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Kahawa House Coffee Lounge - CLOSED
Categories: Food Coffee & Tea Shopping Coffee & Tea, Shopping [Edit]
838 W Montrose Ave(between Clarendon Ave & Dayton St)
Chicago, IL 60613
Neighborhood: Uptown
(773) 275-3700
- Nearest Transit:
-
Wilson (Red Line)
- Accepts Credit Cards:
- Yes
- Price Range:
-
$
- Parking:
- Street
- Outdoor Seating:
- No
- Wi-Fi:
- Free
- Wheelchair Accessible:
- No
32 reviews for Kahawa House Coffee Lounge
Review Highlights
"...tasty and most are Kenyan inspired, which equals : TASTY."
(in 6 reviews)
"The best part is the super friendly guy behind the counter."
(in 3 reviews)
"...spruced up and includes a book exchange program as well as..."
(in 2 reviews)
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32 reviews in English
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Review from Andrew B.
Chicago, IL
1/23/2010
The friendliest staff around and everything I've ever had there beats Starbucks any day (pricewise and qualitywise).
Give it a visit once and you won't be sorry. -
Review from Colleen C.
Brooklyn, NY
Updated - 11/29/2008
Ah, it's the Hakuna Matata (yes, no worries) Sandwich. #7.
With a Diet Coke. And a chai.
It's just, the perfect afternoon...really.
Just wanted to clear that up :)Listed in: Buena Park gems., Paninis!, CHAIcago.
1 Previous Review: Show all »
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11/5/2008
Yay! A newish Buena Park coffee spot!
Urban Tea Lounge (RIP) is no more, but Kahawa is better...in my… Read more »
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Review from Jeff A.
2/3/2010
This place is all about the attitude, and the attitude is great!
Honestly the atmosphere is not lounge like at all... More like utility college coffee house, catch up on your own work get a good cup of joe from a great person...
More then likely for me this would be a place to pick up a cup of tea or Jo to go...
But if you need free wifi in a pinch hes got it! -
Review from Beth M.
Chicago, IL
7/14/2008
In the same space as the defunct Urban Tea Lounge, Kahawa House is a welcome site in Uptown. They sell warm beverages as well as smoothies and pastries. I had a small honeydew smoothie and it was really good and...large....I was seriously bloated after drinking it. Not bad for $2.
The space has been spruced up and includes a book exchange program as well as free wi-fi.
According to their postcard, they will have live music, spoken word, and book club readings.
*The owner informed me that Kahawa means coffee in Swahili.
I really hope this place survives. Check it out!Listed in: Bye Bye Buena Park
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Review from Johnny T.
9/26/2009
Hmm, it's alright. It reminded me of being in a college dorm. The tables were hard and a *little* wobbly. Bob Marley was playing softly overhead. I was more fixated on the fruit fly buzzing my head than the task before me. I don't know. I just didn't connect with this place.
And I also didn't get any coffee. Dunh dunh duuhhh!!! Yep, I came to a coffee lounge and didn't partake of the bean. I ordered a mango smoothie (watery and sorta forgettable) and a sandwich. I think the sandwich was the # 2 (/12 year old laughter). Order this. It was very tasty, filling and comforting. I can see this being a go-to sandwich during colder weather. But, you can order it to go. As airy, friendly (the guy behind the register is VERY nice - and into bopping to good music) and accommodating (free wi-fi) as this place is, I can't imagine ever feeling the compulsion to come here again. It's fine. But, I've had better. I look blah in beige (/puffs on cigarette).Listed in: Java Jive, Performance Anxiety, Goin' Uptown, I Blessed The Rains
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Review from Dana D.
Chicago, IL
9/16/2008
Can't say enough good things about this place
AJ, the owner, is as warm and friendly as you can get
The sandwiches are awesome and AJ's always got a new drink concoction for me to try.
the Kenyan theme is quaint
It's a true local business, run by people in the neighborhood for people in the neighborhood
take one leave one library
great book club
free wi fi
Unfortunately, it's location doesn't make it very visable. you could walk right past this place and never know its there. so spread the word. bring your friends.
so much better than Dollop (down the street on Claredon) who's coffee is acidic and prices high. when (if) the Target opens, there's likely to be a Starbucks or something. let's keep this strong before that kills it.Listed in: My Neighborhood
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Review from Nicole C.
Chicago, IL
10/22/2008
One of my favorite neighborhood places. It's a little bit hidden, so you have to keep your eyes open for it.
Coffee, Kenyan-fusion paninis, hilarious conversations with AJay and Valinda, and free wi-fi. What more could you ask for?
These people have become some of my favorite people to visit even though I'm not in there as much as they'd like me to be - haha.
Also, the prices are pretty spectacular. They give you fairly large sizes of things for cheap. Bagels, muffins, pastries are also available at the front counter.Listed in: My Neighborhood, Top Restaurants
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Review from Sarah B.
Chicago, IL
Updated - 9/23/2008
Just wanted to post an update because this place is so great and I want to give it some promotion.
The owners are so nice, the place is clean and the drinks are tasty. If you are in the neighborhood, stop by and hang out for awhile.
Free wi-fi, good sandwiches, nice people. Go there.Listed in: My Neighborhood
1 Previous Review: Show all »
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9/7/2008
This joint is so close to my apartment that I am shocked that I have not been here until today.… Read more »
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Review from Richie D.
9/11/2009 1 photo
If you keep walking, you'll pass it up being that it's in the garden of a large apartment building. Walk in and you enter another world of chill 'n cozy African culture: Kahawa (meaning Coffee) House. The owner is the best part. He's super friendly, helpful during decision making (gosh I hate decisions) and most of all, very proud of his homeland...and it shows!
Other than just coffee, tea and smoothies, you're limited to only sandwiches...but they're not what you'd find at Panera or Corner Bakery but instead are infused with African flavors (see business images for a picture of the menu). I enjoyed the KuKu Na Narzi (try saying that three times!) which was fresh chopped chicken, carrots, celery and almonds coated in a light curry and coconut milk sauce. Only $4.99+tax and that includes chips too! Super reasonable! Lightly sweet and delicious, plus healthy! All sandwich names are Swahili-based too for all those linguistic lovers. As for the coffee drinks they have cute names like Barack O'Caramel Mocha or Kiss 'N Tell Mocha. If you're not in the mood for tea or coffee, they offer fresh fruit smoothies which are just what they sound: fresh fruit with water. I enjoyed the Strawberry but you can mix 'n match.
Not only does Kahawa have free Wi-Fi, but they just installed a 55" HD TV. The owner sells Whole 100% Cotton African Scarves for $25 too so be sure to check them out. Don't just leave as an intellect but a culturally fashionable intellect! Oh and $5.00 minimum on plastic (otherwise .50 cent charge). -
Review from Claire S.
Chicago, IL
3/29/2009
I was craving a mocha hardcore this morning and figured I'd be a swell girlfriend and pick up a latte for my girlfriend as well, so I braved this end-of-March snowstorm for some caffeinated goodness with my pups.
After walking a couple of blocks towards Dollop (my usual go-to coffee place in Buena Park), I gave up and stopped by Kahawa for the first time. I've walked past it every day since it opened, so I figured it was about time to give it a shot.
The guy at the counter (no idea how to spell it, but he pronounced his name "Campaign") was crazy friendly. As he mixed up my drinks we talked about the struggles of opening a coffee shop (he said things are looking up for them!), how long I've had my dog (who was patiently waiting right outside), and everything in between. He told me all about Thursday night open mics with poetry, spoken word, music, African dance, etc etc, that I'll definitely try to stop by for.
The coffees were pretty good too. My mocha was a little sweeter than I prefer, but definitely a solid 8 out of 10, and my girlfriend said her latte was perfect (sweet, brownie points for me, thanks Kahawa!). He also offered me a coffee carrier without me having to ask, which while walking a crazy, energetic dog is a God-send. It's the little things in life, people.
I will definitely be back... I may have found my new workspace since there seemed to be ample table space, chill music in the background, and a laid-back vibe. Word on the street is they have free wi-fi and kick-ass sandwiches too... All reasons for me to return! -
Review from Jessica G.
Chicago, IL
4/25/2010
Is this place closed? I was so excited to come check it out (moving in a few blocks away) but it was closed on a weekday afternoon, and it looked like things were being packed up.
Don't go before I can even get to know you, Kahawa!
* EDIT - I've just been advised that they are not closed, but moving down the road a few blocks to Lawrence and Broadway. Yay! Stay tuned for an updated review! -
Review from Lindsey N.
Chicago, IL
2/7/2010
Apparently I need to bring this place down a notch.
My one experience here was not enough to bring me back, which is sad because I live so close to it. Mind you, I wasn't here for a beverage, but for food. While the guy behind the counter was very nice, he messed up our $6 sandwiches, which were not that impressive to begin with. One was missing the avocado, and the other was missing tomato (yet the first one had the tomato on it and he was making them at the same time). I know he wasn't being rushed either because the whole room of people was stuck in a trance from the live music they had of a woman singing with her acoustic guitar. Not my type of music, but if you don't wear deodorant or makeup or you wear dreads, you might really dig this place. Just a guess..
You shouldn't be a foodie by any means if you come here. Maybe for the coffee? (I haven't tried it), but the sandwiches consisted of the cheapest ingredients you can find of their kind - regular sliced bread, packaged lunch meat (think Carl Buddig), iceberg lettuce, regular mayo.... That's another thing. My sandwich was supposed to have "curry mayo". To be sure, I sampled just the mayo off my sandwich and learned that it was just the regular stuff. I could have easily made this sandwich at home with the Jewel right there. I felt like I had just been packed a sandwich for my school lunch. Oh well, I guess that goes along with the hippie college dorm room vibe this place has.
This place was just not my cup of tea. ...Speaking of, they do have a full range of teas in the single packaged bags. However, that you can also purchase at Jewel.
How I miss the old incumbent of this space! Urban Tea Lounge, come baaaaack!!! -
Review from Jon W.
Philadelphia, PA
Updated - 9/29/2008
The sandwiches are very tasty and most are Kenyan inspired, which equals : TASTY.
The owners are really the nicest people who are very helpful and want to make sure that you are happy.
I agree with Sarah B., just go there if you can, it is worth the chance because you will love it.1 Previous Review: Show all »
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9/24/2008
Absolutely delicious. The owners are very nice guys and a pleasure to be around this quiet hangout.… Read more »
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Review from Ivan G.
Chicago, IL
7/16/2009
Despite it's mild entrance, Kahawa offers more than just coffee to perk you up!
AJ makes you feel at home instantly, a much needed change from the frowning chain coffee shop baristas.
Treat folks here like family and you'll get the same feeling in return.
The drinks are pretty reliable, some are named off-the-wall, like the Barack O'Caramel Mocha or Gov. Sanford Take-two-to-mango.
I generally come here for company and laughs. Thursday nights are good. People generally come here to socialize more so than to work. -
Review from Lynn F.
Chicago, IL
1/15/2010
I've only been here a couple of times, but I plan on going a lot more! Good coffee, super friendly guy behind the counter, free wifi, very warm in winter, not too crowded. I'm very happy to have this place in my neighborhood!
The best part is the super friendly guy behind the counter. Wear layers in the winter, because you'll be shedding them once you settle in. It's toasty in there! My only complaint is that they served my coffee in a to-go cup when I was staying there. I definitely prefer drinking my coffee out of a mug, and not wasting the paper and plastic of a to-go cup. Despite this, my new favorite coffee shop in the neighborhood! -
Review from Amber G.
Astoria, NY
1/15/2010
Perfect for your neighborhood coffee stop. The people here are very friendly and open to suggestions. Think of it this way... if you have an idea or suggestion, something that will keep yourself coming back, then say something.
Even though I can make myself coffee at home, I come to Kahawa for the vibe, the people and the bean.
Ooooo! And ask for the Avocado sandwich. Sooo good... -
Review from Joseph P.
Chicago, IL
3/26/2009 8 photos
You'll love Kahawa House! Uptown couldn't have a better place to be, relax, socialize, and feel welcome all at the same time. . It's every bit comfort in an uncomfortable world. Make sure you try the Barack O Caramel.. it's smart and delish :)
Oh, and be sure to come on Thursday nights, just came back from an Open Mic. The talent was AWESOME. You will not be disappointed! -
Review from lauren c.
Chicago, IL
10/21/2008
I love Kahawa, so much. everyone who works there is so nice and they treat you like old friends. Their food and drinks are really delicious, I'm actually craving a Kuku Na Narzi sandwich right about now...
You'll never regret stopping in there. Ayjay and Valinda especially have a special way of making you feel great; every time my sister and I go, it's at least an hour of hanging out. -
Review from cynthia a.
Chicago, IL
5/25/2009
This little Kenyan oasis of coffee, comfort, and camaraderie is discretely tucked away between apartment buildings one block east of Jewel and World Gym. So many people don't even know it's there; but hopefully, that will change soon. The coffee is excellent. The owners, two Kenyan brothers, are affable and have managed to create an atmosphere that is quickly establishing their place among those who manage to stumble across it as the Cheers of neighborhood coffee shops.
I hesitated to write this review because, although I am not an employee and have never been one, after just a few visits and regular subsequent patronage, I consider myself a friend. However, that's a term that applies to all who enter Kahawa and stay for more than 5 minutes. A very wonderful thing is happening in this place, a thing that is strange in these strange times. A community is forming, one made of people who come in, order delicious sandwiches and coffee, such as the vegetarian Kuku Na Narzi or the Tamu Ham and Barack O'Caramel coffee, and leave feeling both full and fulfilled by the friendships that form over cups of joe. K House now has great smoothies for you to enjoy, including the jackfruit one, which is excellent!
People who come in often enough are sometimes inspired to help these Kenyan newcomers with all kinds of suggestions, delivered with excitement and a sense of partial ownership in the business, received in the spirit of gratitude and partnership with customers who keep coming back for so many reasons.
At the moment, there are no vegan items on their menu. However, brothers Ajay and Kampen, who is a new dad, are working to remedy that situation and are open to suggestions...even for events to be held there. So come into a place where you're always welcome and enjoy hot Kenyan coffee and a very cool vibe. -
Review from Jenni S.
Chicago, IL
6/23/2009
If I could give this place 9 stars, I would.
Well, maybe 8.5 stars--they're out of ham, so I couldn't try the Hakuna Matata Panini (isn't THAT fun to say) that Colleen C. recommended. Ah, well--there's so much more to love:
1. The Thanksgiving turkey sandwich (panini with bird, cranberry, lettuce, and garden-fresh tomato) is fantastic, and perfectly panini'ed (I don't like when they're toasted so long the bread turns hard and brittle--or so little it's still mushy)
2. I asked for water and got a big-ass mug, not a little dinky cup. I likes me some water.
3. I'm typing this review while still in the cafe. Why? FREE WI-FI. That kicks so much ass I can't stand it.
4. Reggae music is, like, PERFECT working music. I did find the rastafarian minor-key version of "Johnny B. Goode" a tad bit distracting, though still awesome.
5. While it's not going on now, there's poetry, music, and other entertainment on some nights. I love that the city still has room for coffee houses that offer up culture and community, not just CD compilations and cookie-cutter corporatism (I love alliteration).
I'll come back for coffee someday--today, I've already had four cups, and I'm practically vibrating, so I'd better restrain myself. -
Review from Kara S.
Chicago, IL
9/15/2008
This place is great! It has a nice friendly atmosphere. Not only do they serve coffee and tea beverages they have a tasty selection of sandwiches that have a Kenyan flair to them. I love talking to AJ, the owner. My fellow customers also have a great time. It's almost become a neighborhood hang out.
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Review from Bev h.
Chicago, IL
8/29/2008
apparently this place has been open for 5 weeks right across the street and i didn't notice it. so glad i did! when i walked in, i was immediately welcomed by 2 people, both super friendly. ordered a large mocha. i was looking at their menu and the paninis looked so good i had to try the tamu ham- ham and provolone, tomato, ginger sour cream, avocado, and lettuce on wheat and grilled. wow. so flavorful! and unexpected! love.
my coffee was delicious and huge, and all that only cost me $9. they have a really cute book exchange, a great loungy area that i can totally see coming back to, and plenty of tables. they also cater, and you can get your packages delivered there and they will sign for them and hold them for you! do places even do that anymore? that's awesome. i always have to call ups and go pick up my package all the way in the south loop.
the owner(?) came by and introduced himself and was very friendly- almost too friendly- but you could tell he was just trying to get a little start-up buzz going for his shop, so it's understandable. and it worked! i was so impressed that i will probably have to start limiting my trips there.
and i just kicked my caffeine habit a month ago.....out the window..... -
Review from Umair H.
San Jose, CA
8/16/2008
Their Ku Ku Nanarzi sandwich is nice. Something that you don't get in other coffee shops. The owner is Kenyan and the shop portrays a pleasant East African image. I'm looking forward to trying more exotic dishes there. I tried the 'Thanksgiving in July' sandwich today (although it is August) and it was pretty nice as well.
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Review from Mike V.
Chicago, IL
8/21/2008
Great staff and atmosphere - very warm and inviting.
Tried the coffee and the fruit smoothies both of which are great. -
Review from stacey v.
Chicago, IL
8/23/2008
The owners are two brothers that are really down to earth. They give everyone who walks in a great welcome and never forget a face. The free wi fi is very helpful and I find it a comfortable place to study. They also offer a coffee club card- buy 9 coffees and get the 10th free!
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Review from Sabrina B.
Chicago, IL
9/14/2009
I've walked by this place a tonn of times on my way to Jewel or the gym. I finally decided to stop and and see whats up. The guy behind the counter was so friendly - I felt like I made a new friend in 2 mins flat :) I will definitely be back and check out the sandwiches that looked so good. Plus they have a big TV and live music - seems like anytime you'd go in there something would be going on. Perfect little neighborhood coffee shop for Buena Park!
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Review from Deborah F.
Chicago, IL
11/24/2008
I had such a great chai tea latte today, which the guy working at the counter was kind enough to make with soymilk. Lots of couch space to sit on and lots of books, hurrah!
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Review from Julie S.
2/13/2010
If you would like to have the nicest human being on the planet make you a darn fine latte, you should head to Kahawa! I was so sad when I moved to Uptown and realized that the little Starbuck's kiosk in the Jewel was the closest coffee option. I was equally sad when they closed and I had none. I wanted to love the Urban Tea Lounge -- and I did when they were actually open during their posted business hours. So many times they weren't though. It was frustrating. Then Kahawa came. Yea! Their coffee is so much better than any Starbuck's. It is not a fancy space, but it is comfortable and they make you feel so welcome. I always leave with a smile.
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Review from Lindsay V.
Chicago, IL
9/20/2008
Kahawa house is my favorite neighborhood spot. The folks working at the place are always a joy to be around. Their energy only enhances the tasty coffee and sandwiches they offer. The prices are good, the people are great and this place is a sunny spot in an ever-evolving strip of uptown. This place is a feel good destination for sure.
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Review from Ben W.
Chicago, IL
1/19/2010
Its like the Cheers of coffee shops. Always welcomed with a smile - great coffee and food.
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Review from Rachel J.
Chicago, IL
9/28/2009
Good coffee, good sandwiches and free wi-fi. How can anything get better. The seating is nice and comfy. Must check it out
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Review from Terry O.
Milwaukee, WI
8/13/2009
It's atypical. Which is good. It's authentic and genuine. Which is good. It has the BEST iced tea I can remember, which is wonderful. Our panini style sandwiches were excellent. And it's got the "neighbor- friendly" vibe that is hard to find in a big city. It has a sort of oasis feel to it, with wonderful music and the owner who served us had a caring attitude and is an excellent conversationalist, should that be your thing.
The coffee will brace you up, and the atmosphere will mellow you out. If a place like this cannot do well, it says something alarming about our society. Be part of this.
