What a charming place! Everywhere you look, there is fantastic architectural character within this building. Slow down and take it in. I visited just after 10am on a Monday and was shocked at how busy the place was. I was able to place my order and still find a seat. My coffee was ready right away and my food took about 10 minutes to come out. I got the dark roast coffee and found it to be smooth, well balanced, and flavorful. The Veggie Breaky sandwich was good. The roasted tomatoes and spinach were nice, but I would have loved some additional protein on it to take it over the edge flavor wise. Overall a great, lively coffee shop and a nice place to read and refuel. read more

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This is by far my favorite local coffee shop! The staff is so kind and attentive. The space itself is huge, offering tons of options for seating and this can be hard to come by on a busy weekend. Their menu always has something new and fun to try, and their food items are very healthy and fresh. The only downside is it's a little bit pricey as someone who needs a milk alternative, but as long as I have the extra funds in my account I am heading here! read more

After shopping in downtown Crystal Lake I needed a warm me up meal. The comfort of soup and the kind barista made this place one I will return to . A great place to open the laptop or meet up with friends. read more

Aroma Coffee & Wine - Warm and savory tomato basil soup hit the spot yesterday afternoon. - Cafes Near Me - Crystal Lake, Illinois

Finally and nice coffee shop in crystal Lake. The service was excellent and they were very nice. Ordered coffee and some food. They delivered the food and it was the best. Everything looks great on the menu. A must stop. read more

Aroma Coffee & Wine - Avocado Millennium Toast - Cafes Near Me - Crystal Lake, Illinois

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I wish this was right next door - the coffee is very good and the layout is welcoming and open. I love that I could sit and chat with a friend without shouting, but would also have enjoyed sitting and working with music in the background. The millennium toast was good, though a little crispy. But a friend also got a flatbread that was giant and that they loved. I can't wait to come back and read here on another weekend - and cross my fingers they'll expand some day to my neck of the woods. read more

Aroma Coffee & Wine - Cafes Near Me - Crystal Lake, Illinois

Cortado was perfect. Lemon cake too sweet, too grainy. Clean, well staffed cafe across from the Carey train station.

I had the worst experience coming to Aroma Coffee & Wine. I've been coming here for the past 2 1/2 years. The breakfast sandwiches and dessert are good. However, their iced coffee is terrible. This may be due to the local Crystal Lake water that they use. I also received terrible service most recently and was left feeling very uncomfortable and not welcome. I really like downtown Crystal Lake and some of their coffee shop options. However, after biking 6 1/2 miles to work and drink at Aroma Coffee & Wine, I was approached by one of their staff members after sitting for 5-10 minutes with a menu. I didn't think anything was wrong with that initially, because I wanted to try something new and refreshing. I wanted to switch things up a bit and order an iced tea, but one of my colleagues called me on the phone. Less than 10 minutes later, while I was on my call, the restaurant manager approaches and says in a loud manner that I need to order from the menu to continue using their Wi-Fi service. And she said it rude and passive aggressively. I explained to her that I was going to place an order but I was trying to catch my breath after a long bike ride and I also had to take a call. I also shared with her that I'm a rewards member, a frequent customer and I've also brought my daughter here several times. She then said that she does not recognize me and that it's not a free service to use their Wi-Fi. I'm a woman of color and from my experience, I have not seen many minorities in this area or that come to this restaurant. So I don't think I would be difficult to remember. I also have Wi-Fi on my phone, so their Wi-Fi service was not needed in the first place. I mainly came to enjoy their ambience and to get something cold to drink (Not the tap water). However, the way I was treated was completely unacceptable and she embarrassed me in front of the other customers. The manager was also the one that ordered the staff member to come and bring me the menu, so she saw that I was looking at the menu. But I guess I wasn't moving fast enough to place an order... Which led her to interrupting my call to place an order or leave. They need to come up with a better approach because I will never go to Aroma Coffee& Wine again. I have also taken down the owners information and I plan on contacting them. Because no one should have to experience that. I shared with their cashier my experience and that I would be going to another coffee shop to order my iced tea because I felt very uncomfortable and unwelcome there. read more

I stopped in to grab something healthy to eat before getting on the train in Crystal Lake hoping to find a smoothie. Instead I found a wonderful menu and ordered the Spinach Salad with Strawberries. I added chicken for $5 more and I enjoyed every bite! Halved pecans, red notions, fresh greens and a tasty white balsamic vinaigrette. I could have used a little more cheese, I could only find a couple crumbles. If I was there I am sure I could have asked for more. The salad was in $13 which is a good price for what I got. I might recommend offering a larger salad for a little bit more but this is a nice size if you are not super hungry. There was a great vibe, it was a little noisy so not where I would go if are looking for a quiet place to read, but perfect to meet a friend for coffee or lunch, or a glass of wine and a bite. Service was friendly. It took about 15 minutes for the salad which is what they estimated, and they were very busy. So happy to see an option with some healthy choices. There were also some seasonal food items. Looking forward to trying some other things on the menu! read more

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Aroma is the best place in Crystal Lake for coffee and breakfast. It's kind of a rather small place but cozy. Some comfortable chairs, couches along with a few tables. Has a pretty healthy menu. There's lots of things good for vegetarians and healthy options. Came in with the girl after breakfast. It was a good time for trying stuff from all over the menu. The main thing is coffee though. It's about $5 for a drink. There were a few seasonal specials going on. Good stuff to choose from. I had the Summer Tea. This was made with coconut milk, matcha, and vanilla. Also we shared the Pistachio Hummus And Chips. It's $7 for a pretty big portion. Totally good stuff. Good healthy choices. It's most popular at breakfast but has a few things at lunch. There's plenty to get for vegans and vegetarians. read more

Aroma Coffee & Wine - Summer Tea With Pistachio Hummus And Chips - Cafes Near Me - Crystal Lake, Illinois

My salad was impeccable. Red wine top notch. Kai's back and friendly. Beautiful space, Service outstanding, Small plate was fresh and tasty. Was worth returning to the area again to visit. Richard Davis read more

Aroma Coffee & Wine - A great off menu salad the gifted staff made just for me! - Cafes Near Me - Crystal Lake, Illinois

I have been wanting to try this restaurant as I have heard good things about it. And finally, I was able to. First, the ambiance is wonderful - a large space with tables not too close together which provides the room for private discussions and studying if you choose. Decor is my style - eclectic - brick, metal, vintage pieces. Choose your table and then order from the counter. They have sandwiches, paninis, flatbread, appetizers, beer, wine and choice cocktails. They bring your order to the table. It is a coffee shop, so there is a selection of coffee and tea. The fig prosciutto flatbread was wonderful. Crust was very thin and crisp. Love that the shop offers side, such as uglies chips, from small independents. It was a Friday night - there was a entertainment, a trio 70s and country cover band. Loved them! I sang along to ever song and we stayed to listen until they completed their sets. Definitely a comfortable place with good food and drink. Will be back! read more

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The customer service was fantastic!! Staff was very friendly and welcoming. Had the metro breakfast sandwich and it was amazing!! Highly recommended!! Cute little coffee shop! read more

I thought the exterior of the cafe was cute, but once I stepped inside, my mind was blown. The owners have curated a wonderful space for eating, drinking, and hanging out. Their wine selection is solid, as is the quality of their coffee. I was pleasantly surprised by the quality of the salad, great value. They offer WiFi and parking is available out front. Convenient to the Downtown Metra station (2 minute walk). Great neighborhood fixture! read more

Love this spot. Great place to sit and work or catch up with a friend. Coffee is good. Food was great but beware it can take ages if you're ordering anything from the kitchen. read more

Live music on Tuesday at 4pm. This is a refreshing Bees Knees Latte that gave me just enough pep to get through a meeting. Come try it! read more

Aroma Coffee & Wine - Cafes Near Me - Crystal Lake, Illinois

This place is lovely. I was taking a couple hours for myself so stopped in for lunch. Chai Latte and a Veggie Breaky. A multigrain spinach tomato egg cheese breakfast sandwich with a delightful sauce. I don't usually eat bread and I tried to eat only one slice but it was so good I ate the crust of the second slice. I'll come back. Great service nice ambiance. read more

Just visited this place for lunch today. Warm and friendly atmosphere. I had a delicious soup, salad and chai latte. Definitely going back soon! read more

Only have visited for morning coffee and work... but great spot to get some excellent coffee and work. Had the morning metro (?) breakfast sandwhich that's super great. Also when you get an espresso they pair it with some sparking water... I think this is great Good seating and overall a great place read more

This is a great place to go for coffee and something to eat. I've also been there in the evening and have enjoyed a glass of wine and flatbread. Many items on the menu are very good and they have excellent customer service. There are some places that act like they are doing you a favor to wait on you. This place is nothing like that. I have met the owner there and she does a great job with this business. I also enjoy the atmosphere there. It is really great in that you can meet up with a friend or go in by yourself, and it always feels cozy and inviting and not cramped. read more

Love Aroma Coffee and Wine! I like to come here with my toddler occasionally, they have plenty of space so I feel like she isn't imposing on the other patrons. It's also a great location within walking distance of downtown. I've also been able to enjoy their nightlife! I've been to a yoga and wine event, a mommy meet up and next month we are going to meet up for bookclub and enjoy some wine! read more

Aroma Coffee & Wine - Cafes Near Me - Crystal Lake, Illinois

Look for the black awning that reads Aroma. Easy to find parking as the location is across the street from the train station. Upon entering you see the spacious dining area that's sparsely decorated, open and clean. Looks like the inside of an old warehouse with all the exposed brick walls. Dawn (owner) and Madelyn are so nice and attentive to their customers. Very approachable and down to earth people. Come for coffee during the day and wine in the evening. Both drinks are from the Oregon region. I ordered their house latte (I forget what it's called on the menu). Had them make it with half the syrup to reduce the sugars. Was very delicious. Their bakery goods are from Konrad's Bakery in Lake in the Hills. Keeping the local businesses happy. Konrad's baked goods are so delicious and pairs very well with Aroma's coffees. read more

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First time, staff was super nice not many people in the coffee shop but cozy feel. Took a second to get my coffee but was good so worth the small wait on a Saturday. Beautiful fall morning sitting outside the cafe read more

Aroma Coffee & Wine - Ice vanilla oat milk latte - Cafes Near Me - Crystal Lake, Illinois

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My friend and I were looking for a cute place to stop in for a quick lunch and a glass of wine this afternoon. I didn't think that Aroma served flatbreads in the afternoon, but they do and I was pleasantly thrilled! I ordered a sparkling rose and the prosciutto and fig flatbread. Let me just say, WOW! For coffee shop food, this flatbread was phenomenal! Tasted like something I'd expect from an Italian bistro. I will definitely be back to try more of their menu items in the near future. read more

Aroma Coffee & Wine - The Countryside Flatbread - Prosciutto & Fig - Cafes Near Me - Crystal Lake, Illinois

Very cute cafe with lots of seating- perfect for doing work or meeting up with friends! Got the aroma latte and veggie breaky which were both amazing and so so good. read more

Aroma Coffee & Wine - veggie breaky and aroma latte - Cafes Near Me - Crystal Lake, Illinois

We had our bridal shower here, and they were very accommodating to our group. Food is really good- warm Bavarian ham and cheese sandwiches on a pretzel roll, strawberry salad with walnuts and goat cheese, yummy desserts and a nice variety of coffee drinks, mimosas and wine. Charcuterie board was a nice appetizer to start, their hummus was amazing with a nice variety of fresh veggies. I feel like they are a hidden gem. read more

Such a cute, unique place! Upon entering, the place itself is warm & friendly. There were individuals on a bigger table sipping wine & creating art so you know it's a spot that's open to creativity. Enough room for it to be a good study spot or a quick stop to catch up with friends. Parking is easily accessible. I came in after a dentist appointment nearby after looking up a coffee place and seeing their food menu. Everything on their menu is made FRESH, & you can tell by the taste and presentation. The staff is friendly and quick to serve. :) I got one of their flat breads and an iced chai latte. I would definitely come back & I would recommend stopping in! read more

Aroma Coffee & Wine - Cafes Near Me - Crystal Lake, Illinois

This place is a new favorite stop for my wife and I in the Crystal Lake area. The presentation of the front of house is very rustic and hipster-esque which is definitely not our style. However, the food is on point and the coffee is outstanding! We weren't able to stay for long as this was a short impromptu day date while our kids were at preschool. But I can tell you that I will definitely be returning soon to sample more of the menu. I got their breakfast sandwich and my wife got the avocado toast. Both were outstanding! It may have been the best breakfast sandwich I've ever had. read more

Aroma Coffee & Wine - Metro Breakfast Sandwich - Cafes Near Me - Crystal Lake, Illinois

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Great for coffee and also awesome for food my wife had avocado toast with an egg called the millennium read more

Aroma Coffee & Wine - Millennium toast which is their version of avocado toast loaded with avocados plus we added an egg - Cafes Near Me - Crystal Lake, Illinois

My coffee was delicious! I got a big one since I was teleworking and even cold (since I was there so long) was tasty. We opted for the pretzelAnd it was delicious. We will be back. read more

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Glad to find a coffee shop where are you you can go in and sit down! Nice and clean shop. Tables spaced far apart. I had a cappuccino with 3 shots. It was delicious. I don't know if they have restrictions on how long you can stay read more

Aroma Coffee & Wine - Cute coffee bar counter. - Cafes Near Me - Crystal Lake, Illinois

Amazing service everything taste amazing and looks awesome. Definitely recommend to anyone looking for a great time.

Warm and cozy place for a lunch. Lunch menu has many different choices, all excellent. A nice quiet place for a learning lunch. Excellent coffee choices and outstanding wine choices. read more

Great coffee, food, and ambiance! Stopped in to get a dirty chai and decided to get the breakfast sandwich too. Amazing flaky and buttery croissant, a little on the small side, but very complementary with the egg and house made spread. The chai concentrate with espresso really hit the spot! Multiple seating options from overstuffed chairs to bar seating to accommodate many. read more

Absolutely adore this place. Good everything and a local small business to boot. Great job!

This place is awesome! Great staff, delicious coffee and wonderful food!! The coffee specials are always delicious and the Tuscan panini is to die for! Love the atmosphere of this place, inside and on their new patio. Would 1000% recommend! read more

Aroma Coffee & Wine - Millennium Toast, breakfast sandwich and comeback lattes - Cafes Near Me - Crystal Lake, Illinois

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Great staff, warm atmosphere and good coffee! A go to place to meet someone new or dear friends!

Very modern, hip place, not too loud but yet not a quiet, "comfy" place if you were looking to read or study. I wish there was a large menu on the wall...you walk in, not knowing exactly what to do or order because you don't see a menu! It wasn't until I got right up by the cashier that I saw a few small menus on clipboards. I knew enough to take one and step aside so other people could order, but if someone wasn't aware of this, it would definitely hold up the line. The young woman who was cashiering was very friendly and helped me with my drink and food choices since it was my first time there. The food and drinks are pretty pricey. My hot green tea was $4.50 - though I was pleasantly surprised that it came in a beautiful glass teapot with a glass cup for pouring the tea into. I couldn't drink it all; two people could definitely share this. (Then the price would be more reasonable, too.) I also had a gluten-free peanut butter cookie; I think it was $2.50. Was very tasty though. read more

Such a great place! Service and food was great! We will be back!! Ambience was perfect for quiet conversation with friends. Chairs were super comfy!! read more

Aroma Coffee & Wine - Cafes Near Me - Crystal Lake, Illinois

I frequent this coffee/wine spot every week because my daughter does ballet next door. It's a gem! The girls working here are super sweet, the food & drink are great. It's quiet enough for me to get some work done and have a bite to eat. Love it here, would 10/10 recommend it to others! Love the creamy harvest soup, make it a daily soup!!! read more

I am very excited for Crystal Lake to have a beautiful space like Aroma serving coffee and wine. The aesthetic is artful, trendy, warm, and cohesive. Their coffee menu is simple yet contains everything you'd want to choose from (I can't speak to the wine menu.) I had a pastry made by a local bakery called Kondrads which was delicious. They have a very intriguing food menu. I'm knocking 2 stars because they have a long way to go in terms of coffee preparation. According to my conversation with the owner they serve a darker custom blend from a roaster in Portland they have partnered with. I'm not a fan of dark roasted coffee but at least theirs does not taste unpleasantly bitter or stale. I believe those who like the Starbucks coffee profiles will like their coffee. My cappuccino took 10 minutes to prepare with one customer ahead during their soft open weekend. It was presented on a lovely wooden tray. The foam was not microfoam and did not carry the creama to the top. It appeared as if the barista used a spoon to create a swirl in the bubbly foam for presentation. The layer of foam was thin and the milk/foam ratio was that of a latte and not cappuccino. The drink was lukewarm and I wondered if the barista pre warmed the mug as should be done with in house served drinks. After this initial visit my wife went on a late weekday morning and waited 25 minutes for a cappuccino with one customer ahead of her and she was also served a latte in terms of milk/foam ratio. This wait time and drink quality is unacceptable. I sincerely hope Aroma is successful because it's a beautiful space and I love that between Aroma, Conscious Cup, Grounds, and Daily Grind, the area has options for craft coffee. Perhaps a consultant or more experienced baristas will help them up their coffee game because based on what I was served their coffee doesn't stand a chance against the other cafes I've mentioned. I'll definitely be back and will update my review, stay tuned. read more

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