Cold weather is upon us, so grab one of these specialty drinks to warm yourself up. We found six coffee shops in our area serving up warm, unique signature drinks.
Phen the weather outside gets frightful, what’s a better way to heat up your body and soul than with a warm, tasty drink?
Coffee, of course, is the easy go-to drink, whether you need a jolt or something to accompany a gathering with friends and family. But there’s far more available on the menu of our local coffeehouses. Much more. Be on the lookout for one-of-a-kind ciders, teas and hot chocolates, all creatively crafted and totally unique. A plain-old Starbucks this is not.
We trekked around the northwest suburbs and enjoyed more than a few good caffeine rushes as we searched for some of the most creative, unique drinks around.
What we found is sure to keep your hands comfortable and warm this winter – and it might even encourage you to snuggle up with a warm blanket and finish that book you’ve started.
Stay toasty this holiday season!
Arcedium Coffeehouse
Check out the lavender chamomile herbal tea at this chic cafe downtown. The unique loose-leaf tea has a mild, sweet smell and taste with a fruity finish. If you’re looking for a more earthy lavender tea, try the Victorian Earl Grey, a darker tea that’s brewed with lavender.
60 Indiana St., St. Charles
Cook Street Coffee
Warm up with this shop’s version of a caramel apple cider. It’s a fresh cider blended with cinnamon, nutmeg and Cook Street’s own homemade caramel. With a flavor similar to a taffy apple, this is a popular drink around the holiday season.
100 E. Station St., #170, Barrington
Cafe Revive
Give yourself a morning jolt or an afternoon pick-me-up with a piping hot mocha latte. It’s a classic espresso drink made with natural cocoa, steamed milk and a touch of homemade syrup. Then, it’s topped with fresh whipped cream and chocolate drizzle.
51 S. Grove Ave., Elgin
Ethereal Confections
Nestled into the Woodstock Square, this charming place serves up a mean maple pecan latte. The popular drink has espresso, steamed milk and homemade syrup derived from real pecans. The coffee is roasted by Conscious Cup, a popular roaster in nearby Crystal Lake.
113 S. Benton St., Woodstock
Graham’s 318
Customers at this cozy coffee shop look forward to the homemade hot chocolate – which, of course, is made with shaved-down bars from sister shop Graham’s Chocolates, located just up the street. Go with the milk chocolate, a cozy dark chocolate or even a white chocolate.
318 S. Third St., Geneva
Grounds Coffee Bar
The maple cinnamon latte is a go-to drink at this full-service espresso bar. The sweet, warm drink includes organic maple syrup, cinnamon, espresso and whole milk. Cinnamon is steamed in the milk, creating a burst of flavor and a vibe not unlike a bowl of Cinnamon Toast Crunch.
82 Railroad St., Crystal Lake