Sputnik Coffee Company — Restaurant in Lake Township

I've been trying to hit all of the big coffee roasters in Chicago and think this is a contender for the best in the city (at least top 4). It's located (fairly) deep into Chicago's southwest side but I think it's worth making an adventure towards.

They moved the shop a few blocks closer to the western orange line, which I am pretty sure was already where they roasted their beans. It means they have to work with very little, and on that end I think they've done a great job. The inside is very spacious and there's more than enough seating if you want to dine in. They also use their minimalist aesthetic to really play up the space theme by using an assortment of grays with a few branches that reds make the place pop. Their roasting machine could also be seen through one of their windows. I prefer this layout over a very stuffy interior, but just note that the company is selling itself more on its great food and drink rather than its sit-down atmosphere.

I'm not sure if they make their pastries in-house or not. But even if they're imported, kudos for having a good eye for sweets. I've gotten their brownies, almond croissant, and their pistachio-hazelnut danish and all of them have felt fresh and tasted great. No further notes.

Their coffee is the best part though. It's a lighter roast that's a little acidic. It is one of the most distinct coffees in the city and worth tasting. The acidic flavor may make it an acquired taste, especially if you prefer your coffee clear (you monster 😜), but the flavors really work when paired with something else. The coffee really is one of the best latte grounds in the city, and I'd argue the best coffee to have if you like to have something sweet paired with it.

Any negatives are mostly negated by the incredible price. You could buy a 16 oz. coffee for only 3 bucks. In comparison, any drip coffee from starbucks of any size will probably not be cheaper than $3.50 (the Starbucks website makes it a little vague so sorry if I'm incorrect). The grounds themselves are cheap too, with the 8oz. Bags being $8 in store and...

My Wife and I have been coming to Sputnik for about a year or two now. Where to start? They have hands down the best espresso. Its not bitter or sour like other shops. Its got the perfect crema. This is essential and what makes all of their drinks delicious.

Since they opened their beautiful new location, they've added a couple things to the menu. They make brownies and waffles in house. The brownie is this perfect balance between fudgy and cakey

. Their sandwiches are also new. We tried their turkey pepper hummas on a half baggette which was very nicely balanced. We'll post more about the other sandwiches once we've had a taste.

They added Matcha and Chai Lattes which are up to the same level of quality as their other drinks.

I'd say if you haven't checked them out, they are most certainly a hidden gem. And with their new location, with all of the space and lighting, that you'll find a wonderfully relaxing and...

We discovered Sputnik coffee at HASH restaurant several months ago. The coffee tasted so good that my husband asked the staff for the name of it. He wanted to be able to try and have it at home. They told us about Sputnik, about the local folks who own and are the roasters; and we knew we had to check them out. It’s become somewhat of an obsession. :) We are thrilled they have a local shop so we buy our coffee from them regularly. We also love their loose leaf tea, especially the turmeric ginger and chamomile lemon. You can buy it whole bean or have it ground. They have espresso beans, as well. We really try to support local, small business and Sputnik makes it so easy! We believe it’s the best coffee in Chicago, hands down! And lastly, a shout out for the tasty bakery treats that...