Day Date in Bucktown
A Day Date in Bucktown
Elise Gelwicks and Michael Powers
Bucktown is no longer an “up and coming” neighborhood in Chicago – it is here in full force. The neighborhood, located in the Logan Square community just west of Lincoln Park, is bursting with trendy restaurants, shops, and bars. Meandering through the avant-garde area is a fun way to hit the streets with your significant other or friends to explore an area of town that is sure to have you coming back for more.
Check out these hot spots for a fun-filled day date in Bucktown:
Bru Coffee (1562 N Milwaukee)
Grab an oat milk latte and vegan pastry at Bru Coffee. You’ll find plenty of open seats to sip your drink and fuel up before hitting the shops nearby. The coffee shop has an eclectic vibe that’s a nice change of pace from your everyday sterile Starbucks.
Diptyque (1645 N Damen)
You’ll have sensory overload in the best way possible the second you walk through the doors of Diptyque. This French candle, perfume, and soap company sells more than just products – it’s a true experience. You can experiment by combining different scents while learning the unique stories behind each product. Be sure to ask the sales person for the explanation behind each product’s intricate label – the story and secret alphabet have a fascinating explanation. These high-end products are developed in France and make the perfect holiday gift (for you or a friend!). I highly recommend the Eau Rose perfume.
Dear72 (1872 N Damen)
Korean beauty, also known as K-Beauty, has taken the US by storm. Dear72 is a great way to dip your toe into the world of snail face cream and sheet masks because the store curates the best products from different Korean beauty brands to sell in store. Don’t be intimidated by the unusual products – the sales associates are incredibly knowledgeable and each product has a detailed description next to it of what it is and how it will transform your skin. The best way to dive in is by picking out a sheet mask (prices start at $2). Bring it home as a way to relax after your adventurous day in Bucktown.
John Fluevog (1539 N Milwaukee)
For the fashion-forward and fearless, John Fluevog is the place to shop for shoes. This bright, open store has vibrant, odd-ball shoes that are true conversation starters. Their selection, for both men and women, has an old-fashioned meets runway aesthetic. Even if you wouldn’t wear the shoes yourself, it’s a fun place to pop into (and maybe even try o the craziest pair you see!).
Etta (1840 W North Ave)
Slip into Etta for a warm and satisfying dinner of new American, wood-fired fare. It’s the perfect place to wrap up a jam-packed day in a romantic yet casual spot. I can’t stop thinking about the Etta Salad and the sweet corn agnolotti, and I’ll be going back to get my hands on the summer squash pizza. Since the neighborhood restaurant is now one of the hottest in Chicago, make sure you reserve a table a few weeks ahead of time.
After spending the day visiting the diverse and engaging Bucktown spots like the ones above, you’ll be ready to head home and whip out your K-Beauty facemask.
Pictures are of: Diptyque, Shoes, and Korean face masks