Cafe
First Sip Cafe
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First Sip Cafe is a charming spot in the Uptown neighborhood of Chicago, nestled along Argyle Street's vibrant Vietnamese corridor. The cafe offers a warm, inviting space with a focus on quality coffee, including traditional Vietnamese phin-brewed coffee and espresso drinks. The interior features a mix of modern and rustic decor, with plenty of natural light and communal seating. What sets it apart is its dedication to Vietnamese coffee culture, offering options like ca phe sua da (iced coffee with condensed milk) and egg coffee. The staff is friendly and knowledgeable, often explaining the brewing process. Visitors can also enjoy a selection of pastries and light bites. It's a perfect place for a quiet morning or an afternoon work session, with free Wi-Fi and a relaxed vibe.
Don't miss
- Try the traditional Vietnamese egg coffee, a rich and creamy specialty.
- Watch the phin drip coffee brewing process at the counter.
- Enjoy the cozy, plant-filled interior with ample seating.
- Grab a pastry from local bakeries to pair with your drink.
- Visit during the Argyle Night Market for a lively neighborhood experience.
Tickets & tours
Ways to visit First Sip Cafe
You can visit on your own (No ticket needed; just walk in. Payment is at the counter). A tour adds transport and a guide, or combines nearby sights into one day.
Cheapest way in360 Chicago Observation Deck Sip and View Ticket4.1★ · 101 travelers~2 hoursFree cancellationFrom$44 per personSee dates →
Most bookedChicago Architecture Center River Cruise aboard First Lady4.9★ · 6,467 travelers~2 hoursFrom$57 per personSee dates →
Private & flexibleDeep Dish Cooking Class at Pizzeria Uno in Chicago4.3★ · 33 travelers~2 hoursFree cancellationFrom$59 per personSee dates →Getting there
Know before you go
- The cafe can get crowded on weekends; consider visiting during off-peak hours.
- They accept credit cards and mobile payments.
- Street parking is available but limited; metered spots nearby.
- Don't miss the seasonal specials, like coconut coffee in summer.
A bit of history
First Sip Cafe opened in 2019, founded by a local couple who wanted to share their love for Vietnamese coffee. The cafe quickly became a community staple in the Argyle Street area, known for its authentic brews and friendly service.
Common questions
Do they have non-dairy milk options?
Yes, they offer oat, almond, and soy milk.
Is there Wi-Fi?
Yes, free Wi-Fi is available for customers.
Can I buy whole bean coffee?
Yes, they sell bags of their house-roasted beans.
Is the cafe dog-friendly?
Dogs are welcome on the outdoor patio.
Do they serve food?
They have pastries and light snacks, but no full meals.
What's the most popular drink?
The Vietnamese iced coffee (ca phe sua da) is a customer favorite.
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