A day spent wandering the winding paths of Lincoln Park Zoo can work up quite an appetite. Whether you have been watching the lions bask in the sun or chasing toddlers through the Farm-in-the-Zoo, the need for a quality caffeine fix or a quick bite is inevitable. Fortunately, you are situated in one of Chicago’s most walkable and charming neighborhoods, surrounded by a vibrant coffee culture.
The area around the zoo is not just a tourist hub; it is a residential enclave for Chicagoans who take their coffee seriously. This means you rarely have to settle for a stale pot of gas station coffee when a world-class flat white is just a few blocks away. From historic greystones housing cozy nooks to modern, sun-drenched spaces perfect for laptop work, the variety is staggering.
Choosing the right spot depends on your specific needs. Are you looking for a quiet place to debrief with family after a long morning of walking? Or perhaps you need a robust espresso to fuel a romantic stroll through the Lincoln Park Conservatory? The best cafes in this area offer distinct atmospheres, ranging from bustling social hubs to serene retreats.
This guide focuses on proximity and quality, ensuring you do not have to hike too far from the zoo’s gates. We have curated a list that balances artisan roasters, beloved local chains, and hidden gems that offer exceptional pastries alongside their brews. Every option listed below promises a high standard of service and a genuine taste of Chicago’s North Side lifestyle.
While the zoo offers its own concessions, stepping outside the gates allows you to experience the authentic neighborhood vibe. You will be mingling with DePaul University students, local artists, and young families. It is an opportunity to trade the sound of sea lions barking for the gentle hiss of a steam wand.
Below is a curated list of the top spots to satisfy your craving, all located within a comfortable walking distance of the zoo’s primary entrances.
Colectivo Coffee Lincoln Park
| Address | 2530 N Clark St, Chicago, IL 60614 |
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| Maps | Click here |
| Website | Click here |
| Opening Hours | Monday: 6:30 AM – 6:30 PM Tuesday: 6:30 AM – 6:30 PM Wednesday: 6:30 AM – 6:30 PM Thursday: 6:30 AM – 6:30 PM Friday: 6:30 AM – 6:30 PM Saturday: 6:30 AM – 6:30 PM Sunday: 6:30 AM – 6:30 PM |
| Phone | (773) 687-8078 |
More than just a coffee shop—it’s a neighborhood staple. With tons of outdoor seating, it's the perfect spot to bring a laptop, book, or newspaper. Even when the peak-hour line gets long, the efficient baristas keep things moving fast. Definitely worth a visit if you're nearby
Stepping into Colectivo feels like visiting a familiar friend in the heart of Lincoln Park. Large windows, leafy views, and mellow chatter ground the space in comfort. Their oat latte carried quiet depth nutty and velvety, with coffee notes that slope into sweetness without clashing. The house-made granola bowl, layered with fresh fruit, was simple, satisfying, and thoughtfully balanced. It’s the kind of café that welcomes slow mornings and intentional pauses alike.
Colectivo in Lincoln Park is a fantastic roaster and coffee house, perfectly located right off Clark with an awesome patio for nice days and a cozy indoor space for the colder months. The coffee selection is top-tier, and their merch is great too. Every drink I’ve tried has been excellent — the Almond Brittle Latte was unbelievably good, and their Snow Day coffee was also right on point.
Food-wise, you can never go wrong with the chorizo breakfast burrito. It’s consistently delicious and pairs perfectly with their drinks.
All around, an amazing spot for coffee, food, and a great vibe. Highly recommend!
Best Iced Cold Brew Dirty Horchata “Oat-Chata”
Great vibes for a moment to get a cafecito, enjoy some breakfast, and connect with others.
Nice outside patio and limited seats inside.
As part of our mission to celebrate coffee culture, we love discovering cafés that are worth sharing.
So good!! Iced vanilla latte was really good and wasn't too sweet, had a good balance between the espresso and the flavoring. Also the chorizo breakfast burrito was amazing and costing a little under $8 is a way better deal than sit-down places, it's not huge but big enough
Olive and Oak Cafe
| Address | 955 W Webster Ave, Chicago, IL 60614 |
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| Maps | Click here |
| Website | Click here |
| Opening Hours | Monday: 6:00 AM – 11:00 PM Tuesday: 6:00 AM – 11:00 PM Wednesday: 6:00 AM – 11:00 PM Thursday: 6:00 AM – 11:00 PM Friday: 6:00 AM – 11:00 PM Saturday: 6:00 AM – 11:00 PM Sunday: 6:00 AM – 11:00 PM |
| Phone | (773) 799-8090 |
I rarely find places like this that feel perfect. The Triple B Pastrami was just delicious, made with fresh, high-quality ingredients that actually taste like food. Lovely and lively, beautiful atmosphere, and amazing staff! For those who care halal meat, and three different kind of hot sauces on the counter. Definitely coming back! Oh, and great prices too!
Amazing menu options!!! Beautiful seating.No extra charges for alternative milk and cold foam?! Very affordable and delicious for college students! My cashier Sandy was so kind and patient
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
I had an amazing experience at this coffee shop! I ordered a Caramel Latte and a Biscoff Latte, and both were absolutely delicious — rich, smooth, and perfectly balanced. The pastries were fresh and tasty, and the atmosphere was cozy with great seating. The staff was friendly and everything came out beautifully presented. Definitely one of my new favorite spots. Highly recommend!
Seraj 🙂
I really like this café. The coffee is great and the place has a very comfortable atmosphere. What stood out to me the most is that they have a quiet study room for students, which is perfect if you need a place to focus and get work done. It’s calm, clean, and not distracting at all. Definitely a great spot for both coffee and studying. I’ll be coming back for sure.
Stopped at this location for the first time and it did not disappoint. Asha was very welcoming and helped us with our order. The rest of the staff were wonderful as well. The coffee was delicious and they had lots of options to choose from. The bagels were fresh too. Thank you to the staff for a great first experience! I will definitely be coming back and recommending this spot.
Paper Tiger Cafe
| Address | 628 W Webster Ave, Chicago, IL 60614 |
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| Maps | Click here |
| Website | Click here |
| Opening Hours | Monday: 7:00 AM – 5:00 PM Tuesday: 7:00 AM – 5:00 PM Wednesday: 7:00 AM – 5:00 PM Thursday: 7:00 AM – 5:00 PM Friday: 7:00 AM – 5:00 PM Saturday: 7:00 AM – 5:00 PM Sunday: 7:00 AM – 5:00 PM |
| Phone | — |
I’ve heard good things about this place so I had to give it a try. There was a small line out the door at noon on a Sunday but it moved pretty quickly. I ordered a frozen matcha cloud with sweet cream and a ham and cheese croissant. Both were really good! The frozen matcha was an interesting experience for sure. I’d definitely come back to try more of the menu.
This new café is a wonderful addition to the neighborhood. The coffee is genuinely impressive-both the drip coffee and café latte were smooth, rich, and clearly made with quality ingredients.
We also tried the house-made mini waffles and the chocolate croissant, and both were outstanding. The waffles were warm, soft, while the croissant was perfectly flaky with just the right amount of chocolate inside.
The staff were on point from start to finish, welcoming and attentive without being overbearing. You can really tell there’s attention to detail in both service and presentation.
Overall, everything felt fresh, thoughtfully prepared, and high quality. It’s clear this café takes pride in every part of the experience.
Great coffee shop! My girlfriend and I both settled on the Draft Vanilla Cloud drink which did not disappoint… the artwork here was also very cool!
It’s a busy place so matcha is premade. It’s a long line on the weekends. The drinks were cute and the place is pretty but I don’t think it’s worth the wait.
I’d been meaning to check this cafe out for a while, and I finally made it in! Going on a Saturday probably wasn’t the best idea because it was really busy, but luckily we were still able to find a place to sit.
The banana bread matcha latte was seriously so good. I’d definitely come back to try more of the menu. I think a weekday visit would be even better, especially if you want to actually sit, relax, and enjoy your drink without the weekend crowd.
The outside of the cafe is beautiful and really stands out, and the inside is super cute too. Definitely added this one to my list of favorite cafes. 🤍
Soloway coffee
| Address | 2275 N Lincoln Ave, Chicago, IL 60614 |
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| Maps | Click here |
| Website | Click here |
| Opening Hours | Monday: 7:00 AM – 5:00 PM Tuesday: 7:00 AM – 5:00 PM Wednesday: 7:00 AM – 5:00 PM Thursday: 7:00 AM – 5:00 PM Friday: 7:00 AM – 5:00 PM Saturday: 7:00 AM – 5:00 PM Sunday: 7:00 AM – 5:00 PM |
| Phone | (773) 300-8262 |
We come here very often, and it never disappoints. The food is always fresh and delicious, we especially love syrnyky, truffle croissant and blt sandwich, matcha is just perfect!! The staff are always so welcoming, friendly, and attentive, which is one of the reasons I keep coming back. Cozy atmosphere, great service, and consistently amazing food. Highly recommend!😍😍😍
One of my favorite spots in the city. Everything here feels thoughtfully done—from the cozy interior to the genuinely friendly service.
The menu has something for every mood, the ingredients always taste fresh, and every dish I’ve tried has been consistently delicious. Their coffee is excellent too, which makes it an easy choice whether I’m grabbing something to go or taking my time over breakfast.
It’s the kind of place that makes you want to come back, and I happily do. Highly recommended!
I love this place and come here often, but today I was disappointed. I ordered shakshuka, which I order here very frequently, but today it was really bad. First of all, the eggs weren’t runny at all — they were hard-cooked, which you can see in the photo — and the greens were clearly not fresh. I ate about half of it because I was very hungry. I’m really sad to see the food quality has dropped
Cool little coffee shop in Lincoln park definitely worth trying!
I came here with my child on a Friday morning around 10am, it was busy but there were still seats.
I got a cold brew, the strawberry croissant, and I got my child an apple juice and a pecan chocolate chip cookie.
The croissant was so good, beyond incredible, there was whipped cream, strawberry flavored, on the inside. It was so sweet, soft, and definitely a must try when here.
The cookie was more of a scone in terms of consistency but it was still good.
The cold brew was nothing special but it was still a solid cold brew choice.
Cute spot! Service was welcoming and quick. Lots of seating available indoors and outdoors. Sweet brew was not as sweet and was a bit sour for my taste. The barista was super kind and fixed the coffee to my liking 👍 Neopolitan cake was a large portion and delicious! I am eager to go back again and will try the popular Pistachio croissant next.
Ludlow Charlingtons Coffee Shop
| Address | 2425 N Clark St, Chicago, IL 60614 |
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| Maps | Click here |
| Website | Click here |
| Opening Hours | Monday: 7:00 AM – 4:00 PM Tuesday: 7:00 AM – 4:00 PM Wednesday: 7:00 AM – 4:00 PM Thursday: 7:00 AM – 4:00 PM Friday: 7:00 AM – 4:00 PM Saturday: 7:00 AM – 5:00 PM Sunday: 7:00 AM – 4:00 PM |
| Phone | (773) 697-7984 |
I’ve done a Too good to Go order here because I have never heard of it. I got my treat bag and I ordered a vanilla ice coffee, I’m very happy because it was 5 minutes to closing and the guy kindly made it for me with no problem. I will be coming earlier before work next time. I loved the dog theme and the cozy and quiet atmosphere. Definitely a place I will be coming to a lot during the fall.
We’re visiting from Vietnam and happened to stop by this café and we’re so glad we did. Everything was excellent. We ordered two drinks and a croissant, and the total was only $16, which felt very reasonable for the quality.
The drinks were delicious, the croissant was fresh and tasty, and the overall experience was very satisfying. We also noticed many locals coming in, which is always a good sign.
Highly recommended for anyone visiting Chicago and looking for a great coffee spot at a fair price!
Trifecta! Friend got Americano w/oat milk. I went with chai tea shot of espresso and cinnamon. Both HOT! 😉
Neighbor-friendly, dog-friendly café in Lincoln Park serves up tasty lattes and standard coffee shop fare. Visit LC for a quick bite, or to catch up with a friend. We met up to kick off a day at the Lincoln Park Zoo, and loved this gem of a coffee shop. Highly recommend!
Lovely spot! I was greeted nicely by the staff at the counter, lovely choices for coffee and it tasted so good. I had an iced strawberry and creme latte and I can't complain one bit. It's a nice place for hanging out with friends and also work from home as well as people were seen on laptops. I will definitely come back again.
Dollop Coffee Co.
| Address | 312 W Belden Ave, Chicago, IL 60614 |
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| Maps | Click here |
| Website | Click here |
| Opening Hours | Monday: 7:00 AM – 5:00 PM Tuesday: 7:00 AM – 5:00 PM Wednesday: 7:00 AM – 5:00 PM Thursday: 7:00 AM – 5:00 PM Friday: 7:00 AM – 5:00 PM Saturday: 7:00 AM – 5:00 PM Sunday: 7:00 AM – 5:00 PM |
| Phone | (872) 315-3108 |
Great little spot with kind people behind the bar that really know how to make a nice coffee. It felt like a little oasis after being outside in the summer heat. Comfy seating, nice lighting and some great sandwiches too.
The new Dollop on Belden is such a cozy, beautiful addition to Lincoln Park. I instantly fell in love with the space — it’s dark and moody with thoughtful design elements give it a warm, slightly art deco feel. The mix of wood textures, natural light gives it that perfect “I could stay here for hours” vibe.
If you’re looking for a new study spot, a quiet corner to read/work, or just a fresh coffee shop to check out in the city, this place is worth the visit. Can’t wait to come back.
Such a great place! Absolutely delicious egg and bacon sandwich - cheesy and just yummy
The chai latte was with a perfect amount of spices. Baristas are very nice
Highly recommend this place
This location is very cute with outdoor seating and rights next to Lincoln park zoo and conservatory.
If you’re thinking about stopping in, do it!
This has now turned into my go to, most recommended coffee shop. I impressed with this place!
Atmosphere and decor is so cute, their drinks are crafted perfectly and the whole team is friendly.
Highly recommend their cold brew with hazelnut and oatmilk (pictured, my top fav), snickerdoodle latte, and their campfire cold brew (pictured).
olor coffee Bar
| Address | 1013 W Webster Ave, Chicago, IL 60614 |
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| Maps | Click here |
| Website | Click here |
| Opening Hours | Monday: 7:00 AM – 5:00 PM Tuesday: 7:00 AM – 5:00 PM Wednesday: 7:00 AM – 5:00 PM Thursday: 7:00 AM – 5:00 PM Friday: 7:00 AM – 5:00 PM Saturday: 7:00 AM – 5:00 PM Sunday: 7:00 AM – 5:00 PM |
| Phone | — |
Small but cozy coffee shop with standard selection of drinks and some pastries.
Drip coffee was solid and the donuts were good as well.
Not a ton of seating but it's definitely the sort of place to sit down and slowly drink your brew.
Seriously, Olor has become my go-to, and for good reason! Every single time I grab a coffee there, it's just consistently great, the flavor is always spot-on and the service adds to the amazing experience. I have to talk about the new cold foam! I tried it for the first time today and it's so incredibly well done. It's got that perfect texture and just the right amount of sweetness. Definitely a must-try for anyone looking for an amazing coffee experience!
The cutest little find in Lincoln Park! I stumbled across this place and never would’ve thought one of my best lattes would be here! Olor is a fantastic coffee spot that offers a cozy atmosphere and expertly crafted drinks. Not only are the drinks amazing, but the staff is friendly and attentive, and made sure to create a welcoming vibe. The very charming, minimal setting created the most comfortable and inviting environment for my afternoon studying session. In my book, it is a must visit for any coffee lover!
A gem. This is what a neighborhood coffee shop should be: delicious crafted coffee concoctions, tasty treats and a convivial atmosphere. Easily recommended to neighbors and visitors alike.
We live nearby and I was not aware of this small gem on Webster near DePaul. Always looking to upgrade our cafe experience, I stopped by around Noon on a recent Friday with my laptop to do some work and finish the week. First thing I noticed is how bright , clean and cozy this place is. There are not a lot of tables, but the few are very comfortable and plenty of room to spread out and work. The woman who checked me out seemed friendly and helpful. The chairs were really comfortable to sit in - important if planning on staying a while. I ordered a small dark roast coffee which was just what I would have wanted - good flavor and hot. There is a choice of pastries too - being later in the day most were gone. Since I am a vegan, I am hoping there are vegan options - might stop by Saturday morning after they open to see. Very impressed and this will be one I will be sure to frequently visit. The hours are great - opening at 7 AM and closing at 5 PM every day accommodates a variety of schedules.
Café Brauer
| Address | 2021 N Stockton Dr, Chicago, IL 60614 |
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| Maps | Click here |
| Website | Click here |
| Opening Hours | Monday: 11:00 AM – 5:00 PM Tuesday: 11:00 AM – 5:00 PM Wednesday: 11:00 AM – 5:00 PM Thursday: 11:00 AM – 5:00 PM Friday: 11:00 AM – 5:00 PM Saturday: 11:00 AM – 6:00 PM Sunday: 11:00 AM – 6:00 PM |
| Phone | (312) 742-2400 |
If you are searching for one of the most iconic spaces in Chicago to host your wedding, Cafe Brauer is it. Located in Lincoln Park attached to the zoo there are the best skyline views of the city seated right in a nature focused setting. Surrounded by pond and trees, the building feels like vintage nostalgia and elegance. Truly unforgettable for the couple and their guests.
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We had the pleasure of photographing Jessica and Nate’s wedding at Café Brauer, and it was an absolute dream. The venue offers timeless Chicago elegance with its high ceilings, warm brick architecture, and those stunning views of the city skyline and Lincoln Park Zoo.
From a photography perspective, the natural light that floods through the grand windows is incredible. Every frame feels cinematic and elevated. The staff was professional, attentive, and made the entire experience smooth for the couple and creative team alike.
If you’re a couple looking for a Chicago venue that’s both classic and visually breathtaking, Café Brauer is a perfect choice. I look forward to returning to this venue. IG: LaurenAshleyStudios
they have some good food, outstanding service and friendly staff and the best thing is the view especially if you got a window on the lakeside but it could be a little bit chilly in the winter so you better bring your blanket or warmer 😄
A truly stunning venue. Over 14+ years capturing weddings in Chicago, we have had the pleasure of working with a lot of venues. This is by far one of Chicago's shining stars. The perfect mix of location (greenery galore, skyline views, private-esque gardens, close to the lakefront) and history.
We had a delicious lunch at Cafe Brauer with my family after a nice walk through the Lincoln Park Zoo. We enjoyed the hummus plate and a chicking and avocado sandwich. Well priced and the view of the pond is enjoyable. Nice experience and we will be back.
Breakfast House Lincoln Park
| Address | 501 W Diversey Pkwy, Chicago, IL 60614 |
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| Maps | Click here |
| Website | Click here |
| Opening Hours | Monday: 7:00 AM – 2:30 PM Tuesday: 7:00 AM – 2:30 PM Wednesday: 7:00 AM – 2:30 PM Thursday: 7:00 AM – 2:30 PM Friday: 7:00 AM – 2:30 PM Saturday: 7:00 AM – 2:30 PM Sunday: 7:00 AM – 2:30 PM |
| Phone | (872) 315-3178 |
Great breakfast burrito! Definitely not the kind you can pick up with your hand, but for a fork and knife breakfast, it was just what I was looking for. The chilaquiles were also delicious!
Absolutely fantastic food and the service is top notch, attentive and personable, but not intrusive. Best chilaquiles I've ever had. Surprisingly fast service and very reasonable prices.
Great spot. The food was delicious. We got chicken&waffles and chorizo chilaquiles. They were both excellent. Will be back for sure. Our server Andy was great.
visiting from Tampa and this was one of my favorite stops so far! the supreme chorizo hash was delicious and so flavorful!! the manager Jerry and everyone else provided great service and were so nice. definitely would visit again!!!
All the way from NY, this place is the best spot around the neighborhood. Staff is very friendly and kind. The food was amazing! Definitely recommend going.
Park Place Café
| Address | 2234 N Cannon Dr, Chicago, IL 60614 |
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| Maps | Click here |
| Website | Click here |
| Opening Hours | Monday: 10:30 AM – 4:00 PM Tuesday: 10:30 AM – 4:00 PM Wednesday: 10:30 AM – 4:00 PM Thursday: 10:30 AM – 4:00 PM Friday: 10:30 AM – 4:00 PM Saturday: 10:30 AM – 4:00 PM Sunday: 10:30 AM – 2:30 PM |
| Phone | (312) 742-2226 |
Somewhat green! (3.5 Green Stars)
After a walk along the lakefront trail and then a visit to the Lincoln Park Conservatory (highly recommended) I started to get really hungry as I walked back through the zoo. (Don’t worry animals, I’m vegetarian!) I decided to stop at the Park Place Café although I was expecting overpriced fare. In some ways I wasn’t so much worried about the food being overpriced (I figured that it supports Lincoln Park) but more concerned that café would be the opposite of eco-friendly. It’s depressing when you go to an exhibition warning about plastic in the oceans and then find that the restaurant is full of single-use plastics. Well thankfully none of these things apply here!
I was impressed that the café has made an effort on a few fronts, such as reducing single-use plastics. I refilled my water bottle and ordered a grilled cheese with house-made chips for $9. I think I enjoyed having a break in the shade outside as much the food itself, which was fine but not remarkable. I did appreciate the option of whole-wheat bread for the grilled cheese though, and the house made chips are a nice feature. Now that I’ve checked the menu online I can see that I could have gone for a more interesting option. I imagine the Shawarma Cauliflower Wrap is fully vegan but can’t say for sure. I wish they distinguished between vegetarian and vegan on the menu. If you’re on a budget, maybe go for the Rice & Beans at the Mexican counter – 1000 nutritious calories for $7!
I’m also rating the Park Place Café 3.5 out of 5 Green Stars for social and environmental impact, based on the following:
• Park Place Café does a pretty good job of reducing plastic waste by using compostable packaging (which alos has a lower carbon footprint) where possible. The park website has this message: “Sign up for REUSO to check out a reusable container for free at Park Place Café.”
• Each section of the café has vegetarian options and for meat-based dishes the menus lean towards chicken or pork. The biggest area for improvement: Cut the beef (from the Mexican menu) as beef is solely responsible for around 10% of greenhouse gases and is the major driver of global deforestation.
• You can refill your water bottle at the soda fountains, and if you need to buy water it’s provided by Open Water, which comes in aluminium cans. Other café suppliers are more mainstream, including the usual suspects: Coca-Cola and Frito-Lay (PepsiCo).
• On the park website it’s mentioned that the for gift shop, “every purchase helps keep the zoo free and open to all while advancing world-class animal care, global wildlife conservation, and local learning opportunities.” I’m assuming that this applies to the park café too.
I have to say I was MAJORLY IMPRESSED!!! I got an amazing fresh salad for $12 that put local restaurants to shame! Incredibly fresh ingredients and very yummy! And of course I love anything that supports this amazing zoo! It's laid out in a sort of cafeteria style and the salads are in the cold case off to the side of the lines for food, so you'll need to look for them, but trust me when I say you will be glad you did! ❤️
We went to the Lincoln park and saw this cafe place . We went in and ordered vegetarian food for us from Mexican market . It was so good . We have ordered platter( Tacos) that have rice- beans on the side and have ordered fries .
Our kid loved the food specially rice. We love all the items and it was so good. Will try to go to this place again if in chicago
glad to stumbled upon this food court within the Lincoln park zoo. They got multiple food options. We had nuggets and hot dog for quick lunch. good taste, quick service, reasonable price and lots of seats. need no worry if you're gonna spend a couple of hours here.
Bring your patience or eat outside! Very noisy, packed with rude people and kids who like to throw food around. The staff often works in slow motion and can be surly. We have been coming here for many years. The original turkey wraps were unique, made from thick cut chunks of provolone and smoked turkey. Nowadays you get regular sliced deli meat, and a very small sandwich. I didn't want the awful barbecue chips and had to beg for a pickle. Final cost, just under $17 for just the sandwich. When I left I was still hungry. Not sure how people can afford to buy lunch for an entire table. There are several different "food stations" and options, but none are cheap. Be careful walking. The mess on the floor gets slippery and can be treacherous.
Maison Parisienne - French Café Armitage Ave
| Address | 901 W Armitage Ave, Chicago, IL 60614 |
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| Maps | Click here |
| Website | Click here |
| Opening Hours | Monday: 7:00 AM – 6:00 PM Tuesday: 7:00 AM – 6:00 PM Wednesday: 7:00 AM – 6:00 PM Thursday: 7:00 AM – 6:00 PM Friday: 7:00 AM – 6:00 PM Saturday: 7:00 AM – 6:00 PM Sunday: 7:00 AM – 6:00 PM |
| Phone | (773) 661-9350 |
I had such a wonderful experience at this charming Parisian-style spot in Chicago. From the moment I walked in, I was welcomed with exceptional service that made me feel truly cared for.
The food was absolutely delicious, the quiche was perfectly prepared, and the cheesecake was simply unforgettable. Every detail felt thoughtfully crafted.
The atmosphere is warm, cozy, and beautifully designed. For a moment, I genuinely felt like I was in Paris.
I highly recommend this place to anyone looking for great food, a welcoming environment, and a unique experience in the city. I will definitely be coming back!
We went back to Maison Parisienne for lunch and ordered the beef bourguignon and the chicken dish. Both were fantastic. The beef was so tender and full of flavour, served with rice and those lovely mushrooms and carrots, and the chicken was just as good, perfectly cooked with the peas and everything. The portions were generous and everything tasted really fresh. The place itself is so elegant and stylish, the colours and the overall vibe make it feel special every time. Definitely one of our favourite spots now!
Wonderful! The food was lovely, the homemade pink lemonade was delicious, as well as the sample of bread pudding they gave us. The atmosphere is very cute, well decorated and clean. They also have high tea!
This wasn’t my first visit but it was different from previous visits. The atmosphere remains light and airy. The service is impeccable. However, the menu seemed different. I was there at 9:45am and there were not a lot of breakfast option or at least I didn’t see them. I chose the Le sandwich poulet which had potential but there were way too many flavors competing with each other. The chicken was chopped that was heavily seasoned, there was a pesto mayo AND. Andy dried tomato jam. Add the salad dressing that was all Dijon mustard. It was just a battleground for my tastebuds. When you admire the bake case, you are looking at wax replicas because when I order a chocolate chip sable, she pulled a pre-wrapped one from the rack. It was good but it was a switch. I want to love this place but I’m seeing some red flags that detract from my experience.
I really enjoyed my brunch at this charming French restaurant in Chicago!
The atmosphere is friendly and welcoming, the pastries and desserts were exceptional, and the authentic music, beautiful interior, and decorations made it feel like a little piece of France.
Perfect spot for brunch, romantic dates, or meeting friends. Highly recommend!
Bourgeois Pig Cafe
| Address | 738 W Fullerton Ave, Chicago, IL 60614 |
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| Maps | Click here |
| Website | Click here |
| Opening Hours | Monday: 7:30 AM – 10:00 PM Tuesday: 7:30 AM – 10:00 PM Wednesday: 7:30 AM – 11:00 PM Thursday: 7:30 AM – 11:00 PM Friday: 7:30 AM – 12:00 AM Saturday: 7:30 AM – 12:00 AM Sunday: 7:30 AM – 10:00 PM |
| Phone | (773) 883-5282 |
There’s an effortless charm here that never feels staged soft pastel walls paired with quirky art, cushioned nooks, and a playlist that stays mellow. It strikes a lovely balance between creative energy and café calm, inviting people to read, sketch, chat, or just sit with their thoughts.
The espresso was smooth with lingering warmth, its intensity gently tamed by perfectly steamed milk. I paired it with a fruit tart flaky crust, bright berries, and subtle custard sweetness. The whole vibe feels curated yet welcoming. Bourgeois Pig is a place I’d return to for the feeling as much as the flavor.
Bourgeois Pig Cafe feels like a true home away from home, especially if you are looking for a cozy spot to read or relax. The space is bustling and vibrant, yet filled with comfortable nooks and quiet corners where you can easily settle in with a book and lose track of time.
Tucked away in a charming corner of Lincoln Park, the café has a unique, slightly whimsical feel. The decor leans into a vintage, Great Gatsby–style vibe, full of character and little details that make the space feel warm and inviting. It is the kind of place that makes you forget where you are for a while and just enjoy the atmosphere.
The food and drinks match the experience perfectly. Great coffee, tasty sandwiches, and simple, satisfying bites make it easy to stay longer than planned. There is also a nice outdoor seating area, perfect for enjoying a quieter moment when the weather is good.
Between the cozy ambiance, unique charm, and solid menu, it is hard not to love this place. Whether you are meeting a friend or just looking for a peaceful spot to read, it is a go-to that never disappoints.
Love the calm vibes and friendly staff. It was nice to sit Kade for s bit to eat and come in to work and recharge. So many options that there's something for everyone. I ordered I am cheese and couldn't use a tad more cheese throughout to fill the whole sandwich but still delicious
It feels like stepping into someone's study here, with bookshelves and art everywhere. It's usually quiet enough to really relax. The coffee is always good, though sometimes the music can be a little loud for conversation.
I absolutely adore the charming ambiance at Bourgeois Pig Cafe! Stepping inside feels like a delightful journey to old European cafes with its cozy atmosphere. The coffee selection is fantastic, and the food options are equally impressive. However, I must admit, my experience with the lemon cake fell short of expectations. Despite this minor setback, I'll definitely be returning for the wonderful atmosphere and delicious coffee.
Farmer’s Milk Cafe & Bakery
| Address | 2460 N Clark St, Chicago, IL 60614 |
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| Maps | Click here |
| Website | Click here |
| Opening Hours | Monday: 8:00 AM – 7:00 PM Tuesday: 8:00 AM – 7:00 PM Wednesday: 8:00 AM – 7:00 PM Thursday: 8:00 AM – 7:00 PM Friday: 8:00 AM – 7:00 PM Saturday: 8:00 AM – 7:00 PM Sunday: 8:00 AM – 7:00 PM |
| Phone | (331) 777-0719 |
I truly love this place. I’ve been here several times, and the quality of service is exactly what our neighborhood needed. Everyone is so friendly, and the pastries are simply incredible. I love many of them, but the croissants are my absolute favorite.
As for desserts, I especially enjoy the berry tart and the Pavlova — both are absolutely delicious. And the Ukrainian borscht I tried here was outstanding and full of authentic flavor.
I highly recommend this place to anyone looking for great food, amazing pastries, and a warm, welcoming atmosphere
I first tried the coffee at this place in Florida, and we absolutely loved it! We were so happy to see that they have now opened in Chicago. My absolute favorites are the pistachio croissant and the lavender raf, I highly recommend trying both! The coffee is amazing, the atmosphere is cozy and welcoming, and the service is always friendly. If you’d like to try something from Ukrainian cuisine, you definitely have to try the borscht here, it’s honestly my favorite!
This place is so cute that I half expected the food to be average but it was delicious! Both the avocado toast and the omelet with burrata and tomatoes were phenomenal. Breakfast was so good we took 6 slices of cake home to try. All of them were great but our faves were the Kiev and the tiramisu cheesecake. We’ll definitely be back.
I was so excited to try this adorable spot near my place! Let me start by saying the decor is beautiful, the displays are absolutely stunning, and the staff couldn't have been kinder.
My friend and I stopped in to grab a raspberry pistachio cheesecake and a slice of carrot cake to go for a movie night. We were really looking forward to this little treat, even though the total came to just over $20.
Unfortunately, both desserts were disappointing. We both love sweets, so we gave each of them several bites just to make sure we weren't being too critical. The cheesecake was surprisingly bland—almost completely lacking in flavor. The carrot cake looked incredible, but it was just as underwhelming. It had none of the warm spices you'd expect from a good carrot cake, and even the cream cheese frosting was very mild.
We put both desserts in the fridge and tried them again the next day, hoping the flavors might come through. Sadly, they didn't. We ended up throwing both away, which felt like such a waste.
I'm genuinely sorry to leave a negative review because the atmosphere and service were wonderful. However, at this price point, I expected desserts that tasted as good as they looked. I truly hope this was just an off day, because it's a charming place that I'd love to see succeed.
I absolutely love this cafe! They have a great selection of unique desserts with creative flavors to suit every taste. I highly recommend trying the chocolate with cherry & nuts 😍
Maison Parisienne - French Café Clark St
| Address | 2564 N Clark St, Chicago, IL 60614 |
|---|---|
| Maps | Click here |
| Website | Click here |
| Opening Hours | Monday: 7:00 AM – 6:00 PM Tuesday: 7:00 AM – 6:00 PM Wednesday: 7:00 AM – 6:00 PM Thursday: 7:00 AM – 6:00 PM Friday: 7:00 AM – 6:00 PM Saturday: 7:00 AM – 6:00 PM Sunday: 7:00 AM – 6:00 PM |
| Phone | (773) 857-1637 |
Came in for the first time today and I have to say, what an amazing find. Not only is the ambiance and environment absolutely cute and calming, it completely encapsulates a Parisian flair. The menu was wonderful, and the almond croissant, may have been the best I’ve ever had in my life. Highly recommend if you’ve never been.
This was my first time at a French Cafe and I am quite impressed. The location was well decorated. The almond croissant and tomato/goat cheese quiche were good but the items were quite expensive. I had to pay around $11 for quiche which is quite high. An extra fee for adding caramel in iced latte and 3% fee was unnecessary.
It’s beautiful and a taste of Paris inside with croissants and jams and honey. There’s art and pretty decorative French inspired French adornments. Lots of nice tables to enjoy snacks and drinks. The only thing was it was freezing in there on a Saturday afternoon 9/13/2025 it’s 74 degrees outside and it felt like 65 degrees in there. They could save energy bills and keep it at 72 degrees bc it’s more than comfortable that way.
Love the pastries and the coffee is good too. We tried the regular and almond croissants and cortados. There is also a cute market of French goods - perfect for a gift shop. Not a lot of seating inside but easy to take to go
So good!!! I don’t know how this place doesn’t have a line out the door. Was going to the bagel place next door but saw their croissants in the window and had to come in here instead…Sunday morning & we were the only ones in there. It’s the coziest little place & the croissants were some of the best I’ve ever had. The smell of the pastries baking hits you while you walk in & it’s amazing. Very kind workers as well. Would recommend to anyone
Lincoln Park Corner Kitchen
| Address | 2200 N Clybourn Ave, Chicago, IL 60614 |
|---|---|
| Maps | Click here |
| Website | Click here |
| Opening Hours | Monday: 6:30 AM – 8:00 PM Tuesday: 6:30 AM – 8:00 PM Wednesday: 6:30 AM – 8:00 PM Thursday: 6:30 AM – 8:00 PM Friday: 6:30 AM – 8:00 PM Saturday: 7:00 AM – 8:00 PM Sunday: 7:00 AM – 8:00 PM |
| Phone | (773) 270-6991 |
We went on a Sunday morning at 10am with two small ones - a 3yo and a 1 month old. The place was very kid friendly and accommodating to our needs with the children. They had a kids' menu and crayons to keep them entertained. When we sat down there was a water in a cup with a lid and straw for the toddler.
We ordered eggs benedicts, French toast and steak and eggs. All were very tasty. The eggs were perfectly poached. The steak was marinated and cooked to perfection to medium rare.
The staff was attentive And kept the table cleared of dirty dishes.
The noise level was advantageous to having a toddler.
I am off work on Thursdays. My friends HIGHLY recommended THE CORNER KITCHEN for an early dinner and I see WHY! THE SERVICE was impeccable and the menu selection was nothing short of EXTRA EXTROADINARY! If you have NOT been to the CORNER KITCHEN-what are YOU waiting for????
My first time here with my nephew, enjoyed the food greatly up into I got home. I had steak and eggs and tried their pecan pancakes. 😋 My nephew tried apple stuffed French toast with turkey links. The only thing that spoiled my experience was I paid for toast to go and the toast were so STALE and BRICK HARD that I just threw out the remaining of steak and eggs! I
I had a great experience at this restaurant today! They have a wide variety of delicious sandwiches on the menu, with plenty of options to choose from. Everything tasted fresh and well made. The restaurant itself was very clean and welcoming, and all of the employees were incredibly friendly and helpful. You can really tell they care about their customers. I’ll definitely be coming back and would highly recommend giving this place a try!
The absolute best Belgian waffles i have ever had!!! What a treat!!!! First time visiting Chicago and was not planning on stopping here, the weather changed and so did our plans, and SO GLAD they did!!! DELICIOUS!!! My husband's skirt stake was also amazing!! Definitely a must!!
Tips for Choosing Your Cafe
Navigating the local coffee scene can be overwhelming if you are visiting from out of town, but a few local insights can help you maximize your time and enjoyment. The rhythm of these cafes changes drastically depending on the hour and the weather, so planning ahead ensures you get the experience you are looking for, whether that is a quick takeaway or a leisurely sit-down meal.
Consider the Weather and Seating: Chicago weather is famously unpredictable. Many of the best cafes near the zoo are quite small, prioritizing quality over square footage. If the sun is shining, grabbing your coffee to go and walking to the nearby Nature Boardwalk or South Pond is often preferable to fighting for a cramped table inside.
Check the Student Calendar: Because the neighborhood borders DePaul University, several of the more popular spots can become "study halls" during midterms and finals. If you are looking for a quiet place to relax after visiting the animals, avoid peak study hours (late mornings and afternoons during the school week) to steer clear of laptop crowds.
Don’t Skip the Bakeries: Some of the best coffee in this area is actually found in bakeries or patisseries rather than traditional coffee shops. If a venue is known for its bread or pastries, chances are they have invested in a high-quality espresso program to match. Always look at the food menu before judging a place solely by its coffee branding.
Walk a Few Extra Blocks: The immediate perimeter of the zoo is mostly parkland. While there are a few convenient kiosks, the truly exceptional cafes require a short walk west toward Clark Street or north toward Armitage Avenue. The five-to-ten-minute walk is almost always worth the upgrade in quality.
Bring a Reusable Cup: Chicago is an environmentally conscious city, and many local cafes encourage sustainability. Some establishments offer a small discount if you bring your own mug, and it helps keep your drink warmer if you are planning to walk back through the park to see the polar bears.
The beauty of visiting Lincoln Park is that the experience extends far beyond the zoo’s fences. The surrounding streets are lined with brownstones, boutique shops, and a culinary scene that rivals downtown without the congestion. Taking the time to sit down at one of these cafes allows you to feel like a local, even if you are just visiting for the weekend.
Once you have refueled, you are perfectly positioned to explore the rest of the neighborhood. Whether you head to the Peggy Notebaert Nature Museum, browse the boutiques on Armitage Avenue, or simply find a park bench to people-watch, a great cup of coffee is the perfect companion for the rest of your Chicago adventure.
