Discover the best coffee shops in Chicago with this guide to the 10 most loved cafés. Find local roasters and hidden gems for an authentic coffee experience.
A Journey Through Chicago’s Coffee Scene
Chicago’s coffee culture is a vibrant, ever-evolving landscape that reflects the city’s industrious spirit and rich artistic heritage. From classic roasteries to quirky, themed cafes, there’s a spot for every preference. This list is a curated guide to the spots that locals and visitors can’t stop talking about, featuring roasters and cafes that are as unique as the city itself.
- Dark Matter Coffee (Multiple Locations) A true Chicago icon, Dark Matter is known for its bold approach to coffee and its unique, artistic locations. Reddit users and travel bloggers consistently praise their adventurous roasts, including barrel-aged coffees and intricate single-origins. Each location, like the Star Lounge, has its own distinct, immersive vibe.
- Address: 738 N Western Ave, Chicago, IL 60612
- Website: https://darkmattercoffee.com/
- The Wormhole Coffee (Wicker Park) This Wicker Park institution is a nostalgic tribute to the 80s and 90s, complete with a DeLorean and vintage toys. It’s beloved for its quirky, overstuffed vibe and its consistently solid coffee. Locals on Reddit often mention it as a great place to work or hang out while enjoying a quality cup.
- Address: 1462 N Milwaukee Ave, Chicago, IL 60622
- Website: https://thewormholecoffee.com/
- Metric Coffee (West Loop) A favorite among coffee purists and nerds, Metric Coffee is praised for its meticulous attention to sourcing and roasting. The cafe is often mentioned in local forums for its high-quality single origins and its clean, industrial aesthetic. It’s a go-to spot for those who appreciate the technical craft behind a great brew.
- Address: 2021 W Fulton St, Chicago, IL 60612
- Website: https://metriccoffee.com/
- Gaslight Coffee Roasters (Logan Square) Gaslight is a cozy, arty spot in Logan Square with an excellent reputation for its espresso. Reddit users rave about its delicious house-roasted beans and the relaxed, inviting atmosphere, making it a favorite neighborhood hub. The shop’s classic decor and comfortable seating make it a great place to linger.
- Address: 2385 N Milwaukee Ave, Chicago, IL 60647
- Website: https://gaslightcoffee.com/
- Sawada Coffee (West Loop) A collaboration with a Japanese barista champion, Sawada Coffee is a hip, minimalist spot with an industrial-chic feel. It’s famous on social media for its unique drinks, including the Military Latte, a blend of matcha and espresso. The space is also known for its ping-pong table and playful vibe.
- Address: 112 N Green St, Chicago, IL 60607
- Website: https://www.sawadacoffee.com/
- Bridgeport Coffee Company (Bridgeport) A beloved local roaster and community hub, Bridgeport Coffee is a staple on Chicago’s South Side. Its dedication to sustainability and community is well-known, and its cozy, laid-back atmosphere is often praised in online reviews. It’s the perfect spot to feel like a true local.
- Address: 3101 S Morgan St, Chicago, IL 60608
- Website: https://bridgeportcoffee.net/
- Sip of Hope (Logan Square) More than just a coffee shop, Sip of Hope is a mission-driven cafe where 100% of the proceeds go to suicide prevention and mental health education. It’s a highly recommended spot on Reddit, not just for its incredible cause, but also for its great coffee, which is sourced from Dark Matter. It’s a place where you can feel good about your morning brew.
- Address: 3039 W Fullerton Ave, Chicago, IL 60647
- Website: https://www.sipofhope.com/
- Passion House Coffee Roasters (Logan Square) Known for their passion and creativity, Passion House is a roaster with a rock-and-roll edge. Locals praise their house-roasted blends and the knowledgeable staff who are always ready with recommendations. Its convenient location near a major transit station makes it a popular meeting spot.
- Address: 2631 N Kedzie Ave, Chicago, IL 60647
- Website: https://passionhousecoffee.com/
- Ipsento (Bucktown) Ipsento is a hip, local coffee shop known for its comfortable, apartment-style atmosphere and its delicious espresso drinks. With a location right next to the 606 bike path, it’s a popular spot for a quick caffeine fix before or after a walk. Online reviews often praise its tasty drinks and inviting vibe.
- Address: 1813 N Milwaukee Ave, Chicago, IL 60647
- Website: https://ipsento.com/
- Heritage Bikes and Coffee (Lakeview) Combining two passions into one, Heritage is a bike shop and a coffee shop. It’s a favorite for its unique concept and its high-quality coffee. Locals on Reddit love the relaxed atmosphere and the solid coffee menu, making it a go-to spot for a delicious brew and a look at some cool bikes.
- Address: 2959 N Lincoln Ave, Chicago, IL 60657
- Website: https://www.heritagebicycles.com/
A Final Note on the Chicago Coffee Scene
Chicago’s coffee scene is a true testament to its local pride and innovative spirit. From cozy neighborhood spots that feel like a second home to roasters pushing the boundaries of flavor, the city offers a cup for every taste. Whether you’re a local on the hunt for a new favorite or a visitor wanting to sip like a true Chicagoan, this list is your perfect starting point.
Check out our recommends both at city and state levels here.
