Eight Cafes That Serve Up A Feast For The Eyes
By Julia Weeman in Arts & Entertainment on Jul 1, 2012 7:00PM
On a stormy afternoon like today, we find ourselves happiest seeking refuge in a neighborhood cafe. We love the ones that not only offer great eats and drinks, but also serve as alternative gallery spaces for local artists to showcase their work. Here are some our favorite places to check out art while you lounge.
Star Lounge (Humboldt Park)
2521 West Chicago Ave.
Rated one of Zagat's 10 Coolest Independent Coffee Shops in the U.S., Star Lounge sources and roasts their own beans under their Dark Matter label. Owner Jesse Diaz's passion for the roasting process and brewing methods comes through in every single one of ever-changing roasts we've tried there, making it no surprise that restaurants like Alinea have started serving it. We love the laid-back vibe, backyard area, and unique selection of drinks like the Mayan Mocha and Wake & Bake. The art changes often—right now, we love the work by Anthony Bowers brightening up the walls.
New Wave (Logan Square)
3103 W Logan Blvd.
New Wave serves up Metropolis coffee, light food options, free WiFi, and even old-school Nintendo. The space is comfortable and eclectic and they often feature multiple artists. Right now they have bird-themed paintings by Mandy Napper, work by Carissa Steven, Liam O'Donnell, and Justin Graham, and photography by Andy Karol.
Bridgeport Coffee House (Bridgeport)
3101 S. Morgan Street
Four rooms of seating means plenty of wall space and Bridgeport Coffee House uses it to support the ever-growing local art community in Bridgeport. They also roast their own beans—their roastery is just a mile away and they have direct relationships with their growers. Expect a variety of roasts and an expertly crafted coffee, along with free WiFi and an excellent menu that covers a wide spectrum with options like a chipotle black bean burger, a classic breakfast sandwich, and even a pizza bagel.
Metropolis (Edgewater)
1039 W. Granville Ave.
A favorite of Loyola University students, their signature espresso is named after the Red Line and their walls are covered with local art. Not only do they roast their own coffee, but they also blend their own teas and with a rotating selection from MaddieBird, sometimes they even have cupcakes with Red Line espresso frosting.
The Perfect Cup (Lincoln Square)
4700 N. Damen Ave.
With a recent redesign and expansion of both the space and menu, the Perfect Cup's bright airy space is even better than before. They even have gelato and the walls are covered in work by neighborhood artists.
Uncommon Ground (Lakeview & Edgewater)
3800 N. Clark St. & 1401 W. Devon
With the country's first organic rooftop farm and an array of awards for their green efforts, Uncommon Ground has an excellent menu of seasonal, locally-produced options ranging from brunch to dinner. They have a wide selection of cocktails, teas—which even come spiked—and coffee drinks. Right now, they are showcasing a selection of work by previous and current employees, but they switch out the work every few months. Keep up to date by checking out their calendar.
3rd Coast (Gold Coast)
1260 N. Dearborn Parkway
From fresh-baked scones to steaks, a wall of wine and a great cocktail list, 3rd Coast has a lot to offer. Right now they are featuring metal wall art work by Riggs Bar, who created the custom steel sign for their wine shop. With a coffee shop feel, it's a place Gold Coast residents could easily spend all day.
Atomix (Ukrainian Village)
1957 W Chicago Ave
Atomix maintains a vintage space age-feel despite the rotating art that covers its walls. Right now they have work by Bridget Bankcroft, but New City movie reviewer & photographer Ray Pride's work will be up on July 5th. They serve up Coffee & Tea exchange coffee and have some of the best vegan muffins we've ever had, which are baked in house. They also have delicious make your own sandwich options, bagels, and veggie chili.