A small-batch bakeshop just opened in West Loop with deliciously different pastries

Over the weekend, two Publican alumni quietly opened a funky new bakery that operates out of Metric Coffee Co. at 2021 W Fulton Street in West Fulton Market. Brite is a different kind of bakehouse that specializes in small-batch doughnuts and pastries that use locally sourced ingredients to channel familiar flavors. The croissants, for instance, are laced with everything from pumpkin Thai tea to cheddar and chive. Doughnuts are available in flavors like grape jelly with sesame butter glaze and cold brew cream with blueberry glaze.

Dreamed up by pastry chef Erika Chan (The Publican, Acadia) and chef Sieger Bayer (The Publican, Tortello), Brite serves its sugary treats out of Metric on a first-come, first-served basis. Guests also have the option to pre-order online for curbside pickup Thursday through Sunday from 8am to 3:30pm—just be sure to place your order at least 24 hours in advance. The menu will change regularly, depending on what ingredients are in season and what's exciting to the chefs at the moment. If the current menu is any indication, diners can expect a spotlight on farmers market produce and unexpected flavor combinations.

Brite is a partnership with Metric co-owners Darko Arandjelovic and Xavier Alexander, who saw "an opportunity to expand into baked goods and build a new model in response to the pandemic," according to a release. The two men founded Metric back in 2013 and do just about everything from their expansive West Fulton Market operation—from sourcing and roasting to packaging and brewing. For Chan and Bayer, Brite offers an opportunity to pivot away from the traditional sit-down dining experience, which has faced serious and devastating rollbacks this year.

If you're looking for a bright way to start your day, set your alarm and swing by Metric Coffee before these sweet treats disappear.

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