Evanston Neighborhood Entertainment Guide
An aerial photograph of Evanston real estate and Northwestern University's campus. Credit
About Evanston
Located 11 miles from Chicago's loop and lakeside, Evanston is one of Chicago's most sophisticated North Shore suburbs. With its historical charm, lush parks, beautiful Lake Michigan beaches and as home to one of the nation's most prestigious universities, Northwestern University, Evanston real estate offers it all. In recent years, new condo developments have sparked immense growth in the community. New trendy eateries, exciting cultural venues and well-known retailers have all settled in Evanston, making it a popular venue for home buyers.
Evanston Events & Activities
Although you might not realize it, Northwestern University was actually founded before the town of Evanston. While many events center around the University, the active community of Evanston sponsors tons of seasonal events and celebrations throughout the year.
The Evanston Art Fair is just one of the many events the neighborhood hosts during the summer. Credit
Evanston real estate owners can always partake in University events, like Northwestern football games. Credit
- Christmas Day Bagel Ride – Join the town every Christmas Day for this leisurely bike ride, complete with a bagel breakfast at the end of the race. It's hosted by the Chicago Cycling Club and it's free!
- Summer Festivals – Owning Evanston real estate lets you take advantage of the Chicago summer to its fullest. The Evanston community hosts the Evanston Lakeshore Arts Festival, the Evanston Ethnic Arts Festival, and the Starlight Concerts series all outdoors in the various parks of the city.
- Lakefront Beaches – The city of Evanston offers 5 public beaches for its residents to experience the beauty of Lake Michigan. It might not be the ocean, but it is a great place to spend time in the summer!
- Shopping – North Shore shopping draws city-dwellers out to the suburbs, and downtown Evanston offers just about everything. From used book stores to swanky clothing boutiques to national retailers, you'll be able to find what you need. Watch for special events by following downtown Evanston's Twitter or by friend-ing them on Facebook.
- Northwestern Sports – It's hard to live in Evanston and not follow your local college's teams. From the bowl-worthy Big 10 football team to the National Champion women's lacrosse team, you can always catch an exciting game on campus. Go root for whatever sport is in season!
Evanston Restaurants
Although it has a college town feel, Evanston hosts a culinary scene that is surprisingly sophisticated. Sure, you'll find your typical college pizza and wing staples close to the NU campus, but there is also a varied, upscale foodie scene throughout the downtown area of the North Shore suburb.
Evanston restaurant Al's Deli is famous for its fresh, gourmet sandwiches and delicious cookies. Credit
- Al's Deli – An authentic European-style deli just steps west of the Noyes Street El stop. Giant, gourmet sandwiches with extremely fresh fixings will run you about $8. Try the butter cookies; they are heavenly. (914 Noyes Street, 847-475-9400)
- Rollin' To Go – Perhaps Al's biggest competitor is Rollin' To Go, just next door on Noyes Street. The Italian deli serves pizza, soup and, of course, sandwiches. Try the spicy Al Forno sandwich; according to a Yelp reviewer, "It tastes like magic!" (910 Noyes Street, 847-332-1000)
- Cross Rhodes – A casual Greek-American lunch or dinner spot. You can have a burger or gyro, but either way, be sure to try the Greek fries, thick-cut steak fries tossed in a lemony Greek dressing. (913 Chicago Ave., 847-475-4475)
- Lucky Platter – For brunch, swing by this hippy-trippy spot. The extremely eclectic menu and decor is supported by one constant-- delicious grub. Great for families with young children. (514 Main St., 847-869-4064)
- Tapas Barcelona – For dinner, taste the small plates they serve at this traditional Spanish restaurant. Order a bunch of dishes and share; everyone at the table will find something they like! The atmosphere is great for a date but not too formal. (1615 Chicago Ave., 847-866-9900) Stop by Kafein afterward for a cup of coffee-- it's open late. (1621 Chicago Ave., 847-491-1621)
- Campagnola – This eatery embodies the best of the Italy's cuisine and dining style. It's refined but relaxed, and the menu is seasonal, simple and straightforward. (815 Chicago Ave., 847-475-6100)
- Va Pensiero – Upscale Italian dining since 1989. Food made from local ingredients. An amazing selection of wines, in a warm, homey but luxurious setting. What else could you need for a fabulous dinner? Celebrate a special occasion here, and you won't be let down. (1566 Oak Ave., 847-475-7779)
- Pete Miller's – This restaurant and bar has the traditional American cuisine of an upscale steakhouse, plus a great bar menu. Even the simplest item on the menu--the rolls--are delicious and familiar. And there's great live jazz and blues almost every night. (1557 Sherman Ave., 847-328-0399)
Evanston Bars & Nightlife
You might want to avoid the student hotspots or you might want to dive in and revel with the college-age crowd. Evanston pubs run from swanky and chic to humble and homey. Take your pick.
Evanston bar Tommy Nevin's is loved by students and locals alike. Credit
Evanston nightlife is defined by pubs like The Celtic Knot, where you can find food, beer and live music. Credit
- Bat 17 – Short for Benson Avenue Tavern, Bat 17 is a small bar with large drinks and big bar food. With great eats, drink specials and a late-night menu, it's beloved by the business set for lunch and happy hour and by the late night crowd for a final destination. (1709 Benson Ave., 847-733-7117)
- Tommy Nevin's Pub – This Irish pub is named after the owner's grandfather and is a great place to grab a drink while watching a football game, whether it's American or European. They operate on the motto, "There are no strangers here; only friends who have not yet met," and the service shows it. (1450-1458 Sherman Ave., 847-869-0450)
- Bar Louie – Bar Louie offers traditional American fare and a great drink selection. On Tuesdays, order a beverage and get a burger for just a dollar. (1520 Sherman Ave., 847-733-8300)
- Rhythm Room Bar & Bistro – Located within the Century Movie Theater, Rhythm Room might not be a bar you would run across regularly, but its 50-foot floor to ceiling windows with dramatic views of downtown Evanston will keep you coming back for a relaxed drink in a chic setting. (1715 Maple Ave., 847-491-9723)
- Celtic Knot Public House – With Irish/American fare, a world class wine list, fine beers and ales and live music, The Knot is a local favorite for a pint of Guinness. (626 Church St., 847-864-1679)
With all that Evanston has to offer, it's the perfect place to invest in North Shore real estate. A suitable social scene, a great public school system and a long history make it a great place for a young couple or a growing family.
