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The 5 Best Indoor/Outdoor Spots in Gold Coast

April is weird. Between the whole ‘in like a lion, out like a lamb’ thing the month before and the old adage ‘April showers brings May flowers’, after… the weather can get confusing – especially here in Chicago. One minute you’re wearing a spring dress and wishing you hadn’t worn a scarf and the next, it’s snowing. Again.

It’s also around the time when the first 55-degree, no-wind sunny day will reveal the die-hard Midwesterners in shorts, because it’s basically summer! To add insult to injury, the volatile weather means most restaurants won’t be willing to lug the outdoor furniture out of storage, and waiting patiently for patio season can seem like purgatory. But don’t worry – we’ve got you! We pulled together a list of the best indoor/outdoor spots in Gold Coast to help get you through that weird limbo land and prepare for the sweet Summertime Chi ahead.

I|O at the Godfrey – 1501 N Kingsbury St.

Seeing as I|O most likely means “indoor | outdoor”, it’s safe to say these guys know a thing or two when it comes to all-season social hotspots. One of the first locales with a retractable roof, the Godfrey could be considered a trendsetter in finally figuring out how to take advantage of the crazy weather swings we see here in the Midwest. I|O has a great food menu as well as a hoppin’ nightlife scene – so whether you want a midday meal or a night out, this should definitely be one of your go-tos!

Related: Looking for happy hour spots instead? Check out our favorites in West Loop

Bar Cargo – 605 N Wells St.

Bar Cargo is a really cool pizza joint that has a great atmosphere inside AND an epic covered patio when the weather permits. Owner Anthony Stefani fell in love with Roman-style pizza on a family vacation and has since brought a complex (and delicious) 96-hour dough rise process to the Windy City – along with a “Castelli Forni” stone oven from Italy, in which they bake their pies. Even if it’s not nice enough to sit outside, the fast-paced and boisterous atmosphere makes it a great place for a bite to eat!

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The J.Parker – 1816 N Clark St.

The J.Parker is the rooftop bar in Hotel Lincoln – and we all know what happened to President Lincoln. But who was J Parker? Fun fact: Officer John Parker was designated as President Lincoln’s guard the night he was assassinated… and decided to leave his post at intermission.

Don’t worry – this J.Parker’s got your back – because rain or shine, summer or winter, you can expect to enjoy some of the best views of Chicago while sipping a drink or two at this rooftop bar with a retractable roof. Just be sure to get there early, because seating is first come, first served!

Utopian Tailgate – 1608 N Wells St.

Why relegate tailgate season to a few months of the year when it could last all year long and take place across 10,000 square feet above Second City?! Welcome to Utopian Tailgate, where you can eat, drink, be merry and play life-size Jenga to your heart’s content. In addition to the indoor space with neon colors, nostalgic drinks and upscale tailgate fare, there is also a huge outdoor area with heating lamps – so you can still catch those skyline views even if the temps aren’t cooperating.

Related: Ready to hit the town? Here are our favorite bars in Boystown

Joy District – 112 W. Hubbard St.

A quick walk from the Gold Coast area, Joy District is another indoor-outdoor gem to enjoy the electric energy of the city even if it’s not summer quite yet. Mosey from the indoor area, full of bright colors, pop art and nooks and crannies perfect for catching up with friends, to the outdoor area, which allows you to take advantage of the beautiful skyline views with a cocktail in hand. In the cooler months, you can also rent a gigantic igloo to keep warm when you need a little something more than a heat lamp. Joy District also features a rotating list of DJs Thursday through Sunday.

Post written by FFC Contributor Megan Zink.

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Best Post-Workout Food Spots in Old Town for Any Situation

There’s a statistic somewhere along the lines of “30% gym, 70% kitchen.” In other words, it’s great to be fit and work out in the gym, but the majority of being healthy has to do with nutrition. Food and workouts go together like peanut butter and jelly (really preoccupied by food if you can’t tell!).

While we should all be mindful of this advice, sometimes there’s just nothing like a post-workout mimosa. We put together a list of best food spots in Chicago’s Old Town for any situation you find yourself in – whether it’s a post-workout brunch session or a bite on the fly while commuting to work.

Please note: for any specific dietary questions or information, you should always consult a dietitian or your healthcare provider.

When you want to refuel:

As any fitness enthusiast or trainer will tell you, it’s extremely important to properly refuel after a workout. During a workout, levels of glycogen are depleted, and the protein in your muscles gets broken down too. Therefore, it’s important to restore those levels with carbs and protein. Chipotle (located at Wells and North) is an excellent nearby option for this – you can get a burrito and load it with steak, chicken or another protein of your choice, or you can get a salad for an extra dose of light and healthy veggies. Skip the dressing and load up on mild pico de gallo salsa (or if you’re a little more adventurous, one of the spicier ones).

Related: Brunching in Lakeview? Check out our favorite spots!

When you want to brunch:

Sometimes you just want a mimosa after a hard sweat and that’s okay, because you’ve put in the work for it! 80 Proof on Wells is a brunch-lover’s dream. This multi-level restaurant turns into three floors of morning meal mecca and features items like seafood towers, a dessert corner, a waffle bar (made to order), a carving station, benedict & omelet station, crepe station, full Bloody Mary bar (like, an entire circular bar in the middle of the room dedicated to Bloody Marys) and a donut wall. Maybe don’t do this every weekend – but once in a while couldn’t hurt!

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When you want to reward yourself:

For those times when you’re craving a treat, head over to Insomnia Cookies (located at Wells and Evergreen) to unleash your inner Cookie Monster. They have crowd favorites like Snickerdoodle, Classic with M&Ms, Double Chocolate Chunk – and they also have a vegan/gluten free chocolate chip option!

Deluxe cookie offerings include Triple Chocolate, S’mores and Chocolate Peanut Butter Cup, which, if you’re refueling after a workout might be your best option due to the (small amount and albeit sugary) protein source. But hey, you gotta restock that glycogen somehow, right?!

When you need to caffeinate:

Intelligentsia, located within Plum Market, is just a hop, skip and a jump away from FFC Old Town on Wells Street and is great for a post-workout pick-me-up. Founded in Chicago by two San Francisco transplants, the brand focuses heavily on Direct Trade practices and ensures the highest quality, responsible practices and sustainable business models for farmers. You can feel good about this coffee after a feel-good workout!

Related: Need more coffee shop recs? Here are our favorites in South Loop

When you’ve got to make it to the office… 15 minutes ago:

Sometimes the only time you can fit in a workout is the 35 minutes between waking up late and an 8:30 AM conference call that has already been rescheduled twice. As you’ve probably picked up from the beginning of this article, eating after a workout is a very important piece of the health and nutrition puzzle. Additionally, there’s a reason they say breakfast is the most important meal of the day – it gets you ready to take on everything that comes your way.

It may not be the most ideal solution, but Dunkin Donuts is around the corner from FFC Old Town (located at Clark and Division) and offers a few breakfast sandwich options beyond the sprinkle and icing-covered variety. The veggie egg white sandwich includes spinach, red/green bell peppers and onions, along with 17 grams of protein.

When you need balance:

Got a little time to spare? Great, because you’re going to want to hang out all day at the 3 Arts Club Café (located inside Restoration Hardware at Goethe and Dearborn). You’ll achieve a zen-like state as you lounge in the airy and greenery-filled atrium – and you’ll also find balance between the coffee shop, wine bar and restaurant. Recharge, refuel and relax = the perfect post-workout formula! This is a great spot to get some work done or finish that book – but it’s also another ideal post-workout brunch spot (if the 3 floors of indulgence thing isn’t quite your scene).

Post written by FFC Contributor Megan Zink.

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10 Hidden Lunch Spots Near Chicago’s Loop

The Chicago Loop has a certain reputation. ‘Buttoned up,’ ‘fast-paced’ – even ‘post-5 PM ghost town’ – are all ways you might describe it. And things do move quickly; restaurants efficiently take your order in line or better yet, let you order ahead so you can power walk your way to a lunch that is a step above a sad desk salad and still make it back for your conference call or meeting.

What if lunch could be a little more interesting? An excuse to be transported somewhere away from the concrete jungle? We’ve rounded up a list of some of our favorite hidden lunch spots around the Loop to help you add a little variety to your midday meal.

*Disclaimer: hours may vary from what is posted here, so be sure to call ahead if you have any doubts.

Artopolis Bakery – 306 S. Halsted Street

Greektown may be more of a “Greek street” nowadays, but there are still a few gems that are a quick walk from the Loop. The Artopolis Bakery offers all kinds of soups, sandwiches and salads as well as some breakfast items, specialty coffee and amazing pastries. Don’t miss the baklava if you can help it! Oh – they also offer gourmet gift items, too, if you need something unique in a pinch. The Artopolis Bakery opens every day at 8:30 AM; closing times vary by day but are usually around 9 – 11 PM.

Berghoff Café  – 17 W. Adams Street

Take a quick trip to Bavaria on your lunch break and head over to the Berghoff Café any time Monday – Friday between 11 AM and 2 PM, or 11:30 AM – 9 PM on Saturday (it’s closed Sunday). The café is downstairs, underneath the original Berghoff restaurant. Not only does the menu offer just as many German options (bratwurst, schnitzel) as upstairs, but you can also find soups, salads, sandwiches and other lunch-focused items if you’re not quite in the mood for Bavarian food.

Bienmesabe Arepa Bar – 29 E. Adams Street

Bienmesabe offers a taste of Venezuela just a hop, skip and jump away from the main area of the Loop. Categorizing itself as an arepa bar (an arepa is a fluffy tortilla-like vehicle for delicious toppings), you can pick your proteins, sauces and fillings and make as many different combinations as your heart desires. Bienmesabe is open every day at 11 AM (closed on Sundays).

Bombacigno’s – 558 W. Van Buren Street

This cash-only Italian joint is as authentic as they come. When you walk through the door you might think you’ve traveled back in time, with the regulars wearing neckties and discussing Da Bears over a juicy chicken parmesan sandwich. Grab a seat on one of the vinyl swivel barstools at the counter (which I’m pretty sure at one point or another was a legitimate bar).

Blink and you might miss your window of opportunity because this spot is only open from 11 AM – 2 PM Monday – Friday, but it is absolutely worth planning ahead for. One of the favorites? The caprese salad with chicken. They even put delectable pesto angel hair pasta on top!

Related: Healthy and Delicious Lunch Spots in Boystown

Boxcar Betty’s – 500 W. Madison Street

Boxcar Betty’s is a chicken sandwich spot that landed in Chicago at Ogilvy after starting in Charleston, SC and will definitely transport you to the south. BBs proudly uses cage and antibiotic-free chickens for all of their sandwiches as well as a Pimiento cheese-stuffed Portobello mushroom cap for those who are looking for a meat-free option (tip: you can ask for your chicken fried or grilled).

Choose from one of their predetermined sandwiches (I particularly love the Not So Waffle with bacon jam, maple syrup and Pimiento cheese), build your own or opt for a salad instead. Boxcar Betty’s opens at 10 AM Monday through Wednesday, 7 AM on Thursday and Friday, and is closed Saturday and Sunday.

HMart – 711 W. Jackson Boulevard

Previously, you could only find Asian-centric HMart grocery stores in the suburbs, so it was headlining news when the first HMart came to Chicago. Yes, it’s a grocery store, but HMart also houses a café for coffee, teas and pastries, as well as a ‘food court’ of sorts. Options can vary from store to store – the city HMart features SDG Dubu Tofu & Korean BBQ, Izakaya Yume Sushi and a few others. Stop by SDG for hot pot dishes perfect for colder weather, and Izakaya for maki rolls, poke bowls and other items. Regardless of which stall you visit, try to go outside of the peak 12 – 1 PM hour, when it can get REALLY busy!

·      SDG Dubu Tofu & Korean BBQ is open from 11 AM – 10 PM, Monday – Friday

·      Izakaya Yume Sushi is open from 10:30 AM – 8:30 PM, Monday – Friday

Lou Mitchell’s – 565 W. Jackson Boulevard

Got a hankerin’ for breakfast? You’re in luck at Lou Mitchell’s because you can get breakfast all day long! This cash-only spot should be a go-to – and not just for the beloved greasy spoon options like omelets, short stacks and black coffee refills. If you watch any show like Chicago PD or Chicago Fire, you’re bound to recognize the interior.

Aside from the food and the quirky retro décor, great additional touches include donut holes while you’re waiting, a cup of ice cream and orange slice/prunes with each meal and Milk Duds as a parting gift for kids. Be sure to plan ahead for your visit to this landmark at the start of historic Route 66. Lou Mitchell’s is open 6 AM – 3 PM Monday – Friday, 7 AM – 4 PM Saturday and 7 AM – 3 PM Sunday.

Related: Trying to pack your lunch instead of dining out? Try one of these healthy lunch ideas

Oasis Café – 21 N. Wabash Avenue

Take a quick trip to the Middle East and Eastern Africa without ever leaving the Loop. Oasis Café is quite literally a hidden gem – nestled within the famous Jeweler’s Mall on Wabash, you have to walk through rows of working jewelers to reach the café in the back – which is a little thrilling and adventurous in itself. Cash is preferred and specials change daily.

A crowd favorite is the Wabash Mix – available on Mondays and *we think* Wednesdays – which is basically a burrito made of philo dough stuffed with Moroccan chicken, carrots, green peppers and onions, served with hummus, falafel and foul (an Egyptian bean dish). It sounds weird, but trust us, it’s definitely worth a trip! The café is open Monday through Friday, 10 AM – 5:30 PM, and 11 AM – 4 PM on Saturday. Like most other places, it’s closed Sunday.

The Ruin Daily – 328 S. Jefferson Street

Fun fact: you’ll find this sandwich joint on Van Buren (near Jefferson) and supposedly, the name Ruin Daily comes from President Martin Van Buren’s nickname, ‘Marty Van Ruin,’ for his alleged fault in the Panic of 1837 and following economic depression. Despite this rather bleak outlook, the food is anything but depressing.

Classic sandwiches take on unique attributes with picks such as the Buffalo Cauliflower (which is basically exactly what it sounds like) and the Gym Shoe, landing somewhere in between a Greek gyro and a Chicago staple beef sandwich. One of the best parts about it, though, is the indoor/outdoor seating for warmer weather. It can be tough to find an oasis in the Loop, but Ruin Daily’s got you covered! Hours are 8 AM – 9 PM Monday through Friday – it’s closed Saturday and Sunday.

Venice Café – 500 W. Monroe Street

Another ‘blink and you might miss it’ hidden gem, Venice Café is a lunch spot you better hustle to, because it closes every day at 3 PM (it opens at 7 AM, Monday through Friday; it’s closed Saturday and Sunday).

Soups, salads and sandwiches are all standard fare here, but if you’ve gathered any clues from the name, they’re known for their Italian dishes. Pizza, pasta and calzones, oh my! Specials are constantly rotating, and there is a daily calzone special as well.

Post written by FFC Contributor Megan Zink. 

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5 Coffee Shops in Lincoln Park To Help You Escape Chicago Winter

Chicago is essentially a city of two seasons – winter…and anything that isn’t winter. Okay, okay, we have a lot more to offer than that, but we definitely have a bit of a bad rap when it comes to the colder months. 

Do you consider yourself a fan of the frigid weather or are you a self-proclaimed “snowbird,” leaping at the chance to migrate to warmer climates? Either way, it can’t hurt to have a list of invigorating coffee shops handy when you’re looking for an escape. Prepare yourself for winter in the Windy City and check out this ‘jet-setting java’ list of 5 coffee shops in Lincoln Park that inspire both faraway places and domestic destinations.

Bourgeois Pig Café – 738 W Fullerton Ave

This old-world style coffeehouse is conveniently located on Fullerton off of Halsted and oozes character. It resides in a house with rustic brick walls, warm wood furniture, ornate décor and lots of books. 

Once you’ve gotten over your time travel shock after stepping back into historical Europe, peruse the great selection of coffee and teas. Don’t skimp on the vegetarian sandwiches or the rest of the food options, which pay homage to the theme with literary names. Continue the trend and grab a book from their lending library to read while you sip!

Café Umbria – 2545 W Armitage Ave

Despite this being a Seattle import, you’ll feel like you took a quick flight to Italy when you step into Café Umbria. The origin of this brand goes back to Perugia, Italy, when Ornello Bizzarri built a roastery. Three generations and a move to America later, Emanuele Bizzarri continues to roast coffee for his shops across the country. 

The café on Armitage (one of two in Chicago) is unique in the fact that it took over a former ‘car barn’ and incorporates shipping containers used for coffee into the design. Since it’s 9,000 square feet, it’s no surprise it houses a roastery AND a coffee lab in addition to the café. 

Related: Looking for coffee spots closer to work? Check out our picks for the Loop!

Maison Marcel – 2008 N Halsted (Alley)

Welp… Maison Marcel’s website literally says this new Lincoln Park coffee window was “inspired by walking down the streets of Paris with a café on every corner”…so I guess my work here is done.

Just kidding! I’d never miss a chance to wax poetic about colorful coffee windows hidden down secret alleyways, and this is precisely why you need to hurry over to this Parisian pick-me-up hot spot. While it might not be the ideal place to post up for the long haul (it is just a window, after all), it will definitely bring a bright spot to your day. The whimsy involved in wandering down an alleyway to be met with a splashy floral mural and warm coffee can’t be beat. Maison Marcel features tons of café and specialty drinks, as well as drool-worthy pastries. Oui oui!

Philz Coffee – 2323 N Lincoln Ave 

A newcomer to the coffee scene in Chicago, Philz is a beloved import from San Francisco and the same themes of love, sustainability and marching to the beat of your own drum can be observed here. According to their site, Philz proclaims you won’t find the typical ‘latte’, ‘cappuccino’ or ‘espresso’ – rather they take the time to learn each customers’ preferences with special blends that are made for each individual cup. Order a ‘Philz Way’ and you’ll be rewarded with coffee that is medium sweet with cream, while countless others ensure your day is better – which is their mission.

Philz roasts their own coffee in Oakland, CA and has a number of custom blends involving mixes from 2 to up to 7 different beans. They also practice sustainable sourcing within a rigorous set of guidelines and give back to organizations like Food4Farmers and World Coffee Research!

Related: Check out our favorite healthy restaurants in Lincoln Park

Werewolf Coffee – 1765 N Elston Ave 

Okay, Werewolf is 100% a Chicago brand (they’re the child of local restaurant parent brand DMK) – but when you walk in, you’ll definitely feel like you are somewhere else, such as funky Austin, TX. Where might one get this idea, you ask? Well, in addition to the industrial-forward design, there’s a big ‘ole truck that serves as the focal point (and the main counter). 

It’s reminiscent of the food trucks that, while now seem ubiquitous, actually can thank Austin for their popularity (they essentially were born from taco trucks at construction sites and grew rapidly over the past 10 years). This version inside Werewolf is a repurposed Wonder Bread truck and is definitely worth a field trip! If that doesn’t entice you, maybe this will – their specialty drinks sometimes include edible glitter.

Post written by FFC Contributor Megan Zink. 

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Boystown’s Best Cafes for a Cup of Joe

Despite the crazy fact that only two U.S. states actually produce coffee (Hawaii and California, in case you were wondering), you can bet U.S. citizens drink a LOT of coffee. An average of 3.1 cups per day, in fact! We’ve rounded up a list of all the best coffee spots you should check out in Chicago’s Boystown below. Happy caffeinating!

Aje Café – 2942 N Clark St

Okay, maybe we just wanted to include Aje Café because of its stellar sandwich list, but rest assured, they DO serve coffee and their drinks are delicious. With a cozy vibe, free wifi for customers (they just kindly ask that you make a purchase) and a plethora of places to sit, this spot is ideal for your morning coffee or your afternoon pick-me-up.

Aje Café is locally owned and a great way to support small businesses. Additionally, they love to highlight art from local creatives, which never hurts if you’re looking for a place to work and get your creative juices flowing!

Related: Looking for lunch spots in Boystown?

Maison Parisienne – 3307 N Clark St

Sometimes you just need a quick getaway (especially when it comes to winter in Chicago, eek!). Look no further than Maison Parisienne for a jaunt across the Atlantic. With chic vibes and traditional French faire, you can be sure to find something that will pair well with your caffeine fix. Plus, this shop is eco-conscious and uses compostable and biodegradable cups, lids, water cups and straws.

If you happen to stop by in the warmer weather, you can sip your cappuccino on ‘La Terrasse’ – a spacious outdoor garden in the middle of Lakeview. Fun fact: you can also rent La Terrasse for events – birthday parties, baby showers or even reunions!

Osmium Coffee Bar – 1117 W Belmont Ave

Dark Matter Coffee has been a staple of the Chicago coffee scene since 2007. They built their foundation on the ethos of sustainability and social responsibility; they work with aligned organizations and directly with farmers in El Salvador, Guatemala and Mexico to cut out the middle man and support fair business practices.

Osmium is one of six Dark Matter locations in Chicago (fun fact: a number of FFC clubs actually carry Dark Matter coffee!) and a great destination for your coffee needs. Dark Matter roasts their own beans (lots of floral notes) and has been pioneering a barrel-aging program that lends a unique flavor to the drinks. Try a barrel-aged agave latte for extra complexity!

Pick Me Up Café – 3408 N Clark Street

Pick Me Up Café has been supplying Chicago with delicious drinks and food since 1997 and was one of the first locations in the area to offer vegan/vegetarian-centric dishes! Another unique attribute? You can get your java in frozen form: try the Cappuccino or Mocha shakes.

If you’re looking for a little pizzazz in your pick-me-up, try one of their seasonal concoctions. Some recent offerings include a latte spiked with Jameson and a chai latte spiked with spiced rum. Another bonus? Breakfast all day!

The Coffee & Tea Exchange – 3311 N Broadway

Are you starting to pick up a theme here? When it comes to good coffee, Boystown is one of the best for historically rich java. The Coffee & Tea Exchange dates back to 1975, when Steve (the original owner) roasted his beans right in the shop and displayed them in barrels to help inspire and educate customers on different types of coffee from around the world.

While they may love selling the beans (wholesale, in bulk or even in gift boxes), you can definitely get a good ole cup of joe to-go, too. Want something a little fancier than your basic black? Don’t worry – they have an extensive specialty drink menu. Past creations have even included riffs on your favorite FRIENDS/Central Perk drinks!

Related: The Best Bars on Halsted

Whatever time of day you’re looking for a java jolt, you’ll definitely be able to hit the spot at one of these best coffee shops in Boystown. From lunchtime coffee cafes to breakfast-all-days, this should be all the convincing you need to keep this list handy!

Post written by FFC Contributor Megan Zink. 

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Coffee Shops for Any Occasion in Chicago’s South Loop

Coffee can be many things for many people. A ritual. A means of productivity. A necessary evil. Whatever it is for you, we want to help you find the best coffee for any occasion. Here are a few of our favorite coffee shops in Chicago’s South Loop!

When you want a coffee date: Eleven City Diner – 1112 S Wabash Ave

While you can most likely grab a quick cup to-go, you’ll want to stay and soak up this upscale, reimagined diner/delicatessen in all its glory. From matzoh ball soup and the famed Rubin’s Reuben to melts, plate dinners and of course, breakfast all day – you’ll surely find something that pairs well with your coffee.

Related: Looking for an evening date spot in the South Loop? Check out our favorite bars in the neighborhood.

When you want a sweet treat: Petite Vanille – 800 S Michigan Ave

Petite Vanille is the younger, smaller sibling of the Chicagoland Vanille Patisserie collection and is situated inside Grant Park Bistro, within the classy newcomer Hotel Essex (redone inside the building that used to house the Essex Inn). It’s also an excellent spot to grab a cup of something warm (or cold, we won’t judge) when you’re in the area. Just try not to drool on the many display cases of macarons, cakes and scones during your visit!

When you want to feel creative: Café Press Chicago – 800 S Clark St

Café Press Chicago is a quirky, cool coffee shop that pays homage to Printer’s Row – the area of the city that was primarily home to printing and publishing businesses in the late 1800s (especially thanks to the construction of the Dearborn Station). If you leave this spot hungry, it’s your own fault. In addition to delicious coffee courtesy of local Chicagoland Sparrow Coffee Roastery, they also have an extensive food menu.

When you want to impress your coworkers: Stan’s Donuts – 26 E Roosevelt Rd

Fun fact: the original Stan’s is actually in LA – but when Rich Labriola (of the Chicago Labriola Baking Company) saw Stan on a travel show, he knew he had to coax him to the Midwest.

While their focus happens to be donuts (woo your coworkers with a baker’s dozen and don’t miss out on the vegan and gluten-free options for added options), the coffee is something to be held sacred too – it is the fruit of a partnership between Stan’s and local Chicago roastery Passion House Coffee Roasters.

When you want some Chicago culture: Bridgeport Coffee – 3101 S Morgan St

Bridgeport Coffee has four locations in total and is decidedly Chicagoan. President and founder Mike Pilkington began Bridgeport Coffee in 2004 after a long time spent in the restaurant industry. Bridgeport believes in knowing where your coffee is coming from and has a direct relationship with their growers.

Their original location, at 31st and Morgan, resides in a former pharmacy and has all the historical charm you could expect. Bridgeport also offers office coffee service and distributes at Whole Foods and other Chicago establishments!

Related: Is your office in the Loop? We’ve got you covered with more great coffee spots! 

Fun fact: coffee may even help you get the most out of your next workout – an article on Time.com states that drinking coffee before a workout can allow you to power through it more easily and with less pain. The article also states that caffeine may help muscles burn more fat during a workout!

Check out the article for yourself and consider it all the more reason to hit up one of these great locations (and then pay a visit to one of our FFC locations throughout Chicago!).

Post written by FFC contributor Megan Zink.

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