Good morning! It’s Thursday which means I’m back today with another edition of the Chicago Neighborhood Guide. You may remember my friend Lindsey who wrote about her neighborhood of Edison Park a few weeks ago. Well she is back today to share with us about her new neighborhood – Jefferson Park.
Lindsey and her husband Jeremy recently bought a new house in Jefferson Park and have completely rehabbed the inside themselves and it looks amazing!
Just 6 months ago my family and I made the move from Edison Park to Jefferson Park. We bought our first house (woo!) and decided to move to an area that is a bit closer to my husband’s work to cut down his commute. And honestly, that is one of the huge pros to Jefferson Park- its location! It lies right next to I-90 and I-94, has a huge blue line and metra stop and a main bus terminal. Jeff Park also has a cute downtown that is beginning to see a revival. And that means there are a ton of ways to ‘shop small’ around here!
Now, since I’ve only been here for a few months and most of them were super cold, I haven’t had the opportunity to try out a ton of places, but I definitely have a few favorites already! Here they are:
Favorite Bakery: Delightful Pastries 5927 W. Lawrence Ave.
As I was in the process of moving, a friend of mine bought me some macaroons from this place as a way to say, “welcome to the neighborhood.” And immediately, I was hooked! Not only are their macaroons (and a ton of other yummy treats) gluten free, they also come in almost a dozen flavors! I inevitably end up buying multiples of every flavor they have because how could I possibly choose?! And not only do they make delicious pastries, but they also offer baking and cooking classes.
Favorite After-School Stop: Mia’s Gelato Café 4200 N. Central Ave.
Ever since moving to Jeff Park, tons of friends that live in the area have been telling me over and over again to go to Mia’s! So, on the first sunny day of the season I picked up my daughter from school and we went on over. And WOW. Not only is the shop crazy adorable, but they have the creamiest and richest gelato! They also have sandwiches and other meals available, but I’m pretty sure I’ll be getting gelato every time I’m there. Plus, it is just across the street from Portage Park, making it even more inviting!
Favorite Restaurant: Gale Street Inn 4914 N. Milwaukee Ave.
Seriously guys, this place is amazing. Fall off the bone ribs, huge portion sizes, and it just so happens to be Patty Kane’s restaurant of choice. Enough said.
Favorite Outdoor Space: Wilson Park 4630 N. Milwaukee Ave.
Walking out of my house I can turn any direction and within .5 mile, I will hit a huge park! Jefferson Park and Portage Park are by far the largest. They have swimming pools, dog parks, playgrounds, and courts of every kind. Wilson Park is smaller by comparison, but still offers so many of the same amenities, has been recently renovated and happens to be the closest. Every time we go there we run into a neighbor or someone we know. I love that!
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I love that the Jefferson Park area has so much green space and parks! And I am especially loving Mia’s Gelato! Lindsey – we are definitely having a gelato date this summer! 🙂
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