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Espresso in Chicago

A shot of espresso that stands on its own without needing a mountain of sugar to make it drinkable.

Based on 690 Opinions
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Updated April 2026
01
Sputnik Coffee Company image 1
Sputnik Coffee Company image 2
Sputnik Coffee Company image 3
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Modern coffee shop offers perfect crema espresso with smooth, balanced taste. Spacious, post-industrial setting provides quiet, cozy atmosphere ideal for work or relaxing. Visible roaster machines attract those who value freshly roasted coffee and calm vibes.

Espresso here has a perfect crema and a smooth, balanced taste without bitterness or sourness. It delivers a strong yet smooth flavor with just the right acidity.

People are saying

"I thought the coffee here was the best."

"Their vanilla latte with homemade syrup is super good."

"The espresso here is smooth, balanced, and not bitter."

Good to know

1

Sputnik Coffee Company opens at 6AM for early risers.

2

There is no inside seating available at Sputnik Coffee Company.

3

Street parking is plentiful in the surrounding industrial neighborhood.

02
Magnífico Coffee Roasters & Coffee Shop image 1

Bright, clean space with unique artwork and an on-site coffee roaster creates a welcoming vibe. Espresso is smooth and delicious, ranking among the city's best. Outdoor seating and dog-friendly policies add to the relaxed, friendly atmosphere.

Espresso here is smooth, unique, and consistently delicious. It ranks among the best in the city for quality and flavor.

People are saying

"I found the coffee to be really excellent."

"This family owned spot has the nicest, most passionate people working there."

"I enjoyed the expertly roasted, rich, and flavorful espresso."

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.

03
The Lanzaga image 1
South American restaurant

South American restaurant offers a cozy design with warm lighting and board games for a relaxed vibe. Espresso is strong and flavorful, prepared in authentic Italian style. Space supports local art and music, creating a community feel perfect for intimate dinners or lively gatherings.

Espresso here matches the authentic Italian style with a simple, proper preparation. The shots are strong and flavorful, often served alongside other drinks like frozen hot chocolate.

People are saying

"The food here is simple but fantastic."

"The empanadas and moqueca are creative and impressive dinner spots."

"I thought the espresso here was just like in Italy."

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.

04
Muse Coffee Studio image 1

Spacious coffee shop with rich espresso and brick walls. Art gallery adds a creative vibe with fantastic artwork. Cozy seating includes tables and couches, perfect for work or relaxing. Background music blends soul, funk, and jazz with chill DJ beats.

Espresso here stands out for its delicious flavor and great quality. Shots come out rich and satisfying.

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 espresso here to be delicious."

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.

05
LVL UP COFFEE image 1
Coffee shop

Space blends luxury lounge style with lush greenery for a calm vibe perfect for work or relaxation. Espresso is rich and smooth, with flawless lattes. Soft music and low noise keep focus sharp and conversations easy.

Espresso here is rich, smooth, and flavorful with perfectly pulled shots. Lattes have a velvety texture and every drink tastes flawless.

People are saying

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

"It's a cozy space, perfect for relaxing or getting some work done."

"The espresso here is rich, smooth, and flavorful."

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.

06
Pedestrian Coffee & Ice Cream image 1

Small coffee shop offers a cozy, laid-back vibe with central island bar and diner-style seating. Espresso shines with flavorful geisha varietal and quality blends. Ethically sourced coffee pairs well with homemade organic ice cream in a calm, welcoming space.

Espresso here is consistently flavorful with options like a sweet and tangy geisha varietal Mexico. Both house blends and single origins deliver top-tier quality.

People are saying

"The Ethiopia Lalesa Natural coffee beans were phenomenal."

"The coffee here is amazing and perfect for a morning of work."

"I found the espresso here to be flavorful and great."

Good to know

1

Free coffee is available on Fridays until 10:30 a.m.

2

Expect a line during free coffee Fridays.

3

The small latte costs $7, and a 12-ounce latte with oat milk is about $10.

07
Buttercup image 1

Small, intimate space shifts from cozy daytime cafe to swanky speakeasy bar with soft lighting and curated 1940s/50s decor. Great espresso shines here, especially the Iced Americano as a cold brew alternative. Atmosphere stays chill and welcoming, perfect for quiet dates or after-work drinks.

Great espresso stands out here, with the Iced Americano serving as a solid alternative to cold brew. The cafe offers a relaxed spot for sipping espresso comfortably.

People are saying

"The cafe's specialty coffees are unique and fantastic."

"You have to try the cocktails; the menu is unique and they taste phenomenal."

"I enjoyed the great espresso here."

Good to know

1

Happy hour runs from 4-7pm with a great menu of drinks and appetizers.

2

Buttercup transforms into a cocktail bar after 4pm.

3

Street parking is available nearby for easy access.

08
Capriccio - Artisan Pizza & Coffee image 1

Small cafe-style pizzeria offers a cozy atmosphere with warm lighting and curated music. Espresso is rich and smooth, including cortado and americano options. Outdoor seating with umbrellas adds a spacious feel to the intimate indoor space.

Espresso comes out made to perfection with a rich, smooth taste. Options include espresso, cortado, and americano, all consistently well prepared.

People are saying

"I loved the pizza; it was well seasoned and cooked to perfection."

"The bread here is perfectly baked, with a great crunch."

"I loved the espresso and authentic Italian pizza."

Good to know

1

Reservations are recommended for busy weekend brunches.

2

The restaurant opens at 10 AM, which is late for coffee service.

3

Gluten-free pizza may not be safe for those with celiac disease.

09
Candor image 1
Coffee shop

Minimalist space with large bay window and back patio creates a bright, Scandinavian vibe. Espresso is rich and balanced with cherry and smoke notes. Friendly, intimate atmosphere welcomes regulars and dogs, though loud music can disrupt calm moments.

Espresso here is exceptional with a perfect grind that avoids bitterness. It carries hints of cherry and smoke for a balanced, rich flavor.

People are saying

"The coffee and pastries at this cafe are a perfect 10 out of 10."

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

"I thought the espresso was exceptional and not bitter."

Good to know

1

Dogs are welcome at the coffee shop.

2

Expect wait times of over 20 minutes for anything other than drip coffee.

3

The shop has a small seating area with about 6 tables and 12 seats.

10
Cadinho Bakery & Café image 1

Bright space with large windows and colorful murals offers a cozy vibe. Espresso is smooth and rich, with a standout Sweet Coconut option. Unique Portuguese-themed decor and authentic pastries make it a local favorite.

Espresso comes out perfectly extracted with a smooth, rich flavor. Both espresso and drip coffee score consistently high, including a notable Sweet Coconut coffee option.

People are saying

"I thought the coffee was wonderful and really smooth."

"The pastel de nata pastry has a dangerously good, creamy custard."

"I thought their natas were the perfect complement to the espresso."

Good to know

1

Coffee morning event takes place every Sunday at Cadinho Bakery & Café.

2

Get there early to ensure availability of specific pastries and items.

3

Finding street parking can be difficult depending on the time of day.

11
Ludlow Charlingtons Coffee Shop image 1

Small coffee shop with dark, cozy interior and dog-themed decor creates a warm vibe. Espresso made from Counter Culture beans tastes heavenly. Welcomes dogs with treats and outdoor seating, making it a charming spot for casual visits or quiet work.

Espresso uses Counter Culture beans known for single origin quality. The espresso tastes heavenly and stands out among the coffee options.

People are saying

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

"I found the horchata latte creamy, spiced, and just sweet enough."

"The espresso here is fantastic and quality."

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.

12
TOC Coffee Roasters, LLC. image 1

Small space fits four with no seating, perfect for quick takeout. Coffee roasts in-house for fresh beans and awesome flavor in every espresso and pour over. Pastries like almond croissants and guava cheese treats match the coffee's quality, making it a neighborhood gem despite limited hours.

Espresso drinks show care and skill in every cup. Pour over and espresso options deliver consistent quality with awesome flavor.

People are saying

"I found the coffee here to be fantastic and expertly prepared."

"You have to try the almond croissant; it's amazing."

"I loved my daily espresso, made with care and skill."

Good to know

1

The hours of operation are limited, especially on weekends.

2

Expect possible wait times during peak hours as the shop is popular.

3

No credit cards accepted; cash or mobile payments only.

13
Two Mile Coffee Bar image 1

Modern coffee shop offers balanced espresso with consistent quality and pairs well with pastries. Two seating areas create a relaxed atmosphere that suits both work and casual visits. Recent expansion adds ample seating, making space feel open and inviting.

Espresso comes out well done with a balanced flavor that pairs nicely with a croissant. It stands out for its consistent quality.

People are saying

"I found the coffee delicious and perfectly balanced."

"I thought the croissant layers were impeccable."

"I thought the espresso here was the best I had anywhere."

Good to know

1

They aren't open 7 days a week.

2

The coffee bar is open later than most places.

3

The total cost for two coffees and a simple sandwich is $31.

14
Colibrí Coffee image 1
Coffee shop

Cozy coffee shop offers bold espresso shots and classic lattes with rich flavor. Beautiful artwork and unique decor create a welcoming vibe. Friendly atmosphere enhanced by great music and homemade pastries makes it a perfect gathering spot.

Espresso shots deliver a good kick with a bold flavor. Classic lattes and specialty drinks maintain a noticeable quality in every sip.

People are saying

"I loved their coffee; it was rich and flavorful."

"The cafe staff here are so sweet and friendly."

"Their espresso is rich, smooth, and perfectly brewed."

Good to know

1

Colibrí Coffee offers a variety of food, pastries, and drinks.

2

The coffee shop can get crowded fast, especially during peak hours.

3

Parking may be difficult in the area, so plan accordingly.

15
Ctrl Z Coffee image 1
Coffee shop

Small coffee shop offers smooth espresso with divine flavor. Cozy, tranquil vibe features wooden floors and vintage decor. Quiet space suits studying or calm chats, welcoming occasional dogs for a relaxed feel.

Smooth texture defines the espresso here. Drinks showcase divine flavor and consistent quality.

People are saying

"The coffee here is amazing, and the baristas are so friendly."

"The latte art here is on point, even when it's busy."

"I enjoyed their divine espresso drinks."

Good to know

1

Happy hour starts at 4:30 PM, transitioning from regular coffee service.

2

Coffee prices include $8 for a latte and $4 for a cappuccino.

3

The bathroom is clean and accessible, with a baby changing station.

16
Printer's Row Coffee Co. image 1

Spacious coffee shop offers a rich espresso with a smooth finish. Open industrial style and high ceilings create a bright, airy vibe. Cozy atmosphere suits working, socializing, or relaxing with patio seating enhancing comfort.

Espresso stands out for its rich flavor and smooth finish. It ranks highly compared to other states and cities visited.

People are saying

"I've had the best espresso I've ever experienced here."

"The patio is a beautiful, spacious spot for working or relaxing."

"I found the espresso here to be among the best I've ever had."

Good to know

1

Parking can be difficult at times in Chicago.

2

The seating is limited, especially during colder months when the patio isn't available.

3

They don't charge extra for alternative milks like oat or almond.

17
TOMOKOHI image 1
Coffee shop

Sunlit space with bright windows offers a cozy, modern vibe perfect for work or chat. Espresso here is the smoothest coffee in town, crafted with great care. Limited seating and thoughtful decor add charm and quiet energy.

Smoothness stands out with smoothest coffee and espresso in town. Attention to detail and consistency in pulling espresso create a wonderful experience.

People are saying

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

"The coffee here is great for date spots."

"I found the espresso here to be some of the best I've had."

Good to know

1

This coffee shop is doing a soft opening with a drink discount.

2

There was free street parking available.

3

The space is clean, staff are knowledgeable, and ingredients are premium.

18
The Civic Opera Barber Shop image 1

Old-school barbershop offers quick, precise cuts with a vintage vibe. Enjoy a hot lather shave and shoe shining in a warm, welcoming space. Sip a delicious Italian espresso on the house as part of the full grooming experience.

Espresso comes as a small cup served on the house, featuring a delicious Italian blend. The proprietor offers it as part of a complete grooming experience including haircuts and shaves.

People are saying

"This vintage barber shop gives you a classic cut with friendly service."

"I got one of the best espressos I've ever had."

"I got a professional beard trim and it was 10/10."

Good to know

1

The shop offers haircuts, shaves, shampoo, shoe shining, and espresso.

2

They only accept cash payments.

3

A haircut costs $40, which is reasonable for downtown.

19
Dark Matter Coffee - Star Lounge Coffee Bar image 1

Eclectic café blends futuristic flair with bold art and loud music. Espresso is strong and floral, including a barrel-aged option. Lounge and patio with murals offer spots for chatting, but noise limits quiet work despite free WiFi and a wireless printer.

Espresso here is well dialed in and very strong with a barrel-aged option available. Drinks often feature subtle floral notes and a sharp, clean taste.

People are saying

"I enjoyed the rich, flavorful coffee and unique specialty drinks."

"The art and eclectic decor here create a really moody, creative vibe."

"The baristas here are absolute gems."

Good to know

1

The coffee shop is open until 9pm, which is rare in Chicago.

2

Expect limited food options as pastries often sell out early.

3

Seating can be challenging due to laptop users occupying tables.

20
Drink Happy Thoughts image 1

Small coffee shop offers strong double shot espresso and a classic sandwich. Welcoming vibe with pet-friendly space and dog treats. Interior features spinning plants and upbeat music from relaxed to loud rap.

Espresso comes as a strong double shot with a classic sandwich option. The flavor stands out as excellent and robust.

People are saying

"The coffee here is amazing, especially the Bee Sting Latte."

"They have several great vegetarian options, including yummy vegan pastries."

"The espresso here is strong and delicious."

Good to know

1

On Sundays, they bring in vegan donuts from a local bakery.

2

Parking is easy with plenty of street parking available.

3

The place gets busy on weekends, so plan accordingly.

21
Yaya Mas Greek Kuzina image 1
Greek restaurant

Small, colorful space with vibrant blue accents creates a cozy Greek vibe. Freddo Espresso offers authentic flavor matching Athens quality. DJ blends Greek and EDM music for a lively, friendly atmosphere indoors and relaxed outdoor seating.

Freddo Espresso stands out with authentic flavor and quality. Drinks like the freddo espresso and freddo cappuccino match those found in Athens.

People are saying

"I thought the gyro meat was seasoned to perfection."

"The Freddo Cappuccino here is strong and delicious."

"Their freddo espresso tastes just like Greece."

Good to know

1

The restaurant is open from 7 AM to 5 AM, perfect for late-night bites.

2

Credit cards and mobile payments are accepted; cash is also welcome.

3

Desserts are affordable, with sharable options priced at $6.

22
Cafe Mas image 1
Coffee shop

Bold murals and colorful decor create an artistic atmosphere with a cozy vibe. Espresso offers a great flavor and pairs well with horchata for a quick fix. Quiet spaces and a back room with a couch provide work-friendly comfort while a small play area welcomes kids.

Espresso here has a great flavor and pairs well with other drinks like horchata. It comes fresh and is a solid choice for a quick coffee fix.

People are saying

"I enjoyed the great iced coffee here; it was super refreshing."

"I tried the power burrito and it was amazing."

"I thought the espresso was great."

Good to know

1

Cafe Mas offers a variety of vegan food options and quality coffee.

2

Parking is free on Foster and is usually easy to find.

3

Soy milk, oat milk, and almond milk are available as milk alternatives.

23
Milli by Metric image 1
Coffee shop

Spacious cafe offers a warm, inviting atmosphere with comfortable seating and strong WiFi perfect for work or socializing. Espresso is well-balanced and expertly brewed. Pastries and coffee feature unique flavors that delight the crowd.

Espresso comes out well-balanced and perfectly dialed in. It avoids being over-extracted or under-extracted, hitting just the right note.

People are saying

"I thought the coffee here was really great and well made."

"It's a great place to work, with lots of seating available."

"The espresso here is perfectly dialed in and well-balanced."

Good to know

1

Expect long wait times, especially on weekends, up to an hour.

2

Parking is difficult; most nearby streets require permits.

3

The shop does not accept cash, only credit cards.

24
Le French Patisserie image 1

Elegant bakery shines with artfully crafted pastries and a bright, luxurious atmosphere. Espresso is super fresh and strong, featuring a standout fredo option. Outdoor patio offers a quiet escape with soft music and comfy seating.

Espresso comes super fresh and strong, with a notable fredo espresso option that stands out. The iced espresso pairs well with pastries and holds up even on cold days.

People are saying

"I thought the desserts were awesome and yummy."

"The French food, especially the crème brûlée, has a perfectly caramelized top and smooth custard."

"The espresso here is great and super fresh."

Good to know

1

Parking costs $21 at Navy Pier, where the bakery is located.

2

Cash payments may offer discounts compared to credit card transactions.

3

The bakery often runs out of popular pastries early in the day.

25
Cold Moon Cafe image 1

Tiny space creates a cozy vibe with cute decor and warm atmosphere. Espresso shines with authentic flavor, especially the Espresso Cubano, great hot or cold. Music adds a relaxing retreat feel while seating offers a comfortable spot to unwind.

Espresso here offers a real espresso coffee that stands out for its authenticity. Drinks like the Espresso Cubano deliver a well-balanced flavor, enjoyed both hot and cold.

People are saying

"The bagel sandwiches here are delicious and freshly made."

"The coffee here is quick and the staff is so sweet."

"I loved the lovely espresso here."

Good to know

1

The cafe is located on the first floor in a corner.

2

Expect to pay higher prices for coffee and food compared to nearby options.

3

The ingredients used in the food are fresh and of high quality.

26
Caffè Umbria image 1
Coffee shop

Large warehouse offers industrial coffee roaster views and calm, spacious seating indoors and out. Espresso is a single shot served with sparkling water and chocolate in a paper cup. Loud music adds distinct energy to the relaxed vibe.

Espresso comes as a single shot paired with sparkling water and a small piece of chocolate. It serves a straightforward and delicious taste but comes in a paper cup.

People are saying

"The coffee here is amazing, smooth, and aromatic."

"I loved the industrial vibes and the open, wide space."

"I believed this espresso was the best in Chicago."

Good to know

1

Prices for a 12 oz drip coffee are around $4.70 after tax.

2

A medium drink costs $7.18, which is considered expensive.

3

Each coffee modification adds $1 to the total cost.

27
Owens Famous Coffee & Provisions image 1

Coffee roasters with a pink color theme create a cozy, welcoming vibe. Espresso offers good chocolate notes and consistent quality. Outlets line the walls, supporting a strong sense of community and attention to detail.

Espresso features good chocolate notes and is exceptionally good and reliably made. Coffee and espresso drinks come with consistent quality.

People are saying

"I found the coffee here to be the smoothest and tastiest I've had."

"The cafe staff are so friendly and kind."

"The espresso here had good chocolate notes."

Good to know

1

The shop does not offer Wi-Fi on weekends.

2

They have a no-screen Sundays policy.

3

Payment methods include credit cards and mobile payments.

28
Four Letter Word Coffee image 1

Small space with retro vintage decor and Japanese touches offers a warm, artsy vibe. Espresso features single origin shots like Ethiopian with nutty, fruity notes, served sweet and neat. Chill rap and hip hop music create a relaxed spot for work or chat.

Espresso here features single origin options like Ethiopian and Peru with nutty and fruity flavor profiles. Baristas pull sweet, beautifully presented shots served with sparkling water and inventive syrups.

People are saying

"I found the coffee here to be exceptionally good and flavorful."

"I thought the espresso was excellent and hit really nicely."

"It's a chill place to relax and read or do some quiet work."

Good to know

1

Limited seating means arriving early is advisable for a spot.

2

Expect a long line during peak hours due to popularity.

3

The menu features unique coffee options and scrumptious desserts.

29
Letizia's Natural Bakery image 1

Rustic bakery offers a calm, quiet atmosphere with wood-heavy interior and garden patios. Espresso is perfectly brewed with a strong, clean flavor and pairs well with baked goods. Cozy Italian vibe makes it ideal for breakfast or reading.

Espresso comes out perfectly brewed with a strong, clean flavor. The option for a triple espresso packs a solid punch, pairing well with baked goods like the lemon poppy muffin.

People are saying

"I enjoyed the excellent coffee here."

"It's a cozy bakery with a charming, rustic vibe."

"The espresso here is perfect."

Good to know

1

The patio is open from spring through early fall.

2

Street parking is convenient when available.

3

There is ample seating available for customers.

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