Often, in pursuit of the Next Big Thing, we turn our eyes to the far horizon instead of focusing on the incredible people, places, and things that are right in front of us. So in this issue, we at Sheridan Road decided to turn our lens on those we care most about: the communities of the North Shore. And guess what we found? Amazing people doing outstanding things, fabulous neighborhoods, incredible food, first-class shopping…we could go on, and on, and on—which we have, over the next eight pages. Here’s looking at you!

 

Winnetka & Kenilworth

What you get for the money:
Median property price: $1,295,000
Price per square foot: $365

What that buys you:
Lake views! A five-bedroom, four-and-a-half bath, three-story, renovated vintage home across from Elder Park, Elder Lane Beach, and Centennial Dog Park in Winnetka; a four-bedroom, 3/5 bath home on 1/3 of an acre within walking distance of the beach in Kenilworth. Karen Arenson, Managing Broker of Coldwell Banker Winnetka North and Wilmette, notes, “We’ve had a record several months—people are buying like crazy.” So that’s good news…

Locals, Then & Now

Rob and Vicki Apatoff (he’s the CEO of Rand McNally, she serves on numerous working and philanthropic boards and is a member of the Executive Board of Citizens for a Better Winnetka)

Lisa Cotten, jewelry designer

Former CEO of R.R. Donnelley William Davis

Actor Bruce Dern (Laura’s dad!)

Two-time Tony Award-winner Christine Ebersole

Legendary Hollywood pinup Rock Hudson

Mike Kelley, Swingtown producer and The O.C. writer—along with good buddy and fellow Trevian Liz Phair

Chris Kennedy, President of Merchandise Mart Properties

George W. Mather, architect, Frank Lloyd Wright contemporary, and designer of 37 of the village’s homes.

Hollywood hottie Chris O’Donnell (not to mention his brother, John, founder of johnnie-O clothing)

Former Secretary of Defense Donald Rumsfeld

Aon founder, CEO of Chicago 2016 Olympic Bid Committee, and Art Institute of Chicago benefactor Patrick Ryan

Entrepreneur, philanthropist, and creator of P.M.A. (Positive Mental Attitude) W. Clement Stone

Shopping

Winnetka is retail heaven, with several distinct, charming shopping districts (spend the day wandering from Elm to Pine and don’t miss the charming Laundry; visit the Lincoln Avenue shops and stop in for a sugar fix at Love’s Yogurt; tour the Hubbard Woods stretch of Green Bay Road from Tower to Scott and get a mani-pedi and massage at Bien Assorti). Here are a few spots that locals simply wouldn’t be without.

The Book Stall hosts amazing author talks and literary events; the knowledgeable staff is equal parts passionate and informed; the children’s department is particularly outstanding. The Book Stall, 811 Elm Street, 847-446-8880, thebookstall.com.

Conney’s Pharmacy: This local institution (one elementary Cub Scout troop even incorporated a reference to it in a Winnetka rap!) with old-school pharmacists and friendly staff somehow always has just what you need. Conney’s Pharmacy, 736 Elm Street, 847-446-0032, conneyspharmacy.com.

Susan Kroeger for the Home: This one-stop shop has everything for your home. The talented local interior designer of her eponymously named shop has more than an eye—she has a gift. Susan Kroeger for the Home, 888 Green Bay Road, 847-446-7611, susankroeger.com.

Simone’s Boutique: Just off Green Bay Road and around the corner from sushi central Kyoto (they deliver, too!), Simone’s is home to the highest of high-end designers like Malandrino and Viktor & Rolf—and her loyal clientele is very, very grateful. Simone’s Boutique, 1060 Gage, 847-446-9966, simonesboutique.com.

Vose-Sanders Bootery: Local moms don’t look any farther for their kids’ shoes—this old-style “sit and fit” shop has it all (including—surprisingly for a local spot—a pretty good frequent shopper rewards program). Vose-Sanders Bootery, 837 Elm Street, 847-446-1108, vosesandersbootery.com.

Dining

Winnetkans are spoiled for choice when it comes to dinners out—here are a couple of don’t-miss spots when you’re in town.

Avli Estiatorio: This new-ish Greek place in The Laundry serves up Opa!-worthy gyros, the famed flaming saganaki, and delicious pick-at appetizers (don’t miss the zucchini chips). Avli Estiatorio, 566 Chestnut, 847-446-9300, avli.us.

Michael: This elegant French restaurant is a long-standing local favorite for anniversaries, graduations, special nights out…Be brave and try the Ragout of Escargot, and dive into the Salade Lyonnaise with warm goat’s cheese. Delicious! Michael, 64 Green Bay Road, 847-441-3100, restaurantmichael.com.

Mirani’s: Locals love this Elm Street standout for its lovely fish dishes, steaks frites, and melty French onion soup—not to mention its tres handy location right around the corner from the Metra: perfect for a quick bite a deux après work. Mirani’s, 727 Elm Street, 847-441-5590, miranisrestaurant.com.

Little Ricky’s: This is possibly the local Winnetka joint—ladies who lunch crunch their way through generously portioned, interesting salads; dads at dinner go for the ribs-with-two-sides. Little Ricky’s, 540 Lincoln Avenue, 847-784-1444.

Don’t miss…

671 Lincoln is better-known as “The Home Alone house,” where an impish Macaulay Culkin fought off bad guys one memorable Christmas (head down the road to the Winnetka Community House Children’s Chapel to see the site of the film’s nativity scene, too).

The French Institute of the North Shore is a fabulous local resource for Francophiles of all ages (keep an eye out for the lines of Madeline-style kindergartners snaking, crocodile-like, through the village). 847-501-5800, frenchinstitutens.com

The Kenilworth Club community house hosts events throughout the year including town gatherings, school-related events, and private organizations’ meetings. George Maher constructed this building in the center of the village in 1907.

The Village Green is a Winnetka gathering spot, site of the annual Children’s Fair, and site of the 1964 address by Martin Luther King, Jr. (a plaque marks the spot where he gave his speech.)

Evanston

What you get for the money:
Median property price: $280,000
Price per square foot: $209

What that buys you:
A two-bedroom, two bath condominium home overlooking Central Avenue, within walking distance of the train station and several elementary schools.

Locals, Then & Now

Actor siblings John and Joan Cusack

Actor Jeremy Piven—who once was roommates with John Cusack—as well as Jeremy’s parents, Byrne and Joyce, founders of the renowned Piven Theatre Workshop (of which Jeremy is an alumnus).

Musician and Pearl Jam front-man Eddie Vedder

He may once have been the mayor of Cleveland, but he’s our very own controversial host, Jerry Springer…

Shopping

With its close proximity to the city and charming, college-town feel, Evanston’s got it all! From local florists like Bloom 3 to the boho-cool findings in Stella and the highest-of-high-end shops, spend a day wandering Chicago and Davis and you’ll be glad you did!

Chalk Boutique: We love Chalk for its great range of cool designers, like Meredith Wendell, Stella McCartney, and Loeffler Randall, and for its keen sense of style. Insider tip: Don’t miss the line of python bags by hometown girl Lisa Kingsley—we’re willing to bet that this is one lady who’s going to go the distance. Chalk Boutique, 2611 Prairie Avenue, 847-424-0011, chalkofevanston.com.

Gavin: If you’re looking for street-cool, edgy style (or timeless fashionable looks), Gavin’s the place to shop. We love their whimsy-with-an-edge—you’ll love the stuff. Gavin, 1939 Central Street, 847-328-7407, shopgavin.com.

The Spice House: If you’re looking for the perfect (or impossible to find) spice for anything, this is the place to come. And it smells great in there, too—like retail potpourri. The Spice House, 1941 Central Street, 847-328-3711, thespicehouse.com.

Dining

When denizens of the North Shore want a night out with zing, they head to Evanston. Something about its collegy buzz and vibrant, urban atmosphere make the streets hum with energy—if you’re looking for good food and a walk-around experience, this has to be the place to be.

Union Pizzeria: If you can get a table (there’s often a serious wait and they don’t take reservations), you’ll be in for a complete treat—salads and pizzas are second to none. We love the sausage and sweet pepper on a thin crust; for an awesome night out, order food and eat in SPACE, their live-music venue in the back room. Union Pizzeria, 1245 Chicago Avenue, 847-475-2400, unionevanston.com.

Stained Glass: The perfect spot for a glass (or 12) of wine and excellent small-plate fare. The food is imaginative and fun, and there are 32 wines by glass alone—beat that, microbrewery! A fabulous spot for fabulous people. Stained Glass, 1735 Benson Avenue, 847-864-8600, thestainedglass.com.

Quince at the Homestead: You’ll be spoiled for choice at this local favorite—with an à la carte menu, five-course chef tasting menu, grand chef tasting menu, and a Q2-only bar menu, Quince offers something for everyone—especially you. Quince at the Homestead, 1625 Hinman Ave, 847-570-8400, quincerestaurant.net.

Don’t miss…

Northwestern! Take in a game at Ryan Field and fly the local flag—Northwestern’s campus is staggeringly beautiful, and offers amazing programs for young and old alike; check out their classes or just hit a concert, game, or art showing. Kids love to watch the band practice on the green across from campus on a fizzy fall day. northwestern.edu.

The Frances Willard House Museum: Visit this national historic landmark (built in 1865) and home to Frances Willard, author and activist, who lived here during her presidency of the Woman’s Christian Temperance Union (WCTU). Tour the home that was established as a museum in 1900 to showcase a collection of original furnishings and objects of 19th century America. 1730 Chicago Avenue, 847-328-7500, franceswillardhouse.org.

Wilmette

What you get for the money:

Median property price: $602,000
Price per square foot: $328

What that buys you:
A charming four-bed, two-and-a-half bath colonial in coveted Kenilworth Gardens, or a two-bed, two-and-half bath condo overlooking Lake Michigan.

Locals, Then & Now

White House Chief of Staff Rahm Emanuel

Christie Hefner, former Playboy CEO and contributor to the Huffington Post

Academy Award-winning actor Charlton Heston

Bill Murray, actor

2007 Nobel Prize in Economics co-winner Roger B. Myerson

Screenwriter Jonathan Nolan

Screenwriter Dana Olsen

Actress Ann-Margret (Olsson)

Thomas S. Ricketts, Owner of the Chicago Cubs

Fall Out Boy bassist and lyricist Pete Wentz

Actor Rainn Wilson

Shopping

Wilmette boasts both national and local retailers, and with renowned names like Crate & Barrel and Borders lining the east and west sides of the village, and small businesses like The Bottle Shop and John Millen Hardware adding to its welcoming character, it’s the place to be. Here are just a few important places to check out.

Kashian Bros.: Since 1910, Kashian Bros. has been a carpet, area-rug, and wood-flooring supplier and cleaner serving the North Shore. Visit the showroom to see flooring ideas or meet with on-site sales staff to get expert advice on possibilities for your home. Kashian Bros., 1107 Greenleaf Avenue, 847-251-1200, kashianbros.com.

Lad and Lassie: This hometown shop opened 56 years ago and is now run by the third generation of the same family. With lines including The North Face, Paul Frank, and Roxy, it’s got just what kids are looking for—and the Woman’s shop has styles for everything from “paddle tennis to yoga to carpooling.” Lad and Lassie, 1115 Central Avenue, 847-251-7570, ladandlassie.com.

Wilmette Pet Center: This local pet shop is strictly old-school, from the kittens who gambol about behind the bags of dog food, to the store’s famed parrot, to the seriously awesome Fancy Mice, who look as if they ought to be scouring the ashes for Cinderella’s lentils. Wilmette Pet Center, 625 Green Bay Road, 847-251-6750, wilmettepetcenter.com.

Dining

From delicious sushi at 153 Akira to a hearty Italian dish at Convito Café & Market, Wilmette offers a wide array of cuisine to anyone looking for a quick repast or three-course meal. Satisfy your hunger at one of these fantastic establishments.

Homer’s Ice Cream: Gus Poulos opened this joint in 1935, and his two sons, Steve and Dean, continue to carry on their father’s tradition in the original Wilmette location, with the original ice cream recipe. Waiting in line is worth it here—you won’t be disappointed! Homer’s Ice Cream, 1237 Green Bay Road, 847-251-0477, homersicecream.com.

Walker Bros: In 1960, brothers Victor and Everett Walker opened The Original Pancake House in Wilmette—now there are six locations in the northern suburbs of Chicago, and there’s a line around the corner of each one on the weekend. Walker Bros, 153 Green Bay Road, 847-251-6000, walkerbros.net.

Don’t miss…

The Baha’i Temple: One of only seven Baha’i temples in the world, the distinct and elaborate architecture of this nine-sided House of Worship is a local landmark. Admission to visitors is free. The auditorium upstairs is open daily with prayer services at 12:30 p.m. Guided tours are also available. The Baha’i Temple, 100 Linden Avenue, 847-853-2300, bahai.us/bahai-temple.

Chris Kondos: Local socialites and stylistas know to head to Couturier Chris Kondos’ insider boutique for divine fashion, from head to toe. Chris also alters vintage and contemporary designer apparel, including restyling wedding dresses, and the results are never disappointing. Chris Kondos: Courturier, 407 Linden Avenue, 847-256-0107.

Wilmette Harbor: The harbor is located just 16 miles north of downtown Chicago and has room for approximately 300 vessels, both powerboats and sailboats. Don’t miss a stroll on Gillson Beach next door, which hosts summertime concerts and family movies, too. Wilmette Harbor, 20 Harbor Drive, 847-251-4234, wilmetteharbor.com.

Highland Park

What you get for the money:
Median home sold price: $435,494
Price per square foot: $207

What that buys you:
A two-bedroom, two-and-a-half bath open floor plan single-family home with famous Highland Park ravine views, or a five-bedroom, four bathroom in-town French Normandy charmer built in 1928.
According to Lynn Kosner, Managing Broker of Baird & Warner Highland Park, “We are seeing quite a difference from this time last year—the marketplace is moving in a positive direction.”

Locals, Then & Now

Jill Alberts, jewelry designer

Lead guitarist and singer for the Smashing Pumpkins Billy Corgan

Film director Brian Levant

Author and screenwriter William Goldman

ABC News Chief Investigative Correspondent Brian Ross

Former director of the CIA Admiral Stansfield Turner

Steven Zacharias, film and television comedy write

Shopping

Highland Park has it all—the cute quaintness of a North Shore village and the retail horsepower of a much bigger city. Here are just two or three of the best.

Antique Shopping in Highwood: Just a stone’s throw north of downtown HP, Highwood boasts some of the area’s finest antique finds, where shop owners are knowledgeable and a good haggle is always welcome. Consignments Etc…, 259 Waukegan Avenue, 847-432-2700. Antique & Art Consignment, Inc., 440 Sheridan Road, 847-681-2111. Anna’s Mostly Mahogany, 531 Bank Lane, 847-432-9151.

My Best Friend’s Closet: An “upscale, resale boutique,” this recessionista must-stop shop burst on the scene last year with an ever-changing, seasonal array of designer duds, from Blahnik to Balenciaga. My Best Friend’s Closet, 1780 Green Bay Road, 847-681-0002.

Saks Fifth Avenue: While this luxury retailer is known for its great Cosmetics floor and the easiest place to pick up that latest Prada bag, General Manager Britt Jackson has expanded the store’s selection to include intimate apparel and unique home accessories. Saks Fifth Avenue Highland Park, 1849 Green Bay Road, 847-681-5100.

Dining

One thing’s for sure—you won’t starve to death in HP. Great food choices abound (not to mention the delicious ethnic offerings in nearby Highwood, like La Casa de Isaac) on both sides of the 41 divide—here are a few to check out.

Bluegrass: Hop on over to the other side of 41 for this Cajun-inspired hot spot that features all-you-can eat ribs and jambalaya on Tuesday nights, or “mini tinis” on Thursdays—a great way to sample their famous selection. Bluegrass, 1636 Old Deerfield Road, 847-831-0595, bluegrasshp.com.

Froggy’s French Café: Everyone knows what to expect at this Highwood staple, and that’s why they keep coming back. After all, Chef Thierry LeFeuvre has been wowing the French foodie set for more than 30 years now, so why fix what certainly isn’t broken? Froggy’s French Café, 306 Green Bay Road, 847-433-7080, frenchrestaurantschicagocatering.com.

Sage Grille: The city comes north at this Highwood American eatery, known best for its pick of seasonal, local ingredients, innovative wine list, and live jazz on Fridays. Sage Grille, 260 Green Bay Road, 847-433-7005, sagegrille.com.

Don’t miss…

Highland Park Shoe Repair: Head below Las Palmas on Central Avenue and visit this spot—they’ll fix the heel on your finest pair of Gucci loafers with a smile. Highland Park Shoe Repair, 474 Central Avenue, 847-433-0490.

Landmark Renaissance Cinema: While mega-plexes have their place, this low-key theater offers independent and foreign films to Highland Parkers who are looking for a little more than the latest summer blockbuster. Landmark Renaissance Cinema, 1850 2nd Street, 847-432-9999.

Miramar: Gabe Viti’s French/Cuban bistro is a must for Sunday brunch, but the party really starts after the weekend dinner crowd relaxes with bellies full of steak frites and Burgundy. Miramar Bistro, 301 Waukegan Avenue, 847-433-1078, miramarbistro.com.

Lake Forest and Lake Bluff

What you get for the money in Lake Forest:
Median property price: $851,000
Price per square foot: $258

What that buys you:
A four-bed, three-story contemporary on a ¹/ acre west of 41, or an updated four-bedroom on Green Bay Road.
Megan Jordan of Koenig & Strey Lake Forest notes, “The market has really picked up—many houses are selling as home prices in these desirable neighborhoods have become more accessible over the past year.”

What you get for the money in Lake Bluff:
Median property price: $408,750
Price per square foot: $218

What that buys you:
A five-bedroom, three-and-a-half bath fully equipped newer home less than two miles from schools, or a charming cottage in East Lake Bluff.

Locals, Then & Now

WGN News anchor Larry Potash

Kimberly Bryant, former star of Bravo’s Real Housewives of Orange County

Former Chicago Bears quarterback Bobby Douglas

Apollo 13 Captain James Lovell, Jr.

Actor and LFHS alumnus Vince Vaughn

LFHS alumnus and Pulitzer Prize-nominated author Dave Eggers

Susan Garrett, Illinois State Senator, 29th District

Shopping

Lake Forest’s Market Square is the hub for women’s fashion—trendy or elegant black tie, fine art, upscale home furnishings, or practical greeting cards and school supplies. Going North? Set out from the gazebo in charming Lake Bluff to find a surprising selection of unique shops, all within just a couple of inviting Main Street Americana square blocks. Here are a few to visit.

The Initial Choice: Step inside to find shelves and tables displaying blankets, pillow, mugs, apparel, and gifts. Specializing in custom monogramming and embroidery, the shop can personalize gifts for any occasion with several embroidery styles and colors—they’ll even custom-digitize your own image, then sew it onto apparel or tote bags. Vera Bradley’s products are also featured in the store. The Initial Choice, 226 E. Westminster, 847 234-5884, theinitialchoice.com.

J.Crew: Known for its classic designs with a twist, this always-has-what-you’re-looking-for dependable brand has opened a two-story, women’s-fashion-only outlet right in the heart of Market Square. The highly attentive sales staff offers exceptional service and shopping advice worthy of a small boutique. J.Crew, 682 North Bank Lane, 847-735-0848, jcrew.com.

Kiddles Sports: Shop local at this family-run, full-service sporting goods and bicycle store established in 1958. They’re known for their top-notch customer service and have long been the “go-to” place for sports teams uniforms. Kiddles Sports, 258 Market Square, 847-234-0025, kiddlessports.com.

Penny’s from Heaven: A children’s boutique conveniently located in Market Square since 1997, they offer the best in European and American
designs and classic and traditional clothing for babies, boys, and girls. Their unique brands include Little Raggio, Hunter Rain Boots, and A Soft Idea. Penny’s from Heaven, 261 Market Square, 847-735-7375, pennyslakeforest.com.

Twigs Florist: The brainchild of mother-daughter design team Jeannie and Erin Fanning, this excellent boutique floral shop specializes in giving every bouquet and arrangement a personal touch. Within this warm atmosphere are a variety of flowers at affordable prices—and their designs are awesome! Twigs Florist, 38 E. Center Avenue, 847-234-8944, twigslakebluff.com.

Dining

There’s no shortage of fabulous food in the “Ls”: Choose from yummy Asian noodles at Noodle Bar, or great sandwiches and salads at the tried-and-true Bluffington’s Café, the best-kept secret culinary destination on the North Shore; when in LF, have lunch on the outside patio at South Gate Cafe, or grab a café-crème and a Paris-worthy pastry from Gerhard’s Elegant European Desserts while you’re booking a table at one of these top choices.

The Bar at Deer Path Inn: Be prepared to be surprised when you venture downstairs to The Bar at the historic Deer Path Inn. The completely new and trendy enclave offers world-class sushi, flat-screen TVs, and cozy leather armchairs and benches. A must visit for those who want to escape to a Chicago-worthy eatery to “see and be seen”…30 miles north. The Bar at Deer Path Inn, 255 East Illinois Road, Lake Forest, 847-234-2280.

Inovasi: English for “innovation” in Indonesian, this rising-star restaurant’s Chef John des Rosiers is known for his knack for combining various culinary influences and techniques—including French, Italian, and Japanese—into contemporary American cuisine at affordable prices. Inovasi, 28 E. Center Avenue, Lake Bluff, 847-295-1000, inovasi.us.

The Silo: This North Shore landmark is hard to miss with its tall, slightly tilted silo—and it takes a stellar determination to pass it by, once you’ve spotted it. Serving their famous pan pizza, chili, burgers, and salads, The Silo is a wildly popular family destination, especially on Sunday evenings when Boz, the balloon artist and magician, entertains the kids, so you don’t have to. The Silo, 625 Rockland Road, Lake Bluff, 847-234-6660, silopizza.com.

Don’t miss…

Amidea Market: Escape to this charming European-style outdoor market nestled in the alley behind the landmark Marshall Field’s Building. Enormous geraniums and hard-to-get heirloom tomatoes and other seasonal and exotic fruits and vegetables make this a trip worth making. The alley behind J.Crew, Market Square, Lake Forest.

Caputo Cheese Market: Enter this bustling Italian market and be greeted by the smell of fresh Parmesano-Reggiano and espresso; the Market features 1,000 cheeses as well as fresh deli items, authentic Italian biscotti, fine olive oils, and spices. Caputo Cheese Market, 231 East Wisconsin Avenue, Lake Forest, 847-482-0100, caputocheesemarket.com.

Lake Forest Book Store: Still independent after all these years, the staff at this outstanding local bookshop has provided sought-after recommendations to loyal repeat customers since 1949. It makes big-box bookstores less desirable than ever. 680 N. Western Avenue, Lake Forest, 847-234-4420, lakeforestbookstore.com.