Portage Grounds

Portage Grounds

5501 W Irving Park Rd, Chicago, IL 60641, United States

+1 773-930-3693

Coffee shop
(713)
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About This Place

Nestled in the heart of Chicago’s Irving Park neighborhood, Portage Grounds is much more than your everyday coffee shop—it’s a vibrant community hub where exceptional coffee meets thoughtful service and a warm, inviting atmosphere. From their robust espresso selections to their fresh, handcrafted pastries, Portage Grounds caters to both your caffeine cravings and your desire for a cozy, creative space.

The beverage menu sparks curiosity and satisfaction in equal measure. Whether you’re sipping on a smooth Lumberjack Latte or indulging in a White Chocolate Mocha Frappe, there is a delightful flavor for every palate. Their Hot Matcha Tea and Wild Berry Smoothies provide refreshing alternatives to the coffee enthusiast, while the classic Iced Latte and Drip Coffee offer reliable, satisfying staples. Notably, their attention to accommodating various preferences shines through with offerings like decaf espresso—a thoughtful nod noted by grateful visitors.

The food pairings elevate the experience even further. Imagine biting into a delicate scone, bursting with the bright tartness of Cranberry Orange Zest or the indulgent sweetness of Blueberry White Chocolate. The Cinnamon Roll and Banana Bread present a comforting hug of warmth and aroma, perfect with any coffee choice. For something savory, the quiches—whether bacon potato leek or spinach tomato jalapeño—add a satisfying, flavorful dimension to the menu. Breakfast pockets filled with bacon, egg, and cheddar create a hearty start to any morning or midday break.

Beyond the culinary treats, Portage Grounds is designed to be a welcoming gathering spot. Customers frequently praise the variety of seating options, from comfy couches to high-top tables, enabling visitors to find the perfect nook to relax, work, or chat. The outdoor patio offers a breath of fresh air on sunny days, while a dedicated conference room caters to those needing a professional environment without sacrificing the charm of a neighborhood café. The staff’s attentive, detail-oriented approach creates an effortless service experience, anticipating guest needs with a swift and genuine touch.

Visiting Portage Grounds feels like finding a little oasis where quality, community, and comfort intertwine. Whether you’re craving a meticulously crafted almond latte, a flaky croissant cinnamon roll, or simply a peaceful spot to enjoy your morning ritual, this café offers a satisfying, authentic Chicago coffee experience wrapped in warm smiles and thoughtful care.

Service options
Outdoor seating Delivery On-site services Takeaway Dine-in
Highlights
Fireplace Great coffee Great tea selection Serves local specialty
Popular for
Breakfast Solo dining Good for working on laptop
Accessibility
Wheelchair-accessible entrance Wheelchair-accessible seating Wheelchair-accessible toilet
Offerings
Coffee Quick bite
Dining options
Breakfast Dessert Seating Table service
Amenities
Gender-neutral toilets Toilet Wi-Fi Wi-Fi
Atmosphere
Casual Cosy Quiet Trendy
Crowd
Groups University students
Planning
Accepts reservations
Payments
Credit cards Debit cards NFC mobile payments
Children
Good for kids High chairs Kids' menu
Parking
Free of charge street parking
Pets
Dogs allowed outside

Opening Hours

  • Monday
    07:00 AM - 05:00 PM
  • Tuesday
    07:00 AM - 05:00 PM
  • Wednesday
    07:00 AM - 05:00 PM
  • Thursday
    10:00 AM - 05:00 PM
  • Friday
    07:00 AM - 05:00 PM
  • Saturday
    07:00 AM - 05:00 PM
  • Sunday
    07:00 AM - 05:00 PM

Map & Directions

Visitor Reviews

  • Krystal Guillen
    3 week ago

    There’s ample indoor seating (high tops, low tops, couches), along with an outdoor patio, and even a conference room to work in. The staff is really attentive to detail when it comes to anticipating guests’ needs. They work with a sense of urgency too.

  • Haley Thomas
    3 week ago

    This place was so yummy. Fantastic flavors, would definitely recommend almond latte or whatever it is. Also the croissant cinnamon roll was amazingggg (to me, my bf wasn't a fan). The frappes are good but obviously just a powder mix

  • Christine Rule
    1 month ago

    Nice little coffee shop, with pleasant employees when I was there. They had lots of drink options, but I got a plain hot latte, which was decent, which they were happy to bake in my own cup. I also had a tasty donut. The pastry case was pretty empty when I was there, but it was after noon. Nice area inside, and there were plenty of people there. They also had a nice outdoor area, and it was just warm enough for me to sit outside. I could’ve stayed another hour, comfortably engrossed in my book, but I had an appointment!

  • Elysia Aufmuth
    2 month ago

    Local cafe with a good range of coffee beverages. Much gratitude for decaf espresso. The baked goods are fresh and tasty. Staff are friendly and flexible. The space is cozy but modern and a great spot to hang out near the park.

  • Carlos Soria
    2 month ago

    Great service. The barista was polite, professional and welcoming. Very good coffee, I had their regular Drip. No extra fee when paying with a credit card. They have an office space for people to get work done.

  • Tim Luibrand
    3 month ago

    Drip coffee was fresh and great flavor. Scone was a little too doughy. Nice spot right across from Portage Park. Music was a little loud inside.

  • Michael Mahdi
    3 month ago

    Very friendly and cute place to work, study, read or just hang out. They have the usual coffee menu. The cool thing is that their drip, in addition to great medium roast taste, is bottomless, so I guess that compensates for inflation! Curbside parking is free -- a other plus. There is both inside and outside patio seating.

  • Michael Damato
    3 month ago

    Small cozy shop just across the street from portage Park. Brewing passion house beans and serving west town bakery pastries, its a comfy spot to stop in. There's a large patio that is open over the summer, a working fire place, and even a little conference room that can be used for remote meetings.

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