Café Tola is tiny but mighty, and it’s a Lakeview favorite. This grab-and-go Mexican café serves strong coffee, killer empanadas, and sweet pastries—perfect for fueling up before heading into Wrigley Field. Their red spicy pork empanada is a must-try, but they also have green salsa chicken and beef options that pair perfectly with a latte.
A cozy bakery-meets-café, The Bakehouse Chicago is known for perfectly baked pastries and rich, smooth coffee. Their caramel latte is a fan favorite, and their spinach and ricotta croissant is the ideal pre-game snack. The lemon raspberry tart is a must-try if you’re in the mood for something sweet.
Elevate Coffee is a modern, welcoming café that’s perfect for both work and play. They serve up smooth nitro cold brew, fluffy breakfast burritos, and a solid cappuccino that keeps locals coming back. Whether you’re getting work done before a game or need a quick caffeine fix before heading to the stadium, Elevate Coffee won’t disappoint.
Dollop Coffee is a go-to café for locals who want a little peace before the game-day crowds take over Wrigleyville. With plenty of seating, strong espresso drinks, and a selection of bagels, donuts, and sandwiches, it’s a great place to fuel up and escape the game-day madness for a moment.
A bright, spacious café with lots of natural light, Pedestrian Coffee is perfect if you want to sit and relax before heading to a Cubs game. The baristas are friendly, the pumpkin latte is top-tier, and the baked goods are always fresh. If you’re looking for a solid local café with an aesthetic interior and a great patio, this is the one.
A hidden gem in Lakeview, Doppio Coffee House serves strong, smooth coffee with a side of warm hospitality. Their French-toast muffin is a must-try, and their cappuccino with oat milk is a customer favorite. If you need a break from the Wrigleyville energy, this cozy coffee house is a great escape.
Located just a short walk from Lincoln Park Zoo, Ludlow Charlingtons Coffee Shop is a cozy, family-owned gem that offers a unique, dog-themed atmosphere. With Victorian-style dog portraits adorning the walls, it’s the perfect spot for animal lovers to grab a cup of coffee before heading to the zoo.
For a breakfast that pairs perfectly with your morning coffee, The Bagelers Coffeehouse is a great spot near Lincoln Park Zoo. With a variety of bagels, fresh cream cheese, and a delicious selection of coffee, this cozy shop is ideal for a quick but satisfying pre-zoo stop. The friendly staff makes every visit a pleasant one, and the atmosphere is laid-back, perfect for grabbing a coffee to-go.
If you’re seeking a cozy and welcoming spot to start your zoo day, Cafe Deko is just the place. With its 1930s-inspired Art Deco theme, this charming café offers a quiet escape before you visit the Lincoln Park Zoo. Known for its smooth lattes and light bites, Cafe Deko combines great coffee with a warm, stylish ambiance.
Just a short distance from the Lincoln Park Zoo, Floriole Cafe & Bakery is a beloved neighborhood spot with a peaceful, charming ambiance. This café serves artisanal coffee alongside delectable pastries and light breakfasts. Whether you're looking for a rich mocha to start your day or a delicate latte to sip on, Floriole’s expertly crafted drinks will not disappoint.
If you’re in search of a cozy café to fuel up before your zoo trip, Olor Coffee Bar is the place to be. Situated near the zoo, Olor offers a calm, welcoming environment with friendly service and high-quality coffee. Known for its expertly brewed espresso and lattes, this spot is perfect for those who need a quick pick-me-up before their zoo visit.
For those who enjoy a sleek, modern coffee experience, Printer's Row Coffee Co. offers a minimalist yet cozy space to get your caffeine fix before heading to the zoo. This local favorite serves small-batch roasted coffee and house-made syrups, ensuring a fresh, flavorful cup every time.
If you're an aficionado of high-quality coffee, Coffee Lab & Roasters near Lincoln Park Zoo will not disappoint. Known for its expertly roasted coffee and cozy vibe, this local gem offers a welcoming space to enjoy a carefully crafted latte or espresso. The friendly staff and inviting atmosphere make it an excellent spot to kickstart your zoo visit.
La Colombe Coffee Workshop offers a refined coffee experience just a stone’s throw away from the Lincoln Park Zoo. This trendy café serves high-quality coffee, including delicious lattes and cappuccinos. With a relaxed atmosphere and expertly crafted drinks, La Colombe is a fantastic spot to enjoy a morning coffee before heading to the zoo.
Elaine's Coffee Call offers a cozy nook for coffee lovers looking to get their caffeine fix before heading to the zoo. Known for its great service and cool atmosphere, this coffee shop serves a variety of espresso drinks, from rich lattes to bold cold brews. If you're in the mood for a quick bite before your zoo visit, Elaine’s also offers delicious pastries and sandwiches.
Located a short distance from the Lincoln Park Zoo, Soloway Coffee is a neighborhood favorite that serves delicious coffee and pastries in a relaxed, cozy setting. Known for its great service and quality coffee, Soloway is perfect for anyone looking to enjoy a cup of coffee before their zoo adventure.
Momentum Coffee is one of the best grab-and-go spots nearby if you need a quick caffeine fix. With fast service and solid coffee, it’s the perfect choice if you don’t want to wait in long lines before the river dyeing starts at 10 a.m. Their classic lattes, Americanos, and mochas will keep you warm, and if you need something heartier, grab one of their pastries or breakfast sandwiches to go.
Located right across the street from Millennium Park, this café is an easy stop before heading over to the bridge. They offer a variety of coffee beans from different roasters, so if you’re a coffee lover who likes to switch things up, this is the spot. With a cozy but modern atmosphere, Fairgrounds is also a great place to warm up before heading back out into the St. Patrick’s Day crowds.
For something a little different from your usual coffee order, Bubblelicious offers bubble tea, milk teas, and specialty lattes just a short walk from Michigan Avenue Bridge. If you want a fun and Instagram-worthy drink while watching the river turn green, this is the spot. Their Strawberry Jasmine Milk Tea is a popular choice, but they also have classic coffee drinks if you’re craving caffeine.
If you’re looking for a coffee shop that feels like a European café, Leonidas Chocolate Café is the one. It serves rich Belgian hot chocolate, expertly made cappuccinos, and an assortment of croissants, pastries, and chocolates. The cozy indoor seating is perfect for warming up before the parade, and if you have a sweet tooth, their handmade chocolates are a must-try.
This chocolate-lover’s paradise is just a short walk from the bridge and is known for its rich, European-style drinking chocolates and high-quality espresso drinks. If you’re looking for a cozy place to warm up before heading back out into the festivities, this café is an excellent choice. Plus, they offer delicious pastries and chocolate treats if you want a little snack before finding a good viewing spot.
Blue Bottle is a well-loved coffee chain, but this location near Millennium Park makes it a convenient stop before heading over to the Michigan Avenue Bridge. If you like your coffee smooth, strong, and expertly crafted, Blue Bottle is a great choice. Their small but airy café is ideal for grabbing a quick drink before making your way to the parade or the river dyeing event.
A bit further from the bridge but worth the walk, Overflow Coffee is a great option if you want a quieter place to sit before the St. Patrick’s Day chaos begins. They serve excellent specialty lattes, iced teas, and locally made pastries. The seating is comfortable, making it a great spot to stop and recharge before heading back out into the city.
Dollop Coffee is a local favorite for a reason—they serve fantastic lattes, seasonal drinks, and hearty pastries. If you’re in a hurry but still want quality coffee, their grab-and-go service makes it easy to get your caffeine fix before heading to the riverwalk. Plus, they offer comfortable seating if you need a break from the crowd.
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