Cafe 53

4.4 (377 reviews)

ModerateCoffee & Tea, Sandwiches, Halal

Open • 8:00 am - 9:00 pm

Updated over 3 months ago

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Cafe 53 - Spicy tuna avocado on wheat - Coffee & Tea Near Me - Chicago, Illinois

Cafe 53 - Coffee & Tea Near Me - Chicago, Illinois

Cafe 53 - Garlic Chicken Sandwich - Coffee & Tea Near Me - Chicago, Illinois

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Cafe 53 - Menu (March 2026) - Coffee & Tea Near Me - Chicago, Illinois

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CAFE 53 ATMOSPHERE

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Inside

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Casual

Moderate noise

Good for working

Good for groups

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Regena K.

Over the years I have visited cafe 53 and it's a nice place locals seem to hang out inside peacefully. Service is always nice a lot of choices and they will break it down for you as plenty of bread choices. The sandwiches are always fresh and very good and remind me of lunch time in grade school as I graduated from Murray right next door very nostalgic. Go see for yourself hot and cold sandwich choices...

Kelis C.

Upon walking in, I was a little overwhelmed as the cafe was super busy with people everywhere. Inside is a tight space but it's a nice vibe forsure. We ordered our drinks first and scanned the menu to see what we'd like. I'd definitely recommend taking your time and looking through the options because everything sounded so good. We ended up getting the turkey avocado and sumac chicken both on Dutch crunch and omg we destroyed those sandwiches. The sandwiches are pretty big which justified the price but I do think my drink (Italian soda) was definitely overpriced. The mayo that is used on the sandwiches is delicious and pairs really well with that Dutch crunch baguette. I would highly recommend heading to Cafe 53 on a chill day, grabbing a sandwich (Dutch crunch required!), and sitting out on the patio.

Agnes D.

OMGosh! One of the BEST deli i've had. I love that they have several bread option and a lettuce wrap for GF folks. Sandwiches and drinks were phenomenal. I also tried their lemon bar and it was heavenly. So were the brownies, per my Hubby!

karina k.

Tasty sandwiches and amazing bread I would say the Dutch crunch baguette was one of the best sandwich breads I've ever had. It was perfect for my tuna, avocado sandwich. The only problem was I didn't really taste the avocado. I would've loved to have more lettuce, tomato, and onion in there, but I didn't ask so that's not their fault. The sandwich was very tasty especially because the bread was so good. This is on a strip of lots of restaurants on 53rd St. near you Chicago so you're gonna get a lot of fun eateries here. Parking on the street and you have to pay.

Ebony M.

This is a super cute little coffee shop nestled in Hyde Park. They do have a lot of seating in there and it is bright enough in there and the ambience is well enough for you to study or get some work done. I think they also have a patio in the back, but I haven't checked it out. I think that they have a really nice menu they have a really really good cold brew coffee and I can't wait to go back and spend more time there. The owners are very helpful and I'm telling you about the menu and helping you to pick out a coffee they also have a lot of seasonal drinks which I think is really good. I believe the owner told me that they are well known for their sandwiches for the lunchtime, but I actually got a breakfast sandwich and it was pretty good. they had enough plugs. They had enough seats. They had Wi-Fi. All of those things were really great. I appreciated them having hand sanitizer out and it's a cute little coffee shop for working and they do get busy.

Jocelyn H.

I got their sumac chicken sandwich at a catered event and was surprised by how large their sandwiches were. The chicken in the sumac chicken sandwich was tender and the homemade cream sauce was very flavorful. The bread seems like it was made fresh which makes the sandwich feel fresh and not too heavy. I highly recommend the sumac chicken sandwich.

Cheyenne G.

WOW -- if you're looking for a true Chicago gem, this is it. Easily one of the best sandwiches I've ever had. For just $12, I ordered the sumac chicken sandwich on Dutch bread (trust me -- you have to get it on Dutch bread), and it was incredible. The sandwich was huge, easily enough for two people to share. The chicken was bursting with flavor and piled generously, and the bread itself was flaky, freshly baked, and honestly some of the best sandwich bread I've ever had. The staff was incredibly welcoming and friendly, and it's also a great spot to get some work done or study. Such an amazing find in the Hyde Park neighborhood.

Tyga M.

Shout out to Yelpers for letting me know of this gem! Wanted a sandwich spot that wasn't crazy expensive, had a variety of sandwiches and most importantly, had GOOD, hearty sandwiches. Cafe 53 checks all of those boxes. If you don't want a sandwich per se, you can opt for a wrap for almost any sandwich offering. I enjoyed the turkey avocado with the Dutch crunch bread, and it fills me up every time, to the point to where I don't need any sides to accompany the sandwich. The meat is plentiful for any given sandwich, and the additional ingredients don't overwhelm it. They also offer Italian sodas that are made very well; I recommend the lavender, but they have other, popular flavors The cafe itself is on the smaller side and can be cramped if it's a full house, but the employees are very friendly.

Dalia H.

If you need a good sandwich in the area, this is the place. I love their twist on some of their sandwiches like the chicken sumac sandwich, it's delicious. The seating inside is small, but they have an outdoor seating area outside. The owners are so friendly and the service is quick.

Angela Y.

This's my first time coming here for lunch. It's a small little cafe in Hyde park which had indoor and outside patio seatings!! It does get busy during lunch time and students from U of Chicago coming in to study. You order through the counter, and they will call your number to pick it up. I opted in for the sumac chicken sandwich on Dutch bread with extra onions. The bread was good, but I found the chicken to be a bit dry and tough to chew. The seasoning is subtle, but adds a good flavor to it. The price is very reasonable !!! You can customize it with the type of bread you want, and add in any extras ingredients you would like. It's a great spot if you want a quick lunch. I've heard my friend said that they have great coffee, I didn't get to try it. Will be going back again to try out their other items.

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Mamona T.

8 years ago

I went here on a Friday afternoon and had a hard time picking a sandwich. The owner helped me decide on the garlic chicken on the Dutch crunch bread, which I was skeptical about. When my order came out, I was pleasantly surprised by the size of the sandwich. My first bite into the sandwich made me say mmmm! The Dutch bread was scrumptious! It was fresh, crunchy on the outside, and perfectly soft on the inside! The chicken was seasoned well and the garlic taste was not overwhelming. The giardiniera peppers added the perfect spicy touch. I also shared my friend's kufta sandwich. The description says it is steak but it is ground beef. The recommended bread was French baguette and I have to say that there was very little kufta on the bread. I was disappointed because most bites did not have any meat just bread. All in all the place was cute, the garlic chicken sandwich was delicious, and I will be back to try more sandwiches! Oh btw this place is halal! read more

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Diamond T.

5 years ago

Great food great environment!!! I love it here. Highly Recommend!! Vegan Options As Well read more

Cafe 53 - Iced White Mocha With Oat Milk. - Coffee & Tea Near Me - Chicago, Illinois

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P B.

7 years ago

Everyone is always nice and the food is always great! I've had just about every vegan sandwich they have and I've never been disappointed. Their cakes are also super delicious. It's a small spot but has a great atmosphere. read more

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Alyssa B.

4 years ago

soooo good. i had the turkey avocado on dutch crunch bread and i am hooked. good pricing too! next time i wanna try their coffee

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Klaudia Z.

4 years ago

Great spot with plentiful and delicious vegan options as well as a back patio space. Will most definitely be back.

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Lilia D.

Elite 25

159

338

455

9 years ago

I had my first Cafe 53 sandwich recently, and it was delicious. I ordered the Roast Beef Artichoke Sandwich, and would definitely recommend it. The sandwich was flavorful, fresh, and had plenty of roast beef. It was very filling. The bread was crunchy and soft at the same time. I really enjoyed it. It's definitely worth the price. The location itself is small, but they have an outside patio. I didn't eat at the location, but I got a sense that the inside could get cramped easily. The ONLY reason I give it 4 stars is that I waited quite a while for my to-go sandwich. If you're in a rush, it may be helpful to call in first or just make some time for a wait. I would definitely recommend this place for sandwiches and dessert snack. read more

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Gabe M.

8 years ago

Yummy yummy sandwiches. The Italian sodas were good too. Staff was nice. Lovely back patio. read more

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J R.

305

5 years ago

Hands down my favorite sandwich place and I've lived all over the U.S. and eat out regularly. The bread is life changing. The vegan menu is absurd. I've had them all I think but the meatball, garlic chicken, sumac, and kofta are the current tag team champs. read more

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Shirin F.

4 years ago

Their vegan sandwich options are amazing !!! My absolute favourite is the vegan sumac chicken followed by the artichoke chicken . They have renovated the place and it looks nice, they have a big back patio but it needs a little TLC!!! The best part of this place is the staff !!! They are Arabic and don't disappoint when it comes to middle eastern hospitality . I guarantee their vegan sandwiches will not disappoint!!! read more

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Menas S.

3 years ago

great food and drinks at cafe 53 very delicious sandwich everyone should try this cafe

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Kailin L.

6 years ago

Delicious sandwiches, nice patio, and they are doing good business during Covid. Unfortunately they are extremely understaffed at times. Today I waited almost 40 minutes for two sandwiches. read more

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Zach R.

165

7 years ago

My go-to cafe in Hyde park! Wonderful people and great sandwiches! It's the type of place you can either work at in peace or just relax and eat some comfort food. read more

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Sara L.

5 years ago

This place is so cute and has a really get menu!! I got the chicken pesto sandwich on a wheat baguette and it came with grilled chicken, balsamic vinaigrette and pesto. It was very tasty and the perfect size, but the two different sauces made it pretty greasy. If I went again, I would leave off the balsamic because it just made the sandwich soggy. Also, I wish they had wraps :( read more

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Cb S.

4 years ago

Poor service! Be careful when ordering. Messed up vegetarian order and gave chicken. When confronted, said it was not specified. Then made me wait for 25 min to provide an alternative options. Too many better options to go back there again. read more

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Alex C.

4 years ago

Great food and prices. The service is lacking a bit and I waited 40 minutes for my sandwich.

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Jeremy L.

8 years ago

While the food, drinks and gelato are decent, the whole place is dirty. I'm here right now and almost every table is dirty, the floor.is covered in food, crumbs, and even trash. It smells like wet rags and the bathrooms are sticky and gross. Not a place I want to relax in. read more

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Sister Sharon D.

5 years ago

Not sure what the request of 'no peppers of any kind' - Allergic means to the restaurant. I am allergic to all peppers! The green peppers were replaced with jalapeño ... humm... I think the second word is jalapeño peppers! The panini sandwich was soggy and 45 minutes late in arrival when I live 10 minutes walking distance from the restaurant. Was refunded by Grub hub but my lips and mouth already swelling! read more

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Monique W.

383

7 years ago

Always good. Always fresh. My absolute favorite spot on 53rd to grab something quick, healthy (depending on how I'm feeling that day), with guaranteed good customer service. They are also great with delivery orders--never a problem--and that's rare for pretty much any spot in HP that has delivery as an option. Go for the Dutch Crunch bread with your sandwich! The salads are amazing too. read more

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Michael M.

4 years ago

Great service and quality food! I love their Dutch bread, so addicting!! And their espresso coffee is wonderful! Great cafe to work or chat with friends. read more

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Lilian R.

174

4 years ago

Food is delicious! My favorite is the garlic chicken sandwich. Ive Ordered from them many times and cater our office lunches, it's always a hit. read more

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Marc S.

245

5 years ago

Great and affordable baked sandwiches. I love the sumac chicken and garlic chicken. You HAVE to get the Dutch Crunch bread with any sandwich, it's the best!! read more

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Meg O.

4 years ago

Arrived as they opened. Only customer there. Placed order for three bagel sandwiches. No drinks. Took 27 minutes while the cook apparently prepping vegetables or something for the entire day rather than making sandwiches first. Food: bagels were grocery store quality at best. Eggs were fine (hard to mess up eggs) read more

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Jumana E.

244

6 years ago

Best turkey sandwich in all of Chicago! I drive 35 minutes from the suburbs for their sandwiches and I never regret it. Dutch bread is phenomenal. Owner is an amazing person and makes you feel like you're at home as well. Such a hidden gem. So thankful to have found them. read more

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Gabe H.

Elite 17

737

636

869

9 years ago

Garbage service... came in to get a tea and a latte. At least three employees working and I stood waiting at the register for no joke 10 minutes before being acknowledged. The gentleman making drinks didn't say hello, welcome, be right with you... nothing. A guy came out from the back to hand an order to someone. He even rung them up at the register I was standing at then walked away immediately without looking up or acknowledging me or the other three people waiting to be helped. Finally it was my turn, I ordered a tea and a soy latte. He said wait let me see if I have Soy milk... negative ghost rider... no soy milk on hand. So I canceled the latte and ordered just the tea. They don't have any spoons available to remove the tea bag once it's been steeped. This place is just straight up lame sauce. read more

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Annie R.

8 years ago

Huge vegan selection, and and (almost?) all sandwiches are under $10. The mediterranean sandwich I got was pretty good, but the pecan pie I ate afterward was sickeningly sweet. Except maybe that is my fault for ordering pecan pie because I heat that's it's thing. I decided it's not fair to fault them for that one. I also tried the housemade basil gelato (a hard decision... probably twelve different flavor options!) which was pretty interesting. And not bad. As far as atmosphere, the old linoleum floor and cluttered walls don't help this place out. I've been a few times, and the service always is exceptionally friendly. read more

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Katie A.

4 years ago

vegan chicken sumac goes crazy. all the sandwiches are good but some are truly exceptional. gelato is good too. music is never the same. the people who run the place are so kind. the patio is a spartan escapade--functional not gorgeous, but to me that makes the place all the more endearing. the homemade artwork hanging on the walls also adds to the warm atmosphere. ive never tried the pastries but want to. i love how big the menu is. read more

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Angela Z.

100

5 years ago

CAFE 53 IS A DREAM. You literally can't go wrong with any sandwich option, get the dutch crunch bread! The sumac chicken sandwich is bomb. And that backyard garden patio is actually magical. read more

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Nida I.

4 years ago

Tried the sumac sandwich on their recommendation and loved it. The bread was freshly baked and the flavors were immaculate. The serving size too is pretty good. Definitely recommend it. read more

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Sabrina E.

7 years ago

Great sandwiches and beautiful customer service. I've eaten here too many times to remember. Try your sandwich on the Dutch Crunch bread - you won't be sorry! read more

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Zeeshan A.

4 years ago

The place for sandwiches in Hyde Park. Always great for getting a quick bite. Halal with vegetarian options

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Nia H.

7 years ago

The Vegan Buffalo Chicken Sandwich was AMAZING!! First order, definitely will not be my last. Delivery order came early and did not disappoint. read more

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chocolate s.

462

8 years ago

tuna and avo sammie DELISH with green raspberry tea sammie was huge! and an unknown bonus of gardinera peppers read more

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Oscar L.

6 years ago

Just confirmed ... Cafe 53 is still open for business! Order your meal online at www.cafe-53.com, pickup or delivery. Food is as good as ever! read more

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Sarah D.

5 years ago

Cafe 53 is an absolute gem. My friend and I go there every week for coffee and to sit in their back patio, and we look forward to it every time. Their drinks are amazing, especially the caramel macchiato and the iced white mocha. I also love their cappuccinos and lattes. Overall, cafe 53 has it all - great coffee, a cute patio, good prices, and amazing energy. read more

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Val H.

6 years ago

I could eat here everyday and never get tired of it. There is something for every palate and dietary need without sacrificing taste or choice. Amazing salads and bagels and gelato and oh my God the sandwiches are life changing and I want to put the garlic sauce on everything. Most thorough selection of teas I've seen and you must try the mint lemonade next time it's on the menu. read more

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Melos H.

Elite 18

184

15 years ago

Came here once over the summer. Very friendly staff, I can tell the lady definitely has her share of regulars. I had a blueberry smoothie (was not a fan, I found it extremely sweet). On the positive side, I ordered an "everything" cookie (some kind of nut, oats, chocolate chunks, raisins, some other things). I enjoyed that. I'm sure the rest of the food is good, but I have not tried it. Definitely come here if you're in a rush to get to the Metra. read more

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Tyana D.

100

7 years ago

I had the vegan garlic artichoke chicken sandwich. Phenomenal. So good that my husband and I found ourselves in disbelief. We couldn't believe it wasn't chicken. Will return soon. read more

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Alex S.

5 years ago

Live near. Read amazing reviews. Tried it. Loved it. SO many delicious things. It's small, so a large dinner party wouldn't be the best way to enjoy. Just pop in when you need some good food. Also, take your time when eating. It's that good. read more

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Elittlebeth S.

5 years ago

Sandwiches were good, we liked the vegan Italian chicken and the vegan chicken barbecue and iced coffees. It's a nice place to sit and do work, while getting coffees and sandwiches. they have WiFi and 9 tables for seating through it's a smaller space it works and you're not too packed together. We definitely look forward to coming back and trying more sandwiches! read more

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Steven G.

5 years ago

Haven't had a bad meal yet. Great outdoor patio, which is shaded, hidden from wind and car noise.

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Page 5 of 10

1369 E 53rd St
Chicago, IL 60615
Hyde Park
Directions
(773) 493-1000
Call Now
Order Takeout or Delivery
Start Order
Visit Website
http://www.cafe-53.com

Full menu

Hours

What time does Cafe 53 open?

Cafe 53 opens at 8:00 AM on Monday, Tuesday, Wednesday, Thursday, Friday, Saturday and Sunday.

What time does Cafe 53 close?

Cafe 53 closes at 9:00 PM on Monday, Tuesday, Wednesday, Thursday, Friday, Saturday and Sunday.

Mon-Sun 8:00 AM - 9:00 PM

Payment methods

Does Cafe 53 take Bitcoin?

No, Cafe 53 does not take Bitcoin.

Does Cafe 53 take credit cards?

Yes, Cafe 53 takes credit cards.

Food & Alcohol

Does Cafe 53 have catering options?

Yes, Cafe 53 does have catering options.

Does Cafe 53 have a happy hour?

No, Cafe 53 does not have a happy hour.

Does Cafe 53 serve alcohol?

No, Cafe 53 does not serve alcohol.

Indoor Amenities

Does Cafe 53 allow dogs?

No, Cafe 53 does not allow dogs.

Does Cafe 53 have TVs?

No, Cafe 53 does not have TVs.

Outdoor Amenities

Does Cafe 53 have bike parking?

Yes, Cafe 53 has bike parking.

Does Cafe 53 have outdoor seating?

Yes, Cafe 53 has outdoor seating options.

Does Cafe 53 have parking?

Yes, Cafe 53 has parking options. Street Parking

Other Amenities

Is Cafe 53 wheelchair accessible?

Yes, Cafe 53 is wheelchair accessible.

Does Cafe 53 have free WiFi?

Yes, Cafe 53 has free WiFi.

From the Business

Specialties

Cafe 53, located in the heart of Hyde Park, Chicago, serves coffee, tea, pastries, and delicious oven-baked sandwiches. Our sandwich bread is baked specially for Cafe 53. Our oven-baked sandwiches and paninis are made from quality ingredients and include a variety of vegan sandwiches. Our popular sandwiches include the hummus and falafel wrap, veggie panini, kufta (spiced beef) oven-baked sandwich, and honey bbq chicken sandwich. We also offer breakfast bagel sandwiches all day long. In addition to our oven-baked sandwiches, we also offer salads, hummus plates, and kids' options like grilled cheese and peanut butter and jelly sandwiches. For dessert, try our gelato! We invite you to visit Cafe 53, whether you walk-in, sit on our patio, or simply call in your order. Cafe 53 is your cafe off-the-beaten path. Welcome!

History

Established in 2010.

Cafe 53 has been serving Chicago since 2010. Our mission is to provide delicious food in a friendly environment. With over four years of success, we look forward to adding you to our long history of happy customers.

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Health Score

Ask the Community - Cafe 53

Do they have parking?

Park Chicago street parking, and if you want to walk a few blocks. There's free parking further down

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0.7 mi•Hyde Park

•$$

Usually super crowded, which is why I have begun to avoid it. It's nice to sit outside during the…read morewarmer months, but of course that's a very small sliver of the year. There are ample vegan and vegetarian options, and I highly recommend the vegan tartine (possible to customize as a salad) and vegetarian quesadilla. The croissants and desserts are above average. Coffee/chai/hot chocolate are solid options, and there is a refrigerated section with bottled juices. Service is always exceptional, and the servers are almost always cheerful and polite. The cafe is connected to the seminary bookstore, which is fun for a quick browse. If you are not connected with the University of Chicago, Plein Air is like a window into the university and its architecture, situated right next to Frank Lloyd Wright's well-known Robie House. Most patrons are students, staff and faculty at the university. Overall, I recommend this spot if you are touring the university and need an atmospheric place to hang out. Importantly, however, menu options are limited in the summer months or during university breaks - check before you go!

Food was good but really expensive. The cafe was very nice but did not have a variety of bakery…read moretreats. I'd recommend the drinks here. Also a great place to study for the college students.

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Ordering counter

Sandwich

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Fairgrounds Coffee And Tea

4.0(12 reviews)

0.5 mi•Hyde Park

Cozy atmosphere, below average service, and expensive but good quality food and drinks. The cafe is…read moresituated next to a university dorm, and therefore has no shortage of patrons. This however means that the servers and staff put little to no effort in creating a welcoming environment for patrons: they are often curt and unhelpful. They are also unapologetic when they get orders wrong or mixed up, which happens more than one might think. The food itself has not been disappointing, though I would recommend their savoury selections over the sweets. The drinks have generally been good, and I quite liked the Vietnamese iced coffee. The ambiance is super pretty, with cozy couches and comfortable chairs. The location is also fantastic, with a lovely porch that's nice to hang out in during the warmer months. The cafe would make an excellent study spot, but the poor quality of service coupled with the pricey food and drink options make me exceedingly reluctant to return. Visit at your own risk!

My go to place to hang out between doctors appointments at UC. If I have an early pm appointment I…read moreget work done before getting my kid from school instead of going home. Sometimes i bring the kid if he has an appointment after school. Sorry not sorry for infiltrating a student spot. I may be old but I look young so I think I pass as a student? It's pretty popular so I don't always get to use an outlet when I attempt to use Fairground as a temporary office. Oh well. If I can get the comfy couch I'm happy enough. :) Coffee is good. My son loves the brownies. I love the ambience. Staff are so nice. I'm glad I have a place to go on heavy appointment days!

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Bacon Breakfast Taco

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Cool chance to experience the fairgrounds lifestyle while visiting Chicago. Like this!

Medici On 57th

3.6(1.1k reviews)

0.6 mi•Hyde Park

•$$

Stopped by here because we were waiting for a show to begin. It adjacent to the Medici Deli so I…read morewent through the wrong door initially. This place has a lot of personality: old wood finishes, "graffiti" on every reachable wall and sill. I wanted to follow the other reviews and get the calamari and the chili. The calamari was very good, but has a short shelf life. The chili was nice, but a little toothless. Also had the cubano which was rich in pickles which is always a plus. I guess, since it's claiming a deli in-residence, I'd try the deli sandwich specialities. I don't know when I can get out here next, but it looks like the pizza is supposed to be the next thing we try.

Unfortunately, our experience fell short of expectations. We accidentally spilled some water at the…read moretable and ended up cleaning it ourselves. Several staff members walked by and noticed, but no one offered assistance until I was finally able to get our server's attention. Our lemonade never arrived, and my meal came with pickles despite specifically requesting none. The food itself was underwhelming. We stopped in because we were already in the area, but it's not somewhere I'd go out of my way to visit again. The restaurant is in a college town, so it definitely has a younger, student-heavy crowd, but it is family friendly.

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Upstairs

Calamari appetizer

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B'Gabs Comfort Cafe

4.4(162 reviews)

0.6 mi•Hyde Park

•$$

This place is great. It is small but really cozy with comfy chairs and a sofa. The food is made to…read moreride and absolutely delicious. The food can be made vegetarian or gluten free or with dairy and meat. You can order how you like. I highly recommend this place.

The service was great and the food was delicious. I enjoyed the Ambiance as I walked inside the…read morerestaurant.

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Georgia O'Beefe

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Stan's Donuts & Coffee

4.0(38 reviews)

0.2 mi•Hyde Park

•$$

This is my favorite Stan's to go to! Always clean with cute decor, and the staff is consistently…read morefriendly and welcoming. I always enjoy my visits here. Awesome variety of donuts, drinks and breakfast is decent.

My first time at Stan's and I loved it. Friendly service in a cute establishment. We got an…read moreassortment on their fantastic donuts, breakfast burrito, spinach and feta, ham and cheese on a pretzel. Also coffee. The donuts were amazing and the coffee was quite good. Joined loyalty program and got six bucks off. Love this place. Wish they were in NY/NJ area.

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Why does Yelp recommend reviews?

Hundreds of millions of reviews are posted on Yelp, and our automated recommendation software works in the background to showcase the reviews that it …

33 reviews that are not currently recommended

The reviews below are not factored into the business's overall star rating.

Ethan A.

2 years ago

Cafe 53 in Chicago is an absolute gem and deserves every bit of praise it receives. I can't express how much I love this place! The moment you step inside, you're greeted with a cozy and inviting atmosphere. It's the perfect spot for a relaxed meal, catching up with friends, or enjoying some quiet time with a book. Now, let's talk about the food. The menu at Cafe 53 is a delightful mix of flavors and options. I've tried several dishes here, and each one has been a culinary masterpiece. Whether it's their delicious breakfast offerings or their mouthwatering sandwiches and salads for lunch, every bite is a taste sensation. And don't get me started on their coffee - it's the perfect pick-me-up to start your day. What truly sets Cafe 53 apart is their exceptional customer service. The staff is friendly, attentive, and always ready with a warm smile. They make you feel like a valued guest with their prompt service and genuine hospitality. I've been a regular at Cafe 53 for quite some time now, and it never disappoints. If you haven't been here yet, I highly recommend giving it a try. It's a must-visit spot in Chicago for anyone who appreciates delicious food, a welcoming ambiance, and fantastic service. I can't wait for my next visit! read more

Asad J.

11 years ago

I have always wanted to write a review for these guys and I'm doing it now, now that I've moved away. I miss their perfect garlic chicken sandwich, the flavor and the bread are just perfect. Its also a big portion so we will usually have it for dinner leftover! Their Pistachio ice cream is the best and the other flavors are pretty good. There has always been seating and it's a cool place to go for even coffee and/or tea as they have a variety of flavors. I'm also in love with their BBQ chicken sandwich and as always everything is halal! They also have great vegan options and Ive actually eaten the vegan chicken and it tastes just like chicken, which was a nice surprise. The only con about this place is that when you order they take their time delivering and it's not as warm but it's just better to eat it there. read more

Tiffany H.

Elite 23

242

143

2 years ago

I was excited to try Café 53 after a friend's recommendation, but unfortunately, I will not be returning. I ordered the vegan buffalo chicken sandwich, and while I was looking forward to it, the experience was soured by terrible customer service. Despite my order being clearly visible, the associate took an unreasonable amount of time to even acknowledge me. When I finally told him my name, he didn't simply hand over my food--he gave me what felt like a pop quiz to prove my identity. The whole interaction was rude and unnecessary. The sandwich itself wasn't bad--the bread was probably the best thing. However, service is most important. It's disappointing when a place with good recommendations falls so short on basic hospitality. read more

Peter C.

6 years ago

I love the new set up, the atmosphere is warm and welcoming. Very conducive to work, study or meeting friends over coffee. By far the best sandwiches in the neighborhood, my favorite is the chicken sumac, both the vegan and non-vegan options are equally outstanding. Each sandwich is carefully made to be delicious. The staff are friendly and give a small-town feel to this local shop, warmly greeting regulars and welcoming first time visitors. Every time I drop in I leave with a happy belly and a smile on my face. read more

Layla T.

11 years ago

Nice little place on 53rd in Hyde Park. Very good gelato and respectable coffee. The service has been good each time we have gone. It can sometimes be hard to get a seat at a table since they are largely occupied by the laptop crowd, but there is a nice park next door. It doesn't yet have the full Hyde Park neighborhood joint feel of Cafe 57 (no relation) or Z&H, but it is a welcome addition to the 53rd street businesses. Definitely worth a try. read more

Emiliano V.

197

6 years ago

Cozy sand which spot nestled in the middle of downtown Hyde Park. The meat is fresh but the great part is that you can buy a lot of multi-ethnic sandwiches or varietal of. The falafel is particularly good, a bit dry but tasty nonetheless. Sometimes they close a bit early than google or yelp states but it's a great lunch spot. Coffee is pretty decent too which makes and even more perfect luncheon. Cheers! read more

D U.

7 months ago

Cafe 53rd is a staple in Hyde Parks busy 53rd street area. Everytime I am in that part of the city I have to stop there. The food is savory, they have fresh pastries from a bakery catered to them (it seems), their coffee, and tea selections are great, and they have gelato. The customers at the cafe can be rude (depending on the day) but the food and ambiance overall make up for it! read more

Sung L.

8 months ago

I stopped by Cafe 53 and was seriously impressed. The sandwich was amazing -- fresh, flavorful, and unique in the best way. You can tell they put care into the ingredients and flavors. The service was good, friendly, and quick, which made the experience even better. The ambiance is okay -- not the best study spot, but a great place for a quick stop to grab something tasty to eat. read more

Natalya R.

3 months ago

As a repeat customer, Cafe 53 is my favorite restaurant in Hyde Park. Their sandwiches are delicious, with excellent vegetarian and vegan options. The staff are always friendly and work hard to provide efficient and accurate service. I really enjoy reading and admiring the art here, plus the backyard patio in the summer! Overall a great experience. read more

Yang Z.

11 years ago

The gelato here is so creamy and delicious. They have a huge selection of dairy free options which is a rare find. Expensive, but well worth the splurge. Their flavors change with the season so there are always new things to try! And, they give you a ridiculous amount of free samples. The people are always so friendly...well worth it! read more

Qatada A.

7 years ago

This cafe is out of this world. His iced carmel macchiato is to die for. The service is excellent and the staff are extremely friendly. All the sandwiches are finger licking good but my personal favorite is the Italian chicken sandwich. They also have free WiFi which comes and handy often. 10/10 would recommend! read more

Carmen O.

4 years ago

Taste is good on kufta sandwiches and Buffalo chicken of u want a little spicy. Sometimes when u want something new from here the options are one too many including their coffee. Super busy at lunch time! I suggest ordering ahead any time. I like the outdoor patio but it's like being in an old park. read more

Ashkan Z.

6 years ago

This place has the best roast beef I've ever seen in the U.S. the staff are friendly and the environment is great. You have access to internet so you can perform your tasks while eating the delicious roast beef. I have been here few times and I will of course go back there again. read more

David W.

11 years ago

Fantastic little spot. Great vegan sandwich options. The avocado artichoke sandwich on french bread was the right choice for me. Great prices too, with a very unassuming atmosphere. Hip college kids and immigrant families all sharing the good spot. read more

Elsy S.

4 years ago

If you are around the hyde park area (Univ of Chicago), you should try Cafe 53 - their coffees, sweets and sandwiches are really good. The service is superb - very friendly staff. I will definitely come back to enjoy their coffee and sandwiches. read more

George T. S.

13 years ago

Not the best coffee I have ever had, and definitely not the best atmosphere. But, given the lack of really great coffee places in Hyde Park, and the speed at which they go out of business, I guess this place is better than others. read more

Stephanie T.

11 years ago

I cute cozy place to sit and study or chat with friends. Lots of sandwiches to choose from and a variety of gelato flavours as well. The sandwiches are filling and i love the variety and the different breads to choose from :) read more

Anne W.

15 years ago

I get teas from this cute cafe quite often; there's a huge number of flavors and so far they've all been really good. I've tasted their gelato too and all I can say is "yum"! Definitely gonna' give this place a 5 read more

John M.

10 years ago

Always excellent customer service and prices are very reasonable. They have great apple cider and caramel macchiatos.

Whitney Y.

3 years ago

I love this cafe. It's a great cafe to go to. Lots of great options and a nice ambiance inside too.

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Harper Cafe

Philz Coffee

Sweet Drip Dessert Cafe

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Stan's Donuts & Coffee

33 Cafe 53 reviews that are not currently recommended

Why does Yelp recommend reviews?

33 reviews that are not currently recommended

Cafe 53 - coffee - Updated June 2026

Best of Chicago

People found Cafe 53 by searching for…

Trending Searches in Chicago, IL

Browse Nearby

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Related Searches in Chicago, IL

Browse Articles

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