Did you hear? The world biggest Starbucks opened in Chicago late last year. It is unlike any Starbucks you have ever been to…it’s HUGE! Being that I live in the city I only felt it was appropriate to provide you with a full insiders guide to the Starbucks Reserve Roastery Chicago.
Starbucks Reserve Roastery Chicago Guide
So in the name of research I ventured out super early to be one of the first people to get in line to get into the Roastery. And let’s just say that the early bird gets the worm. The earlier you can get there the better. But before you go let me share some really cool facts with you.
Update: This post was written in the pre-COVID world and while the Roastery has opened in Chicago it is important to check
their website for information on how to safely visit the store.
History Of The Starbucks Reserve Roastery
The Starbucks Reserve Roastery is an evolution of the coffee culture that they originally created decades ago. But there is so much more than coffee in this Roastery. From merchandise to one of a kind drinks and snacks, this Roastery is a destination and not just a quick stop for coffee.
Chicago is the sixth Reserve Roastery to open in a major city with others in Seattle, Shanghai, New York City, Milan, and Tokyo. However, it seems as if it should have been higher up on the list of cities to open in. Chicago was the first city to open a Starbucks outside of Seattle in 1987. Yes, Starbucks has been around that long in Chicago though it wasn’t on every corner at that time.
The history between Chicago and Starbucks is strong and long. Having the Roastery centered on Michigan Avenue makes it the world’s largest Starbucks. However this isn’t the first time that Chicago held that record. In 1995 the Rush Street location held that title.
Important Details
Here are all the facts you need to know to plan your visit to the Roastery. The Roastery is located at 646 N Michigan Ave Chicago, IL 60611. Hours do vary but are generally as follows:
Sunday – 8:00 AM to 10:00 PM
Monday – Thursday 7:00 AM to 11:00 PM
Friday and Saturday – 7:00 AM to 12:00 AM
And finally, parking is available at 50 East Ohio Street with validation up to 4 hours. Ask for details inside the Roastery.
Starbucks Reserve Roastery Chicago Layout
The Roastery has five floors, all offering unique food and drinks for a curated experience on each floor. Food offerings include; sandwiches, breads, pastries, deserts, salads and pizza all from the Italian bakery Princi. Drinks include coffee (obviously) and cocktails and they are delicious!
First and Second Floor
When you enter, be prepared to be bombarded with merchandise. You can pick up anything here from ornaments to mugs. Food and drink selections include bakery items, reserve coffees and teas. You will also see the giant changing billboard and the huge coaster wall. Get your camera ready, as there are a ton of instagrammable spots on these floors.
Third Floor
The third floor is where all new creations start. This floor houses the experimental coffee bar. You can sit down and enjoy a siphon and watch the science and theatrics that follow with this brewing method. And prepare to be mesmerized by how they transform sweet cream into smooth gelato with a liquid nitrogen infusion.
Fourth Floor
Belly up to the bar and take in the latest creations at the Arriviamo Cocktail Bar. They serve signature Chicago-Exclusive cocktails, wines, classic cocktails and seasonal drinks. I suggest grabbing at least one cocktail there. The space is amazing and you quickly forget that they are serving coffee on the first floor. And expect downtown prices with beers coming in at $7 and classic cocktails at $12.
Fifth Floor
This is where the rooftop terrace is located. You can take in sweeping views of Michigan Ave and get a unique perspective of the Roastery from up there. It is open seasonally with weather permitting.
Tips For A Successful Trip
Being a local Chicago gal I get to walk by and visit the Roastery whenever I want. I know that not everyone can say they have a Rostery in their neighborhood. So I’ve put together my tips for a successful visit.
1 – Arrive Early – There is usually a line outside to get in, as they regulate the number allowed in to ensure that it’s not overcrowded and your experience is a positive one.
2 – Be Open Minded – You might not be able to get your traditional Starbucks drink here. They have specialty drinks and that are exclusive to the roastery.
3 – Be a Tourist – It’s not just a cup of coffee, it’s an experience. Take your time on each floor and look around, enjoy what each floor has to offer you.
4 – Take Pictures – I have to say this might be the most Instagrammable Starbucks ever. So get your cup and snap away!
5 – Buy One Souvenir – Whether it’s a reusable tote or a mug pick up at least one item to take home with you. I’ve been drinking out of the same Starbucks mug every morning for 18 years, they make really good mugs!
Have you been to the Starbucks Chicago Reserve Roastery yet? Let me know what you loved about it in the comments!
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