Café Crèmerie counter

Best Coffee Shop in River North – Café Crèmerie

Artisan coffee roasts, housemade pastries, and a cozy atmosphere make this the top coffee spot in River North.

Daily 7 AM–7 PM River North $ Moderate
Café Crèmerie

Café Crèmerie

#1 Coffee Shop

Specialty coffee roasts paired with fresh pastries in a welcoming café space.

Café Crèmerie, located in Chicago’s River North neighborhood, offers a European‑inspired experience for coffee lovers. The café was inspired by owner Lisa Gasparian’s travels through France and Italy and aims to recreate the ambiance of a European café. Guests can relax in the cozy, artful space while enjoying high‑quality sweets, savory snacks, smooth coffee and even wine. This combination of comfort, quality ingredients and European charm makes Café Crèmerie stand out as the best coffee shop in River North.

The café’s atmosphere draws heavily on Gasparian’s trips to Europe. Guests feel like they’re sitting in a French pâtisserie or Italian café. Comfortable seating and warm décor invite guests to linger, enjoy conversations and catch up on work.

Café Crèmerie offers fresh pastries, gelato and savory bites. According to Damian’s 2025 ranking of Chicago coffee shops, Gasparian has turned the café into a “home away from home” with imported products from France and Italy and gelato that is a must‑try. In addition to espresso and coffee drinks, the café also serves wine, making it a relaxing spot for afternoon or evening visits.

What Makes Café Crèmerie The Best Bakery In River North

Small-Batch Roasts

Beans sourced from single-origin farms and roasted in-house.

Pastry Program

Croissants, tarts, and muffins baked daily on-site.

Ambiance

Warm lighting and comfortable nooks ideal for work or catch-ups.

What to Order

  • House Espresso

    Smooth, balanced, and rich.

  • Almond Croissant

    Flaky and butter-forward.

  • Vanilla Latte

    Silky milk with a hint of vanilla bean.

Explore More River North Gems

While Café Crèmerie is the best bakery in River North, there are plenty places to explore in the neighborhood. From rooftop lounges to hidden speakeasies, see all our River North favorites.

Start Saving Your Favorite Spots