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Welcome to Backlot Coffee

At Backlot Coffee, nestled in the heart of Evanston, warm ambiance meets exceptional flavors. Established by owner John Kim, this inviting café features vibrant murals and showcases local artistry. Patrons rave about the freshly prepared breakfast and lunch options, including the savory Backlot Classic Folded Egg and the delightful Avocado Toast. Their commitment to quality extends to their in-house baked goods, crafted to perfection, making every bite memorable. With a strong community presence, ample outdoor seating, and thoughtful amenities like gender-neutral restrooms and free Wi-Fi, Backlot Coffee is more than just a café—it's a hub for connection, creativity, and excellent coffee.

Backlot Coffee: Reviews & Ratings

Gary Cole
Gary Cole

There is no coffee establishment nearby that beats Backlot. The premises are warm and nicely decorated with painted murals and local artist paintings on the walls. Owner John Kim was running the front all 3 times we visited and greeted many ...

Chris Edwards
Chris Edwards

Walked past this place for a few days and seen that it was always busy so had to check it out myself. ...

Grace Watkins
Grace Watkins

Latte was quite good. I also had a raspberry chocolate coffee cake recommended by the barista and it was nice! Apparently the baked goods except for the bagels and gf items are made inhouse, which made sense given how fresh the coffee ...

Hannah Trautner
Hannah Trautner

Best gluten free donut I have had in the 9 years I have been gluten free. A little crispy on the outside but super soft on the inside. Also had the gluten free bread with a breakfast sandwich which was also quite tasty. Coffee was good too! Another morning I had a gf cinnamon roll which was also pretty good.

Csilla M. Fisher
Csilla M. Fisher

I love this section of Central Street lots of restaurants, shops and cafes. We were walking around to find the Starbucks which apparently closed this location so we ended up going to Backlot and boy were we happy we did. Its a jolly ...

Julia Eisenstein
Julia Eisenstein

Absolutely the BEST Latte decaf, almond milk! I ever had. The foam was thick despite using non dairy milk and lasted my entire drink! Full bodied coffee flavor despite decaf...everything was perfect...such care in prep by the barista.

Thanussha Vignesh
Thanussha Vignesh

This is my favorite coffee shop! The decor is amazing and the workers are so friendly! I have been going here for years and the quality of their coffee remains the same! My favorite drink from backlot is the oatmeal cookie latte! Definitely recommend it if you love cinnamon!

Dina Darling
Dina Darling

Great spot to stop for coffee. Staff is wonderful and an overall great vibe! Enjoyed the outdoor seating in the back.

Location

Welcome to the captivating world of Backlot Coffee, a treasure nestled at 2006 Central St, Evanston, IL 60201. This vibrant café has quickly become an essential part of the local community, not just for its excellent brews, but also for its warm and inviting atmosphere. Boasting a unique blend of comfort and creativity, Backlot Coffee is more than just a coffee shop; it’s a haven for creatives, families, and professionals alike.

The atmosphere at Backlot Coffee strikes an appealing balance. With beautifully painted murals and local artwork, the space buzzes with a moderate noise that fosters conversation without overwhelming the senses. The café is also equipped with free Wi-Fi, making it an ideal spot for those seeking a productive day out of the office.

  • Catering to diverse needs, Backlot Coffee is wheelchair accessible, offers outdoor seating, and has gender-neutral restrooms. Dogs are welcome, ensuring a friendly environment for all.
  • Convenience is further enhanced with the acceptance of Apple Pay, credit cards, and even cryptocurrency, positioning Backlot as a modern establishment ready to cater to today’s tech-savvy consumers.

Now, let’s talk about what truly sets Backlot Coffee apart: its menu. For breakfast, don’t miss the Backlot Classic, featuring a folded farm egg, cheddar cheese, fresh cucumbers, and garlic aioli on a toasted English muffin for just $6.25. Those looking for something a bit more adventurous may want to try The Herbivore, a mouthwatering medley of tomato jam, smoked gouda, and arugula that promises a burst of flavor with every bite.

When lunchtime rolls around, the offerings only get better. The Turkey Apple Gouda sandwich perfectly combines sliced turkey, Ellis farm apples, and smoked gouda, served on cracked wheat toast for an affordable $8.50. If you're in the mood for something lighter, the Avocado Toast is a refreshing choice, featuring creamy avocado, poached egg, and a hint of smoked sea salt, all for $8.25.

The reviews speak volumes. Customer Gary Cole noted, “There is no coffee establishment nearby that beats Backlot,” while Hannah Trautner hailed their gluten-free options as “the best I’ve had in 9 years.” Whether it's the comforting coffee or the homemade baked goods, including the much-loved raspberry chocolate coffee cake, guests leave satisfied and eager to return.

In conclusion, Backlot Coffee stands out not just for its delicious menu, but as a community hub that embraces everyone. From the moment you step inside, you’re welcomed into a space filled with warmth, creativity, and exceptional flavors. If you find yourself in Evanston, don’t miss out on the opportunity to indulge in a true local gem!