Top 22 Coffee Shops In The Greater Chicagoland Area

I went exploring all over Illinois for some fun coffee shops. Each had it’s own vibe and ambiance that I could not walk away from. Finding a new coffee shop is always a good time, whether you’re with friends or just wanting your me-time. So I thought I’d share some that I’ve been to while living in the greater Chicagoland area.

1. Peet’s Coffee in Downer’s Grove

This has to be one of my favorite shops because it’s similar to a drive-thru but more so just walking through. The outdoor seating was everything I needed, especially because I was able to just sit, talk, and look around at people walking and hear the birds chirping. What a beautiful day!

2. Dollop Coffee Co in Chicago

I had been wanting to come here for so long! Even though it was a quick pit stop, it was very Pinterest-worthy. The coffee was very much needed and delicious!

3. Cafe Umbria in Chicago

This coffee shop was recommended by my supervisor and it did not disappoint! I had taken the train (pre-covid) by myself for the first time to Chicago from the suburbs, and the workers were so welcoming! I loved that it is connected to a hotel, so there are tables in the shop and adjacent to it. I had an interview right after, so the environment was easy to just take notes and look around.

4. Sweetwaters in Naperville

This coffee and tea shop opened in March of 2021 and it does not disappoint. I went with a few friends to study and just chat. I loved the environment as a whole, mostly because of the natural light shining through the front door. I love a good open area to sit by. I also finally tried the matcha flavored coffee and it was actually pretty tasty!

5. Sparrow Coffee in Naperville

The vibe was so cute. I want to go study there all the time, but then I’d definitely go broke because the coffee was too good to be true. It was a very sustainable, plant mom scenerio. There were cute plants around the desk areas and enough plugs in the tables to sit wherever. I LOVED everything about it— AND it’s a walk from campus!

6. Endiro Coffee in Aurora

Visited this coffee shop for the Sticky Bun Iced Latte and avocado toast. The bacon was AMAZING! It’s my newfound obsession if you can’t already tell. The coffee shop was by the river in Downtown Aurora, so the sites were worth it too! The shop itself was very vibrant, which I absolutely loved.

7. Tredwell Coffee in Aurora

If you want another coffee shop by the river in Downtown, Aurora, this is it! They have an indoor and outdoor area to sit and sip. I had the white mocha iced coffee and it definitely satisfied my tummy!

8. Caffe Di Moda in Lisle

This vibe reminded me of the coffee shops back home. It was a very classy, but trendy shop. They had cute plants in the window sill and the shadows just hit the foodie in the right spots. I had the new iced oreo latte and a ham and cheese croissant. It definitely filled me up!

9. Phil’s Coffee in Chicago

One of the cutest shops in Chicago! I went with the girls after yoga and it was definitely a much needed time. We tried the mojito coffee… MUST TRY!

10. Grounds Coffee Bar in Crystal Lake

It was more of a spontaneous spot. My boyfriend and I happened to come across the local coffee shop and it was very sustainable friendly.

11. Cupitol Coffee in Evanston

Around the corner of my job is this cute coffee shop. I love the fact that there’s local businesses owners around this area to truly explore and make your dining reservations the best yet. We have absolutely taken advantage of the fact that it’s right nearby too.

12. Coffeessions in Wheeling

Snuck in some time in between my day to work a little at a coffee shop. It was a snowy day, so it was nice to have a warm meal and coffee. It reminded me of either a hustle and bustle kind of restaurant or just a grab and go for your dish. The avocado toast was a little odd. It was literally toast with avocado and minimal toppings.

13. The Original Long Grove Coffee Co in Long Grove

In this area, they have a cute town with different local businesses. One of them is the coffee shop! I came with a friend to just chat about all things planning and sat by the sun, hoping for some heat.

14. Pepper Park Coffee in Barrington

Went to grab breakfast after the gym and I was so excited to come here. I love the breakfast options and the cold brew to top it all off!

15. Pâtisserie Coralie in Evanston

THE BEST COFFEE EVER! Maybe it was the oat milk, but it wasn’t too sweet and it wasn’t too bitter. I absolutely loved my iced caramel cold brew from here. As a French bakery, the macarons really made the cut too!

16. Newport Coffee House in Evanston

Walked to grab coffee around the corner from my building. The place was truly aesthetically pleasing and had lots of seating, I wish I could have stayed longer, but I had to get back to work! There was even a little shop prior to heading to the baristas, who were ready to make some delicious coffee. I also got a Nutella filled chocolate chip cookie…SO YUM!

17. Colectivo Coffee in Evanston

I walked to this place from work and it probably took a few minutes to arrive. It was the perfect afternoon to grab a good cup of joe because besides needing a change of scenery for a little, it was such a beautiful day out. It also hit the spot because I needed to wake up. The extra shots of espresso made all the difference.

18. New Wave Coffee in Chicago

The fact that they have a house-made flavor is all I need to know. You have to try their vanilla!!! I added it to my iced coffee and it was impeccable. The flavor was so smooth and great. They also have lots of sitting space in case you needed to work or study. And side note: they sell local art to support artists in the area.

19. La Boulangerie & Co Logan in Chicago

This spot has an indoor and an outdoor space, both very pinterest-y. There’s lots that makes the shop different; bakery-like when you enter, but also reminds you of the European culture once you’re inside. I’ll be back! Especially for the macarons!!!

20. Bagel Art Cafe in Evanston

I went to pick up bagels for an event and left with a great homemade cold brew. It was honestly amazing to say the least. I love when the baristas get creative with their choice of coffee making, so it’s always a pleasure trying new recipes, in a sense. I will definitely be back!

21. Buttermilk cafe in Vernon Hills

A complete staple in Illinois and SO good. I love a good breakfast spot, especially if the aesthetic gives me Pinterest vibes. The staff was short-staffed but honestly made it work. I love the seasonal coffee beverages and the honey biscuit!!!!! MUST HAVE! 

22. Pancake Cafe in Lincolnshire, Illinois

Stopped by a fun cafe to actually eat breakfast because Tyler was a bit parched. It felt very cozy and like if we were on vacation exploring new spots. The service was good too! I think I also just really liked the ambiance.

I have to say, coffee shops just hit the spot every time! The vibe can be different in all senses, but they all serve as a very homey purpose. I loved exploring and studying in coffee shops throughout Illinois. It truly brings the community together every time!