Lake Shore Drive

The lake
remains
your
favorite
neighbor.

A quiet corner where coffee meets the water. Morning light, evening drinks, and the sound of waves against the shore — all within the city.

Explore the menu Reserve a table

Sandbox Beach Cafe interior with natural light and minimalist design

Our Menu

Simple things,
done well.

Seasonal ingredients, local roasters, and a cocktail program that takes its time. No pretense — just honest food and drink.

Coffee & Espresso

Espresso

Double shot, local roast

—

Pour Over

Single origin, rotating selection

—

Cortado

Equal parts espresso and steamed milk

—

Cold Brew

24-hour steep, served over ice

—

Matcha Latte

Ceremonial grade, oat or dairy

—

Cocktails & Wine

Sandbox Spritz

Aperol, prosecco, elderflower, soda

—

Lake Side Martini

Gin, dry vermouth, olive or twist

—

Espresso Martini

Vodka, fresh espresso, coffee liqueur

—

House Red

Glass — seasonal selection

—

Prosecco

Glass — Valdobbiadene

—

Kitchen

Avocado Toast

Sourdough, smashed avocado, radish, microgreens, everything seasoning

—

Breakfast Sandwich

Brioche bun, local eggs, aged cheddar, applewood bacon, herb aioli

—

Seasonal Bowl

Grain base, roasted vegetables, hummus, seeds, tahini dressing

—

Menu items rotate seasonally. Please ask about today's selections.

Sandbox Beach Cafe exterior view with lake access

Est. 2019
On the lake, not far from the city.

Our Story

A place to
pause, not
just pass through.

Sandbox Beach Cafe began with a simple question: what if a cafe felt like a secret? Not hidden — but intentional. A place where the pace slows and the lake becomes part of the experience.

We source our coffee from Chicago's finest roasters and craft our cocktails with the same care we'd give a long afternoon. The menu is small by design — every item earns its place.

Whether you're here for a morning pour-over with lake views or an evening drink as the city lights begin to glow, we're glad you came.

7 Years on Lake Shore

100% Local Roasters

Gallery