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New Yorkers 1st Choice
Guide to Chicago

Cool cafes

A cafe that feels genuinely cool, not just a place trying too hard to follow the latest trend.

Based on 678 Opinions
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Updated June 2026
01
Magnífico Coffee Roasters & Coffee Shop image 1
Magnífico Coffee Roasters & Coffee Shop image 2
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Bright, clean space with unique artwork and an on-site coffee roaster creates a welcoming environment. Outdoor seating and dog-friendly policies add to relaxed, friendly vibes. Live jazz music and carefully crafted pastries enhance the calm, inviting atmosphere.

Family-owned coffee shop roasts beans sourced directly from women-owned Colombian farms. The menu focuses on Colombian flavors, paired with great coffee and espresso and a vibe with house music.

Owners run an in-house coffee brewery and offer fresh Colombian pastries. The design and vibe feel straight up cool for hanging out or grabbing a drink.

People are saying

"I found the coffee to be really excellent."

"The coffee here is expertly roasted, rich, and flavorful."

"Their coffee is phenomenal, roasted right on site."

Good to know

1

On the third Sunday of each month, they have a DJ come in.

2

They roast their own coffee beans in-house for freshness.

3

Street parking is available nearby for easy access.

02
Café Consume image 1

Cozy cafe with huge outdoor patio and authentic Latino charm creates a warm, inviting atmosphere. Vinyl records play softly over mismatched vintage chairs and sunlight filters through old windows. Frequented for top-tier breakfast sandwiches, it offers a relaxed spot with free Wi-Fi and pet-friendly seating.

Family-owned coffee shop offers a home-style vibe with a menu curated by two brothers. Drinks like the iced cafe meli and cafe con leche come at affordable prices.

The spot has a cool atmosphere that feels both welcoming and nostalgic. Great coffee adds to the overall vibe.

People are saying

"I found the bourbon vanilla bean latte coffee to be very good."

"I thought their Cafe con Leche and matcha were amazing."

"I found the atmosphere here to be really cool and welcoming."

Good to know

1

Parking is available on the side of the café.

2

The café has a parking lot for customers.

3

You can bring your pets while enjoying coffee.

03
City Skyline Chicago - Coffee Lounge image 1

Coffee lounge features aviation-themed decor with real plane seats, cockpit dashboards, and airplane parts used as furniture. Atmosphere feels cozy and inviting, suitable for reading, working, or chatting quietly. Space welcomes dogs and offers varied seating with some plugs for charging devices.

An aviation-themed cafe with a unique and original interior creates a fun and authentic atmosphere. It offers a great selection of food and drinks, plus a comfortable space for working or chatting, with accessibility for those with hypersensitive hearing.

Aviation-themed decor creates a cool air travel atmosphere with seating inside a plane. The owner's pup adds a friendly vibe to the engaging airport concept.

People are saying

"This cafe's aviation theme and decor are super unique and cute."

"The coffee lounge has an adorable, energetic shop dog named Simon."

"The plane-themed decor is super cool."

Good to know

1

The lounge is open until 6 PM daily.

2

Parking is limited in the area.

3

The coffee shop is dog-friendly.

04
Casa Cactus image 1
Coffee shop

Space filled with plants and cactus-themed decor creates a cozy desert dream atmosphere. Warm lighting and Southwestern touches give a relaxing, chill vibe. Plenty of seating with outlets supports working or hanging out comfortably.

High quality coffee stands out here, especially the Cafe de Olla. The space feels large and pleasant, making it a solid spot to work from.

A cute atmosphere filled with cacti and cool furniture sets a unique vibe. Plenty of seating options add to the relaxed, stylish feel.

People are saying

"I thought the coffee here was the best I had ever had."

"The Cafe staff is super friendly and personable."

"The vibe and interior here are super cool."

Good to know

1

They host pop-up events to support local artists and teachers.

2

Free street parking is available in the neighborhood.

3

There is a parking lot a block away from the coffee shop.

05
Standing Passengers image 1

Coffee shop combines retro video games and 90s nostalgia with specialty coffee in a cozy, fun space. Free access to classic gaming consoles like SNES and N64 creates a relaxed, playful atmosphere. Seating mixes tables and couches, supporting both work and socializing.

Coffee here is delicious with a standout cafe au lait. The menu includes tasty donuts, breakfast tacos, and house-made sandwiches. Friendly baristas create a welcoming vibe with authentic charm and a great coffeehouse hang.

A super cool vibe fills the space, blending a video game theme with a relaxed atmosphere. Staff play Limp Bizkit back to back, adding to the unique energy while you enjoy coffee or sandwiches.

People are saying

"I enjoyed the great coffee and seasonal lattes."

"This cafe has a super cool atmosphere with retro games."

"I found the coffee shop's vibe to be super cool and chill."

Good to know

1

The coffee shop does not accept cash, only cards.

2

They serve breakfast tacos and sandwiches alongside coffee.

3

The patio offers additional seating when the inside is crowded.

06
Chess Club Coffee image 1

Spacious coffee shop with beautiful craftsman design and warm wood interiors creates a quiet, refined atmosphere. Patrons engage in chess games and enjoy a baby grand piano, adding cultural depth. Tables with wifi support a comfortable environment for work and study.

Offers awesome coffee options and fresh, house-made artisan pastries. Features a playable piano that kids enjoy and serves as a cozy spot for reading and relaxing.

The space feels cool and calm with a cute vibe throughout.

People are saying

"The Cafe's bread is crusty, chewy, and delicious."

"The space here is so cool, with a baby grand piano."

"The chai here is great for studying and working remotely."

Good to know

1

Chess Club Coffee opened recently and is a great addition to the neighborhood.

2

Expect drinks to cost around $9 each for 12 ounces with oat milk after tipping.

3

The space is ideal for studying or working remotely with strong Wi-Fi.

07
Nabala Cafe image 1

Cozy cafe with grassroots decor and rotating artwork creates a welcoming, culturally rich atmosphere. Bright, spacious interior supports community library and live music, fostering a safe, values-driven space. Offers savory pastries and full pots of tea, distinguishing it from typical coffee shops.

Offers values-driven coffee with a strong sense of community and a welcoming vibe. Serves as a reliable spot for work, events, and quality coffee.

Walls showcase Palestinian artwork and activist pieces, creating a relaxing vibe throughout the cafe.

People are saying

"I found the coffee here to be ridiculously smooth and delicious."

"The coffee and food at this cafe are delicious."

"I found the cafe to be a cool and relaxing spot."

Good to know

1

Nabala Cafe hosts community events regularly, fostering local engagement.

2

Poetry workshops are held at Nabala Cafe, offering creative opportunities.

3

The cafe features a community library for visitors to enjoy.

08
Tasa Coffee Roasters image 1

Spacious coffee shop with modern, stylish decor and bright, airy atmosphere creates a warm and welcoming vibe. Comfortable seating and plentiful outlets support relaxed work or socializing. A small glass room showcases on-site coffee bean roasting, adding a unique touch to the experience.

Offers Hispanic inspired drinks and food with a strong local vibe. Known for great coffee that stands out in the neighborhood.

A coffee mill display in the back adds a unique touch. The overall atmosphere feels very cool and inviting.

People are saying

"I thought the coffee here was great and delicious."

"I loved the creative seasonal drinks and delicious coffee here."

"The coffee here is strong, smooth, and well-balanced."

Good to know

1

They serve tamales on weekends.

2

They roast their own coffee beans right in house.

3

Tasa sources coffee beans from women-owned farms.

09
Muse Coffee Studio image 1

Spacious coffee shop with brick walls and an art gallery showcasing fantastic artwork throughout. Cozy and comfortable seating includes tables for work and couches for relaxing, creating a creative vibe. Background music features soul, funk, and jazz, sometimes with a DJ spinning chill beats.

Coffee here stands out with great lattes and a taste that ranks among the city's best. The space feels like a destination, offering a vibe unlike other cafes in the area.

Cool art pieces and a laid back vibe create a great atmosphere. The ambient feels chill and suits working or relaxing.

People are saying

"The cafe's lattes and specialty drinks are amazing and taste great."

"It's a cozy spot with a chill vibe, perfect for relaxing."

"It's a cool space with great art and a chill vibe."

Good to know

1

There is free street parking available right out front.

2

Muse Coffee Studio does not charge extra for oat or almond milk.

3

The cafe has a variety of seating options suitable for work or relaxation.

10
LVL UP COFFEE image 1
Coffee shop

Space combines luxury lounge design with lush greenery and thoughtful curation, creating a calming atmosphere ideal for working or relaxing. Music selection is soothing and background noise stays low, supporting focus and conversation. Multiple seating options and accessible outlets accommodate meetings, dates, or solo visits comfortably.

Beautiful cafe with stunning interiors and cozy vibes creates a perfect atmosphere. The menu features unique drinks like an exquisite iced americano and authentic cafe de olla showcasing Mexican culture.

A very cool atmosphere fills the space, highlighted by a distinctive sign on the building. Good coffee pairs with plenty of tasty pastries inside.

People are saying

"The coffee here is amazing, with a smooth caramel and buttery finish."

"This cafe has a really warm and inviting atmosphere."

"The coffee here is really great and the space is cool."

Good to know

1

Street parking is available via metered parking.

2

The price of a cortado is $4.50.

3

They recently changed their opening hours from 7am to 8am.

11
COZY CAFE image 1
Coffee shop

Small coffee shop with 80s jazz and R&B decor and Motown music playing softly. Atmosphere feels cozy and welcoming, with an old soul vibe and friendly energy. Hosts occasional performances and offers a homey, inviting space with thoughtful touches like local artwork and vintage details.

Great coffee pairs with fresh baked goods like cinnamon rolls in a cozy, relaxed space. Friendly service from a welcoming owner adds to the inviting atmosphere.

A calming and cool vibe fills the coffee shop. Ricky, a sweet and attentive host, ensures a wonderful time.

People are saying

"Ricky at the Cafe made me feel so welcome and at home."

"The pastries here are so good, and Ricky is a wonderful barista."

"Ricky is such a cool and sweet man."

Good to know

1

The cafe offers a holler deal for a pastry and beverage.

2

Parking is available right out front for easy pick-up.

3

The prices at the cafe are reasonable for the area.

12
New Sound Cafe image 1
Coffee shop

Space inside a renovated soul record label building features old skool vinyl record theme and bright second-story windows. Atmosphere feels warm and inviting with cozy workspaces and a dedicated kids play area. Spot suits both casual hangouts and focused work sessions.

Renovated from a long empty space, this cafe offers a beautiful interior with plenty of space to sit, eat, work, or meet. It serves great coffee and food and supports neighborhood nonprofits with its proceeds.

The building features a cool update with décor blending Joanna Gaines style and a musician's vibe. It stands out as a unique coffee spot in the city.

People are saying

"This cafe has a gorgeous, bright interior with plenty of seating."

"It's a great spot for working and relaxing."

"I thought the coffee here was really high quality."

Good to know

1

Parking in the lot connected to the cafe may result in booting your car.

2

Expect longer wait times due to the cafe's recent popularity.

3

There are plenty of laptop outlets available for remote work.

13
Monday Coffee Co. image 1

Spacious coffee shop with modern minimalist design and natural light from skylights creates a stylish, comfortable environment. Soft lighting and classic jazzy tunes set a peaceful lounge vibe that invites work and conversation. Variety of seating and amenities like outlets, wifi, and a children's book corner support diverse visitors.

Spacious and aesthetically pleasing, this cafe feels like a community hub where people hang out and play chess. The coffee, including a solid Americano, carries a vibe of genuine hospitality and warmth.

Space features a modern vibe with minimalist design and soft lighting. Chairs add to the cool, calming atmosphere.

People are saying

"I found the coffee here to be smooth and delicious."

"This cafe has a stunning, modern vibe with inviting atmosphere."

"It's got a cool, modern vibe with minimalist design."

Good to know

1

The coffee shop only accepts card payments, which may affect cash-only visitors.

2

It opens before 8am, making it a good spot for early risers.

3

They host community events regularly, enhancing the local vibe.

14
Drink happy thoughts Humboldt image 1

Coffee shop offers a super chill atmosphere with chill house mixes and occasional Jazz played on a white projector. Comfortable tables and chairs suit solo work or groups, enhanced by live DJ sets during breaks. Decor includes a drippy smiley face mural and a cozy, inviting space with treats for dogs.

Black Owned Coffee Shop features a gallery and an open patio at the back. Staff and visitors bring beautiful energy to the space.

The space feels cool and inviting with a vibe that stands out as super cool.

People are saying

"I loved the inventive coffee with unique flavor combinations."

"The Cafe has super friendly and fast service from the staff."

"The vibe here is super cool and inviting."

Good to know

1

They close at 3 PM on most days and may consider opening later in the future.

2

Expect higher prices, with a $12 oz latte costing $8.

3

Street parking is available near the coffee shop.

15
Afro Joes Coffee & Tea image 1

Coffee shop occupies a unique space set back from the street in an old auto shop with Black art on walls and a spacious, comfortable layout. Atmosphere stays calm and friendly with live music and an outdoor area featuring a dog run. Seating includes a cozy spot past the barista for chatting, working, or relaxing.

A quaint little spot known for its authentic coffee and great atmosphere. It stands out as a favorite coffee shop in the area and city.

Very good coffee and cool staff set the tone. A neosoul and throwback musical backdrop creates a great atmosphere for breakfast and coffee.

People are saying

"I loved the short rib sandwich, it was so satisfying."

"This cafe has some of the best coffee I've ever tasted."

"The vibe here is super cool, especially with the throwback music."

Good to know

1

Live music happens every Saturday and Sunday, featuring various bands.

2

During summer, expect DJs and live music on weekends, especially on the patio.

3

Community events like movie nights and book readings are regularly hosted.

16
Hexe Coffee Co. image 1

Cafe offers an understated, alternative vibe with spooky decor and a cozy atmosphere. Outdoor seating includes a dog-friendly patio with water bowls, attracting families and pet owners. Cocktails and coffee share equal appeal, complementing flavorful pastries and savory baked goods.

Coffee here stands out with exceptional quality and unique ambience. Pastries and food options rank among the best in the area, making it a solid spot for both work and casual visits.

A laid-back vibe fills the spacious setting with a mix of coffee drinks and cocktails. The artwork adds to the great atmosphere that makes it a cool spot to work or relax.

People are saying

"I found the coffee here to be great."

"The patio is huge and perfect for nice days."

"The coffee here is ridiculously great and worth buying bags of."

Good to know

1

Happy hour runs from 3-6pm with great beer choices.

2

Trivia night happens every Wednesday at 7pm with a $5 entry fee.

3

Live music events occur regularly on the outdoor patio.

17
Dark Matter Coffee - The Mothership image 1

Cafe blends space-themed decor with psychedelic vibes and funky artwork creating a laid-back energy. Indoor and outdoor seating offer varied atmospheres, from cozy nooks to lively patios. Bold personality fills every corner, attracting those who appreciate unique, cool coffee spots.

Coffee here uses a Latin America espresso blend called Unicorn Blood, featured in the Cafe Miel with honey and oat milk. The vibe feels like the true heart of old coffee shops, offering a super cool atmosphere different from typical cafes.

Unique theme and atmosphere create a cool vibe throughout the space. The Mothership adds a distinctive experience that stands out.

People are saying

"I found the coffee here to be amazing and flavorful."

"Their coffee has unique flavors like whiskey barrel-aged mocha."

"The coffee here is seriously great and smooth."

Good to know

1

Dark Matter Coffee closes at 6 PM, so arrive before 5:30 PM for a brew.

2

Expect limited food options; arrive early to avoid missing out on pastries.

3

There is no seating available inside, making it primarily a takeout spot.

18
Jackalope Coffee & Tea House image 1

Coffee shop spreads across three buildings with punk-horror art and quirky decorations covering walls and spaces. Atmosphere feels eccentric and creative, mixing DIY punk rock vibes with a touch of horror themes. Plenty of seating and free WiFi support a relaxed, inviting environment.

Offers great food and coffee with a selection of good pastries and unique hot sandwiches. Seating is usually available even during busy times, and prices stay more affordable than many other cafes.

Cool art and sci-fi memorabilia decorate the space. The vibe mixes kitschy Halloween decor with a neighborhood coffee shop feel.

People are saying

"I thought the coffee was very good and served hot."

"The cafe's coffee and chai latte were very tasty."

"It's got a really cool, quirky vibe with fun decor."

Good to know

1

There is no dedicated parking; nearby street parking is available.

2

The cafe is usually busy, but there is often seating available.

3

They offer free wifi, making it a good spot for working.

19
The High Crowd Cafe image 1

Cafe combines chill atmosphere with constant energy and vibey environment. Tables invite playing board games while enjoying music and treats. Offers a mix of caffeine, sweets, and THC options in a relaxed setting.

Offers a solid mix of amazing coffee, pastries, and THC products. The vibe supports both caffeine fixes and hemp needs with consistent quality.

Cool vibes fill the space with a clean and friendly atmosphere. Awesome artwork and consistently friendly staff add to the overall cool experience.

People are saying

"The lemonade here is super sweet and the staff is so friendly."

"The Cafe staff here is always super friendly and helpful."

"The staff here is so friendly and cool."

Good to know

1

The cafe offers a variety of baked goods, lemonades, coffees, and teas.

2

Expect prices for marijuana products to be competitive with local dispensaries.

3

The cafe frequently offers special deals to customers.

20
Vietfive Coffee - Chicago image 1

Cozy coffee shop blends modern chic and traditional charm with rustic wooden tables and delicate ceramic cups. Atmosphere stays quiet and inviting, supporting work or relaxed conversations with plenty of power outlets and free Wi-Fi. Friendly, family-oriented vibe includes pet-friendly policies and unique wall graphics sharing coffee origins.

Offers a unique coffee experience with a cool atmosphere that stands out from typical spots. Known for being a top-notch cafe in the area with a vibe that feels different and inviting.

Cool atmosphere sets the tone with a modern design that feels fresh. The spot offers a unique Vietnamese coffee vibe that stands out.

People are saying

"I found the coffee to be rich, bold, and perfectly satisfying."

"These empanadas are outstanding and perfectly seasoned."

"The Vietnamese coffee here is strong and delicious."

Good to know

1

Expect to pay around $10 for a drink and snack.

2

Signature, custom blended beans are roasted on the premises.

3

The shop uses coconut condensed milk for their coffee drinks.

21
Sleep Walk Chocolateria & Cafe image 1

Small coffee shop in a former bakery offers a cozy, nostalgic vibe with beautiful artwork and natural light. Music and conversation create a lively atmosphere, while wobbly tables and limited seating shape the space. Plant-filled interior and authentic chocolate aromas add to the unique experience.

Cozy space filled with plants offers authentic coffee flavors from Guatemala and Mexico. Chocolate and coffee-based drinks stand out alongside unique merchandise not found at other locations.

An old bakery setting gives the coffee shop a nostalgic vibe. Artwork inside and outside adds a super cool touch. The cafe feels well decorated and cool overall.

People are saying

"The coffee here is incredibly smooth and flavorful."

"I found the cafe's hot chocolate bold, deep, and unapologetically rich."

"The artwork and cafe decor make this spot feel really cool."

Good to know

1

The café offers a unique 24oz cup for beverages.

2

Menu items are displayed at the cashier, which may require quick decisions.

3

Bring headphones if you plan to work for an extended time.

22
Prequel Cafe image 1
Coffee shop

Coffee shop offers modern decor with minimalist warmth through concrete floors and soft lighting. Atmosphere stays calm and inviting, suited for work, reading, or quiet talks. Regulars enjoy house-made baked goods like bagels and unique breakfast sandwiches.

Coffee sourcing is excellently curated with high quality coffee drinks served. House-made baked goods include a fabulous bagel and staff provide a trustworthy experience.

Relaxing music and a quaint space create a cool vibe. The service matches the laid-back atmosphere.

People are saying

"The coffee here has a great, cozy vibe."

"The cafe staff here is so friendly and welcoming."

"I still think about the pastries weeks later."

Good to know

1

Reservations are not required, but ordering ahead is recommended due to busy times.

2

The cafe does not accept cash; only credit cards and mobile payments are accepted.

3

There is limited seating available, so be prepared for a wait during peak hours.

23
Mojo Coffee image 1
Coffee shop

High ceilings and modern decor create a cozy yet stylish ambiance in a historic building setting. Seating is comfortable and plentiful, making it suitable for relaxing or quick meetings. The vibe is chill and spacious, attracting those who appreciate quality coffee without a corporate feel.

Space feels gorgeous and inviting for a coffee shop. Mushroom and cheese quiche stands out as a notable dish. Located conveniently in the building lobby.

A very cool location sets the vibe here. The space feels large with high ceilings, but the acoustics can be a bit challenging.

People are saying

"I thought the cold brew was always delicious."

"The croissant was buttery and flaky."

"This cafe has a gorgeous space with high ceilings and modern decor."

Good to know

1

There are no public bathrooms at Mojo Coffee.

2

The entrance is through a business building, which can be busy.

3

Expect limited seating, especially for larger groups.

24
Ritual Coffeehouse image 1

Cozy coffee shop with an industrial style and vintage vinyl records decorating the space. Relaxed indoor seating complements a secluded backyard patio that welcomes pets and offers a quiet spot to work. Vinyl records play softly, creating a homey atmosphere appreciated by music fans.

Coffee here is excellent and potent, with fresh scones and homemade pastries adding to the menu. The cafe features a vinyl soundtrack and a pet-friendly patio, creating a relaxed vibe.

Cool vinyl soundtrack plays in a funky coffee shop with a record and listening setup. The backyard offers a quiet, natural atmosphere perfect for relaxing.

People are saying

"The cafe's coffee and baked goods are amazing."

"It's so cozy and warm, full of personality."

"It's a cool and quiet place to relax."

Good to know

1

Ritual Coffeehouse is open until 10pm on Sundays.

2

Seating is limited, so arrive early to secure a spot.

3

The coffeehouse is dog-friendly, welcoming pets in the outdoor area.

25
ESPRESSO AND MILK image 1

Minimalist coffee shop with stark white interior and black-clad baristas behind a clean white marble counter. Atmosphere is bright and inviting but noisy with an echo, offering no indoor seating and relying on outdoor patio space for guests. Focus centers on high-quality espresso drinks and unique latte flavors, making it ideal for quick takeout visits.

Coffee here features well-balanced espresso and milk without the burnt taste common elsewhere. Few cafes exist nearby, making it a solid spot for local coffee lovers.

Espresso and Milk offers a clean space with a cool vibe. The staff adds to the laid-back atmosphere.

People are saying

"I loved the iced mocha; it was well balanced."

"I found the coffee here to be amazing, with quality beans."

"I found the coffee here to be great."

Good to know

1

There is no seating at this coffee shop, so it is takeout only.

2

They are open from 7 AM to 3 PM on weekdays.

3

Expect long wait times during morning rush hours.

26
Loaves & Witches image 1
Coffee shop

Space blends witchy cozy magic with eccentric styling and light macabre touches, creating a warm and welcoming atmosphere. Comfortable seating includes outdoor options, with tarot decks and card activities available on tables. Energy feels positive and lively, attracting a community-oriented crowd.

Bustling and inclusive, this cafe offers a vegan-friendly menu and a fun, welcoming vibe. It serves as a neighborhood go-to for coffee lovers seeking a lively spot.

Welcoming atmosphere blends with tarot readings and D&D sessions to create a truly cool vibe. A full roster of events keeps the energy fresh and engaging.

People are saying

"The coffee here is delicious, well-balanced, and made with quality beans."

"The pastries here are really good and freshly baked."

"It's a cool space with a welcoming atmosphere and fun events."

Good to know

1

They host community events regularly, including artsy and inclusive gatherings.

2

A knitting group and succulent planting event are examples of their unique activities.

3

Seating can be limited during busy times, especially on weekends.

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