If there’s any group that’s going to stray from the status quo, it’s Gen Z. Outspoken, expressive and generally open-minded, they do what they want, and for that, I commend them.
Perhaps it’s the obscene amount of extreme self-care content (mouth taping, looksmaxxing, castor oil patching) flooding their feeds or the barrage of TikTok “doctors” “exposing” the “truth” about whatever health hacks are popping off at the moment, but these young adults are creating their own viral movement: drinking less alcohol. A lot less.
A new Gallup poll revealed that 53% of U.S. adults say moderate drinking negatively affects their health, compared to last year’s 28% who said the same thing. Those aged 18-34 are also the most likely to stay sober compared to their elders.
Their hyperfixation on health risks and ample safer options like mocktails and functional health drinks have caused a shift in drinking trends here in Chicago—and Gen Z is all in. From authentic matcha to mushroom tea, the city has it all. So, take a page out of Gen Z’s book and discover these popular spots for functional health drinks in Chicago.
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Gathers Tea Bar
The drink of the summer is matcha, and Gathers near UIC is one of Gen Z’s favorite spots to sip the beloved Japanese tea. Celebrated for its high-quality boba, Gathers also crafts a selection of delectable matchas mixed with strawberry, mango, banana and ube. However, due to the recent “Matcha Boom,” as Japanese farmers call it, and other obstacles, such as increased tariffs, Gathers’ matcha supply is limited. Be sure to stop by early to secure your cup.
What to order: Mango Matcha Latte
Chicago Health Foods
Dubbed the “Erewhon of Chicago” by Gen Z, this Gold Coast grocery and cafe serves Erewhon smoothie dupes. The hot pink and electric blue shakes may not taste as good as something Hailey Bieber would co-sign, but they sure will drive major engagement online.
What to order: Peanut Butter Cup Super Shake
SunLife Organics
If you’re more worried about the taste of your shake than the TikTok, SunLife Organics is a better bet. This West Loop hotspot also serves up chlorophyll shots, mushroom latte, and a selection of ceremonial-grade matcha.
What to order: Shroom Shot
The Coffee & Tea Exchange
Although their frontal lobes may still be developing, Gen Z is still concerned about improving anything and everything about their body’s performance. That’s why iconic Lakeview shop Coffee & Tea Exchange is popular for its wide range of herbs and spices, like the HUH?! Memory Herbal blend, comprising antioxidant-rich herbs, green mate and Tulsi leaves for brain-boosting effects, plus a rotating menu of trendy drinks like Recession Blonde and Kesha Komeback.
What to order: Organic Yerba Mate
Hi-Vibe
Known for their cleansing superfood juices, this is a popular spot for on-the-go sips like the Vanilla Mane matcha, which utilizes lion’s mane fungi to support brain health, reduce inflammation and promote gut health, and a selection of shots for a quick pick-me-up. Go all in with their Longevity Broth, a questionably-colored plant-based concoction with words like “reverse osmosis H2O” and “turkey tail” on the bottle, which claims to “satiate the mind.”
What to order: Ionic Bomb