Best Coffee Shops in Chicago for Specialty Teas
Chicago is famous for its skyline, pizza, and energetic vibe, but it also has a growing community of cafes and tea shops that delight both coffee lovers and tea fans. While coffee is often in the spotlight, specialty teas are becoming increasingly popular in this city. Whether you want to catch up with a friend, work remotely, or enjoy a quiet afternoon, Chicago has many places that will satisfy your tea cravings. Here’s a list of the best coffee shops in Chicago where specialty teas shine.
1. Intelligentsia Coffee
While Intelligentsia is known as a coffee hotspot, don’t overlook its tea menu. This iconic local chain offers premium loose-leaf teas, carefully brewed to perfection. Their selection includes green tea, black tea, herbal blends, and even seasonal specialties. The baristas take tea preparation seriously, ensuring every cup is flavorful and fresh. The inviting atmosphere and chic design make Intelligentsia a great place to relax and sip your favorite warm beverage.
Locations to check out: Logan Square, Millennium Park, and Lakeview.
2. The Wormhole Coffee
The Wormhole Coffee stands out for its retro vibe, complete with ’80s décor and a DeLorean car inside the cafe. While the quirky theme is fun, their drinks make the spot worth visiting. They serve high-quality teas that cater to all taste preferences. Whether you want a rich chai latte, a soothing jasmine green tea, or an iced herbal blend, The Wormhole won’t disappoint. The friendly staff is always happy to help you choose the perfect tea to match your mood.
Located at: 1462 N. Milwaukee Ave, Wicker Park.
3. Sip of Hope
Sip of Hope is more than just a coffee shop—it supports mental health awareness by donating 100% of its proceeds to suicide prevention programs. This mission-driven cafe also offers a wonderful tea menu. Their specialty teas include calming herbal options, bold black teas, and fragrant green selections. With its relaxing atmosphere and socially-conscious mission, sipping tea here feels especially meaningful.
Located at: 3039 W. Fullerton Ave, Logan Square.
4. TeaGschwendner
If you’re serious about tea, TeaGschwendner is a must-visit. Originally from Germany, this shop specializes in gourmet teas from around the world. They offer everything from loose-leaf Darjeeling and oolong to flavored blends like fruity hibiscus and citrus mint. You can buy loose-leaf tea to brew at home, or enjoy a freshly prepared cup in their cozy cafe. The staff is knowledgeable and eager to recommend teas based on your taste preferences.
Located at: 1160 N. State St, Near North Side.
5. Asado Coffee
Asado Coffee is sleek, simple, and focused on quality. While small-batch, hand-roasted coffee is their specialty, they also serve impressive teas. Their menu includes unique offerings like honey-sweetened iced tea and floral-based blends. The minimalist vibe of Asado makes it ideal for unwinding or working. It feels more like a hidden gem compared to Chicago’s bigger-name cafes, so it’s worth discovering.
Locations to check out: 1432 W. Irving Park Rd, Irving Park.
6. Warehouse Tea Company
For tea lovers looking for artisanal blends, Warehouse Tea Company is a fantastic choice. They’re deeply focused on tea culture, offering high-quality organic teas sourced from around the world. Popular options include creamy matcha lattes, smoky Earl Grey, and refreshing white tea blends. Their approachable prices and small-batch production will definitely make you a repeat customer. This spot shines for its welcoming ambiance and perfectly curated tea choices.
Located at: 1236 W. Belmont Ave, Lakeview.
7. Next Door Cafe
Next Door Cafe is not only a cozy place for sipping drinks but also a spot for networking, studying, and creative collaboration. Their selection of specialty teas is diverse, ranging from spiced chai to floral blends like lavender-infused herbal tea. Many locals praise their London Fog, a creamy Earl Grey latte that’s comfort in a cup. The modern and relaxed space makes it easy to settle in and enjoy your tea for hours.
Located at: 659 W. Diversey Pkwy, Lincoln Park.
8. Hometown Coffee & Juice
If you love variety, Hometown Coffee & Juice is a perfect fit. This family-owned cafe offers freshly brewed teas alongside smoothies, coffee, and delicious pastries. The tea selection includes classics like green tea and chamomile, along with creative combinations like ginger-peach iced tea. The sunny atmosphere and friendly customer service make this cafe a neighborhood favorite.
Located at: 1300 W. Lake St, Fulton Market.
9. Four Letter Word Coffee
Don’t be fooled by the name—this small-batch roaster takes tea just as seriously as coffee. Four Letter Word Coffee has curated a delightful tea menu featuring rare blends and simple but elegant options. Their minimalist aesthetic and small, intimate space make it a quiet escape from the bustle of city life. Pair your tea with one of their freshly baked treats for the ultimate comforting combo.
Located at: 3022 W. Diversey Ave, Logan Square.
Final Thoughts
Chicago’s coffee shops don’t just cater to coffee drinkers—they’re also welcoming spaces for tea lovers. From herbal and floral blends to bold black teas and creamy lattes, there’s no shortage of variety in this city. Whether you’re exploring Wicker Park, Logan Square, or Lakeview, you’ll find a cafe that serves specialty tea with care and creativity. So, the next time you’re in Chicago, skip the usual brew and treat yourself to an exceptional cup of tea at one of these fantastic spots!
