Jefferson Park is a charming neighborhood on the Northwest Side of Chicago that has something to offer for everyone. From its historic bungalows to its excellent transit options and thriving local businesses, Jeff Park, as it’s affectionately called, is a community that values both tradition and progress. Here are 10 things we love about this neighborhood, and why you might just fall for it, too.
One of the special things about Chicago’s inner ring suburbs is how these communities effortlessly blend and balance the best attributes of busy city life with the slower pace and residential streets of a small town. A true standout in this category, Park Ridge boasts not one, but two central downtown districts, top public schools, and a housing inventory that’s equally diverse in aesthetics and price points.
Northwest Indiana, an area most known for its proximity to Chicago and the Lake Michigan shoreline, shouldn’t be overlooked with its vast collection of outdoor adventures, cultural attractions and seasonal events. In the wintertime, residents and visitors alike can find plenty of things to do. Whether you’re a nature lover or looking for kid-friendly activities, these towns offer something for everyone. The following list is just a sample of things to do in Northwest Indiana as the temperatures begin to fall.
With Hispanic Heritage Month underway, @properties Christie’s International Real Estate is proud to observe this cultural tradition in our hometown of Chicago and beyond. Join us as we highlight six local artists who use their mediums to pay homage to the Hispanic community.
Ruben Aguirre
A Chicago native, Ruben Aguirre uses his talents on what he calls “underutilized infrastructure,” producing murals in the Chicago area, across the U.S., and abroad. His compositions aim to reference the socio-historical background of each site location while re-imagining public space, patterns, and color fields. In addition to exhibits at the Chicago Cultural Center and Hyde Park Art Center, his works have been commissioned for clients including Google and Adidas.
In life, the rule of thumb is don’t bite more than you can chew…unless it’s chocolate! @ Loves Local is headed to Algonquin! On Tuesday, October 4th from 4pm-6pm, get a free churro from Churros Y Chocolate, located at 2533 W. Algonquin Road Algonquin, IL 60102.
Churros Y Chocolate is a local favorite that has found the perfect recipe for authentic churros! We talked to the Owner, Yazmin H, for a look into their story.
You definitely want a piece of this event! @ Loves Local is headed to Chicago! On Wednesday, September 21st from 3 pm-5 pm CT, get a free slice of pie from Bang Bang Pie & Biscuits, located at 2051 N California Ave, Chicago, IL 60647.
Bang Bang Pie & Biscuits is a local favorite with a trendy atmosphere. We talked to the Owner, Julie Morelli for a look into their story.
The Chicagoland area is home to various businesses that recognize their Hispanic roots year-round. But as Hispanic Heritage Month kicks off, @properties Christie’s International Real Estate is pleased to showcase these local favorites. We hope you get a chance to stop in and experience all they have to offer.
Atmos Coffee
Owned by husband-and-wife team Antoine and Arianna Scott, Atmos Coffee opened in late 2020 offering only grab-and-go service. Now the neighborhood favorite is a full-service coffee shop, and the couple prides themselves on their job readiness program for Black and Latino youth. Made with Colombian espresso, Mexican chocolate, cinnamon, and cayenne pepper, Abuelita’s Latte is a favorite item on the Humboldt Park shop’s menu.
To kick off Hispanic Heritage Month, @Loves Local is partnering with La Borra Café’s Oak Park location, serving up your choice of a free 16oz beverage or pastry. Join us at this neighborhood favorite on Thursday, September 15 from 9-11 a.m. at 1100 Lake Street as we begin the month-long cultural celebration!
Established in Mexico in 2012, La Borra Café has since grown to include over 70 stores in its native country. But even better, their extensive menu of Mexican-sourced artisanal coffee blends can be enjoyed at six Chicagoland locations. They are also well-known for their authentic sweet pastries and savory tortas.
We talked to franchise owner Dine Unlu to hear more about the La Borra Café story:
@properties Christie’s International Real Estate: How was La Borra Café created?
La Borra Café: Our CEO, Leon Reffreger was working on his thesis for his master’s degree and ended up creating an international coffee shop business. He named the shops after a book titled “La Borra del Café,” and the rest is history.
@properties Christie’s International Real Estate: What is your favorite treat at your La Borra location?
La Borra Café: I really enjoy our new chicken quesadilla, it’s so good and filling! According to Unlu, La Borra Café is committed to providing the best food and drink experience around – and it is even available for pick up by ordering online or via their app.
@properties Christie’s International Real Estate: What is your favorite part of owning La Borra Café?
La Borra Café: Meeting new people! Getting their day started and inspiring them through our customer service and specialized menu is important.
La Borra Café made its Oak Park debut in July 2021. Each location is specifically designed to reflect the surrounding neighborhood while functioning as a social gathering place or remote workspace. The company currently has locations in Berwyn, Naperville, Chicago, and Texas and plans to open more spots in California.
Visit La Borra Café on Thursday, September 15 from 9-11 a.m. to get a free 16oz beverage or pastry of your choice on the @tab (paid for by @properties Christie’s International Real Estate and ProperRate). 1100 Lake Street, Oak Park, IL 60301
Best sure to follow @atproperties and @laborracafe.usa on Instagram and use our hashtag #AtLovesLocal when you visit.
*Limit one beverage or pastry of your choice per person.
The days may be getting shorter, but don’t let that fool you into thinking there aren’t plenty of activities to fill your fall calendar. Between brews and boos, you’ll have no trouble staying busy whether you’re on the North Shore or heading to the city. Here are some events to check out this fall.
Chicago Beer Fest
Craft brews have exploded in popularity over the last few years, and Chicago has embraced the trend with a variety of festivals. One of the largest is the Chicago Beer Festival, which will be held inside the Field Museum on October 8th from 7 to 11 p.m. Not only will the event feature over 65 breweries showcasing fall seasonal beers, but some of the museum’s exhibits will be open for viewing as you enjoy your favorite ale.
Get ready to scoot on over to our next event! @ Loves Local is headed to Lakeview! On Wednesday, August 24th from 4pm-6pm CT, get a free ice cream cone of your choice at Scooter’s Frozen Custard, located at 1658 W Belmont Ave, Chicago, IL 60657.
Scooter’s Frozen Custard is a local favorite for its delicious custard. We talked to the Owner, Denny Moore, for a look into their story.