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Plein Air Cafe

4.5 - 646 reviews

Delicious Eats in a Cozy Atmosphere

Discover a charming café perfect for a leisurely break or a quick bite, renowned for its delicious food and excellent coffee options. With a diverse menu that caters to all palates, including hearty dishes and delightful pastries, it's no wonder visitors rave about their experiences. The ambiance is inviting, featuring both cozy indoor seating and a beautiful outdoor patio, ideal for relaxation or working on the go. Friendly staff and quick service further enhance the experience, making this café a must-visit for both locals and tourists alike.

laptop friendly cafe Chicago Plein Air Cafe
laptop friendly cafe Chicago Plein Air Cafe
laptop friendly cafe Chicago Plein Air Cafe
laptop friendly cafe Chicago Plein Air Cafe
laptop friendly cafe Chicago Plein Air Cafe
Description

A bit about Plein Air Cafe

Plein Air Cafe is a charming eatery nestled on the campus of the University of Chicago, a perfect sanctuary for those seeking a delightful break from the hustle and bustle of university life or busy city tours. Frequented by both locals and visitors, this cafe has garnered a reputation for its warm atmosphere and enticing menu offerings. Set in an inviting space, Plein Air provides ample indoor seating with a cozy vibe reminiscent of a Parisian café, while the beautifully landscaped outdoor patio serves as a popular retreat for diners looking to enjoy their meals al fresco.

The cafe's menu boasts a well-curated selection of food and beverages that cater to a variety of tastes. Reviewers rave about the hearty and flavorful dishes available, such as the meatloaf terrine and the popular roasted vegetable bowl over quinoa. There are plenty of vegetarian options, making Plein Air a fantastic choice for a diverse group of diners. The pastries are a standout as well, drawing praise for their quality and taste, with many visitors recommending the delicious almond croissant and apple danish. Whether you're in the mood for a light lunch, a comforting soup, or an indulgent pastry, there's something for everyone here.

Coffee lovers will also find their cravings satisfied at Plein Air, as the cafe serves what many consider to be some of the best cold brews in town. The quality of the beverages matches that of the food, with patrons consistently highlighting the rich flavors and freshness of each cup. Friendly and efficient service further enhances the experience, with staff going above and beyond to ensure every customer's needs are met. The fast-moving lines during peak hours are a testament to the cafe's popularity, as the service remains quick even on busy days.

The ambiance at Plein Air is another delightful aspect. It might be bustling with activity, creating a friendly and vibrant atmosphere, or tranquil when you choose to settle outside and enjoy the sun. Many patrons have enjoyed the lively scene, making it an ideal place for casual meetings, catching up with friends, or even getting some work done while sipping on exceptional coffee. The communal seating arrangements and inviting decor make Plein Air feel like a bustling gathering place where creativity and conversation can thrive.

In a city celebrated for its diverse culinary scene, Plein Air Cafe stands out not just for its delicious food and drink, but for the sense of community it fosters. Whether you're a local or just passing through, this delightful cafe is a must-visit destination for anyone looking to enjoy a meal or coffee in an inviting setting. With high-quality ingredients, a friendly atmosphere, and an ever-evolving menu that promises fresh flavors, Plein Air truly represents the heart of the University of Chicago experience.

Highlights

What does Plein Air Cafe have to offer?

Cozy Ambiance

Experience a charming atmosphere with an inviting outdoor patio and a beautiful interior reminiscent of a Parisian café, perfect for relaxing or studying.

Delicious Food Options

Enjoy a varied menu featuring hearty options like meatloaf terrine, roasted veggie bowls, and fresh pastries. Vegetarian options are abundant, catering to diverse palates.

Quality Coffee

Savor some of the best coffee in town, including a highly recommended premium cold brew that's sure to delight any coffee lover.

Efficient Service

Experience friendly and efficient service, even during peak hours, ensuring quick turnover and a pleasant dining experience.

Spacious Seating

Find plenty of space both indoors and outdoors to sit and unwind, with communal tables and various seating arrangements to choose from.

Sustainable Practices

Enjoy your meals served in nice tableware, promoting less plastic use, and indulge in thoughtfully prepared dishes made with fresh ingredients.

Café and Bookshop Connection

Conveniently located adjacent to a bookshop, perfect for a break after exploring the literary offerings or attending nearby attractions.

Great for Groups and Meetings

Whether you're meeting friends or studying with classmates, the vibrant atmosphere and diverse seating options make it an ideal location for groups.
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Features

Cafe Features

Wheelchair-accessible entrance
Wheelchair-accessible seating
Wheelchair-accessible toilet
Identifies as women-owned
Outdoor seating
No-contact delivery
Delivery
On-site services
Takeaway
Dine-in
Fast service
Great coffee
Great dessert
Great tea selection
Breakfast
Lunch
Solo dining
Good for working on laptop
Alcohol
Beer
Cocktails
Coffee
Comfort food
Healthy options
Prepared foods
Quick bite
Small plates
Vegan options
Vegetarian options
Wine
Brunch
Dinner
Dessert
Seating
Gender-neutral toilets
Toilets
Casual
Cosy
Trendy
Family friendly
LGBTQ+ friendly
Tourists
University students
Accepts reservations
Credit cards
Debit cards
Mobile payments
Good for kids
High chairs
Hours

Opening Hours

Monday, 7 am to 6 pm
Tuesday, 7 am to 6 pm
Wednesday, 7 am to 6 pm
Thursday, 7 am to 6 pm
Friday, 7 am to 6 pm
Saturday, 8 am to 6 pm
Sunday, 8 am to 6 pm
Directions

Directions to Plein Air Cafe

5751 S Woodlawn Ave, Chicago, IL 60637, United States