In downtown West Chicago, there is a relatively new cafe that has already gained attention from local residents: Kamila Cakes. Housed in the former Wiant House, which was renovated in 2023 to accommodate Cocoa Notes Bake Shop, Kamila Cakes is a locally owned bakery known for its custom cakes, named for the owner’s daughter.

Walking inside the bakery, customers are greeted by decorative elements that give the space a homey feel. The scent of baked goods and coffee fills the shop, contributing to the overall atmosphere. Customers place orders at the register before taking a seat while staff prepare drinks and desserts.

Kamila Cakes official menu, featuring a variety of desserts and customizable drinks.

Behind the scenes of Kamila Cakes is the main bakery, where staff prepare items for daily service. An employee cuts the choco flan and carefully places each slice into a clear case. The atmosphere is collaborative, as employees work together to prepare items for the next day.

Daniel Moreno, one of the managers at Kamila Cakes, prepares a caramel latte by drizzling caramel along the inside of the cup. With each step, he works carefully, ensuring each drink is prepared consistently.

The caramel latte is almost done, and now it is time for the finishing touches. The freshly brewed coffee is blended with milk and slowly mixed together. Moreno adds cold foam to the top, completing the drink’s presentation.

The layout of Kamila Cakes is small yet familiar to customers. Seasonal decorations, including items for Valentine’s Day, add to the changing atmosphere of the space. Cakes are displayed in glass cases, allowing customers to view options for individual purchases or special events. The menu hangs above the coffee station for easy ordering.

Inside the cooler are a variety of cakes, including tiramisu, lemon, chocolate, and pink batter cakes. These options are available for customers looking for a quick purchase or those selecting items for larger gatherings.

The lounge area of Kamila Cakes is decorated in a mid-century modern style. The furniture, including chandeliers and different colored chairs, as well as flowers on the tables, came with the bakery when Jesica and Daniel Moreno, the owners of Kamila Cakes, took over the space.

Kamila Cakes also displays seasonal items near the cash register. Customers can examine details up close before deciding on a purchase. A closer look at the glass case shows handmade cakes crafted by Jesica Moreno. As head baker, she specializes in custom designs and cake decoration.

All bakery items are made by Jesica and Daniel Moreno, who manage the business together.

“Algun dia, tendramos otras locationes, en empezar aqui en Illinois,” Daniel Moreno said. (“Someday, we hope to have other locations, starting here in Illinois.”)