Champaign, Illinois is home to a vibrant coffee scene with many great options for caffeine lovers. From cozy downtown spots to trendy campus hangouts, you’ll find plenty of places to grab a delicious cup of joe.
These local coffee shops offer unique atmospheres and high-quality brews to start your day off right.
Whether you’re looking for a quick pick-me-up or a relaxing spot to study or catch up with friends, Champaign’s coffee shops have something for everyone.
You can explore charming independent cafes, sample freshly roasted beans, or try creative specialty drinks. With so many choices, you’re sure to discover a new favorite coffee spot in this bustling Midwestern city.
1. BrewLab Coffee
BrewLab Coffee is a popular spot for coffee lovers in Champaign. You’ll find a cozy atmosphere perfect for sipping your favorite brew or getting some work done.
The shop is known for its high-quality coffee and friendly service. They roast their own beans, ensuring a fresh and flavorful cup every time you visit.
BrewLab offers a variety of coffee drinks to suit your taste. From classic espresso-based beverages to pour-overs and cold brews, there’s something for everyone.
You can grab a quick coffee to go or settle in for a longer stay. The shop opens early and closes in the evening, making it a great choice for your morning caffeine fix or an afternoon pick-me-up.
Rating: 4.6 (422 reviews)
Location: 630 S 5th St, Champaign, IL 61820
Contact: (217) 666-2770
Website: Visit Website
2. Avionics – Flying Machine Coffee
Avionics – Flying Machine Coffee is a gem in Champaign’s coffee scene. You’ll find this cozy spot on South 1st Street, where the aroma of freshly brewed coffee greets you at the door.
The shop’s aviation-themed decor creates a unique atmosphere. You can sip your drink while admiring vintage airplane models and flight-inspired art on the walls.
Avionics takes pride in their coffee. They source high-quality beans and roast them in-house. You can choose from a variety of brewing methods, including pour-over, espresso, and cold brew.
Don’t miss their pastries and light bites. They pair perfectly with your coffee and are often made using local ingredients.
Rating: 4.7 (282 reviews)
Location: 202 S 1st St, Champaign, IL 61820
Contact: (217) 600-7949
3. Columbia Street Roastery
You’ll love the cozy atmosphere at Columbia Street Roastery. This local gem offers a wide selection of freshly roasted coffee beans. They take pride in their craft, ensuring each cup is brewed to perfection.
The roastery has been a Champaign favorite for years. You can watch the roasting process in action while sipping your drink. The friendly staff is always happy to answer questions about their coffee.
Don’t miss their seasonal flavors, which change throughout the year. You can buy coffee beans to take home too. They now offer new bag sizes of 12oz, 2lbs, and 5lbs to fit your needs.
Stop by during the week or on Saturday mornings to get your caffeine fix. The shop is closed on Sundays, so plan accordingly. With its top-notch coffee and welcoming vibe, Columbia Street Roastery is a must-visit spot in Champaign.
Rating: 4.9 (268 reviews)
Location: 24 E Columbia Ave, Champaign, IL 61820
Contact: (217) 352-9713
Website: Visit Website
4. Café Kopi
Café Kopi is a cozy coffee shop in downtown Champaign. You’ll find a welcoming atmosphere perfect for sipping your favorite brew.
The café serves fresh coffee from a local roaster. You can choose from specialty lattes, chais, and many loose-leaf teas.
Hungry? Grab a sandwich, salad, or snack to go with your drink. While you eat, check out artwork by local artists displayed on the walls.
Café Kopi offers smoothies and frappes too. You can order online for pickup if you’re in a hurry.
Rating: 4.5 (641 reviews)
Location: 109 N Walnut St, Champaign, IL 61820
Contact: (217) 359-4266
Website: Visit Website
5. Mad Goat Coffee
You’ll love the friendly vibe at Mad Goat Coffee in Champaign. This cozy spot offers excellent coffee and a welcoming space to gather with friends or get some work done.
Mad Goat roasts their beans fresh, ensuring a top-notch cup every time. You can choose from a variety of coffee drinks, smoothies, teas, and kombucha if you’re in the mood for something different.
Need a quick bite? Mad Goat has you covered with tasty breakfast and lunch options. Pair your coffee with a scone, cookie, or one of their seasonal pastries for a perfect treat.
You can also take home some Mad Goat coffee beans or grab a gift card for a friend. Don’t forget to check out their merch to show your love for this local favorite.
Rating: 4.8 (94 reviews)
Location: 57 E Main St, Champaign, IL 61820
Contact: (217) 607-1430
Website: Visit Website
6. Sinclaire’s Coffee
You’ll find a hidden gem at Sinclaire’s Coffee on Daniel Street in Champaign. This cozy spot serves up some of the best brews in town. The friendly staff will make you feel right at home as soon as you walk in.
The coffee here is top-notch. You can taste the care that goes into each cup. Whether you like your coffee black or fancy, Sinclaire’s has got you covered. They offer a variety of specialty drinks that will satisfy any craving.
Don’t forget to try their pastries! The baked goods are made fresh daily and pair perfectly with your coffee. You might want to arrive early to snag your favorite treat before they sell out.
Sinclaire’s is a great place to study or catch up with friends. The atmosphere is calm and welcoming. You’ll often see students from nearby campus working on laptops or chatting quietly.
Rating: 4.9 (27 reviews)
Location: 410 E Daniel St, Champaign, IL 61820
7. The Courier Cafe
The Courier Cafe is a charming spot in Urbana that will take you back in time. You’ll feel like you’ve stepped into a 1950s diner when you walk through the door.
The cafe’s menu is full of classic American dishes. You can enjoy hearty breakfasts, juicy burgers, and creamy milkshakes. Their coffee is always fresh and hot, perfect for warming up on a chilly day.
The staff at The Courier Cafe are known for their friendly service. You’ll feel right at home as they greet you with a smile and make sure your cup is always full.
Don’t miss the chance to try their famous pies. You can choose from a variety of flavors that change with the seasons. It’s the perfect sweet treat to end your meal.
Rating: 4.4 (1800 reviews)
Location: 111 N Race St, Urbana, IL 61801
Contact: (217) 328-1811
Website: Visit Website
8. Etc. Coffeehouse
You’ll love the cozy atmosphere at Etc. Coffeehouse. This charming spot on Goodwin Avenue is a favorite among locals and students alike. The friendly baristas brew up delicious coffee drinks that will perk up your day.
Etc. Coffeehouse offers a wide selection of coffee and tea options. You can choose from classic espresso drinks or try one of their specialty lattes. They also have tasty pastries and light bites to pair with your beverage.
The cafe provides a welcoming space to study, work, or catch up with friends. You’ll find plenty of seating options, from small tables to comfy armchairs. The warm lighting and art-covered walls create a relaxing vibe.
Etc. Coffeehouse takes pride in supporting the local community. They often feature work by area artists and host events like open mic nights. It’s a great place to experience the vibrant culture of Urbana-Champaign.
Rating: 4.9 (55 reviews)
Location: S Goodwin Ave, Urbana, IL 61801
Contact: (217) 344-1120
9. Page Roasting Company
You’ll find a hidden gem for coffee lovers at Page Roasting Company in Champaign. This local roastery takes pride in crafting high-quality coffee for you to enjoy.
Step inside and breathe in the aroma of freshly roasted beans. The friendly staff will help you pick the perfect brew to suit your taste.
Page Roasting Company offers a variety of coffee brewing equipment too. You can even sign up for a subscription to get your favorite roasts delivered right to your door.
Located in the heart of Champaign, this cozy spot is perfect for a quick coffee run or a relaxed afternoon sipping your favorite brew. You’ll appreciate the attention to detail in every cup they serve.
Rating: 4.6 (42 reviews)
Location: 202 S 1st St, Champaign, IL 61820
Contact: (217) 600-7949
Website: Visit Website
10. Yummy Future
Yummy Future is a unique coffee shop that blends technology and human touch. You’ll find a warm, inviting atmosphere that makes you feel right at home.
The coffee here is top-notch. Each cup is crafted with care, giving you a moment of joy with every sip. The baristas are friendly and happy to chat about their coffee-making process.
This place isn’t just about great coffee. It’s about making connections too. You might find yourself striking up a conversation with other coffee lovers or the staff. It’s a great spot to meet friends or make new ones.
Yummy Future aims to make the world better, one cup at a time. You can feel good knowing your coffee purchase supports their mission to serve people and spread happiness.
Rating: 4.6 (94 reviews)
Location: 609 E Green St, Champaign, IL 61820
Website: Visit Website
The Coffee Culture in Champaign
Champaign’s coffee scene buzzes with energy and community spirit. Local cafes offer unique experiences that reflect the city’s character and values.
History and Evolution
Coffee shops in Champaign have come a long way since their early days. In the past, you’d find mostly chain cafes and diners serving basic brews. But over time, indie spots popped up, bringing new flavors and styles.
The 2000s saw a boom in local roasters and specialty shops. You can now enjoy single-origin beans, pour-overs, and latte art across town. Many cafes source beans directly from farmers, supporting fair trade practices.
Today, you’ll find a mix of cozy nooks and sleek spaces. Some cafes double as art galleries or music venues, adding to the local culture.
Community Impact
Coffee shops in Champaign do more than serve drinks – they bring people together. You’ll often see students cramming for exams or friends catching up over cappuccinos.
These cafes support local artists by displaying their work and hosting events. Many partner with nearby bakeries and farms, boosting the local economy.
Some shops offer job training programs for youth or donate to community causes. You might even find free meeting spaces for non-profits.
By choosing eco-friendly practices, like reusable cups and composting, cafes help make Champaign greener. They’ve become hubs for sustainability efforts and social activism.
Locally Sourced Ingredients
Many coffee shops in Champaign, IL take pride in using local ingredients. This helps support nearby farmers and promotes sustainable practices in the community.
Supporting Local Farmers
You’ll find several cafes in Champaign that partner with local farms. These shops get fresh produce, dairy, and other ingredients from nearby growers.
Hopscotch Bakery + Market is a great example. They focus on creating treats from simple, local ingredients. Their mission is to support neighborhood businesses.
By choosing these shops, you’re helping local farmers thrive. Your coffee and food purchases directly benefit the community’s economy.
Sustainable Practices
Champaign’s coffee shops often adopt eco-friendly methods. They aim to reduce waste and their carbon footprint.
Many cafes use reusable cups and containers. Some offer discounts if you bring your own mug. This cuts down on single-use plastics.
You’ll also see shops composting coffee grounds and food scraps. This turns waste into useful soil for local gardens.
By supporting these cafes, you’re backing their green efforts. Your choices help create a more sustainable Champaign.
Frequently Asked Questions
Champaign offers many great coffee spots for locals and visitors. Here are answers to some common questions about the best places to grab a cup of joe in town.
What are some popular coffee shops in Champaign-Urbana?
BrewLab Coffee and Flying Machine Avionics are two of the most popular spots. Café Kopi and Mad Goat Coffee also have loyal followings. These places serve tasty drinks in cozy settings.
Where can I find the best espresso in Champaign, IL?
For top-notch espresso, try BrewLab Coffee or Flying Machine Avionics. Both use high-quality beans and have skilled baristas. Columbia Street Roastery is another good choice for espresso lovers.
Are there any unique local coffee shops in Champaign?
Café Kopi stands out with its artsy vibe and global flair. BrewLab Coffee offers a science-themed twist on the coffee shop concept. These spots give you a taste of local Champaign flavor.
What are the top-rated coffee spots recommended by locals in Champaign?
Locals rave about Flying Machine Avionics and BrewLab Coffee. Café Kopi and Mad Goat Coffee also get lots of love from Champaign residents. These places earn high marks for their drinks and atmosphere.
Can you suggest cozy places for studying and coffee in Champaign?
Café Kopi is a favorite study spot with comfy seating and a relaxed vibe. BrewLab Coffee offers a quiet space perfect for hitting the books. Both have free Wi-Fi and plenty of outlets for your devices.
Where might one find artisan coffee and pastries in Champaign?
For artisan coffee and treats, head to Flying Machine Avionics. They serve craft coffee alongside tasty baked goods.
BrewLab Coffee and Café Kopi also offer yummy pastries to go with your drink.