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Guide to River North

Coffee and Sandwich Spots

A quick lunch is only worth it if the coffee is as reliable as the sandwich.

Based on 715 Opinions
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Updated April 2026
01
Schneider Deli River North image 1
Schneider Deli River North image 2
Schneider Deli River North image 3
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Small deli space with maximum efficiency and a soda shoppe feel creates a cozy, homey atmosphere. Friendly energy and an authentic vibe make it feel like a walk back in time. Tables are few and always full, enhancing the intimate setting.

Coffee here stands out for its very high quality and ranks above many specialty spots. It pairs well with bagels and other breakfast items, making it a solid choice for a morning boost.

Thick cut pastrami stands out with a perfect blend of ingredients and flavors. The corned beef and lox sandwiches also deliver strong, satisfying tastes.

People are saying

"These bagels are soft, super fresh, and perfect."

"The breakfast sandwich here is delicious, especially on fresh bagels."

"The coffee here is delicious and really great."

Good to know

1

Takeout is recommended due to limited seating inside.

2

Online ordering is advised for weekend breakfast to avoid long lines.

3

Expect a line during busy hours, especially on weekends.

02
CBR image 1
Bar

Bar inside a hotel with dim lighting and cute furniture creates a relaxed, cool vibe that feels like catching up with old friends. DJs play great music, adding to the lively atmosphere especially during special occasions. The place draws people looking for a chill brunch spot with impressive cocktails and a well-regarded menu.

Coffee here offers a perfect balance for any drinker with options like creamy cappuccinos and fresh espresso served at ideal temperatures.

Breakfast sandwiches feature crispy sourdough, aromatic meat, and a sunny side up egg. Fried chicken sandwiches offer a juicy bite with perfect crunch. Options include short ribs and avocado chicken sandwiches.

People are saying

"Happy Hour craft cocktails and modern American dishes were delicious."

"The coffee here is superb, creamy, and perfectly balanced."

"The fried chicken sandwich had a perfect crunch."

Good to know

1

Happy hour runs Tuesday to Friday from 4 pm to 6 pm.

2

Cocktails during happy hour are priced between $8-12.

3

Draft beers, ciders, and house wines are available at happy hour prices.

03
Sinya Mediterranean image 1
Mediterranean restaurant

Mediterranean restaurant offers an airy, spacious interior with tasteful decor and soft lighting that creates a calm, casual vibe. Plenty of seating and outlets support relaxed dining or working. The atmosphere balances upscale design with a welcoming, comfortable feel.

Coffee here stands out with exceptional quality and unique flavors like the Turkish delight and charcoal lattes. The latte art adds a thoughtful, beautiful touch to each cup.

Falafel sandwiches stand out with bold flavor and generous portions. Chicken shawarma sandwiches are popular but can vary in cooking quality.

People are saying

"The Mediterranean food here is fresh, flavorful, and authentically delicious."

"The hazelnut coffee with pistachio was perfectly balanced and not too sweet."

"I had the best falafel sandwich ever."

Good to know

1

Knafeh is only available at the River North location from 4 PM to 10 PM.

2

The place is legit zabiha halal.

3

They give free hummus and salad with each order.

04
Peet's Coffee image 1
Coffee shop

Small coffee shop offers indoor and outdoor seating with fast internet and plenty of space to work. Atmosphere stays cozy and quiet despite steady flow of people, making it suitable for breaks or remote work. Location near the river adds a pleasant outdoor vibe with shaded patio seating.

Coffee here is delicious and smooth, with options like Americano that keep their character. Staff provide friendly and fast service, and prices for drinks like cold brew are often lower than other shops.

Warm sandwiches feature melty cheese and herby notes that balance flavors well. Options include a caprese sandwich and a simple egg and cheese breakfast sandwich.

People are saying

"I thought the coffee here was really good."

"The outdoor seating here is very pretty and nice."

"This sandwich is warm, perfectly balanced, and has melty cheese."

Good to know

1

The takeout process is easy and quick.

2

Expect a long queue for the single restroom in the cafe.

3

The cafe is busy, especially on Saturday afternoons.

05
Marshall's Landing image 1
American restaurant

Space offers great river views and a wrap-around bar with comfortable seating. Atmosphere feels warm and versatile, suitable for quiet work or informal meetings, though music can be loud and varied. Private dining rooms overlook the river, supporting gatherings and events.

Coffee here features dark matter coffee and a toasted marshmallow option that stands out. The iced vanilla latte is excellent and affordable, making it a solid spot to work or relax with a drink.

Sandwiches stand out with options like the Peri-Peri Sandwich and a notable lobster sandwich at Marshall's Landing. Staff offer swaps for spice levels, showing attention to individual tastes.

People are saying

"The food here is delicious and amazing."

"The coffee service here is amazing and super friendly."

"I thought the sandwiches here were excellent."

Good to know

1

Happy hour runs from 4-7pm on weekdays with great drink specials.

2

Marshall's Landing is a popular spot for hosting corporate events and parties.

3

The venue offers a spacious area suitable for networking events.

06
TARY image 1
Cafe

Cozy, minimal cafรฉ with authentic Kazakh decor and subtle cultural elements creates a calm, pleasant atmosphere. Plenty of seating and strong WiFi support work or socializing, while unique Central Asian pastries and dishes offer a distinct culinary experience.

Coffee here has a distinct flavor and richness that stands out. The cappuccino and sweet cheese latte offer unique tastes not found elsewhere.

Salmon sandwich features fresh ingredients and stands out for its flavor. Turkey egg breakfast sandwich offers high quality. Sandwiches arrive with some delay and in an unusual order.

People are saying

"I thought the coffee here was super good."

"You have to try the unique Kazakh food here; it's so authentic."

"I absolutely loved this spot for their sandwiches."

Good to know

1

Parking is reserved for commercial vehicles only, leading to potential tickets.

2

TARY serves unique Central Asian pastries and drinks not found elsewhere.

3

The cafe gets packed, making tables hard to get at times.

07
Cafe L'Appetito image 1
Italian restaurant

Small space with a true deli vibe and a dog-friendly outdoor patio offers a calm, family-friendly atmosphere. The place feels like a grocery store food court with an affordable menu focused on Italian sandwiches and coffee. It suits quick bites and casual meals rather than cozy dining.

Coffee features excellent beans with a rich flavor. Drinks like iced caramel latte and mocha frap stand out alongside solid cappuccinos and lattes.

Italian sandwiches like the Diavolo, Italiano, and Genoa stand out for their freshness and flavor. Breakfast options include a pesto egg sandwich bagel that pairs well with coffee.

People are saying

"I found the coffee here to be excellent."

"I got the diavolo sandwich; it was amazing."

"I thought it was simple and affordable."

Good to know

1

Expect long lines during lunch hours; arrive early for full service.

2

The cafe closes at 6:20 pm, so plan your visit accordingly.

3

Affordable meals are available, typically around $10.

08
Blue Bottle Coffee image 1

Coffee shop offers calm, classy atmosphere with amazing city and river views. Seating includes indoor and outdoor options, featuring a beautiful terrace ideal for relaxing or people-watching. Space suits those seeking a high-quality coffee experience in a cozy, focused setting.

Coffee here stands out for its well-crafted quality and wonderful aroma. The cafe latte and other drinks like green tea and hot chocolate are consistently excellent and well prepared.

Breakfast sandwiches stand out with fresh ingredients and options like prosciutto that recall Parisian flavors. They pair well with drinks like iced cafe mocha or oat milk lattes.

People are saying

"I thought the coffee here was really good."

"You get a gorgeous city view from the windows."

"I highly recommend their delicious breakfast sandwich."

Good to know

1

Brunch is offered on weekends, but check availability.

2

Expect to pay over $8 for a latte.

3

Parking is very difficult, so plan ahead.

09
Happy Monday Coffee - River North image 1

Coffee shop occupies a spacious lobby with an adjacent garden-themed room and a closed-off garage patio. Atmosphere ranges from quiet and cozy to occasionally loud due to music or phone use, with a generally chill vibe suited for studying or working. Decor includes elegant touches but some worn furniture, and dogs are welcome.

Coffee here offers creative options like ube and lavender lattes that taste authentic. The oat milk latte with honey and cappuccinos come creamy and perfectly brewed, served in a spacious, quiet spot with a cozy vibe.

Breakfast sandwiches feature fluffy eggs and melted cheese on a bun. Bread tends to be dry, and sandwiches are reheated from the previous day, sometimes leaving eggs cold.

People are saying

"The ube latte tasted like real ube and was surprisingly flavorful."

"This spot is quiet and spacious, making it great for work."

"The back patio area is an extra quiet space."

Good to know

1

Dogs are allowed at the coffee shop.

2

The coffee shop is located in the lobby of an apartment building.

3

There are plenty of seats inside the coffee shop.

10
Einstein Bros. Bagels image 1

Huge space with loads of seating creates an inviting and warm atmosphere. Bagels are fresh and tasty, often paired with egg and bacon for a satisfying breakfast. Staff are friendly, and orders are ready quickly, supporting a relaxed yet efficient vibe.

Coffee tastes great black, with no need for sugar or cream. Staff provide friendly service and ensure orders are accurate and hot. Iced coffee comes sealed with a straw for easy carrying.

Breakfast sandwiches come fresh and made to order with friendly service. The All Nighter sandwich features egg, bacon, and cheese on a cheesy hashbrown bagel.

People are saying

"The staff here are super friendly and welcoming."

"The coffee here is great and the staff is super friendly."

"They always greeted me and made my sandwiches fresh."

Good to know

1

This location has no dining room, so eating in is not an option.

2

Restrooms are for customers only; purchase required for access.

3

Limited paid street parking is available, with a $16 self-park lot nearby.

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River North, Chicago

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