Strugglebeard Bakery

Black-owned bakery in Hyde Park’s Harper Court. Cookies, cupcakes, brownies, muffins, and café drinks from Army veteran Quinton McNair. Quinton McNair opened Strugglebeard Bakery at 5221 S. Harper Court after retiring from 24 years in the Army. Baking started as a pandemic hobby that helped him through PTSD and depression; he quit his civilian HR job in 2020, began shipping orders in 2021, and opened the Hyde Park shop in October 2023. The name comes from his joking hashtag about struggling to grow facial hair — kept because it matches the shop’s mix of serious craft and irreverent energy. The menu includes spirit-infused and classic cookies (among them vegan options), cupcakes, brownies, muffins, loaf slices, plus coffee, espresso, and tea. Catering for events is offered. Public events on the bakery site include Cookies & Karaoke Fridays and a First Sunday Tea Party Social. Phone: (773) 675-5994