Perkolator

Perkolator is a community café and roastery on a corner in Portage Park, Chicago, owned by Joseph and Melissa Basilone. It's sunny, with worn hardwood floors, plants, local art, tables, a counter, armchairs and outdoor benches. There's free wifi (ask for the password) and outlets. A used book and record store is next door.

They roast in-house. The House Blend, Portage Park roast and House Blend Decaf are favorites. The horchata latte is popular, and the syrups are house-made. Sandwiches are made from scratch, and there are pastries. They offer subscriptions for coffee and loose-leaf tea.