WISE CUP · YELP ASSISTANT
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Adorable coffee/tea shop in Oak Park. Had the most delicious matcha on a staff recommendation. Staff was super friendly and helpful
Downtown Oak Park, IL has just the best coffee places. @wise_cup is a great example. Good and drink options that Indian inspired. I wish I was going to be in town for their Indian Pop up lunch - Indian Tacos and Samosas - YES. The Mango Lassi is a must try. It is made with homemade yogurt. Staff is friendly and precise in completing orders.
Samosas & Coffee in one place Happy Monday! The samosa was good and obviously not a big box purchase. They brew Sputnik Coffee with is always delish. The latte was good. Not too sweet. However, one person working in a busy store. It wasn't enough. She was working hard, but things were taking some time. Then the register went down. Thankfully I'd already paid. One person can only do so much. Don't get me wrong though. I'll be back. Just hoping they manage to hire some more help. Don't think I'd bother ordering tea here again though. It's bagged tea and not truly steeped correctly. 30 minutes later it was still hotter than tea should be. The spot is clean and neat, cute and comfy. We'll definitely be back.
On a cold, dreary, rainy day, I met a friend for coffee. Located in the heart of Oak Park, the area was busy and this tiny coffee shop was bustling. From the outside, the place looks cozy & charming. The big storefront windows were steamed up, leaving me wondering what was inside... A huge bar on the right takes up most of the room. An adorable sitting area was in the front. One larger table to accommodate a small group and a line of small tables hug the left wall. They make good use of their limited space. I saw regulars come and go. A few neighbors sat at the bar sipping and chatting. It gave off a real friendly feel. The staff were very nice and helpful. One regular asked me why I took a photo of the sign and when I told him it was for Yelp, he quickly said, "You better say something good! This is the best coffee shop in town!" So there you have it. I ordered a Turtle Latte at my friend's recommendation. It was delicious but I started noticing all the fantastic flavor combinations and decided I must return to try more. Overall, this small spot offers great service and delicious beverages. It was a bit of a tight squeeze but they make it work. I am a definite fan!
We were looking for a new coffee shop to try out after visiting Trailside Museum and came across Wise Cup. This downtown area is pretty nice. Wise Cup is a little hard to spot, but it's next to the theater. The interior is very small. A few bar seats and a few two-person tables. The washroom was large and seemed clean. Service was friendly and the menu had some unique drinks like Mexican mocha. They also have tea, some pastries and donuts, and apparently some Indian food items like samosas. We ordered a cappuccino and a blossom latte for dine-in. I appreciated the mugs because it reduces waste, and the presentation was very nice. The drinks were just okay, though. The milk foam on the cappuccino wasn't as dense as I like. The latte only had mild floral flavor. Neither drink was bad, but nothing exceptional.
I went to Wise Cup last month for the first time with one of my best friends. I got a Latte and breakfast bar. The Latte was delicious. The atmosphere was pleasant. And the staff were also friendly and welcoming.
The matcha latte and lavender latte are my go-to's. There is usually one person behind the counter, be prepared to wait. Don't go if you're in a hurry.
Wise cup is hands down the best coffee shop in Oak Park and even the surrounding area for just about anyone who wants quality coffee, coffee shop food, service, and especially a nice peaceful interment to work or have a nice little conversation. On top of all of this, they have (coming from me, an Indian person) pretty much the only descent Indian food in the area with the monthly pop-ups, as well as samosas and deferent Indian drinks available daily. And as the cherry on top it is a locally, Asian, and female owned business. I could not recommend them more.
This is one of my favorite coffee shops ever. Its small and quiet, they have indoor seating with comfy seats. Outside seating is nice and sunny, maybe a bit loud. The drinks are amazing I usually go for the kashmiri latte if I want something caffeinated of the mango lassi if I want something decaf. Both are wonderful. The food here is limited but good. It takes awhile but try a samosa they come hot with chutney. Or if you come in the morning they have daily bagel and doughnuts. I promise you nothing is better than sitting with a coffee, a samosa, and a good book.
Who can complain about grabbing a cup of coffee and a fantastic samosa all in one trip? The latte I picked up was delicious and those homemade samosas are reason alone to return! They've got a really unique spread of your traditional coffee shop offerings and a few Indian things like mango lassi, samosas, and a ginger turmeric latte. Definitely worth a trip back. Maybe this time for their new strawberry lassi, especially in this hotter weather!
I visited wise cup and the place is outstanding. It's nice to see the paintings of famous women in the walls. The flavor of the coffee was delicious. Good taste compared to other mocha coffees I have tried before. Service is great too.
Lots of seating options (indoors & outdoors). I got an iced penguin and it was great! Can't wait to go back and try other drinks. Food/pastry options are limited and didn't seem that appetizing. They have a small section of goodies they sell. Our barista was very patient while we asked questions and ordered. A great place to sit at to read or get some work done. I also really appreciate that this shop is open later than most other coffee shops in the area. read more
2 years ago
Wise Cup has just expanded and it looks beautiful! The owners have thoughtfully decorated and created nice spaces for seating. Many of the customers sit there in their computers which created a fairly quiet setting. I've had their chai tea, lattes and teas. This time I just went for the peppermint tea. They also have homemade samosas and a few other pastries and bagels to choose from. It's nice to see a local business in Oak Park prospering especially when it seems to be so difficult to stay afloat. Check them out! read more
3 months ago
2 years ago
Adorable coffee/tea shop in Oak Park. Had the most delicious matcha on a staff recommendation. Staff was super friendly and helpful read more
5 months ago
3 years ago
4 years ago
Downtown Oak Park, IL has just the best coffee places. @wise_cup is a great example. Good and drink options that Indian inspired. I wish I was going to be in town for their Indian Pop up lunch - Indian Tacos and Samosas - YES. The Mango Lassi is a must try. It is made with homemade yogurt. Staff is friendly and precise in completing orders. read more
1 year ago
5 years ago
Samosas & Coffee in one place Happy Monday! The samosa was good and obviously not a big box purchase. They brew Sputnik Coffee with is always delish. The latte was good. Not too sweet. However, one person working in a busy store. It wasn't enough. She was working hard, but things were taking some time. Then the register went down. Thankfully I'd already paid. One person can only do so much. Don't get me wrong though. I'll be back. Just hoping they manage to hire some more help. Don't think I'd bother ordering tea here again though. It's bagged tea and not truly steeped correctly. 30 minutes later it was still hotter than tea should be. The spot is clean and neat, cute and comfy. We'll definitely be back. read more
On a cold, dreary, rainy day, I met a friend for coffee. Located in the heart of Oak Park, the area was busy and this tiny coffee shop was bustling. From the outside, the place looks cozy & charming. The big storefront windows were steamed up, leaving me wondering what was inside... A huge bar on the right takes up most of the room. An adorable sitting area was in the front. One larger table to accommodate a small group and a line of small tables hug the left wall. They make good use of their limited space. I saw regulars come and go. A few neighbors sat at the bar sipping and chatting. It gave off a real friendly feel. The staff were very nice and helpful. One regular asked me why I took a photo of the sign and when I told him it was for Yelp, he quickly said, "You better say something good! This is the best coffee shop in town!" So there you have it. I ordered a Turtle Latte at my friend's recommendation. It was delicious but I started noticing all the fantastic flavor combinations and decided I must return to try more. Overall, this small spot offers great service and delicious beverages. It was a bit of a tight squeeze but they make it work. I am a definite fan! read more
We were looking for a new coffee shop to try out after visiting Trailside Museum and came across Wise Cup. This downtown area is pretty nice. Wise Cup is a little hard to spot, but it's next to the theater. The interior is very small. A few bar seats and a few two-person tables. The washroom was large and seemed clean. Service was friendly and the menu had some unique drinks like Mexican mocha. They also have tea, some pastries and donuts, and apparently some Indian food items like samosas. We ordered a cappuccino and a blossom latte for dine-in. I appreciated the mugs because it reduces waste, and the presentation was very nice. The drinks were just okay, though. The milk foam on the cappuccino wasn't as dense as I like. The latte only had mild floral flavor. Neither drink was bad, but nothing exceptional. read more
2 years ago
I went to Wise Cup last month for the first time with one of my best friends. I got a Latte and breakfast bar. The Latte was delicious. The atmosphere was pleasant. And the staff were also friendly and welcoming. read more
3 years ago
The matcha latte and lavender latte are my go-to's. There is usually one person behind the counter, be prepared to wait. Don't go if you're in a hurry. read more
3 years ago
Wise cup is hands down the best coffee shop in Oak Park and even the surrounding area for just about anyone who wants quality coffee, coffee shop food, service, and especially a nice peaceful interment to work or have a nice little conversation. On top of all of this, they have (coming from me, an Indian person) pretty much the only descent Indian food in the area with the monthly pop-ups, as well as samosas and deferent Indian drinks available daily. And as the cherry on top it is a locally, Asian, and female owned business. I could not recommend them more. read more
This is one of my favorite coffee shops ever. Its small and quiet, they have indoor seating with comfy seats. Outside seating is nice and sunny, maybe a bit loud. The drinks are amazing I usually go for the kashmiri latte if I want something caffeinated of the mango lassi if I want something decaf. Both are wonderful. The food here is limited but good. It takes awhile but try a samosa they come hot with chutney. Or if you come in the morning they have daily bagel and doughnuts. I promise you nothing is better than sitting with a coffee, a samosa, and a good book. read more
2 years ago
2 years ago
6 years ago
Who can complain about grabbing a cup of coffee and a fantastic samosa all in one trip? The latte I picked up was delicious and those homemade samosas are reason alone to return! They've got a really unique spread of your traditional coffee shop offerings and a few Indian things like mango lassi, samosas, and a ginger turmeric latte. Definitely worth a trip back. Maybe this time for their new strawberry lassi, especially in this hotter weather! read more
3 years ago
I visited wise cup and the place is outstanding. It's nice to see the paintings of famous women in the walls. The flavor of the coffee was delicious. Good taste compared to other mocha coffees I have tried before. Service is great too. read more
4 years ago
Very friendly chill comfy stylish place. Great coffee , some pastries and a lovely barrister who lights the place up with her smile! read more
2 years ago
5 years ago
This is a really charming establishment, right in the heart of downtown Oak Park. It's really quaint and inviting. It's not a big place but what it lacks in space, is made up for in charm. I was greeted with a smile and a hello when I walked in, which was nice. There was a few people waiting, that had already ordered so there was no wait in terms of taking my order. Well, why only 3 stars you ask. I ordered a small Mocha, as I do with every new coffee place I go to. The young woman that took my order, came from the back. She took my order but I could hardly hear her. I asked her if they took Apple Pay and she mumbled something, which I could not understand. I leaned in a little closer and said excuse me, I didn't hear you. She didn't say anything, just proceeded to turn the monitor around and press some buttons. I believe she thought I didn't want to tip because I didn't get the option after she turned the monitor around. Well, I payed for my coffee and waited for my order. It took a little longer than expected but that's not unusual for some establishments. I wish I could say my coffee was good but it was only okay. It wasn't hot and it tasted of very little chocolate. I'm not going to say I wouldn't go there again because of this one issue. I would give them another try. read more
8 years ago
This cafe is located on the main street in downtown Oak Park right next to the theater. We came while visiting some friends in the area for coffee and pastries and I was glad we chose this locally owned place. There seemed to be a few regulars passing through while we were there, and they are known for having things like samosas and cold brewed coffee and tea. The inside was cozy, with both tables where you can work and a couch where you can read or chat. They also had outdoor seats, though I assume those are just there during the warm months. I love succulents and they had some cute plants in mugs and teapots, so that was pretty cute. They also have a cold brew coffee dripping contraption that looked pretty cool if you like learning about different coffee brewing styles. The bathroom was clean and nicely decorated, which is a big plus for cafes. Service was really good and the local owners were there working when I came in. I had the penguin (a blended iced mocha drink) and my husband had a cappuccino. Both were great. We also both had samosas, which came with a tamarind sauce. They were so good, and I'd probably come by just to pick one up the next time I'm in the area. They also had some other pastries and sandwiches that looked good, but I didn't get the chance to try. read more
3 years ago
Came in here on a dreary day and loved the cozy, relaxed atmosphere of this cafe. The kashmiri latte was unique and delicious, and our barista was welcoming and friendly. I'd be happy to come back here next time I'm in Oak Park! read more
6 years ago
Since I moved here a few months ago to Forest Park. I received a local gift from Baird and Warner. This month's local gift was to Wise Cup. A locally owned coffee shop in Downtowns Oak Park. Wise cup serves up many handcrafted flavors of coffee, tea, lattes, smoothies and pastries. I was able to get a medium flavored latte (I added lavender which was only 80cent extra) and samosa with a traditional sweet tamarind chutney. I was impressed when I walked inside. Nice enjoyable music was playing and the seating area looked comfortable and relaxing. The mood change once I walked up to the counter. The lady behind the counter (The Owner) rude and unprofessional. The stank look on her face said it all. I wasn't about the attitude so I placed my order and showed her the code on my phone. She instantly stated with attitude for me to hit the code to redeem. Excuse me... I was about to push the code. I waited about 15 minutes for my order. I was going to give a tip but opt out of it. Bad manners don't deserve a tip. The lavender latte was hot and delicious the samosa had a loud bad smell to it. My first visit here and will probably be my last. Wise Cup wasn't my cup of tea, coffee or latte. read more
8 years ago
My friend and I were shocked walking into "Wise" Cup for the first time today. The decor on their walls of ten or so paintings of "wise" thinkers of history are literally...all male. Oh, yes, there's a Chinese male (Confucius) and a Lebanese male (Khalil Gibran) so I guess they think they're being super "inclusive" because they have diverse MEN on their walls. But it got worse. When I asked the woman who worked there if she was the owner, she said that she was and that it was ok to have all men on the walls because "she" was in charge behind the counter. I asked her what black customers in the area would think of a coffee shop that thought only white people were wise and featured white supremacist thinkers and the African-American man who worked there said "it wouldn't bother me." Woah. There were children in there and I pointed out to her that she is normalizing to girls and boys the idea that there are no great female philosophers of history. Such as De Beauvoir, Wollstonecraft, hooks, Hypatia, Davis, Fuller, Daly and the list goes on and on. In fact, if it weren't for these truly wise women, the woman I spoke to wouldn't be "in charge" behind the counter. I have a masters degree in philosophy and some of the thinkers on their wall (like Aristotle) literally, in no uncertain terms, promoted male supremacy. For example, in his work "Politics," Aristotle states "as regards the sexes, the male is by nature superior and the female inferior, the male ruler and the female subject." I wonder if the female owner realizes that "wise" Aristotle actually believed she should NOT be "in charge" behind that counter. Imagine a coffee shop featuring the "wisdom" of a white supremacist of history and featuring no people of color, male or female. My male friend and I were horrified and, of course, we will not be returning. Just goes to show you. Even women and men of color are complicit in promoting and enabling bias in our own communities. We left shaking our heads. We rob women of their own history and then women who don't know what they don't know act like the women pointing out what they don't know are the problem. Tragic. read more
2 years ago
9 years ago
I loved how unique this place is! It's very authentic and has menu items you can't find just anywhere. I was on my run on lake street and had to stop by since it looked like a cafe I hadn't seen before. It turned out the owner is a new owner but the cafe is not. The new owner was so great! He told me I had to try the Mango Lassi, it was so yummy! He shared with me that his mother comes in and brings authentic Indian food from time to time. I would love to stop by when she makes an appearance. I hope that more people give this cafe a try! Excited to stop by this cafe again. Best of luck to them! read more
3 years ago
8 years ago
I'd heard amazing things about the homemade samosas and I finally got the chance to stop in today!! Wow! It's wonderful to find a unique, healthy vegetarian treat at a local coffee shop. I'm not a coffee drinker but they carry loads of tea as well as La Croix, Vitamin Water, Pelligroni, Bai and more juices. The bakery items look crazy good. I just got a samosa today but I'll definitely come back for a croissant or danish. Super friendly staff. Treats served on real plates and drinks in real glasses with ice- that makes a difference for me. It feels more like a restaurant than a cafe. $6.00 for my mini meal today. Perfect all around! read more
2 years ago
I did not know about this place until I started researching Yelp for after noon cap of coffee. Today was first time That I had medium French vanilla with lite bit of milk. Very good well served tasty coffee that I was enjoying for a few hours. The server was very pollute bad enthusiastic. I highly recommend wise cup for morning or afternoon coffee. Good job guys. read more
3 years ago
3 years ago
Great quiche and the bast chai latte I've ever had! I would definitely recommend stopping by for a treat! read more
5 years ago
7 years ago
I love the many options of flavors of coffee here from lavender to honey. I also love their latte options: turmeric ginger latte was one of them! read more
9 years ago
This newly opened independently-owned coffee shop is just the right fit for Oak Park. The atmosphere is lively and fresh with a number of paintings of famous philosophers adorning the walls. So far I've had the house blend pour over which was very flavorful. I enjoyed the atmosphere and intend to come back. Since I last reviewed this coffee shop they have started serving Sputnik coffee which is freshly roasted locally. And they have added several Indian tea mixes to their menu. The owner has refurbish the interior with a bright clean design. The customer service is excellent and the atmosphere is cool and friendly. They now have free internet WiFi. read more
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More info about Wise Cup
1018 Lake St
Oak Park, IL 60301
Directions
(708) 628-3707
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