Obsidian Coffee — Restaurant in Danville

This quaint café by day and hip cocktail bar by night is the quintessential hidden gem. Owner Tyler is the master of all things beverages from lattes, Matcha and espresso to flaming cocktails, made with artisan syrups to carefully selected beer and wine. What’s especially surprising is finding a place this amazing in the back alley of smalltown Danville Illinois. The quality and craftsmanship is more typical of Austin, Portland or NYC with Midwest pricing.

In fact Tyler far spent time honing his craft and secret recipes far and wide before returning to set up his own shop. Open Tuesday-Saturday for coffee and more the 7-7 Friday and Saturday.

As we were visiting on a Saturday to celebrate my sister-in-law’s birthday, she introduced us to Tyler and his magic. We stopped in late morning and enjoyed espresso, a lavender infused lemonade and picturesque hot chocolate. But I was also eyeing the cocktails on the 5-page menu so we swung back around at about 6:30 pm where I enjoyed an amazing whisky sour and my wife had a refreshing “pain killer”. While he doesn’t really serve food, he does offer small cheese plated for the a very great price.

Absolutely not to be missed but expect cozy quarters the place holds maybe a dozen or so. Also check out the “secret menu” posted on the back of the framed picture on the left...

I stumbled upon this HIDDEN GEM, as I was running errands around Danville (I was on my way to and from Champaign). Google gives you the street address, but the entrance to the coffee shop is in the back alley. It's a cozy little store front where everyone says a friendly HELLO as you walk in. I felt like I was in an episode of Cheers. I felt welcomed and seen!!! They made room for me at the bar and told me to have a seat. Just that small moment/gesture made my day. The other customers talked to me and suggested different coffees, and I just asked Tyler (the owner??) what he would serve me so that I would want to come back. He made a pumpkin spice latte.... with the little lovey heart on it. That detail also made the difference. The gentleman sitting next to me told me that Tyler roasts his own coffee and it's the smoothest cup that you'll ever drink. He wasn't wrong. It was perfect. Everything was perfect. I almost didn't want to leave. Thank you for...

Obsidian is a destination spot! It’s worth the drive, the adventure to visit! I cannot put into words how this shop makes me feel, but I’ll try. First of all, I’m bonkers for the beans! The coffee is phenomenal. Best lattes I’ve ever had the privilege of drinking. It’s consistent and tastes amazing Every. Single. Time! Second, if you want to try a new beer or a liquor you don’t think you like, Tyler will likely change your mind! I recommend if time allows, sitting at the bar and talking to Tyler, the owner about the wine program he’s accompanied! Absolutely phenomenal wines, which in fact, can be bought and drank at home!! And don’t even get me started on his tinned fish program. There is truly something for everyone at Obsidian. But, you gotta see it...