Among one of the largest cities in the US, and a diverse group of neighborhoods, there’s sure to be something for everyone in Chicago. From retail and restaurants to attractions and accommodations, take it from us, we know the Windy City. Explore some of our favorite finds and even a few of our own retail designs.
Green Street Smoked Meats
You can find this spot right across the street from The Soho House in the west loop. It’s in the alleyway, which is part of its magical appeal. Get ready to stand in line but trust us it’s worth it. Some of the best BBQ in the city, paired with an indoor/outdoor dining experience. In the evening the lights are low and dreamy. Casual, hip, and amazing food. Bring your appetite, grab a beer at the bar, and get in line.
Location: 112 N Green St, Chicago, IL 60607
Hopewell Brewing
Not brand new, but the 2-year-old brewery is jam packed with fun and games. This dog friendly spot is light and open, serving up beers for all types of beer drinkers. Hopewell makes the beer drinking experience social by offering communal seating and relaxed vibe.
Location: 2760 N Milwaukee Ave, Chicago, IL 60647
Dylan’s Candy Bar
Spanning two floors inside the world-famous Tribune Tower on Michigan Avenue, Dylan’s Candy Bar is an over-the-top, candy-filled adventure. Complete with a cafe, bar, bulk candy station, fudge counter, nostalgia shop, and party room it’s destined to satisfy the sweet tooth of every candy lover, young or old. The Chute Gerdeman designed store features a larger-than-life lollipop, massive chocolate bunny, and gigantic, dripping fudge sculpture make no subtleties about how sweet life can be at Dylan’s.
Location: 445 N Michigan Avenue, Chicago, IL 60611
The Thompson
One of our favorite places to stay in the Windy City. Easy access to the Magnificent Mile, this Gold Coast boutique hotel is chic and charming all at the same time. With mid-century modern cues, the space is lined with books and warm tones inviting guests in to relax. The bar has a golden glow and sparkles with beautiful light fixtures, living walls, and plush lounge seating.
Location: 21 E Bellevue Pl, Chicago, IL 60611
Toast
This quirky little café makes us happy in every way. Delicious traditional breakfast and lunch with a variety of options, this trendy neighborhood spot is a little city gem. Aside from the food, we love the toast shape signage and the unique toasters that line the diner. With two locations in Bucktown and Lincoln Park, stop in and enjoy.
Location: 746 W Webster Ave, Chicago, IL 60614
Verizon Wireless
This two-story flagship experience fully embraces technology and delights customers with an array of possibilities for their digital lives. Explore the hottest devices and accessories on the market, access information on products and services, or immerse yourself in the Verizon network to pursue lifestyle passions such as sports, music, or travel. With an array of digital display areas, a giant 35-foot LED, not to mention the expansive selection of live phones, tablets, and other devices on display, you’ll feel ready optimize your digital footprint.
Location: 840 N Michigan Avenue, Chicago, IL 60611
Alice & Wonder
This cute women’s boutique is a Millennial’s dream. The shop carries “Pretty Fun Things” for your closet and your home. The pink walls, white accents, and copper fixtures make you want to shop, try, and fall in love. Located in Lincoln Park, the store offers curated collections that are unique and hard to find, all with an affordable price tag.
Location: 956 W Webster Ave, Chicago, IL 60614
Nutella Café
With a modern environment and creative menu the Nutella Café is an immersive experience devoted to all things hazelnut spread. From sweet and savory creations of crêpes and croissants, to gelato and baguettes, all slathered with Nutella, there’s something for everybody. It’s the world’s first café of its kind, but we anticipate not the last. The chocolaty concoctions will be sure to catch on crying out for more in demand.
Location: 189 N. Michigan Avenue, Chicago, IL 60601
Whole Foods Market
Passionate about serving the needs of its community members, this dynamic grocery experience caters to the surrounding office workers, tourists, and residents in the area’s high-rise apartments and condominiums. The 50,000-square-foot store in Streeterville features everything from a ramen bar and focaccia pizza station to a juice bar to a coffee bar that serves wine in the afternoon. You can also kick back and relax or plug-in and recharge at the bar with a rotating list of beers on tap, including a special releases from Chicago’s Begyle Brewing.
Location: 255 E Grand Ave, Chicago, IL 60611
Photo Credit: Chicago Eater | Breakfast Gator | Hopewell Brewing | Inside Hook |
post by:
Amanda Seevers
Amanda is an adept observer of the market, noting headlines and happenings in the industry, and keeping the studio informed. She’s a key contributor to CG’s thought leadership, writing for both the blog and The Gist, our quarterly e-newsletter. You can read more posts from Amanda here >