Awaken Cafe

Inside Awaken Cafe

Awaken Cafe is a cozy, downtown Kankakee spot where locals gather for more than just a caffeine fix. As a cafe, it shines with its inviting, laid-back vibe that suits everything from a morning solo coffee run to relaxed catch-ups with friends. The atmosphere feels warm and refreshing, fitting neatly into the historic character of the neighborhood, making it a comfortable place to slow down or spark some energy during the day.

Awaken Cafe’s menu reflects its thoughtful approach to comfort and creativity, with chai offerings that stand out. Whether you’re drawn to the Banana Bread Chai that tastes like freshly baked banana bread in a cup or the smooth, cinnamon-rich Horchata Chai, the chai creations are both cozy and unique. These drinks make it easy to settle in, especially during cooler months when something warm and flavorful hits the spot. Bakery items like chewy muffins, beignets, and indulgent treats such as the Biscoff Banana Pudding or the Strawberry Cheesecake Cup pair well with the drinks and add a sweet touch to the visit.

This cafe also doubles as a local wellness spot with shelves offering infused candy bars, patches for stress and PMS relief, and herbal tinctures, giving it a lifestyle edge that blends refreshment with care. It invites a broad range of visitors—from those popping in for an uplifting smoothie latte and a garlic bagel to customers looking to explore health-oriented products in a welcoming setting.

The staff’s attentiveness is commonly noted, adding to the relaxed but polished feel where service doesn’t feel hurried or impersonal. Many folks seem to make Awaken Cafe part of their routine, enjoying friendly exchanges and reliable quality whether grabbing a Turtle Latte or trying new menu items.

The best time to visit feels like anytime between mid-morning and early afternoon, when the space is active but still laid-back—good for working on a laptop, reading, or meeting a friend for a chat. Those who appreciate locally rooted spots with a balance of creative flavors, thoughtful food options, and a gentle focus on wellness will find Awaken Cafe a comfortable and inviting choice in Kankakee’s downtown scene.

Highlights & Local Essentials

Highlights

Great coffee

Great tea selection

Popular for

Breakfast

Solo dining

What they serve

Coffee

Quick bite

Best for

Dessert

Accessibility

Wheelchair-accessible car park

Parking

Free of charge street parking

Free parking lot

Parking

Local Moments in Photos

Find It on the Map

Openings Hours

Checking

Monday

07:00 AM - 05:00 PM

Tuesday

07:00 AM - 05:00 PM

Wednesday

Closed

Thursday

07:00 AM - 05:00 PM

Friday

07:00 AM - 05:00 PM

Saturday

08:00 AM - 04:00 PM

Sunday

08:00 AM - 02:00 PM

What Locals & Travelers Say

63 Reviews

Ruth Thurston

18 Dec 2025

Turtle Latte is very good. It has become my regular drink. I tried the sourdough toast with cream cheese, avocado and dill. There was A LOT of dill on top but did not overpower the taste. Would have liked a touch of salt. Maybe everything bagel seasoning instead of dill. Overall it was good.

Selah White

11 Dec 2025

Every time I have come here (which is quite often) the items I order/am suggested are great. What I am always most impressed about is the incredible service. Keep it up! I would 100% recommend this place to anyone in or stopping by the Kankakee area.

Becky Hart

05 Dec 2025

I didn’t try the food or drinks on this visit, but I did purchase two of the infused candy bars—one aimed at relieving pain and aches, and the other for PMS symptom relief. I also picked up two types of patches: one for stress relief and another specifically for PMS. I’m definitely planning to come back to try the food and drinks! The drink menu including teas, smoothies, and coffees sound amazing. The atmosphere here is very calming and laid-back, making it a great place to unwind. They carry a wide variety of holistic items, candles, soaps, teas, beauty creams, gummies, pet treats, and more. In the back, there’s a cozy lounge area perfect for relaxing, and they even offer live music. The employees were friendly, welcoming, and very helpful. This place has officially earned a spot on my “must-visit” list whenever I’m in Kankakee, IL!

Aaron Napoleon

04 Dec 2025

This is exactly what downtown Kankakee needs. This place is unique, cozy, refreshing, and uplifting. There are lots of healthy and fresh drink and meal options on the menu. Food, service, and atmosphere is 10/10. My favorite thing about this business is the style and design that compliments the historical building it is located in. I wish this business much success!

Bre Stone

22 Oct 2025

The garlic bagel with regular cream cheese is so so good!!!! Service was great & the drinks are to die for $20 was worth it for a smoothie latte and bagel

Jo Daly

12 Oct 2025

Great chai lattes. Very good food. Immaculate vibes. 100% returning for another banana bread chai latte! AMAZING natural made lotions and potions for sale as well.

Lora Scheller

05 Oct 2025

This place is such a vibe! Great place to study, read a book, or catch up friends. Such a chill vibe. They just have so many options and all a look amazing. I went with the Dubai Pistachio Latte Hot. Which was so creamy and delicious. This is a great little hidden gem in Kankakee, a must visit place!

Nicole Pollock

19 Sep 2025

This place is literally the best cafe around. First off the staff are amazing. The time and effort they put into bringing this place into the community is evident. The aesthetics are beautiful and the menu options oh my goodness best smoothies by far and the coffee is amazing. Love love love this place

Inside Awaken Cafe

Highlights & Local Essentials

Local Moments in Photos

Find It on the Map

Openings Hours

What Locals & Travelers Say

63 Reviews

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