Best Coffee Shops in Chicago for Coffee-Tasting Events
Chicago is a city filled with incredible places to eat, explore, and relax. It’s also home to some amazing coffee shops where you can enjoy coffee-tasting events. Coffee lovers in Chicago are spoiled for choice, as the city is buzzing with cafés that truly care about the craft of coffee. If you’re looking for a fun and unique way to learn more about your favorite drink, coffee-tasting events are a perfect choice.
In these events, professional baristas and coffee enthusiasts take you on a journey through different types of beans, brewing methods, and flavor profiles. You get to experience coffee in a completely new way and maybe even find your next favorite cup. Here are some of the best coffee shops in Chicago that host coffee-tasting events and celebrate the art of coffee.
1. Intelligentsia Coffee – Logan Square
Intelligentsia Coffee is one of Chicago’s most iconic coffee brands. They’ve been pioneers in the specialty coffee movement for decades, and their Logan Square location offers some fantastic opportunities for coffee education. The team at Intelligentsia is passionate about the coffee-making process and often hosts tastings that dive deep into the nuances of different coffee beans.
At an Intelligentsia coffee-tasting event, you’ll learn about single-origin coffees, the importance of sourcing, and how brewing techniques affect the final flavor. The atmosphere is welcoming, and the staff always makes learning about coffee enjoyable. Plus, their spacious café in Logan Square is the perfect spot to relax afterward with a beautifully brewed cup.
2. Sawada Coffee
If you’re looking for a cool and creative coffee shop, Sawada Coffee is the place to be. Located in the West Loop, Sawada Coffee blends stunning design with expertly crafted drinks. The shop is run by Hiroshi Sawada, a world-champion barista from Japan, so you know you’re in good hands here.
Sawada occasionally hosts coffee-tasting workshops where you can experience their signature Japanese-inspired coffee creations. You’ll learn about matcha and espresso combinations, latte art techniques, and what makes their coffee blends so unique. After tasting, take some time to explore their menu—you won’t want to miss their Military Latte or their incredible pour-over brews.
3. Dark Matter Coffee
Dark Matter Coffee stands out with its bold, experimental approach to coffee brewing. With several locations in Chicago, this local favorite takes pride in sourcing beans from family-owned farms and roasting them to perfection. Known for edgy, vibrant branding and rich coffee flavors, Dark Matter is a must-visit for adventurous coffee fans.
Dark Matter hosts coffee-tasting events and educational classes where you can explore their unique blends and single-origin options. The staff is enthusiastic and knows everything there is to know about their coffee—from the farmers who grow it to the exact roasting techniques that give it its bold flavor. A visit to Dark Matter is not just a coffee-tasting experience—it’s a deep dive into coffee culture.
4. Metropolis Coffee Company
Metropolis Coffee Company has been serving Chicago’s coffee-loving community since 2003. Located in Edgewater, Metropolis is known for its eco-friendly practices and commitment to sourcing quality beans. The café is inviting, cozy, and ideal for learning about coffee while enjoying a cup with friends.
Metropolis frequently hosts cupping sessions, the coffee world’s version of “wine tasting.” During a cupping session, you’ll sample various coffee offerings while learning to identify aroma, body, acidity, and sweetness in each cup. Their knowledgeable staff will guide you step-by-step, making these events great for beginners and enthusiasts alike.
5. The Wormhole Coffee
The Wormhole Coffee in Wicker Park isn’t just a coffee shop—it’s an experience. Packed with retro décor like a DeLorean car and vintage movie posters, this café is a haven for caffeine lovers and pop culture fans. Wormhole Coffee is also committed to quality coffee, sourcing beans from respected roasters.
They occasionally organize casual coffee-tasting events where customers can sample new blends and learn more about coffee. Whether you’re new to coffee tastings or a seasoned pro, The Wormhole creates a laid-back environment that’s fun and approachable. Plus, the atmosphere alone makes this café worth visiting.
6. Heritage Coffee
Heritage Coffee brings together two passions—coffee and bicycles. This unique café combines a bike shop with a coffee bar, making it a favorite hangout spot in the Lakeview neighborhood. With a focus on local partnerships, they serve amazing coffee and often host small community events, including coffee tastings.
Their coffee-tasting sessions give you the opportunity to learn about brewing methods, beans, and flavor profiles, all while relaxing in their bike-friendly space. Heritage Coffee is proof that great coffee can bring people together, whether you’re an avid cyclist or just stopping by for a cup.
The Joy of Exploring Coffee in Chicago
Chicago’s coffee shops are so much more than places to grab a latte—they’re hubs for creativity, learning, and community. Attending a coffee-tasting event is a great opportunity to sharpen your palate, meet new people, and deepen your appreciation for coffee.
Next time you’re in the mood to sip and learn, head to one of these Chicago coffee shops. Whether it’s the bold flavors at Dark Matter, the curated tastings at Intelligentsia, or the retro vibes at The Wormhole, there’s an unforgettable coffee experience waiting for you. So grab a friend or go solo, and let these coffee shops show you the magic behind every single cup!
