Top 21 Coffee Shops In Chicago

Nathan Jahnke

2 min read

·

22-12-2024

8

0

Share

Chicago, a city renowned for its deep-dish pizza and blues music, also boasts a vibrant and diverse coffee scene. From cozy neighborhood cafes to trendy, independent roasters, the city offers a cup for every taste and preference. This guide highlights 21 of the best coffee shops Chicago has to offer, catering to various preferences and budgets.

The Best of the Best: A Diverse Selection

This curated list considers factors such as coffee quality, atmosphere, unique offerings, and overall customer experience. It's designed to be a springboard for your own Chicago coffee adventure.

Independent Roasters & Unique Experiences:

1. Intelligentsia Coffee: A Chicago institution known for its ethically sourced beans and meticulous brewing techniques. Expect expertly crafted espresso drinks and a sophisticated atmosphere.

2. Dark Matter Coffee: This roastery and cafe chain prides itself on its bold, dark roasts and innovative brewing methods. Their commitment to sustainability is also a strong point.

3. Sawada Coffee: Specializing in Japanese-style coffee, Sawada offers a unique experience with meticulous pour-overs and a serene environment.

4. Dollop Coffee Co.: Known for its expertly crafted lattes and pastries, Dollop Coffee provides a welcoming atmosphere and a focus on quality ingredients.

5. Cafe Ba-Ba-Reeba!: While primarily a Spanish tapas restaurant, their coffee program is surprisingly exceptional, offering a delightful complement to their delicious food.

Neighborhood Gems & Cozy Cafes:

6. Wormhole Coffee: A quirky and charming cafe with a strong community focus. Their coffee is consistently excellent, and the atmosphere is inviting.

7. Groundswell Coffee Company: This small batch roaster offers a welcoming atmosphere with expertly prepared coffee and a variety of brewing methods.

8. Colectivo Coffee: A Milwaukee-based roaster with a strong presence in Chicago, Colectivo offers a comfortable environment and consistently high-quality coffee.

9. La Colombe Coffee Roasters: Known for its unique and often seasonal blends, La Colombe offers a sophisticated experience.

10. Ipsento Coffee: This family-owned roaster offers exceptional coffee in a warm and inviting environment.

Trendy Spots & Specialty Drinks:

11. Kopi Kenangan: Known for its unique and customizable coffee drinks, Kopi Kenangan is a popular choice for those seeking creative coffee creations.

12. The Wormhole Coffee: Combining unique coffee blends with an unconventional setting, The Wormhole Coffee guarantees a memorable experience.

13. Gaslight Coffee Roasters: A favorite among coffee enthusiasts, Gaslight offers high-quality beans and a focus on customer service.

Cafes with a View & Atmosphere:

14. Coffee Studio: With multiple locations, Coffee Studio provides a comfortable and stylish environment to enjoy your favorite brew.

15. Do-Rite Donuts & Coffee: A combination of delicious donuts and equally excellent coffee; this is a sweet treat for your taste buds.

16. Novo Coffee: Known for its minimalist aesthetics and focus on high-quality coffee, Novo Coffee offers a sleek and modern environment.

Beyond the Bean:

17. Fairgrounds Coffee & Tea: A delightful blend of coffee and tea in an elegant setting, offering a relaxing and sophisticated atmosphere.

18. Stanley's: Known for its unique menu and relaxed atmosphere, Stanley's offers a welcoming environment for coffee lovers.

19. Big Shoulders Coffee: A community-focused roaster with a commitment to sustainability and high-quality coffee.

Hidden Gems & Local Favorites:

20. Metropolis Coffee Company: A Chicago institution, Metropolis Coffee offers a wide selection of beans and brewing methods.

21. Kickapoo Coffee: This small, independent roaster offers a range of unique and flavorful coffee blends.

This list represents a starting point for exploring Chicago's diverse and dynamic coffee scene. Each cafe offers its own unique character and charm, so be sure to venture out and discover your own personal favorites. Happy caffeinating!