Fab Happenings: Top 5 Specialty Lattes in Chicago

With the bountiful rainy and cold weather days we have been experiencing here in Chicago, it makes me want to curl up on a sofa with a good book and enjoy a hot cup of latte. I love a good latte, especially if it has an unique twist. There are a number of amazing local coffee shops in Chicago that serve specialty lattes. Here are some of my favorite spots to warm up…

5. Fabcakes

Fabcakes offers a variety of unique lattes but my favorite is the Vanilla Rose Latte. It showcases light hints of rose flavor and sweet vanilla, which (by the way) pairs really well together. This is the latte to order if you want a smooth drink. For extra aroma, ask for a little bit more rose flavor to enhance the taste. Vanilla is a strong flavor on its own, so a lot of times it can mask other flavors. There are only a couple tables at Fabcakes so be prepared to order your coffee to-go. While you’re there, grab a pastry to go with your latte.

FAB TIP: It’s a small space so go early to secure a spot. Be ready to take your coffee to-go.

{Location}
Fabcakes
River North || 714 N Wells, Chicago, IL|| P: (312)397-3300

{Price Range}
$ (Under $10)

{Fab Rating: 3 Fabs}

4. Scafuri Bakery

Chocolate lovers rejoice! Scafuri bakery offers a nutella latte. Yes, you heard that right! Nutella. Latte. If you ever need a sweet drink to melt into, go visit this little spot. It is located near the UIC campus and the space is very small. It only holds 3-4 tables, one large and a couple of smaller ones. Grab a book or some work. This is the perfect place to be productive and indulge in dessert, in a cup!

FAB TIP: Grab the daily toast to go with your coffee. You won’t regret it!

{Location}
Scafuri Bakery
University Village || 1337 W Taylor St, Chicago, IL || P: (312) 733-8881

{Price Range}
$ (Under $10)

{Fab Rating: 3 Fabs}

3. The Coffee Alley

The Coffee Alley is exactly that…an alley where you can get coffee. At least, that’s the vibe you get when you walk into the shop. The décor in the place makes you feel like you are having your coffee outside. They have a coconut chai latte that will put a spring in your step. They use a house-made coconut cream that is mixed into the drink. It’s such a sweet treat. The drink makes you feel like you are on a tropical vacation. It’s not exactly a coffee drink but if you get it iced, you won’t care whether or not it is.

FAB TIP: There’s free parking right around the corner on Racine. Check restrictions.

{Location}
The Coffee Alley
University Village || 1152 W Taylor Street, Chicago, IL || P: (312) 526-3873

{Price Range}
$ (Under $10)

{Fab Rating: 3.5 Fabs}

2. Heritage Bicycles

Don’t be fooled by the name! Although Heritage Bicycles does indeed have an area dedicated to bicyclists, they have a mean barista station to go with it. The lavender latte is one drink that you have to try! With distinct notes of lavender, you can smell the floral scents even before you drink it. The coffee itself is pretty strong so you will get a good boost of caffeine for the day. The lavender hints makes you feel happy even on a dreary Chicago day.

FAB TIP: If you’re a bicyclist, you can get work done on your bike while you have your coffee!

{Location}
Heritage Bicycles
Lincoln Park || 2959 N Lincoln Ave, Chicago, IL || P: (773) 245-3005

{Price Range}
$ (Under $10)

{Fab Rating: 4 Fabs}

1. Jackalope Coffee and Tea House

Jackalope probably holds the number one spot in my heart because I grew up going there. Although I might be biased, it doesn’t mean that this place doesn’t know how to serve up a mean cup of coffee. Come here for the breve latte and you will know exactly what I’m talking about. The latte is prepared with the espresso on the bottom instead of on the top like most other places. There are plenty of tables in this neighborhood staple so don’t worry about not getting a seat. Make sure you grab a maple bacon donut to go with your drink. It is the “it” spot to do work or meet up with a friend. If you’re into art, check out all the décor they have around the coffee shop. You can buy the pieces of art that are hanging on the walls.

FAB TIP: Pastries are fresh every day from Bridgeport Bakery.

{Location}
Jackalope Coffee and Tea House 
Bridgeport || 755 W 32^nd St, Chicago, IL || P: (312) 888-3468

{Price Range}
$ (Under $10)

{Fab Rating: 4.5 Fabs}

What’s your favorite latte spot? Do you prefer to get it hot or cold? What about on a rainy day?

Let me know in the comments and I look forward to chatting with you all!

Until the next venture.

With love,
Van

Note: These drinks were not complimentary. The views and opinions expressed herein are those of the writer.