Nestled along Lake Michigan’s North Shore, Winnetka is a community of tree-lined streets, sandy beaches, renowned schools, outstanding parks and a bustling downtown!

Founded in 1869, the name given to the community was a Native American word meaning “beautiful land.” Natural beauty brought early settlers, but through careful planning, Winnetka has maintained a historic, small town charm, as well as family-oriented neighborhoods, while developing into a thriving village for people to live, work, and visit.

Winnetka was named “one of the best places to live” by 24/7 Wall Street in 2020. It is located in Cook County, less than 20 miles north of the City of Chicago and is accessible from the Eden’s Expressway (I-94). Here are some ideas of where to eat and shop in town…

eats
Towne & Oak – The interiors are just as dreamy as the food & beverages at this spot! Towne & Oak is bright and happy, an amazing addition to the NS. They offer eat-in service, catering and a gorgeous private event space. My favorite menu items are the macro grain bowl, smashed avocado tartine and breakfast sandwich. p.s. you won’t regret getting a chocolate chip cookie there.
Mino’s – Authentic Italian antipasti, pasta, pizza & more!
Spirit Elephant – Elevated plant based fare so tasty you may not notice you’re eating vegetarian. Spirit Elephant also has a tasty cocktails.
Hometown – Hometown has my favorite coffee, La Colombe. They have delicious breakfast sandwiches, smoothie bowls, salads and yummy toasts. It’s always hard to resist a shookies cookie  or Do-Rite Donuts.
Fred’s Garage –  A bar and restaurant serving elevated bar food with a great outdoor patio.
Green Bay Cafe – Cozy and intimate with only about 10 tables serving delicious breakfast and lunch comfort foods made from scratch daily. Note this restaurant is cash only.
Soupicurean – Known best for their delicious soups, but also yummy salads and sandwiches. Seating is limited, so best to order to-go.
Stacked & Folded – A sandwich shop featuring anything stacked – sandwich or folded – taco. They also have salads.
Tocco – Boasting authentic Italian cuisine from the freshest ingredients in sleek interiors. Everything on the menu is *chef’s kiss* especially the pastas!
Marco Roma Pizzeria – Our go-to spot when we want a simple thin crust za. We love their speciale pizza, fully loaded with sausage, pepperoni, green pepper, mushroom, red onion and cheese. Also a fan of the pollo chop salad.
Pomeroy – A sophisticated neighborhood bistro serving french fare and nightly special signature dishes. A lively bar scene and fabulous outdoor patio too!
501 Local – A chic neighborhood bistro that deems it menu as American food with a twist. Also home to a dreamy patio!
Grateful Bites Pizza Shoppe –  Delicious wood-fired Neapolitan pizzas. I recommend the pepperoni with hot honey, sausage giardineria and elote pizzas. Also offering vegan cheese and gluten free crust options.
Once Upon a Bagel – Deli comfort food at it’s best. While the menu can be very overwhelming, I always stick to the classics like matzah ball soup, a corned beef sandwich or grandma’s tuna salad.
Fizz and Pop – An organic soda concoction bar with an array of fun candy!
La Taquiza – Fresh, delicious Mexican fare and margaritas. A small seating space, a good option to-go!
Jimoto – Sushi and craft cocktails in very sleek & chic interiors.
Aboyer – Featuring refined French cooking paired with craft cocktails. Aboyer offers relaxed but crisp service in a nouveau setting.
True Juice – Organic smoothies, juices & food.
Guanajuato – Flavorful Mexican food with an extensive tequila list and strong margaritas.
Avli – Casual, fresh, contemporary Greek cuisine.
Mitch’s Cookies – Serving Homer’s ice cream that can be paired with any of their delicious cookies!
Graeter’s – Known for their Buckeye Blitz and Black Raspberry Chocolate Chip, but you can’t go wrong with any flavor.

shops
Bunny & Babe – The best collection of women’s clothes, accessories and home goodies. There is always something new and fabulous in the store!
Balloons & Paper – One stop shopping for all of your party and celebration needs!
Maze – A curated collection of home decor, gifts and adorable baby gifts.
Hazel James Home – A shop highlighting small makers and female creatives with a selection of handmade, bespoke and vintage for the home and gifts.
1920 The Travel Store – A store with everything you need for your travel adventures!
Beat Street Toys – Every inch of this store is covered with toys. From the classics to retro favorites, this store has a unique variety of goodies!
Material Possessions – Known for refined home accessories, tableware & jewelry.
Athene – Thoughtfully curated ready-to-wear shop for women offering a dynamic selection of sought after designers from around the world.
Mandarine – Preppy and happy home furnishings, accessories and gifts.
Kameo Vintage – A modern luxury slow fashion brand that specializes in wardrobe solutions. Offering an array of resources including consignment and styling services by appointment only.
The Book Stall – A treasure in Winnetka that has been around for 75 years. I love gifting books, one can never have too many!
Arch – Deems itself undeniably unique in apothecary, vintage and home goodies.
Neapolitan – houses the most exclusive in women’s luxury ready-to-wear, shoes, accessories, and jewelry from top designers.
Serena & Lily – Coastal interior lovers favorite store for home furnishings.
Ellen’s on Elm – A shop for all seasons of life with something for everyone.
Valentina – One stop shopping for women’s clothing, home, gifts and cards. Also, a handsome selection of goodies for men.

things to do
Relax at Sole +Luna.
Walk around downtown Hubbard Woods or Winnetka.
Play arcade games at Games on Lincoln.
Lace up your skates at the Winnetka Ice Arena.
Explore the beaches, parks & Green Bay Trail.
The Village of Winnetka & Park District are always sharing fun things to do!