Put your fingers on the pulse of Chicago, and walk with us through this guide of 28 charming Chicago coffee shops that cater to both locals and visitors seeking a delightful caffeine fix.
- 27 Best Chicago Coffee Shops: From Edgewater to the South Side
- Use the Interactive Map to Find Chicago’s Best Coffee Shops Below
- Downtown Chicago Coffee Shops to get your Caffeine Fix
- Sippin’ Java in the Neighborhood: Exploring Wicker Park and Logan Square Coffee Shops
- Buzzin’ on the West Side: West Loop’s Coffee Shops You Can Not Miss
- Northern Delights: Coffee Shops in the Neighborhoods that Make a Mean Cup of Joe
- Coffee it Up on the Southside: Java Fueled Gems in the Neighborhoods South of the City
- Roast. Sip. Savor. Enjoy.
27 Best Chicago Coffee Shops: From Edgewater to the South Side
From artisanal roasters to cozy cafes with unique twists, the Windy City’s downtown area offers an exciting coffee culture that’s waiting to be savored. In this guide, we’ll introduce you to 27 of the most unique coffee shops that capture the essence of Chicago’s downtown scene. So grab your favorite travel mug and get ready to embark on a caffeinated adventure!
Use the Interactive Map to Find Chicago’s Best Coffee Shops Below
Downtown Chicago Coffee Shops to get your Caffeine Fix
Starbucks Reserve Roastery
Address: 646 N Michigan Ave
With four floors of caffeinated wonder, the Starbucks Reserve Roastery on the Mag Mile claims the title for largest Starbucks in the USA. From the rotating selection of rare coffee beans to the decadent pastries and flavorful sandwiches, this is a coffee destination for locals and travelers alike.
Intelligentsia
Address: 53 W Randolph St
Intelligentsia Coffee, a Chicago institution, is another essential stop on any coffee lover’s tour. With multiple locations across the city, including the iconic Millennium Park Coffeebar outpost, Intelligentsia offers a true taste of Chicago’s coffee heritage.
Big Shoulders Coffee
Address: 858 N State St
Relax with a cup of joe from Big Shoulders Coffee at one of their many locations around the windy city. Their robust cold brews are perfect for summer days, while their handcrafted lattes provide a comforting warmth during the colder months.
Hero Coffee Bar
Address: 22 East Jackson Ave
Hidden in the Loop’s concrete jungle, Hero Coffee Bar is a hidden gem downtown. Enjoy their delicious coffee and house-made pastries in a cozy and welcoming environment.
EXPERT TIP: Blue Bottle Coffee Co. and La Colombe are not necessarily local to the city, but are still favorites amongst the locals. Boasting fabulously fresh brews and tasty baked goods, these are two Chicago coffee shops you can not miss.
Sippin’ Java in the Neighborhood: Exploring Wicker Park and Logan Square Coffee Shops
Dark Matter Coffee (The Mothership)
Address: 738 N Western Ave
Start your coffee journey at Dark Matters Mothership on Western Ave. This local favorite combines eclectic ambiance with creative coffee concoctions. Be sure to try their signature Military Latte, a harmonious blend of espresso, matcha, and white chocolate.
Gaslight Coffee Roasters
Address: 2385 N Milwaukee Ave
Logan Square’s Gaslight Coffee Roasters is known for its commitment to quality beans and thoughtful preparation. Their meticulous approach to brewing ensures a delightful coffee experience in every cup.
Caffé Streets
Address: 1750 W Division St
Caffé Streets offers a minimalist and inviting atmosphere. From their expertly crafted espresso drinks to their seasonal offerings, every sip is a testament to their dedication to coffee excellence.
Colectivo Coffee
Address: 2261 N Milwaukee Ave
Colectivo Coffee on Milwaukee Ave is a beloved Milwaukee-based roaster that has made its mark in downtown Chicago. Their vibrant space is perfect for enjoying a cup of freshly brewed coffee.
Passion House Coffee
Address: 2631 N Kedzie Ave
Passion House Coffee in Logan Square is a haven for coffee enthusiasts. Their commitment to sustainable and ethical sourcing shines through in every cup. Don’t miss their signature Dulce de Leche latte!
Sip Of Hope
Address: 3039 W Fullerton Ave
At Sip Of Hope in Logan Square, every cup of coffee you enjoy helps make a difference. Their mission-driven approach supports mental health causes while serving exceptional java brews.
Buzzin’ on the West Side: West Loop’s Coffee Shops You Can Not Miss
Froth
Address: 1515 W Monroe St
If the industrial charm of Froth is not enough to make you smile, then their frothy cups of java definitely will. With a lot more than coffee on the menu, this is a destination for cafe lovers from around the nation.
Sawada Coffee
Address: 112 N Green St
Hiroshi Sawada’s Sawada Coffee in the West Loop is an artistically inclined coffee haven. Sip on their acclaimed Military Latte while admiring the shop’s eclectic decor and urban vibes.
VietFive Coffee
Address: 1116 W Madison St
VietFive Coffee in West Loop offers a refreshing fusion of Vietnamese and American coffee traditions. Savor their signature Vietnamese coffee alongside delectable pastries and sandwiches.
Northern Delights: Coffee Shops in the Neighborhoods that Make a Mean Cup of Joe
Osmium Coffee Bar
Address: 1117 W Belmont Ave
Another hit from Dark Matter – Osmium Coffee Bar, is a true artisan destination. Their expertly crafted coffee drinks, paired with their inventive food menu, make for a truly memorable experience.
Oromo Café
Address: 4703 N Lincoln Ave
Venture to Oromo Café in Lincoln Square for a taste of Ethiopian-inspired coffee culture. Their traditional coffee ceremonies offer a unique experience, while their carefully sourced beans result in rich and flavorful brews.
Understudy Coffee and Books
Address: 5531 N Clark Ave
More than just a coffee shop, Understudy Coffee and Books in Andersonville is a bibliophile’s paradise. Browse their impressive book collection while sipping on a perfectly crafted latte.
Metropolis Coffee Company
Address: 1039 Granville Ave
Metropolis Coffee Company in Edgewater prides itself on its meticulous sourcing and roasting process. Their dedication shines through in every cup, making it a must-visit for coffee aficionados.
Coffee Studio
Address: 5628 N Clark St
Head to Andersonville’s Coffee Studio for a cozy and warm ambiance. Their diverse menu offers a range of coffee drinks and treats that cater to all preferences.
Avondale Coffee Club
Address: 3185 N Elston Ave
This cozy cafe in Avondale is a community hub, serving damn fine coffee and a delightful food menu. Their outdoor seating area is perfect for soaking up the neighborhood vibes.
Heritage Coffee & Bicycle Outpost
Address: 2959 N Lincoln Ave
At Heritage Bicycles in Lakeview, coffee and cycling come together in perfect harmony. Fuel up with their locally roasted beans before embarking on a scenic bike ride through the city.
Coffee it Up on the Southside: Java Fueled Gems in the Neighborhoods South of the City
Afro Joe’s Coffee & Tea
Address: 1818 W 99th St
Embrace the roasted delicacy that is a cup of joe from Afro Joe’s Coffee & Tea. Their welcoming atmosphere and unique blends reflect the neighborhood’s vibrant energy.
Sip & Savor
Address: 31 E Roosevelt Rd
This South Loop coffee shop serves up steaming cups of java and appetizing bites perfect for any time of the day.
Bad Owls
Address: 3315 S Morgan St
Situated directly in the heart of Bridgeport, Bad Owls is a trendy outpost offering a unique coffee experience. Sip on their meticulously crafted drinks while admiring the shop’s edgy, urban decor.
Cafe Jumping Bean
Address: 1439 W 18th St
Venture to Pilsen for Cafe Jumping Bean for an authentic taste of Mexican-inspired coffee culture. Their unique blends and vibrant ambiance transport you to the heart of Mexico City.
Plein Air Café
Address: 5751 S Woodlawn Ave
Located in Hyde Park, Plein Air Café is a tranquil retreat near the University of Chicago’s campus. Their spacious outdoor patio provides the perfect setting to enjoy a cup of joe while soaking in the serene surroundings.
Kusanya Cafe
Address: 825 W 69th St, Chicago, IL 60621
More than just a cafe, Kusanya Cafe in Englewood is a community coffee hotspot that empowers and uplifts. This not for profit coffee shop uses their proceeds supporting local initiatives and entrepreneurs.
Bridgeport Coffeehouse
Address: 3101 S Morgan St
Bridgeport Coffee serves up cups java with internationally renown beans that are imported from around the world.
EXPERT TIP: Whenever I am in a hurry to get things done, Monday Coffee – brewed locally in Chicago – always does the trick. This quick caffeine fix is a 2oz. concentrated cold brew that tastes delicious and brings the energy.
Roast. Sip. Savor. Enjoy.
From the trendy neighborhoods of Logan Square and Avondale to the bustling streets of the Mag Mile & West Loop, these top spots offer a diverse array of coffee experiences. Whether you’re a local seeking your daily caffeine fix or a visitor looking to immerse yourself in Chicago’s vibrant coffee culture, these coffee shops and cafes are sure to delight.
Explore the city’s hidden gems, indulge in the rich flavors of locally roasted beans, and savor the unique ambiance of each spot. With so many options to choose from, you’re bound to find your new favorite coffee haunt in the Windy City.
So, grab a cozy corner, order a damn fine cup of joe, and let the warmth of Chicago’s coffee scene embrace you. From reprise roasters to hot chocolates, locals’ guides to outdoor patios, the city’s coffee shops offer a truly unforgettable experience for all coffee lovers.
Whether you’re a lifelong Chicagoan or a first-time visitor, the city’s coffee shops and cafes offer a truly unforgettable experience. Embrace the local flavor, savor the rich aromas, and let the Windy City’s coffee scene take you on a journey of discovery and delight.
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