First Sip Cafe — Restaurant in Lake View Township

I really don’t like leaving negative reviews….

This is my third and last visit. I live down the street from this place and met a friend there this morning. It was his first visit. It’s a cute shop with some of the worst service ever. At every visit, the staff are rude and absolutely uninterested. I don’t get it. I’m always polite and even tip. And what’s with the zero AC policy? It was at least 80 degrees in there and beyond uncomfortable. The outside seating has random street people sitting there and it’s dirty. My friend purchased two pastries and didn’t eat them. I went in and to grab a bag was met with hostility after I asked for a non plastic bag. Who tosses open pastries in a plastic bag? I was given one small paper bag after endearing the wrath of the lady with the short hair and tattoos.

Excited to have a local coffee shop in the area but McDonald’s & Starbucks have considerably better service...

Great (and unique) coffee, working space, and convenient location (right by the Red Line train). Here's the inside scoop:

Pros

1. Coffee - tried the Vietnamese latte and was a treat (spoiler: condensed milk inside the drink)
2. Space - lots of tables to get some work done, gather with a group of friends, etc. (lighting is very creative, especially with incondescent light bulbs)
3. WiFi - password-protected, decent WiFi (with a pretty funny name running at about 41.5 Mbps, so not too shabby)

Cons

1. 2 hour Limit - although I don't know of any other coffeeshop that explicitly says this, it's something to take note of if you're planning on staying here for a hot minute
2. $5 latte - although worth the price for the specific beverage I got, this is a bit pricy compared to the offerings of other coffeeshops—just something to consider

Overall, a hidden gem worth checking out in the NE...

Phenomenal coffee shop, one of my favorites in the city. Huge variety of teas and coffee that I'm still exploring. My current favorite is the pistachio mint which has the most enticing visual appeal with the light hazel colored coffee layered on top of the aquamarine mint that create a refreshing and uniquely delicious taste when mixed together, served both hot and cold.

Very unique decor that shows someone has an eye for antiques and cups, in addition to a green thumb with a profusion of plants decorating the front window and countertops. Lots of table space for setting up a lap top to work or hang out.

The owners have made it a great place to socialize and often through neighborhood events that are a wonderful opportunity to meet others who live and work nearby. Erin and Gigi are engaging and one of the central hubs of the...