I’ve always loved the charm of neighborhood cafe bakeries and unique coffee shops, especially in Chicago. There’s something special about finding a local spot to enjoy a great coffee and sampling the best pastries.
From cozy hangouts for remote work to local bakery-cafes in the neighborhood, this guide is your ultimate guide to a great beverage, tasty pastry, and community in Chicago.
I hope this series is my way of sharing some of my favorite hidden gem cafes and coffee shops in Chicago. Scroll to discover new and familiar favorites!
This page will be updated regularly, so check back often!
Top Picks for Cafe Bakeries and Coffee Shops in Chicago
La Malinche Coffee & Teas House | Pilsen
Great For: remote work, hanging out with friends, flavorful tea offerings
This cozy coffee shop in Pilsen is a great place to sample unique teas, coffees, and a delicious bite. Their friendly service, inviting atmosphere, and affordable prices make it the perfect place to work, chill, or catch up with friends.
What To Try: Horchata Latte, Guava Punch, Turkey Pesto, Breakfast Bagel
Gallery Cafe | Bucktown
Great For: artsy ambiance, light fare, remote work
Discover Gallery Cafe in Bucktown, where art and coffee seamlessly blend. Enjoy a rotating exhibition of local artwork while enjoying expertly roasted coffee and delectable treats. Cozy seating invites you to linger and soak in the creative atmosphere.
What To Try: Spicy Bob Ross, Kahlo, Power Monkey, Coffee
Little Sandwich House | South Side
Great For: neighborhood cafe, remote work, meetings
Little Sandwich House is a Black-owned, hidden gem cafe offering light fare and free WIFI. This neighborhood is a great coffee shop for remote work in Chicago. Stay for a little or a long time while enjoying fresh coffee and pastries in a welcoming space with a great ambiance.
What To Try: Turkey Club Sandwich or any Smoothie
Robust Coffee Lounge | Woodlawn
Great For: study sessions, breakfast meetups, chill vibes
Robust Coffee Lounge is a popular coffee shop on the South Side with a hearty menu and plenty of space to spread out. Its all-day breakfast offerings and spacious environment make it one of the top coffee spots in Chicago’s Woodlawn and Hyde Park neighborhoods. If you need a place to meet up or work remotely, this South Side coffee shop is the spot.
What To Try: Sausage Biscuit Sandwich
Afro Joe’s | Beverly
Great For: outdoor patio, productivity, neighborhood gem
Afro Joe’s stands out among hidden gem coffee shops in Chicago’s South Side. This Black-owned cafe features a great menu, an inviting outdoor patio, and a welcoming vibe perfect for productivity or relaxation.
What To Try: Short Rib Panini and any of the Specialty drinks
Sip & Savor | Multiple Locations
Best For: community gatherings, remote work, networking
Sip & Savor is a Black-owned chain of coffee shops with multiple locations across Chicago, including Hyde Park, Bronzeville, and the South Loop. Known for its excellent coffee, community-driven ethos, and warm ambiance, it’s a must-visit for coffee lovers.
What To Try: Classic or a fancy Latte
Bridgeport Coffeehouse | Bridgeport
Great For: coffee enthusiasts, casual breakfasts, working remotely
Known for its exceptional blends, Bridgeport Coffeehouse is a go-to spot for coffee lovers in Chicago. With its cozy ambiance and welcoming vibe. This neighborhood coffee shop is perfect for sipping coffee, catching up with friends, or getting some work done.
What To Try: Espresso Blend, Make Your Own Breakfast Sandwich, Chai Latte
Bittersweet Bakery | Lakeview
Great For: neighborhood cafe, brunch dates, lingering with a good book
Bittersweet Bakery is a top spot in Chicago for delicious pastries and beautiful cakes. This is a top cafe in Chicago known for its super cute a French-inspired vibe. It’s more than just a place to grab a sweet treat – it’s a lovely spot to hang out and enjoy the ambiance.
What To Try: Quiche or the Flowerless Chocolate Mousse Cake
Spoken Cafe | Ravenswood
Best For: rustic vibes, breakfast dates, convenient location to transit
Spoken Cafe in Ravenswood offers a rustic and inviting atmosphere, perfect for a relaxed breakfast or brunch in Chicago. Known for its house-made focaccia and fresh, seasonal ingredients, this neighborhood spot is a local favorite for both regulars and newcomers. Whether you’re craving something hearty or light, their rotating menu is sure to delight.
What To Try: Home On The Ranch Sandwich, All-Day Breakfast Sandwich
Plein Air Café | Hyde Park
Best For: outdoor seating, places to study, hidden gems
Plein Air Café, nestled near the University of Chicago, is a busy college campus-based cafe serving up amazing coffee and delicious French-inspired bites. Order from the walk-up window or enjoy a meal on the patio as this neighborhood cafe has plenty of outdoor seating.
What To Try: Hazelnut Beignets, Vegan Tartine
Overflow Coffee | South Loop
Great For: connecting with friends, remote work, casual coffee dates
Overflow Coffee is a community-centric coffee shop in Chicago’s South Loop, offering a cozy atmosphere, tasty treats, and great ambiance. Whether you’re seeking a spot to work remotely or enjoy a laid-back coffee date, this Black-owned business is a top choice for coffee and pastries in Chicago.
What To Try: Honey Lavender Latte, The Classic Breakfast Sandwich
Muse Coffee Studio | Tri-Taylor
Great For: Black-owned coffee shops, creative drinks, hidden gems
Muse Coffee Studio blends artistry and coffee in a relaxed West Side setting. With its thoughtfully designed space and creative drink options, this cafe is a perfect escape for coffee enthusiasts looking for a touch of inspiration. It’s also a great place to work or catch up with friends.
What To Try: Lavender Latte, Matcha, Chai Tea
Goddess and the Baker | Wacker & LaSalle
Great For: sweet tooth cravings, downtown location, coffee shops with a view
This popular downtown cafe and bakery offers a vibrant menu of coffee, desserts, and light meals. Perfect for a quick pick-me-up or casual lunch, Goddess and the Baker’s Wacker & LaSalle location has become a go-to spot for city dwellers looking for a coffee and pastry stop in Chicago.
What To Try: Smoked Salmon Plate, Turkey Bacon & Egg Croissant, London Fog, Apple Butter Oat Latte, Red Velvet Brownie Frosted Cookie, Banana Pecan Muffin
Loaf Lounge | Avondale
Great For: retro vibes, breakfast sandwiches, all-day cafe experience
The Loaf Lounge in Avondale is a cozy hidden gem known for its flavorful bites and nostalgic atmosphere. This charming spot pairs a ‘70s-inspired playlist with an inviting ambiance, making it one of the best coffee shops in Chicago for a laid-back breakfast or brunch.
What To Try: Spicy Capocollo Sandwich, Bacon, Egg, and Cheese, Sweet Tides Latte
Cadinho | McKinley Park
Great For: South Side cafe, best pastries, remote work
Cadinho in McKinley Park is a standout among Chicago cafe bakeries, offering some of the best pastries and savory bites in the area. Their food is indulgent, delicious, and an absolute standout for bakery cafes on the South Side of Chicago.
What To Try: Custard and Chocolate Pastry, Sundried Tomato and Spinach Quiche, Bacon, Cheese, and Chive Scone
Chicago Coffee and Neighborhood Cafe Map
Planning a coffee run or craving a delicious pastry? This map is your go-to guide! Easily discover the best cafes and coffee shops in Chicago, whether searching for a local gem in your neighborhood or exploring new favorites across the city. Download and save this map to your device for quick and easy access whenever you need it.
