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 Tasty pastries |
1736 West Division Street Chicago, IL 60622 United States +1 773 278 0366 http://www.alliance-bakery.com/ |
In business since 1929, this Eastern European bakery knows exactly what it is doing. The exquisitely hand-decorated cakes are instantly recognizable to anyone who has ever spent any time in Wicker Park, and they come with free candles. The bakery also offers handmade flowers, fresh strawberries, real bakery custard, whipped cream and chocolate mousse. Sip on coffee, espresso or cappuccino while you enjoy your treat. Everything here is delicious and surprisingly affordable for the astounding quality. The patrons can enjoy unlimited internet access as well. Review © 2007, Wcities |
 Photo: kristen60647 |
 Photo: S Jones  |
 Photo: Lauri Apple, J.D. |
 Place for coffee and baked goods |
122 South Canal Street Chicago, IL 60611 United States +1 312 474 9289 http://www.arturoexpress.com/ |
This busy little shop is of plain decor, with emphasis on the Italian market. It serves a variety of baked goods alongside soups, salads, sandwiches, cappuccino and a moderate selection of coffees. It also has a host of traditional bistro and deli-style sandwiches, including the ever-popular turkey breast sandwich and a Genoa salami. Review © 2007, Wcities |
 Photo: paul goyette |
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Wine: The Guided Tour |
339 North Dearborn Street At Marina city Chicago, IL 60610 United States +1 312 755 9463 http://www.bin36.com/ |
Learning about and selecting a fine wine have never been so easy and enjoyable. Simply order the meal at the in-store restaurant and sample the wines as you eat. The menu provides captions next to the entrees suggesting wines that would go well with the meal. More than 50 varieties are available. While the wine may be the focus of the restaurant, the food and décor are hardly after thoughts. The well-lit diner highlights the rust colored curtains, the cherry-wood trim and circular bar. The bistro style restaurant serves up a wide selection, including sea scallop appetizers and striped bass fillets. Review © 2007, Wcities |
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Find just the right wine and cheese |
3000 North Clark Street Chicago, IL 60657 United States +1 773 935 9400 http://www.binnys.com/ |
Wine lovers rejoice. This is arguably the best wine and gourmet food store in the city. There are aisles after aisles after mind-boggling aisles of just about every type and brand of wine you could want. What is equally astonishing are the prices. You can get a good bottle of wine for less than $10. For the connoisseur, check out the large selection of vintage and collectible wines. In the back of the store is a deli that sells a fine variety of cheese, crackers, and other party type fare. Review © 2007, Wcities |
 Photo: Nick Edwards |
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Not Your Mama's Box of Chocolates |
5410 North Clark Street Chicago, IL 60640 United States +1 773 784 9882 http://www.bonbonchicago.com |
Given that its confections have been featured in Playboy magazine, it should come as no surprise that bon bon Chicago is a chocolate boutique like no other. Bon bon is famous for its graphic box of Kama Sutra chocolate blocks which each feature a different entangled-body frieze from its namesake. For those looking for a less carnal treat, this chocolate shop also is known for its unique flavor combinations, each made with the highest-quality chocolate sourced from France and Belgium. Bon bon's exotic creations include fillings such as arbol chili, cinnamon, Chai tea, rose petals, and ginger. Their handmade chocolates come in several unique shapes, including miniature versions of Cleopatra, King Tut, and Buddha. These delicious chocolate beauties come at a price however—expect to pay about $60/pound. Given the exquisite handwork and unbelievable taste, this is one splurge that just might be worth the price. – Susan Berg Review © 2007, Wcities |
 Booze on the run |
6562 North Sheridan Road Chicago, IL 60626-5312 United States +1 773 764 7900 |
If, at first glance, you find yourself put off by the ambiance of this neighborhood drinking establishment, hang in there, it gets better with time. The bartender and most of the clientele are moody, and the service, if not friendly, is at least prompt. The prices are reasonable, but there is no music and not much else in the way of distraction, so make sure you come with friends. Review © 2007, Wcities |
 Upscale Outlet Shopping |
650 Premium Outlets Boulevard Chicago, IL 60502 United States +1 630 585 2200 http://www.premiumoutlets.com/... |
Located conveniently just 45 minutes west of downtown Chicago, Chicago Premium Outlets offers upscale outlet shopping with an impressive collection of 120 designer and name brand outlet stores. Enjoy savings of 25% to 65% every day. Stores include Ann Taylor, Banana Republic, Calvin Klein, Elie Tahari, Gap Outlet, J.Crew, Polo Ralph Lauren, Salvatore Ferragamo, Sony and many more. Visit their website for a complete list of stores, sales & events, hours and more. Review © 2007, Wcities |
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Cut and pour |
5408, North Clark Street Chicago, IL 60640 United States +1 773 878 5408 |
City Olive specializes in more than 30 varieties of olive oil. Saunter into the store to find an interesting array of extra virgin oils. Owner Rose also vends vinegars, marinades, tapenades, pastas, and seasonings. And while you're there, sample imported treats like Spanish sausages and of course, olives. Review © 2007, Wcities |
 Forget the chain stores, get your caffeine fix here |
3311 North Broadway Avenue Chicago, IL 60657 United States +1 773 528 2241 |
This terrific store has been in the Lakeview neighborhood for 20 years and, hopefully, the likes of Starbucks and other coffee chains will not force it out of business. Forty kinds of coffee are roasted on the premises and more than 60 varieties of teas are sold. The store also sells a large assortment of coffee and tea accessories. This is a must-stop for the coffee and tea lovers. Review © 2007, Wcities |
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Your Chicago Jewish style deli |
2211 West North Avenue Chicago, IL 60647 United States +1 773 772 4552 |
If you are looking for kosher, then this Wicker Park deli and cafe is a Godsend. You can have breakfast or lunch in the cafe, and enjoy delicious soups, fresh salads and substantial sandwiches, on your choice of fresh baked breads. The deli serves domestic and imported meats and cheeses, Sy Ginsberg's corned beef, New York pastrami, traditional rugellah and mondel bread and cheesecake. A "fancy food" section of the deli features traditional sauces and pastas, olive and other oils, roasted coffees and whole leaf teas, and flavored and aged vinegars. Review © 2007, Wcities |
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Italian subs and more |
1438 West Taylor Street Chicago, IL 60612 United States +1 312 666 3471 http://www.contedisavoia.com/ |
Located in an Italian enclave tucked between the two campuses of the University of Illinois, the deli counter of this specialty grocery prepares substantial made-to-order Italian sandwiches. Either carry out or eat at one of the tables in the front with the neighborhood locals and college students. In addition to the extensive line of imported and specialty foods, fresh pasta, home-style sauces in the freezer section, and a selection of regional Italian wines, reasonably priced, are also available. Review © 2007, Wcities |
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Gateway to world shopping |
2844 North Broadway Street Chicago, IL 60657 United States +1 773 477 9912 http://www.worldmarket.com/cos... |
Cost Plus offers a smorgasbord of shopping delights, especially appealing to the creative gift-giver. Gift shoppers can pick from wines, cheeses and European chocolates. For those who want to add an international flair to their homes, Cost Plus offers bookshelves, chairs, tables, mirrors, frames, and pottery. The selection is never dull because much of it is ever changing. And the prices are more than reasonable. Review © 2007, Wcities |
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Let the aromas lead you! |
401 East Illinois Street Chicago, IL 60611 United States +1 312 410 7301 / +1 312 379 0112 http://www.fox-obel.com/ |
A visit to the Fox & Obel Cafe is a throwback in time—to the age when intellectuals gathered and boldly expressed their views regarding politics and literature. The European ambience, the smell of coffee brewing, and freshly baked artisan bread can be quite luring in itself. Then there are also dishes like the Black Angus Steak Frites that make one want to return. The place is open for breakfast, lunch and dinner. You can opt for signature snacks like the Cobb Omelet or go for the amazing Grilled Cheese Sandwich, which, by popular opinion, holds the highest rank in Chicago. Watch out for the season's specials and feast on some homemade delights. What's more, the Fox & Obel Market lets you pick up something on your way back home. Catering services are also available. Review © 2007, Wcities |
 Photo: R. Yates |
 Photo: Andrea DeCaro |
 Photo: Brian Stein |
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Premium chocolate creations |
118 East Pearson Street Chicago, IL 60611 United States +1 312 337 9330 |
Follow the rich smell of chocolate and you will eventually come to the Ghirardelli's only store in the Midwest. Originally founded in San Francisco during the Gold Rush by Domingo Ghirardelli, son of an Italian chocolatier, Ghirardelli Chocolate employs the finest European traditions in chocolate making. Indulge in delicious chocolate and ice cream creations and purchase confections at this lesser-known gourmet shop and soda fountain. Located just steps from Michigan Avenue, it offers the perfect break from shopping. Review © 2007, Wcities |
 Photo: Chicagoist Photos |
 Photo: Chicagoist Photos |
 Photo: Kristin Resurreccion |
 Photo: Jacy Ippolito |
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Tasty take-aways |
1646 North Damen Avenue Chicago, IL 60622 United States +1 773 342 3200 http://www.goddessandgrocer.com |
Stock up your picnic basket with yummy treats from The Goddess and Grocer at Bucktown. Perfect for those who want to pick up a quick bite, this deli-like store sells a range of delicious sandwiches, cheeses, salads, chocolates, cookies, deli meals and more. All freshly made, these items may be expensive but are tasty, wholesome and convenient. Gift bags and packed lunches are also up for grabs and catering is another service offered. Wine and beer are available. Review © 2007, Wcities |
 Photo: Hell's Fairies |
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Bakery delights |
5333 North Lincoln Avenue between Berwyn and Balmoral Avenues Chicago, IL 60625 United States +1 773 561 5500 http://www.justgraze.com/ |
Delicacies that will make your mouth water await you at this popular bakery. Lay your hands on the most tempting cakes and cookies that are enriched with Belgian chocolates and cherries. For breakfast, you can try the muffins, bread, biscottis or pies, that are freshly baked each morning. Book yourself a table inside or just dine al fresco. Taste the granolas with raspberry that are baked personally by the connoisseur and owner of the place, Siobhan Straka. Review © 2007, Wcities |
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Sausages Galore! |
3324 North California Roscoe Street Chicago, IL 60618 United States +1 773 279 9550 http://www.hotdougs.com |
If you love sausages then this is paradise for you. At this sausage superstore, you are spoilt for choice and you will surely come again for more. On offer are sausages that go by the names of Green Onion Pepper, Tomme de Savoi, Swamp Sauce and the game of the week special. Don't be surprised to find Elvis, Jennifer Garner and Madonna out here. No, these celebs don't shop out here but these are a few more unique names of sausages available here. Sounds a bit crazy but there is no compromise on the taste. Fries and Sodas are also available to accompany your favorite sausage. Plus, you can even have a sausage with your own name. That's truly having your own sausage and eating it too. Review © 2007, Wcities |
 Photo: Marah Eakin |
 Photo: paul goyette |
 Photo: Mark Reed |
 Photo: keuynish |
 Photo: Rachel Oppenheim |
 Photo: *Soup* |
 Photo: Evan Sung |
 Photo: Kirsten Lund |
 Photo: Chadwick DeVoss |
 Photo: keepmusicevil |
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Neighborhood spot for cookies and chocolate for many many years |
3109 North Broadway Street Chicago, IL 60657 United States +1 773 525 5700 |
From the outside it may not look like much. In fact, you may think that the glory days are well behind it. However, on the inside, you will find a terrific assortment of pastries and cookies to choose from, perfect for an after lunch or dinner snack if you still have room left over from your kishka at The Bagel next door. House of Fine Chocolates also offers a full-service bakery and will make cakes and other desserts to order. Review © 2007, Wcities |
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Taste fine wines |
1206 North Wells Street Chicago, IL 60610 United States +1 312 642 3000 |
This family business has been running since 1888, when it was founded by Louis Glunz. Nowadays, it is run by his great grandson, David Donovan, who stocks the the store with more than 1,100 wines, everything from a $5 bottle of Chilean merlot to the most elusive and exclusive labels. There is a wine-tasting room in the rear that is decorated with 19th century furniture and a family coat of arms. Salut! Review © 2007, Wcities |
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Great Italian sandwiches and gelati |
30 East Huron Street Chicago, IL 60611 United States +1 312 787 9881 |
In addition to an extensive line of imported and specialty foods, this little grocery store near Michigan Avenue makes some of the best, freshly-made Italian sandwiches in the city. Order at the deli counter in the rear. In warm weather, take a seat in their outdoor seating area and watch the folks stroll by. In colder months, the tables move inside. Also available are Italian sweets and desserts, cappuccino, espresso, and sinfully rich gelati. Review © 2007, Wcities |
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Pastries for every occasion |
2458 West Montrose Avenue Chicago, IL 60618 United States +1 773 478 7785 http://www.lutzcafe.com/ |
While shopping for a nice cake for that wedding, birthday, anniversary or graduation party, you can have lunch in the cafe or in the outdoor garden. The menu includes homemade soups, salads, open-faced sandwiches, quiches, crepes, and daily specials. The pastry shop has a amicable selection of tortes, truffles, European pastries, marzipan and hand-dipped chocolates, made from only the finest, freshest ingredients. The shop can also produce amazing likenesses on their special portrait cakes. Review © 2007, Wcities |
 Manhattan Icon in Chicago |
111 North State Street Chicago, IL 60602 United States +1 312 781 1000 http://www.macys.com/ |
Macy's is one of America's most popular department stores, with locations in Chicago on State Street and on North Michigan Avenue. This full-service department store caters to men, women, teens, children, and the home. You can get a makeover at counters hosted by Prescriptives, Christian Dior, Clinique, Lancôme, and Estee Lauder. Young women will love the junior department's fashions by Guess, Calvin Klein, and Esprit. You can fit the whole family in casual and dress shoes at Macy's footwear salons. Don't miss the FAO Schwarz store inside! Review © 2007, Wcities |
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Pizza and beer |
4127 West Lawrence Avenue Chicago, IL 60630-2821 United States +1 773 685 5030 |
The decor in this pizzaria/lounge follows the Chicago standard of authenticity via changeless aging, it has not been given a facelift since the Ford administration. The pizza is very good, though the prices, depending on the toppings, may leave your wallet with a bitter aftertaste. But get yourself a beer afterwards at the bar to wash away those troubles, or stop in the liquor store that you walk through to enter the dining room, and take some cure-all home with you. Delivery is available. Review © 2007, Wcities |
 Photo: get directly down |
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Living and dying herbally |
4716 North Lincoln Avenue Chicago, IL 60625 United States +1 773 989 0900 http://www.merzapothecary.com/ |
In a world where health-trends come and go, this health-store has stood the test of time. In business since 1875, Chicagoians in search of herbal and home remedies have been coming to Merz's for generations. Herbal viatamins, natural healing books and alternative remedies are all available here. The staff is extremely knowledgeable about both alternative and traditional medicine. In fact, many licensed pharmacists are on staff and eager to assist you. Review © 2007, Wcities |
 Photo: PJ Chmiel |
 Photo: Maryn McKenna |
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A taste of Germany |
4750 North Lincoln Avenue Chicago, IL 60625 United States +1 773 561 3377 http://www.delicatessenmeyer.com/ |
Imported German foods and delicacies can be found in this large, bustling delicatessen. Located in a neighborhood with a large German population, the friendly folks behind the counters are bilingual, with German and English spoken equally. The deli counter in the rear of the store offers a huge selection of German sausages and lunchmeats. The cheese counter carries a large array of hard-to-find cheeses. The tangy Alpenzell is a favorite. Review © 2007, Wcities |
 Photo: davidburn |
 Photo: Augusta R. Toppins |
 Photo: PJ Chmiel |
 Photo: John Dunlevy |
 Photo: Janet M Carpenter |
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Huge warehouse of nuts and candy |
3830 North Clark Street Chicago, IL 60613 United States +1 773 549 6622 http://www.nutsonclark.com |
Way up yonder in Wrigleyville is a very special place—a 30,000-square-foot warehouse that houses dozens of varieties of nuts, candy, dried fruit and popcorn, caramel corn, cheese corn and goourmet popcorn. Buy them buy the bag, or buy them by the bulk, just buy them. Without a doubt, this is the best source these treats, as well as licorice, pastas, coffee beans, and almost any other goody you can fathom. The shop also delivers. Review © 2007, Wcities |
 Photo: Andy Marfia |
 Photo: sabrina l downard |
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Tickle your tastebuds |
1000 West North Avenue Chicago, IL 60622 United States +1 312 475 9782 http://www.peets.com |
This place will tickle your tastebuds and energize you for that tough meeting. In business for 33 years, Peet's is not just hopping on the coffee bandwagon, it knows its teas, coffee and brewing essentials. The store offers rare and original teas, available loose or in bags. Choose single origin beans or try one of the blends. Beans can be ground on site or take them home to grind them yourself. When you are picking up the beans, do not forget the crisp biscotti cookies to dip in your java. Review © 2007, Wcities |
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Vegtables, art, health food and drinks |
1531 North Damen Avenue (at North Wicker Park Avenue) Chicago, IL 60622 United States +1 773 252 7767 |
Need to shop for some rutabaga, sip a fruit juice and find some art for your walls at home? Do not waste all your time going to the vegetable stand, the health food store and the gallery. Just stop into Pontiac Produce Company in the Wicker Park neighborhood. The eclectic store is the one-stop shop for health conscious artisans. The cafe offers a selection of panini submarine sandwiches and salads at inexpensive prices. Review © 2007, Wcities |
 Photo: Norma Rios |
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Hip hop pastry shop |
1921 West North Avenue Chicago, IL 60622 United States +1 773 772 4166 http://www.sweetthangcakes.com |
This hip-hop French pastry shop and cafe is designed to rock your world. The music is always loud, and everything about the place - including the coffee and pastries - is fresh. With seating for around 20 people, visitors can enjoy chocolate and fruit croissants, quiches and sandwiches as well. The shop will whip up something special for weddings and birthdays, is available for catering, and welcomes corporate accounts. It is also willing to deliver. Review © 2007, Wcities |
 Photo: Janice Go |
 Photo: Ellen Morrison |
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Hansel and Gretel's favorite hangout? |
705 West Belden South of Fullerton Chicago, IL 60614 United States +1 773 404 2253 http://www.swirlzcupcakes.com/ |
Go mmmm! as your teeth sink into the gooey insides of some delicious chocolate cup cakes at Swirlz. If you wondering why there are many a Hansel and Gretel at Lincoln Park, it's just the aroma of fresh-baked items that can be quite alluring (don't worry, there ain't no witch out here—quite the contrary, the staff are a bunch of friends working together). Frosting in different flavors, made from Italian butter cream, top the chocolate and vanilla cakes. Baked to perfection, these cupcakes are savored among one and all. You can also get your cupcakes delivered to work. If you prefer bringing your work here instead, the place offers WiFi access too. Review © 2007, Wcities |
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Tea specialist in Chinatown |
2247 South Wentworth Avenue Chicago, IL 60616 United States +1 312 842 1171 |
There's something for everyone at this intimate Chinatown tea shop, one of the city's most popular. You can enjoy the tea samples or participate in a quaint tea ceremony and learn the art of the perfect brew. You can pick up a package of many different types of Asian tea leaves (ranging anywhere from $12 to $120 a pound). Or you can browse shelves of exotic teapots and tea sets--and bring home something unusual. Review © 2007, Wcities |
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Health is wealth |
2747 North Clark Street Chicago, IL 60614 United States +1 773 244 8202 http://www.vitaminshoppe.com/ |
As the name suggests you can get your monthly stock of vitamin supplements here. You are bound to find all kinds of healthy food products here to boost your stamina and resistance levels. Spot the Sports Nutrition Section and the Personal Care Center, apart from the book store, where you can enlighten yourself on various fitness subjects. To your health then! Review © 2007, Wcities |
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Satisfaction guaranteed |
520, North Michigan Avenue North Bridge Mall Chicago, IL 60611 United States +1 312 644 9450 http://www.vosgeschocolate.com/ |
Purple walls lined with neatly packed chocolate treats and an aroma that's hard to miss—the Vosges Haut-Chocolat Boutique or the 'Purple House' is a haven for the cocoa-craving soul. Aptly called 'boutique', this chocolate bar is known for its unique and innovative creations. Whether its liquid spiced chocolate or a cappuccino with truffles, Vosges is sure to please palates. Shelves display an array of truffles, cookies, brownies and caramel treats to take home. Review © 2007, Wcities |