Lincoln Square, Ravenswood

A popular and rapidly gentrifying neighborhood to the northwest of Roscoe Village, Ravenswood combines a pleasant blend of Old World charm - German village style architecture and plenty of German food - with more modern touches. Retailers in those Bavarian storefronts are more likely to be selling hip denim lines than lederhosen. The neighborhood has blossomed in recent years with the construction of new condo developments and new businesses flocking to the area. For example, the local microbrewer, Half Acre, recently opened their new brewery on Lincoln Avenue.

Ravenswood also offers plenty of entertainment options. The Old Town School of Folk Music is a learning space open to all, that doubles as a performance venue many weekend nights, catering to those interested in a more formal concert or simply a jam session.   Meanwhile, the LillStreet Art Center has a gallery space that showcases works by both students at the Center and outside artists. After a little art appreciation, swing by the Center's popular cafe, First Slice, to grab a quick nosh.

Shoppers should head to hip, urban Lincoln Square, the neighborhood’s central business district at the intersection of Lincoln and Lawrence Avenues. This picturesque row of shops, stores, restaurants, and bars has something to suit every taste, from a gourmet cookware boutique to an old-fashioned apothecary, but also reflects the neighborhood’s German heritage. The Chicago Brauhaus is widely known for its delicious classic German cuisine, traditional German beers and dancing to a live oompah band six days a week. Across the street, Café Selmarie, a cozy neighborhood brunch spot and European bakery, has some of the best French pastries in town, and a pretty noteworthy classic German Black Forest cake too. Locals frequent the Huettenbar, one of Chicago’s most authentic German taverns, for their festive atmosphere and fine selection of German beers on tap.

Read, Learn, Discover at the Chicago Public Library. Search programming and event information at your neighborhood branch.