Best Coffee Shops in the West Loop
The West Loop is one of my favorite neighborhoods in Chicago. It’s a short walk from the hustle and bustle of downtown, but is frequented mostly by locals. The quick paced city feel and close up skyline views makes for the best vibes. When I lived closer, I liked to come over there if I had a slow Saturday of running errands - which always meant coffee. Here are the best coffee shops in the West Loop:
Sawada
The first thing you need to know about Sawada coffee is that it’s cool. Like, cool cool. The second is that the door is kind of hidden and covered in stickers, so if you’re not sure that’s the right door - it is. You walk up a dark stairway and into a room with a ping pong table, a punching bag, and floor to ceiling windows. This coffee shop is it. They serve great staple drinks as well as unique boozy steamers. If you’re in need for a little snack, they also have doughnuts (from THE Doughnut Vault) and other pastries.
During Christmas, the alley outside is covered in garland and lights. It’s absolutely magical. They serve some holiday beverages, and their gingerbread latte is unmatched. It’s one of few times I’ll actually order a latte hot.
Fun Fact: Sawada is in a building with other restaurants, and there is no real separation other than stairs. The restaurant below is Green Street Smoked Meats, and in the basement is Hi-Five Ramen (both of which I highly recommend).
Froth
Froth is a bit off the beaten path, away from the main strip in the West Loop. It’s located in an apartment building that used to be a YMCA. The vibes inside are very Goth-Parisian, and they have really cute patio seating outside as well. They have a “cocktail” approach to coffee, and have a large menu of classics as well as innovative drinks. I personally enjoy their Dalgona Iced Coffee - it’s great!
Ground Up
Ground Up is definitely one of the best coffee shops in the West Loop (really, in the whole city!). They have a variety of classic drinks along with some Greek favorites, and pastries that are delicious. They also sell their own coffee, and their West Loop location is actually a small store! I’ve also personally experienced excellent customer service at both of their locations, which is a huge bonus.
While we’re talking about the West Loop, check out some of my favorite restaurants!
The Allis
The Allis at Soho House was one of my go-tos after I graduated college. I felt so “adult” when I met my friends here for some happy hour drinks, or took my mom here for brunch. Whatever time you come, the vibes are great and the food and drinks are amazing! They make a great mocha, FYI.
Good Ambler
I can’t end this post without mentioning the one and only, Good Ambler. I love this place and have taken many out of town guests here. It’s situated a couple blocks off of the main strip, so a little bit more lowkey. It’s in a hotel lobby and very spacious, with exposed brick walls and modern chandeliers. The coffee is great, but the variety of homemade pastries and chocolates is what really gets me. AND you can watch the pastry chefs make the baked goods in the back. It’s chic and cozy and will have you staying a while.
These are the absolute best coffee shops in the West Loop. Which one will you be trying?
As always - may your weekend be full of creativity and style.
