Do you live or work in a city with an infinite amount of dining choices? Not only am I overwhelmed when it draws near to deciding on an establishment for a meal, but I can rarely make a decision where to have coffee. My coffee order is basic, but I am making every effort to get out of my comfort zone! I would say my caffeine habit didn’t start off until my early 20’s. I distinctly recall my roommate Sam always preparing coffee and it repeatedly smelled so delightful. Having my first taste of coffee I remember it tasting sort of smoky, it was certainly an acquired taste. The more I grow up the more addicted and selective I’ve become on where I pick up my coffee.
Coffee shops have come to be so popular and provide a unique experience for the consumer than just dropping in for a bite or quick cup of joe. Women are meeting potential suitors, networking, meeting places and using it as a “home” office. The menus appear to provide an extensive range of drinks, cakes, doughnuts, croissants etc.
If you live in or are visiting Chicago, we’ve rounded up some of our favorite neighborhood spots!
Asado coffee opened in 2009 and is home to two locations in Chicago. Their award winning roasts are available at both Chicago locations and here online. The first time I ever went to an Asado Coffee was at their location on 22 E. Jackson (pictured below, which is unfortunately closed) this building is also known as Pickwick Stable. Back in the 1800’s this was constructed for family horses, it later survived the great Chicago Fire. This building continues to maintain its interesting character and I hope that either Asado opens again or another business takes over this cute alleyway spot! Check out their other location in River North at 363 W Erie St, Chicago, IL.
This spot is where you will often find me working. The first time I stumbled into Wormhole when I moved to this neighborhood a couple years ago I instantly fell in love. If you love the 80’s you too will fall deeply in love. The decor (Back to the future DeLorean), old school tv’s, Super Mario brothers and of course 80’s music its very nostalgic. Lots of comfy sofas and community tables to kick back, relax, enjoy a delicious cup of coffee and take yourself back to a totally radical time! Located in the heart of Wicker Park at 1462 N Milwaukee, Chicago, IL
I am lucky to not only have one, but two Ipsento Coffee shops within walking distance of my apartment. Ipsento’s second location opened within the last year along the ever bustling Bloomingdale Trail aka 606. They have this massive cutout window over looking the park and trail, you often find patrons working hard on their laptops enjoying a cup of freshly roasted coffee during the day or people watching and enjoying a cocktail at night. What really stands out about Ipsento is not only do they specialize in sourcing and roasting seasonal, stand out coffees, they offer classes you can register for right here! Original location at 2035 N Western, Chicago, IL and newer location along the 606 at 1813 N Milwaukee Ave, Chicago, IL.
The first U.S. coffee shop of world renowned barista and latte art expert Hiroshi Sawada. Sawada is part of Hogsalt hospitality group who own some of our other favorite staples like Au Cheval, Doughnut Vault and 3 Arts Club Cafe we talked about in our last blog post plus many more. So I knew stepping into Sawada for the first time I was not going to be disappointed. Hands down my favorite coffee shop in Chicago. It’s Located in the West Loop in an open rustic space, with pretty lights, communal seating, Ping Pong and serving up donuts from the aforementioned Doughnut Vault. Located at 112 N Green St, Chicago, IL. 
Share with us some of your favorite coffee shops so when we visit your city we can sip on a delicious cup of joe!
Xoxo Maria
Love this post!! I recently moved an hour outside Chicago and I am constantly in the city trying to find new coffee spots. Will definitely check out all of these, thanks for the recommendations!
Thanks for reading Haylee!! Let us know if you ever visit one and what you think, Enjoy!