Neighborhood Watch: Lincoln Square, Chicago

With Wicker Park being oh-so 10 years ago and Ukranian Village reaching "trendability" capacity, those in the know are heading north to Lincoln Square

By Althea Legaspi
Published: Dec 01, 2007

Discriminating people who know that a hip neighborhood doesn’t have to come with hipster hype head to Lincoln Square, where trend commingles harmoniously with history and the independent spirit. Case in point, Angelina Jolie, was recently spotted perusing the Square’s many offerings while in town shooting the movie Wanted.

Cozily tucked on Lincoln Avenue between Lawrence and Montrose, the main thoroughfare buzzes with outdoor cafés, international flair and busy shoppers. It has a distinct European flavor, complete with a brick-lined piazza and three-tiered fountain. Settled by Germans, Greeks and Eastern Europeans, the neighborhood’s cultural influences remain authentic.

While it may no longer be Chicago’s best kept secret – certain chain stores have made their way into the Square – many independently owned businesses, some of which have been there for several decades, still populate the street. From moms looking to doll up their kids in the latest fashions to savvy singles seeking a respite from a pick-up bar atmosphere, there’s a little something for everyone in Lincoln Square.

The insider’s do, buy, eat guide to Lincoln Square:

Davis Theater (4614 N. Lincoln, 773 784-0893). While the floors are sticky and the bathrooms hearken to elementary school, it’s one of the most economical theaters for first-run flicks. An adult matinee ticket is $5.50; it’s $8 after 6 p.m.

Laurie’s Planet of Sound (4639 N. Lincoln Ave. 773 271-3569). There was a time when the neighborhood record store was the way to discover the best music. An unfortunately dying breed, this independently-owned shop touts vintage vinyl alongside just-released CDs.

Book Cellar (4736-38 N. Lincoln Ave, 773 293-2665). Rivaling the slow death off record stores, indie book stores are a rare find. Book Cellar is a quaint shop, with a lovely outdoor café that serves light bites and fine wine.

Merz Apothecary (4716 N. Lincoln Ave 773 989-0900). Get ready to do some serious damage to the credit card. From the finest of fragrant bath and body products, to rare European perfumes and health-related potions, the German pharmacy emphasizes European herbal and homeopathic treatments.

Old Town School of Folk Music (4544 N. Lincoln Ave, 773 728-6000). Offers music and dance classes for adults and kids alike and fine eclectic performances in one of the most acoustically sound rooms in the city.

Hanger 18 (4726 North Lincoln Ave, 773 275-3349). Offers unique gifts to the hippest baby clothes (Sex Pistols’ onesies, for example)

The Dressing Room (635 North Lincoln Ave, 773.728.0088). Stylish and urban, a must-shop for fashionistas.

Bad Dog Tavern (4535 North Lincoln Avenue, 773 334-4040). With an excellent atmosphere, it’s a great place for hanging with girlfriends or a date.

Café Selmarie (4729 North Lincoln Ave, 773 989-5595). Decadent European pastries and tasty full-menu offerings tantalize in this bakery/restaurant.

Bistro Campagne (4518 North Lincoln Avenue, 773 271-6100). With an eye on sustainability, the restaurant’s “organically grown” emphasis makes its French cooking tasty as well as good for the environment.

Huettenbar (4721 North Lincoln Avenue, 773 561-2507). Like a trip to Bavaria without leaving Chicago, this German bar is populated with friendly regulars and offers unique German liquors along with a vast selection of German beers.

Chicago Brauhaus (4732 North Lincoln Ave, 773 784-4444). For a taste of the neighborhood’s history, stop into this authentic brauhaus, which serves traditional German fare.

Born in Philly, reared in Detroit, and indulging wanderlust in Arizona, Boston and Maryland, Althea Legaspi has now called Chicago home for more than a decade. She makes her living eating, breathing, and writing about music for publications such as Chicago Tribune and Paste, among others, and can be heard on-air during NPR-affiliate Chicago Public Radio's "848" program. Yes, her life does not suck.

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