Espresso lovers, rejoice: 5 Chicago coffee shops to sip at for National Coffee Day

National Coffee Day falls on Tuesday, Sept. 29 this year, and to help Chicagoans celebrate, we’ve created a guide for our top picks of the best coffee shops and cafes serving coffee. Whether you like your jolt of caffeine in the form of cold brew, espresso, or a flavored latte, these spots will surely hit the spot. 

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The Drunken Bean Coffee & Wine Bar

In the hidden gem neighborhood of Lakeshore East, the Drunken Bean Coffe & Wine Bar is stacked with a long list of unique caffeinated beverages. Try the colorful Blue Velvet Cupcake Latte if you’re feeling fancy, or for those with a sweet tooth, the Obispo Latte comes with a scoop of ice cream on top. And for autumn lovers, the Masala Chai Pumpkin Latte or Matcha Pumpkin Spice Latte are sure to please!

• Location: 400 E. South Water St.

Sawada Coffee

This trendy hotspot is located in Fulton Market, and according to its website, this is the first U.S. location by Hiroshi Sawada, world-renowned barista and latte art master. Sawada is home to the unique Military Latte, a delicious concoction made with cinnamon, matcha, milk and a shot of espresso.

• Location: 112 N. Green St. 

Werewolf Coffee

Don’t miss this uniquely designed coffee bar in Bucktown run by Chicago content creator Jess Roe, who is known as the Windy City Mama on Instagram. Werewolf Coffee offers its signature glittery Charcoal Latte that can be made both hot and iced. Another specialty favorite is The Bridgerton, a latte with rose and pistachios and garnished with rose petals.

• Location: 1765 N. Elston Ave.

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Big Shoulders Coffee

This big-name coffee brand boasts several locations including Lincoln Park, West Town, Gold Coast, and The Loop. Big Shoulders Coffee offers the option of a manual brew coffee through either a V60 or Aeropress. Or try one of their latte creations with unique designs, like the Marshmallow Latte topped with a big toasted marshmallow. 

• Multiple Locations

Hero Coffee & Bagel Bar

With locations in Lake View East and the Loop, this Chicago-based coffee shop boasts a vast list of traditional brews. Hero Coffee & Bagel Bar also sells branded mugs, tumblers, its own brand of whole-bean coffee, and its popular vegan donuts. A seasonal drink on their menu is the peanut butter sandwich-inspired AfterSchool Special, made with house made cold brew, peanut butter, banana syrup, and topped with strawberry cold foam.

• Multiple Locations