Another coffee nod goes to local gem Grab-A-Java. A perennial winner of Illinois Times’ Best Coffee House, it’s also received past recognition in the best public art and best barista categories.
Grab-A-Java deserves praise not only for its tasty brews and savory or sweet treats but also perseverance amid the rise of a slew of new coffee chains popping up all over the city. Founded in 1996 by Meg Evans and Peter Lazare and currently owned by Bill and Vicky Legge, Grab-A-Java’s long history is not only a testament to the quality of its coffee and fast, convenient locations but their quirky approach to the business. With witty art banners to put smiles on the faces of passers-by, free sticker days that you forget about until a barista offers you one and then suddenly your day gets substantially brighter, and cheerful employees who seem genuinely glad to serve you, Grab-A-Java continues to appeal to those seeking their morning jolt or afternoon tea.
For the recent International Route 66 Mother Road Festival, Grab-A-Java held a parking lot party at its Sixth Street store during the Friday night car cruise, offering community members not only a close up view of the passing cars but free food, face painting and treats for the kids while Dave Littrell provided live music – everyone was welcome to enjoy the event at no charge.
You can check out the menu, the full gallery of banner art or donate to a worthy cause, all on the Grab-A-Java website. Here’s to another 20 years of serving the community!
This article appears in October 29-November 4, 2026.
