like I'm talking to a bitter aunt who only gets phone calls on their birthday and is ready to scold me for something. However, when I went in to pick up a cake, there was a younger girl there working behind the counter who was really friendly.
(3)J M.
I have to agree with Brian. I also wish I had something more positive to say. This bakery IS low on customer service. The teenage girls working there don't care about customers. They couldn't wait to get out of there at 3pm. I have had MUCH BETTER bakery. I say keep looking for another bakery.
(2)Rachel S.
All I have to say is CHOCOLATE DONUT. It is by far the best donut I have ever had. The sugar cookies, cakes, rye bread, eclairs, everything...are also all so good. This place is amazing.
(5)Cheryl P.
Old School bakery! Can't go wrong!
(5)M T.
Okay so I don't even really like doughnuts.....or so I thought. Maybe I just "thought" all doughnuts tasted like Dunkin Donuts.. (dry, stale, and leaves a film of lard in your mouth)......OMG....this place is AMAZING! Where have you been all my life?! Dinkels and Bittersweet in the city have NOTHING on you! My new addiction!
(5)Enna S.
Pretty good bakery.
(5)Amruta G.
A childhood favorite that I frequented with my dad in downtown DG. Busy Bee has sprinkled sugar cookies, cakes, pastries, complimentary coffee and wonderful Kolaches! A powered round large "thumprint" white cookie filled with a pulp of either raspberry, mulberry and apricot. Tasty!
(3)Melissa L.
We had a one year birthday party and being from Chicago are accustomed to some local bakery cakes, not the big box store cakes. I decided to go for a layered cake, chocolate cake layer, yellow cake layer, strawberry filling and whipped cream frosting. Also got a white cake smash cake. Darn it... just going through describing the basics I want some more cake now! It was THAT good. Whipped cream frosting was delicious. Cake layers perfect. Smash cake totally worth it- they offer you to have frosted sides for extra or just the ones with sugar sprinkles- I didn't pay the extra and it was still super cute. Smash cake was light and really easy for the baby to eat- plus it was taller than I expected and really fun in pictures. We are planning the next cake to try a custard filling. Our whole family raved about the cake and wanted to know where it was from because it outshone some recent cakes we have had from other bakeries. The staff was really helpful too- I was parked nearby and they helped get the cakes out to the car since the smash cake is pretty delicate.
(5)Melissa O.
SO SO yummy! We have never been disappointed here. Smells wonderful, staff is always so nice too. This is a great place for cakes and donuts. Very good.
(5)Brandy W.
Wow, y'all. I cannot be more excited about finding a new bakeshop so locally! I cannot wait to try more of their goodies.... I've only tried the cupcakes so far. And what a cute little joint! How have I never noticed this place before? I mean, what the heck! I recommend the deliciousness that is Ingram's. Fab.
(5)Yvonne O.
Busy Bee is the kind of bakery that we all wish we grew up with. My husband was from a nearby town, so he had the fortune of knowing about this place. I make sure to stop in whenever I am in the area to get some of their yummy treats - the donut holes are so light and the cookies are some of my favorites as well!
(5)Kris H.
Okay, I'm beginning to think I need help. This is second Saturday in a row that we've ventured out on snowy, almost unplowed roads early in the morning to get a dozen delectable, heavenly donuts from Busy Bee. Last week we got four chocolate dipped donuts in our dozen and they were immediately gone. This week we upped the ante and got six chocolate dipped. I just checked the box and how many donuts do we have? Two and one half. With four people in my family and I had HALF a donut. My husband copped to consuming two and each of my children claimed two each. Someone or more than one person in my house is being less than truthful. Maybe it's not me that needs the help. Three AWOL donuts. This is what Busy Bee reduces people to, overconsumption of donuts and a decrease in overall honesty.
(5)Teresa M.
Baked goods were average. Customer service could be better. I was looking for a bakery to make a birthday cake and found Ingram's (very close to my work). They were limited on cake designs and the cakes looked outdated. I ended up going to another bakery and found exactly what I was looking for.
(2)Craig L.
This is a bakery that is woven into my life story. They did my wedding cake and the price and quality of what I received was simply amazing. I'm talking about literally $750 in savings for a cake that actually tasted as good as it looked. We've used BB for my daughter's 1st & 3rd bday, and we couldn't be happier on price, taste, and customer service. Today was my daughters 3rd bday and she lit up like a Christmas Tree at her Frozen themed cake. A bakery I recommend on so many levels.
(5)Lissa E.
Best doughnuts and coffee cake ever!!! One of the things I like best about busy bee are the cake doughnuts. They are so fresh and moist every single time. My favorite is the peanut doughnut which they only usually have a few of on the weekends so get there early! Just in case you miss out on the whole doughnut they have amazing cake doughnut holes, too. Cake doughnuts not for you? They have the airy doughnuts too, which I will add my husband enjoys just as much:) The almond coffee cake is another great choice. I pick it up on my way to work sometimes and it is a crowd pleaser with my coworkers. If you are ever looking for a breakfast sweet this is the place to buzz into!
(5)Jacqueline B.
Yelp led me to Ingram's back in February on national paczki day and I'm so glad it did! I was a newbie to trying this delicious Polish donut and I couldn't have chosen a better spot to indulge. Of course on this special day they had about 25 different flavors of paczkis to choose from. I stopped in later in the afternoon, so they were out of a handful of options. I'm a sucker for anything chocolate related though, so I immediately chose the chocolate fudge paczki. The women working behind the counter were super friendly. The bakery is simple, cute, and clean. I think the packzi cost be like $2 and change and boy was it worth it (and pretty big). I was of course taking my treat to go so I could devour this little beauty shamelessly in private. They wrapped it up like a little present in an adorable Ingram's Busy Bee box. If I were able to control myself from indulging in this dessert, I could have re-gifted it right then and there! But I didn't. I kept it for myself and enjoyed every bite. The paczki was perfectly baked and sprinkled with powdered sugar. The inside...ohhh the inside. It was filled with a glorious amount of chocolate fudge that was so sweet I almost couldn't handle it (in a good way). It was hard to restrain myself from finishing the thing, but I did. Mostly because I wanted my husband to try it and experience such delicious-ness (also because I can only imagine the amount of calories and sugar it has!). From what I could tell they sell all sorts of cakes, pastries, cookies, and breads. They even do wedding and other special event cakes! I believe they also have daily specials, so be sure to check that out!
(4)Katie T.
Sweets treats and a trip in a time machine- bonus! It really does feel like stepping into a museum, the cakes on the wall may be dated but the tasty treats are spot on. Grab a number and then use the wait to debate which of the treats behind the glass will be yours. Highlights include long johns, chocolate chip coffee cake, brownies, cupcakes (go for the fudgy chocolate), and butter cookies. Little touches like giving the occasional free cookie to the eager toddler or free samples adds to the homey grandma feel of the place. Be sure to preorder around the holidays, it gets crazy in there!
(4)Kara Z.
After moving out of state a year ago, Busy Bee Bakery wins for very best cookies (the sprinkle ones!) and best cake (chocolate cake with chocolate buttercream filling and white butter cream frosting with sprinkles and sweet pea flowers on top!) and best Bavarian cream filled donuts with chocolate frosting!
(5)Valerie W.
Ingram's Busy Bee certainly did not disappoint when it comes to one of the busiest pastry days of the year, Paczki day! I will admit, I procrastinated and did not place an order ahead of time. Also, I didn't know that this bakery existed before last week. Boy, do I know for next year. I called Busy Bee at about 10:30 on Paczki day (i.e. Fat Tuesday) to ask if they still had paczki left. They said they had plenty, and to come on by. Since it's only about 5 minutes from my office, I hopped in the car on my lunch break and zoomed over. What I did not expect (but should've known better) was the LINE OUT THE DOOR with people waiting for paczki. Procrastinators like me. Luckily, the ladies at Busy Bee kept the line moving quickly and efficiently. Since I was waiting, I figured I had to get more than just enough for me and the mister, so I decided on a whole dozen of assorted deliciousness to bring back to the office to share. I purchased: Bavarian cream with powdered sugar, chocolate custard, strawberry, apricot, prune, and cheese. I brought them back to the office and immediately offered to my co-workers. Every single one said it was the best paczki they had ever eaten. Even the prune got rave reviews. The cheese got the best - our receptionist said she has been eating paczki for 50 years, and this was the best one she'd ever had, the consistency of the cheese filling was more like whipped cream. I will certainly be placing an order ahead of time at Ingram's Busy Bee next year for my paczki fix, and you should too!
(5)Brittany B.
This place always has the best coffee cakes and donuts! Everything is made from scratch, and is delicious! It is a little expensive, but definitely worth every penny!
(4)Amy D.
Being a Downers Grove resident, I've popped into Busy Bee several times. I guess it's only appropriate that I should write a review by now, especially since I can fully blame them for the extra inch or two around my waist! :-) Busy Bee is hands-down one of the best bakeries in Chicagoland (and as you can see from my other reviews, I've tried my fair share). This is truly an old-fashioned bakery using old recipes, so you don't get the artificial or preservative-filled tastes like you do in the newer bakeries. Their yeast donuts are where they shine - I love their glazed apple cinnamon donut, and they have the best Bismarck I've ever had in my life. Their chocolate cake donuts are phenomenal, and I would request one of their eclair's as a last meal. As the other reviews mention, Punski Day is done right here. I usually get a dozen for my office up north, and they all state the same thing - the BEST they've ever had. The fresh strawberry and chocolate buttercream favors are my favorite. Just make sure you place your order and pay well in advance - it's a madhouse, with lines reaching around the block. They also have awesome speciality tea cookies, though be warned, they are outrageously expensive. They charge by the pound, and six silver-dollar sized tea cookies ran me about $7. Worth it for a splurge, but definitely wouldn't buy them regularly. My only complaint is that they don't do a traditional apple fritter, or glazed crossiant. Everything is spectacular, but I think any established bakery should carry apple fritters - a true bakery staple.
(4)Alexis L.
Amazing bakery! You'll have to try the cake donuts, but you better get there early because they sell out quickly!
(5)Jake S.
Ah, Ingram's. I could tell you about the cheese pastry, or the soft cinnamon bun, or the deliciously fudge brownie or the...oh, let's cut to the chase. The Atomic Cake. No, let me rewrite that...*THE* Atomic Cake. That's almost all you need to know. I didn't think that something that had disparate layers like that would work out so well, but it did. On a day in which I hit five other bakeries, this one stood out magnificently. All of the items we sampled were excellent, and an instant vow to return here was made...
(5)Loca C.
I purchased a coffee cake (luckily on sale) then got 6 tiny over priced cookies. If you start with the sale item you better be ready for the guilt trip of "what else " and why do I need to request my receipt to then be subjected to attitude. Secondly I'm like the first customer to walk in for the day and I get handed my coffee cake inside of a waxy bag by itself which is fine minus all the wet sugary icing on it which got everywhere. My poor new car got white icing all inside (seat, steering wheel, keys). I should have turned around after I crossed the street to my car.... A plastic bag or something would have helped if that was even offered / available. Problems with bakeries is they think people arr incapable of easily making a good dessert or breakfast bread easily and for at least half the cost. I certainly think I make a just as good loaf with probably better for you ingredients busy bee..... take that to the bank. !
(1)Nicole G.
best... donuts... evahhhh!!!! seriously, if you're on a diet you need to take a break , visit ingrams busy bees and immerse yourself in the deliciousness of your chosen confectionary delight. do it my friend and i assure you that your guilt will be absorbed and destroyed utterly by the heavenly doughy encounter you will enjoy the minute you bite into any of their luscious creations. if not for yourself, buy a few long johns, maybe a boston cream and a few donut holes for your loved ones and watch as their love for you grows and grows into infinity as they devour the best donuts known to plant earth.
(5)Catie P.
Yummmm! I was craving donughts and thought I'd try this place out. I'm so glad I did! I waited the whole car ride home without opening the box, luckily they taped it. I got the coconut, plain glazed, chocolate and vanilla long johns and a chocolate donought hole. All were excellent!! They were so fresh, light and just delicious - not over baring with icing. I would highly recommend visiting this bakery! Oh yes, got a sugar cookie too, yum!
(5)Christine M.
Unfortunately, I can not review the baked goods, just the service. I spoke with two people on two separate occasions requesting the ingredients that are used for their cakes. Not a specific list with amounts, just the basics so that I know if our family can order birthday cakes here. After just moving to the area and reading the good reviews, I was psyched to be so close to what could be a great bakery. They did not know what was in their cakes (really? not a clue?!) and said I would get a call but never did. I even called back to ask again so I could order a cake if it was a go but was told that they just didn't know and the night bakers are the only employees who do know and they don't know what to tell me. Really?! I only wanted to see if they use 'real' ingredients (i.e. no preservatives, chemicals, high fructose corn syrup, etc.). I guess they don't disclose this for a reason? I'm not sure. What a shame. I could have been a regular!
(2)Rhoda G.
I decided to go to Ingram's before work to get some paczki the night before, so I left around 5:30 am to head out to Downers Grove to beat the traffic. Thank God! When I got to Ingram's at 6:30 am, the line was long. Luckily, it went by pretty fast. I waited at most 20 minutes. All the paczkis I ate were great and the filling was delicious. They offered so many flavors even prune. So hard to choose! Next time I'm calling my order in, so I don't have to wait in line. Looking forward to next year!
(4)Aimee M.
If someone is inviting you over for a home-cooked lunch, you cannot arrive empty-handed. And if you're like me, a total procrastinator, you sometimes have to leave the dessert-making to the professionals. And if it's super fab Ericka A doing the inviting, you want to bring a great dessert. If you have cravings for all different kinds of dessert, perhaps Busy Bee's Atomic Cake just might be for you! A layer of chocolate cake, a layer of yellow cake and a layer of banana cake. But I guess it wouldn't be ATOMIC without the fresh strawberries, fresh bananas and whipped cream. Oh my heavens, sounds super decadent but I found it light and not over-filling after my one slice. I also chose an assortment of butter cookies--and BUTTER is an understatement. These cookies are rich and buttery--Julia Child would be blown away with it's buttery richness. Service was ok. The gal that helped me barely cracked a smile and seemed a little bothered when I asked for prices of items before I ordered. I was kind of miffed. But the other two ladies behind the counter were all smiles laughter for their customers. The lack of sunny disposition on my server won't deter me from coming back for the delicious treats. But hopefully when I come back for Paczki day, I'll get one of the sunnier servers.
(4)N D.
I really want to like this place. How can you not love a bakery right? Bakery goods are average. The cheese pastry I bought was really sweet and we ended up not even eating most of it. The staff are rude. When I was in last weekend, the there were 4 people behind the counter with one person waiting on someone. I stood there waiting for someone to acknowledge me. After standing there for a good 10 minutes I left. I'll go elsewhere from now on.
(2)Samantha C.
Awesome local business!! Things you MUST get when you go here: donuts, brownies, and atomic cake. Absolute best ever. Seriously, they will have the best brownie you've ever tasted IN LIFE. Once you have tried their atomic cake, you will never appreciate a normal boring old birthday cake ever again.
(5)LOIS B.
OMG ~ I have died and gone to Paczki heaven. If you do not know what a Paczki is then you have been spending your Fat Tuesdays in the wrong place. If you live anywhere in the area, work with someone who takes the train, or just know the best Paczki come from this bakery, next year place your order and spend the day covered in powdered sugar, beats the ashes you'll be wearing the next day. I do recommend that you preorder because within an hour of opening, they had already sold out of one of the 25 varieties they offer. Paczki on Paczki Day are becoming what chocolate is to Valentine's Day and what pumpkin pie is to Thanksgiving. Get the picture? There is a line, but really, it moves quickly and I was out in less than 10 minutes with my boxes of goodies. Word of warning ~ place boxes in trunk of car or somewhere else out of reach or someone might just be missing their preordered favorite (wiping powdered sugar from face and brushing off clothes).
(5)Howard L.
Good, fresh pastries and baked goods here. Wife wanted something so we swung by here about mid-day and picked up some cupcakes for $0.98 each and a few other pastries (one was a lemon hot cross bun) for about a $1 each. All were 4-star fresh, and business was brisk. Prices aren't shown anywhere - a slight annoyance. The place is right in the middle of Downer's Grove nice little downtown. I enjoyed the little drive going north-bound on Main Street. From 63rd , it's all residential, then a little but vibrant downtown around 53rd, then at 50th or so, residential again, like a mini Washington St/Naperville thang...
(4)Valerie R.
They have the most amazing cookies they just melt in your mouth. I have never had anyone be anything but pleasant and helpful and have been going there for years since I was a kid with my parents! Cakes and donuts I have gotten there are excellent but the cookies will always be my favorite.
(5)John C.
This is a donut shop, NOT a bakery! Wife and I were extremely disappointed to travel to our local "bakery" in search of some nice baked goods -- scones, muffins, cupcakes, bread. Uhhhh, no. You'll get donuts, and like it. The donuts are decent, but not good. Reminds me of cheap donuts from decades ago; I'd honestly much rather have donuts from the big chains.
(1)P S.
I appreciate good donuts. Always have. I was so bummed after Krispy Kreme came to Chicago and ruined the donut market and gave greedy competitors at Dunkin Donuts the idea of raising their prices and reducing the donut size. Have you seen the tiny mini dounts at Dominick's? Donuts here at Ingram's are good size and made like they should be. Service is very nice. Get their early as they are popular and I can see them selling out before the end of the day. Definitely worth the trip and highly recommended. The only very small gripes is that it would be nice to list name of pastries/breads and their prices -- maybe a price wallboard Going back soon!
(5)Kelly M.
A great local business with a variety of delicious baked goods. I have tried a variety of their items and have enjoyed every one of them. Everything I have purchased is very reasonably priced. I have also received friendly service when I go!
(5)Rachel A.
I can't believe I've not written a review yet. Their donuts are by far the best donuts I have EVER had ANYWHERE. Often I will make up errands that I "need" to run downtown DG just to have an excuse to pop in for a donut. I recommend the donut holes (I think they are all "cake" style), the sugar twists, and the bavarian creams. Frosted brownies are also very good as is the coffee cake. I am not a huge fan of the chocolate chip cookies but hey - the other goodies make up for it. Cupcakes are fine, but nothing special. Definitely go for the donuts and brownies! Oh and I just placed an order for a dozen paczkis for next Tuesday -- I'm sure they are going to be amazing!
(4)Tommy M.
Recently ordered some Paczkis for Paczki day, wowsers! Some of the best. Also, for a high-demand product on a high-demand day, this place was running like a Swiss watch. I went in around 7:30am to pick up my order (I pre-ordered, DEFINITELY recommended for paczki day), so they had a separate line for pre-order pick ups. While the other line was out the door (they didn't pre-order), I was in and out in about 2 minutes, and that included paying for my order. If you live around here, make the trip for their paczkis next year!!
(5)Dusty K.
You know a place does great business when you walk in at 6:15 in the morning there's already a little line. Downtown Downers Grove was empty but Ingram's was busy as a bee. See what I did there with my word play? What a horrible writer I am.... Ingram's made me feel like I never tasted a donut before. And for good reason I may never have another one again if not from here. The long johns and regular donuts are so light and fluffy. They really do melt in your mouth. I ended up with an assortment of 12 donuts and a coffee cake. I wish I could have tasted them all but a guy can only eat so much butter and sugar. I laid out the 'leftovers' next to the Dunkin Donut box someone else put out at work. Guess which one all the coworkers ate first? Service was very friendly and the donuts and coffee cake were insane. It's no wonder this place has outlasted just about every other business in downtown Downers Grove. I will be back to try their Kolacky's and Paczki's and to get my donut fix.
(5)Dan R.
A traditional bakery like the kind I visited as a child. Well-staffed ont the weekends with friendly. helpful people. There is nothing they offer that is not to like. This place is a real gem.
(4)Kate Q.
Busy Bee had been a family staple for many, many years. (Even though the smiley faced cookies have been getting a bit thin in the last year or two) I'm getting married in August and went there to inquire about wedding cakes presuming it would be delicious. They only offered yellow, chocolate, and banana for the cake fillings which i thought was a bit skimpy as I know they can do cakes in more flavors than that. And banana??? Anyway... The cake book that they have for you to look at is quite dated, by 10-30 years or so but I guess that's not a huge deal. Prices were decent and comparable to other places but if you were looking for a very ornate cake or fondant and the like, they don't offer that here. I had inquired about having the cake layers on pillars so i could put fresh flowers on the top of each. They wanted almost $25 for each plastic layer, and I believe that was rental only!!!! You can get that for much, much cheaper at Michaels!!! The winner of the day was..... Since my wedding is on a friday, I would have to come in the morning of my wedding and pick up the cake my self and set it up my self. They don't deliver wedding cakes on Fridays!! REALLY??? I have never, ever heard of a bakery or florist that didn't deliver just because it was a friday!!! REALLY? Every other vendor of mine just laughed heartily at that one. Needless to say I did NOT choose Busy Bee for my wedding cake and probably won't be going there much anymore.
(2)Kevin K.
I think the Busy Bee is staffed by cute little blonde 95 lb. bulimic girls in their late teens to early 20's. They have to be bulimic because there is no natural way someone could work around this deliciousness and not look like me, a 300 lb. fat man. This unassuming bakery is packed full of carbohydradic sticky sweet greatness. My favorites are the glazed cinnamon buns. I have almost died choking on these repeatedly like Homer Simpson does on donuts. Give this place a try and you will not be sorry!
(5)Sarah R.
This is my favorite bakery, so I don't let myself come here as much as I would like. Paczki Day is great time to try it if you never have, just remember to place your order ahead of time or the line will be out the door! But everything they have is awesome! And my co-workers love when I stop at Busy Bee before work.....
(5)Susan D.
I will never buy their cookies again because they are SO DELICIOUS and I cannot resist them. I bought some for my children and have now hidden them from the kids. They are so rich and buttery. Wow. Lived in Downers for 40+ years and Busy Bee is old school goodness. My favorite buttercream frosting ever. You cannot go wrong.
(5)Erin D.
Picked up donuts for my Dad, the self proclaimed "Donut Aficionado" and he LOVES them. My Dad will drive an hour away for good donuts and now this is his favorite place and only 20 min away. For me, I only wish they had more novelty donuts like Maple Bacon or Peanut Butter Filled. But this place his so fresh and packed everytime I go in. These ladies know what they're doing.
(4)Aria S.
I have been going here since I was a little girl. I love this bakery, they have a great variety of cookies and pastries that are always made fresh. I know they make personalized cakes etc... for parties as well although I had not had the opportunity to try this yet. I will continue to support this business whenever I am back in Downers Grove.
(5)Katie D.
Coming from a person who doesn't really eat sweets, I must say the Atomic cake was one of, if not, the best cake I've ever had. I called early on Saturday morning and ordered a cake for a friend's going away party. The person I spoke with was super helpful and had the cake ready for us by noon the same day. It was DELICIOUS! Thank you so much & we'll definitely be coming back for our next event.
(5)Rhoda G.
I decided to go to Ingram's before work to get some paczki the night before, so I left around 5:30 am to head out to Downers Grove to beat the traffic. Thank God! When I got to Ingram's at 6:30 am, the line was long. Luckily, it went by pretty fast. I waited at most 20 minutes. All the paczkis I ate were great and the filling was delicious. They offered so many flavors even prune. So hard to choose! Next time I'm calling my order in, so I don't have to wait in line. Looking forward to next year!
(4)Howard L.
Good, fresh pastries and baked goods here. Wife wanted something so we swung by here about mid-day and picked up some cupcakes for $0.98 each and a few other pastries (one was a lemon hot cross bun) for about a $1 each. All were 4-star fresh, and business was brisk. Prices aren't shown anywhere - a slight annoyance. The place is right in the middle of Downer's Grove nice little downtown. I enjoyed the little drive going north-bound on Main Street. From 63rd , it's all residential, then a little but vibrant downtown around 53rd, then at 50th or so, residential again, like a mini Washington St/Naperville thang...
(4)Aimee M.
If someone is inviting you over for a home-cooked lunch, you cannot arrive empty-handed. And if you're like me, a total procrastinator, you sometimes have to leave the dessert-making to the professionals. And if it's super fab Ericka A doing the inviting, you want to bring a great dessert. If you have cravings for all different kinds of dessert, perhaps Busy Bee's Atomic Cake just might be for you! A layer of chocolate cake, a layer of yellow cake and a layer of banana cake. But I guess it wouldn't be ATOMIC without the fresh strawberries, fresh bananas and whipped cream. Oh my heavens, sounds super decadent but I found it light and not over-filling after my one slice. I also chose an assortment of butter cookies--and BUTTER is an understatement. These cookies are rich and buttery--Julia Child would be blown away with it's buttery richness. Service was ok. The gal that helped me barely cracked a smile and seemed a little bothered when I asked for prices of items before I ordered. I was kind of miffed. But the other two ladies behind the counter were all smiles laughter for their customers. The lack of sunny disposition on my server won't deter me from coming back for the delicious treats. But hopefully when I come back for Paczki day, I'll get one of the sunnier servers.
(4)N D.
I really want to like this place. How can you not love a bakery right? Bakery goods are average. The cheese pastry I bought was really sweet and we ended up not even eating most of it. The staff are rude. When I was in last weekend, the there were 4 people behind the counter with one person waiting on someone. I stood there waiting for someone to acknowledge me. After standing there for a good 10 minutes I left. I'll go elsewhere from now on.
(2)Samantha C.
Awesome local business!! Things you MUST get when you go here: donuts, brownies, and atomic cake. Absolute best ever. Seriously, they will have the best brownie you've ever tasted IN LIFE. Once you have tried their atomic cake, you will never appreciate a normal boring old birthday cake ever again.
(5)Jen F.
I just love this place. Best donuts EVER. It gets crowded around bakery-centric holidays. They always have really tasty seasonal flavors too - great pumpkin donuts in the fall for example. Pre-order your paczkis for Mardi Gras because it is insane otherwise! So worth the wait though.
(5)Michele H.
The doughnuts are so worth the visit! Love this bakery soooo good.
(5)Terri G.
My daughter wanted a fun "girlie" birthday cake. I ordered over the phone so I didn't know what I would get. The cake was great not exactly what I wanted but my daughter was thrilled. It was moist and delicious. I called on a Wednesday and they were able to have it ready by Saturday Morning. When I went to pick up the cake I ended up buying cookies and blueberry loaf. Great place and very nice people.
(4)Chris M.
Two words for you: Atomic Cake! Whipped cream covered, three layer cake and each layer is a different flavor (Chocolate, vanilla, banana) with three distinct fillings as well (strawberries, fudge, custard). Sounds like overkill, but it works perfectly and it's NOT too sweet. Amazing stuff. Super pastries, too.
(4)Courtney W.
I have personally never been inside of this bakery...However, my manager picked up some donuts from here and brought them to work. I seriously DIED of Deliciousness!!! These must be the best donuts I have EVER HAD IN MY LIFE! I will be there soon to see what other yummies they have!
(5)Steven M.
I got a dozen of the pasteries. OMG! The carmel nut and the pecan had me going insaine driving to the office. I told her not to put tape on the box so I could scrounge around. All the girls at the office were raving about them. They have a large cookie selection also. Very fast and friendly service.
(5)Stef F.
Support small local bakeries because they are quickly disappearing! I was soooo excited to see a bakery after moving to this area, because they are so nonexistent anymore. And this one is super cute to boot. Old style and tiny. Happy yellow sign. It called to me with a sugary sing-song voice. When I was there, they were busy. Service kinda sucked. There was no order in the place. BUT... Anyone remember those brightly sprinkled small sugar cookies you could get at the bakery? Well, they have 'em! And I bought a dozen and promptly ate them all. Like a piggy. This place reminds me of the bakeries my grandma used to take me to when I was little. And she'd buy me a carton of chocolate milk and those damn delicious sugar cookies with rainbow happy sprinkles on top. That's all I tried there. But I left satisfied. At least check it out...
(4)Katrina B.
Was not disappointed this past weekend. Ordered an Atomic Cake from here and picked up some more of my absolute favorite cookie in the world (their butter cookies). I recently saw a documentary on 'last meals' of people who were on death row. I'm serious when I say Busy Bee's butter cookies would be on mine. I'm not planning on that last meal anytime soon, so I'll keep eating them on a regular basis until then.
(5)Maura S.
Great Doughnuts, eh...pretty good service..Wonderful cakes!!
(4)Juli k.
Did you know that if you ask for "lot's of roses" on your cake, they will use those hard, pre-made sugar things? Totally gross. And when you find that out, and press for the buttercream kind? They charge you more. Come on...even Cosco and Sam's Club bakers can make buttercream flowers...I don't get it. The cake is good, no doubt and I guess that's all that matters, but when I custom order a special cake I don't like surprises. They do not even mention this little fact, even as we discussed adding flowers to the top of the cake...Well now you know...so be careful!
(4)Amanda K.
They have the best bakery cookies in the area! They are so good and buttery. It is hard to stop eating them once you start. They are kind of expensive but totally worth it, a very special treat!
(5)Angela P.
So finally tried their cake at my baby shower which was both cute to look at and DELICIOUS to eat! It was half yellow and half chocolate and was super moist and delicious...the only thing they could do different is to not put such a thick layer of frosting in the middle...but besides that, it was yummi!! And, of course, had another doughnut the other day...AMAZING!! =]
(5)Michelle Marie R.
When I lived in Chicago there were no better Kolackys than Weber Bakery...I was certain of this. I have found powdered sugar raspberry filled bliss. Not to mention the Atomic Cake. Chocolate cake layered with banana and strawberry AND creme filling with another layer of white cake...heaven! Get it by the slice! I can't write this review without mentioning the staff, they are fantastic and super friendly. Make this a stop on your list!
(4)Sarah C.
You walk in and the wonderful aroma makes your mouth water right away. Everything I have scarfed down from Busy Bee was as good or better than it smelled. The doughnuts and cookies seemed to almost float, that was until they hit my hips. Oh well. We have ordered a few special occaision cakes and our guests just raved. One thing, though, I would order some filling other than the buttercream because it is just a little too much to go along with the icing. The only reason for the 4 stars instead of 5 is that, as several other reviews mentioned, the service is hit or miss. One of the teen girls was disinterested and borderline rude while an older woman went out of her way to be helpful. It certainly wouldn't stop me from going back again, but I might hang around back and wait for a nice one if I was going to order anything.
(4)Angelique S.
Their atomic cake is fantastic and a great alternative to a standard, boring birthday cake. I got a large one for my son's first birthday and it was a hit! The filling is fresh and delicious. Sometimes you have to deal with cranky customer service to get to it. Two times I've called to order something, I feel like I'm talking to a bitter aunt who only gets phone calls on their birthday and is ready to scold me for something. However, when I went in to pick up a cake, there was a younger girl there working behind the counter who was really friendly.
(3)J M.
I have to agree with Brian. I also wish I had something more positive to say. This bakery IS low on customer service. The teenage girls working there don't care about customers. They couldn't wait to get out of there at 3pm. I have had MUCH BETTER bakery. I say keep looking for another bakery.
(2)Rachel S.
All I have to say is CHOCOLATE DONUT. It is by far the best donut I have ever had. The sugar cookies, cakes, rye bread, eclairs, everything...are also all so good. This place is amazing.
(5)Cheryl P.
Old School bakery! Can't go wrong!
(5)M T.
Okay so I don't even really like doughnuts.....or so I thought. Maybe I just "thought" all doughnuts tasted like Dunkin Donuts.. (dry, stale, and leaves a film of lard in your mouth)......OMG....this place is AMAZING! Where have you been all my life?! Dinkels and Bittersweet in the city have NOTHING on you! My new addiction!
(5)Enna S.
Pretty good bakery.
(5)Amruta G.
A childhood favorite that I frequented with my dad in downtown DG. Busy Bee has sprinkled sugar cookies, cakes, pastries, complimentary coffee and wonderful Kolaches! A powered round large "thumprint" white cookie filled with a pulp of either raspberry, mulberry and apricot. Tasty!
(3)Erin D.
Picked up donuts for my Dad, the self proclaimed "Donut Aficionado" and he LOVES them. My Dad will drive an hour away for good donuts and now this is his favorite place and only 20 min away. For me, I only wish they had more novelty donuts like Maple Bacon or Peanut Butter Filled. But this place his so fresh and packed everytime I go in. These ladies know what they're doing.
(4)Aria S.
I have been going here since I was a little girl. I love this bakery, they have a great variety of cookies and pastries that are always made fresh. I know they make personalized cakes etc... for parties as well although I had not had the opportunity to try this yet. I will continue to support this business whenever I am back in Downers Grove.
(5)Lissa E.
Best doughnuts and coffee cake ever!!! One of the things I like best about busy bee are the cake doughnuts. They are so fresh and moist every single time. My favorite is the peanut doughnut which they only usually have a few of on the weekends so get there early! Just in case you miss out on the whole doughnut they have amazing cake doughnut holes, too. Cake doughnuts not for you? They have the airy doughnuts too, which I will add my husband enjoys just as much:) The almond coffee cake is another great choice. I pick it up on my way to work sometimes and it is a crowd pleaser with my coworkers. If you are ever looking for a breakfast sweet this is the place to buzz into!
(5)Jacqueline B.
Yelp led me to Ingram's back in February on national paczki day and I'm so glad it did! I was a newbie to trying this delicious Polish donut and I couldn't have chosen a better spot to indulge. Of course on this special day they had about 25 different flavors of paczkis to choose from. I stopped in later in the afternoon, so they were out of a handful of options. I'm a sucker for anything chocolate related though, so I immediately chose the chocolate fudge paczki. The women working behind the counter were super friendly. The bakery is simple, cute, and clean. I think the packzi cost be like $2 and change and boy was it worth it (and pretty big). I was of course taking my treat to go so I could devour this little beauty shamelessly in private. They wrapped it up like a little present in an adorable Ingram's Busy Bee box. If I were able to control myself from indulging in this dessert, I could have re-gifted it right then and there! But I didn't. I kept it for myself and enjoyed every bite. The paczki was perfectly baked and sprinkled with powdered sugar. The inside...ohhh the inside. It was filled with a glorious amount of chocolate fudge that was so sweet I almost couldn't handle it (in a good way). It was hard to restrain myself from finishing the thing, but I did. Mostly because I wanted my husband to try it and experience such delicious-ness (also because I can only imagine the amount of calories and sugar it has!). From what I could tell they sell all sorts of cakes, pastries, cookies, and breads. They even do wedding and other special event cakes! I believe they also have daily specials, so be sure to check that out!
(4)Katie T.
Sweets treats and a trip in a time machine- bonus! It really does feel like stepping into a museum, the cakes on the wall may be dated but the tasty treats are spot on. Grab a number and then use the wait to debate which of the treats behind the glass will be yours. Highlights include long johns, chocolate chip coffee cake, brownies, cupcakes (go for the fudgy chocolate), and butter cookies. Little touches like giving the occasional free cookie to the eager toddler or free samples adds to the homey grandma feel of the place. Be sure to preorder around the holidays, it gets crazy in there!
(4)Kara Z.
After moving out of state a year ago, Busy Bee Bakery wins for very best cookies (the sprinkle ones!) and best cake (chocolate cake with chocolate buttercream filling and white butter cream frosting with sprinkles and sweet pea flowers on top!) and best Bavarian cream filled donuts with chocolate frosting!
(5)Dan R.
A traditional bakery like the kind I visited as a child. Well-staffed ont the weekends with friendly. helpful people. There is nothing they offer that is not to like. This place is a real gem.
(4)Kate Q.
Busy Bee had been a family staple for many, many years. (Even though the smiley faced cookies have been getting a bit thin in the last year or two) I'm getting married in August and went there to inquire about wedding cakes presuming it would be delicious. They only offered yellow, chocolate, and banana for the cake fillings which i thought was a bit skimpy as I know they can do cakes in more flavors than that. And banana??? Anyway... The cake book that they have for you to look at is quite dated, by 10-30 years or so but I guess that's not a huge deal. Prices were decent and comparable to other places but if you were looking for a very ornate cake or fondant and the like, they don't offer that here. I had inquired about having the cake layers on pillars so i could put fresh flowers on the top of each. They wanted almost $25 for each plastic layer, and I believe that was rental only!!!! You can get that for much, much cheaper at Michaels!!! The winner of the day was..... Since my wedding is on a friday, I would have to come in the morning of my wedding and pick up the cake my self and set it up my self. They don't deliver wedding cakes on Fridays!! REALLY??? I have never, ever heard of a bakery or florist that didn't deliver just because it was a friday!!! REALLY? Every other vendor of mine just laughed heartily at that one. Needless to say I did NOT choose Busy Bee for my wedding cake and probably won't be going there much anymore.
(2)Kevin K.
I think the Busy Bee is staffed by cute little blonde 95 lb. bulimic girls in their late teens to early 20's. They have to be bulimic because there is no natural way someone could work around this deliciousness and not look like me, a 300 lb. fat man. This unassuming bakery is packed full of carbohydradic sticky sweet greatness. My favorites are the glazed cinnamon buns. I have almost died choking on these repeatedly like Homer Simpson does on donuts. Give this place a try and you will not be sorry!
(5)Sarah R.
This is my favorite bakery, so I don't let myself come here as much as I would like. Paczki Day is great time to try it if you never have, just remember to place your order ahead of time or the line will be out the door! But everything they have is awesome! And my co-workers love when I stop at Busy Bee before work.....
(5)Erin D.
Picked up donuts for my Dad, the self proclaimed "Donut Aficionado" and he LOVES them. My Dad will drive an hour away for good donuts and now this is his favorite place and only 20 min away. For me, I only wish they had more novelty donuts like Maple Bacon or Peanut Butter Filled. But this place his so fresh and packed everytime I go in. These ladies know what they're doing.
(4)Lissa E.
Best doughnuts and coffee cake ever!!! One of the things I like best about busy bee are the cake doughnuts. They are so fresh and moist every single time. My favorite is the peanut doughnut which they only usually have a few of on the weekends so get there early! Just in case you miss out on the whole doughnut they have amazing cake doughnut holes, too. Cake doughnuts not for you? They have the airy doughnuts too, which I will add my husband enjoys just as much:) The almond coffee cake is another great choice. I pick it up on my way to work sometimes and it is a crowd pleaser with my coworkers. If you are ever looking for a breakfast sweet this is the place to buzz into!
(5)Jacqueline B.
Yelp led me to Ingram's back in February on national paczki day and I'm so glad it did! I was a newbie to trying this delicious Polish donut and I couldn't have chosen a better spot to indulge. Of course on this special day they had about 25 different flavors of paczkis to choose from. I stopped in later in the afternoon, so they were out of a handful of options. I'm a sucker for anything chocolate related though, so I immediately chose the chocolate fudge paczki. The women working behind the counter were super friendly. The bakery is simple, cute, and clean. I think the packzi cost be like $2 and change and boy was it worth it (and pretty big). I was of course taking my treat to go so I could devour this little beauty shamelessly in private. They wrapped it up like a little present in an adorable Ingram's Busy Bee box. If I were able to control myself from indulging in this dessert, I could have re-gifted it right then and there! But I didn't. I kept it for myself and enjoyed every bite. The paczki was perfectly baked and sprinkled with powdered sugar. The inside...ohhh the inside. It was filled with a glorious amount of chocolate fudge that was so sweet I almost couldn't handle it (in a good way). It was hard to restrain myself from finishing the thing, but I did. Mostly because I wanted my husband to try it and experience such delicious-ness (also because I can only imagine the amount of calories and sugar it has!). From what I could tell they sell all sorts of cakes, pastries, cookies, and breads. They even do wedding and other special event cakes! I believe they also have daily specials, so be sure to check that out!
(4)Katie T.
Sweets treats and a trip in a time machine- bonus! It really does feel like stepping into a museum, the cakes on the wall may be dated but the tasty treats are spot on. Grab a number and then use the wait to debate which of the treats behind the glass will be yours. Highlights include long johns, chocolate chip coffee cake, brownies, cupcakes (go for the fudgy chocolate), and butter cookies. Little touches like giving the occasional free cookie to the eager toddler or free samples adds to the homey grandma feel of the place. Be sure to preorder around the holidays, it gets crazy in there!
(4)Kara Z.
After moving out of state a year ago, Busy Bee Bakery wins for very best cookies (the sprinkle ones!) and best cake (chocolate cake with chocolate buttercream filling and white butter cream frosting with sprinkles and sweet pea flowers on top!) and best Bavarian cream filled donuts with chocolate frosting!
(5)Aria S.
I have been going here since I was a little girl. I love this bakery, they have a great variety of cookies and pastries that are always made fresh. I know they make personalized cakes etc... for parties as well although I had not had the opportunity to try this yet. I will continue to support this business whenever I am back in Downers Grove.
(5)Katie D.
Coming from a person who doesn't really eat sweets, I must say the Atomic cake was one of, if not, the best cake I've ever had. I called early on Saturday morning and ordered a cake for a friend's going away party. The person I spoke with was super helpful and had the cake ready for us by noon the same day. It was DELICIOUS! Thank you so much & we'll definitely be coming back for our next event.
(5)Valerie W.
Ingram's Busy Bee certainly did not disappoint when it comes to one of the busiest pastry days of the year, Paczki day! I will admit, I procrastinated and did not place an order ahead of time. Also, I didn't know that this bakery existed before last week. Boy, do I know for next year. I called Busy Bee at about 10:30 on Paczki day (i.e. Fat Tuesday) to ask if they still had paczki left. They said they had plenty, and to come on by. Since it's only about 5 minutes from my office, I hopped in the car on my lunch break and zoomed over. What I did not expect (but should've known better) was the LINE OUT THE DOOR with people waiting for paczki. Procrastinators like me. Luckily, the ladies at Busy Bee kept the line moving quickly and efficiently. Since I was waiting, I figured I had to get more than just enough for me and the mister, so I decided on a whole dozen of assorted deliciousness to bring back to the office to share. I purchased: Bavarian cream with powdered sugar, chocolate custard, strawberry, apricot, prune, and cheese. I brought them back to the office and immediately offered to my co-workers. Every single one said it was the best paczki they had ever eaten. Even the prune got rave reviews. The cheese got the best - our receptionist said she has been eating paczki for 50 years, and this was the best one she'd ever had, the consistency of the cheese filling was more like whipped cream. I will certainly be placing an order ahead of time at Ingram's Busy Bee next year for my paczki fix, and you should too!
(5)Brittany B.
This place always has the best coffee cakes and donuts! Everything is made from scratch, and is delicious! It is a little expensive, but definitely worth every penny!
(4)Brandy W.
Wow, y'all. I cannot be more excited about finding a new bakeshop so locally! I cannot wait to try more of their goodies.... I've only tried the cupcakes so far. And what a cute little joint! How have I never noticed this place before? I mean, what the heck! I recommend the deliciousness that is Ingram's. Fab.
(5)Yvonne O.
Busy Bee is the kind of bakery that we all wish we grew up with. My husband was from a nearby town, so he had the fortune of knowing about this place. I make sure to stop in whenever I am in the area to get some of their yummy treats - the donut holes are so light and the cookies are some of my favorites as well!
(5)Amy D.
Being a Downers Grove resident, I've popped into Busy Bee several times. I guess it's only appropriate that I should write a review by now, especially since I can fully blame them for the extra inch or two around my waist! :-) Busy Bee is hands-down one of the best bakeries in Chicagoland (and as you can see from my other reviews, I've tried my fair share). This is truly an old-fashioned bakery using old recipes, so you don't get the artificial or preservative-filled tastes like you do in the newer bakeries. Their yeast donuts are where they shine - I love their glazed apple cinnamon donut, and they have the best Bismarck I've ever had in my life. Their chocolate cake donuts are phenomenal, and I would request one of their eclair's as a last meal. As the other reviews mention, Punski Day is done right here. I usually get a dozen for my office up north, and they all state the same thing - the BEST they've ever had. The fresh strawberry and chocolate buttercream favors are my favorite. Just make sure you place your order and pay well in advance - it's a madhouse, with lines reaching around the block. They also have awesome speciality tea cookies, though be warned, they are outrageously expensive. They charge by the pound, and six silver-dollar sized tea cookies ran me about $7. Worth it for a splurge, but definitely wouldn't buy them regularly. My only complaint is that they don't do a traditional apple fritter, or glazed crossiant. Everything is spectacular, but I think any established bakery should carry apple fritters - a true bakery staple.
(4)Susan D.
I will never buy their cookies again because they are SO DELICIOUS and I cannot resist them. I bought some for my children and have now hidden them from the kids. They are so rich and buttery. Wow. Lived in Downers for 40+ years and Busy Bee is old school goodness. My favorite buttercream frosting ever. You cannot go wrong.
(5)Craig L.
This is a bakery that is woven into my life story. They did my wedding cake and the price and quality of what I received was simply amazing. I'm talking about literally $750 in savings for a cake that actually tasted as good as it looked. We've used BB for my daughter's 1st & 3rd bday, and we couldn't be happier on price, taste, and customer service. Today was my daughters 3rd bday and she lit up like a Christmas Tree at her Frozen themed cake. A bakery I recommend on so many levels.
(5)Alexis L.
Amazing bakery! You'll have to try the cake donuts, but you better get there early because they sell out quickly!
(5)Jake S.
Ah, Ingram's. I could tell you about the cheese pastry, or the soft cinnamon bun, or the deliciously fudge brownie or the...oh, let's cut to the chase. The Atomic Cake. No, let me rewrite that...*THE* Atomic Cake. That's almost all you need to know. I didn't think that something that had disparate layers like that would work out so well, but it did. On a day in which I hit five other bakeries, this one stood out magnificently. All of the items we sampled were excellent, and an instant vow to return here was made...
(5)Loca C.
I purchased a coffee cake (luckily on sale) then got 6 tiny over priced cookies. If you start with the sale item you better be ready for the guilt trip of "what else " and why do I need to request my receipt to then be subjected to attitude. Secondly I'm like the first customer to walk in for the day and I get handed my coffee cake inside of a waxy bag by itself which is fine minus all the wet sugary icing on it which got everywhere. My poor new car got white icing all inside (seat, steering wheel, keys). I should have turned around after I crossed the street to my car.... A plastic bag or something would have helped if that was even offered / available. Problems with bakeries is they think people arr incapable of easily making a good dessert or breakfast bread easily and for at least half the cost. I certainly think I make a just as good loaf with probably better for you ingredients busy bee..... take that to the bank. !
(1)Nicole G.
best... donuts... evahhhh!!!! seriously, if you're on a diet you need to take a break , visit ingrams busy bees and immerse yourself in the deliciousness of your chosen confectionary delight. do it my friend and i assure you that your guilt will be absorbed and destroyed utterly by the heavenly doughy encounter you will enjoy the minute you bite into any of their luscious creations. if not for yourself, buy a few long johns, maybe a boston cream and a few donut holes for your loved ones and watch as their love for you grows and grows into infinity as they devour the best donuts known to plant earth.
(5)Catie P.
Yummmm! I was craving donughts and thought I'd try this place out. I'm so glad I did! I waited the whole car ride home without opening the box, luckily they taped it. I got the coconut, plain glazed, chocolate and vanilla long johns and a chocolate donought hole. All were excellent!! They were so fresh, light and just delicious - not over baring with icing. I would highly recommend visiting this bakery! Oh yes, got a sugar cookie too, yum!
(5)Melissa L.
We had a one year birthday party and being from Chicago are accustomed to some local bakery cakes, not the big box store cakes. I decided to go for a layered cake, chocolate cake layer, yellow cake layer, strawberry filling and whipped cream frosting. Also got a white cake smash cake. Darn it... just going through describing the basics I want some more cake now! It was THAT good. Whipped cream frosting was delicious. Cake layers perfect. Smash cake totally worth it- they offer you to have frosted sides for extra or just the ones with sugar sprinkles- I didn't pay the extra and it was still super cute. Smash cake was light and really easy for the baby to eat- plus it was taller than I expected and really fun in pictures. We are planning the next cake to try a custard filling. Our whole family raved about the cake and wanted to know where it was from because it outshone some recent cakes we have had from other bakeries. The staff was really helpful too- I was parked nearby and they helped get the cakes out to the car since the smash cake is pretty delicate.
(5)Melissa O.
SO SO yummy! We have never been disappointed here. Smells wonderful, staff is always so nice too. This is a great place for cakes and donuts. Very good.
(5)Kris H.
Okay, I'm beginning to think I need help. This is second Saturday in a row that we've ventured out on snowy, almost unplowed roads early in the morning to get a dozen delectable, heavenly donuts from Busy Bee. Last week we got four chocolate dipped donuts in our dozen and they were immediately gone. This week we upped the ante and got six chocolate dipped. I just checked the box and how many donuts do we have? Two and one half. With four people in my family and I had HALF a donut. My husband copped to consuming two and each of my children claimed two each. Someone or more than one person in my house is being less than truthful. Maybe it's not me that needs the help. Three AWOL donuts. This is what Busy Bee reduces people to, overconsumption of donuts and a decrease in overall honesty.
(5)Teresa M.
Baked goods were average. Customer service could be better. I was looking for a bakery to make a birthday cake and found Ingram's (very close to my work). They were limited on cake designs and the cakes looked outdated. I ended up going to another bakery and found exactly what I was looking for.
(2)Christine M.
Unfortunately, I can not review the baked goods, just the service. I spoke with two people on two separate occasions requesting the ingredients that are used for their cakes. Not a specific list with amounts, just the basics so that I know if our family can order birthday cakes here. After just moving to the area and reading the good reviews, I was psyched to be so close to what could be a great bakery. They did not know what was in their cakes (really? not a clue?!) and said I would get a call but never did. I even called back to ask again so I could order a cake if it was a go but was told that they just didn't know and the night bakers are the only employees who do know and they don't know what to tell me. Really?! I only wanted to see if they use 'real' ingredients (i.e. no preservatives, chemicals, high fructose corn syrup, etc.). I guess they don't disclose this for a reason? I'm not sure. What a shame. I could have been a regular!
(2)LOIS B.
OMG ~ I have died and gone to Paczki heaven. If you do not know what a Paczki is then you have been spending your Fat Tuesdays in the wrong place. If you live anywhere in the area, work with someone who takes the train, or just know the best Paczki come from this bakery, next year place your order and spend the day covered in powdered sugar, beats the ashes you'll be wearing the next day. I do recommend that you preorder because within an hour of opening, they had already sold out of one of the 25 varieties they offer. Paczki on Paczki Day are becoming what chocolate is to Valentine's Day and what pumpkin pie is to Thanksgiving. Get the picture? There is a line, but really, it moves quickly and I was out in less than 10 minutes with my boxes of goodies. Word of warning ~ place boxes in trunk of car or somewhere else out of reach or someone might just be missing their preordered favorite (wiping powdered sugar from face and brushing off clothes).
(5)Valerie R.
They have the most amazing cookies they just melt in your mouth. I have never had anyone be anything but pleasant and helpful and have been going there for years since I was a kid with my parents! Cakes and donuts I have gotten there are excellent but the cookies will always be my favorite.
(5)John C.
This is a donut shop, NOT a bakery! Wife and I were extremely disappointed to travel to our local "bakery" in search of some nice baked goods -- scones, muffins, cupcakes, bread. Uhhhh, no. You'll get donuts, and like it. The donuts are decent, but not good. Reminds me of cheap donuts from decades ago; I'd honestly much rather have donuts from the big chains.
(1)P S.
I appreciate good donuts. Always have. I was so bummed after Krispy Kreme came to Chicago and ruined the donut market and gave greedy competitors at Dunkin Donuts the idea of raising their prices and reducing the donut size. Have you seen the tiny mini dounts at Dominick's? Donuts here at Ingram's are good size and made like they should be. Service is very nice. Get their early as they are popular and I can see them selling out before the end of the day. Definitely worth the trip and highly recommended. The only very small gripes is that it would be nice to list name of pastries/breads and their prices -- maybe a price wallboard Going back soon!
(5)Kelly M.
A great local business with a variety of delicious baked goods. I have tried a variety of their items and have enjoyed every one of them. Everything I have purchased is very reasonably priced. I have also received friendly service when I go!
(5)Rachel A.
I can't believe I've not written a review yet. Their donuts are by far the best donuts I have EVER had ANYWHERE. Often I will make up errands that I "need" to run downtown DG just to have an excuse to pop in for a donut. I recommend the donut holes (I think they are all "cake" style), the sugar twists, and the bavarian creams. Frosted brownies are also very good as is the coffee cake. I am not a huge fan of the chocolate chip cookies but hey - the other goodies make up for it. Cupcakes are fine, but nothing special. Definitely go for the donuts and brownies! Oh and I just placed an order for a dozen paczkis for next Tuesday -- I'm sure they are going to be amazing!
(4)Tommy M.
Recently ordered some Paczkis for Paczki day, wowsers! Some of the best. Also, for a high-demand product on a high-demand day, this place was running like a Swiss watch. I went in around 7:30am to pick up my order (I pre-ordered, DEFINITELY recommended for paczki day), so they had a separate line for pre-order pick ups. While the other line was out the door (they didn't pre-order), I was in and out in about 2 minutes, and that included paying for my order. If you live around here, make the trip for their paczkis next year!!
(5)Dusty K.
You know a place does great business when you walk in at 6:15 in the morning there's already a little line. Downtown Downers Grove was empty but Ingram's was busy as a bee. See what I did there with my word play? What a horrible writer I am.... Ingram's made me feel like I never tasted a donut before. And for good reason I may never have another one again if not from here. The long johns and regular donuts are so light and fluffy. They really do melt in your mouth. I ended up with an assortment of 12 donuts and a coffee cake. I wish I could have tasted them all but a guy can only eat so much butter and sugar. I laid out the 'leftovers' next to the Dunkin Donut box someone else put out at work. Guess which one all the coworkers ate first? Service was very friendly and the donuts and coffee cake were insane. It's no wonder this place has outlasted just about every other business in downtown Downers Grove. I will be back to try their Kolacky's and Paczki's and to get my donut fix.
(5)Johnny T.
I walked in right when they were about to close (lights were off), which I didn't realize at the time. I saw the young girl that I think Zach and j.m. were probably referring to and she did seem eager to get out of there. One of the older ladies took care of me and was very personable and professional. I was asking about the differences between the certain mini chocolate chip cookies out there and she gave me one of each to sample to help me decide which to get. I got a pound of mini chocolate chip cookies, which were $10.95 lb. and 2 full sized custard creme donuts for $2 each. The creme donuts were in fact pretty big and the filling inside tasted quite fresh. The mini chocolate chip cookies were ok, just were lacking flavor. Was gonna give a 3.5 rating but gets rounded up to 4 stars for accepting Credit Cards, which is something not too many bakeries accept.
(4)Gail L.
Every year for my birthday, I get the exact same birthday cake from here: Chocolate Cake Fudge Filling Chocolate Buttercream icing "Happy Birthday Gail" No pink flowers. I hate pink. No pink on my birthday cake! It is always the very best birthday cake I've ever had. I literally will eat the small cake myself over the next few days, grudgingly letting other folks share. I'm such a nice birthday girl. I also adore their pastries. They have this one pastry, which has a special name I can't remember, that is layers of flaky crust and a huge amount of white buttercream icing. I LOVE that pastry. I try to get it anytime I go, and I eat it, and then moan from the sugar overload. It's completely worth it. Just make sure to leave time in your schedule for laying down afterwards.
(5)Bill M.
I've never been to this bakery in Downers Grove, but our bosses brought in a box of fresh paczkis on "Fat Tuesday/Paczki Day" last week. These donuts-on-steroids are yummy and rich. There seemed to be some "extras" in the box so I had an opportunity to try different flavors after the other co-workers were paczki-ed out. I liked the strawberry/cream cheese version the best, followed closely by blueberry/cream cheese. The strawberry was good as was the bavarian cream, though the chocolate custard was surprisingly disappointing.
(4)Sara D.
I'm writing this review based soley on their wedding cakes. The cake itself was to die for. So delicious and we were given a bunch of cakes and fillings to chose from. Even the frozen cake on our 1 year anniversary was super yummy, although that might have been partially due to the wonderful wrapping job of the banquet hall. The only reason I can't give a full 5 stars is that they don't have a lot of options for cake design. They only offered one "modern" (ie. non-1990s) looking cake design. My sister and I had our weddings 6 months apart and had the same exact cake since they didn't offer any other options that were appropriate to current cake styles. Granted, this was in 2008, so this may have changed. If not, I hope they look into updating their cake design. ps. their Boston Cremes are ginormous! And yummy!
(4)Nicole A.
Cute bakery in downtown Downers Grove. Ordered birthday cake for my 2 year old, and it came with icing only on the top. When asked why the sides were left undone, they said "you didn't specify that you wanted the sides done too." Didn't think I needed to specify that I wanted the whole cake iced for a simple yellow birthday cake. Not good for presentation at the party. Are they serious?
(3)Patty S.
Who would have thought that donuts could taste THIS good? When you bite into a Busy Bee donut, it's like eating a delicate pastry. A treat from here and a cup of tea is the perfect Saturday morning.
(5)Zach T.
Great Cookies and Cakes! Go there and patronize this place! Little places like this are dying out and it's a shame. You'll think so too once you're charmed by Ingram's. Bonus, they gave a free cookie to my daughter. They know what will bring me back in.
(4)Johnny T.
I walked in right when they were about to close (lights were off), which I didn't realize at the time. I saw the young girl that I think Zach and j.m. were probably referring to and she did seem eager to get out of there. One of the older ladies took care of me and was very personable and professional. I was asking about the differences between the certain mini chocolate chip cookies out there and she gave me one of each to sample to help me decide which to get. I got a pound of mini chocolate chip cookies, which were $10.95 lb. and 2 full sized custard creme donuts for $2 each. The creme donuts were in fact pretty big and the filling inside tasted quite fresh. The mini chocolate chip cookies were ok, just were lacking flavor. Was gonna give a 3.5 rating but gets rounded up to 4 stars for accepting Credit Cards, which is something not too many bakeries accept.
(4)Gail L.
Every year for my birthday, I get the exact same birthday cake from here: Chocolate Cake Fudge Filling Chocolate Buttercream icing "Happy Birthday Gail" No pink flowers. I hate pink. No pink on my birthday cake! It is always the very best birthday cake I've ever had. I literally will eat the small cake myself over the next few days, grudgingly letting other folks share. I'm such a nice birthday girl. I also adore their pastries. They have this one pastry, which has a special name I can't remember, that is layers of flaky crust and a huge amount of white buttercream icing. I LOVE that pastry. I try to get it anytime I go, and I eat it, and then moan from the sugar overload. It's completely worth it. Just make sure to leave time in your schedule for laying down afterwards.
(5)Brandy W.
Wow, y'all. I cannot be more excited about finding a new bakeshop so locally! I cannot wait to try more of their goodies.... I've only tried the cupcakes so far. And what a cute little joint! How have I never noticed this place before? I mean, what the heck! I recommend the deliciousness that is Ingram's. Fab.
(5)Yvonne O.
Busy Bee is the kind of bakery that we all wish we grew up with. My husband was from a nearby town, so he had the fortune of knowing about this place. I make sure to stop in whenever I am in the area to get some of their yummy treats - the donut holes are so light and the cookies are some of my favorites as well!
(5)Howard L.
Good, fresh pastries and baked goods here. Wife wanted something so we swung by here about mid-day and picked up some cupcakes for $0.98 each and a few other pastries (one was a lemon hot cross bun) for about a $1 each. All were 4-star fresh, and business was brisk. Prices aren't shown anywhere - a slight annoyance. The place is right in the middle of Downer's Grove nice little downtown. I enjoyed the little drive going north-bound on Main Street. From 63rd , it's all residential, then a little but vibrant downtown around 53rd, then at 50th or so, residential again, like a mini Washington St/Naperville thang...
(4)Loca C.
I purchased a coffee cake (luckily on sale) then got 6 tiny over priced cookies. If you start with the sale item you better be ready for the guilt trip of "what else " and why do I need to request my receipt to then be subjected to attitude. Secondly I'm like the first customer to walk in for the day and I get handed my coffee cake inside of a waxy bag by itself which is fine minus all the wet sugary icing on it which got everywhere. My poor new car got white icing all inside (seat, steering wheel, keys). I should have turned around after I crossed the street to my car.... A plastic bag or something would have helped if that was even offered / available. Problems with bakeries is they think people arr incapable of easily making a good dessert or breakfast bread easily and for at least half the cost. I certainly think I make a just as good loaf with probably better for you ingredients busy bee..... take that to the bank. !
(1)Nicole G.
best... donuts... evahhhh!!!! seriously, if you're on a diet you need to take a break , visit ingrams busy bees and immerse yourself in the deliciousness of your chosen confectionary delight. do it my friend and i assure you that your guilt will be absorbed and destroyed utterly by the heavenly doughy encounter you will enjoy the minute you bite into any of their luscious creations. if not for yourself, buy a few long johns, maybe a boston cream and a few donut holes for your loved ones and watch as their love for you grows and grows into infinity as they devour the best donuts known to plant earth.
(5)Catie P.
Yummmm! I was craving donughts and thought I'd try this place out. I'm so glad I did! I waited the whole car ride home without opening the box, luckily they taped it. I got the coconut, plain glazed, chocolate and vanilla long johns and a chocolate donought hole. All were excellent!! They were so fresh, light and just delicious - not over baring with icing. I would highly recommend visiting this bakery! Oh yes, got a sugar cookie too, yum!
(5)Melissa L.
We had a one year birthday party and being from Chicago are accustomed to some local bakery cakes, not the big box store cakes. I decided to go for a layered cake, chocolate cake layer, yellow cake layer, strawberry filling and whipped cream frosting. Also got a white cake smash cake. Darn it... just going through describing the basics I want some more cake now! It was THAT good. Whipped cream frosting was delicious. Cake layers perfect. Smash cake totally worth it- they offer you to have frosted sides for extra or just the ones with sugar sprinkles- I didn't pay the extra and it was still super cute. Smash cake was light and really easy for the baby to eat- plus it was taller than I expected and really fun in pictures. We are planning the next cake to try a custard filling. Our whole family raved about the cake and wanted to know where it was from because it outshone some recent cakes we have had from other bakeries. The staff was really helpful too- I was parked nearby and they helped get the cakes out to the car since the smash cake is pretty delicate.
(5)Melissa O.
SO SO yummy! We have never been disappointed here. Smells wonderful, staff is always so nice too. This is a great place for cakes and donuts. Very good.
(5)Katie D.
Coming from a person who doesn't really eat sweets, I must say the Atomic cake was one of, if not, the best cake I've ever had. I called early on Saturday morning and ordered a cake for a friend's going away party. The person I spoke with was super helpful and had the cake ready for us by noon the same day. It was DELICIOUS! Thank you so much & we'll definitely be coming back for our next event.
(5)Valerie W.
Ingram's Busy Bee certainly did not disappoint when it comes to one of the busiest pastry days of the year, Paczki day! I will admit, I procrastinated and did not place an order ahead of time. Also, I didn't know that this bakery existed before last week. Boy, do I know for next year. I called Busy Bee at about 10:30 on Paczki day (i.e. Fat Tuesday) to ask if they still had paczki left. They said they had plenty, and to come on by. Since it's only about 5 minutes from my office, I hopped in the car on my lunch break and zoomed over. What I did not expect (but should've known better) was the LINE OUT THE DOOR with people waiting for paczki. Procrastinators like me. Luckily, the ladies at Busy Bee kept the line moving quickly and efficiently. Since I was waiting, I figured I had to get more than just enough for me and the mister, so I decided on a whole dozen of assorted deliciousness to bring back to the office to share. I purchased: Bavarian cream with powdered sugar, chocolate custard, strawberry, apricot, prune, and cheese. I brought them back to the office and immediately offered to my co-workers. Every single one said it was the best paczki they had ever eaten. Even the prune got rave reviews. The cheese got the best - our receptionist said she has been eating paczki for 50 years, and this was the best one she'd ever had, the consistency of the cheese filling was more like whipped cream. I will certainly be placing an order ahead of time at Ingram's Busy Bee next year for my paczki fix, and you should too!
(5)Brittany B.
This place always has the best coffee cakes and donuts! Everything is made from scratch, and is delicious! It is a little expensive, but definitely worth every penny!
(4)Amy D.
Being a Downers Grove resident, I've popped into Busy Bee several times. I guess it's only appropriate that I should write a review by now, especially since I can fully blame them for the extra inch or two around my waist! :-) Busy Bee is hands-down one of the best bakeries in Chicagoland (and as you can see from my other reviews, I've tried my fair share). This is truly an old-fashioned bakery using old recipes, so you don't get the artificial or preservative-filled tastes like you do in the newer bakeries. Their yeast donuts are where they shine - I love their glazed apple cinnamon donut, and they have the best Bismarck I've ever had in my life. Their chocolate cake donuts are phenomenal, and I would request one of their eclair's as a last meal. As the other reviews mention, Punski Day is done right here. I usually get a dozen for my office up north, and they all state the same thing - the BEST they've ever had. The fresh strawberry and chocolate buttercream favors are my favorite. Just make sure you place your order and pay well in advance - it's a madhouse, with lines reaching around the block. They also have awesome speciality tea cookies, though be warned, they are outrageously expensive. They charge by the pound, and six silver-dollar sized tea cookies ran me about $7. Worth it for a splurge, but definitely wouldn't buy them regularly. My only complaint is that they don't do a traditional apple fritter, or glazed crossiant. Everything is spectacular, but I think any established bakery should carry apple fritters - a true bakery staple.
(4)Susan D.
I will never buy their cookies again because they are SO DELICIOUS and I cannot resist them. I bought some for my children and have now hidden them from the kids. They are so rich and buttery. Wow. Lived in Downers for 40+ years and Busy Bee is old school goodness. My favorite buttercream frosting ever. You cannot go wrong.
(5)Craig L.
This is a bakery that is woven into my life story. They did my wedding cake and the price and quality of what I received was simply amazing. I'm talking about literally $750 in savings for a cake that actually tasted as good as it looked. We've used BB for my daughter's 1st & 3rd bday, and we couldn't be happier on price, taste, and customer service. Today was my daughters 3rd bday and she lit up like a Christmas Tree at her Frozen themed cake. A bakery I recommend on so many levels.
(5)Alexis L.
Amazing bakery! You'll have to try the cake donuts, but you better get there early because they sell out quickly!
(5)Jake S.
Ah, Ingram's. I could tell you about the cheese pastry, or the soft cinnamon bun, or the deliciously fudge brownie or the...oh, let's cut to the chase. The Atomic Cake. No, let me rewrite that...*THE* Atomic Cake. That's almost all you need to know. I didn't think that something that had disparate layers like that would work out so well, but it did. On a day in which I hit five other bakeries, this one stood out magnificently. All of the items we sampled were excellent, and an instant vow to return here was made...
(5)Kris H.
Okay, I'm beginning to think I need help. This is second Saturday in a row that we've ventured out on snowy, almost unplowed roads early in the morning to get a dozen delectable, heavenly donuts from Busy Bee. Last week we got four chocolate dipped donuts in our dozen and they were immediately gone. This week we upped the ante and got six chocolate dipped. I just checked the box and how many donuts do we have? Two and one half. With four people in my family and I had HALF a donut. My husband copped to consuming two and each of my children claimed two each. Someone or more than one person in my house is being less than truthful. Maybe it's not me that needs the help. Three AWOL donuts. This is what Busy Bee reduces people to, overconsumption of donuts and a decrease in overall honesty.
(5)Teresa M.
Baked goods were average. Customer service could be better. I was looking for a bakery to make a birthday cake and found Ingram's (very close to my work). They were limited on cake designs and the cakes looked outdated. I ended up going to another bakery and found exactly what I was looking for.
(2)Christine M.
Unfortunately, I can not review the baked goods, just the service. I spoke with two people on two separate occasions requesting the ingredients that are used for their cakes. Not a specific list with amounts, just the basics so that I know if our family can order birthday cakes here. After just moving to the area and reading the good reviews, I was psyched to be so close to what could be a great bakery. They did not know what was in their cakes (really? not a clue?!) and said I would get a call but never did. I even called back to ask again so I could order a cake if it was a go but was told that they just didn't know and the night bakers are the only employees who do know and they don't know what to tell me. Really?! I only wanted to see if they use 'real' ingredients (i.e. no preservatives, chemicals, high fructose corn syrup, etc.). I guess they don't disclose this for a reason? I'm not sure. What a shame. I could have been a regular!
(2)Rhoda G.
I decided to go to Ingram's before work to get some paczki the night before, so I left around 5:30 am to head out to Downers Grove to beat the traffic. Thank God! When I got to Ingram's at 6:30 am, the line was long. Luckily, it went by pretty fast. I waited at most 20 minutes. All the paczkis I ate were great and the filling was delicious. They offered so many flavors even prune. So hard to choose! Next time I'm calling my order in, so I don't have to wait in line. Looking forward to next year!
(4)Valerie R.
They have the most amazing cookies they just melt in your mouth. I have never had anyone be anything but pleasant and helpful and have been going there for years since I was a kid with my parents! Cakes and donuts I have gotten there are excellent but the cookies will always be my favorite.
(5)Aimee M.
If someone is inviting you over for a home-cooked lunch, you cannot arrive empty-handed. And if you're like me, a total procrastinator, you sometimes have to leave the dessert-making to the professionals. And if it's super fab Ericka A doing the inviting, you want to bring a great dessert. If you have cravings for all different kinds of dessert, perhaps Busy Bee's Atomic Cake just might be for you! A layer of chocolate cake, a layer of yellow cake and a layer of banana cake. But I guess it wouldn't be ATOMIC without the fresh strawberries, fresh bananas and whipped cream. Oh my heavens, sounds super decadent but I found it light and not over-filling after my one slice. I also chose an assortment of butter cookies--and BUTTER is an understatement. These cookies are rich and buttery--Julia Child would be blown away with it's buttery richness. Service was ok. The gal that helped me barely cracked a smile and seemed a little bothered when I asked for prices of items before I ordered. I was kind of miffed. But the other two ladies behind the counter were all smiles laughter for their customers. The lack of sunny disposition on my server won't deter me from coming back for the delicious treats. But hopefully when I come back for Paczki day, I'll get one of the sunnier servers.
(4)N D.
I really want to like this place. How can you not love a bakery right? Bakery goods are average. The cheese pastry I bought was really sweet and we ended up not even eating most of it. The staff are rude. When I was in last weekend, the there were 4 people behind the counter with one person waiting on someone. I stood there waiting for someone to acknowledge me. After standing there for a good 10 minutes I left. I'll go elsewhere from now on.
(2)Samantha C.
Awesome local business!! Things you MUST get when you go here: donuts, brownies, and atomic cake. Absolute best ever. Seriously, they will have the best brownie you've ever tasted IN LIFE. Once you have tried their atomic cake, you will never appreciate a normal boring old birthday cake ever again.
(5)LOIS B.
OMG ~ I have died and gone to Paczki heaven. If you do not know what a Paczki is then you have been spending your Fat Tuesdays in the wrong place. If you live anywhere in the area, work with someone who takes the train, or just know the best Paczki come from this bakery, next year place your order and spend the day covered in powdered sugar, beats the ashes you'll be wearing the next day. I do recommend that you preorder because within an hour of opening, they had already sold out of one of the 25 varieties they offer. Paczki on Paczki Day are becoming what chocolate is to Valentine's Day and what pumpkin pie is to Thanksgiving. Get the picture? There is a line, but really, it moves quickly and I was out in less than 10 minutes with my boxes of goodies. Word of warning ~ place boxes in trunk of car or somewhere else out of reach or someone might just be missing their preordered favorite (wiping powdered sugar from face and brushing off clothes).
(5)John C.
This is a donut shop, NOT a bakery! Wife and I were extremely disappointed to travel to our local "bakery" in search of some nice baked goods -- scones, muffins, cupcakes, bread. Uhhhh, no. You'll get donuts, and like it. The donuts are decent, but not good. Reminds me of cheap donuts from decades ago; I'd honestly much rather have donuts from the big chains.
(1)P S.
I appreciate good donuts. Always have. I was so bummed after Krispy Kreme came to Chicago and ruined the donut market and gave greedy competitors at Dunkin Donuts the idea of raising their prices and reducing the donut size. Have you seen the tiny mini dounts at Dominick's? Donuts here at Ingram's are good size and made like they should be. Service is very nice. Get their early as they are popular and I can see them selling out before the end of the day. Definitely worth the trip and highly recommended. The only very small gripes is that it would be nice to list name of pastries/breads and their prices -- maybe a price wallboard Going back soon!
(5)Kelly M.
A great local business with a variety of delicious baked goods. I have tried a variety of their items and have enjoyed every one of them. Everything I have purchased is very reasonably priced. I have also received friendly service when I go!
(5)Rachel A.
I can't believe I've not written a review yet. Their donuts are by far the best donuts I have EVER had ANYWHERE. Often I will make up errands that I "need" to run downtown DG just to have an excuse to pop in for a donut. I recommend the donut holes (I think they are all "cake" style), the sugar twists, and the bavarian creams. Frosted brownies are also very good as is the coffee cake. I am not a huge fan of the chocolate chip cookies but hey - the other goodies make up for it. Cupcakes are fine, but nothing special. Definitely go for the donuts and brownies! Oh and I just placed an order for a dozen paczkis for next Tuesday -- I'm sure they are going to be amazing!
(4)Tommy M.
Recently ordered some Paczkis for Paczki day, wowsers! Some of the best. Also, for a high-demand product on a high-demand day, this place was running like a Swiss watch. I went in around 7:30am to pick up my order (I pre-ordered, DEFINITELY recommended for paczki day), so they had a separate line for pre-order pick ups. While the other line was out the door (they didn't pre-order), I was in and out in about 2 minutes, and that included paying for my order. If you live around here, make the trip for their paczkis next year!!
(5)Dusty K.
You know a place does great business when you walk in at 6:15 in the morning there's already a little line. Downtown Downers Grove was empty but Ingram's was busy as a bee. See what I did there with my word play? What a horrible writer I am.... Ingram's made me feel like I never tasted a donut before. And for good reason I may never have another one again if not from here. The long johns and regular donuts are so light and fluffy. They really do melt in your mouth. I ended up with an assortment of 12 donuts and a coffee cake. I wish I could have tasted them all but a guy can only eat so much butter and sugar. I laid out the 'leftovers' next to the Dunkin Donut box someone else put out at work. Guess which one all the coworkers ate first? Service was very friendly and the donuts and coffee cake were insane. It's no wonder this place has outlasted just about every other business in downtown Downers Grove. I will be back to try their Kolacky's and Paczki's and to get my donut fix.
(5)Dan R.
A traditional bakery like the kind I visited as a child. Well-staffed ont the weekends with friendly. helpful people. There is nothing they offer that is not to like. This place is a real gem.
(4)Kate Q.
Busy Bee had been a family staple for many, many years. (Even though the smiley faced cookies have been getting a bit thin in the last year or two) I'm getting married in August and went there to inquire about wedding cakes presuming it would be delicious. They only offered yellow, chocolate, and banana for the cake fillings which i thought was a bit skimpy as I know they can do cakes in more flavors than that. And banana??? Anyway... The cake book that they have for you to look at is quite dated, by 10-30 years or so but I guess that's not a huge deal. Prices were decent and comparable to other places but if you were looking for a very ornate cake or fondant and the like, they don't offer that here. I had inquired about having the cake layers on pillars so i could put fresh flowers on the top of each. They wanted almost $25 for each plastic layer, and I believe that was rental only!!!! You can get that for much, much cheaper at Michaels!!! The winner of the day was..... Since my wedding is on a friday, I would have to come in the morning of my wedding and pick up the cake my self and set it up my self. They don't deliver wedding cakes on Fridays!! REALLY??? I have never, ever heard of a bakery or florist that didn't deliver just because it was a friday!!! REALLY? Every other vendor of mine just laughed heartily at that one. Needless to say I did NOT choose Busy Bee for my wedding cake and probably won't be going there much anymore.
(2)Kevin K.
I think the Busy Bee is staffed by cute little blonde 95 lb. bulimic girls in their late teens to early 20's. They have to be bulimic because there is no natural way someone could work around this deliciousness and not look like me, a 300 lb. fat man. This unassuming bakery is packed full of carbohydradic sticky sweet greatness. My favorites are the glazed cinnamon buns. I have almost died choking on these repeatedly like Homer Simpson does on donuts. Give this place a try and you will not be sorry!
(5)Sarah R.
This is my favorite bakery, so I don't let myself come here as much as I would like. Paczki Day is great time to try it if you never have, just remember to place your order ahead of time or the line will be out the door! But everything they have is awesome! And my co-workers love when I stop at Busy Bee before work.....
(5)Bill M.
I've never been to this bakery in Downers Grove, but our bosses brought in a box of fresh paczkis on "Fat Tuesday/Paczki Day" last week. These donuts-on-steroids are yummy and rich. There seemed to be some "extras" in the box so I had an opportunity to try different flavors after the other co-workers were paczki-ed out. I liked the strawberry/cream cheese version the best, followed closely by blueberry/cream cheese. The strawberry was good as was the bavarian cream, though the chocolate custard was surprisingly disappointing.
(4)Stef F.
Support small local bakeries because they are quickly disappearing! I was soooo excited to see a bakery after moving to this area, because they are so nonexistent anymore. And this one is super cute to boot. Old style and tiny. Happy yellow sign. It called to me with a sugary sing-song voice. When I was there, they were busy. Service kinda sucked. There was no order in the place. BUT... Anyone remember those brightly sprinkled small sugar cookies you could get at the bakery? Well, they have 'em! And I bought a dozen and promptly ate them all. Like a piggy. This place reminds me of the bakeries my grandma used to take me to when I was little. And she'd buy me a carton of chocolate milk and those damn delicious sugar cookies with rainbow happy sprinkles on top. That's all I tried there. But I left satisfied. At least check it out...
(4)Katrina B.
Was not disappointed this past weekend. Ordered an Atomic Cake from here and picked up some more of my absolute favorite cookie in the world (their butter cookies). I recently saw a documentary on 'last meals' of people who were on death row. I'm serious when I say Busy Bee's butter cookies would be on mine. I'm not planning on that last meal anytime soon, so I'll keep eating them on a regular basis until then.
(5)Maura S.
Great Doughnuts, eh...pretty good service..Wonderful cakes!!
(4)Juli k.
Did you know that if you ask for "lot's of roses" on your cake, they will use those hard, pre-made sugar things? Totally gross. And when you find that out, and press for the buttercream kind? They charge you more. Come on...even Cosco and Sam's Club bakers can make buttercream flowers...I don't get it. The cake is good, no doubt and I guess that's all that matters, but when I custom order a special cake I don't like surprises. They do not even mention this little fact, even as we discussed adding flowers to the top of the cake...Well now you know...so be careful!
(4)Amanda K.
They have the best bakery cookies in the area! They are so good and buttery. It is hard to stop eating them once you start. They are kind of expensive but totally worth it, a very special treat!
(5)Sara D.
I'm writing this review based soley on their wedding cakes. The cake itself was to die for. So delicious and we were given a bunch of cakes and fillings to chose from. Even the frozen cake on our 1 year anniversary was super yummy, although that might have been partially due to the wonderful wrapping job of the banquet hall. The only reason I can't give a full 5 stars is that they don't have a lot of options for cake design. They only offered one "modern" (ie. non-1990s) looking cake design. My sister and I had our weddings 6 months apart and had the same exact cake since they didn't offer any other options that were appropriate to current cake styles. Granted, this was in 2008, so this may have changed. If not, I hope they look into updating their cake design. ps. their Boston Cremes are ginormous! And yummy!
(4)Nicole A.
Cute bakery in downtown Downers Grove. Ordered birthday cake for my 2 year old, and it came with icing only on the top. When asked why the sides were left undone, they said "you didn't specify that you wanted the sides done too." Didn't think I needed to specify that I wanted the whole cake iced for a simple yellow birthday cake. Not good for presentation at the party. Are they serious?
(3)Patty S.
Who would have thought that donuts could taste THIS good? When you bite into a Busy Bee donut, it's like eating a delicate pastry. A treat from here and a cup of tea is the perfect Saturday morning.
(5)Zach T.
Great Cookies and Cakes! Go there and patronize this place! Little places like this are dying out and it's a shame. You'll think so too once you're charmed by Ingram's. Bonus, they gave a free cookie to my daughter. They know what will bring me back in.
(4)Angela P.
So finally tried their cake at my baby shower which was both cute to look at and DELICIOUS to eat! It was half yellow and half chocolate and was super moist and delicious...the only thing they could do different is to not put such a thick layer of frosting in the middle...but besides that, it was yummi!! And, of course, had another doughnut the other day...AMAZING!! =]
(5)Michelle Marie R.
When I lived in Chicago there were no better Kolackys than Weber Bakery...I was certain of this. I have found powdered sugar raspberry filled bliss. Not to mention the Atomic Cake. Chocolate cake layered with banana and strawberry AND creme filling with another layer of white cake...heaven! Get it by the slice! I can't write this review without mentioning the staff, they are fantastic and super friendly. Make this a stop on your list!
(4)Jen F.
I just love this place. Best donuts EVER. It gets crowded around bakery-centric holidays. They always have really tasty seasonal flavors too - great pumpkin donuts in the fall for example. Pre-order your paczkis for Mardi Gras because it is insane otherwise! So worth the wait though.
(5)Michele H.
The doughnuts are so worth the visit! Love this bakery soooo good.
(5)Courtney W.
I have personally never been inside of this bakery...However, my manager picked up some donuts from here and brought them to work. I seriously DIED of Deliciousness!!! These must be the best donuts I have EVER HAD IN MY LIFE! I will be there soon to see what other yummies they have!
(5)Steven M.
I got a dozen of the pasteries. OMG! The carmel nut and the pecan had me going insaine driving to the office. I told her not to put tape on the box so I could scrounge around. All the girls at the office were raving about them. They have a large cookie selection also. Very fast and friendly service.
(5)Terri G.
My daughter wanted a fun "girlie" birthday cake. I ordered over the phone so I didn't know what I would get. The cake was great not exactly what I wanted but my daughter was thrilled. It was moist and delicious. I called on a Wednesday and they were able to have it ready by Saturday Morning. When I went to pick up the cake I ended up buying cookies and blueberry loaf. Great place and very nice people.
(4)Chris M.
Two words for you: Atomic Cake! Whipped cream covered, three layer cake and each layer is a different flavor (Chocolate, vanilla, banana) with three distinct fillings as well (strawberries, fudge, custard). Sounds like overkill, but it works perfectly and it's NOT too sweet. Amazing stuff. Super pastries, too.
(4)Sarah C.
You walk in and the wonderful aroma makes your mouth water right away. Everything I have scarfed down from Busy Bee was as good or better than it smelled. The doughnuts and cookies seemed to almost float, that was until they hit my hips. Oh well. We have ordered a few special occaision cakes and our guests just raved. One thing, though, I would order some filling other than the buttercream because it is just a little too much to go along with the icing. The only reason for the 4 stars instead of 5 is that, as several other reviews mentioned, the service is hit or miss. One of the teen girls was disinterested and borderline rude while an older woman went out of her way to be helpful. It certainly wouldn't stop me from going back again, but I might hang around back and wait for a nice one if I was going to order anything.
(4)Angelique S.
Their atomic cake is fantastic and a great alternative to a standard, boring birthday cake. I got a large one for my son's first birthday and it was a hit! The filling is fresh and delicious. Sometimes you have to deal with cranky customer service to get to it. Two times I've called to order something, I feel like I'm talking to a bitter aunt who only gets phone calls on their birthday and is ready to scold me for something. However, when I went in to pick up a cake, there was a younger girl there working behind the counter who was really friendly.
(3)J M.
I have to agree with Brian. I also wish I had something more positive to say. This bakery IS low on customer service. The teenage girls working there don't care about customers. They couldn't wait to get out of there at 3pm. I have had MUCH BETTER bakery. I say keep looking for another bakery.
(2)Rachel S.
All I have to say is CHOCOLATE DONUT. It is by far the best donut I have ever had. The sugar cookies, cakes, rye bread, eclairs, everything...are also all so good. This place is amazing.
(5)Cheryl P.
Old School bakery! Can't go wrong!
(5)M T.
Okay so I don't even really like doughnuts.....or so I thought. Maybe I just "thought" all doughnuts tasted like Dunkin Donuts.. (dry, stale, and leaves a film of lard in your mouth)......OMG....this place is AMAZING! Where have you been all my life?! Dinkels and Bittersweet in the city have NOTHING on you! My new addiction!
(5)Enna S.
Pretty good bakery.
(5)Amruta G.
A childhood favorite that I frequented with my dad in downtown DG. Busy Bee has sprinkled sugar cookies, cakes, pastries, complimentary coffee and wonderful Kolaches! A powered round large "thumprint" white cookie filled with a pulp of either raspberry, mulberry and apricot. Tasty!
(3)