LIBERTYVILLE, Ill. — A new coffee shop inspired by the Chicago slang for “living room” is preparing to open its doors in Libertyville, offering residents a cozy “third space” designed for connection and community gathering.
Frunchroom Collective, located at 1193 S. Milwaukee Ave. (the old Bakers Square) in the Greentree Plaza shopping center, is nearing a soft opening later this month. The concept is the brainchild of owner Ivy Sukenik, a Highland Park resident and school principal, who envisioned a venue where locals could relax outside of work and home.
“We were looking for a space that could house our concept that had a welcoming community feel,” Sukenik said. “Our mission is to create a frunchroom space for the community so people feel cozy, warm and welcomed.”
A Local Gathering Spot
The shop’s name plays on the term “frunchroom,” a Chicago variation of “front room,” evoking a comfortable area for hosting friends and family. Sukenik describes the business as a “third space”—a social surrounding separate from the two usual social environments of home and the workplace.
The 4,000-square-foot facility is designed to facilitate this gathering mindset. It features couches and comfortable seating to encourage customers to “stay awhile,” according to Emily Draper, the shop’s coffee and hospitality manager. The layout includes two distinct rooms—one sports-themed and one resembling a den—which will be available for rent or daily use.
Local Partnerships and Menu
In keeping with its local focus, Frunchroom Collective will serve coffee from Tala Coffee Roasters, a company that has been roasting in Libertyville for approximately eight years. Tala also operates a cafe on Liberty Drive.
“I think the fact that we have a history of successfully operating cafes that go beyond quality and really bring people together, that spoke to them,” said Joanna Tong, a partner at Tala Coffee Roasters.
Beyond coffee, the menu will feature smoothies, muffins, cookies, and breakfast burritos.
Community Wellness
Sukenik emphasized that the “Collective” part of the name represents a goal to partner with other local businesses and resources. Plans for the space extend beyond food and drink to include wellness activities such as yoga classes and a book club.
The interior design reinforces the natural, welcoming aesthetic with a large woodsy mural and custom woodwork. The shop is currently finalizing its build-out in preparation for its upcoming opening.
