FAR NORTH SIDE — Rogers Park and Edgewater have no shortage of cool places to shop. The trick is the whole "buying for others" thing.
Just take a quick stroll through the 'hood and your gift list will be tackled in no time — and you'll maybe even find a little something for yourself.
FOR THE GIN CONNOISSEUR
Uncommon Ground's organic rooftop farm not only grows veggies for salads — but also black currants for gin. Above Devon Avenue, farmer Jen Rosenthal spent her summer cultivating the currants and then partnered with FEW Spirits to infuse a gin with its berries. For $45, you can pick up a bottle of "Uncommon Ground Gin" at either its Edgewater or Wrigleyville locations. $45
FOR THE THEATER GEEK
This is the gift for that person on your list who needs a constant dosage of neighborhood theater. Both Rogers Park and Edgewater theaters — such as BoHo Theatre, Lifeline Theatre, Raven Theatre and Jackalope Theatre — offer a "flex pass" that can be redeemed at any participating venue. Rogers Park's theaters offer a five-show pass for $50. Edgewater's offer a nine-show pass for $75.
FOR THE ROGERS PARK SUPER FAN
Do you know someone who loves Rogers Park so much they'd wear it on a T-shirt? The Classic Rogers Park Shirt, printed on an American Apparel tee, features "Rogers Park" in white and teal block letters and is inspired by one of the neighborhood's many viaduct murals. $22
FOR THE SPICE LOVER
Little India's lively culinary scene is sure to please any foodie. And Spice of Life Tours can guide the way. The three-hour walking tour offered on Saturday and Sunday makes stops along Devon Avenue in West Rogers Park. Participants can expect at least four food tastings from various restaurants serving Indian and Pakistani dishes. Organizers say to "please come hungry." The tour also stops at a Sikh Temple and a henna tattoo artist. $65 per tour
FOR THE ARACHNOPHOBE
Just kidding. This odd item will surely freak out anyone weary of eight-legged arachnids. The eclectic Howard Street shop Lost Eras sells bracelets and necklaces featuring spiders and scorpions set in glass as a centerpiece. Starting at $6.95, the odd jewelry might please that person on your list who isn't easily pleased by the usual holiday gifts. $6.95 and up
FOR THE SWEET TOOTH
Edgewater's Maddiebird Bakery, which will soon expand to Devon Avenue, has the sweet tooth on your list covered. Owner and "cake artist" Michele McAtee sells her signature cupcakes by the dozen. Customers can custom order the cupcakes' design. $3.25 per cupcake
