I had a really nice experience at Sawada Coffee! The coffee was flavorful, fresh, and well prepared. I really enjoyed the relaxed and stylish atmosphere. The staff was friendly and the service was good. The quality was consistent and everything looked well presented. It's a great place to stop by for a good cup of coffee. There were a few small things that could be improved. read more

This coffee place is unique and a solid latte all around. They have a mix of matcha and espresso lattes and I initially went to the New York one and was pleasantly surprised when I realized they had a Chicago location. The black camo latte mixes hojicha and espresso and I think they just pair really well together. The military latte pairs matcha and espresso and the earthiness of the matcha is nice and doesn't get overpowered by the espresso The seating is abundant at this location as it's tied to a bar. It's nice to overlook the bar area. read more

I think Sawada is a little more overhyped than I would've liked. The Military Latte was pretty good, and I really appreciated that they offered macadamia milk! That said, the matcha itself wasn't necessarily the best matcha I've ever had. I think there was just too much milk in the drink, so I couldn't really enjoy the matcha and hojicha notes. It was enjoyable, but not memorable enough to justify all the hype - or the price. I really liked the ambiance, and the baristas were genuinely kind. They were also very willing to adjust or remake a drink when needed, which I appreciated. Overall, it's a cute spot with great service, but I genuinely cannot accept the price-to-drink ratio. I'm glad I tried it, but I don't think it lived up to the hype. read more

My new favorite coffee shop... ever?? It was so good I managed to fit it in TWICE in a short trip. And have NOT shut up about it since I came back!! Military latte ($7.25)-- matcha and espresso mixed together with milk I don't know what sorcery they put in this but it's SO GOOD!! like matcha and espresso had a baby idk but they kept all the good parts of each other and balance each other out. For example, the matchy isn't earthy or chalky like some places or fake like the Starbucks one. The espresso isn't sour or burnt. And somehow when you combine both of them it's this perfect mellow blend but has the slight bitterness of both matcha/espresso where you're like "ah yes it's not just milk" that flavor really pulls through. But again it's mellow and blends together sooooo well like perfect mesh my goodness. Doesn't overpower doesn't feel like you're drinking matcha and coffee at the same time. It just becomes like a new thing altogether and that thing is glorious. The first time I got it iced (and the black camo latte hot) and all I could think about was how much better it would be hot.... So I had to come back for it !! And it ISSSS better hot. I enjoy hot lattes the hot milk and lack of ice is smoother and blends it together better or something. Obviously the iced version wasn't bad because I still had a great time... but when I came back for the second time and got it hot like YESSS THIS IS IT !!! Black camo latte ($7.25)-- same as Military but instead of matcha it's hojicha mixed with espresso! I took sips of this (as opposed to it being my own drink) and thought it was good! Really depends on if you like the taste of matcha or hojicha more. This one is deeper and richer, more earthy. Maybe even caramelized roast kinda flavor? Buuuut I know hojicha isn't for everyone so take it with a grain of salt. The combo with espresso is magical though like whatever ratio they're using is so perfect. It really blends together so well. ANDDDD here the coffee:milk ratio is so good!! No milky watered down lattes! I'm so used to having to add espresso shots or asking for less milk because coffee shops really be wildin in this economy but this place has a good ratio! Like yes wow we still have good things I love this for us. Matcha lemonade ($7)-- So absurdly sour I took one sip and that was enough for me!!! You really have to be a lemonade person like if that's your drink of choice to quench your thirst on a hot day then this is for you!! If you don't drink lemonade on the regular then I really wouldn't bother. I think this is a collab with a charity or something? Up your vitamin C for a good cause I guess. Cortado ($4.50)-- Espresso and milk, small cup, good test of their espresso and yesssss it passes with flying colors. And again, this place has their milk ratio down to a science. Perfectly balanced, not too much milk and you still taste all the coffee. Love love loveeeeee this place and would absolutely love an LA location. Until then, guess I'll have to plan another Chicago trip to get this goodness again !!! read more

Sawada Coffee - Hot cortado, Military Latte (hot), Black Camo Latte (iced) - Coffee & Tea Near Me - Chicago, Illinois

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I was able to stop by this coffee shop today (which has been on my bucket list) and I had the Military Latte, which was actually pretty good! It's essentially a dirty matcha latte, which I really enjoyed. I personally prefer my matcha lattes on the sweeter side, so next time I'll probably try it with a pump of vanilla or some sweetener. Overall, I'd definitely recommend giving it a try. The ambiance is really nice, there's plenty of indoor seating, and the staff were very polite and welcoming as well. Definitely worth a visit! read more

Sawada Coffee - Military Latte - Coffee & Tea Near Me - Chicago, Illinois

I stillllll love this place but literally just paid OVER $10 (after tip) for their military latte with macadamia milk. Worth it for a special treat but definitely not something that can be a habit. read more

Military latte is matcha latte, iced one is not thick enough for me, good for friends who like light matcha. The vibe is very nice, you can find your spot either alone or with friends. The coffee service is quick. read more

Sawada Coffee - Military Latte - Coffee & Tea Near Me - Chicago, Illinois

I had NO clue this place was here. Attached to GSM! Industrial chic and vibrant coffee joint! Hidden alleyway charm. Loved the coffee, loved the price point, and the team was helpful and kind! Awesome experience! read more

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We stopped by after exploring Fulton Market and loved the industrial warehouse vibe. It has a warm, laid-back atmosphere, with upbeat music and moody lighting. It's a self-order coffee shop, but the process was quick and easy. I tried the Military Latte, a unique blend of matcha, coffee, and cocoa powder that was surprisingly well-balanced. A great spot to recharge before continuing your day. read more

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Drink: 3 Stars. The military latte was a bit too earthy and bitter for my liking. I really enjoy matcha, so I was shocked by this. The drink - once mixed - was a lot better! Atmosphere: Super cool vibe. Nice backdrop. A good place to hang out or study (if you're into studying in a spot that has normal voice level talking). read more

Sawada Coffee - Military Latte - Coffee & Tea Near Me - Chicago, Illinois

I come here every time I'm in Chicago. I figure it's time to update the review. I'm sad they don't have the real cups anymore, it just elevated the experience. The line is long and constant on a Saturday morning but it moves fast. Pastry selection is larger now but still includes the delicious Old Fashions from doughnut vault. Please come and create your own adventure. read more

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I'm always on the hunt for good coffee! They have a little bit of everything. A variety of milk choices and coffees are so tasty. Staff are super friendly and it has a really cute vibe for a meet up or work spot. read more

Great place to get coffee it gets packed but line moves fast the baristas are good at their job taste good and great pastries are also great and good quality as well. read more

DRINKS I opted for their black camo latte. The hojicha flavor was strong, and the drink itself was not too sweet. Their military latte is their iconic drink, so if I'm ever back in Chicago, it'll definitely be something I'll check out! FOOD They have a limited selection of pastries like donuts available for purchase. Selection was limited near the end of the day. SERVICE The staff are kind and friendly! It gets busy fast, but they are efficient in pumping out orders. AMBIANCE Ample seating is available inside the store that is shared with the BBQ place adjoining the coffee spot. I visited around 2:30pm and it was filled with people working/studying or meeting with friends/coworkers. Complimentary wi-fi is available (password on the menu board). Finding the entrance was a bit confusing despite all the signs, but it's the one with a lot of stickers! PARKING Paid street parking is available at a limited capacity. BATHROOMS Restrooms are available downstairs at the back of the establishment. read more

Sawada Coffee - Inside - Coffee & Tea Near Me - Chicago, Illinois

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We were a little concerned about the wait based on reviews but that wasn't the case for us. I had a latte which was good - the espresso had a nice flavor to it. The space is expansive but not overly loud so a good spot to either work or meet to friends or colleagues. read more

Welp, there's a reason this spot has fabulous Yelp reviews. I worked my way throughout the city for a few days and I have to say the little window perch overlooking the sidewalk at Sawada was one of my favorites. It also didn't hurt that their military matcha packs a punch. The espresso matcha combination was much smoother than I anticipated. I'd be lying if i didn't admit that I was questioning that this was a trending drink in the reviews but I was wrong, dear reader. The combination somehow worked and it's pretty at the same time. This space is also home to a bbq restaurant so there's a lot of room to spread out, have meetings, etc. The location in Fulton Market also makes it a great jumping off point for the neighborhood. read more

Not a long wait at all despite there being a long line. The staff definitely seems to have a good flow of service down! The reason for only 4 stars is because the matcha itself was only okay, admittedly I have had better. I just do not personally prefer matcha that tends to be on the chalkier side, and this one was (only slightly). Also, the milk to matcha ratio was a little too much, I prefer a stronger tasting matcha latte. As you know, street parking in the area is expensive, so just be aware of that before coming. Couldn't find any cheap options nearby. I will say , this was my first time trying espresso and matcha together for the Military Latte, and it was pretty good! I'd get it again to switch it up. Also the sour cream donut was FIREEE. Sawada shares a dining area with Green Street Smoked Meats, but they don't open til 11 am. If you plan on coming by around that time, be aware that they may ask you to move if you don't order food from their restaurant. We were not asked to do so, only because we got there around 10:30 and we were planning on eating anyway. Overall, I'm glad I checked this place out. The mood and ambiance is very calming, with the plentiful warm lighting and ample seating options (again, if you come before 11). If your goal is to try the best quality matcha though, I'd aim for elsewhere. read more

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EXCELLENT quality matcha from here. The authentic kind that isn't drowning in sugar. Sawada Coffee is in the same building as green street meats and high five ramen, so the open seating is shared. They do have a few seats along the window but there is plenty of seating if those are full. Service was quick and I was surprised to see that it was fairly busy for a very cold Monday AM. My husband and I shared the military latte (decaf) and it was delicious. Everything a latte should be. I enjoyed how this latte is unique to most coffee shops. It was bold, creamy, and very good. Pricing is fair when compared to other small business cafes. read more

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The black camo latte is good. I didn't really taste the espresso to be honest, only the hojicha. But the hojicha tasted pretty good and not powdery like many other places. I like the cocoa powder on top. The matcha they use could be improved, doesn't taste as good quality so I'd recommend the coffee or hojicha over the matcha. Super crowded during the weekend but as expected since it's right next to other popular food options in a food hall like environment. read more

Sawada Coffee - Coffee & Tea Near Me - Chicago, Illinois

Have never had a bad cup of coffee here. However, I think the alley seating may be haunted, as my dog is ALWAYS nervous and unsettled when we sit there. read more

Sawada is so well-known and highly reviewed so I was very excited to come try for myself! I do think Sawada is beautifully decorated and has such a great vibe. There is lots of seating and plenty of space for studying/wfh. Unfortunately, I was not as impressed with the drinks we got. I got the infamous military latte and hot latte Tokyo style. The military latte was good, but the combination of the matcha and espresso was just ok to me. The usually strong espresso/cocoa flavor gets lost and the matcha tastes watery? I can see why some people are fans, but it was not for me even though I usually love both espresso and matcha. The hot latte was ok, but regular sweetness was way too sweet. I wish I got 50% or less-- just a tip for those who aren't into super sweet coffee. Great crema and body though. I think Sawada is good for the "tourist" experience, but there is better coffee in the city. read more

Sawada Coffee - Military Latte - Coffee & Tea Near Me - Chicago, Illinois

A solid 4 star experience. Came to Chicago and wanted to try this coffee place. I tried the iced military coffee. Coffee was good, not too sweet. Service was good and the shop inside was connected to another restaurant. read more

Sawada Coffee - Coffee & Tea Near Me - Chicago, Illinois

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One of my favorite coffee spots in the city in Chicago! There's always a huge line to order so best to plan ahead and avoid peak hours. The spot has plenty of picnic style seating and great music to catch up with friends, grab a drink, or a slice of pizza! I typically go there for coffee. Their cold brew and lattes are fantastic! I like the Tokyo style syrup in my oat latte (1.5 pumps). The baristas are very friendly and have great recommendations. read more

Sawada Coffee - Coffee & Tea Near Me - Chicago, Illinois

It was packed like sardines in there, but the line moved quickly. The Black Camel was really good, and my friend's Military Matcha was okay--nothing too crazy. If I lived in the area, I'd definitely be a regular lol. read more

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Sawada has some quality, potent matcha and its shared restaurant, Green Street Smoked Meats, has equally as delicious, well-seasoned elote! It's honestly ideal for when you want to put yourself in a food coma then jolt yourself awake to eat some more. There was a 15-minute wait to order and get your drinks on a Saturday afternoon, but the baristas are doing the best they can while maintaining quality. The vibes are friendly and communal. The long tables are great for big groups, but you might have some trouble finding seats on weekends. Just don't come here to study like I did - there are cafes across the street for that! read more

Sawada Coffee - Matcha Latte - Coffee & Tea Near Me - Chicago, Illinois

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Sawada Coffee is a great, unique coffee place. Owned by a Japanese chef, each of the drinks are curated and DELICIOUS. May I recommend the military latte? Trust me. You'll love it. The mix of matcha and espresso is to die for. It's part of a BBQ place where there is communal seating along long tables. You can hang there or take your coffee to go! read more

Such an aesthetic and cozy coffee shop! The iced latte was smooth, perfectly balanced. It's a great place to read or chat with a friend, although there's very little seating, so you might have to bring your own drink. read more

If you like iced lattes and you're in the neighborhood, this place is great. If you are intentionally seeking out the best iced coffee in the city, this is not it. Coffee is good, ambience is cute but sometimes it's pretty crowded. I come here often as it is one of my closest local shops, but it is not a shop I would seek out if I moved neighborhoods read more

Best coffee I've had in Chicago so far! Came in the morning and the line was long but seemed to move at a quick pace. I ended up ordering a hot Camo Latte with almond milk on the app and it took about ~10 minutes to get my drink. I liked that the drink was earthy and wasn't too sweet. I would come back again! read more

Saw Sawada on Yelp's top matcha list some time ago and made sure I visited before work. A mix of user skill issues (ordering the military matcha latte) alongside my expectations being high made me disappointed. Typically when a shop has coffee in the name, it's probably expected their matcha isn't a highlight but purely based on perception, I think their other matchas would be tasty and authentic. Military Matcha Latte - after reading through the hype, I was pretty disappointed. The drink's camo appearance looked promising but in reality it was just an espresso with a skin (like that of a game, a bit pay to win). There weren't any earthy undertones present and the matcha may as well not have been there. read more

Sawada Coffee - Military Matcha Latte - Coffee & Tea Near Me - Chicago, Illinois

The Military latte was my first time trying hot matcha and honestly, it wasn't for me. The Black Camo was better and tasted more like a milk tea. Overall, it was kind of a letdown considering how hyped this spot is for coffee and matcha. The vibes are cool though, and I might come back to try other drinks. read more

Sawada Coffee - Milo - Coffee & Tea Near Me - Chicago, Illinois

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When it's 5 degrees outside and there is a line leading outside...you KNOW it is a good coffee spot. I met up here the other day with one of my coworkers and it was amazing. Very clean inside, lots of seating, but also totally packed because they have delish coffee and blueberry muffins. I snagged us some seats and then we did mobile order pickup because it just seemed like that would be smarter instead of standing in the line, and it was a pretty good idea. I got an iced white mocha peppermint latte and it was delish. Def will be back to try more of their coffee and food! read more

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Awesome coffee shop that is in the same spot as a barbecue shop that I have been to that sell Mom barbecue. Got the military latte here and this is a flavor bomb. It is coffee, Matcha, vanilla, and cocoa all mixed into one. The matcha part of the drink is nice and earthy and overall the drink is not sweet at all. Drinks are on the price side. Recommend a spot and will come back. read more

Sawada Coffee - Coffee & Tea Near Me - Chicago, Illinois

Coming from LA, I think my expectation for matcha quality is probably different. I found the matcha latte to be watered down and bland. I would not recommend it. I went back another time and got a black camo latte and that decent for a hojicha drink. Nothing special tho. Both times I was there, the line moved very fast, but the customer service was mid. I feel like I'm a nuisance when im simply ordering lol. Maybe it's a Chicago thing? The ambiance was incredible tho. Very grungy and lots of seats. Music is also on the louder side. I can see why it's popular. It's definitely not a chill place. read more

Sawada Coffee - Black Camo Latte and Latte Iced - Coffee & Tea Near Me - Chicago, Illinois

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I love coffee and I am always trying to check out new coffee shops. I cannot believe I have probably passed Sawada Coffee a million times without realizing it was there, especially since it is connected to a BBQ spot I have been to a few times. Once I was finally introduced to it, I have already been back twice. Everything I have had has been so good, super flavorful and well balanced. On my last visit I tried one of their specialty coffees and it was phenomenal. Definitely a new favorite and a must try if you are a coffee lover. Service is cool! It's small but it's a shared space so plenty of spots to sit. read more

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It's been a hot minute since I've been to Sawada. I was meeting family for lunch at Green Street and was in desperate need for caffeine. The line was a mile long, but I saw that they had an online order option. As fast as the double take I took seeing the line - I had ordered my drink. It was ready faster than anticipated and I was texted a few minutes after putting it in. I got the Black Camo Latte iced and was soo happy to drink my version of liquid gold - espresso and matcha together. They have some newer items since I've last been here. I will definitely be back and I will be getting a cookie that appears to be bigger than my face. read more

Sawada Coffee - Black Camo Latte - Coffee & Tea Near Me - Chicago, Illinois

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Loved the ambiance and overall vibe of Sawada--cool, artsy, and just the kind of place you want to hang out in for a while. I ordered an iced almond milk latte, which was just okay for me. It leaned a bit bitter, but to be fair, I didn't go for any of their signature drinks. That said, I'd definitely come back. The space itself is inviting, and I'm curious to try something a little fancier next time. A spot worth revisiting for the vibes alone. read more

Sawada Coffee - Coffee & Tea Near Me - Chicago, Illinois

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Sawada Coffee is a unique Chicago fav! The matcha coffees and unique flavors are unforgettable! This is definitely a must try! There is usually a line but on rare occasion there isn't! Be prepared to wait on a weekend! Keeping that in mind the line moves at a reasonable pace. The place has a lot of seating and a patio that is perfect on a nice day! So nice for a meetup with friends! The coffee is good! I tend not to like matcha but the roasted matcha is so good! read more

Sawada Coffee - Coffee & Tea Near Me - Chicago, Illinois

Service is great. Everyone is kind. The vibe is edgy and fun. I've gotten a good latte from here and often buy their beans for lattes at home. I tried the Decaf cortado and it was gross. I just threw it away. I tried the chocolate croissant for the first time and it was not worth eating (3/10). I tried giving it away to a homeless man but he didn't want it (unfortunately that went to the trash too). The croissant was definitely a day old and had a burnt flavor, but was definitely not burnt. The coco was either burnt in the croissant or if they use milk (I don't think they do) when making the croissant they use hot milk instead of cold which caused acidic instead of sweet flavors to come out. 3/5 because I know they can do better read more

We went to Sawada Coffee after lunch to grab a drink and wow this place is crazy popular. This spot is attached to Green Streets but has its own corner and is a popular spot for different matcha drinks. The service here was fantastic, and ambiance was casual - not much seating but wish they had some tables so me and my friends could sit and chat. For our order we got the Military Latte which was delicious. Even though I am not the biggest fan of matcha, you could tell it was super fresh. The latte art on top was also really pretty! Definitely a nice spot worth checking out! read more

Sawada Coffee - Coffee & Tea Near Me - Chicago, Illinois