Best Coffee Shops in Chicago with Vegan-Friendly Offerings
Chicago is a city known for its incredible food scene, beautiful architecture, and vibrant neighborhoods. Among its many gems are coffee shops that provide a welcoming space for locals and visitors alike to sip great coffee and enjoy tasty treats. For those who follow a vegan lifestyle, Chicago has plenty of options to make your coffee break both delicious and cruelty-free. In this blog post, we’ll explore some of the best vegan-friendly coffee shops across the city.
1. The Coffee & Tea Exchange
Located in the lively Lakeview neighborhood, The Coffee & Tea Exchange is a cozy shop known for its wide selection of coffee beans, teas, and spices. They offer non-dairy milk options like oat, almond, and soy, making it easy to craft the perfect vegan latte or cappuccino.
Their baked goods typically include vegan-friendly items like banana bread or chocolate muffins. The shop has an earthy, relaxed vibe, which makes it perfect for a quiet morning or a midday coffee run while exploring the neighborhood.
2. Brewpoint Craft
Brewpoint Craft is not just a coffee shop; it’s a community-driven space with incredible coffee, good vibes, and plenty of vegan options. Located in Elmhurst (a short train ride from downtown Chicago), this trendy spot has been praised for its creative menu and inclusive approach. They serve some vegan-friendly beverages, like the Matcha Latte with oat milk and specialty drinks made with plant-based syrups.
For snacks, their vegan cookies are to die for, and they occasionally feature vegan pastries on their rotating menu. Whether you’re working remotely or catching up with friends, Brewpoint is worth the visit.
3. Sawada Coffee
Sawada Coffee in the West Loop is a hotspot for coffee lovers who enjoy unique drinks in a trendy atmosphere. Owned by Japanese latte artist Hiroshi Sawada, the shop features creative drinks like the “Military Latte,” which combines Matcha, espresso, and cocoa powder. They’re happy to swap out dairy milk for almond or oat milk for vegan customers.
Sawada also offers simple snack options, with a focus more on beverages than food. It’s a great choice if you’re looking for a vegan-friendly coffee to-go while exploring the bustling West Loop neighborhood.
4. The Moonlighter Café (Part of Sip of Hope)
Sip of Hope, located in the Logan Square neighborhood, is a one-of-a-kind coffee shop with a heartfelt mission. It’s the world’s first coffee shop where 100% of its profits go toward mental health education and suicide prevention. On top of their social impact, Sip of Hope is great for vegans—offering non-dairy milk for coffee beverages and baked goods that cater to plant-based diets.
Their vegan-friendly muffins and cookies pair perfectly with their ethically sourced coffee. Sip of Hope offers a refreshing, community-focused atmosphere where you can enjoy your coffee while making a difference.
5. Beatrix Market
Beatrix Market is a coffee shop, café, and grab-and-go spot with multiple locations across Chicago, including in the River North and Streeterville neighborhoods. While Beatrix Market serves all kinds of food options, their espresso bar and vegan-friendly snacks stand out as favorites.
They offer non-dairy milk for lattes, matcha drinks, and cold brews, often featuring seasonal combinations like pumpkin spice with oat milk or lavender lattes. While their baked goods may not have the widest selection of vegan options, they do feature vegan bowls, granola, and protein bites that complement your coffee perfectly.
6. Colectivo Coffee
Colectivo Coffee, located in several Chicago neighborhoods like Lincoln Park, is known for its inviting atmosphere and commitment to sustainability. Their coffee menu lets you swap out cow’s milk for almond, oat, or soy milk so vegan customers can enjoy any drink guilt-free.
Their food menu often features vegan chili, sandwiches, and baked goods alongside their outstanding coffee selection. Colectivo has a laid-back vibe with plenty of seating, perfect for studying or catching up with friends.
7. The Coffee Studio
Located in the Edgewater neighborhood, The Coffee Studio is a modern, upscale café with a focus on serving high-quality drinks in a friendly environment. They offer plant-based milk options for vegan coffee drinkers, including oat, almond, and soy.
While their food menu is limited, they often have vegan-friendly protein bars and snacks for a quick bite. The Coffee Studio is a great place to enjoy a relaxing cup of coffee away from the hustle and bustle of downtown Chicago.
8. Oromo Cafe
Oromo Cafe, with locations in Lincoln Square and Bucktown, is a standout coffee shop that blends creativity with health-conscious offerings. Their drinks include unique creations like turmeric lattes and rose-cardamom cold brews, all of which can be made vegan with non-dairy milk.
Oromo also features locally made vegan pastries, protein bites, and other snacks that pair perfectly with their beautifully crafted drinks. The café’s bright and artistic décor creates a peaceful atmosphere that will leave you inspired.
Final Thoughts
Chicago is a haven for coffee lovers—whether vegan or not—with each shop bringing something unique to the table. From cozy neighborhood spots to trendy downtown cafes, these coffee shops offer plant-based options that don’t sacrifice flavor or creativity. Next time you’re in Chicago, make sure to treat yourself to delicious coffee and snacks at one of these vegan-friendly places.
So, grab your reusable cup and head out to explore the coffee scene in this incredible city!
