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New Yorkers 1st Choice
Local picks in Chicago

Interesting cafes

Made for those who require their cafe surroundings to be as unconventional and thought-provoking as their coffee order.

Based on 628 Opinions
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Updated May 2026
01
City Skyline Chicago - Coffee Lounge image 1
City Skyline Chicago - Coffee Lounge image 2
City Skyline Chicago - Coffee Lounge image 3
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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.

Interior design mimics the inside of an airplane, creating a fun and interesting atmosphere. Coffee options are well-crafted and varied, adding to the overall relaxed vibe.

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 airline-style decor makes this place really interesting."

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.

02
Sauce & Bread Kitchen image 1

Small space with a hole-in-the-wall deli atmosphere offers a cozy and friendly vibe that feels like home. Ethically sourced homemade food includes technically perfect pastries and standout sandwiches. Occasional live jazz adds to the relaxed, charming environment.

Coffee here stands out with a fantastic flavor and consistent quality. The atmosphere feels welcoming, making it a solid spot for a relaxing cafe experience.

Lunch offers tasty and interesting dishes with a menu that feels fresh and full of variety.

People are saying

"I found the food here to be fresh and original."

"I found the food at this cafe to be delicious and top-notch."

"I found the food to be tasty and interesting."

Good to know

1

Dinner is available only on Fridays and Saturdays.

2

Fridays feature spoken word or jazz nights.

3

Pizza night is a popular community event.

03
Nomad-Chicago image 1
Coffee shop

Boutique cafe combines upscale shop, comfy lounge, and coffee house with boho vibe. Atmosphere feels cozy, calm, and elegant with plenty of seating and workspace. Unique gifts and vintage thrift items add to the experience.

Boutique cafe offers lovely decor and a unique vibe. Coffee stands out as exceptional and well-crafted.

Interesting drinks cycle throughout the year, keeping the menu fresh. The store offers unique items, an event space, and a coffee shop with an interesting seasonal menu.

People are saying

"It's a cute cafe with a shop selling unique handmade gifts."

"The Digital Nomad space is spacious, cozy, and beautifully designed."

"The drinks here are really good and interesting."

Good to know

1

Expect to pay around $9 for a latte, which is on the higher side.

2

Street parking is plentiful around the coffee shop.

3

Restrooms are accessible for customers.

04
Dayglow image 1
Coffee shop

Minimalist coffee shop offers spacious seating and creative coffee cocktails with a dog-friendly environment. Quiet and welcoming atmosphere suits working or relaxing, complemented by an attached small art gallery. Good music plays consistently, enhancing the calm vibe.

Multi-roaster coffee options stand out with unique drinks and a minimalistic, spacious setting. The cafe sits right by a popular trail, adding to its comfortable vibe.

Unique cold craft drinks and Ghibli-inspired lattes stand out here. The menu shows creative coffee experiences with options like coconut crushed coffee and an interesting space vibe.

People are saying

"The coffee here is excellent, clean, and well made."

"The cafe's unique craft coffees are perfectly balanced and delicious."

"The drinks here are really interesting and unique."

Good to know

1

Dayglow offers a rotating selection of hard-to-find international roasters for pour overs.

2

There are no sugar or stirrers available, so bring your own if needed.

3

The barista closed the coffee shop 20 minutes early, so check hours before visiting.

05
TARY image 1
Cafe

Cozy, minimal cafรฉ with authentic Kazakh decor and subtle cultural elements creates a calm, pleasant atmosphere. Plenty of seating and strong WiFi support work or socializing, while unique Central Asian pastries and dishes offer a distinct culinary experience.

Offers organic halal food alongside coffee. Serves as the first Kazakhstani coffee shop in the U.S. Known for its unique coffee and inviting atmosphere.

Unique cuisine and organic snacks stand out here. The coffee with wheat grains and interesting decor add to the overall experience.

People are saying

"I thought the coffee here was super good."

"The cafe's coffee and food are fresh and delicious."

"You'll find interesting, tasty snacks and organic drinks here."

Good to know

1

Parking is reserved for commercial vehicles only, leading to potential tickets.

2

TARY serves unique Central Asian pastries and drinks not found elsewhere.

3

The cafe gets packed, making tables hard to get at times.

06
First Sip Cafe image 1
Coffee shop

Coffee shop offers a Bohemian vibe with painted black walls and whimsical hanging teacup displays. Dim lighting creates cozy, artistic atmosphere suited for working or deep conversations. Features include live plants, outdoor patio seating, and unique menu options for coffee and tea.

Creative space with a genuine, organic atmosphere hosts community events and local artists regularly. Offers outstanding non-coffee choices alongside a very nice vibe for gatherings and parties.

Combinations of ingredients show unique flavors like matcha strawberry coconut milk. The menu features a variety of interesting drinks and the atmosphere adds to the overall distinctive vibe.

People are saying

"I loved all their unique and fresh coffee flavors."

"This cafe's interior is super cute and cozy."

"The drink combinations here are really interesting and delicious."

Good to know

1

First Sip Cafe is closed until December 2nd.

2

The cafe is conveniently located near the Argyle red line stop.

3

The menu features a variety of unique Vietnamese-inspired lattes.

07
The Wormhole Coffee image 1

Coffee shop with nostalgic 80s theme and Star Wars memorabilia creates a unique, nerdy vibe. Spacious seating supports teleworking and socializing, while retro games and a DeLorean car add distinctive charm. Atmosphere feels lively and cool, attracting steady crowds throughout the day.

Coffee here stands out with a cool vibe featuring old school movies and video games. This cafe feels like a destination, not just a spot to grab a drink.

Staff serve an interesting menu with specialty drinks like the Koopa Troopa latte featuring a peanut butter-chocolate flavor. The place also offers interesting art and music, plus seasonal snack and drink options.

People are saying

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

"This cafe has amazing coffee and total 80s vibes."

"It's interesting inside with all the 80s memorabilia and a DeLorean."

Good to know

1

They only accept cash as a form of payment.

2

Expect long wait times, especially on weekends and busy hours.

3

Finding parking nearby can be very difficult.

08
Side Practice Coffee image 1

Small coffee shop offers a cozy atmosphere with thoughtful interior design resembling a living room. It features local art displays and hosts creative pop-ups, creating a community-focused vibe. Seating is comfortable but limited, encouraging slow, relaxed visits.

Friendly community vibe defines this cafe, making it a go-to spot for quick coffee and pastries. It serves as a reliable place to work from and brightens the day with its five-star coffee quality.

Specialty drinks include Filipino options like ube matcha and lemon croissant lattes. Pastries feature unique twists such as ube or passion fruit fillings. The menu offers seasonal selections with interesting flavors.

People are saying

"The coffee here is delicious, especially the ube and pandan vanilla lattes."

"This cafe's vibe is so chill and inviting."

"Their specialty drinks are really interesting, especially the ube matcha."

Good to know

1

The cafe closes at 5 pm, limiting visits for those with late schedules.

2

Seating can be limited, especially during pop-up events.

3

The coffee prices are considered high compared to other cafes.

09
Oro Chocolate & Coffee image 1

Chocolate made in-house and rocking chairs create a unique coffee shop experience. The space features beautiful decor and ample seating with a quiet, cozy atmosphere. A self-serve sparkling water tap adds a practical touch to the inviting vibe.

Stylish, comfortable atmosphere pairs with ethically sourced products and freshly made in-house menu items. Quiet energy suits small groups or remote work, with standout drinks like the authentic cacao cafe mocha.

Golden milk drinking chocolate tastes super rich with an interesting flavor. Decor includes colorful rocking chairs and warm lighting that stands out.

People are saying

"The chocolate here is creamy with a prominent flavor."

"I thought the matcha was incredible, one of the best I'd ever tried."

"Their cafe's espresso was one of the best I've ever had."

Good to know

1

Prices are not listed on the menu, which can be confusing for customers.

2

Iced coffee costs almost $8, which some may find expensive.

3

The place is clean and well maintained, providing a pleasant atmosphere.

10
Nube's Ice Cream & Coffee Shop image 1

Small cafe with cozy, homely vibe and friendly atmosphere offers unique fruit ice cream flavors like guava and soursop. Warm interior with limited seating invites quiet enjoyment. Coffee service extends beyond typical hours, adding to its local charm.

Coffee stands out with a better quality than many local cafes. The spot combines a cozy cafe vibe with an ice cream shop, making it a nice place for a sweet treat.

Many ice cream flavors come made in house with unique options like tomato tree and soursop. Guava topped with grated cheese offers an interesting combo.

People are saying

"The ice cream here is delicious, fresh, and creamy."

"I tried interesting ice cream flavors like cheese and passion fruit."

"The cafe's ice cream is creamy, refreshing, and has unique flavors with cheese."

Good to know

1

Nube's Ice Cream & Coffee Shop allows customers to sample unique flavors before purchasing.

2

They offer unique flavors such as blackberry, soursop, and mamey.

3

The shop features a variety of unique South American flavors in addition to common ones.

11
Sawada Coffee image 1
Coffee shop

Large coffee shop with expansive indoor and outdoor space shares seating with a bar and restaurant, creating a unique, hip atmosphere. The vibe stays chill and peaceful, suited for relaxing or working with fast WiFi and plenty of outlets. Decor includes boxing ring elements and wood-metal interiors, adding to its distinct style.

Rustic charm and large open windows create a bright, inviting space for working or relaxing. The cafe blends hip and grungy vibes with unique interior design and expansive indoor and outdoor areas shared with other businesses.

Unique coffee blends mix tea infusions like houjicha and matcha with coffee beans. The Black Camo Latte stands out as a distinctive combo. The interior features a very unique vibe and decor.

People are saying

"I thought the coffee here was amazing and super flavorful."

"Their specialty coffee drinks are phenomenal and creative."

"The coffee and tea combos here are really interesting."

Good to know

1

Sawada Coffee offers macadamia nut milk as an alternative milk option.

2

The order ahead option allows customers to skip the long line.

3

Sawada Coffee shares a space with a BBQ joint.

12
Loba Pastry + Coffee image 1

Scandinavian-inspired space offers cozy, minimalist vibes with handmade ceramics and a large window into the pastry kitchen. Atmosphere stays friendly and social, often busy and packed, without laptop use or wifi. Pastries are inventive and high-quality, drawing attention for unique flavors and fresh preparation.

Exceptional cafe with homemade pastries and chill vibes. Staff make every element of the cafe stand out.

Pastries showcase interesting flavors and use ingredients not typical in baked goods. Drinks and treats offer culturally diverse twists on classic patisserie.

People are saying

"I thought the pastries here were the best on the planet."

"This cafe's pastries are unique and freshly made."

"You have to try the black mole croissant; it's pastry perfection."

Good to know

1

The cafe opens at 8am, but be prepared for limited seating.

2

They only accept card payments; no cash is accepted.

3

Expect a line during busy times, especially on weekends.

13
Pittsfield Cafe image 1

Old diner inside an elegant 1930s building offers a cozy atmosphere with a quiet morning vibe and architectural charm. Seating is ample, including outdoor spots with an amazing view. The setting feels like a calm oasis amid a bustling city.

Cozy family diner offers a classic American breakfast and fast, outstanding food. The old-fashioned atmosphere and lovely staff create a welcoming vibe for brunch or takeout.

An old residential building and a defunct hotel lobby create an interesting setting. The architecture gives an outdoor cafe feel indoors. The Bloody Mary features spicy flavor and unique garnishes.

People are saying

"I found this diner to have delicious, classic American food."

"The breakfast here is delicious and the staff is so friendly."

"The location is interesting, tucked away in an old building's lobby."

Good to know

1

They have early bird specials until 11am every day.

2

Credit card payments incur a 3% charge without prior notice.

3

The bathrooms require a key from management for access.

14
Nutella Cafe Chicago image 1

Nutella-themed decor creates a bright and inviting space with personalized Nutella jars as a unique feature. The cafe feels cramped and crowded, with small tables placed very close together, often leading to a noisy atmosphere. Outdoor patio seating offers an alternative to the tight indoor space.

Offers a unique Nutella-focused menu with drinks, snacks, coffee, pastries, pancakes, waffles, and crepes all featuring chocolate-hazelnut spread. The cafe has a modern style and sells personalized Nutella jars with names printed on them.

Customized Nutella jars with your name stand out as a unique feature. The menu offers interesting desserts featuring Nutella that you don't see elsewhere.

People are saying

"You have to try the Nutella Crepe with bananas; it's very tasty."

"This cafe is a sweet tooth's paradise with Nutella crepes and waffles."

"It's interesting how they customize your Nutella jar with your name."

Good to know

1

Expect a wait time of 30-45 minutes during peak hours.

2

The cafe opens at 8 am daily.

3

You can personalize your Nutella with your name for a unique souvenir.

15
Freehand Chicago image 1

Retro art deco style hotel combines chic lobby with a lively bar scene featuring a spacious bar and fast internet. Rooms offer comfortable beds and clean amenities, while the lounge area provides a relaxed vibe contrasting the nightclub energy downstairs.

A bar and cafe operate downstairs, offering convenient access and a spot to relax. The cafe and lobby area keep an old vibe that stands out in the space.

Sculpture outside the window adds a unique touch to the view. The lively atmosphere and interesting decor create a memorable experience.

People are saying

"The bar staff here is amazing and super fun."

"The cafe staff were great and very hospitable."

"The atmosphere here is lively and interesting."

Good to know

1

Expect a mandatory resort fee of $15โ€“40 per night not included in the initial price.

2

Breakfast is included in the morning for all guests.

3

Security on the floors is lacking, making the area feel unsafe after dark.

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