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4.8
of 5.0
(821)
The Coffee & Tea Exchange
If you’re a serious coffee or tea lover, The Coffee & Tea Exchange is a must-visit. This Lakeview staple has been around for years, offering high-quality, locally roasted coffee beans and a massive selection of loose-leaf teas. While it’s more of a grab-and-go spot than a sit-down café, it’s perfect for picking up a latte before walking to the lake or exploring the neighborhood.
Jennivee's Bakery
Jennivee’s is a love letter to the LGBTQ+ community. This queer, Filipina-owned café serves incredible pastries, cupcakes, and breakfast sweets alongside a solid coffee menu. The interior is bright, cozy, and welcoming, making it a great spot to grab coffee and a treat before a day in Northalsted.
4.7
of 5.0
(538)
Two Hearted Queen Coffeehouse
Two Hearted Queen is a neighborhood favorite, known for its friendly baristas, creative drinks, and homey atmosphere. It’s a little tucked away from the main Northalsted strip, making it a great place to escape the crowds during Pride events. With a great selection of scones and bagel sandwiches, it’s perfect for a slow morning or an afternoon pick-me-up.
Heritage Bikes & Coffee
Heritage Bikes & Coffee is exactly what it sounds like—a coffee shop inside a fully functional bike store. If you’re into great coffee and cool spaces, this is a must-visit. The café is bright, airy, and filled with bike gear, making it one of the more unique spots in Lakeview. They also offer plenty of vegan and gluten-free options, so it’s a great pick for all dietary preferences.
Chicago Sugar Daddy Patisserie LLC
If you have a sweet tooth, Chicago Sugar Daddy is a dream come true. This café specializes in cupcakes, cookies, and pastries that are all gluten-free and many of which are vegan, so you can indulge without the guilt. It’s a fun and colorful spot that fits right into the vibrant energy of Northalsted.
Nice Guy Food Co.
Nice Guy Food Co. is a hidden gem inside The Longroom, a long-standing tavern & coffeehouse in Ravenswood, near Lakeview. It’s a laid-back spot with great energy, where you can grab hearty breakfast sandwiches, a solid cup of coffee, and even a fresh yogurt parfait.
4.7
of 5.0
(189)
Doña Tola
Doña Tola is a cozy, welcoming café that specializes in traditional Mexican brunch dishes and coffee. If you’re in the mood for delicious enchiladas, horchata lattes, or warm churros with spicy chocolate sauce, this is your spot. With friendly service and a charming, laid-back vibe, it’s a great place to fuel up before a day at the Pride parade or Northalsted Market Days.
Brou’ne Desserts
If your idea of the perfect coffee shop includes a freshly baked brownie, Brou’ne Desserts is a must-visit. This small, cozy bakery specializes in rich, decadent brownies and cookies, perfect for pairing with a strong espresso or cappuccino. The atmosphere is charming and intimate, making it a great pit stop before a long day of Pride celebrations.
Loving Heart Vegan Cafe
Loving Heart is a 100% vegan café that serves organic, plant-based meals, fresh smoothies, and high-quality coffee. Whether grabbing a quick wrap before the parade or sipping a matcha latte in a quiet corner, this spot is a haven for vegans and health-conscious coffee lovers.
Churro Parlor
Few things pair better with coffee than a crispy, freshly made churro, and Churro Parlor delivers just that. This Latino-owned café specializes in handmade churros, house-made gelato, and café drinks, making it one of the most unique spots in Lakeview. The warm, welcoming space is perfect for grabbing coffee and a sweet treat before heading out for the day.
Kino’s Coffee – Paxton
Kino’s Coffee might just be one of the best-kept secrets. This family-owned shop has earned love for its warm service, relaxing vibe, and truly great drinks. If you’re into shaken espresso, specialty lattes, or a classic caramel macchiato, this spot won’t disappoint. The music is soft, the staff is friendly, and the atmosphere makes it feel like a cozy neighborhood hangout even if you’ve never been before.
Espresso Royale Café – Campustown
Espresso Royale in Champaign's Campustown blends a laid-back, academic feel with genuinely top-tier coffee. Try the blueberry syrup iced latte or their famed Spanish latte. It’s the kind of café where you can sip, study, or settle into a window seat for some serious people-watching.
4.5
of 5.0
(568)
Jeremiah Joe Coffee – Downtown Ottawa
Ottawa might surprise you. Tucked into its charming downtown is Jeremiah Joe Coffee is a local favorite that hits all the right notes: good coffee, comfy seats, and a community vibe that welcomes everyone. The menu is diverse (smoothies, chai, espresso, and breakfast bites), and the dark roast is a standout.
My Half of the Sky Coffee + Coworking – Wheaton
Wheaton’s My Half of the Sky is more than just a cute coffee shop. It’s a nonprofit café and co-working space that supports social justice and community outreach, all while serving excellent drinks. The atmosphere is peaceful, the design is beautiful, and the staff always makes you feel welcome.
4.6
of 5.0
(780)
Ethereal Café – Woodstock
If your day trip includes a little indulgence, make it Ethereal Café in historic Woodstock. Part coffee shop, part chocolate haven, this place combines creative drinks (like orange blossom lattes and drinking chocolate) with beautiful surroundings and a gift shop full of handmade treats.
RePete Candle & Coffee Bar – Warsaw
Yes, this one's on the outer edge of a reasonable day trip—but it's worth every mile. RePete Candle & Coffee Bar offers an eclectic mix of small-batch coffee drinks and homemade candles, along with books, gifts, and even smoothie bowls. It’s the kind of quirky, well-curated place that’s a labor of love.
JuiceRx
For those seeking a health-conscious start to their day, JuiceRx offers a range of cold-pressed juices, superfood smoothies, and gluten-free treats. Their Fruit Alchemist Bowl is a fan favorite, combining fresh fruits and granola for a refreshing breakfast option. With friendly staff and well-packaged takeout options, it's a go-to spot for a nutritious morning meal.
Happy Monday Coffee - River North
Happy Monday Coffee feels tucked away even though it’s right in the middle of River North. Located in the lobby of a residential building, it’s a low-key, cozy café with thoughtful drinks and super-friendly baristas. The ube latte is fun and different, and the cappuccino is strong and satisfying.
4.4
of 5.0
(95)
Around the World Coffee
This bright, airy café lives up to its name with a globe-spanning menu and a wide selection of drinks and food. You’ll find everything from breakfast croissants to fettuccine alfredo, but their coffee flights are what stand out. It’s a unique experience for a Chicago café and perfect for people who want more than just caffeine—they want to try something different.
Fairgrounds Craft Coffee and Tea
Fairgrounds blends high-quality coffee with one of the best setups for remote work in the area. The space is full of seating, including armchairs, communal tables, and window-side bar stools—so you can post up for an hour or an afternoon. Their drink menu offers something for everyone, from strong espresso to herbal teas and oat milk matcha lattes.
4.5
of 5.0
(438)
OUD Coffee & Cafe
OUD Coffee is all about warmth and hospitality. From the hand-poured lattes to the house-made kunefe, there’s a real sense of care in everything they do. The space feels both modern and inviting, with lots of natural wood, cozy seating, and soft music. It’s the kind of place where you can grab a real meal and not feel rushed.
TARY - River North
TARY stands out in River North with its unique Kazakh influence and deeply homey atmosphere. It’s not a traditional coffee shop, but the cozy setting, handcrafted drinks, and distinctive food menu make it a place you’ll want to linger. The space is beautifully decorated with handmade textiles and wool art, and the menu features traditional Central Asian flavors.
Nomad-Chicago
Nomad is where design and function come together in a way that feels effortless. The space is warm and earthy, with soft lighting, plants, and a smart layout that balances style with comfort. You’ll find a mix of cozy nooks, long tables, and great people-watching spots by the window. It’s ideal for people who care about aesthetics but also need to be productive.
The Spoke & Bird - South Loop
The Spoke & Bird is equal parts café and neighborhood hangout, with a laid-back vibe and plenty of sunlight. Their patio is a great spot for working outside when the weather’s right, and the food menu is surprisingly solid (the egg sandwich is a favorite). Inside, it’s casual and welcoming—ideal for coworking or solo work sessions with coffee in hand.
4.4
of 5.0
(570)
Little Branch Cafe
Little Branch feels like a low-key local favorite in the South Loop. The coffee is great, the smoothies are fresh, and the brunch menu is always reliable. It’s a good place to plug in and get work done during the day without the buzz of a corporate café chain. With warm staff and a laid-back atmosphere, it’s the kind of spot that makes remote work feel a little more enjoyable.
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