Kusanya Cafe

A small gem in the Englewood neighborhood. The staff and atmosphere provide a friendly and comfortable ambiance. A great spot for a quick bite either at breakfast or lunch. We had an iced Chai and a white chocolate cappuccino typical of any coffee shop, what makes the shop memorable the two delicious sandwiches, we had the Big payback and the questioned. The big payback was a perfectly balanced sandwich on a crispy Tuscan bun. The Questlove also perfectly balanced with a bit of kick from the giardiniara on a soft hoagie bun.

This is a new Non Profit Cafe in the Englewood area. It's a warm welcome and greatly recommended place to chat n sip or togo it. 🫶🏿

Kusanya Café is truly a hidden gem that feels like home the moment you walk through the door. The atmosphere is warm, welcoming, and filled with positive energy. The staff go above and beyond they don’t just learn your order, they take the time to get to know you. Their friendliness and attention to detail make every visit feel personal and genuine. The food is always fresh and delicious, l can’t get enough of the baked oatmeal, it’s simply the best! Whether you’re stopping in for a quick coffee and breakfast or staying for lunch, Kusanya has you covered. It’s a one-stop shop for good food, great coffee, and even better vibes. If you have the time, I highly recommend taking a seat, pulling out your journal or laptop, and just soaking it all in. Enjoy the aroma of freshly brewed coffee, the sound of good conversation, and maybe even the scent of flowers nearby. Kusanya Café is more than a café it’s a community space.

service was so quick staff was so friendly and nice prices are amazing i got the bbq chicken salad wrap and a brownie which was heavenly

Cozy vibe with very welcoming staff and speedy service. I had a delicious chai that tasted more authentic than most. Fair prices and the menu looks delicious. Excited to come back and try the jerk chicken wrap!

Kusanya Café is such a welcoming and inspiring community spot! I had a vanilla latte and it was smooth, rich, and perfectly made. I also tried one of their breakfast sandwiches, which was fresh and full of flavor. The atmosphere is cozy and creative, with plenty of seating and a warm vibe that makes it perfect for working or just relaxing. The staff were friendly and kind, adding to the overall positive experience—definitely a place worth visiting!

What a delightful oasis of hospitality and good vibes 💙! - Very generous drink sizes for low prices - I’d never been there before, but staff were super-friendly and welcoming 🥰 - Met some friends of an overseas friend I hadn’t seen in 10+ years 😆 I did think the sandwich fillings/ingredients could be a little thicker 🤷🏻 Still, I can’t wait till I’m in the area again and can go back 🤘🏼!

Solid community focused coffee cafe, lots of great art on the walls and hip hop playing in the background. Coffee and solid and the muffins we got were fantastic. They also have a small selection of breakfast sandwiches available. Incredibly affordable as well. Very much worth the drive down. Only downside is the hours, they're not open on the weekend so you have a small early morning to lunch window to try this gem.

I just started working in the area and I love supporting small businesses so I decided to try them out. I've been back twice. I love the names they've given to the items on the menu. So far I've had the Tina Tuna sandwich, Kale Salad and veggie wrap. Everything has been tasty. I didn't take pictures because I ate everything so fast. I'm sure I'll be back.

Street parking. Customer-made and recycled wood furniture, only one bathroom stall. Service always good, coffee and food even better. Absolutely the best oatmeal you'll find in Chicago. Wonderful community gem, could use later hours of operation. I'd recommend covering the wooden tables with glass.

Great coffee - yes Great food - yes Great ambience - yes Great staff - yes, yes, yes Limited hours - yes :-( My daughter insists on driving from Edgewater to Englewood for the Tuna Turner panini when she's home from college. I can't deny her - it so good! So get yourself over to Kutsanya Cafe while they're open. It's worth the trip.

I love their food. I look forward to ordering our work breakfast every week. Wish they deliver though.

Spacious, comfy, and clean space + solid spot for laptop work (outlets, seating, and desk-high tables) + friendly staff + affordable prices + tasty drinks and food (I had an iced chai and french toast)

This place has a pretty cool flow to it. The service is great and friendly. The food is yummy with many options and a variety of beverage options. Can't wait to get back and try something different.

So I came here once before with my mom. I was looking for a breakfast spot while attending another meeting in the area. I noticed this spot again and my Yelp friend Char had been! So I came back. Same spot, unique to other coffee joints. Loved the fact the mgr had two young black men cooking prepping and working the register.. .YES! Whole nother discussion which this platform is not for. HOWEVER, loved the fact that he was training them. Noticed how when I walked in, he coached them to "get to work" lololol......I commend that gentleman... On to the food and ambiance. I concur the vibe is soooo laid back .....love the afrocentric setup.... eclectic, rustic, worn, pieced, so our culture.....that egg sandwich was FIRE.....lots of good egg sandwiches me....however this has a siracha sauce that lights up the other components of the sandwich.... The latte was spot on.......ohhhhh man I love coffee... definitely will be back

Stopped in to Kusanya Cafe today for the first time and it is INCREDIBLE. The caramel frappe was delicious and the sandwich was great as well. The atmosphere and vibe are really chill and laid back. What a gem! HIGHLY RECOMMENDED

Great Menu!!! Love this place!!! Reasonably priced (actually cheap) healthy alternatives, in an urban area!!!

I did not like the seasoning. Even the mild was tooooo hot fit pallet. If you're into hot and spicy then this is the place for you

Kusanya is a cute, quaint neighborhood coffee shop offering good food with healthy options, prepared to order. The Personable customer service is impeccable! Clean, warm, friendly atmosphere and staff! Love this place!

Great neighborhood spot. Inspired me to make my own baked oatmeal for my kids. Great sandwiches with fun names and they're consistently well-made. If they're not the staff usually takes care of you. Haven't been in a while, since I don't work in the area anymore. But planning a trip there real soon to treat the kids!

Great coffee. The food is good and reasonably priced. My colleague and I go here every week. We love the staff. Only complaint is wish they were open later. Highly recommend!

Kusanya is such an amazing place with vibes that are UNMATCHED. Kusanya is in Englewood, Chicago and is community owned and they mean that. They had flyers for open mic nights, and yoga offered weekly at the cafe and even sold black owned/ community owned products such as hand made soaps for sell at the register. The menu at Kusanya is so CREATIVE from the Chicken Funkadelic Sandwich, The Big Pay Back, Lupe Tabasco, Bernie Mac and even the Tuna Turner (and there were so many more). The staff was pleasant and helpful in explaining both food and drink options and giving me a run down and their favorites. Ultimately, I chose the Lupe Tabasco (a breakfast panini where you could add your own ingredients) I added spinach, cheese, eggs and of course the Tabasco sauce for a kick. Additionally i got cheese grits with butter and an iced coffee. The 'Lupe' named after Chicago rapper Lupe Fiasco (awesome play on words) was AMAZING the egg was freshly cracked, made, and seasoned, the spinach was fresh and delicately place and the Tabasco really added a great kick to the sandwich. I was told by the cashier that people often add more veggies and meat such as ham or sausage. The grits were well made with the perfect cheese, butter grit ratio and had perfect texture. I enjoyed my iced coffee and the price was so reasonable for the size (12 oz for 1.89) I highly recommend Kusanya not only for the amazing food but the community vibes, pics, plants, staff and events are all worth while as well.

This was nice coffee break. It's quite and spacious, I kicked myself for not bringing my laptop but I will next time. The parfait was fresh and flavorful and the latte was delicious better than most chain coffee places. I will be making this my Friday stop in the future.

This spot roasts their own coffee and it's delicious! V friendly staff and the lupe tobasco sandwich as flame. Highly recommend. Love what they do for the community.

Awesome little cafe! Food is good, staff is friendly. Even had a nice conversation with the person at the next table. Highly recommend!

From the rustic feel, to the beautiful artwork and pictures displayed on the walls, this is a pretty cool cafe! I ordered the Lupe Tabasco and it was delicious! I usually don't add anything spicy to my breakfast, so I was resistant to try due to the Tabasco sauce that comes on the sandwich. However, the cashier and one of the ladies behind me in line said it was tasty! So I gave the Lupe Tabasco a try and I'm happy I did! I'm glad I tried this place instead of going to Burger King next door! Kusanya had actual real eggs on their sandwich and I was able to add veggies. I will be back!

Rosa J. believes that every community deserves a inclusive, inviting, and "empowering" spot to hang out. Kusanya Cafe is an Englewood represent, located on the southeast corner of Green and 69th. St. I do have to admit the surroundings are a bit sketchy, even though I don't anticipate immediate danger during the daytime. The cozy joint is absolutely nice to get coffee and light lunch fare at reasonable prices. I saw many regulars take advantage of the free wifi and bright sunlight to get work done. I had the "Ham Master Jay" sandwich made-to-order by the friendly young lady at the register. It was executed impeccably and tasted delicious. Together the large, 20oz. latte and the sandwich cost less than $10 after tax. After visiting various coffee shops in the city, Kusanya is one of the most inexpensive places I know. If you happen to be the area or need to grab a quick bite nearby, Kusanya is an excellent choice. The nearest El station is the CTA 63rd./Halsted Green Line. For CTA buses, #8 (Halsted) and #67 (67th./69th./71st.) are in close proximity.

This place is a hidden gem. The vibe in the coffee shop is great! The service was everything

I loved walking into this coffee shop. It's in a good location, easy parking, free Wi-Fi, and great food selection. The cafe space is very open and comfortable and the bar is nicely designed out of reclaimed wood and doors( I think). The staff is great, polite, funny, engaging and offering great service. The food coffee and music are all top notch and if your even think you want the baked oatmeal, do it, don't skimp on the warm cream. Even though I was visiting from out of town, i felt welcome and like I was among friends. I can see why it's called "Kusanya" - bring together in Swahili.

J Dilla sandwich is life. Lucas tobacco is my second go to and ham Master Jay brings up third.

I FINALLY made out into this awesome space. Tried before but my timing was off. They weren't open... Well, today was a stumbled-upon kind of day.... So very happy I came! First visit... VERY AWESOME COFFEE! I mean DEEElicious !! They said they roast their own beans in house! Um... Guess I never Submitted first review... So... 2 weeks later I was wanting that delicious roasty flavor... Got it for free! They have a Pay-It-Forward program! Sometimes your drink is in the last person! It's LOVE! So, I bought a brownie.... Just to taste & give away (diet), but bit they are really special brownies... Wish wish wish I could inhale the Whole gooey thing. DON'T MUST OUT ON KUSANYA quiet spacious clean friendly chill deco good

Stopped in for a half pound of coffee. Was in the area saw the store, heard a lot about it when it came to Englewood. I often purchase the coffee from Whole Foods. Why not get some from the source. Stopped I, got cup of Joe with almond milk and a donut. Also, go a half pound of the Costa Roxanne coffee for $7.

Ok so I live a few blocks from this cafe and every time I pass by I make a note to check it out. Well, I finally made it and it was well worth the wait. The food is fantastic. I got the special: Rasta Jerk Chicken Wrap and it was great. It's got a well-needed kick. I also got a lemonade and some cookies and they hit the spot. The atmosphere is inviting and the service is fantastic. Stop in, grab a sandwich, and chat with the employees. I will definitely be back to some of the community events they host!

This place deserves all the hype it gets. i've been coming here almost daily since starting work down the street. I always order coffee black and the quality is stupendous. I've started getting the lunch recently and the Big Payback is delicious, not too much and reasonably priced. The staff is always friendly and parking is easy. Ill keep on coming back so long as they keep on being awesome!

Great place! Saw this on a PBS special one night at work so me and my daughter checked it out. I had The Big Payback and my daughter had The Bernie Mac N Cheese. Excellent! She said it was the best thing she ever had which is a big deal for her. This place is a gem and I hope to see more pop up! Will be coming back.

This place is lovely! I came in with some coworkers and really enjoyed my iced caramel latte. The prices are fair, the ambiance is comfy and inviting, and the staff is friendly. I will certainly be back.

Non-profit cafe, c'mon y'all, this is pretty cool. Folks told me, yeah, don't go to the South side. I'm from Oakland, and that's what people said about there too. It's kinda surreal here. This business should be supported! French toast is good, cafe au lait a bit burned, soup great, and the Cornel West sandwich pretty boss! The barista said they have music here sometimes.

The latte was almost as good as the service! The ladies were very friendly and helpful. The caramel latte I got was very flavorful and was perfectly crafted. I will be stopping here regularly. So refreshing to have a coffee shop in the area!

I love this place. I come in once or twice a day. The quality of their coffee is beyond expectations. The other guys have nothing on them. The ambiance and decor are wonderful. Cozy and inviting with a very friendly staff. This is not a "fast food" place. Don't expect speedy service. Expect great service. Go Kusanya!

I was on a film shoot with my crew on the south side of Chicago and we needed lunch and to setup shop for a little while to capture footage. We found Kusanya Café and it was great. Staff was friendly, had some wifi for us to use, and the food was great. Pro tip: get the Chicken Funkadelic. Really delicious chicken salad, not smothered in mayo, with a little kick. Wish there was one closer to me, I'd go frequently.

I was grateful to learn of this place. The entire setting is well thought out! I was also grateful that the staff Janiece and Lisa were excited and seemed to be empowered. They believe in the product. This place was awesome.

I did a storytelling event there. It's an intimate venue with cozy seating. The menu has Chicago-centric inspired food names like the Lupe Tabasco and Bernie Mac and Cheese. Other items include musically inspired sandwiches such as the Tuna Turner, Souppa Fly, and the Ham Master Jay. The inventive titles intrigue me but I decide to go with the tried and true French Toast. I was delighted with the light and fluffy brioche and sweet maple syrup to drizzle over it. Yum! The employees give great service. I ordered my dish after the employee turned off the grill. She turned it back on for me! I look forward to returning so I can try one of the Chicago-centric and musically inspired menu items from a cafe that benefits the community. Visit www.flowauthors.com

On Tuesday I saw on Facebook that a new Coffee Shop was opening in Englewood. Yay. I shared the info with friends. Saturday morning I hopped on a southbound RedLine to 69th. While waiting for a westbound #67 bus I chatted with fellow commuters about how much faster the RedLine is running since the track improvements. I knew the cafe was in the next block when I jumped off at Halsted and 69th. Instinctively I checked out the north side of the street for 825 W. Typical northsider mistake because on the south side odd numbers are on the south side of the street. It's a lovely corner location with exposed brick walls and lots of big windows. There were a lot of people for 2 pm on a Saturday afternoon. A fellow patron approached me as I stepped up to place my order and "paid me forward $2." A very friendly ice breaker option. Of course I waited for the next person to pay them forward $2 as well. I chose a hearty bowl of corn chowder because I was starving so I will have to check out the lattes next time I visit. I told a friend that one of the sandwich options is a "Tuna Turner." He laughed and suggested that they should offer an "Ike Tea" to go with it. Nice place. Nice people. Happy to have a landing place when I'm visiting Englewood.

I love the comfy coffeehouse ambiance, the friendly cute guy behind the counter, that it is in Englewood, and the fact that it is community owned and run! They serve pretty much the gamut of coffee and tea offerings, as well as some unique breakfast items (baked oatmeal, paninis, house-made granola), fruit smoothies, sandwiches, soups, salads, and baked goods. Sandwiches haves cutesy/kitschy names like Mozz Def, Tuna Turner, Bernie Mac & Cheese, etc. The Chicken Funkadelic Panini is delish and worthy of an encore! The blueberry muffin was moist, flavorful, and full of love. The chicken noodle soup will be remembered fondly until it is in season again. Kusanya apparently means "to meet, or gather" in Swahili, and Kusanya Cafe is providing a place for its patrons to do just that!

The mocha that smoothed down my throat today was maybe the best coffee I have ever had, apart from a cup served to me in an Ethiopian home a few years ago. Coffee: A+ Ambience: A+ Customer service: A+ And bonus points for loving the Englewood neighborhood! I am headed back tomorrow.

First let me start with the decor and ambiance of this place. It's so rustic! Nice & Cozy. Something that is well needed in Englewood. You walk in to a warm, genuine greeting! Nice, Neo-Soul music playing .... real dope! Now the food... I ordered the Chicken Funkadelic wrap. It was really tasty. My only complaint was that it was a bit messy.... when you bite into it- sauce squirts out the wrap so I needed a lot of napkins! I ended up needing a knife and fork. I would recommend that they use less sauce on the sandwich. I paired it with a fruit smoothie that was delicious! The customer service was truly refreshing. I would definently return to try their breakfast....

One of my favorite spots in the city! The espresso is so good and the breakfast sandwiches are great! Always try make my way over to 69th Street whenever I'm back in the City.

First I'd like to say thank you to Kusanya for bringing such a super cool cafe to Englewood. Cafes like this are NEEDED within the community. With that said this was my second time visiting the cafe I hav family nearby and it's great to have the option to get good food and coffee nearby. Today I tried the oatmeal and it was really delicious not your traditional oatmeal it was baked oatmeal very yummy. I'll def be back and I'll get the oatmeal again. Prices are good customer service is excellent and the food taste good also.

I found a gem in Englewood. I love everything about this cafe. It's so cozy, the people are welcoming, the artistic atmosphere is attractive and it's such a great gathering place. I had an opportunity to have a very short conversation with I'm assuming one of the stakeholders or operators (who ever he is) but I learned that the cafe is a nonprofit organization and has no one person as the owner but the people of Englewood are owners. Love it. I'm a fan. KUSANYA cafe

Nice addition to neighborhood. Coffees have great flavor- smooth without bitter aftertaste. They also have smoothies, sandwiches, salads and breakfast options. They also have yoga on Monday evenings and host a variety of other community events including poetry readings, storytelling and music performances. Love the pay it forward option.

Very nice and lively. Enjoyed the artistic touch. Nice conference work table in the back.

Met a friend here because it was a block from her house and we found it online. Great find.. the food & coffee were very good, nice atmosphere. We discovered that it's a non-profit (which is probably why it's ridiculously cheap?). Read a bit of their story online & how difficult it was to start up in Englewood. Nice that it still seems like they're going strong today. Keep up the good work.

My 1st time ever here! The neighborhood is rough. But the owner Phil welcomed me. I welcome it. In fact try the Chai and the Ham Master Jay sandwich. So good! I'll definitely be coming back!

Really tasty sandwiches. My favorite place in the neighborhood. Super chill people. And it's really cheap too.

this cafe is probably my favorite in all of chicago. the interior is beautifully decorated, the music they play is perfect to bop to, and the staff is incredibly gracious and kind. not only does this coffee shop support a great cause, the coffee is smooth and fruity, and i really appreciate how they encourage their customers to use reusable mugs with lower prices. the cornell west was balanced with the sharp pickle and the rich swiss cheese, and the chicken gumbo soup was comfort in a bowl. overall, i'm a big fan and i will for sure be back to study, to chill, or honestly whenever cause its just that type of unforgettable joint!

I am so glad I finally made it to this place! I tried a few different things: the chicken funkadelic sandwich, a lemonade and a peanut butter cookie. All were flavorful and incredibly affordable. I even got a bag of ground Kusanya coffee to go! On top of all that, the staff was friendly and welcoming. I'm proud to have a place like this in my community. You should definitely check it out if you can.

Kusanya is a hidden gem! The staff are welcoming, food is yummy & atmosphere is superb. We ordered the "Bernie Mac & Cheese" sandwich with an old fashion + chocolate donut. All of our food was rich in flavor and tasted fresh. There's a lending library & they host community events. This is a cool addition to the neighborhood, i'll be back for sure.