BRIDGEPORT — From Samurai swords and sweet buns to Royal Pies and root beer, the South Side has something for (almost) everyone on your holiday list. Here's a look at some of the best gifts the neighborhoods have to offer.
FOR THE BLUE-COLLAR COFFEE SNOB
With names like Mayor’s Blend, Bubbly Creek Blend and Stockyards Blend, you'd think the bags of beans offered by Bridgeport Coffee Company (3101 S. Morgan St.) would be joe brewed for the working man. And it is. But look closer at the company’s “relationship coffee,” and you’ll find a commitment to fair trade purchasing — and a consistently killer cup. $17.48 for a 1-pound bag
FOR THE STYLISH CYCLIST WHO REQUIRES FUNCTIONALITY
Handmade by Britt Frandsen in Bridgeport and sold on Etsy, Foolheartedly vinyl bags do double duty: They’re primarily a cargo bag designed to wrap around a bike frame, but they can be made into a purse with an optional add-on strap. $30 for the bag; $4 for the strap; also available at Hardscrabble Gifts (3333 S. Halsted St.)
FOR YOUR SOBER UNCLE (OR NIECES AND NEPHEWS)
Hey, not all holiday cups can be filled with cheer. Give the gift of Filbert’s Sodas, bottled at the Bridgeport plant (3430 S. Ashland Ave.) and available in 25 fun flavors. But the star of the show is the 87-year-old company’s famous root beer, available in bottles and small kegs. $25 for a quarter-barrel; $38 for a half-barrel of draft root beer. Both require a $30 deposit.
FOR THE NINJA
Make gift giving simple: walk into Mei’s Martial Arts (2241 S. Wentworth Ave.) in Chinatown, walk out with a real Samurai sword, knife or dagger. Prices vary, up to $999
FOR THE HEARTY EATER
The Royal Pies baked by Pleasant House Bakery (964 W. 31st St.) are available at more than a dozen places across Chicago — see here for all of them — but none will be more satisfying than the ones served at your holiday table. Available fresh or frozen, they’re ready for your oven. $7.95 for most varieties
FOR PEOPLE WHO SIP AND SAVOR TEA
Chinatown is full of inexpensive gift options. Ask around and residents will steer you to AJ’s Houseware and Gifts (2133 S. China Place) located in the Chinatown Square development, where ceramic tea sets and cast-iron tea pots sell for bargain prices. $70 and under for tea pots
FOR THE PERPETUALLY LATE TO THE PARTY
Don’t show up to empty-handed. Just bring a big pink box of sweet or savory baked buns, pies, tarts or other delectable baked goods from Chiu Quon Bakery (2242 S. Wentworth Ave.) and declare yourself the holiday hero. Prices vary
FOR THE KIDDOS
Bridgeport’s Peggy Rauhut knits all sorts of soft and comfy clothing under her “Margaret Rose Designs” label, including handmade sweaters and caps for kids. Find them at Hardscrabble Gifts (3333 S. Halsted St.). Prices vary
