Chicago is a wonderful city, made up of a variety of unique and vibrant neighborhoods. As the 2017 Ms. JD Conference approaches, I thought I would share some of my favorite places to go in the neighborhoods surrounding Northwestern Pritzker School of Law. Specifically, this guide will include top spots to grab a coffee or drink as you explore the city.
STREETERVILLE
Northwestern Pritzker School of Law is located in Streeterville, home to many graduate students and professionals.
For coffee, check out Dollop Coffee Co. at 345 E Ohio St, Chicago, IL 60611. Dollop is a proven Northwestern student favorite, with the perfect atmosphere for meeting up with others.
For drinks, try D4 Irish Pub & Cafe right next door, also at 345 E Ohio St, Chicago, IL 60611. There’s something for everyone on the drink menu, with plenty of food options as well.
RIVER NORTH
River North is a short walk from the law school and has no shortage of shopping, restaurants, bars, and businesses.
For coffee, check out Asado Coffee Roasters at 363 W Erie St, Chicago, IL 60654. Asado is tucked in a cute alley and is well-known for its charming ambiance.
For drinks, try Three Dots and a Dash at 435 N Clark St, Chicago, IL 60654. The tiki bar vibe can be much-appreciated during Chicago’s cold winter months.
LINCOLN PARK
Lincoln Park is north of the law school and home to many young professionals and students. There are plenty of restaurants, coffee shops, and parks, including the Lincoln Park Zoo, in the area.
For coffee, check out CityGrounds Coffee Bar at 507 W Dickens Ave, Chicago, IL 60614. The ground level is perfect for catching up with friends, while the upstairs is better if you are looking for some peace and quiet.
For drinks, try The Barrelhouse Flat at 2624 N Lincoln Ave, Chicago, IL 60614. The ambiance is perfect, with a casual vibe at the ground level bar and a more upscale tone upstairs in the lounge seating.
LAKEVIEW
Lakeview is just north of Lincoln Park and home to many young professionals, students, and families.
For coffee, check out Heritage Bicycles at 2959 N Lincoln Ave, Chicago, IL 60657. This combined bike repair/coffee shop serves up some of the best cold brew in the city.
For drinks, try Cubby Bear at 1059 W Addison St, Chicago, IL 60613. Pay homage to the 2016 World Series Champs across the street from Wrigley Field.
WICKER PARK
Wicker Park is northwest of downtown and is easily accessible off of the blue line. Wicker Park is well-known as one of Chicago’s favorite “hipster” neighborhoods.
For coffee, check out The Wormhole Coffee at 1462 N Milwaukee Ave, Chicago, IL 60622. You will feel transported back to the ‘80s in this retro coffee shop.
For drinks, try The Violet Hour at 1520 N Damen Ave, Chicago, IL 60622. This sophisticated speakeasy has one of the best drink menus in the city.
LOGAN SQUARE
Logan Square is about a mile north of Wicker Park and is one of Chicago’s up-and-coming trendy neighborhoods.
For coffee, try Gaslight Coffee Roasters at 2385 N Milwaukee Ave, Chicago, IL 60647. The coffee is wonderful and the rustic interior is inviting to stay for either social or work-related purposes.
For drinks, try The Whistler at 2421 N Milwaukee Ave, Chicago, IL 60647. This trendy, yet casual bar features live music or DJ sets every night.
WEST LOOP
The West Loop is an ultra-trendy neighborhood full of some of Chicago’s best bars and restaurants.
For coffee, check out Sawada Coffee at 112 N Green St, Chicago, IL 60607. Their signature drink is the military latte that combines matcha, espresso, and vanilla to create a beautiful and unique beverage.
For drinks, try The Aviary at 955 W Fulton Market, Chicago, IL 60607. The Aviary is an elite cocktail lounge that serves up an experience along with its cocktails. It’s pricey and reservations are recommended, but it is guaranteed to be a night you won’t forget.
I hope you enjoy your trip to Chicago!