With their third Chicago location, Philadelphia-based La Colombe continues to win us over with their great roasts. I'm normally a sucker for a traditional iced chai; however, while they don't offer my go-to here, they were happy to make it happen. If you're more traditional, they have cappucinos, lattes and more. They aren't serving up anything too different, but they're sticking to what they know — great roasted coffee.
Grab a pastry from Floriole, like the chocolate almond or ham and cheese croissants, or from Baker & Nosh, like the oatmeal chocolate cookie or bacon asiago chive scone, then relax in the open, bright space. There's a mix of wooden benches, stools and tables, and since there's no Wi-Fi, it's ideal for spending an afternoon catching up with friends.