A good coffee shop doesn't just serve amazing coffee, it provides an environment where you can be creative. I could spend hours at a cafe; listening to music, reading, writing, thinking or talking to a friend over a good cup of joe. Ever since I visited Paris, I have been unconsciously seeking the coffee culture it beholds and I can finally say I have found a couple of gems in Chicago. Hope you enjoy reading about these unique spaces in the Windy City that offer an amazing cup of coffee with an environment so inspiring and different that you are bound to have a good time, and capture some gorgeous shots along the way!
1. WEREWOLF COFFEE BAR
1765 N Elston Ave, Chicago, IL 60642
Werewolf serves their coffee out of a food truck, the space is industrial yet warm. It includes a lounge space for meetings, work station equipped with multiple electrical outlets and small work tables as well. They are known for their Instagram worthy coffees including Charcoal Latte which is made with granulated charcoal, lavender, honey, espresso and love. Regret was sinking in as I ordered that, but to my amazement I loved it and could easily consume it on the regular (will wait until I read more about charcoal consumption before I make it a habit though!) Next time, I will definitely try their Sweet Beet Latte- check it out on their page, it's beautiful, adorned with real rose petals and edible glitter! They also have Kombucha on tap...so definitely a coffee shop in tune with all the health trends! Also, you can rent out the whole space...what better way to celebrate a coffee lover's special day?
2. MAISON MARCEL
3114 N Broadway St, Chicago, IL 60657
Say hello to the cutest French Cafe in Lakeview! Looking for a cute, brightly lit space? Then you'd love Maison Marcel. Lakeview was my very first neighborhood when I moved to Chicago seven years ago, and being back in the area flooded in many old memories. This cafe is located on the bustling Broadway Street which has tons to do, so continue the fun after you're done brunching or working here. Their macarons and cappuccino were delightful and I'll definitely go back, but this time to work on that one long table designated for people working on their laptops.
3. THE ALLIS
113-125 North Green, Chicago, IL 60661
What's not to love about this gorgeous space? Located inside Soho House in the West Loop, this lobby area makes the most beautiful cafe. Soho House is known to be exclusive to its members, but this space is open for anyone to walk in and enjoy a good cup of coffee, cocktail, or food in the most beautiful setting - giant chandeliers, plush velvet couches, rustic tables.....
Every time I come in here I'm in awe and whisper to myself - can I move in here or take the chandelier home?! ;)
4. CAFFE STREETS
1750 W Division St, Chicago, IL 60622
This cafe has the quintessential NYC cafe feel, small with urban street views and tailored perfectly for the hipster neighborhood it's located in. If you want to work on your laptop, this small cafe provides the perfect ambiance and functionality to do just that. I actually get a lot of my writing done here, so don't be surprised if you bump into me when you visit :)
5. LA COLOMBE COFFEE
1552 N Damen Ave, Chicago, IL 60622
Best coffee/coffee beans hands down. I recently bought a Breville Barista Express for which I need to buy fresh coffee beans on the regular and so far, ONLY La Colombe's coffee beans have proven super fresh, making the pressure needle of the coffee machine reach its maximum. Thank you, thank you, thank you!
6. CAFE TOLA
3612 N Southport Ave, Chicago, IL 60613
I've been to two of Cafe Tola's locations now, and every time I'm amazed at how great their coffee is, despite being known more for outstanding Mexican food. It's a grab and go place, but being so cute, you're bound to spend some time either enjoying their coffee on the patio or taking pictures of their beautiful murals. Next time I'll try the food and will let you know how that is ;)
I will continue to update this post as I find other great spots in the city. Till then, enjoy and keep exploring Chicago!
xo,
Sahr.