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Lakeview East Home Sales Statistics

Lakeview East Facts

Location: About 5 miles north of the Loop
Bordering Neighborhoods: Lincoln Park, Lakeview, Buena Park
Boundaries: Irving Park Road to the north, Lake Michigan to the east, Diversey Avenue to the south and Halsted Street to the west.
Crime Statistics: Go to CLEARMap to search specific streets and areas for crime incidents
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Then and Now

Once upon a time Clark Street -- then known as Green Bay Trail -- was a path used by the Miami, Ottawa and Winnebago tribes. The Native Americans settled the northern banks of the Chicago River, and by 1837 the bands found a neighbor in Conrad Sulzer, the first non-native to settle the area, who would become a prominent figure in Lakeview East's history. In 1853, a majestic hotel was built right on the lakeshore, the owners racked their brains for the perfect name, spending days pacing the length of the hotel's portico. Finally it was determined that the answer was right under their noses, in the unbroken panoramic view of Lake Michigan. They settled upon Hotel Lake View and most concur that the township eventually adopted the title from the grand hotel. Four years later, Sulzer was elected to become the first assessor of the Lake View Township.

Soon the hotel was overflowing with refuges from a Chicago cholera epidemic. The influx of city residents became so enamored with the crisp country air and breathtaking waterfront vistas that they purchased homesteads in the area. To accommodate the growing population, a plank road was constructed named Lake View Plank Road (now called Broadway) -- the godfather of the suburban highway system as we know it.

By the 1880s industrial growth entered this quaint, north side farming region that prided itself as the celery capital of the world. Eventually, due to manufacturing, real estate, and commercial booms, the town of Lake View was folded into Chicago city proper. By the onset of the 1890s, the new borough experienced a phenomenal surge in residential construction -- that period now accounts for over 43 percent of the community's present-day housing. The dramatic increase in population resulted in a thriving business district, still evident today.

The bustling north side Chicago neighborhood experienced its next major change in 1970, when the city's first Gay Pride parade marched through the region, unofficially declaring parts of Lakeview East a haven for the LGBT (lesbian, gay, bi and transgender) community. This meta-neighborhood, lined with rainbow flags and commonly referred to as "Boystown," sits on par with San Francisco's Castro and Massachusetts' Provincetown as one of the foremost cultural and political hubs in America. The eclectic gay population contributes to Lakeview East's reputation as one of the most vibrant and progressive neighborhoods in Chicago.
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Parks

Some would say Chicagoans have it rough. We spend all winter bundled up, hiding from the elements and dreaming of the sunshine. By the time the mercury rises, we deserve an urban oasis on every corner. Maybe that's why the city puts so much pride in its outdoor spaces.

Lakeview East is lucky enough to share Chicago's largest park -- with over 1,200 acres -- Lincoln Park (2045 Lincoln Park West, 312-742-7726) is a better embodiment of "big and green" than the Incredible Hulk himself. Plenty of paths for walking, biking, hiking, and jogging snake through the entirety of this parkland giant, and the section that runs along Lakeview East's neighborhood borders is no exception. In addition to the afore mentioned activities, we sometimes like to just sit for a bit and gaze at the boats bobbing up and down in the harbor and watch the continuous line of people passing by.
But around these parts the park has literally gone to the dogs. The Belmont Harbor Dog Beach (3200 N. Lake Shore Dr, 312-747-2474) was not built by the city, but by the enthusiasm of Chicago dog owners, a lack of pet-friendly beaches, and a convenient overflow of sand. Lake Michigan's wave action created a tiny strip of beach here, and the city agreed to let Fido have his way, as long as he's kept on a leash. This fenced in area is perfect for pooches as the currents are mild and the nearest boat slips are dozen of yards away.

It's not all puppy-play along this stretch of Lincoln Park. Chicago happens to sit smack in the middle of a migratory thruway for birds of all kinds. Every spring and fall, millions of birds consider Lake Michigan a pit-stop on journeys to and fro. Amateur bird-watchers and regular Joe looky-loos can peek into the Bill Jarvis Migratory Bird Sanctuary (near Belmont Harbor) and watch owls, night herons, hawks, hummingbirds and even cuckoos rest up and flutter about. The fenced-in sanctuary is the only one in Chicago that does not allow the public inside, but don't worry, the six-acre haven is well-designed with plenty of viewing areas.

Nearby, where Addison Avenue meets Lakeshore Drive you'll find the city's beloved Kwagulth Totem Pole. Stacked atop each other, the piece depicts Kwanusila the Thunderbird, of the Kwagulth Amerindian tribe, a sea monster, and a man riding a whale. The structure that stands today is a replacement of the original, which was presented to the city in 1929 by James L. Kraft, founder of Kraft Foods. When the original piece was returned to its tribe in 1985, Kraft Inc. (headquartered in the Chicago's Northfield suburb) was by this time the largest food company in North America and it commissioned a reproduction to be built by the same tribe as a gift for Chicago's school children.
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Real Estate

Lakeview East neighborhood truly offers a charmed existence and an amazing environment to call home. Residents here have a knack for gardening, and the fruits of their labor bloom up and down the elegant avenues of this attractive north side community. Gorgeous churches of all denominations preserve the historic character of the area, and stately wrought-iron fences trim the shady streets, resulting in an aesthetic vibe that is far more European that Midwestern.

Some of the most varied housing styles in Chicago real estate occupy the beautifully maintained tree-lined blocks of Lakeview East. A number of properties are from the days of yester-year, some were built yesterday; many are very expensive, and others are unbelievably affordable -- but what they all have in common is their proximity to the hustle and bustle of downtown and the calming tranquility of the waterfront. This is what makes the Lakeview East neighborhood so desirable, all the city lights you need within a few miles, and all the sand and surf you could want within walking distance of your relaxing, lushly landscaped urban retreat.

This blissful marriage of convenience and privacy has been around this north side Chicago neighborhood for well over a century. After a shoreline drive was built back in the 1890s, two brothers decided they could make a bundle by building homes here with sprawling green lawns that still offered inhabitants close proximity to downtown. They started with their own homes and soon major architectural teams like Burnham & Root and Pond & Pond were throwing in their two cents. Today, this well-preserved block of West Hawthorne Place is a historical district, and proof positive that Lakeview East has boasted architectural magnificence for generations.

The abundance of high-rise apartments, upscale condominiums, vintage residential buildings and renovated lofts here are very popular amongst the neighborhood's wealth of successful twenty and thirty-somethings, while families tend to fill in the historic townhomes and single-family houses that also dot the area.

The average sales price for a one-bedroom condo, loft or flat in Lakeview East neighborhood is about $220,000. A two-bedroom starts around $150,000 and can run up to eight- or nine-hundred thousand dollars. The average sales price for a three-bedroom unit here is $500,000 with the low end around $150,000 and the high end reaching into the multi-millions. Single-family detached Lakeview East homes also range in price -- a three-bedroom can cost anywhere between $250,000 and $1.9 million, with the average sales price around $565,000.

What's on the Menu?

In 1916, Chicago's most celebrated writer, Carl Sandburg, finally put pen to page about his city when he wrote the poem Chicago, in which he called his town the "City of the Big Shoulders." Had Sandburg penned this description today, he probably would have referred to Chicago as the "City of the Big Appetites." Needless to say, whatever you're craving, you'll find it in Lakeview East in spades.

Let's start with the most important meal of the day. It may be breakfast for many, but around these parts -- and especially after a late Friday or Saturday night of fun -- it's brunch. Though the notion of the "perfect brunch spot" is the subject of heated debate among residents, it's hard to go wrong with any of Lakeview East's late-morning nosh options. Stella's Diner (3042 N Broadway St, 773-472-9040) is the quintessential all-American experience. This clean, family-run spot serves up all the staples you've come to expect from any bacon-slingin' joint. Stella's menu is extensive with innovative concoctions like mango-stuffed French toast -- our personal fave. If it's a Kosher breakfast you're after, Bagel Restaurant and Deli (3107 N Broadway St, 773-477-0300) offers huge portions, killer matzo ball soup, and a menu as thick as a textbook. A safe-haven for east coast transplants looking for the authentic New York deli experience, the Bagel makes sure you're stuffed to the gills before starting your day.

For the meatless warrior, Chicago Diner (3411 N. Halsted St, 773-935-6696) is the tiny, bustling star of Lakeview East's vegetarian establishments. The food is flavorful and fresh, and the meat alternatives will satisfy even the most hardcore carnivore. Along with many Lakeview Easters, we're partial to the grub at North Coast Cafe (3613 N Broadway St, 773-549-7606), which makes omelets as big as the plate and biscuits and gravy that'll make you think you're south of the Mason-Dixon. The best part? Never having to wait for a table! Still not sold on the neighborhood's love of brunch?

Wait, there's more. For something a bit more upscale, Angelina Ristorante (3561 N Broadway St, 773-935-5933) has a fantastic brunch with bottomless coffee and champagne. This homey little place is chockfull of Euro-charm, and by nightfall is the perfect spot for a romantic date. Or, hightail it over to Lakeview East institution -- Ann Sather (3411 N. Broadway St, 773-305-0024) that gives good brunch with a bistro flare. The crab-cake benedict and Swedish pancakes are sure to keep you coming back.

Residents of this lakeside Chicago neighborhood live the sweet life -- and they take the term literally. For instance, Cupcakes (613 W. Briar St, 773-525-0817) has a rotating variety of everyone's favorite dessert with unbelievably delicious flavors like red velvet, lemon lavender and pomegranate. Cupcakes peddles treats made from the finest ingredients -- guess that's the icing on the cake -- so to speak. Cupcakes are tasty, but what if you're craving a little more variety in your diet? Then stop by Bobtail Soda Fountain (2951 N Broadway St, 773-880-7372) for a root-beer float. It doesn't get more old-school than Bobtail, your secret weapon against the summer heat. With milkshake flavors like Daley Addiction and Winter Commute, you'll be cooling off with heavy doses of civic pride and nostalgia, and a whole lot of happy tastebuds!

While haute cuisine may make the food review pages, we like to think that the true test of a neighborhood's culinary excellence is in the all-mighty, all-important snack. Lakeview East residents come to Sparta Gyros (3202 N. Broadway St, 773-549-4210) for a quick bite of lamb in a pita, drizzled with light cucumber yogurt sauce. But for something a bit spicier El Mariachi (3420 N Broadway St, 773-549-7020) is fast, cheap, open late, and serves up Mexican fare that would make even a Californian jealous. Nobody ever said that snack-food has to be unhealthy ... For a bite-on-the-run that is warm, nourishing, and no bigger than a bread bowl, try The Soupbox (2943 N Broadway St, 773-935-9800). Lobster bisque, chicken noodle, cheese and broccoli -- all homemade, and all you need to get you through those bitter Chicago winters.

Yes, Lakeview East is bursting with enough tasty nibble options to make a gourmand-on-the-go out of anyone, but we all know what Chicagoans are truly after: pizza. Thankfully, in Lakeview East neighborhood there's a pizzeria on almost every major street, catering to the local cravings for all types of crusts and toppings. Pizza Panino's Inc. (3702 N Broadway St, 773-472-6200) is a cozy little family-run place that does it straight, simple, and by the slice. Rendaldi's (2827 N Broadway St, 773-248-2445) is open until the wee hours and does carryout in true New York style -- one gigantic slice at a time. Also open after last call is the popular Pie Hole Pizza (737 W Roscoe St, 773-525-8888). Pie Hole keeps pizza a party with over two dozen unconventional toppings -- and believe us, once you're under the red pesto spell, there is no turning back. If you prefer the DIY (do it yourself) thing, HomeMade Pizza (3430 N Southport Ave, 773-529-5900) will let you build your own pie with fresh ingredients and choice of crust, then they'll package it for you to take home and cook yourself.

Burnt out on pizza? Hey, we do tend to overdo it a little on the old pies here in Chi-town, but lucky you -- you're only steps away from what the Chicago Tribune considers to be "one of the best burgers in the city." Select Cut Steakhouse (2808 N Halsted St, 773-529-0014) has concocted a steak burger that will have you swearing off the drive-through for life. If you'd rather switch it up a bit for lunch, Pastoral (2945 N. Broadway St, 773-472-4781) will throw some gourmet goodies in a basket for you, pair your feast with the perfect wine, and send you on your merry way to an ideal summertime picnic. This sundry-heaven cares about sustainable farming, American wine, and filling your belly with carefully chosen quality foods.

For Lakeview East residents with a more adventurous palate, check out Yuki Hana (2920 N. Broadway St, 773-388-1818), our friendly neighborhood sushi joint. Fish so fresh you'd swear you saw it flopping before the chef wraps it into a rice and seaweed roll, and well-priced enormous portions make Yuki Hana the solution to all of life's wasabi cravings. If it's the heat you're after, Joy's (3257 N Broadway St, 773-327-8330) will whip you up the best Thai curry you'll ever know -- and they deliver in nanoseconds.

It's true we've got a thing for the spice -- but the big addiction, the thing we'd knock over our own mothers for -- is the coffee bean. Organic, French-pressed, drip brew -- whatever, just make sure it's not decaf! We suspect that you might be a caffeine lover, too. Major franchises like Caribou Coffee (3300 N Broadway St, 773-477-3695) and Starbucks (3358 N. Broadway, 773-528-0343 and 617 W Diversey Pkwy 773-880-5172) are well-represented in and around Lakeview East, but if you're like us, you can't resist the underdog! It's true, we have a weakness for small chains and independent coffee shops, and we honestly feel that they do it better. Take Intelligentsia Coffee (3123 N. Broadway St, 773-348-8058). They train their baristas as if they are rocket scientists -- and we kinda think they might be. These folks are serious about making you the perfect cup, and they roast their coffee themselves. Argo Tea (3135 N Broadway St, 773-248-3061) is another one for the ages. The beloved leaf-peddlers operate under the assumption that tea is the answer to everything. Chai or iced, in a smoothie or cocktail, Argo elevates tea to a wonder-drug. Free Wi-Fi means you can camp out here and try every new concoction while you surf the Net or get some work done on your laptop.
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Best Shopping Stops

It's a good thing that Lakeview East has so many coffee spots, because we like to be wired when we hit the shops. The retail culture here offers a little something for everyone, and while the Magnificent Mile it isn't, this neighborhood plays host to many small independent businesses. But let's start with the mega-convenient shopping stop -- namely, the mall.

When you have a mall like the Century Shopping Centre (2828 N. Clark St, 773-929-8100) so close by, it's hard to convince yourself to shop elsewhere. The six-story historic mall has all of the stores you've come to rely on, in addition to a Bally's Total Fitness (773-929-6900), Aveda School (773-883-1560) salon, and a movie theater -- enough to make a mall-rat out of the most well-intentioned consumer. Indeed, it is difficult to leave the beautiful building and embark on a whirlwind of shopping outdoors, but out there in the elements you'll find the best things about shopping in Lakeview East are an abundance of trendy boutiques, specialty stores, and retro-chic consignment shops.

If the thrill of the discovery is too much to pass over -- hey, we prefer to dig for our treasure, too -- check out Buffalo Exchange (2875 N Broadway St, 773-549-1999). This long-time leader in the resale game features a rotating collection of designer and major label clothing. Pay with money or with old clothes -- and when you get sick of whatever you buy -- just sell it back! If you prefer things with a little more vintage flair you'll love Land of the Lost (614 W Belmont Ave, 773-529-4966). Be it ancient concert tees, or biker-worthy leather duds, irony reigns supreme here, as you might just unearth that Atari or Rainbow Bright lunchbox you've been wanting for decades. To top off your new threads, head over to Spare Parts (2947 N. Broadway St. 773-525-4242), where they do baggage better than anyone. A prime selection of evening clutches, hobo totes, and messenger bags speckle this little boutique accessories shop.

After finding your dream home, we all know that the next best part is decorating it! Where to start? Well, you could hit up Linens and Things (3131 N. Clark St, 773-388-5409) or Marshall's (3131 N. Clark St, 773-327-2711) -- all located in or very near your new digs, but for maximum fun with minimum effort, make your first stop Cost Plus World Market (2844 N Broadway St, 773-477-9912). Sure, it's still a chain, but it's also a bazaar! You might lose the better part of your day, but you won't lose the farm shopping for all the special little details for your new home decor. The next stop is just as fun -- you may not need anything from Gay Mart (3457 N. Halsted St, 773-929-4272), but chances are you are going to want everything from Gay Mart. This place is a kitsch-explosion, but trust us, you won't mind. In addition to a healthy stock of gay-themed merch, they specialize in superhero, television, and Americana memorabilia. An essential stop for stocking stuffers, theme-parties, gag-gifts, home accessories and more. If it's wacky, random, campy, or bizarre you'll find it here.

After you're finished buying yourself all the little house-warming presents you deserve, why not celebrate with some vino? Kafka Wine (3325 N Halsted St, 773-975-9463) is simply heaven-sent. Imagine a world where all the guesswork is taken out of choosing the perfect wine. The shop is arranged by flavor profile, so as long as you can figure out if your food is spicy or sweet, you've got a leg up on all of those snooty wine connoisseurs. The staff here is very knowledgeable and they are willing to teach. They'll guide you through tastings and explain how to interpret the flavors sloshing around in your mouth. If you don't have the time, just tell 'em what's for dinner and they'll send you home with the perfect bottle. Don't worry, Kafka specializes in fantastic and inexpensive wine, so the price is always right, too.

We all know that drinking and literature go hand in hand. Just ask Hemingway. For all the best in words and letters, visit Unabridged (3251 N Broadway St, 773-883-9119), a tiny shop bursting at the seams with all things literary. The friendly staff takes the time to fill out little recommendation tags that they post along the shelves, and the travel, children, and LGBT collections are the best around. Ironically, Unabridged is the short version of everything an independent book-dealer should aspire to -- meaning it's pretty dang small. If you are feeling a little too cramped, head over to Booklegger's (2907 N Broadway St, 773-404-8780). This impeccably organized store takes the prize for least dusty used bookshop on earth, and you can find anything here for a fraction of the price of a chain store. If you still can't find what you're looking for, just wander the streets for a little while -- Lakeview East is ripe with used booksellers, but if you are hard-pressed for time you can bite the bullet at the nearby Border's Books and Music (2817 Clark St, 773-935-3909).

Go ahead and grab some paperbacks at the big-box store, but save your music shopping for Reckless Records (3157 N. Broadway St, 773-404-5080). This is the flagship store to the Chicago institution, the space may be small, but the selection is anything but. In the grand tradition of resale stores, Reckless will buy your old music from you -- good thing, since it's difficult to leave here without an armful of goodies.
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Night on the Town

After lugging your purchases around all day, what better way to unwind than a good old-fashioned happy hour? Around these parts, happy hour happens anytime, and the droves of young people, cultural enthusiasts, and pub-junkies assure that a bar is never too far away.

Highbrow or underbelly, there's something to sip for everyone in Lakeview East. So what if MiniBar (3341 N. Halsted St, 773-348-1053) can't decide if it's a nightclub or an upscale hotel lounge (it's touted as being both) ... we like having the options. An extensive list of infused vodkas, inventive martinis, fine wines, and nose-tickling champagnes meet world-class live DJ's in a hoity-toity lounge environment. The cocktail servers do the work, all you have to do is drink, listen, and bask in the glory of having it all at your fingertips. For those of you more concerned with using those fingertips for a greater good -- nothing says finger-licking like all-you-can-eat fish and chips. Duke of Perth (2913 N. Clark St, 773-477-1420) delivers all you could possibly want in a neighborhood pub. If you're a beer lover, you'll be swept away by the selection of brews from across the pond -- Boddington's McEwans, Guinness, and Harp -- they've got all the favorites that most Chicago bars just don't carry. With over 75 varieties of single-malt scotch, this authentic Scottish joint has by far the largest selection in the city, and the bartenders are all too happy to help you choose one to try on the rocks, neat or mixed.

Everybody has one, everybody needs one -- we're talking about the regular haunt, and we have the perfect one for you. Ted Danson won't be showing up anytime soon (gratuitous Cheers reference), but Buck's Saloon (3439 N. Halsted St, 773-525-1125) is all you could want in a neighborhood bar. Unassuming, unpretentious, and with an unbelievable beer garden, Buck's is begging for you to become a regular. Just relax and be yourself at this laid-back Lakeview East watering hole. Play some pool, shoot some darts, watch the Cubbies lose again while sipping on cheap drinks. There is a huge window that's a prime spot for people watching, and that beer garden we mentioned? Yeah, it's the only one on the street so you better love it. But we know you will.

Night Cap

Sometimes grabbing a drink just isn't enough. When the weekend rolls around, when you've had a bad day, when you're looking to meet someone special, or even just when you've caught a touch of Shakira-hip -- you need to get yourself to a nightclub, stat. Most parts of Chicago have some sort of dance scene, but Lakeview East has the trump card -- Boystown. Nobody does disco better, so get your booty over to one of these clubs, down some cocktails, and let the outside world drift away.

For a hefty dose of swank on the cheap, check out Mix (2843 N. Halsted St, 773-528-7569). The seating is plush, the DJ's are epic, and the dance floor is always full of twenty-somethings shaking their things. The fine folks at Mix understand that the devil's in the details and have constructed their eclectic environment accordingly. In place of typical bar food, patrons snack on a tasty array of global-fusion creations. Instead of a running sports feed, the plasma-screens here shuffle through all of your favorite music videos from the past few decades. The crowds usually get started around 11pm, but with two full bars and lightning-fast drink service, you'll have all you need to keep the party going until last call.

If you're looking to club hop, make your next stop at Lakeview East's Circuit (3641 N. Halsted St, 773-325-2233). The quintessential dance club experience, as evident by world-class DJ's, schizophrenic light shows, and scantily clad men dancing in cages. You'd never guess that this place started as a coffee shop. The owners have a deep understanding of what it means to have fun, but more importantly, they pride themselves on being a positive addition to their community by keeping cover and drink prices low, championing tolerance and diversity at every turn, and even supporting local charities, arts organizations, and neighborhood events.

For those that demand a little creative vision from a nightspot, Sidetrack (3349 N. Halsted St, 773-477-9189) is the little concept bar that could. Okay, little is a drastic understatement -- this place is huge. From humble beginnings in a tiny storefront, Sidetrack is now one of the foremost gay clubs in the city, if not the country. They serve you delicious slushies all night long, hook you up with one of the best roof-top patios in Chicago, and keep you constantly entertained with an assortment of theme rooms and video montages.

Well, the nice folks at Charlie's (3726 N. Broadway, 773-871-8887) will be the first to admit that they aren't the prettiest game in town. What they lack in looks, they make up for in technology. We're talking state-of-the-art everything: From wall-of-sound audio equipment, to intelligent lighting over the dance-floor, Charlie's does right by the nightlife ideal. The place is ripe with great ideas, from going eco with fancy LED lighting units, to pioneering a country-music night. Worry not, the grand gay staples of karaoke and drag shows are well intact, but Charlie's goes a step further -- towards Kryogenics, by cooling down their notoriously hot after-hours parties with liquid nitrogen fog.

Showtime!

Sometimes your cultural itch catches up with you, and your brain starts demanding things like foreign films, avant-garde theatre, and political comedy. Good thing you're in Lakeview East -- the only thing they do better here than nightlife is cultural enlightenment. You'll never want for personal enrichment again ...

So you love independent and foreign films, but you hate squeezing into the tiny, uncomfortable seats of closet-sized arthouse theaters? Your luxuriously spacious historic answer is Landmark Century Centre Cinema (2828 N Clark St, 773-509-4949). The Arabesque façade and grand marquee are a welcome dose of the Golden Days. The concession stand is stocked high with vegan delicacies and Intelligentsia coffee, and the onscreen line-up features the best under-the-radar, offbeat, indie gems of the day (and sometimes classic reruns). Even hosting major film festivals throughout the year, Landmark Cinema is raising the bar on all of those overpriced, stale-popcorn peddling, first-run megaplexes.

When your mood calls for some live entertainment, an evening at the Lakeshore Theatre (3175 N Broadway St, 773-472-3492) never disappoints. Comfy seats in an old theater environment, the Lakeshore books only the edgiest stand-up comics working today, meaning you are always guaranteed a raucous, irreverent, intelligent show. This fiercely independent venue lives up to its motto: "Often sold out, never sells out." Maybe your funny-bone prefers something a bit less scripted, something that lets you get in on the action. If so, check out the Playground Theatre (3209 N. Halsted Ave, 773-871-3793). This tiny improv room is full of big belly laughs. Dirt cheap and BYOB, Playground plays host to many of the city's best young comedians, and even opens up the stage to amateurs on Thursday nights. Don't forget to bring your friends to cheer for your unpolished efforts at humor if you dare take the mic at this treasured Lakeview East neighborhood comedy stage.

If you're like us, you like to take in a little sonic refreshment with your frosty beverage. For intimate flirtations with Chicago's blues scene, any night of the week, any night of the year, look no further than the north side's best blues joint, aptly named B.L.U.E.S. (2519 N. Halsted St, 773-528-1012). Many up-and-comers cut their teeth at this authentic little club, and you'll have no trouble bobbing your head along to local heroes, music legends, and newbies alike. Speaking of the blues, the last stop on our list of Lakeview East neighborhood venues is the Briar Street Theatre (3133 N. Halsted St, 773-348-4000). From humble beginnings as a horse stable and carriage house for Marshall Field's delivery service, this historic space has become a landmark theater. Home to the Blue Man Group since before they became the international sensation they are today, Briar Street is the place to take every single one of your out-of-town visitors. If you just can't get enough of the blue dudes, but don't want to fork out the dough to feed your obsession, anyone's welcome to usher for the performances here as often as you'd like -- then you get to see the show for free.
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Mark Your Calendar

Now that you know where to eat, shop, drink, party, and perform -- it's time you learn the secret of Lakeview East. We know you've been asking yourself how one neighborhood is able to provide everything you want, need, and dream of? The simple secret is that there is an unprecedented sense of community here. Almost every business takes an active part in the area's enrichment, and they pass the perks on to the residents. This means that when the locals get together to celebrate, you can feel the love.

We like to get all warm and fuzzy by participating in neighborhood events -- and we like to start when the weather turns warm. It's around this time that the thought of buying fruits and veggies at the grocery store starts to feel criminal in Chicago. That's because the open-air booth of a fresh farmer's market is always just a hop, skip, or short CTA jaunt away. It's hard to improve on farm-fresh stands tumbling with fresh produce, but Lakeview East's French Market (3252 N. Broadway St.) has a certain je ne se quois. Set up in the parking lot of the Nettelhorst School, you'll find all of the seasonal crops you crave, but you can also stock up on specialty foods like homemade jams, small-batch honey, fresh-baked breads, and all kinds of cheeses. The market is open every Saturday from late April until late October. The Nettelhorst School (3252 N. Broadway St, 773-534-5810) is a shining community gem in itself. In addition to the summertime market, this beautiful and historic redbrick building regularly sponsors year-round family-friendly events, including an Easter-time egg hunt and a Halloween costume party.

If your love of things green isn't solely reserved for leafy veggies -- you'll love the Lakeview Garden Walk. Every July, local gardeners show off their skills to visitors who come from all over the city. They've even started running a trolley service to make sure you have time to see everything! From tiny container gardens, to enormous yards overflowing with blooms, these Lakeview East folks have turned gardening into an art form. The flowers aren't the only things blooming in this north side Chicago neighborhood ... In just a short time, the Lakeview East Fine Arts Festival (3200 N Broadway St, 847-444-9600) has grown into one of the most anticipated events of the season. Free to all, this is the prime place to brush up on your glass-blowing, down your weight in frosty lemonade, and smear paint all over a real car -- really! Live music fills the air and entertains the crowds over the two-day festival, and of course there are countless displays by local artists to peruse and purchase.

The crowning jewel of the summer season always lands on the last Sunday in June. The Chicago Gay Pride Parade (773-348-8243) originates from the heart of Lakeview East and marches north on Halsted Street, then diagonals back down along Broadway to Diversey Parkway where it culminates near the lakefront. Preceded by a month of celebration and education (June is officially pride month in Chicago), the enormous day-long event draws representatives from gay, lesbian, bisexual, and transgender communities from around the world. Tons of music, outrageous floats, and more fun than you can shake a stick at -- who doesn't love a parade?
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Getting Around

There's nothing better than hitting the pavement when it comes to exploring Lakeview East. The window shopping is prime, the people-watching offers endless fun, and you're sure to discover something brand new about your neighborhood every time you run your errands.

Another way of getting around within the neighborhood that's popular among Lakeview East residents is biking. Halsted Street is one of the city's main bike drags -- an official bike lane makes commuting north to south a snap. If you prefer the scenic view, Lake Shore Drive has an off-road trail with breathtaking views of Lincoln Park and Lake Michigan. And don't worry, if the weather is bad, or your legs just need a rest, hailing a cab from any corner in the neighborhood is a piece of cake.

Before you sacrifice your cash to the parking meter-gods, don't forget that Chicago has one of the best public transportation systems in the country. The Chicago Transit Authority (CTA) operates several elevated trains through Lakeview proper, just a block west of Lakeview East neighborhood. The Red, Brown and Purple lines will get you to all points north and to and from the downtown Loop (where you can connect to lines that take passengers out to O'Hare and Midway aiports, as well as all points south). Prefer to travel a little closer to the ground? CTA also operates a good number of buses at all hours through Lakeview and Lakeview East. We like to hop on the #22 Clark Avenue bus because it cuts directly from the northern border of the city to just south of the Loop, with plenty of sight-seeing and people-watching opportunities along the way. The #77 Belmont Avenue is a good bet for your east to west needs.

If you'd rather use your own wheels, it's a snap to drive anywhere in the city from Lakeview East neighborhood. Interstate I-90/94 and Lake Shore Drive make getting around an easy feat, just keep in mind that like many Chicago neighborhoods, parking is sometimes more of a trial than it's worth. Residential parking passes should save you from doing laps around the block, but non-permit parking is another story. Metered street spots are very limited at night and during Cubs games (Wrigley Field is located a block west of the neighborhood's western border), and certain spaces are restricted when the snow season comes around. Have no fear, in addition to a plethora of parking garages located around the area, many local businesses offer valet parking at night.
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School's in Session

As a happening district with breezy proximity to the rest of Chicago, Lakeview East houses more than its fair share of students from surrounding colleges. You'll find that many young people collecting credits from Lincoln Park's DePaul University and even Loyola University in Rogers Park decide to settle here and commute to class. Other local students consider Lakeview to be the prime place to relocate after college is done, and new grads moving from other cities concur as it is a hot location for twenty-somethings.

That said, the Pacific College of Oriental Medicine (3646 N. Broadway, 773-477-4822) is actually located within the confines of the neighborhood. The Chicago campus is part of a larger holistic education community, with counterparts in San Diego and New York. Founded in 1986, the school has quickly grown into one of the foremost institutions for East Asian medicine and body work in the world. In recent years, Chicago's health care community has embraced the foundations of eastern medicine, and its citizens even more so. With yoga and massage entering the fabric of everyday life, it's no surprise that residents of Lakeview East are ecstatic to host the college's campus. In addition to providing classes to its enrolled students, the Pacific College has opened up a clinic to care for the community. This means you can get acupuncture, herbal care, and nutritional counseling for very low prices while helping a student learn the particulars of eastern medicine.

In addition to great continuing education opportunities in Lakeview East, families residing in this Chicago neighborhood are pleased to take advantage of some of the best primary schools in the city. You can find more information on Lakeview East and Chicago area schools at our Chicago Guide Schools page.

Bernard Zell Anshe Emet Jewish Day School 3751 N Broadway St - (773) 281-1858
Mary Meyers School 2817 N Pine Grove Ave - (773) 549-0870
Mount Caramel Academy 720 W Belmont Ave - (773) 525-8779
Nettelhorst Elementary School 3252 N Broadway St - (773) 534-5810
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Basic Needs

Whether you want to drop by the drugstore, or drop a few pounds on the treadmill, you're going to need some direction. We've put together a list that includes all of your neighborhood essentials; from organic artichokes to African-imports, records to wrist-watches, books to booze -- you'll find everything you need to know below.

Emergency Rooms

Saint Joseph's Hospital 2900 N Lake Shore Dr - (773) 665-3000

Post Offices

FedEx 3001 N Clark St - (773) 528-0500
UPS Store 3023 N Clark St - (773) 281-8988; 3712 N Broadway - (773) 975-7100

Libraries

Merlo Public Library 644 W Belmont Ave - (312) 744-1139

Pharmacies

Grocery Stores

Kafka Wine Shop Kafka 3325 N Halsted St - (773) 975-9463
Onu 3310 N Broadway St - (773) 880-9280
Pastoral 2945 N. Broadway - (773) 472-4781
Treasure Island Foods 3460 N Broadway St - (773) 327-3880

Gyms

Bally's Total Fitness 2828 N Clark St - (773) 929-6900
Chicago Sweat Shop 3215 N Broadway St - (773) 871-2789
Quads Gym 3727 N Broadway St - (773) 404-7867

ENTERTAINMENT

Events
Halsted Tastes Better 3739 N Halsted St - (773) 883-0500
Lakeview East Fine Art Fest 3200 N Broadway St - (847) 444-9600
French Market 3252 N. Broadway St.
Lakeview Garden Walk
Chicago Gay Pride Parade Halsted St. and Belmont Ave. - (773) 348-8243

Theatres
Briar Street Theatre 3133 N Halsted St - (773) 348-4000
Children's Theatre Fantasy Orchard 750 W Wellington Ave - (773) 539-4211
Ivanhoe Theater 750 W Wellington Ave - (773) 975-7171
Lakeshore Theatre 3175 N Broadway St - (773) 472-3492
National Pastime Theater 4139 N Broadway - (773) 327-7077
The Playground Improv Theater 3209 N Halsted St - (773) 871-3793
Red Tape Theatre 459 W Belmont Ave - (773) 329-1088
TimeLine Theatre 615 W Wellington Ave - (773) 281-8463
Strawdog Theatre 3829 N Broadway St - (773) 528-9696

Galleries
Atelier Mimi Gallery 2908 N Broadway St - (773) 348-0730
Billy Hork Galleries 3033 N Clark St - (773) 528-9090
Joy Horwich Gallery 3180 N Lake Shore Dr - (773) 327-3366

Cinema
Landmark's Century Centre Cinema 2828 N Clark St - (773) 509-4949

SHOPPING

Addendum 3341 N Broadway St - (773) 404-4499
Adult Fantasy 2928 N Broadway St - (773) 472-4499
African Safari Imports 3705 N Broadway - (773) 549-2744
American Apparel 3126 N Broadway St - (773) 248-6580
Armageddon 714 W Belmont Ave - (773) 244-0666
Art de Triumph Inc. 2936 N Clark St - (773) 832-4038
Blue Revolution 3125 N Broadway - (773) 525-1431
Bookie's Paperbacks and More 2939 N Broadway St - (773) 248-4244
Bookleggers 2935 N Broadway St - (773) 404-8780
Bookman's Corner 2959 N Clark St - (773) 929-8298
Borders Books & Music 2817 N Clark St - (773) 935-3909
The Brown Elephant 3651 N Halsted St - (773) 549-5943
Buffalo Exchange 2875 N Broadway St - (773) 549-1999
The Century Shopping Centre 2828 N Clark St - (773) 929-8100
Aveda School Salon - (773) 883-1560
Bath & Bodyworks - (773) 549-3314
Express for Men - (773) 871-2738
Victoria's Secret - (773) 549-7405
City Bookshop Inc 3125 N Broadway St - (773) 880-8003
Clothes Optional 2918 N Clark St - (773) 296-6630
The Coffee and Tea Exchange 3311 N Broadway St - (773) 528-2241
Coffee Tree & Tea Leaves 3752 N Broadway St - (773) 871-7818
Cost Plus World Market 2844 N Broadway St - (773) 477-9912
Cupid's Treasure 3519 N Halsted St - (773) 348-3884
Discus CD Exchange 2935 N Broadway St - (773) 868-0952
Duomo Men's Designer Resale 2906 N Broadway St - (773) 325-2325
Elan Gian 650 W Cornelia Ave - (773) 929-4466
Elliott Consignment 3015 N Broadway St - (773) 549-4330
Equinox 3401 N Broadway - (773) 281-9151
Gap 3216 N Broadway St - (773) 929-4085
Gay Mart 3457 N Halsted St - (773) 929-4272
Grande's Jewelry 2934 N Clark St - (773) 549-5059
Gourmet Grape 3530 N Halsted St - (773) 388-0942
He Who Eats Mud 3247 N Broadway St - (773) 525-0616
Home Bodies 3647 N Halsted St - (773) 975-9393
Land of the Lost 614 W Belmont Ave - (773) 529-4966
Leather Sport 3503 N Halsted St - (773) 868-0914
Makrand Women's Wear 2919 N Clark St - (773) 477-5521
Manifold 2850 N Clark St - (773) 525-2929
Metal Haven 604 W Belmont Ave - (773) 755-9202
Midwest Stereo 2806 N Clark St - (773) 929-5523
Moon Mystique Books 614 W Belmont Ave - (773) 665-9016
New & Used Books Inc 2928 N Broadway St - (773) 404-5422
Papyrus 835 N Michigan Ave - (312) 266-9945
Radio Shack 3168 N Broadway St - (773) 883-8833
Ragin' Raejean's 3450 N Halsted - (773) 975-5020
Ram Book Store 3511 1/2 N Halsted - (773) 525-9528
Reckless Records 3157 N Broadway St - (773) 404-5080
Recycled Paper Greetings Inc 3636 N Broadway St - (773) 348-6410
Selected Works Used Bookstore 3510 N Broadway St - (773) 975-0002
Shirts Illustrated Inc 3315 N Broadway St - (773) 871-4785
Silver Room 3243 N Broadway St - (773) 525-7130
Soliloquy Bookstore 1724 W Belmont Ave - (773) 348-6757
Spare Parts 2947 N Broadway St - (773) 525-4242
Styl Shoes 2949 N Broadway St - (773) 244-9369
TJ Maxx 2840 N Broadway St, - (773) 975-2347
Unabridged Bookstore 3251 N Broadway St - (773) 883-9119
Universal Gear 3153 N Broadway St - (773) 296-1090
Way Cool Records 3015 N Broadway St - (773) 929-0352

DINING

American Contemporary
Erwin 2925 N Halsted St - (773) 528-7200
Jack's on Halsted 3201 N Halsted St - (773) 244-9191
Matisse 674 W Diversey Pkwy - (773) 528-6670
Yoshi's Cafe 3257 N Halsted St - (773) 248-6160

American Traditional
Ann Sather Restaurant 3411 N Broadway St - (773) 305-0024
Chicken Hut 3200 N Broadway - (773) 868-1855
Firefly 3335 N Halsted St - (773) 525-2505
Melrose Restaurant 3233 N Broadway St - (773) 327-2060
Salt & Pepper Diner 3537 N Clark St - (773) 883-9800
Soupbox 2943 N Broadway St - (773) 935-9800
Stella's Diner 3042 N Broadway St - (773) 472-9040

Asian Cuisine
Bamee Noodle Shop 3120 N Broadway St - (773) 281-2641
Cafe Blossom 608 W Barry Ave - (773) 935-5284
Ecce Cafe 3422 N Broadway St - (773) 244-9331
Far East 514 W Diversey Pkwy - (773) 529-8506
Jai Yen 3736 N Broadway - (773) 404-0555
Jitlada Thai House 3715 N Halsted St - (773) 388-9988
Joy's Noodles & Rice 3257 N Broadway St - (773) 327-8330
Kanok 3422 N Broadway St - (773) 529-2525
Koryo 2936 N Broadway St - (773) 477-8510
Mark's Chop Suey on Halsted 3343 N Halsted St - (773) 281-9090
New Peking Restaurant 3132 N Broadway St - (773) 528-1362
New Tokyo 3139 N Broadway St - (773) 248-1193
Nohana Japanese Restaurant 3136 N Broadway St - (773) 528-1902
Ping Pong 3322 N Broadway St - (773) 281-7575
Rice Box 2940 N Broadway St - (773) 404-1700
Sura Thai Bistro 3124 N Broadway St - (773) 248-7872
Sushi 28 Cafe 2863 N Clark St - (773) 868-1250
Szechuan Garden 2901 N Broadway St - (773) 525-6677
Tie Me Up Noodles 434 W Diversey Pkwy - (773) 404-1145
Toprajiro 432 W Diversey Pkwy - (773) 477-5000
Wakamono 3317 N Broadway St - (773) 296-6800
Yen's Chinese Cuisine 2856 N Clark St - (773) 549-0707
Yuki Hana 2920 N Broadway St - (773) 388-1818
Yummy Yummy Asian Cuisine 2901 N Broadway St - (773) 525-6677

Bakeries
Panera Bread 616 W Diversey Pkwy - (773) 528-4556
Red Hen Bread 500 W Diversey St - (773) 248-6025

Coffee/Cafe
Argo Tea Cafe 3135 N Broadway St - (773) 248-3061
Caribou Coffee 3300 N Broadway St - (773) 477-3695
Fit 'n' Fresh Cafe 565 W Diversey Pkwy - (773) 325-9664
Horizon Cafe 3805 N Broadway - (773) 883-1565
House of Hookah 607 W Belmont Ave - (773) 348-1550
Intelligentsia Coffee 3123 N Broadway - (773) 348-8058
North Coast Cafe 3613 N Broadway St - (773) 549-7606
Panino's Cafe & Bar 3704 N Broadway St - (773) 348-7698
Starbucks 3358 N. Broadway - (773) 528-0343; 617 W Diversey Pkwy - (773) 880-5172

Deli
The Bagel Restaurant and Deli 3107 N Broadway St - (773) 477-0300
Diversey Plaza Deli 330 W Diversey Pkwy - (773) 528-5111
Eatzi's 2828 N Clark St - (773) 832-9310
Nabo's 3351 N Broadway St - (773) 248-5000
Samuel's Delicatessen 3463 N Broadway St - (773) 525-7018

Fast Food
Eat-A-Pita 3155 N Halsted St - (773) 929-6727
Nabo's 3351 N Broadway St - (773) 248-5000
Sparta Gyros 3202 N Broadway St - (773) 549-4210

French Cuisine
La Creperie 2845 N Clark St - (773) 528-9050

Italian Cuisine
Adesso 3332 N Broadway St - (773) 868-1516
Angelina Ristorante 3561 N Broadway - (773) 935-5933
Cornelia's Restaurant 748 W Cornelia Ave - (773) 248-8333
The Hungry Tomato 3109 N Halsted St - (773) 388-2900
LaTavernetta 3023 N Broadway St - (773) 929-8787

Lebanese Cuisine
Aladdin's Eatery 614 W Diversey Pkwy - (773) 327-6300

Mediterranean Cuisine
Casbah Cafe 3151 N Broadway St - (773) 935-3339

Mexican Cuisine
Chili Mac's 5-Way Chili 3152 N Broadway - (773) 404-2898
Chipotle Mexican Grill 3181 N Broadway St - (773) 525-5250
El Mariachi 3420 N Broadway - (773) 549-7020
El Nuevo Buena Vista 3147 N Broadway - (773) 871-5782
El Nuevo Mexicano 2914 N Clark St - (773) 528-2131
Janitzio Burrito 2933 N Broadway Ave - (773) 348-9916
Las Mananitas 3523 N Halsted St - (773) 528-2109

Middle Eastern Cuisine
Aladdin's Eatery 614 W Diversey Pkwy - (773) 327-6303
Cousin's 2833 N Broadway St - (773) 880-0063
Zad 3112 N Broadway St - (773) 404-3473

Pizza
HomeMade Pizza Company 3314 N. Broadway - (773) 549-2100
Nancy's Home of Stuffed Pizza 2930 N Broadway St - (773) 883-1977
Panino's Pizzeria 3702 N Broadway St - (773) 472-6200
Pie Hole Pizza 737 W Roscoe St - (773) 525-8888
Rendaldi's Pizza Pub 3169 N Broadway St - (773) 929-2929

Seafood
Half Shell Restaurant 676 W Diversey Pkwy - (773) 549-1773

Spanish Cuisine
Arco de Cuchilleros 3445 N Halsted St - (773) 296-6046
Pie Hole 739 W Roscoe St - (773) 525-8888

Vegetarian
Chicago Diner 3411 N Halsted St - (773) 935-6696
Emerald City 2852 N Clark St - (773) 477-0555
Veg Out 3176 Broadway St - (773) 880-6452

Dessert/Sweets
Bobtail Ice Cream Company 2951 N Broadway - (773) 880-7372
House of Fine Chocolates 3109 N Broadway St - (773) 525-8338
Treats Frozen Desserts 3319 N Broadway St - (773) 525-0900
Windy City Sweets 3308 N Broadway St - (773) 477-6100

NIGHTLIFE

Avenue Tavern 2916 N Broadway St - (773) 975-7000
B.L.U.E.S. 2519 N Halsted St - (773) 528-1012
Bobby Love's 3729 N Halsted St - (773) 525-1200
Bridget McNeill's 420 W Belmont Ave - (773) 248-6654
Bucks Saloon 3439 N Halsted St - (773) 525-1125
Charlie's Chicago 3726 N. Broadway 773-871-8887
Circuit Nightclub 3641 N Halsted St - (773) 325-2233
The Closet 3325 N Broadway St - (773) 477-8533
Cocktail 3359 N Halsted St - (773) 477-1420
Duffy's Tavern 422 1/2 W Diversey Pkwy - (773) 549-9090
Duke of Perth 2913 N Clark St - (773) 477-1741
Erwin Cafe & Bar 2925 N Halsted St - (773) 528-7200
Friar Tuck 3010 N Broadway - (773) 327-5101
Galway Bay 500 W Diversey Pkwy - (773) 348-3750
Jacqueline's 3420 N Broadway St - (773) 404-5149
Joe's on Broadway 3563 N Broadway St - (773) 528-1054
Little Jim's Tavern 3501 N Halsted St - (773) 871-6116
Lucky Horse Shoe Lounge 3169 N Halsted St - (773) 404-3169
Minibar 3341 N Halsted St - (773) 348-1053
Mix 2843 N Halsted St - (773) 528-7569
Monsignor Murphy 3019 N Broadway St - (773) 348-7285
The North End 3733 N Halsted St - (773) 477-7999
Parrots Bar & Grill 754 W Wellington Ave - (773) 281-7878
Sidetrack 3349 N Halsted St - (773) 477-9189
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The residential real estate in Lakeview East is fairly diverse, providing homeowners with a number of housing options from condos to lofts to townhomes. But there is more to your Lakeview East home than where you rest your head at night. The area surrounding a property can be just as much a factor in the decision to buy as the color of the carpet or the condition of the foundation. Each Chicago neighborhood has its own unique charm that sets it apart from the rest. Our comprehensive online guide is all you need to explore the many streets of Chicagoall from the comfort of your own computer. Shopping, dining, entertainment, schools, you name it, we'll show you where it is. Find out whether that fabulous Lakeview East condo is immersed in the throes of wild nightlife, or veiled by the tranquility of a quiet residential setting. Like Metromix and the MLS merged into one, this site is your one-stop shop for Chicago neighborhood information.
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