As one of the busiest airports in the world, Chicago O’Hare International Airport is teeming with travelers from all over the globe as they shuttle in and out of the Windy City. And while airport food is notorious for being bland and overpriced, coffee connoisseurs need not worry. O’Hare has plenty of top-notch cafes that serve some of the best coffee in Chicago. So, whether you’re a frequent flyer or a first-time visitor, here’s our guide to the top cafes to help you wake up with a jolt of caffeine.
First on our list is Dunkin’ Donuts, one of the most popular coffee chain stores in the country. Known for its signature blends like Original Blend, Dark Roast, and French Vanilla, Dunkin’ Donuts has a massive following in Chicago. At O’Hare, you can find this familiar brand in almost every terminal, making it accessible to all travelers. The coffee is brewed fresh, and you can customize your drink by adding flavor shots, syrup, or creamer. You can even grab a few donuts to go along with your coffee.
Next, we have Starbucks, known for its top-quality coffee and quirky mugs. With multiple locations across O’Hare, Starbucks’ signature blends are always a great pick-me-up for travelers. From the Blonde Roast and Caffe Americano to the Caramel Macchiato and the seasonal Pumpkin Spice Latte, Starbucks’ menu is always filled with plenty of options. If you’re in a rush, try placing a mobile order through the Starbucks app and pick up your drink and pastry right outside the cafe.
If you’re looking for a more artisanal coffee experience, head over to Beatrix Market, located inside Terminal 1. This cafe roasts its coffee in-house and offers a range of blends from countries like Peru, El Salvador, and Ethiopia. The baristas here are well-trained and can help you choose the perfect brew to compliment your taste buds. Pair your coffee with a freshly baked pastry, sandwich, or salad from the market.
Another great option is The Coffee Bean & Tea Leaf, located in Terminal 3. With its commitment to sourcing high-quality coffee beans and tea leaves, The Coffee Bean & Tea Leaf can satisfy the most discerning taste buds. Choose from a range of blends like the Viennese Blend or the House Blend, or go for an exotic flavor like the Black Forest Berry or the Lemon Ginger tea. You can even buy a bag of your favorite bean or leave with a new teapot.
Last but not least on our guide is La Colombe Coffee Roasters, located in Terminal 3. Known for its unique brews, La Colombe prides itself in sourcing the finest coffee beans from around the world. The menu may be simple, but the quality of the coffee speaks for itself. The cafe’s signature craft lattes and cappuccinos are worth a try, as well as its drip coffee, espresso, and cold brew.
In conclusion, O’Hare International Airport may be known for its rapid pace, but that doesn’t mean you have to sacrifice your caffeine intake. Whether you’re looking for a simple cup of coffee or a specialty latte, these top cafes will not disappoint. So the next time you’re flying in or out of O’Hare, be sure to treat yourself to a coffee break at one of these top cafes.