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Top picks in Chicago

Matcha espresso spots

A cafe that respects the craft of a traditional espresso while actually knowing how to whisk a proper matcha.

Based on 825 Opinions
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Updated May 2026
01
Sputnik Coffee Company image 1
Sputnik Coffee Company image 2
Sputnik Coffee Company image 3
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Modern coffee shop with visible roaster machines and plenty of seating in a spacious, post-industrial setting. Atmosphere stays quiet and cozy, making it suitable for work or relaxing. Frequented by those who appreciate freshly roasted coffee and a calm vibe.

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.

Matcha here stands out for its rich saturation and high quality. Options include Matcha and Chai Lattes as well as a sweet matcha variation that offers a nice alternative to coffee.

People are saying

"I thought the coffee here was the best."

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

"I found the matcha here to be the best I ever had."

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
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.

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

Smooth, well crafted matcha lattes stand out here with just the right balance of not overly sweet and true matcha flavor. The drinks come quickly and maintain consistent quality and good pricing.

People are saying

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

"I finally had a good matcha latte in Chicago."

"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.

03
TOMOKOHI image 1
Coffee shop

Sunlit space with minimalist aesthetic and bright windows creates a cozy yet modern atmosphere. Quiet energy suits quality coffee and pastries, making it a good spot for work or conversation. Limited seating and thoughtful decor add to the charm.

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

Quality matcha shines with perfect sweetness and a creamy texture in both hot and iced lattes. Variations like the Strawberry Matcha iced drink use fresh puree, avoiding artificial syrup.

People are saying

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

"The matcha latte here is perfectly sweetened and creamy."

"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.

04
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.

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

Matcha here has a well balanced flavor with honey and almond milk. Both hot and iced matcha lattes stand out, with the latte often paired with an almond croissant.

People are saying

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

"The espresso here is fantastic and quality."

"I found the matcha latte to be very good."

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.

05
Drink Happy Thoughts image 1

Small coffee shop with tight seating and well-designed interior offers a welcoming neighborhood vibe. Music ranges from relaxed to loud rap, creating an upbeat atmosphere. Pet-friendly space serves dogs treats and features artwork and unique decor like spinning plants and honey bear cups.

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

Iced matcha lattes with oat milk stand out here, offering a smooth and creamy taste. Unique options like the cucumber matcha latte and the matcha bliss drink add variety beyond the usual flavors.

People are saying

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

"I got an amazing iced matcha latte with oat milk."

"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.

06
Cold Moon Cafe image 1

Tiny space offers a cozy and calm vibe with cute decor and warm, inviting atmosphere. Music plays a fun and nice role in creating a relaxing retreat. Seating provides a comfortable spot to warm up or wait quietly.

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.

Smooth and tasty matcha lattes come with oat milk or iced with sugar. The matcha offers a refreshing green tea flavor that pairs well with smoothies and espresso.

People are saying

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

"I loved the lovely espresso here."

"I enjoyed their tasty matcha oat milk latte."

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.

07
Colibrí Coffee image 1
Coffee shop

Cozy coffee shop with beautiful artwork and ample seating creates a welcoming atmosphere. Great music enhances the positive vibe, making it feel like a friendly gathering spot. The space stands out with its unique decor and homemade pastries.

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

High quality, real matcha powder shines in drinks like the lavender lemon matcha and orange matcha. Options include iced lattes with cajeta and coconut cold foam, all served with no added sugar so you can sweeten to taste.

People are saying

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

"I loved their orange matcha with coconut cold foam."

"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.

08
Candor image 1
Coffee shop

Minimalist space with large bay window and back patio offers a clean, Scandinavian-inspired setting. Atmosphere shifts from laid-back and bright to loud music that disrupts conversation and calm. Regulars gather here, enjoying a friendly, intimate vibe with dogs welcome.

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

Smooth and rich flavor defines the matcha here, with options like the maple miso matcha and strawberry puree adding unique twists. The barista crafts each drink carefully, ensuring quality in every cup.

People are saying

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

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

"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.

09
Cadinho Bakery & Café image 1

Bright space with large windows and colorful murals creates a cozy, inviting atmosphere. Comfortable seating suits both working and socializing, attracting a mix of locals. Unique Portuguese-themed decor and authentic pastries set it apart from typical bakeries.

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.

Strong matcha flavor stands out in the latte, which is not sweet. The matcha quality is consistently good.

People are saying

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

"I found the banana cream foam matcha latte to be really good."

"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.

10
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.

Espresso here is brewed with attention to detail and pulled to perfection, delivering a rich and well-balanced shot with bright notes. The team serves unique latte flavors and pairs espresso with smooth almond milk, creating a distinct taste experience.

Offers a matcha lemonade with strawberry lemonade and an unsweetened Matcha Latte. The 6oz Cappuccino pairs well with their strong matcha flavor.

People are saying

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

"I thought their espresso was the best in the area."

"Their matcha is so good, I highly recommend it."

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.

11
Ctrl Z Coffee image 1
Coffee shop

Small coffee shop with Asian Zen feel and cozy, tranquil atmosphere. Space features wooden floors, exposed brick, and vintage decor creating a relaxed vibe. Quiet environment suits studying or calm conversation with occasional dog-friendly presence.

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

Dirty matcha offers a quick, delicious option with a rich flavor. The matcha ube stands out for its earthy taste and lack of sweetness.

People are saying

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

"I enjoyed their divine espresso drinks."

"I thought the matcha here was the best."

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.

12
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.

Espresso features a secret blend made from in-house roasted beans, delivering a balanced and bittersweet flavor with a rich, robust aroma.

Creamy texture stands out in the Iced Matcha Latte, often enjoyed with almond milk and a strawberry shot. The matcha is smooth and flavorful, suitable for both beginners and regular drinkers.

People are saying

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

"I had one of the best matcha lattes ever here."

"The espresso here is rich, robust, and unforgettable."

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.

13
Le French Patisserie image 1

Elegant bakery with European decor and marble interiors creates a bright, luxurious atmosphere. Outdoor patio offers a quiet escape with comfortable seating and soft music. Pastries and desserts stand out as artfully crafted and authentic.

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.

Pure matcha forms the base for drinks like the lavender matcha latte and iced rose matcha, offering a fresh, unsweetened flavor. Pastries and drinks blend matcha with flavors like pistachio and coconut, creating rich, smooth, and refreshing options.

People are saying

"I thought the desserts were awesome and yummy."

"The pistachio matcha tart was unforgettable, rich, and smooth."

"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.

14
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.

Espresso delivers fantastic flavor with a tasty, rich profile that evokes a European coffee experience.

Matcha drinks use actual matcha, not premix, with options like unsweetened Matcha Latte and iced berry matcha with blueberry. The matcha lattes are fully mixed and offer a refreshing, energizing sip.

People are saying

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

"I loved the cute aviation-themed decor with my matcha."

"The airplane-themed decor here is super different and spectacular."

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.

15
Engine Coffee image 1
Coffee shop

Exposed brick walls, soft lighting, and wooden accents create a quietly modern and spacious environment. Music ranges from experimental pop to easy-listening funk, adding to the chill atmosphere. Plenty of seating includes cozy window corners and nooks suited for working.

Espresso features a well-balanced, sweet flavor with a beautiful crema that holds well. Quality beans, skilled baristas, and good machines create consistently good espresso drinks.

Offers iced matcha with a strong, well-balanced flavor and a sweetened matcha latte that blends sweetness and matcha perfectly.

People are saying

"I found the coffee here to be great and consistent."

"The espresso here has an amazing flavor profile."

"I enjoyed the iced matcha latte for its perfectly balanced flavor."

Good to know

1

Arrive early for food options, especially if visiting after 1 PM.

2

The coffee shop opens early on weekends for early risers.

3

Wi-Fi is available but can be unstable during busy hours.

16
Pedestrian Coffee image 1

Coffee shop offers quiet, comfortable atmosphere with spacious seating including a small outdoor patio. Frequented by people working on laptops, it provides accessible plugs at nearly every seat and fast wifi. Baked goods made in-house add to the experience without pretension.

Espresso drinks come out quickly with no long wait. Coffee leans toward a blonde roast style and ranks among the best in Chicago.

Matcha here has a rich flavor and is subtly sweet. The shop uses high quality matcha powder and offers creative options like a strawberry basil iced matcha.

People are saying

"I loved the coffee here; it was so flavorful and not too sweet."

"The matcha here is really good, with a rich flavor."

"I loved their espresso; it's among the best."

Good to know

1

The establishment is cashless, so bring a credit card or mobile payment.

2

Finding a table inside on weekends can be tricky due to popularity.

3

Expect to pay around $5.70 for a single shot espresso.

17
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.

Espresso offers a perfect balance in punch with a softly layered crema. Drinks consistently meet expectations and pair well with pastries.

Matcha here stands out for its top quality and excellent lattes. The Lavender Rose Matcha offers a unique flavor that pairs well with baked goods.

People are saying

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

"I loved the espresso; it had a perfect balance and layered crema."

"I thought the matcha here was top quality."

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.

18
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.

Espresso here is consistently well prepared and smooth. It stands out as excellently dialed in compared to many others nearby.

The matcha features a perfect ratio of earthy flavor and slight sweetness with ube syrup adding gentle sweetness and richness. The Manila Matcha and ube matcha stand out for their delicious balance and richness.

People are saying

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

"The espresso here is fantastic and always dialed in excellently."

"I thought the Manila Matcha was amazing."

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.

19
Metric image 1
Coffee shop

Industrial design blends with minimalist decor and outdoor patio seating under natural light. Atmosphere feels calm yet tense, with a focus on live coffee roasting visible to guests. Small indoor space leads to lines, while the outdoor area offers a peaceful spot for coffee and pastries.

Espresso offers a robust flavor profile with caramel notes and a light roast character. Single origin options deliver a delicious, carefully crafted experience.

High quality matcha latte stands out for its rich flavor even without sweetener. The spot serves excellent matcha that many find among the best in the city.

People are saying

"I've never had a cortado as creamy as this coffee."

"I thought the espresso was awesome and had caramel notes."

"I found the matcha here to be the best in the city."

Good to know

1

There is no restroom available for customers at the cafe.

2

There is no seating inside; all tables are outside.

3

Metric does not charge for milk alternatives like oat milk.

20
Big Shoulders Coffee image 1

Small coffee shop with industrial design and dark wood aesthetic offers a warm atmosphere with natural light and earthy tones. It has ample outlets and good WiFi, making it suitable for work despite limited seating. The vibe shifts from relaxed to energetic and crowded during rush hours.

Espresso here is rich and well-made with strong flavors and no excessive sweetness. Baristas show skilled attention to the brewing process, offering options like cortados with oat milk and beans suited for espresso.

Real matcha powder and a ceremonial whisk create the base for the matcha latte. The iced horchata matcha and strawberry matcha slushie show the menu offers creative variations beyond the classic.

People are saying

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

"I enjoyed their rich, well-made espresso."

"I thought the matcha latte was good."

Good to know

1

Expect limited seating, especially during peak hours.

2

Prices are on the higher side, particularly for specialty drinks.

3

The coffee shop roasts its own beans and makes its own syrups.

21
nubar Cafe image 1

Spacious, modern café with Mediterranean-inspired décor and floor-to-ceiling windows offering bright natural light. Warm, cozy atmosphere with friendly energy and fast Wi-Fi makes it suitable for working or socializing. Music varies from chill Kurdish tunes to loud, lively beats depending on the time.

Espresso comes from a manual machine and tastes smooth and rich. Lattes and espresso drinks are creamy and well made.

Pistachio matcha stands out with its creamy and refreshing flavor. Matcha drinks taste authentic and pair well with smooth espresso and creamy lattes.

People are saying

"The coffee here is great in this beautiful, modern space."

"I loved the creamy and refreshing matcha drink."

"The espresso is smooth, rich, and perfectly made."

Good to know

1

Expect over 20-minute wait times for food during busy hours.

2

The kitchen closes early, so check food availability before visiting.

3

Prices are considered high for the portion sizes offered.

22
Printer's Row Coffee Co. image 1

Small coffee shop centers on visible coffee roaster and limited bar seating. Atmosphere stays cozy and chill with dog-friendly outdoor patio in warmer months. Pastries from local bakers add to the specialty coffee experience.

Shots feature smooth, well-pulled espresso with a no frills approach. Some bean remains appear at the end of the cup.

Lavender matcha stands out as a favored drink here. Other matcha options tend to be milky and expensive, with some finding them undrinkable.

People are saying

"I loved their cinnamon toast latte and cold brew."

"I had a smooth espresso that wasn't overly bitter."

"I loved their delicious lavender matcha."

Good to know

1

The popup event is stopping in July.

2

They had limited seating, making it more of a grab-and-go place.

3

They do not charge for alternative milk.

23
Daeji Dough Company image 1

Modern, cozy space with a minimalist Korean-inspired vibe and thoughtful design creates a calm atmosphere. Large windows bring in natural sunlight, and an open kitchen adds a dynamic touch. The bakery draws a crowd with its unique Korean pastries and creative flavors.

Espresso features house-made syrups and a delicious flavor. Quality varies, with some shots tasting just okay.

The matcha features a well balanced sesame flavor and a perfect sweetness level. The iced and latte versions have a really good ratio and are consistently made top notch.

People are saying

"I thought the matcha was top notch and tasted authentic."

"I loved the unique Korean-inspired pastries and their delicious flavors."

"The espresso here is delicious, especially with their house-made syrups."

Good to know

1

The bakery sells out of popular pastries early, so arrive early.

2

Expect a short wait for coffee as they make syrups in-house.

3

Alternative milks are available at no extra charge.

24
Milli by Metric image 1
Coffee shop

Spacious cafe with immaculate aesthetic and warm, inviting atmosphere hosts a crowded, lively crowd often working or enjoying eclectic music. Comfortable seating and strong WiFi support both socializing and remote work, while visible kitchen and roaster add a unique touch. Pastries and coffee stand out for their high quality and unique flavors.

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

Smooth matcha comes in several forms including an iced matcha latte and a matcha neat tonic water that is light and refreshing. The matcha here pairs well with pastries like croissants and zucchini loaf.

People are saying

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

"I liked the smooth matcha served here."

"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.

25
Caffe Umbria image 1
Coffee shop

Small coffee shop with cozy indoor and outdoor seating offers a truly Italian atmosphere and friendly service. Space includes free wifi and outlets, supporting work or casual meetings. Music and water station add to a relaxed, inviting vibe.

Espresso comes with a velvety, rich chocolatey caramel flavor and a strong aroma. It is served properly with a small sweet and water, poured into ceramic cups and prepared quickly at the bar.

Matcha here has a good quality and fresh taste without bitterness. Options include a matcha latte with oat milk and variations with honey or lavender for a sweet and full flavor.

People are saying

"I found the coffee here to be really great and tasty."

"The espresso here is rich, full-flavored, and expertly crafted."

"I loved the matcha latte with honey syrup."

Good to know

1

The shop is small, and seating is very limited.

2

Expect a line during peak hours, especially on weekends.

3

They have a Friday special that offers a free drink with bean purchase.

26
Groundswell image 1
Coffee shop

Small space with cozy wood decor and ambient lighting creates a chill, intimate vibe. Music features Budos Band and BADBADNOTGOOD, adding to the relaxed atmosphere. Popular with families, it offers house-made syrup and serves drinks in real mugs.

Espresso comes with sparkling water on the side and offers a mild acidity without overpowering. Multiple coffee bean options provide great flavor, making it easy to enjoy or take home.

Matcha here comes out with solid green tea flavor and is usually made perfectly. The iced matcha can be hit or miss, sometimes not very good.

People are saying

"I found the espresso to be phenomenal and the beans high quality."

"I found the espresso to be phenomenal."

"The matcha here is spot on."

Good to know

1

Groundswell hosts local events featuring artwork from neighborhood artists.

2

The coffee shop offers freshly roasted coffee beans for sale.

3

They make their syrup in-house for unique flavor options.

27
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 espresso menu features fresh-roasted beans and classic coffee drinks. They know what they are doing with espresso and flavors.

Iced matcha stands out with its excellent flavor. Seasonal specials like the blueberry matcha offer unique twists, while the Strawberry Matcha drink also gets high marks.

People are saying

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

"I enjoyed the strong espresso and classic coffee drinks."

"I found the iced matcha to be excellent and unique."

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.

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