Nestled between Ravenswood and the Chicago River lies a neighborhood subsection of alluring proportions. Beverage depots, eclectic headquarters, and real estate for new families or the newly single rest. Investigate these nine offerings sure to delight the senses.
The Victor Bar
North Center’s newest cocktail gem awaits curious patrons. Originally a jewelry store, the spot now vends riches of a different nature. Adopt a Parisian alter ego, and approach the bar. Open Tuesday through Sunday from 5PM-2AM. 4011 N Damen.
Architectural Artifacts, Inc.
Traipse through a warehouse of items poised to fill your home with history. Spy worldly relics, ornaments, and furniture at 4325 N Ravenswood Ave. Even plan an event for work, play or wedding in the modifiable and sweeping space.
Bottles & Cans
Sip, stay…or not. This dog-friendly liquor store grants frequent tastings, but you can also build your own “mix-pack” to go. The store hosts 800+ beers, 250 wines, and 150 spirits. Collect the untapped at 4109 N Lincoln Ave.
Gene’s Sausage Shop
Continue “Oktoberfesting” with over 40 kinds of links. This authentic butcher/delicatessen also stocks cheese, meat, beer, pastries, and other groceries. Cater local, whether you’re feeding an entire herd or just yourself. They’ll keep it confidential. 4750 N Lincoln Ave.
Martyr’s
A range of music, storytelling, tributes and offbeat affairs make sense here. Dig into the local sound scene, or catch one of the venue’s special events. Beck, Wilco, MGMT, and Los Lobos have all taken a turn commanding the stage. Check out who’s next. 3855 N Lincoln Ave.
The Northman
Sip hello to Chicago’s First Cider Bar. This pub has character and an overwhelming count of local and international drinks. Cider lovers can trek through libations by region, and explore hearty “nosh” to go with. Unravel the enigmas of cider making on October 24th. 4337 N Lincoln Ave.
Shangri-La Vintage
Chicago Reader’s “Best vintage store” Runner-Up and a mecca for all things ’50s thru ’90s, printed, or astrological. Come here for costume inspiration, wardrobe throwbacks, and stranger things—metallic leather boots, skull swizzle sticks, genie wall plaques to name a few. Open 7 days a week. 1952 W Roscoe St.
Dovetail Brewery
The craft is calling. Head to an industrial grandparent turned brewery to answer. German, Czech and Belgian drafts occupy this 88-year-old, 3-story building. Visit the taproom, or show up Saturdays at 11AM for a tour. Bop Bar Truck, Bruges Brothers, Chicago Pizza Boss and La Cocinita food trucks will support Dovetail beer at Saturday’s Oktoberfestiversary. 1800 W Belle Plaine Ave.
Clark Park Boat House
Studio Gang Architects erected this haven for rowing, community programs, kayak rentals and a little R&R. Check out the unique structure, and continue trailing North Center’s 19-acre playground. 3400 N Rockwell St.
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