Specialty Roaster Kisbi Coffee Transforms Morning Commute at Jefferson Park Transit Center

By Socialhood News · Il/Chicago/Jefferson Park · January 18, 2026

Jefferson Park commuters have a delicious new reason to arrive early for their trains as Kisbi Coffee has officially opened its doors inside the Jefferson Park Transit Center. The specialty coffee shop, which also operates a location at Navy Pier, began serving the Northwest Side neighborhood in October after owner Bernie Ijimakin, a Northwest Side resident, pursued the space for over two years.

The café offers premium beans imported from Costa Rica, Kenya, and Ethiopia, along with homemade empanadas, breakfast sandwiches, and assorted baked goods. Located before the paid turnstiles in the Blue Line and Metra station, Kisbi provides a convenient stop for both daily commuters and local residents. "My coffee is my thing. We are going to offer quality coffees, and I think that will make a difference," Ijimakin explained, noting that the name "Kisbi" represents the initials of several family members.

Open daily from 6 a.m. to 6 p.m. with possible extended hours on select days, the new establishment brings life back to a space that had been vacant for several years. Jefferson Park residents interested in supporting this local business can purchase Kisbi Coffee beans online at kisbicoffee.com or stop by the Transit Center location for their morning brew and a quick bite before catching their train.

Sources:
1. https://blockclubchicago.org/2026/01/06/october-cafe-adds-2nd-location-and-2-coffee-shops-open-on-far-northwest-side/
2. https://nadignewspapers.com/kisbi-coffee-currently-at-navy-pier-opening-soon-at-jefferson-park-cta-center/
3. https://www.jeffersonparkchamber.com/