This café in Lakeview opened this winter. It’s everywhere in London and now we have one in Chicago, so you know where to go if you’ve been looking for a proper flat white.

I had been following their progress for months, in eager anticipation of their imminent opening, and finally had a chance to try them out in March. Because I thought their coffee and tea beverages were amazing, I decided to bring my writing meetup along to kick-start our coffee houses roaming season. They have a decent selection of food and juices and several gluten-free treats.

There are several outlets under the bar by the window and the seating options include wooden benches, metal chairs, and sofas. Air conditioning and music levels have consistently been at acceptable levels.

Though I’m showing the place as it looks empty, don’t be deceived, it’s usually pleasantly full of quiet patrons. I’m just becoming super stealthy with my photography skills.

The idea is not only to give you a properly well-roasted, good cup of coffee, but the owners are also board members and volunteers for a number of national and international charities (hence the “Social Affairs” part of their name). Please go to their website to read about the charities they support and their social impact reports.

Department of Coffee and Social Affairs website

800 W Diversey Pkwy
Chicago, IL 60614

M-F 7am - 6pm
Sat 8am - 6pm
Sun 9am - 5pm