February marks Black History Month, an annual tradition originally born in Chicago. And what better way to celebrate than to cozy up with a steaming cup of coffee at one of the celebrated Black-owned coffee shops throughout Chicago’s vibrant neighborhoods? Take a sip and make sure to bookmark these spots to visit all year long. Happy Black History Month!
The Brewed: The funky Avondale neighborhood is home to this horror-themed coffee shop, serving vegan donuts, delicious drinks, and a calendar of fun events. The Brewed Monster Movie Club hosts screenings of classic horror flicks in the cafe throughout the year.
AndySunflower Cafe: For over 10 years, AndySunflower Cafe has been crafting flavorful coffee beverages in the Beverly neighborhood. The espresso drinks are made with housemade syrups and the teas are top-notch. Check them out inside Aint She Sweet Cafe, a favorite local spot for breakfast.
Momentum Coffee: Momentum is using the power of coffee to create opportunities and connections. This coffee shop and co-working space has locations in the Soup Loop, Loop, North Lawndale, Austin, Englewood, and beyond. Enjoy a cup of coffee, a hearty breakfast menu, and a productive atmosphere.
Oro Chocolate & Coffee: This sustainable-minded shop in Wicker Park thoughtfully sources its specialty coffee from ethical farms and roasts the beans in-house. They apply the same rigorous standards to their quality chocolate, too.
TeaPot Brew: In the South Loop neighborhood, this welcoming bakery exudes warmth and a cozy atmosphere. Choose from more than 30 loose leaf teas, alongside a full menu of specialty coffee. And don’t miss the baked goods, with tempting options for both sweet and savory cravings.
Overflow: This friendly shop serves up coffee drinks in the South Loop with an emphasis on community engagement. The menu includes an array of seasonal items and the pastry case is always filled with delicious options to pair with your beverage.
Monday Coffee Co. Cafe: This community-focused cafe is known for its matcha, hot chocolate options, and (of course) coffee, which is roasted and brewed in Chicago. Located in North Lawndale just a few blocks from Douglass Park, Monday hosts neighborhood events like free chess lessons.
Drink Happy Thoughts: The vibes are unmatched at Drink Happy Thoughts, where you’ll find creative lattes, vegan treats, DJ sets, and cute bear-shaped cups. Check them out in the Uptown neighborhood or their newest location in Humboldt Park.
Sip & Savor: The popular community coffee shop has locations across the city, from Hyde Park to the South Loop to Edgewater. Each shop offers extensive menus featuring hot and iced coffee drinks, premium teas, smoothies, and pastries. Check their events calendar for unique offerings like cocktail classes, R&B nights, workouts, and more.
Afro Joe’s: In the Beverly neighborhood, Afro Joe’s thrives on bringing the community together over a cup of coffee and a good meal (like their Afros Bowls or sandwiches named for South Side neighborhoods). They also host regular community gatherings, including popular soul sessions and house music nights.
Chicago French Press: The Black-owned and woman-owned coffee shop has locations in the South Loop, West Loop, and Hyde Park. Ethically sourced and sustainably roasted, their coffee also helps fund nonprofit organizations supporting women and youth in vulnerable communities.
