Anticonquista Café brings ethically sourced, farm-to-cup coffee straight from the owners’ family farm in Guatemala. Their focus is on quality and sustainability, and you can taste the difference in every sip. The café is small and intimate, making it the perfect spot for a quiet morning coffee with a pastry.
For a cozy neighborhood feel, Red June Café is a local gem. Their breakfast burritos and pastries are great for refueling after a long walk, and the outdoor seating is perfect on a warm day. This spot has a laid-back vibe, friendly service, and great coffee. Whether you’re grabbing a quick iced latte or sitting down for a leisurely morning with a book, Red June makes you feel right at home.
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.
For those craving a quick but satisfying bite, Café L’Appetito is a go-to spot. This Italian deli-meets-café offers rich espresso, paninis, pastries, and hearty sandwiches—perfect for grabbing something on the go. The atmosphere is casual yet charming, with outdoor seating available in warmer months.
If you’re looking for a sleek, minimalist coffee shop with a focus on high-quality espresso, Espresso and Milk is worth the stop. Located near the Civic Opera House, this café is known for its quick service and expertly crafted cortados. It’s an ideal place for commuters, travelers, or anyone needing a reliable caffeine boost before heading to Millennium Park.
thrd coffee is a hidden gem for coffee lovers and creatives. The modern, colorful aesthetic and inviting atmosphere make it an excellent place for a morning coffee or work session. They also serve some of the best specialty drinks in Wicker Park, with impeccable service and a great selection of espresso-based drinks.
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.
If you’re looking for great coffee and a cozy, homely atmosphere, Engine Coffee is a must-visit. With its modern but welcoming ambiance, it's a great stop for a quick espresso and breakfast tacos before a day of crate digging at Wicker Park’s record shops.
This bright and colorful coffee shop has a fun, modern atmosphere, perfect for hanging out, studying, or working remotely. Prequel Café offers high-quality coffee and great breakfast bites, and their quiche pairs perfectly with a cortado. The café has a laid-back, artsy ambiance, making it a great place to sit down and enjoy a slow morning before heading out to browse records.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.