Looking for the best coffee in Chicago? After exploring the city's vibrant coffee scene, Café Crèmerie in River North stands out as the top spot. Here's why:
- Top Drinks: Espresso ($3.00), Cappuccino ($5.00), and Chocolate Croissant ($4.00).
- Atmosphere: Perfect 10.0 rating for its cozy design and relaxing music.
- Location: Conveniently located at 615 N State St, near public transit and popular attractions.
- Extras: Seasonal gelato, imported French and Italian products, and friendly baristas.
Whether you're a local or just visiting, Café Crèmerie offers a mix of great coffee, European-inspired flavors, and a welcoming vibe. Stop by to experience it yourself!
12 BEST COFFEE SHOPS IN CHICAGO
How We Selected the Top Coffee Shop
We looked at coffee quality, atmosphere, and how each café contributes to its community to find Chicago's top spot.
Coffee Quality and Menu Options
We focused on how the coffee tastes, the creativity of the drinks, and the variety of food offered. Some highlights include Dark Matter Star Lounge's Cortex the Thriller (a chocolate-rosemary blend) and Wake and Bake (sage-maple), as well as Oromo Cafe's Turkish coffee and hazelnut horchata latte.
Space and Service Quality
Our review considered several key elements:
- Atmosphere: How the interior design, lighting, and comfort come together
- Music: The sound quality and appropriate volume
- Service: Friendliness and how quickly orders are handled
- Seating: The layout and the comfort of the furniture
For instance, Bourgeois Pig Café stood out with its antique-filled interior and shelves of vintage books, creating a cozy and inviting atmosphere.
Local Impact and Location
We also looked at how easy it is to reach the café, its connection to the neighborhood, and the kind of crowd it attracts. Tala Coffee Roasters in Highwood, for example, is a favorite among cyclists in the summer and a year-round go-to for locals, thanks to its coffee and muffins.
Next, discover the café that checked all the boxes and stood out above the rest.
Meet Chicago's Top Coffee Shop
One café has risen to the top of the rankings after meeting all the selection criteria.
Café Crèmerie, located at 615 N State St in Chicago’s River North neighborhood, tops the list with an impressive overall rating of 8.8.
Must-Try Drinks and Food
Here’s a quick look at some favorites:
- Espresso: $3.00
- Cappuccino: $5.00
- Chocolate Croissant: $4.00
Shop Design and Amenities
The café’s atmosphere and music both scored a perfect 10.0, reflecting the care and attention put into creating a welcoming and enjoyable space.
Community Connection
"Owner Lisa did an amazing job in turning Café Crèmerie into a home-like coffee shop that will make you feel great. She is importing products (wine, and more) from France and Italy, and you must try the gelato!"
- Damian
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What Makes This Shop Special
Café Crèmerie blends French-Italian traditions with a touch of Chicago charm in every detail.
Menu and Service
This café is known for its classic European coffee styles. From expertly made French press to rich espresso drinks, every item on the menu reflects time-honored techniques. Their gelato, imported and rotated seasonally, adds a sweet touch, while the baristas bring both technical skill and a warm, welcoming vibe inspired by European hospitality. Each cup and dessert highlights the café's dedication to genuine flavors rooted in Italian and French coffee traditions.
Community Roots
Located in River North at 615 N State St, Café Crèmerie has become a beloved neighborhood spot. Its close proximity to attractions like Art on theMart makes it a favorite for both locals and tourists. The café also hosts cozy wine tastings and cultural events that celebrate its European roots while honoring its Chicago surroundings.
Key Features Overview
- Atmosphere: Perfect 10.0 rating
- Location: 9.0 rating in River North
- Overall Experience: 8.8 rating
- Highlights: Imported European products, house-made gelato, and skilled barista service
These features set Café Crèmerie apart as a unique part of Chicago's coffee scene.
Planning Your Visit
Thinking about stopping by? Here's what you need to know to plan your visit.
Address and Transport Options
Café Crèmerie
615 N State St, Chicago, IL 60654
- Red Line: Get off at Grand station, just a 3-block walk east.
- Bus: Routes 29, 36, and 65 stop at State/Ontario.
- Parking: Metered spots available on State St, or park at River North Garage (616 N Wells).
- Rideshare: Use the designated pickup zone at the corner of State and Ontario.
Opening Times and Costs
Hours:
- Monday-Friday: 6:30 AM - 7:00 PM
- Saturday-Sunday: 7:30 AM - 6:00 PM
Menu Prices:
- Espresso: $3.00
- Cappuccino: $5.00
- Pastries: $3.50-$6.00
- Gelato: $4.50-$7.00 per serving
Visitor Guide
- Arrive before 9 AM on weekdays or 10 AM on weekends to snag a window seat with views of State Street.
- If you're craving gelato, go after 2 PM. This avoids the lunch crowd and ensures you're getting the freshest daily flavors.
- Planning to work? Bring your laptop charger. The marble-top workstation seats are great for productivity, and Wi-Fi is free with a purchase.
Conclusion: Plan Your Coffee Trip
With all the details in hand, you're set to visit one of Chicago's standout cafés. Head over to Café Crèmerie at 615 N State St to savor expertly made espresso, seasonal gelato, and the warm vibe of River North. Experience Chicago, one cup at a time.
