![]() One of the first stores in Chicago to roast their own beans opened in a small store in East Lakeview and is still located there today. The Coffee and Tea Exchange is a veteran roaster and cafe established way back in 1975. Forget about Starbucks or Dunkin here are some local business to support: With people moving away from pre-packaged coffee, roasters are making their prices more affordable and coffee more accessible. The number of roasters has only been increasing over the years, adding to the vibrant coffee culture. With the expresso filled aroma wafting through the air, Independent roasters are at the heart of Chicago's coffee scene. A million coffee places are hiding in plain sight owned by people from all walks of life- from combat veterans to family businesses that are worth checking out. While Chicago is too far off the equator to grow coffee beans, the roasters compensate by directly sourcing their coffee from farmers across the world. There are nearly 38 independent coffee roasters in Chicago and countless cafes and chain coffeehouses. The sheer quality of the small coffee roasters and their commitment to making their shops a neighbourhood centre sets them apart from other cities. While the coffee scene in Chicago is nowhere near as elaborate as Seattle or Portland, it is emerging as a unique culture that transcends quirky flavours or fancy cups. ![]() So whether you’re craving a traditional black coffee or a fancy Ristretto, we’ve got all the main coffee shops covered! Chicago has many coffee shops, independent roasters, and cafe to quench your search for a caffeine rush.įrom a quiet corner shop to a Michelin star approved restaurant, coffee is everywhere in Chicago, and it may be overwhelming to figure out where to have your next cup. ![]() While a good morning coffee at home is a deal-breaker, there is something special about curling up with a hot cuppa in a quaint cafe with a book in your hand. The chilly Chicago weather and the busy lives of its residents make coffee the perfect antidote. All this available to our members and their guest.Īnd who knows? Maybe the future will hold openings of other clubs, promising good times - good friends and fond memories.It isn't too far fetched to say that Chicago has the most prolific coffee scene in the US. I have been affiliated with the O'Hare Gaslight Club since 1974 in various positions and I am proud to say we have retained the posh opulence, replete with distinctive wallpaper, carpeting, a European Crystal Chandelier and of course, The Gaslight Girls. Browne said years ago Beauty, charm and talent make a winning combination. Although the speakeasy has evolved to the "Top Hat" and Dixieland Jazz is now mixed with a variety of live entertainment, the tradition of beautifully costumed servers with a song and a smile, has remained. However, slowly all the Clubs were phased out and only the The O"Hare Club is still in existence. became the owner and brought the Clubs back to there plush ambiance. O'Hare opened in 1973, and still the openings continued.Īfter Burton Browne's death in 1976, Robert Fredricks, a then member of the Board, took the reins until 1984 when long-time member Jim Roberts Jr. Next came Washington's Club in 1959 and on to Paris in 1961. Elizabeth Taylor was New York's favorite Gaslight Girl while filming scenes there for Butterfield 8, for which she won and Academy Award. The fun was contagious and in 1956 the New York Club opened it's doors in a plush old mansion. There were 300 invited guest at the first grand opening and what a success! Initial members set up extra tables and even the Liquor Commission for the state of Illinois helped behind the bar and this was only the beginning. Inspired by the nostalgia of the zany 20's, they stepped back in time to another fabulous period, complete with Dixieland Jazz, drinks served in coffee mugs, a slot in the door - "Speakeasy" come to mind? The ambiance of this era had again come alive - The Gaslight Club was born. ![]() Enhanced by the rare combination of relaxation and entertainment, one could enjoy the excellent Bill of Fare and toast the evening with vintage wine or a generous cocktail. 1953 was the year when in one small room on Chicago's Gold Coast, Burton Browne and a select few, re-created the "Good Old Days" of the early 1900's. ![]()
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