A new European-style coffee cafe will opening on Broadway Ave. just North of Granville and will feature its own blend of freshly roasted products.

Velox Coffee at 6206 N. Broadway will be taking over the approximately 1000 sq. ft. space. Owner and area resident Charlie Didrickson will be opening what he calls a classic European-style coffee shop that will sell the usual cafe fare including bagels, doughnuts and pastries. However, their focus will be on their own brand of locally-roasted coffee, an espresso menu, and all your favorite cafe staples including cappuccinos, americanos, lattes and more.

The front area of the cafe will seat about 24 and will have a contemporary look with walls which will be adorned with original artwork. They are planning an outdoor, pet-friendly patio for the Spring.

Didrickson’s background is in retail, working in a cycle shop for years and owning a pet store in the Rogers Park area. He looked at many storefronts in Chicago but felt that Edgewater had what he was looking for including a growing community that generates good foot traffic and tends to support independently owned businesses.

“I’ve always wanted to open a high quality cafe,” Didrickson said. “I think that in this day and age cafes and coffee culture is rather strong. I enjoy the retail process and like flipping the sign to say that we are open and hosting people. I feel like cafes are like the ultimate local business.”

According to Didrickson, Velox Coffee will fully open to the public Monday morning. Regular hours will be Monday through Saturday 7 a.m. – 4 p.m., closed on Sundays.