Coffee, Hip-Hop & Mental Health Cafe — Restaurant in Lake View Township

I stopped by a few months ago when it was still Coffee, Hip-Hop, and Mental Health (which is the name I prefer, but 'Normalize Therapy' isn't bad either).

Sometimes, I wait a little while before leaving a review to fully gauge how much a spot has made an impression on me, but this is long overdue. I kid you not, I think about this shop at least a few times a week. I live in the South Suburbs, so it's a challenge to go all the way north of the city every now and then, but I try to stop by as soon as I get the chance.

My barista caught me scrutinizing the menu for a while. She asked me what was up, and I mentioned I was looking for matcha. Even though it wasn't listed on the menu at the time, she made it for me! I love everything about this cafe's mission, vibe, aesthetic. It was a great place to study and get some work done. I really, really wanted one of the hoodies that said COFFEE, HIP-HOP, AND MENTAL HEALTH. I don't know if they're still being sold, but I'll try to cop...

Honestly, I'm not gonna be able to capture the essence of why this is the best place in the city/state/country, so bare with me yall...

From outside on the street, you're drawn in by the smell of rich coffee and spice. Once you're in the door, you're greeted by the sounds of smooth R&B crooning on the speakers, a warm smile from the baristas (one of whom is the owner himself), and their discussion of 20th century rappers' philosophies. Standing at the counter, you're wondering which drink you really need first, Queen Latifah or Lauryn Hill? Once you've let someone else pick for you (bc life is too hard to let decision making stress you out) and made your donation (which helps to fund free mental Healthcare), nestle into the lovely arm chair or high top table and be yourself.

The space sows a great feeling of comfort and safety and family.

Come for the vibes and coffee, stay got...

Amazing coffee, amazing mission, amazing baristas! This business works towards breaking down stigma and overcoming barriers around therapy and mental health care in communities of color and providing counseling and therapy for folks as well as education and outreach. Coffees are offered for donations, and proceeds go to supporting their mission. I got the Biggie brown sugar cayenne latte with oat milk and it was seriously fantastic. The vibe is wonderful and the coffee is delicious. I had a friend visiting from out of town when we stopped by and the barista gave her a free donut to welcome her to Chicago. Donut was also delicious. Made us feel welcome like old friends. Love supporting a business with such a great mission. Please support this business and help them empower our community!! I will absolutely be back. Thanks for doing...