LAKEVIEW — You don't have to leave the 'hood to find something for everyone on your list. We've rounded up some of our favorite Lakeview gift ideas.
Pamper gals and guys alike at U.S. Apothecary, 3451 N. Southport Ave., a new Southport shop that focuses on American-made wares. Juniper & geranium beard balm ($18) softens and smooths facial hair; the scent is woodsy with a hint of mint. Bath soaks ($32) mix mineral salts and essential oils to relive tension. Hobnail candles in wintry scents like Scotch pine and red currant make perfect hostess gifts ($30 for three).
Anglophiles will delight in a Jolly Posh gift basket. The British-themed cafe and grocer at 3755 N. Southport Ave. carries 80 traditional holiday items like Terry’s Chocolate Orange and advent calendars — plus an array of Irish whiskeys, English beers, marmalades and sweets. Shoppers can make their own gift baskets with anything from the shelves; expect to spend $40-120.
Unabridged Bookstore, 3351 N. Broadway, is known for stocking local authors and signed copies ($13-30). Last time we visited, we spotted John Hancock’s from Cheryl Strayed and Tara French. If you’re on a budget, a spacious sale room offers last year’s best sellers at a fraction of the cost ($4.98-$9.98). For a splurge, try a gorgeous Vivian Maier photo book. Work from the Chicago nanny-photographer was only discovered after her 2009 death.
If you’re heading out of town for the holidays, bring relatives the gift of beer. DryHop Brewers, 3155 N. Broadway, will can any of its draft brews in 32-ounce crowlers ($6-8). Look out for two holiday releases: “Moustache and a Supernova,” a malty French Christmas ale with raisin and grape notes (debuts Dec. 3, should last six weeks in refrigerated crowler), and “Heat Miser Meets Yuppie,” a tasty IPA with pine and citrus notes (release date TBD, should last three weeks in refrigerated crowler).
Spread some sunshine this winter with monthly flower deliveries from Flora, 2835 N. Southport Ave. Custom bouquets start at $50/month. You can choose seasonal surprises, mention favorite colors or flowers, or match your decor with themed arrangements (modern, shabby chic).
Twosided, 2958 N. Clark St., helps you spread the Chicago cheer with dozens of city-centric holiday cards and ornaments. We’re digging the “Season’s Greetings from Lakeview” cards by La Familia Green ($16 for 8). Chicago-dog ornaments ($9) will light up any tree with glitter relish. Wrap it all up with rolls of whimsical paper (reindeer, eyeglasses).
Wigglyville, 3337 N. Broadway, has everything you’ll need to keep your pup warm this winter. Jackets and hoodies from Canada Pooch are lined in super-soft Sherpa (prices vary). And adjustable wool scarves ($15) by Chilly Dog Sweaters fit every breed from Chihuahuas to Great Danes.
If all else fails, there’s always gift cards. Three Lakeview business associations sell cards that cover more than 300 restaurants, spas, clothing stores and bars. Grab ‘em at a discount if you shop early. Northalsted gift cards bought on Nov. 29 are loaded with an extra 20 percent. Lakeview East gift cards are 25 percent off on Dec. 6. And for every $100 worth of west Lakeview cards you grab on Dec. 5-6, you’ll get a $20 bonus card.
Listen to all the great gift ideas in the neighborhoods here:
