I'm a local who frequents Cafe Paradiso a couple times a week. It's been my favorite neighborhood spot for a few years. I even started coming more often after Dutch Brothers opened down the street because I wanted to offset the possibility of small business loss. This place has meant that much to me. What has set Paradiso apart from other coffee spots in town has always been the vibe; serving up a warm and welcoming spot to enjoy your drink and hang for a few. Up until recently the staff have always been friendly and attentive. Things have been going downhill for a couple months, but the last few weeks have been particularly egregious. A majority of the friendly and familiar faces that made this place so beloved have been replaced in recent weeks with rude and indifferent staff members. Recently I've had a half dozen instances of drinks made incorrectly (nothing fancy, just steamed milk and tea), or having to repeatedly ask for food I ordered, etc. and then being treated like I'm an imposition for asking to correct the issue. Many of the staff seem to pick and choose who they're polite to, to the point that I no longer feel personally welcome. I think I'll be taking my business elsewhere from now on. read more

Cute caffe with a relaxed feel. Nice place to grab a coffee and chat, or work. Fairly busy but vanilla latte was good and a tasty strawberry croissant. Service was fast and efficient. read more

Caffe Paradiso - Strawberry croissant - Coffee & Tea Near Me - Urbana, Illinois

Big airy cafe with a variety of seating options from communal tables to booths, counters with stools, smaller tables. Park outside (not in the private lot!). Rotating art on the walls. Expertly made espresso coffee drinks. It is so refreshing to see a properly made 8oz cappuccino. Hallelujah! Good selection of sweet and savory pastries, though everything is jumbled together so good luck if you have allergies. Try to avoid the lunch rush if you don't want to wait. read more

Caffe Paradiso - Coffee & Tea Near Me - Urbana, Illinois

Great coffee in a relaxed coffeehouse setting. The drinks served here are on par with those of any specialty shop. I ordered the brewed coffee and it tasted fresh and balanced -- neither too acidic nor bitter from sitting in the urn. The menu includes some out-of-the-ordinary espresso drinks with various combinations of espresso, coffee, and foam. The shop brews Intelligentsia beans. But the reason to come is the large, open space with heterogenous chairs and tables. The shop has a community feel, like you would be welcome to sit and chat or curl up with a good book for a long afternoon. read more

A quick note to my previous review - this time I tried a hot Chai with oat milk. It was perfect! I noticed the tea bag after finishing the drink. So much better than the concentrate to make at home. read more

See all

Delicious lattes. Wish they had gluten free choices and breads for the sandwiches but the milk alternatives are great. Friendly service in a cute space. read more

Loved this cafe! If you're here for fall the oat milk chai latte with pumpkin syrup was life changing. Cute vibe, pretty busy but staff did amazing :) read more

Caffe Paradiso - Pumpkin chai oat milk latte - Coffee & Tea Near Me - Urbana, Illinois

See all

$10 for me a caramel cold foam cold brew and an almond croissant. Ample seating inside and out. It's always odd when the barista doesn't acknowledge you for 4 minutes at the counter and they're within 2 foot proximity. They were efficient and kind when it was time to turn their "work face on". Intelligentsia A++ read more

Caffe Paradiso - Croissant and cold brew - Coffee & Tea Near Me - Urbana, Illinois

I've been here twice and both times I was beyond satisfied! I've gotten their iced matcha latte with oatmilk - which was Devine! Strong matcha taste, great green color, and thick and creamy! My second visit in October I tried their hot chocolate with oatmilk and a chicken panini. Their hot chocolate was amazing - nice and rich with a strong milk chocolate flavor which paired perfectly with the oatmilk! Their panini was SOOOO GOOD. Everything melted together and the bread was chefs kiss perfection. So nice and crunchy and buttery. Everything has been delicious so far and the inside/ambience is also funky and very aesthetically pleasing. Lots of unique furniture and plants, so really pretty to look at and a cool place to come hang out with friends, plus lots of seating for study sessions! Service was also friendly :) read more

Caffe Paradiso - Iced Matcha with oatmilk - Coffee & Tea Near Me - Urbana, Illinois

See all

Great college atmosphere. Delicious coffee and pastries. Highly recommendable if you are in the area of UIUC.

Great atmosphere, great desserts.. it was really packed when I went, so it's busy and can be a little loud. The decorations. Was nice and seemed like the pain job was done by artist. They had coffee and other options I would definitely go back to this caffe read more

Caffe Paradiso - Coffee & Tea Near Me - Urbana, Illinois

This is such a beautiful cafe! Sososo aesthetic!! The service here was delightful, they recommended such good choices and were very polite! The pastries looked fresh and there are so many good menu options. There is a wide variety of drinks and the cardamom and honey latte was good if you're looking for a sweet treat. The chai was also bussin! Def recommend :) read more

Caffe Paradiso - Lemon bar, bagel, banana pudding, caramel frappe, chai, cardamom and honey latte. - Coffee & Tea Near Me - Urbana, Illinois

While visiting the University of Illinois, I decided to stop for a cold brew at Caffe Paradiso. Tucked into an older building on the east side of campus, the cafe is very spacious with an interior reflecting its historic character. They offer a variety of sweet items to go with your coffee, tea or other beverage. Although busy, there was plenty of space to work from my laptop for a couple of hours and it was reasonably quiet. My cold brew was a bit too strong and I wish there were some more options on the menu for flavors or cream additions. The major negative is parking as there are only a couple of spaces in front. Most of the parking is paid and it's usually quite crowded in the area due to the academic buildings nearby but as this caters to the college crowd, I imagine most folks just walk to the cafe. Service was fast and friendly. It's a nice place to take a break or get a bit of work done. read more

A very good place in Urbana to get coffee and some baked goods. Caffe Paradiso is one of the more popular hangouts. It has lots of seating for studying students. Even if you aren't a student there's reason to come. That reason is the coffee and food menu. I had a macchiato the last time here. It's $3.50 to get a pretty big shot. The rest of the coffee options are too many to mention, but there's just a lot though. Dairy free milks are available. Especially good are the seasonal specialties. Check out the sandwich board at the counter. Speaking of sandwiches, they also have these. I got a Hummus Wrap to go. It's $6.50 for a pretty big one. This comes with hummus of course, along with spinach and tomatoes. Among the best of the places around the Illinois campus. I would come here again if around here. The prices are pretty good on most things. read more

Caffe Paradiso - Macchiato And The Hummus Wrap - Coffee & Tea Near Me - Urbana, Illinois

I've been coming to this place for a loooong time but recently the quality control has taken a *DIVE*, even has prices have gone up. Get it together please! read more

I Ordered a cappuccino. It was well made, made with fresh beans, and was aromatic. It's the type of relaxing coffee you might fall asleep to before the caffeine kicks in. Also the ambiance is quite relaxing and service is top notch. read more

The coffee is really good, and there were a lot of great food selections to take a look at. This is a great place for students to study, the chairs are comfortable and there are a lot of large tables. Don't come if you're in a rush. We got here and the service staff seems to not give a F. I noticed that multiple times they were reminded of a drink and forgot multiple times. They have little urgency. However, they are quite nice! read more

Dropped in for coffee and treats with my brother while visiting my nephew and his new apartment. Cute busy place. Coffee was great, although they were out of oat milk that day which bummed me out. They also had vegan choco chip cookies so they were instantly redeemed. Looks like quite the hang to study as well. Need a cup and a snack - hit Caffe Paradiso. read more

I still frequent Paradiso and appreciate what they have to offer, but one grating thing is the music chosen by some baristas. I don't have a problem with them posting the music that makes them happy, but a few always resort to mindless. repetitive drivel that sounds like AI-generated elevator music. I suspect they're just trying to simplify their work day, but I find it annoying and insulting. read more

Hands down one of my favorite coffee shops in the area. They are consistent with their crafted drinks their food items are pretty legit. I usually get their London fog, they lavender in theirs which adds a whole additional dimension and their matcha lattes don't disappoint. They use Rishi teas which are pretty flavorful compared to other teas other shops usually use. Their desserts and breakfast options aren't too bad either. I could always go for an Asiago bagel with garlic cream cheese or a banana pudding when my mornings are busy. If you like hipster coffee shop vibes, this is definitely a place for you. read more

My absolute favorite place on campus! The music, drinks, and vibes are great. I've tried every coffee shop on campus and I would say caffeine Paradiso has the best! It is usually pretty busy so sometimes it's hard to find a place to sit during their busy hours when their outdoor seating is closed. read more

Nice local coffee shop, cool comfy ambiance, the barista was fast efficient and professional. I got a breakfast sandwich that you can microwave there. And now the coffee.. very good latte , definitely up there with Starbucks. I love supporting local. Just wish they had a drive through for my lazy ass. read more

Caffe Paradiso - Out side - Coffee & Tea Near Me - Urbana, Illinois

See all

Had a very rude encounter with barista. I had misheard the drink order call and accidentally grabbed a drink that wasn't mine, to which I returned and apologized for. The barista very passively aggressively told me that "I can always read the cup to know what's mine." Was very obvious that she was annoyed and was trying to make me feel dumb. 15 minutes later I overhear her gossiping about the situation to another customer. Saw her mocking me and rolling her eyes, I was sitting 5 feet away. Don't know how she thought I could not see/hear. I tipped her before all of this too! I simply just made a mistake. So so rude. read more

Loved the vibe of this place! It was full of college students hanging out, it was fun. My raspberry mocha was great. I loved the art and decor. Staff was very friendly! I think I've found my new go to coffee place to get work done! read more

The latte was soft and smooth, without too much sense of bitterness (but I love some deep roasted coffee beans better). The environment was good, but there were too many people chatting, so maybe this is not a perfect place to study. Anyway, the foam on the coffee was nice! read more

Caffe Paradiso - latte - Coffee & Tea Near Me - Urbana, Illinois

See all

Cute cafe! I am very impressed with their pastries and huge drink menu. It still shocks me that their HUGE brownie is only $2.50!! That's a must grab if you have a sweet tooth like me. Their sweet potato cakes and other pastries are also very appealing and unique. I'm excited to come here more often! read more

See all

Caffe Paradiso has this really comfortable atmosphere that's hard to describe in words. There's something really home-like about it... and my home is nothing like this place. Their coffee is really good and they have endless tables and chairs. When I was there, they had K-pop playing (my fave songs) in the background so that was also comforting as well. I think this is a nice place to meet up and chat with friends or study. I personally wouldn't study there since I get easily distracted, but I think it would be a good place to do a group project or something like that. Parking is not exactly the best in their tiny "lot" on the side of the building. Park elsewhere! There are street parking spaces close by and it's much easier to access. All in all... I think I've found my go-to cafe! Check it out! read more

I was in town visiting for a week and discovered Paradiso. What an awesome place. I ended up coming here every day to work for a few hours, and it's the perfect spot for it. Friendly staff, chill vibe, tons of seating, good coffee, and a chocolate cookie that is out of this world. I'd be here every day if I lived in C-U. read more

Caffe Paradiso - Incredible chocolate chip cookie. - Coffee & Tea Near Me - Urbana, Illinois

One of my most favorite places in Champaign-Urbana. Great sandwiches that are always made from scratch; dessert that I can't help buying to treat myself; perfect coffee/matcha for all seasons. I was impressed by avocado hummus wrap -- juicy and flavorful. I also like the latte, for its creamy milk foam. Went there to do homework in a winter morning, study for finals in a weekend afternoon, or just meet with friends over a cup of coffee. So many wonderful memories in this place. read more

See all

I've been to Cafe Paradiso several times since moving to Champaign-Urbana since it's a short walk. It has an incredibly cozy atmosphere, and has become one of my favorite places to get work done, or meet friends. i can't say it's the most spectacular coffee i've ever had, but it is consistently good. their matcha latte is one of my favorites because they don't make it ridiculously sweet, and my partner loves their salted caramel cold brew. the reason i'm giving it 5 stars-- some bozo blatantly cut in front of me in line. i was standing literally by the register to order and he just threw his sandwich down and stepped right in front of me. lol...... but the barista saw & made my drink first anyways. i actually have no idea if this was coincidence or the barista actually did me a solid. either way, i was in a rush to work & this made my day. thanks cafe paradiso! staff is amazing. read more

One of my favorite caffeine spots in the area tho my one try so far, the white mocha frappe was mostly ice, lacking flavor, hardly any coffee at all after 5 sips, quite disappointing for an intro to a fun looking menu. I'll have to try again because everything else here is right up the right street. Great location, tons of interior space, open and bright atmosphere in a vintage garden feel, super friendly staff, nice canteen for getting water on your own, and overall wonderful feel without corporate marketing nonsense Starbucks is swollen up to its face in. Prices are lower than that silly national brand too! read more

See all

I love this place, especially for studying! Great coffee, tea, and other drinks. Had a panini for lunch, and it did not disappoint. I love the ambiance as well, and the way the café is decorated. It has a very classic feel. Only thing I will say is that I wish there was more seating, or less people. I got there at 7:45, they open at 7:30, and the place was already packed. Thankfully I was able to find a seat, a little frustrating, but it's a college ‍ what are you going to do? read more

Caffe Paradiso - Earl grey tea - Coffee & Tea Near Me - Urbana, Illinois

See all

One of my favorite places to study and "study." Love the interior design and the amount of outlets. Almost every table is within reaching distance of an outlet! The tables are also strategically placed so that you can be isolated enough (at not only the corner tables) to not get distracted by the people around you. One of my favorite desserts to get here is the matcha tiramisu! But I tried the affogato recently and loved it. Someone also told me to try the matcha latte but I think during the foaming process all the matcha powder rose to the top so the first several sips were sooo bitter. Otherwise everything I've tried here has been good so far! Will continue to be a regular here. read more

Caffe Paradiso - Matcha latte + affogato - Coffee & Tea Near Me - Urbana, Illinois

Towed my car for being slightly out of its space despite it not blocking anything and there being many open spaces. Rude customer service.

Customer service is terrible. Employees are inattentive, whether it's not taking an order or closing off the bathroom for hours. Coffee is mediocre. read more

Super cute cafe. Great food and good service. Will go back again. Had the chicken panini and chips for about $10. really enjoyed it.

By far the best coffee shop on the UIUC campus- good coffee, friendly staff, and a great atmosphere!!

This is a great place to study in Urbana. The staff can be gruff sometimes, or get your order wrong. But, Caffe Paradiso and Hammerhead are the only coffee places in CU region that serve the high-quality Intelligentsia coffee. They also have pretty good tiramisu and macarons. Really, good coffee, macarons, good study place is all you need and Caffe Paradiso delivers big time. The interior decor is old-world and charming, I like it. read more

See all

I went here to order food, but I had very poor customer service. I ordered one sandwich, but the one who took my order got my order incorrect after I waited 30 minutes already. After fixing my order form, I waited another 20 minutes until I found out they had given my order to someone else. I had to get a refund after this frustrating interaction and they were not apologetic after this incident. I understand that they had other customers to tend to during this hour, but after making accident after accident and for wasting my time, they could have provided better customer service. read more

I like their chai latte and tiramisu a lot, but the service is just not consistent at all. I always do takeout with their tiramisu, but sometimes I get a fork, sometimes not. Sometimes I get a bag and sometimes not. Sometimes the fork drops on the counter, and I get a new one, but sometimes the same dirty fork gets packed or given to me without a bag. read more