Harner's Bakery and Restaurant is one of the best bakeries in the Fox Valley area, dare I say one of the best in Illinois. I know that is a strong claim to make, but once you have a Harner's treat, you will never want any other. This place is such a favorite of mine that it deserves its own spotlight. Nestled along the Fox River in North Aurora, this quaint, family-owned restaurant boasts handmade donuts, pastries, pies, cakes, and rolls, among other things. Harner's is a local favorite within the community thanks to their good old fashioned food and friendly neighborhood fellowship.
To blatantly state it, Harner's has the best donuts I have ever tasted. Their dough is fried to perfection leaving the donut fluffy and holding its shape. The donuts are ample in size as well and the frosting is decadent without being soggy or runny. Truly, these donuts are incredible and their quality is hard to beat. The Harner's long johns are a favorite in my household thanks to the soft texture and lightly sweetened frosting. The frosting is just sweet enough to compliment the dough, coming together in a perfect combination. Choices include chocolate raised donuts, vanilla and chocolate long johns, plain glazed, an assortment of cake donuts, and, my personal favorite, jelly bismarcks. These donuts consistently hit the spot every time which explains why they are in high demand.
Moving on, you will be pleased to know that Harner's has more than just donuts. Their cookies and pies as well as their rolls, bread and pastries are just as delicious as their donuts. The cookies come freshly baked in a wide variety of flavors and textures. Their yellow smiley face cookie was a tradition to bring into school on my birthday when I was a child. They are a sign of happiness and nostalgia that you can instantly feel from the first taste. I could consume multiple Harner's cookies with ease because of the perfect combination of a chewy middle and a crispy, crunchy outer edge. Equally important are the pies. These pies are a must-have at family holidays, get togethers, and birthdays. Nothing brings family together much like Harner's mouthwatering, fresh homemade pies. My personal favorite is the cherry pie for multiple reasons. For one, the outer edge is the best combination of flaky and crispy. The dough maintains its crisp shape and blends splendidly with the cherry filling. Second, the fruit filling is so refreshing and tasty that it would be delicious on its own. Other family favorites include the old fashioned apple pie and lemon meringue. Lastly, Harner's rolls and bread are to-die-for. The quality of their bread is amazing thanks to the soft, cloud-like texture. The banana bread is moist and nutty which makes it a favorite amongst our family.
Harner's bakery items may seem like the star of the show, but their restaurant food must be bragged about as well. I did write a review a while ago on their restaurant food, but I felt that it deserves a second nod. If you are looking for comfort food made in a comfortable, rustic atmosphere, look no further. Their home cooking features favorites such as fried chicken, corned beef and cabbage, chicken pot pie, and prime rib. Whether you are there for breakfast, lunch or dinner, the food is cooked with quality ingredients and flavors that are guaranteed to leave you satisfied and happy. A family favorite is Harner's biscuits and gravy. The generous serving of rich and creamy gravy is the perfect accompaniment to the light and flaky biscuits. Together, they form a nostalgic moment that feels like a warm hug from within. Anything on the Harner's menu is worth trying and is sure to leave you coming back for more.
Harner's truly is the definition of a mom and pop bakery and restaurant. The staff is always friendly and ready to lend a helping hand. They have been around for decades and have gained a following of loyal customers throughout the area. If you are not from the area, maybe it is time you plan a visit! Do yourself a favor and run, do not walk, to Harner's Bakery the next time you need dessert, a meal with friends, some home-cooked food, or community.