The 16 Best Coffee Shops for Working in Chicago

Exploring coffee shops as a workspace in Chicago can be a game-changer for many professionals seeking a change of environment or a quiet spot to get work done. With an abundance of cozy cafes scattered throughout the city, finding the perfect spot to hunker down with a laptop and a latte can be a daunting task.
From fast Wi-Fi to ample outlets, and of course, top-notch coffee, there are many factors to consider when choosing the ideal spot. Take a look at the following key points to help you make an informed decision:
- Type of coffee offered
- Availability of power outlets
- Wi-Fi speed
- Noise level
- Seating options
- Food menu
- Hours of operation
- Distance from public transportation
Armed with this knowledge, you can now explore The 16 Best Coffee Shops for Working in Chicago.
- 1. Sawada Coffee
- 2. Dark Matter Coffee - The Mothership
- 3. Sputnik Coffee Company
- 4. Dark Matter Coffee - Star Lounge Coffee Bar
- 5. Dark Matter Coffee - Osmium Coffee Bar
- 6. Caffe Umbria
- 7. Colectivo Lincoln Park
- 8. Metropolis Coffee Company
- 9. La Colombe Coffee Roasters
- 10. Kapéj Coffee Roasters
- 11. Ground Up Coffee & Bites
- 12. Intelligentsia Coffee Millennium Park Coffeebar
- 13. Bridgeport Coffeehouse
- 14. Blue Bottle Coffee
- 15. Intelligentsia Coffee Monadnock Coffeebar
- 16. Groundswell

- Monday: 8 AM–4 PM
- Tuesday: 8 AM–4 PM
- Wednesday: 8 AM–4 PM
- Thursday: 8 AM–4 PM
- Friday: 8 AM–4 PM
- Saturday: 8 AM–4 PM
- Sunday: 8 AM–4 PM
1. Sawada Coffee
Information and Reviews
Here are some key points from customer reviews:
- Tried the camo and the military latte, prefer the Military one more. The space is amazing, great place to hang out with friends.
- Enjoyed the ambiance, delicious coffee, and smoked meat shop inside. Ideal location to work remotely and meet friends.
- Found the Black Camo Latte and Military Latte iced to be underwhelming, but may need a revisit to make a fair judgment.
- Espresso was darker roast perfection, cool vibe, purchased X Project beans for home and highly recommends it.

- Monday: 6 AM–6 PM
- Tuesday: 6 AM–6 PM
- Wednesday: 6 AM–6 PM
- Thursday: 6 AM–6 PM
- Friday: 6 AM–6 PM
- Saturday: 6 AM–6 PM
- Sunday: 6 AM–6 PM
2. Dark Matter Coffee - The Mothership
Information and Reviews
- Great coffee and cool interior
- Strong, well-balanced espresso drinks
- Unique coffee blends and barrel-aged mocha
- Knowledgeable and friendly staff

- Monday: 6 AM–1 PM
- Tuesday: 6 AM–1 PM
- Wednesday: 6 AM–1 PM
- Thursday: 6 AM–1 PM
- Friday: 6 AM–1 PM
- Saturday: 7 AM–4 PM
- Sunday: Closed
3. Sputnik Coffee Company
Information and Reviews
- Customers rave about the bold and flavorful coffee, roasted in-house for the perfect brew.
- The cozy atmosphere and urban hipster look make it a unique spot, despite its gritty location.
- Excellent customer service and a selection of pastries round out the experience, making it a must-visit in the area.
Whether you're looking to grab a quick cup to-go, enjoy a relaxed breakfast, or find a cozy spot to work on your laptop, Sputnik Coffee Company has you covered. Visit their website to learn more about their offerings and amenities.

- Monday: 6 AM–9 PM
- Tuesday: 6 AM–9 PM
- Wednesday: 6 AM–9 PM
- Thursday: 6 AM–9 PM
- Friday: 6 AM–9 PM
- Saturday: 6 AM–9 PM
- Sunday: 6 AM–9 PM
4. Dark Matter Coffee - Star Lounge Coffee Bar
Information and Reviews
Customer reviews praise this establishment for its exceptional coffee quality and welcoming ambiance. Here are some key points from the feedback:
- Some of the best coffee in the city, along with delicious pastries and breakfast tacos.
- Relaxed atmosphere and highly recommended for coffee enthusiasts.
- Epitomic coffee spot with adventurous lattes that exceed expectations.
With a rating of 4.7 and a total of 961 reviews, Dark Matter Coffee - Star Lounge Coffee Bar continues to impress its customers and attract new ones with its exceptional offerings and warm atmosphere.

- Monday: 6 AM–9 PM
- Tuesday: 6 AM–9 PM
- Wednesday: 6 AM–9 PM
- Thursday: 6 AM–9 PM
- Friday: 6 AM–9 PM
- Saturday: 6 AM–9 PM
- Sunday: 6 AM–9 PM
5. Dark Matter Coffee - Osmium Coffee Bar
Information and Reviews
Customer reviews highlight several key points about Dark Matter Coffee - Osmium Coffee Bar:
- Top tier drinks and beans
- Welcoming outdoor patio and well-laid-out interior
- Perfect for working or enjoying a flavorful coffee
- Vibrant atmosphere and friendly staff
These reviews showcase the positive experiences of patrons who have visited the coffee shop, praising the quality of the drinks, the inviting ambiance, and the overall experience at Dark Matter Coffee - Osmium Coffee Bar.

- Monday: 8 AM–4 PM
- Tuesday: 7 AM–5 PM
- Wednesday: 7 AM–5 PM
- Thursday: 7 AM–5 PM
- Friday: 7 AM–5 PM
- Saturday: 8 AM–4 PM
- Sunday: 8 AM–4 PM
6. Caffe Umbria
Information and Reviews
The atmosphere at Caffe Umbria is described as Casual, Cosy, and Trendy, attracting a crowd of Tourists. Customers can easily access the shop with Wheelchair-accessible entrance, and the shop accepts payment methods such as Credit cards, Debit cards, and NFC mobile payments.
With a high rating of 4.7 and 848 reviews, customers have positively reviewed Caffe Umbria for its great atmosphere, delicious coffee, and friendly staff. Three key points from customer reviews include:
- Delicious and high-quality coffee
- Cozy and inviting atmosphere
- Excellent customer service

- Monday: 6:30 AM–7 PM
- Tuesday: 6:30 AM–7 PM
- Wednesday: 6:30 AM–7 PM
- Thursday: 6:30 AM–7 PM
- Friday: 6:30 AM–7 PM
- Saturday: 6:30 AM–7 PM
- Sunday: 6:30 AM–7 PM
7. Colectivo Lincoln Park
Information and Reviews
The cafe is known for its fast service and welcoming atmosphere, making it a favorite spot for many. Customers praise the great selection of coffee and desserts, along with the fireplace that adds to the charm of the place.
Here are some key points from customer reviews:
- Loved the cold brew oatchata and the nice outdoor seating with a view of Lincoln Park
- Impressed with the diverse selection of roasted beans and the tasty honey oat latte
- Highly recommend the seasonal beverages and breakfast items, along with the big cup of coffee
- Good prices, friendly staff, great atmosphere, and lots of outdoor seating
For a delightful coffee experience in a welcoming setting, Colectivo Lincoln Park is a top choice in the area!

- Monday: 6:30 AM–2 PM
- Tuesday: 6:30 AM–5:30 PM
- Wednesday: 6:30 AM–5:30 PM
- Thursday: 6:30 AM–5:30 PM
- Friday: 6:30 AM–5:30 PM
- Saturday: 6:30 AM–5:30 PM
- Sunday: 6:30 AM–5:30 PM
8. Metropolis Coffee Company
Information and Reviews
The highlights of this coffee shop include its great coffee, delightful desserts, and an impressive tea selection. The welcoming atmosphere makes it a popular spot for breakfast, lunch, and even solo dining. Plus, it's ideal for those looking for a comfy place to work on their laptop.
Customers have shared their experiences, with one mentioning the wide variety of signature drinks and pastries. Another praised the beautiful cafe layout, delicious food, and overall positive vibe. A third review highlighted the flavorful coffee but noted some issues with service and cleanliness. Finally, a satisfied customer raved about the fantastic coffee, excellent staff, and inviting ambiance.
Overall, Metropolis Coffee Company is a must-visit for coffee lovers looking for a top-notch experience in Chicago.

- Monday: 6:30 AM–6 PM
- Tuesday: 6:30 AM–6 PM
- Wednesday: 6:30 AM–6 PM
- Thursday: 6:30 AM–6 PM
- Friday: 6:30 AM–6 PM
- Saturday: 7 AM–6 PM
- Sunday: 7 AM–6 PM
9. La Colombe Coffee Roasters
Information and Reviews
- Excellent coffee quality with a great selection of pastries.
- Friendly service and a cool atmosphere.
- Consistently great coffee with fantastic selection.
- Beautiful latte art and buttery pastries.
With a rating of 4.6 and over 1000 reviews, La Colombe Coffee Roasters stands out as a top destination for coffee lovers in the Windy City.

- Monday: 7 AM–2 PM
- Tuesday: 7 AM–3:30 PM
- Wednesday: 7 AM–3:30 PM
- Thursday: 7 AM–3:30 PM
- Friday: 7 AM–3:30 PM
- Saturday: 7:30 AM–3:30 PM
- Sunday: 7:30 AM–3:30 PM
10. Kapéj Coffee Roasters
Information and Reviews
The ambiance at Kapéj Coffee Roasters is often described as cozy and warm, making it the perfect spot to relax or get some work done. The owner is highly praised for being friendly and attentive, ensuring a pleasant experience for all visitors.
Here are three key points summarizing customer reviews:
- The food is amazing, and the coffee is top-notch
- The cozy atmosphere and friendly staff make for a pleasant visit
- Great spot for studying or working, with a comfortable and welcoming environment

- Monday: 6 AM–6 PM
- Tuesday: 6 AM–6 PM
- Wednesday: 6 AM–6 PM
- Thursday: 6 AM–6 PM
- Friday: 6 AM–6 PM
- Saturday: 7 AM–3 PM
- Sunday: 7 AM–3 PM
11. Ground Up Coffee & Bites
Information and Reviews
With a rating of 4.7, based on 512 reviews, customers have shared their experiences. Here are some key points from the reviews:
- A cute spot to catch up with friends, although the golden chai latte may need more flavor.
- A morning regular for many visitors, offering great iced and regular lattes with attentive service.
- Patient and helpful staff, tailored drink suggestions, and affordable prices for quality chai lattes.
- High-quality latte with oat milk and vanilla, as well as delicious coffee beans roasted in-house.
These reviews highlight the positive experiences shared by customers, showcasing the diverse offerings and friendly service provided by Ground Up Coffee & Bites.

- Monday: 7 AM–7 PM
- Tuesday: 7 AM–7 PM
- Wednesday: 7 AM–7 PM
- Thursday: 7 AM–7 PM
- Friday: 7 AM–7 PM
- Saturday: 7 AM–7 PM
- Sunday: 7 AM–7 PM
12. Intelligentsia Coffee Millennium Park Coffeebar
Information and Reviews

- Monday: 6 AM–8 PM
- Tuesday: 6 AM–8 PM
- Wednesday: 6 AM–8 PM
- Thursday: 6 AM–8 PM
- Friday: 6 AM–8 PM
- Saturday: 7 AM–8 PM
- Sunday: 8 AM–6 PM
13. Bridgeport Coffeehouse
Information and Reviews
- Customers rave about the great coffee and great tea selection available at the coffeehouse.
- The atmosphere is described as casual, cosy, and trendy, providing a wonderful ambience for customers to enjoy.
- The staff is highlighted for being friendly and accommodating, making customers feel welcome and valued.
Whether you are looking for a place to have breakfast, lunch, or just want to find a spot to work on your laptop, Bridgeport Coffeehouse has you covered. Additionally, the coffeehouse offers outdoor seating, takeaway, and dine-in options for the convenience of its customers. If you are in the area, be sure to stop by and enjoy the offerings of this beloved coffee shop!

- Monday: 6:30 AM–6 PM
- Tuesday: 6:30 AM–6 PM
- Wednesday: 6:30 AM–6 PM
- Thursday: 6:30 AM–6 PM
- Friday: 6:30 AM–6 PM
- Saturday: 7 AM–6 PM
- Sunday: 7 AM–6 PM
14. Blue Bottle Coffee
Information and Reviews
Some key points from customer reviews:
- A customer enjoyed the minimalist chic vibes and tasty cappuccino but found the portions a bit small.
- Another customer praised the high quality of drinks and sandwiches, especially the breakfast sandwiches.
- A different customer highlighted the amazing avocado toast, ample seating, and real cutlery provided.
- One customer appreciated the laptop-friendly environment, good wifi, and the unique chicory infused coffee called "nola."
With a high rating of 4.5 stars based on 602 reviews, Blue Bottle Coffee continues to attract locals and tourists alike with its upscale atmosphere and quality offerings. If you're in Chicago and serious about your coffee, Blue Bottle Coffee is a must-visit spot!

- Monday: 7 AM–6 PM
- Tuesday: 7 AM–6 PM
- Wednesday: 7 AM–6 PM
- Thursday: 7 AM–6 PM
- Friday: 7 AM–6 PM
- Saturday: 8 AM–2 PM
- Sunday: Closed
15. Intelligentsia Coffee Monadnock Coffeebar
Information and Reviews
Customers rave about their experiences at Intelligentsia Coffee Monadnock Coffeebar, highlighting a few key points:
- Superb almond croissants and incredible Chicago feel
- Excellent coffee that doesn't overshadow the latte
- Outstanding oat milk lattes and plenty of indoor seating
- Knowledgeable and professional baristas that provide top-notch pour overs and espresso

- Monday: 6 AM–3 PM
- Tuesday: 6 AM–3 PM
- Wednesday: 6 AM–3 PM
- Thursday: 6 AM–3 PM
- Friday: 6 AM–3 PM
- Saturday: 7 AM–3 PM
- Sunday: 7 AM–3 PM
16. Groundswell
Information and Reviews
With a rating of 4.6 based on 232 reviews, Groundswell has received high praise from its customers. Some key points from the reviews include:
- Highly recommended for coffee lovers
- Welcoming and friendly staff
- Consistently great flat whites
- Perfect midday pick-me-up with delicious drinks
Customers have also appreciated the presence of amenities like toilets and the availability of different payment options for added convenience. Whether you're looking for a quick bite, a relaxing spot to work, or simply a flavorful cup of coffee, Groundswell is the go-to destination in Chicago.
Map of Coffee Shops for Working in Chicago
Finding the perfect coffee shop for working in Chicago can be a daunting task with the city's abundance of options. To make your search easier, we have compiled a comprehensive map of all the coffee shops in Chicago that are ideal for getting work done. Explore the map below to find the perfect spot for your next productive session.
Related Services