50 Best Coffee Shops in Chicago

“My Saturday rest day go to delivery! Best iced mocha latte, empanada, and Cuban sandwich I've ever had... The beignets are also fantastic. 10/10 would recommend!“

“When heading towards Beverly for a property management home inspection, I wanted to find a local coffee joint that I could get a coffee and a snack of some sort. Afro Joe's was calling to me. Walking in, greeted warmly, the adventure began. If you haven't been, check the menu before you go because you will want to order one of each item! Since it was my first time, most certainly NOT the last, I needed a lifeline. Charmaine to the rescue. I don't know if I manifested or she read my mind , but when I asked which sandwich I should order instantly , she said the short rib! Boom! Done. Next up, a drink choice. Again I was not led astray. The option was a blueberry lavender cold brew topped with rose cold foam. As she was suggesting the option, Charmaine lifted the one she was drinking and again instantly sold. No chocolate croissant available since it was later in the morning but the chocolate morning roll was there and three for three, the order was placed. I already know that I have to come back, time and time again.Just walking in such a chill vibe , perfect music, everyone tables either working or chatting with a friend. The open kitchen invites you to see the hustle and bustle. The garage doors roll up onto the patio for warmer days and what appears to be local art work adorns the walls. When I tell you, this is absolutely no exaggeration, every item was on point! The short rib was so flavor forward eith the bite of picked onions, there was a side of diced pickles and onions too. Also a hit. The warm bun had some fruit nestled in its chocolatey tummy, flakes and moist with the richness of cocoa. And for the latte, cold, sweet and the flavors all complimented each other so well. I did opt for whole milk because, why not?!? I had one too many client emails and texts to be able to enjoy grabbing a book from the shelf but note, they even had the sharpest of colored pencils to doodle or write a note with. I have not one complaint, well, maybe one, I wish they were in my neighborhood because this would be a staple place to visit regularly! Until we meet again and I can get my hands on a chocolate croissant next...or any one of the other of their baked goods. Support your Local Black Owned Businesses!“

“The coffee here is incredible! ☕️ What really stands out is how the owners and baristas always greet you with a smile when you arrive and say goodbye when you leave - it really makes you feel welcome 😊. I’m so grateful for this little gem in our community ✨. It’s always a great experience every time I visit!“

“The pastries are very delicious! I have a variety of them. They are some of the best I have had in unexpected combinations. The latte I had was floral and balanced. It was a Lavender Latte. If you love coffee and pastries, you do not want to miss out on this experience. Cafe Calida has a selection that is full of flavor that is truly sure to delight. Visit them today to see for yourself. Check their hours of operation.“

“Scenes was a regular part of my circuit in my late 20s/early 30s. And now, some 30 years later my daughter told me about Understudy. Finally!“

“loved everything about it!“

“I enjoyed horror trivia with my london fog!“

“Super chill, artsy, fun place to get some coffee, slow down and lose track of time for awhile.“

“Excellent coffee and empanadas, delighted owners/staff, easy street parking. Support small and local!“

“Moonwalker is our favorite neighborhood cafe! They have the best sandwiches both for breakfast and lunch and such delicious lattes, the banana bread latte is to die for. All only made better by their incredible staff!“

“Many of our staff and friends have enjoyed Khepri Cafe. We are so happy they have a location in Mt. Prospect now.“

“Sometimes it seems like the people are so stoned they can not really explain things if you have never been there. Also pricing can be very misleading if you do not know what your looking at and just thinking oh ill try this with this. They when you get to the register you have a 30$ drink and you have no idea why and doesnt even have an effect on you. Just read and dont feel rushed because there is usually a line. Some of the edibles I think are way overpriced but most are from places like this.“

“If you’re looking for authentic Serbian cuisine this is it, being Serbian I’ve been dying for some cevaps and Sarma and we came here from Indiana for my birthday !!!!! Thank you we will be back!!! Friendly caring staff and off the charts yummy Serbian food 🥰“

“I ordered a Matcha Chi iced latte and it was BOMB! A comedian also came in that I recognize from LA and said hello. Super cute space & environment 🫶🏾 I also live in Springfield IL and this is my first experience!“

“Fantastic from start to finish.“

“I haven’t tried everything in there but the coffee drinks and different juices I’ve had are really good and the staffs super nice friendly always smiling.“

“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.“

“Love this new local coffee shop! I'm always on the lookout for a good independently owned coffee shop and this is at the top of my list. The iced coffee is amazing - the flavor has a slight sweetness to it which sets it apart from a lot of other brews I've had. The inside is small but has plenty of seating, so a great place to get studying/work done (plus free - reliable - wifi). The icing on the cake is that their mission is to support local shelter dogs - 50% of sales on their merchandise goes to Friends of Chicago Animal Care and Control. The dog-themed decor is also adorable. Highly recommend!!!“

“Great brew!! Pancakes were the bomb!!“

“I LOVE Side Practice Coffee. The atmosphere and ambience create the perfect place to chill with a fantastic cup of coffee. The staff and customers are super friendly. I come here to write in my journal or plan out my projects for the week. I always feel inspired here.“

“Wonderful space for black people looking to share their art or make friends. I was immediately welcomed and made to feel comfortable. They do require food purchase but it’s worth it, the quesadillas came with this unique mango salsa I loved.“

“Cute coffee shop! The tea was fine. The vibe is bustling and the tables can be full. The other customers were munching on some tasty looking bread and the staff all seemed polite. I think for me, I didn't meet my desired flavor intensity.“

“Ube tiramisu UBE brownie UBE latte cold Pandan latte cold“

“October Cafe is by far the best coffee shop around Chicagoland…. If you have not tried it you are missing out. The coffee flights change and always come with a wonderful theme. The owners are friendly wonderful strong women who show so much compassion for the community. I am blessed to have found this cafe, as a place that is relaxing and cozy and feels like home. The baristas ring a bell and announce your flight and bring you your meal and drinks if you dine in. So wonderful! Thank you October Cafe for making a place for fundraising, local artists, crafters and other entrepreneurs to sell their items. 10 out of 10 stars across the board. ⭐️ 🎃 Pumpkins you won’t be disappointed trust me!“

“Delicious fresh Thai cuisine. Staff is friendly and the space is beautiful!“

“I took my wife here for her birthday last week. The vibe was lit. The worker behind the counter was so helpful and went out of her way to answer any questions we had. She made us our lemonade to perfection. We also got the infused turtle cheesecake. Everything was great. We will definitely be back here.“

“10 years, and I still love them. Everything is perfect at any location. Chicago’s premier roasters.“

“Deserves more than 5 stars! WONDERFUL experience each time I come here. Everything made from scratch. Not just pierogi ---Gelato, soups, empanadas, tamales, pizza pie (takes 50 mins to make from scratch and worth it!!) Premium Belgium chocolates, shakes, Coffee and most recent.....160 (yes one hundred and sixty) different premium teas from around the world!!.....and more to come! They also own the tea room and book store next to the cafe. Owners are THE BEST! Welcoming, personable and humorous. Dinning outside available and pups are welcome! You can tell they have a passion for the business. HIGHLY recommend! ENJOY!“

“This is my favorite breakfast and coffee shop. Everything is good here including the staff and music“

“The crepes are delicious and filling!“

“This is such a great spot for breakfast and to get some work done! I am in love with their breakfast sandwich – it is such a delicious way to start the day. Every time I've gone here, the staff is super friendly and the atmosphere feels super conducive to getting work done or some reading in. Would highly recommend if you're looking for a nice place to grab a bite, want to catch up with friends, or get some to do's crossed off your work list!“

“Visit 1
- the ube matcha latte felt chalky
- the cheesecake had very little base so it was hard to eat.
- the coffee was good

Visit 2
- the vibes of the place remain same

Visit 3
- the espresso martini was strong but good; the foam on it is delicious
- the matcha margarita is a very good balance and also has a great foam.“

“I’m in love with this place and the people working there are sweet and nice I’m addicted“

“We stopped by this place right as they were opening before getting back on the road, and it was honestly such a lovely find 😊 The moment we walked in, the decor and overall vibe stood out - it had a calm, slow-paced, and peaceful aesthetic that made it really relaxing 🌿✨

The service was great from the start, friendly and welcoming 👍 The coffee was excellent ☕ smooth, fresh, and exactly what we needed in the morning. They also had a nice selection of pastries 🥐, offering a decent variety to choose from, which made it even better for a quick stop.

Overall, it felt like a perfect little break from the road - quiet, comfortable, and well put together. Definitely a wonderful spot to relax and recharge before continuing the trip 🚗💛“

“10 years, and I still love them. Everything is perfect at any location. Chicago’s premier roasters.“

“Relaxed comfortable vibe. We enjoyed a hot
cafe mocha and drip that were tasty and smooth. Breakfast sandwich with jalapeño bagel hit the spot. The single origin full bean roasts are enjoyable to take home and brew. Have purchased the single origin bags a couple of times and always fresh and
Delicious. Highly recommend.“

“Ordered the margherita and pepperoni and both were so good! Solid hang, amazing sauce, and great crust. 10/10 on taste/presentation. Ordered pickup, was right on time and extremely fresh. Highly recommend!“

“Fabulous Chix Sammiche!! More please...“

“Amazing vegan sandwiches, ice cream and service! 10/10“

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

“The owner is so welcoming, and let’s not even get started on the food! I had the chorizo and veggie skillet, and he was kind enough to let me try a bit of both. The coffee was amazing, too. My friend ordered the poblano crepe (of course I had to taste it), and that was absolutely delicious as well! Like he said, “when you go there, he wants it to be more than just good food …he wants it to be an experience”, and he truly delivers!“

“Can’t say enough great things about this place. The word that immediately leaps to mind when I think of it is…comfort. It’s a comfortable space with a very relaxing vibe. And old school coffee house vibe in many ways (and that’s a HUGE compliment in my book).“

“Awesome breakfast and drinks, got to chat with the owner-what a great guy! 5 stars all around!“

“Thank you, Backlot Coffee, for letting us use our personal cups again and helping to protect the environment.“

“Service was great. Food was excellent. Unfortunately, they could not accept our gift card. The gift card is valid and has never been used. My guess is the server fat fingered it or typed it incorrectly. Either way, it made the experience a more expensive and soured an otherwise enjoyable brunch.“

“What a welcomed addition to the neighborhood, small yet intimate. Fabulous food complete w/a fabulous, thoughtful staff - very attentive, always smiling!! My new go to place for authentic Greek food, aroma of fresh coffee, and exquisite orange pie. Not to be missed!!“

“Everything is delicious.“

“clean environment, friendly staff and AMAZING coffee ☕ 😋“

“I brought my three little girls here after playing at Indian Boundary Park and received absolutely wonderful service from Ricky. The coffee was tasty, the girls loved the herbal tea he made for them at just the right temperature, and the holler deal for a pastry and beverage can’t be beat! He even took the time to bring out some coloring books and colored pencils to give the girls something to do, though I think they were most entranced with the working rotary phone. We will definitely be back!“

“I’ve been loving Loba’s pineapple sourdough muffins. They are beyond delicious! I’m not vegan, but these vegan pastries are life changing! I also am a big fan of their cold brew. This Christmas, I decided to try their take-n-bake kouign-amann; and OMG my family and I were IN LOVE with the Ham & Gruyere kouign-amann! I will need to reorder this again next year!! 100% recommend!“