1828 Cafe

701 College Rd, Lebanon, IL 62254, United States
+1 618-537-6985
$$$ Cafe , Restaurant
(37 Reviews)

If you find yourself wandering through the charming campus of McKendree University, make sure to carve out some time for a visit to 1828 Cafe, a delightful spot located at 701 College Rd, Lebanon, IL 62254. This cozy cafe is more than just a place to grab your morning coffee; it’s a community hub teeming with friendly faces and inspiring views of the university grounds.

Offering an array of comforting eats and refreshing beverages, the menu at 1828 Cafe caters to everyone, whether you’re in the mood for a quick snack or a light meal. Sip on a rich, robust coffee as you pair it with a freshly baked bagel or indulge in one of their scrumptious muffins. For those craving something a bit different, the cafe also serves a selection of sweet and savory snacks including ice cream cups and hot wings that have garnered rave reviews. "OMG their hot wings are the bomb," exclaimed a delighted customer, proving that the cafe excels in surprising culinary delights generally reserved for more traditional dining establishments.

The atmosphere at 1828 is as inviting as its menu. With soft natural light filtering through its domed room, the cafe offers a perfect backdrop for conversations with friends, studying between classes, or simply enjoying a moment of peace while soaking in the ambiance. Customers rave about the friendly staff, whose warm service enhances the experience, making you feel right at home even amidst busy college life. "The staff is just the greatest and friendly," notes one satisfied visitor, reflecting the cafe’s commitment to creating pleasant connections with its patrons.

Another highlight of 1828 Cafe is its location. Nestled within the historic McKendree University campus, patrons can easily extend their visit to explore the picturesque surroundings, snapping memorable photos amidst statues and antique brick walls. It’s a perfect blend of good food and a beautiful setting that invites you to linger just a little longer.

So, whether you're grabbing a quick fruit smoothie on your way to class or settling down with friends to enjoy a variety of snacks, make sure to add 1828 Cafe to your list of places to visit soon. With its unique charm and standout menu, it's a gem that embodies the spirit of community and comfort.

Service options
Takeaway
Dine-in
Delivery
Highlights
Great coffee
Great tea selection
Popular for
Breakfast
Lunch
Solo dining
Good for working on laptop
Accessibility
Wheelchair-accessible car park
Wheelchair-accessible entrance
Wheelchair-accessible seating
Wheelchair-accessible toilet
Offerings
Coffee
Comfort food
Quick bite
Vegetarian options
Dining options
Breakfast
Lunch
Dinner
Dessert
Seating
Table service
Amenities
Toilet
Wi-Fi
Atmosphere
Casual
Cosy
Historic
Trendy
Crowd
Groups
University students
Planning
Accepts reservations
Payments
Credit cards
Debit cards
NFC mobile payments
Credit cards
Openings Hours

Monday

08:00 AM - 08:30 PM

Tuesday

08:00 AM - 08:30 PM

Wednesday

08:00 AM - 08:30 PM

Thursday

08:00 AM - 08:30 PM

Friday

08:00 AM - 03:00 PM

Saturday

Closed

Sunday

Closed

37 Reviews
K Wilhelm

07 Aug 2025

If you want a light meal, or just a great coffee and bagel, put this college cafe on your places to visit soon. Afterward stroll around the historic campus and snap some great pics for your social media accounts by various statues, fountains or antique brick walls. The cafe's domed room offers a wonderful view of the university campus as well. A nice place to meet friends and talk, or relax and enjoy a good book!

Tequita Douglas

05 Aug 2025

OMG their hot wings are the bomb. I was there canvassing and decided to order the hot wings and I was not disappointed, good stuff for a college cafeteria!!!

Brandon Hentze

31 Jul 2025

Located on the campus of McKendree University, 1828 is a perfect place to grab or coffee or tea on the way to class. The election is limited, but there is something for everyone and the staff isninceed8bly nice!

Ifeolu Adeoye

14 Jul 2025

It was very nice! The staff is just the greatest and friendly. Even when you do the typical mess ups of not being ready to order or, leaving your card in too long. I enjoy having my conversations with them when things aren't too hectic

Sara Amos

10 Jul 2025

So great they put in a Starbucks. Coffee was excellent! Can get busy

Keith Dearinger

18 Jun 2025

Good salads, excellent smoothies, friendly staff, good coffee

Andrew Kern

29 May 2025

5 out of 5 stars, love to spend my off time between classes here. Food is a little over priced, but very convenient.

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