Red Eyes Coffee
4164 N Lincoln Ave, Chicago, IL, 60618
Red Eyes Coffee Menu
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Address :
4164 N Lincoln Ave
Chicago, IL, 60618 - Phone (773) 327-9478
- Click To Get Directions
Opening Hours
- Mon :6:00 am - 7:00pm
- Mon : 6:00 am - 7:00pm
Specialities
- Takes Reservations : Yes
Delivery : No
Take-out : Yes
Accepts Credit Cards : Yes
Accepts Bitcoin : No
Good For : Breakfast
Parking : Street
Bike Parking : Yes
Wheelchair Accessible : Yes
Good for Kids : Yes
Good for Groups : Yes
Attire : Casual
Ambience : Casual
Noise Level : Quiet
Alcohol : No
Outdoor Seating : Yes
Wi-Fi : Free
Has TV : No
Dogs Allowed : No
Waiter Service : No
Caters : No
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Heidi D.
Perfect place to study! It usually has a nice quiet atmosphere with free wifi and enough outlets for laptops! Has plenty of tables, chairs, and comfy couches to choose from. It has a nice selection of drinks and the sandwiches are pretty cheap and tastes good! The owners are very nice too.
(4)Matt R.
What a great little coffee shop. In the midst of many coffee shops near Lincoln Square, I really prefer this one. The coffee is good, the atmosphere is cozy and the crescents are some of the best in the city. The baristas are also pretty nice. Make sure not to miss Red Eyes.
(4)L N.
I can always count on Red Eyes whether I'm in need of a good cup of joe, a quick bite, a place to hang out and do some writing or even to hear some live music. This North Center neighborhood favorite offers free wifi, free acoustic folk music on Sunday mornings (featuring local band Bivouac), delicious frozen yogurt desserts and excellent wraps and quiche. Both young and old and everyone in between are welcome here, giving the store a welcoming, friendly vibe that's kept me coming back for nearly 5 years. If you haven't stopped in to give this spot a whirl yet, I ask you, what are you waiting for? When it gets busy and the line to order gets long, don't despair - it's definitely worth the wait. Enjoy!
(5)Jillian D.
i really wanted to like the red eyes. great name - reminds me of a drink they used to serve at my college coffee house of choice great location - for the love of java, it's right around the corner from my house great coffee bean - i love my intelligentsia coffee!! but this is no intelligentsia. the place has a weird layout, and it always feels muggy and humid inside. the staff are friendly enough and mind their own business, but there's just something missing...no ambiance. this isn't an establishment that makes me want to cozy up with a book all day. will i duck in to buy a coffee on route elsewhere? maybe. but more likely not. they do offer free wi-fi...when it's working (the last time i was there, i had work to do and couldn't get a connection).
(2)Tim C.
Popped in here to grab a cup of coffee since I saw it the other day and I was actually able to stop in this time. I just wanted a small cup of coffee, and I thought I would be getting a cup from the single brew stations they have set up (you know the type where they poor the boiling water over your grounds). I received a cup from a premade batch that come out of those plastic contairs with the lids you pump (as in the type they have at hotels and the like). It was fairly warm, and fairly stale. Didn't taste like a good cup of coffee at all, and tasted like cheap crap which isn't the price I payed for. If you like Dunkin Donuts's lame excuse for coffee I would recommend it - but if you prefer something with flavor and body then stay away!
(1)Laura I.
I've gone here a few times and each time I have consistently been given a really tasty drink. While yes, service is a little on the slow side, one must keep in mind it takes time to make specialty coffee drinks (espresso, lattes, etc.). The service has always been very friendly and welcoming. There's a few comfy chairs in the back, along with tables scattered about, yielding to a good "indie" coffee shop feel. They also seem to have a pretty nice selection of quiche, muffins, granola and yogurts.
(3)Sophie G.
I love the Red Eye Cafe. However, I do not use a lap top, nor am I a coffee snob. I just need a plain cup of coffee w/ skim, and some mellow music to get me through my studies.
(4)Katherine G.
The outdoor seating itself is worth five stars. Perfect for a relaxing evening on a nice day. Great iced tea.
(5)Jenn S.
youre always going to get a perfect cup of coffee. and to whoever wrote the review saying theres nothing for vegans to eat...they have apples, oranges, bananas, mangos, cereal and bagels(egg free) ...
(5)Amy M.
Great little place for coffee, sandwiches, ice cream. Yeah, sure sometimes you need a little patience. The owner definitely takes care with all of her preparation - whether it be a latte or a panini. Good coffee...good espresso drinks...great turkey panini. If you order a scone, usually they ask if you want it toasted - I'd say get it toasted because they come out of the refrigerated case and when they're cold...well, then you're eating a cold scone.
(4)Mandee M.
This is one of my favorite little places for a quiche on a weekend and a cup of coffee. They also have live music every once in a while. They have limited outdoor seating in the warmer months, and best of all Free WiFi!
(4)Conrad ..
I've recently discovered that Red Eyes has the best Iced Green Tea that I've ever had. I find myself craving it on a hot day, and I have never craved any sort of iced tea before.
(5)Sarah A.
One of my nearby coffee spots, this is a chill place to grab a brew or a refreshing iced drink in the summer. The fresh lime soda is awesome! The free internet is a plus, I camped out here for two weeks before my internet got installed. As other reviews have mentioned, it's usually one person manning the coffee counter, so if there's a few people in line, be prepared to wait a few extra minutes for your drink or food. But the maple vanilla latte I had this morning was definitely worth the wait. Mm! So if you're looking for a friendly little place to get your caffeine quota for the day, skip the Starbucks and stop in here.
(4)Carolyn S.
This place is great in the morning for coffee and a bite to eat or at night for a little ice cream. Much cheaper than Coldstone down the road and just as good.
(4)deb s.
Nice place, good location- especially out on the way to the grocery store on a lazy weekend. The owner is very nice and they have yummy ice cream, smoothies and a great chai tea. There's also outdoor seating when its nice & thankfully that time is now!
(4)Kate G.
I like coming here to study. Free WIFI, lots of outlets, and sunny windows to watch the world walk by when you get bored. I know the service is slow (minus one star) but this has little affect on someone writing a looooong paper. I had an ok latte and the perfect turkey sandwich (stacked with really fresh veggies and nice soft bread).
(4)Ryan K.
Red Eyes is a great place to get coffee and surf the net. Their organic brews are awesome and will have you doing cartwheels all day. A couple perks include some outdoor seating and free wireless internet, leaving me screaming "Eat me T Mobile Hot Spots!"
(4)Emma M.
Even though Starbucks is only a block away from my apartment I still make my way over to Red Eye Cafe on the weekends. Yes, it is only 3 blocks away, but I'm a fan of supporting local businesses especially laid back cafes that have free wi-fi, a cozy atmosphere/Indie feel, lots of windows, available seating, a wide variety of treats to choose from, and of course all the possible coffee drinks (and more!) The service is always accommodating and friendly. If you're in the area stop by! You can't miss it with the bright red awning on the corner of Berteau and Lincoln ave.
(3)Luther Z.
Nothing special about this place. The coffee is good, the pastries and other items have been hit or miss, and as the other reviews said the service is super slow. I've been to other independent shops, and there's just no excuse for how slow the baristas at Red Eye can be. Its not that they have to make their own shots that make them slower, as much as it is that they just move slowly. I was the only customer once, and it was just slow. Its out of my way, and there are two coffee shops closer to me that are better, fresher, and quicker.
(3)David F.
If you like fresh fruit smoothies, you are in the right place. Last time I was there, I had fresh mango, kiwi and strawberries as options. They also serve soups, salads, and homer's ice cream among other things. There are huge windows for people watching and sunshine.
(4)Kyle G.
I love this place. I think this place is exactly what a coffee shop is supposed to be. The owner/manager is a great lady. The food is awesome. The drinks are delicious. However, I don't really drink just plain coffee so I can't vouch for that.
(5)Frank S.
This is an okay little place. There's nice outside seating off the sidewalk, and free wifi. All the standard fair for a coffee shop. The staff was a little slow with my order, but generally nice. The dcor is pretty simple and new, nothing special. Not a bad place to hang, but it's not going to be an out of the way stop for me.
(3)Bruce B.
I was one of the first to review this place when it opened (2006). Things have changed and for the better. Not only do they have Homer's ice cream but now frozen yogurt. The breakfast sandwiches are great and are "homemade" not that prepackaged crap you get down the street. The WiFi seems to have been upgraded and is really fast and still free! Outdoor seating was added a few years ago. Service can be slow at times but I think worth the wait. I think this place is here to stay. Support the local non-chains.
(4)Mark K.
i don't have red eyes. but red eye cafe accepted me for the color of my eyes anyway (vary according to mood). it's a great place with muffins and slices of goodness to go along with a coffee or tea. i was very comfortable sitting next to the frog band.
(4)T B.
I love this place. Mong is an amazing owner - she makes my favorate Latte in the city! Try the blueberry/bannana bread - I crave it often! I would recommend this place over any other to hang out, listen to open mike, etc...the sandwiches are good as well...I am so glad to live across the steet.
(5)Julie C.
not a big fan of the coffee here, but other than that, i like the place. the food has been very tasty, and i feel like there is a lot to choose from. they have free wifi, but i've never brought my computer. i usually just read in here- either at a table or on one of the sofas. the staff has been very friendly. if it was a little closer to my house i would go there more often and order tea.
(3)Thomas T.
Very simple - rock solid food and coffee. Convenient location. You can't beat it. I'm a sucker for a breakfast sandwich. I got a sausage/egg/cheese bagel and it was HUGE and delicious. Good coffee too. Amazing way to start a day!
(5)Quinn M.
Great place on the corner of my street! Don't go if you're in a rush, though, because it's one woman by herself and can be a little slow. I've never had their food, but I did customize a white chocolate mocha with peppermint and got the largest size (as much espresso as a veinte at SBux) - my usual order there - and it was a dollar and change cheaper.
(4)Daura A.
Super nice spot! They have fresh juices, smoothies. They have all kind of great cakes, cookies and other baking goods, etc. their coffee is really good according to my husband (I don't drink coffee). They have plenty of space to hang out and work / study. They offer free wifi.
(4)Howard L.
We were in the area, and dropped in here for some Intelligentsia coffee. We did not buy anything else on this visit. They have a cozy, comfortable, and inviting setting and I could have been comfortable here for hours (if I had that kind of time to hang here). It would also be hard for me to give less than 4 stars to any place that serves Intelligentsia, as it usually indicates a quality place.
(4)Ride2 C.
It's a cozy place. Really good for children and families, but not the type of place I would go to work every now and then. It's just my personal opinion. The place is good and has plenty of different options to choose from.
(3)Liz A.
I was surprised at how much space is inside this place! I didn't spend much time inside because it was beautiful outside and they have a nice patio area. The older couple that run the place are very kind. I ordered an iced chai, and a black and white cookie. Both items were delicious! The black and white cookie might have been the best one I've had yet. I think I found my new go to coffee shop!
(5)Joseph D.
With so many chain coffee houses out there, it's nice to see a local joint with good coffee, breakfast sandwiches made to order and a place to hang out and read your book without getting hassled by hipsters. Any bad reviews you see on here are probably from people who expect their coffee shop experience to be automated (i.e. corporate) and have forgotten how a real coffee shop works. You shouldn't be in a hurry if you want to go out and enjoy a cup of Joe. Sit back, relax, and wait for your order to be ready. You want drive thru quick? Go to DD.
(4)Erin L.
I've been here a handful of times. When you first walk in, it's not what you expect. It's rather quiet, especially during a winter like this, and it remains almost as quiet in during the summer. I love that about this place. I can study in complete peace without being distracted by loud music, talkative staff, and dishes clinking everywhere you turn. So basically, no one come here or else I won't get any studying done ;) The coffee is good. I've had better. They offer Intelligentsia coffee. I remember one time I can during the Fall, and I tasted their Pumpkin Spiced latte that was burnt. The taste was awful! I told the owner, who is a sweetheart, along with her hubby, and she checked it out and offered me a discount. I've also have had the quiche a few times. It's decent, but it does NOT come with a salad like the menu says. It's almost always any fruit that is within season. One star off for that and slightly on the slow side service. I can't imagine how slow it would be when they're swamped with customers!
(4)Marcelino R.
I was never the type to frequent the same coffee shop on a daily basis, but Red Eyes came along and showed me what I was missing. One day I was looking for a local spot where I could sip a good cup of coffee while get some work done and this was the place. I ordered a plain black coffee and it did not disappoint. The atmosphere was quiet and the décor made it very cozy. As I was about to put on my headphones and fire up the laptop, I couldn't help but nod my head to the awesome, eclectic blend of music that was being played. I was a able to get some quality work done that day, and I now frequent Red Eyes quite often. In addition to the great coffee and cozy environment, they offer some great pastry items and breakfast sandwiches. I have tried a few and have yet to try something that I didn't like. The staff is always friendly, which is a big plus compared to some other coffee shops that hire angry, malnutritioned hipsters who don't know the meaning of customer service. Overall, this a great place to grab a coffee and quick bite, while posting up to get some work done.
(5)Ryan G.
By far the best coffee and pricing I've seen in years, Starbucks,,,you have no clue how to make coffee the right way and charge a customer a good price for it..you guys are way over rated...this place "Red Eyes Cafe on Lincoln ave and Berteau corner has a warm welcome inside, the bathroom is actually a clean respectful bathroom that smells fresh and shows the owner really does care about there customers. The woman that works here noticed that it was my first time and how much I enjoyed a coffee shop for once in my life she wanted to give me the coffee and Apple Danish for free, and I said no thank you, you guys need to make a living as well but thanks so much for the offer and it was so nice of ever to do...that's what counts in this world anymore, is CUSTOMER SERVICE..... They also have a great area for little kids...seating and toys.and they also have a outside seating area,, very comfortable and affordable I say., I would rate them 10 stars if I could...nice job Red Eye Cafe
(5)Cynthia R.
What a sweet 'lil neighborhood jewel I have found here! Cute, unassuming, quiet place, with plenty of delicious food and drink selections. I had a chai tea latte and my other half had some frozen, decadent goodness...I forget the name. We shared a spinach quiche, which was delicious. Service was good, just suuuuuper slow, hence the 4 stars, but this place is a KEEPER!
(4)Ladiek L.
I've been coming to this sweet spot for years now. You can pretty much spend hours at Red Eye, and have all that you need! There's snacks, pastries, breakfast and lunch items, ice cream, fresh squeezed juices, and of course coffee and tea. I also like that the wifi is free, and doesn't require you to jump through a thousand hoops and constantly disconnect. It's family owned, family run, and the vibe is much sweeter than and softer than Starbucks. Occasionally there may be an acoustic guitarist there, or maybe someone singing softly but usually it's a great place to meet your friends or have a business meeting. Plus it's also located to the best Korean food in Chicago, so that's an added bonus!
(5)Jennie C.
Quiet and cozy with interesting collection of books and furniture. It was past my coffee hour so I had a chai tea latte, which was fine if just a tad too sweet. Nice place to hang out and chat with friends.
(3)Merissa L.
I found this place just wandering down Lincoln Avenue and I am glad I did. I love trying new cafes and this one was very pleasant. I enjoyed a turkey sandwich and a latte cappuccino in their outside seating area. Their outside seating is spacious and quiet even being on Lincoln Avenue. If it were chilly, sitting inside would be a treat too. There are comfy chairs left and right and I love the cozy ambience. The sandwich was delicious with fresh veggies and served on a warm toasted baguette and a side of chips. My coffee was what will make me return - I'm pretty picky when it comes to coffee and this barista, who also doubled as the friendly owner, knew how to make a mean cappuccino latte. I only wish I had more room for a fresh juice or some ice cream! I will definitely make my way back here soon!
(4)Edward J.
Pleasant place to hang out before or after feasting on some Korean BBQ. Staff was friendly and hospitable.
(5)Brian C.
Good coffee, kid friendly! Wish there was a place like this by my house! They have ice cream too
(5)Melissa M.
Went for coffee and breakfast. Had a good bagel and cream cheese and a breakfast croissant! Lots of drink options and nice coffee shop atmosphere.
(4)Sarah I.
Be prepared for at least a 7 minute wait from the time you order until your drink is ready. I won't even talk about the wait when there are people in front of you. Good spot for studying or working. Music isn't obnoxious and free wifi. I usually get a latte which is typically above average. Today was the first really warm day after a very long winter so I decided to try a blended drink. BIG MISTAKE. No flavor at all. Extremely watery. I got a blended mocha. I swear an americano is sweeter than the drink I received. I suggest sticking to a regular coffee or a latte.
(3)Brian R.
Place is small and unpretentious. Other reviews say it takes too long to get a latte- go to Starbucks for the automated system. Any good coffee shop will have a bit of a wait for a cup of coffee. Its a great local place with local flair. Most of the bad reviews are from people from the suburbs- once again, clearly the Starbucks type rather than the local indie place. Good prices. Never sit for long for wifi- its not why I go to a coffee shop. Usually with friends for conversation. I wouldnt judge a place if it had wifi- and most quality coffeeshops are doing away with wifi anyhow.
(4)Johnny T.
To begin with, I'm a huge fan of the neighborhood. If I were to have put down real roots in Chicago (wife, kids, house, all that stuff), North Center was a contender. It has its own unique appeal, Brown Line access, quiet, tree-lined streets, grocery, parks, shopping, restaurants, festivals, bars, and Red Eyes Coffee. Yep, I could have been very happy here. But, I got the heck out of dodge. But, before I left, I had the chance to enjoy a pleasant afternoon at REC. A means by which I judge any coffee shop is by their... sweets. Yes, coffee's important but fattys can't live off coffee alone. Give me some sugar (I *am* your neighbor). For research's sake, I ordered the blueberry banana bread and the double chocolate chip cookie. The bread was tremendous. Moist, packed with fruit and complete with a slightly hard (sorta caramelized) crust that I love on breads (banana, pumpkin, zucchini), this was a winner. I only wish I had a bigger piece. Not because the piece I received was small but because I'm a fatty. The cookie, too, was packed with ingredients, thick and nicely-sized. It didn't rewrite the playbook but it brought no shame to the cookie name. I suppose I needed something to wash down my goodies, so I also had the ginger bread chai tea. Now this may have been my sugar overload. Know that the large cups come in those giant coffee mugs that shared top billing on F*R*I*E*N*D*S with La Hair. As I sipped on my cup, sat on my slightly wobbly chair and gazed around at the purposefully mismatched furniture, I had no doubt that someone out there would be there for me when the rain starts to pour. REC has a wonderfully warm, homey vibe that's accentuated by the nice baristas, chill clientele and window on to Lincoln Avenue. I found my Chicago coffee shop home eight years too late.
(4)Fred R.
Amazing place. Been going here for years... tried going to other coffee shops around the area... nothing beats old school+ intelligenstia coffee.. been searching for one near my apt and I even moved closer *lucky!* waiting time takes a while while grandpa or grandma does but.. but its handled w care and quality. A+++ chill spot to study and work..
(5)Russell K.
As far as atmosphere goes. This place can't be beat. It's really cozy and quiet with great music. Great place to get work done or study.
(5)Pat D.
I waiting in line for 15 minutes and was never helped. I turned around and walked out. I will never go back. Im sure the food and coffee is good but I do not plan on spending my day waiting in line.
(1)Roseann M.
Thanks to Groupon Now and a totally piece of sh*t Black & Decker coffee maker I bought THIS YEAR that died two days ago, I went out for breakfast and Coffee, the Elixir of Life, this morning. And I should say "thanks", at least to Groupon, because Red Eyes Coffee is a welcoming, comfortable, reasonably priced coffeehouse that I never before patronized. When I walked in, my first impression was highly favorable. The ordering area and display cases will face you as you enter. To the left is a very comfortable, welcoming seating area with chairs, couches, tables, and free wi-fi. I was going to take my breakfast home with me, but the place looked so inviting, I decided to stay. I'm pretty plain and simple when it comes to coffee. I ordered a 16 oz. coffee of the day. It tasted good. If a place offers decent-tasting basic coffee, I'm all in. I was trying to figure out what kind of breakfast food I wanted. Along with all the usual suspects - muffins, croissants, etc. - they offer vegan varieties. Now that's unusual, and a nice touch! The lady at the counter waited patiently while I scanned the menu that's suspended from the ceiling, and the cases. She suggested a bagel hot breakfast -- egg and bacon on bagel of my choice. Well, I like the idea of Egg McMuffin, but not the way McDonald's makes it. I ordered mine on a whole wheat bagel. Boy, was it big, and delicious, and filling. Two hours later, the waistband on my jeans still feels tight. I will have to eat veggies and fruit the rest of today to make up for it, but I don't mind. Excellent. Red Eyes Coffee was not busy. It should be. Forget the national chains, folks, and patronize a nice, friendly, comfortable neighborhood business. I know I'll be back. You should come, too.
(5)Jill M.
I love it here. My usual hangouts like Beans & Bagels and The Grind were always super-crowded with other fellow fun-employed laptop luggers, so I had to find a new spot where I will always be able to take my laptop along to get some "work" done. The baked goods and their hot cocoa is delicious. I haven't had their coffee yet, but I will try it out at some point on days that I don't take my ADHD medication. The wifi is free, as long as you buy something. Bathroom is home-y looking and very clean. Overall- A great place to go if you need to get away from your house during your job hunt. I do very well with getting stuff done when I am here. They have frozen yogurt during the summer-time too, which I will definitely try.
(5)Leslie G.
If you're looking for a true eclectic coffee house to get work done near North Center, Red Eyes Coffee is a really great spot. There coffee is pretty strong and flavorful. The music is subtle and not overwhelming like some other more trendy coffee shops. The service is always friendly but I wouldn't say super speedy. If your looking for a quick in and out coffee place, I wouldn't recommend Red Eyes. But if you want to mosey in, plug in your laptop and sit in a comfortable 1960s chair with some good coffee for a few hours, this is your place.
(4)Diane G.
Great place to study. Definitely a mom n' pop shop, owned by a lovely Asian family. Love the decor---miscellaneous paintings, random trinkets, accented walls. Very soothing atmosphere with jazz tunes playing in the background. Perfect ambiance for studying/reading. *I really liked my ginger bread chai latte. !!! And at $3.15 for a small, not bad at'all. *Service here is great. Owners are kind, welcoming, and you can tell they're hard-workers. *I wouldn't recommend the baked goods here; I am almost certain that the muffins are from Costco, and the cupcakes are from Molly's. (Sad that I can infer these things, I know.)
(3)James M.
This place is super cozy, convenient, and the coffee is good. It looks like they might have music from time to time as there are some speakers in the back but not sure. It's a quiet Sunday today. Theres art and quaint seating all around. I haven't tried the food but the Far East Drip is a delicious coffee choice. The lady owner was sweet. It seems off that Starbucks down the street has ten times the business. Just sayin'.
(4)Anne M.
Came here for some cold dessert relief after the boiling hot Korean soup I had for dinner across the street. Very cute place - love the ambiance of the place, and the outdoor patio spaces. This would be an ideal coffee shop to spend a lazy morning reading or working on a laptop. My review is based strictly on their ice cream (and high ice cream prices). I got a cone (they had only one cone option - little basic cake cones in a big plastic bin) with overly-soft ice cream. Tasted good, but why was the ice cream so super soft/melty? I hate that! Also, get some nice big waffle cones, or sugar cones, or something more deluxe than a big tupperware filled with a box of store-bought cake cones. You're a fancy coffee shop, you owe that to your customers. My companion ordered a root beer float, with too much foam. I feel like we got hosed. $4.50 for a root beer float? Around $4 for a little cake cone with super melty ice cream? Come on! Loved the look/feel of the place, but they need to either work on upping the ante on their ice cream selection/quality, OR lower their prices accordingly.
(3)Kim L.
This place is quiet and cozy as others have stated, but the slow and spotty internet is a huge problem when actually trying to do work. As others mentioned the man working does not seem to know how to reset the router or care to address the issue. I watched three others leave as well due to the inability to do work.
(2)Matthew G.
Good coffee, cozy.
(4)Michael M.
Quaint, quiet, comfortable, affordable. This little place, run by an adorable and incredibly kind older Vietnamese couple, is the perfect neighborhood shop. The space is sizable and filled with different kinds of chairs, and there's outdoor seating too. Generally pretty quiet and peaceful. Really reasonable prices and a solid menu. Board games and things to keep kids occupied too. I come here to study pretty often, and I always get one of the fresh-fruit smoothies when I do. :)
(5)Katherine R.
I usually come here for a cup of strawberry yogurt with honey oat topping and sit by the window. The place is very pleasant compared to the contempory coffee place. They have a selection of sandwiches and cookies. The outside tables are a content arrangement for privacy and comfort. There is a couch and living room setting that feels to personal and crammy for me but if you have homework or can take a nap in public thats the area to sit in to the way far right inside. To the way far left is the band set up area for musicians to perform. I like the place because its a long stretch from fads and fashion and its quiet.
(3)Jon B.
After standing at the counter for a couple minutes and not being helped, I had to go in search of someone. They serve Intelligentsia, but it's poorly made. It is quiet, though, since it's empty.
(2)M D.
Don't come here for the coffee. I've ordered multiple drinks because I really wanted to love this place but none of the drinks were good. Also the ice cream needs to be changed regularly because that stuff is clearly past the expiration date. I do eat their black and white cookies. That's the only thing I get from here. On the bright side it was a very cozy atmosphere. They have an outside patio as well which is perfect for the summer.
(3)Tj T.
I have been going here for 7 years. I ordered my first breakfast sandwich today. She cracked the eggs right in front of me. Much better and bigger than any fast food bfast sandwich. Go there with your family for yogurt or ice cream in the spring and summer. Mong and Bill are great people. They always treat my kids well. It is a great locally owned spot.
(5)Teresa T.
Cute little cafe in walking distance of home...hooray! Pros: Awesome outdoor seating, they even have electric outlets outside for laptop usage. Free wi-fi that's quick and easily accessible. Empty. You will have no trouble finding a quiet table with an outlet and relative privacy. Staff was really nice and attentive. Cons: My iced mocha was bad. I mean sour and waaaay too chocolatety. Bummer. Limited food selection. I ordered a piece of spinach and swiss quiche with a spinach side salad. The quiche was burnt and the salad was just greens with a syrupy raspberry dressing. Not worth $6.50. Loud children, which is not their fault, but they have fro-yo so these things happen, several times during my visit at least. I will be back, just won't order a coffee based beverage!
(3)Rhonda G.
Cute colorful cafe but the coffee was just ok. In fact it was a bit weak and flavorless. Possibly a bad batch? maybe but you can't assume people will be return visitors so getting it right the first time is important. The green tea frozen yogurt is gross. I like actual green tea and I assume the green tea flavoring mixed with the yogurt is what created this funky concoction...no deal. But of course this depends on your preference. Will I go back? hmm...I would give the coffee another go just to be sure I really don't like it.
(3)Dhruv P.
This is my default neighborhood cafe. It has everything I am looking for... it's quiet, it has friendly Baristas, its close-by, and its homey. There are times when they do irk me, especially when they sometimes close an hour early or are closed during vacation. However, it doesn't deter me. I like that I can go and sit on the sofa and disappear for a short time.
(5)Linda D.
If I could marry a coffee shop, it would probably be this one. Red Eyes is a cozy shop with a bunch of mismatched chairs, sofas, tables, plants, and other decor, but somehow it all just works. There's plenty of seating indoors and out, and free wi-fi. Lots of windows and natural light, and the servers are friendly. When they're not helping people, they always seem to be doing something productive, like wiping down the tables, cleaning the shelves, etc., which impresses me. The list of positives goes on and on. The smoothies are delicious, and the coffee is decent. Unfortunately I can't speak on the food. But the atmosphere is exactly what anyone would want in a coffee shop. Quiet and calm enough to veg out with a book or sit down and get some work done, and comfortable enough to meet a friend and have a chat on the worn, comfy couches in the back. The good music selection is a plus too. I almost don't want to publish this review because it's usually empty when I walk in this place, and I kinda want it to stay that way. So in conclusion, this place is horrible...Never go there. Thanks!
(4)Rob L.
This place is really relaxing. I love it.
(5)Marissa B.
I hate having to eyeball people who are draining the last drips of coffee from their mugs, casually circling their table so I can pounce whenever they finally get up. No need at Red Eyes! I never have a hard time snagging a table in this place, which is a relief. They've also got their outdoor seating set up so there's something to look forward to this summer! I was in here one Sunday night and there was live music (a guy softly playing his guitar). Not sure how often this happens, but it was nothing too loud or distracting, it simply made for nice ambiance. Nice tea selection (all loose-leaf, none of the grocery store bagged teas so many places try to get away with serving) along with coffee drinks, food, etc. Free wi-fi and they're open later than a lot of the other coffee shops around, which makes it a nice spot to hit up after work on on a lazy weekend evening.
(5)Erica T.
Came here one night when I needed to get some work done. They had everything I needed to set up a productive study session - drinks, baked goods, electrical outlets and wifi. I had a hot chocolate, which was all right, and a black&white cookie, which was awesome. The place has tons of tables, but it was virtually empty save for me, the barista, another dude getting his study on, and a group of women having a meeting about knitting or something. The near quietness also made for a very productive study session - not like when I'm at Starbucks where parents let their toddlers roam free and college kids are loudly gossiping about who hooked up with who at last night's party. And the place closed at 10PM which is great for procrastinators that wait until 8PM to get started on their homework (AKA myself). I'll be back when school starts up again.
(4)William L.
Very cute little place to stop in for a cup of joe and some sweets. I popped in here on my way out of town for a light breakfast and caffeine fix and I think this will probably get my business more than the Starbucks down the street. I ordered an iced americano (no room, of course), a blueberry scone, and a couple pieces of fruit for my road trip. The scone was warmed up for me on the spot and was loaded with blueberries. The americano had that perfect bitter but clean taste, just enough to open those sleepy eyes early on a Saturday morning. It looks like they have a nice sized lunch menu too with plenty of paninis, baguette sammiches, and the like.
(4)Cesar F.
Fantastic place! It was fairly empty on a mid-Saturday morning, but the Intelligentsia coffee was brewed to perfection and their breakfast bagel sandwich was excellent. They use tasty and good quality sausage, and they also use real eggs. The place is clean, comfortable, and, best of all, it has free internet. Free parking outside abounds and the owners are very kind.
(5)Green T.
Warm vibe, wide drink selection, great decor, plenty of seating, and smily staff. Gotta love an independent coffe shop! Now that I know this little spot is here, you will never see me in Starbucks again. Keep it up, Red Eyes.
(5)Thongsy S.
Free wifi, plenty of chairs, tables, and couches! And I love that it's quiet enough to study but that not that weird silence where you can hear a pin drop--just the right amount of quietness. The drinks and food options are great. I have been ordering the latte macchiato...mmm mmm. And they also serve frozen yogurt with various toppings. I ordered their turkey sandwich on a bagel. It was very good and priced very cheaply...just a little under 6 bucks. Very comfy and homely cafe. My new spot to study -- especially since it's just right down the street from me! LOVE IT!
(5)E M.
OK, well, my second time here was no different from my first, with the exception of the person behind the counter. This time, a woman. She addressed me and was very lovely, but it shouldn't take so long to take a customer's order. At almost $5 for a bagel and a drip coffee-of-the-day like you get in a hospital cafeteria (except, unfortunately, with less taste), I can't justify standing here for 15 minutes. It was 9:30 am on a Thursday. I was the only one in line. I don't understand what I'm missing.
(3)Kristy N.
This is a cozy little spot with lots of great coffee options, they even have gelato. The wi-fi works great though I had to unplug a lamp to juice up my computer so try to come with a full battery. My only complaint was that they either don't have AC or it doesn't work well. The iced coffee is very refreshing but hard to enjoy completely when your sitting inside on a 90 degree day with hot stagnant air. I'm will be back on a cooler day since the quite atmosphere is perfect for getting work done.
(3)Avid F.
I do not know what happened here, but my visit has to fall in one of my top ten worst service experiences. Walked in, ordered a piece of broccoli quiche, and asked if there was any type of meat in it. The incredibly nervous looking kid at the counter disappears for several minutes and comes back to tell me no. He charges me for a small coffee, the piece of quiche (which is listed on the menu as coming with a side salad), and only then decides to tell me that it could be more than ten minutes for the quiche. "Ten minutes?" I say. "That seems like a really long time for a pre-sliced piece of quiche. If it's just a matter of warming it up, I'll just take it as is." "Well," he responds, "it could still be frozen," and proceeds to poke at the pieces of quiche in the case with his fingers. He decides it needs to be warmed. I then head over to the condiment bar, and as I pour in the half and half, it curdles in my coffee. I open the container, and it smells so bad that I can smell it without even having to place my nose near the spout. I have no idea how long it's been sitting there, so I take it to the counter, and tell the barista that it's gone bad. He then looks at me, surprised, and asks if I want more half and half. "Well, yes,but first can you pour this cup out? There's curdled half and half in it." He then pours out the coffee and rinses out the original paper cup with water, and refills it with coffee. This wouldn't be an issue if the cups weren't so cheap that they get soggy after a rinse. Only after I have to ask to pour the half and half myself and have finished mixing my cup of new coffee does he remember to ask whether I want chips or fruit with my quiche. Apparently, it doesn't come with a salad, but I am given the choice of fruit, which is not yet prepared (that would've been fine if he'd asked to begin with, and been working on it during the incredibly long time it took to heat it instead of waiting until the quiche was nearly done). I choose strawberries, which are whole and shoved haphazardly in the front case, still in their original grocery store container. He takes a painfully long time cutting the leaves off of four measly strawberries, which he throws into a large to go container to roll around sadly with the quiche, and hands me my order with no utensils. When I ask, he looks confused. He doesn't know where there is any to go utensil supply, and spends another several minutes looking for it, to no avail. I can't wait, anymore, so I just tell him to forego the utensils. I thought the 15 minutes I had allowed myself would be enough to get a quick dinner and get to my next destination with enough time to eat, but all told, the entire transaction took more than 20 minutes. 20 minutes for a pre-made quiche and a small coffee. Seriously? To top it off, the cup all but collapsed and spilled the coffee everywhere as I tried to hail a cab, then, as soon as I got to my next destination, I found that I had been given the ham quiche. After all of that, I barely had any coffee, and couldn't eat the quiche at all. Boo, Red Eye, just boo. I wasted my money, and now I'm hangry, too.
(1)Alexandra S.
i love this place. i have a soft spot in my heart for red eyes for several reasons. the owners. they are an older asian couple - i don't want to offend by saying one and they really being another - and they take pride in their cafe. the drinks are great. everything made to order, and a nice selection for what your poison is. fruit smoothies with real fruit, espresso, frappes!, drip coffees also made to order, tea, etc.... you get the idea, a cafe. they also have sammies and desserts, muffins, etc... yeah, a cafe. the seating is plentiful. i have known this place since it opened, as i've been in the neighborhood for quite some years now. in the beginning, it was seldom occupied and a little rink-dink, but now people seem to be frequenting it more often, which i am glad for. the wifi is up and running no problems, the atmosphere is welcoming, the music not too loud, and its not too busy, which is why i LOVE it! great for my study sessions with my classmates. also, i prefer my money to go to local shops, rather than SB. i'm a lifer
(5)Anthony P.
While the coffee I had was really nothing that stands out in memory, with all of the choices available, it was good enough, and this place has something about it that just makes you happy to be here. It has a very warm, welcoming feel to it on the inside, with ample seating and fun knick-knacks and decor. They have wi-fi as well. The barista we had was incredibly pleasant, making (not forced-feeling) conversation; we came in around 7:30p... she asked if we just had a nice dinner out, etc. Very personable. The outdoor seating, which wraps around a side and a half of the place, is comfortable too. There is a tiny fence and the awning hangs over a little. You feel slightly boxed in, in a comfortable way. If I'm ever in the neighborhood, and needing a recharge and want some comfortable space to enjoy it in, I'm coming back here.
(4)Ali K.
Red Eyes has never been crowded when I've gone in. I just hope the 18 other coffee shops in the area don't run it out of business. If you're alone and want peace it's the perfect happy medium between Julius Meinl to the north, crowded and frightening for solo diners, and Starbucks on Irving Park to the south, sterile and too many capri pants. Nothing needs to change about this place except maybe the quiche, it could be more flavorful. But even this doesn't deter me from my weekly visits re: their smoothies are awesome. I've had their original "turtle" drink (coffee, peanut butter, chocolate) and it was very, very, good as well. i'm interested to try their homemade lime soda. The decor is a little corny but what did you expect with the blinking Christmas lights out front? Embrace it and soon you will be singing along to Cat Stevens and sculpting pottery at the studio next door.
(4)Tiffany S.
i like this place. it's a nice little bike ride for me when the weather is decent and it's near the library at montrose and lincoln. i can't say that the food and coffee are levels above other establishments, but the service is good and the inside is cozy and comfortable. i've been here several times and even if there aren't very many people there you still feel like your conversations are private. this is a great place to catch up with a friend or hunker down and get some work done. the fact that they have coffee is just a bonus.
(4)Leanne A.
The internet is all better, and they have fro-yo now!!!!!!!!!!!!!! yahooo!!!!!
(4)Barbara D.
I love this place for the fact that when I enter through the door....e...v...e...r....y...t...h....i.....n....Âg............................s........l......o....Â..w......s .............d......................o.............Â.........w....................n. It's like entering another dimension where Starbucks and the daily grind do not exist.......a dream-like state where we do not live in a capitalistic, no-time-to-breathe society. The inside is cute and cozy...but there's something else about this place. The people behind the counter move SUPER slow but they don't seem to mind and neither do you when you're here. Unless, you're one of THOSE.....then you do mind...I've seen THOSE enter before and they usually throw a fit at the counter and storm out....back to their alien ships and Starbucks factory lines. I only have the straight black red eye coffee here....I'm not much of a coffee drinker so when I do have it...I want the full effects and I want to remember why I don't drink it regularly.... .....it propels me into a mental state of chaotic frenzy.....and people walk around like this daily, trying to hide their shaking hands as they withdrawal....grabbing for another cup?.....twilight zone out there, I tell ya.
(4)Joel T.
Warm, friendly setup and delicious coffee. This is the type of neighborhood coffee shop that I'd give anything to have in my rural town. Try the desserts!
(4)Jaz P.
Reliable sufficiently quick wifi. Well laid out coffee shop, with alot of small airy windowside tables to choose from to do work. Place is airy because it's a corner location with huge glass windows that cover every wall. The space is just perfect for afternoon daydreaming and reading, and catching as much sunlight and people-watching in the summer and spring. You can even multi-task. You could do work, then take a break when your friends with their little families come to stop to visit. Mini-table for the tots, strategically placed right next to the ice cream counter. The couch seats are only a foot away, so the mommies can get together while the little ones play. Staff is pleasant and lets you do work. Lots of drink options on the menu. Sandwiches are yummy, including turkey or ham spinach wraps.
(5)Nikkie H.
I just moved down the street and was so excited that I had a nice, local coffee shop just a block down. I read the reviews and have to say most of them were quite spot on. The place is slow. I mean, it took a good 10-15 minutes for me to get my drink with just one person in front of me. I imagine it's a chicken and the egg scenario, because there was only one person working, but they weren't really busy enough to have two staff on hand (I went Saturday afternoon.) I will try it again since it's down the block, but only if I'm in no hurry.( I could've walked down to Starbucks and back home in the time it took to get my drink) I will also try something different, since my vanilla latte wasn't the tastiest thing ever.
(3)M H.
This is my favorite coffee place in the neighborhood. They have the best rose blossom tea, comfortable seating, and wi-fi. In the summer, little kids come in for ice cream and frozen yogurt on a hot afternoon. In the winter, there are couches and comfy chairs to curl up with a pot of tea or a hot cider. The owner is a very nice lady who always seems to be smiling. Her staff are also pleasant and friendly. It really feels like a coffee shop should - relaxing, tied to the neighborhood (there's a bulletin board covered in fliers for local events), cozy, and welcoming.
(5)B C.
More than just coffee, Red Eyes will wake you up with all your senses. It's a colorful place with lots of natural light and a small, intimate setup. It doesn't get the heavy in-and-out foot traffic of The Grind, which is nice when you need a new spot to bear down and concentrate on work.
(4)Mindy S.
Love the fresh Iime soda, very refreshing. Had some Cafe Du Monde not too shabby. Service can be a little slow, but they are amazingly nice.
(4)Robert C.
Red Eyes got robbed again on Wednesday night -- the second time in a week, and this time more than just the cash register was stolen. The lady who runs Red Eyes is incredibly sweet, so please support this terrific, quiet coffee shop in Lincoln Square. It's not pleasant to watch this wonderful, hardworking person's eyes tear up when she tells you she was robbed. I've been going to Red Eyes for over a year now to get some writing done, and the atmosphere is terrific. I usually just order coffee and a bagel, so I can't complain about slow service, but if it's your first time at Red Eyes, be patient -- there's usually just one person behind the counter at any given time handling more than one order. But you should definitely ORDER something: this isn't your office (don't spend the entire day in there making loud phone calls to prove how important you think you are), or a place where you should take your time reading Red Eyes' copy of the Sunday Tribune because you're too cheap to buy one yourself. Show some respect and buy a cup of coffee.
(5)Melissa B.
This is such a cute coffee spot! The espresso used for their drinks is fantastic! They have a lot of options for pastries as well. I recently went there with some friends and sat for several hours drinking coffee and talking. Never once did we feel the need to leave or that we had sat too long. I think this is a top notch place with great coffee!
(5)Casey M.
I was on a mission to find a sandwich one Saturday afternoon and decided I would give Red Eyes a shot. Knowing it was a coffee shop I didn't expect much of a choice of food options, but when after looking over the menu I saw that this small coffee shop had a lot to offer. I had already drank my share of coffee a couple hours before so I decided on the Veggie Melt sandwich and a can of soda pop. The Veggie Melt was delicious. This sandwich was warm, toasted and oozing with delicious cheddar cheese and ripe tomatoes. I will definitely be back to Red Eyes for a quick and delicious sandwich and maybe next time I will try their coffee too.
(4)Annie W.
Nice find when our go-to place in the area was unavailable. Ample chairs and tables (tho small) and space can be tight. I had to be vigilant about not bumping into other tables and chairs. Wifi is spotty and slow. Eclectic crowd. Space is kept warm, especially if you're sitting next to the vents. Lots of window-side seating (good for sunlight and people watching, but bad if it's distracting, especially since Cho Sun Ok's right across the street and you can't stop thinking about yummy Korean meat....) They have a variety of treats, some are made in store and some are ....Costco.
(3)Hala A.
Red Eyes Coffee is exactly what I have been looking for in a cafe since I got to Chicago. The atmosphere is wonderful and inviting. It's quiet enough for people to write or study. There's ample seating. As far as service goes, the barista was prompt and courteous and ready to answer all of my questions. Unfortunately, there isn't an open mic night there as there evidently used to be. It's a great little place for college and grad students!
(4)Kathleen I.
I'm a freelancer, and Red Eyes is one of my favorite places to work. It's a true community-driven business. People from the neighborhood are constantly dropping in to buy ice cream, sandwiches and drinks. The staff is incredibly nice and I never feel like they're giving me the hairy eyeball after I've been working there for a few hours. A lot of area coffee shops want you to get in and get out, but they honestly don't mind if you stay all afternoon. (Of course, every time I stay that long I buy at least a couple cups of coffee and maybe a snack.) Good iced tea and strong coffee, and the fresh lime soda is a great treat. I especially like that the owner seems to know and genuinely care about her customers, especially the ones who come in on a regular basis. She's such a sweet woman. The service can take some time depending on how busy the place is, but good things come to those who wait.
(5)Christina S.
I was not expecting to like this place. I pass by it quite often, and for some reason the red awning always threw me off. I thought it made the place look a little generic and therefore always reasoned that i would never get a cup of coffee there. Well, last friday me and my girl were looking for a close spot to get coffee and decided we'd just bite the bullet and go to red eyes. well, la dee da. I ended up thoroughly enjoying the experience. the cafe actually reminded me of a coffeehouse I went to in Key west, and was all cozy and super cute with bright colors and plenty of tables. It doesnt strike me as a very chicago-style cafe at all, which was a welcome surprise. My coffee was good as was my turkey croissant sandwich. I enjoyed both thoroughly. My friend, however, thought her vanilla latte tasted horrible. to each her own i suppose. If you're in the mood for a different kind of coffeehouse experience, and mebbe want to go on a little vacation away from chicago, give this place a shot!
(4)Joe M.
All things considered this place isn't bad. It's not terribly expensive and the food and drinks are all as tasty as can be expected. Granted, the service is a little slow and any more than two people in front of you in line is just unbearable. But what really knocks this place down in my book is the patronage and ambiance. The place is what one might expect if Sylvia Plath and Georgia O'Keefe joined forces to buy a coffee shop and then furnished it completely from an IKEA catalog. I suppose this just isn't my type of joint as the majority of patrons are the types who own dozens of scented candles and are members of Hyacinth of the Month clubs. Not a bad café, just not one in which a strapping 26 year-old bachelor would enjoy spending much time. This is a good place to go if... you are scouting coffee house locations for a Lifetime movie of the week.
(3)Nada R.
The coffee is ok. The barista was certainly pleasant. It's proximity to the library is nearly ideal. But, but... it's just not comfortable!
(2)P S.
Perhaps I was too quick to judge... I've been to Red Eyes five times in the last four weeks, and every single time I've had to request they reset their wifi router. I've seen other customers beat me to it. Today I watched six patrons get up, take their drinks and leave once it became clear the wifi was having problems and wasn't responding to a reset. She had a customer get on the phone with the wifi provider (HotPoint) who after having him troubleshoot it, asked him to tell her it was just that their system was overloaded and backed up. Then it was my turn to grab my drink, pack up, and head elsewhere. Red Eyes has one of two problems at the moment, if not both: crappy wifi and management that doesn't seem to care enough to get a new provider. It is absolutely costing them business.
(2)Katie G.
Love this place. Very cute, friendly, and comfortable. I'm so glad it's just down the street from my apartment! Sure, they're a little slow, but it's usually worth it... the sandwiches are delicious! Also, they were robbed last night. :( So go support this little business!
(4)Chan K.
This is a bright and peaceful cafe where you can surf the web for free and have delicious coffee and teas. Red eye is the only place I know that serves three kinds of Vietnamese coffee. Excellent spicy chicken chowder and delicious ice cream are bonuses. There are couches to relax on and an adorable patio!
(5)Mikey B.
Yum. Delicious baked goods, and affordable. Didn't try the coffee, which was a bit pricier than Sbux, but cute little place and loved the clientele: quiet and not creepy!!
(4)Stephanie S.
I am on a bit of a cafe jag these days. I work long hours on the weekends; can barely stay up past eleven pm; and no longer indulge in anything smokable, snortable, or injectable. How I became a fine upstanding citizen is indeed somewhat of mystery, but I digress. Alas, caffeine is about the strongest substamce I am imbibing these days. I LOVES me my tea and crumpets and have decided to visit as many independent cafes as possible this year to really get the flavor of the local coffeeshop scene. Red Eyes is a sweet little space on the cusp of North Center and LIncoln Square. They have a nicely varied menu and the desserts looked scrumptious. Ice cream lovers will appreciate the range of scoops available, and the specialty drinks were awesome. I had a cup of tea and sat by the window to people watch and just soak up the atmosphere. The counter staff was superfriendly, but I didn't really like the boring tea selections and the wooden chairs were murder on my crappy back. I will definitely come back when I am ready to order up a big slice of something yummy and fluffy, or sip a soy steamer.
(4)Sarah B.
This is a great study location. I went in the later afternoon (around 4 PM or so) and we were about the only people in there. They played awesome folk music at a reasonable volume (not so loud that you can't read!), have comfortable tables and chairs, plentiful electric outlets to plug your laptop in, and free wifi. The ham panini is delicious and the raspberry Italian soda was pretty tasty too!
(4)Melanie V.
Try the fresh lime soda. I swear it's a little taste of heaven. So delicous! Also, the Spinach wraps are reallly good. I love this place. It's still my study haven.
(5)Stephen M.
Loved the ambiance and outdoor seating. The bakery is kinda weak, as most of the muffins looked like Kirkland store bought (although I could be wrong...) and the coffee was just... coffee. But really, that's all you need: a legit cup of coffee when you escape to a cafe'. And relaxing here is surely a joy.
(4)Url R.
The food and coffee only deserves 3 stars because it is actually A-OK. However, the free wi-fi, friendly workers, and emptiness of the joint actually bump it up a star. Stick to the baked goods and coffee/tea drinks.
(4)Jim M.
This is my go to local cafe. It is quiet, hence there are lot s of seats and places to plug in your laptop. The coffee is good. The pastries look good. I have only had the cookies which are pretty good. The service is also pleasant. With free wi-fi this place is a no-brainer for me.
(4)Jon J.
I find this place a little bit weird. Every time I'm in there, I get a strange vibe, whether it's from the owner or the other employee. Both, by the way, are very slow at making espresso - we're talking 5 minutes for a 2 shot latte. Product is pretty good - they serve Illy's mostly - but their drip tends to be scaldingly hot. Overall decent, but there's something going on here that I can't quite put a finger on.
(3)Cheryl A.
I love this cafe. It has a neighborly feel with regulars of all ages who visit daily. Highlights: big windows, bright colorful decor, & excellent drip coffee, quiche, and cherry scones. The free wi-fi doesn't hurt either. The sitting area towards the back of the cafe is perfect for meeting friends for book club or just a chat. The outdoor seating during the summer is perfect for enjoying their delicious vanilla lime soda. The overall feel of the place is bright and comfortable enough to spend a lengthy amount of time working, studying, or reading (which I've done here. It got me through grad school!) I highly recommend it!
(5)Mike I.
Red Eye Cafe is a neighborhood place--it's cozy inside and has a nice little wraparound patio outside. The women who work there are always nice and accommodating. I live only a couple blocks away. So I really want to like Red Eye Cafe more than I do. Unfortunately, the coffee just doesn't taste that great. And when I drink my drink at an establishment, I like to have it served in a mug, not in a paper cup. The 1980s muzak they often pipe quietly over the sound system seems to be designed to calm the nerves, but it has the opposite effect on me. "All Night Long" was a great song. We can all agree on that. But the muzak version is impossible to tune out and might give those with tenuous psychological constitutions--like me--the howling fantods. I will close with kind words. The food isn't that bad, for coffee shop fare. The bacon & egg bagel is a good value. They hook you up. There's also free wifi, which is pretty standard these days, but a nice feature nonetheless. The cafe also served free hot chocolate during the neighborhood tree-lighting ceremony, which I thought was a nice gesture.
(3)Vanessa K.
i've been going to this little coffee shop in northcenter for the last few years! it has a very inviting atmosphere; is family owned and run; and is very very clean! in the summer, i love sitting on the patio. they have always had free wi-fi and i have never had trouble finding a cozy seat near the window and write! the sandwiches are incredibly reasonably priced and simply delicious. it's definitely a gem in the neighborhood!
(5)Mandee K.
I secretly despise Starbucks with a passion. I much rather go to a local place, or a place that roasts their own beans on site, or at least has fresher beans than Starbucks, but I regress... At Red Eyes Coffee, I enjoy their quiche and their drip coffee. They also have sandwich and ice-cream options. However, the service on their espresso drinks is kinda slow. The free wifi is nice, and in the summer they have outdoor seating. The biggest drawback, is the feeling of being cramped inside, but I still enjoy the atmosphere when I am in the area, it is my place of choice.
(4)Anna C.
I stopped in this little place for the first time the other night and I am so sad that I didn't try it out sooner! The atmosphere is perfect for a coffee shop - plenty of places to sit, nice and quiet (but not library quiet), nice and cozy. The hours are good, free wifi is fantastic and the staff was friendly and helpful. The latte I had was so delicious that I had to get a second one. Definitely check this place out!
(4)kara l.
AMAZING! We went there Sunday at 9:30 a.m. There was a quartet there playing, named "Bivouac." They were amazingly wonderful and talented... They played mostly original music, and harmonized beautifully together. They said they play there each Sunday... Definately going back soon!
(5)Breeze R.
We have been regular customers for years & think Red Eyes is the perfect neighborhood coffeeshop. Everytime my husband or I buy coffee here, the owner gives us a complementary cookie for our son (whether he's with us or not). With the recent addition of frozen yogurt to her ice cream service, this shop has it all.
(5)Marsha F.
Finally, a real cafe. I am often in need of a cafe to go to where people are not talking so LOUD. I think people get bars and cafes confused. This place is the real deal. Its just a cafe, nothing else. I came here to find a quiet place to read and write and have coffee and other simple options. I would highly recommend this if you are looking for a cafe with no frills but a place to read and write in peace.
(4)Beth G.
If you like blaring music and a lot of hustle and bustle, this isn't the place for you. If you like comfortable seating, being able to sip your coffee outdoors on a lovely patio, and a peaceful, quiet atmosphere, you'll enjoy Red Eyes. (Seriously ... that combination is very hard to find, for those of us sensitive to noise and wishing to relax.) Best scone I've ever had ... they even toasted my scone for me and brought it to my table! The soy mocha I ordered was lovely, too. In addition to tables/chairs where people tend to work on laptops, on the other side of the cafe is living room-style seating, where you can chat as much as you'd like without disturbing people who are trying to work. The owners seem very nice, too. It is so refreshing to frequent a locally-owned coffee house and not a chain. Red Eyes seem well-equipped for takeout breakfast, and you can also get ice cream or other dessert.
(5)Derek S.
Wow. Free no hassle WIFI, neat menu, and maybe the coziest atmosphere I've found in Chicago.
(4)Kristen S.
Red Eyes is a nice local coffeehouse. The latte was pretty good, and I enjoyed having a cozy place to stop by on the weekend with a friend.
(3)