A hidden gem in Bucktown, Café Calida is a great place for cappuccinos, chai, and fresh pastries. The inside is warm and inviting, with lush green plants and big windows that let in plenty of natural light. If you’re looking for a peaceful place to sit down after a long walk, this café is a great choice. Their fresh donuts and warm croissants pair perfectly with a steaming hot coffee.
For serious coffee lovers, La Colombe Coffee Workshop offers expertly crafted lattes, foamy cappuccinos, and pour-over coffees in a bright and modern space. It’s a great grab-and-go spot for busy mornings but also has a few cozy seats for sipping and snacking. While the menu is coffee-focused, they offer a selection of buttery croissants and pastries to pair with your drink. If you’re looking for a quick, high-quality espresso before hitting the shops on Oak Street, this is your place.
If you need a cozy café with friendly baristas, Happy Monday Coffee is a great stop before heading into Millennium Park. The seating is spacious, the vibe is welcoming, and the cappuccinos and lattes are consistently delicious. It’s the kind of place where the baristas actually remember your order—perfect if you’re a local looking for a new go-to spot.
Named after Muddy Waters' iconic album, Electric Mud Coffee Bar is a tribute to Chicago's rich music history. With Dark Matter Coffee on rotation, this place is a must-visit for coffee lovers who appreciate a strong cup and a good playlist. The café’s cozy yet industrial aesthetic makes it a great stop for music lovers looking for a caffeine fix.
This vintage-inspired café brings a retro diner feel with a modern twist. Known for its flaky pastries, seasonal pies, and creamy gelato, Spinning J is a great spot to grab a cappuccino before heading to a record store. The café's 1928 Liquid Carbonic marble bar and art deco furnishings make it a charming place to relax. It’s small but cozy, so grab a window seat, sip on a latte, and enjoy the timeless ambiance.
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.
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.