One of Chicago’s most charming neighborhoods, Lincoln Square is a lovely place to spend a relaxing weekend away from the hustle and bustle of downtown. Here is your guide to a perfect day in this delightful little district up north.
11:00AM –Begin your day with a delicious brunch at local bakery and dining staple, Café Selmarie (4729 N. Lincoln). You will likely have a bit of a wait for a table on the weekends, but time passes quickly in the bakery. Patrons young and old –families, couples, and friends- congregate agreeably over coffee and pastries –watching passersby in the square outside. Everything on the restaurant’s menu is delicious –from the generously-portioned mimosas to the baked mac & cheese with leeks to the smoked salmon club. Perfectly satisfying meals in a cheerful atmosphere –wonderful way to start the day. And don’t forget to pick up some sweets or a cake on your way out for upcoming birthday parties!
1:00PM –Browse the shelves at The Book Cellar (4738 N. Lincoln). Purchase a book for another day or relax with a glass of wine and spend some time reading in the café area of this local, independent bookshop. Check out their events calendar for upcoming readings, book clubs, and even the occasional adult spelling bee!
2:00PM –Stop by Gene’s Sausage Shop & Delicatessen (4750 N. Lincoln) to pick up some goodies for the house. No surprise that sausages abound in this large, European-style, indoor market, but don’t pass up the delectable homemade pierogis. Flavors include sweet cheese, blueberry, and potato. In warmer months, head up to the rooftop garden for a glass of wine or a sausage and beer pairing.
3:30PM –Catch a movie on the cheap at the Davis Theater (4614 N. Lincoln). At $5.75 per ticket for a matinee, you’d be hard-pressed to find a better deal in Chicago.
5:30PM –Head over to Enjoy (4723 N. Lincoln), an urban general store and novelty shop for a fun souvenir to bring back fond memories of your Lincoln Square adventure. Odd and humorous games, gifts and toys are a dime a dozen. Pick up a Mr. Men or Little Miss mug for a trip down memory lane.
6:00PM –Pop into the Huettenbar (4721 N. Lincoln), a dimly-lit, warm and welcoming tavern that makes you feel like you’ve stepped into a small-town watering hole in Germany. The cozy ambiance and friendly camaraderie between staff and patrons will entice you to park yourself on a stool and stay all night.
8:30PM –End the night with a tasty and flavorful dinner at BYOB spot, Thai Oscar (4638 N. Western). A wide selection of surprisingly unique and invariably yummy options will satisfy even the most particular palate.
11:00PM –Head home satisfied by a day well-spent.
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