If the name sounds familiar, it’s probably because you’ve seen Hero Coffee on your Instagram feed. In the world of Instagram aesthetics, Hero’s storefront is low hanging fruit. At the end of a brick alley, framed by string lights leading to a marquee sign for Coffee, the Jackson location is a favorite among bloggers, especially on a rare nice day. But with four coffee bars around Chicago, Hero is a good choice in any weather.
They keep things pretty simple. A coffee menu with all the usual hits and then some, using their own roasts of course, and a popular bagel sandwich selection. As a local business, Hero Coffee actively participates in the Chicago community. They often feature local artists in the shop, and donate a portion of retail proceeds to local charities.
the details
| Address | all locations (and their current open status) are listed here |
| Website | https://www.herocoffeebars.com/ |
| Yelp | https://www.herocoffeebars.com/ |
| @herocoffee | |
| Hours | 8am – 4pm every day COVID Hours: 7am – 2pm weekdays, 8am – 2pm weekends |
| Price | $$ – your standard third wave coffee shop prices |
| Aesthetic | pretty simple and unfussy, think chalkboard menus and minimal decor (it’s all in the curb appeal) |
good to know
Go here for: breakfast, coffee to go
Order this: a hot brew (they have daily light, medium and dark roasts), honey lavender latte, a bagel sando
Amount of time to spend: ideal for a quick coffee stop or take out
When to come: if you’re looking for the gram, on a sunny day to the Jackson location, otherwise, any day any time you need a pick me up
Getting Here:
- The Loop locations are all nearby CTA stations (Adams/Wabash, Jackson, Harold Washington, etc) so pretty much any line works.
- Lakeview is by the water, so your best bet is bus (134, 143, 151, 156) or car.
- West Loop is 3 blocks from the Morgan station (Pink/Green).
Other things to note:
- You can order ahead for pick up from their website.
- They have free wifi, and some locations have outlets available. Note that the Jackson location only has outdoor seats, otherwise is a takeaway spot.
Last visited: August 2019
Last updated: December 2020
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