Perkolator

Perkolator opened its doors in Portage Park in September 2014 with their own coffee blends—which they’ll roast themselves next door by the end of 2015—and a small food menu. Everything here is local, with bakery treats like lemon bars, bread and scones from Sicilian, Delightful Pastries and Fannie Schmoe’s. The sandwich meat is from Szymanski, another Portage Park staple, and is the star of their signature sandwich, the Cubanski, their twist on a Cuban with freshly smoked meats. There’s plenty to drink, from espresso drinks to specialties like spicy mocha, which blends cinnamon, chilies and chocolate for a real pick-me-up. Grab a seat on a couch by the window while you work or catch up with friends. There's a retro vibe, with mismatched furniture and brightly colored walls—think '90s coffee shop with 21st Century amenities, like WiFi.