Buttercup in the South Loop is an absolute gem, especially if you're even remotely into amaro. The selection is unreal, like the kind of list that makes you pause and realize you're about to learn something whether you wanted to or not. It's curated in a way that feels intentional, not just "we stocked a bunch of bottles." You can tell whoever built it actually cares. And shoutout to Axel behind the bar, because she is amazing. Friendly, dialed in, and genuinely knowledgeable without doing the annoying bartender thing where they make you feel dumb for asking questions. You can tell she really enjoys working here. She makes a fantastic Negroni. Great vibe, great drinks, and the kind of place you immediately want to make "your spot." read more

Buttercup - Coffee & Tea Near Me - Chicago, Illinois

See all

It's nice to have another coffee shop in south loop and this place is very cute! Cozy vibes and the service is nice and fast enough. My friends and I each tried their specialty drinks and i got an everything croissant. We had high expectations because everything looked so good on the menu. Unfortunately none of us particularly enjoyed anything we got. All of our drinks just tasted like milk (both iced and hot options) and my croissant was oddly sweet because of the filling and I didn't love that. The pastries are actually being shipped in from elsewhere (they have exactly the same one in coffee shops out in Naperville too lol). Which leaves nothing special here. It's also very small so it gets crowded and swamped pretty fast. You're really constantly stepping out of someone's way when you're just waiting for you order, so that's not ideal either. Likely won't return. read more

Buttercup - Everything croissant - Coffee & Tea Near Me - Chicago, Illinois

Love this place for the neighborhood and the fact that they are open until 10 on weekdays!! It's still somewhat new and there are some kinks I hope management works out! 1. During the cafe hours it's always messy. I wish they had an attendant similar to what Cafe Deko has...someone who clears off the tables, booths, etc. The booth seats are always covered in croissant flakes and it's annoying to clean off the table and chairs when I come in. 2. They always run out of food around noon. Given that the cafe closes around 2pm, I wish there were more food options. 3. I don't love the food in the Amaretto bar. The pizza for example is so soggy. Given that the bar menu is relatively small, I'm hoping they improve. Vitalogy in Printer's Row does a great job at having delicious food and only a few items. I hope these items are addressed, if so this place will pop even more! read more

This place is cute but has the absolute worst matcha latte EVER! It was lukewarm, overly milky and watery, grainy and the matcha quality was so bad that it tasted like seaweed! And to top it all off, it was almost $9. Absolutely ridiculous! This is the first ever drink where I've only taken two sips and thrown the whole drink away. Absolutely do not waste your time or money here. The aesthetic is nice but not worth it AT ALL read more

Buttercup - Worst matcha latte ever - Coffee & Tea Near Me - Chicago, Illinois

Excellent vibes, okay sugar cookie latte, pretty yummy cinnamon roll, very nice baristas/service. I wanna try their snacks and drinkies, would return. read more

Buttercup - Cinnamon roll - Coffee & Tea Near Me - Chicago, Illinois

See all

What an absolutely adorable cafe in south loop!! Came here for breakfast with a friend and ordered an iced dirty maple sea salt chai and it was really delicious and served in the cutest diner milkshake glass! I also ordered the egg and cheese breakfast sandwich and the garlic sauce made the sandwich so incredible! The egg was very fluffy and the cheese was melty with a toasted bun! I think the breakfast sandwiches might be limited time offer but hopefully they add them permanently to the menu! Everything came out super quickly! Would love to come back for their pastries or for their happy hour read more

Buttercup - Egg and Cheese breakfast sandwich - Coffee & Tea Near Me - Chicago, Illinois

See all

Unfortunately, I forgot to get a picture of the initial latte but as you can see, I definitely liked it. The decor gave a very diner vibe. And it was super cute. The service was super quick since I just placed an order at the bar, but I will definitely be back to try one of the breakfasts sandwiches read more

Buttercup is a cute all day cafe in South Loop that has happy hour/dinner options as well. I stopped by around noon for a pastry. I got the sticky toffee bun and maple sea salt chai, both of which were delicious. I wish I had tasted a bit more of the maple and ginger in the chai, but it was good overall. The music playlist is great as well, and everyone is friendly! read more

Espresso taste like a regular but good espresso. Really enjoyed the little cookie! Sugar cookie latte was delicious but very sweet! They made a small mistake in our order but they fixed it right away :) Very cozy small coffee shop with very limited seating especially on the weekend at 11am read more

See all

A week prior to trying out Buttercup, I was roaming around Paris in search for the perfect croissant to no avail until I returned home to find a delicious savory croissant upon the first bakery back! read more

I'm so glad there's another coffee shop in the neighborhood! This spot if small but so cute! They really make good use of the space small tables in the front, a couple high top booths and then single bar seating towards the back. Their menu isn't large but it has a good selection. And I am guessing they rotate their menu or change it up as the seasons change too. They do have a small food menu too. The display case is by the cashier. The service is pretty fast and the staff is nice. I ordered the pistachio latte and a cinnamon bun. Both tasted pretty good. Both the best I've had but was pleasant. read more

See all

This little cute coffee shop by day and cocktail bar at night is pretty decent. My friends and I came here in the afternoon for coffee/girls hang out. I thought the coffee was a little bit more sour for my liking which is fine because we were just there to chill while checking out this new place in Southloop. I ordered the lavender sea salt latte, but didn't really taste much of the sea salt part in the lavender was just a little light for my preference. The coffee shop part closes at 2 PM so we decided to grab brunch somewhere in the area because we wanted to come back at 4 PM for their cocktail drinks. For the boozy drinks, I decided to try the buttercup drink which was ridiculously amazing. I originally wanted Brandon's milk punch, but they said that they were out of it until Tuesday so I just went with their signature drink. I thought the drink would be like a slushy because it says shaved iced cocktails but instead it's a drink with shaved ice on top, which was very IG worthy. I honestly will come back with friends to just grab a drink and chill. Maybe if they have an actual dinner menu I will come back for food too but otherwise this is definitely a very solid place for coffee and/or cocktails depending on what you're in the mood for. read more

Buttercup - Lavender latte and latte - Two iced coffee drinks in clear plastic cups with the Buttercup logo are positioned on a white surface. The left drink has a straw and appears to be a latte with ice, while the right drink is darker, possibly black coffee or cold brew. The background is blurred, showing a window and some furniture, indicating an indoor setting. - Coffee & Tea Near Me - Chicago, Illinois

See all

We like Buttercup, a little cafe and evening-bar founded by former-Bears defensive end Israel Idonije. The food and drink are creative both in composition and presentation. Consider making reservations because it's only got 40-seats, or treat yourself to their efficient take-out. The butterscotch-color decor is clean and bright, with cute touches such as a don't-slip wet-floor caution cone shaped like a banana peel, and a giant red bottle cap to remind you of their broad amaro selection. Besides many authentic north-Italian recipes, their pistachio cake (Nov 2025) was the best thing I've ever eaten. read more

Buttercup - Delicious artful pastries and coffees on a morning in Nov (2025). The wet-floor caution cone is a banana peel! - Coffee & Tea Near Me - Chicago, Illinois

When you can escape to wonderfully cozy @sipbuttercup to indulge in a fresh HUGE cinnamon roll with icing oozing throughout and a hot latte, you're in good hands here! Lovely ambience, impeccable staff, and clean organized tables. read more

See all

Very cute new place in South loop! It is kind of small so seating is kind of tight especially if you are working. It's a cafe until 2pm and then Tuesday onwards it reopens again as a restaurant so will definitely go back to try out their dinner menu. I had the iced matcha lassi which was kind of sweet. As someone who is indian, I was intrigued by the lassi part since that is milk based in our culture. The ham & cheese croissant was heated up and pretty good. The servers were fast and efficient in cleaning up as well. read more

Buttercup - Matcha lassi and ham & cheese croissant - Coffee & Tea Near Me - Chicago, Illinois

See all

Love this place! Unassuming spot in South Loop, I've only been here for coffees so far but the ambiance and vibe of this place is lovely and quaint. It's pretty small so it can get crowded pretty quickly. Both times I've stopped in around 10-11 the pastries were sold out but I opted for just coffees. I love that they make all their syrups in house, and I definitely think it's worth it! Would love to come back in the later hours for a cocktail as well. read more

Buttercup - Latte - A person is sitting on a bench in an urban park, holding a white coffee cup with a black lid from Buttercup. The person is wearing dark pants and a beige or tan sweater. The park features a concrete surface, a black metal fence, and a tall streetlamp. In the background, there are high-rise buildings and trees, with sunlight creating a bright atmosphere. - Coffee & Tea Near Me - Chicago, Illinois

See all

We liked the am so much we came back for the pm experience. The anchovy toast was excellent and drinks balanced and delicious. Also still great service. Highly recommend a reservation as they were slammed and had to turn away a few people. read more

Buttercup - Cold coffee - A cold coffee drink is served in a clear plastic cup with a domed lid, labeled 'Buttercup.' The beverage appears dark and iced, with some foam or bubbles visible at the top. The cup is placed on a metallic table, with a blurred background showing various cafe items and a person partially visible. The setting suggests a casual cafe environment. - Coffee & Tea Near Me - Chicago, Illinois

See all

I just love how they have revitalized this space. This isn't just a coffee shop or bar, but it's truly gives a boutique Café vibes which exactly what South Loop needs. This space is perfect for if you want to come by in to a quick meeting with a business partner or coworker or if you want a quick sip before going over to dinner. I think the potential for this place is limitless and I'm excited to see what they do in the future with it as far as menu expansions as well just like with the old location under all the seats there are places where you can plug up your chargers, so if someone wants to come in and do work, they can. I'm excited to come back for the evening Amaro part. I came in on opening day and on Monday too so I know kinks are still being worked out but they still have strong service from what I experience read more

See all

I just love coming here and trying new things! My friend and I went Saturday and it was packed! I tried the Matcha Lassi and chose to eat the cheddar scone as my fav ham and cheese croissant was sold out. The scone was alright. It was super dry. I felt like there should have been some kind of sauce with it, but I still ate it all!! I am so happy this is in our neighborhood! read more

Buttercup - Matcha Lassi and Cheddar Scone - A beverage of matcha lassi in a clear plastic cup with a sealed lid, showing green and white swirls inside. Next to it, a cheddar scone is in a small white cardboard box with an open top, on a white table surface. The background is neutral and out of focus. - Coffee & Tea Near Me - Chicago, Illinois

Review is more like a 3.5 & solely for the pastries because I don't drink coffee & there isn't a chai on the menu. Highlight of my visit was definitely the cinnamon roll. It had a homemade aspect to it & it was quite hefty to say the least. I'm definitely interested in their cocktails which unfortunately are solely reserved for dinner but with the nearby closing of a pastry shop this so far is a nice & different addition to my coveted south loop especially considering it's technically a food desert read more

Buttercup - Menu as of 9-25 - Coffee & Tea Near Me - Chicago, Illinois

See all

This place just opened up in South Loop and I'm excited to have a go-to neighborhood coffee spot! The service is great. They let you bring your dog inside as long as you take your food/drink to-go. The coffee is pretty good. I liked the cappuccino better than the pistachio latte as the latte lacked flavor. I tried the everything croissant which was interesting. It was super flaky--just the way I like it, but I did not expect a savory pastry to be sweet in the middle--a little odd. I will be going again to try more pastries! The banana muffins look devine read more

Such cute vibes! Loved the sea salt chai - perfect balance of sweet + salty. Cozy, almost retro feel, I'd happily return to. read more

Buttercup - Inside - The image shows a café counter with a glass display case containing croissants, muffins, and other baked goods. A sign indicates where to order. Behind the counter, there are shelves stocked with various bottles of alcohol. A digital ordering tablet and a receipt are on the counter, along with a jar of tips and a tissue box. The ceiling features large, round white lights and decorative fabric elements. The overall setting suggests a modern, stylish café environment. - Coffee & Tea Near Me - Chicago, Illinois

See all

Checked out Buttercup during their first week open for Happy Hour. My friend was very excited to have a new place in the neighborhood, and the experience did not disappoint. The interior is cute and cozy, and it definitely transitioned nicely from daytime to after work vibes. We had a couple of drinks on special from the Happy Hour menu (Meletti Spaghetti and Americano Doppio) before moving to a monthly special riff on a Negroni, which our server helpfully had split into two glasses. The amaro list is long and super impressive (would love to do a flight/tasting scenario of some of these), and the Anchovy Toast was delectable. I would be remiss if I didn't note that the riff on the Old Fashioned was excellent; I don't think I fully appreciated how thoughtful the classic cocktail renditions were until tasting my friend's (and devolving into full on jealousy). Definitely a worthwhile stop. read more

See all

Nice interior and great treats. I like the addition to the neighborhood, and my kids always want to come by for a cheddar scone.

We stopped in excited to try this coffee shop, but the seating situation made for a really disappointing experience. I understand that tables are first come, first served, especially in a small space, but the way it was handled by staff did not feel fair or customer‑oriented. When we ordered, the staff member told us, "Okay, I'll let you know once a table opens up," so we reasonably assumed there was at least some system for keeping track of who was waiting. While we were standing there, a table opened up and a group who had just walked in, without ordering, went straight to the table and sat down. When we pointed this out, the person at the counter just said, "Sorry, I can't do anything about it or control it," and left it at that. I completely understand that in a counter‑service coffee shop the staff can't police every table, but being told we'd be notified when a table opened and then watching someone else take it with no effort to make it right felt really frustrating and dismissive. A simple acknowledgment, clearer communication about how seating actually works, or even a small gesture (offering to prioritize us for the next table, or suggesting a solution) would have gone a long way. Unfortunately, the way it was handled turned what could have been a cozy visit into a negative experience, and it makes me hesitant to return or recommend this spot. read more

Very underwhelming experience overall. The pastry case only had three options, and the menu felt extremely limited, especially for a place that seems to market itself as a specialty coffee shop. There just wasn't much to choose from, which made the visit feel not worth the hype. On top of that, the space is very small and was overcrowded the entire time we were there. It was loud, cramped, and hard to move around without bumping into someone, so it never felt relaxed or comfortable. Between the minimal pastry selection, the restrictive menu, and the packed, tiny space, the whole experience felt strange and almost like being in a simulation rather than a cozy coffee shop I'd want to come back to. read more

such a cozy & cute spot!! + great service! we got: - truffle pizzetta was absolutely amazing. must get it with the shaved black truffle. - charcuterie board - we got the half, karl said the meats were just okay but we really liked the truffle ricotta with honey & orange-ginger mustards! - roasted garlic caesar was good, not your typical caesar and I doubted if i'd like broccoli in a salad but I liked how they did it. - the cookie butter gelato was phenomenal!!! 10/10 honestly. will definitely be back for it. read more

See all

I have visited twice. Fantastic service, generous bartenders. Celebrity sighting: Israel Idonije! He is a gracious host. The atmosphere is warm and friendly ... be sure to try the Roasted Pork Collar (see menu image). You can always tell a good spot when people linger ... it's an intimate spot so if you have a group be sure to call. read more

Buttercup - menu - Coffee & Tea Near Me - Chicago, Illinois

See all

So excited for this new spot in South Loop. Nice cocktails--super fun by putting shaved ice on top. Will be back again during the day to try the cafe drinks and foods! read more

Buttercup - Buttercup and Amargarita cocktails - Two cocktails in glass bowls with foam topping are placed on a table. Each drink is garnished with a strawberry, cucumber slices, lime wedge, and a cinnamon stick. The table has a white surface, and in the background, there are drinks, a phone, and a person sitting at the table. The setting appears to be a restaurant or bar. - Coffee & Tea Near Me - Chicago, Illinois

I have lived in the south loop for years and FINALLY found an amazing pastries and quality coffee shop. Went Sunday AM and can confidently say the cruffin, ham and cheese croissant and cinnamon roll are 10/10. I consider myself EXTREMELY picky with baked goods and cannot believe how fresh and I highly recommend quality these were. read more

Buttercup - A yellow paper coffee cup with a white lid and the Buttercup logo in maroon is held by a person with red nail polish. The background shows a table with a woven placemat, a gray cushioned chair, and large windows revealing a cityscape with tall buildings. The setting appears to be a café or restaurant with natural light coming through the windows. - Coffee & Tea Near Me - Chicago, Illinois

Wow just wow This is my second time here. The first time I literally stumbled on to it as some people came out the front door absolutely raving about the food. I gave it a try. It did not disappoint. They specialize in small plates and fantastic cocktails Try the pork shoulder. I came back last night with my wife and we loved it. The pizza was advertised as a small plate. However the owner is retired Chicago Bear Israel Odonoje. So the pizza was HUGE!!! The pistachio gelato was the final course and was probably the best part of the night. The taste combination was amazing. Sweet combined with salty and a delicious creamy texture. Get in here. read more

Stopped by twice in one day! The morning coffee was not only delicious (not bitter) but the environment was great for both reading or catching up with a friend. Our scone was delicious!! The cocktails in the evening were unique, delicious, and gorgeous. For both times of the day the ambiance was amazing -- you feel as though you've stepped back in time. I also recommend truffle pizzetta, so tasty. read more

Buttercup - the Buttercup - Coffee & Tea Near Me - Chicago, Illinois

See all

A wonderful addition to the neighborhood! I have loved their coffee drinks and treats. I love the cute retro look and am looking forward to trying their evening drinks! read more

I wasn't sure what to expect from Buttercup. I was instantly relieved to see so many familiar faces I recognized from Oliver's. The food, drinks, and service were similarly up to par. Their martini is the best I've had in the city. Their anchovies toast was the perfect blend of salty, cheesy, and slightly briney. This is gonna be my new spot. read more

Buttercup - Buttercup Martino. - Coffee & Tea Near Me - Chicago, Illinois

Cannot decide to start raving about the great friendly staff or the particularly delicious pizzicato or the absolutely marvelous Old Fashioned. Cannot wait to return in morning and to have dinner there again! Definitely great addition to S Loop! read more

What an amazing place, tucked into a storefront! This was the best ham and cheese croissant I have ever had.

I tried the ham and cheese croissant to go and it was amazing. They use Sparrow beans for their coffees and it's amazing. the atmosphere is incredible and the staff has been very pleasant and helpful each time I went. It's a great place to start off your day and I believe they're brewing the best coffee in the area. Highly recommend checking this place out. read more

Everything is fantastic here. The vibes are elite. The coffee is always excellent. The staff are kind and welcoming. 5 out of 5

Ate dinner here a couple times & have also grabbed coffee & pastries here- all great. Forward to today (new years eve). I wanted to pick up some pistachio cake they've been advertising on Instagram. Made a special trip and rushed over to get there before 2pm (they're closed between 2-4pm daily), waited in line for a while as someone ordered several barista drinks (not a big deal). I proceeded to order the pistachio cake(s) & they told me that they only sell that sweet in the evening & that I would have to come back after 4pm, not convenient, but no biggie, I'll come back later. I moved my schedule around (again) to pop over at 4pm, partly for courtesy of the restaurant so I wouldn't interrupt their busy dinner service with a to-go item. I arrived a few minutes after 4 and the door was locked. There were two guys who were inside behind the counter who saw me. I assumed they were going to open soon, so I waited patiently for about 10 minutes. 10 minutes later, I didn't want to be rude and pull on the door again, so I looked for their phone number which I couldn't find (not listed on Yelp) - So, I pulled the door again (still locked), now the two guys come to the door & looked at me as if I was inconveniencing them & they told me that they open at 5pm. I politely told them that I was a bit confused because their signage outside said 4pm & the barista earlier told me 4pm?? (Also there was no signage on the door informing of a time change). Anyhow - I made two special trips today to give them my money & walked away with the impression that they couldn't care less. A bit of a shame, I planned to frequent Buttercup, but not any longer. Also, (not trying to be petty/ just some constructive criticism) - they could use a good sweep in front & the curb - there's always trash piled up & down 16th street (not blaming them) - I just wish more south loop establishments would take the time to pick up litter in front of their businesses. read more