If you wonder where all the little cafes have gone, take a look in the South Loop. Tucked in on the corner of a residential high-rise, Little Branch Cafe doesn't look like much from the outside, but inside is a whole different story.
Two sisters set up this little cafe, choosing the name because it was "visual." Indeed, you can see examples of the arboreal inspiration everywhere, from the patterns on the walls to the tree-stump stools by the counter. This place is tastefully designed and awfully precious all the way down to the menu, which includes a Bluebird smoothie (a mix of peaches, apple juice, bananas and blueberries).
It took three close friends to launch the cafe, and it takes both sisters to run it, though regulars are often baffled over which sister is which as they alternate between greeting customers, brewing coffee and busing in the kitchen. "Ring the bell. I'm in the kitchen," reads a little sign by the counter, and customers oblige all day.
Little Branch has baked goods available for snacking and a selection of sandwiches that range from a TBL (tomato, bacon, lettuce) to a vegetarian ciabatta with hummus and veggies ($7.50). There's free wi-fi and lots of light, so you can drink a great cup of coffee, catch up on work and get back home just in time for dinner. This café is not for night owls—these early birds open at seven in the morning and call it a day at four in the afternoon.
Centerstage Reviewer: Beatrice Smigasiewicz
