07.16.2021 |
Sawada Coffee is an independent Chicago coffee shop located in the vibrant West Loop neighborhood near Washington Blvd and Interstate 90. Sawada is primarily known for serving delicious and creative coffee drinks married with an artistic component. In addition, regulars enjoy the experience that the industrial aesthetic of the location provides.
The Roots
Sawada Coffee was created through the works of restaurant veteran Brendan Sodikoff and Japanese latte artist Hiroshi Sawada. Through Sodikoff’s business experience and Sawada’s ingenious mind, they gave life to what is now a place where coffee enthusiasts can come and enjoy a unique cafe experience. Let us dive deeper into the backgrounds of each creator.
Previously, Sodikoff helped launch multiple successful culinary ventures including Au Cheval, Doughnut Vault, Green Street Smoked Meats, and more. His vision has been to create restaurant experiences that he wants to personally encounter but that are not yet readily available. On the other hand, Hiroshi Sawada’s artistic talents led him to become the first Asian World Champion of the “Latte Art World Championship” in 2008. Through a perfect combination, a driven business mind and a passionate artist, Sawada Coffee was materialized.
The Sawada Experience
As you eagerly make your way to the shop through its Green Street entrance, you’ll be left wondering if you’re even in the right place? But hold on you are! Sawada Coffee shares walls with Green Street Smoked Meats. Although initially odd, as you walk in through the doors the rich coffee scents will let you know you’re in the right place. Inside you’ll be met with rustic walls under a warehouse-like ceiling decorated with an abundance of string white lights.
The industrial atmosphere is contrasted, some might even say complemented, with elegant and inventive coffee choices. As a quick reminder, Hiroshi Sawada is a Latte Art Champion. This is clearly evident through the shop’s highly regarded lattes finished off with chic designs. At Sawada, you’ll have the options of different styles of espressos, coffees, matchas, or teas. But by far the most popular choice of beverage for visitors is Sawada’s signature drink, the Military Latte.
The drink is a carefully balanced coffee between four key ingredients, matcha green tea, vanilla syrup, cocoa powder, and a shot of espresso. Finally, the latte is wrapped up with a beautiful design of Sawada’s prize-winning latte art. If there is one thing you should try from their menu, go for the Military Latte.
Wrapping It Up
If you’re looking for a cup of the best coffee in West Loop Chicago, look no further than Sawada Coffee. Its unique industrial aesthetic paired with world-class latte art, make Sawada Coffee a must-visit coffee shop in Chicago. Have you been here before? Did you love it, did you hate it? Let us know below! Make sure to visit their site to get a sense of everything Sawada Coffee has to offer.
