Sparrow Coffee Opens in Clarendon Hills, Featuring More Space and Expanded Offerings

The buzz around Sparrow Coffee began three years ago when plans emerged to replace the old Starbucks spot in downtown Clarendon Hills. Chris Chacko, who founded Sparrow Coffee in 2012, initially supplied custom roasts to high-end and Michelin-starred establishments. He then opened his first café in Naperville in January 2018. The new location at 100 Park Ave. opened on Wednesday, October 21.

Chacko explained that the decision to consider Clarendon Hills started when he learned about Starbucks closing down in 2023. He emphasized his family’s connection to the area and the warmth they’ve experienced from the community. “We wanted a world-class coffee shop with exceptional food to serve the community with respect,” Chacko noted.

Chacko believes that offering exceptional products at reasonable prices can lead to success as customers spread the word to family and friends. “It is our hope that people from surrounding areas will visit, and our presence will help local businesses thrive.” For the café design, Chacko’s architect focused on creating a space that accommodates volume while providing various seating options, especially for families to gather.

Initially, Sparrow Coffee will operate from 7 a.m. to 1:30 p.m. daily. Chacko aims to extend operating hours from 6 a.m. to 6 p.m., depending on community needs.

A latte at Sparrow Coffee in Naperville is noted. The new Sparrow Coffee shop has started in Clarendon Hills. (Steve Metsch/Naperville Sun)

Over the next few weeks, Sparrow Coffee plans to widen its menu to include more coffee varieties, non-alcoholic beverages, lunch options, and select dishes from successful chefs. Besides occupying the Starbucks spot, Sparrow has expanded into spaces previously held by Little Creperie and State Farm Insurance.

Local resident Karen Deane feels the wait was worthwhile. “I was eager for Sparrow to open and missed having a local meeting spot,” she said. She appreciates the increased seating compared to Starbucks, calling Sparrow modern, sophisticated, and comfortable.

Kristie Wester, another resident, was pleased with her visit, stating the coffee and breakfast sandwiches were great. “It’s hard to believe it’s finally open, but it was worth the wait,” she remarked.

Village President Eric Tech anticipates Sparrow will not only be the area’s leading coffee shop but also a notable Midwest destination. “Choosing Clarendon Hills is a testament to our village and community, showing our willingness to invest in the future.”

Chuck Fieldman is a freelance reporter for Pioneer Press.