Dark Matter Coffee - Electric Mud Coffee Bar
Dark Matter Coffee - Electric Mud Coffee Bar — photo 2
Dark Matter Coffee - Electric Mud Coffee Bar — photo 3
Dark Matter Coffee - Electric Mud Coffee Bar — photo 4
Dark Matter Coffee - Electric Mud Coffee Bar — photo 5

Dark Matter Coffee - Electric Mud Coffee Bar

1856 N Western Ave, Chicago, IL

★★★★★4.8(333 Google reviews)

Crema's Take

Dark Matter Coffee strikes that rare balance between approachable neighborhood gem and serious coffee destination, where the staff remembers regulars by name and the early 6am opening means you're never left without your fix. Whether you're settling in with a book for hours or grabbing a meticulously pulled espresso on your way out, the eclectic drink menu—from traditional lattes to creative specialty drinks—and inviting decor make it feel equally welcoming for both lingering and rushing. The fact that this place has become iconic enough to inspire local bourbon barrel-aged stouts tells you everything about how Chicago's coffee community views them.

What to expect

Quick grabSlow sitTraditional drinksEspresso focusedPour overSpecialty drinksPastriesCold brew

Google Reviews

Bo Hopwood
★★★★★3 months ago

I got a large latte and sat and read for a while in here, I really liked the decor and atmosphere, good place for reading or sending emails. The workers were very friendly with me and others. Normal prices. I didn't try the pastries but saw them being delivered and they looked good.

Kate
★★★★★12 months ago

A staple for Chicago area. Especially if here on business or vacation! The coffee is very eclectic and gives you a good taste of Chicago! You know a coffee place is stellar when they rock a good cold brew. The Wake and bake drink was also a perfect balance of coffee and patina. We purchased some Vanilla Suburbs in cans for a home stash. Again, excellent even in cans!

Jason Carpenter
★★★★★a year ago

By far my favorite local coffee shop. Not pretentious, amazing staff that know your name, your order, and take care of neighborhood regulars. Best part is that they’re open at 6 am unlike other spots nearby. Molly and the team at Electric Mud are simply the best!!

Rolo
★★★★★a year ago

For many years, I have only known of Dark Matter coffee as an ingredient in many local bourbon barrel-aged coffee stouts. This is my first time trying their coffee without it being in a beer. Honestly, I could not tell the difference in any blind taste test, but their cappuccino was delicious and satisfying. But their barrel-aged mocha was amazing. I presume they aged their espresso beans in former bourbon barrels. The ba-mocha had hints of bourbon and a nice boozy aftertaste. BRAVO!! Additionally, the decor and ambiance is very pleasing to the eye. A very ecclectic and quaint coffe shop. A must try!!!

Michael Damato
★★★★★2 years ago

Always glad to have a dark matter within walking distance. Has a lot of good stuff on hand including merchandise, beans, and both pastries and hot items along with their coffee. Decor is nice and I've always liked how each dark matter location feels like it's own unique thing. If you're nearby this is definitely one you should be stopping at!

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