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Name: Filter Cafe
Address: 1373-75 N Milwaukee Ave, Chicago, IL, 60642
Telephone: (773) 904-7819
Price range: Under $11
Rating: 3.64

Filter Cafe

1373-75 N Milwaukee Ave, Chicago, IL, 60642

(773) 904-7819
Store is closed

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Filter Cafe Menu

Quick Starters

Assorted Bagels

Oatmeal

Healthy Start Parfait

Seasonal Fruit

Signature Lox Platter
Fresh Salads And Homemade Soups

Chopped Salad

Filter Salad

Greek Salad

Fire Roasted Veggie Salad

Caesar Salad

Veggie Chili

Soup Of The Day
Hearth Baked Flat Breads

Sausage And Tomato

Four Cheese

Fresh Spinach And Cheese

Cheese And Tomato

Fire Roasted Veggie
Hearty Wraps And Sandwiches

Thanksgiving Wrap

Spicy Chicken Wrap

Chicken Caesar Wrap

Spicy Steak Wrap

Falafel Pita

Tofu Wrap

Curried Chicken Salad

Tuna Salad

Tofu Reuben

Turkey Reuben

Veggie Burger

Grilled Cheese

P.b And J

Healthy Meal suggestions for Filter Cafe

Quick Starters

Assorted Bagels [ Carbohydrates (ms): 0, Sodium (s): 0, Saturated Fat (ms) : 0, Calories: 0, Sugar (ms): 0 ]

Oatmeal [ Carbohydrates (ms): 0, Sodium (s): 0, Saturated Fat (ms) : 0, Calories: 0, Sugar (ms): 0 ]

Healthy Start Parfait [ Carbohydrates (ms): 0, Sodium (s): 0, Saturated Fat (ms) : 0, Calories: 0, Sugar (ms): 0 ]

Seasonal Fruit [ Carbohydrates (ms): 0, Sodium (s): 0, Saturated Fat (ms) : 0, Calories: 0, Sugar (ms): 0 ]

Signature Lox Platter [ Carbohydrates (ms): 0, Sodium (s): 0, Saturated Fat (ms) : 0, Calories: 0, Sugar (ms): 0 ]
Fresh Salads And Homemade Soups

Chopped Salad [ Carbohydrates (ms): 0, Sodium (s): 0, Saturated Fat (ms) : 0, Calories: 0, Sugar (ms): 0 ]

Filter Salad [ Carbohydrates (ms): 0, Sodium (s): 0, Saturated Fat (ms) : 0, Calories: 0, Sugar (ms): 0 ]

Greek Salad [ Carbohydrates (ms): 0, Sodium (s): 0, Saturated Fat (ms) : 0, Calories: 0, Sugar (ms): 0 ]

Fire Roasted Veggie Salad [ Carbohydrates (ms): 0, Sodium (s): 0, Saturated Fat (ms) : 0, Calories: 0, Sugar (ms): 0 ]

Caesar Salad [ Carbohydrates (ms): 0, Sodium (s): 0, Saturated Fat (ms) : 0, Calories: 0, Sugar (ms): 0 ]

Veggie Chili [ Carbohydrates (ms): 0, Sodium (s): 0, Saturated Fat (ms) : 0, Calories: 0, Sugar (ms): 0 ]

Soup Of The Day [ Carbohydrates (ms): 0, Sodium (s): 0, Saturated Fat (ms) : 0, Calories: 0, Sugar (ms): 0 ]
Hearth Baked Flat Breads

Sausage And Tomato [ Carbohydrates (ms): 0, Sodium (s): 0, Saturated Fat (ms) : 0, Calories: 0, Sugar (ms): 0 ]

Four Cheese [ Carbohydrates (ms): 0, Sodium (s): 0, Saturated Fat (ms) : 0, Calories: 0, Sugar (ms): 0 ]

Fresh Spinach And Cheese [ Carbohydrates (ms): 0, Sodium (s): 0, Saturated Fat (ms) : 0, Calories: 0, Sugar (ms): 0 ]

Cheese And Tomato [ Carbohydrates (ms): 0, Sodium (s): 0, Saturated Fat (ms) : 0, Calories: 0, Sugar (ms): 0 ]

Fire Roasted Veggie [ Carbohydrates (ms): 0, Sodium (s): 0, Saturated Fat (ms) : 0, Calories: 0, Sugar (ms): 0 ]
Hearty Wraps And Sandwiches

Thanksgiving Wrap [ Carbohydrates (ms): 0, Sodium (s): 0, Saturated Fat (ms) : 0, Calories: 0, Sugar (ms): 0 ]

Spicy Chicken Wrap [ Carbohydrates (ms): 0, Sodium (s): 0, Saturated Fat (ms) : 0, Calories: 0, Sugar (ms): 0 ]

Chicken Caesar Wrap [ Carbohydrates (ms): 0, Sodium (s): 0, Saturated Fat (ms) : 0, Calories: 0, Sugar (ms): 0 ]

Spicy Steak Wrap [ Carbohydrates (ms): 0, Sodium (s): 0, Saturated Fat (ms) : 0, Calories: 0, Sugar (ms): 0 ]

Falafel Pita [ Carbohydrates (ms): 0, Sodium (s): 0, Saturated Fat (ms) : 0, Calories: 0, Sugar (ms): 0 ]

Tofu Wrap [ Carbohydrates (ms): 0, Sodium (s): 0, Saturated Fat (ms) : 0, Calories: 0, Sugar (ms): 0 ]

Curried Chicken Salad [ Carbohydrates (ms): 0, Sodium (s): 0, Saturated Fat (ms) : 0, Calories: 0, Sugar (ms): 0 ]

Tuna Salad [ Carbohydrates (ms): 0, Sodium (s): 0, Saturated Fat (ms) : 0, Calories: 0, Sugar (ms): 0 ]

Tofu Reuben [ Carbohydrates (ms): 0, Sodium (s): 0, Saturated Fat (ms) : 0, Calories: 0, Sugar (ms): 0 ]

Turkey Reuben [ Carbohydrates (ms): 0, Sodium (s): 0, Saturated Fat (ms) : 0, Calories: 0, Sugar (ms): 0 ]

Veggie Burger [ Carbohydrates (ms): 0, Sodium (s): 0, Saturated Fat (ms) : 0, Calories: 0, Sugar (ms): 0 ]

Grilled Cheese [ Carbohydrates (ms): 0, Sodium (s): 0, Saturated Fat (ms) : 0, Calories: 0, Sugar (ms): 0 ]

P.b And J [ Carbohydrates (ms): 0, Sodium (s): 0, Saturated Fat (ms) : 0, Calories: 0, Sugar (ms): 0 ]

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Write An Anonymous Review

Parker ..

So many memories here. Hope to find it re-opened somewhere nearby. Miss it!
(4)
Why N.

A waste of natural resources. It is astonishing to me that people believe that they should open a business just because they can. Everything about this place is under-thought - the food is Sysco grease, 'ceptin for the tasteless vegan/veggie bullshit. The decor smells like grandma's attic (old couches that were never properly deloused), the coffee is as flat as a carpenter's level. Why(?!), I ask, when there are so many incredible, unique, creative spots in this city - why anyone would flock here. It is a fern bar, and i recommend that you look else where for quality. Unless you don't care about quality or about not smelling like a Salvation Army dumpster when you leave.
(1)
Ellen M.

Walked in, and before I had ten seconds to look around I expected to see: - Scruffy-haired dudes in new but faded graphic tees - check. - Beautiful young women trying for understated cool - check - Post collegiate reading, such as Tom Robbins - check - Apple laptops - check - Piece of shit couch - yep, they've got two Predictable. It reminds me of a saying I heard in the eighties: "nobody wants to be a yuppie but everyone wants to qualify." Insert modern-day social stereotype term in place of yuppie and you've got it. But there were nice surprises: AWESOME mango tea, really nice employees, a good selection of sandwiches and desserts, including a broad range of vegetarian and vegan. No smoking. And overall, I felt comfortable and at home sitting on the couch, chatting with good friends and checking out the artwork.
(4)
annie r.

this place is a great spot to have that awkward "we're not seeing each other anymore, but you left your wonder woman wig on my elvis bust last halloween and i want it out of my house" meet up. or when you need to meet your old live-in boyfriend for that last "you never paid the rent and didnt tell me so i covered 9 months worth of your half in three weeks so my credit score wouldn't be ruined" repayment. comfy couches, caffeine and lots of hipsteratti to look at makes uncomfortable conversation/ confrontation a little easier. i am glad this place opened up again, albeit a less convenient location. its good to have options and this really is a great hang out spot.
(4)
Jason L.

Considering how selectively the pretentious staff dole out their limited customer service I'm surprised anyone ever comes back for seconds. Never had worse service, more uncomfortable chairs or drier pastries in any other coffee shop. I lived in this area for 3 years and tried and tried. Unfortunate. If you want to compare a bona fide coffee shop experience, try Metropolis, Peet's, Intelligentsia, Dollop. I can sum the difference up in a word. Friendly.
(1)
M P.

Not what I expected but totally awesome. This place is huge (but fills up fast!) and looks like the decorator raided every second-hand shop in Chicago for couches. But the important things. Strong, delicious coffee in generous portions? Check. Free wifi? Check. Huge menu of good eats (inlcuding veg options)? Check. Definitely a great place to study or just hang out with a friend....I'll be back!
(4)
Jason H.

Nice ambience. Reminds me of my aunts house, who likes older style furniture that is unique, comfortable & older colors. Relaxing, good place to get work done & still feel at home. The iced green tea I had was good.
(4)
Sarah W.

My favorite coffee shop in the city. Great drinks from tea selections to vegan smoothies. Great food from the hummus platter to flatbread pizzas. Lots of seating...from tables and chairs to couches and comfy chairs. Plenty of outlets to plug in your laptop. Fun for people-watching. Friendly staff. Can get pretty packed on the weekends / nights. Open late. I love this place.
(5)
Alec B.

Filter was decent. Coffee was ok, food looked good but I didn't have any, and the space was certainly large and comfortable.
(3)
Daniel N.

One of my favorite spots in Chicago. It is huge (while it gets ultra-full on week-ends, it is big enough that I've never waited more than 2-3 minutes to find a comfy place to sit). It looks and feels very comfortable. It has a great decor (I especially like the wall that is covered in doors!). This is the type of place I can sit in and work for hours and hours without realizing how much time has passed. What makes me happiest is that the noise level is exactly what I need. It's not too quiet, which is the whole reason I like working in coffee shops, but it's also not too loud at all (surprisingly so, for such a crowded place, but that's the way it is). Finally, the food is really tasty (at least what I've tried). and definitely a reason I keep going. Especially the sweet potato fries. Make sure to get those. And I'd say portions are good, and say the prices are very decent for the amount of food you get. The baked goods are less impressive, at least the ones I've tried.
(5)
Amy R.

Filter is absolutely the best coffeehouse in Chicago. (and believe me, I've tried them all) The food, the ambiance, the look and feel of the space, the staff, and of course, the coffee. I've never posted a review on yelp before, but felt I owed it to this wonderful place to offer up my online kudos. Thanks, Filter, for existing.
(5)
Kimberly K.

Really cool, huge space. The coffee is pretty good, but kind of pricey. The food looks good too. The place is a little too crowded for me. I prefer Wormhole right across the street!
(3)
Kameron J.

by far the best coffee house in all of chicago! trust me, it's an original. i have been hesitant to even write a review about filter, because it's one of those well hidden gems of chicago - and i hate when i can't get a seat here, but screw it. here's my opinion. personally, i don't know why anyone would rate this place anything less than a 5 (but that's just me. to each his or her own). the atmosphere is dope, and i seem to be pretty productive when i'm working from here. the staff is personable, the mac & cheese is great, and this is the one place that doesn't have to try hard to be cool. it just is! there is no place in chicago like this, and it isn't setting out to try and impress anyone. and for that reason alone, it's pretty dope in book! this place speaks to the individuality of the clients it host. i've never met them, but would like to give the owners props for an establishment worthy of five stars! cheers.
(5)
Richard L.

i have been to the new location a few times and was a big fan of the old. i think that the sweet potato fries were better at the old..i seem to recall there being sea salt on the fries...yes? anyway, i think the 2 hr wifi code w/ purchase is a great idea. part of the problem with the old location was all the squatters that would order one cup of coffee and sit there on their mac for 6 hrs leaving no seating available. i think there's more of a turnover at the new location because of the 2 hr wifi. good idea new filter. i think the service is the same, the coffee is just as great, the food (other than the sweet potato fries) is good, and the space is a hell of a lot bigger and cleaner. me likey.
(5)
Eliza M.

Shoot! I was really excited to have Filter back - and right on my own block this time! - but I've been pretty disappointed with it so far. Are we sure it's under the same ownership/management? Overall, I think it works fairly well as a place to hang out and have a reasonably priced breakfast or lunch while you do some work or hang out with friends or something (though be warned you'll only get 60 minutes of free internet). It has a lot of charm, a lot of outlets, and a good vibe. It has NOT functioned well for me as a place to stop and get coffee and/or a bagel on the way to work, which is really disappointing. As there are never any fewer than 3 people behind the counter I simply cannot understand why it takes so long to process peoples' orders. There seems to be no consistent mode of communication among those three people or between those people and the kitchen. Today, for example, I asked for a large coffee with room and an everything bagel extra toasted with cream cheese to go. I had to repeat every part of that at least one extra time to various behind-the-counter staff, my coffee didn't have room for cream, I got one packet of cream cheese for my bagel, which is never enough, and my bagel was barely warm, let alone toasted. I actually heard the guy who took my order say twice to the two women standing behind the counter, "can you tell the kitchen to toast that bagel extra," but they were pretty engrossed in some other conversation, probably about something more exciting than bagels. Reading some other recent reviews, this place seems to be screwing up these kinds of details a lot - which isn't the end of the world, but it's not going to keep me coming back. Good coffee though.
(2)
Michael K.

Atmosphere's great, like being in the belly of a circus. I will not, however, continue to be a patron because I don't want to hear the guy at the register shouting over me to some other guy about how he isn't feeling well and he has "crazy parties coming up" because I need a coffee and your friend is sitting down, not going anywhere. He probably isn't either, so I will.
(2)
Stacey C.

Jeff at Filter is the epitome of good customer service. I ordered the Hummus and, for some reason, did not like it. It tasted off to me. The pita bread it came with was warm and pillowy, but the hummus tasted vinnager-y to me. I returned it and Jeff went out of his way to make sure that I enjoyed the rest of my experience there and gave me a side salad in replacement, then proceeded to come back and check on me. He said that if people aren't happy, then they are not doing their job. Great people watching tool...which could be bad if you're coming here to work.
(4)
Jennifer C.

I haven't had the food at Filter, so I can't comment on that, but the ambience is to die for. Comfy, subtle, eclectic and peaceful; the perfect environment in which I can space out, write or just chill and read. The crowds are usually very diverse and respectful of your need for quiet in order to be creative. I've had two meetups with my writers' group at Filter and I have to say that it is by far my favorite spot. I highly recommend it for other writers' groups, or if only for a simple, intimate meeting between two individuals.
(4)
Kristina S.

Filter, Filter, oh how I miss thee The coffee, the tea Sweet potato fries and heavenly sauce The smokey haze Messages on the restroom wall Where are you now? Come back Come back Damn you BofA Go away and bring our Filter back
(5)
cookie m.

so good. lots of places to find a spot and has lots of access to plugs. Good place to work for hours at a time. Prices are a bit inflated, but I guess I stay there for a long time, so I'm kind of also paying for a good working on laptop atmosphere.
(4)
Mica C.

The coffee is mediocre. The food is almost as good as what you'd find at a diner. They have some vegan options, which is nice. The owner is pompus and rude. The first time I went there, I ordered a chai-latte and I told him I had never been there before. He welcomed me and said that he stopped charging for soy milk since so many people don't drink regular milk. I wasn't that impressed because no where do I ever have to pay extra for soy milk in my coffee. Anyway, a few weeks later I returned for a latte and his staff charged me extra for the soy. When I brought it up he was completely dismissive and said "we're funny that way." So, I wouldn't go there unless you find this kind of service "amusing."
(1)
Jourdan S.

Doesn't have the patina of the original space but it's still a cool spot to work on you Mac book pro, for your bogus screenplay and try to look cool. Go do real work at home people. Shit.
(3)
Charles A.

Fine drinks, restaurant-quality food, spacious and well-appointed, Filter is one of only a couple excellent cafes with the late hours required of those who work all day and would sometimes rather burrow down a coffee hole than a bar after work. For these reasons and more (see reviews below), it is one of the best coffeehouses in Chicago. To me, this is so obvious, so I find the negative Yelp reviews here but more proof that some people are curious and plain impossible to please. Recurrent complaints range from having to refill for Internet to pompous and baffling disparagement of hipster clientele. If you don't mind paying for beverages, sitting on couches, or being around people very slightly different from you, Filter will do you just fine.
(5)
Stephanie B.

I love to go to this place to hang out and study with friends. The atmosphere is what I would describe as trendy & chill, and decent music is played (not so loud that you can't concentrate, though). Not only does this place have style, but it is also green - that meaning that they only purchase used furniture to furnish this cafe and that most if not all of their food is local or fair trade, and absolutely delicious! You get a free internet access code card with any purchase. Once it expires, they will give you another one for free (they usually last about 2 hours). One of Wicker Park's hotter spots to hang daytime.
(4)
Montserrat D.

I really enjoy this place. Everything works for me there. I usually complain about coffee shops not having enough well lit areas for a cozy sunny reading. I am not a fan of artificial lighting. Filter has LOTS of natural light. However, it also provides less exposed areas for anybody looking for privacy away from the huge windows facing the busy street. There is plenty of room and countless comfortable couches. The prices are great and they always have vegan options. The bathrooms are really clean and spacious. Their small cafe au lait is the same size of a large one anywhere else but at the "small" price of anywhere else. It's located in a really nice area with lots of unique stores and boutiques. Plus you can see everything that is going on in the kitchen at all times. Really nice people, both the ones in the kitchen and the baristas.
(5)
Susan D.

Amazing roasted vegetable salad tossed in perfect balsamic vinaigrette and goat cheese. Cheap at $7. Soup & half sandwich was decent. I recommend the cream of tomato soup if they have it that day, but the half curry chicken sandwich is a little scrawny. I'll get the salad and soup in the future. Cool large joint with lots of couches.
(4)
Allyson N.

Brett x. I'm Allyson, the female barista who's response was "less than forgivable". I apologize that the sandwich wasn't to your liking, but I assure you its a rarity. As for our response, you must understand that our reaction was based off confusion on the return of an empty plate. You were nearly shouting that you didn't want anything in return. We get it. You claimed that you didn't want to waste time getting a refund or new sandwich, or even a gift certificate. In that time of taking a few moments to remove parts of your sandwich, pull out your camera, and focus the lens, I could have had easily turned up a gift certificate and a drink us. Geez, I even would have slipped on a banana peel to make you happy. So on the extremely rare occasion that a customer didn't find their meal to their liking, we always immediately attempt to rectify. My co-workers and I care about our customers, and aim to please. Don't be so quick to judge on your first visit. (Of course I'm going to five star it, I was a grateful customer before an employee).
(5)
Grace F.

Yes! Chicago needs more coffee houses like this, I tell you. I love this place. It's spacious and I love love love the decor and artworks in there. Everything is super cute. I always have a hard time leaving this place. I never actually buy any food from here. I will someday. But, I always come in here for a cup of chai latte and sit in one corner while doodling or a private conversation with some friends. Well, my cup of chai latte doesn't disappoint, i tell ya. I will be back for more :)
(5)
Desiree Anne A.

Decent coffee, alittle watery. I like that they have a lot of flavors to choose from. I'm curious on their bubble tea, too bad they don't have green tea flavor. Mhmm next time. The space is great, but seems to always be crowded and a little dim.
(3)
Art V. B.

I loved this coffee shop. It has a great decor with vintage furniture. I didn't have any food, but the coffee was decent. They give you two hours of free wireless.
(4)
Katrina H.

If this isn't a Swanky Coffee Cafe, I really don't know what is!! The Ambiance itself is PERFECT and just screams my name! The food is Delicious!! Their Cafe Latte's are Divine and I love the Music to my ears when I enter! I had no idea that this place was even in Chicago. I guess I am still learning after 7 years of being here. This will certainly be my Favorite Spot to Chill!
(5)
Allison E.

Delightful. I had a thoroughly enjoyable weekend afternoon here. The place looks like a used furniture store with all sorts of mismatched furniture scattered about. The end result being tons of comfy couches, tables, armchairs, etc. to snuggle into. Music was none too loud and I hear the Wi-Fi is plenty fast. Really, I could easily spend an afternoon here. I had company for conversation this time, but I would totally bring a book, buy a coffee and curl up for a few hours. It is very quiet despite the volume of people and I was afraid that I would get "shhed" as I clopped across the floor in boots, but no one payed me any attention as they were absorbed in their books, laptops, and whispered conversations. I found that I really liked and appreciated the quiet community in Filter. Perfect for my relaxation needs. The drinks were just fine, and I hope to spend more quiet afternoons here, and have more chances to sample the menu.
(4)
Sara M.

I know it's closed-but I had to. I adored Filter, and even used to make special trips from my old place 45 minutes away just to enjoy their delicious grilled cheese and steamy mochas while reading and studying. I really want to know if they're planning on re-opening anywhere so if anyone here has information, let me know! Filter, I miss you.
(5)
Happiness L.

Really, just ok. Big space with lots of seats...tables, couches, and chairs....but missing uniqueness for being an independent place. Ordered plain black coffee....just ok. Staff is ok...not unfriendly...but not friendly either. Why don't they have bananas to make one of their signature drinks? Jewel Food Store is only a few blocks away.
(2)
Greco R.

They are quite fast with the food during my last two visits. Very fast. Got food out before I had a chance to get stuff out of my bag. They ran out of decaf for refill, so they refilled me with a decaf americano. That is very generous. Not sure if they always do this, but certainly nice of them.
(5)
Rachelle G.

The tables are uber close to each other. I would hate to be here when they are packed. I wish they were more attentive, I knew I wasn't going to be around long so I asked for my coffee in a to go cup, but nope, I got a mug. Will definitely be back though as its one of the few locations to just relax for a bit in the area.
(3)
Anne M.

The return of cafe culture; very nice indeed. Weekends are what you'd expect; crowded, loud. Try a weekday - a strange, almost library-like quiet hangs over the room. Seating's offbeat and comfy/communal, coffee's strong, food's so-so (we had the chicken/rice soup slightly reminiscent of grade school lunches and the filter salad; which look like a plate of garbage, but tasted OK).
(4)
Jef B.

My friends tell me that Filter is closing, last night open is tonight. 2007.07.12 RIP Here is an article about it: consciouschoice.com/2007â€¦
(4)
Blake B.

I loved hanging out here, keeping off the filthy couches, munching on a half burnt grilled cheese and people watching. I didn't like seeing them close, but guess what? Filter is coming back and it looks like someone updated this listing with the new address. There is a sign on the window "Filter is coming". Woohoo!
(5)
Marie L.

I came up with this alliteration while using the restroom here: There are plenty of pubes on this public pooper. Please pick them up, people.
(2)
Justine N.

I love this place! Comfy setting and great food without that cramped feeling at the The Wormhole. It's my go-to spot to study.
(5)
M. J. W.

I'm glad to hear that Filter could be coming to the Divison-Ashland-Milwaukee six corners in the upcoming year! As much as people may give them crap, they're a mainstay and I love 'em - for their great tea selection and sandwiches. Edited: Actually, I guess Filter's changed their mind and not they are going to Logan Square. Too bad for us Wicker Parkers.
(4)
Matt R.

Yes, it was crowded, and confusing, but I really enjoyed my experience at Filter and would definitely go back again. The coffee was decent and the staff was cool. The decor was also quite snazzy!
(4)
Em C.

I've been here a couple of times and I'm always disappointed in the number of vegan options. At least half of the menu could EASILY be vegan, but they choose to use non-vegan bread, which alienates more customers than just choosing a damn vegan bread would. The first few times I went there, the service was nice and helpful, but the last time the guy was totally distracted, not helpful, asked me the same question three times and still screwed up my order. For what it's worth, the food I've had is good and the drinks are good, but I wouldn't go out of my way to eat here.
(3)
Jennifer L.

Man, oh man...the LAST thing this neighborhood needs is another friggin' bank! For real - how many more can they open within a half-mile radius of Mil/Damen/North? Ok, tirade over. As for Filter itself, I wasn't big on sitting in the shop (too hipster for my taste) but I'm really going to miss stopping in for a bubble tea to-go. It was the perfect treat on a summer day. Somehow, I don't think a high-interest money market account will be quite the same.
(4)
Jake T.

Great spot! Often super-crowded on the weekend though, so you may have to wait a bit to sit on that couch and drink your delicious coffee.
(4)
Shawne H.

I have never been to filter and had a good experience. Last time I went there, a girl I was with needed to use the bathroom, and as everyone knows (or is apparently supposed to know...) , it's customers only. I waited in line while she scuttled off to the other side of the building and all the sudden I turn around to place an order and I hear someone screaming at the top of their lungs. "CAN YOU NOT READ? THE BATHROOMS ARE FOR PAYING CUSTOMERS. NOW YOU HAVE TO BUY SOMETHING." Of course everyone in the whole cafe` was looking and kind of laughing and shaking their heads. I was so embarrassed. I walked right over to him with a cookie I'd gotten, told him I was waiting for a drink, and asked what his problem was. Immediately started kissing my butt left and right. I think he was the owner, and I honestly would rather go spend my money on Starbucks and Seven Eleven coffee before I ever get something from Filter again. Too bad their food is decent. You really don't find very many places with awesome sweet potato fries. In addition, the baristas are ridiculous and even when they screw up, they've got something to say about it. Normally I don't care if you're rude to me, because obviously that's what you're going to get when you visit WP now days, but just give me my coffee and let me go about my business. Ugh.
(1)
Adam R.

I really enjoy this joint. The furniture is so eclectic from all different generations. The menu is awesome with a wide variety of breakfasts foods, salads, and sandwiches. Just come here and you will find out.
(5)
Elizabeth K.

1. Filter's employees are WAY too cool for school. 2. Filter's food and drinks are WAY overpriced. 3. Filter's music is WAY too loud and it's usually WAY too crowded. However, they have COUCHES, which far too few coffee shops have these days, and you can camp for hours and hours. I've written many a paper at Filter. I'll be very sad when they close. For the record -- they DON'T accept credit cards. They take ATM cards only, they have some sort of weird set up. EDIT: Filter is moving to Logan Square. Everyone who's anyone already knows this, apparently. But in case you're no one (Like I was until the other day) consider yourself warned. And they now have Boba tea! With the option to use soy instead of milk! I had jasmine green boba tea, which was good except the boba were really really syrupy. Also, they didn't give me one of the big straws, and I grabbed a normal straw off the counter not even paying attention, and didn't realize it til I'd left with my drink.
(3)
Ilina K.

Bring your powerbook pro, bleached asymmetrical haircut, starving artist bod, Chucks, and awkward insecurity over, but check your need for privacy and space at the door. Most of the loners inside are barely looking at the paper/novel/blog they're working on, and instead stare at your screen to see what you're doing/reading. Or checking everyone else out. The conversations can get rowdy, and the crowd can be a bit young, but I love a good seat at the window to watch the passerbys and work on my chunky powerhouse -yep- Dell. Oh, and their food is amazing. Try the Hipster Hash if extra hungover. I have a platonic crush on the super skinny blond girl that works the counter too. EDIT, 8.21.07 - R.I.P. Filter, in Logan Square or wherever you are - you will be truly missed. I'll now be holing up @ Gallery Cafe.
(5)
Rose E.

Coffeehouse/restaurant has a surprisingly large selection of brunch items- nothing that made me jump up out of my chair, but definitely hits the spot, and at pretty reasonable prices too. Can get crowded on the weekends, as with all trendy Wicker Park restaurants that serve brunch, but it is probably easier to find a table than at Earwax.
(4)
bill s.

This place is just way too awkward. If your lucky you may find a seat, but if you are with more than one person, forget it.. unless you want to sit next a bunch of strangers on a couch. There's no space for your feet no matter where you sit. If you bring a bookbag, it's hard to find a place to put it. The couple times I wasa there recently the music was awful and loud, aside from a few B-52s songs at least. You have to put the dishes away in a busser tray thing.. it's just an awkward place..not for me. I'm weary to even try the hot coffee because my girlfriend said it's the same temperature as Caribou's and I can only have iced coffe there, because it's just way too hot otherwise. I will give these compliments to the place.. 1) They have absolutely delicious Eggs and Toast!! The toast is nice and thick too!! 2) Their Iced coffee is the first coffee I've ever had anywhere ever, Iced or Hot, in which I feel no need to add creamer, sugar, or anything else of that sort. I actually like it black, which is odd because I normally despise black coffee. 3) They have things written in chalk all over the bathrooms.. hehe.. that's awesome. Unfortunately, as cool as those three things are, it's just not enough for me to like the place.. it's just too awkward of an environment for me.. plus I'd rather sit at The Steer in a booth drinking much cheaper coffe that has an endless supply, than pay for cup after cup on a couch with strangers.
(2)
D. M.

Good coffee, comfortable chairs. Sometimes it can get a little crowded.
(5)
Linda S.

Definitely a place to be seen. You walk into this coffeeshop and all eyes are lingering on you! Haha! Very good place to meet new people. Strike up a conversation with anyone sitting near you, sip some coffee and surf the web here for a cheap fee per hour. The music here is great too.
(4)
David G.

Mediocre coffee. Loud music. Unfriendly staff. Ugly decor. Nowhere to sit. I've never liked this place. I've never understood why it seems to be so popular.
(1)
David D.

PLEASE DON'T MOVE TO LOGAN SQUARE! I like this coffee shop fine, but it is what it is; it's a hipster coffee shop that helped gentrify Wicker Park. And now Wicker Park is practically a strip mall, but we don't want to see that happen to Logan Square. PLEASE FILTER, DON'T FURTHER GENTRIFY LOGAN SQUARE! If you move to Logan Square, it's just another step towards the neighborhood becoming Wicker Park part 2. Logan Square isn't hopeless, there is still diversity there. There are still reasonable independent businesses there that don't have a predominantly white clientele. If Filter moves here, our days are numbered. Please be responsible with your decision of where to move, Filter. DEFEND LOGAN SQUARE FROM THE YUPPIES!
(4)
Patrick F.

I don't generally find myself hanging out in coffee shops, but something about this place makes me want to start. The atmosphere promotes mingling and you can't help but feel like you're sitting in a big club house. If you can get a window seat, you'll get to people watch inside and out (windows on Milwaukee and North Avenues).
(3)
Jenny I.

I like this place to go. You can never find a place to sit inside. It's overrun with Generation Laptop, and it's so packed you cannot avoid overhearing inane conversations about love lost. It's weird: the one side is so coldly metal and severe, and the other side is so plush bohemian. Maybe it bugs me because it's so bipolar. Filter, make up your mind.
(4)
Michelle W.

This place is a great spot for breakfast/brunch on the weekend, especially when Wicker Park's Bongo Room and Ann Sather are overun. They have great breakfasts, coffee and chai. I love that you can sit at a table or lounge on a sofa while smoking.
(4)
Zachary A.

Filter has a bangin location and business to boot. Lot's of want-to-be-seens, hipsters, students, and your normal stew of cafe patrons. Wifi for a buck and a half an hour, and decent beverage prices. The food menu is nice, though pricey as befitting a popular spot at a three major street intersection (Ashland/Division/Milwaukee). Discounted refills, inside smoking, and two clean bathrooms adorned with above-average counter service make this a decent backup cafe if your favorite is closed. A good place for informal business meetings.
(3)
Liliana S.

Filter offers ambience, great coffee, comfortable chairs and sofas, and diverse music playing in the background. It is a great place to come meet new people, work, read, study, socialize, whatever your little heart desires. They also have a pretty decent size menu for a coffee shop. It is a great option to the franchise coffee chains...
(4)
Blah B.

Filter is in the heart of the most artsy neighborhood in Chicago, Wicker Park!!! With that being said it is always packed and I mean always packed with peeps hanging out with their lab tops, sipping coffee and people watching. Every time I've been there I always feel like "some body's watching me" ha like the song...no seriously they are!! Anyhow moving on to the goods, their OK nothing out of this world really, but a good option if your in the area....I guess!!!
(2)
k s.

Bustling cafe. Loud music--that somethimes sucks--sometimes rocks. Surprisingly good breakfast. Some yummy vegetarian sandwiches as well. Large drink selection. Table service. Cash ONLY.
(4)
katherine ..

every read a missed connection on that new fangled website called craigslist? then you've been to filter. get all Bettied up and get a tea and a seat here. we all know you've been reading that page for the past 20 minutes and are really trying to check someone checking you out.
(4)
Nancy T.

i call it "filtration," and i've been coming here for years. i love the turkey reuben and kitchen sink cookie. the teas are high-quality and there's a wide variety of caffeinated and non. my joe-drinking pals tell me the coffee's great. i personally think the prices are very fair, the service lovely, and the atmosphere is always entertaining in terms of people-watching.
(5)
Amy L.

There are always lots of missed connections from Filter posted on Craigslist, and I can see why. People mostly just sit around doing important stuff on their laptops (work? studying?), but I know they're just pretending. Filter has a decent menu, and it's a comfy place, if there are any seats available. They have stacks of pancakes bigger than your head for 5 bucks, including pancakes with Heath bars in 'em. I'm afraid to try them though.
(3)
Laura W.

i just have one question... why is there a photo shoot going on everytime I come here to get some work done?? i like the coffee. some of the couches could be restuffed so your butt doesn't hit the floor when you sit in them. but the sweet potato fries are what keeps me coming back.
(4)
One T.

Sometimes it's so crowded you can't find a seat, but if you can, grab it. Relax, study or read and even meet some new people.
(4)
cb b.

Good place to hang although it can be smokey! It has a decent menu and veggie items as well as ample space to spread out and work.
(3)
Jake C.

Really cool spot Large floor space and well kept Iced coffee hit the spot They have an impressive food menu and tasty homemade munchies My new go to coffee spot when on that stretch of Milwaukee near Ashland
(5)
Talia G.

I feel like it's a bit unfair to review Filter since their menu is so huge and I haven't tried any of the food, so take my star rating with a grain of salt. Pros: + Awesome vibe, really unique, good music + Wifi + Full menu + Smoothies were reasonably priced and I devoured my pint-sized mango pineapple smoothie in record time Cons: + Really, really bitter coffee + Fee for credit card charges under $10 I would definitely give this place 4 or 5 stars if the coffee was better, but it was rather undrinkable. I'm hoping my cup was a fluke. So maybe just come here for the other food and drinks...
(3)
Anita I.

Good: Fast wifi Lots of couches Lots of outlets Your grandmas basement They do sell a big variety of food in case you were lazy to walk nearby for better food Bad: Food and coffee are overpriced and not consistent as well as credit card charges for anything under $10 No air - There are days where air conditioning is a must - a sweaty environment is not my ideal
(3)
Jasmin T.

Lots of my teachers that live in or near the wicker park area love coming here. This place is decorated with a mixture of tables and sofas that just make you feel so cozy! There are lamps everywhere so the lighting is soft and not harsh like other places. There's free wifi and beautiful big windows that you can sit next to if you so please. It can get a little hot but if you don't mind then do it! There's also a nice mix of cold and hot drinks for moderate prices. You can also grab a variety of snacks and meals to eat here which is nice. It's really an all purpose coffeehouse that you should check out if you're in the Wicker Park area!
(4)
Patrick T.

Filter Cafe is an awesome huge coffee shop/cafe with great vegan food, good coffee, friendly folks, lots of outlets, clean bathrooms, and to put a cherry on top they were playing good music too! How can you go wrong in a place like this!....mmmm You can't this was the perfect spot to work, while on the road in Chicago! Internet was fast, so was the service! Perfect find in the big city!
(4)
Jenny T.

This place was not bad. The best part is that they open at 7am with their full breakfast menu, and you can't get cooked food anywhere else nearby during that time. I didn't try the coffee. I got the lox platter. It was not the best had. The wheat bagel was nice and soft, not a dense bagel texture. The cream cheese was prepackaged and kind of small. it was enough for me, but for those cream cheese lovers, make sure you ask for more. There was also lettuce, capers, red onion, and sliced tomatoes in the platter, which was all honestly impossible to fit into one bagel sandwich (may not be a bad thing). The 3 stars though, mainly goes to the smoked salmon itself. It was the red, I believe sockeye Salmon, and it was way too fishy. There wasn't allot of it, maybe 3oz, and they were all stuck together with a mushy texture. Also got a side of hash browns, and they smelled good, but were overcooked, on the dry side, and didn't have much flavor or saltiness to them. Tasted like hollow, cube-shaped air puffs, with a little bit of starch and chewy skin. Wasn't a fan of the smoked salmon or hash browns, but they have a good atmosphere and nice service, so I'll probably try and come back again, especially if I need breakfast at 7am in Wicker Park.
(3)
Anne B.

Filter is the perfect relax & read/study spot. It has great food, good service, and plenty of room to get work done. Don't expect restaurant service here, but the ambiance is fantastic and the staff are super friendly. The breakfast food & salads/soups are the best, whereas the wraps and pizzas are just ok. But great place to grab brunch/lunch or get things done!
(4)
Christie B.

Cross the Goodwill furniture department with a great cafe and you get Filter. Rock on, I'm glad to see that someone has an eye for the inherent beauty and oddball kookiness of 60s/70s era midcentury modern furniture and has combined various pieces to create this unusual space. Instead of their usual destination of the city landfill, the furniture and decor get a second life as elements of one of the coolest cafes I've ever visited. Cafes come in many shapes and forms (modernist Scandinavian, science-geek, warm wood and leather, and so forth) but I've never seen a cafe that combines so many flowered, striped, and paisley patterned pieces (talk about "Couches Gone Bad", next on Maury), yet comes out the other end as one of the most interesting working and sitting places I've seen. Instead of feeling like you're in hell's waiting room, the atmosphere is of comfort and visual interest, almost as if you're in a 60s era sitcom when technology was the key to the future and your Mom is coming from the formica topped kitchen to offer you a bowl of day-glo orange Mac and Cheese and a green Jello fruit salad topped with Cool Whip while your family watches the NASA moon landing on TV. The exposed brick and huge windows go a long way in complementing and toning down the decor. Interesting artwork lines the walls, and unusual lighting completes the look. Now the coffee. Yes, I spent the entire preceding two paragraphs going on about the aesthetics. So what about the coffee and food? Well I'm pleased to say that the plain drip coffee I had was very nice. Often it's the case in these "good" or "hipster" cafes, coffeemaking has been elevated into some kind of mystical, ritualistic art with the baristas/scientists/high priests performing the steps of a sacred process, yet ultimately serving up underroasted or overextracted coffee. Filter served up a very good cup (a tad underroasted for my personal taste, but maybe that's just me) of drip coffee that was rich, had a good rounded mouthfeel, and was very fresh. Their apple pie was great too, with a good flaky crust and lots of tangy tart apples. I would have preferred a different Dutch crumble topping (it appeared that they used some kind of granola topping) but that's a minor quibble. All of the above, plus the expansive seating area, free wifi, and friendly service makes Filter a top notch place to visit. I highly recommend it!
(4)
Steven G.

Wow, the hipster hate is strong in this one, my son. Never mind the usual hipster barista snotty "I'm only talking to you because I have to" demeanor. I buy a snack. Some guy walks out of the restroom saying it was broken. No one's coming out of the other one. I decide the broken restroom might warrant the attention of the baristas. I go to the steamer and wait to get one's attention. Both of them make a point to look right through me every time they get a free moment, like I'm not there. Just, fuck you guys. What a shitty attitude from the people who run this place. Your lacking, overpriced snack and food selection isn't that great either. Go down the street to one of the other half dozen coffee+food places, where you may or may not get better sustenance or find better seating, but at least you won't be treated like a complete piece of shit by the staff. Hey staffers, go ahead and get a few friends to astroturf this page, like other crappy businesses do. Karma doesn't care. And maybe we should call the health department about that broken restroom you clearly didn't give a shit about.
(1)
Elizabeth H.

In Chicago for the weekend, my friend left me a note with a bunch of coffee shops to try out one being Filter. I'm so happy that I went. I entered in to the shop and there was some really cool art and a great atmosphere. My kind of scene. The staff is really friendly; I took my order to go. The iced coffee was one of the better ones I've had in a long time. While I was preparing my iced coffee, I was dying of laughter from the food puns that Filter has so ingeniously created for example The real skim shady. It doesn't get better than that. Even though I'm going for a big dinner tonight I felt that I should have some food since were not being seated until 1015. I had the curry chicken salad wrap and it was also probably one of the best ones I've ever had SO props to you filter. If I have time I'm definitely coming back in before heading back to Boston.
(5)
Jenny Y.

Filter has tons of seating, and on weekends, it's like being one giant study hall. I like the large space and modern vintage feel. The random couches and lamps add personality, and I get inspiration from the paintings. Besides coffee and tea, they also make fruit and veggie drinks. Drinks and food that take a little longer are brought to your table so you don't have to stand and wait by the counter. The infamous sweet potato fries are a delicious comfort snack. Amenities such as Wi-Fi for such a large space and outlets seem very well thought out. My only complaint is that lighting in the evening is very dim. If you can get dibs on good seats, this is a comfy place to hang out or get work done.
(4)
Timothy B.

Massive coffee shop. If you're looking to get work done and sip on your coffee, this is the place to go. Didn't try the food. Looks like they have a decent selection. Cool spot if you don't mind the hipsters and dirty stares when you laugh too loud at cat videos.
(4)
Evie H.

Filter is one of the bigger coffee shops in the area. There's definitely a good amount of couches and tables. Though it can get pretty crowded, especially on weekends, the weekdays are usually manageable. I've never had an issue finding a seat on weekdays. It's a great place to read or work, especially if you don't need the internet as the speed can be kind of slow at times (ugh). If you're near the windows, the lighting is okay, however, towards the back the lighting can be incredibly dim. Food and drinks are decently priced. My usual is one of their iced green teas. The steak wrap to be pretty filling and the sweet potato fries are cut super thick and could be salted better. Essentially, the biggest plus for filter is that it has a large amount of seating capacity in comparison to other coffee shops nearby (I'm looking at you Wormhole).
(4)
Leanne A.

I love coffee shops that have enough seats. I love coffee shops with a lot to eat. For those two reasons, I like this place. Their s'more pie is SO good. I'd pick this place over whacko hipster wormhole any day. But their internet is terrible and the staff is totally apathetic. We came here once to do wedding-planning, and after getting comfy with food and drinks we just stared at the internet-not-working page. Come here to hang out on a couch, drink coffee, and eat dessert. Don't plan on getting online.
(4)
Zeina A.

Great study spot especially for a Sunday. It's nice that they don't close till 8 pm on Sunday's which is convenient. It's quiet enough to study and enjoy a cup of coffee or in my case a ice cold lemonade. The only thing that was not so great was the wifi, It was really slow and kind of frustrating. The lemonade was very good and refreshing and i recommend it
(4)
Visceral 1.

Decent coffee. Comfy lived-in couches and plenty of seating available which is nice on busy days. I also just really like coffee shops that actually have food and smoothie options!!! and VEGAN and VEGETARIAN ones at that :))) The quality of the food, on the other hand, is not consistent. Some days it's ok and other days it's kinda gross. Guess it depends on who's chefing that day.. Also, in general, the food is pretty mediocre and OVERPRICED, even the pastries (i know it's vegan and that's hard to do right but still...99% of the time, I never want to order the same thing twice). The WIFI cuts in and out which is super frustrating. They have two networks but I still have trouble streaming videos and such. This makes me re-consider going here on most days. And lastly, the service is alright. They seem to be HIRING NEWBIES on the regular..But most immportantly, they'll get your food and drink out in a timely manner on most days. Though you shouldn't expect "service with a smile" I guess that's just the vibe of the place.
(3)
Amanda D.

I still come here every once in a while because of my boyfriend. This past time was very disappointing in terms of their service... They only have 2 menus, so for details of their items, you're on your own if those 2 menus are being used. I ordered a build your own omelet with tomatoes, feta, and avacado. It was delicious, but when it arrived, two of the avacado slices had dark brown spots that were indented. These parts were near the core of the avacado, too. The other slices were perfectly fine, minus the two. My problem with paying for food and being served something like that is twofold: 1) it implies the customer is stupid and will eat whatever is placed in front of her and 2) it makes the people serving that food seem lazy and that they do not care. I went up and asked for the manager, who was not there. I spoke to a woman who told me it just looked bruised--as if that would make it ok to serve a brown piece of avacado to a customer. I told her all they needed to do was slice that part off before serving someone, and I told her why I was complaining, mentioning points 1 and 2. She asked if I wanted to bring the food over, but I said it was ok because I took the brown parts out. She then came up to my table and asked again if I wanted my money back or a new omelet because I was, 'Complaining like crazy'. Again, I told her the omelet was fine, but I feel like she definitely didn't get the point and was down right rude about it. I was just trying to express what that presentation said about their establishment and what it says to their customers. For me, the experience merits no stars, but the omelet was very delicious. I also tried my boyfriends steak in his omelet, and it was clear they used great meat.
(1)
Sara T.

I appreciate this place for its ample seating -- it's great for when you have a lot of work to get done. There's an extensive food menu which is nice. Aside from that, the drinks, food, and decor are all of average quality. I would probably bump this place up to 4 stars if they were to extend the hours.
(3)
Lindsay Y.

I stop in at filter almost every day on my way to school. The owner is super friendly and he always greets me with a huge smile. The menu has tons of different options, which is nice. I recommend the coffee (bc it's very strong) and the flatbread (very tasty). Filter also has a very chill atmosphere and is a nice place to get some work done.
(4)
David P.

I just cant get enough of Filter. There is no better place in the city to lay back and get some work done or blog, or play on your phone or whatever! The several dozen or so comfy couches just put me into such a relaxed state I never seem to want to leave. No matter what it is I try to accomplish when I come here It always gets done..I feel renewed and energized when I leave. My only complaint is they do not seem to have much in the way of specialty coffees or seasonal options. But the atmosphere more than makes up for it.
(4)
Alexandra G.

Cozy sofas and decent coffee. What more can you ask for when you're looking for a warm place to work on a cold winter weekend? The Internet was fast, the cappuccino delicious (with a little more foam than I normally like...but that's neither here nor there) and the space inviting.
(4)
Emma M.

Emma likes this place. Lots of couches. They play Elliot smith and iron and wine. I like both of those bands so I think it's a good spot. I suggest you stop in.
(5)
julie q.

Just like every other coffee place - Overpriced sub-par food. Overpriced coffee but my husbo does like the lattes. The iced coffee tastes like dirt. I like the atmosphere and although I haven't tried any of their sweet treats, they look amazing. The staff seem to be friendly enough - I like it but not somewhere I'll frequent.
(3)
John I.

This place reminds me of an old art movie house in the Upper Haight of San Francisco, the Red Vic. They put brewer's yeast and butter on popcorn, new to me. But like Filter, they must have scoured a number of Goodwill stores to get just the right mix of used couches. Unfortunately, perhaps because of a domino effect from a Gap store that somehow slipped by the hippies, the Red Vic is no longer. As I sit here on a nice wannabee-with-wood Mies couch, I appreciate that even in ever-gentrifying Wicker Park, you can still find a large, comfy cafe in which to hang. They go a little far here with a credit card obsession: really, 50 cents if you order less than $10? Why not just charge a little more; these days it's really just a cost of doing business, no different from having a bathroom, or the wonderful, multitude of outlets they have, the latter for which I must say "THANK YOU, GOD OF GOODWILL-COUCH-LOOKING COFFEE HANGOUTS!." I make my own coconut macaroons, and they're pretty damned good; so I won't deduct points for the high density here (though they tasted quite good). Open late on a Friday too, as I was biding a few minutes before going to dinner. If I'm in the hood again, this will be high on my rotation of coffee bars.
(4)
Jane V.

Sooo I only had a coffee and fries here but I loved This place! The interior is cozy (but big)z I think the antique-y feel and lots of couches Gives it the homey feel/ the disco fries were so good...the sweeet potato fries were the bat I've ever had ;more potato-y than frie-y which I loveddddd!).
(4)
Mark H.

Throw in a bunch of old, dilapidated otherwise would be alley couches into a retail space, mix it with a bunch of garage sale bought tables passing off as antique, top with crude yet basic design elements and presto....a would be hipster haven?? Hmm.... This coffee shop is in a trendy area but their vibe is more ghetto than fabulous. The apparent mishmash leaves you wondering how their doors are even open? Genius marketeers or did they pull a wool over our eyes. Either way it works. An anomaly or cleverness in their part is that they don't accept credit cards... in an age where MasterCard and Visa are in just about most small businesses. The coffee blend itself is just OK. Had better at the national Star something chain. The food is one grade above cafeteria style with gourmet prices. The owner is a friendly yet Jekel-Hyde-ish. The staff abrasively reminds you to pay to stay. The WiFi network is very slow at times with a stint of normal speed. Subpar. Yet looking at the crowd coming, it does serve the community's want for a hangout place like this. Kudos to Filter. So until the hipster audience really wake up and smell the coffee this place will have to do.
(2)
Kristin S.

Cozy & comfortable with lots of breathing room (and darn good coffee.) Although maybe a little tough to find if you've never been here, this slightly hidden gem is worth looking for. A surprisingly large space which is hard to tell from the outside, is decorated with comfortable-sink-right-in cozy mix-matched couches and and overall very friendly and welcoming decor. The coffee is moderately priced, and solid. For the atmosphere honestly I'd pay more :-) The baked goods are fresh and tasty, there are always some type of art show or live music flyers on the counters near the dining area so if you are looking for some new events to attend they kinda help ya out with that too. Clean establishment, friendly staff, sometimes a bit crowded during peak hours (but trust me that makes for some great people watching! )
(4)
Libby P.

Quiet, comfortable atmosphere. LOTS of seating for a cafe. Full menu which is awesome. ALSO PRINTING...PRINTING PEOPLE.
(5)
Paul S.

Filter is the most dope coffee house in WPB. (If you're from LP, just stay over there at Floriole spending extra money on smaller coffees that spill all into your dainty french saucer.) Oh, they don't have Mac N Cheese over there either? Mm, too bad. Cuz the food here is pretty bangin too and you can get a couple drinks and some snacks for a reasonable price. Good on ya Filter, keep doing what you do. Vegetarian? Me too! Friend me! And then we can go to Filter and get some tofu scramble with pesto and home fries, just like mama never made, amongst numerous other delicious options. WiFi that works VERY well. Considering there's usually about 50 people suckling on the wifis here, it's gosh darn blazing fast, and I love the guy that comes out with internets-gonna-work ambition from time to time and shouts politely at us that he's rebooting it. Also, get the 'Level Up' app before you go to the counter so you can pay with credit card.. don't fight the movement, just be cool honey bunny, get the app, and noone has to get hurt and we don't have to wait while they explain it to you. And how about that ceiling mural? Who did that? It's bad ass. ps, try the roasted almond tea...so good.
(5)
Jen B.

Probably the biggest coffee shop I have ever been in. It is kind of a time warp when you walk in because it is just full of old couches, lamps and tables from past decades. There were so many places to sit where you could be alone with some friends or there were places where you could set up with a computer and get some work done. I actually do not know a whole lot about coffee so I can't accurately judge if it was any good or not. But it was reasonably priced and they made all of our drinks so quickly. They also had a ton of food options which I was not expecting. I was with friends and we were killing time before dinner otherwise I would have definitely tried something, the fries smelled delicious and the flat breads looked great. Such a great little neighborhood gem to hang out in
(4)
Paul G.

This place CONSISTENTLY sucks at what they do. Please! Let me tell you why. To start off, I have always got such a cheap ass vibe from this place. I use to come way more often but it was just annoying. They use to make you get a internet code for 2 hour only but ONLY after you purchased something. Which is not that big of a deal, I understand coffee shops get a lot of free loaders and they need to make money. But still stupid. Then the food and coffee always are sub par. I have had the disco fries often which are like just wrong. Sweet potato friends should not go together with normal potato fries. Ha. Who thought of that? The coffee is always kinda gross. Or just not very good. In my experience at least. So the reason I decided to write this review so late in the game is because of the blatant rudeness of the worker. My friends and I ate at oiistar and were looking to studying afterwards. Wow, low and behold coffee shop next door. We go inside. My friend goes to order a coffee and they inform her, "we close in 30 minutes". So she (and we) decide not to get coffee because we wanna sit down and enjoy it obviously. So we sit down anyway to get like 30 minutes of quick work done. When we leave the worker decides to hollar at us "you're welcome!" I obviously ignored it. What a dick. Seriously. Like screw off, you are the shop closing early don't yell at two people that sat down for 30 minutes before closure. What do you want? $2??? Here! Here's $2 now shut the hell up. Hahha. Anyway, this place is awful. The only reason I didn't give them one star is because they have PLENTY of seating. Which is nice when the other nearby shops are packed. Thanks filter! Will visit you... NEVER.
(2)
Sarah C.

Great, friendly service, good coffee. Grabbed a few of the raw bars for the road (peanut butter and cherry) and they were INCREDIBLE! Could anyone tell me if those are made by a local vendor or in-house? I live on the north side, and I'd love to find them somewhere more local, if possible. If not, I suppose I'll trek back for more!
(4)
Karl K.

Competitive pricing, free wifi, comfortable and inviting atmosphere with ample couch space, and, oh yeah, tasty fresh brewed coffee all made this place a great spot for getting some work done on a rainy afternoon. Even if you're not looking to work, it's a good spot to chill and look out the window. Didn't eat any of the food, but looked and smelled great.
(4)
E S.

We were stoked on the environment and excited to see so many options on the menu. However, the service was rank. We ordered the most basic breakfasts: hash and a tofu scramble. The potatoes looked liked they were cooked in 1993 and tasted like dishwater. When we asked for fresh potatoes, our server took it very personally, snatched the plate and returned with more old nasty potatoes. The new plate was missing toast and my friend inquired about it. "Are you sure there was toast?" the server asked. Um, yeah. She then returned with some slices and dropped the plate on the table. I can't understand how you can mess up such a simple dish and why you wouldn't just apologize and offer something else?
(1)
Alex R.

By far my favorite place to go if I need to hunker down and do some work. With a wide variety of floral couches, grandpa armchairs, and the classic wooden chair con table, this is a great place to meet up with friends as well. The only problem is that everyone else knows this too, and the place can get pretty packed. Lots of powerstrips/outlets along the walls and good WiFi make this an ideal location for off-site work. The food here is fairly decent, with a good selection of sandwiches, burgers, and salads. Not the most amazing smorgasbord, but you didn't come here for food. You came here to work, read, relax, laugh, cry... So get to it
(5)
Erwin D.

This place is good to relax ur mind and feel comfy while drinking a delicious coffee and feel like home....or make w peace of mind or feelin relief....& also its the right place to chill around while is cool out and feeling nice and warm while making cozy.... The best coffee shop I ever been out of other coffee shop....Their coffee is super outstanding and very tasty....thank you Filter for this wonderful place to chill to relax....it feels like home.
(4)
Marc M.

The best place coffee shop around for working remotely. They have good coffee, good food and good wifi. What more do you want? It can sometimes be difficult to get a seat/spot to work if it's busy but that's not a valid reason to take a star away from them - if anything it's a good sign!
(5)
Shannon K.

Holy randomness batman! This place has no filter! It's organized chaos, in terms of its decorating sense, but damn if I don't dig it. I like that you can get your coffee, tea or basic eats (think breakie sandwiches, soups, salads and sandwiches) on one side, then head over to "grandma's living room" and when I say grandma's living room, I mean a room full of grandmas 70s and 80s discarded furniture. I was overwhelmed with the choices - do I sit on the brown fuzzy couch, the 70s green and yellow couch, the mid century funky chair? Fun! You can hunker down in your "mini living room" among living rooms and read or work on your computer until your heart is content. Good coffee. Friendly staff. Food looked good. Funky and plentiful seating choices. Perhaps my new, favorite study spot.
(4)
Lina D.

Ever wish you could go to that cafe you see in a sitcom or a romantic comedy? You know, that ENORMOUS one with the quintessentially urban brick walls, comfy vintage furniture, local art on the walls, and tons of room to sit? If you are on Milwaukee Ave., then you're in luck! Filter is the place for you! So if the ambience is so cool, why the two stars? Here's my list of the not-so-great: Coffee quality: disappointing. Espresso drinks are passable, but not at all memorable. Food quality: I appreciate the fact that they have a lot of options. I have tried many of their offerings, and most are mediocre. I haven't had anything that deserves higher than three stars. I would recommend the Filter salad (good combination of dates, almonds, and goat cheese, that is of course, when they aren't skimpy with their toppings). The sweet potato fries pretty good, as is the seven-layer bar. Service: Let's just say you aren't greeted with a smile here...usually pretty curt. UPDATE: Heaven forbid you finish your food/drink and your dishes are cleared, because you will get asked several times to buy more or leave because the dining area is "for paying customers." Music selection: Varies. Anything from Death Metal to Reggae to '90s alternative hits. Cash only policy: Definitely inconvenient. They also use the Level Up program, but you need to download and set up the app beforehand. Wifi: Spotty spotty spotty! Constantly cuts in and out. When the place is crowded, it becomes difficult to connect in the first place. And what's with the two hour password/use limit? Yeah...that's just not going to cut it in a neighborhood peppered with cafes boasting unlimited wifi! Honestly, I purposefully come here when I need to work somewhere without the temptation of internet procrastination. Unfortunately, Filter's appeal is just in its appearance. All the charmingly mismatched couches in the world can not make up for all its cons. My conclusion: Filter is alright if you want to do some reading or chatting, but not when you are hungry or need to use the internet.
(2)
Cherrie S.

Hands down my favorite coffee shop in the city! So, why not 5 stars you ask....because I have to vulture a table when I come here. This place is packed unless it's a Monday morning at 10 a.m. Guess I'm not the only one that loves to live here, and by live I mean study my life away. The atmosphere is cozy, warm, and inviting. They play awesome music and the staff are nice. Oh- and if you come here and don't try the fries, you're seriously missing salted happiness on a plate. Best fries I've ever had!
(4)
J. A. L.

I try to go to Filter as often as possible, which translates to a few times a month. I was so excited one Friday morning because I had a late start at the office and that meant I could have time to enjoy Filter. NOPE. CAFE BUSTELLO??? WHAT THE EFF. I was completely annoyed by the stupid popup cafe which was overrun by marketing people and sold no food. I had texted my boss that I'd bring him great Filter coffee, but Filter sold out to Cafe Bustello so I could not enjoy Filter's coffee and couldn't even get two cups because the effing Bustello folks only offered one cup per customer. I don't give a heck that it was free - take it and shove it Filter and Bustello. I walked out and went to Dunkin, where I should have gone in the first place.
(1)
Snobby B.

Amber behind counter is da drip coffeePros: Huge Area with lots of natural sun light Medium quiet with groovy back music Assortment of seating preferences Hippie but homey interior design Outlets everywhere Jocelyn Amber real cool barista Smoothies with apple juice versus dairy Spider-Man mugs - assorted mugs Cons: Coffee so so Cash only Some areas dark Parking whimsical
(4)
NeeraJamie K.

I won't be coming back here for a couple reasons, including the fact that they don't take credit cards and they play terrible music. The main reason I won't be back, however, is because of their pushy, racist, annoying barista. I just witnessed this barista (male, skinny, white, white glasses and a goatee) go up to a group of people (the only black folks in the room) having a meeting a total of 4 times reminding them that they need to come up to the front to order something. They DID order food once they got settled in. Looking around the room, there is plenty of space here for other people to sit. It's not like their presence at Filter is preventing them from making any money. I got a DISTINCT feeling that this barista is a racist. Four times? Really? I think they understand that they need to order something. Guess what?! Now, you have 7 people (including myself) turned off to spending money here.
(1)
Jerome M.

I remember a time that this place was more consistent. Those were better days. Come for the sweet potato fries or hipster hash, and cross your fingers that they cook them properly. I've completely blacklisted this place though after SEVERAL bad experiences in a row. Sucks because the space is rad, but the coffee is burnt dirt, and the food is usually about the same.
(1)
Rebecca B.

I've been working down at The Den Theatre and have been frequently visiting Filter for meals or a place to sit and relax during breaks. I love Filter. I didn't want to. In fact, I really wanted to hate it. There are soooooo many hipsters, but, then again, it is Wicker Park, so what do you expect? The best thing about Filter? They have real food, not just coffee shop food (scones and cookies). I'm talking pancakes, scrambled eggs, burgers, salads, soups, and fries. Breakfast is served all day, and the sweet potato fries are delicious! Are you vegetarian? Filter is super veggie friendly with lots of meatless options - they are also vegan friendly. Do you love meat? Don't worry. They have you covered, too. I've found service to be largely personable and generally friendly, though I have had the occasional surly barista. Seating is plentiful, as are power outlets, which is awesome. Be advised, Filter is cash only. If you simply have to use a card and don't want to visit the ATM, then you'll need to have the Level Up app on your phone.
(4)
Matt K.

This is my first choice for a hit of daily caffeine. Lots of other coffee shops to choose from in the area, but i like the space, the eclectic furniture, the art of the walls (and ceiling), the staff are cool/friendly, and the coffee is the best around (Iced Americano in particular). The place feels open and airy.Kid friendly and easier to get strollers in and out. Skillets are awesome for breakfast.
(5)
Katie K.

Great mochas. Comfy coaches everywhere. Fun music. Atmosphere not too loud and not too quiet. Friendly staff.
(5)
Jason F.

The reasons for the 1 star is as follows: 1) To use a credit card you have to download an app and use the credit card from the app. (Credit cards are for convenience, there is nothing convenient about having to do any of that.) 2) The beverages are served in mugs you have at home and not covered paper ones like a Starbucks or Caribou Coffee. They get cold really fast. 3) Staff doesn't ask what kind of milk you want in your drinks, they just throw in whole milk. Blah, too much fat. A little question goes a long way. Watch out lactose intolerant people. 4) If you're 6ft or over the Couches (that look like they are from the 70's) are uncomfortable to sit in. The backs are too short and when you lean back it hurts the middle of your back. When there's no where else to sit you're s.o.l. 5) Wifi needs a password, the reason it's so slow is because anyone can use it. Password at the bottom of the receipt wouldn't hurt. 6) The staff didn't look too happy to be there, wasn't greeted with a smile or anything. The only 2 things that were said to me was "Do you want your receipt?" And "Here's your cappuccino." Won't be coming back here again.
(1)
Caroline T.

Relaxed and cozy place (large space and windows, comfy couches and lots of seats). The staff is very nice and friendly. Drinks and foods are tasty. Their music is relaxed. One of my favorite places to study/read or meet up friends in Chicago!
(5)
Robert B.

This place is a cozy place to study and get work done. It is relatively quiet with good music. Compared to most cafÃ©s, it has the most space with many chairs, tables, couches, and outlets. Coffee was good for a decent price. One day I got the lunch special - the virus burger and fries for about $8. Besides tasting a bit bland, it tasted more like a Mexican dish rather than a burger. I love fries but these were just ok. I would definitely come back again for a cup of coffee and some studying
(4)
Anna H.

Cool coffee shop with a relaxed vibe. Spent the afternoon reading a book while my boyfriend worked on his laptop. Very laid back. Coffee is pretty good and they have a nice selection of herbal teas. Lots of seating! They also have a good menu which looks pretty tasty! A nice place to come work/ read/ zone out and listen to good music.
(5)
Matt B.

The perfect Cafe for studying. They play relaxed music and thankfully are open late. For a while they were closed and I had to go to wormhole coffee... It was miserable. Food is excellent, service is friendly and quick, music kept to a reasonable volume, and the space is unbelievable. The only issue I ever had was being charged .75 cents more than I should have for a food item. I was butthurt about it, I don't know why. I love this place. Keep it up filter
(5)
Emily H.

Best coffee spot in Wicker Park. The ambiance is perfect for catching up with friends, studying or just people watching. Food and drinks are excellent, but a little on the pricier side. My favorite part is the cool seating. Couches, chairs and everything in between. Stop by if your in the area. Totally worth it.
(5)
Diane G.

Ambiance: 5 stars Coffee: 4 stars Honey Almond Scone: 2 stars Ambiance: My urban hippie ("hipster" doesn't quite do it) heart lit up when I entered Filter. An odd mix of graffiti art on the walls, exposed brick and pipes, Buddhist lamps, and cheesy Hawaiian vacation couches, 70s couches, and decor likely stolen from your grandma's living room. Case in point, the ambiance is fun, groovy, and extremely comforting all in one. *Wondreful place for studying. Quiet enough but not awkwardly library-basement-silent. I've been to nearby cafes Alliance, Wormhole, and Lovely, and I'd say Filter and Lovely are my favorites. Coffee: My coconut soy latte was delightful. The coffee was smooth (not bitter at all as others mentioned), and not excessively sweet at all. Honey Almond Scone: Borderline offensive. It looked delicious, but it felt like I was picking up a rock. And like I was eating a rock. Stone-hard, more like biscotti than a scone. Dare I say I've had better scones at Costco. The scone pulled my rating down, BUT the ambiance more than made up for it.
(4)
Adam K.

I have a confession to make. I am pretty new to coffee, I know I know, you would think a thirty year old father of 2 who is a captain of industry would be all about the morning Joe Johnson, but not me. Up until the second baby. My first baby I was in my early twenties, this new one I am in my early thirties and it takes a while to get the motor going after 4 hours of sleep. So I succumbed to my dark master. I have a lot to learn about coffee. This place is the realness. So nice when I come in at 7 am, asking for a foamy cappuccino with soy that leaves me farty, bloated and jacked up on caffeine. They have awesome little breakfast bites, sandwiches, muffins, juice and such. Nice roomy place inside, with tons of couches and wifi, I really like this place. Its unpretentious while still being hipster, a tough feat. This with some donut's by Stan and I will be a sloppy mess until lunchtime.
(5)
Rachel T.

I visited Filter for the first time yesterday and am glad that I did! The space is quite large but cozy and warm at the same time. They place their large vintage furniture pieces well, and in a way, create small living room segments throughout the shop. Imagine several sections that contain 2-3 armchairs/couches/side tables in a U-shaped patterns encompassing a coffee table in the middle. You'd feel like you were reading on the couch at one of you friend's places- until you looked up and saw that on the other side of the couch in front of you were more groups of people in their own living-room-esque areas. I had a simple cup of coffee- nothing crazy, but it satisfied my caffeine addiction and I was very comfortable there. They seem to have a pretty solid breakfast/bakery menu so I'll be back to sample that.
(4)
Airen J.

Although I've only "pinged" Filter twice I have been there several times. Great location and an even greater ambiance. However, I find their menu a bit over priced from coffee to eats.The other downside is that you have to get an entry code to access the WI-Fi which expires after a time. Then in order to get another code you must purchase another beverage or food item. No biggie, I see where they are going with that - it is a hipster camp out with Mac Book galore. But their Carmel Apple Cider is a must during the season! Their decor rocks. The staff is on point and makes you feel comfy. Only three stars due to price.
(3)
Alice L.

The array of different seating is nice, except it's always extremely packed. I managed to snag a table this weekend after standing vigilantly by the entrance to the lounge part for like twenty minutes and rushing over the second I saw a dude leave his table. For some reason, even when the place is jam-packed, everyone who's there with their Mac still expects it to be a super serious study space. I got a ridiculous amount of dirty looks from the table next to us because we were just... talking. On a few occasions maybe we let out a loud laugh over the course of conversation. It was mostly funny how these people somehow thought that a big room of 50+ people in a public space would be quiet and that we were in the wrong. Just some idea of the typical patron you'd be sharing your space with at Filter, though.
(3)
Jennifer H.

Coffe shop / resto or used furniture store? We found this uniquely decorated spot for our breakfast online and were pleased with the variety of options (full breakfasts in addition to my faves: oatmeal & real fruit smoothies). I enjoyed the relaxed vibe, pleasant staff & convenient location.
(4)
Alex K.

This is my favorite coffee shop in the city. It is so popular that it becomes challenging to go there, hence a lot of the bad reviews on here. My favorite time to go is opening time and being the first there and having the place to yourself for like 15 minutes. Get the the full monte breakfast. Place is beautiful if you like retro furniture and always filled with visually interesting people. Disco fries are a nice balance, mixing regular French fries with sweet potato fries, along with a special dipping sauce. Coffee is great too, but not coffee snob quality. My only minor complaint is the random garage sale coffee mugs you get when dining in. You may order a size of drink, but good luck figuring out if you actually got that size or are just a sucker paying more for a small.
(5)
Vijen P.

Folks here are being pretty harsh. There are some great folks who work here and they work their ass off. Mistakes happen, but I've never seen them not fix it. Internet can be spotty at times but seems back to normal, but I find this place super helpful to get my laptop out and work.
(5)
Talia S.

Filter is the best place to get in the work zone among the hipster crowd. The wifi is good, food is awesome, and it's right in the middle of wicker park! Love getting my work done here. If your looking for a place with a special kind of ambience- this is it! Such an eclectic decor too! Love it here
(5)
Caitlin B.

This is the cutest place to study. They have tons of couches and comfy chairs and it's really laid back and relaxed. I love all the paintings and artwork on the wall - it reminds me of studying in an art museum. And they play really good music. Can be crowded but if you wait around for a little while you can usually find a table. They have decent food and excellent coffee.
(5)
Von B.

They never seem to have bananas for the pancakes
(4)
Stephen M.

Friendly staff, solid menu options, and good coffee. Plenty of unique seating (couches, recliners, benches, etc...) and it has an overall comfy retro environment. Only complaint would be the 4 lb 1 inch thick ceramic coffee mug I got. All the mugs are different so i assume i just got a bad one.
(5)
Jennifer M.

Tjis place is so comfortable and relaxing. They have a variety of teas and coffees to choose from. I would recommend this place to others. Loved the art that is displayed there. Nice place to hang out with friends.
(4)
Aja G.

Welcome to the decline in motion. Filter used to be great, but now the food isn't as good, their internet connection is worse than DSL and their coffee isn't all top great. Filter has the look of a place you could stay all day: big windows, comfy couches, nooks and crannies and outlets galore. However, shortly after sitting down you will have the urge to leave. I was there on a day their internet was down. They were nice enough to warn customers before the ordered, but considering their internet hardly works anyway I don't think many people were surprised. I had the lovely pleasure of sitting at the table right above to modem/router and every few minutes I was asked to move so an employee could climb on a chair unplug it and plug it back in. You gotta do what you gotta do but how about grabbing these dirty dishes while your knees are next to my ear? They are cash only. So are other places, but in other places you want to eat the food. Their pastry are dry and their coffee is bland. I used to come here often, but luckily that is over
(2)
Maek J.

Today I have been to the worst place ever, The guy came up to me like I was a bum reminding me to order several times, I was waiting for my date. I was the only one he felt he had to remind however. I advice you to try Wormhole up the street on Milwaukee, or BuzzKiller on Damen, but never filter. I usually spend at least $15 at Wormhole on drinks like Honey Bear Latte or Rocket Sauce, I'm sorry for trying somewhere else like filter. AAAnd the store and my clothes smells like toasted something, so ladies cover up your hair before walking in..
(1)
Larissa V.

Owner informs me no more neighborhood discount t because his employes abused it . That's my fault and problem how ? Just say you don't do it anymore and be done with it. Not imply my employes abuse it.How can I or anyone for that matter possible abuse 10% anyway lol !? What's funny is that myself and 90% of the employes I work with go there at least twice a day. A 10% discount for mid grade coffee isn't ideal anyway . Now I'll have a extra exercise time because I'll be walking to starbucks.
(1)
Leah P.

PROS: cozy neighborhood spot with a charming, vintage living room feel + plenty of table space + outlets and extension cords galore + friendly staff + cute mugs + surprisingly delicious sweet potato fries + good (but not great) coffee. Overall, a nice place to meet up, study, or read a good book. CONS: cash only, Internet rarely works.
(4)
Megan C.

I enjoy studying in coffee shops and this is an excellent one to study in. Coffee was good. Refills for only a $1 if you're not getting a flavored drink. Decent tea selection as well. They had a pretty big food selection which I haven't gotten to sample yet, but everything that walked out past me (they'll bring the food to your table) looked and smelled great. Service was friendly and the crowd was chill on a weekday afternoon. They also charge an extra $0.50 for card transactions less than $10, but you can run a tab if you're going to be there for a while and try to hit that $10 before leaving. Split it with a friend and you'll be fine. The environment was well lit and spacious. There are couches if you just want to enjoy a good book, but plenty of tables if you're getting down to business. If you get cold easily like me, make sure to bring a light sweater if it's fall/winter. Not 100% sure what the outlet situation was like because I get a decent charge on my laptop. Music was never obnoxious, annoying, or too loud. I forgot my headphones when I went, so that was much appreciated. They also have a printer there, which was the first I'd seen that in a coffee shop. It's not free, but handy. All in all a great place to get some serious studying done.
(5)
Adam S.

Minus the cigarette smoke and crowd of brooding writers/poets (w notebooks, Macbooks don't have the same aesthetic appeal), this place is pretty close to everything I love about a coffeeshop. 1. It's huge. In terms of coffeeshops in Wicker Park, H_U_G_E. If you're there before 11am, there are often tables open, and if not, couch/chair space for sure. I can't say the same thing about other places nearby. They have small tables, larger table, a couple really large tables, and a shitload of couches and chairs. 2. They have more than just coffee and baked treats. I haven't really had much of their food, but they have a good deal of it available, prices are fair, and thus far it's all smelled good. 3. Lots of plug outlets for all your Apple devices. Other places in the area don't seem to have this. I never have a problem finding a plug here. 4. Music is decent, but not overpoweringly loud. Wormhole, I'm calling you out...I love your musical selections, but the volume is much higher than necessary. No issue like that here. 5. Close to Walgreen's. Why does this matter? I'm not really sure it does, I'm just saying, WG has most anything, so if you need it, it's right across the street. 6. Friendly staff. IDK what other reviewers are talking about (or expecting in some cases). I've never been treated badly, rudely, or anything elsely, by their staff. 7. Decoration/Theme. It's eclectic, in terms of color of furniture, type of furniture, etc. As a 35 year old white male who grew up middle class, Wormhole's video game/general nerdery theme speaks to me more, but Filter just screams coffeeshop, through and through. ...It'd be 5 stars if not for the lack of credit cards, and $1 refills. No, Filter, your LevelUp app is NOT the same thing. For the record, it's easy to use and install, but it's the principle of the thing. And $1 for a refill, when I'm already paying $2.50 for a cup...ridiculous. I mean, charge what ppl are willing to pay, I'd do the same thing, but I'm on the other side of the register, so I think it's lame. All in all though, it's my favorite coffeeshop in WP.
(4)
Joshua M.

Filter is great. The atmosphere is like 20 little living rooms filled with hipsters. Their baristas are great. The coffee and coffee drinks are AWESOME. Their food is pretty good too. Prices are amazing, and the location is extremely convenient to those walking up and down Milwaukee. I'm not too keen on the signs they put out front that feature "SLUT MONKEYS" prominently displayed on the street, but I can't really fault them for this. If parking was a bit easier, I'd probably come here every day. Their Wifi is terrible, and if you get stuck in the seats by the windows, you will roast in summer time.
(4)
Shelby B.

If my grandmas house was a big house in wicker park with tons if space and exposed brick, then it would be Filter. I keep half-expecting my aunts and uncles to barge in with cartons of cigarettes and bologne sandwiches to start drinking and playing skip-bo and dominos!! That would be cool. But there's no smoking inside, duh. The service here is faster than the human imagination...literally as hell it is faster than your mind. Also, the price is pretty good and food/drink quality is satisfying. The old grandma furniture is reeally comfortable, and I could probably sit here all day with a book if I didn't have to get my hair cut! Also, unlike certain other cafes in the neighborhood, i don't feel like everybody is staring at me (?), but you can def creep on other people hear via lingering glances over the top of your paper/iPad...if that's your thing.
(5)
Meredith A.

This is defiantly the WORST coffee shop in Wicker Park. Thurs Dec 12, 2013PM... The employees seriously have a chip on their shoulders (ATTITUDE GALORE) and the level up thing has to go. Not to mention one of the employees kicked me out of the table I was studying at with my group because there was a meeting scheduled. A "reserved" sign prior would of been nice. He even promised me a coffee but at the end I got nothing. I knew there was a reason I didn't go back to this place but I did cause it had space to study. The one star is for the space. They need a more pleasant staff with less attitude especially the girl she is mean and a total jerk!
(1)
Blaise H.

Not a huge fan of either their coffee or their food. They have a great space however, and the employees are always quite friendly. Giving them a rating is difficult because of that. I think they deserve 2.5 stars, but I'm giving them 3 because they aren't a 2. If you need to do some work or studying for a long period of time and you want to be comfortable, this is the place for you. You just won't find me there very often. Not with all the other good coffee options in the hood.
(3)
Vicki N.

Filter is a great environment to get some work done in -- there are a lot of tables, couches, chairs, outlets, nice lighting, etc. It would be my go-to coffee shop, but the coffee/food are just OK. The roasted vegetable wrap I got was falling apart, and was mushy and filled with onions (which may be my fault for lack of foresight on ordering). Their iced coffees were alright, but not enough to draw me back. If you're looking for a place to camp out for a couple of hours and chill or be productive, Filter is a great spot. If you're looking for good food & nice coffee, there are many other places in Wicker Park that better fit the bill.
(3)
Caleb P.

So if i could I would give this place a three and a half stars, but I'm going to have to round down. I've been to Filter twice now and my experience is mediocre at best. Here is how it went... I will skip the part about it being really cold outside and all that and get to the part where we walk in the door, find a spot to sit (a nice vintage cool ratty couch) and go to order. I wanted to order some sweet potato fries and a standard caramel latte. The girl seemed nice enough, but I handed her my card and I received a talk about how they do not accept debit or credit cards, but I could conveniently download an app to connect to my card so that I could buy my 4 dollar coffee. I did not want to do this, so she pointed me to their resident ATM. I walked the walk of shame every cafe goer walks when they don't read the little note that says "no cards accepted" over to the ATM to find it OUT OF SERVICE. oh great. Luckily there was a Walgreens right across the street, so I bundled up and went over there and got some junior mints and a ten dollar bill. I headed back, ordered my food and waited. The latte came up, and turned out to be just a normal no nonsense latte, minus my caramel. So the barista squeezed some in and told me to give it a couple stirs. Thanks. The sweet potato fries came up, and I have to say, they won this place a solid star. They have a tasty horseradish sauce that my fiancÃ© and I enjoyed. I ordered the large and it was like a meal. this exceeded expectation after the ATM fiasco. Overall, I may come back and remember my cash, if only for the fries.
(3)
Ariel L.

Filter deserves 2.5 stars. Ambiance - 4 stars Staff - 4 stars Coffee - 2 stars Food - 2.5 stars Wireless Connection - 1 star So, if I want a good cup of coffee, I'm not coming here. If I want an average cup of coffee and a place to sit and read a book, or do a little Internet surfing, I might come here. The wireless connection is usually pretty lousy though, and while they have a decent sized food menu, the food isn't that good. But the couches and chairs can be pretty cozy, and Filter is an OK place to kill some time if you don't want to be home. People watching is pretty decent as well. I have even conversed with strangers there on occasion. I have even seen people sleeping there (i guess they aren't partaking in the caffeine). Anyways, take this place for what its worth. An average, neighborhood study hall that serves average coffee and average food.
(2)
Kavi P.

Great study spot. Good teas and coffee. Comfortable environment to sit down for a long day of studying or to catch up with someone after a long while.
(4)
Mustafa S.

order #427780 Belgian waffles, tasted awful, spoke w/ Derek who was #rude, was accusatory & took it back unwillingly. The guy was super rude, even before we got our food. We asked what the network name was to connect to wifi, he said "I don't know" in a very condescending way. So we we had to ask others.
(1)
Adjoa A.

Filter is my favorite coffee shop in Wicker Park. They have tons of comfortable seating, the staff is super friendly, the Internet is fast, the coffee is delicious and they have food! You can't beat it. My favorites are the Filter Salad and any of their freshly made smoothies. I come here at least once a week and I have never been disappointed.
(5)
Linda E.

Decided to take shelter from the persistent frozen precipitation outside in this land of upholstered couches and coffee. Within you will find all the seating monopolized by hipsters on macs. But as such is a favorite atmosphere of mine, it works. I ordered a hot chocolate for my nine year old nephew and the service proved personal and friendly. The kind barista asked if we wanted the drink cooler than normal and even served it in an adorable snowman mug for him. Extra points! It does get a little crowded as the filter is a popular place for locals, but people manage to stay out of each other's ways. Will come again.
(4)
Lauren C.

What a great spot! It's all cozy couches and vintage lamps. A little chill out music and some strong ass coffee. Go to charge your phone and check you email. Stay to people watch and eavesdrop.
(5)
Brian G.

Cash only, or an App called Level Up which the hipster behind the desk most likely wrote himself. There is absolutely no signage giving people any warning. They made the guy in front of us leave and go get cash from an ATM after he ordered. Staff was rude- they actually insulted someone in our party. Fail.
(1)
Laura S.

You can do some good people watching in this cozy cafe filled with couches & lamps from your grandma's basement. The coffee is very good and the food is pretty solid. The mismatched mugs they serve your coffee in are a sweet touch. A lot of people seem to like to work/study there but I like it for chit chatting with friends. Bonus for playing good music! Cash only.
(4)
Andrew S.

3 stars because it's a coffee shop and the espresso was terrible. However it has a good study/work atmosphere and lots of comfy couches.
(3)
Cody W.

Such a cozy spot to get homework done! Outlets everywhere along with free wi-fi and quality coffee & tea. I recommend the Sweet Brazilian Mate tea.
(4)
Chloe' S.

This is a very spacious, loud, lounge-type coffee/lunch spot. Mismatched furniture always gets my heart. It seems like a good place to work since there's a lot of seating. The cashiers were busy and seemed a bit harried. Didn't try the food but the coffee was pretty good!
(4)
Anish T.

'Sipping on some chunky munky, pb meets banana meets cocoa meets iced coffee. Everyone is getting along.' This is what I wrote when I graced Filter with my presence about two months ago. Tucked away in the hippest part of Chicago (Wicker Park), this coffee shop has it all. You don't need to like coffee - simply rock out on their delicious homestyle meals. Favorites include their delicious chicken platters, and of course their chunky munky shake. This place is generally packed, which makes sense since it has an amazing quirky ambiance, backed up by some seriously delicious food and drinks!
(5)
Jenna T.

I come in here all the time, and I love it. Best sweet potato fries in the city, hands down. It has a great vibe, and the staff is really awesome. I enjoy writing on the bathroom walls; it helps me release my inner child. Even when they are playing terrible trance music and sometimes have slow internet.. I don't care there is something about Filter that draws me to it. I go for the coffee, good eats and the grandmas house-y vibe. There are other coffee shops in this hood, but this is my home- base. FILTER FTW
(5)
Callan C.

Filter is a fun coffee shop and cafe on Milwaukee Ave. The coffee itself is decent. They fall in line with the consignment vibe of the immediate surroundings with a large room full of old couches and chairs. It is a great space! Both times I have been it has been relatively crowded, with a large contingent of people studying and working. I've heard their breakfast sandwiches are good, but have yet to sample the food.
(4)
Kathleen C.

Love it! Filter makes me happy. Service is friendly, the coffee is delicious and everything I've eaten has been quite lovely. I also enjoy when I work from here as well because it is a relaxing atmosphere. VISIT!
(5)
Fygar F.

Current weather outside: 67 degrees and sunny Current weather inside Filter: Hot and Muggy with a high probability of getting bothered by flies
(2)
William K.

Reasonable prices, big menu, wifi, and plenty of seats. There's a nice level of ambient noise that helps me read or work remotely. If you're looking for library quiet, you won't find it here. The only drawback is that it can get really crowded around busy times in the academic calendar. Avoid finals weeks and you'll be able to get a seat.
(4)
Molly M.

I love coming to Filter. I tutor international students and am constantly on the search for coffee shops conducive to teaching. Filter is perfect because they have a wide coffee selection as well as food- I can eat (a delicious) dinner when I am helping a student prepare several hours for a test or term project. The owner is great and comped a brownie for me when the ATM was down. The staff is great too! Love this place!
(5)
Danielle L.

I've only been here once, but it's a nice vibe - less hectic and crowded than Wormhole, and a bit cheaper. Coffee tastes good, there are plentiful tables and chairs for laptop users and coffee chatters alike, and the music is delightfully 90s. The only issue I had was that the wifi was slow to connect to my devices, and didn't connect to one of them at all.
(4)
John S.

I used to live near Filter. I would go in and talk to the owner who seemed nice. BUT He isn't very nice to the people that work there and I have noticed that he is very cheap. His cheapness has now escalated to the point of not being willing to accept credit cards, using an extremely weak wifi connection. The last time I went there(the last time ever!) I couldn't even load some internet pages like -yahoo! There aren't enough people working there during the rush. There is no ice coffee. BUT If you don't need wifi, have cash, and don't mind the crowd its a good place.
(2)
Linda SingaSong S.

Love the layout of this place with cozy mismatched couches flooding the main cafe area along with the crowd with their fancy Mac books. hipster vibe to the Max. Chai tea latte was incredible!! I dislike Starbucks version because its overly sugary and sweet. At filter, the spices were mild with the perfect amount of steamed soy milk that was poured into huge coffee mug. I have yet to try any food items so giving it 3*** for just coffee.
(3)
Michael G.

I've been here a few times now. The food is pretty tasty. Good size menu for a coffee shop with what you'd expect in Wicker Park ($5 juices, yummy wraps, vegan choices, etc.) Atmosphere and music is great. Great place to come work. It's almost too quiet in there though so I felt obtrusive when answering my phone. It's not a library! Otherwise I like it. I'll be back. OH, and if you want to fit in don't forget your MacBook Pro!
(4)
Bridget M.

If you can find a place to sit, then this place is great. The ambiance is perfect for reading or doing a little work--it's never too loud or too quiet and the seating area is spacious, open, and diverse. Plenty of outlets, too. Please note that they are pretty much cash only, though. (I think there's an app that you can download if you want to pay electronically, but it seems more work than it's worth.)
(3)
Nikki H.

I love filter! It's got plenty of space not a very distracting soundtrack and the staff is so friendly. The food and coffee are without saying amazing and just an all Around reliable coffee shop!
(5)
Regina M.

This place is amazing! I popped in since I live near here and noticed they had food. So I decided to try it out. I got the black bean burger with sweet potato fries. Omg amazing! Pair that with a latte and I was in heaven! The staff is friendly and the crowd wasn't bad. I will deft be back to eat drink and work on my art!
(5)
Adam S.

Great environment and ambience with plenty of places to sit but unfortunately my coffee tasted burnt. Prices are ok and staff doesn't seem to mind people hanging out for hours on end and the place is really comfortable with plenty of places to sit. But the burned tasting coffee combined with the 2 hour time limit (understandable, but there are other places in the city where one can drink coffee with unlimited internet) makes this place just ok but not the best.
(2)
Teri G.

I love Filter. I hang out here once usually a week to get work done. It's comfortable, unique furniture and art on the walls. I recall when in used to be in the Bank of America space on Milwaukee/Damen/North. Free WiFi, I've never had trouble with speed or connectivity which is something I rate cafes on. And since they market themselves as an Internet cafe, there is usually some good people watching with transients, working professionals, freelancers, etc. I usually get coffee and have only had their falafel sandwich, falafel sandwich was alright, but I feel Sultan's is better. There are vegetarian/vegan options on the menu, and they serve breakfast as well. Reasonable prices. I am a fan of these types of places - stay as long as you like, free wifi, and affordable drinks/eats. I think as long as you set you expectations appropriately, Filter will meet them. Plus I think their sign on the sidewalk is funny (free hi-fives, free wifi....).
(4)
Aly U.

I Like the atmosphere, couches are pretty comfy, although sometimes it gets too loud and crowded. The food is ok, coffee is pretty good though, what I don't like about it - is that I can not pay with the card, so If I use their ATM I pay double commission - one to my bank, and another to their ATM. So $4 coffee ends up being $9
(3)
Angela Z.

Coffee isn't great but I can't be too upset since the cute environment is like a giant vintage living room with nice art, Buddha-head lamps, seating, and wi-fi -- not to mention I literally spend hours here a week because I work next door at 826CHI and sometimes we need to make space for the kids in workshops; we all head on over to Filter with our laptops and folders of grants. It is very accommodating and comfy. Also, they have a fun selection of drinks and food other than their coffee, which I've never tried but seem promising? Cash only! ATM inside with a pain-in-the-ass surcharge.
(4)
Matt S.

I just read Hillary's review, and I couldn't agree more other then this newer employee is a little more Jesse Eisenberg than Kevin Federline. A little nerdy peckerhead. I have stopped going to Filter as of a month or two ago over some ridiculously rude and awkward encounters with this kid. I really did enjoy Filter and all of its employees. Until this kid they hired within the past year just made it an epicenter of douche baggery. It's not 1997 anymore, being a disaffected barista isn't cool. Until management fires this kids I will gladly walk to past Filter to Wormhole, where the staff is actually cool.
(1)
Xixi Z.

Big place, hipster, good for a get to know you date or study place, unlimited wifi now Knocked off two stars for finding lipstick on my cup of coffee. wtf? Returned the coffee back but lady didn't even apologize! I'd come back to study again but I was seriously grossed out by the stain on the cup.
(3)
Kacey B.

Laid back atmosphere with tons of space! Great for studying! They also have a large menu with many affordable options. I recommend their caramel vanilla latte!
(5)
Giovanni S.

very cool place.... very hip, loungy, spacious.... i definitely will be back.. often....
(4)
George M.

Very hospitable to (and sometimes even awesome for) meaningful philosophical discussions.
(5)
Kate B.

I loved Filter when I went! It was my first time there and the baristas were super nice and helpful (unlike most other Wicker Park/Logan Square coffee shops). I love the decor and layout. Reading a book and sipping on coffee was super easy with more than ten different seating areas to choose from. A ton of comfy couches at my disposal. I also got a veggie sandwich that was exactly what I was expecting. I'd like to go back to try different food off of their huge menu!
(4)
Joan J.

Great place. Uber hipster clientele. Not my scene, but loved it. Quiet work environment. Friendly staff. Food and drinks are just okay though. Reviewing just so I don't forget to eventually make my way back here.
(3)
Ramon R.

I've come to prefer Filter over other cafes because I like to work among a large crowd and the size and location of Filter guarantees such a crowd even on weekday mornings. The food is always tasty and Trixie & co. really bust ass. Areas for improvement: - Lately, the WiFi has been very unreliable. Job hunting is a painful, painful thing and the pain is unduly intensified when a bad Internet connection (discovered *after* ordering a meal) means that I have to spend an hour just trying to get to the next page of an application. - Pricing for several items on the menu should be reevaluated. All of the smoothies are too expensive, and $8.13 for an itsy bitsy grilled cheese sandwich with a couple of pieces of bacon on it is insulting. Especially since I was pretty clear (short of saying "MAKE SURE IT'S FROM THE KID'S MENU THAT I'M POINTING AT!") that I wanted the grilled cheese and bacon combo from the kid's menu rather than the grossly overpriced adults' menu in the opposite direction of where my finger was pointing. - Daily patronage is a show of respect for your establishment, folks. Don't alienate your loyalists by putting the onus entirely on them for not getting what they want. So, uh, if you want to find some way to make up for that overpriced grilled cheese sandwich I didn't exactly order next time, at least with an apology if nothing else, I welcome you!
(3)
Candace S.

I'm not sure why It took me so long to come across this spot given that my grad school life has me permanently holed up in coffee shops in Wicker. Filter has definitely become my newest study spot. Reasons I'm crazy for Filter... 1) Menu is far better than ant other coffee spots in Chicago- you can easily stay here all day & not have to leave to get food somewhere else. Plus the food is delicious! 2) Vegan friendly menu (which is hard to find, especially for breakfast) 3) Great music... from alternative/indie to jazz & funk 4) Good coffee (I only wish their refills weren't a $1) 5) ACCESSIBLE OUTLETS (this is key! No awkward tripping people with your charger) 6) Large study tables (which are regulated so 1 person can't hog a big table) 7) Friendly & helpful staff Only downside is that it can get packed so come early to get a seat & expect a bit of noise.
(5)
Meghan S.

I've been to Filter several times, though the only reason I keep coming back is for the food. I've never been disappointed by their sandwiches or salads. That being said, the coffee is sub-par. And despite the fact that it's a big place, it always seems super crowded - I've definitely had to wait a few minutes just to get a table. However, I like the fact that there are both tables and couches to choose from. Wi-fi is good, although it used to time out after a few hours. Now it's a simple password, which is much easier. The biggest complaint is that it's cash-only. Luckily, there is an ATM available.
(3)
Carmen C.

Wow, I like this place! Cool vibe and music, nice employees. I even got a little heart in my latte. So sweet. Great space and lots of tables for laptops and bags, and plenty of outlets! Not too loud or obnoxious. I will say that although my multigrain pancakes with nuts were delish, they had a hit of onions or garlic. Therefore, I deduct one star. Switch up your knives/cooking spaces for aromatics and delicate flavors, please! Otherwise, I'll be back.
(4)
Carlie M.

Cash only, they didn't tell us until after we had ordered. Their ATM wasn't working so they told us we had to download some app and sign up and pay through that... For two small coffees it seemed like a ton of hassle instead of just giving us the coffees and having us be return customers they got their 3 dollars and we will never be back. Also by the time we paid our coffee was cold.
(1)
Carolyn F.

I brought a Meetup group here and was extremely pleased. It was great to be able to hear eachother talk; enjoy some excellent brew and chow on some good (and great gluten free) food. Auntie Em's couches and chairs were comfy and cozy. The staff was polite and accomodating and restrooms clean. This place got great marks from my group. We'll be back!
(4)
Laura P.

I'm actually sorry to see this spot not rated higher. I really love Filter I've been a number of times and I've had excellent service each time. Its pretty cozy the music isn't overwhelming. It can get crowded but thats to be expected at a coffee shop. What puts Filter over the edge for me is actually the food. I am no coffee connoisseur but their food is delicious. The idea of disco fries (half regular half sweet potato) blew my mind and I loved it. I also just really appreciate having an alternative to Starbucks.
(5)
Brandon B.

Its dead, completely gone. Major loss to the area. Previous review: Surprising how many bad reviews there are of this place.....when it comes down to it this is really one of the few and perhaps the only kind of grungy/independent/ratty couch coffee shop in town (please tell me if the are others within city limits) with a nice variety of food and pretty good coffee. Great place to come early on Sunday, make sure you bring headphones to drown out some of the regulars like the guy that tries to sell prostitute-lookin asian brides on his computer. Overall though, chicago coffee-houses are lacking, but this is an oasis
(5)
Melanie R.

Just like enjoying a cup of tea in your grandmother's dated living room - but in a cool (and perhaps a little ironic) way! The large space is filled with an eclectic mix of hand-me-down pieces that -- while being a complete mismatch of furniture - somehow manages to blend perfectly to create a cozy feel. The stock of charmingly chipped, almost-no-two-are-alike mugs further serves to warm the space. * I also secretly adore that holiday-themed mugs are in their regular rotation, timing appropriate or not. * The ambience is what has me sold on this place, but the coffee/tea and treats can hold their own. Filter baristas make mean lattes, and the pastries are fresh accompaniments to your beverage of choice. 'Disco Fries,' an (albeit greasy) mix of both sweet potato and regular fries, is one of my usual orders. Perfect for sharing with friends who are sweet potato averse (you can enjoy all the sweet pots, while they can clear away all the regular ol' fries!). Bottom Line: Come with your laptop or a good novel in tow, willing to spend an hour (or two!) getting cozy. This place has so much character, it's almost a waste to take your order to-go.
(4)
Traci H.

I go to coffee shops a lot so I feel like I can give a legitimate review. Negatives: lighting is terrible if you are someone who appreciates good lighting like me and chairs are uncomfortable..the typical wooden ones that you have to continually move around in to get comfortable, cash only is always inconvenient, wasn't too impressed with my chai it tasted like the one I make at home and the large I ordered "for here" was not so large (regular sized coffee mug). Positives: charming atmosphere, great music, extensive food menu, big tables, lot's of outlets. I would come back for the atmosphere and if it was during the day since the lighting makes me want to go to sleep instead of get work done but not necessarily for the coffee.
(3)
Ben M.

This is my go-to place. I think its totally great, definitely don't come here though (because its too crowded, and its hard to work on applications when YOU are talking about how you're going to go to both company parties this year.) One thing though, it must be an organizational nightmare for them, because the dude behind the counter seems a bit pissed to be working there. Running around constantly, huffing and puffing and ringing me up as fast as possible. They are already short conversations we have, but I think we're both trying to make them shorter
(4)
Kyle H.

I liked the old Filter, it served as a nice oasis on the North/Damen/Milwaukee triangle back in the day when that whole six corners was understood to be Wicker Park. But you know what, those days are long gone! And I'm on board. At least with the *new* Filter being a great spot for food, studying, reading, chatting, contemplating, and Wi-Fi'ing, that fits the new Wicker Park. And the space is even better! As Mary T. said in her excellent review, the new Filter is like a loft. Exposed brick, open space, plenty of places to chillax, or get your work done; lots of places to plug in or unplug. Vintage couches and lamps abound, creating a homey feel. Staff is very nice, and their food menu is huge. Coffee is available, of course, but I was super happy to see Benjamin Teas offered and I curled up with the paper and a Rooibos Rose tea on a rainy day. Nice. I can't wait for the next rainy day when I can hunker down at Filter.
(4)
Daniel D.

Filter is middle of the road. It's another restaurant/coffee shop/lounge/people watching area which can't make up its mind. It's hard to pick a meal when all of them are being offered at the same time (first world problems) but question the quality of them. The pancakes were decent, the sandwich was negligible, pastries were forgettable, but the coffee was good. I'm vexed, maybe narrow down the options? Because the quality becomes jeopardized with abundance. Even still, it's a huge place, and the service is pretty friendly. Free wi-fi (WebBeams, what is this, 2003?) and ample seating considering the size. It's great for doing homework... for two hours at a time. It can be loud with the music they play and patron's conversations amongst themselves, or sometimes it can be more quiet than church mice on lithium. Making the aforementioned panini weird to and awkward to eat. It serves it's purpose, Filter's a good place to get caffeine and bullshit around.
(3)
Paulina M.

I really love the space. It's large which is a pretty big plus considering the size issue with many cafes. The large thing is also good b/c when I go to some cafes, I feel like I have to lower my voice b/c there are people studying next to me -- grumble. It also has a very warm feel with a mix of soft and hard seating, whichever you prefer for studying and/or seeing friends. The drinks are very average. Close your eyes and imagine that you're drinking an average mocha. That's a Filter mocha. If it was all about the drinks (haven't tried the food yet), it would be a 3. If it was all about the atmosphere & space it would be a 5. It lands at a 4. I'll definitely be back for the space.
(4)
Alpha P.

Third time this week and internet sucks. I'm attaching speedtest result.
(1)
Sam S.

I like Filter. It has the best cafe seating in Wicker Park and the ambiance is great to work in or meet someone. The coffee is average. I haven't had anything beyond the regular drip coffee. But it works. Three things I'm not too excited about: 1) Free wifi is good, I just want them to get past WebBeams. Who uses WebBeams still? A 2 hour timer isn't cool. But it's free. 2) No fries with my $7 turkey burger (which was tasty). Cmon' guys who doesn't serve a side of fries with their burgers? If you want fries you have to pay for them, so a burger and fries would end up being closer to $10 3) They don't accept credit cards anymore. Cash and LevelUp only. They are trying to save money on the credit fees. I get it. But I don't carry cash very often and LevelUp hasn't gone viral yet so... Filter is a great spot because of the space, it would be 5 star if they worked on a few kinks. Per my 3 points above, I think they like to cut corners and save money:)
(4)
Jenna D.

I definitely saw two skinny emo girls duking it out in front of Filter tonight...screaming at each other in a very melodramatic and emo way....which I found to be hilarious. Also, I'm not totally sure about the comment regarding "friendly baristas"....I'm pretty sure they spit in your drink if you order anything with real dairy. Addendum to above: this morning an actually friendly barista single-handedly earned Fliter two more stars. Way to go cute, sweet-tattoo-ed, asymmetrical hair gal!
(3)
James Z.

I am a coffee and coffeehouse freak. Alright, I'll start with that... Filter is quite possibly one of my favorite coffeehouses in the city. And actually... it's probably the most "coffeehouse-ish" of all. There is plenty of work space. If you have a laptop, finding an outlet isn't that difficult especially if you sit near the windows. Based on a few early weekday morning visits, it tends to get very busy after 11 AM until dinner time. I try to get there before 10 to secure a seat. Wifi is free for up to 2 hours with purchase. I'm usually stationed for hours at a time anyway and I'm trained to get thirsty or hungry every 2 hours. I suppose my stomach knows now my wifi expires every 2 hours so that's when it forces me to do something about it. In terms of their coffee, I've had better, but it's still pretty good. I like their ginger peach iced tea. It's very refreshing, especially on a summer day. I've had their sweet potato fries. And yes, they are wonderful! Their curry chicken salad wrap is probably my favorite dish there. Their flatbreads (especially the roasted vegetable flatbread) are also pretty delicious. I've yet to try their sweet goodies, but I'm sure they're great. The only criticism I have of this place (and well, this probably isn't necessarily their fault) is the lack of cell phone reception throughout the cafe. I have AT & T (yup, let's all just do a collective "ugh") and often I'll miss phone calls and texts because there is just noooo (or little) reception throughout. Just keep that in mind if you're doing time-sensitive business and rely on your AT & T phone a lot. I wish that'd get fixed soon. Overall, I HEART Filter. It's reasonably priced, the food is actually GOOD for a coffeehouse, and the ambiance is a Goldilocks "just right."
(4)
Dan S.

This is my main coffee shop and for how much business I give them, you would expect 5 stars. I do love this place, but I don't think it's 100% perfect. I guess it's all about the crowd that's in there and who you happen to be sitting next to. Some times I feel like I'm in the perfect couch, with the perfect table space, vibing off the atmosphere, and I'll sit there and crank out three hours of work. Those days are great. Other times, I'll end up on a springy vintage couch that's uncomfortable, sitting right next to somebody chewing with their mouth open and making a lot of noise eating whatever the hell they're eating. I guess when you're sitting in such close proximity to other (hipster) people, it can be a huge distraction if you find those people annoying. Sometimes just picking who you are about to post up next to can be intimidating. But overall, I come here more than any other coffee shop in the neighborhood because the atmosphere is usually cozy and easy to get a lot of work done. If the coffee was a little tastier, if they took credit card, and if it was always a little less crowded than it usually is, I would give 5 stars.
(4)
Angela K.

The only problem will be choosing which retro memory-stained piece of furniture to sit on...that's my kind of place. Plenty of plugs for your best friend your computer. I always get decaf and decaf is often pretty sub-par in flavor, but the decaf at filter is often up to my taste bud's standards. Regular spot for me.
(4)
Steven W.

According to a sign on the cash register, Filter will be closing it's doors on the Wicker Park location as of July 10th. They are still unsure of if and where it will relocate to. This corner is being converted into a Bank of America, because clearly the two other banks on the corner aren't enough to satisfy the insatiable appetite for banking in Wicker Park. This place wasn't amazing. They had decent coffee, a fair selection of vegan and vegetarian treats and meals. They stayed open late, which was nice, as most of the other coffee places around here close too early. All in all, this place will be missed. It certainly was better than having another bank here, Wicker Park is becoming Lincoln Park west, but that's been apparent for some time now. Right now I'd settle for a place that i could just get some good take out coffee that isn't Starbucks. So long filter, we hardly knew ye.
(3)
Steve R.

Sweet Jesus people, it's coffee. Get over it. Wife and I met a friend there and shot the shite for awhile, and I was awestruck but the overwhelming vibe of snootiness. I think this is the chosen hangout of some of those local self important artist types who love that music that sounds like early 80s videogames (some of you know who I mean). Lame. That said, I guess the place itself is OK. Comfy seating and all. I just couldn't get past the 'tude.
(2)
Jean Z.

Finally stopped in here after hearing, sadly, its being closed. yelp.com/topic/ddWugQ2P_â€¦ I hope they move and dont fold altogether. Good stuff here. I like.
(4)
Mark S.

60+ reviews for FILTER!?!! Haha. This place smells like pot and reminds me of stumbling into a real life '30 seconds to mars' video. With how crappy WP is these days, I seriously wonder how a coffee shop scene exists near this primo corner?!? HOW LONG BEFORE THIS PLACE TURNS INTO ANOTHER BANK OR MORTGAGE PLACE? I give it an extra star for the location and collecting all the little indie rock scensters who hang on despite the frat takeover of the neighborhood, ala Cans, Tavern, etc.
(2)
David K.

I've been here once at noon on a Tuesday: - Hipster infestation not that bad. Nothing like Ritual in SF. - Comfy vintage couches, and a fireplace that I could imagine being on in the winter. Love the exposed brick interior. - Granola, yogurt, and fruit oddly served in tall, sundae-like glass. - Minus one star for charging so much for wireless ($2.50/hr, $8.50/day)!
(3)
Misse D.

We were headed to brunch but the restaurant was closed for a week for vacation. Sigh. We wanted something relatively inexpensive so we decided to try Filter. It's good, but not great. It's a little pricey but probably one of the cheaper spots in the NoMilDam area. I'd go again if need be... but not a top pick.
(3)
Jake W.

The lighting in the new location is just awful. They've got low-watt yellow bulbs in the lamps, huge red lights on the wall casting a weird glow on everything, not much natural light unless you're right by the windows. So if you're here to hang out or work on your computer, it's fine. But stay away if you want to read a book. It was also almost completely full when I came early afternoon on a weekday so don't count on a seat. Otherwise it's a nice space, good addition to the neighborhood.
(3)
Alexis H.

The second day open and I had to stop by. It's been a long 2 years without Filter and I was ecstatic for its return. The space is clean and furnished with lots of comfy couches and chairs. If you're looking to work at a table, there are plenty of those too, although mostly two-seaters. I was happy to see that on only the second day they were fairly busy with happy customers, book readers, laptop typers, and chatting friends. I have no doubt this space, although larger than the old location, will again be frequently full. Same quality beverage options as before, but I was slightly disappointed by the smaller food menu (I'm awaiting the return of the grilled goat cheese sandwich with bated breath) but the guy at the counter said they'd probably add more options as time goes on. Not to worry, they have many bakery items, breakfast, salad and sandwich menus, and the much beloved hipster hash has returned. Congrats to the owners on reopening in the awesome new space. This Filter regular is so glad you're back.
(5)
Michael L.

These guys roast their own beans and serve (awesome) quesadillas. The espresso gave me goosebumps it was so good. I really want to give Filter five stars, but the iced coffee was weak enough to bump it down a notch. It's a great place to do some work though, and I'll surely be back.
(4)
Amina C.

I used to go to the old Filter; this one is pretty much the same. Two minor issues stand out from my recent visit, though: first, the music was truly horrific (the theme music from The Peanuts... 'Play that Funky Music, White Boy'...) and the manager (owner?) on duty was obnoxious and loud, screaming bad jokes unnecessarily and just making people nervous with his ADD-style behavior. It's a coffee house and the staff need to be chilled out! To be fair, everyone else working there was cool, except for this one oddball. I hope he's not working the next time I come back.
(3)
John L.

Dear Filter, It's been many years since we met. We hung out so many times, it's like now I like can't live without you. Why did you close? Every time I hear the words to that really deep love song "Because of You" that has the thankful yet tear-jerking chorus "Because of you my life has changed...thank you for the love and joy you bring...oh-oh-oh" I miss the scent of your sweet Iced Mocha on my shirt after we would embrace. I miss the friendly smile and attentiveness your staff gave to their customers. Oh, and I remember the time you got me so drunk on your Mocha that I was shaking in ecstacy and got so excited that I spilled on my pants after the third time! Why did you close, Filter??? WHYYY!!!???? It's just not fair! But, no matter what happens in the future, I will never EVER be with another, especially that slut Starbucks! Goodbye, Filter. I'll miss you!
(4)
Connie H.

this is the rare coffee shop that serves hot food ALL DAY. this is not to be understated. they lose one star though because sometimes the music is insanely loud and sometimes that music is linkin park's greatest hits.
(4)
Timothy M.

Wow. I hate Filter. An overpriced, overrated, scene coffee shop is definitely not my thing these days, if it ever was. The wireless Internet is expensive and hardly ever works, drinks are expensive, food is expensive. Way too crowded! I don't think I've ever found a seat that wasn't on a couch with 6 strangers. Annoying strangers that varied from art school students to Lou Reed-aged wannabe hipsters. The staff is pretentious, annoying, and rude. The reason I'm so harsh on this place is that coffee shops should be a communal place where everyone gathers, and a cool place to meet others. Filter's location is perfect for that, but it definitely doesn't deliver. The attitude that permeates here is one that makes newcomers feel totally unwelcome and alone, and I just don't buy into that shit. I swore this place off after my last visit over a year ago where the wi-fi wasn't working but they made me pay for it anyway. Plus, in a really weird experience, a crowd of (apparently) regulars gradually took over the area around me, leaving me smack dab in the middle of a boisterous card game. I left since it was impossible to read and the wireless still wasn't working. If you have little experience with coffee shops that aren't Starbucks or Cosi, you may enjoy this place. But if you've ever been to a coffee shop that truly caters to community, encourages involvement, and one that doesn't rip off its customers, you'll know what I mean when I say I'm sorely disappointed with this place.
(1)
Dan M.

RIP Filter. I miss you. Do you miss me? I always complimented you on your cooking (especially the tofu reuben, and I f-cking hate tofu, so that says a lot), Your coffee was tasty. Your servers unique and grungy in that certain way that I like my coffee shop employees to be. And there was no public bathroom in the city that I loved to drop one in more than yours. The witty messages and anti-capitalistic slogans made each trip to the bathroom a brief lesson in how not be a "corporate pig sellout" Fear not, I will not forgive this trespass and have vowed to avenge you. "The Bank of which We do not Speak" ,that so heinously and carelessly usurped your position, will never receive my patronage, and this I promise you. Viva La Filter!
(4)
maggie t.

This coffee shop is very good. Good coffee, good food, great seating. I'd recommend it for sure. Though I'd also warn potential patrons to *GUARD YOUR COMPUTER.* On two separate occasions computers have been stolen out from beneath their owners' fingers. It wasn't as though people had left their stuff unattended. They were sitting there, hovering over their computers and some guys nabbed 'em. So go to Filter, drink their coffee, eat their sweet potato fries, but chain yourself to your computer. Hopefully in the meantime the owners will do something to make sure no more computers get taken.
(4)
Jason D.

I'm not certain why the hipperer people have latched on to this place. The coffee is better than most places. Otherwise there is nothing special about this place other than, you know, the hipperer people are all hanging out here.
(2)
Laura R.

Reasons why I like filter: -They have a full kitchen and I've never had bad food here. No nothing is amazingly delicious, it's a coffee shop. But the potatoes, pancakes, and sandwiches I've had here have always tasted good. This is also one of the cheaper places in the neighborhood to eat out since you don't have to tip a waiter and the food is for the most part pretty inexpensive. -Good coffee and tea, with a large selection of tea and lots of specialty coffee drinks to chose from. -Though it's always crowded, I've always managed to find somewhere to sit. -It is really really close to where I live. Reasons why I don't like filter: -No free wireless! This is pretty much the only reason I'm taking a star off. When I moved here from Austin where every public park and dairy queen has free wireless I was totally shocked that coffee shops here don't offer it! Having to pay for internet makes you lose major points in my book, and I will choose farther-away, crappier-coffee Alliance instead because their internet is free. -Yes, you will probably feel like an outcast here if you're using a (gasp!) PC. Despite the hipster vibe that I guess scares away some, people are friendly here, including the staff. -It is very crowded, but you can't fault filter for this it means they're running a successful business. But I'm putting it on here because it would be a bad choice if you are with a large group or need a lot of room to spread out.
(4)
Sarah D.

I went here yesterday and was pleasantly surprised. I really liked it. Wicker Park (Milwaukee ave.) was really in need of a coffee shop besides Starbucks. I was only going for coffee, but the food menu looked really good. The coffee was tasty, and I'm looking forward to trying the food next time I go back. I'm a vegetarian, and there were several good veggie options. The really nice thing about this place is that there is a lot of seating and it's very spacious, so I'd imagine you can usually find a spot to sit even during busy times of the day. My only (small) complaint was that service was very slow. We waited about 15 minutes for our drinks (an Americano and cappachino), but that's expected with a new business. I know that they have wireless internet, but I'm not sure if it's free. Go try it.
(4)
Frank R.

I HATE FILTER. Period. Disclaimer: This place does not warrant a review, but I thought the truth needed to be told.
(1)
Danielle W.

2 of my friends and I went to filter to relax and paint. When we got there, it was really crowded but we snagged a big couch. I ordered a caesar salad and it was really good. I love that they didn't have a problem with us painting. I was inspired by the art on the walls. It was my first time there, but I heard they change it up a lot, which makes me want to go back and check it out again. I also loved all the eclectic people there. I'll admit it, I'm one of those people-watchers. I just love wicker park.
(4)
shellie a.

Love this place. Recently had a Chai Tea Latte and it was yummy!
(5)
Monica S.

Great place to sit and work for a few hours. Lots of tables and buzzy atmosphere without being rowdy and obnoxious. Surprisingly easy to get a table as busy as it is. Only downside is that you only get an hour of free wifi through a code from the cashier. But still a good central place.
(4)
Mr-and-Ms B.

Dear patrons of Filter: TALKING LOUDLY DOES NOT MAKE YOU MORE INTERESTING. We used to come to this place every weekend. Now we avoid it when we can because we are tired of having to overhear the conversations of people not even self-aware enough to qualify as pretentious. The coffee is tasty, there's a nice selection of vegan treats, and the rotating wall-art is passable maybe fifty percent of the time (quite a good hit-rate for coffee-shop art). The Ms. thinks the cute blond cook is just great (he will cut her bagel into thirds) and barista tattoos still haven't gotten old for the Mr. However, none of this is enough to bring us back as regulars. Try it on a weekday, when you are less likely to want to poke your eye out with a sharp stick because someone next to you is prattling on about his "screenplay" to some chick he met on Nerve who will be blocking his e-mails in another 24 hours. In the evenings, this is a great place to catch installments of Extremely Uniformed Debate. If this is the sort of thing you find amusing, have at it, champ.
(3)
aynne v.

Good coffee, great atmosphere. Would be 4 start worthy except you have to pay for WiFi
(3)
Dan J.

Awesome. I love the food, I love the people and I love the space. I live about 100 yards away and am so glad this company reopened in a bigger, hipper space.
(5)
Denton J.

A pretty good coffee shop in a prime location. I've stopped in to pick up a cup and recently had brunch with my girlfriend. The food was pretty good. I enjoyed my breakfast burrito well enough and the breakfast sandwich looked pretty good. I think it was probably a little pricey for food, though. It was a nice place to hang out and relax whilst hungover, but it's not likely to be a regular stop of mine.
(3)
Katie H.

Yeah........ I used to hang out here. Are you shocked? Didn't think so. Guess what else I used to do. I used to bring work in here and pretend to be occupied when all I was really doing was reading glossy mags and sizing up all the people who looked identical to me. I even ordered the "Hipster Hash" and Chai lattes. What's even worse is that I didn't live remotely near Wicker Park when I started hanging out here. I would drive the Corolls-royce in from River Forest with my knapsack just to sit around and be poncey. Somebody punch me in the face for I am a parody of myself. I probably don't even need to tell you that I was good and pissy when I found out Filter was turning into a BoA. Where the hell am I gonna go now...Letizia's? Fuck off. Perhaps it's a good thing that this place closed - it's forced me to branch out and develop a broader repertoire of hipster hangouts. Now I never really have any reason to spend any amount of time near the Crotch. Yes, I do occasionally go to Rodan. On weeknights, right, what do you take me for?
(3)
Siggy O.

Filter is one of my favorite coffee places in Wicker Park now. The latte here is delicious and being a coffee snob, they serve up a fine roast!! MMHHH. So far I've had their pastries, wraps and parfaits and it's all been yummy. I wasn't in Chicago when the old Filter was around, but you can tell by their happy customers that they feel right at home here. It reminds me of my favorite old coffee shop in NY where they let you hang out as long as you want with your giant cup of coffee. Super friendly owners and staff and they have never complained when I bring my little girl in. Even the people typing away on their computers don't give me the evil eye. As a matter of fact the owners always come up with their adorable little boy and chat and I am really looking forward to the moms / coffee get together there on Friday.
(5)
Jessie B.

First off my review is really 3.5 stars, not three. I wish yelp.com would consider half stars...but anyways back to the review... I have to admit it, I've always hung out in Wicker Park. The people are down to earth & hip, there is always something going on, and it is just a great environment to go to when you have the day off from work/school. Filter is a Wicker Park destination. You want to go where there is good music, coffee, room for your laptop, headphones, and comfy couches. If you desire this, then Filter is the place for you. Things you don't go to Filter for is great service, high quality food, and cheap prices. Let's call it what it is. A good hip place that serves good coffee. Just don't piss off the baristas. They will smirk at you while you get your Soy Latte with two extra shots. I just love to read there, so therefore...this is my guilty pleasure. It has a better relaxing environment than most busy Starbucks.
(3)
Mike P.

Yeah, so it's all Emo and body piercings here and I'm just some yuppie worker dude dressed in Old Navy Bus-Cas. So what, this place makes a good cup of joe, it's a chill atmosphere, it's in a great spot for people watching, and they serve eggs. Add in a talking polar bear and I'd be in heaven.
(4)
J N.

I love the effort to build eco-friendly with re-purposed materials and automatic lights, re-cycling and REAL ceramic cups!! The food is good -I ahd the oatmeal and the roasted veggie salad -I wish they had more gluten-free options like macaroons or corn tortillas. The staff is extra nice to you if you come in a lot. I recommend checking out the new Filter if you are still in the hood.
(4)
Nicole S.

Filter... how I have missed you! I am so glad you are back in WP. But, where is the bubble tea on your menu?????
(4)
Mae Y.

Is there really a sign in the window that says to keep an eye on your belongings: "wallets, laptops, GIRLFRIENDS, etc."? If I find out this is true, they're getting a one star rating from me.
(3)
Amy D.

I go to Filter and am ashamed of it. I went because I wanted a place with comfy couches where I could sit and read. A lot of coffee shops seem to give me looks if I stay too long and only get one drink, but there are so many people packed into this place that there's no way anyone would notice. That said, sometimes there are so many people that I can't find a seat, which defeats the purpose. Also, way overpriced. I took my mom here, which was a fun experience considering the extremely-young-hipster scene, as an excuse to get one of the ridiculous "barista's specials" that I really want. In addition, music is way too loud. On the trip with mom, they played some random stuff, the theme from Donnie Darko and then the Entire Album of Micheal Jackson's Thriller. Really, guys. Another time, I came here with JR and there was a wierd screen set up displaying the postings from cell phones and Macs, I'm assuming, that people in the room could put up there for all to see. Most of the comments were typical hipster-babble, similar to the inside of the graffitied bathroom (which I have to admit I kindof like), and some were like "girl in the red, you're hot." Creepy. Also that time, all the hipster girls were wearing strapless crafty-looking dresses and pointy-toed flats; it was eerie. Another Fliter experience: guy next to me on the couch decides to ask me a bunch of unsolicited questions about what I was reading, then proceeds to have a conversation in Spanish with his friend about the author, only bits of which I understood. I went home and put a cover on my book. The general "I am hip and original and don't have time for you, since you are with your mom or don't want to talk about Tolstoy" vibe, though, is not enough to keep me away. If you know of coffee shops close to the El with couches, let me know.
(3)
Corrie L.

Having never been to the original location (but still despising the idea that a bank branch took its place), I was excited to try Filter for the first time. The space is quite large and is crowded by all kinds of different seating options (love seats, sofas, single arm chairs, tables), but manages to feel comfortable and dare I say intimate? The menu ranges from breakfast sandwiches, wraps, bagels, muffins, soups and salads, sandwiches, etc. I tried the Filter Salad which was delicious and will be heading back to try some of their other options (the wraps were quite popular and looked delicious as well). You can tell the staff is still getting back into the groove of things-- several patrons received wrong orders while I was there due to a numbering mixup, and they began accepting credit cards an hour after I arrived, small glitches that I'm sure will be fixed as they go along. Will definitely be back. :o)
(4)
Jeff S.

The first time I went to Filter I was with a band who was playing at The Note next door. We had loaded in and had hours and hours to kill before the show, and it was rainingf like mad outside. We used Filter as our headquarters after grabbing some comfy couch space. I enjoyed the wide range of beverages both hot and cold, not being a big coffee drinker myself. Since moving down here I've been here a few times and it remains a good place to spread out your stuff with a beverage and snack. I find the whole paying for the WiFi annoying otherwise I'd probably give 4 stars, but overall its a nice atmosphere, and chill place to read a book when you have some down time.
(3)
Nathan A.

I love sitting in Filter. As many reviewers have said already, it's a prime location to people watch. The employees aren't very friendly. That's probably not a very accurate assumption though. I think it's just one girl that works there that is usually not polite. I went there not too long ago and was turned away 40 minutes before their kitchen was scheduled to close. They closed it early! Not 5 or even 10 minutes early...but 40 minutes! Ugh. I feel really rushed when I walk in there and I'm deciding what to order. Their menus are all written in chalk of every color of the rainbow. I get this, I really do, but it's hard to read. It's trendy and pretty, but I find myself looking all over the place and still don't feel like I know what all they have to offer. I typically just order the same thing, a large mocha. I have tried the tuna melt, which is big and tasty. The baked mac and cheese is pretty much to die for. It looks like a small portion, but it really is a whole meal. Now let's talk about this new flat panel screen they've put in the main room. At the bottom of the screen, there is a phone number that you can send a text message to and your message will show up on the screen. My friend and I visited a few weeks ago and tested this out. It became creepy. Someone in Filter was responding to every message we posted, stalker-style. He/She/They began describing us and where we were sitting. We scanned the room many times and never caught on to who it was. I was a bit freaked out and looked behind me a few times as I was leaving. Anyway, I'll go back but may cut down on the text messaging. Final words: Cheer up Filter employees! Be nice and don't close your kitchen early!! If it happens again, I'll be going to Earwax only from then on.
(3)
Vanessa P.

So, I don't have hippie-ish clothes or the facial piercing anymore and I don't think that I am a hipster, but I do love going to a place that you can relax and read a book while dining on some pretty good food and coffee drinks. This place is also fantastic for people watching and people watching you. If you are into veggie fare, try the Tofu Reuben. I have dreams about that sandwich...
(4)
dave d.

I was glad to see this place opened up again. But I wish they had the GOAT CHEESE SANDWICH like they used to. Bring it back, owner dude if you read these! Sweet potato fries w/ chipotle mayo were awesome. I love me some mac & cheese but filter's was just okay. (sorry, owner dude, i hope you don't decide not to bring back the goat cheese sandwich b/c of what i said about your mac & cheese). i think the furniture was the same as it was in the old place.
(4)
Fred S.

I come here often and like it quite a bit. The coffee, hot teas (blueberry yogurt and earl grey are my favorites), and Thai iced coffees are pretty tasty. Plus, they have bubble tea. As far as bubble teas go, filters is pretty solid. A lot of places want to give you a freakin' pina colada with bubbles in it. Filter does it right: black tea, flavor syrup, bubbles. The scones and the peanut butter flax seed bars are awesome too. Can't say much about the non-baked goods menu - I've gotten the hummus plate and a sandwich - both were pretty average. And I've never had a problem with the service. Maybe that has to do with when I go there, which is usually before or during work (my office is less than a block away). My advice for the haters: Go across the street to Starbucks. They accept credit cards, are super cheery, and probably don't mind that you need 2 minutes to decide you want a latte.
(4)
Jenny S.

Filter is in a great location and I've honestly never had a bad cup of coffee there but I just can't go there that often. In the past it was because just walking by the front door you'd start reeking of cigarette smoke but I understand that they are Non-smoking now. However, the furniture is all pretty crappy and dingy. Plus, they used to be (and still might be) cash only which is really annoying.
(3)
Jason G.

First day open and I had to stop in for a cup of coffee and some lunch. The new space looks amazing, with plenty of room to sit down and hang out. The owners were still putting the finishing touches inside, but for everyone who remembers the old filter, the new won't disappoint. :)
(5)
Keith A.

With the citywide restaurant smoking ban in full effect, some folks would undoubtedly argue that Filter has lost some of its je ne sais quoi. I say, good riddance: the irritating thing about Filter (as with those bar-restaurants that are still exempted from the ban) was that the smoke never stayed in the smoking section. Plus, the smoking section had the cooler seating. Now that the whole establishment is smoke-free, nonsmokers are free to enjoy the vibes of Filter's less crowded side. Thanks to its location, its design and its tasty menu (coffee = good; coffee + wraps = better), Filter is a good "third place" -- it has density and, therefore, energy. Its only drawback is that it's not an especially FRIENDLY place, but it is in Wicker Park, after all, so to expect a welcoming hug -- especially if you're over 30, overweight or overdressed -- simply isn't reasonable.
(4)
Taylor A.

The menu is great everything looks delicious. Had the falafel appetizer and it was really good. The only problem is their hummus. It's probably the most bland and unflavored hummus I've ever had. Besides that though everything else is delicious and they have a great cup of coffee as well.
(4)
Laura H.

I am writing this review whilst currently sitting in Filter. I am quite possibly the least *hip* person in the room. I have already seen three members only jackets, and no, I am not kidding. There is also a dude on the couch that keeps staring at me and every other female patron that crosses his visual path. Ewww. So, yes, there is people watching galore to be had at Filter as long as you can get over the hip kids glaring at you and each other. The coffee is pretty good and similar in price to the major chains. The food menu is quite extensive in terms of salads, sandwiches, pastries (even some vegan items) and hot, made to order fare. The food plus couch seating could make Filter a good first date spot as well. I give Filter 3.5 stars. Kind of reminds me of kaffeine in Evanston (with all the couches and what not), but a bit more pretentious.
(3)
Eli R.

High on show and low on substance. Food is not that good and service is bossy with a dash of attitude. A coffeehouse should be concerned, first and foremost, with the quality of their caffeinated beverages. Right? As it is, Filter offers comfy seating in an impressively airy and funky space. It's got potential, they just need a barista passionate about his craft.
(2)
Brian B.

Complete this Meat Market Analogy -- Chads : McFaddens :: Hipsters : _____ Oh Filter, there have been many times I've traveled down Milwaukee Ave past dozens of places that make coffee and dozens of places that have free wi-fi so I could sit in your confines and pay for a breve and an hour of wireless time. Can you blame me? I like coffee. I also like attractive people. Crazy, I know. Let's just say this place could be called "Missed Connection" if its inhabitants wouldn't adjust their square-framed glasses, roll their eyes, and mutter what an "obvious" statement that was as they went off in search of the next place nobody knows about that everyone actually knows about. I say this, full of self-mockery, as I do stop in when I can... especially if my bed-head looks particularly effortless that day. The place has good drinks, a decent snack menu, good tunes (though they could cut down a bit on the Jeff Mangum), and dare I say the best eavesdropping in Wicker Park. BTW. Didn't I see you there yesterday? You were wearing a LaCoste cardigan and I was the bookish fellow buried in my dog-eared copy of Franny and Zooey. I saw you mouthing along to Photo Jenny and I thought I'd say hello. But didn't. 8/17/07 Update: Filter is closed and is becoming a Bank of America. Some laugh, some cry, some will find another place to make puppydog eyes at eachother. I'm indifferent. Just think of it as an allegory of what's going on in the Bucktown/Wicker area for better or worse. Maybe in 10 years, the very same patrons will be coming in with their labradors and strollers saying, "You know, Conor/Rilo, I used to hang out here when it was a coffeeshop."
(3)
Natro I.

Wifi is not free here. It costs $8/day or $21/month. If you have problems with your connection Filter is not responsible. I like Filter for people watching and getting some light work done. The food is good but pretty expensive for what you're eating. I wouldn't mind paying higher food prices if the wifi was free, but it's not so it really adds up.
(3)
Christine S.

Not impressed. I have been here a couple of times now and I have yet to have a really good experience. I really like the decor, but I wish they had more tables for people to work on. My biggest complaint is that on my last visit the staff was rude. I literally stood at the counter for 5 minutes before I was acknowledged...and that was ONLY because I yelled out to the employee. I am pretty sure he was deliberately ignoring me. My other trips to Filter have been mediocre but tonight it was just ridiculous. It's a shame because I really wanted to like this place. I will be back but that is only because there aren't too many better options...
(2)
Brad C.

Good food, decent coffee. Come on Fliter hook it up with the free wi-fi, (I want to play some Nintendo DS).
(4)
Sunil A.

The best coffee shop in the area. Open layout with tons of seating with plenty of plugs. Hard to find a table sometimes but you can't blame a place for being popular or busy. Free Internet for 2 hours with purchase. Tons of variety on the menu (brunch food, burgers, snacks). Open till 11 on most nights which is later than other coffee shops in the area.
(5)
Matt G.

Spotted on Milwaukee close to Harold's. Is Filter coming back? flickr.com/photos/mattgrâ€¦
(5)
Sarah D.

I went here tonight for the first time and really enjoyed it. The atmosphere was very relaxing and chill. All types of different couches and furniture fill this place. Free wi-fi so many people are here on their laptops. At around 7pm on a Tuesday night was pretty full but still quite a few seats available. My mocha latte was delicious. I also ordered a tofu wrap which was also pretty good. The items might have been a little over priced but they were still good. Very hipster place... tends to be the theme in this neighborhood. They accept credit cards but ask for a $5.00 minimum. The sign at the register says they have the $5 minimum policy to "keep item prices low" but honestly the items are still over priced. I would recommend this place to have a cup of coffee and relax or to use their wi-fi. I would much rather go to this place than to some chain coffee house.... although the prices are about the same. I would recommend trying this place out for yourself!
(4)
steve h.

i'm giving filter 5 stars because it sucked in all the hipsters and kept them quarantined from the rest of the neighborhood (minus the escapees that hid out at earwax). i hold you responsible bank of america.
(5)
Ross B.

Quick, go to Filter. Order some lattes or something. Then get on your laptop and write a snarky review of Filter on Yelp. You've just created a self-aware-meta-mirror! Spiraling off into infinity! Trippy.
(1)
J. C. G.

I've removed my sardonic Filter review because, well, there are just so many here already.
(1)
Jenn R.

This place is overpriced with cheap hipster glares to boot. Predictable coffee house pretentious environment attempting to be comfortable with their vintage couches, but only to overcompensate for the awkward crowd it caters to. I'm embarrassed for anyone inside every time I walk past.
(1)
kevin b.

great atmosphere, great drinks, food is hit or miss, music is terrible, bring headphones.
(4)
Rebekah K.

I have been here five times. Three times the baristas were rude and obnoxious. Last night they were nice. The coffee here is just ok to mediocre. The comfy couches are great, but the crowd really sucks. Everyone is on their laptops posting missed connections on craigslists, or really russian philosophy with the books held up really high so everyone can see what they are reading. This cracks me up.. Sometiems the coffee tastes like pencils. Sometimes the hot apple cider is lukewarm and they roll their eyes when you ask them to warm it up. This place is best easly in the morning. If someone opened up a coffee house with similiar hours, and free wireless, in the area (read on Milwaukee or North between western and Wood) they could put this place under in a heartbeat. Also, I cannot BELEIVE peopel will pay for wireless; it is free almost everywhere else now. How long can they keep this up? Last night I saw a guy pay for a month of wireless for almost three times the cost of wireless at home. The people there are not that good looking. Would give it 2.5 stars if I could.
(2)
Marilali Z.

I was looking for free wifi to work for a while and eat, I read on Yelp that this place had wifi and it's a short walk from my place, so I headed out in that direction. The food and coffee were OK, the atmosphere is great if you want to work b/c everyone is doing the same, but please note: there is NO FREE WIFI.
(3)
MsAnthro P.

Won't miss it in the least. Every time I was there, I was wondering why I was there. Loud, smoky (until the ban took effect), and full of people in a "cooler than you" contest. Fine. You all won.
(1)
scot o.

awesome. the classic is back. great food and staff. a fun place to hang and friend or internet or hang. great space...
(5)
Erin J.

The coffee and tea were good, never had the food. Always had a tough time finding seating, no matter the time of day, so I guess that's not a terrible sign. Very much the hipster hangout. I felt out of place and tragically unhip.
(2)
Chris P.

This place is the only cafe I've found that I actually like in Chicago. In a swirl of Starbucks and Caribou Coffees, it's not so hard to appreciate the originality and character of ap lace like Filter. It's totally got a funky hipster vibe going on, but you see all types when you go in, making it a lot more relaxed han most of the people say. The one complaint I have is the food is overpriced. I don't care how good it is, $6.50 for a wrap at a cafe is too much.
(5)
A.S. V.

If you can take the heat of forty pairs of eyes sizing you up as you look for a seat, Filter has pretty much everything you'd want in a coffee shop -- comfortable seating (from couches to tables), wifi hot spot, good music, good snacks, and of course, good coffee and tea.
(4)
Michael S.

OK.. So at first this place was nice. Decent staff colorful signage and good music and rustic couches. The drinks and general ambiance was peaceful and pleasant. It kind of reminds me of a loft I used to live in. Exposed brick and polished concrete floors. Strange art work on the walls brown paper bags with zoo animals on them. All sounds really great until the regular crowd showed up. Apparently this is a family coffee shop whatever that means. Many screaming children and general noise. was surprisingly loud.. It might just be the day or happenstance. Anyway check it out or not.. Oh yea, they serve pretty decent food too!
(3)
Michelle J.

Awesome space, amazing espresso. Almsot as good as Intellegensia.
(5)
Natalie S.

Come for the coffee, stay for the Stevie. Leave because of the music.
(3)
Arjun C.

Unlike places like Argo, Sbux, etc, Filter is great because you can eat while studying rather than having to get up and leave and come back and fight for a seat. Good for people watching, but I find myself laughing at the stupid range of conversations that take place there...I guess I've officially become too old for this place. Too bad it's closing -- right when they banned the smoke! Note: I wouldn't go there if I wasn't able to pick up wireless over t-mobile from Starbucks.
(4)
Dee W.

Try their sandwiches and love their drinks - I always get soy here and never get charged extra for it. Comfy atmosphere and attentive great service. Edit: Came back here after not being here for two years and my, how the atmosphere has changed and gotten more pretentious..
(3)
Theresa K.

Get place to read, work, and meet with friends. Yeah the servers are spacey and flakey, however expected. Music was good playing Broadcast, Interpol, and other music similar to that genre. I love the atmosphere with the cozy couches and lazy boy and spacious. I've only ordered the Iced Tea and coffee which is standard and ok. Never tried the food or any special drinks...
(4)
Zach H.

(Apologies for skipping the hipster jokes which seem to de rigueur for posting a review of this place) Okay coffee. Good food, but pricey. The few times I have been there the staff has been pretty unhelpful and impatient. It's equally great for both people watching and being seen. Pretty comfortable seating, though I have seen cozier. If you are in the area I recommend Atomix or Alliance over this place, personally.
(3)
S M.

Such a great place to go and veg out. Love the couches and chairs. Should have free coffee refills though. And, somehow the smell of the deep fryer needs to go- I leave there and smell awful!
(4)
Scott M.

The groove tube wrap rocked, the smoothie's are GREAT! The flat screen TV that gets text messages was fun. LOTS of hotness up in there. Nice scene, I will make this a regular hang out. THEY DIDNT HAVE JIM BEAM :(
(5)
Liz K.

Filter is a decent place to meet up with people and there's tons of seating so you've got a good chance of finding some (as long it's not between 6 and 8pm). It's a cool place to people watch, has a convienent location, and the food's actually decent. There used to be a sign on the cash register that said "No breeders." It's the antithesis of a place like De Luca's further North on Damen that you have to navigate through an obstacle course of double-wide strollers to get to. And I like it better that it's smokeless now.
(4)
Lindley E.

A good place to kill some time when you don't have anything better to do in Bucktown. Coffee drinks tend to be weak. Food is simple and not enough to make this place a destination.
(3)
Jace C.

Good coffee & cookies! Stayed for a couple hours to get some work done, a little loud, and too dark for reading. The wireless is not free.
(3)
Ryan S.

Filter is a really mixed bag for me. On one hand, I love their tofu Ruben (like REALLY love it), I dig the location and the scenery, and the Mango bubble tea is pretty passable. On the other hand though, I've only been treated somewhat nicely one time; every other time it's either been indifference, rudeness, or simply a blank stare. Just recently after making a special trip there, for the aforementioned tofu Ruben, I asked the barista if the kitchen was still open. The only answer that I got was an abrupt "NO". I then asked her when it closes and she said 10.00. I stood looking at her w/ a confused expression on my face, as it was only 9.20. "Yeah, we closed it kinda early tonight" was my only consolation.
(3)
Urszula H.

This place is way too overrated. I can never find a place to sit. It is too noisy. The service isn't great. They get three stars for a large selection and great teas. They're good for people watching though.
(3)
mary b.

i think what i like best about filter is that it's often filled with scenesters who don't want to be scenesters. ha. i really like people for whom a label is created who refuse to be labeled. the coffee is fine, but it's the environment that's the best. i love it in the morning. and i've always found the service to be really friendly.
(3)
Liz K.

Having been a patron of Filter when it was in it's old spot in the Flat Iron, not much has changed -- which isn't a bad thing. It's a coffee shop guys, it's not gonna be gourmet. Either way, pretty good coffee, nice variety of other drinks, good breakfast and snack foods. I can't really complain. I like that they have chalkboards in the bathrooms now. Some girl was complaining about the choice of music and that the staff should take into consideration people who are there studying. My chalk response to her (and my advice to you), bring some headphones if you're going to be whiny.
(5)
Eva M.

Given we just moved nearby and Internet has been ridiculously impossible to set up at our place, I shopped around a bit for a prime study location. Relatively speaking, I'm glad I made it here. Food/Service: somewhat mediocre. turkey burger + sweet potato fries were on the greasy side. I was kept waiting to place my order for a few minutes, and given that there was no one in line and the place seemed relatively empty, I'm not so sure this was acceptable. Atmosphere/vibe: hard to describe because there were definitely those who were there to study and then those who were there to chat. Somehow, though, it works! I brought earplugs just in case, and none were even needed. WiFi wasn't working at lightning speeds but definitely better than other coffee shops I went to around the area. I'd come back again. Not my first choice for a study spot though. Come here with a friend.
(3)
Aubre A.

Best coffee shop to work from in the city. Full breakfast and lunch menu with tons of options, plenty of seating and plugs, and no restrictions on the internet. Great ambiance and the food is pretty great too especially for a coffee shop. With the LevelUp app, you can easily pay with your phone. Love this place!
(5)
Nick F.

Awesome 5 star coffee shop...The roast in house, and the coffee and food is pretty fresh and solid...good, fun breakfast wraps and sandwiches made fresh, good coffee, and plenty of skinny jean wearing faced pierced hipsters to look at...Staff is cool, coffee is even better...fuck starbucks
(5)
Sydney S.

I have started spending more time at Filter due to increased studying. Perfect space for group or solo studying. A LOT of outlets, great staff that are very helpful, and wonderful food!
(5)
Mary T.

I needed a spot to get some work done before my beat down* and this place fit the bill. I never made it to the old Filter, but I really dig the new Filter. It's a great space to work or study (but not super quiet if that's what you require), I can see why they limit the wifi usage (more on that later). The main room is a labyrinth of mishmash couches, chairs and tables with power strips like snakes ensuring that there is no such thing as a bad spot. The space has a loft-like feel, exposed brick walls and exposed ducting on the ceiling. There are lots of vintage accents around the room, with a wall of salvaged doors, funky lamps and mirrors. The menu is great, I drooled over the french toast plate accidentally delivered to the table next to me. Had it not found its rightful table, I would've been happy to take it off their hands. Ok, so back to the wifi; it's free, sort of. Just ask for a card when you make your purchase and you'll get 2 hours of wifi use; it's a hard 2 hours, not a suggestion, with a little timer letting you know how much time you have left. Reading the reviews before I came, I noticed a few people complaining about the 2 hour limit on free wifi - SERIOUSLY?! This is a business, one that caters to a crowd that wants to park it for hours and do their thing. Can you blame them for forcing you to buy something, anything every once in a while? A large iced tea is only $2, a few of those in exchange for a great workspace is still a great value. If I lived closer, I could definitely see myself becoming a regular here. I already have plans to return with an appetite to try some of their food, including that mouth-watering french toast. *Massage down the street at Pain Stop.
(4)
Some D.

I love this cafe, probably the coolest cafe in Chicago with a 'Hip' twist to the decor and set up versus your more typical chain coffee shops. I Love the sweet potato fries, and they have great food even thought its a cafe. Though the food can be a little pricy (for a cafe), it's good and I love the sweet potato fries. Free internet, cool seats and couches for more of a lounge type feel. In my opinion they close too early for a cafe and really wish they were open later. But if you like cafes and coffee... and yummy food, I would check this place out and bring a friend. Its also a geat place to get ome work done and listen to the cool tunes being played here. #hip #Chicago #cafe #coffee
(4)
Judy C.

I live pretty close to this spot and it has become my new favorite study place. The coffee is great and the ambience is even better. There's people there hanging out but also plenty of people there working/studying. The food is great and the music isn't too loud. There's plenty of table space and more comfortable seating options.
(5)
Lucy B.

This place is huge, andthe owner ( I think he's the owner ) is SO nice and friendly...he seems to really go out of his way to make you feel welcome. I love the interior...really eclectic and very cool. My mother in law and husband are from the UK, so he invited them to sign their wall for international visitors...sort of Geno's East - esc. Great food, really love the selection. good coffee. Prices are fair. I leave out a star becuase I often have to wait in line for a few minutes before I can order...also they don't take credit cards.
(4)
Eric G.

After trying to go somewhere specific downtown for breakfast to find a wait time of well over an hour.. we ended up here. Frustrated and starving we came on in.. It is a pretty hip little place full of macbooks and interesting folks. You walk up to a counter to order your food and drinks. They have a small breakfast menu but it was good stuff either way. Coffee was good and served in Giant mugs and the breakfast flatbread i got was great. Not a bad stop for breakfast in the chi town area.
(3)
McKenzie H.

This place was wonderful! A quaint and friendly spot to have coffee and breakfast while staying with friends for the weekend. We literally ate here 3 out of 4 mornings. The hash are good...pancakes are good...and the coffee is great.
(4)
Nina W.

Filter is the kind of coffee shop you go to when you're meeting a friend. The coffee drinks are decent. The pastries are tasty. Sometimes it gets crowded and a little loud, which could make it hard to write or study, but at other times it's a good place to people-watch and relax. The furniture is grandparents old, but it adds to the ambiance. The baristas/workers always seem like they're in good spirits. I like this space much better than the previous location.
(4)
Alexandra M.

I passed by Filter one day while ambling around Wicker Park, and remembered reading about it on Yelp. My friend and I decided to pop in- perfect time to be spontaneous! This place is lovely. Cozy, artsy and just a tad grungy. You walk in to find the counter to order on your left. To your right is a HUGE space with many couches, grandpa type chairs (you know, the big comfortable ones you could just fall asleep in) and local art on the walls. The clientele is of all ages and backgrounds, with thick rimmed glasses and Mac books aplenty. It's quiet enough to study, but not so much that you feel awkward talking. It's a dream. As for service- how funny that I've seen bad reviews. I ordered something that was going to take a bit to prepare (just a coffee, not a meal), and to my surprise, the girl making my drink suggested I sit down and she'd bring the drink right out. I'm a caffeine addict. I'm a downright brat about coffee and I know my coffee shops. I've never experienced that kind of courtesy before. My only complaint is that what I got was a tad pricey. It was, granted, a really unique drink and vegan to boot, but $5 was a bit high. Then again, I'm a full time volunteer so I think everything is a bit pricey... In sum, go to Filter.
(4)
Kris R.

yesyesyes. great hipster coffee house. everyone has a mac. you can sit your a$$ in the corner with your dell laptop. (relax, i'm kidding. you can sit outside). tons of places to sit. at a table. on a bench at a table. on an old couch from your grandpa's garage. on a 70's love seat (both 1970's and 70-year-old's). on a cool mod chair. on a gross smelly chair. at a big communal/share-y table. at the window. at the wall. on my lady balls. what? outlets/plugs are ample. food is great. the chopped salad! with the chicken! and the cheese and the hugeness! and the fizzy water! oh, there's coffee and bagels and all that other stuff, too. everyone's laid-back, minding their own biz. my new favorite place when i need to study stuff. and the have LEVEL UP!
(5)
Casey M.

I really did not think I would like this place. I am not much of a coffee-shop-hanging-around kind of guy. Just give me my coffee and let me go for a walk around the park or something. Filter intrigued me to want to stay and drink there. Not Filter, as in the employees intrigued me, but rather their inviting relaxed atmosphere it's puts forth. As a far Northsider, Wicker Park is quite a jaunt for me to travel to. I still find myself at Filter about once a week passing numerous coffee shops along the way. The shop is big, new, clean and the coffee is quite good as well. I always order large cups coffee there and they always keep my tab open so I can keep buying cups as I go. I always feel welcomed there. I don't know Filter?,keep doing what you are doing and you will have a fan for life.
(4)
Sarah S.

If you want coffee that tastes like the shit you'd get after church and shitty service, come to Filter! Don't let couches fool you into thinking this place is good--oh wait, the couches are shitty too....
(1)
Raven J.

This is the ONLY independently-owned coffee shop I would even CONSIDER coming back to. And it's really good! The food IS still a little expensive, but that's extremely common now. Coffee and tea is average price. (Smoothie prices however are extreme - but smoothies exist! (which is unexpected). They have interesting selections on food though only a few meat options. The tea appears to be completely homemade (as on, I think it is actual peaches), and it even has a good aura! Not quite as good as Japanese green tea, but very nice and goes well with the place it's in! The employees here are EXTREMELY NICE - and most places where they are complete assholes or have really DISGUSTING policies have people claiming the employees are "nice" (lol). So in other words if I say they're nice then the employees are rally definitely actually extremely nice! They don't do anything retarded and disgusting like lock they're bathrooms or complain or kick you out if you don't order anything - and although that should be obvious and not a required part of a review - well, this is Chicago, and as we know people in Chicago and often business are just crazily unfathomable in the ridiculous ways they treat people, including the two things I just mentioned. Great atmosphere, sunny places and dark places, no password on the WiFi (another disgusting business practice you often see), and GREAT decorating. Encouraged grafitti in the bathrooms - re, hippie/punk grafitti - neither ghetto grafitti nor the fake Giordano's-type grafitti. Even almond milk is available! Quiet. They also use Level Up.
(5)
Yane Y.

This cafe is awesome! The ambiance is nice. chill. It's spacious. Even though the place is humongous and the place gets packed, the best part is that it's fairly quiet. I go to starbucks on occasion and even if they're tiny, it can get extremely loud!!! Thank the Lord it's not like that here. Never had the food, so no comment on that. I had their chai and it's fine. Not the best I've ever had but not bad at all!!! ** My friend says that their food is good - so there ya go. If I try it later, I'll let you know!
(5)
Annie W.

What a cute little cafe down in Wicker Park! It's huge and lovely, and so comfortable! On the other hand, I don't think I've ever had slower or more indifferent service for the actual coffee. Would give them another chance.
(3)
Josh G.

I have been here twice and it is a great little place to do some work, have above average coffee, and great sandwiches. I will definitely be back!
(4)
Chan K.

Filter is a trendy, spacious cafe that attracts hipsters, students and neighborhood folks alike. It's a lovely place to bring your books/laptop and do work and watch beautiful people. Early morning and evenings are the best time to grab a seat as the place, even with all its couches and seating, fills up on most days. The menu is a carryover from its previous incarnation at the "six corners"; vegan scones, breakfast dishes and salads are still mainstays. They have added flatbreads and delicious soups. My favorite addition is the tofu reuben. Now all I need are some skinny jeans, a moustache and a road bike.
(5)
Loni C.

I've come to Filter 3 days in a row...for hours upon hours...in prep for a pretty tough licensure exam. I can tell you that their almond milk lattes really start my day of studying off right - if there's such a thing. The food is yummy...lots of options for people with food restrictions...including vegan and gluten free diets. I try to eat paleo most of the time and had no trouble finding some great food...today i got an omelet (hey, they say protein in the morning is the best breakfast!). Yesterday, i discovered that I work best with Mozart in my ears (i know, i know, i used to make fun of people like me), but today i sat down only to realize that I left my headphones at home. I thought I'd go out on a whim and ask the guy who took my order and delivered my food (who later I discovered was the cafe's owner Jeff) if he or anyone he knew had a spare i could borrow just for the day. Jeff left for a few minutes and came back with a brand new pair of headphones that he told me were his and he didn't mind if i wore them in for him! THAT IS ABOVE AND BEYOND CUSTOMER SERVICE. Thank you Jeff...Mozart in my ears now (crisis aborted) and now I'm ready to hit the books! Here's to another 5+ hours at my new favorite coffee shop in Chicago!
(5)
Casey F.

Like the vintage feel and ample seating. Cranberry muffin was delish and coffee was strong. Great atmosphere, good for hanging out or doing work. Lots of food choices. Definitely a good add to the neighborhood.
(4)
Tom H.

On my first visit to Chicago, the Filter came highly recommended by people I ran into around Wicker Park. I've got to say, they did not steer me wrong! I came in around noon and got an awesome cappuccino and a wonderful piece of Dutch Apple pie. The place was fairly busy but I had no issue finding a spot to setup shop and from my perspective they had plenty of bandwidth and power to go around. While the WIFI is free, you have to ask for a wifi key that's only good for 2 hours when you place your order. I'm totally cool with that... That said, just make sure you are ready to work before you start using the timer. Go back and get another cup after a few hours and make sure you tip them! Great place....
(4)
David S.

Filter is an ideal study/reading/surfing cafe. Wireless is free, with time limits, which extend with purchases. The coffee and veggie burgers are great. Breakfast options are good, not amazing, but served all day. The combination of couches and chairs is pretty loose, but they've set it up so it doesn't get too dense or too loud. I only wish they were open later.
(4)
Kristina M.

This place is pretty awesome. Went in there for the first time today and I really liked it. The food I tried was really good and definitely has a wide range of food so pretty much anyone can find something that they like. They have plenty of couches, tables, and chairs for people to sit and relax. A lot of people on their computers, working on homework, reading, eating, etc. The couches do seem a little old, but its alright, I think that everything else makes up for it. Will be coming back.
(4)
David S.

Staff has gotten nicer and having almond milk is good for me ;)
(3)
Allison V.

I love the feeling I experienced when I walked into this place. Forget any other coffee shop....this is it! I had lunch with the friend that introduced me to this place. Turkey burger was so-so. My chicken caesar salad wrap was very fresh and very good....the pita was thin and not overpowering of the wrap and there were even croutons in the mix. Yum. We opted for the disco fries...1/2 regular fries and 1/2 sweet potato fries....awesome. I don't even care for sweet potato fries that much and these were awesome, the regular fries were even better. Limonata drink yum. They also serve breakfast here. And Coffee. And I even think they have smoothies. The place is huge...you are totally surprised when you walk in and see how it keeps going back further and further. There are chairs and couches and seating at tables dispersed throughout the place. I will definitely be back with my kindle. Bike parking out front.
(5)
Jonathan L.

Nice place to hang out and get some work done. Fast Wi-Fi. My only complaint is that it is a bit warm and humid on a not-terribly-hot summer day. I know the hipsters will be offended but air conditioning would be nice.
(4)
Steven R.

Looked kind of like some or sort of "Living Art" experiment on the inside with the museum feel, chic decorating and hipster lined seating on the inside. The main pro to this place is the miles (seemingly) of seating and space, making sure lots of folks and can enjoy coffee and WiFi and stare each other down. This also makes it good for a study group if you can actually get seats near each other. This is also somewhat of a con however because at times it feels like you're in some reading room in the library and the slightest noise will have everyone looking over at you. You can't even get away with farting really unless they're silent, which can be tough after some coffee. Speaking of which, the coffee does kind of blow. The latte I got tasted like, well, let's just say I'm not sure it was a latte. When it comes down to it, what matters is that Filter is a decent place to sit down, wire up and get some work done over a crappy cup of coffee if necessary. Wouldn't make it a destination really, as I live near some pretty great places, but it will definitely work in a pinch if you're in the area.
(3)
Stephanie K.

Meh. I've never been impressed by the food and drinks I've ordered but it could be that i'm not ordering the right things. I usually regret my decision to come here but for some reason I keep going back so I must like it on some level? Homemade chips are good but you feel greasy afterwards so grab a friend and share! $5 credit minimum=lame.
(2)
Mari Y.

You know, I think Filter is OK. I don't really look at people when I'm here, I'm too busy trying to find a seat which thankfully I've not had a problem looking for whether I'm working or simply having a tea. The couches are all questionable in terms of comfiness. This place is always packed. I don't get how some people come here alone and read a book, it's like they're pretending to read and hoping someone will talk to them.
(3)
Kelz M.

Love. Everything from the unassuming exterior to the kitschy, mismatched, thrift store furniture, to the menu of coffee/tea/eats. There's plenty of room here, lots of big sofas, tables and chairs if you need 'em, and who doesn't love free wi-fi? Plus the food portions are plentiful and tasty. Okay, I love *almost* everything. Why only four stars instead of five? The service at the counter can be hit and miss. The last time I was in, I had two ankle biters in tow. The owner of the place was wonderful, opening doors for me, making sure I was seated comfortably before dashing out the door with his own little guy. The people at the counter, though? They were nice but come on. Once the boss was gone, I'd asked for a little help. My hands were obviously full, the place was clearly not busy... counter people, did you really have to say 'sorry, no' when I asked you to help me carry the condiments to the table?
(4)
Matt N.

After nearly three years without good, indie coffee, Fitler is back! And greener then ever. The space has been designed to meet LEED Gold standards and is now one of the most sustainable cafes in all of Chicago. Their menu has also been improved. Aside from the wonderful Intelligentsia coffee, which is roasted in-house, the fresh squeezed lemonade and juices are must-haves. Feeling middle-eastern? Have my favorite falafel in the City. Equally scrumptious are their signature sweet potato fries. I found some information on the interior design here, moss-design.com/2010/02/â€¦
(5)
Denrick B.

The internet barely works and lighting is horrible. Come here if you feel compelled be in a cramped environment and/or you'd like to know what's in stock at your quasi-vintage clothing shop. Don't come here if you need to focus and do some work. Then again do the clientele in this place actually work?
(2)
Kyle W.

I like Filter. I find myself coming back often, whether I'm getting work done or hanging out with a friend, so it MUST be good. And it is! The atmosphere is great, the location is great (for me), and the clientele are all intriguing. That's a good thing. I only have two complaints. First, their coffee really isn't that special. If you go across street to a certain pop culture-themed coffeehouse, you'll find a latte that is a great deal better. Second, neither the staff nor the customers create a very intimate or welcoming atmosphere. It's not UNwelcoming, per se, but it just feels like a business to me. Granted, I'm not sure what they could do about this, being a busy coffeehouse in a busy area, but the fact remains. On that note, I should reiterate that this place is busy almost all the time. Make sure you look for seating BEFORE you pay, because you might not find any.
(4)
Sarah W.

This place is great! The coffee isn't exactly gourmet, but the food is delicious and everything is decently priced. The space is large and there's always room. Everything from hard study tables to comfy couches. Good crowd, chatting socially and studying hard. Love this place!
(5)
Morgan M.

A coffee shop camouflaged from the Starbucks of Chicago, yes please. This was such an incredible joy to have found. A friend hosted a book signing at Filter and in major support, I ventured out. Because let's face it, when it comes to coffee--I'm not going to shy away. So glad I came out. This is such a wonderful place to veg out for hours. And by hours, I seriously mean all day long. Without feeling an ounce of shame. There is an abundance of tables scattered through out the space, couches in every which direction that are openly pleading for someone to promptly take a seat. It's comfortable, fun and quiet. A perfect place to slink away if you have loud and crazy ass roommates. Definitely if you need to study up and need someplace other than a library to do so. Even, the perfect setting to type up a much needed article for the paper. There is artwork scattered all over the place adding to the immense charm, including the ceilings. It's basically an enchilada of coffee house greatness. Well impressed. For the actual coffee itself, the staff is on target and friendly. Walk up to the bar and order up. For those who want fresh tea-they've got you beat and have plenty of flavors on hand. Hungry for something other than a muffin...there's a full menu to kill the hunger pangs. Just an FYI, there's no internet sevice (even with your phone) so you'll need to stop by the register and pick up a WiFi card. Bring cash if you're only getting a drink or something small, there's a minimum charge fee of $5. Perfect coffee house for Wicker Park, it's a real treat to find hotspots like this that make sitting in the same spot for hours enjoyable.
(4)
Sarah Beth B.

I love this place! I recently started volunteering nearby, and popped into Filter to kill some time between volunteering and work. Excellent decision! I love the combination of comfy couches and chairs and large tables. I haven't had the coffee yet, but only because I'm newly addicted to the pomegranate Arnold Palmer. And the Thanksgiving wrap is amazing-- it just has 3 ingredients: turkey, cranberry sauce, and sweet potato fries. Sweet potato fries! ON A SANDWICH! that alone gets them 3.5 stars. Even though this place is huge, it's been packed every time I've been here. If you're coming expecting to find a table in the mid afternoon-- say, around two-- it's not the place for that. But if you're ok with the couch or a short wait, or want to come on the earlier or later side, this place is awesome.
(4)
Monica M.

3.25? i like to go here sometimes on the weekends and chill the fuck out for an hour or two. read a book or people watch if i have nothing with me. i like how big it is, and i esp love the patterned couches. yes, hipster coffee shop. but its in wicker so comes with the territory. i hear people complaining about the wifi many times. i havent had to use it so i cant speak to that... i think its a little pricey. and apparently they dont take actual (credit/debit) cards anymore, you have to use level up...which i think they should really put up a sign about cuz everyone becomes really annoyed when its their time to pay. for me its like damn, my plastic money isnt even good enough...?! you gotta have that virtual money. i like that you can write on the bathroom walls. service is good, although sometimes i find they wanna take my plate just a little too soon. what if i wanted to linger and think about eating my last piece of french toast?
(4)
Tuyen N.

Ever walk into a place and feel like you're not cool enough to be there? Well I say- F*CK IT! So I don't have a Mac, I don't (or rather, can't) wear skinny jeans and I don't wear non-prescription black-framed glasses but I'm going to order a coffee and hang out on Facebook all day like the rest of these hipsters! Cool things about Filter: 1) lots of seating! vintage sofas and arm chairs galore! 2) natural light (during the day), bat cave (at night) 3) food! real food too, not prepackaged sandys and salads either 4) good prices Lame things about Filter: 1) WiFi is not really free (i'll e'splain later) 2) not enough outlets 3) credit card can only be used on purchases of $7+ 4) food was burning hot! So as a newb, no one told me that the WiFi CAN be free. So when I sat down, I was prompted to purchase wifi use. I paid $8 to use it for the day. When I had access, I read through the previous Yelp review and come to find out, WiFi is free with purchase. You have to ask your barista for a card with a code that will give you 2-3 hours free. Want more time? Buy more coffee. Which is fair but how come no signs were posted anywhere about this?! It's okay... I should have asked. I'll be back to Filter to waste my life away on Facebook. Also, I've been eyeing a snickerdoodle brownie.
(4)
Sarah H.

What a great place to have a cup of coffee with a friend for conversation or relaxing and journaling on the couches in the back. I don't go for the wifi, I go for the coffee.
(4)
Christina M.

Filter is a very hipster-like coffee place that also serves food. The decor is interesting/cozy - a big room filled with random old couches. As for the food, there are several vegetarian items available and a few vegan items - you can get most of the vegetarian items vegan by excluding the dairy items. I had the tofu scramble veganized and thought it was good, a little bland, but still good. I'd recommend adding salt and hot sauce to the dish, but you may just like it on its own. Overall I think this is a neat place to stop by for a coffee, a small meal, or to lounge around for a little while. I'd say this place is about 3.5 stars.
(3)
Meredith M.

The couches and 5 million electrical plugs are the best thing they have going for them. This is a coffee shop so their coffee should be on point. It is way off the mark. We ordered a breakfast sandwich and a smoked salmon platter (with bagel) and it looked like food from a 1970's cafeteria and it tasted even worse. They have wayyyy too many food items to choose from... they should slim it down and focus on making a few really quality items vs a mass quantity of terrible food. We did not finish our food and found a way cooler coffee shop a few blocks up the street! (wormhole.. it rocks!) Will not be back.
(2)
Erica J.

I'm glad Filter is back, and seemingly better than ever. The space is huge, with a vast array of mismatched couches and chairs amidst the brick walls. The interior is rather fitting for the whole independent coffeehouse thing as well as for being on Milwaukee Ave. alongside the odd resale and furniture shops. They served a decent Americano and seemed to have an expansive menu of vegetarian/vegan sandwiches and treats.
(4)
Tiffany K.

Their can of Coca Cola here is almost $2, and although their chalkboard full of offerings is impressive, the food menu pretty much takes over the coffee/drink menu. The menus are also hard to read insofar as everything is thrown up on chalkboards, and everyone takes their sweet time chatting and ordering which means waiting in line to order your drink/food can be a pain. The space is big, but not the same as when it used to be right by the six corners. The lighting in here sucks, and most everyone is on their laptops typing away. They also have weird furniture and interior decorations, and their choice of music has been pretty terrible the few times I've been here recently. P.S. WHY IS THE SERVICE HERE SOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOO SLOOOOOOOW? A turtle could make coffee faster behind the counter than these folks. Yeow.
(3)
dean f.

I came here to work, but the internet is so effing slow it took more than 4 minutes for Yelp to load so I could give this place 2 stars. It's taken me 2 hours to get done what I could accomplish in 30 minutes at home. The music is horrible (90's tinged singer/songwriter, early 00's pop punk??) and the giant red lights against the wall are incredibly distracting. I wouldn't come back here and would caution others about spending their time or money here.
(2)
Sarah S.

Soggy food, poor and cranky service, music that my angsty punk brother might have listened to in junior high. That being said, good coffee and drinks, and good variety of seating options.
(2)
Taya D.

Love the cute cozy atmosphere! And to top it off they have freshly made fruit and veggie juice! Perfect place to relax after work
(5)
Brice F.

Filter has reopened in a cool new space on Milwaukee Ave, just south of Wood Street. Lots of seating, with a couple sweet vintage pieces of furniture (hello orange Eames chair). I have only ordered to-go so far, but the lattes are great and the staff are super nice so far. They have a pretty good food selection (steak & eggs for $10) as well so I will be back to have a taste, and hopefully bump this up to 5 stars. Although it wasn't crowded this morning, the living room was fairly full the other afternoon so plan accordingly. If I have to pick on one thing, it would be the entrance. The front door isn't very clearly marked, so if you feel like you're headed into the Copenhagen bike shop you're in the right place.
(4)
Eli S.

This place is filled with comfy seating! Love it! I had the fig green tea which was super flavorful. I come to coffee shops for the atmosphere and this place has it. It also has an extensive and reasonably priced cafe food selection too. I will be coming back here.
(4)
Sarah J.

This place would be excellent if they would fix their wifi, it is terrible. I see no point in going to Filter if I can't get work done on my laptop. I really hope they fix their wifi, but until then I won't be back.
(2)
Angela L.

Filter is my favorite coffee house in Chicago!! I've never been disappointed. Coffee and teas are great. The food is a bit pricey for me, but I really enjoy the atmosphere and comfort here, so it feels worth it when I do buy a meal here. The staff has always been extremely kind and wonderful. I can spend an entire day here (and I do often), and feel right at home! I only wish that I were less busy in life so I could come here more often!
(5)
Caustic Critic C.

Update of my horrible experience at Filter. After sending a hard copy of this review ( yelp.com/user_details_reâ€¦ ) to Filter, I received the following email though Yelp today: Hi Caustic Critic, morry a. has sent you a message on Yelp: filter review "CCC, we received the hard copy of your yelp review today. thank you. it is quite a well written piece of comic fiction. we have posted it on our wall and the customers are getting quite a kick out of it. thank you for brightening an otherwise gloomy day. sincerely, portly , disheveled and agro. p.s. do you really think i am portly? i guess i need to hit the gym again." Then I read "morry a.'s" review of my critique ( yelp.com/user_details?usâ€¦ ). The embarrassing irony for him is that he lifts the curtain up on himself by using the same account name; though in his review he claims to have "witnessed these events" as if he was an objective bystander (do you really expect readers to believe that some uninvolved person observed these events, haphazardly perused Filter's Yelp reviews, then felt the obligation to "set the record straight"?) he is in truth the manager-villain of my story; hiding behind a thinly veiled nome de plume, his name is J. Stella. Mr. Stella attempts to dismiss my account as "comic fiction" written by an "ego driven narcissist" (a bit redundant), but by feeling compelled to assume a pseudo-name and review his own establishment (while his only other review bashes The Wormhole, a cafÃ© I suggested and their nearest competition) and by sending me a gloating, but obviously false message that expects me to believe that Filter augmented to my letter's exposure by publicly displaying it to their customers (I'm sure they found it droll, but were they laughing at you or near you?) he only validates the strength and efficacy of my critique, draws more attention to its negative assessment, and enables it to prevail as a caustic friction, though while impossible to be objective, is honest and self-aware. Fact: When they receive negative reviews, Filter assumes fake identities in an attempt to discredit them. If Mr. Stella cares to perpetuate this feud, it will come at an inevitable cost to Filter.
(1)
Kevin B.

Love this place. Sweet potato fries, great coffee, lots of space, good vibe.
(5)
Mathew C.

Bring some cash or be ready to download an app (Level Up) to pay for your food. They don't accept credit cards unless you do it through the app. Very strange. I saw 3 of the 5 folks in line with me leave the shop without buying anything because of this restriction. I know paying credit card fees suck, but i'm sure the Level Up app also includes some kind of fees too.
(2)
Roxanne A.

While I was writing my thesis, I explored a lot of the coffee houses in the city to percolate the creative juices. This was in the same area that I was going to get my tattoo so it was conveniently placed. The space is massive and the furniture is really eclectic in a chic way. The menu contains a lot of variety, but I opted for a yogurt parfait and a chai latte. The outlets are plentiful and so are the different kinds of seating areas in Filter. From lounge seating to big tables to individual tables, you can choose what seems to be meshing with you on that particular day. My only gripe was the only apparent free wifi which was limited to 2 hours through a website service. I'm not sure if there was a passworded one for patrons, but that's what I found. I would definitely visit again as it seemed it would be a great meetup spot for friends.
(3)
Angela J.

Why I love Filter: -Ample seating (LOVE the seats by the window) -Reliable wireless -Yummy sweet potato fries -Friendly staff -Lots of plugs What is keeping it from 5 stars: -Small tables for med students who study in groups with 3+ textbooks each (ok, I'm picky...)
(4)
King L.

Cash only? You're a coffee shop. Get it together.
(1)
Katlyn D.

First time going here and I effin love this place! I went around dinner time on a Wednesday afternoon and there was a surprising amount of seating available. Music wasn't too loud, nor were the other patrons. The people who were working were very nice and not the usual hipster snobs that you can find around wicker! I ordered a salmon burger and the half French fry half sweet potato fry combo and I devoured it all. Soooo delicious, and I will definitely be back. For the people complaining about the credit card thing, just get with it and download level up...it's convenient, safe, and you can get discounts at certain places by using it too. But either way, it's not the end of the world if an establishment doesn't take credit cards if they at least give you the alternative of using a second party app.
(5)
Lakshmi R.

Why do I still come here? The service is still woefully inept. Actually, it has become worse, which is weird because same kids I complained about in my old review are still here. They consistently give me the wrong tea (how do you mix up Early Grey with Rooibos?), forget utensils, and do a generally terrible job of being organized and providing decent customer service. The only good thing about Filter is the large number of tables, many of which are good-sized, the free wi-fi, and its proximity to cool shit. I realize this is silly because it's been closed for 5 years now, but I miss the old Filter. The employees were cool, the service was good, the boys were cuter. And I was younger. Or something.
(1)
Quetzalli C.

Ok, so I was a fan of the old Filter and I'm definitely a fan of the new Filter too. They've got a pretty good selection of tea, and good coffee. I usually go here on Sunday mornings for coffee, brunch, and some study time. The Full Monty is always a delicious choice for brunch, and the best part is that they were able to accommodate me being vegetarian by replacing the sausage with tofu (major points in my view). The art is wonderful, the eclectic music creates a nice vibe (its not blasting so loud that you cant even hear yourself think), and the people who work there are friendly for the most part. My only discrepancy with them is that when it gets busy its hard to find a table to put your food on. Don't get me wrong, i LOVE the couches and assorted cushy chairs, BUT a teeny tiny coffee table isn't going to cut it for a plate of food, let alone other people's food and stuff. WIFI IS FREE, all you need to do is ask for an internet card with a code that will let you log on for 2 hours. There is no need to pay, people have made the mistake of buying 2 hrs instead of asking the staff. I think its great because it keeps paying customers in and free loaders out.
(4)
Juliette C.

The place is great, tons of food options available, lots of couches etc etc. But seriously, what's the deal with internet?? It just does not work! It is slow, works intermittently, or just stops working. Upgrade on the internet!
(2)
Katie V.

Love, love, love this place to study. Get here early on the weekends, or you will have a hard time trying to find a table to sit at since it gets so crowded. Great lattes, really good muffins in the morning, and lots of outlets. I can't comment on wifi since I am studying from a book, but I have heard people complain about it. And for people complaining about not using credit cards, Level Up takes a minute to install and you get free $$ when you use it. No complaints here about that!
(4)
Luke S.

The prices were AMAZING and the staff was super friendly. I attended a meeting here and we were totally out of place in our suits, but it didn't stop me from enjoying the place. The decor was really unique, similar to Architectural Artifacts. The food was really fresh and I can confidently say the sweet potato fries that came as a side with my wrap were the sweet potato fries that I've ever had. It came with a zesty sauce that I know I've had before, but I can't place. I wish I lived closer, because I would be here all the time!
(4)
Pauline S.

just stopped in for tea and a treat. I LOVED the space and ambiance- lots of comfy seating and tables and chairs nicely distributed throughout the warehouse space. It seemed to have a good balanced atmosphere somewhere between cafeteria and study hall, some people were busy on their laptops and textbooks while others carried on somewhat loud conversations in the corner. a true test will be on my next visit to try the coffee, but the tea selection was great.
(3)
Mon R.

1) Are the workers required to wear blue? Ditch the uniforms. 2)Having your drinks come in cafeteria cups? Ruins the experience. Cheap. 3) Drinks were mediocre. 4)No free wifi? Says alot about how the owner views his customers. The only thing appealing about coming here is the aesthetic indoors, otherwise find a Starbucks, cause business wise they are operating from the same mentality.
(2)
Sam M.

Have been a few times and although I normally don't fit in with the hipster feel at this place the coffee, specialty drinks and food is very good (but a little salty). Management is normally very accomodating. Good atmosphere.
(4)
Ariane S.

Besides the fact that I'm pretty sure Filter bought a lamp I wanted to buy at the Ark thrift store and they make you buy something for every 1.5 hours of internet, I'm in love with filter. There is a huge array of drinks and food that you could eat every meal at this place. It's reasonably priced and has amazing sweet potato fries with some sort of magic sauce. And the lighting in there makes me want to stay for hours and steal all of the cool lamps and retro furniture.
(4)
Aurore L.

Hipster central much?!?!? I dunno but it surely looks a lot like it...but I liked it anyway which I guess puts me in the aforementioned group, much to my dismay. Oh well, you have to be something, right? Lots of couches, vintage lamps and people reading, studying and/or simply posing. Huge space. Even bigger menu. You'll find everything you want in there, from muffins to hummus to French fries....and all the coffee drinks you can think of - of course. I can see myself becoming addicted during the winter. Watch out.
(4)
C M.

Probably won't be back. The internet is never consistent, which is not OK if you have Wireless Cafe on the outside window. The food is really expensive. I ordered something and was forces to get potatoes with it. Don't eat the potatoes they serve with your food. They sit in a deep-fryer for three days and literally are greasy-soggy hard pieces of junk. Lastly, one of the baristas there, I'm sure he means well, but he tries WAY TOO HARD. He comes by every 10 seconds and asks if you're done with the plate, tries to close and open the shades in anticipation of what you may or may not be thinking, etc. I'm sure he's a nice person, but considering how hard he tries, it makes the entire experience somewhat awkward. Omar is great, one of the best managers I have ever come across in my travels. And it's actually a bit nicer now that the owner is no longer omnipresent. I wish I could like this place more, but the prices are too much, the internet is too inconsistent, and several other coffee shops are just better.
(1)
Jenny A.

Filter used to be this great place on the six corners, and I was sad to see it replaced by a stupid bank. When it reopened, I was glad but I have to say I'm not impressed. THe atmosphere is a little stale. Its not as awesome as the last location. The food is okay, but not great. And the kids that wait on you are sweet, but really inconsistent. (I've gotten a few really gross soy lattes...) THe thing that put me to decide not to go there anymore was the internet access. My main reason for sitting in FIlter was to be able to work remotely (while over caffeinating and eating too much). But, I can't work remotely if the wifi keeps SHUTTING DOWN. On top of the wifi signal crashing constantly, they have some weird service that requires you to log in a secret code every 90 minutes. SRSLY??? I have to go up to the counter, get a card, enter the code, get access, re-login to my admin sites etc. PITA. I don't have any other reason to sit in Filter's lounge except to work. If that isn't able to be accomplished well then, I'll have to go up the road to Piece. Where they have steady wifi. And beer. Sorry Filter, you lost your charm and my business.
(2)
Amy Y.

Filter probably does not need another review, but this is one of my favorite coffee shops. Most coffee shops don't have real food, and the fact filter does means I can study here without having to leave to grab food during eating hours. Food quality is pretty good. Coffee prices including pour overs are reasonable. Also, it's got more space and chairs than most other spots. Owner is friendly. I basically come here more than any other place in wicker park. Minor quibbles are I wish it opens later but that's more a wish list.
(5)
Kristin R.

I want to give Filter more love than only 2 stars. But unfortunately, my experience here was pretty mediocre. First off, I do have to say that I love the decor. It is filled with lush couches on which to work, read, converse, eat, etc. and the overall design is unique and fresh. I noticed that one of the walls is made up of recycled doors which I just thought was a pretty cool idea and something interesting to look at. They have wireless, always a plus. However, the wireless is only active for two hours and you need a special code to access it. So what, you have to go up and buy more food/coffee when your time limit runs out? Super lamesville. And just seems pretty old school to me. Also, they have a credit card minimum of $7. A credit card minimum?!?!? This seriously gets under my skin. This is 2010 people, get with it. Nobody carries cash anymore these days. That is another check against Filter. Lastly, the food that I ordered really sucked. It said hummus with WARM pita bread. Instead, I got stale pita chips. I'm sure the hummus was good but could barely tell because the pita chip was so distracting to my overall experience. The only reason I even ordered the hummus was because of their lame credit card limit. However, they do have good coffee and I was happy with the service. They could sense my agitation with the credit card situation so upgraded me to a large coffee at no additional charge. I also had one helluva time getting onto the internet. I think they gave me a card with a code that was already being used, which also soured my experience there. In all, I'm all for supporting local businesses, which is why I would suggest checking Filter out. But only if you have cash, aren't hungry, and are indifferent about getting onto the wireless network. It would be a great place to sit and chat or just sip on a coffee and enjoy a good book.
(2)
Billy M.

I know I'm late on this but glad its back.
(4)
Shenny S.

I stopped by here since it was raining and my feet were killing me. The nonfat latte as OK, but what I liked about the place was plenty of seating and electrical outlets. Felt very homey with the couches and lamps.
(4)
Mark W.

A perfect Sunday morning for me is reading some news while having a few cups of coffee (and some cigarettes... i know they are terrible, but they are so delicious). I like Filter. Its got a great vibe. I can get my Sunday mornings done here just fine. I like the "door wall" and the miscellaneous furniture. What hold me back with this place is probably myself. I just don't know if I'm cool enough to hang out here. lol. Maybe I'm too cool. (probably not the latter) Overall, i dig it. If you frequent Filter and see some dude sitting there that you think just isn't cool enough to be sitting there, it might be me. Say hello, ill buy you a cup of coffee.
(4)
Alex B.

Diversity! The beauty of Filter is that every conceivable type of person drinks and eats here while being productive with their respective books, laptops, and surreptitious people-spying sessions. But will I fit in?? Dear Jesus, will I fit in!? Look, it's simple. "I am a nervous graphic artist who wants to impress the first date I've had in ages."... go to Filter. "I am some dude who listens to some band you've never heard of."... go to Filter. "I am a socially-aware twenty-something, who can recite from memory my carbon footprint data for the past three months"... go to Filter. "I am a Saudi Arabian businessman with a pale Gothic fetish"... go to Filter. "I am four-time World's Strongest Man winner Magnus Ver Magnusson"... go to Filter. "I am an old-timey streetcorner newsie who dreams of being the next Samuel Gompers... Too big for my britches, ya say? What!? Why I'll give you the what for!"... go to Filter. "I am a 1980s Pontiac minivan"... go to Filter. "I am a terrifying alien-human hybrid created by Dwight D. Eisenhower and his Martian wife"... go to Filter. Go to Filter, Go to Filter, Go to Filter. Dammit it all to hell, go to Filter. This is a place where they won't merely accept you, they are you. All the way.
(4)
Jeka M.

I'm always impressed when places make the effort to offer some vegan options (though I most certainly am not)~ great loose leaf teas, open seating with a variety of couches, and friendly enough to know their regulars. The downside: get friendly and share a table or couch with some strangers or you'll be waiting quite awhile.
(4)
Dhyia T.

Oh Filter, how much I love thee, let me count the ways: One...Ample seating Two...Great coffee Three...Breakfast all day Four...Great lighting Five...Eclectic people Please bring back your Cajun tofu wrap! Please! One less star because parking sucks and meter maids stalk this area all day.
(4)
Shelly S.

For Wicker Park, this place is pretty much as good as it gets. Great spot for people watching, reading, meeting with friends, doing some work, or just lounging and enjoying the music. The food is actually pretty good considering it's a coffee joint. The coffee is also good (definitely beats burnt Starbucks coffee any day!). Additionally, they have a nice selection of teas and other beverages if you're not a coffee drinker. I often go here on random weekdays when there really isn't a crowd and sit by the windows and do work. On the weekends, when it's more crowded I seek a corner on one of the comfy, very-well broken in couches in the very back. Make sure to look up at the ceiling if you're sitting in the back! They've done a great job of bringing together eclectic pieces of furniture and turning unusual things into art! The whole place just has a very unique (fitting) vibe for this neighborhood. Everything put together just makes this a great spot to stop by on Milwaukee! Just an FYI though, they only give you 2 hours of free Wi-Fi with a purchase, but if you save your coffee mug and get a $.77 refill you can get another Wi-Fi code from the pleasant barristas.
(5)
Valerie S.

Filter was the breakfast venue of choice during my last Chicago weekend for a few reasons: it's reasonably priced (for the Wicker Park area), it is casual, it has lots of seating and lots of menu options. For these reasons, it worked quite well for the 12 of us who gathered to break our fast on a Saturday morning (a time when the contents of a meal can be crucial to the enjoyment of the later day). However, there were some things that made it not exactly my fave. I'll end with other obscure things I liked though, never fear. Firstly, not a fan of the menu. WHOLLY OVERWHELMED. I do not need 6 chalkboards of choices. I need one or two. I need meals that are pre-combined and choices that appeal to both my health nutty side and my grease-loving hungover side. I ended up ordering the same thing as my friend because it looked good, and I couldn't think clearly about all the rest of my options. Secondly, not a fan of the coffee. I doctor the bejeezus out of my coffee, and it still tasted old and flat (and I don't think I've ever registered coffee tasting bad before since I don't drink it often enough to compare). Regardless of my intentions coming in the door, be it for a marathon study session or a chat with a colleague, if I order a coffee, I want a good one. Not sure what else I could have ordered, as the menu was too busy, but the coffee's off the list for next time. Thirdly, not a fan of the ambiance. I appreciate trying to appeal to a wide audience, but I don't like feeling like I'm disruptive because I don't have my face glued to my mac and my earphones in. Either it's a coffee and convo place or a study and seclude place, but it doesn't fit well to be both. Or, divided areas for those of us who want to jabber and laugh and enjoy our Saturday mornings, rather than hating our lives that require us to bring homework home. However, these things are just my personal opinions. Each could be turned (aside from the coffee thing, unless you're a fan of bad coffee) into a positive: lots of food options, multiple reasons to come in the door. And, I liked other things: the funky and eclectic collection of furniture was to die for; the Chicago picture on the ceiling was incredibly neat to stare at; and, the place is pretty ideally placed in the Wicker Park area for foot, car, and train traffic. Overall, it makes it a 50-50 split on my chances of going back. I'd rather pay a bit more for more of what I liked or a bit less of what I didn't, or just pay a bit less to make up for it.
(3)
Erika L.

This is my neighborhood coffee shop and I am a huge fan! It is the perfect place to escape for a little while, get some work done, emails written, a newspaper read in a cozy atmosphere. Grab a coffee, sit on a couch or a spot by the window and you're set. They play great tunes in the background and it is not too loud. Service is great, everyone is friendly. Only reason I am not giving 5 stars is the food is not out of this world, its good, just not crazy good. That said, I do frequent this place for lunch. I normally get the Filter Salad and the sweet potato fries...cause, they are to die for! Breakfast items are good too, the omelet and breakfast sandwich are among my favs. Since I go here all the time, I just wish they would switch up the menu from time to time...as long as they never let go of the sweet potato fries!
(4)
Rena M.

I have generally enjoyed filter quite a bit. I love the ambience, the food, the drinks, the coziness. However...I come here to work. But I am going to find a new place asap unless they decide to fix the internet speed and reliability. It is consistently spotty and slow. That is just not acceptable for a coffee shop where dozens of people are constantly on their laptops attempting to do work or school. Filter, I don't want to leave you. So please fix this.
(2)
Kate B.

Filter is great because you can camp out there on your lap top without guilt. This usually makes it really difficult to find seating, though, despite the vast amount of space they have. If you are lucky enough to choose your seating, they have a good variety of options, from cozy couches to armchairs to standard tables. But I would never go here for the drinks alone. I have had the cappuccino a few times. Both times it was textured oddly, like biting into styrofoam. It wasn't pleasant. The coffee isn't anything special either.
(3)
brett x.

First visit to the 'new' location. I loved the old Filter, and I was totally impressed at first with the new one. Totally comfortable. Great coffee. Free wifi and tons of outlets. The only thing that could've made this better when I first arrived is a rollback of Chicago's smoking ban. The rating? I'm giving it two stars, which Yelp defines as "Meh. I've experienced better." This is accurate, because while the food I ordered sucked, the baristas' response to this was even less forgivable. The experience? I ordered a tofu reuben when the place wasn't busy. It came ten minutes later, which was fine. It was a non-grilled / non-toasted slice of white rye, cut, with a small slab of uncooked tofu, a few shreds of sauerkraut, and a squirt of 1000 island. I've had so many tempeh and tofu reubens over the years (as well as grilled cheese, the oft-overlooked staple of the vegetarian's diet) that I know what I'm talking about. Fine, it sucked. NBD. I ate it anyway, but not before posting a photo of this piece of shit to Facebook and laughing about it over AIM with a couple friends. I decided to tell the baristas so they were aware of the problem, with the assumption that nothing would be done about it going forward. I thought, though, that this would be more responsible than posting a negative review on Yelp instead. Well, here I am anyway, and here's a photo of the reuben: bit.ly/reuben_pic So, I went to the baristas, and dude looked at me shaking his head immediately, as though to suggest that my complaint wasn't valid because I ate it. The other barista came over, and she frowned at me too, neither giving me the lip-service apology that the thing was crap. I simply explained that it was terrible (especially for $7 with no side included) and dude actually said to me "you can't complain after you ate it" and girlie responded saying "yeah you should've brought it back." I explained, again, that I didn't want to wait for another one to be made, and that I also expected NOTHING in return. I wasn't requesting a refund, or a replacement. I was simply returning my plate to the counter, and informing them that the cook apparently doesn't know how to make said item, because it sucked, especially for the price. Again, dude frowned while shaking his head in a "this is irrelevant" sort of way, and I emphasized one more time: "I'm not ASKING FOR ANYTHING. I'm just telling you that this thing sucked." I've worked shitty service jobs too, and I've been a bigger asshole than that to people for doing far less. However, I also sucked at my job. I can't say anything more for dude above. Meh. I've experienced better. It's too bad because I dug this place. On to Wormhole.
(2)
Hillary P.

If this was two days ago I would have given filter 4 stars. However after my visit today I will never go to filter again. I live right across the street. My boyfriend has complained to me about a new employee who is a tall male who wear fedoras and other justin timberlake/ Kevin federlind attire. Anyways my boyfriend was so unamused by how incredibly rude this boy was that he refuses to go back to filter. I thought he was being silly until after today when I met him myself. I ordered a grande americano. Which I order there almost every day. He tried to give me a triple americano in a medium cup. When I told him that was wrong he became embarrassed and said "well this isn't Starbucks how are we supposed to know what you're talking about". Which I find quite funny because I order the drink there every day! Everyone else knows exactly what I'm talking about. If you don't know what an americano is and you are a barista you might need to just stick to the cash register. Not to mention he laughed in my face. So I politely said I would like to have my money back. Simply because I do not tolerate attitude. He literally went on and on about how it wasn't Starbucks so how was he supposed to know how to make it. I would have accepted the drink and gave filter my money if this man was polite but e was just so awful. When i asked for my money back he said "really?! Just because we said we didn't know what you were talking about?!" I will never go to filter again. My friends in the neighborhood will also be warned. It's very sad that a business with such decent food and atmosphere has hired one person that makes the rest of their excellent and kind staff look like a bunch of fools.
(1)
James E.

I'm so glad this place is back! My lawrd - this is the best coffeehouse in Chicago. The coffee is good, the refills are cheap, and the eye-candy is usually nice (I mean that in a non-sketchy / stalker kind of way). This is a great place to go and study, to be by yourself while still be surrounded by lots of people and entertained by people watching. I'm not sure if that actually does make sense, but that's how I feel about this place. I'm able to find a corner all for my own and get my work done, all while still being able to feel social and be around people and occasionally run into friends. Oh yea, and the chocolate chip cookie is pretty rad too.
(4)
Sheila C.

Hard to find. Easy to love! The atmosphere is very laid back and hipster with most everyone sitting around blogging on their Macs. The food and drinks are AMAZING! The last time I was there I had their turkey reuben and french fries. I am a food critic of reubens; the baseline I judge all sandwiches against and theirs is outstanding. The fries are the wonderful "lumpy" hot and crunchy kind. I also had a plan old glass of ice water; free of charge and no dirty looks. I'm a huge fan!
(4)
dan l.

You know, I think this place could be pretty cool if the music and clientele and neighborhood were completely different. Unfortunately, the reality is this coffee shop is in the middle of a disaster otherwise known as Wicker Park and as badly as it wants to be bohemian, they ain't foolin' me. The coffee is fine and the staff is nice but I could really do without the Adele and Sara Bareilles, etc.. not to mention the worn out cliches that fill the place. I rarely stop in WP for coffee and from now on I think I'll make the extra hike to Map Room or somewhere else away from the hubbub. Not feeling Filter.
(2)
Melissa H.

Even with its new location...it still is the worst coffee I've ever had disguised with an open lounge and stinky vintage sofa's. The first time I visited this "coffee" shop was at its original location near the six corners. The customer service was extremely poor and it hasn't improved that much since. I do not recommend getting coffee here. I'd much rather walk a little further and contribute to deserving coffee shops on Damen.
(1)
Emily N.

Space is large with plenty of seating Coffee in real mugs Cheap refills my scone was good free wifi too quiet in there for my tastes though. *this review sucked, I know. leave me alone, it's a monday.
(3)
Thomas M.

Just about everything there is to say about Filter's food/drinks and service has been said: it's great. The only thing holding it back from five-star status is the wifi; feels slower than dial-up.
(4)
Angela L.

Wonderful setting. I could bitch about the prices, but it's Wicker Park after all. I was a bit sad last night that after ordering (and touching) a croissant, I was told there was a $5 credit card minimum. I don't know if the barista tossed it, put it back in the case, or ate it herself, but that kind of sucked. I've enjoyed their food for breakfast many times. Not exactly restaurant-style seating (you have to hunch over a coffee table), but it'll do.
(4)
Katherine W.

For a place that seems to be serving third wave coffee, they sure don't act like it. I ordered a small cappuccino because that is the proportion of milk to coffee I like. They made a medium and when I said I wanted a small, proceeded to just pour the medium in to a small cup! Not the same! I asked for an extra shot to make up the difference and only one of the three people behind the counter seemed to understand the issue/solution.
(2)
Nikki C.

This is one of my favorite coffee shops in Chicago. The decor is funky, eclectic, and comfortable, the space is open and fairly quiet, and the food is delicious. I love that they have a full kitchen open for breakfast and lunch, and the food is good and cheap for the area. They also have some healthier options, like fruit, parfait, and smoothies, as well as some awesome vegetarian selections. It's a little bit of a walk from the Damen stop on the blue line, but not too bad.. don't be deterred by the Starbucks on the corner. Your walk will be rewarded.
(5)
Jess S.

Ahh the *new* Filter. Four stars for the space. The space with lots of comfy seating, an abundance of outlets and [usually] filled with pleasant indie rock, or ambient rock, or underground hip hop, or ... While I understand the 2-hour Wifi card and appreciate you giving me new cards so I can stay online (especially after dropping way too much money on an Americano and a meal), its still annoying. But I get it, so I won't hold it against you. Bottomline: I will cheat on Star Lounge and keep coming back for more. I actually dig the vibe at the new Filter, while I hated the Filter of yesteryear.
(4)
Jerry M.

YEEEEAAAHHHHHH!!!!! It's back, baby! It was a sad day for me when the Original Filter closed its doors - true, Chicago is littered with coffeeshops, but none of them really embody the feeling of Filter - a big open space littered with tables and comfortable couches that inspire a feeling of comfort despite being out in the open. Although it's a new location with new couches (I hope, or seriously cleaned at the very least), the feeling is the same, yet newer and cleaner. Food is awesome - had the veggie burger. YUM! I usually order a green tea latte, which they didn't have on the menu, but made it special for me with their loose leaf tea. Price is half what you get at other coffeeshops/Starbucks and the service is top notch! Look for me at the couch near the door. That's mine!
(5)
Jaz P.

I heart Filter. A few months ago, I heard about the prior Filter, that was taken over by the Bank of America on Damen and Milwaukee, bemoaning the lack of a kickback coffeeshop in the hood. especially since Mercury Cafe closed down last year. I tend to like my coffeeshops to run on the cavernous side. Filter fits the bill. Eclectic mix of furniture. They play indie, they play Wilco... I run into friends from the hood. Staff is friendly. Filter salads rock. What more could you ask for? The other day, I brought my mom in to show her around. When we were ordering, the guy behind the counter asked, "now are you the hip one that brought your mom? or was it your hip mother that brought you here?" We both blushed at the amusement of it all, and ordered our pecan treat, and he threw an extra one in on the house. Sweeeeettt!!! They typically carry Hoosier Mama pies until they run out. The sweet potato fries are addicting, and so are the wrap sandwiches. Get a seat early. On some Sundays, every seat in the house is full.
(5)
Melissa R.

Filter was one of the first coffee houses that I fell in love with when I moved to Chicago years ago. It was what I always thought an urban coffee house would be like and was so happy that my dreams were not crushed (unlike the image I had that EVERYONE lived in huge spacious lofts...similar to Jennifer Beals in Flashdance). It was in a partly safe neighborhood, the building had lots of charm, the patrons were mostly starving artists, indie rock filled the room, the furniture was retro, and the staff had little patience with lots of facial piercings. I was outraged (like the rest of it's patrons) when I found out it was closing to be made into a g-damn Bank of America...not cool. However, I am happy to learn that a lot of what I loved about Filter has been salvaged and resides just a few blocks away from it's previous location. The coffee was just as good as I remember, the music was just as hip, I'm pretty sure all the lamps and furniture were exactly the same, and it still had that open/brick exposed kind of feel to it. The customers have changed a bit, just like the neighborhood. Instead of being starving artists drawing away in their sketch pads, they are richer artists that were typing away on their new Macs. I could happily sit here for hours reading, sipping my beverage, and eating any of the delicious looking options on their menu. I saw people having small group conversations, couple's eating brunch, and students studying their hearts out. I will definitely be back to support the return of Filter.
(4)
Kristen F.

I like this Filter way more than the other Filter. The space here is pretty gorgeous. I often feel as if I am in my Grandmother's living room with fifty people I don't know, like a really quiet tea party or something. Seating can be hard to find during peak days/hours. I tend to sneak into Filter early or on a Friday/Saturday night around 6. I've never had any trouble getting my favorite huge red chair in the very back of the room. Of course there was this one time that some girl and I almost came to blows over it, but I scared her off by ignoring her. The food here is pretty great. I do think the Hummus I had might have been on the vere of being bad, but the vegetables that came with it were amazing. My tuna melt I had on another day was HUGE. I mean.. HUGE. I couldn't even eat the fries I got with it. Mac and cheese on one day wasn't as good as Mac and Cheese on another day, it can be very hit or miss and sometimes so hot it burns the roof of your mouth. Ouch! The turkey burger=fantastic. Well cooked, just the right amount of cheese and you can't go wrong with their sweet potato fries. WHy four stars? 1. The coffee prices are astronomical and they do not offer a bottomless cup. I mean I would pay FIVE dollars for a bottomless cup (despite the fact that it is only around three in my neck of the woods) but Filter is smart and does not offer one, or maybe they are jerks for not offering one. Who knows? But it turns me off for some reason. 2. WiFi cards. I understand that they need to have a way to protect their WiFi, but only two hours?? At least make it 24 or 6 or something. Granted, it keeps me from hanging out on the internet instead of doing work, but .. man.. Still, I'll come back.In fact a few hours from posting this review I'll be there. How can I resist that huge red chair?
(4)
Ellen F.

I am pleased that Filter, after quite the hiatus, has returned to Wicker Park! In the past two-ish years since they were cornered out by B of A, the WP has been without a decent coffee shop. Places to get coffee, of course, but nowhere to sit around for a couple of hours. My only disappointment with the new place is the lack of Deluxe Grilled Cheese and Bubble Tea on the menu. The addition of those two items would warrant a 5th star, as they were my favorite things on the menu at the old Filter. I had the Thanksgiving Wrap, which is different than the old one, but still good. The sweet potato fries are just as delicious. Aside from a slightly different menu, the new Filter feels much like old one: vintage couches, tables for two & four, hipsters & yuppies, soft light & low music. Welcome home, Filter. P.S. I always thought it was lame that Filter charged so much for Wi-Fi. Now, I think it's lame that they charge anything at all for Wi-Fi. Super lame, actually. And cheap.
(4)
Kim C.

Really, all you can ask for in a coffee shop. A whole loft filled with seating. A variety of seats, too, so if you're ADD like I am you can switch seats 3 times. Which I did, from a couch to a chair to a table. Why is it that the seat formerly occupied by whoever just left always seems infinitely more appealing than then one I'm sitting in? Go figure. +Good coffee: I had a latte, then regular coffee (which the girl gave me for the refill price of 77 cents!) +Music at reasonable volumes (hate it when coffee shops blast at club volumes) +Fun bathrooms--you get to write on the wall with chalk. +Free wifi (2 hours with purchase) +Plentiful outlets!!! +Late closing hours (11pm) Only complaints would be: dark, kind of cold, super packed. Bottom-line: I took off my shoes and holed up here for a good 3 hours. Hello, new mobile office!
(4)
lola d.

Filter is back, woohoo! Friendly staff, great food, and tasty coffee keep me coming back for more. I highly recommend the Hipster Hash: potatoes smothered in cheese, onions, and bell peppers topped with eggs and a side of toast. Yummy! It's also a great place for studying, socializing, chowing, and just plain hanging. Space is tight, so if you don't like people, stay away.
(5)
Sarah W.

I'm impressed- and its super close to where I live. Score. I never made it to the "other" Filter, so I had no expectations or anything going in, but this is a pretty solid space. It is bigger and more packed than other Chicago coffee shops around, but I've at least managed to find a spot to myself the two times I've been there (until a couple who was getting a divorce came and sat across from me last time and proceeded to fight about their relationship almost the whole time I was there). The furniture is a ragtag assortment of cozy living room couches, tables and chairs, so you have some say over the type of seating that sounds most appealing to you right then. Of the cafes in close walking distance to my place, Filter is possibly the most functional spot for me to choose. It doesn't have inconsistent internet connection (Just Indulge, Gallery Cafe), they allow you to plug in (Lovely), and its aesthetically pleasing and not weirdly quiet (Alliance). The WIFI cards are lame, because I find myself uncertainly checking the time countdown from 2 hours, but I'll deal. I thought prices were reasonable for cafes around these parts, and I'm psyched to try the food on a future visit. Summer lazy cafe times ahead..
(4)
Sophia T.

honestly loved it back in the day on the death corner. the lemonade is tasty enough. there's something too sterile about this new location i've frequented many times. happy to see some vegan items but seems overpriced. maybe i've been away from the city too long and have become much cheaper in my old age.
(3)
Madeline S.

Filter has got to be one of the best coffee shops in Chicago...and for that I'm so glad they are back. It's turned into the new study spot for what seems like all of Chicago's beaming creative-thinkers, so expect it to be crowded 90% of the time. Don't mind the crowd though, there are probably 60 couches and 30 tables in here, you'll find a spot eventually! Once snuggled in, you'll feel right at home and get lots of work done. And the coffee is fantastic. Oh and you don't have to pay for wi-fi per se. You have to be a customer...buy a flippin' cup of coffee, support the place, and you get internet. Not a big deal!
(4)
Georgia M.

I absolutely LOVE this cafe. A couple friends brought me here the other day and I went back two more times within the next week. My cappuccino was wonderful. My spicy chicken wrap was delicious, albeit slightly hard to eat without it falling apart. The couches are comfy, the music is nice but not too pretentious, and the people that come here are so freaking attractive. Beware, you'll get distracted from your work. A+ for this cafe in the heart of Wicker Park.
(5)
h h.

I like this place, but I really prefer to get my coffee elsewhere. I won't say where though. (its located on western ave) There are a few things I really like on the menu. 1. The sweet potato fries 2. The chicken quesdillas (sp) 3. Rice Krispie Treats- Have you ever had one of those rice krispies with the bottoms of them all soggy? gross. WARNING : Let me warn you though. There are a lot of people who wear interesting eyeglasses here, and weird funky clothing. They roll up their jeans, and have hair that looks like it was done by El Nino or Katrina. No not Katrina...that sexy old lady on 59th and Harlem but the actual hurricane. There are also a disproportionate amount of people who carry high end digital cameras. This could explain the abundance of mediocre art and photography coming out of Chicago. While I'm at it, they also probably get around using fixed gear bikes. Let me get this straight...a fixed gear is a bike without brakes? okayyyyyyy. makes sense. Oh and one more thing!! (ha ha!) That t-shirt company you are going to start is a bad bad idea.
(4)
Calnen E.

I love this place. The food is good, the staff are so nice and it's family friendly. I have a toddler and am always looking for somewhere to go when it's too hot out. Unfortunately, a lot of coffee shops don't have the space to accommodate an, um, active family. Luckily for us, the owners of Filter have a three year old and understand a parent's need for coffee/escape and a kid's need to move around. They even welcome a mom's meetup group in the back area. Plus the coffee and treats are great AND they offer a kids menu.
(5)
Mari K.

There's a style code here: dark, thick-rimmed glasses skinny jeans dark hoodie short hair style if you're a girl "I haven't showered in days look" for a guy There's a tech code here: Macs only We ordered the sweet potato fries here... not that great, but the sauce is tasty. Plenty of tables, couches, lamps, outlets, unique canvas art, exposed brick and pipes to make for a cozy evening. Staring into your Mac. Or someone else's.
(3)
Kath D.

The Good: Stopped by yesterday to check the new place out, and it's beautiful. The interior is really warm & welcoming, and there is an abundance of seating, arranged to be good for loners and groups alike. Very comfortable, I am sure the place will be packed to the gills all the time. The Bad: Ordered a large chai with soy milk. Price on the board for large chai: $4.25. Price I paid for this drink: $5.30. Are you freakin kidding me? I have issues with the whole "let's charge for soy milk but not for dairy milk" thing to begin with, but when it means more than a whole extra dollar on the price of my drink, I'm not coming back. Additionally, the not-free WiFi meant I couldn't use my phone for texting, calls, anything while inside because the signal was blocked. New Wave is closer to my house, and they don't charge ANYTHING extra for soy milk OR WiFi. No need and no reason to go out of the way to go to Filter.
(2)
Kat T.

I liked this place only because there are so many...plugs and tables. Great place to do work. Coffee did taste slightly burnt. But I also don't really drink coffee. I love their spicy chicken wrap and sweet potato fries.
(4)
Dave R.

The space here feels like a 4 star, and perhaps I will bump them up if I go again and they get my order right. They seem to be newly reopened, so maybe they are still learning the ropes. But this time three times was not the charm... I ordered the Hipster Hash, for the record that is three eggs over hash browns with tomatoes, green peppers, salsa and cheese (but I ordered mine without cheese). Sounded like just what my hangover needed (other than a nip of the dog). So my order comes out, and its hash browns with cheese. I dig around a little to check it maybe all the other stuff is just really small. Nope, just potatoes and cheese (which I ordered it without). Next I grab the menu to make sure I got it right, yup all that stuff is supposed to be in there. So I take the plate back and nicely ask if got the wrong order. It takes a couple people, but finally someone checks my ticket. It definitely says "Hipster Hash, no cheese". No problem, they will recook it. Glancing back into the kitchen I see the chef throw down some more potatoes next to some green peppers and onions. So I'm thinking things are good and head back to my table to enjoy my smoothie (which is way good, I'll describe later). A couple minutes later someone drops me off a plate, of hash browns without cheese. Unfortunately its also without the eggs, tomatoes, green peppers, or salsa. Its just hash browns. So I walk back up and and ask again about my hipster hash. This time the person behind the counter pulls out the menu and looks up hipster hash. "Oh, yeah that isn't right is it.". He goes to the window and shows the chef the description of Hipster Hash on the menu and says "it has huevos". I try to be helpful by saying "y tomates, chiles, y salsa", but I don't think they can hear me. I head back to my table, and a few minutes my plate arrives. Nope, they didn't hear me. This time I get the hash browns, and some toast, but no tomatoes, no peppers, no salsa. Sigh, I'm too hungry to go back again. I ate my food (which is good, but would be better with the veggies) and headed on my way. As i mentioned earlier, I do like the space. And the strawberry/banana/blueberry smoothie was great (all fruit). And I like the water setup, but I got the feeling that they don't really know there menu. They just opened so that will hopefully change, because I really do feel the place should be a 4 star. Oh, on the wifi front. They will give you a card hat gives you a free 60 minutes. So in theory there is some free wifi, but I couldn't get a connection (signal was weak) and only 60 minutes isn't what you expect from a coffee shop these days.
(2)
Javier O.

The coffee was great and if you can get over the initial shock of looking to the right and seeing a packed room of people being extremely quiet, you'll love this place. Although is is usually very full, they have just about as many seats as they could pack in the place.
(4)
Dawm L.

Filter is a very spacious cafe with lots of comfortable seating and a good ambiance. Unfortunately, I found their food to be somewhat sub-par; I've had better for the same price at many other cafes. The dressing on the greek salad was a bit too watery and oddly sweet. I also tried the bean burger, which was middling. On a more positive note, I found their pineapple smoothie to be excellent. All together a good place to stop for a drink and read a book, but I'd go elsewhere for a meal.
(3)
Malcolm L.

Time Out magazine has seen fit to snub Filter. Yes, that journalistic bastion of studied snarkiness and insipid, self-involved interviews has decided that Wicker Park's beloved coffee shop is beneath it. Yet one look around at the gads of people lounging around on the vintage furniture there, sipping java, studying, reading, chatting and typing, tells you that Time Out must have missed something, for Filter is extremely popular with the people of Wicker Park - unless of course there is something wrong with the people of Wicker Park. Which, surprisingly, is the conclusion Time Out has come to. They have decided that the folks hanging out at Filter are largely frauds, not there for laptopping and studying so much as for checking each other out. Because, as you know, Wicker Park is a hotbed for that particular breed of self-absorbed phonies known as hipsters, and Filter is (gasp!) hipster central. Please. Time Out's sophomoric reduction of our neighborhood and its people to a despised high school clique says more about the juvenile mindset of its writers than about the character of our neighborhood or the appeal of its favorite coffee shop, which, after a three year absence, has been gratefully welcomed back for all the things that other coffee shops in the area never quite seemed to get. Filter is a gathering place. With its quirky thrift shop furniture, vast central open space, loads of natural light, and laidback, unhurried atmosphere, it says come in and hang out for awhile - and people do. Part study hall, part coffee clutch, part bakery and wireless cafÃ©, Filter appeals to a wide cross section of people and never, ever communicates a confiscatory urge to turn over seats. At the risk of drawing a few deadbeats, it maintains a vibrant atmosphere not unlike the concourse of a sports stadium between innings, a place to run into people you know, a place to get a quick refreshment, a place to hang out for awhile in between the drama of every day life. What, one might ask, could be wrong with that? Plenty, according to Time Out. Filter is all phoniness all the time, say they. Even the furniture is "not so much vintage as very old". And the space is "not so much designed as aggressively littered". A truly authentic space would apparently have pricey vintage furniture selected by an interior designer and arranged just so. Such an "authentic" space would also presumably cost far more and keep out the riff-raff. It would be a place where cool people with deep pockets could hang out, nosh on $15 omelets and have snarky conversations without ever checking each other out. No phoniness there, eh. I'll take Filter. Sure the furniture is more clever than comfortable, the room can get noisy and crowded, and the food is merely good, not sensational, but it feels genuine to me, it feels like my neighborhood, and if that makes me part of a vast clique of hipster phonies, so be it. On the other hand, I don't view entire urban neighborhoods as high school cliques. Call me grown up.
(4)
Justin K.

Filter is a great place to relax, study, and have a reasonably priced cup of coffee while you do that. Nice big, open area to sit in. The high ceilings help manage any noise that might be around. Overall a very nice coffee shop that is locally owned.
(5)
luis a.

RRrrrrrrrr i am very piss about paying for WI-FI. Why would people even come here?OOhh wait its wicker park thats why. Some many other options out there with FREE WI-FI. They also dont have a bottom-less coffee.
(1)
Bernie H.

Anything less than 5 stars for Filter is a crime. The drinks have been universally excellent. I'm not much of a coffee drinker, it should be noted, but I love their variety of tea and fruit/veggie drinks. But what separates Filter from the pack is the food and the space. Again, it's all about variety. A menu that has unique creations and is very veggie-friendly. And the space is huge -- with plenty of tables and couches. And bigger tables that (a sign politely points out) are reserved for parties of two This isn't a place for random socializing. People here are working. Certainly friends are having conversations on the couches, but it's a productive vibe going on -- which, as far as I'm concerned, is great. And especially love their new incarnation -- it's a bit less crowded and a lot less smoky. It feels a little less hipster too, in a good way. We've met the owners a couple of times -- and they are incredibly responsive and solicitous of suggestions. Parking is a general Wicker Park issue -- but this place makes me what to bike more anyway :) Long live the best sweet potato fries on earth!
(5)
Taylor W.

Slowest Internet I've ever used. Frustrating unless you're just coming to drink coffee.
(2)
Cris M.

Coming from SF (the land of free wi-fi and ubiquitous internet cafes), Filter was just what I needed. Convenient to the Blue Line, good space & music, reliable wi-fi with purchase, and plentiful outlets. I'm not sure why some reviewers are complaining about paying for the internet. If you purchase something, you get a code on a card good for 2 hours. And the staff is cool about handing out additional cards if needed. I wouldn't consider that "paying" for internet, since it is common practice make purchases when you are working on "free" wi-fi anyway... unless you are a slouch. I'll definitely be back here next time I am in town.
(5)
Jason F.

Maybe it was over-hyped, I don't know, but I just wasn't impressed with this place. It was overly crowded, the coffee didn't blow my mind, and if one were to take a picture of the patrons and show it to the corporate people at urban outfitters they would all say "Excellent" while tenting their fingers under their chins. On the up side there is no min charge to use a credit card. I'm also sure that if you get there early enough you can get a spot to sit and people watch. But honestly who would want to watch a bunch of people with dissociative disorder (people that pay money to look poor...see Zoolander Derelict!!!!) and more importantly listen to them talk about something like how terrible the last Jim Jarmusch movie was because one of the characters was happy or laughed or did something that wasn't depressing. Damn I am one bitter mo'fo And the search for a good coffee shop continues....
(2)
Patrick W.

IT'S BACK- AND WITH FREE WIFI! Dear Yelp Friends, If there was an optional 6th star on the rating scale, I would have selected 6, or 7, or 8. 5 stars simply cannot rate such an awesome coffee place. Filter 2.0 is larger than the first. There are more tables and plenty of power outlets for the non netbook users. The decor is great and the music is top notch. Whether it is seasonal, or here forever, Try the Ethiopian blend. Its delicious! Also, they DO have FREE wifi. You will recieve a 2 hour wifi code with a purchase.
(5)
Steph M.

So, I'd been telling my boyfriend for months about this amazing coffee shop full of comfy old couches, and lamenting the fact that it didn't exist anymore, and someone should open up something like it again, and I have no reason to trek over to Wicker Park anymore except for Myopic Books . . . Yesterday as we were trudging through the dirty snow with all our Christmas shopping, heading to Myopic and direly in need of a cup of coffee, I saw a vision--a new Filter, across the street from us! I ran towards it, a chorus of angels singing "Hallelujah," the traffic on Milwaukee miraculously disappearing momentarily . . . and was pleased to find a similarly cozy (but huge) space full of comfy chairs and plenty of people-watching. Only problem is that the latte wasn't as delicious as I remembered and the desserts were more expensive than I expected. But . . . it's still a great space, and the baristas are really friendly. Yay, Filter!
(4)
Jason B.

Cozy yet spacious. This is my favorite coffee shop in Chicago. Lot's of comfortable and unique places to sit. I notice something new every time I go.
(5)
Leilani W.

Wicker Park's living room is back! After waiting for 2 1/2 years, my favorite coffee shop is even better in this new incarnation. When I moved here from LA in 2007, I spent many a night downing lattes and reading in Filter's cozy chairs, but it was a short 2 month fling as it closed to make way for the bank. Since then I'd been combing the city for a replacement--a cafe that served good coffee, had a food menu that extended beyond bagels, created an inviting space with cozy chairs, and above all opened early and stayed open late (11!) sadly nothing filled the void, many a cafe would satisfy one qualification but not all. Then last summer there was murmurings of a new Filter, dare I hope? But then the opening date was pushed back and back, from the end of summer to October then finally the beginning of January--but still nothing. It was like the boy who cried wolf until I heard the grand opening was today and their voice message confirmed this fact. All the eclectic vintage furniture is back, the walls are exposed brick, the front room is flooded with sunlight from the large street windows. The full menu is already available including those famous sweet potato fries. For breakfast there's hash browns, pancakes, egg sandwiches and wraps. Lunch includes soup, sandwiches and wraps and a wide range of wraps. Of course there's a full range of coffee drinks and now smoothies too. Filter, it's good to have you back.
(5)
Candace C.

After a long and sad hiatus, Filter is finally back! I stopped in today, the first day at the new location, and was excited to see that some of the staples that had made Filter such a charmer before were back in action. The sweet potato fries, loose tea and hipster hash are still on the menu. Ditto for the comfy couches, which have actually seemed to triple to fill the new location (much bigger than the 6 corner spot). It was pretty early in the afternoon when I stopped by so the super-friendly owners were around getting everything together in working order. I was told a community bulletin board will be back on the walls in the very near future and art will be on the walls in the next few days. it may not be the old spot, which will always have a place in my heart, but it's nice to see it back on the block.
(5)
Gustavo L.

I've fallen in love with this place. The combination of exposed brick wall, random lamps, free wifi and distance to home makes this one of my favorite places in Chicago. Only if they could learn to serve a straw with my carrot juice. : )
(4)
Nani M.

I am definitely a fan of Filter. This no-nonsense, relaxed, welcoming atmosphere is the perfect venue to catch up on work before the week gets started or grab a quick bite to eat. On top of that, the staff has been so friendly each time I'm there. A++ for bringing a great coffee shop to the Bucktown/Wicker Park area!
(4)
Sonia L.

This is fun. Even though, I am not "cool" enough to be a hipster, I love watching them. I came here to do some HW. The place is super fun, with pretty cool couches, and a really badass ambiance. I got a decaf iced coffee. This is my first time in my life that I had a decaf iced coffee anywhere, and it was terrible. Not because I got it from here probably, but I am guessing it's just a bad thing to drink anywhere? I won't hold it against Filter. The only bad thing is the lighting. I could barely see my books. Not fun. Also, the hipsters get kind of annoying after a couple of hours of it. But if you are annoyed with hipsters generally speaking, just don't come here. Actually, just get out of Wicker Park then. The music is a great volume (not too loud like Sip) and also, there are outlets everywhere! It's wonderful for us laptop users! Yay for Filter.
(4)
Neil C.

I've heard a lot of hype surrounding filter, and kind of wanted to check it out. Sadly when I first moved to Chicago it was replaced by an overlarge waste of space that is Bank of America. I finally got a chance to check it out and it more than met expectations it exceeded them. First of all for a Chicago coffee house its very large, I felt like I was entering this crazy cavernous society of bohemians. The atmosphere is spot on what a coffee house should be, tons of sofas, wi-fi, laid back but not too quiet (so many here in Chicago are like study halls for students). It seems like a good place where you can either hang out with friends or sit back and read a good book. The coffee was pretty good, as was the chips and salsa that I ordered as a snack. There are a few flaws, despite the awesome atmosphere, this place is a little too crowded, maybe its because its opened and because of its reputation, but it could stand to use more space believe it or not. Finally its open pretty late, but it would be incredible if it was open a bit later. Other than those nit picks, this is one of the best coffee houses in Chicago.
(5)
Christopher R.

Why does this place only have 3 stars on yelp (at least as of time of writing)?? Has the Yelp ad salesman visited Filter and not gotten anything in return? All things considered, this place is honestly the greatest coffeehouse I have ever been to. The staff is always friendly, coffee is good, and the atmosphere is award winning. There are things I'd improve (like offering a burger that cost a cow its life...they only have turkey burgers), but that doesn't change the fact that this place is awesome as-is.
(5)
Krsna V.

Not a pleasant experience. The staff were dumb and rude, to say the least. How hard is it to get an order of ice latte right?? It took them 30 minute for a sandwich that you put together on a table in 2 minutes. The staff act like you are privileged to receive their service...gimme a break! Too much attitude, mediocre food, and a bad ice latte. I am never going back. The one star is for couches and people watching.
(1)
Derek M.

As good as it gets! I missed this place tremendously after the corner location on Milwaukee and North Ave. became a B of A. But now that it's back, it's better than ever and my only complaint is that it took me too long to get back to Filter in their new space! The food here is better than anything you'll get in Chicago for lunch. The price is perfect and the food is delicious, original and authentic. If you ever have a day when you're feeling a bit lonely and you're just bummin' around town, grab a good book and head in here. It's a great spot to put your feet up for an hour or two while you read a book or surf the net. But you'll be making a big mistake if you don't order food while you're here too. You can't go wrong with the food here. Good music plays at the perfect volume in the background too. The employees are welcoming and seem genuinely happy to have your business. I reserve 5 stars for places like this. Incredibly original. There's no other place like it. So get in there already!
(5)
Jane Y.

This place is super nice and kinda funky. I love it. only its a bit too far for me. I had one of the salads. and MAYNN do they know how to make a salad. soooo delishhh. its a bit pricey and wayyyy too crowded. but its really nice atmosphere. Service is fairly quick.
(4)
Stan W.

Great sandwiches at good prices, great atmosphere, good service. Too many hipsters. (don't deny it!) Guess I can't fault them for that.
(4)
Justin H.

I miss the days when filter was in the Flatiron Arts building at North/Milwaukee/Damen... but an afternoon stroll down Milwaukee Ave. made me a very very happy man! Filter is back! I'm not sure weather I like the new location as much as the old for its location and atmosphere but it is one thing, Just as delicious as before! The sandwiches are great, the flat breads even better and the Brown Monkey (I think that is the name of it) is a coffee drink of Espresso proportions! Grab an internet code, Grab a bite to eat and a bubble tea and have yourself the most relaxing lunch in town. The bubbles they have are so unique and awesome they cannot be described! Trust me this is Filter at its best!
(5)
Mookie L.

I 've started to frequent various coffee shops and happened to stumble upon this one by accident. I was to meet a friend at Wormhole down the street but apparently it is under construction but happened to see people sitting in front of the window at filter when I passed by - thought, I'll stop by another day to check it out. In any case, walked in and the rest was history. The high ceilings, the great layout, ample seating (couches, chairs, desks, etc) and the wide variety of beverages and food. The only downside is its only 2 hr free internet but I get it, its so comfy that people would probably just end up staying all day and night. My new favorite coffee shop in the city.
(5)
Raana A.

Love Filter! I was so happy when it reopened. I actually like the new location better close to Division on Milwaukee rather than the 6-corners location towards North Avenue. Seating and layout is great, the other location seemed pretty loud when it was full. Despite all the vintage sofas and tables and their plentiful outlets, this place still seems to get pack on weekday afternoons and weekends. My favorite time to come in is during the morning when its not as busy. Although their pastry selection looks appealing, not sure if it's all made in house. I usually go for whatever they cook up in the kitchen (omelets, flat breads, sandwiches and the not to be missed sweet potato fries with horseradish dipping sauce). They also have some really good tea!
(4)
Amy J.

It is almost impossible to study here after the sun goes down as it gets extremely dark on the inside. The impractical lighting leaves something to be desired and it feels pretty cave-like in the back of the cafe. I also think there should be fewer couches and more tables. This would this create more seating, a valuable thing on a day such as today when the place was overflowing. I was getting stared at pretty hard by someone wanting my spot until I finally packed it in and left. That being said, I do appreciate Filter's return to the neighborhood and look forward to spending more time here, perhaps during the off hours. I miss the old windows that let in a lot more sunlight.
(3)
Andrea W.

Love the food, love the desserts, love the atmosphere. I recommend trying the breakfast wrap and the curried chicken salad (yum!). The (normal) french fries here seriously pwn me. They are amazing, srsly. Yes, it can take a little while to get your food. Yes, there is a 2-hour limit on the wifi. Honestly, I've only used their wifi a few times and when the 2 hours are up, I know I've been there too damn long. (Filter is not a living room, people.) And yes, the wifi IS free with purchase of ANYTHING. Just ask the cashier for a passcode card when you pay for your stuff.
(4)
James B.

Just ate the best salad Ive ever had. The filter salad... mixed greens, thin slices of cabbage, small tomatos, goat cheese, dates, red peppers, almonds and avocado with a honey vinergerette dressing.
(5)
Jan E.

This is the kind of place you could hang out all day. Comfortable. Yummy coffee and food. Good meeting spot in interesting neighborhood.
(4)
Joel T.

Filter (despite sharing a name with a mediocre band) provides an impressively large coffeehouse with an urban but not over-the-top atmosphere. They seem to focus on offering a large food menu and serving as a meal place as much as a coffeeshop/workstation/lounge. This place definitely deserves its favored status.
(4)
Shannon M.

I friend of mine was coming into town and suggested this place for us to meet up at. I will admit that I've never hung out in Wicker Park because I wasn't in Chicago when the area became cool (I remember it being sketchy) but he was and wanted to introduce me to it via one my favorite place: (independent) coffeehouses. I immediately liked this place as soon as I walked in. It reminded me a lot of a place I used to work - large space, lots of couches and tables, art on the walls, great vibe. I felt at home. It was really crowded with people on laptops and such, but I was easily able to grab a couch. My soy vanilla latte was really tasty (don't remember if my friend liked what he got) but the nachos were nothing to write home about (just some plain chips with a cup of salsa). It was a great place to chill out and catch up with a friend. I would like to thank my friend for introducing me to both Wicker Park and, more specifically, for Filter. I will be back to explore the area in the warm weather and will be back there to caffeinated.
(4)
Amanda W.

The coffee is pretty good. They have a lot of space and a decent number of outlets. They serve food so I love to come here to work when I'm hungry! They're ginger peach tea is delicious especially when paired with the almond scone. They also serve sandwiches, wraps, burgers, salads, mac and cheese, breakfast, etc. I'm a huge fan. You also get 2 hours of wi-fi with your purchase.
(4)
John S.

So happy Filter is back. The full kitchen, comfy sofas, good music, and late hours made it the gold standard for my hangout places. Whoops--and just as I 'm typing up a rave review of the new space, I'm reminded of my one peeve: the more-than-occasional 'we're closing early' announcements. By the guy coming by to tell me they're closing early. Bad timing, dude. So tempting to give them one star just to get someone's attention--it really does piss me off when they do that. Intellectual honesty limits me to docking a star. But seriously, cut it out, guys. OK... back at home, and continuing: the couches are as comfy as before, if a little less ratty--the place is better lit, so I guess they had to adjust. I like that because my ass is bony... no hard seats in my house. It has a less urban/rough-edged feel: more airy, open, better lit... the art and music choices seem less edgy too, but maybe that's just the night I showed up. The menu is close to what I remember: the bubble tea is yummy, the sweet potato fries are as good as before (better than mine at home). The old mushy black bean burgers are gone, replaced with patties, which isn't quite as good, but still ok. The bun wasn't as good either, but not a big deal. The pesto chicken breast sandwiches are gone too... those were tasty. I'll have to explore the new menu more.
(4)
Martin H.

Filter is back! Filter is filled with hipsters and macs...and a few pc's. The atmosphere is fantastic! Its got tons of seating with tables and comfy couches. Very warm feeling to everything with cool art on the walls. The coffee is great! The service is fast and friendly. Haven't tried the food yet. They play good music although I'm usually listening to my own music while there. Only downside is the wireless is by key and hourly. So every hour you have to get a new card. Still worth it though! I'll be coming here regularly, just wish I lived closer.
(5)
Jean G.

Now, I haven't tried everything on the menu, or even most things. I mostly just get a cup of coffee or an italian soda (they have peach flavor which is really exciting) and what I've had to eat has been reasonably priced and delicious but this time it's not why I'm writing a review. I don't really care about anything but the coffee in a cafe, to me the most important things are the environment itself and the people who work there. The people who work at Filter are super nice, always remember me and are pretty rad and never have an attitude problem. (A coffee shop where the baristas don't have an attitude problem is kind of hard to find in this neighborhood...) Sure the music CAN get annoying but is usually fine. If you wanna complain about it bring headphones, I mean it IS a cafe run by somewhat young hipster-ish whipper snappers, there is bound to be a song that you don't like. It is large and spacious but often crowded. Be prepared to have to suck it up and sit on the couch with your laptop or book or whatever if all the tables are taken. The bathrooms are fantastic and clean and large and lit perfectly and I usually never describe bathrooms as entertaining but there are blackboards on the walls and you are provided chalk. I feel like that's worth a star alone. Sometimes I'm sure they think I've fell in, given the time I can take looking at what other people have written, chiming in, and/or writing or drawing something new. Anyway, I love you Filter and everyone who works there. You are my new spot.
(5)
Jimmy H.

How many hipsters can you fit in a trendy anti-establishment coffee shop? At least 100, if Filter's got anything to say about it. This place is a huge coffee house/lounge, not too far from the heart of Wicker Park, filled with tables, couches, and power outlets galore. Expect to find this place full of skinny jeans and Macbook Pros at any time of day. During peak hours, you'll be lucky to find a spot for your ass to sit down. Medium coffee is an even $2.00, with refills for just about a buck. The food selection is extensive as well. Most people rave about the sweet potato fries with chipotle mayo, but I'm more partial to their mac & cheese. They also offer sandwiches, wraps, salads, flatbread, and breakfast all day if you find coffee isn't enough to sustain you through a marathon study session. The only downsides? Too dimly lit at night, too busy, and too many damn med students hogging the tables by the windows...
(4)
Flynn J.

Unique, great space, friendly staff, no hassle, decent music (just my opinion). Highly recommend
(5)
Kristin V.

I couldn't be happier!!!! I have been wishing on the falling stars, pulling out my teeth and putting them under my pillow, and lighting candles on all sorts of cakes wishing for an indy coffee shop in the neighborhood, with some atmosphere other than the college study room/cafeteria that is Alliance... SO PLEASED with the sandwiches and drinks, and the atmosphere. Please o please support this gem. YAYYYYYYYYYYYY!!!!!!!!!!
(4)
rhea w.

If I was Jane Goodall, and I wanted to study Wicker Park, I'd just post up in Filter and start recording it's customers. Welcome back Filter! Once again hipsters, students, people practicing conversational level foreign language, and random viejos all together. I was there the other night, with a friend. We sat on a couch, enjoyed delicious drinks, and more delicious conversation, all the while enjoying a comfortable, active, aesthetically pleasing environment. A guy I once dated was there, on his laptop. I didn't notice him, because he blended in so well with all the other laptop users. It was nice to see him. But sort of strange, as he lives in Bronzeville. Which clearly means that he is either stalking me ( kidding!), or LOVES Filter so much that he commuted to spend time here. I get that. He gets that, and so should you. Uhm...also, they have actually good food.
(3)
Anna E.

I pledge allegiance to this shop, and not to the Bank of America. And to the artwork, Under which it stands, One community, in Wicker Park, Indivisible, with Creativity and Non-conformity for all. I fully agree that this place can be a bit full of themselves, but you can't get much better people watching than this. I was at a women's reading and the guy next to me (who was clearly on a mind-altering substance) took off his shoe and started smelling his foot. I don't think you can get that at the Man across the street. I'll miss you.
(4)
Andrea G.

Discretely hidden behind a single door on a busy road, but when you walk inside it is massive. However, with the comfy eclectic mix of old couches you immediately feel at home in this warehouse of a space. It's very easy to spend hours writing and surfing the net here - so bring your laptop or a book! I had a pretty simple sandwich and long black coffee - both were delightful and great value. My only complaint... the staff lacked that special touch of service with a smile. But, I guess that is the hipster norm these days. "My life is so hard, Daddy won't by me a condo so I have to work for it!"
(4)
Grrlscoutgoneba D.

FILTER has returned! As soon as I stepped in the door and gazed across the room filled with fimilar old furniture I felt like I was home again. Welcome back filter. Oh how I missed you so. People watching just inst the same in other coffee houses. I ordered and Americano and breakfest sandwich today and they were both spot on. The food was actually better than I remeber it being .
(5)

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Address : 1373-75 N Milwaukee Ave
Chicago, IL, 60642
Phone (773) 904-7819
Click To Get Directions

Opening Hours

Mon :7:00 am - 10:00pm
Mon : 7:00 am - 10:00pm

Specialities

Takes Reservations : No
Delivery : No
Take-out : Yes
Accepts Credit Cards : No
Good For : Breakfast
Parking : Street
Bike Parking : Yes
Wheelchair Accessible : Yes
Good for Kids : Yes
Good for Groups : Yes
Attire : Casual
Noise Level : Average
Alcohol : No
Outdoor Seating : No
Wi-Fi : Free
Has TV : No
Waiter Service : No
Caters : No

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Filter Cafe

1373-75 N Milwaukee Ave, Chicago, IL, 60642

Filter Cafe Menu

Quick Starters

Fresh Salads And Homemade Soups

Hearth Baked Flat Breads

Hearty Wraps And Sandwiches

Healthy Meal suggestions for Filter Cafe

Quick Starters

Fresh Salads And Homemade Soups

Hearth Baked Flat Breads

Hearty Wraps And Sandwiches

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