Dinkel's history reads like a storybook; the bakery was founded in 1922 by Joseph Dinkel, one of a long line of master bakers in his native Dinkelsbuhl in Bavaria. The European bent beats on in this Lakeview shop, as do the original recipes, including one for Dinkel’s famous stollen. The Old World formula includes a mix of toasted cashews, almonds, pineapple and golden raisins, all dipped in rum and brandy before baking. For a slightly different taste, try the cinnamon stollen. Strudels are another no-fail choice; choose from varieties like poppyseed, cherry cheese and almond and apricot.

For a more sugary treat, try the linzer cookies, made with pure almond paste and Dinkel’s own raspberry preserves. A great place for cakes, consider one of these favorites: Dinkel’s "1922" home-style layer cake, fresh banana cake, the original frozen cream cheese cake and Atomic cake, a combination of yellow and chocolate cake layers filled with fresh fruits, custard and whipped cream. The Sip ‘N Whiskey cake, made of sour mash whiskey, whole wheat flour, raisins, pecans, fresh eggs, milk and whiskey is another unique and tasty option.

Centerstage Reviewer: Kate Schwartz