5 exceptional espresso bars in Chicago

This wood-grained modern cafe stocks local micro-roasters to churn out expertly made espresso drinks. Matcha and ube are menu mainstays, seasonal flavors rotate throughout the year, and a selection of housemade vegan doughnuts and gluten-free sweets line the pastry case.

Though it’s not as fabled as the growing chain’s original location in Lakeview, this spot, in the lobby of the grand Monadnock building, is very special. Designed to complement the Victorian-era skyscraper, this outpost features classic white marble, walnut trim, bronze hardware, and bistro tables spread throughout the space. The coffee menu is decidedly modern.

Beyond its friendly staff and exquisite reading table, the draw of this sweet little cafe is its tidy menu of micro-roasts – espresso, drip, and a handful of teas – and a lovely rotation of local sweet treats by independent bakers. The signal-flag mobile outside pays homage to the cafe’s sister location, on the tiny Turkish island of Burgazada. On weekends, the garage next door opens to reveal Four Letter Books.

Though notoriously hardcore roasters Dark Matter eventually opened its ‘Mothership’ HQ a few blocks east, this location was its very first, opened in 2007. Boasting a long wooden bar, loud decor and even louder music, Star Lounge is ground zero for serious caffeine heads.

At first glance, this micro-chain of straightforward coffee bars is nothing special. There are no gimmicks, no highbrow decor, no bragging rights. What rises above are very good espresso drinks built from mostly single-origin roasts, friendly staff, and simple, tasteful spots to sit and sip.