It finally arrived on Mannheim Road on May 14, 2026. This Melrose Park drive-thru is the first Dutch Bros in the Chicago area, and opening day drew long lines of people on foot and in cars, all there for a first sip and a free keychain. Some context for the uninitiated: Dutch Bros started in Grants Pass, Oregon, in 1992 and has grown to more than 1,100 shops in 25 states, nearly all built around a fast, friendly drive-thru. Before this one, Illinois only had a handful downstate, in Urbana, Fairview Heights, Mount Vernon and Edwardsville. It's a chain, and we're telling you that up front.
What makes it worth the trip is the menu, which skews sweet and playful: Rebel energy drinks, Myst Energy Refreshers, nitro cold brew, freezes, smoothies, and breves made with half-and-half. Regulars point first-timers to the Golden Eagle breve, with vanilla and caramel. Order ahead and collect points in the Dutch Bros app, or just get in line. The shop runs early and late: 5am to 10pm Sunday through Thursday, and until 11pm on Friday and Saturday. Rockford, New Lenox and Buffalo Grove were next in line, but this was the first.
No photos yet — be the first to add one.
Have a photo from a recent visit? — customers and business owners both welcome.
Know about a deal here that's not listed? Add it below — we'll verify and publish it.
to suggest a special.
Think Dutch Bros Coffee deserves Iconic/Notable or Super Gem status? Tell us why.
to nominate a gem.
Every restaurant, dive, diner, bakery, and beef stand that made its way onto the show — plus an interactive map of every stop.
The Chicago Specials Score: member votes plus our own editorial judgment, updated as new spots earn their place.
Every real, verified Chicago event worth planning around — browse month by month, from this weekend to next summer.
Chicago