Best Cafes in Chicago | Caffè Umbria

Caffè Umbria brings authentic Italian espresso to one of the best cafes in Chicago

When I consider my nominees for the best cafes in Chicago I look at not only the quality of the coffee itself, but also the experience. The factors I base the experience on are the process customers follow from entry to exit, seating, atmosphere, and service.

Red brick exterior walls, a hand-painted logo, and walls of glass surround the door to create a bold street presence. Park on the street out front if you can; it is free. As you head into Caffè Umbria, you feel like you just discovered a hidden treasure in Chicago's already phenomenal coffee scene.

When you enter, you are greeted by the bright red and yellow shipping containers that comprise the interior structures. You glance to the left and you see the roasting facility. You follow the doorways to the right and find yourself in front of a stunning La Marzocco Strada – arguably one of the most iconic espresso machines in the industry - also dressed in that same bright red. As you look around you start to notice the more intricate details of the unique design - this cafè is a lesson in modern coffee shop design.

Industrial steel, softened by wooden table tops and flooring, and lots of glass come together to create a perfectly welcoming space where nearly every seat offers a view of the roasting area. It's a subtle reminder that this brand puts its coffee first.

Process

The menu is situated properly behind the bar. It is neatly organized by classic coffee drinks and it also has a section for their specialty drinks both hot and cold. Wish to add an extra shot or switch up the milk of choice? It's only $1 here.

Stroll a few steps to the left toward the register and you'll find a glass case full of different pastry offerings. There was a great selection of breads, muffins, and croissants the day I was there, and they all looked so good. They'll take your order and you'll be good to go find your seat. For those who want cream or sugar, there is a nice station next to the front window.

Coffee and Treats

I went with the cortado and the cinnamon apple croissant. The cortado was perfect. Equal parts properly brewed espresso and wonderfully steamed milk. The croissant was amazing. Flaky, buttery perfection on a little plate. The apple topping was insane. If you want to get it warmed up, it makes all the difference. There was nothing else I could have asked for...

But, wait? What is this? A tiny piece of chocolate, wrapped once in gold foil, and again in red paper with a yellow Caffè Umbria logo on top. This place knows me better than I know myself.

I was so excited to try the cortado that I completely overlooked the right side of the menu. While writing this post, I went through the photos and realized what I missed. The Bicerin is on my list of must-haves for my next stop. Hot chocolate with cream and espresso? It would have been ideal on that brutally cold winter day.

I hope to make it back before summer, but if not the Espresso Shakerato and Cappuccino Freddo are on my short list of drinks to try next.

Seating

There is a good amount of seating within the shop. You'll find a table right inside the door that will seat four. In the far back of the cafe, you will find a few smaller tables where you can hide away and get some serious work done. There are also a dozen or so stools along the railing that overlooks the roasting area, which is where I hung out.

Then there's the box. Two stairs in the center of the cafe take you into the coolest seating area I have ever seen in a coffee shop. A glass room, elevated several feet above the floor and filled with tables, creates an incredible seating area for you to hang out with your friends, and family, or a good book.

All of the seating is thoughtfully placed to provide you with a view of the roastery, which shares the same red aesthetic as the shipping containers and La Marzocco Strada. It draws your attention back to the whole reason you came here in the first place... the coffee. And the coffee is great!

Atmosphere

Much thought was put into creating a strong atmosphere at Caffè Umbria. We discussed the design, the food, and the sweet glass box seating area. Then there's the music. It was just loud enough to be a part of the experience but not overwhelming if you were trying to have a conversation. It was also upbeat and added to the cafe's personality.

Again, the design choices at Caffè Umbria are spot on. From the vibrant colors to the choice of steel, glass, and wood, everything works in harmony to create this industrial modern vibe that I could sit in for hours.

Service

The quality of service at Caffè Umbria was noteworthy. I have been to so many coffee shops over the past few years and had more forgettable experiences than I care to admit. The folks at Caffè Umbria know how to take care of their customer.

When I entered the shop, the gentleman behind the bar greeted me - something that is becoming so rare these days. He then told me he would take my order whenever I was ready - no rush. When I asked about the type of croissant in the case, he let me know without making it seem inconvenient - because it isn't. He kindly asked me if I wanted it warmed up - not an issue. Then, he took my money and mentioned that he would let me know when my cortado and croissant were ready. By the time I had found my seat, my order was ready.

Quick. Painless. Perfect.

Summary

I have been interested in good design and architecture since I was a kid. About fifteen years ago I started to get into coffee and have been fascinated by the various brewing methods and machines. Caffè Umbria brought both of those worlds together for me.

I arrived at 4 pm after a lengthy day of work. I was tired. I was hungry. I fully intended to take my time with that croissant but it stood no chance. I walked in an hour before they were ready to close up shop. This did not prevent the employees from creating a positive impression. I was deeply impressed. From the quality of the coffee and pastries to the atmosphere, design, and overall experience - I am grateful to have had the opportunity to swing by.

Caffè Umbria isn't just a coffee shop – it's an experience. Whether you're looking to work, catch up with friends, or simply enjoy a very good cup of coffee, this place delivers.

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