The Best Coffee Shops in Chicago
Chicago is widely recognized for having a remarkable and diverse array of amazing food options, as well as an impressive collection of coffee shops. As someone who has lived in Chicago for 2 years and in its surrounding suburbs for over a decade, I have curated a list of my favorite coffee shops that I have tried so far. Each coffee shop on this list has a unique aspect, character, or ambience and they are all distinctly different from one another, each offering its own special experience.
DIAL TONE CAFE
LOCATION: 1136 N Wells Street
Dial Tone Cafe is a recently opened coffee shop in Chicago. Despite it being a new addition to the local coffee scene, the quality of the coffee served here is already some of my favorites. The cafe offers a wide variety of pastries and craft lattes, including unique options like a praline latte and a lavender vanilla latte that truly stand out. The lemon bar is a perfect sweet treat to balance out a bold, robust coffee. The ambience is inviting and relaxing, enhanced by a variety of soothing greens and white tile accents. Plants and warm wooden details complement the café's design. Dial Tone stands out from the typical coffee shop by including a wine bar.
TARY
LOCATION: 111 W Illinois St
Tary is a cozy, hidden gem in the heart of the city. This small coffee shop draws inspiration from ancient Kazakh cuisine, seamlessly blending traditional flavors with a contemporary café aesthetic. As you step inside, the soft, neutral tones of the interior create a welcoming atmosphere, making it an ideal spot for relaxation, whether you want to hang out with friends, dive into a productive work session, or savor a good book in your own quiet corner. The menu includes a variety of different coffees including lattes, macchiatos, and drip coffee. In addition to the coffee, patrons can enjoy an array of delicious pastries, soups, and breakfast dishes. The ice latte and cheesecake are two of my favorite menu items. If you are seeking a local coffee shop in downtown Chicago that combines a unique culinary perspective with a warm, inviting ambiance, Tary is the perfect spot. It not only offers an escape from the frenetic pace of city life but also invites you to explore a blend of traditional and modern flavors that will leave a lasting impression.
GODDESS AND THE BAKER
LOCATION: 44 E Grand Ave (there are multiple other locations)
Goddess and the Baker is one of my absolute go-to coffee spots in downtown Chicago. The atmosphere is always inviting, and they have an incredible selection of baked goods to choose from, ranging from classic treats to more unique options. What I love most is that they offer a variety of gluten-free choices, so there’s something for everyone. Although Goddess and the Baker is one of Chicago’s more basic coffee shops, it is reliable and is consistently enjoyable. Whether you’re craving a fresh pastry or a cozy spot to sip your coffee, this place always delivers. This is undoubtedly my favorite coffee chain, and I tend to prefer it over Starbucks and Dunkin'. While it offers consistent quality and flavors, being a chain means it lacks the unique local coffee shop ambience that many other coffee shops on this list.
