Before Bucktown became hipster central and Southport was invaded by national retailers, they were like Roscoe Village is today—filled with boutiques owned by people who live in the neighborhood and know the name of every dog that walks by.
Roscoe Village is next on the “hot” list, so visit before it gets too trendy for its own good.
Fixture
No faucets or lights in here, this store is a fixture in the neighborhood because it carries all the goods you might need for a hostess gift or BFF’s birthday. The staff has helpful suggestions, and the store covers a wide range of price points. 2108 W. Roscoe St., 773-244-3100
Hubba Hubba
Owner Julie Cohen is the star of this store. She will happily walk around the store with you, pulling clothes and offering suggestions. It’s a great shop if you want a little romance in your dress or accessories (and prices are great). 2040 W. Roscoe St., 773-477-1414
Crush
If you have a tween or teen daughter, Crush should be on your short list. Your daughter will love the lounge area—all modern and white with cool ‘zines—and the clothes are hip, but not the kind that will make mom cringe. If you’re over the noisy, perfume-y and obnoxious teen stores (we sure are), then you’ll appreciate Crush all the more. 2138 W. Roscoe St., 773-661-9481
Village Paperie
The two sisters who own this boutique have a keen eye for gifts that you won’t find anywhere else. Lots of personalized options—with many by local artisans—as well as fun cards. 2217 W. Roscoe St., 773-348-7785
Paciugo
On a warm, sunny afternoon you’ve got to add a gelato to your Roscoe Village outing. Actually, I would’ve added it even if it was cold and rainy, because Paciugo has some amazing coffee and gelato drinks (look for the Affogato on the menu). If you’re overwhelmed trying to decide between Sweet Potato Organic Maple and Raspberry Rose, they’re very nice about giving you samples. 2009 W. Roscoe St., 773-661-9519
Turquoise Café
We’re not sure how Turkish food ended up in Roscoe Village, but we’re glad it did. Service is relaxed, so don’t go if lunch is wolfing down a sandwich on the run. Must-haves are the Creamy Lentil soup and the Lahmacun, which is a Turkish flatbread that you can share. Add a salad, and maybe even a glass of wine—aaah. 2147 W. Roscoe St., 773-549-3523
