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New Yorkers 1st Choice
Local picks in Chicago

Unique cafes

A cafe that offers a distinct personality, not just another generic space with a coffee machine.

Based on 702 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.

Bright, clean space features unique artwork honoring the family behind Magnifico. Baristas craft unique concoctions like iced coffee lemonade and marshmallow foam cold brews. Pastries arrive warmed and taste deliciously unique compared to typical offerings.

People are saying

"I found the coffee to be really excellent."

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

"The coffee's unique flavors, like berry and candy, are amazing."

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
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.

Intricately decorated with a unique airplane theme, the coffee shop offers a cozy and inviting atmosphere. It serves a fruity coffee flavor that stands out for coffee lovers and travel enthusiasts alike.

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 aviation-themed decor here is so unique and inviting."

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.

03
Believe Cafe image 1

Cozy cafe with an independently owned charm and a warm, inviting atmosphere. Friendly staff serve large portions of fresh empanadas and coffee, creating a dog-friendly environment with thoughtful touches like pup cups.

Offers unique coffee varieties with a standout horchata latte. Opens early at 6am and greets guests with friendly, enthusiastic energy.

Unique coffee varieties and delicious empanadas stand out here. The menu blends classic options with some unique treats for a distinct flavor experience.

People are saying

"I found the empanadas here to be exceptionally good."

"You have to try the horchata latte; it's so flavorful."

"You have to try the empanadas; they're fantastic."

Good to know

1

They make fresh batches of empanadas throughout the day.

2

Believe Cafe is dog friendly.

3

Believe Cafe opens early at 6am.

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.

Latin American decor creates a unique atmosphere with vibrant vibes. Drinks feature Mexican-inspired flavors and unusual combos like honey dandelion, offering a distinct coffee taste.

People are saying

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

"The Cafe staff is super friendly and personable."

"The atmosphere is unique with its Latin American decor and beautiful plants."

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
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.

Flavors stand out with unique spices and a cardamom cafe au lait that you don't see often. The menu mixes comforting and unique tastes for a distinct coffee shop experience.

People are saying

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

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

"It's a unique spot with a wonderfully warm and relaxed atmosphere."

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.

06
Ludlow Charlingtons Coffee Shop image 1

Small coffee shop with dark, cozy interior and dog-themed decor featuring antique-style portraits. Atmosphere feels warm and charming, welcoming both people and dogs with dog treats and outdoor seating. Space is tight but inviting, making it suitable for casual visits or working quietly.

Coffee here supports sheltered dogs and creates a dog-friendly atmosphere. The shop offers a warm and charming vibe with attentive staff and unique drinks like pumpkin pie latte.

Building shows a lot of character with dog portraits on the walls. Drinks stand out with unique flavors and strong espresso. Atmosphere has a quirky personality that invites lingering.

People are saying

"I loved the coffee surrounded by adorable dog pictures and paintings."

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

"The atmosphere's unique with playful, art-filled décor and antique dog portraits."

Good to know

1

The coffee shop is dog-friendly and supports rescue dogs.

2

They sell dog merchandise and donate a portion of profits to help sheltered dogs.

3

Finding parking close by in Chicago can be difficult.

07
Q'bo Latin Cafe Inc. image 1

Cozy cafe filled with vibrant decor and Latin music playing softly in the background. Friendly atmosphere feels like being in a home kitchen, with comfortable seating and plenty of space. The environment welcomes people looking for a relaxed spot with authentic Latin flavor.

Espresso based drinks and cafe de olla stand out with rich, smooth flavors. Empanadas and baked goods complement a relaxed, welcoming vibe run by friendly hosts from Colombia and Venezuela.

Coffee options include many hard to find and totally unique varieties. Food and drinks feature fresh, unique flavors like caramel mocha and arepa.

People are saying

"I've never had empanadas this amazing before."

"The empanadas at this cafe are the best I've ever had."

"The service here is so friendly, it's really unique."

Good to know

1

The cafe offers a variety of coffee, arepas, and empanadas.

2

Expect slower service during busy hours due to limited staff.

3

The cafe is located near the Ashland and Irving Park bus stops.

08
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.

Menu features unique drinks with house-made syrups and blends inspired by Mexican and Indian flavors. Drinks come with a Parle G biscuit, adding a distinctive touch to the experience.

People are saying

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

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

"Their drink menu is unique with creative, delicious options."

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.

09
Elevate Coffee - Uptown image 1

Small coffee shop inside a vintage building offers a quiet, cozy atmosphere with exposed brick walls and vintage-inspired furnishings. Outlets at every seat and fast Wi-Fi support a productive, relaxed vibe ideal for work or study. A walk-up window and dog treats add unique, welcoming touches.

Exposed brick walls and vintage-inspired furnishings create an enchanting ambiance. Coffee and treats stand out, served by attentive staff in a beautifully restored vintage building.

Coffee here has a unique taste that stands out from mainstream americanos. The shop's cool design adds to the experience, and the unique lattes offer something different from usual coffee spots.

People are saying

"The coffee staff here are so friendly and quick."

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

"I loved the unique taste of the coffee here."

Good to know

1

Parking nearby is free on weekends, making it easy to visit.

2

All seats have outlets, perfect for working or studying.

3

The coffee shop has a walk-up window for quick orders.

10
LUCKYCAT image 1

Small cafe with modern, earthy design and Asian-inspired menu creates a cozy, warm atmosphere. Space feels inviting and minimalistic but can get loud and crowded due to close tables. Popular spot for specialty coffee and casual work or chats.

Coffee comes from unique sources in China and tastes really good. The cafe has great vibes and an Asian-inspired menu that stands out in the city.

Coffee features unique blends from China with a standout sesame and coffee combination. The menu offers distinctive themed options not found in typical coffee shops.

People are saying

"Their Asian-inspired lattes are delicious and creative."

"The Cafe's breakfast sandwich is sweet, spicy, and filling."

"You'll find unique Asian-inspired coffee drinks here."

Good to know

1

Tables tend to fill up quickly during peak hours, expect a wait.

2

The cafe offers single-origin beans and popular matcha drinks.

3

It costs about $20 for two medium coffees.

11
Nimble image 1
Coffee shop

Space blends cozy, modern decor with comfortable seating and soft lighting, creating a warm, relaxed vibe. Bird chirping sounds and a unique bird chime add a distinctive natural touch. The atmosphere suits casual meetups, working, or unwinding with drinks late into the night.

Plenty of plugs and better WiFi than needed make it easy to work or hang out. Open late with friendly staff and good coffee, it blends local convenience store vibes with a small cafe feel.

Unique chime of peeping birds replaces a typical doorbell, creating a distinct atmosphere. Drink specials and food options include unique selections from coffee to booze and convenience foods.

People are saying

"The coffee here has a warm, fuzzy, collegiate vibe."

"This cafe's staff are so friendly and welcoming."

"The owners and staff here are so kind and welcoming."

Good to know

1

Nimble is open late every night, accommodating various schedules.

2

They offer a selection of coffee, teas, small foods, wine, and market options.

3

Happy hour features unique drink specials and delicious food options.

12
Bueno Days image 1

Tiny cafe blends Mexican-based art, specialty coffees, and a flower shop into one space with a cozy, artsy vibe. Atmosphere stays peaceful and inviting, perfect for remote work or relaxing. Unique menu offers innovative coffee flavors and luxurious boutique-style decor.

Unique drinks stand out alongside a chill Latinx hipster vibe. Air conditioning works well, making it a peaceful and beautiful spot to enjoy coffee and art exhibits.

Drinks feature unique flavors like hibiscus coffee and Abrazos de Invierno with a tortilla taste. The menu rotates specialty drinks offering a distinctive coffee experience in a cozy, inviting setup.

People are saying

"The coffee here is so rich, delicious, and flavorful."

"I loved the unique drinks that tasted like tortillas and cereal."

"This cafe is easily one of the best coffee shops in Chicago."

Good to know

1

Bueno Days has a rotating menu of experimental drinks and core everyday menu items.

2

There is additional seating directly outside the shop when the weather is warmer.

3

Credit cards and mobile payments are accepted, but cash is preferred.

13
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.

Coffee features many unique flavors and inventive combinations. Menu includes several fun latte options alongside standard choices.

People are saying

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

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

"I loved the unique coffee flavors they offered."

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.

14
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.

Unique house hot sauces offer a range of flavors from delicate to flaming. House-aged meats and unique cocktails add distinct tastes to the flavorful breakfast and lunch items.

People are saying

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

"The food here is creative, fresh, and truly unique."

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

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.

15
Dulce De Leche Cafecito image 1

Small interior space with cozy indoor seating and a covered outdoor patio creates a calm, welcoming vibe. Quiet atmosphere suits one-on-one conversations and relaxed visits. Regulars enjoy the unique flavors and careful preparation that enhance the experience.

Quaint and welcoming with outdoor seating for sunny days. The cafe serves authentic cafe de olla and offers delicious drinks and food in a small, well-run setting.

Cozy vibes set the scene for unique flavors in drinks and pastries. The Tiramisu Latte stands out with its distinct taste, alongside other tasty coffees featuring unique flavor combinations.

People are saying

"The outdoor seating is great, and the food is delicious."

"The cafe's coffee and creative drinks were amazing."

"The drinks here have unique flavors and are perfectly balanced."

Good to know

1

The outdoor seating is dog friendly and offers a pup cup for pets.

2

There is free parking available around the neighborhood.

3

They accommodate various dietary needs for customers.

16
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.

Three TVs show movies or video games, creating a unique interior. Coffee offers distinctive flavors like banana mocha and banana pancakes, adding to the cute, unique vibe.

People are saying

"I enjoyed the great coffee and seasonal lattes."

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

"I loved their unique banana pancake and banana mocha flavors."

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.

17
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.

Creative beverages stand out here, offering a different coffee experience. The cafe feels welcoming and has a unique vibe that sets it apart.

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."

"I found the coffee and beverages here to be unique."

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.

18
Tulip's Tea on Tuesday image 1

Tiny cafe with cute maximalist decor and cozy seating creates a warm, inviting atmosphere filled with plushies and handmade crafts. The space feels like an energy oasis, offering a friendly vibe despite limited seating and occasional crowding. Unique touches like crocheted mini flowers with drinks add charm to the experience.

Very cute cafe with a shop selling handmade crafts and jewelry. Operated by a small AAPI-owned business offering a solid cafe experience.

Unique drink selection includes signature milk tea and taro delight green tea with distinct flavors. The cafe features adorable small-format decor and cute to-go boba carriers that stand out.

People are saying

"The tea service here is so friendly and welcoming."

"This cafe's owner is so sweet and friendly, making you feel so welcome."

"The drinks here are unique and really delicious."

Good to know

1

The shop offers a membership deal that includes a drink and snack every Tuesday.

2

Vegan options are available on the menu for those with dietary restrictions.

3

The seating area is small, so it may be crowded during busy times.

19
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.

Great vibes come with a unique witch theme and a space that welcomes alternative spirituality and gender flexibility. Homemade pastries and familiar comfort foods add to the distinct experience.

People are saying

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

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

"The witchy vibes and pagan incense here are so unique."

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.

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.

Unique combos like the ube latte and egg coffee stand out here. Sandwiches pack distinctive flavors, and the sausage empanada blends sauerkraut, black pepper, and carrots for a different taste. Accessibility efforts add to the unique vibe.

People are saying

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

"The Vietnamese coffee here is strong and delicious."

"Their egg coffee is a unique, creamy, and indulgent must-try."

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
TARY image 1
Cafe

Cozy, minimal café 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.

Coffee infused with tary adds a distinct flavor and richness not found elsewhere. The menu features unique Kazakh dishes and a sweet cheese latte that stands out for its unusual and delicious taste.

People are saying

"I thought the coffee here was super good."

"You have to try the unique Kazakh food here; it's so authentic."

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

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.

22
Qamaria Yemeni Coffee image 1

Enormous space with ample seating and natural light creates a mellow atmosphere for working, studying, or chatting. Features include a private conference room, prayer space, and cozy areas with cushioned seating and a fireplace. Music plays loudly but conversations remain easy without shouting.

Spacious seating with comfortable chairs and plenty of natural light creates a great spot to work or hang out. The cafe stays open late and offers a reward system that uses phone number entry for easy tracking.

Honey comb dessert blends toasted dough, creamy honey, and creamy cheese for a unique taste. The tea offers a distinct, flavorful experience, and the atmosphere stands out as very unique.

People are saying

"It's a work-friendly spot with a huge, open, and accessible space."

"This cafe's coffee and pastries are delicious."

"The atmosphere here is so unique and full of natural light."

Good to know

1

Qamaria Yemeni Coffee offers ready-made authentic Middle Eastern coffee instead of just beans.

2

They are open late, making it a great spot for night owls.

3

There is plenty of seating and outlets available for customers.

23
Katherine Anne Confections image 1

Chocolate shop offers a cozy, welcoming atmosphere with a quiet, peaceful vibe ideal for relaxing or chatting. The space features quaint, beautiful decor that feels like stepping into a fairytale. It attracts those seeking high-quality, unique chocolates and a comfortable spot for coffee or study.

Cozy atmosphere and handcrafted chocolates create a welcoming cafe experience. The space suits both quiet work and casual dates with a comfortable vibe and attentive staff.

Chocolates feature unique and rich flavors that often change with the seasons. Handmade s'mores and truffles offer adventurous tastes and make great gifts.

People are saying

"I found the hot chocolate to be the most delicious I had ever tasted."

"I loved their unique and rich truffle flavors."

"The Cafe's drinking chocolate is so rich and thick."

Good to know

1

Katherine Anne Confections offers a variety of unique hot chocolate flavors.

2

They provide a free homemade marshmallow with each hot chocolate order.

3

The shop features handmade chocolates made with locally sourced ingredients.

24
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.

Dark, mysterious ambiance blends with eclectic classic movie decor to create a truly unique vibe. Drinks and hot sandwiches offer distinctive flavors not found elsewhere.

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 a unique spot with a quirky, creative vibe and 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.

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 feature high quality espresso with unique latte flavors. They make their own syrups, giving each cup a distinctive taste.

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 latte flavors here to be so unique and delicious."

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
Kapéj Coffee Roasters image 1

Cozy space with wood burning fireplace and oversized furniture creates an intimate, relaxed atmosphere. Walls display local artists' art, and soft piano or jazz music plays quietly. Plenty of seating suits both small groups and individuals working remotely.

Fantastic atmosphere pairs with great food and coffee. Offers a more personal vibe than typical chain coffee shops.

Unique coffees and delicious lattes stand out here. The interior feels cozy and charming with a simple, unpretentious exterior.

People are saying

"This cafe has some of the most unique and quality coffee I've ever had."

"It's a cozy spot with a warm, inviting vibe."

"I found the coffee here to be truly unique and incredible."

Good to know

1

Parking is limited, so consider public transport or ride-sharing.

2

The coffee shop is located near the Sedgwick Brown line train stop.

3

Expect a busy atmosphere, especially during peak hours.

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