People in Chicago don’t just play hard, they work hard. As a result, the city has tons of coffee shops and productive places to cater to those looking to settle down and meet deadlines on assignments, projects, and reports. These 5 are some of our go-to spots in the city.
Intelligentsia Coffee
We like to go to the Lakeview East location, near Common Briar, but you can find this chain coffee shop across Chicago. Intelligentsia Coffee not only has long tables where you can snag a seat at, but it also serves some delicious pastries to go along with your incredible coffee. It’s a popular spot among freelancers and students, so seating may be limited at this spot, but you won’t regret being early and getting cozy at any Intelligentsia.
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C.C. Ferns
This Humboldt Park treasure is a great place to work, enjoy some solid drinks, and snap a picture for Instagram. Expect Polynesian-themed couches, cozy tables, and coffee concoctions in mason jars. They’ve got a boozy steamer menu (for an afternoon kick), a separate (non-alcoholic) coffee menu, and a selection of delicious Doughnut Vault pastries. Obviously, you can find Wifi there, but if it gets slow or the crowd too rowdy, head to the neighboring Ukrainian Village to find Metric Coffee. It’s a calmer, more low-key coffee shop with a minimalist layout and fresh roasted, delicious coffee.
Harold Washington Library Center
Sometimes coffee shops can be overwhelming, and you just need a quiet spot. The flagship Chicago Public Library in South Loop is a great option. You’ll find nine floors of research materials, meeting spaces, and more, which means seating and Wifi will never be an issue. Settle down at the sun-soaked reading room — Winter Garden — on the top floor for a little more peace.
Sawada Coffee
The sister shop of C.C. Ferns, Sawada Coffee, is another cozy gem located in trendy West Loop. Their creative menu includes matcha drinks, boozy concoctions, and all kinds of teas and espresso drinks. Grab a spot in any of their rustic seating areas or couches, order a latte, and pump out some work. If you get hungry, you can easily get delicious food at the attached Green Street Smoked Meats or treat yourself to a giant chocolate chip cookie. Don’t be afraid to take breaks at this place, either playing pinball or ping pong. Your brain will thank you for it.
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Goose Island Brewery
Who needs coffee when you’ve got a beer? Surprisingly, this brewery in Lincoln Park is another perfect place to find free Wifi, spacious seating, and great liquid motivation. You won’t find a tea or a latte here, but you can choose from award-winning beers and bar foods that are perfect work-mates.
Our coliving homes in Chicago are conveniently located near these coffee shops and many other attractions so that members can not only enjoy living in their fully furnished, private bedrooms but also take advantage of the city’s local gems.
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At Common, you can expect a beautiful home in some of the most exciting neighborhoods and receive free perks (free laundry, free detergent, free weekly cleaning, exclusive discounts, events tickets). Tour our homes today.