The best coffee spots in the Northshore.
If you’ve been following me for a hot second, you know I like my coffee and lots of it! I like trying a new coffee spot as much as I like getting my hair colored which is saying a lot! There’s something about the steady hum of the roasters and espresso machines that makes me focused and productive. And let’s be honest, when you work for yourself, it’s nice to get a change of scenery. But who says you have to drive all the way into the city to experience all of the above?
While I am a city girl at heart, I’ve been living in the NorthShore for the last seven years and I can promise you I’ve scoped out every cute cafe within earshot. So, let’s all pump the brakes on the ‘Bucks and support local businesses who have all the personality and pizazz that the big chains are lacking. #sorryforwhatisaidwheniwas notcaffeinated But seriously, I’m an equal rights opportunist when it comes to coffee; if you’re looking for originality - follow my lead:
Leonida’s: Leonida’s serves both savory and sweet: all day, everyday. Serving over 90 types of Imported Belgian chocolates as well as artisanal coffee and drinks, there is truly something for everyone. The chocolates are made in Europe using fresh cream, with more selections arriving every 2 weeks. And it doesn’t end there: there are 12 types of gelato to choose from as well as Belgian waffles, sweet crepes and more. And for chocolate lovers on-the-go, you can even build your own box of assortments. My girls are obsessed with their crepes.
Glenview Grind: The Glenview Grind is a local, family owned and independent coffee shop located in the heart of Glenview. It offers private label drinks from roasted coffee to teas and smoothies. This location offers it’s own lunch menu, boasting varieties of sandwiches from avocado toast to chicken clubs. To add, they have their own drive-thru so you can enjoy your coffee from the comfort of your own car. The best part…they serve up a mean Oat Milk Latte!
Three Tarts Bakery and Cafe: Three Tarts Bakery and Cafe is the go-to spot for anyone looking for extensive menu options. Whether you’re looking for a delicious lunch location or just wanting to satisfy your sweet tooth, luckily you’ve got plenty to choose from! Although it can get pretty busy at times, it’s quiet and relaxing environment is ideal for breakfast or brunches! Personally, I love their salads and I always allow my girls to pick out one cookie from their bakery because everything is made with love. It’s a cozy, quaint nod to European cafes.
Joe Donut: Joe Donut is no ordinary donut shop. Each donut is handcrafted with the finest ingredients with everything made right in-house. You never have to feel too bad about your cravings because they stay away from additives, preservatives, and trans fats. With new flavors being added often, there is tons to try! Not in the Northshore? No worries because they just expanded with a Niles location. The best part about JD is that it sits right in front of our most trafficked train station and their coffee is straight to the point. No bells and whistles. It’s smooth and fully leaded for even the slowest Monday mornings.
Cafe Fleurette: Cafe Fleurette is a fan favorite. Located in the Winnetka metra train station, this little French bakery is a hidden gem. Known for its croissants and warm and inviting atmosphere, this little shop could not get any cuter or more quaint. Did I mention convenient?
Jasper’s Cafe: Unlike the others, Jasper’s Cafe is an updated, contemporary cafe offering your regular foodie cravings. They offer fast and friendly service, and have a variety of breakfast, lunch, and dinner specials if you’re looking for family friendly. They offer both sit-down and carry-out options so you can grab your lunch and go. Truly, this is a diner but their coffee is amazing; especially their specialty coffee drinks. We’ve been going here for nearly a decade.
Reprise Coffee Roasters: A specialty coffee shop, Reprise focuses on sustainable practices for balanced coffee. Valuing people and Earth is the at the heart of their business, and they truly do tie community and coffee together all in one place. Their is passion behind this coffee establish and I highly recommend their pour-overs.
Alchemy Coffee House: Alchemy Coffee is the perfect cozy, warm, and inviting environment that offers a global selection of beans and roasts. Their drinks are made-to-order, and their homemade scones are one of their most popular menu items. This sweet spot just feels familiar kinda like Cheers. They have a cult-like following. I will always make an excuse to take a drive over if I need a bring from the screen.
Cupitol: Cupitol is a total hybrid coffee shop being a bakery, coffee roastery, bar, and restaurant all-in-one. Here, you don’t have to choose between sweet or savory because you can have both. With both a Streeterville and Evanston location, you can visit them in the city or suburbs. The best part? You can get ahead with online ordering. It’s modern and spacious and has a great work vibe. I’ve spend entire days here and the menu is expansive.
L’Ours Bakery Cafe: Located away from the hustle and bustle, L’Ours is a new find of mine. If you’re looking for a cute spot to take pics for the ‘gram and enjoy some sweet drinks, this is it. It has plenty of seating for those wanting a quiet work session without having to worry about long waits. They also specialize in delicious cakes and pastries with their original location housed on Taylor Street in Chicago. It’s sweet and serene all wrapped into one destination.
Hometown Coffee & Juice: A totally revamped and reimagined space, Hometown is the perfect place to catch up and connect with friends old and new. They open as early as 6 am during the week, so you can plan to be productive. With freshly made coffee and juice everyday, they have beverages galore to choose from. Pro Tip: get there early because this cafe is where people go to see and be seen. Tables get scarce and everybody knows somebody. My favorite spot to grab a matcha latte in the burbies.
Next time you’re in the Northshore, make sure you check out these sweet spots for your caffeine cravings. I promise you’ll rethink your next trip to Starbucks. Stay caffeinated!
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