The Walter: this has turkey, Swiss cheese, bacon, avacado, and ranch. I like getting this with challah bread ( because it will be toasted) otherwise it comes with multigrain wheat to me the wheat bread is too thick. This sandwich is flavorful and comes with ALOT of turkey. Grilled cheese: cheese, bacon, and tomato. This comes with challah bread. The cheeses are perfectly melted and great in flavor. Chai latte: amazing! This was made with whole milk it had the perfect blend of chai mix Interior: very spacious, we usually sit in the back it's more quiet for our weekly meeting. They play louder music in the front which are good for smaller groups read more

Robust Coffee Lounge - Grilled Cheese Lunch - Breakfast & Brunch Near Me - Chicago, Illinois

I went to robust coffee today and I ordered a corn beef sandwich. I asked the cashier can I have cranberry mayo on it as opposed to mustard. She said yes then I asked her can I have a little bit extra I'll pay for it. she said yes. When I got my sandwich, there was no cranberry mayo on the sandwich at all, and I had a little bit of extra cranberry mayo and a cup so I go back up there, and I said there's nothing on the sandwich, and the Caucasian lady takes it from me and goes to the back with it, then she comes back upfront and says to me, they said there is some in a cup. I told her specifically, that is the extra that I paid one dollar for. I said look on the receipt it says no mustard add cranberry mayo. And then it says one dollar extra for extra cranberry mayo. So the white lady took the sandwich one again and gave it to the white guy in the back that makes the sandwiches. I'm assuming he is the owner. He open the sandwich and flopped a teaspoon full on top of the corn beef. He did not spread it on the bread the way it's should have been done, because they didn't want to give it to me. They prices go up, and they charge for everything. The nerve of these people not giving you what you paid for. I was on a short break when I went up there, and I had to actually go back to get my added cranberry mayo. They never have to worry about me again because they was complete assholes and not putting cranberry mayo on my sandwich. The white lady had the nerve to say to me they said there's some in a cup. I said yes and I paid for that but where is the cranberry mayo that should be on this dry sandwich. They come into this neighborhood and they make a lot of money that they will not get another dime from me, treating me as though you can't afford to give extra cranberry mail. That's what I paid for. read more

The food is good, coffee too, but they let people sit inside with their dogs. This pit bull was clearly not a service animal. Health code violation, and very uncomfortable. Not coming back here. read more

The food was SUB PAR. The ambience was charming. The service was very good. The location is great. The quality of the cooking just too much to be desired. read more

Still awful, in case anyone was wondering. Staff is still unbelievably rude, no matter how kind you try to be (particularly if something is incorrect). It's kind of impressive how consistently they manage to hire people with bad attitudes for customer service positions. read more

Robust is a great spot to get work done. The music can be a little loud sometimes but the atmosphere is nice. The south shore club and honey nut latte are my faves. Everyone is friendly and helpful read more

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I love that this little independent coffee shop is in the neighborhood. However, as other reviewers have stated, it is inconsistent. I do love their breakfast sandwiches, fresh lemonades, and the espresso drinks I have had (mostly lattes.) They have a nice vibe for meeting up with a friend or doing a little bit of work. However, when it's busy, there is a layer of smoke from the kitchen-they could benefit from some better ventilation. The back room has some nice sized tables and booths, but the WiFi is sporty and the upholstery is ratty. I think they should have more types of bread options for their lunch sandwiches--all of their lunch sandwiches are on giant rolls/buns that are just too much for the sandwiches, in my opinion. Their tuna salad and French dip are good and my teenaged kid likes the brisket grilled cheese. They are only open until 3, which is a bummer because who is done studying by 3 PM? Their service can be pretty slow, so sometimes I just order drip coffee just to avoid the wait. Their pastries, donuts, and cookies are also pretty good. Overall it's a mixed bag. I would love for them to fix some of their customer service and facilities issues so it could be a more enjoyable experience. read more

Um. This is amazing. My spouse and I love their breakfast sandwiches. Gooey cheese and fried eggs on whatever kind of bread you can imagine. During COVID, we wanted to do something special for our team. We placed an order of 29 custom ordered sandwiches - had our folks fill out a Google Form - so easy! I called and spoke with Jake who told me to email him the order. Sent it in the night before and they were ready the next mid morning (at 10:30 AM). Reasonably priced, tasted oh-so-yummy and was a special treat for our team. Oh, and they honored our tax exempt. Will totally do this again in the future! Recommend! read more

Robust Coffee Lounge - Breakfast sandwiches wrapped in paper with lettering and a Robust sticker on them. - Breakfast & Brunch Near Me - Chicago, Illinois

You have to put some respect on an independent coffee shop that has a long line on an average Thursday, late morning! I loved this place! Super awesome Environment, cool staff, not so quick but the food + drink were worth the wait! I got the croissant sandwich! They smashes the avocado perfectly To where it's not overwhelming at all. And the croissant was nice and buttery and soft. The hazelnut latte was A1! Could've drank two! read more

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It's in the Best Spot in my neighborhood for me to get coffee quick in the morning. It's always a long line but they get through very quickly which I love. read more

Let's spend a second dreaming about that Honey Nut Latte. HOLY DELICIOUS! Who knew coffee, almond milk and honey could be so perfect?! I will say, it is a bit pricey at almost $5.50, but as a VERY occasional treat, 100% worth it! While I was there I also (calorically, not monetarily) splurged on an amazing double chocolate cake donut. I had to remind myself that I was in public and need not inhale it. Their drinks and sweets are so on point at Robust. Pro-tip: Between 6am-8am all food is 50%! The only downfall is not everyone that works there is kind or efficient. They typically have one person working cash register (and serving simple black coffee) and one person making all of the other drinks, so if you snoozed, you're losing, because you might be 10th in line even at 7:30am! .... totally worth it though for that honey nut latte and donut :) read more

Robust Coffee Lounge - SUPER happy with my honey nut latte. Best way to start a day of training! - Breakfast & Brunch Near Me - Chicago, Illinois

Gosh darn it! You get a hankering for that same AMAZING sandwich you had 3 weeks ago, only to be disappointed... :( My Herbie sandwich did NOT have any bacon on it. I paid for bacon. I should get bacon. 'course nothing you can do about it once you've left the joint, get to work and open up your sandwich. My iced Americano was an iced coffee... not the same. that was disappointing. darn it. otherwise, friendly-ish people (not all of them), good food. 3 wks ago this would have received 5 stars. read more

I like this place ... a lot. Robust Coffee Lounge is located just south of Hyde Park, at the corner of 63rd and Woodlawn. I would call it an up-scale coffee and sandwich shop. When you walk in, you get a cool vibe, and your nostrils are filled with wonderful aromas! I stopped in for lunch on October 30th, with a couple of new friends (Kevin and Mike). At Kevin's recommendation, I had the 63rd Street Club. It was delicious! Mike suggested (and ordered) the Brisket Grilled Cheese. It looked amazing. I will definitely try it next time. Prices are reasonable: $31.97 for three sandwiches, chips, and drinks. Service was swift and friendly. I can't wait for my next visit! read more

Cool neighborhood vibe. Nice building on the corner with lots of windows. Nice booth seating and some tables with nice old wooden chairs. Great ol school r&b music playing. The decor felt a bit tacky like a touristy antique shop. They have a theme going and it's kinda cheesy. Why not just make it authentic and genuine? Too much stuff on the walls. Serving espresso drinks in paper cups even though it's not a to go order is tacky also. Mugs and saucers are way better and I wish they had those! read more

The WORST EXPERIENCE !!!!!!!!!!! As a frequent customer , I purchased a latte that I always get . The latte tasted watery ,so I told the server. She declined to remake the latte per the store policy they cannot remake, refund or change the drink (in a rude way) .She informed me unless they made the wrong drink is against the store policy. No manager was available so I left the drink on the counter and emailed the owner . I received no response from email. Three days later on my next visit as I was eating my food and having a smoothie . I spoke with another employee about my the issue . She apologized and confirmed that they had issues with the Barista machine and offered to replace the drink for my next visit . Considering , I had already purchased a drink and food . Today, I went in to purchase my food and asked about the drink. The server asked did I email the store and talk to some one . I explained,Yes I did along with describing the server I spoke with . The owner rushed out and rudely said Did you email me ? Did you get an email from me? I responded yes , I emailed( provided email ) and explained , I didn't received a response email back. Explained to him I spoke with the server and what she said . He then again rudely responded , well I am the owner and she cannot say that and I don't appreciate you trying to scam and get a free drink. He said I didn't email you and you are trying to scam a free drink !! Appalled and Embarrassed I asked for a refund and left. I cannot believe he blantly accused me of trying to steal or scam . He lacked the respect of evening talking to me as a person yet along a customer . Who frequently comes weekly alone and daily with my children before school . The worst experience ever over a $8 drink that they messed up and I left there . I will never go back !!!!!!!!!!! Defamation of character at its best !! I am so appalled read more

Decided to try Robust Coffee Lounge and I was impressed. The atmosphere is very chill. If you are a student or a professional in need of some good coffee and a change of scenery, then bring that laptop down to Robust Coffee Lounge and enjoy this neighborhood gem. The food and drink prices are reasonable. I had the pomegranate lemonade and a turkey sandwich. The lemonade was definitely made fresh but it was just a tad too tart. The turkey on my sandwich was sliced melt in your mouth thin and I loved every morsel of it. The bread and ingredients were also fresh. I love the menu display and the decor of this place. You know exactly what your ordering and you can view the main ingredients in most of the menu items which is helpful for first time visitors. I'm giving this place a 5 out of 5 and I will be back! read more

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We came here for breakfast and had an oatmeal and a breakfast sandwich, they were both excellent, coffee is also good here. Plus the place has a really nice look, definitely will come back. If you in the south come here. Service is also good! read more

This is a cute little spot fixated on the corner in Woodlawn. I believe it's a family business. We were on the run and ordered two lox and bagel sandwiches along with the green supreme and berry good smoothie. The bagel came with lox, cream cheese, tomatoes, and cucumbers on the side. Everyone knows New Yorker's are snobs when it comes to bagels and I don't fall short of this title. However, this was a damn good bagel. I was pleasantly surprised because I had no expectations. Thumbs up. The smoothie was also good and made of pineapple, kiwifruit, kale and banana and overly sweet. Everything was good and my hunger got the best of me because I forgot to take pics. Friendly staff and great food. I'll be back in my Swartzenager voice. read more

Robust Coffee Lounge - Breakfast & Brunch Near Me - Chicago, Illinois

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Beautiful cafe that provides 5 Star Food, Service & Ambiance in the southern lakefront neighborhood of Woodlawn. Grilled cheese beef brisket sandwich is one recommendation. read more

I went there today for a matcha latte and corned beef. The matcha was good , it was on the sweeter side , I got it made with Oatmilk . Corned beef was ok at best. read more

I have always been wondering if there was any good coffee shop around the University of Chicago. Back in January this year, my Yelp Elite friends, Eva. S and Jen B. (Hi, girls) showed me this Indie coffee shop passport. Robust Coffee Lounge in Woodlawn was on the list. I finally made it here with Daddy J. RCL technically isn't "on" campus, but it's south of UC border on the southwest corner of Woodlawn and 63rd. Their coffee is reasonably-priced. For $8 and some change, we had a large, bold, and wake-me-up Americano and a large, mildly-spiced, calm-me-down Diablo mocha. I actually like this place a lot for these following reasons: 1) free working wifi 2) bright lighting through large windows 3) plenty of seating for solo and group travelers 4) friendly service 5) good selections of books, magazines, and newspapers They accept major credit cards (not sure about the minimum purchase). It's also accessible via #63 bus (with a seasonal service east to the 63rd. St. Beach). Ok, now I'm done with the review. It's time for me to space out at RCL... read more

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I'm not one to leave reviews like that But I had to for this one Where do I start? The Owner is very rude and don't like to be told that he is wrong, he is VERY RUDE AND he will reap what he sows, I am angry and irritated to be told that l am a liar and I would like to say more but it's not worth it at the end. I do however want him to know that there is ABSOLUTES/ TRUTH AND it's not based off feelings. Customers are not always right but when it comes to my orders I know what I asked for. He reminds me of a person if you don't agree with him then you are wrong and he is right. I asked for the same thing all the time grit bowl with slice cheese because I do not like shredded cheese. It became a point that my portions were even becoming smaller than usually(last year) and I took a picture of it and reported it to Grubhub. This time I sent my daughters because I am at work and so basically if you ordered food and they got it wrong ultimately you are wrong and He NOT them but HE is right Its very disheartening and makes me angry to be told I'm a liar and my kids are liars. He told me he was the owner and I do this all the time think about it if you know exactly who I am why would you still put shredded cheese on my order you messed up and with that I told my daughters to leave it there I don't want it. I would normally have the same attitude that he has but I'm trying to be better. Woe unto him for he will be treated the same exact way or in another because we all including me reap what we sow. He is rude and I will not come there anymore. I want to let him know I gain or profit nothing from lying but wages of sin that will get me judged. Hopefully one day he can see that he was wrong and not me. read more

I'm not one to leave reviews like that But I had to for this one Where do I start? The Owner is very rude and don't like to be told that he is wrong, he is VERY RUDE AND he will reap what he sows, I am angry and irritated to be told that I am a liar and I would like to say more but it's not worth it at the end. I do however want him to know that there is ABSOLUTES/ TRUTH AND it's not based off feelings. Customers are not always right but when it comes to my orders I know what I asked for. He reminds me of a person if you don't agree with him then you are wrong and he is right. I asked for the same thing all the time grit bowl with slice cheese because I do not like shredded cheese. It became a point that my portions were even becoming smaller than usually(last year) and I took a picture of it and reported it to Grubhub. This time I sent my daughters because I am at work and so basically if you ordered food and they got it wrong ultimately you are wrong and He NOT them but HE is right Its very disheartening and makes me angry to be told I'm a liar and my kids are liars. He told me he was the owner and I do this all the time think about it if you know exactly who I am why would you still put shredded cheese on my order you messed up and with that I told my daughters to leave it there I don't want it. I would normally have the same attitude that he has but I'm trying to be better. Woe unto him fo he will be treated the same exact way because we all including me reap what we sow read more

Always fresh, tasty, and correct order when I get takeout! Love this spot for a breakfast sandwich!

Food is great but the manager/owner is rude. They messed up my order 2 times in a row. The first time I was around the corner so I brung it back and the nice staff corrected the issue. A few days later, I returned and staff remembered me and apologized again for the issue. I ordered the same thing and I figured it was the correct meal this time so to the sauce. I live approximately 25 miles away from this location so I tried calling the day of but they don't have a voicemail nor anyone answering the phones, I sent an email, and social media post, no response. I was in the area today and decided to stop by for a smoothie and to speak to the owner (Jay). Jay was extremely rude and said "Anyone can make that up" and continued to say how I came in talking to him with "multiple complaints, saying every visit was bad" when my exact words were "I come here every time I'm in the area but the PAST 2 times my order was messed up". I was never rude to anyone in this establishment regardless of how many errors and because I decide to speak on it he is upset. He lied and said that what I wanted today was out of stock because it was provided to another customer shortly after telling me that. Then he shoved the bag with an attitude and walked off without once apologizing for the SMALL mishap. A white owner profiting off of black ppl using black staff but rude to black customers - No longer getting my business and will report this issue on EVERY platform read more

Hi I work in the wonderful world of customer service for over 20+ years. A friend recommended this place yesterday & I must say it lived up to the hype. The iced chai is phenomenal....HOWEVER upon my 2nd visit the very NEXT day I happen to look down in front of the register and notice a punch rewards card. I told the young man at the register I was just here yesterday & wasn't aware of the program. I do not know your policy but I was under the impression promos should be offered to every customer. The cashier gave me a blank stare & did not offer to give my card a 2nd punch. I earned it, so why not? I hope management addresses this issue. Mrs. W Walters read more

Robust Coffee Lounge - Breakfast & Brunch Near Me - Chicago, Illinois

It's a cute little coffee shop in East Woodlawn. The vibe is consistent and cozy. It's an in and out experience. You're not waiting forever and the waffles with fresh fruit is the BOMB. The tuna sandwich on a croissant is delicious too! Try them because you can't go wrong for breakfast or lunch! read more

Came in and ordered a sandwich. There is hair in my sandwich. How can you correct it if you don't answer. Very upsetting

Food is great!!! I love the drink, not too sweet , just right. Ambiance is also just right, a place to chill, catch up with friends, and family's breakfast spot. read more

My husband and I been customers at this place for over a year because it's in the black community that we both originated from . So we appreciate having some where to go for coffee. Today I had a racial experience with the manager. He refused to give me the correct bat sandwich I always order in the plastic container with nice size and looking bacon. So I asked him politely at first to remake my sandwich after him as his employee manhandled it back and forth. He told me it was my fault that my sandwich was open and that he wasn't replacing it or giving me my money back. The sandwich had two little pieces of bacon on it and barely any avocado. And he was loud enough for everyone to hear what he was saying to me. So I went outside and told my husband who just spent 35.00 in a coffee shop like we always do. What the white guy. said to me. My husband came inside to talk with him. I might add my husband is much taller and broader than him so he talked very low to my husband as he was yelling to me. I left out to WUSAA!!!! My husband then came out with a bacon avocado lettuce and tomato sandwich it had delicious bacon and avocado on it. And it was in the correct container. This guy had no regard for me as a unsatisfied loyal customer . He also told me I got the first sandwich because the price of bacon went up. I laughed and told him I will be right back. He didn't say that to my husband though. They just lost a customer. I don't Do Racism!!! Too many other restaurants in Chicago to settle for Racial B.S. Rise Above !!!!!! Treat everybody equal... If I could give no stars and post this I definitely would!!! read more

Robust Coffee Lounge - Breakfast & Brunch Near Me - Chicago, Illinois

Good Vibes. Good Food. Good Service. I got the Banana Bread French Toast and a Honey Nut Latte. It was very flavorful, 10/10 would recommend! Also, their tables are socially distanced and clean, which is much appreciated!! read more

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This place has great food and some of the staff is okay, but there are a few people who have the absolute worst attitudes that make it difficult to come in sometimes read more

The interior is cute, it almost encourages you to interact with other customers, very neighborly. Service was fast and friendly. The food was good, I'd recommend the coffee drinks over their food. The waffle was great, but overpriced for what it was. Will come again!! read more

Robust Coffee Lounge - Breakfast & Brunch Near Me - Chicago, Illinois

I plan to never give them my business in the future. My husband is a loyal patron. He wanted to celebrate my late mother's bday here with me. He bought a drinks and a sandwich. I did bring a piece of pie from another establishment. It was the attitude that said no outside food. Not saying I was right. Just a sensitive day. read more

This is a nice little neighborhood place. They don't have any food options that fit my way of eating. Nothing vegan or vegetarian that I could see on the menu but it smells really good in their. I have had their sandwiches when I was eating meat and they are good. I'm kinda big on customer service and few places offer that anymore. But the person who took my order was really dry, no smile. I understand that they stay kinda busy because they were all working really hard to get orders out. Anyway...if they had vegan and veggie options and greeted me with a smile I would have given 5 stars read more

10s across the board. Great coffee, great food, great vibes, great service, great music. Whether you're reading a new book, getting work done, or simply enjoying the music and coffee, this is the perfect spot for any morning or afternoon. read more

I've been going here for about 6 years. I just want to know who fingernail was in my smoothie. read more

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I enjoy the French Dip. But the last time we ordered they had issues with delivering through a third party app (Uber Eats). This is understandable. However, when my wife called to ask about the order, the person who answered the phone was so mean and rude that they made her cry. This restaurant will no longer get our business, which is disappointing because they are good at what they make. I HATE rating on customer service, but this was BAD. Lunch should not require therapy. read more

Very deceptive company. I just left Robust Coffee on 63rd & Woodlawn. Adter ordering a breakfast bowl, which clearly shows the price of $5.95 on their chalkboard menu, the total came up to $8.95. With the current Chicago tax of 10.75%, this would have brought my total to $6.59. When I asked the woman at the register why is it higher, she said hat that was the price with tax. I showed her the chalkboard that shows the price at $5.95 and she said she doesn't know why that's there. I asked to speak to the manager but the manager told her to inform me that she didn't have time to speak with me. After hearing this I refuse to purchase anything from this business. I also took a photo of the chalkboard menu on the wall. I see they are clearly trying to get over on people in the community by overcharging them and/or displaying false pricing. I will be filing a complaint with the Illinois Attorney General and through 311. read more

Robust Coffee Lounge - Check the breakfast bowl price. Misleading. - Breakfast & Brunch Near Me - Chicago, Illinois

I had the breakfast bowl and it was delicious. I also enjoyed the sunrise smoothie. I've been living in the area for about two years and I haven't noticed this place, but I'm glad I found it. the ambience was great. I will definitely come back for more food and to enjoy the space and read a book. read more

Robust Coffee Lounge - Sunrise smoothie - Breakfast & Brunch Near Me - Chicago, Illinois

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