Hot Coffee and Chill Time

Looking for a place where you can slow down and relax with a cup of coffee and lounge while you sip, or where you can pull out your laptop to get some work done and have a cup of fuel at the ready? While there is no shortage of fast-food, fast -casual or cafe chains where you can do so, there are also some quaint, independent spots that are inviting and inspiring where you can take in the vibe with your cup of Joe.

Kdulche Cafe in Lansing has a fun atmosphere with lots of Instagrammable backdrops for your selfies. It’s a bright and colorful place that is sure to make you smile while you sip on your coffee, smoothie, tea or milkshake. Their menu includes crepes, sandwiches, salads and Mexican specialties.

Cornerstone Coffee House in Peotone is a good choice if you’re feeling a little extra. They offer espresso shots, Americanos, lattes, specialty lattes, cappuccino, cold brews, cafe au lait and much more, along with plenty of teas and alternate beverages for the non-coffee drinker.

Grab a cup of quality espresso to enjoy in this cute, converted house or in the Adirondack seating in the adjacent patio area at SoHo Sweets Creamery & Cafe in South Holland. There are lots of cozy corners on the two floors of this little café, where you can also enjoy a leisurely lunch or a scoop of ice cream.

The Edge Coffee House & Roasting Company in Crete has a cool, relaxed vibe with exposed brick and dark wood and plenty of space to escape with a good book and a hot cup. There are also some great chilled options, including indulgent frappes.

Labas Latte & Vino in Monee is a classy little cafe where you can enjoy a high-quality cup of coffee along with a vast selection of upscale lunch items, like filet mignon sliders, or small bites, like flatbreads, bruschetta or shrimp cocktail. They also have a dinner menu, large wine selection, live music and an outdoor patio if you’d like to sip your latte outside.

You’ll find other independent coffee shops at VisitChicagoSouthland.com/blog/Coffee-Tea-and-Sweets in addition to a plethora of Starbucks and Dunkin’ locations.