The opening of a coffee shop may seem routine, yet Groundswell Coffee Roasters offers something unique in Chicago’s vibrant coffee scene. Nestled in the historic Fine Arts Building at 410 S. Michigan Ave., this new spot adds to the city’s estimated 1,000 coffee shops, with Starbucks leading with around 175 locations, including a vast five-story shop at 646 N. Michigan Ave.

The Fine Arts Building, built in 1885 for Studebaker as a carriage assembly and showroom, evolved and expanded into a hub of arts-related spaces. It hosts galleries, theaters, studios, and more. Author and tenant Keir Graff, who wrote “Chicago’s Fine Arts Building: Music, Magic, and Murder,” shared his enthusiasm about the new coffee shop: “I couldn’t be happier to have a convenient spot for a tasty espresso. It’s great to see new businesses drawing people inside to learn about this building’s rich history and vibrant community.”

Jason Foster, Groundswell’s owner and a former baseball pitcher from Minnesota, also feels at home. Foster moved to Chicago for education and baseball at the University of Illinois Chicago. While he didn’t turn professional in sports, he pursued business studies, which led him into the coffee world. After managing a Starbucks, he realized his passion for coffee and entrepreneurship, paving the way for Groundswell Coffee Roasters.

Foster’s initial Groundswell opened in Ravenswood in 2015, followed by a West Loop branch. This new location required nearly a year of planning. It spans about 1,000 square feet and was designed by Brian Hammersley and Gooch Design Studio. Foster eagerly describes the attention to detail involved in renovating the space.

Set to open soon, the shop will operate from 7 a.m. to 7 p.m. daily, offering coffee and a limited menu, including breakfast burritos, sandwiches, and pastries from Good Ambler in the West Loop. Foster’s commitment to the craft is evident as he frequently works at the new store.

Foster lives in Palatine, plays baseball in a senior league, and cares for his son, Atlas, who shares his father’s love for baseball. As patrons navigate the Fine Arts Building, they may fondly remember the Artists Cafe. This former cultural centerpiece was founded by Greek immigrant George Mitchell and frequented by luminaries like Bette Midler and Mick Jagger, as well as countless locals engaged in the arts and education.

Now, with Groundswell Coffee Roasters, the tradition of community gathering continues. Plans are already set for a nostalgic visit by Irene Makris, who was part of the Artists Cafe, to revisit the past over a fresh cup of coffee.