Anticonquista Café (Pilsen) — Restaurant in West Chicago Township

5 stars. I don’t give those out often, but from the moment I walked into this place, I knew it would be my go-to.

This women- and immigrant-owned coffee shop in the heart of a LatinX neighborhood is more than just a café—it’s a statement. The care that goes into every detail is unmistakable. The coffee is rich, bold, and beautifully brewed, but it’s the ethos behind it that really sets this place apart. You can feel the intention in every interaction—from the way the baristas greet you, to the local art on the walls, to the sourcing of beans that prioritizes equity and transparency over profit margins.

In an industry that too often exploits the labor of growers and erases culture in the name of trendiness, this shop is doing the opposite: celebrating heritage, investing in community, and showing what ethical coffee can look like in practice—not just in marketing.

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Looking to shake up our usual Sunday morning routine, Israel and I took a short stroll to check out Anticonquista Café, the newest gem at 18th and Morgan, right across from Simone’s. And let me tell you—we were not disappointed!

This cozy spot leans vegan (yes, even the donuts!), but don’t let that fool you—flavor is the real star here. We shared a panini that was nothing short of spectacular, packed with bold, satisfying flavors. But the real highlight? A Guatemalan concha filled with guava and sweet cheese—a perfect Latin twist on a Polish pączki. Absolutely divine.

The lattes were expertly crafted, smooth and rich, and the ambiance is ideal for lingering—whether you’re catching up with a friend or hunkering down with a laptop.

Consider me hooked—I’ll...

I'm not one to attend coffee shops or grand openings in general, but I was very pleased by everything coming in. Coffee was really good, and I have tried it before they opened their restaurant as someone had gifted me some before. Service was very fast, despite the lines and people coming in and out. Food was solid. I didn't get to try their vegan doughnuts. My partner really liked the maracuya drink. Was not too sweet. I got the cortado, which was bitter but you could taste the milk, so really good. I'd come back, hope they get a lot of foot traffic. The decorations inside were really appealing, with great art such as a large painting of a Quetzal. Highly...