As the weather gets colder, there’s nothing better than enjoying a warm drink and the cozy atmosphere of a local coffee shop. And luckily, Chicago’s neighborhoods are full of unique options, where you can find creative lattes, freshly baked goods, local artwork, unique tea selections, and so much more. Check out a few of our favorite coffee shops and cafes in neighborhoods all around the city.
Café Jumping Bean in Pilsen
Café Jumping Bean opened its doors in 1994 as the first cafe in Pilsen and has since become a staple in the community for good coffee, conversation, and art. Owner Eleazar Delgado was inspired by the colorful, community-oriented coffee shops he visited in Monterrey, Mexico. The space features a gallery of local artwork that rotates regularly. The simple menu includes a full-service espresso bar, soups, fresh salads, and gourmet pastries.
First Sip Cafe in Uptown
Come for the one-of-a-kind drinks, stay for the cool vibes. Family-owned and operated First Sip Cafe is nestled in the heart of Uptown’s Argyle Street. Sisters Gigi and Erin Hoang wanted to create a gathering space where people can hang out and fuel their creativity. Their menu is a fusion of Vietnamese coffee and tea culture and Western-style sandwiches. Don’t miss their lattes, with flavors like pistachio mint and spicy mango.
Bridgeport Coffee Company in Bridgeport
Well known for its coffee, donuts, and delicious breakfast sandwiches, Bridgeport Coffee Company is a roaster and coffee shop located in the Bridgeport neighborhood. This quaint corner cafe is decorated with relics of neighborhood history and has become a favorite among locals for its calm ambiance. Their coffee is imported directly from farms around the globe, with an emphasis on single-origin and artisanal blends.
Two Hearted Queen in Lakeview
Two Hearted Queen is an LGBTQ-owned coffeehouse and roaster with two locations in the Lakeview neighborhood. This inclusive cafe is all about culture, community, and (of course) coffee. Their menu includes house-roasted coffees, delicious pastries, teas, and breakfast sandwiches. The Queen is a favorite for local writers and hosts fun events ranging from burlesque to comedy to clothing swaps.
Edie’s All Day in River North
Edie’s All Day Café & Bar is an upscale café and bar located in Chicago’s River North neighborhood. This all-in-one spot is truly somewhere you can hang out all day — enjoy an amazing cup of coffee in the morning and a glass of wine at the bar in the evening. The space is filled with lots of natural light, greenery, and boho vibes. Check out their hearty breakfast, lunch, and dinner menus for everything from breakfast burgers to charcuterie boards.
TeaPotBrew Bakery in South Loop
Along with coffee staples, TeaPotBrew Bakery in the South Loop is home to over 40 loose-leaf teas — perfect for tea lovers. They even take things a step further and infuse Earl Grey and lavender into baked goods like scones and vegan cheesecake. While their tea is highly recommended, TeaPotBrew also has a wide array of creative flavor options that can be added to your beverage, from black currant to brown butter to tiramisu.
Dulce De Leche Cafe in Albany Park
Tucked away in the Albany Park neighborhood, this Latin American fusion cafe is a must-try. Dulce De Leche Cafe is covered with colorful murals and artwork from local artists. You can order a variety of flavored lattes, like horchata or dulce de leche, plus a full breakfast menu with items like chorizo tortas (all their bread is baked fresh in-house), sweet crepes, and chilaquiles.
Floriole Cafe and Bakery in Lincoln Park
Floriole Cafe and Bakery specializes in French-inspired bread, pastries, soups, and sandwiches using fresh, local ingredients. Starting as a farmers market stand, Floriole opened up its Lincoln Park cafe in 2010 and has been a local favorite ever since. Stop in for a cup of coffee with a slice of Basque cake or a buttery croissant, which you can enjoy in their sunny space.
Bonus! Kikwetu Coffee (pop-ups and farmers markets)
Based on the south side, Kikwetu Coffee is a family-owned coffee company that focuses on specialty-grade Kenyan Coffee. They work directly and exclusively with small-scale, quality-focused coffee farmers in Kenya. Their signature cold brew drinks include fun flavor combos like bourbon maple or lavender and honey. You can find Kikwetu Coffee at farmers markets like Green City Market in Lincoln Park and West Loop as well as South Loop Farmers Market.
