Coffee is everywhere in Chicago. Whether you like your Starbucks Frappuccino or you want something more local, you can find whatever you want in any neighborhood. But not every coffee shop is good for every situation! Here are 5 different local Chicago spots that will fit your mood...
The Classic: Dollop Coffee Co.
Dollop Coffee Co. is a growing Chicago coffee chain. They have 14 locations around the city but have stayed within the Chicago area. Dollop feels just as you would expect; comfy chairs for those who want to read and relax, high tops for those who want to get work done, and tables for 2 for meetings and dates. Whatever your vibe is, Dollop will do the trick. For your caffeine fix, the Nutella Mocha Latte and Mexican Mocha are hits. The Nutella Mocha Latte has that sweet and nutty chocolatey flavor with a smooth and creamy texture while the Mexican Mocha has a 3-chili blend that'll give your tastebuds a pleasant surprise! If you're hungry, they have a small selection of bagels and sandwiches. Try the Ham Sandwich with strawberry Dollop jam. The perfect combination of sweet and savory with an amazing side of potato salad and a pickle...yum!
Warm and Cozy: Café Integral
This is one of my favorite coffee shops in all of Chicago. Located inside the Freehand Chicago, it becomes your home away from home. Warm lighting with lots of comfy couches, hand painted tables, and Instagram-ready backgrounds. Great for sitting and reading or getting cozy on a date. They take their drinks and food seriously and you can't go wrong with any of the choices on the menu. The London Fog (they'll make it even if it's not on the menu) and Matcha Tea Latte are my two top drinks here. The London Fog is probably the best in the city. It matches the cafe's warm vibe and gives you the perfect balance of Earl Grey Tea, frothy milk and fresh vanilla. The Matcha Tea Latte can be sweetened or not and has just the right amount of that signature matcha flavor. From a food perspective, my mouth waters just thinking about their Fried Chicken Sandwich (see Christine's list of the best Chicken Sandwiches in Chicago), Freehand Burger, and Papas Bravas - all 3 are seriously amazing.
Work and Meetings: Limitless Coffee & Tea
Limitless will energize you with coffee and vibe. The bright white and well-lit space helps with focus and creativity. Some of the tables have small white boards and markers for note taking/diagramming which is a unique touch. Beyond the atmosphere, they are known for experimentation with unique ingredients. They have concoctions you won't see anywhere else. The most popular is their Charcoal Latte. A beautiful cup of magic, that looks like it's out of a painting. The charcoal is meant to ease digestion while you get your caffeine fix. Additionally, their Lavender Latte is an interesting twist on a classic latte, adding a hint of the aromatic herb to help calm you down. While you're there, you have to try the Biscuit Sandwich as well. It's light, fluffy and buttery goodness and is served all day. It has the perfect amount of bacon and cheese with a side of sweet jam. They have 3 locations in downtown Chicago, with the Fulton Market shop being their flagship. Their potential is limitless.
Weekend Hangout: Sawada Coffee
Sawada Coffee is a "blink and you'll miss it" type of shop in the West Loop area of Chicago. It's unexpectedly attached to Green Street Smoked Meats but because of the association, it makes for a great spot to spend a Sunday. Start your day with their signature Military Latte, which was created by award-winning latte artist Hiroshi Sawada. It's a perfectly balanced matcha latte combined with espresso and vanilla syrup. The added espresso will give you that kick you need! They are also known for their boozy steamers which will warm you up on a Chicago winter day. The drinks all have some of the most beautiful designs you've seen in a beverage. From Sawada, you can watch Sunday football with friends on Green Street Smoked Meats' large projector screens and slowly transition into BBQ for lunch or dinner without moving more than 100 feet! What could be better?
Baked Goodness: Beatrix Restaurants
You may know Beatrix for their health-conscious dinner menu. In my opinion, their coffee and bakery are some of their best offerings but are often overlooked! If you need an afternoon pick-me-up or want something delicious to start your day, this is the best option for you. The coffee that stands out to me here is their Bulletproof Coffee. If you haven't heard of this, it's a California phenomenon that is supposed to keep you energized longer and increase your cognitive function. The idea was to keep tech engineers focused while they code away throughout the day. Along with coffee, it includes special oil and butter which changes the texture of the drink and can keep you full for longer. Definitely something worth trying. From the pastry side, you have to try the Nutella Stuffed Cookie. Even if it isn't straight out of the oven, it will melt in your mouth and make you smile. You haven't tried anything like it. They are also known for gluten free options that actually taste good. No matter which dessert you get, you'll be happy with your choice. There are so many more places to try in Chicago, so I'll update the list as we explore more. Enjoy! #findinghappyfull #foodie #chicagoflavor #tastetheworld #coffeevibe