Best Coffee Shops and Cafes in Chicago

"Stan’s Donuts originated in Los Angeles, and has only showed up on the Chicago donut scene a few years ago. Regardless, they continue to open new locations and rarely run out of donuts unlike other shops in the city. The great perk about Stan’s isn’t just that you can actually sit down at any time of day and enjoy a donut and coffee, it’s also that they have endless donut options available that make choosing one nearly impossible."

"Stan’s embraces the vintage vibe of a classic donut shop, with a modern spin. They’ve perfected the classics (glazed old fashioneds, cinnamon sugar cake donuts, massive apple fritters) and added in some of their own creations (peanut butter pockets, croissant-donut hybrids, and gluten-free options). Find the one closest to you here"

"Stan's Donuts has quickly become a Chicago icon with decadent flavored donuts, cookies and delicious beverages. They are currently open every day for takeout and delivery."

"Probably the most modernized bakery on this list, Floriole quickly rose to the top after its inception. This Lincoln Park bakery in Chicago is beautifully designed and even features a relatively large cafe area where you can sit and enjoy your pastry. The bakery is specifically European-style, featuring wines and beers to accompany your sweets, and plenty of coffee."

"Floriole is home to some of the best desserts in Chicago, and they always aim to go organic and local with their ingredients where possible. What we love about this spot, is that their menu is constantly changing according to the availability of produce. While this vibe may not be for everyone, there’s something exciting about this potluck experience."

"The Wormhole will take you back to the future—a model of Marty McFly’s DeLorean is literally in the shop. This ‘80s themed coffee shop has a menu full of delicious coffee options and is one of the coziest spots in Wicker Park. Order for pickup now!"

"If you have an unhealthy obsession with the movie “Back to the future,” this is the store for you. The Wormhole is a trip back in time to circa 1984. The whole coffee shop is an homage to pop culture from the 1980s."

"The Wormhole Coffee is one of the best-reviewed coffee shops in Chicago. It’s located in Wicker Park. The interior has this relaxed retro vibe going on."

"A post shared by Walker Bros Pancake House (@walkerbrospancakes) on Oct 19, 2017 at 1:42pm PDT. With locations in Chicago, Schaumburg and Libertyville, you have no excuse not to get yourself in here and order the Signature Berry Bliss with vanilla anglaise, blackberry coulis, berry mascarpone and fresh berries. Or, order to-go for breakfast at home."

"The Loop isn’t quite rife with French cuisine so this casual steakhouse, attached to the Hyatt Centric and run by WellDone Hospitality Group, has been a welcome addition to the area since opening two years ago. Whether guests stop in during lunch for a beef dip sandwich or treat themselves to a nice hunk of dry-aged beef at dinner, there are plenty of delicious choices that’ll evoke visions of Paris."

"Kick off the last day of your Chicago itinerary with brunch at Cochan Volant, a French bistro in the Loop that is basically a brunch-lovers paradise."

"Lasalle Street, the shop offers a comfy atmosphere and impressive selection of coffee, tea and sweet treats. If cold-brew is your coffee of choice, we recommend the Nitro Cold Brew on tap. Don’t be surprised when the drink comes out looking like a Guinness in a tall frosted glass."

"Not only is Goddess and the Baker an Instagram-worthy spot, the desserts are to die for. Your family will be happy with everything from cinnamon rolls and cookies to mini pies. And parents, you can grab some needed caffeine!"

"Goddess and the Baker is casual Chicago café chain with iconic and colorful baked goods. The bistro features breakfast and lunch, as well as delicious baked goods."

"Enjoy creative gourmet Indian offerings, including high teas and Thali, a presentation that blends tastes and textures into a culinary wonder served on a single plate. You’ll find fun, contemporary versions of Indian classics at Mango Pickle, which is among the best restaurants in Chicago. Mango Pickle | 5842 N."

"From Business: Yummy Buffet is a Buffet Restaurant located in Chicago, IL. We offer Sushi, Chinese, Hibachi, All You Can Eat, Seafood, Catering, Carry Out, and Dessert!"

"A post shared by elly’s (@ellysbrunchcafe) on Nov 18, 2019 at 5:02pm PST. Do not come here if you don’t plan on ordering the oven-baked pancakes. That’s not to say there’s no other reason to visit—it’s to say you’d have regrets for daaays."

"Great service and an excellent environment; Logan square is a nice slice of heaven on earth. The employees and staff are always friendly and attentive, a..."

"The early bird not only gets the worm, it also gets the breakfast deal at Cozy Corner. Stop in between 6 a.m."

"Inspired by the nostalgia of trekking across the States and stopping into roadside diners full of charm along the way, Eleven City has that classic, old-school atmosphere you want to go with your burger and milkshake. Here, breakfast is served all day, including a make-your-own omelet bar, but don’t you dare sleep on their loaded mac-and-cheese either. Needless to say, Eleven City Diner has it all and more."

"Restaurants Diners Loop. Owner Brad Rubin scoured the country to research this Jewish deli/diner. His pastrami is tender, fatty and full of flavor; the milkshakes are thick and oversized; matzo balls are enormous; and the brisket is good enough that any grandmother would want to claim it, Jewish or not."