L-Stop Musts: Cafe Edition

In a school brimming with local coffee shops, here are four unique spots near Loyola and its Red Line stations where students can grab a cup of locally roasted brew and settle into a welcoming atmosphere.

Granville: Metropolis Coffee Company (1039 W. Granville Ave.)

Tucked away near the Granville Red Line stop, just a block from Loyola’s Lake Shore Campus, Metropolis Coffee Company is a cozy place for coffee enthusiasts. There are three additional locations scattered around Chicago as well. 

With locally roasted coffee and a tight-knit atmosphere, this spot offers a dreamy environment for studying, catching up with friends or enjoying a quality cup of coffee.

The cafe is bright during the day with natural sunlight pouring in through the large windows, making it an inviting space to work or relax. 

Metropolis sells art made by local artists, including framed paintings, zines, stickers and bookmarks. The shop also hosts open mic nights, where students and emerging artists are invited to share music and poetry. 

From strong espresso to sweet lattes, Metropolis delivers a wide range of reasonably-priced options, including a selection of teas, baked goods and sandwiches. They have monthly specials as well, for example, their Heath Bar latte for October. 

Open daily from 6:30 a.m. to 5:30 p.m., Metropolis is a quintessential stop for early risers and those looking to settle in for an afternoon coffee.

Morse: The Common Cup (1501 W. Morse Ave.)

Just a quick three-block walk from the Morse Red Line station, The Common Cup delivers a welcoming space for both coffee connoisseurs and casual drinkers. 

The cafe has a laid-back, community-driven atmosphere where locals come together to enjoy coffee, homemade pastries and light meals such as egg sandwiches.

The Common Cup has a log cabin feel, with worn-out white, two-seat tables and bare light bulbs hanging above each table. A cozy book nook occupies a quiet corner in the shop, delivering a peaceful space for readers to browse and relax with their orders.

Though the menu centers on traditional coffee and tea options, it also features a rotating selection of seasonal drinks, such as an autumnal s’mores latte. 

Open daily from 7 a.m. to 4 p.m, The Common Cup is a useful option for students to stop by before class and enjoy a warm cup of coffee with a nice breakfast. 

Argyle: Kopi Café (5317 N Clark S)

Located in the heart of Andersonville on North Clark Street, Kopi Café is a bohemian gem offering more than just coffee. The store combines eclectic decor with comfy raised step seating suitable for studying or casual conversation. 

Kopi Café’s menu ranges from strong espresso shots to hearty vegetarian meals. They have a variety of lattes, teas, smoothies and alcoholic beverages.

Additionally, the café has a book and gift shop vending items reflective of the store’s wanderlust-inspired theme. 

With its cozy ambiance and wide variety menu, Kopi Café is a great spot for students to relax after a day of studying. Its location in Andersonville makes it easily accessible for Loyola students looking to explore the neighborhood while grabbing a bite.

Open daily from 10 a.m. to 8 p.m., Kopi Café offers students a nice, relaxing environment away from school stress.  

Belmont: Pedestrian Coffee (939 W. Belmont Ave.)

Pedestrian Coffee is conveniently located near the Belmont Red Line station. The coffee shop offers a minimalist yet stylish setting for a quick coffee fix.

Tables have a clean, soft wooden accent making the cafe designed for a comforting space without clutter, suitable for on-the-go commuters. 

Pedestrian Coffee has small-batch brews and espresso-based beverages but they also serve a selection of pastries and quick snacks. They pride themselves in their ethically sourced coffee, according to their website. 

Its convenient location near the Belmont station makes Pedestrian Coffee an easy stop for students heading to or from campus. The quick service and nearby Red Line connection provide an easy way to grab coffee on the go without straying too far from Loyola, especially for students who are not familiar with the city.

Open daily from 7 a.m. to 6:30 p.m., Pedestrian is a cozy, small place for students to enjoy a local coffee shop catering to different varieties of beverages and food.