Lincoln Park

Thick with tree-lined, brownstone-heavy streets, LP may be yuppified, but the shopping factor can’t be ignored. Find everything the Mag Mile doesn’t offer (Barneys Co-Op, Benefit, Cynthia Rowley), add a charm factor, and there you have it.

EXPLORE ANOTHER NEIGHBORHOOD:

Perennial Virant

1800 N Lincoln Ave 312-981-7070

Take Green City Market; add one farm-adoring chef (Paul Virant — Vie); and voila. New American, market-inspired dinner and brunch in LP.

Photo: Courtesy of Restaurant Intelligence Agency

Alinea

1723 N Halsted St 312-867-0110

Having won every culinary accolade known to man, Alinea is not for the faint of heart. Adventurous, scientific, playful, impeccable, pricey creations. Take the plunge.

Photo: Lara Kastner / Courtesy of Alinea

Sweet Mandy B's

1208 W Webster Ave 773-244-1174

Getting fat, acquiring cavities, and going into sugar shock are minimal prices to pay for the deliciousness that awaits: homemade puddings, pies, cookies, cupcakes, bars, and the best frosting this side of the Mississippi.

Photo: puroticorico / Flickr

Cleise Brazilian Day Spa

1841 N Sheffield Ave 312-440-1060

This neighborhood gem is not to be missed: Owner Cleise Gomes takes cues from her native Brazil to bring top-notch facials, waxing, and skin care products to Chicago.

Photo: Courtesy of Cleise Day Spa

Green City Market

Lincoln Park 773-880-1266

Waking up early never felt so good. Get fresh, seasonal veggies, fruit, and dairy while the getting’s good. Produce changes weekly; farmers are consistently, refreshingly friendly.

Photo: tvol / Flickr