Leonard's Bakery Closing After 34 Years in Northbrook

NORTHBROOK, IL — At the same time many businesses have begun reopening in Illinois, a beloved North Shore institution is shutting its doors forever. Leonard's Bakery, which opened for business in Northbrook in 1987, is closing, according to a Wednesday post on its Facebook page.

Marc Becker, the proprietor and owner of Leonard's Bakery, has opted to retire, according to the post. The bakery is located at 2776 Dundee Road.

"On behalf of Marc and the entire Leonard’s team, we wanted to sincerely thank each and every one of our customers for your unconditional support and loyalty throughout all of our years in business," the post reads.

Becker grew up in the bakery business as a fifth-generation bakery owner. His grandparents started Leonard's Bakery in 1908 on the South Side of Chicago, according to the bakery's website. In the 1940s, Becker's parents moved the bakery to Devon Avenue. In 1987, Becker opened the Northbrook location.

Billing itself as the premier Jewish bakery on Chicago's North Shore. Leonard's is famous for its coffeecakes, macaroons, kiddush and rugelah. The bakery also featured a full line of Kosher items as well.

Becker was known to personally greet customers, handing out free samples of the "coffee cake of the day" and talking with customers who have known him since he was a small boy, according to the website.

"The business has allowed Marc and the team to meet so many wonderful people, and we feel honored and privileged to have had the opportunity to serve you," the Facebook post, from Becker and the Becker's team, reads. "All of our customers were sweeter than the sweets here at Leonard's! We will sincerely miss you all. Many thanks from the bottom of all our hearts."