Bang Bang Pie & Biscuits is a must-visit for coffee and comfort food. Their house-made biscuits and rotating seasonal pies are legendary, and the buttery crusts pair perfectly with a strong cup of locally roasted coffee. Whether you’re in the mood for a savory biscuit breakfast or a sweet slice of pie, this rustic, homey café is a Logan Square favorite.
Pedestrian Coffee is a small-batch roastery that’s all about craft coffee and community. Their affogato and espresso drinks are some of the best in the area, and the bar-style counter seating gives the café an old-school diner feel. Whether you’re grabbing a quick cortado or lingering over a scone and latte, Pedestrian is a solid neighborhood go-to.
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.
A neighborhood staple, The Coffee Studio is sleek, modern, and welcoming—the kind of spot where you can sip on a perfectly made cortado while getting some work done. The baristas here are knowledgeable and friendly, always down to chat about beans, brew methods, and their selection of vegan pastries. The space is bright, minimalist, and perfect for remote work or a casual coffee date. Plus, they go the extra mile with free menstrual products and a sharps container in the washrooms, making it a community-focused café with a modern edge. Must-Try: Their iced lattes are a local favorite, and the house-made vegan pastries are worth a try.
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.
A beloved local café known for its flavorful breakfast sandwiches, donuts, and quality coffee, Spoken Café is a gem in Ravenswood. The warm, inviting space makes it a great spot for remote workers or anyone looking to grab a quick but satisfying breakfast. The pumpkin cream cheese muffins are a must-try, and the staff is always welcoming.
Bright, open, and welcoming, Backlot Coffee is a great space for remote workers and coffee lovers alike. The cold brew is smooth, the pastries are fresh, and the staff is always friendly. It’s a fantastic café if you need a productive work spot or just a place to relax and enjoy a well-made espresso. The ham and cheese croissant is a must-try, and the Wi-Fi is reliable, making it a great spot for remote work or study sessions.
Nomad is more than just a coffee shop—it’s a beautifully curated boutique space where you can sip on a velvety latte while browsing home goods, candles, and coffee table books. Their oat milk lattes and matcha drinks are especially popular, and their rotating selection of pastries keeps things interesting. With a cozy yet upscale vibe, this spot is perfect for a slow morning before heading out to explore the Gold Coast.
If you need a coffee break with a side of relaxation, Dollop Coffee Co. has plenty of seating, a mellow atmosphere, and great coffee. They serve freshly baked pastries, bagels, and sandwiches, making it a perfect spot to grab breakfast or a light lunch while taking a break from shopping.
If your shopping day calls for a sugar boost, Molly’s Cupcakes is the place to go. Their Crème Brûlée and Peach Cobbler cupcakes are customer favorites, and they serve freshly brewed coffee to go with it. Plus, the swings at the counter make this a fun and cozy stop.
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.
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.
If you’re looking for a study spot by day and a cozy pub by night, this hybrid coffee house and taproom has you covered. During the day, enjoy their smooth lattes and fresh pastries in a relaxed, plant-filled setting perfect for working. Then, when the sun sets, the space transforms into a chill bar with craft beer and happy hour specials—ideal for unwinding after a long study session.
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.
La Colombe is a household name in specialty coffee, and the Fulton Market location doesn’t disappoint. The modern, minimalist space offers expertly crafted lattes, cold brew on tap, and their signature Draft Latte. Service is fast and friendly, and whether you’re grabbing a quick espresso before work or catching up with a friend over cappuccinos, this spot is a go-to for many Chicagoans.
Metric Coffee is a modern, industrial-chic café known for its house-roasted beans and expertly crafted brews. Located in Fulton Market, this spot is a favorite among coffee purists who appreciate high-quality espresso and thoughtfully sourced beans. The patio seating makes it a great place to enjoy a morning cappuccino or cold brew.
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.
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.
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 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.
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.
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.
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.