Where We Work: Chicago
Our favorite coffee shops, cafes and other outside-the-home workspaces in the Windy City.
Blue Bottle Cafe (313 W. Wolf Point Plaza)
Why we love it: The iconic Blue Bottle Coffee finally landed in Chicago, and it’s all we can talk about. A bright and airy room, gorgeous river views, delicious Blue Bottle Coffee and a food menu crafted by Lula Cafe. Can we move in?
The Pilot Project Taproom
Pilot Project Brewing (2140 N. Milwaukee Ave.)
Why we love it: They support your work through a bright, airy space; salads, sandwiches and snacks; and coffee, tea and beer from different breweries. You support their work as an incubator that helps other breweries get off the ground. Everyone’s a winner. [Insert handshake emoji here.]
Sipping Turtle
Sipping Turtle (2959 N. Milwaukee Ave.)
Why we love it: The cozy atmosphere and unpretentious vibe welcome you, and locally roasted beans from Stivers Coffee and kolaches from Howdy Kolache keep you fueled as you work. But the best part? It’s open until 9 p.m., so you can indulge that evening motivation without being tempted by Ted Lasso.
The Coffee Studio (5628 N. Clark St.)
Why we love it: This quintessential independent coffee shop takes its java seriously, with impeccable drinks made with fairly sourced, locally roasted beans. When the clock strikes happy hour — or before, we don’t judge — there’s beer and wine, plus a menu of pastries, flatbreads and quiches, and homemade ice cream.
The Coffee Studio
The Hoxton
The Hoxton (200 N. Green St.)
Why we love it: Score a membership — or a day pass — to this hotel’s co-working space and you’ll have access to a lush, well-appointed area complete with phone booths, an on-site tech manager, desk-side food delivery — even laundry service. Plus, you’ll get access to the outdoor terrace and pool, arguably the best office in the city.
The Lobby at the Ace Hotel
The Ace Hotel (311 N. Morgan St.)
Why we love it: You don’t have to be a guest to post up in the lobby at this chic, trendy hotel, which features plenty of natural light, plants and a coffee shop, restaurant, and full bar to keep you sated. Plus, the spacious room allows you to take calls without worrying about being THAT person.
Hopewell interior, photo by JJ Jetel.
Hopewell Brewing (2760 N. Milwaukee Ave.)
Why we love it: This warm, welcoming brewery boasts floor-to-ceiling windows, super-fresh beer, an always-solid soundtrack and big communal tables perfect for meetings — and for hanging out after you’ve closed the laptop. (Bonus: You can always grab a few beers to bring home, too.)
Foxtrot (Multiple locations around Chicago)
Why we love it: While it’s also a super-clutch delivery service, Foxtrot has a cafe section that we totally dig. Need a latte? Done. Wine time? Go for it. A healthy lunch? Scoop up a grain bowl. Need something sweet? Grab some chocolate, a pastry, or ice cream. Whatever you need to keep you going, Foxtrot has it, making it a great place to post up for a few hours.
The seating area at Foxtrot
