10 Coffee Shops You Need to Know | Chicago Local’s Guide

There is something magical about coffee shops. The moment you catch the aroma of coffee beans as you approach the door, your mood instantly lifts. You know that within minutes, you’ll be holding your favorite drink—and perhaps that snack you always order. With their music, atmosphere, friendly baristas, and (usually) comfortable seating, they are the perfect place to hang out, whether you have a to-do list to tackle or plan to catch up on some reading.

Coffee and coffee culture aren't usually the first things that come to mind when thinking of Chicago; however, the city boasts a wealth of independent coffee shops. Each neighborhood has its own iconic spots, and there are even several chains that originated in Chicago, such as Colectivo, Intelligentsia, and Metropolis. If you live here, you surely have a favorite spot—likely just around the corner or a few blocks away—and if you’re lucky, you have several options to choose from.

I’m tempted to keep some of these places a secret, as they are very popular and I’d love to enjoy them all to myself. However, I believe sharing them is more important, as they truly deserve the recognition. This list is just the beginning of our coffee shop recommendations in Chicago. And, since this is our city, we can confidently say we’re experts on the subject.

AURA Coffee & Roastery | 2833 North Broadway (Lakeview)

AURA is a new spot in Chicago’s Lakeview neighborhood serving small-batch, house-roasted coffee made from beans sourced from trusted farms. The space features exposed brick walls and ceilings that lend an almost industrial vibe, softened by a cozy, eclectically styled seating area. Lights and plants hang from the rafters above comfortable swivel chairs, banquettes, and low tables. It is an ideal place to work or meet up with friends. The atmosphere is warm and welcoming, the service is friendly, and the food is delicious. Try the Caprese sandwich or the Mediterranean omelet. They also have a patio where you can enjoy the sunshine.

Tip: Try their flavored lemonades! They are made with fresh fruit—something you can clearly taste from the very first sip. The coffee flight is a fun option if you’re looking to try something different; it includes Turkish coffee, Aura’s signature blend, and espresso.

Bad Coffee | 1801 West Berteau (Ravenswood)

Tucked away in an alley off Ravenswood Avenue, Bad Coffee is a local gem located off the beaten path. It’s another one of those spots that offers a "coffee flight"—the chance to sample a variety of brews; I love this trend, whoever started it! The space has the vibe of a renovated garage, complete with mural-adorned walls. You might notice a stage equipped with a piano and sound system; that’s because Bad Coffee is owned by Live Bash Events, meaning that outside of regular hours, you can sometimes catch musical performances, comedy shows, or other live events. Order one of their specialty lattes, like the Brown Sugar Cinnamon Latte. They’re also famous for their creative toast options—both sweet and savory! The avocado toast is spectacular, but my personal favorite is the "Hold the Toast"... with an extra slice of bread! Yes, I know it sounds crazy, but trust me!

Tip: Bad Coffee is located in a quieter part of the neighborhood, making it an ideal refuge when the city's pace feels a bit overwhelming.

Chique°Latte Chicago | 2643 North Milwaukee Avenue (Logan Square)

Let’s start with the basics: I love this place and wish I lived closer. Chique°Latte, a franchise originally from Amsterdam, offers that ideal, cozy coffee shop atmosphere at its Logan Square location, along with a spectacular menu. The drinks are excellent and the food is incredible—it really doesn't get any better. They know exactly what they’re doing. Be sure to try the pastries; the *pain au chocolat* is one of my favorites. If you’re hungry for something heartier, the "Avocado Garden" toast is packed with flavor, and the turkey and Havarti sandwich is another delicious option. For something lighter, I love the "Peanut Butter Banana Power" toast.

Insider tip: The pastries and baked goods sell out fast. If you’re looking for something specific, it’s best to go in the morning.

Colectivo - Lincoln Park | 2530 North Clark Street (Lincoln Park)

The original Colectivo location sits in the heart of Lincoln Park and features a spacious patio—a setting versatile enough for both solo work sessions and meetups with friends. Located at the intersection of Clark and Deming Streets, Colectivo is unique in that 90% of its seating is outdoors year-round. It’s a bold move for a Chicago business, but thanks to fire pits and an extended roof covering part of the space during winter, the formula works perfectly. It’s an ideal spot to work when you’re lacking inspiration or desperately need some fresh air between meetings. If you manage to snag one of the few indoor seats, you’ll find huge windows that let in plenty of natural light.

Colectivo makes spectacular breakfast sandwiches, so come hungry! Looking for a more traditional lunch? The avocado BLT is a must-try. They also offer seasonal specialties; if you get the chance to try the tomato soup, don't pass it up. Their coffee is excellent—you’ll never be disappointed, no matter how often you visit. And if you like experimenting with drinks, you’ll find they get very creative with seasonal flavors. Colectivo has expanded since opening its original Lincoln Park location, so don't be surprised if you see it pop up on a list for a different neighborhood!

Helpful tips: It’s a local favorite, so don't be surprised to find it packed when you arrive. While the crowds thin out at certain times of day, it tends to be quite busy. Make sure to charge your devices before heading over, as power outlets on the patio are limited.

Hexe | 2000 West Diversey Parkway (West Lakeview)

Hexe is what happens when your most eccentric friends decide to open a business together. By combining a love for coffee with quirky, offbeat elements, I’d venture to say there aren’t many places quite like Hexe. Above all, it is an incredibly welcoming and inclusive spot with an amazingly friendly staff. Their patio is spectacular, featuring plenty of seating and string lights that keep the vibe lively even when the sun sets early. There is also ample indoor space, highlighted by witchy, emo, and gothic-style décor. It’s a venue that embraces the mystical and the esoteric—something we love about Hexe—which is clearly reflected in their branding, artwork, and merchandise.

Hexe roasts its own coffee beans on-site and is famous for unique specialty blends, such as "Boneshaker Bourbon," made with beans aged in bourbon barrels (and yes, it’s alcohol-free!). Their egg and cheddar biscuit sandwich is one of the best breakfast items you’ll ever taste, and their pastry selection is simply extraordinary. They also offer gluten-free options, including a cheddar-jalapeño scone that will make you question whether you really need gluten at all. The massive chocolate chip cookie (which isn't gluten-free) is another one of those things I often dream about.

Pro tip: Order an affogato. You won’t regret it!

Layla & Ringo’s | 914 North Wells Street (Near North Side)

A hybrid shop and café, Layla & Ringo’s is a charming gem located on the edge of the Near North neighborhood, close to downtown Chicago. They describe themselves as a local food and dining spot offering a wide variety of products—ranging from snacks and grab-and-go meals to books, mugs, curiosities, souvenirs, and much more. Their café section features an exceptional selection of specialty coffees, teas, and handcrafted beverages. You can choose from an assortment of pastries or try heartier options like the breakfast burrito or a smoothie bowl. Standout drinks include the irresistible Neapolitan Latte—made with dark chocolate, vanilla, strawberry cold foam, and ice cream sandwich crumbles—and the Milk & Cookies Cold Brew, which features chocolate chip cookie-flavored cold foam.

Tip: Space is limited, so be prepared to browse the shop while you wait for a table to open up.

Oromo Cafe | 4703 North Lincoln Avenue (Lincoln Square)

Located near what serves as the main square of the Lincoln Square neighborhood, Oromo is one of my favorite coffee shops in Chicago. They specialize in artisanal lattes and a food menu focused on nutritious ingredients. Their lattes are delicious, and they also offer a traditional Turkish coffee experience, accompanied by *lokum* (Turkish delight). As for the food—where do I begin? From the bakery selection, try the kale and feta *acma*, the chocolate baklava, or the spinach and feta empanada. The kale *acma* is a go-to choice for me. The goat cheese, cucumber, and avocado bagel sandwich is surprisingly filling, and I’ve been meaning to try the goat cheese and honey version. I recently tried the beet hummus sandwich and was amazed by both its stunning presentation and its flavor. It’s clear I’ve been here quite a few times.

Insider tip: Oromo is a local favorite, but space is limited; be prepared to find it crowded. If you can’t find a seat, simply walk a bit further along Lincoln Avenue toward the center of the square. You’ll find plenty of benches there where you can sit and enjoy your order.

Sawada Coffee | 112 North Green Street (West Loop)

Located across from Soho House Chicago, this coffee shop is anything but conventional. It is a quirky, laid-back spot in the West Loop neighborhood created by renowned barista and latte art master Hiroshi Sawada—a place locals would prefer to keep a secret. Housed in a loft-style building, the shop itself isn't huge, but it feels spacious thanks to its connection to Green Street Smoked Meats, which extends further into the building. Order one of Sawada’s specialties, such as their handcrafted espresso and matcha drinks, paired with pastries and doughnuts from Doughnut Vault. Sawada’s signature drink is the "Military Latte," a blend of matcha, vanilla, espresso, and cocoa powder with milk (dairy-free options are available).

Practical tips: Pay attention to the entrance when you arrive; it’s easy to miss, as the door is covered in stickers and graffiti. Also, watch out for intense sunlight if you sit by the window in the morning.

TARY | 111 West Illinois Street (River North)

A Kazakh café is located right in the heart of the River North neighborhood in downtown Chicago. TARY pays homage to the culinary traditions of Central Asia. According to their website, *tary* is "a rare, gluten-free superfood packed with essential micronutrients and macronutrients, harvested from the golden steppes of Kazakhstan." Although they specialize in tea, they also offer a standard selection of coffees and espresso-based drinks, as well as seasonal options like cold brew and matcha.

The Oat Shaken Espresso is ideal for an afternoon energy boost, and they also make an excellent cappuccino. From the menu, I recommend the *Baursaq* (freshly made dough bites), scrambled eggs on brioche, or any of their salads. Everything is impeccably presented, and the space is bright and airy. It is a wonderful spot to enjoy a leisurely breakfast or lunch, meet up with friends, or get some work done.

Tip: The staff is very friendly and happy to walk you through the menu if you need recommendations or have questions.