By: Dave Deiters
Chair of the Avondale Estates Downtown Development Authority
Welcome to the fifth edition of The DDA Dish, and thanks for being interested.
I recently met an old friend and former colleague for lunch at a restaurant near his home on the north side. He’s a major foodie and told me, “I keep hearing about Avondale Estates —are there any interesting restaurants there?” Talk about a set-up question!
Well, this got me reflecting on the amazing array of unique, small businesses in our city. When you list them out (which I am coincidentally about to do), it truly is striking. And remember— we can WALK to and enjoy these great local retailers.
Let’s Start with Restaurants: A World of Flavor Close to Home
One can enjoy a variety of tavern food, Greek, Venezuelan, Japanese, Vietnamese, pizza, brunch items, Mexican, gourmet sandwiches, diner classics from a legendary 24-hour icon, and of course, Chicago-style hot dogs. And, coming soon, we’ll have spicy chicken, Italian, a Tex-Mex cantina and a gelato shop. Also on the way is a new, fresh to-go market featuring Indian street food.
More to Explore: Shops, Cafes and Local Businesses
We enjoy two world-class bakeries and two wonderful coffee shops, all locally owned. We have our own butcher shop/charcuterie. We have an artisan gift shop, a baby store, craft shops and two book stores. We have nearly-new shops, a specialty wine store, a friendly local package store and a new eco-friendly refillery.
There is child care, pet care and our own local pharmacy. You can take care of your printing needs right here. There are self-care/wellness businesses, health and beauty salons, and music stores, including one dedicated to young children. Late night? No problem! Late-night entertainment is covered, as well as a historic live-music venue. You can even get your car spiffed up right here!
Raising a Glass to Avondale’s Breweries and Pubs
Hmm, what am I missing? BEER. Avondale Estates has not been voted the Best Small-Town Beer Scene in four of the last five years for nothing! Great breweries, right here, and wonderful pubs/taverns also right here – including one coming soon on a rooftop. I hope to see you on the ‘Dale Ale Trail this Saturday, October 25 for the 5th Avondale Ale Day.
Show Local Pride: Support Our Independent Businesses
Besides the fact that they are right here, these businesses are all, with one exception, local and independently owned. And, oh by the way, that one exception—Waffle House—was founded RIGHT HERE in Avondale Estates.
I hope you agree that this list of retail is a world apart from the tire shops, dilapidated warehouses and abandoned buildings of a few short years ago.
Time to Upgrade. Hear from New Voices.
Finally, gentle reader, there is great news as you are about to get a free upgrade on The DDA Dish. Beginning with our next edition, you’ll be hearing from my friend and colleague on the DDA, Vice-Chair Leigh Lynch. Leigh is a resident, homeowner and business/property owner in the downtown, and she has some great thoughts to share.
I’ll be back at some point—but Avondale Estates is blessed with a talented and hard-working group of DDA directors, and it is a very good thing for all of their voices to be heard!
Peace.