☕️ Chicago July Coffee Map | COTD

Coffee is how I talk to the city — through its warmth, aroma, and flavor, it slowly hands over the streets, the daylight, and the voices of people. Two familiar favorites: Dollop & Blue Bottle — reliable and perfectly located. A cup of Nola Cold Foam unlocks the best Chicago River views 🌉 Dark Matter — discovered it through The Bear 🐻. Finally tried their signature Chocolate City at Lolla — noticeably sweet and rich! Stumbled upon Big Shoulders after leaving Blake — the barista told me they’re well-known in the bean scene! Tried the Miso Brown Sugar Latte and Black Currant Scone — interesting sweet-to-savory layers, but overall a bit mild. Heard the Frida Kahlo exhibit was closing soon 🎨, so I dropped everything and went. After yet another visit to the Art Institute, I needed caffeine — found Hero Coffee Bar tucked in a quiet alley. Their house-roasted beans were a pleasant surprise! ☀️ Mostly freelancers enjoying a slow Monday — I couldn’t help but admire their style. Tried (and failed) to snag Bad Butter’s canelés on Monday 😢… ended up with a mixed box. The almond croissant was too sweet for me, and Emily’s cold brew too acidic — but together, just drinkable 😂 Dan in his bright blue suit running around was the highlight though! For something fun, try Dialtone — their Ube Strawberry Matcha is Insta-worthy yet not too sweet 🍓💚 The green-toned space felt so refreshing in the summer! My favorite in the Fulton District remains Good Ambler — buttery, flaky croissants 🥐, perfectly tempered chocolate, and a dreamy orange-chocolate financier. Paired with coffee, it was a perfect afternoon treat. Espresso And Milk’s black-and-white minimalist vibe (not even a stool in sight!) contrasts sharply with the glorious Civic Opera House next door 🎭. Went for coffee with a friend on a weekday — felt like stepping into a finance bro’s secret spot 💼… then remembered CME and UBS are nearby. Their Black Sesame Latte and Spanish Latte are must-tries. My friend sighed, “Last time we had black sesame latte together was almost ten years ago in Sydney…” 🌏 July was woven together cup by cup. We stir a little poetry into our lattes and use espresso to resist a instant world. #COTD #ChicagoCoffee #CoffeeLover #CafeHopping #ExploreChicago #CoffeeMap #BaristaLife #CityVibes #SpecialtyCoffee #CafeStyle