Chicago Guide: Metric Coffee
Address | 2021 W Fulton St suite k-101b, Chicago, IL 60612
When landing in Chicago on a snowy winter day, the first stop we had to make was for a pipping hot coffee and Metric Coffee serves an excellent house-roasted beans brews. Located in a little out of the way industrial spot, Metric Coffee is worth the visit for coffee lovers. In addition to serving excellent coffee, Metric Coffee has a pastry case supplied with Brite Donuts and Baked Goods that will keep you coming for more than just a caffeine kick. With unique and tasty savory and sweet options it was the perfect welcome into Chicago.
We ordered a drip coffee and an oat milk latte and the roast was deep and rich.
Pink rose-hip burnt honey doughnut with raspberry sugar
Farm veggies Danish with goat cheese, onion, leek, potato and herbs from Down at the Farm
Metric Coffee: A Chicago Gem for Coffee Lovers and Curious Travelers
If you’re exploring Chicago and looking for more than just your standard cup of coffee, Metric Coffee is a must-visit destination. Tucked into the city’s West Fulton Market District, Metric is much more than a coffee shop—it’s a roaster, café, and cultural hub dedicated to craftsmanship, transparency, and community. Whether you're a serious coffee aficionado or just in search of a great latte on a crisp Chicago morning, Metric delivers a coffee experience that’s deeply rooted in quality and creativity.
From Bean to Brew: A Passion for Quality
Metric Coffee was founded in 2013 by Xavier Alexander and Darko Arandjelovic—two industry veterans who set out to build something different. Their mission? To create a coffee company that puts ethics, sustainability, and exceptional taste at the forefront. And they’ve done exactly that.
What sets Metric apart is its commitment to transparency and direct sourcing. The team builds close relationships with coffee producers around the world—people they know by name—and sources beans responsibly from countries like Colombia, Ethiopia, Guatemala, and Kenya. Every bag of Metric coffee tells a story, and every cup reflects the care that went into its journey.
Their roasting philosophy is all about highlighting the natural flavors of each origin. You won’t find overly dark, smoky roasts here. Instead, expect clean, balanced profiles—notes of citrus, berries, florals, or chocolate—depending on the bean.
A Café That Feels Like a Community
While you can find Metric Coffee beans in shops and cafes around the country, there's something special about visiting their flagship café and roastery at 2021 W Fulton Street. The space is a reflection of the brand: modern but approachable, creative but grounded.
The café has a minimal, industrial-chic design that feels distinctly “Chicago,” with a rotating art wall, big windows, and a casual vibe that invites you to stay a while. There’s a window into the roasting area, so you can often catch the roasting process in action—adding an educational layer to your visit.
The menu is straightforward but thoughtfully curated. Classic espresso drinks like cappuccinos and macchiatos are beautifully made, while pour-over options let you explore single-origin coffees in more depth. Seasonal signature drinks—like honey lavender lattes or a shaken espresso tonic—offer a fun twist if you're in the mood to experiment.
For those staying a little longer, there are light bites like pastries and locally sourced treats, making it a cozy spot for a morning start or mid-afternoon recharge.
Events, Tastings & Coffee Education
Metric also leans into its role as an educational hub for the coffee curious. The roastery frequently hosts cuppings, tastings, and classes, welcoming both industry pros and curious newcomers. It’s the perfect chance to deepen your coffee knowledge, learn about different origins, and develop your palate.
If you’re lucky, your visit might coincide with a special event or pop-up collaboration with local chefs or artists—Metric has built strong ties in the Chicago creative community, and they often use their space to spotlight others.
A Must-Stop for Coffee Travelers
Chicago has no shortage of great coffee spots, but Metric stands out for its integrity, personality, and pursuit of excellence. It’s not just a place to grab caffeine—it’s a place to engage with the process, the people, and the passion behind what’s in your cup.
Whether you’re exploring the West Loop, starting your day before heading to the Art Institute, or just hunting for Chicago’s best brews, Metric Coffee belongs on your list. You’ll leave not just caffeinated, but inspired.
