Wake up and smell the coffee at nearby bistros
The Italians drink it, the Turkish have their own version and college students use it as their staple to start the day — or prolong the evening — of studying. It’s that good old cup of Joe known as coffee. Here are some off-campus coffee shops, all of which have free WiFi. Some even have discounts for UIC students.
The Coffee Alley
A double latte caramel macchiato is the drink to order here in this relaxed café.
1152 W. Taylor St., 312-526-3873
Hours: Mon–Fri, 7 a.m.–9 p.m.
Sat & Sun, 8 a.m.–9 p.m.
Demitasse Coffee
The coffee is roasted in-house, so a cup of coffee is just as satisfying as anything else.
1066 W. Taylor St., 312-226-7666
Hours: Tues–Fri, 6:30 a.m.–3 p.m.
Sat & Sun, 7:30 a.m.–2:30 p.m.
Starbucks
Known as the face of coffee, this worldwide chain has a menu of beverages for all.
1430 W. Taylor St., 312-492-7370
Hours: Sun–Thurs, 5 a.m.–9 p.m.
Sat & Sun, 5 a.m.–10 p.m.
M2 Café
How does a warm honey vanilla latte with 10% off sound? The discount is available for students with a valid i-card on all purchases.
850 W. Jackson Blvd., 312-265-1824
Hours: Mon–Fri, 7 a.m.–5 p.m.
Efebina’s Café
Enjoy an iced latte here at this bright and comfy café.
1640 S. Blue Island Ave., 312-243-9790
Hours: Mon–Fri, 9 a.m.–9 p.m.
Sat, 9 a.m.–5 p.m.
Sun, closed
Nitecap Coffee Bar
Tired of the same old coffee flavors? Try a latte with basil or lavender syrup. And there’s a 20% discount for students with a valid i-card. Now try that for flavor!
1738 W. 18th St., 312-846-1149
Hours: Mon–Fri, 8 a.m.–9 p.m.
Sat & Sun, 10 a.m.–7 p.m.
Manny’s Coffee and Deli
A simple cup of coffee goes a long way here. The deli serves Kona coffee, a product of the Big Island, Hawaii.
1141 S. Jefferson St., 312-939-2855
Hours: Mon–Sat, 6 a.m.–8 p.m.
Artopolis
Coffee must be paired with a dessert in this Greektown café and bakery. Artopolis specializes in European drinks, like the original frappé from Greece. And don’t forget to come with your i-card — you never know when there might be a promotion.
306 S. Halsted St., 312-559-9000
Hours: Mon–Thurs, 9 a.m.–12 a.m.
Fri & Sat, 9 a.m.–1 a.m.
Sun, 10 a.m.–11 p.m.