Easily my favorite coffee shop. Even better than Everybody's Coffee which is still one of the best. EC might have the edge with preparing the classics or a simple cup of Joe. First Sip strives to expand your caffeinated palate. So many out of the ordinary teas and expertly crafted coffee beverages. As soon as I walk in, I check the chalkboard for "The Daily Sip". It's always something creative and delicious. I'm not typically a fan of curries or even tumeric, but First Sip has made a convert outta me, lol. Pastries, chips and even a couple sandwiches round out the limited food menu, but don't let that deter you. The Chicken Panini I had was tasty. If you're ravenous. ..North Sheridan is a great community to explore. Feel free to bring in grub from one of the local restaurants. The shop is beautifully designed with all kinds of cool knick knacks. I've only been mid-morning when it's usually pretty quiet and chill. Great for taking care of business. The owner is always present working behind the counter or plowing through work on her computer. I don't dole out many 5 star reviews, but First Sip is fully deserving. Check them out and please don't order something you can get from Starbucks. Support local and order something you don't think you'd like. You'll probably be pleasantly surprised. read more

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I've wanted to try this place for the longest time and finally had a chance to this past weekend! I love how they offer unique coffee/latte flavors with Asian influences. I tried the Ubae Latte and it was delicious! The price point is similar to what you might expect at a craft coffee house but you get a lot more variety. I ordered online and pickup was quick and smooth. Will definitely be back to try the other flavors. It's probably a good thing I don't live close by because I could see myself being a regular. read more

The first thing I do whenever I'm in Chicago is to make sure to stop by First Sip! All of their drinks are so delicious and their Vietnamese coffee is the best I've ever had. I find myself wanting to make the trip to Chicago often just for them. I highly recommend the Pistachio Mint Latte (it's one of my favorites). Their layout is the cutest as well. I love the plants and the lil teacups hanging from the ceiling! If you haven't trip First Sip, you definitely should give them a try! read more

First Sip Cafe - Coffee & Tea Near Me - Chicago, Illinois

Coffee is good but customer service could be a lot better. During my first visit last week I stood first in line for about 10 minutes or more, while the employees make coffee for other people, which is fine, But they NEVER turned to me and say "hello" or acknowledged to me at all or say "one minute please" or "I will be right with you" - nothing. And when the barista finally came to me she didn't greet me and there was no smile ever. she just asked what I would like and she spoke really fast. By the time they got to me, there were other people behind me so I didn't really have time to ask questions about what they offered and when they did answer me, it was as if they were irritated with my questions. And even still there was never a smile or any pleasantries. Coffee is cool but good the customer service is even better! I only came here because Starbucks is under reconstruction and hopefully their customer service gets better in the meantime read more

Adorable! I came here for coffee after trying some Pho from across the street. The outside lights and the charming decor def caught my attention. Once in, this place was soo cute! They had these multiple hanging cups on the roof, by the counter that gave it a magical feel. Also, the seating, the little fireplace and the cute sewing machine decor def added to the whole whimsical vibe. I got a cappuccino, it was a smaller serving than the usual but it came in a cute glass cup. I'm not a big coffee person so I don't know the specifics, but it tasted pretty standard to me. Ambiance was quiet, perfect for a chat. Ohh and they also carried some board games so that was cool! read more

First Sip Cafe - Coffee & Tea Near Me - Chicago, Illinois

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Amazing coffee shop on Argyle, just what the neighborhood needed! They have awesome & creative drink options that you'd find in a overpriced New York coffee shop but for much less. The interior is dark and has funky decor (they have a printer you can pay to use too!). People are always in there working or with friends. Great spot in Uptown, need more like it! read more

First Sip Cafe - Chai latte & matcha latte - Coffee & Tea Near Me - Chicago, Illinois

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I was visiting from out of town and discovered this place next to a pho joint I got lunch at. I had the Ube latte. It was pretty good! I really love the interior. read more

First Sip Cafe - Coffee & Tea Near Me - Chicago, Illinois

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Very earthy interiors and I love the calm feeling and vibes I get while sitting inside. There are plenty of outlets so no need to fight over them. There are bigger sets of tables that make it easier to study with friends. Drink: Golden Coffee. It had a very unique taste that I loved. It has the espresso paired with a coconut flavored milk along with a beautiful color. I'm very pleased and would love to stop by again read more

First Sip Cafe - Golden Coffee - Coffee & Tea Near Me - Chicago, Illinois

The only coffee shop on Argyle street run by two of the sweetest sisters who grew up in the area! As a person who also grew up here, it means a lot to me to see that. It's a super welcoming space and they have really gone above and beyond for their customers. I'm so happy they are in the neighborhood! Decor-super adorable. There are cute tea cups hung up from the ceiling, lots of plants, plenty of seating and also a patio area. Drinks- so tasty and unique! Although there are so many options I usually get the matcha latte and red beet latte. If you can't handle dairy, no problem! They have almond, coconut and oat milk available as an alternative. Tip: great place for a meeting or getting some work done. read more

Checked this place out today and both drinks were great!! The Ubae Latte is sweet when you drink it at first before you mix the shot of espresso in but after it's mixed the drink is a bit overpowered by the espresso. The Ubae Noir is sweet as well. You can taste the pandan. Plenty of seats inside and has outdoor seating as well. Overall it was good and I would come back to try other drinks. read more

First Sip Cafe - Ubae Noir (Left), Ubae Latte (Right) - Coffee & Tea Near Me - Chicago, Illinois

I love their americano, rich and smooth with just enough bitterness for taste. I'm usually a no frills coffee drinker, but I also enjoyed their golden coffee. Creamy and light, with a hint of sweetness. The space has a relaxing vibe with unique decorations consisting of hanging plants and tea cups. read more

Come here at least once a week. The Orange Blossom Latte is great iced. Got it for the first time hot, and it's just as good - if not better. My usual, and favorite, is the Iced Pistachio Mint. Also tried (ordered iced), and all good: mint to be sam (great non coffee bev) strawberry patch (matcha with a twist) ubae latte pearl noir (def gives you some heavy jasmine floral notes) first kick (a zingy cold brew) spicy mango latte (a little too sweet for my preference) My coffee snob fiance ALWAYS gets an Argyle Vietnamese Iced Coffee. Always. Every time. read more

I really dislike when I go somewhere to spend my money and am made to feel unwelcome as a customer and am left to wonder if it's because of my skin color. That was my experience at First Sip Cafe today. Let's begin with the good: the place is adorably decorated, the food was good, my Strawberry matcha drink was delicious. Here's the rest of the story: I walked into the cafe on a sunny Saturday morning, ordered a sandwich and drink from the lady at the cash register. I told her I wanted to sit outside, she said fine but I have to pay (um, of course?) and then pick up my food at the counter and bring it outside myself. That didn't seem strange to me. I said okay, paid, and made sure to leave a tip. She didn't seem particularly welcoming or friendly, but no service worker is required to be. So I sat on a stool by the window until my order was called out, got up to collect it at the counter as told, and brought it outside. I sat outside (at a table that was incredibly dusty, but I wanted the sunshine and fresh air) and ate my food. About 30 mins later, a white couple pulled up on bicycles. The man sat at the bench next to me, while the woman went in to order something for them. A couple minutes later the woman came back out to sit next to the man. A few minutes later, the very same worker who had rung me up and told me in no uncertain terms I had to pick up my order at the counter and bring it outside myself if I wanted to eat there, came outside with their two drinks and bags of food and served them. I wondered what accounted for the difference in service between myself and those white customers. The worker wouldn't even look at me as I watched her serve them. I grabbed my stuff and left, feeling disheartened and my good mood dampened. I didn't feel welcome or wanted as a customer (which probably explains why I was the only Black person I saw there), and I won't return to spend my money at First Sip Cafe again. read more

This place is not that big but has plenty of tables and very cute decor. Tea cups hanging over the counter and a whole bunch of plants on the windows and the wall, loved the unique vibe. Ordered two 16oz iced ube lattes, $6 each- had more ube flavor than coffee flavor, on the sweeter side but not bad! At one point the owner literally brought out a bottle of vodka and offered shots to a couple of regulars at 3pm LOL uhhhm can I get one too!? Seems like a interesting and quirky place. read more

First Sip Cafe - Iced ube latte - Coffee & Tea Near Me - Chicago, Illinois

I like this cafe, come here regularly with my friend, I enjoyed most of the coffees, the service is quick and polite. Have not tried their food to be honest, but I feel like it is a nice place to hangout, read, maybe knit there, it's pretty cozy. Recently though I have noticed that they started adding a lot more sugar to coffee which to me personally isn't the best decision... read more

It's soooooo freaking beautiful inside And the drinks are soooooo lavish and delicious and my soul smiled when I tasted my and my friend's drinks God bless the recipe maker read more

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The Golden Coffee was AMAZING. Both iced and hot. I can't wait to be in the neighborhood again so I can try more from their menu. The baristas were really friendly. They do have a food menu with decent prices at the register. My friend and I both ordered the veggie sandwich which for the price and compared to all the other lame veggie sandwiches out there, was surprisingly pretty good. What is even better than the really tasty Golden Coffee is the decor of the place though, every wall/ceiling has gorgeous decor from any angle. And it is filled with plants!!!! Ahh! We were there on a Saturday from about 1pm-2:30pm and though it was fairly busy, there was still lots of open seating and lots of big tables for any large groups. I would definitely recommend coming here with a friend, or a solo date with yourself! read more

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If you are looking for some modern takes on Traditional Vietnamese classics, this cute and humble coffeeshop is the way to go. The diverse and inclusive menu will and can cater to all tastes. Great spot to do some work, read a book, or reconnect with friends. read more

First Sip Cafe - Pistachio Mint Latte & Coconut Vietnamese Coffee - Coffee & Tea Near Me - Chicago, Illinois

I really want to like this place but every time I come here the lady with the short hair is so rude. She always looks angry whenever I order from here and I just don't feel welcomed at all. I tried to give it one last shot today and see if the vibes felt right but yet again the woman just looked angry that I came into her shop. I want to support this shop but I also want to spend my money without feeling like an eyesore. Great concept but terrible vibes :( read more

such a cute little coffee shop. their menu is very unique with a lot of flavor options for lattes and tea. i got a lavender matcha and it was delicious. the vibe and decor is dark and moody- perfect for a solo work session plus they're open pretty late in the evening. read more

This is my new favorite cafe. It's been open a year and I'm ashamed that it's taken me this long to come in. Excellent playlist, dope decor, fascinating drink menu. It's cozy without being cluttered and gross. No couches but big communal tables with plenty of extension cords for your computer. Exactly what I need to be productive. We ordered the golden coffee and the Ubae latte with an ubae cupcake. I loved every sip and bite. Cannot speak highly enough about this little gem. I hope no one else finds it so I can keep it to myself but that's not how businesses thrive. I hope you'll show First Sip some love! read more

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I really really want to love this place. It is in my neighborhood and the coffees are unique and delicious. Unfortunately, every time I go, I'm shocked at how cold and unfriendly the owners are. No smiles or friendly chatter, just short and abrupt talk. I really wish they could be friendlier. read more

Rustic wooden floors... porcelain teacups... ornate floral decorations and vintage items... reminds you of Grandma's old place, doesn't it? Perhaps. But don't be fooled by the deceptively quaint decor. If you crave something new and dangerous... this is the place to be. The epitome of Hipster coffee culture lies here, within the interior of Argyle's Viet-town, in a sleepy little Cafe known simply as "First Sip." Here you will find all sorts of concoctions that range from everyday mundane to the bizarre: Golden Coffee with tumeric and coconut, or Ubae (Purple Yam) latte are among the more adventurous choices. It certainly beats your average cup o' joe. What is most striking (other than these deliciously creative beverages) is the crowd. First Sip is strangely quiet and calm... almost businesslike. The only sounds you really hear are the clacking or keyboards and a local radio wafting ghostly through the air. In general this place is new, bizarre and intriguing. Much like your very first sip of coffee or tea. The first sip is always new and daring. Enjoy~ read more

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Cute and cozy decor. Ordered the Ubae latte per recommendation- did not disappoint, delicious!

I read the reviews before coming here and got pretty excited about this place -- when I came in person, I was not disappointed. Nice decor with unique pieces of furniture/art statements around the restaurant. There's plenty of seating all around and there are plugs near the wall. I find that the lighting is much better near the front of the cafe next to the windows and that it's a bit dim near the back, but I suppose if that's your thing, go for it. The staff is very knowledgeable about the menu/offerings. I went in thinking I would get the golden coffee after seeing all the raving reviews about it. I was told the turmeric flavor in it was quite strong -- so I ended up getting the ubae. I appreciated the honesty and didn't feel rushed to order anything. The ubae was delicious - not too sweet, but very flavorful. Service is quite fast here as well. I come to Argyle from time to time -- seems like this is my new go-to study spot here! Excited to try other drinks off the menu here in the future. read more

I was early for the restaurant I wanted to try and wandered down Argyle street. I found this place. It is a mix of an old style coffee house ( lots of tea) with the new hip drinks. In the photo that I included is one of the tables, this one with an old sewing machine on it. Outside are pick nick tables for the warm weather. I had the iced hibiscus tea. It was pretty good and not as expensive as it could be,. The drink menu had lots of coffee drinks, fruit drinks and teas drinks. I was waiting for the other restaurant to open so I forgot to look at the food offerings, sorry. It was very comfortable and I got to read a bit. It is kind of easy to walk past. Look for it and it is a great place to take someone for a comfortable chat. read more

First Sip Cafe - Coffee & Tea Near Me - Chicago, Illinois

No thanks. I wanted to like this place, close to home, but too many negatives. My Americano was 99% water. No music, creepy silent. Most irritating psychotic person pestering customers and staff just ignores it, bad hosts in my opinion. read more

First Sip is arguably my favorite shop on the entire north side. Every single drink I've tried is wonderfully complex, unique, and high quality. The Orange Blossom, the Spicy Mango, and the Ube are the ones that blow my mind over and over again. The vibes inside are always quiet and productive, and I love the dark interior with the plants. It is a joy to have it in the neighborhood. read more

I love this spot! It's so cozy and the drink options are amazing! Pearl Noir is my new fave! Besides wonderful drinks, they have created such a cool ambiance. Everything is so thoughtful and balanced. Nice to have a spot like this Uptown. read more

First Sip Cafe - Pearl Noir - Hot & Iced - Coffee & Tea Near Me - Chicago, Illinois

As an out-of-towner, this spot left quite the impression. I was visiting my brother/ sister-in-law (who are new to the neighborhood) and we all agreed this is their new coffee spot. Quirky décor, top-notch menu, and the friendliest staff; the woman working the cashier seemed to know most of the folks in the joint. I had a mocha over ice in the morning and a spicy mango iced latte that afternoon (when I returned a SECOND time with my sister-in-law); both were delicious and refreshing. I will definitely be paying them a visit on my next trip. read more

This shop fits the aesthetic of those trendy, abstract, IG-worthy cafes. I only tried one of their teas, but I wasn't entirely impressed. It tasted fine, but it was made with 2 packets of Bigelow tea, which is something I could easily get on my own at the grocery store and carry around in my own tumbler. I would have expected loose leaf teas from a cafe. read more

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First time visiting first sip but definitely will be back. I love the whole plants decoration and the vintage style inside. Usually you don't see this on argyle but this coffee shop makes the difference on the area. My croissant was delicious and the ube latte was amazing, first time trying a coffee with this flavor. Highly recommended this shop if you in the area, definitely such a cute place and amazing spot for instagram pictures also. read more

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Unexpected, inventive, and fun drink choices -- like cold brew with jalapeno slices or jasmine flowers -- along with the classics.

Passed by this place the other day as I was venturing around Uptown and I decided to do more research about it. I can't wait for a coffee shop to open up in this area of town. Looking forward for the opening day! More information about this store: https://www.dnainfo.com/chicago/20170831/uptown/daughters-of-cafe-hoang-owners-bringing-much-needed-cafe-argyle-street read more

First Sip Cafe - Coffee & Tea Near Me - Chicago, Illinois

Love this new addition to the Argyle. The coffee shop has a great ambiance with free WiFi. The standard coffee shop offerings at standard prices, but this place really shines in its iced tea selections. The iced teas have really interesting and delicious flavor combinations. The coco + lavender is delicious- a genuine coconut flavor (not fake tasting) and you can just get a hint of jalepeno flavor (in a good, not a spicy way). The coffee shop also has really cool interior decorations. Lots of plants, board game available, and a record player on. read more

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Very cute and coffee shop. There are plenty of areas to sit and study if you would like with different seating options available. Their menu is on a giant chalkboard which has so many flavors it's hard to choose sometimes. I recommend their ube latte, it's a latte but sweet from the ube and the color is very cute. I very much enjoyed the atmosphere, it's relaxing and perfect to study. There's also ample plugs around for you to charge your electronics. I wish I tried their ube cupcake, it looked delicious but unfortunately did not try it this time. read more

Great atmosphere for work or study. They have plenty outlet and free WiFi. I ordered Vietnamese coffee. Instead of my own filter dripping over a cut as I expected, I got a cup that's already made. It taste good but not like Vietnamese coffee... read more

Loved thisnplace so much that I had to go back twice in the same week, and took a friend with me. She loved it too. It's the perfect place to spend a relaxing Sunday having some tea or coffee, and as we confirmed, a great place to go after a long day of work. The prices are very good, the staff is very nice AND the best part is the decoration! So original and lovely. I went there during summer, so I was able to sit outside once with the colorful umbrellas, but sitting inside it's just as amazing, maybe more. Check it out! read more

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I came across this place while walking on Argyle and stopped in for an Ubae Latte. Delicious! I enjoyed the vibe and decor inside. Will definitely be back! read more

I've been twice and honestly, I love this place. It's one of my favorite cafes in Chicago so far. I love the atmosphere, plants, and decor. The first time I went, the younger woman working was very neutral. The second time I went, not going to lie, I was in a deep depression and struggling hard with social anxiety. I literally made myself get up after not wanting to leave my apartment and go to this place specifically because it was a favorite and also reading great reviews about how friendly they were. Now obviously I don't expect anyone to know my internal state and I don't expect anyone to be happy and sunny but the older woman taking my order seemed so angry while taking my order and whipped the pay screen around. I accidentally heard something she said wrong and she got even more mad when she had to repeat it. It's really not much but it made me so sad. As someone whose heart was pounding from anxiety before going in, this was a disheartening experience. I am a service worker that deals with customers at work too and I get that service workers can be tired and done but I've never treated my customers this way read more