Baba Coffee

Baba Coffee on N Kedzie Avenue offers more than your typical neighborhood café. While it carries the casual, come-as-you-are vibe you'd expect from a local coffee spot, the place clearly doubles as a low-key hangout where small groups of friends come together to unwind over games like cards, bingo, and backgammon. This gives the café a somewhat unique personality compared to many coffee shops in the Uptown area.

The interior feels clean and family-operated, which shows in the care of their kitchen and offerings. Though the food menu isn’t extensive, what they do serve gets solid marks for flavor, making it a good option for anyone looking for a quick, satisfying bite alongside their coffee or tea. Expect the café to be lively in the evenings, often busy well into the night, especially since they offer takeout until midnight—handy for late arrivals or night owls.

Locals who appreciate a quieter evening crowd and a space to gather for casual socializing will find Baba Coffee fits that niche well. It’s less a spot for family outings or couples and more a practical, no-frills place for groups of friends or small gatherings who want a relaxed environment with some games and good food on the side. Stopping by earlier in the day might be your best bet for a quieter coffee break, while nights bring in a more energizing social atmosphere.