Chicago Pastry Chefs

If Chicago pastry lovers wonder why they brave the impossible parking situation to satisfy their sweet cravings at Dimitri Fayard's Lincoln Park pastry shop Vanille, it's probably because they suspected what was just confirmed at the World Pastry Championship: this guy is not just one of the best in Chicago. He's one of the best in the world.

By any standard, Dimitri Fayard has a grueling schedule. But add to it training for the year's most prestigious international pastry competition and you get a sense of this French-born Chicagoan's determination.

If you've tried unsuccessfully to get a reservation at Spain's legendary El Bulli restaurant, dubbed by list makers as the best restaurant in the world, you're probably not alone. Now, however, you can stay in Chicago and still get a great taste of desserts El Bulli style at Nomi.