The best cafes in North Shore

8 cafes we’ve checked and stand behind — with the story on each one. Not a ranking; a record.

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Cafes · 8 places · showing the latest additions first

Churro Parlor is bringing a taste of México to Glenview with Chicago’s Original Churro-Loops, fried fresh and finished with toppings…

9707 N Milwaukee Ave (Glenview)

“Churro Parlor is bringing a taste of México to Glenview with Chicago’s Original Churro-Loops, fried fresh and finished with toppings instead of stuffing. Grab a hot, cinnamon-sugar spiral this week and call it self-care, no explanation needed.”

From the North Shore newsletter, August 29, 2026

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Dunkin'

Cafes

Long-running chain serving signature breakfast items & a variety of coffee drinks.

2120 Miner St (Des Plaines)

“Long-running chain serving signature breakfast items & a variety of coffee drinks.”

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W Coffee & Tea in Niles leans into procurement from the place of origin and 100% natural ingredients, turning hot or iced coffees, teas,…

8600 W Golf Rd Ste 300 (Niles)

“W Coffee & Tea in Niles leans into procurement from the place of origin and 100% natural ingredients, turning hot or iced coffees, teas, and croissants into easy weekday rituals. Welcoming spot to study, work, meet, or even plan your next party.”

From the Elk Grove Village newsletter, September 4, 2026

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Capy Teahouse over in Niles keeps it simple and excellent with carefully brewed teas and coffee, the kind you can sip in peace or grab to…

9050 W Golf Rd (Niles)

“Capy Teahouse over in Niles keeps it simple and excellent with carefully brewed teas and coffee, the kind you can sip in peace or grab to go. They’re community minded and low key, and you can even order ahead for pickup or delivery when the day gets busy.”

From the Des Plaines newsletter, September 8, 2026

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Part coffee temple, part moto clubhouse, Grind ‘N’ Gears Cafe pours seriously good espresso while stocking vintage-inspired motorcycle…

8030 W Oakton St (Niles)

“Part coffee temple, part moto clubhouse, Grind ‘N’ Gears Cafe pours seriously good espresso while stocking vintage-inspired motorcycle apparel and handmade accessories. This week, swing by for a latte then browse the gear racks, plus keep an eye on their calendar for Cars and Coffee and detail days.”

From the Des Plaines newsletter, August 28, 2026

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Berry Pike Cafe is the Evanston spot for fluffy Liège waffles made with imported pearl sugar, melty steamed bagel sandwiches built meaty or…

1100 Davis St (Evanston)

“Berry Pike Cafe is the Evanston spot for fluffy Liège waffles made with imported pearl sugar, melty steamed bagel sandwiches built meaty or vegan, and fresh fruit smoothies that can go dairy-free, all alongside coffee brewed from curated high-altitude beans...”

From the Evanston newsletter, September 16, 2026

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Fluffy Bunny is pouring organic Julius Meinl coffee and turning out oven-baked omelettes, multigrain waffles, and Eastern European syrniki…

545 Roger Williams Ave (Highland Park)

“Fluffy Bunny is pouring organic Julius Meinl coffee and turning out oven-baked omelettes, multigrain waffles, and Eastern European syrniki made with Amish farm cheese. This week, swap the same-old latte for herbal or mushroom coffee, matcha cocktails, and European-style desserts with gluten free and sugar free options.”

From the North Shore newsletter, September 23, 2026

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Fresh Belgian waffles, buttery crepes, and real-deal chocolate are the whole mood at Leonidas Chocolate & French Cafe. Swing by for a cocoa…

1907 Central St (Evanston)

“Fresh Belgian waffles, buttery crepes, and real-deal chocolate are the whole mood at Leonidas Chocolate & French Cafe. Swing by for a cocoa that actually tastes like chocolate and a plate you’ll 100% refuse to share... perfect for a low-key treat-yourself break this week.”

From the Evanston newsletter, September 22, 2026

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