Nomad is more than just a coffee shop—it’s a beautifully curated boutique space where you can sip on a velvety latte while browsing home goods, candles, and coffee table books. Their oat milk lattes and matcha drinks are especially popular, and their rotating selection of pastries keeps things interesting. With a cozy yet upscale vibe, this spot is perfect for a slow morning before heading out to explore the Gold Coast.
For serious coffee lovers, La Colombe Coffee Workshop offers expertly crafted lattes, foamy cappuccinos, and pour-over coffees in a bright and modern space. It’s a great grab-and-go spot for busy mornings but also has a few cozy seats for sipping and snacking. While the menu is coffee-focused, they offer a selection of buttery croissants and pastries to pair with your drink. If you’re looking for a quick, high-quality espresso before hitting the shops on Oak Street, this is your place.
If you’re craving a traditional breakfast in a laid-back setting, 3rd Coast Café is the place to go. This charming, old-school café has been serving hearty breakfast dishes for nearly 40 years. Think fluffy pancakes, crispy hash browns, eggs benedict, and fresh-baked scones, all served with strong coffee and a side of friendly service. It’s the kind of place where regulars gather every morning, making it a great spot if you want to feel like a local.
Dollop Coffee is a Gold Coast staple known for its strong brews, locally roasted beans, and a solid breakfast lineup. Whether you’re grabbing a freshly baked bagel, a buttery croissant, or a hearty breakfast sandwich, this spot delivers simple, high-quality eats to pair with your morning latte or espresso. With plenty of seating and a relaxed vibe, it’s also a great spot to catch up on emails or chat with friends before a busy day.
At PiniPico Brazilian Café, you can start your morning with a smooth cappuccino or a rich Brazilian-style espresso, paired with authentic Brazilian breakfast bites like pão de queijo (cheese bread), coxinha (chicken croquettes), and empanadas. The atmosphere is warm and inviting, making it a great spot to study, work remotely, or just enjoy a relaxed morning. If you're looking for something different from your usual bagel and croissant, this café brings a unique South American twist to your Gold Coast morning.
For those craving a quick but satisfying bite, Café L’Appetito is a go-to spot. This Italian deli-meets-café offers rich espresso, paninis, pastries, and hearty sandwiches—perfect for grabbing something on the go. The atmosphere is casual yet charming, with outdoor seating available in warmer months.
If you need a coffee break with a side of relaxation, Dollop Coffee Co. has plenty of seating, a mellow atmosphere, and great coffee. They serve freshly baked pastries, bagels, and sandwiches, making it a perfect spot to grab breakfast or a light lunch while taking a break from shopping.
Te’Amo Boba Bar offers refreshing bubble tea, Japanese-style mochi donuts, and light Asian-inspired treats. If you’re craving something cold and sweet while shopping, their cheesecake milk tea or dalgona coffee is a great choice. The shop’s trendy aesthetic makes it Instagram-worthy, and it’s a fun stop before heading back to Michigan Avenue’s stores.
For those looking for a savory snack along with their caffeine fix, Lao Sze Chuan offers boba tea, crispy chili chicken, and authentic Chinese small plates. If you’re craving a refreshing milk tea or fruit-infused drink between shopping stops, this is an unexpected but fantastic option right on Michigan Avenue.
If your shopping day calls for a sugar boost, Molly’s Cupcakes is the place to go. Their Crème Brûlée and Peach Cobbler cupcakes are customer favorites, and they serve freshly brewed coffee to go with it. Plus, the swings at the counter make this a fun and cozy stop.
Broadway Cafe is a hidden gem that offers strong coffee, delicious pastries, and a welcoming atmosphere. Whether you’re grabbing a quick coffee before a park event or looking for a late-night spot that serves coffee and cake, this café is a reliable go-to.
Another fantastic option for bubble tea lovers, TE’AMO Boba Bar is known for its seasonal boba flavors, organic milk options, and photogenic drinks. They even have charging stations and cozy seating, making it a great spot to relax after a long walk around Millennium Park.
If you’re looking for a sleek, minimalist coffee shop with a focus on high-quality espresso, Espresso and Milk is worth the stop. Located near the Civic Opera House, this café is known for its quick service and expertly crafted cortados. It’s an ideal place for commuters, travelers, or anyone needing a reliable caffeine boost before heading to Millennium Park.
Located just steps from Millennium Park, Momentum Coffee is a warm and inviting café with a community-driven atmosphere. Their smooth lattes, hot chocolate, and light bites make it an easy stop before heading to The Bean or Maggie Daley Park. The service here is friendly and efficient, perfect for a quick grab-and-go stop before a busy day of exploring.
If you need a cozy café with friendly baristas, Happy Monday Coffee is a great stop before heading into Millennium Park. The seating is spacious, the vibe is welcoming, and the cappuccinos and lattes are consistently delicious. It’s the kind of place where the baristas actually remember your order—perfect if you’re a local looking for a new go-to spot.
A cozy chai café right across from The Bean, Chiya Chai is perfect for those who want a break from traditional coffee. This spot serves authentic Indian-style chai, along with flavor-packed samosas, curries, and other Nepalese-inspired bites. If you’re in the mood for something warm and comforting before heading into the park, the Masala Chai Latte is a must-try.
A true neighborhood staple, The Common Cup has been serving Rogers Park since 2007 with high-quality coffee and a welcoming, down-to-earth atmosphere. With a cozy, book-filled space and a menu featuring delicious quiches, muffins, and seasonal lattes, it’s the kind of spot where you can settle in for a few hours.
If you’re looking for a study spot by day and a cozy pub by night, this hybrid coffee house and taproom has you covered. During the day, enjoy their smooth lattes and fresh pastries in a relaxed, plant-filled setting perfect for working. Then, when the sun sets, the space transforms into a chill bar with craft beer and happy hour specials—ideal for unwinding after a long study session.
This charming café (pun intended) is the perfect morning stop for a cup of coffee and a fresh lox bagel. With a laid-back atmosphere, swing seats by the window, and a plant-filled patio, it’s a great place to sip a cappuccino while getting some work done. The menu includes vegetarian and meat options, and the welcoming environment makes it a local favorite.
thrd coffee is a hidden gem for coffee lovers and creatives. The modern, colorful aesthetic and inviting atmosphere make it an excellent place for a morning coffee or work session. They also serve some of the best specialty drinks in Wicker Park, with impeccable service and a great selection of espresso-based drinks.
Named after Muddy Waters' iconic album, Electric Mud Coffee Bar is a tribute to Chicago's rich music history. With Dark Matter Coffee on rotation, this place is a must-visit for coffee lovers who appreciate a strong cup and a good playlist. The café’s cozy yet industrial aesthetic makes it a great stop for music lovers looking for a caffeine fix.
If you’re looking for great coffee and a cozy, homely atmosphere, Engine Coffee is a must-visit. With its modern but welcoming ambiance, it's a great stop for a quick espresso and breakfast tacos before a day of crate digging at Wicker Park’s record shops.
A classic brunch and coffee spot in Wicker Park, Milk & Honey Café is the perfect place to grab a light breakfast before heading out to browse records. Their huevos rancheros and French toast are crowd favorites, and their coffee pairs perfectly with their fresh-baked pastries.
A café with chill vibes and infused drinks, Wake N Bakery is perfect for those who want to relax, enjoy a creative menu, and soak in Wicker Park’s artistic energy. Whether you’re in the mood for a caffeinated lemonade or a classic iced latte, this café provides an easygoing experience with good music and good vibes.
For those who love art and music, Gallery Café is a must-visit. This coffee shop doubles as an art gallery, making it a perfect place to get inspired while sipping on an oat milk latte. It’s got a laid-back atmosphere, friendly staff, and plenty of seating, making it a great place to chill before heading out to explore Wicker Park's indie music scene.
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