This cozy, rustic bakery in Evanston is a carb-lover’s dream! With exposed wood paneling and a warm vibe, Hewn specializes in hand-forged, naturally fermented breads made with locally sourced grains. Start your day with flaky croissants, gooey cinnamon rolls, or decadent pound cake. Stopping by for lunch? Don’t miss the turkey cranberry sandwich on homemade country bread or the pulled pork on brioche.

Perched above sister spots Taco Diablo and The Blue Horse Tavern, Five & Dime in downtown Evanston is all about good vibes. Twinkling lights, blue umbrellas, and a buzzing rooftop patio make it perfect for margaritas under the stars. Inside, you’ll find arcade games, live music, and a lively crowd. Snack on chips and guac before diving into hearty plates like barbecue ribs, burgers, or a fresh tuna poke bowl.

Whether you’re brunching, dining, or unwinding at happy hour, Peckish Pig is a North Shore favorite. Relax on the cozy brick patio surrounded by flowers, and don’t miss Taco Tuesdays or Triple B Wednesdays for a draft beer, house burger, and a shot of bourbon! Kick off the day with fresh scones and whipped cream, or enjoy a dinner classic like their lamb burger topped with goat cheese.

Dog-friendly biergarten with craft beers? Count us in. Sketchbook Brewing Co. in Skokie boasts a massive taproom that's perfect for sunny afternoons. Sip on the refreshing Grapefruit Radler, try Secret Stuff (a gluten-free brew), or skip the alcohol with their house-made Lavender Kombucha. Catch live music on weekends or weekly trivia nights.

Dreaming of Europe without leaving the North Shore? Convito Café in Wilmette delivers Italian and French cuisine in a cozy, upscale atmosphere. For brunch, indulge in fresh crepes and warm beignets, or visit for dinner to enjoy ravioli, fettuccine, or spaghetti and meatballs. With its brick tiles, white tablecloths, and vibrant artwork, every detail adds to the European café vibes.

If French-Moroccan flavors sound tempting, LeTour in Downtown Evanston is calling your name. With sleek marble tables, bold artwork, and panoramic views of downtown, the vibe is just as impressive as the menu. Share family-style dishes like lamb couscous, steak frites, and grilled mushroom kebabs. And don’t skip dessert—the chocolate mousse is worth lingering over.

For old-school deli vibes, head to Mensch’s in Glencoe. This Jewish deli serves up classic comfort foods like bagels with lox, crispy latkes, and hearty scrambles. Lunchtime favorites include pastrami on rye and hot turkey on challah, but their matzah ball soup is what people can’t stop talking about. And if you’re craving something sweet, you can’t go wrong with an order of cheese blintzes with berry jam!

Vegan food has never tasted so good. Spirit Elephant in Winnetka is a bright and airy spot serving up plant-based dishes that’ll impress even meat lovers. It’s also the first fully plant-based restaurant on Chicago’s North Shore! Relax at a table in the lush courtyard and dig into red coconut curry, pad Thai, or the famous blue cheese bourbon burger. Stop by on the weekends for brunch. The waffles with whipped maple butter are absolutely out of this world.

Small space, big flavor—that’s Torino Ramen in Wilmette. Founded by Japanese natives Chika, Tomoko and Chikako, Torino Ramen is known for its dedication to authentic Japanese flavors. Start with pork bao buns or crispy Japanese fried chicken, but the real star is the ramen. Their signature Torino bowl is packed with homemade chicken broth, tender pork chashu, mushrooms, bok choy, and a perfectly soft-boiled egg.

Guildhall is where classic bistro vibes meet modern flair. With expertly crafted dishes, creative cocktails, and a standout wine list, every meal feels like a culinary celebration. From bold sandwiches to inventive sushi rolls, the menu is packed with flavor (you’ll be taking home seconds). Stop by on Saturdays and Sundays for brunch – order the huevos rancheros—perfectly cooked eggs with arepa, black beans, and fresh avocado relish.