My initial thought upon leaving Chicago was to get our breakfast at some combination of Starbucks/McDonald/Dunkin. It wasn't what I wanted to do, but I knew it would be fast and efficient before an 8-hour drive. But as I was pondering these unpalatable possibilities, I remembered a coffee shop on Clark St. that I had passed on a few of my walks, and also remembered that they offered a cream cheese, lox, and onion sandwich on an onion bagel. I had always meant to try it out, and so I decided to make the stop on the way out of town at the Coffee Studio. It was a wise decision on my part. I ordered a large dulce Americano to go with the sandwich. Of all the places I went looking for Jewish bagels and sandwiches, this one finally hit the mark. It was a pretty solid onion bagel, there was a generous shmear of cream cheese, the lox was cold and fresh, and the raw red onion on top was nice and crisp. The coffee was brewed nicely as well. We took our sandwiches over to the lake shore for one last view of Lake Michigan and ate the sandwiches with quiet, melancholy pleasure. I got chewed out by the server because I failed to see the sign that only allowed one customer in the store at a time for pickup, and I deserved it, so kudos to the staff for making the place safe for customers and everyone. Hopefully the next time I am in Chicago I will be able enjoy this sandwich again while spending a few hours sitting in their shop drinking coffee and wandering...
Read moreI just moved into the neighborhood and decided to get off the computer (completely wrapped up in Google Plus nowadays!) to get some hot chocolate at starbucks. As I turned south on Clark St. I saw there were people sipping coffees in the window. I took a step back and saw it was a place called "The Coffee Studio".
So I figured I would give it a shot and see what they're all about. Walked inside and loved the decor! Sharp, clean, minimal design. The atmosphere was perfect. Everyone seemed to be in conversation, yet it wasn't distracting or loud at all. The cashier saw me standing there checking the place out, but didn't push me for an order or say "can I help you?" or anything like that. Just very friendly and nice and non-obtrusive and non-salesy. Love it.
There was a long table there with people on laptops by the door, so I would guess there is wifi but since I went on my way I didn't check to see if it was free or not. Next time... If so, score!
The Coffee Studio will be seeing me again, soon, especially if I get free wifi for my new...
Read moreGreat little spot to enjoy premium roasted coffee and teas. I've never been disappointed with the service staff or the impeccable cleanliness of the Coffee Studio either. They're bakery is always unique and distinctively tasty while fresh. The bathrooms speak volumes about the cleanliness and they are always perfect! The countertop areas are impeccable and always cleaned regularly. I believe the staff person at the counter cleaned the surface are by the cash register twice while we were seated. The local crowd of patrons are pleasant and are neighborhood friendly folks without attitude. Their internet services have consistently operated effectively and reliably. The outdoor side tables and seating make for a pleasant outdoors dimension for the space...weather permitting. The parking leaves something to be desired...but the ambiance and quality product of The Coffee Studio far makeup for the only inconvenience I could observe. Definitely check out this place for your needs. My Blessings deservingly given with three solid...
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