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Saugatuck Coffee Company
Category: Food Coffee & Tea Coffee & Tea [Edit]
3344 N Halsted St(between Buckingham Pl & Roscoe St)
Chicago, IL 60657
Neighbourhood: Lakeview
(773) 857-3002
- Nearest Transit:
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Belmont (Brown Line, Purple Line, Red Line)
Addison-red (Red Line)
- Hours:
Mon-Fri 7 am - 7 pm
Sat-Sun 8 am - 7 pm
- Price Range:
-
$
- Accepts Credit Cards:
- Yes
- Parking:
- Street
- Outdoor Seating:
- No
- Wi-Fi:
- Free
- Wheelchair Accessible:
- Yes
66 reviews for Saugatuck Coffee Company
Review Highlights
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"To no limit does the owner, Kim go above and beyond." In 14 reviews -
"Plus the free wi-fi (nothing to sign up for or card to get..." In 4 reviews -
"...offer free wi-fi here, vanilla nut coffee was delish (right..." In 2 reviews
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66 reviews in English
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Review from William L.
Chicago, IL
2/7/2012 7 Check-ins Here
What a hidden jewel here in Lakeview. I mentioned to a friend I was here and he was like, "there is an independent coffee house on Halsted?" Yes Sir, there is!
I have worked with coffee and tea a better part of my adult life so I feel I know a good product when I see it (and taste it!) and this is one great place. The service is simple, humble and attentive. No crazy drinks, no push to have something over the top, and always a smile! To be fair, I have only ever had the mocha, but it is done amazingly well. I get up and think about coming here (on my days off, of course).
They have a good selection of food (that the make fresh, to order) as well as pastries, cookies and such. WiFi is free (but password protected). Even though small, it has a nice community feel to it. There some TVs (which I always think is a bit strange when music is playing elsewhere), but I am sure they serve a purpose.
So, if you ever want a break from Argo, Caribou or (gasp) Starbucks, give this place a try! Remember to grab the punch card to earn a free drink, too! -
Review from Stephanie T.
Chicago, IL
5/18/2012
Cute coffee shop-yes.
Good selection of food and pastries-yes.
Good coffee-sure
But when you come here just to cure an acai bowl craving that started in Hawaii, it is just disappointing. Think of a melted smoothie with random fruits and mediocre granola thrown in there. It was sad. I had high hopes since I have been searching everywhere for an acai bowl.
So to reiterate, I have nothing against this establishment and am solely reviewing this place based on the acai bowl. -
Review from Tal C.
Chicago, IL
5/9/2012 2 Check-ins Here
This is a really cute independent coffee shop on Halsted. It's a little hidden, which is probably why I had never seen it before I specifically came looking for it, but I'm glad I did. They have a pretty large tea menu, and supposedly the coffee is good, though I haven't had a chance to try it yet. The granola is REALLY good. Best of all, they have a playlist of acoustic versions of popular songs, which I consider really great coffee shop music. I can still get my work done because it's not too distracting, but I really enjoy taking a break and listening. Also, free wife (password: ilovecoffee). My only complaint is that oftentimes, the barista(s) go sit in the back kitchen and you have to make a lot of noise/go to the kitchen to find them in order to get some help. Other than that though, definitely worth a visit.
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Review from Kathryn S.
Ann Arbor, MI
4/18/2012
"That's odd," I said to myself, "Saugatuck is a Michigan place." So I went to investigate, and indeed, the owner hails from the west side of my home state. Well, that's cool.
Moving on. Service: friendly. Coffee: excellent. Ambience: my new home (or it would be, if I actually lived here in Chicago). Best music ever playing quietly in the background. Plenty of table space. Folks of various ages studying or talking quietly. A display bulletin and table with local events, charities, and businesses.
Also, hurrah for a woman-owned business in an increasingly male-oriented Boystown (I know, it's in the name, but... okay, not the place for this discussion, I'm just saying it made me happy). And there were patrons of both (all) genders there - I would have it no other way. All in all, a very sweet, comfy place to study for an afternoon, or grab a coffee and a small meal before heading across the street to sing showtunes at Sidetrack. -
Review from Adella P.
Hammond, IN
3/21/2012 1 Check-in Here
Went in on a hot March morning... really. Had an iced latte & Chocolate Zucchini muffin. The muffin was delicious! The latte was just what I needed. This is a very cute, quiet, hidden little coffee shop. Very nice art on the walls too. The girl working was very friendly! I would go back :)
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Review from Joseph F.
Chicago, IL
6/13/2011
This is by far, my favorite coffee shop in the neighborhood. The owner is frequently behind the counter and I swear on some great medication. She is never dour or attitudey. Always smiling. Always friendly. Even when she's swamped.
If you have the chance to try an oat cake, I recommend it. She makes them herself and they are addicting. After she told me about them, I now have to stop in at least twice a week for one. Delcious!
The coffee is great and it's perfectly tucked away on Halsted for a quick cup of joe.
This place is the perfect type of individually owned small business that I have no trouble supporting. If you want crappy, burnt coffee, go to Starbucks. If you want great coffee and a great attitude, come here. -
Review from Joanna T.
Chicago, IL
7/22/2011
I've stopped by here only a dozen times in the past year and only for a coffee--no fancy espresso or bakery items for me.
They used to brew a different brand of bean and now are using local Metropolis beans. It's good, just as I expect all local shops brewing Metropolis to be.
The atmosphere is cozy, lakeside cabin chic that I never want to stay and enjoy. The noise level is so quiet with everyone studying (or facebooking) that it feels rude to stay with a friend and chat.
In the warmer months, there are chairs and tables (fit for 2) on the Halsted sidewalk.
During my most recent visit, I ordered two hot beverages to go, and after paying and receiving them, I was told there are no more plastic lids. That makes an awkward and messy walk down the street. -
Review from Bonita G.
Chicago, IL
2/26/2012 5 photos
The latte was good. There are lots of outlets and comfy chairs to sit on. The chai latte was delicious but I liked the mulled apple cider the most. I spent all day here to study so I had a couple of drinks. This is the first place that has a microwave available for customers! I had some leftovers from brunch and I was hungry after a few hours of studying here so I heated up my food and ate there. I really like that wifi was unlimited unlike some places. I will definitely come back.
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Review from Emily J.
Springfield, IL
1/15/2012
Really quiet and cute coffee shop with tons of seating. So rare to walk into any other shop and find a seat. Free wifi and parking free on side streets until 6 without a permit. Whoever was working was not the friendliest but I will definitely return regardless.
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Review from James S.
Chicago, IL
12/3/2011
I really love this place for writing and working on projects. The owner is very kind/polite. I always get the yogurt and fruit. It is exceptional. The fruit is always fresh...not melon and cantaloupe but rather strawberries, bananas or blueberries. the yogurt is different/better than what you get at the store, and the granola is also better. The panninis are good. The prices are quite reasonable. I hope the place prospers.
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Review from Jason B.
Itasca, IL
11/11/2011 7 Check-ins Here
My five star rating is based on their hot teas and ambiance. I have been looking for a quaint, non-chain coffee house for a long time. It's funny that I have walked passed this one a few dozen times, and I'm glad I finally noticed it. I've been on a tea kick lately, and they offer great teas. I wish I remember or knew what brand they offered, but it looked as if it were loose. The bathroom, and the rest of the establishment had a pleasant ambiance, and was clean. I will be returning for coffee, and maybe I'll update my review.
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Review from Jeremy Y.
Minneapolis, MN
12/27/2011
Great place for a long lunch with a laptop Two cups of coffee and a good sandwich for under $15, and in a totally friendly atmosphere.
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Review from Julia W.
Chicago, IL
11/20/2010
This is a nice, quiet little cafe to come and sit with your laptop, or to visit with a friend. My best friend lives around the corner, and this is his choice spot as of late.
They have a nice collection of teas and, though I am not a coffee drinker, their selection for those seems satisfactory as well. They also have a small lunch menu with wraps, salads and other light fair, and a case with a small selection of items to satisfy your sweet tooth. To be honest, I haven't tried much of the food, mostly because I know I can get better for less expensive not so far away.
Seating inside is plentiful and, in the warmer months, they have some outdoor seating as well. -
Review from peter c.
Chicago, IL
11/17/2011
The only thing worse than the aloof attitude of the barista was the cappuccino itself. If I wanted lightly flavored warm milk, I would've gone to starbucks.
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Review from Patrick P.
Chicago, IL
3/25/2009
I am very excited that a new business has opened up on Halsted in Boys Town and it isn't a bar. It is a new coffee shop. A locally owned one at that.
Kim - the owner - is very kind. And the shop has a prime location right in the heart of Boystown. And the coffee and treats are delish.
Grab your computers or friends and head over to this place. I recommend it highly. -
Review from Michael S.
Denver, CO
2/13/2010
I take it all back. I think my first experience must have been at the very beginning when it opened.
I've been here twice recently, and both times it's been bright, clean, civilized, and the coffee has been damn good. So, too, was the Otto's Oats with almond milk and sliced bananas.
I'll be back. It's a treat that it's so close to my place. I'm glad I gave it a second chance.Listed in: Mediocrity is the Tenth Muse
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Review from Daniel L.
New York, NY
4/8/2009
Kim, the proprietor, is super friendly!!! I ordered a delicious white ginger pear tea so I can freeload on the wireless Internet and she helps me by also bringing me a BIG ASS metal pot filled with hot water so I can refresh my drink as I like! I'd like to see any of those bitches behind the counters at Caribou or Starfucks ever do that!!
The tea is DEEERICIOUS! Random cuties are coming in and out. The palce is clean as whistle! Dog friendly (there are dog treats in the corner near the entrance! The drink menu isn't that extensive, which I think is a good thing, because a place needs to excel at least one thing before trying to do everything. And right now, Saugatuck has service and quality items. I particularly love the tea cup that was used to serve my tea. (I'll load up pictures soon - of the cup and the place).
They have yummy looking desserts and lite-FM muzak! It's perfect to rendez-vous your dirty craigslist tricks because it's bright and you will have witnesses! Saugatuck is the new Perk (remember that place where that fucking Allstate is now?)! -
Review from Courtney P.
Chicago, IL
11/6/2009
This place is great.
They have coffee (of course) pastries (standard, but these are really good and varied) and sandwiches! Breakfast sandwiches, paninis...I mean, come on! And they're big! And tasty! The decor is cute, the owner is nice...
My one problem is that it can be a little slow, because only one person is working at a time, but it's new so they probably can't afford to have more people on the clock right now.
Nice neighborhood cafe! -
Review from Molly G.
Chicago, IL
12/8/2009
I love this place. They have great coffee (duh), and AMAZING pastries. They have a really great variety of other foods, including sandwiches, paninis, and lots of really great breakfast foods. And the pie is awesome!
This is also a really wonderful place to study. They have free wi-fi and a lot of table space, with music that is present, but not over-bearing. All in all, I really enjoy this place! -
Review from Michael T.
Palo Alto, CA
6/29/2010
I live upstairs from SCC and have been a regular since opening day, and I love seeing so many people in Boystown respond warmly to a small, local coffee shop. Having lived in Seattle for 3 1/2 years, I missed having ready access to a local joint where the owner knew your name, drink and the general goings-on in your life. Kim and the staff at SCC not only meet that cool-coffeeshop-vibe perfectly, they actually have really good coffee.
For the bargain-hunter - the 10-gets-1-free card is actually a better deal than Starbucks gold card (15-get-1-free) and, while I have no beef with large coffee houses, I really prefer local. -
Review from Kate M.
5/12/2009
This is a cute little coffee shop that I'll walk past Starbucks and Caribou for any day. I've been in a few times for coffee with friends and the woman working at the counter is always very nice and helpful. The first time I was there she was a little busy with another customer so after ordering I sat down to give her a little space. She brought me my coffee and scone! I really expected to just go pick it up at the counter when it was ready so that was going above and beyond in my opinion.
The only reason I didn't give 5 stars is the lack of outdoor seating. Especially this time of year I'd rather sit outside and catch up with friends than inside. -
Review from Linda D.
7/7/2011 1 Check-in Here
Very cute, quiet little shop that does the trick if you're looking for a place to have a cup of coffee before you start your day or camp out for a few hours. The employees are helpful and friendly. The seating is great in the front, but a little awkward in the hallway, where it's just a single line of tables that lead to the bathroom. But even that works if you're looking for more isolated seating. So hip hip hooray for Saugatuck! I'm not sure if I'm pronouncing it correctly (sow-ga-tuck?), but I'll probably be going back.
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Review from Naomi L.
Chicago, IL
10/22/2009
Great coffee, great service, great location. Friendly smiles and discreet.
and the discretion of sitting at a table with warmth and privacy is appealing -
Review from Traci C.
Chicago, IL
6/28/2010
While celebrating at the Pride Parade down Halsted, I began to feel faint. As I approached the closed coffee shop (except for water and pastries at the doorway), I asked for entry to regain myself.
Within minutes, the friendly staff here, and owner Kim, brought me in the store, gave me water, a wet towel, and were beyond comforting. That says a lot about their staff/owner...that they really care about those in the community in which they serve!
When I was feeling a bit better, I bought a muffin and water and went on my way. The muffin was AMAZING!
I will surely be back on a day I am not passing out to enjoy the sweet little coffee shop to its fullest. -
Review from Abby P.
San Francisco, CA
4/18/2010
At this point, I've become a relatively regular Saugatuck visitor; it has almost all checks in the right box for a local coffee shop: good coffee, good food (including actual substantial food, not just pastries), free wifi, a reasonable number of tables and outlets, and a firm commitment to local producers. The owner chats with the regulars, a motley crew of characters, and is very attentive to all her customers. The menu is small but surprisingly delicious, and the sandwiches all come with fruit or a green salad on the side.
Why not 5 stars? First, the lighting is not great, which is a little surprising given the number of people working there (myself included). Second, there are a few really comfortable tables, but on the rare occasion it's crowded, the alternatives are less than appealing. And third, it's a little pricey; I know, I know, you pay for quality, and I really do appreciate the local focus, which is why I grit my teeth and pay $7 for an americano and a piece of coffeecake. I'm just sayin. -
Review from Milesh Milan J.
Chicago, IL
4/21/2009
This is a great addition in Boystown and is way more than just the usual franchise style coffee houses! I agree with the other reviewers that the owner, Kim, does an extra mile to make you happy. Her friendly attitude and good service is the main reason I am giving this place 5 stars.
The food was good and she was flexible enough to accommodate my needs. I wanted to have the Croissant Egg sandwich with some veggies instead of the bacon and she said not a problem and did exceed my expectation and made a veggie salad.
Stay tuned until I try their drinks and pastries on my next visit! -
Review from Jenn S.
Chicago, IL
5/5/2009
This is a great little coffee shop that my co-worker and I lovingly refer to as SCC. Kim is really wonderful and so is Jesse - her assistant manager. We telecommute and used to work sometimes from Intelligensia on Broadway, but Kim's is so much more relaxing and friendly.
I always get the vanilla nut latte which is delicious and the sandwiches I've had there (especially the panini) are also tasty.
Plus the free wi-fi (nothing to sign up for or card to get like at Caribou, Starbucks or Intelligensia) is really awesome.
Check out this cute little place and help support a new local business in town rather than giving your money to the big guys. -
Review from Geoff K.
Saint Louis, MO
8/18/2011
Get that asparagus/bacon quiche!!
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Review from Jeff S.
Mission Viejo, CA
8/10/2011
I was staying in the neighborhood while in town for Lollapalooza and this is a great little coffee shop. Usually I get nervous when I walk into an unfamiliar "good" coffee shop because I'm allergic to hipsters (who I find often work in such places), but the owner of this place is SO sweet and I became addicted to her oat cakes. I had one five mornings in a row. I wonder if she can ship them in bulk to me out in California???
Cheers! -
Review from Erika G.
4/20/2010
Super pleasant little coffee shop! Clean, bright, delicious coffee. Good array of non-coffee beverages. Absolutely delicious sandwiches, the egg salad is really good.
The owner could not take more pride in her work. Very hands on, makes everything herself and provides stellar customer service. I'll come back - you can't beat the quality of these sandwiches for the price.
The only thing that made me cringe a bit was the music. The day we were in, I think it was Eric Carmen and the Raspberries day. Ummmm . . . maybe pep up the tunes a bit.
Otherwise, BELLA, I'll be back for sure. -
Review from Mark T.
Updated - 4/24/2010
I've been going to SCC since it opened and am always had an excellent experience. All the baristas are kind and Kim usually finds a way to make my experience more personal. It's almost like she has ESP sometimes. :)
The WiFi is blistering fast, the chairs are comfy and the new sidewalk cafe area is more than welcome! I can't wait to take advantage of it on sunny days.1 Previous Review: Show all »
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4/30/2009
Truly a gem in the neighborhood. The owner is just the sweetest thing and has the warmest smile… Read more »
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Review from Meredith S.
Chicago, IL
4/24/2011
I started coming here about a year ago because I needed a quiet, wifi free, good coffee place for studying. Little did I know I would be turning into a regular, now coming in weekly with my knitting group. I still show up to study, although I'll be done with school in a few weeks (yay). The owner, Kim is so wonderful, she always has a smile on her face, and knows her regulars. The food is awesome and the atmosphere is so much better than going to one of the chain coffee shops any day. Plus there is local art on the walls! I will be coming here as long as I'm living in Chicago!!!
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Review from Joshua C.
Chicago, IL
4/16/2011 1 Check-in Here
still love this place, its great to support local business. They just switched to metropolis coffee which I like a lot better. There is always room to sit and OUTLETS for computers (what are starbucks and caribu thinking?)
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Review from Michael S.
Chicago, IL
10/12/2009
This is a nice independent shop run by a friendly woman, fresh from Saugatuck (well, relatively at least).
There certainly aren't any bargains though (my Grande latte -- probably a 16oz. cup) ran just over $4 bucks, and the piece of apple Hoosier Mama Pie Co. pie (which was AWESOME, and served with vanilla gelato), around $5 (about the quarter cost of a whole pie).
Also, expect plenty of people taking up tables studying (I almost felt bad talking lest we disturb those with their books out...meaning every other table).
Still, the pie was so damn good, it made for a nice visit. -
Review from Rick J.
Chicago, IL
8/12/2009
I like two things, maybe more:
- coffee
- gay people
So Saugatuck Coffee Co. seemed like it'd be a good idea. After a few visits, it's pretty clear that both of these things are watered down here.
Saugatuck is nice inside, like the definition of "nice." I would set up a children's bedroom to look like this place. I would take my mom here, if she was not up for going to Sidetrack. It is pretty much a more homely Starbucks inside - all sorts of earth tones, soft music, even "grande" and "venti" sized drinks so as not to confuse Frappuccino guzzlers. It's clean and quiet, and that counts for something, but I really can't recommend Saugatuck beyond that.
The tables are incredibly cramped. The store is fairly large, but they somehow managed to take the handful tables and shove them so close together that you can not find a comfortable spot, especially if you hit some bad luck and wind up at one of the wobbly tables. I would not stay here to drink if there were more than 3 or 4 tables occupied.
This isn't a huge deal, but you feel even less comfortable when you feel like you are constantly bothering the staff. The fellow who served me the first time I came here was very nice, but since then I've been helped by guys who know how to say polite words but are clearly hoping you don't order a complicated drink.
Which I usually don't. I did have a Latte here that was passable, but the coffee is outright bad, especially for the price. It's so weak that I had to wonder if I just hit a bad batch, but apparently that isn't the case.
Maybe I'm missing something. The staff seems like they could be pretty personable if you manage to strike up conversation, and they seem to have a decent selection of cold drinks, which I typically never get. So who knows, maybe I'll try this place again and be impressed. Until then, I will probably just go down the street to Caribou, which I'm going to do right now rather than ask for a refill. -
Review from Laura H.
Oak Park, IL
5/14/2009
Great new addition to Lakeview! With free wifi, good coffee and an extensive bakery case (really, too many wonderful options), this place is the perfect place to spend the afternoon. But then you add in a very sweet owner and a nice crowd of people who already seem like regulars and it just puts it over the top.
I've already been in for a few visits and expect to call myself a "regular" very soon. -
Review from Mrs T.
Oak Park, IL
4/6/2010
I frequent this location for my Chai Tea... virtually no milk on a regular basis. The owner is super sweet. She remembers me when I come in... and when I eat inside, she stops by regularly to check on me and make sure I'm all set.
She has a variety of items on her menu-- but also has a few snacks. Ie. Banannas... Almonds... snack bars.... I like the Chicken Salad Sandwich.
The space is clean. There are a lot of people who come to browse the net... although.. I never do. I'm usually in or out... or I sit to eat and head back out the door.
It's a quiet space. -
Review from Nick G.
Chicago, IL
6/8/2011
Quiet, good coffee, and a great location. Friendly staff and local establishment... Ah... perfect.
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Review from Chitown D.
Chicago, IL
6/5/2011 1 Check-in Here
Great chocolate chip cookie. Had iced peppermint tea too, which was a little weak, but overall a nice place.
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Review from Margaret C.
Chicago, IL
3/22/2011
Love, love this cafe. The owner is fantastic-super friendly and always has a smile. Free wireless with some quiet tables in the back if you want to do some work. The food is pretty good-yummy sammiches. Try the chicken salad! Would have given it 4 stars, but the coffee prices are a little steep.
