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Aje Cafe
Categories: Food Coffee & Tea Restaurants Sandwiches Coffee & Tea, Sandwiches [Edit]
2942 N Clark St(between Oakdale Ave & Wellington Ave)
Chicago, IL 60657
Neighborhood: Lakeview
(773) 472-2233
- Nearest Transit:
-
Wellington (Brown Line, Purple Line)
Diversey (Brown Line, Purple Line)
Belmont (Brown Line, Purple Line, Red Line)
- Hours:
Mon, Sat 9 am - 8 pm
Tue-Fri 7 am - 8 pm
Sun 9 am - 6 pm
- Attire:
- Casual
- Accepts Credit Cards:
- Yes
- Parking:
- Street
- Price Range:
-
$
- Good for Groups:
- Yes
- Good for Kids:
- Yes
- Takes Reservations:
- No
- Delivery:
- Yes
- Take-out:
- Yes
- Waiter Service:
- Yes
- Outdoor Seating:
- No
- Wi-Fi:
- Free
- Good For:
- Lunch
- Alcohol:
- No
- Noise Level:
- Quiet
- Ambience:
- Casual
- Has TV:
- Yes
- Caters:
- Yes
- Wheelchair Accessible:
- Yes
41 reviews for Aje Cafe
Review Highlights
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"Don't forget the *free* wi-fi." In 4 reviews -
"...and raisin muffin, pumpkin spice latte and peppermint mocha." In 1 review -
"The staff is great and super friendly and helpful." In 3 reviews
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41 reviews in English
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Review from Rebecca H.
Chicago, IL
5/2/2012
Went in search of a sandwich shop with good coffee, ended up at Aje with an amazing sandwich and amazing coffee. I got the garden veggie, the dressing was so delicious pared with fresh red bell peppers and rye bread. The best part was no greasy chips as a side, instead fresh fruit salad on greens.
Ok, on second thought the best part was that I asked for a BIG coffee and the owner brought me the biggest mug I have ever seen, like Alice In Wonderland huge, full of coffee. Yes. thank you. This place understands me.
The owner is super friendly and the decor is nice and relaxed. I already want to go back. Did I mention the prices are super reasonable too? New favorite place. -
Review from Anthony P.
Chicago, IL
5/9/2012 1 Check-in Here
Really enjoyable! We walked in and were greeted warmly, and the atmosphere is very cozy, too. The menu has *tons* of choices - all manner of sandwiches, paninis, coffees, and pastries.
I ended up going with the "Downtown Club" and was not disappointed. For the money it is a great amount of food and it even comes with a side of pasta or fruit salad. I need to come back and try the coffee sometime. -
Review from Pascal M.
4/6/2012
Nice environment in this chill cafe, along with some friendly service.
Great coffee, latte, etc. You can tell they give a damn about what their brews. I think I had the hazelnut latte, very yum!
I also had their club, which was really tasty. Especially since I rarely order club sandwiches. The guy making my sandwich was clearly a sammy artist. They have an organized sandwich assembly line that would make Henry Ford proud. The passion and attention was clear as Lindsay Lohan's drug problem as he assembled his version of the Sixteenth Chapel, in sandwich form that is...
Part of my reasoning for getting the club was because the menu didn't seem like it was firing on all cylinders. There was nothing too adventurous or innovative that was screaming out at me. Perhaps some specials, future additions, or additional trips will be needed to get a solid grasp on Aje. I also didn't find the fruit salad, which was just cut up fruit, all that exciting. Perhaps that day they didn't make a fruit salad as interesting as they have in the past. The pasta salad was a little boring, but I liked the pasta they used (micro pasta). It could have used a little inspiration. Mostly oil, seasoning, and light veggies.
Overall, I was little disappointed. However the club kept me satisfied. Since my friend lives just down the street and I'm in the area frequently, I'm sure I'll visit a few more times to get a solid opinion on Aje Cafe. -
Review from Sean C.
Chicago, IL
5/19/2012
My wife and I had lunch at Aje with another couple. While we were waiting, the waiter brought us glasses of water because it was hot out. The place had a relaxed feel to it, we liked the atmosphere as soon as we stepped inside. Things were off to a good start before we even ordered.
The menu had lots of healthy options - sandwiches, wraps, paninis, salads, etc. The prices were reasonable, sandwiches and wraps between $5-7. They also had a section on the menu for smoothies which had some fun options - one had apple, carrot, baby spinach and honey. They also do catering starting at $6 per head.
The food was really good and the staff was very hospitable. We will definitely be coming back and would recommend it to anyone. -
Review from Lia V.
3/9/2012
Cute cafe. Good place to go and read a book or use wi-fi.
It seems like they buy in bulk from Costco - guess it keeps the prices cheap, but I was pretty unimpressed. I had a salad that WAS indeed delicious and very fresh ingredients.
The guy making my salad wasn't wearing gloves which totally turned me off. I'm sure he washed his hands and I didn't get sick or anything so no harm no foul, but still....
It's close to my house and walked by it a million times so I thought I'd give it a shot. I'd probably go just to get a coffee drink next time or something. -
Review from Claudia L.
Chicago, IL
3/8/2012
I had a delicious creamy vanilla latte and sat here for about an hour chatting with a friend. There seemed to be a simple but delicious assortment of sandwiches and adequate seating. My only gripe is the $4 minimum credit card charge, especially since I work on the Southside, I never carry cash. But they conveniently had dish of some single chocolates to even out my bill to $4-something, so I guess that's alright, especially since i might have paid more than $4 for a poorer latte elsewhere.
All in all, a wonderful experience. -
Review from Debbie F.
Chicago, IL
1/30/2012
The restaurant's interior looks the way you wish your living room looked - that is, if you lived in an old apartment loft in Chicago. Six tables with chairs scattered about neatly. Small, glazed glass pieces/pictures and little paintings dot the exposed brick walls. It's a comfortably lit sitting area; neither dim nor overly bright.
Service is prompt, proactive and hospitable. That being said, it will take more than five minutes for staff to make your sandwich. They're not throwing together some typical ingredients and serving a half-heartedly warm panini. No, sir. They're presenting specialty bread that's been grilled to perfection. Not a scrap of charring to be found. It's soft and yet crunchy, a texture that will make you thirsty. Salted ham and thinly sliced red onions are surrounded by basil leaves. The cheese almost melts in your mouth when you taste the pesto and see the thinly sliced tomatoes. The best part is finishing the sandwich and acknowledging the second half lying on your red plate.
The panini I just described is the 'Supremo,' $7.
Fresh pasta salad on the side is fresh, but not impressive. Don't be afraid to wash your hands after clutching the divine panini. The washroom appeared new and was very clean. -
Review from Susan F.
I really like Aje. There's nothing bad I have to say about it--therefore, it gets 5 Stars!
Their menu is very simple. Boar's Head meat, breakfast sandwiches, good coffee selection, and a nice amount of seating. Their menu is online, so you're able to browse. I love that!
I've had the sausage breakfast sandwich and the ovengold turkey sandwich with fruit salad. The prices are great for the area and it's a nice little stop if you're doing shopping/running errands on Clark.
They are generous with their Metropolitan coffee and very friendly in general. Your sandwiches and paninis will be hot and your salad will be fresh here!
On their board outside, they display discounts and specials, so there's no reason for you not to stop in :) They also have free wifi and a TV. -
Review from Pete M.
Chicago, IL
1/22/2012
It only took me one time to become a regular at Aje Cafe. The staff is warm and friendly and they all seem to genuinely appreciate the patronage of their customers, they even learned my name by my second visit. The food and the hot chocolate (I don't drink coffee) is exceptional and to my surprise all of the sandwiches and salads are freshly made.
If you do go here you won't be ignored or disappointed. There is also plenty of room to work and free Wifi.
This place is a great way to start or end your day. -
Review from Molly L.
12/20/2011 24 Check-ins Here
Aje Cafe represents everything I love about small businesses. Every time I walk in, I am greeted warmly - often by the owner - and order up something delicious and homemade with care.
The food is really good. I've had several of their sandwiches and paninis. My favorites are the avocado BLT, mozzarella veggie panini, and strawberry turkey. Everything comes with a side of pasta salad or fruit salad and a piece of chocolate. The pasta salad has sun-dried tomatoes and diced bell peppers in it. So good. I don't drink coffee, so I can't speak to that, but I love their chai tea. It's much better than Caribou's, which is located less than a block away from Aje. Plus, they have a Pepsi fountain!
The space itself has great exposed brick walls and a huge picture window that lets in tons of light. However, the design could use some work. I wish the tables were bigger and more substantial-feeling. If they were a little nicer, this would be the perfect study spot, as there's free wi-fi.
Overall, I really like Aje. I come here frequently and will continue to do so because it gives me the local business warm fuzzies.Listed in: Lakeview, The Lunch Bunch
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Review from Laura h.
Chicago, IL
3/13/2012 3 Check-ins Here
This is the best little lunch place that has happened to the neighborhood. Aje, serves breakfast as well but I always stop in for lunch.
The menu, is soup, salads, pastries, & sandwiches for the most part. I cannot express enough how "fresh" the ingredients are - it clearly comes through with the food they serve in regards to flavor.
The soup of the day is always homemade there, light & tasty even if it is a cream base, such as cream of mushroom- not overly heavily laden with cream or milk, just the right touch.
I usually get the same wrap- for I am such a fan- the tuna salad whole wheat wrap with Vermont cheddar- LOVE IT. The tuna salad has walnuts and cranberries I believe in the mix- it adds a power of punch of flavor that is delightful.
The staff are very friendly and always send you off with a Dove's chocolate at the end of your meal or in your to go bag :)
Quick, cute, flavorful & inexpensive. -
Review from Sam S.
Chicago, IL
1/18/2012
This place is great. The service is excellent, the atmosphere is warm and inviting, and the food is delicious. I really like the exposed brick walls, the lighting, and the hardwood flooring. It's all very Chicago. Aje Cafe is the type of cafe that you can feel at home. Prices are very reasonable, the internet is lightning fast and FREE.
If you come here to do some work or just to relax, you will be very pleased. -
Review from Hungry J.
Chicago, IL
10/6/2011
This is not your typical cafe / sandwich place. They serve Metropolis coffee, which beats the pants off anything served by the usual suspects, and the sandwiches are truly delicious.
I have gotten to know the owner, and I can vouch that this is an independent business that is committed to quality and creativity. Instead of occupying Wall Street, come occupy a seat at Aje Cafe. -
Review from Ramya P.
10/31/2011
Great new addition on Clark!
Its finally the season when I can savor hot coffee and spicy food. Me n Dushy decided to step into this cafe when we were fantasizing about a hot mug of coffee. Its a cute place, although I'm a little tired of the cliche'd exposed brick wall. Looking at the menu though we got greedy for something more than just coffee. We got to try the veggie soup, the carrot and raisin muffin, pumpkin spice latte and peppermint mocha. Delicious! My husband likes the coffee very sweet, I usually prefer a tad less sugar. So if you are not a fan of sugary drinks, better let them know. We are now, however, eager to try their sandwiches. -
Review from Martin M.
Chicago, IL
9/16/2011
For starters I love the sandwiches here. They're made with care. It's like Subway but where you don't feel hated.
The music played inside is laid back and smooth so it feels kinda like you're in a 90s R&B video but where you probably won't get rubbed down with baby oil.
The staff is great and super friendly and helpful. Not to mention cute!
I recommend the California Turkey - my personal fave. -
Review from Jeremy C.
Chicago, IL
1/31/2012
So I have been sitting in Aje for the past 5 hours or so, and this might be one of my shorter visits. I LOVE THIS PLACE...and by LOVE..I MEAN LOVE...Really I probably spend 1-2 days a week sitting in there writing and enjoying delicious Chai Latte Teas, the best sandwiches (Strawberry Turkey-try it as a wrap) might be the best sandwich in Chicago. Staff is great and the people that wander in and out are all very friendsly. Everybody should go there, just always make sure you save me a seat.
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Review from Jack S.
Washington, DC
1/23/2012
What a great little place. Had a club and some tea. Just dandy. What sets it apart is the atmosphere though. It sort of feels like you're meeting the folks working there, not just ordering something. This is the kind of place that would make any neighborhood proud.
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Review from Adam F.
Chicago, IL
8/26/2011 6 Check-ins Here
Aje opened up a couple weeks ago, and I finally had a chance to stop in. So far, so good!
Pros:
- I had the pepper seasoned roast beef & swiss cheese sandwich, toasted on marble rye. Delicious! Just the right amount of meat--not too much to be overwhelming, but enough to satisfy. The pasta salad that came with the sandwich was awfully tasty, too.
- I really like the atmosphere of the place. For a small store front, the cafe has done a good job feeling much larger, with open food-prep areas and a cool exposed brick wall. There's also free wi-fi, which is nice, and the staff was super friendly.
- I liked that there were people actually hanging out in here at 3pm on a Friday. It's eerie to see large spaces that are wasted.
Con:
- My sandwich took a while to prepare. In fairness, we're talking about 7-8 minutes, tops, and it was really good, but I was the only one ordering at the time. I'm not sure I'd want to get stuck in line at lunch time here, given that the food prep area, although open, seemed a bit small.
I'm very interested to see how Aje fares. This neighborhood has been in need of some more quick-bite shops for some time (Subway: you're just not cutting it), and Aje could be the ticket. The New York Deli across the street also offers some mouth-watering sandwiches, but I think Aje is a bit better for a lighter meal or snack. I'm also eager to try their coffee! Here's hoping I can review this place again a year from now. -
Review from Dave W.
Chicago, IL
12/3/2011
Aje's is conveniently located just a couple short blocks from my apartment, which is great because their menu is perfect for a quick breakfast or light lunch. My favorite is the downtown club, but all of their other wraps and salads very good as well. I always get the fruit as a side and it is always perfectly ripe, not to mention the piece of chocolate that is a nice touch to finish your meal. The co-owner is a standup guy and makes the majority (if not all) of the food himself. I love supporting small businesses and this is one that deserves repeat business.
Also, since it's not an option on the list of review questions, I have to add that they have free wi-fi! -
Review from Jack P.
12/13/2011
Looks as if I've joined the Aje Admiration Society here. Ikve been here a couple of times now for coffee and a nosh, most recently one of their sandwiches: a peppered beef with spiinach, cheese and red onions. Everything was thinly sliced and tucked in to two soft delicious slices of marble rye. One of the best sandwiches I've had in awhile. The fellow in the back looks like a surgeon as he makes each sandwich creation. The gal at the counter seems like your old best friend. The space is warm and un-cluttered. The sandwich choices are many and varied with premium, signature ones, panini, wraps and breakfast sandwiches. Prices are very reasonable and the service muy rapido. Just a great independent, tasty addition to the East Lakeview sandwich scene.
Listed in: The Url of Sandwich, Independent Java
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Review from Dan P.
Chicago, IL
8/14/2011
I really like this place.
You know how when an owner opens up a new restaurant or shop and there's that extra bit of effort shown because the owner realizes it's a big venture and the stage hasn't really been set yet on what to expect? I see that now in Aje Cafe. While some other places peter out into mediocre service, the co-owner is really nice and I feel that the quality will be able to keep up.
(I guess it's pronounced "Ah-zjuh" its the founders initials or something *I think*)
So I was walking by and saw the words "sandwich" "cafe" and "opening soon" with some excitement and skepticism; excitement because I love sandwiches, skepticism because many 1 off shops open in Chicago, only to die in a year or two. Sad, but some deserve to die. Aje Cafe does not deserve to die.
They have really nice toasted sandwiches and ingredients and ideas that are just slight spins off of other places ideas I've seen, but applied awesomely! The prices are fair (slightly cheaper than like Panera but better quality), their soup is freaking fantastic (some potato something or other, try it) and their triple stacked club is really great ( I'm a sucker for properly toasted bread and good preparation) The thing that got me going was their fruit salad.... and fruit salad has never gotten me going ever before in my life! I ALWAYS go for the pasta salad or something, today the pasta salad wasn't going on so I said, "engh, ok I'll take the fruit salad".
WHOA!
... it was like a fruit salad with squashed berries that made a type of dressing almost, which was nice because it was on some fresh mixed greens. apples tangerines bananas plums (?) raspberries blueberries i don't even know what all was in it but it rocked!
Now is the soft opening, The grand opening is going on soon. I think they have WIFI in it too and coffee/espresso bar. The owner Joseph is a nice guy and hope the business the best of luck. -
Review from S A.
Chicago, IL
1/26/2012
Not too big on this place. Decorations were a bit weird and the chairs weren't that comfortable. Their latte and hot chocolate weren't good, though the pumpkin bread was decent. Also, they have a TV going on in the background that made it difficult to study.
However, they had free wi-fi, which was nice. Also, the people working there incredibly nice. So, I didn't want to give it just one star. -
Review from Samir A.
Chicago, IL
1/19/2012
Great neighborhood cafe! The many food coffee selections are amazing. Joe, I think that's the owners name, is very friendly and remembers customers names and greets them with smiles on a daily basis, has that "cheers" feeling. A great place to relax, have a cup of coffee, eat a fresh made sandwich, and utilize the free wifi.
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Review from Melanie H.
Chicago, IL
1/9/2012
This place is phenomenal. Stumbled in here a few weeks back with some friends. We were immediately greeted when we came in and the owner even went out of his way and asked people to slide over so that we could all sit together at a table (there were 4 of us). The food was awesome. I recommend the Pasquale. :)
This is a great place to study (not as crowded and loud and expensive as Starbucks). I come here several times a week.
The atmosphere is great. The decor features local artists. It's really just an awesome place. I cannot say anything but great things about it.
edit: apparently my above review sounded too fake.
Though I have not been to Aje in a while (I'm a poor student that bought herself some loose-leaf tea to make at home instead), it is still a great place. Can I live without it? obviously.
The Boars Head meat is great. The tea comes in this HUGE mug.
Why did I stop going? The money thing, yes. But also, i have accumulated too much study material to fit at the two person table that I sit at (I cannot take the larger round tables because (at the time), there were only 2 in the whole place). The chairs are wooden (think grade school wooden) and slightly uncomfortable to be sitting in all day. There were a lot of lulls during the day when no one was in there but me and the owners. I don't think they like silence because the TV and radio are always on. It was just awkward. Will I ever go back to study? probably not, though I will stop in for a sammich sometime! -
Review from Lauren L.
Chicago, IL
12/29/2011
I work right across the street from Aje Cafe and so happy I do!
The food is awesome!! I'm not usually a huge coffee drinker but the coffee here is the BEST I've ever had! They have an awesome selection of Teas as well.
The environment is super cozy and warm. The staff is really nice and there is also free wi-fi!
Love this place! -
Review from Sara B.
Chicago, IL
11/22/2011
Great place to stop in for a quick lunch. Food is great and you always get service with a smile! Don't forget the *free* wi-fi!
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Review from Tim P.
Chicago, IL
12/21/2011
Food is definitely healthy and tasty, wifi is free and fast, and they always seem to remember your name. I've had a few occasions where I've had to wait in excess of 10 minutes for a sandwich, and have also witnessed an incident of employees arguing in front of customers. Overall a good neighborhood shop that I assume will only get better with time.
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Review from Betsy C.
Chicago, IL
1/18/2012
I really have to come by for lunch.
I gave this place two opportunities to wow me with breakfast, because I live down the street and I'm tired of Caribou Coffee's sandwiches. I ordered a small coffee and the Smoked Virgina Ham and Vermont Cheddar ($3.79). The second time was coffee and Smoked Bacon and Cheddar ($3.69). I went in the fall, around 2 months after they opened. Both times the service was cheerful, but extremely SLOW. The coffee is fine, and I'd rather support a local place than a huge chain, but the sandwiches were terrible- worse than I could make at home. The English muffins weren't even toasted, the cheese was not melty. The ham was microwaved to heat it up, as was (I believe) the egg. Despite the fancy lunch menu's mention of delightful things like mayo, pesto, and ranch dressings, this sammy was very dry, even to the point of being difficult to swallow. Nothing was freshly made, and yet it still took forever. I nearly missed my bus to work, and I decided I couldn't take the risk for an overpriced, mediocre b-fast sandwich. There's an awesome deli across the street, a new sandwich place opening up, and of course Caribou, all within a stone's throw. I was really disappointed by this place, because they didn't even seem to try to keep up with the competition.
Perhaps things have improved since October. I intend to give them another shot, but probably at lunch time. -
Review from Cindy C.
Chicago, IL
9/29/2011
This is a great place to get some work done and grab lunch at the same time. t's calming, the drinks are spectacular, they have a wonderful menu with great sandwiches, the wifi is free and the staff is so friendly. It's a great neighborhood place!
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Review from Happiness L.
Chicago, IL
2/7/2012
What a wonderful surprise! I will be back for sure! The service was very friendly and quick and the food is VERY yummy. I had a sandwich and it came with a side of pasta salad...fresh and wonderful quality ingredients. Special thanks to the folks at Verizon across the street for recommending this place. I am VERY happy and they even give you a Dove chocolate for dessert. :-)
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Review from Sam L.
Chicago, IL
10/5/2011
Aje Cafe is a nice asset to the Lakeview community: Free WIFI, tasty sandwiches, and a variety of drinks...oh and did I mention the HOSPITALITY. I went to school in the south and miss the "southern hospitality." Everywhere I went to get coffee, they knew me and would always greet me by name. Once you walk in and tell Joe your name, he won't forget it!
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Review from Ginny S.
Chicago, IL
9/25/2011
Love this place! Such a cute neighborhood spot. The food is really good and super high quality for the price and the pumpkin lattes are delicious. I only wish they had more couches / comfy chairs for relaxing....
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Review from Sharon W.
Chicago, IL
2/1/2012
Glad to see so many 5-star reviews for Aje Cafe. Warm atmosphere, good food (try the avocado BLT) and coffee and tea drinks, and a staff that makes you feel more like an old friend than a new customer. Definitely a great addition to the neighborhood!
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Review from James E.
Chicago, IL
1/29/2012
Great coffee, relaxing atmosphere and great sandwiches. Friendly owner and staff.
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Review from Robert B.
Chicago, IL
1/5/2012
If you wanted to create a perfect coffee house/cafe, this would be it. Great selection of food (prepared with loving care), outstanding prices, really nice atmosphere, great people in charge. I first noticed them after hours when I was walking back to the Belmont el from the Landmark cinema at Clark & Diversey, and I had a good intuition about them, but they exceeded my expectations when I actually got the chance to try them. Wish I lived in the neighborhood or that they had slightly longer hours (I'm told that that's coming) -- They strike me as a perfect place for an evening "hang-out". Like something out of San Francisco in the '60s. :)
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Review from Lyssa M.
Chicago, IL
9/14/2011
I'm a coffee snob, I'll admit. So, when Aje's opened across the street from my work, I fell in love. Excellent coffee. I've made it part of my daily routine.
Since I can't sustain existence on coffee alone (although I wish I could), I stopped in there for lunch as well. Also excellent. I'm now eating the grilled chicken panini with basil pesto. Best sandwich that I've had for a while and its served with a delicious fruit salad.
If tasty food and wonderful coffee wasn't enough, everyone there is super friendly. I love this place!!! -
Review from Ellen W.
Chicago, IL
9/3/2011
Aje fills a DIRELY needed niche in East Lakeview: Very good coffee + food you would actually want to eat!
I moved to Lakeview partly because the coffee shops are so plentiful. But none of them really have fresh food. Intelligentsia has amazing coffee but a limited pastry case that (on more than on one occasion) has flies in it. Blech. Kickstand has some pre-made sandwiches in a cooler and a few pastries. Caribou and Starbucks: defrosted food from an industrial kitchen in Kansas.
Aje makes food to order, has plenty of healthy options, and ridiculously fresh ingredients. The Vermont cheddar and egg supreme sandwich (egg, cheddar, sliced red onion, fresh spinach, and tomato on toasted English muffin) is my favorite breakfast option in the neighborhood. It's also ridiculously cheap for having fresh veggies: $2.79.
Definitely echo the other commenters on the coffee shop feeling more 'neighborhoody' than other options as well! -
Review from Anthony B.
Chicago, IL
9/3/2011
I have eaten here twice and both times have been satisfied with my meals. They use very fresh ingredients and I love the way everything tastes. I recommend the california turkey sandwich on rye bread. It's also set up really nice inside. Check it out!
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Review from Greg S.
Chicago, IL
10/6/2011
my colleagues and I ordered lunch from here, the smoothies and sandwiches were absolutely delicious
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Review from Joanna W.
Chicago, IL
10/12/2011
I had the best reasonably priced gourmet sanwich here on Monday. The people behind the counter were very friendly, there is free wi-fi, and affordable espresso drinks.
