No Longer a Gas Station, but Still Serving up the Premium

A big personal plus to writing coffeehouse reviews is supporting local establishments that really seem to get it right among other franchise backings. And when I find a unique place like It's All Good, in Zion, (www.itsallgoodcoffee.net) others should check it out for themselves. As some know, I did grow up in Zion, but this location came to my attention by several people that are privy to my love for coffee­—accompanied with opinions that this spot would impress. So I took a look.

Overall, the location and setup are great. Almost immediately you get a comfortable feel that makes you want to sit down, relax, and take your time sipping on a good cup of coffee. Originally the building was built in 1925 to be a Pure Oil Gas Station with an English Cottage style construction. Today this lends to an interesting bygone architecture with small steps and handrails leading into an arched front doorway. The focus of the large front display window, small windows trimmed with shutters and flower boxes was to give the structure a homey look. Thousands of these stations were built but only a handful of the buildings still survive. To my surprise, I found out that my grandfather worked at this very Pure Oil gas station when he was a teenager.

Forwarding to the present, this is a great local coffee shop. If you are stuck on the Starbucks atmosphere, this may not be the place for you. The fireplace room (that is what I call it) is a welcoming place that also has magazines and board games. Outside of beverages, they have a nice deli with sandwiches and other scrumptious baked good items.

At busy times, seating maybe limited inside. Alternatively, I was impressed with their outside patio which was very relaxing and includes the nice shade of a large oak tree that makes it comfortable when the sun is out.

For coffee, they offer espresso from European Roasterie, which ISO 9002 compliant and Blue Ribbon Kosher. They are also certified Organic, Fair Trade, Bird Friendly and are Environmentally Friendly.

I ordered their Italian Style Cappuccino, which was very good. That consists of an Espresso with hot, mostly foamy milk, sweetened to the customer’s taste. I also observed several different lattes ordered that were properly prepared and presented.

My immediate suggestion is that they consider more comfortable chairs...such as a small area with couches and a coffee table would work. Either way, if you are in the Northern suburbs, and are traveling down Sheridan Rd, stop and get a nice hot cup of tea or coffee. The staff is very friendly and the atmosphere is welcoming. To the point, It's All Good is a very nice local coffee shop with a great home relaxing feel. I would recommend.

Amenities

Wifi
Patio Seating
Sandwiches/Baked Goods
Catering

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