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The Understudy Coffee and Books

Coffee, Vegan Pastries, Bookstore

$$

Top tips

  • Ask about the vegan pastries, including the jam-filled Bismarck and apple fritter.
  • Good to know: Expect possible crowds around midday and at other busy times; seats may open after a short wait.
All 5 tipsShow fewer
  • Ask staff about seasonal drinks; a reviewer found their answers enthusiastic and detailed.
  • The space has separate front and back seating areas, with the front getting sunlight and the back feeling cozier.
  • Check the pastry display for allergen information.

People mention

No standout dish yet. People mention coffee, folklore (reggie's version) and hot chocolate.

All 10 dishes people mentionShow fewer

Also apple fritter, bismarck, cold brew, donut, espresso tonic, mocha and juice.

Good for

The vibe: dates The vibe: groups

Praised for beautiful interior, cozy atmosphere and attentive service.

All 6 things people praiseShow fewer

Also praised for laptop-friendly, lively atmosphere and friendly service.

Good to know

  • Gluten-free options
  • Outdoor seating
  • Wi-Fi
  • Coffee, dessert
  • Cards and mobile pay

About

Metric coffee, seasonal specialty drinks, and vegan pastries from local bakeries share space with a curated bookstore focused on plays and theater. Sunlit front tables and a cozier back section make it a useful place to read or work, though recent visitors say it can get crowded and seating is compact.

Vegan menu

No dishes listed yet.

Photos

Photos from Google

Visit

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5531 N Clark St, Chicago, IL 60640

Opening hours

Monday
08:00–18:00
Tuesday
08:00–18:00
Wednesday
08:00–18:00
Thursday
08:00–18:00
Friday
08:00–18:00
Saturday
08:00–18:00
Sunday
08:00–18:00

the food

4.8 out of 5. Spinach Rating

From recent reviews, out of 5.

  • Great food
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4.7 679 reviews Read on Google Maps
HappyCow
4.0 3 reviews Read on HappyCow
How we rank

eating vegan

Outstanding for vegans

vegan options
Some · 3–5 dishes
menu
Clearly marked
staff
Knowledgeable
What the grades mean

nearby

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