Blogging over 7 years ago by Liz Adams

The Best Lattes in Chicago

Sawada Coffee Best Lattes in Chicago

After nearly four years of living in Chicago and countless coffee dates, it’s safe to say today’s topic is a well-researched one. Is there anything better than catching up with a friend over a pretty cup of espresso? We might just have to organize a meet-up at a cute coffee shop for the new Sequins & Stripes Facebook group… Whether I’m looking to get some work done or I just want a treat, these are the five lattes (and locations) I most frequently seek out in Chicago: 

For a classic latte: Dollop Coffee Co. 
Dollop has a few different storefronts, each of them equal parts cheerful and inviting. They serve Metropolis coffee and homemade pastries, plus my go-to weekday latte. I also love their honey cinnamon latte, which consists of steamed milk and espresso served over a little drizzle of honey and a dash of cinnamon—it’s so good with soy! 

Dollop Coffee Co. Best Lattes in Chicago Sequins & Stripes

For a little flavor: Heritage General Store
I know I already talked about Heritage in my Lincoln Park neighborhood guide, but there’s a reason I keep coming back here. The space is cozy and charming, and it’s perfectly situated for picking up a drink to go for a walk around Lincoln Park. The lavender latte is classic, but don’t miss seasonal syrups like spiced vanilla, peppermint and hazelnut. 

For an insta-worthy latte: Sawada Coffee 
You’ve probably seen Sawada’s now-famous military latte on social media, which is an artistic combination of matcha, slightly sweet vanilla syrup, cocoa powder and a shot of espresso. I went in thinking that could be an overwhelming combination, but instead found the latte to be smooth, not too sweet, and definitely photo-worthy. (But would you expect anything less from West Loop?) 

Military Latte Sawada Coffee Best Lattes in Chicago Sequins & Stripes

For an iced latte: Dark Matter Coffee
A couple of my closest friends live in Ukranian Village, and a walk around their neighborhood usually means a stop at Dark Matter’s Star Lounge coffee bar. Dark Matter is one of those places where coffee is a way of life, so you can trust that their iced latte will be one of the best. And I know this isn’t *technically* a latte, but the Dark Matter iced Mayan Mocha is still one of the most delicious things I’ve had in Chicago. 

C.C. Ferns Best Lattes in Chicago Sequins & Stripes

For a chai latte: C.C. Ferns
Between the vintage vibes and the gorgeous coffee drinks, C.C. is one of those places that makes you want to bring a newspaper, take a seat on the couch, and stay a while. At least that’s what it seems like all the hip people in there are doing—no shame in just stopping by for a chai latte or an old-fashioned from Doughnut Vault. 

Any other Chicago lattes I should add to the list? I hope you’re reading this while sipping on a latte of your own somewhere—happy Saturday! 

xo, 

Carolyn

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