Chicago’s coffee scene is a vibrant mix of cozy cafes and trendy roasteries. In this guide, we curante the city’s top coffeee spots where you can find the best coffee and liveliest local communities.
Each Chicago neighborhood offers a unique blend of specialty coffee spots. From perfectly brewed espressos to delicious flat whites and cold brews, Chicago’s coffee shops know their craft. Join us on a journey through Houston’s top coffee spots.
Frisson Espresso
9.4/10 (1023 reviews)
| Directions | +1 646-850-3928
Skilled baristasVariety of milk optionsBold and strong coffee
Frisson Espresso is a hidden gem that you must visit if you love coffee. The baristas are skilled in creating lovely latte art and the almond croissants are served warm, adding a nice touch to your experience. One of the highlights is the variety of milk options available, including oat, soy, and almond milk, alongside the regular milk. The coffee is bold and strong, with a chocolaty aftertaste that is simply brilliant. The staff is efficient, caring, and always ready to make your experience a memorable one.
Note: the place is very small. We saw a lot of people who ordered coffee to go. Probably not easy to find a place if you are with a group.
Café Integral
9/10 (415 reviews)
Quality coffeeHouse-made almond milkAuthentic atmosphere
Café Integral is a hidden gem that prioritizes quality coffee over flashy aesthetics, which sets it apart from other trendy spots in the area. The no-frills environment may seem simple, but it adds to the charm and authenticity of the experience. The black coffee is a standout, with a fresh taste that warms the soul and distinguishes itself from other cafes in the neighborhood. The house-made almond milk is a huge draw for customers, adding a unique touch to specialty drinks like “the Olivia.” While the interior may not be ultra-curated, the focus on great coffee and genuine service shines through, making Café Integral a must-visit for true coffee aficionados.
Masseria Caffè & Bakery
9/10 (309 reviews)
Website | Directions | +1 212-969-0900
Quality coffeeDelicious sandwichesOutdoor seating
Masseria Caffè & Bakery seems to bring a touch of Italy to the heart of Manhattan, offering a simple and no-nonsense approach to coffee and pastries. The coffee is highly praised by customers, with some calling it the best they’ve ever had in their lives. The sandwiches are also a highlight, with customers recommending the Panino Caldo and the Caprese sandwich. Despite its small size, the outdoor seating is a plus, allowing patrons to enjoy their coffee and snacks al fresco. However, some customers have mentioned that the service could use a bit more warmth and kindness to elevate the overall experience. In terms of the food and coffee offerings, Masseria Caffè & Bakery seems to deliver on quality and taste, making it a go-to spot for those looking for a genuine Italian cafe experience in the midst of a bustling city.
Hole In The Wall
9/10 (471 reviews)
Website | Directions | +1 646-726-4277
Flavorful kimchi scrambleCrispy sweet potato friesExceptional service
Nestled in the heart of Chelsea, Hole In The Wall offers an exceptional dining experience with standout dishes and friendly service. The kimchi scramble is a customer favorite, packed with flavor and just the right amount of kick. The sweet potato fries are a must-try, perfectly crispy and satisfying without being greasy. The relaxed atmosphere and attentive staff make this spot a top choice for a leisurely meal or a quick bite on the go.
Intelligentsia Coffee Monadnock Coffeebar
9/10 (540 reviews)
Website | Directions | +1 312-253-0594
Cozy atmosphereExpert baristasDelicious Avena Latte
Nestled in the heart of Chicago, Intelligentsia Coffee Monadnock Coffeebar offers a cozy atmosphere with plenty of seating options, including bar stools equipped with handy hooks for your belongings and outlets for charging devices. The baristas at this location are knowledgeable and recommended the delightful Avena Latte, a perfectly balanced concoction of coffee, milk, and spices that paired beautifully with a ham and cheese croissant. While the pastries may not always be warm, they are still delicious. With a long-standing presence in the Chicago coffee scene, Intelligentsia Coffee Monadnock Coffeebar is a must-visit spot for any coffee lover looking for well-crafted beverages in a welcoming setting.
Sawada Coffee
9.4/10 (1656 reviews)
Website | Directions | +1 312-344-1750
Unique military latteCozy atmosphereFriendly service
Sawada Coffee is known for its unique drinks, such as the Military Latte, which customers find well-balanced and intriguing. The space itself is a standout feature, with a rustic charm and a shared seating area that adds to its unique vibe. While some have found the drinks overhyped, the friendly service and cozy atmosphere make it a great spot to spend time with friends or work remotely. Despite mixed reviews on the drinks, the overall experience at Sawada Coffee seems to be worth a visit.
Kapéj Coffee Roasters
9.4/10 (523 reviews)
Website | Directions | +1 312-291-9022
Exceptional coffee qualityCozy & welcoming ambiancePassionate owner
Nestled in the heart of the city, Kapéj Coffee Roasters offers a truly exceptional coffee experience. The cozy and welcoming atmosphere is complemented by the passion and expertise of the owner, who takes great pride in roasting high-quality beans himself. The menu boasts a variety of unique and delicious lattes, making it a must-visit for any coffee lover looking for a warm and inviting spot to relax and enjoy a perfect cup.
The Wormhole Coffee
9.2/10 (1821 reviews)
Website | Directions | +1 773-661-2468
Eclectic decorDelicious drinksPop culturally cool
The Wormhole Coffee is a charming spot in the vibrant Wicker Park neighborhood, oozing with 80’s and counter culture vibes. The eclectic decor and artsy interior create a warm and inviting ambiance, making it a great place to meet friends or take a break while exploring the area. The unique Ghostly Trio coffee is a must-try, with a perfect balance of flavors that will leave you wanting more. The baristas are efficient and attentive, ensuring a pleasant experience even during busy hours. Overall, Wormhole is a mainstay in one of Chicago’s quirkiest neighborhoods, offering delicious drinks and a fun, pop culturally cool atmosphere.
La Colombe Coffee Roasters
9.2/10 (1030 reviews)
Website | Directions | +1 312-733-0707
Efficient serviceUnique seasonal drinksExceptional pastries
La Colombe Coffee Roasters offers a welcoming and efficient experience, with fast service and friendly staff. The golden latte with almond milk is a standout, while the seasonal green tea is a unique option. The clean interior with ample seating and complimentary water options make for a pleasant atmosphere. The curated selection of pastries, including the canelle and almond croissant, is a must-try, adding to the overall appeal of this Columbia-style coffee spot. The special drafts, like the strawberry oat latte, are a refreshing touch, though they can run out quickly. The exceptional service, highlighted by Juno’s kindness, sets this location apart and ensures a return visit. The oat draft lattes on tap are a favorite, perfect for a warm day. Despite some limitations on heating up food, La Colombe Coffee Roasters remains a standout choice for a quality coffee experience.
Ground Up Coffee & Bites
9.4/10 (524 reviews)
Website | Directions | +1 312-374-1348
Friendly staffQuick serviceHouse-roasted beans
Ground Up Coffee & Bites in Chicago’s west loop boasts a friendly staff and quick service, making it a convenient spot to grab a latte and catch up with friends. Although some customers found the drinks a bit too milky or lacked in flavor, others praise the tailored recommendations from the baristas which cater to individual preferences. The ambience at Ground Up is described as pleasant, with a nice atmosphere and a variety of seating options for customers to enjoy their coffee and bites. The cafe also offers house-roasted beans, adding a unique touch to their coffee offerings.
Bridgeport Coffeehouse
9/10 (878 reviews)
Website | Directions | +1 773-247-9950
Welcoming atmosphereFriendly serviceGreat outdoor seating
Bridgeport Coffeehouse is a cozy spot in the neighborhood, perfect for grabbing a cup of coffee and getting some work done. The atmosphere is welcoming and the staff is friendly. The outdoor seating is ideal for enjoying a beautiful day. While some customers have mentioned issues with their orders, overall, this coffeehouse seems to be a great gem in the community.
Ritual Coffeehouse
9.4/10 (432 reviews)
Website | Directions | +1 773-857-1224
Fresh baked goodsExtended hoursFriendly staff
Ritual Coffeehouse is a charming spot with an inviting atmosphere and top-notch coffee and tea offerings. The baked goods, like the wild berry peach muffin and jalapeño cheddar scones, are fresh and delicious. The seating options, both indoors and on the patio, provide a comfortable space to enjoy your beverages and treats. The extended hours until 10 pm make it a convenient choice for those looking for a cozy spot to unwind. The friendly staff and laid-back vibe add to the overall charm of this hidden gem.
Dark Matter Coffee – Osmium Coffee Bar
9.4/10 (941 reviews)
Website | Directions | +1 773-360-7553
Unique decorTop-tier drinksOutdoor patio
Dark Matter Coffee – Osmium Coffee Bar offers top-tier drinks and beans with a unique and cool decor. The shop features a well-laid-out interior with plenty of seating, reminiscent of a classic Chicago bar, complemented by a lovely outdoor patio. The Mayan Mocha is a standout, perfect for a wake-up call, and the mural by artist Jason Brammer adds to the vibrant atmosphere. While the music may not be everyone’s cup of tea, the service is excellent, the donuts tasty, and the overall vibe both relaxing and energetic.
Hero Coffee and Bagel Bar
9.2/10 (770 reviews)
Website | Directions | +1 312-631-3269
Delicious bagelsUnique coffee flavorsFriendly staff
Hero Coffee and Bagel Bar offers delicious breakfast options, complete with freshly prepared bagels and donuts. The staff is incredibly friendly and welcoming, creating a cozy environment to enjoy a meal or work. The coffee smells wonderful and the unique flavors like fig jam and teddy graham syrup add a special touch to the experience. The simple yet inviting location, with cozy outdoor seating, makes it a perfect spot to grab a quick and satisfying breakfast.
Cafe Deko
9.2/10 (340 reviews)
Website | Directions | +1 773-661-6425
Unique jungle themeCozy maximalist decorFriendly and efficient service
Located in a cozy neighborhood, Cafe Deko is a unique coffee spot with a funky jungle theme that sets it apart from other cafes. The decor is maximalist’s dream with velvet seating, bold colors, and carefully selected pieces that transport you to another era. The staff is friendly and efficient, providing quick service with a warm touch. The menu offers standard coffee shop fare at standard prices, but the atmosphere and experience make Cafe Deko a must-visit for those looking for a one-of-a-kind coffee spot.
Emerald City Coffee
9.2/10 (823 reviews)
Website | Directions | +1 773-944-0227
Cozy seatingNatural sunlightIdeal for calls
Emerald City Coffee is a cozy spot ideal for working, studying, or relaxing. The seating arrangements are comfy with a great variety of couches, tables, and benches. The natural sunlight and quiet ambiance make it a perfect place for calls or focus. There are plenty of power strips throughout the space, and the big windows create a bright setting. While the café closes early at 4 pm, the art work and music create a lovely atmosphere. The vanilla latte is a bit pricey at $4.75, but the overall experience is worth it.
Metric
9.2/10 (347 reviews)
Website | Directions | +1 312-982-2196
High quality coffeeUnique industrial ambianceFreshly roasted beans
Metric, a hidden gem in Chicago’s industrial area, is a must-visit for coffee enthusiasts. The high quality drip coffee, pour overs, and lattes are some of the best in the city. Their pastries, although limited, are also top-notch. The lack of indoor seating adds to the serious roastery vibe, but when the weather permits, outdoor seating among the bustling warehouse buildings is a unique experience. Metric’s commitment to quality and freshness is evident in every cup of coffee, making it a standout in the Chicago coffee scene.
Gaslight Coffee Roasters
9/10 (727 reviews)
On-site roastingSpacious seatingFlavorful coffee
Gaslight Coffee Roasters is a cozy spot located in a narrow corner building, with a sparse yet visually appealing interior. The coffee aroma wafts through the air, hinting at the on-site roasting happening in Milwaukee. The pastry selection may be small, but it’s solid, and the drip coffee stands out as one of the best around. The spacious seating allows for a relaxed atmosphere, perfect for enjoying a beautifully made latte or a floral/fruity double shot of espresso. The clarity of flavors in the pour over from Rwandan beans is unmatched, making a return trip for some beans a must.
Jackalope Coffee & Tea House
9.4/10 (882 reviews)
Website | Directions | +1 312-888-3468
Expertly crafted drinksTop-notch food optionsUnique and inviting atmosphere
Jackalope Coffee & Tea House in Bridgeport is a beloved neighborhood gem that offers exceptional service and delicious drinks and bites. The espresso is expertly crafted, the food is top-notch (especially the vegan orc sammie and Jolly Green Giant), and the unique decor creates a mellow and inviting atmosphere. The orange mocha stands out as a must-try, perfectly balancing sweetness with the rich taste of coffee. With spacious seating and friendly baristas, Jackalope is a standout coffee spot in the city, perfect for a cozy and satisfying experience.
The Perfect Cup
9.2/10 (466 reviews)
Variety of coffee optionsAffordable pricesHome-y water mugs
The Perfect Cup is truly the darling of Ravenswood, offering a warm and cozy atmosphere that is perfect for grabbing a hot drink or getting some work done. The variety of coffee options, from run-of-the-mill to specialty, ensures that there’s something for everyone, and the affordable prices make it even more appealing. The unique touch of serving water in home-y mugs adds to the charm of this corner coffee shop, making it a must-visit spot in the city.