Tasting Edgewater

Let's talk about taste for a moment, shall we? No, not the "flavor" kind. I'm speaking of style. I understand that "taste" is subjective and this is why I find it so fascinating. My friends all decorate their homes and fashion themselves with a unique style that fits their personalities. And what they like and don't like is never in question. Believe me, I've witnessed that firsthand. Recently, while attending a private party with them at a home of someone I barely know, I noticed how easily our group began to judge the host's possessions and style choices (behind his back, of course). Comments like, "Gawd, what was he thinking with that paint color?" and "Have you seen the bathroom yet?" to "That vase is f&%king fabulous!" was whispered between cocktail sips. (Funny, we say the same things when we shop.)

This got me thinking about some of my own favorite shopping haunts and why I like them. What about these places that makes me say "They've got great taste." and make me want to recommend them to anyone.

I live in Chicago's Edgewater community and this is where I like to shop. Unfortunately, other than the cloister of popular shops in the Andersonville business district, Edgewater is not yet known as a shopping Mecca. However, there are signs that this is changing. Mixed in with the auto repair shops, nail salons, and an impressive variety of international restaurants is a collection of small businesses that, in my opinion, rank high on the taste scale. Here are some must-sees when shopping in Edgewater:

The Art of Living
6054 N. Broadway
773-557-9527
Owner Gwendolyn Watson has seen the world and it shows. Her four year-old antiques boutique is small but packs an amazing style punch—and is affordable. Her choice of home décor items is diverse yet thoughtfully selective. This woman has incredible taste and a personality to match. There is a story behind every piece and she is willing to share it. Stand-out items include a breathtaking circa 1920’s pencil-on-board framed mural by renown Chicago artist Phil Shackelford once displayed on the in-famous Manhattan apartment of NYC interior designer Andreas. She carries over 500 paintings, (many not on display, but ask for a showing), a terrific lighting collection (Ultra-Mod table lamps to crystals chandeliers), Asian and African art pieces, Persian rugs, and an impressive costume jewelry collection. When you stop in, mention my name. There’s a story there, too.

Blue Hydrangea Floral Design, Ltd.
1113 W. Berwyn
773-293-1113
This Edgewater gem is located a few steps east of the Berwyn Red Line. Stepping inside Blue Hydrangea is Zen-like for me. This place is an oasis of flowers and select home accessories masterfully arranged by owner Danny Aquado. What this man does with flowers is pure artistry. His taste and style is as apparent as his charm and pleasant demeanor. Conservation with Dan is more calming than a tub of lavender bath beds. Back to the merchandise... Beyond flowers, BH offers among other things a delightful assortment of decorative glass vases and, to my surprise, the incredibly sinful Sarah's candies and chocolates by Oak Street's own Sarah Levy. Because of limited space, he is particular about his choice of merchandise, and it shows.

Scout
5221 N. Clark
773-275-5700
Although I only planned on mentioning my favorite places outside of Andersonville, this absolutely has to be included. For "urban antiques," Scout oozes style. Shopkeeper Larry Vodak has incredible taste. Every square inch of his store is full of distinctive pieces, and they all work when presented together. It is understated eclectic chic and it's fabulous. Whenever I walk into this place, I feel like Carrie Bradshaw in a shoe store. By the way, those are my dried drool marks on the window. Sorry, Larry.

Broadway Antique Market
6130 N. Broadway
773-743-5444
OK. So this may not be a small boutique, but it’s worth mentioning. Known as "Chicago's Antique Department Store", BAM is appropriately located in a beautiful deco building—originally built as a furniture store many decades ago. You can get lost for hours in this place. They offer an ample selection of art & crafts, art deco and mid-century modern styles. Manager Karen Renfrow knows her stuff. She was extremely helpful when I bought my deco bar cart. (I love it.)

Metropolis Coffee Company
1039 W. Granville
773-764-0400
I know. I know. When I began speaking of "taste," I didn't plan to refer to flavors. However, certain businesses like Metropolis must be mentioned. In a world full of coffee houses and especially coffee house chains, this place is a stand-out. Metropolis epitomizes the true coffeehouse style. They not only sell the almighty bean, they are expert roasters and can tell you everything you want to know about it. Don’t believe me? Ask owner Jeff Dreyfuss or his well-trained staff about their coffee and coffee roasting. If you’re a serious coffee drinker, I mean really serious, check out Metropolis.

Flourish Bakery Cafe
1138 w. Bryn Mawr Ave.
773-271-CAKE
For me, style and taste is not exclusive to home décor choices. A quality bread in my home is as important as a quality painting. Why not? Flourish is new to Edgewater and offers a nice selection of artisan breads, pastries and desserts. And the cake... I'll take all of the cakes. To go, please!