Exploring the Best Coffee Shops in Chicago for Cold Brew Fans
If you’re a coffee lover, you probably know that cold brew is one of the most refreshing, smooth, and flavorful ways to enjoy coffee. Unlike your regular iced coffee, cold brew is brewed over a long time—usually 12 to 24 hours. This process creates a less acidic and naturally sweet drink that’s perfect for sipping all day. Whether you’re new to cold brew or an experienced enthusiast, Chicago is a fantastic city to explore cold brew options. Here’s a list of the best coffee shops in Chicago for cold brew fans, written in simple English for anyone to enjoy.
1. Dark Matter Coffee
Dark Matter Coffee is one of Chicago’s most famous coffee shops, and for good reason. They focus on bold and unique coffees, including their incredible cold brews. Known for experimenting with flavors, their cold brews often feature nutty, fruity, or chocolatey notes. One of their standout options is their Nitro Cold Brew, which is rich, smooth, and topped with a creamy foam like draft beer.
Dark Matter has several locations around the city, so you’re never too far from great coffee. Each café has its own unique vibe, making every visit an adventure. If you’re a fan of strong coffee with a creative edge, this place is a must-visit.
2. La Colombe Coffee Roasters
La Colombe Coffee Roasters is another big name in the coffee world. The shop offers a variety of cold brews, and their Draft Latte is especially popular. It’s a mix of cold brew coffee and milk, served chilled and topped with frothy, microfoam goodness.
Located in the West Loop, La Colombe’s modern and relaxed café is perfect for grabbing coffee and chatting with friends. If you prefer your cold brew smooth and creamy, this spot will win you over.
3. Café Streets
Café Streets is one of Chicago’s hidden gems. This cozy shop is located in the Wicker Park neighborhood and features a trendy, laid-back vibe. The shop serves high-quality coffee, including a delicious cold brew that’s carefully brewed to perfection.
What sets Café Streets apart is its atmosphere. It’s not just a place to grab coffee—it’s a space that encourages conversation and relaxation. If you’re looking for an Instagram-worthy café with a top-notch cold brew, this shop delivers both style and substance.
4. Heritage Bicycles
Heritage Bicycles is a unique coffee shop that doubles as a bicycle boutique. Located in Lakeview, this spot is perfect if you want a one-of-a-kind experience while getting your caffeine fix. Their cold brew is smooth and refreshing, ideal for sipping during Chicago’s warmer days.
The shop is charming, with vintage decor and a friendly vibe. You can hang out at the coffee bar or explore their bicycles for sale. Heritage Bicycles is more than just a coffee shop—it’s a community hub where cold brew fans can feel right at home.
5. Intelligentsia Coffee
Intelligentsia Coffee is a Chicago classic. This shop specializes in high-quality coffee from around the world, and their cold brew is no exception. Their attention to detail and brewing techniques result in a consistently delicious cold brew. It’s smooth, balanced, and packed with flavor.
With multiple locations across the city, Intelligentsia is always convenient. The shops are minimalist yet welcoming, making them great for grabbing coffee or working remotely. For anyone seeking cold brew crafted with care, Intelligentsia is a must-try.
6. Sawada Coffee
If you’re craving cold brew with a twist, Sawada Coffee in the West Loop is a great option. This Japanese-inspired coffee shop is known for its creative drinks, including their Military Cold Brew—a mix of cold brew coffee with matcha and chocolate.
Sawada features a cool and edgy atmosphere, complete with vintage arcade games and a pingpong table. Whether you’re looking for a classic cold brew or a fun fusion drink, Sawada guarantees an unforgettable experience.
7. Sip Coffee House
Nestled in West Town, Sip Coffee House is a welcoming, family-owned café with delicious cold brew options. Their cold brew has a smooth and bold flavor, and you can customize it with syrups or milk if you like your coffee a little sweeter.
The shop’s inviting atmosphere, with comfy seating and local artwork, makes it a great place to hang out. Whether you’re catching up with friends or enjoying a quiet moment, Sip Coffee House is a fantastic spot for cold brew fans.
8. Star Lounge Coffee Bar
Another gem in Dark Matter Coffee’s lineup, Star Lounge Coffee Bar is an incredible spot for cold brew lovers. Located in Humboldt Park, this café has a relaxed vibe and top-notch cold brew options. Their iced coffee is brewed with care and delivers the signature bold flavors that Dark Matter is known for.
Star Lounge also boasts a lovely outdoor patio, making it a prime spot to enjoy your cold brew on sunny Chicago days. With its chill atmosphere and excellent coffee, it’s the perfect neighborhood café.
Chicago is full of amazing coffee shops for cold brew fans, each with its own unique style and personality. Whether you’re exploring iconic names like Dark Matter and Intelligentsia or finding hidden gems like Sip Coffee House, there’s no shortage of great cold brew options to discover. So, grab a friend, pick a spot from this list, and enjoy one of the smoothest cups of coffee you’ll ever have!
