From a world-famous chef’s first Chicago outpost and new spots for tea and dessert in Evanston to an innovative approach to home design and a must-visit boutique, here are some of our favorite new local businesses in Chicago and the North Shore.
Dining
Happy Lemon
Cool down this summer with a bubble tea from Happy Lemon’s new Evanston location. They offer a wide selection of drinks, including a fresh lemon series, fruit tea series, and fruit smoothie series. Be sure to pair your favorite beverage with one of their incredible bubble waffles!
1607 Chicago Ave., Evanston
Comfort Desserts Reimagined
At age 70, Harith Razaa has opened the bakery he’s always dreamed of running. “Comfort Desserts Reimagined sells five types of dessert: pie, bread pudding, sheet cake, trifle, and cobbler,” which Razaa takes to the next level in the form of a wonderful hummingbird cake, blackberry goat cheese bread pudding, key lime pie, passion fruit pie and more.
517 Dempster St., Evanston
Jaleo
Serving tapas, paellas, sangrias, and more, Jaleo brings world-renowned chef José Andrés’ innovative Spanish cuisine to Chicago. The restaurant first opened in Washington D.C. in 1993, and this new River North location is Jaleo’s fifth location, with a sixth on its way to Dubai. “In Spanish, Jaleo means revelry—a lively celebration—and with the bustling excitement of River North, I cannot think of a better neighborhood to be opening in!” Andrés said. Jaleo is the first of several Chicago dining concepts Andrés has in the works.
500 N. Clark St., Chicago
Shopping
Hudson Grace
Co-founded in San Francisco by best friends Monelle Totah and Gary McNatton, Hudson Grace has established a national reputation for inspired, modern home and entertaining essentials. The first Midwest outpost, now open in Glencoe, features a signature array of serveware, dinnerware, glassware, flatware, linens, and candles.
339 Park Ave., Glencoe
Alice & Wonder
Naperville native Ali Reff (aka Alice) founded Alice & Wonder in 2015 after deciding that shopping for budget-friendly style shouldn’t be so hard to find. The new location on bustling Southport brings Ali’s expertly curated collection of on-trend dresses, accessories and “Sweet Home Chicago” style to Lakeview.
3542 N. Southport Ave., Chicago
Design
The Finish
The Finish is bringing a la carte interior design services to the Chicago area with consultations offered both virtually and in person for as little—or as much time—as you need. Bookable by the hour, designers will work with the clients to solve specific problems in their home, from choosing paint colors and arranging furniture to selecting artwork for a blank wall.
More from Better:
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- 16 of the Best New Restaurants in Chicago and the Suburbs to Check Out This Summer
- Convito Cafe in Wilmette Shares the Unique Story Behind One of Their Favorite Sauces
Alexa Weinberg is a summer intern for the editorial staff at Better. She is currently working toward a Cognitive Science and Psychology degree at the University of Michigan with a minor in Writing. At school, she works to promote her love of writing through various organizations, including Project WriteOn and WOLV-TV. In her free time she enjoys running, reading, and spending time with friends and family.
