There are a number of great boutique shops on the Dempster Main Corridor in Evanston.
Here are some of my favorites:
Four Finches Flowers and Gifts- 1320 Sherman
When you walk into this special store your blood pressure will instantly go down. With the scent of flowers wafting through the store and filled with unique antique pieces and personal gifts and of course flowers, you will never come out empty handed. The stores owner, Sarah, will personally create a beautiful and unique floral arrangement for your nearest and dearest as well as provide flowers for any event. Don’t get lost as the best way to enter the store is through the alley that runs parallel to Sherman. With an inviting entrance filled with greenery and seasonal flowers it is easy to find.
Secret Treasures Boutique- 605 Dempster
This shops owner, Dawn Okamoto, has a great eye for unique and interesting finds. Her shop is full of wonderful antique china, fun decorative items and unique pieces for the home dating from the 1920’s to the ‘50’s. The shop constantly changes merchandise to fit the season. With their amazing pricing things do not last long here.
Stumble and Relish- 1310 Chicago
If you are in a bind to find a unique and witty gift this is the place. From cards to jewelry to gifts you would never think of which makes it so fun. There are even whimsical items that one would never even conjure up. Everyone is so helpful and will help you find that special something.
The Mexican Shop- 801 Dempster
I bring many of my out of town friends to this shop to find fabulous Mexican jewelry, fun accessories, and trendy clothes. Always with a great vibe the staff keeps things upbeat making it a fun shopping experience. And with such a diverse stock of items there is something for everyone.
Ten Thousand Villages- 719 Main
As one of 70 stores comprising one of the worlds oldest and largest fair trade organizations, this store offers items from around the world. Everything is made by artisans who receive a fair price for their , work, The hand crafted items range from jewelry, soaps, and personal accessories, to home décor, greeting cards, coffee and chocolate. With a well-informed staff this store is another go to for unique gifts and décor.
Daves Rock Shop- 711 Main
The first time I entered this shop I thought I had walked into a mini natural history museum. Chock full of fossils, gems, rocks, amber and artifacts, everything is for sale. They also sell Native American art as well as beautiful table ware, pottery and vases. If you are even looking for that special wooly mammoth tusk they have that as well! For organic, lovely pieces from the earth and hand made functional art, this is the place to go.
Homestead Meats- 1305 Chicago
Finally a local butcher shop that not only creates their own cuts of meat but create great spins on sausages, bacon and the like. Just a few samples of their weekly specials can include tasty items like:
* Temperance Beer Brats
* South African Boerewors Sausage
* Pork Sage Sausage
* Lamb Merguez Sausage
* Rosemary Bacon
* Bacon Jam
* Pork Terrine
* Country Pâté
* Duck Leg Confit
* Curry Pulled Chicken
Sketchbook Brewery- 821 Chicago
This local and community supported brewery committed to sustainability provides unique beers in a very cool setting. Complete with a taproom, the brew masters sometimes provide tours of their small production brewery. Bring home a sixtel (40 pints) for your next party.
Few Distillery- 918 Chicago
A great place to chill with friends this gin & whiskey distillery has an old-world industrial-hip vibe. Bring your out of town friends as it offers tours & a tasting room. When weather permits they “open” the alley for parties complete with coclktails, music and food. Their unique bottles are only surpassed by the spirits themselves and look very cool on your bar.
