Hidden Gems Among Edgewater's Shops

Like most Chicagoans, I've lived in several neighborhoods. Currently, I live in Edgewater, on the border of Andersonville. This area has a lot of quirky, fascinating shops to visit, which is one of my favorite things to do. Maybe it's one of yours, too?

One place where you can find me a lot is Alchemy Arts, 1203 W Bryn Mawr. I bring home goodies from here on a regular basis. I can't resist the essential oils, especially lilac and musk. Plus, thanks to this place, I have a huge supply of incense to scent my apartment with. Try Patchouli Forest-amazing stuff! I've started coming here for the tarot discussion group; call for an updated schedule and come by, they're really fun people!

Another regular stop is Golden Pacific Market, 5353 N Broadway. This is a great place to go for Asian candy and snacks. Don't miss the Kasugai fruit gummies! They have all kinds of snacks, from flavored chips to unusual things like tamarind candies. I once got some brown sugar flavored mochi-glutinous rice ball candies-and found them to be pretty tasty. I've even gotten some really fantastic imported shampoo here.

When I'm in the mood to indulge my inner geek, I go to Graham Crackers Comics, 5443 N Broadway. I come here to look for Sandman graphic novels, but it's also fun to look through all the comic book back issues. I could easily leave with an armful every time I visit. The staff are really helpful too, and fun to chat with.

You might not think of this next place as 'fascinating,' but it is: Dollar Buys Plus, 1130 W Bryn Mawr. The selection of merchandise changes frequently, and if you check back now and then you can find some great bargains. I got a heavy round pizza pan here, and a nice quality faux-leather shoulder bag.

When I have more time to spend, I sometimes go browse at Brown Elephant, 5404 N Clark. This place is amazing. On my first visit here, I got a handful of CDs, a pair of beautiful wine glasses and a cool-looking bag that might once have been used for binoculars or camera gear.

There are other great places in Edgewater, but these are my favorites. None of them requires a lot of money, and they're all good places to find fun, unexpected stuff. Good luck, and happy shopping!