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Guide to the Loop

Cafes and tea

Made for those who prefer the ritual of a steeped tea over coffee and seek out spaces that respect the quiet pace of a proper tea break.

Based on 542 Opinions
+539
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Updated May 2026
01
Brü Chicago image 1
Brü Chicago image 2
Brü Chicago image 3
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Coffee shop

Spacious coffee shop with European atmosphere and cozy, laid-back vibe. Energy buzzes with a mix of chatting, working on laptops, and relaxing, accompanied by quiet chill music. Decor feels modern but not overdone, creating an inviting space to unwind.

Coffee here stands out for its amazing quality and pairs well with gluten-free pastries. It opens later than some nearby spots but offers a solid choice for a relaxed cafe experience.

Offers homemade beverages with high quality teas. The yuzu green tea stands out as unique and refreshing, while the matcha tea is flavorful.

People are saying

"The French food, especially the crepes, were light, flavorful, and generously filled."

"This cafe is buzzing with energy and a lively atmosphere."

"I loved their high quality teas and unique yuzu green tea."

Good to know

1

All their meat is halal.

2

Brü Chicago has a deal where you get $1 coffee with the purchase of a crepe.

3

They make their syrups in house.

02
Big Shoulders Coffee image 1

Micro-roasted coffee brews alongside a robotic pour-over system in a space with wooden tray accents and gentle background music. Warm and inviting atmosphere suits both focused work and casual meetings, with patio seating offering city views. Seating is limited but the vibe remains pleasant and uninterrupted.

Offers a nice little coffee shop atmosphere with great coffee that feels much needed.

Chai tea latte comes with hand grated cinnamon on top. The tea selection pairs well with the good coffee offerings.

People are saying

"I found the coffee here to be fantastic."

"I enjoyed their good lattes and tasty pastries at this cafe."

"I enjoyed the good tea here; I had never been more happy."

Good to know

1

They offer lattes in 8, 12, and 16-ounce sizes.

2

The price of a latte is $6.

3

The seating is limited, so arrive early for a spot.

03
Peet's Coffee image 1
Coffee shop

Small, cozy coffee shop with comfortable seating and sidewalk tables creates a relaxed atmosphere. Music plays loudly, filling the space that often feels crammed and busy. Frequented by people working or studying, it offers outlets and tables but can get crowded during nearby events.

Small size creates a cozy vibe. Coffee quality stands out as great and well-crafted. The shop feels inviting and comfortable.

Offers a variety of teas with flavors that stand out compared to other chains. The iced pumpkin chai is a delicious and satisfying choice among their tea options.

People are saying

"I found the coffee here to be rich and flavorful."

"The cafe staff here are so friendly and make your day better."

"I found the tea here to be much better."

Good to know

1

The coffee shop opens early at 5:30am.

2

You need to ask for the secret code to access the restrooms.

3

There was roadside parking available nearby.

04
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.

Coffee here stands out with rich flavor and delicious treats. The cafe feels cute and convenient, located near parking lot elevators.

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.

People are saying

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

"The cafe staff are super kind and helpful."

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

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.

05
Hanabusa Cafe image 1

Small space with charming decorations and cozy atmosphere creates a peaceful, fresh vibe. Classy crowd fills the cafe, especially during busy brunch hours with expected waits. Top-tier music selection adds to the overall experience.

Soft, fluffy souffle pancakes stand out here, larger and more filling than usual. Friendly staff create a fresh morning vibe, and the orange juice serves up a delightful, generous portion.

Peach green tea stands out with its fresh, fruity flavor. Mango cheese tea mixes sweet mango with a creamy cheese foam layer for a unique taste. Passion fruit tea offers a bright, tropical punch.

People are saying

"These Japanese-style soufflé pancakes are light, airy, and fluffy."

"These airy, light pancakes are the best I've ever had."

"The Cafe's pancakes are super fluffy and melt in your mouth."

Good to know

1

Expect long wait times, especially during peak hours.

2

Reservations are not accepted, so arrive early to avoid lines.

3

Seating is limited, with most tables accommodating only two people.

06
Léa French Cafe Lake Street image 1

French cafe with Parisian decor, high ceilings, and marble floors creates a cozy, energetic atmosphere. Self-order kiosks speed up service amid a lively crowd. Bread and pastries stand out as authentic European-style offerings.

Feels like a Parisian cafe with a cozy bakery vibe offering hearty baguette sandwiches, croissants, pastries, and soups. Service is fast and friendly, and the place stays lively even when busy.

Chai tea latte offers a balanced spice without being too sweet. Matcha latte and other tea drinks come with rich flavor and consistent quality.

People are saying

"The French food quiche is thick, smooth, and flavorful."

"The croissants at this cafe are buttery, flaky, and melt-in-your-mouth."

"The croissants here are heavenly, buttery, and flaky."

Good to know

1

Reservations are not accepted; it's first-come, first-served.

2

Expect limited seating, especially during peak hours on weekends.

3

Self-service ordering is available via terminals.

07
Happy Monday Coffee - Loop image 1

Espresso spot with an earthy bohemian aesthetic and chic, cozy seating offers a calm, warm atmosphere. House and techno music energizes the space, creating a trendy, modern vibe. Limited seating includes bar stools by the window, enhancing the intimate feel.

Excellent coffee pairs with a THC-infused menu and thumping techno music. The earthy bohemian aesthetic and great furniture create a unique cafe vibe.

Chai latte and coffee stand out with solid flavors. Drinks like apple cider and Lumber Jack offer unique options beyond typical tea.

People are saying

"Their lattes are creamy, perfect, and delicious."

"I thought the cafe's honey bear coffee was great."

"The chai latte and coffee here are great."

Good to know

1

There is no restroom available at the establishment.

2

The door to the coffee shop is on Adams Street, just east of the main entrance to the 30 E Adams building.

3

They only serve 12oz drinks hot at this coffee shop.

08
Fairgrounds Craft Coffee and Tea image 1

Small cafe with cozy indoor seating and a delightful outdoor patio overlooking a park. Atmosphere stays calm and relaxing despite occasional loud music. Offers plenty of electrical outlets and a retro aesthetic that creates a chill vibe.

Coffee aroma draws people in from the street. Outdoor seating offers a relaxed vibe. The cafe stays well-stocked and feels tiny and cozy along the avenue.

Turmeric Ginger Latte stands out as a unique tea option. The menu also features Rishi iced teas and a Blueberry Rooibos that offers a refreshing taste.

People are saying

"The coffee staff here is so nice and friendly."

"This cafe's coffee and matcha lattes are smooth and flavorful."

"The staff here are so nice and welcoming, especially Ebony."

Good to know

1

They offer a special—free drink with a purchase of coffee beans.

2

The shop emphasizes carry out, so there is limited seating available.

3

Expect long wait times on weekend mornings due to high tourist traffic.

09
The Drunken Bean Coffee & Wine Bar image 1

Cozy coffee shop with park views and outdoor seating offers a chill atmosphere perfect for relaxing or working late. Friendly vibe includes local events and pet-friendly moments. Interior feels tucked away and warm, though some areas can be cold.

A cute cafe with wifi and comfortable seats sits near a park with water features and trees. It serves coffee and alcohol, offering a happy hour from 4 to 6.

Sugar-free ice tea is available alongside other options. Some teas like mango tea may not appeal to everyone. Occasional service issues cause tea orders to be forgotten.

People are saying

"I had a great, strong coffee here."

"I found this cafe to be a cute and cozy coffee shop."

"I found the tea and donuts delicious."

Good to know

1

Happy Hour runs from 4:00 to 6:00 PM every day except Saturdays and Sundays.

2

Comedy shows happen on Tuesday nights, offering free entertainment.

3

The cafe has a nice selection of healthy breakfast options.

10
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.

Strong, perfect cappuccinos stand out here, with plenty of options for all dietary needs. The cafe offers a welcoming space to sit, featuring open windows onto the street and a cozy interior that feels part of the community.

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.

People are saying

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

"This cafe's coffee is top-notch, especially the smooth matcha."

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

11
Intelligentsia image 1
Coffee shop

Spacious café with streamlined neutral tones and geometric fixtures creates a calm, cozy atmosphere despite busy surroundings. Local artwork decorates the walls, adding a quiet craft vibe. Few tables and excellent Wi-Fi support a relaxed, unhurried experience.

Craft coffee options include pour over, espresso, and specialty drinks with a slightly sophisticated twist. Friendly baristas and a vibe set by Jaimel create a welcoming third space atmosphere.

Chai stands out with rich flavor and spiced varieties like the Spiced Apple Chai. The tea selection includes white and green teas, alongside matcha lattes and iced chai lattes packed with flavor.

People are saying

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

"The Cafe's Vanilla Shakerato is so good, the espresso isn't sour at all."

"I had the best chai latte I’ve ever tasted."

Good to know

1

Expect a line during peak hours, especially in the morning.

2

Seating can be limited, especially during busy times.

3

Payment methods include credit cards and mobile payments.

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