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Local picks in Lake View East

Croissant Cafes

Made for those who consider a high-quality croissant the only acceptable way to start their morning at a cafe.

Based on 592 Opinions
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Updated May 2026
01
The Bakehouse Chicago image 1
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Space blends modern aesthetics with cozy decor and natural light, creating a warm, welcoming atmosphere. Rock and roll music adds a lively vibe while plants enhance the inviting feel. Seating includes both indoor and outdoor options with plenty of outlets, making it suitable for work or relaxation.

Almond croissants stand out with a great amount of almond and almond paste and a sizeable portion. Ham, egg, and cheese croissants use a fried egg, adding a unique touch.

Comfortable seating creates a relaxed spot to enjoy coffee. It acts as a community hub that starts the day off right with a welcoming vibe.

People are saying

"I found their coffee to be the best I had."

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

"I found the croissants here to be amazing."

Good to know

1

The cafe offers vegan and gluten-free options for dietary preferences.

2

Expect prices around $8 for a bagel with cream cheese.

3

The cafe has ample seating with plenty of outlets for working.

02
Elevate Coffee - Boystown image 1

Minimalist design creates a calm, relaxed atmosphere with plenty of indoor seating for work or hangouts. Friendly energy fills the space, though music volume can challenge conversation. Coffee offerings stand out with fun flavors and seasonal options, making it a favored neighborhood spot.

Toasted bottoms add a nice crunch to the croissants. Options include a butter croissant warmed up on request, a goat cheese croissant, and a bacon, egg, and cheddar croissant with bold flavors.

Designed for locals, regulars, and tourists, this cafe offers a great spot for meeting friends or working. The orange vanilla oat milk latte stands out among the excellent local coffee options.

People are saying

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

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

"The croissant was delicious and delectable."

Good to know

1

Elevate Coffee offers a wide selection of coffees, teas, and hot foods.

2

They are open late until 6 pm, making it a good spot for evening coffee.

3

Expect to wait about half an hour for your coffee during busy hours.

03
Ancient Grounds image 1
Coffee shop

Small coffee shop with exposed brick and a copper ceiling creates a cozy, peaceful atmosphere with gentle lighting and quiet background music. Seating is narrow and mostly near the door, featuring comfy couches and window seats with natural light. The vibe suits those seeking a warm, unhurried space ideal for working or relaxing quietly.

Croissants come with a perfect crunch and soft inside. Options include ham and cheese, bacon, egg + cheese, and sweet choices like chocolate raspberry and cinnamon roll.

Offers a clean cafe with a working area and wifi. Serves a Cinnamon Latte noted for its quality and flavor.

People are saying

"The coffee shop has a wonderfully calm and quiet atmosphere."

"You have to try the cafe's unique cereal-themed specialty drinks."

"The Biscoff latte here is delicious and sweet."

Good to know

1

Parking is limited on Saturdays and Sundays.

2

The cafe's small size makes it hard for large groups to find seating.

3

The latte flight is available on weekdays from 10 am to 3 pm.

04
Cafe Paris - French Café image 1

Small coffee shop offers a cozy interior with big glass windows and a quiet back patio adorned with flowers and street lamps. Atmosphere stays relaxed and calming, often accompanied by soft French music. Seating by windows invites people watching while enjoying fresh pastries and quality coffee.

Croissants here are buttery, perfectly flaky, and freshly baked. Varieties like almond and pistachio stand out for their rich, nutty, and delicately sweet flavors.

Amazing pastries and fresh baguette sandwiches stand out here. Tables by the windows offer a great spot for people watching in a warm, quiet atmosphere.

People are saying

"I found the quiche to be seriously creamy and rich."

"I've never had a croissant this buttery and flaky."

"The quiche at this Cafe is rich, savory, and an absolute delight."

Good to know

1

The café only accepts credit cards; no cash payments allowed.

2

The food menu is available all day until closing time.

3

Expect prices to be higher than average, with croissant sandwiches around $18.

05
Levant Coffee Lakeview (Takeout Only) image 1

Tiny coffee shop operates strictly as takeout with a spartan interior and curated atmosphere. Outdoor patio offers cozy seating for relaxing or working quietly. Energy shifts from calm to chaotic with fluctuating music volume.

Fluffy and savory ham and cheese croissants stand out here. Almond croissants offer a delicious, perfect balance of flavors.

Specialty drinks and a rotating menu highlight this cafe's creativity in coffee preparation. It operates as a takeout only spot on some days, standing out among many coffee shops in the area.

People are saying

"The Coffee here is served by the kindest, most welcoming staff."

"The Cafe's owners are so friendly and welcoming."

"The almond croissant was perfection."

Good to know

1

Levant Coffee Lakeview is takeout only, with no indoor seating available.

2

They do not offer decaf espresso, which may disappoint some coffee drinkers.

3

The café operates on a grab-and-go model, ideal for quick visits.

06
Intelligentsia Coffee Broadway Coffeebar image 1

Industrial design with large seating areas and floor-to-ceiling windows creates a spacious, modern environment. The atmosphere is loud and echoey, often busy with people working on laptops, making it suitable for focused study despite some noise. Outdoor seating offers an alternative to the indoor space, which can feel cold and utilitarian.

Fresh croissants appear regularly alongside muffins. They pair well with a latte for a simple work-from-home snack. Some visits skip the croissants altogether.

Cozy and chill, this cafe serves a solid cappuccino and stays open later than most. It offers a productive spot for work but uses disposable cups for larger drinks.

People are saying

"The coffee here is amazing, with great pour-over options."

"I thought the coffee at this cafe was awesome."

"I loved the fresh croissants and coffee."

Good to know

1

They offer a $2 discount on single-origin beans every Saturday.

2

Expect a line during peak hours due to popularity.

3

The coffee shop has plenty of seating available for customers.

07
Klein’s Bakery & Cafe (LakeviewEast) image 1

Elevated home bakery with cozy atmosphere and vibrant urban vibe offers several seating options including outdoor space. The place suits both quiet work sessions and casual chats, featuring lovely music and a welcoming environment.

Warm, flaky croissants come with fillings like ham and cheese or sausage egg and cheese with solid portions. Almond croissants stand out as a meticulously crafted option often paired with tiramisu.

Fantastic coffee pairs with a wide variety of pastries and cakes. The cafe offers a calm atmosphere ideal for getting work done and features well-priced, tasty treats including a soft vegan brownie.

People are saying

"I loved their pastries; they were always delicious and fresh."

"I loved the warm, flaky ham and cheese croissant."

"This cafe has the most delicious pastries and aromatic coffee."

Good to know

1

Limited seating is available, especially during busy times.

2

Expect a wait time during weekends due to high demand.

3

Prices for coffee and sandwiches can reach around $20.

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Lake View East, Chicago

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