Philadelphia is talking about transforming its entire city into a free Wi-Fi hot spot. While Chicago’s not quite there yet, scores of coffeehouses, bars and restaurants are ditching the fee and letting you log on for free. Grab your laptop and wireless card, and check out some of our favorites.
Map Room
Those who live in the ‘hood know there’s only a short hiatus between last call (2 a.m. Sundays-Fridays; 3 a.m. Saturdays) and breakfast here. The newly remodeled Bucktown pub opens bright and early at 6:30 a.m. on weekdays to serve coffee drinks, tea, fresh-squeezed orange juice, pastries and cereal to the daytime crowd. 1949 N. Hoyne Ave. 773-252-7636.
Office space: Plenty of tables and space at the bar.
Argo Tea
It’s always tea time at this cute cafe–the focus here is on dozens of loose teas and tea-based drinks. You’ll also find a menu of sandwiches, quiches, salads and pastries. 958 W. Armitage Ave. 312-873-4123.
Office space: Around 10 tables. The cafe’s proximity to the Armitage Brown Line stop draws a steady crowd; stake out your spot during off-peak hours.
Jerry’s Sandwiches
Enjoy a working lunch at Jerry’s, where you can choose from a wide selection of gourmet sandwiches, or build your own from an extensive list of breads, fillings, cheeses and sauces. 1045 W. Madison St. 312-563-1008.
Office space: A long table in the front room, counter seating along the front window, a couch and tables in the back room.
Cafe Dada
Named after the meeting place of the original Dadaists, this Andersonville cafe is perfect for an all-day project. Start with a brunch of Nutella crepes and check out pizza, sandwiches and calzones in the evening. Feel free to BYOB. 1507 W. Foster Ave. 773-907-0727.
Office space: Tables, comfy chairs and booths.
Kaffecino
This cozy new sandwich cafe next to Loyola University is a great spot to hop online in between classes. Snag the couch space in the front window and sample one of many large sandwich specials and other cafe fare. 6441 N. Sheridan Rd. 773-508-1888.
Office space: Tables, couches, outdoor patio.
Tea Leaf Cafe
One of few places that caters to the late-night Chinatown crowd, this spot is open until midnight during the week and 2 a.m. on weekends. Nosh on burgers, sandwiches, fresh-fruit freezes and coffee drinks, including a huge variety of bubble tea beverages. 2334 S. Wentworth Ave., No. 105, 312-808-3668.
Office space: Plenty of tables for spreading out your work.
Pizza Metro
Need to pull an all-nighter? Fuel up at this Ukrainian Village hang, which serves Italian favorites including pasta and pizza, and slings coffee drinks until 1 a.m. during the week; 4 a.m. on Fridays and Saturdays. 1707 W. Division St. 773-278-1753.
Office space: It’s a tiny spot with a few indoor tables and counter seating, so avoid the dinner rush if you want to snag a seat.
Art Gallery Kafe
Working on a novel? With a space decked out in works by local artists and a piano, you’ll find plenty of creative inspiration. Keep your energy up with coffees, teas, sandwiches, salads and more. 1907 N. Milwaukee Ave. 773-235-2351.
Office space: Plenty of couches, tables and chairs.
West Gate Coffeehouse
This West Loop java joint offers an array of breakfast items, salads, sandwiches and desserts. Feel free to BYOB and wet your whistle while you work. 924 W. Madison St. 312-829-9378.
Office space: Comfy leather couches, plenty of tables, including a picnic table.
Darwin’s
Let your afternoon office hours meld into happy hour at this Bucktown bar/restaurant. Get things started with one of the microbrews, like the Dirty Bastard Scotch Ale, set up your laptop at one of the tall tables by the window and enjoy the afternoon breeze. 1935 North Damen Ave. 773-772-3719.
Office space: Plenty of tables, a few booths and bar seating.
