photo: Courtesy of Nick Flandro
"Papi!" exclaims an incoming patron inside Logan Square's Cafe Con Leche. The man working behind the counter, who clearly recognizes the man as a regular customer, looks befuddled. "Es mi padre!" the patron says, pointing to his dad, who's munching on some tacos on an early weekday afternoon. Between the friendly neighborhood staff and the ability to waste your day sipping on some coffee while watching the hustle and bustle of Milwaukee Avenue, Cafe Con Leche sort of has that "incidentally run into your family members" feel to it, an ultra-tiny Cuban brunch spot that couldn't possibly be anything but inviting.
Cafe Con Leche's menu begins with its signature drink (hint: cafe con leche), a blend of espresso and milk that's heavy on the cream, not too strong and – if you ask for sugar – one of the sweetest cups of Joe in the city. Cuban breakfast sandwiches, served with hash browns, are another mainstay, with the huevo con jamon and huevo con salchicha sandwiches (each $4.50) easily outdoing any egg McMuffin you've had in your entire life. Another Cuban delicacy that the café nails: French fries, probably the best in Logan Square. Crispy, seasoned, and a real stunner for a small joint like this.
The interior, while abnormally small, truly makes the most of its space; paintings of coffee beans and bread on the wall, stools near the window and framed pictures of sandwiches (they must deeply love their ham and cheese here) fill up the confines, meaning this Cuban diner may have the most charm per square inch in Logan Square.
Average cost: <$10
Centerstage Reviewer: Andy Seifert