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Sawada Coffee had such an amazing vibe. It was warm, rustic and great for catching up with some friends. The drinks were rich and made with a good level of attention to detail. You can really taste the nuttiness of the espresso which I enjoyed. I tried their Military Latte, Black Camo Latte, and their Matcha. The drinks were smooth and balanced well. The service was efficient and the staff was friendly. I hope to visit again soon.
Great matcha latte! Definitely overpriced and similar tiered ones can be found throughout the city. But this is definitely one of the best! Cool to see a place dedicated to matcha!
I was able to stop by this coffee shop today (which has been on my bucket list) and I had the Military Latte, which was actually pretty good! It's essentially a dirty matcha latte, which I really enjoyed. I personally prefer my matcha lattes on the sweeter side, so next time I'll probably try it with a pump of vanilla or some sweetener. Overall, I'd definitely recommend giving it a try. The ambiance is really nice, there's plenty of indoor seating, and the staff were very polite and welcoming as well. Definitely worth a visit!
My new favorite coffee shop... ever?? It was so good I managed to fit it in TWICE in a short trip. And have NOT shut up about it since I came back!! Military latte ($7.25)-- matcha and espresso mixed together with milk I don't know what sorcery they put in this but it's SO GOOD!! like matcha and espresso had a baby idk but they kept all the good parts of each other and balance each other out. For example, the matchy isn't earthy or chalky like some places or fake like the Starbucks one. The espresso isn't sour or burnt. And somehow when you combine both of them it's this perfect mellow blend but has the slight bitterness of both matcha/espresso where you're like "ah yes it's not just milk" that flavor really pulls through. But again it's mellow and blends together sooooo well like perfect mesh my goodness. Doesn't overpower doesn't feel like you're drinking matcha and coffee at the same time. It just becomes like a new thing altogether and that thing is glorious. The first time I got it iced (and the black camo latte hot) and all I could think about was how much better it would be hot.... So I had to come back for it !! And it ISSSS better hot. I enjoy hot lattes the hot milk and lack of ice is smoother and blends it together better or something. Obviously the iced version wasn't bad because I still had a great time... but when I came back for the second time and got it hot like YESSS THIS IS IT !!! Black camo latte ($7.25)-- same as Military but instead of matcha it's hojicha mixed with espresso! I took sips of this (as opposed to it being my own drink) and thought it was good! Really depends on if you like the taste of matcha or hojicha more. This one is deeper and richer, more earthy. Maybe even caramelized roast kinda flavor? Buuuut I know hojicha isn't for everyone so take it with a grain of salt. The combo with espresso is magical though like whatever ratio they're using is so perfect. It really blends together so well. ANDDDD here the coffee:milk ratio is so good!! No milky watered down lattes! I'm so used to having to add espresso shots or asking for less milk because coffee shops really be wildin in this economy but this place has a good ratio! Like yes wow we still have good things I love this for us. Matcha lemonade ($7)-- So absurdly sour I took one sip and that was enough for me!!! You really have to be a lemonade person like if that's your drink of choice to quench your thirst on a hot day then this is for you!! If you don't drink lemonade on the regular then I really wouldn't bother. I think this is a collab with a charity or something? Up your vitamin C for a good cause I guess. Cortado ($4.50)-- Espresso and milk, small cup, good test of their espresso and yesssss it passes with flying colors. And again, this place has their milk ratio down to a science. Perfectly balanced, not too much milk and you still taste all the coffee. Love love loveeeeee this place and would absolutely love an LA location. Until then, guess I'll have to plan another Chicago trip to get this goodness again !!!
Had the military latte here as a first timer and it was interesting. More on the bitter side if that's to your liking and the flavors were quite muddled in my opinion. Super cute location would not get this again in my opinion. Great service long line.
Drink: 3 Stars. The military latte was a bit too earthy and bitter for my liking. I really enjoy matcha, so I was shocked by this. The drink - once mixed - was a lot better! Atmosphere: Super cool vibe. Nice backdrop. A good place to hang out or study (if you're into studying in a spot that has normal voice level talking).
I come here every time I'm in Chicago. I figure it's time to update the review. I'm sad they don't have the real cups anymore, it just elevated the experience. The line is long and constant on a Saturday morning but it moves fast. Pastry selection is larger now but still includes the delicious Old Fashions from doughnut vault. Please come and create your own adventure.
I had NO clue this place was here. Attached to GSM! Industrial chic and vibrant coffee joint! Hidden alleyway charm. Loved the coffee, loved the price point, and the team was helpful and kind! Awesome experience!
We stopped by after exploring Fulton Market and loved the industrial warehouse vibe. It has a warm, laid-back atmosphere, with upbeat music and moody lighting. It's a self-order coffee shop, but the process was quick and easy. I tried the Military Latte, a unique blend of matcha, coffee, and cocoa powder that was surprisingly well-balanced. A great spot to recharge before continuing your day.
DRINKS I opted for their black camo latte. The hojicha flavor was strong, and the drink itself was not too sweet. Their military latte is their iconic drink, so if I'm ever back in Chicago, it'll definitely be something I'll check out! FOOD They have a limited selection of pastries like donuts available for purchase. Selection was limited near the end of the day. SERVICE The staff are kind and friendly! It gets busy fast, but they are efficient in pumping out orders. AMBIANCE Ample seating is available inside the store that is shared with the BBQ place adjoining the coffee spot. I visited around 2:30pm and it was filled with people working/studying or meeting with friends/coworkers. Complimentary wi-fi is available (password on the menu board). Finding the entrance was a bit confusing despite all the signs, but it's the one with a lot of stickers! PARKING Paid street parking is available at a limited capacity. BATHROOMS Restrooms are available downstairs at the back of the establishment.
Not a long wait at all despite there being a long line. The staff definitely seems to have a good flow of service down! The reason for only 4 stars is because the matcha itself was only okay, admittedly I have had better. I just do not personally prefer matcha that tends to be on the chalkier side, and this one was (only slightly). Also, the milk to matcha ratio was a little too much, I prefer a stronger tasting matcha latte. As you know, street parking in the area is expensive, so just be aware of that before coming. Couldn't find any cheap options nearby. I will say , this was my first time trying espresso and matcha together for the Military Latte, and it was pretty good! I'd get it again to switch it up. Also the sour cream donut was FIREEE. Sawada shares a dining area with Green Street Smoked Meats, but they don't open til 11 am. If you plan on coming by around that time, be aware that they may ask you to move if you don't order food from their restaurant. We were not asked to do so, only because we got there around 10:30 and we were planning on eating anyway. Overall, I'm glad I checked this place out. The mood and ambiance is very calming, with the plentiful warm lighting and ample seating options (again, if you come before 11). If your goal is to try the best quality matcha though, I'd aim for elsewhere.
I opted for their ceremonial matcha latte which brought my total to $11+, and was very disappointed in the results. Clumpy matcha--not mixed well at all. Expected more for such a high price.
EXCELLENT quality matcha from here. The authentic kind that isn't drowning in sugar. Sawada Coffee is in the same building as green street meats and high five ramen, so the open seating is shared. They do have a few seats along the window but there is plenty of seating if those are full. Service was quick and I was surprised to see that it was fairly busy for a very cold Monday AM. My husband and I shared the military latte (decaf) and it was delicious. Everything a latte should be. I enjoyed how this latte is unique to most coffee shops. It was bold, creamy, and very good. Pricing is fair when compared to other small business cafes.
It's been a hot minute since I've been to Sawada. I was meeting family for lunch at Green Street and was in desperate need for caffeine. The line was a mile long, but I saw that they had an online order option. As fast as the double take I took seeing the line - I had ordered my drink. It was ready faster than anticipated and I was texted a few minutes after putting it in. I got the Black Camo Latte iced and was soo happy to drink my version of liquid gold - espresso and matcha together. They have some newer items since I've last been here. I will definitely be back and I will be getting a cookie that appears to be bigger than my face. read more
Loved the ambiance and overall vibe of Sawada--cool, artsy, and just the kind of place you want to hang out in for a while. I ordered an iced almond milk latte, which was just okay for me. It leaned a bit bitter, but to be fair, I didn't go for any of their signature drinks. That said, I'd definitely come back. The space itself is inviting, and I'm curious to try something a little fancier next time. A spot worth revisiting for the vibes alone. read more
1 year ago
Sawada Coffee is a unique Chicago fav! The matcha coffees and unique flavors are unforgettable! This is definitely a must try! There is usually a line but on rare occasion there isn't! Be prepared to wait on a weekend! Keeping that in mind the line moves at a reasonable pace. The place has a lot of seating and a patio that is perfect on a nice day! So nice for a meetup with friends! The coffee is good! I tend not to like matcha but the roasted matcha is so good! read more
1 year ago
We went to Sawada Coffee after lunch to grab a drink and wow this place is crazy popular. This spot is attached to Green Streets but has its own corner and is a popular spot for different matcha drinks. The service here was fantastic, and ambiance was casual - not much seating but wish they had some tables so me and my friends could sit and chat. For our order we got the Military Latte which was delicious. Even though I am not the biggest fan of matcha, you could tell it was super fresh. The latte art on top was also really pretty! Definitely a nice spot worth checking out! read more
Omg YES! Sawada Coffee is so, so good! We got the pour over, High 5 Mocha, Camo Latte and Military Matcha Latte along with a blueberry muffin, and everything was on point. The Military Matcha Latte was a standout--it hits like a Vietnamese coffee: strong, bold, and super flavorful, but not bitter or overroasted. The pour over had bright citrus notes, especially orange zest, which also came through subtly in the mocha. So well-balanced and unique. And that muffin? Soft, fresh, with the perfect sugary crust; total comfort. The service was top notch too friendly, fast, and welcoming. Truly the icing on the cake. 5 stars all the way. Can't wait to come back! read more
1 year ago
great lattes - the Tokyo style is a little sweet for my taste, so I'd gravitate more towards the military. Friendly staff It can be confusing to find if you've never been as it's meshed with Green Streets Smoked Meats, feels a little bit crowded. read more
Sawada was great! They have a really cool set up that is linked to the bbq joint! The coffee is so good! One cup and you are FEELING the caffeine which doesn't happen often for me! Great space to sit and work, then grab a bite! read more
2 years ago
Rating: 4.5/5 This coffee spot is located inside Green Street Smoked Meats, giving it a unique setup. However, they charge a 3.25% restaurant surcharge to offset rising costs, which I find ridiculous. Apparently, you can request to have it removed, but it's not visible when paying--I only noticed it after we left. Iced Pistachio Matcha Latte, Tokyo Style with Macadamia Nut Milk ($8.20): Delicious! The layers of flavor really shine, with the nuttiness of the pistachio standing out. The Tokyo Style makes it sweeter, which I enjoyed, though it does leave a bit of an artificial sweetener aftertaste. Matcha Military Latte with Macadamia Nut Milk ($7.50): A great blend of matcha, vanilla, and espresso, topped with cocoa powder. The matcha balances well with the espresso, creating a smooth, earthy flavor. I usually prefer my matcha sweetened, but this one was naturally smooth and not too bitter. read more
Sawada Coffee is an underground coffee spot that has been discovered! A line out the graffiti'd front door, coffee lovers from across the city have clearly fallen in love with this spot and the coffee is well worth the wait. I had the black camo latte that mixes hojicha and expresso. It was complex, a touch of sweet and creamy. My friend has the military latte that mixes matcha and espresso. They are made to be picture perfect, but the quality and craftsmanship of the drinks is what has established Sawada in the Chicago coffee market. I ordered a second coffee to go when leaving! I got the mocha latte that has a twist of orange zest. Ask for extra zest and thank me later. They have bleacher seating and outdoor seating all day long. The picnic table seating is available until 11 a.m. until the BBQ restaurant they share space with opens. Definitely worth adding to your coffee rotation! read more
9 months ago
Im back for more coffee i order the black camo and military latte sooo good Great atmosphere Plenty of space to sit and enjoy the lattes See you soon again read more
2 months ago
Tucked inside Green Street Smoked Meats in the West Loop, Sawada Coffee is one of those effortlessly cool spots that makes you feel like you stumbled into Tokyo by way of Chicago. Industrial vibes, hip baristas, and a no-fuss menu that centers around quality over quantity. The Military Latte is the star of the show--and a must-try if it's your first time. It's a stunning blend of matcha, espresso, vanilla, and milk that somehow manages to be bold, creamy, and just the right amount of sweet. It sounds like an unlikely combo, but it works. This spot is perfect for grabbing a high-quality drink and soaking in the creative energy of the space (or snapping a pic of that gorgeous latte art). read more
2 months ago
My boyfriend and I were visiting Chicago for the first time and this is the only place we went to twice (if that's saying anything!) The first time we both got the Military Latte with oat milk. This is a true, earthy matcha. The dusted cocoa powder on top was a nice touch and it wasn't sweet at all. People say the drinks are on the pricier side but damn. It's lowkey worth it bc I was tweaking from the caffeine and it's very rare for coffee shops to get me caffeinated to a noticeable level on just one drink. I'm a caffeine addict so this was a pleasant experience LOL We came back on our last day there and this time my bf got the Military latte with oat tokyo style and I got the black camo latte with oat tokyo style. Omg. These drinks were 12/10. Definitely get it tokyo style! I loved the hojicha in the black camo latte. I will say I wasn't tweaking at the same level with the black camo but I definitely noticed when the caffeine started kicking in. We also got a blueberry muffin here and it was the softest/moistest muffin we've ever ordered at any coffee shop and it wasn't even warmed up which was impressive. The ambiance inside is super cool with all the string lights, but the tables are reserved for the BBQ joint starting at 11am so keep that in mind. The first day we went the worker at the register wasn't that friendly, but the second time we went the worker at the register was. I guess service could be a hit or miss but their drinks are spot on every time. read more
Two unique things that are rare to find here: 1. Cookies literally the size of your face ONLY for $4.95. They're soft and have flavors like blueberry crumble, rainbow sprinkles, chocolate chip, and pistachio white chocolate. 2. Black camo latte (hojicha and espresso) and military latte (matcha and espresso). I find that I like black camo better; there's less of a strong earthiness that the military latte has. Military needed for sweetness. If you're short on time, I wouldn't wait in a long line for the coffee. It's good but nothing too special to me. read more
Found inside a building that seems to share a space with a brewery/ bar of some sort. Ordered a regular iced latte Tokyo style which was so good. The Tokyo style is when they sweeten your drink with some special Japanese imported sugar (?). I read the description from someone else's picture on here that it has brown sugar molasses notes. I definitely tasted that and it gave the latte a good flavor, so I'm glad I ordered this! The espresso wasn't super acidic and paired well with the sweetener. Definitely would come back and order this again read more
2 months ago
6 months ago
There's always a line on weekends but it moves at a good pace and drink orders don't take long. The space is shared with green st smoked meats, a full bar, and a ramen shop downstairs. There is a good amount of seating inside and benches with tables outside in the alley shared with Trivoli Tavern. read more
2 months ago
Sawada has been on my list for a while and boy did it not disappoint . Strong coffee with a hip cozy environment. A great place to meet for a book club or go for a first date. The service was quick and professional, but lines tend to be long because it's a popular spot. read more
5 months ago
Hot latte with almond milk, no sweeteners added but the latte foam had the slightest sweetness which was yummy Plenty of seating, long picnic tables shared with green city smoked meats Friendly service read more
1 year ago
the ambiance is really nice and the staff are friendly. if you decide you want to try some smoked meats, you can walk through the seated area to the back and it's connected to a smoked meats restaurant. it's pretty loud and the bench tables mean no back support but it's very spacious which means you can definitely find a spot to sit (semi uncomfortably). i got the matcha tea and it was good! and the kale and gruyère scone was also pretty yummy. read more
1 year ago
One of my favorite coffee shops in the city. Usually there is a long line, so I'd say order online for pickup. We tried the Matcha Military Latte and it was ok. The military latte is good, but I'm not a fan of matcha so would get it without next time. read more
Always get the black camo latte. It's roasted matching and espresso. I recommend it as breve. It's a 5 out of 5 everytime I go, though I'd say get it extra hot as well if you are like me. Service is always excellent and fast. Plus if you go here you can be introduced to the Green street BBq and Hi Five ramen restaurants located in the same building. Ambiance is altogether very rustic and homey. One of the best places for match and espresso. Give it a try for sure. read more
6 months ago
Friendly service, the vibes inside are great, lots of seating. As expected there was a line but worth the wait. I had a latte and one of their cookies and both were amazing. Can't wait to try more! read more
Really cool coffee spot which is also attached to a BBQ joint which opens up later in the day. The vibe is so cool, really open with the seating where you'll find people doing some work. Highly recommend the military coffee! read more
8 months ago
Loved loved loved. We got 3 beverages and 2 pastries for about $45 but I have to say this is the.best.caramel oat milk latte I have ever had. The pastries, not warmed, were delicious. There was a line to the door at 11:30. And the seating area- as you can see is a scene!!! Wish I could have this more often. read more
Had no idea Sawada shared the same space as Green Street Meats. Stopped in to grab a quick cup of cold brew and luckily beat the rush. Greeted when I first got in and quickly placed my order. Brew was ready in a few minutes and I was on my way. Very open floor with some side seating. Nice strong and bold brew with a nice bite at the end. I'm a cold brew plain, I let the bean do the talkin. Worth a try if you're ever around. read more
1 year ago
Really loved the entrance and vibe here. It immediately sets the tone. The quality of the espresso is outstanding. I got a cortado, and it's easily one of the best I've had. If not for my low caffeine tolerance, I would've tried another drink on the spot. The staff at the front were super welcoming too. Big open space, great coffee, definitely worth a visit! read more
My Absolute Fav Cafe for Matcha (and in general coffee)!!!! It's a quintessential Chicago SPEAKEASY cafe! The whole vibe is low key cozy, casual, and chill with rustic brick walls with warm lights and community style seating. Definitely reflects the diverse and vibrant culture of Chicago! My go to coffee here is Matcha latte. The classic. This isn't your regular Matcha Latte. It is bold, not too sweet but delicious which is how I like my matcha lattes. So try it if you like matcha. Over time, I've tried military and black camo from their menu and I loved the earthy flavors of those as well. I've always found the staff to be super friendly. I was chatting with the barista in my last visit when I came to know they import the fresh matcha leaves directly from the Japan. Also, be ready for the long lines but the wait is truly worth it!!!! And if you're planning an extending visit, my advice is to choose seating towards the front as the cafe shares the space with Green Street Smoked Meat so towards the back, sometimes the smell of the meat can be strong! read more
1 year ago
This place was too cool.the line can and probably will be long but it moves fast. I got the military latte which was good. This is a cool place to catch up with friends, get work or schooling done or even people watch. Worth the visit. read more
1 year ago
The latte was so good- so much flavor! That's why it was odd that their military latte was not so special. It was fine but not amazing. Definitely going back for the latte. Nice ambiance, friendly staffs. read more
1 year ago
Was visiting Chicago from the west coast and decided to try this spot for coffee. Our gut told us to get there early and we got there right when they opened on a Saturday. Only 2 people ahead of us in line, but by the time we ordered, the line was out the door. Really good menu and lots of baked goods to choose from. Ample amount of indoor seating under strung lights, but there's also outdoor seating that looked nice! read more
2 years ago
My friends and I walked into Sawada Cafe, and to my surprise, it was packed. The indoor seating area was quite full. We ordered the Black Camo Latte and Green Tea Latte. The wait time was a bit long, but we were able to pick up our order after a few minutes. After looking around for a while, we finally found a seat for our group. The cafe has wooden tables with open seating, making it a great spot to relax and enjoy coffee with friends. I also noticed a few people working on their laptops while sipping coffee. Overall, I had a good experience! read more
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Ask the Community - Sawada Coffee
Is there outdoor seating?
Yes, it’s on the side of the building. Appears to be shared with the other businesses there.
Can't tell on website, do they sell their roasted beans here?
Does Swada offer free wifi to customers? Also is there indoor seating available?
Yes they offer free wifi. Seating is very limited.
Is there a place to eat inside sawada? The space I see pictured is what I know to be green street meats. Is that the space the coffee shop uses when it's not GSM open hours?
Yes you can sit at the benches inside to eat/drink items from sawada. The space is shared between sawada and green street meats. You can also sit at the benches in the alleyway.
Is Sawada really open in this time ? I went the other say and it was closed.
Sawada is currently open.
How is the noise level? Is it easy to carry a conversation in a group? Am I likely to find space for 6 people at 1pm on a Sunday?
It's a large space, so unless the place is packed you should have no trouble holding conversation or seating for a group.
Do they have non-dairy milks available for the lattes?
Of course! Almond milk, macadamia milk, and soy.
Where is it? There is a lot of construction and I couldn't find the shop.
Look for the tiny door with all the grafitti
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