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Inside the Bay Area Coffee Chain That Wants to Win Over Wicker Park

San Francisco-based Philz opens its first Chicago coffeeshop on Saturday

by Naomi Waxman
Photography by Barry Brecheisen
Philz Coffee opens in Wicker Park on June 22
Barry Brecheisen/Eater Chicago

San Francisco cult favorite Philz Coffee officially opens its first Chicago location on Saturday but a few sneak peeks began over the weekend in Wicker Park. Customers can choose from 12 secret coffee blends from Brazil, Colombia, Ethiopia, Yemen, and beyond, and customize their brews with the help of a barista who will grind the beans on the spot.

Bakery items come from Aya Pastry (from the company behind steakhouse Maple & Ash) and Hyde Park’s Fabiana’s Bakery, and diners can munch on a selection of toasts, burritos, bowls, and sandwiches with a Mediterranean flare, like the labneh za’atar toast with fresh cucumber and the Mediterranean avocado toast, topped with sliced hardboiled egg.

Known for strong WiFi as well as strong coffee, Philz’s first Chicago outpost is bright and airy with tall windows and ceilings and features yellow and blue hues. Benches, tables, and couches offer ample room to work or play, and a mural depicts local landmarks like the Chicago Theater, the Bean, and the lions outside the Art Institute of Chicago. There’s also patio seating.

The furniture was designed by Revivalist Woodworking, a local company. Most of the pieces are made from solid white oak lumber. The bean display which was made of white ash.

Take in the space and offerings below. Philz Coffee officially opens Saturday at 1640 W. Division Street.

A storefront with a brink facade and a rainbow gay pride flag in the window.
Welcome to Chicago’s first Philz Coffee.
Barry Brecheisen/Eater Chicago
Outdoor seating is available, even if nice weather isn’t.
Barry Brecheisen/Eater Chicago
Staff are already anticipating lines.
Barry Brecheisen/Eater Chicago
Baristas will grind each customer’s beans while they wait.
Barry Brecheisen/Eater Chicago
Staff store beans in airtight containers.
Barry Brecheisen/Eater Chicago
Bakery offerings from Fabiana’s Bakery and Aya Pastry
Barry Brecheisen/Eater Chicago
The vibe is minimalist, yet comfortable.
Barry Brecheisen/Eater Chicago
There’s plenty of seating and strong WiFi, so customers can settle in.
Barry Brecheisen/Eater Chicago
These couches will likely be a desirable spot.
Barry Brecheisen/Eater Chicago
The design pays tribute to Philz’s San Francisco roots.
Barry Brecheisen/Eater Chicago
Hurried customers can order ahead for pick-up on the Philz app.
Barry Brecheisen/Eater Chicago
Philz’s Chicago-themed mural
Barry Brecheisen/Eater Chicago
A brown paper cup of iced coffee with a sprig of green mint leaves.
Customers can select additions and garnishes like a sprig of mint.
Barry Brecheisen/Eater Chicago
Philz’s popular “Ecstatic Iced Coffee”
Barry Brecheisen/Eater Chicago
Mediterranean avocado toast with hardboiled egg
Barry Brecheisen/Eater Chicago
The Philz Bagel sandwich with tomato and cucumber
Barry Brecheisen/Eater Chicago

Philz Coffee Wicker Park

1640 W. Division Street, Chicago, IL Visit Website

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