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Best of Chicago

Tea and empanadas

Finding a place that respects the craft of tea while serving authentic empanadas is a non-negotiable requirement.

Based on 579 Opinions
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Updated July 2026
01
Tulip's Tea on Tuesday image 1
Tulip's Tea on Tuesday image 2
Tulip's Tea on Tuesday image 3
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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.

Signature milk tea and taro green tea stand out for their unique and tasty flavors. The lychee rose green tea with boba and cookie milk tea offer distinct, delicious options with great quality and taste.

Empanadas come in light, flaky crusts with fillings like chicken curry, Thai basil chicken, taro, and ube. They offer a mix of sweet and savory options, including pineapple and cardamom varieties.

People are saying

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

"The coffee here is served with such sweet and friendly service."

"The owner is the sweetest, most welcoming lady."

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.

02
DreamCatcher Café image 1

Space combines artistic charm with cozy cushioned seating and striking blue tiles, creating a welcoming, relaxing vibe. Backroom serves as an event space, and a yoga studio adds to the community feel. Atmosphere feels intentional and inviting, with subtle patterns adding warmth without overwhelming.

Homemade chai stands out here, made from scratch with care. The tea is consistently tasty and perfectly prepared.

Empanadas come with a cilantro jalapeno crema that adds a fresh, spicy kick. Varieties like chorizo potato and beans and cheese offer bold, comforting flavors.

People are saying

"I loved their smooth and refreshing cold brew coffee."

"I loved the homemade chai tea."

"These empanadas are so delicious, flavorful, and comforting."

Good to know

1

Yoga classes are hosted every Saturday at the café.

2

Free parking is available on the side of the café.

3

The café has plenty of charging outlets for studying or working.

03
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.

Strong focus on chai latte with options to customize, like adding coconut. Cold drinks include a refreshing horchata cold brew and unique flavors like coconut lavender latte.

Empanadas come warm and crunchy with a lightly seasoned garlic salt that enhances the cheese filling. The beef empanadas stand out as very good and easy to snack on multiple times.

People are saying

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

"These empanadas are the best I've ever had."

"The chai tea here is delicious and flavorful."

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.

04
MeLatte Coffee Shop image 1

Local art fills walls with eclectic decor and living room-style furniture creates a cozy, inviting space. Soft flamenco music plays quietly, enhancing the calm, friendly atmosphere. Community games and outdoor seating add to the warm, welcoming vibe.

Tea options include butterfly pea tea with non-dairy milk, ginger turmeric tea, and hibiscus flower tea. Flavors are interesting and pair well with a chill solo vibe.

Empanadas come with a tangy chicken tinga filling and warm spice. They taste amazing and are reasonably priced alongside other breakfast items.

People are saying

"It's a really cozy and cute spot with a friendly vibe."

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

"This tea spot has such a cozy and welcoming vibe."

Good to know

1

They ask customers to stay approximately 90 minutes due to limited space.

2

Street parking is available, with some free spots and others requiring payment via the Park Chicago mobile app.

3

Seating is tight, and larger tables have time limits.

05
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.

Thai Tea BoBo stands out with options like an espresso shot. Matcha bubble tea and dirty chai tea offer unique flavors. Drinks include Thai tea, horchata, and various smoothies.

Empanadas stand out with options like the pollo and pabellon varieties, both packed with flavor. They pair well with coffee and baked goods, making them a tasty choice for a quick bite.

People are saying

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

"I loved the horchata latte; it was delicious."

"The tea here is served by such a nice and accommodating lady."

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.

06
Café Calidá image 1
Coffee shop

Spacious coffee shop filled with natural light and Guatemalan touches creates a warm, welcoming atmosphere. Comfortable seating areas support reading, working, and socializing in a calm environment. Background music and a friendly vibe make it a community-focused space.

Chai latte stands out with a rich, gorgeous flavor. Baristas craft iced tea carefully and offer extras to avoid waste.

Empanadas come from Cafe Tola with a crispy outside and flavorful inside. Options like Chorizo + Egg and Lechón offer a satisfying taste.

People are saying

"The pastries here feel like home, warm and welcoming."

"I loved their delicious coffee and pastries."

"The barista made my iced tea perfect and gave me the rest to go."

Good to know

1

Café Calidá hosts game nights and poetry readings regularly.

2

The café is family-owned and emphasizes customer service and community.

3

Expect a cozy atmosphere where neighbors gather to socialize.

07
Chicago French Press at Roosevelt Collection image 1

Small coffee shop with bright outdoor seating and a cozy, luxurious vibe. Atmosphere feels welcoming and fun, often busy and not ideal for working inside. Offers unique coffee flavors and a variety of tasty pastries.

Tea offers surprising flavors like black chai and lavender lemon iced tea. Both chai lattes and infused teas stand out for their rich taste and variety.

Empanadas feature vegan Coconut Curry and Black Chai options that stand out. The rajas empanada also delivers solid flavor.

People are saying

"I had some of the best coffee I've ever tasted here."

"I loved the chai tea, especially the black chai latte."

"I loved the vegan coconut curry empanada; it was so tasty."

Good to know

1

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

2

Free parking is available for up to 2 hours near the shop.

3

The menu is not fully available online, which may limit pre-visit planning.

08
Almendro Cafe image 1
Coffee shop

Cozy coffee shop with bright seating and a calm, peaceful vibe. Connected to an art center, it offers a warm, inviting atmosphere that feels like home. Known for flaky empanadas and delightful avocado toast, it attracts those who enjoy quiet reflection and good food.

Horchata chai stands out with its rich, creamy flavor. Other options include hibiscus tea that tastes fresh and natural, and Earl Grey with a strong aroma.

Flaky and flavorful empanadas come with a herb dipping sauce that stands out. Options include game and cheese, offering a satisfying taste experience.

People are saying

"I thought the food and coffee were pretty tasty."

"The empanadas here are flaky, flavorful, and perfectly satisfying."

"The Earl Grey tea was delicious and aromatic."

Good to know

1

Expect to pay around $4 to $7 for iced lattes, depending on size.

2

The menu features a variety of affordable Mexican-inspired dishes.

3

Wi-Fi is available but may be slow during busy hours.

09
The Lanzaga image 1
South American restaurant

South American restaurant blends chic and cozy design with warm lighting and board games for a relaxed vibe. Atmosphere suits both intimate dinners and lively gatherings with a laid-back, inviting energy. Space includes couches and a play area, supporting local art and music for a community feel.

House-made teas offer rich and flavorful options. The red tea and Horchata stand out as excellent choices.

Empanadas come with a perfectly crispy outside and tender meat inside. Brisket empanadas stand out with incredible flavors that pair well with coffee.

People are saying

"The food here is simple but fantastic."

"These empanadas are to die for, especially the brisket."

"The arepa and moqueca were absolutely delicious."

Good to know

1

The Lanzaga allows customers to bring their own alcohol.

2

They just started serving dinner five months ago.

3

Expect a casual atmosphere with a focus on South American cuisine.

10
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.

Unique tea lattes like ube and earl grey with oat milk stand out here. The menu offers a variety of tea drinks, including iced options with herbs like lavender and thyme.

Empanadas feature a Philly cheese steak filling that is cheesy and flavorful. The menu offers a mix of sweet treats alongside these savory options, though some empanadas can be a bit cold inside.

People are saying

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

"The tea here feels so cozy with dim lighting and plants."

"The empanadas here are so delicious and cheesy."

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.

11
Necessary & Sufficient Coffee - Printers Row image 1

Cafe offers spacious seating with large open windows facing the street, creating a vibrant yet cozy atmosphere. Live DJs and local art displays add to the creative and chill vibe. Both indoor and outdoor areas provide comfortable spots for work or relaxation.

Spiced apple chai stands out with its delectable flavor and thoughtful presentation including a timer to avoid over steeping. The tea menu features ethically sourced options served both hot and iced.

Large empanadas come with a curry filling and a side of chimichurri. Small plates include tasty empanadas with creative twists like a smoked salmon bagel version.

People are saying

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

"I loved their spiced apple chai; it was truly delicious."

"I thought the empanadas here were delicious."

Good to know

1

They invest heavily in community events and support numerous local small businesses.

2

Sundays are lively with a DJ setting the tone for the day.

3

They automatically add a 15% gratuity to all orders.

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