My 8 Favorite Chicago Coffee Shops
Back when I started my best-of roundups, one of my most requested topics was coffee shops. Where’s my favorite cup of coffee? What’s my coffee order? Which ones are the best to work in? I’d answer the direct messages/emails with a few of my favorites – but I’ve put off putting a post like this together for a few reasons. First off, I’m usually a “make coffee at home every morning” kind of gal. I like to sleepily press that brew button and sit down at my computer in pajamas with my mug. Obviously I still go out for coffee sometimes – but spending $4+ on a latte is a treat rather than a routine for me.
Second, I really like working from home! I know – most people think I’m crazy. But I find that I am MORE productive when I’m in my own space. I can hunker down, maybe with music or a tv show I’ve seen a million times before, and get stuff DONE without anyone distracting me. Plus, since I still work in marketing, I like being able to jump on a call at a moments notice and know that there won’t be any background noise. Nobody likes that on a conference call!
That said, now that I’ve officially switched to part time at work, I have more time to solely focus on Lake Shore Lady. In the past, I was so focused on hustling to meet deadlines, but now I can dedicate entire days to creating content for you guys! And on those days, I’ve realized that the change of scenery can be really helpful and inspiring. Plus, it’s really nice to spend an afternoon here and there working alongside other bloggers. As long as you’re productive and it’s not just an excuse to chat all day, it can be nice to have someone who understands the business there to bounce ideas off of.
So, after that very long introduction (woops!), let’s chat about my 8 Favorite Chicago Coffee Shops:
Soho House/The Allis
I don’t even feel overdramatic when I say that this place is magical. Because it IS! Just look at the photo above – it’s absolutely beautiful. Plus, you don’t have to be a member to grab a couch downstairs or a table at The Allis. My friend Kit and I had a work day here recently and it was the perfect space for us to both catch up AND be quiet to get work done. Plus, instead of coffee, I always get a pot of their Peach Rooibos Tea. Nothing better.
Sawada Coffee
Sawada is actually right across the street from Soho House, but I come here for different reasons. The biggest appeal? The coffee is amazing and they have a really inventive menu. Have you ever seen the infamously beautiful Military Latte on Instagram? Yeah, Chicagoans get that from Sawada. It’s also connected to Green Street Smoked Meats, so as long as you’re there before the dinner crowd, there’s plenty of places to put your latte down and get some work done.
La Fournette
La Fournette is by far my favorite coffee shop in Old Town. It’s also a traditional French bakery, so it smells like heaven every time you walk in. I love that it’s small and cozy and it doesn’t feel like a trendy coffee shop where people only come to get an Instagram. Just a quiet and lovely spot with great coffee and even better baguettes to bring home to serve with dinner!
Elaine’s Coffee Call
If you’ve ever gotten drinks at The J. Parker, you’ve probably noticed Elaine’s as you walked into Hotel Lincoln. Turns out, yes you SHOULD go back! The decor inside is absolutely adorable and their pretty lattes are worth the splurge.
Fliorole
I love this Lincoln Park spot because it’s so bright and spacious – something not all coffee shops can brag about! Plus, if you’re going to treat yourself to a croissant with your coffee, this is the place to do it.
Side Practice Coffee
This Lincoln Square coffee shop is right off of Winnemac Park which makes it the perfect place for us to stop on a weekend walk with Luna. I love that they always have seasonal drinks that are super creative – and you can even opt for them to surprise you by ordering “Barista’s Choice”!
Fairgrounds
Fairgrounds is definitely my favorite place to get a cup of coffee when I’m over in Wicker Park. They offer coffee from a huge selection of craft coffee roasters, as well as matcha, kombucha and delicious food. Plus, their to go cups are super cute.
La Colombe
If you live in Chicago, I’m sure you’ve heard about La Colombe coffee – and yes, it’s worth the hype. You can find their coffee throughout the city, but they have shops of their own in West Loop, Lincoln Park and now the Gold Coast!
Want to remember my Favorite Chicago Coffee Shops? Here’s an image for you to pin:
PS. Have you read Best Chicago Shops, Best Chicago Date Night Restaurants, and My Favorite Healthy Spots?
