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Ipsento Coffee Co.

Ipsento is not just a coffee shop—it's a coffee experience. This modern, minimalist café serves some of the best nitro cold brews in the city, along with a creative menu of espresso drinks and house-made donuts. By night, Ipsento transforms into a cocktail bar, offering an entirely different experience.

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Allez Café

A small, cozy café with a great selection of pastries and matcha drinks, Allez Café is a fantastic stop for a quick breakfast after a workout. The friendly staff and relaxed atmosphere make it a great place to start your day. Their breakfast sandwiches are highly rated, and if you’re a fan of smooth lattes, their matcha latte is one of the best in the neighborhood.

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Café Calida

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.

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Michael Damato

Groundswell Coffee Roasters

If you're looking for a quiet, cozy café to work from or just enjoy a well-crafted coffee, Groundswell Coffee Roasters is a solid pick. The shop has a relaxing atmosphere, friendly staff, and outdoor seating that’s perfect on a nice day. Their Pumpkin Pie Latte is a seasonal favorite, and they serve delicious pastries and light sandwiches if you’re in the mood for a snack.

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Te’Amo Boba Bar - Water Tower Place

Te’Amo Boba Bar offers refreshing bubble tea, Japanese-style mochi donuts, and light Asian-inspired treats. If you’re craving something cold and sweet while shopping, their cheesecake milk tea or dalgona coffee is a great choice. The shop’s trendy aesthetic makes it Instagram-worthy, and it’s a fun stop before heading back to Michigan Avenue’s stores.

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Misericordia's Hearts & Flour Bakery and Café

A café with a mission, Hearts & Flour is a nonprofit bakery that supports individuals with disabilities while serving up some of the best baked goods in town. The space is bright and welcoming, with a delicious selection of breakfast sandwiches, croissants, and pastries. Their grilled ham and cheese and buttery croissants are standouts.

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Vietfive Coffee

This Vietnamese-inspired coffee shop is all about bold flavors and unique drinks. Their coconut Vietnamese iced coffee is a game-changer, and their Bánh Mì sandwiches and empanadas make it a great place for a coffee and lunch combo. The quiet ambiance is ideal for studying or casual meetings.

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Groundswell

Groundswell is the kind of laid-back coffee shop that blends seamlessly into Fulton Market’s creative energy. They roast their own beans in-house and serve up smooth espresso drinks, well-balanced mochas, and fresh paninis. The bright, airy space with warm lighting and comfortable seating makes it a great spot for catching up on emails or enjoying a quiet moment with coffee.

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Olor Coffee Bar

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.