Sometimes, the sweetest treats are in the least obvious places. That’s precisely the situation for one hidden bakery in Illinois.
Jubelt’s Restaurant has a menu full of hot, mouth-watering food. However, what’s not so evident about Jubelt’s is their incredible gifts as a bakery.
Today, we’re letting the cat out of the bag so you know right where to find the best sugar treats when passing through.
Let’s take a look!
A hidden bakery is precisely what its name indicates: a baking establishment that’s not easily noticeable. These locations are typically tucked out of the way in obscure or hard-to-find spots. On the other hand, because they don’t have a high-profile storefront or extensive advertising, doesn’t mean they’re not worth trying.
Many of these locations offer unique and authentic culinary experiences that you won’t find elsewhere. They generally provide a more intimate and local atmosphere instead of a corporate appeal. In most cases, these are small operations where the individuals you interact with are likely the ones who do the baking.
Pro Tip: If you’re on a sweet-tooth tour, be sure to check out the infamous Purple Pie Place too!
Jubelt’s started in May of 1922 when three brothers, Paul, Fred, and Albert Jubelt, purchased an existing bakery in Mt. Olive, Illinois. Through war shortages, increased competition, and deaths in the family, Jubelt’s has conquered one hurdle after another.
They expanded multiple times and added new sites in Taylorville, Granite City, and Litchfield. Besides, the most significant move was to move into the former Burger Chef building along Route 66 in Litchfield in 1982.
Today, the Litchfield is the only remaining store. It’s home to the restaurant and bakery production facilities. While the business has changed hands multiple times, it has remained with the Jubelt family over 100 years after it began.
The restaurant serves a wide array of hot food items. They serve full breakfast Tuesday through Friday from open to close. In addition, you’ll find a long list of breakfast sandwiches, combos, and numerous hot and cold sandwiches. No matter how picky of an eater you are, you’ll likely find something you love here.
While they have a massive hot food menu, we’re here to brag about their bakery items. Do you have a sweet tooth? If so, try one of these delectable treats from their bakery menu.
They have an assortment of 8” and 10” pies that range from $8.59 to $14.49. Year-round, they offer apple, caramel apple walnut crumb, blackberry, peach, cherry, strawberry rhubarb, and lemon, chocolate, Creme & coconut Creme. You’ll also find seasonal offerings like pumpkin, pecan, and bumbleberry.
There are so many options to consider that making your choice can be tricky. But, Ted left them five stars and said, “Awesome pie, blackberry in particular. Well worth driving out of your way to visit this friendly restaurant.”
If you’re not into pie or none of those flavors sound good, why not try one of their cookies? They offer chocolate chip, oatmeal, peanut butter, butter bars, snickerdoodles, and coconut chocolate chip. Despite this, they recommend inquiring about their current varieties because they always add and subtract from their flavors.
Craig gave them five stars and said, “Great family-owned local establishment. We have been getting Jubelt’s donuts, cookies, and pastries for years. Always a treat to stop in.” So, their cookies are delicious, and have an excellent reputation for offering quality service.
What’s a bakery without donuts? Luckily, this hidden bakery has several options. You’ll find everything from the standard glazed caked donut holes to white or chocolate long johns and apple fritters. If you want to experience their largest offerings, the fluffy-filled long johns will likely do the trick.
Beth loves bringing her kids and letting them pick out their favorite donuts. She’s another happy customer and said, “They have so many amazingly delicious options, and they are always fresh.” So grab a cup of coffee to help wash down the delicious donuts.
Have a special event that requires a cake? Jubelt’s offers vanilla and chocolate cakes with vanilla, original buttercream, or chocolate buttercream frosting. They come in 7” and 9” sizes. They even have a 12” decorated cookie cake in chocolate chip or sugar.
Russel, a former customer, returned and said, “I returned to Jubelt’s after over 20 years. Bought a cake and some cream horns. They were just as great as I remember.” So, while he hadn’t visited in over two decades, the taste and quality remained the same.
In addition to the other treats we’ve listed, Jubelt’s also offers cupcakes, Hungarian cheesecake, and special-shaped cookies. Their shaped cookies are perfect for whatever special occasion you may be having. They’re frequently used for weddings, baby showers, graduation parties, and other special seasons and celebrations.
If you’re unaware, looks can be deceiving, especially for restaurants. Some of the best establishments may not look like it. Jubelt’s may not look like a fantastic bakery, but you’ll likely be convinced once you bite into their treats. If you’re traveling along Route 66, plan to stop and grab something to eat. What is your sweet tooth calling for?
