California-based Con Azucar Cafe is expanding to Chicago with its first location set to open in the South Loop's Printer's Row around Cinco de Mayo. Franchisees Andrew DeBrie and Gerardo Ortiz plan four additional cafes in the area over the next year and a half. The new spot will feature a modern twist on the chain's offerings, including unique menu items tailored to the city.
Con Azucar Cafe, a coffee company originating from San Jose, California, is making its debut in Chicago at 801 S Financial Place in the South Loop. This marks the brand's first venture into the region, with franchisees Andrew DeBrie and Gerardo Ortiz overseeing the project. They have been planning the cafe since July 2025 and recently signed the lease for the space in the heart of Printer's Row, just north of Roosevelt Collection Shops and east of the river, an area surrounded by apartment buildings.
The initial location is scheduled to open sometime around Cinco de Mayo, which falls on May 5. DeBrie and Ortiz described the Chicago outpost as a "refresh" of the original California concepts, incorporating a more modern look while adapting the menu to offer "something that is uniquely Chicago." The cafes typically serve hot and cold brews such as Americanos, cappuccinos, and iced lattes, alongside bites like avocado toast, BLT sandwiches, and club sandwiches with mayo, ham, turkey, and bacon. Chicago guests can anticipate new menu items not found at other locations.
With approximately 15 locations across California, the chain has already expanded to Nebraska and Texas, with more California sites in the works. DeBrie and Ortiz aim to open four additional franchised locations in the Chicago area within the next year and a half, including one in Park Ridge, though exact addresses and opening dates remain undisclosed. For updates, the company can be followed on Instagram at @conazucarcafe.