Groundswell

Best coffee in Chicago! I wish the seating were more comfortable, but the coffee is worth it.

My husband and I love this place so much. My husband loves their flat white and I like their black coffee 🥰highly recommend it to coffee lovers

Around 1 pm on Wednesday, the coffee shop was empty, and it prompted me to come in and stay for a bit. First of all, the barista working there yesterday was friendly and welcoming. I've noticed that he made sure to inquire everyone coming in how they were or have a small talk with them. The cup of cappuccino prepared by him was tasty, drinkable temperature, and with lovely art on top. The vanilla bean glazed donut was moderately sweet and paired nicely with the coffee. I was also extremely glad they offer coffee in regular porcelain cups for dining in. Lots of wood in design and large green plants make the place look cozy.

Had a delicious oat milk chai latte, the perfect midday pick me up! It was strong enough to get me through the rest of the day and gentle enough it didn’t make it hard to go to sleep at night. Was the perfect temperature, was able to sip right out the door. Everything moved at a good pace too, I stopped in a couple of minutes before my spa appointment down the street and wasn’t late. Great baristas! ☕️

Great, reliable coffee :) They always have doughnuts too in case you are looking for a snack. Such a cute space to do some work at too.

Visiting Groundswell has been an absolute delight every single time. The highlight of my visits, without a doubt, is their flat white. It's not just good; it's consistently great, striking the perfect balance between espresso and milk every single time. This consistency is a testament to the skill and experience of their baristas, who not only craft excellent drinks but do so with an unwavering quality that keeps me coming back. Beyond their impeccable beverages, Groundswell offers freshly roasted coffee beans for sale, allowing you to take a piece of their excellence home. The aroma and flavor of their beans are unparalleled, adding an extra layer of joy to my daily coffee routine. There's no exaggeration in saying that there's no better place for coffee in the area. Whether you're a coffee aficionado or just someone looking to enjoy a great cup, Groundswell is the go-to spot. Their dedication to quality, from the beverages they serve to the beans they sell, sets them apart in the best possible way.

Nice place and location but felt flat white coffee lacked flavor. Also got a bag of coffee for espresso at home and was not a particular fan of flavor profile. Overall the coffee flavor is very muted. Good and friendly staff/service though!

Fell through on a lark as Groundswell was open at 6AM and was wildly surprised at how chill the shop was. Always passed by and had some kind of misread as to what type of coffee shop they were. Well I was hella wrong. The cortado was perfect and they had Chemex filters on deck. I hope West Madison Avenue residents appreciate the crazy good coffee shops they have nearby. Peace

Easy and simple coffee menu which makes ordering so straightforward and efficient. The coffee shop is small with a few tables to do some laptop work or enjoy your meal. I loved my iced vanilla latte with to whole milk and the service was fairly fast. It's about $7 total for the iced latte which is typically priced in the West Loop area. Great spot to try!

Great local coffee roaster. Always consistently good. Good, friendly people. Love the local vibe!!!

The cold brew here was solid - probably my favorite cold brew that I've tried in Chicago during this trip. The cold brew was super smooth, and the flavors were fruity and light with a fantastic and lingering after taste. The barista and I had a small conversation about the beans that were used to make it (some of their left over Ethiopian single origin mixed with another, I believe). It was the first drink he recommended after I asked for some suggestions. Most coffee shops just use left over junk coffee beans to make their cold brew (which is often nasty). I'm glad I was able to sample a bit before buying a cup (5.00 for 12 oz, I think). Great place for my friend and me to chill after lunch this Tuesday. There is a good amount of seats here and there were a few people doing work in the shop, too. If I didn't have so many bags of coffee beans already, I definitely would have bought a bag here.

Their doughnuts are excellent. No idea if they make them in-house, but they are well worth the price. Way better than other chains' doughnuts. Will have to try their coffee next time.

Great spot to stop in for a coffee or sweet donut treat in the West Loop. Service is always fast and the staff always friendly! For a small shop, the vibes are grand at Groundswell.

stopped in for coffee. nice friendly staff.. coffee was way too mild for my taste.

Nice staff but very bad coffee. We threw out both of our drinks. Couldn't even taste the coffee.

nice ambient and great aroma! the burritos are filling and healthy. they also get donuts from do-rite which is very fresh and tasty

The hours listed on the internet are not accurate at all. Wish they'd fix it. Been this way since December 2022.

Excellent coffee and lattes. The roast on the filter coffee is excellent. The latte featured housemade vanilla syrup, which is a serious plus given my wife has an allergy to high fructose corn syrup and that stuff is in EVERYTHING. Thanks for the great cups of joe, Groundswell.

Great coffee. Cool environment. Super servers. A great spot in the west loop.

I felt initially reluctant to write this review bc my own knowledge of coffee is limited- however this website is full of people who call themselves foodies and think bc they 'drink LOTS of coffee' their opinions need to be shared with the world. The person who taught me about coffee has led coffee programs for a major restaurant group, goes to tastings and competitions, teaches baristas, has been interviewed by major publications for her thoughts on the topic, and the set up in her tiny space (and even when traveling) to make a cup of coffee looks like a mini lab. With scales, blooming, a chemex, an exact temp water heater, etc. Groundswell is one of the 2 legit WL coffee shops. I don't have the palate or nose to appreciate the nuisances of all the things done right (and wrong) at the many WL spots (the roasting, the extraction, all these things I tried to absorb from her) - but this spot was loved by her with lots of repeat visits. They are purists. They purchase and make really good coffee and don't focus a lot on drinks adulterated by added flavors. Their regular "syrup" options are 3 total, all house made, and syrup is in quotes bc they are flavor forward with high quality ingredients (not just sugar). Despite how focused they are on coffee- when they have a limited time specialty drink on the menu it's really F'ing good. Their current one: pumpkin pie latte is so much better than the cliche'd PSL. Maybe that's why the name is a little different? Their house made 'syrup' combines pumpkin purée and mulling spices and is not at all overly sweet (ie most PSLs). The 12 ounce size with oat milk is somehow the tastiest size and milk combo.

Came in to Groundswell for breakfast and coffee during my short stay in Chicago. Ordered an americano, as single serve brew options weren't available. It was fine, nothing special to it. I also ordered a breakfast panini, which was unexpectedly on a long roll, but it was a pretty nice pairing with my americano. I sat there to do a little bit of reading, as there is some limited indoor seating. Overall, it was a pretty good experience - nothing that blows you out of the water or makes you particularly excited, but a solid mainstay to maybe add to your routine if your close by!

Super cute cafe! I can't give 5 stars because the lighting was okay. It was a gloomy morning with light flurries and the inside was dark. They have big windows for natural light but when the natural light isn't there, it's kinda dull. The decor was super cute though! The chairs are wood or they have stools near the front so it's not the most comfortable place to sit and study for hours but it's good for a quick coffee break or coffee run in the morning or quick meeting. I also wasn't a fan of their matcha latte. I took one sip and all I got was grainy texture. That was a bummer! I forgot to ask for some honey or some kind of sugar in it so it tasted just of matcha. The latte art on it was cute though! I also got a chocolate croissant and it was tasty.

Good place for light breakfast and snacks. Great coffee options and all of them are amazing!

"Groundswell Coffee Roasters" are probably my favorite coffeeshops to spend quiet Saturdays and Sundays at. There are three (3) locations in the city: on Damen in Ravenswood, on Madison in Near West Side, and on Lincoln in Lincoln Square. Hubby and I took a break at the Near West Side one after visiting a thrift store near the United Center. This particular location doesn't have the big-community table sitting, yet featured more small, intimate sitting arrangements with a plenty of natural lights coming in. I would say the decors are quite minimalist. I like the earthy color tones and the transfusion machine on the barista's work station, which keeps me calm and relaxed and make me feel "home away from home!" Check out their seasonal specialty drinks! I had their "espresso soda." The main ingredients were an espresso shot, mineral water, orange bitters, and vanilla. Hubby was curious on how it was done and the tall-n-skinny barista gave him a run-through on how it was made. It really was very nice of him. They offer donuts from "Glazed & Infused." I have seen patrons ordering their made-to-order panini. They all looked appetizing. Whenever I come in to a "Groundswell" coffeeshop, I don't plan on leaving for at least a hour or two. I purposefully slow down my day so that I can recharge, unwind, and refocus.

$4.15 for a 16 oz iced coffee. I think that's more expensive than other places. The coffee is very good, but super strong! I haven't tried the other drinks so I can not vouch for them. 4 stars for the wonderful selection of quality coffee products and the nice atmosphere. I do think the iced coffee is a little overpriced, but maybe that's just how it is in this area! They have some bakery products that looked good and they serve paninis and wraps. There isn't much seating! Just 6 small tables and some bar-style seating.

Good coffee, paninis, and pastries. What I like most is that first thing in the morning the baristas are playing new wave or punk. No sleepy acoustic playlist here.

Love this place! Super cute and small place to grab your fav coffee! Me and my boyfriend both love this place. The lattes and flat whites are on point with flavor and always consistent. The kolaches are delicious too!

Nice little coffee shop in the West Loop. Groundswell is located on Madison and right around the corner from where I work. Their coffee is always good, especially their iced latte. Their panini sandwiches are delicious and a great thing to order for lunch (or breakfast!). Prices are a little high but their quality is A+...well worth it!

Great little hole in the wall place with high quality coffee that they roast themselves. If you buy a bag of beans you get a cup of drip for free. The bags of beans have all the roasters and farm info on it which is interesting. Lattes are delicious and so are the Michigan Apple fritters. Breakfast sandwiches are average. Usually quite busy in the morning and only 1-2 folks working so maybe not the best bet if you're in a hurry. High star rating for excellent taste and quality.

Groundswell gives off rustic chic vibes with ample seating for 1-2 parties and a full coffee and panini menu. Basically an ideal spot for for productivity (yes, clearly posted free wifi) or an intimate catch up (chill playlist). The breakfast wrap here is a glorified hot pocket. And honestly, there's nothing I'd change about their scrambled eggs, ham, and sriracha aioli in a pressed wheat wrap. It's simple and done well. There are for-here mugs available, cups for self service water, and legit silverware. And recycling! Am I dreaming? 4 stars. Okay, time to get back to work.

Latte and the weekly special: Cinnamon-Brown Sugar latte were exactly what I hoped for and so delicious without being 'too much'. The staff was kind and helpful, plus the slow drip apparatus is so impressive. Don't go to Starbucks- support your local coffee shop! If you're in the area, I recommend stopping by.

As if an answer to my matcha dreams, Groundswell brings me matcha lattes that pack a punch, not too much sweetness, and are slightly cheaper than Sawada Coffee. Such a welcome addition to the area, with friendly staff and solid offerings (hello donuts!). The service was a little slow when I last went, but maybe they've worked the kinks out. Wifi is good, it doesn't get too loud, and they have hot food (paninis).

Terrible service. Don't come here if you actually need to be productive / on time to anything.

This place is awesome. Customer service is fantastic. Walked in not sure of what to get (because im usually at starbucks), but the girl at the counter was very nice . There was only 4 things in the display case to munch on ... but she offered to help if i had any questions . I will definitely be coming here more often . Pictured * Drip coffee with almond milk and a blueberry muffin ( that was fantastic BTW)

Stopped in for a coffee and was not disappointed! Really delicious cold brew - it had a great flavor and was so refreshing. Didn't hurt that they also have Do-rite donuts!! Great neighborhood coffee shop.

Love the area and love the coffee at Groundswells. Large selection of brews and I just went with my favorite - Americano. I liked the fact that they tell you the order of your drink so you know the wait. Seats are limited so were the plugs. I would come here without a doubt for my favorite java, just to watch other coffee enthusiast.

I couldn't even drink my latte it tasted so bad. It was supposed to be a vanilla oat milk latte but it just tasted like burnt milk. It was extremely hot. I couldn't taste the coffee. I couldn't taste the vanilla. It's probably the worst latte I've had in the city, and I've tried LOTS of places because I write about this stuff. My husband ordered a regular latte and his just tasted like milk no coffee. We were both so disappointed as this was our first time trying this place. We didn't bother going back for remakes bc there had already been an issue with another couple taking our initial drinks and we had to wait longer for ours to be done again. They need a better system for giving out coffee. Even when they call out the drink you can hardly hear the person calling it out! Like wth speak up! Once we got ours we went outside to try them and they were a big flop. We had no choice but to toss them and go to another cafe. Waste of money and time.

This is a lovely coffee shop in the West Loop with their own roasted coffee. It's a cozy hang to do work, visit with friends, or read. Iced and hot coffee was very good. Fits well with the area. When I'm in the neighborhood, this is my coffee stop.

Really great iced coffee and decadent tea. I got the Yunnan spring black tea. You can tell it was fresh, full bodied, and high quality tea, not something left forgotten and dried out in a tin for 3 years. Lovely vibe and really amazing baristas. Can't wait to come again.

F*** YOU, GCR! I went there on a daytime coffee date and got some beverages and snacks. We finished and left after about 45 minutes. As we started walking down the street, my date started sneezing due to allergies so we turned around and went back in to Groundswell Coffee Roasters so my date could use the restroom. I waited inside near the entrance and when my date was ready to leave, the lady behind the counter said "Hey! The restrooms are for paying customers only." I responded, "We were just here less than five minutes ago having coffee and snacks." The GCR lady, "Just so you know for the future." What the F**K? I'm not some bum coming in off the street. ----------------------------------- About two and a half weeks after I posted this review, I received a Just a Note compliment reading "For your review of: Groundswell Coffee Roasters: You're the reason why misandry exists." I suspect someone related to the business sent it since the user has no friends, reviews, or a real photo.

Limited common menu done well. Seasonal micro roasted beans is all the exciting you get! B-) Be bored. Be you. This is WHY you pay a little... COFFEE -- micro lot sourcing, roasted in Ravenswood. TEA -- this passionate dude, Tomy travels the world in search of his mad scientist tea moment. Be Local. Be Good. Be Inspired. Support! :-$

Excellent place 5 stars. Great coffee, great location, hip looking place, hip looking, friendly staff. Tis a great addition to the neighborhood.Welcome guys!!! We're happy you're here. So why 3 stars? It's not out of hate, it's an opportunity for improvement, so listen up: THE VENTILATION SYSTEM IS NON EXISTENT, Twice, after leaving the premises, i had to change my set of clothes, and take a shower because i was smelling like burnt oil for awhile. Hard to convey thru a written review, but I'm not a clean freak, either. Smell, soot and vapors of burnt oil overpowers the scene so much so, that i'd be shocked this is news to the management. Now, if the vent system can't be fixed, for whatever reason, if i owned the place, i would quit offering freshly made paninis altogether. It can be fixed. Please fix it, because its a great place and a great investment.

Very strong and rich latte drinks. Okay amount of seating for work. Beautiful and somewhat uncomfortable furniture. Seems about right for the neighborhood.

I miss this place! I use to live across the street. What a gem of a place. Coffee is great ( strong but smooth tasting). Lots of milk alternative options. Cozy inside. You can bring your laptop and work here. Service is great!

Charming, cozy, and accesible. This place is fairly new in the neighborhood and I hope it sticks around. The coffee gets the job done. Welcome to West Loop guys.

Love their coffee and service! The staff is always so friendly - no matter how busy they are. The online ordering is awesome for busy workday mornings!

Such a cute small coffee shop that has absolute delicious truffle grilled cheese sandwiches- please just do yourself a favor and get yourself one. Limited seating options if busy but window bar seating available, as well as a few small tables. The baristas are nothing but nice.

When visiting the West Loop we often try to stop here for a great cup of coffee plus a breakfast wrap or lunchtime meal. They always have great coffee choices and the food is very fresh and prepared on site.

Groundswell has a cozy environment for studying. I just got drip coffee the "San Diego" blend to have a little piece from home and it was wonderful. Such cute wall decor as well. Small but great space and well lit.

Lovely little coffee roaster with friendly staff, tasty beans (single origin!) and a nice space to boot. You can't ask for much more than that from a coffee shop, but they do offer some fancy seasonal beverages if you're into that kind of thing. They're good members of the Ravenswood community also, participating in local events and holding charitable drives around the holidays.

This is one of my favorite coffee shops in the West Loop area. Friendly staff and a great place to get work done. I can't speak for the espresso drinks, but I love their drip coffees and cold brew. When it comes to drip coffee, I really appreciate balanced flavor and consistency in brew strength, and it's always on point here. As for the cold brew, it is mighty delicious and will set you on a path to glory. This is not something you order if you are just an occasional coffee drinker. I have a high caffeine tolerance and once accidentally ordered a large one, then felt like I'd been strapped onto the SpaceX Falcon Heavy rocket. Give it a try!

What a gem in the West Loop! I am so glad I found this as some of the options around there are very limited they have the best Panini's and they are always very nice and super patient while I take five minutes with my order because I'm so indecisive! Haha. They take care for every drink they make and it shows. Their set up,although small, is super convenient! Honey, cream, the stirrers, and options for sugar! Their iced coffee, chemex and drip are so much better than a DD or Sbux. I've tried their breakfast panini and the truffled cheese panini, and they are both SO delicious but you have to try the banana Nutella panini! Pair it off well with their seasonal Golden Milk. This drink so so delicious with just the right balance of spice and sweet with the turmeric, ginger, cinnamon and maple syrup. If you haven't hit this spot on Madison yet, what are you waiting for!?

Their latte is probably the nicest one I've ever seen in terms of taste and looks. Late art on a high level. It's also a nice place to enjoy a magnificent cup of joe with their heavenly good truffle grilled cheese. Seriously folks, do not miss out on their truffle grilled cheese. Love coming here to do some reading and just contemplate over a hot cup of coffee. I always name my lattes and this one is called: The electric buzz! It kind of puts you on a happy buzz that makes you wanna continue your day with the feeling that everything is possible!

Came here for some coffee and food after working out. Clean place. Solid drip coffee. The veggie breakfast wrap is a moderate portion, but the flavors are great. The staff was welcoming and the vibe was relaxed. Looking forward to going back and trying more of the menu!

Such a sweet little coffee shop in the West Loop. Definitely try the truffle grilled cheese and a matcha green tea latte! They also have a unique selection of teas to choose from. Also, really friendly staff. I recommend this place!

Phenomenal iced coffee. (16oz or 24 oz for those swampy days!) GREAT panini. Ample seating for a casual catch up. Super nice staff. Excellent addition to the West Loop. Done and done. I'll stop in anytime I can!

Groundswell is quaint and quiet coffee shop with super friendly staff, excellent wifi, and great ambience. The coffee is good and pretty reasonably priced which is always a nice cherry on top. You really can't ask for much more during a study session at coffee shop. I'll definitely be returning in the future.

This is a small, cozy coffee place on Madison, close to Racine. Their coffee is phenomenal, and I love to treat myself to one on the way back from the gym or when I'm a bit too early for the bus (right across the street from the eastbound 20 Madison Racine stop). The baristas have been nothing but friendly and helpful, which is exactly have ordering your coffee should go in the morning. They have some pasty/snack items, and a good tea selection as well.