50 Best Cafes in Chicago

“Food was delicious. Everything we had was amazing.“

“We stopped in today on a tip and what a delicious treat! Highly recommend!“

“First timers and now we will be regulars! The hospitality, atmosphere and fare were outstanding! From the knowledgeable staff, the welcoming management and the hostess that went WAY above and beyond to be sure my disabled husband was accommodated from when we booked our reservation to the end of our dining experience - we couldn’t have been more delighted! See you again soon, Lardon!“

“My God, this sangwich will make you feel that things might just be ok and forget for a moment what a dumpster fire of a time we live in. The lamination! Look at these luscious layers of pastry hugging eggs and some crispy plancha sausage! Look at them! Few things are perfect or capable of changing your life. This sandwich and these brothers just might be the thing. 10/10 and I’ll definitely be back for more.“

“Amazing food and drinks, so many games to play off-the-shelf, and the staff members are super friendly. It's more than a Cafe, it feels like a cozy board game community that we just can't get enough of. Stay & Play is a great time, every time!“

“Everything about our meal was great! The service was a little slow. Lots of time between water then drinks then food then checking in. We had a lovely seat by the fountain which was a nice treat for my sisters birthday. When I made the reservation I clicked birthday celebration. When we arrived to the restaurant I informed the host stand that it was my sisters birthday. Alas, when it came time for dessert the dessert comes out with no candle. I could see the disappointment in my sisters face since like 3 other birthdays were being celebrated that day. I had to awkwardly ask if we could get a candle for her because no matter our age, everyone should get to make a wish on their birthday. We even paid for dessert so I was not looking for a freebie, I was simply looking to make her feel special. I will be back but I think we will take special occasions elsewhere.“

“Intimate setting with great staff who are always welcoming and warm. Their cocktails aren’t just thrown together; they take weeks to perfect their recipes with the final product being works of art. Their Old Fashioned is my favorite so far and the mango shrimp is my favorite entree. Their lavender/mint tea latte is unique, luscious and calming. Save room for Diego’s homemade desserts, they are luscious! Great food, great cocktails, great staff, great ambiance.“

“loved everything about it!“

“I’ve been to plenty of local coffee shops around Chicago and Sputnik is the absolute best. I stumbled upon this hidden gem a few years ago on my commute to work when they were on 51st. It’s been my almost daily stop since then. I’ve switched jobs a few months ago and a Sputnik pit stop adds an extra 20 min to my commute but it’s absolutely worth it.

I highly recommend a hot oat milk vanilla latte but anything you order will be amazing. They roast their own coffee, make their own flavored syrups, and they’ve done both right. The fresh pastries and growing food options have made Sputnik the best all around coffee shop. If you’re a coffee lover, DO NOT sleep on Sputnik.“

“I thought the Olive Oil Cake would be weird, turns out it is delicious. i will definitely come back for it. We have a great breakfast. Everything just so delicious..“

“I have no doubt his place is going to be amazing.“

“It's amazing to see a chai place right across the street from the millennium Park Bean. I never would have thought in a million years. That Ginger cardamom tea really hit the spot on a freezing cold day. I make my own at home And this definitely passed the test. It was nice and packed a punch.“

“Fabulous food and service! Andrii was a fantastic server! Recommend the Pan Con Tomate and Croquettas!“

“Amazing dine-in pizza spot. Unique pizzas by the slice means everyone can try something different. Their pulled pork pizza is the best slice I've ever eaten, bar none. Cheese curds are delicious too!“

“The atmosphere is relaxed. The service is pleasant. The Parisienne sandwich makes me realize how wonderful simple can be. I crave that sandwich. I ate it for lunch today and already can’t wait for the next time.“

“This is a pick-up only bakery located in Pilsen. We got the caramel Tres leches and coconut Tres leches. Both were really good. The sweetness was perfect and not too much. Would highly recommend this bakery for their wide selection of pastries“

“Food was good but even though I was a party of 1, they let people who signed up after me with a party of 2 and 3 go ahead of me, which I would have understood if they were giving me a smaller table. But they gave me the same size table as the ones they let go ahead of me but registered after I did. So there didn't seem to be any methodology on how they assigned tables. And I even said I didn't have a preference on inside or outside. Just first available knowing it's 48 degrees in November in Chicago.“

“It’s cute little coffee shop on a great spot on the corner. It has a small menu of the classic coffee options like latte and cortado, and they have 3 syrup options of lavender, vanilla, or mocha (nope, no caramel!). I forget how small the 8oz is it fits so cutely in my hand but it was a good amount of coffee for my walk home. A bit higher prices but it’s a small business supporting our community! Plenty of seating and space to study, work, or chill!“

“Hexe is a Chicago based roaster offering a unique gothic aesthetic and inspired food and pastry options. The 'Evil Friends' roast is a staple in my home espresso setup, and the Lanthrop Homes based location is an excellent spot to check out, especially in the fall.“

“The overall environment is so relaxing, I could literally spend the whole day there“

“Get the lavender Hazel coffee iced , it will put you in a great mood for the rest of the day. This is a great place with a great mission“

“Great food for the whole family!“

“This is a small neighborhood restaurant with excellent service and food. There is a nice selection of sandwiches. The daily specials which usually include a homemade soup with fresh bread are delicious and priced very economically. They also have homemade breads and deserts, all of which are very good.“

“Best pie I have had in Chicago“

“great cookies, stellar coffee, incredible staff. consistently high quality environment to meet friends and colleagues alike.“

“Very clean place. A gem.“

“Very well thought out menu, great service, welcoming and pleasant ambience!“

“good coffee and great service!“

“Lovely quirky local place that everyone in the neighborhood adores.
I love the hippie vibe of it, everyone working there is caring and love Spoken - it seems like more than just a work place, which is a great sign imo. In many coffee shops the to go or for here served in disposable plates and cups. Spoken is not like this. For your to stay you will get real bowls and spoons. So nice. And they encourage to bring your own mug. My kind of people!
Everything is delusions and unlike many places - Spoken has not succumbed to “shrinkflation” and your grits will be satisfying in taste and servicing size.
Oh and gluten free selection! Is outstanding. depending on a day - it really is an amazing variety and so goood that I am afraid to tell my non GF fiends to try as it is addictive good not just “I will settle for as I have to”.
Only downside- its devout following and small size means this place is busy. And I hope it will stay this way as I want Spoken in the hood for ever!“

“Amazing food and great customer service“

“Nice, grab-and-go, empanada joint. I love their empanadas. They're so good and go great with an abuelita hot cocoa!

Vegetarian options: There are vegetarian options.

Parking: You can park on the streets for free or pay for parking with an app.

Kid-friendliness: Yes.“

“Broadway Cafe isn’t just a place to grab a pastry—it’s an adventure waiting to unfold. My journey began with a warm welcome from Samar, the spirited guide to this treasure trove of baked delights. As I scanned the display of tempting creations, Samar pointed out what would soon become the pinnacle of my dessert escapades: a towering masterpiece that redefined what a cannoli could be.

This wasn’t your average pastry. The top layer, a crisp cannoli shell filled with luscious custard, vanilla, and white chocolate cream, stood like the peak of a culinary mountain daring me to conquer it. Beneath it, a base so soft and rich it could have been mistaken for a cloud spun from sugar. Each bite was a thrilling expedition, as flavors burst like fireworks, keeping my taste buds on their toes.

But let me tell you, it wasn’t just the dessert that made the experience so unforgettable. The cafe exuded an old-world charm blended seamlessly with a modern flair. The whole place felt like a secret portal, whisking me away from the bustling streets of Chicago into a realm where pastries are not just food—they’re art.

Samar, with the enthusiasm of a pastry connoisseur and the wit of a stand-up comedian, ensured that every moment was as entertaining as it was delicious. The energy in the air was contagious, making it impossible not to laugh, savor, and let the adventure take its course.

If you’re ever in Chicago, skip the tourist traps. Broadway Cafe is where the real thrill lies—where a simple pastry becomes a tale of discovery, indulgence, and joy. Trust me, your taste buds will thank you, and your soul will come back for more.“

“⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️ If you’re looking for a little slice of New Orleans, Junebug Cafe is the place to be! From the moment you walk in, the aroma of rich, smooth coffee fills the air, and the first bite of their Louisiana hand pies or fluffy, powdered-sugar-dusted beignets will transport you straight to the French Quarter. The flavors are authentic, the atmosphere is warm, and every sip and bite feels like a celebration. Don’t miss out on this hidden gem—your taste buds will thank you! ☕✨ Start your morning with a little taste of New Orleans right here at Junebug Cafe! #JunebugCafe #TasteOfNOLA #BeignetsAndCoffee #CafeVibes“

“This place is keeping me awake and fresh to get me thru my workday! I love walking over for an afternoon Sportea and potato chips. My new fave go-to!“

“This hidden gem serves the Campus of the University of Chicago and those of us who come in off the street! My parents (both 81) and I came in for lunch. We couldn’t find it at first, but a nice young man happily told us where it was. Inside one of the campus buildings.

We had croissant sandwiches, with side salads and Topo Chico. There was beautiful outdoor seat - most of which was all ready bustling with interesting people (great people watching) enjoying the beautiful weather, wine and fellowship with a beautiful Frank Lloyd Wright house (I believe) right next to them.“

“I was over around this place because of work saw a line around the corner knew I had to try it eventually made my way back. Couldn’t be happier that I did oh my goodness this place is absolutely freaking incredible!!! completely fresh local ingredients, pastries, absolutely incredible sandwiches, homemade soda pops. 🤯🔥🔥🔥 a definite must try!!!! I cannot wait to go back very soon!!!“

“We had lunch here today, and loved everything! Roberto, our server, was the best! Super friendly. Brisket sandwich was fab! Best potato salad I've ever had! Can't wait to go back!“

“Please please please get the vanilla pandan latte, it's a cup of therapy for your soul! The vibe is a pretty cool and chill, easy place to relax and read or do some quiet work. Occasionally they'll have this really cool book story open nextdoor which is a great place to sit and sip your coffee“

“Khepri duo Salad was delicious“

“Very small, byob. The food was excellent and the portions were huge.“

“Best coffee had to wait but it was worth it“

“The best in Chicago!! Very cozy and family oriented!“

“Excellent service from their employees“

“We got the egg frittata which came with fresh Portuguese style bread rolls. The egg dish was really good. Super flavorful and the eggs are perfectly cooked. The bread rolls are amazing, freshly baked. We also got espresso and an affagotto, also delicious. I understand now why this cafe has such high reviews!“

“Luxury and meticulousness are perfectly integrated, and every detail is a persistent pursuit of quality. From warm smiles to comfy bedding, everything is there to make your stay perfect. Here, it is not only a place to stay, but also an excellent choice for you to enjoy luxury and tranquility“

“First time and Wednesday will be my hang day for now on. Great vibes and plenty laid back and free spirit nothing wild. Amazing spot to chill out.“

“My family and I cannot get enough of Alisha's cakes. Her tres leches is the best ever. We typically get the Oreo tres leches for our birthdays now. Everyone asks for Alisha's cakes for their birthdays. The cake is dense and rich so we usually serve smaller slices (but people will go back for seconds).“

“Great chicken mole empanadas, just was in Mexico, so their cafe con leche came in a distant 4th to what I had in Mexico.“

“Had a fantastic BLT sandwich 🥪“

“Far as I know, Gallery Cafe has been slammin' since 2006. The in-house roasted coffee is delicious. The food is filling and everything is priced like we're still in the W/Obama era.
The vibe is hip without feeling pretentious. The staff is friendly & efficient. They sell work by local artists. The seating area is comfortable and roomy. The patio is shaded in the morning.
Hope they're there for the next 20+ years!“