Kafein
Cheap java and squishy couches make this Evanston coffeehouse a favorite of Northwestern students. Fuel all-night cramming sessions with the World’s Greatest Sandwich: turkey on pita with hummus, tomato, red onion, sprouts, lettuce and melted provolone. $5.94. Open until 2 a.m. weeknights, 3 a.m. weekends. 1621 Chicago Ave. 847-491-1621.
Deluxe Diner
It’s just a short walk west on Devon Avenue from Loyola’s campus to this spunky Leona’s-run greasy spoon. Grab a window booth and nosh on the Starving Student Sampler: cheese sticks, chicken fingers and fries for $4.99. Open 24-7. 6349 N. Clark St. 773-743-8244.
Mickey’s Snack Bar
DePaul students wander into this classic vinyl-laden diner for grilled eats at all hours. Besides burgers, the Cuban BLT ($6.95) is a best seller: grilled smoked turkey, bacon, Swiss, pickles, lettuce, tomato, mayo and mustard on a toasted roll. Add a cup of fries for $1.50. Food is served until 1 a.m. nightly. 2450 N. Clark St. 773-435-0007.
Medici
University of Illinois Chicago cohorts overlook the scruffy decor and graffiti scrawled furniture because this is the only spot near campus where saucy chicken Florentine ($7.95) is available after hours. Open until 11:30 p.m. on weekends, 11 p.m. weeknights. 1327 E. 57th St. 773-667-7394.
Woodlawn Tap
This spot has been attracting University of Chicago intellectuals since it opened more than 50 years ago. Is it the displayed copy of Shakespeare’s Complete Works or the $2.50 cheeseburgers? You decide. Add fries for an extra buck and a half. Open until 2 a.m. Sun-Fri., 3 a.m. Sat. 1172 E. 55th St. 773-643-5516.
