Best Coffee Shops in Chicago for Nitro Cold Brew Aficionados
Are you a nitro cold brew lover looking for the best coffee spots in Chicago? Whether you live in the Windy City or are just visiting, Chicago is home to plenty of coffee shops that specialize in this creamy, smooth drink. Nitro cold brew is growing in popularity, and for good reason—it’s cold, velvety, and packed with flavor without the bitterness you’d get with some brewed coffee. Plus, it’s infused with nitrogen, which creates tiny bubbles that give the drink its signature creamy texture.
In this blog post, we’ll explore some of the best coffee shops in Chicago where nitro cold brew lovers can find their perfect cup. Get ready to sip your way across the city!
1. Intelligentsia Coffee
Intelligentsia Coffee is one of Chicago’s most famous coffee brands, known for its commitment to quality and innovation. With a few locations around the city, it’s easy to find your way here if you’re hunting for specialty coffee. Their nitro cold brew is smooth, refreshing, and made from carefully sourced beans.
Intelligentsia pays extra attention to the brewing process, ensuring that each glass of nitro cold brew is top-notch. They serve their drinks in beautifully designed spaces, making every visit feel special. Whether you grab a coffee at their Logan Square cafe or visit their Millennium Park location, Intelligentsia is worth a stop.
2. Sawada Coffee
If you’re into coffee made with a creative twist, Sawada Coffee in the West Loop is the place to be. Owned by world-renowned barista and latte artist Hiroshi Sawada, this coffee shop has gained a loyal following for its bold and inventive drinks.
Sawada Coffee’s nitro cold brew is a fan favorite. It’s rich, creamy, and perfectly chilled for a refreshing experience. Pair your drink with their delicious Japanese-inspired menu items—like matcha lattes or their famous Military Latte (made with espresso, matcha, and cocoa)—and enjoy the coffee shop’s cozy, industrial vibe. Nitro cold brew enthusiasts will love the attention to detail here.
3. Dark Matter Coffee
Dark Matter Coffee is well-known in Chicago for its bold, experimental approach to coffee. If you’re looking for a nitro cold brew that packs intense flavor with no compromise on quality, this is the spot for you. Their coffee is locally roasted, and their nitro cold brew is smooth, slightly sweet, and always fresh.
Dark Matter has multiple locations throughout Chicago, and each one offers a laid-back, funky atmosphere. Visit their flagship store, The Mothership, in Ukrainian Village, or try one of their neighborhood cafes to enjoy nitro cold brew alongside their creative blends. Dark Matter Coffee takes pride in supporting sustainability, so your cup of coffee is both delicious and environmentally friendly.
4. La Colombe
La Colombe specializes in offering a variety of cold drinks, but their nitro cold brew is a standout. With a national presence, La Colombe delivers consistent quality, and its Chicago locations are no different. Their nitro cold brew is silky-smooth, with a slight natural sweetness that makes every sip irresistible.
La Colombe creates a welcoming environment for coffee lovers to gather, relax, and enjoy a meticulously crafted drink. You’ll find locations in Logan Square and other Chicago neighborhoods, making it a convenient choice for nitro fans. If you’re hungry, their cafes also serve sandwiches, pastries, and other light bites to complement your coffee experience.
5. Coffee Joint
Located in the Near West Side, Coffee Joint is a hidden gem that coffee enthusiasts adore. This small, independent coffee shop is known for its friendly staff and handcrafted drinks. Their nitro cold brew is velvety and satisfying, and they offer a variety of homemade syrups if you like to customize your coffee.
Coffee Joint prides itself on fostering a community vibe, so it’s not just a coffee shop—it’s a place to unwind or get work done. It’s quieter than some of the bigger chains, making it an excellent choice if you want to enjoy your nitro cold brew in peace.
6. Star Coffee
For those who enjoy exploring local spots, Star Coffee in Lincoln Square is an independent coffee shop that serves a delightful nitro cold brew. They focus on fresh, organic ingredients to bring out the best flavors in their coffee—and their nitro cold brew is no exception.
With a cozy ambiance and friendly service, Star Coffee feels like a neighborhood hangout where you can enjoy your favorite drink without the usual hustle and bustle. If you’re in the area, this is a great place to try something new and support a local business.
7. Sip of Hope
Sip of Hope is not just a coffee shop—it’s also a mental health-focused space, making it one of the most unique spots in Chicago. In partnership with mental health organizations, 100% of profits from their sales go toward raising awareness about mental health. Their nitro cold brew is a standout drink on their menu, perfect for coffee lovers seeking flavor and purpose.
Located in Logan Square, Sip of Hope offers a warm atmosphere where you can enjoy your drink while supporting a great cause. It’s a must-visit if you’re looking to sip your nitro cold brew while contributing to something meaningful.
Final Thoughts
Chicago offers an amazing coffee scene for nitro cold brew fans. From big names like Intelligentsia to cozy neighborhood gems like Coffee Joint, there’s something for everyone. Whether you’re drawn to silky texture, bold flavors, or a great cafe experience, you won’t be disappointed with what the city has to offer. So, next time you’re out and about in Chicago, indulge in a nitro cold brew and discover your new favorite coffee spot!
