Best Coffee Shops in Chicago for Handcrafted Coffee
Chicago is famous for its deep-dish pizza, lively neighborhoods, and beautiful skyline—but let’s not overlook its incredible coffee scene. Chicago is home to some amazing coffee shops where handcrafted coffee takes center stage. Whether you’re visiting the Windy City or you’re lucky enough to call it home, these coffee shops are worth checking out. Let’s explore some of the best places where you can find quality coffee prepared with care.
1. Intelligentsia Coffee
Intelligentsia is a Chicago staple when it comes to handcrafted coffee. With multiple locations around the city, their expertly brewed coffee has earned them a loyal following. As one of the pioneers of the “third wave coffee” movement, Intelligentsia focuses on sourcing high-quality beans directly from farmers and roasting them to perfection. Their baristas treat coffee-making as an art. Whether you love a rich latte or enjoy experimenting with unique pour-over techniques, Intelligentsia delivers on all fronts.
Must-Try: Ask for a seasonal single-origin pour-over. The staff is happy to explain the origins and flavor profiles of the beans, making your coffee experience both delicious and educational.
2. Colectivo Coffee
Originally from Milwaukee, Colectivo Coffee has found a warm welcome in Chicago with its Lakeview location. Colectivo’s coffee is roasted fresh at their roastery, ensuring bold flavors and high quality. The shop has a fun, colorful vibe that’s perfect for meeting friends or catching up on work. Their coffee menu is packed with handcrafted drinks, but they also add creative twists to classic espresso-based beverages.
Must-Try: A honey latte—it’s sweet, creamy, and pairs perfectly with one of their freshly baked pastries.
3. Sawada Coffee
For a unique coffee experience, Sawada Coffee in the West Loop is a must-visit. Founded by renowned Japanese barista Hiroshi Sawada, this shop combines artistry and coffee excellence. Sawada’s industrial-chic space includes arcade games and a ping pong table, making it one of the most laid-back spots for enjoying coffee. Their drinks are handcrafted with precision and often include Japanese-inspired elements.
Must-Try: The Military Latte—a delicious combination of espresso, green tea matcha, vanilla, and cocoa powder. It’s unlike anything you’ve tried before and perfect for adventurous coffee lovers.
4. Metropolis Coffee Company
Metropolis Coffee is all about community and quality. Their flagship café in the Edgewater neighborhood is cozy, welcoming, and a favorite among locals. Metropolis roasts their own beans and takes pride in creating handcrafted drinks with care. Their coffee is smooth, flavorful, and thoughtfully prepared. It’s the kind of place where you can relax and enjoy a quiet moment.
Must-Try: Their Cortado—a simple yet perfectly balanced drink made with equal parts espresso and milk.
5. Dark Matter Coffee
Dark Matter Coffee may be known for its quirky branding, but their coffee is as serious as it gets. Their approach to coffee focuses on sourcing beans through fair trade and cooperative partnerships. Each cup is made with tremendous attention to detail, ensuring bold and unforgettable flavors. With several eclectic locations across Chicago, Dark Matter is the perfect spot for those who love a little edge with their coffee.
Must-Try: Try Unicorn Blood, their signature espresso blend. It’s rich, smooth, and pairs beautifully with any of their exclusive cold brew drinks.
6. Heritage Coffee
Heritage Coffee in Uptown is a fusion of great coffee and bike culture. The shop doubles as a bike store, creating a unique and friendly atmosphere. Their handcrafted coffee drinks are made with Stumptown beans, which are known for their exceptional quality. You can sit back with your perfectly brewed drink while planning your next bike ride around the city.
Must-Try: A flat white—the high-quality milk and espresso combination here is unbeatable.
7. La Colombe
La Colombe is a nationally known coffee brand, but their Chicago locations feel personal and cozy. They are known for their innovative coffee creations, including their famous canned draft lattes. If you prefer your coffee fresh, their cafes serve carefully brewed espresso and pour-over drinks made to order.
Must-Try: The Draft Latte—a creamy, soft-textured cold coffee drink that tastes indulgent but isn’t overly sweet.
8. Café Jumping Bean
Located in the heart of Pilsen, Café Jumping Bean is a local favorite that blends coffee, art, and community. This cozy shop is full of personality and charm, and the baristas are known for making flavorful handcrafted drinks. The shop often showcases local artwork, giving it a creative and welcoming vibe.
Must-Try: Their Mocha—it’s rich and chocolatey, perfect for a chilly Chicago day.
Final Thoughts
Chicago’s handcrafted coffee scene is filled with flavor, creativity, and passion. Whether you love experimenting with bold flavors or prefer a simple espresso done right, there’s a coffee shop waiting for you. These shops don’t just serve coffee—they offer an experience, from the quality of the beans to the artistry of the brew. Next time you’re in Chicago, treat yourself to a coffee adventure and discover what makes these spots so special.
