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New Yorkers 1st Choice
Guide to Lincoln Square

Cafes

Made for those who treat the local cafe as their primary living room.

Based on 604 Opinions
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Updated May 2026
01
City Skyline Chicago - Coffee Lounge image 1
City Skyline Chicago - Coffee Lounge image 2
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Coffee lounge boasts aviation-themed decor with real plane seats and cockpit dashboards, creating a cozy atmosphere perfect for reading or working. Offers a great selection of food and drinks and welcomes dogs, with seating that includes plugs for charging devices.

An aviation-themed cafe with a unique and original interior creates a fun and authentic atmosphere. It offers a great selection of food and drinks, plus a comfortable space for working or chatting, with accessibility for those with hypersensitive hearing.

People are saying

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

"The coffee lounge has an adorable, energetic shop dog named Simon."

"The staff here are so friendly and sweet, it feels like visiting old friends."

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.

02
Cafe Utjeha image 1
Coffee shop

Cozy European style blends with a smokers den and quiet, warm atmosphere. Friendly baristas serve amazing coffee alongside delicious sweets. Seating is diverse, making it perfect for reading or working in an elegant yet simple space.

Cozy and quiet with a welcoming environment and friendly baristas. Offers amazing coffee and a variety of delicious sweets, plus a spot in the back where smoking is allowed.

People are saying

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

"It's got a nice enclosed patio area, perfect for relaxing."

"The coffee here is delicious and the sweets are simple."

Good to know

1

The cafe is cash only, so bring cash for your visit.

2

The cafe's hours are from 7am to 10pm daily.

3

Expect a welcoming atmosphere at the kids' Santa event.

03
Ka Cafe image 1
Coffee shop

Coffee shop has a quiet atmosphere perfect for studying and casual lunch. Offers reasonably priced breakfast sandwiches and a standout Ginger Chicken with Rice for lunch. Service is kind and quick, making it a peaceful spot with fresh, well-made sandwiches.

Offers reasonably priced breakfast sandwiches and coffee with kind, quick service. The Ginger Chicken with Rice stands out as a favorite lunch dish.

People are saying

"These sandwiches are fresh, tasty, and unbelievably good."

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

"The cafe staff are so nice and welcoming."

Good to know

1

Parking is easy to find near the cafe.

2

The prices at Ka Cafe are very reasonable.

3

Ka Cafe offers a breakfast deal for $6.25, including a bagel sandwich and coffee.

04
Backlot Coffee image 1
Coffee shop

Spacious, airy coffee shop offers quality coffee and a cozy interior filled with diverse art. Busy mornings bring a community-focused crowd who enjoy the calm, welcoming atmosphere. Perfect spot for work or socializing with friends.

Cute coffee shop serves as a community staple with a strong local following. Coffee quality stands out, often compared favorably to other nearby shops.

People are saying

"I thought the coffee here was great."

"It's a great work-friendly spot with a spacious and airy atmosphere."

"The coffee and drinks here are delicious and well made."

Good to know

1

Backlot Coffee now accepts cash, in addition to credit and mobile payments.

2

The shop offers gluten-free options with separate tongs for safety.

3

There is a good amount of seating available for customers.

05
Side Practice Coffee image 1

Cozy coffee shop shines with five-star coffee and a friendly community vibe. Local art and creative pop-ups add a living room feel. Seating is comfy but limited, perfect for slow, relaxed visits or quick work sessions.

Friendly community vibe defines this cafe, making it a go-to spot for quick coffee and pastries. It serves as a reliable place to work from and brightens the day with its five-star coffee quality.

People are saying

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

"This cafe's vibe is so chill and inviting."

"This Local Spot has great merchandise and showcases local artists."

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.

06
Cafe Mas image 1
Coffee shop

Bold murals and colorful decor create an artistic vibe with cozy, quiet spaces perfect for work. Friendly staff serve delicious vegan treats, while a small play area welcomes kids. Spanish pop ballads add to the relaxing atmosphere.

Quiet environment with reliable WiFi supports working for hours. Friendly customer service pairs well with delicious vegan options and sweet treats.

People are saying

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

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

"The cafe's coffee and matcha were amazing."

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.

07
Cafe Libra image 1
Restaurant

Outdoor patio with colorful umbrellas offers a cozy spot for relaxing or working. Smooth coffee pairs well with fresh donuts and dairy free ice cream. Upbeat music and games like Jenga create a friendly atmosphere perfect for small or large groups.

Cozy outdoor patio and unique menu items create a comfortable vibe. Coffee is smooth and well made, paired with fresh donuts and dairy free ice cream options.

People are saying

"I found the coffee here to be well made."

"They have super unique ice cream and gelato flavors."

"This cafe has such a beautiful, relaxed vibe."

Good to know

1

Cafe Libra offers breakfast, brunch, lunch, and dinner with authentic Balkan cuisine all day.

2

The cafe stays open pretty late for a cafe.

3

Cafe Libra offers non-dairy options for their gelato and ice cream.

08
Coffee Slasticarna Drina image 1
European restaurant

Small family-run spot serves authentic Bosnian cuisine with homemade ingredients. Cozy, quiet atmosphere feels like a neighborhood cafe perfect for relaxed chats or reading. Staff make a nice espresso, but only cash is accepted, which can feel a bit intimidating.

Cozy spot with a neighborhood feel offers homestyle meals at an unbeatable price. Staff prepare a nice espresso, but the cafe accepts only cash and can feel a little intimidating.

People are saying

"I thought the food was amazing and completely legit."

"The burek and cevapi here taste just like they do in Bosnia."

"The cafe's Turkish coffee and dessert were spectacular."

Good to know

1

The cafe accepts only cash payments.

2

Call ahead to order the potato burek.

3

Prices are very affordable for the quality.

09
Capriccio - Artisan Pizza & Coffee image 1

Small pizzeria with a modern Italian design offers a cozy atmosphere perfect for quick snacks and drinks. Warm lighting and curated music create a relaxing vibe blending Italian and Argentinian styles. Spacious outdoor seating with umbrellas complements the intimate indoor space.

Cozy and intimate with a charming Italian-inspired theme, this cafe offers a small space with limited seating. It serves simple snacks and drinks, making it ideal for a quick bite and go.

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 enjoyed the pizza and cappuccino at this cafe."

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.

10
The Perfect Cup image 1
Coffee shop

Double-wide coffee shop has a cozy neighborhood vibe with varied seating and an amazing menu featuring a standout cafe latte. Calm atmosphere with comfortable jazz music and cool art makes it perfect for work or relaxation.

Cozy neighborhood vibe with a family owned feel and various seating arrangements. The menu offers an amazing selection and the cafe latte stands out.

People are saying

"I loved their coffee; it had an espresso-forward flavor."

"It's a great spot to work or read quietly."

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

Good to know

1

Street parking is available, with free parking on Sundays.

2

Credit cards are accepted, despite some sources stating cash only.

3

Accessing the Internet requires a single-use code and receipt.

11
The Eco Flamingo image 1
General store

Zero waste store shines with refillable containers and plastic-free products. Cafe delights with kombucha flight and fresh baked goods. Community classes boost learning and connection in a calm, eco-friendly space.

The cafe offers delicious baked goods and a variety of beverages. The kombucha flight stands out as a unique tasting option.

People are saying

"I loved shopping here for zero waste items to reduce my plastic."

"I loved refilling my shampoo and conditioner containers here."

"The Cafe staff are always friendly and helpful."

Good to know

1

Bring your own containers to refill on dry goods and personal care products.

2

The store offers a wide selection of sustainable, low-waste products.

3

Prices are comparable to regular grocery stores, making sustainable choices affordable.

12
Groundswell Coffee Roasters image 1

Cozy coffee shop offers indoor and outdoor seating with a chill vibe. Strong Wi-Fi and charging ports make it great for work or catching up. Art on display adds charm to the cute atmosphere.

Cute little coffee shop with a good amount of seating both inside and out. Some art on display adds to the atmosphere.

People are saying

"The coffee here is smooth and pretty good."

"It's a chill place, perfect for reading or catching up on work."

"I found the cafe's coffee to be delicious and pretty good."

Good to know

1

Seating tends to fill up by lunchtime, so arrive early.

2

The Wi-Fi is strong with an average speed of 83 Mbps.

3

They only carry gluten-free donuts three days a week.

13
Motherland Cafe image 1
Egyptian restaurant

Calm atmosphere with plenty of seating and outlets supports work and relaxation. Unique Egyptian culture shows and AI-generated art decorate the modern interior. Coffee options like pistachio latte add to the chill vibe.

Calming atmosphere with plenty of seating and outlets supports focus and work. Coffee includes pistachio latte and other great options. Egyptian culture shows add a unique vibe throughout the restaurant.

People are saying

"I enjoyed the smooth, flavorful coffee here."

"The food here is delicious, especially the shawerma."

"The coffee at this cafe is smooth and flavorful."

Good to know

1

The cafe hosts fun events for all ages.

2

Expect limited menu options as many items may be out of stock.

3

Prices on the menu may differ from what you are charged.

14
Colectivo Coffee Ravenswood image 1

Bright, natural light fills two floors with cozy seating and a lively vibe. Staff are upbeat, creating a buzzing atmosphere like a university lunchroom. Coffee is great quality, perfect for work or socializing, while outdoor seating welcomes pets, adding a casual community feel.

Two floors offer plenty of space to sit and work. Coffee quality stands out with great coffee and a solid cafe atmosphere.

People are saying

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

"It's a great spot to work, with lots of space."

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

Good to know

1

There is only one barista making coffee orders, which may slow service.

2

The location is conveniently situated near the Ravenswood Metra stop.

3

There is ample seating available for customers.

15
Geraldine's image 1
Coffee shop

Cozy spot with charming decor and spacious seating fits work and social visits. Coffee varies due to barista skill but pairs well with top-tier baked goods like muffins and scones. Atmosphere shifts from quiet to lively, making it a work-friendly cafe with good food.

Coffee quality depends on barista training here, which needs updating. Food is good, and the cafe works well as a work-friendly spot with a nice atmosphere.

People are saying

"I loved their pastries and coffee; they were the best."

"I considered the banana tahini muffins the best I've ever had."

"The cafe's coffee and pastries are delicious."

Good to know

1

Geraldine's can be very busy and has limited seating for dine-in customers.

2

Expect a line out the door during peak hours.

3

They offer gluten-free bread for sandwiches and pastries.

16
Starbucks Coffee Company image 1

European-style clocktower and super high ceilings create a warm, cozy vibe. Comfortable seating suits quiet work or casual chats. Coffee feels like from a neighborhood coffeehouse, run by Laura who brings a welcoming vibe. Students add a nostalgic atmosphere.

Coffee here feels like it comes from a neighborhood coffeehouse rather than a chain. Laura runs a top-notch coffee shop with a welcoming vibe.

People are saying

"The coffee here is amazing, and the staff is friendly."

"The cafe staff are always friendly and quick to help."

Good to know

1

The coffee shop features comfortable seating, ideal for working or socializing.

2

Wi-Fi is available for customers, making it a good spot for remote work.

3

Parking is available on the street, but it can be limited during peak hours.

17
The Book Cellar image 1
Book store

Cozy bookstore offers stacked shelves and a well-curated selection for all ages. Cafe serves mocha and hot chocolate in a cute seating area. Wine bar adds to the relaxed vibe, blending aromas of drinks and books.

A small cafe inside offers well made drinks like mocha and hot chocolate. The space has a cute seating area and the mix of freshly printed books and coffee aroma creates a unique vibe.

People are saying

"This bookstore has an amazing, wide selection of books."

"I enjoyed the amazing coffee here."

"It's a sweet bookstore with a small cafe inside."

Good to know

1

The store allows only 10 people inside at a time.

2

The event lasted 3 hours due to limited capacity.

3

The venue was freezing during the event.

18
Willow Cafรฉ and Bistro image 1

Outdoor patio on a leafy square offers natural light and a relaxed vibe. Breakfast dishes blend Cafe Selmarie traditions with fresh flair. Indoor space feels warm and inviting, perfect for multigenerational groups.

Breakfast dishes show a strong connection to Cafe Selmarie traditions with a fresh own flare. The transition from the previous cafe feels seamless and well executed.

People are saying

"The patio is a cute, cozy outdoor space, perfect for brunch."

"I loved the cafe's atmosphere and pastries."

"This Lunch Spot's burger is amazing, just like secret dive bar quality."

Good to know

1

Expect busy patio seating during weekends around brunch time, especially in nice weather.

2

Parking in the area can be hard to find; allow at least 15 minutes before your reservation.

3

The Bistro area opens at 10am, so plan accordingly if you arrive early.

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Lincoln Square, Chicago

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