We are honoring all the strong and influential women business owners of Lakeview East in honor of Women’s history month! The women-owned businesses in Lakeview East all bring their unique talents and flare to Lakeview East. Read on to learn more about the owners, their experiences, and why they are an irreplaceable part of our community.
Anitya Doula Services -Catherine Durkin Robinson
Anitya Doula Services is a death doula and death educator service, privately and confidentially, in-person or remotely. They offer non-medical, compassionate care. Often we serve those facing the end of life, partnering with support provided by other sources. This support can include hospice, comfort care, and each client’s own network. Above all, they provide unconditional positive regard and no judgments. We do this while engaging in open talks with clients.
Catherine Durkin Robinson with Anitya Doula Services is also an end-of-life educator. She hosts educational events that help people learn more about the dying process. She also teaches ways to prepare for death that create comfort and lessen anxiety. All over Chicago, her workshops seek to normalize discussions around death and dying so we can stop being afraid.
Artful Framer Studios- 2938 N Clark – Hope Dye
“I have always loved art and making things, but I got into custom framing about 9 years ago and I truly love this work. It makes me so happy to meet new people and hear the stories about their art pieces, photos, and mementos as we work together to find beautiful solutions to their framing needs.
Around four years ago, I started working at Artful Framer Studios under the previous owner and well-know Chicago artist, Nancie King Mertz. When Nancie and her husband decided to move out of the city, I realized that I couldn’t see myself doing anything else. I made the decision to buy the shop and I took over on August 16, 2022. While it has been a wild few months, I have learned so much and am so grateful to be living and working in a wonderful neighborhood, in an awesome city.”
Astute Counseling & Wellness Services – 3001 N Southport Avenue- Rebecca E Tenzer
Rebecca is the owner and head clinician of Astute, and has over 18 years of clinical and educational experience in the field of mental health! Astute Counseling and Wellness Services is a comprehensive mental health and wellness center that offers a holistic approach to wellbeing. Their focus is on the mind and body connection, and we provide a variety of services to help individuals achieve optimal health and happiness. The expert therapists offer individual, group, and couples therapy, while our wellness services include acupuncture, massage therapy, sound immersion, Reiki, vibrational sound therapy, yoga, meditation and mindfulness classes.
Bae Coffee Co – 2945 N. Broadway – Alicia Zyburt
Alicia and her partner Devon are the creators behind Bae Coffee Company, which for those non-millennials don’t know stands for before all else. They have a passion for warm beverages, good causes, and café society which all inspired bae coffee. The ingredients used are fair-wage green beans and mindful roast profiles to create a balanced and intricate experience. Alicia understands that coffee is self care, so coffee should always be good. Their success took off when they first started selling wholesale product, and decided opening up a store would be the next move and have exponentially grown since opening their brick and mortar store on broadway this past winter!
Bark By The Park- Virtual Shop – Nicky Figueroa
Nicky opened Bark by The Park back in 2015. After graduating from Loyola University studying marketing and visual communications, Nicky had different experiences in retail operations, non-profit, and pet care. She fell in love with all the animals well volunteering at PAWS Chicago which later inspired her desire to start her own pet business. To kick off the start of her business she appeared at pop ups and local festivals. Today, Bark By The Park is a very successful business which focuses on quality/unique products, exceptional customer service, and personalized pet care!
Bites Asian Kitchen + Bar – 3313 N Clark Asana Nakornchai
After earning a Bachelor’s degree in Economics in Thailand, Asana Nakornchai moved to the United States to continue her education at Sam Houston State University in Huntsville, Texas where she received a Master’s degree in Criminal Justice/Criminology. Currently living in Chicago, Asana worked as an Assistant Manager at a private investigation company before starting her own import/export business in 2008 that distributed natural skin and hair care products from Thailand. Her passion for food, however, brought her to open her restaurant called BITES Asian Kitchen and Bar, formerly Bites Asian Tapas, at 3313 N. Clark St. in late 2013. Since then, she has been enjoying herself as a restaurateur managing BITES in Lakeview with plans to develop new projects in the area and beyond.
Bittersweet – 1114 W. Belmont – Esther Griego & Mindy Gohr
Esther and Mindy took over Bittersweet from Judy Contino after 23 years. Their goal has been to be more flexible with the customers and work with their needs. They have adjusted recipes to accommodate vegan, gluten-free and dairy-free requests. They have found huge success, serving big customers like the Chicago Cubs, Oprah, and Michael Jordan. This true European style bakery prepares its treats from scratch and with all-natural ingredients.
Black and Caspian – 2908 N. Broadway – Evelyn Chantawee
Meet Evelyn, the owner and head chef of Black and Caspian Wine Bistro. Her culinary skill is steadily being recognized by many Chicagoans who got the chance to dine in her new restaurant. Now she is making her mark in Mediterranean cuisine. Since taking over the business just about a year ago, Evelyn has exposed many diners and patrons alike to the next level of Mediterranean fine dining experience. So far, the business has received many positive ratings and reviews all over. To quote one satisfied diner: “It was one of the best dinners I’ve had…Black and Caspian is truly a gem in Lake View East!” The restaurant is never satisfied with just being good enough and never stops improving on their services.
Blink and Polish Nails – 3356 N. Broadway– Linh Lu
Linh Lu is proud to represent the Asian-American and pacific islander culture as a women business owner in Lakeview East. The atmosphere at Blink and Polish is relaxed with a pink chic vibe. Natural products are important to them and natural nails so there is no acrylic odor. A few of the services provided are manicure, pedicure, no-chip and dip manicure. There is also a lash and brows bar that offers facial waxing and lash lifts. Linh has found immense success in Lakeview East, with every night in the nail salon filled with regulars and new comers alike that return for the warm hospitality Lihn has created.
Body Brite Med Spa – 2949 N. Broadway – Jenise Powell
Body Brite is a medical spa owned by Jenise Powell. Jenise has an eye for all things beautiful & helps others achieve their beauty goals through her vast knowledge of Med Spa services. This Lakeview East beauty boutique offers luxury skincare treatments at affordable MedSpa prices. Their mission is to help your beauty shine with an impeccable level of service. BodyBrite is dedicated to providing their clients with a diverse menu of services that will have you leaving feeling like your best self!
Boho Blonde – 3740 N. Broadway – Emily Sparks
Emily Sparks opened Boho Blonde Salon on Broadway last winter! Emily has spent years honing her colorist powers and has created a beachy, bohemian salon where the vibes are as great as the services. She specializes in blonding services, giving that perfect, sun kissed blonde that makes you look like you were born that way. Stop by this local salon and let Emily help you live your best blonde life.
Bombay Eats 3149 N Broadway -Falguni Dewjee
Falguni Dewjee founded Bombay Eats (formerly known as Bombay Wraps) in 2020 with the goal of sharing the delicious food she grew up eating in Bombay (Mumbai), India. Over the years and across 4 locations (Lakeview, Loop, Streeterville, Naperville) & a food truck, this mission continues to burn bright – delicious & authentic Indian food served in a familiar wrap, (sandwich) roll, and (rice/salad) bowl form. Stop by one of the locations to enjoy chicken tikka to cheese paneer, samosas to lassi smoothies. Veg, vegan, gluten-free, halal, and more options are available.
Bottles Up! – 3164 N. Broadway – Melissa Zeman
Melissa’s goal was to open a wine shop that focuses on community. With one of the most affordable wine clubs in all of Chicago, she hit her goal allowing more people in the community to be able to participate. A unique concept to her shop is that the bottles are organized by use of color to indicate the weight or body of the wine. This allows for a pretty aesthetic of the wine bottles to be displayed and encourages people to try new things. Melissa is an adventurous business owner and often teams up with other local establishments to bring a rounded wine experience to the neighborhood and can often be found taking the lead for philanthropic causes.
Chilam Bilam – 3023 N. Broadway – Soraya Rendon
Immigrating from Mexico to the United States, Soraya chased her dream to open a restaurant in Chicago. Her success is demonstrated through the many years Chilam Bilam has made it on the Michelin Bib Gourmand list. She is proud to run a sustainable restaurant, which also supports locally sustainable farmers, ranchers and purveyors. It’s a girl power squad over at the Chilam Bilam with executive chef Natalie Oswald, who was introduced to traditional Mexican cuisine while doing her externship at Frontera Grill and Topolobampo
Choc Choc Cosmetics – 3127 N. Broadway – Leah Kim
If you translate Choc Choc in Korean it means well-moisturized skin, which is exactly what Leah Kim has created Choc Choc to be all about. Leah Kim is proud to be ahead of the game, using Korean cosmetics 10 years ahead of skincare trends in the US, made with all natural ingredients. Choc Choc handpicks all their products in order to create a wide variety of options that cater towards your specific skincare needs. Leah is a maverick in the Korean skincare business and is always on the forefront of new skincare trends.
ChooChoo Chicago – 2941 N Clark –
At the age of 19, Mia, or as the neighborhood kids call her, “Mrs. Mia,” packed her bags in Serbia and ventured to the U.S on a volleyball scholarship to explore her educational opportunities. Mrs. Mia has a love for helping children flourish during their earliest years of life. She’s passionate about providing a nurturing, home-like feel to the children in her care, and she’s knowledgeable about what these little minds need in academic and social-emotional contexts. She serves as a director at ChooChoo Chicago, your Family Childcare, and is beyond excited about the newest expansion to the center-based location.
A mother of three little ones Vanya, Luna and Vida, Mia and her family enjoy spending time outdoors. They spend time biking, exploring city parks, and venturing out to try new foods together. Mrs. Mia also enjoys running, Studio Cycling, and Yoga. She loves to meet new families and hear their stories, as it allows her to follow her true passion; creating a hub of children, their families, and loving teachers where everyone feels welcomed, safe, appreciated and honored to be a part of the ChooChoo community.
Corner Communications – Theresa Chu
Theresa has both the communications experience you need and a passion to help others succeed. Over my 20 years in the industry. she has managed communications and PR programs for agency, nonprofit, government, association, healthcare, and retail organizations, worked in a variety of industries, including healthcare (medical device, insurance, retail pharmacy), membership associations, tech, and state government, was named to PRWeek’s 2022 Women to Watch list. She earned my master’s in PR and advertising from DePaul University.
Corner Communications is a boutique PR agency serving small businesses and nonprofits in Chicago and beyond. Whether you’re getting ready to launch a new business, preparing for your next phase of growth and adding staff, or are a nonprofit with limited resources, her goal is to meet you where you are, at a price that fits in your budget.
Cuddle Bunny – 2901 N Clark – Barbara Burdick
Cuddle Bunny is the brainchild of owner Barbara Burdick who longed to bring the therapeutic benefits of live bunny interactions to the community. In addition to welcoming visitors to interact with sweet, soft, cute bunnies for a dose of serotonin, expert boarding care services provide bunny owners with peace of mind while they travel knowing their furry family members are being lovingly cared for. Bunny supplies and unique activities such as bunny yoga, tie-dye parties, sketching events, neon black light painting sessions and creative writing seminars are just a few of the myriad of offerings.
Dea Litsa Facial Spa – Tanita Dean
Tanita is a highly skilled esthetician with over six years of expertise in skincare. Her passion for skin health has driven her career path, and she recently opened Dea Litsa Facial Spa to provide exceptional skincare services to clients of all backgrounds. Known for her caring and personalized approach, Tanita takes the time to analyze her clients’ skin and create personalized regimens to help them achieve a radiant, healthy glow. Her attention to detail and dedication to her clients have won her the loyalty of many, making her one of the most sought-after estheticians in the area. In addition to her professional work, Tanita is known for her friendly and welcoming personality. She enjoys educating her clients about skincare, believing that knowledge is just as important as top-quality services. Her compassionate and knowledgeable approach has earned her a reputation as a trusted and reliable esthetician.
De La Vie Day Spa – 3120 N. Sheffield– Emilija Vulovic
De La Vie Day Spa customizes every treatment to meet your needs and desires. With the finest amenities, it makes it so easy to renew and revitalize your spirit, mind, and body at this spa. The vision Emilija has for her spa is to create an experience leaving your skin and body to feel healthy, and beautiful by using top tier products for the well-being of the customers. At De La Vie Day Spa they take extra time to really understand each customer’s body and educate them on their skin’s needs. The services here range from so many different types of facials, waxing, spray tans, nail treatments, maderotherapy, and peels.
El Nuevo Mexicano – 2914 N. Clark Street – Maria Rodriguez
Originally owned by Elfego and Teresa Rodriguez in 1983, in 2004 was later passed on to their niece Maria Rodriguez. Maria has an eye for the artful, and before running her Aunt and Uncle’s restaurant, had a thriving stake in Chicago’s fashion, film, and photography industries. She has made quite some contributions to the success of the restaurant including, expanding three different times, updating the interior, and adding vegetarian and vegan options to the menu. This Mexican delight of a restaurant is some of the best food in Lakeview East!
Get Nail’d –3131 N. Broadway – Vyvy Tran
Vyvy is the proud owner of Get Nail’d. With her salon providing expert technique and top of the line products, every treatment is of the highest quality. This one stop destination, rather it be for nails, waxing, or spa treatments, creates a beauty experience all in one. Many days you’ll find her helping customers herself, working on nail art, or building her second location in the city after the immense success she has had in Lakeview East.
Goldie’s Flowers & Gifts – 3744 N. Broadway Mary King + Katrina L
Mary King + Katrina hold true to their core mantra since they’ve been opened in 1993. With their manta being beauty equals confidence which equals power. These powerful women are highly trained in all beauty services. The boutique also offers haircare, skincare, make up, and hand picked scarves and jewelry.
Goldplaited – 2829 N Sheffield – Mal and Co
Mal and Co are the sisterpreneurs behind goldplaited. After growing up in New York and spending the better part of a decade in Los Angeles, they moved to Chicago in March, 2013 to create the nation’s first finishing salon. Without formal beauty training, they got to work on branding, marketing and operating while curating a team of amazing hair + makeup artists. Mal and Co work daily to continue manifesting a bright future for their brand & team to customize their client’s ideal makeover experience!
Houndstooth Saloon – 3369 N. Clark – Stephanie Cook
Stephanie is well experienced in the restaurant industry being that she’s worked in the service industry her entire life. As a Chicago native, and Lakeview local, she influences Houndstooth’s community to act as a big happy family. Koda, Stephanie’s dog is the official mascot of Houndstooth, with the patio being dog friendly and treats always left out, Koda encourages all dogs to come hang with her at Houndstooth Saloon. Houndstooth is known for its award winning burger with their special sauce (black garlic aioli), southern comfort style menu, and being featured in the iconic Chicago movie the Untouchables.
Inkling – 2917 ½ N. Broadway – Stephanie Keller
Owner Stephanie Keller, who started off selling her own work to shops across the country, opened Inkling in 2010. She later decided she wanted to open up her own gift shop and display some of the amazing artist work she met well participating in craft fairs, and during her studies at Colombia College. At Inkling there is a wide array of fun items, from quirky gifts, candles to stickers, housewares, hand crafted artisan jewelry, and silly greeting cards. Stephanie Keller noted that even if your not looking to buy a gift, her shop is perfect for replacing your stress and worries with an overload of cuteness
Jennivee’s Bakery – 3301 N. Sheffield – Jenni Vailoces
Jenni Vee immigrated from the Philippines to the United states, she started as a passionate home baker and later founded Jennivee’s bakery. Her dream was to showcase traditional American and Filipino cakes and pastries. Proudly LGBTQ+ and women owner, this small business has driven tons of success. With late night hours, customers can enjoy a slice of cake and coffee after a night out on the town or long day at work. In addition to offering cakes by the slice, cupcakes, cookies, and brownies, custom orders can be done for special occasions. Her passion for fun, unique flavors make locals come back time after time.
Joy’s Noodles and Rice – 3257 N. Broadway – Lalita Nivasnanda
Lalita took over her family business that has been a neighborhood staple for decades! Joy’s Noodles and Rice to be a simple, convenient, fast and friendly experience in a diner interior. The food is simple Asian fare with plenty of choices to choose from like noodles, curry or rice dishes. This local spot always has some of the best staple noodle dishes that you can count on to be tasty every time you visit!
Katy On Keys – Katy Marquardt
Katy wandered into a piano bar in college and fell in love! She celebrated her 21st birthday, her mom’s 50th birthday, and her grandma’s 80th birthday all at piano bars, and appreciated how special the piano players made the evening for everyone. (Her family still talks about the whole bar shouting “Grandma Bettie” as her grandma took a shot!) Katy loved it so much she decided to work as a piano bar entertainer and wants to give people the same amazing experience she had whether it’s at a local Chicago bar or you’ve hired her for your private party. She adores her job and always says she gets paid to have fun with people! See her public performance schedule on KatyOnKeys.com.
La Biznaga #2 – 3555 N. Broadway – Maria “Chayo” Gonzalez
Maria is a powerful Latin women, who co-owns La Biznaga. The goal for this spot is to create healthy, tasty and creative dishes in a place that offers good vibes and comfort for all. Her values for La Biznaga; passion, openness and community create the most encouraging environment for all to enjoy authentic Mexican dishes. You’ll often see her big jeep right in front of the business, as she is in the shop day in and day out to deliver some of the freshest quality food to the neighborhood! Her newsletter is filled with local musings, fun banter, and really shows her dedication to her business.
Les Fleurs Du Mal – 915 W. Belmont – Naomi Schitkovitz
The name Les Fleurs Du Mal is inspired by Charles Baudelaire’s famous poetry. Described as a mysterious essence of earth and design, combined to provide a collection of fragrance and floral artistry. Naomi notes that Charles’s book of poems tested and tempted the culture and societal norms in the 19th century when it came to women’s sensuality. The influence of the business name is very apparent in the design of the shops and floral arrangements. Naomi’s floral shop offers many different services like floral bouquets, potted plants, and floral design services for events, as well as she designs rooftop gardens and planters, and can also do custom orders! She prides herself on being both a Woman & Jewish owned small business in Lakeview East!
Lost Never Found – 3660 N Clark
Kendal Killerman
Lost Never Found just opened in 2022 in Wrigleyville. With a pink interior, disco balls hanging throughout, and decorative plants, Lost Never Found quickly became a destination for locals and tourists alike. They offer curated craft cocktails and a menu with Italian influences offering new takes on classics.
Mission 2 Organize- Schae Lewis
Schae is a Certified Professional Organizer and the Owner of Mission 2 Organize, a home organizing & relocation concierge service headquartered in Chicago, IL. She launched the business in 2010 with her best friend and is now the sole owner of the thriving business. Schae has shared her expertise on the company’s award-winning YouTube channel, local television segments, national radio and podcasts, and even Hoarders on A&E. On the job, Schae is a spark of joy, singing and dancing while organizing spaces to perfection but mostly you will find her in her home office keeping her team running smoothly. She is an active volunteer, leader, and inspiration in the organizing industry. She loves staying fit by kayaking, riding her bicycle, and snuggling with, her cat in her free time. Schae and her husband also visit busy traveling to far-off destinations like the Philippines, Colombia, and Spain!
Musashiya Ramen – 2938 N. Broadway – Yan
Yan opened Musashiya Ramen in 2021 and it has quickly become a local favorite because of all the hard work she puts in to welcome every customer. The dishes are all made with extra care and attention to detail. While the shop is small, Yan makes Musashiya the ultimate date night spot with their cozy, intimate space and her tasty, authentic recipes.
Naiboa Latin Store – 3349 N Clark – Vanessa Teran
“My name is Vanessa Teran . I’m a Venezuelan Immigrant living in Chicago since 2015. Like all the people who leave their country we crave all our food and gooding. For that reason I decided to open a Venezuelan mini Market with all kinds of cheeses, coffee, goodies an]d chocolate for our country. we also offer a menu with Venezuelan Breakfast, Coffees and Beverages to enjoy our best flavors in the store we have 3 years in lakeview and we open every day since 8 am to 7 pm!”
Nola Bar & Kitchen – 3481 N. Clark – Sunny Lin
New Orleans might seem like a world away, but Nola Bar and Kitchen takes you right to some of the best Cajun and Creole dishes north of the Bayou. Sunny Lin helps to create an atmosphere that will quickly remind you of the French Quarter, be it Bourbon street or Clark street. Mardi Gras is everyday at Nola, with the hurricane cocktail on draft, and happy hour specials every day. You can’t forget the wonderful madness during Cubs games, and all the fans that are attracted to this spot right down the block from Wrigley field.
Plant Stand Collective – 3247 N. Broadway – Maria Guasso
What was supposed to be a temporary pop-up, became so successful it turned into the permanent Plant Stand Collective over on Broadway you see today! Maria started her plant journey selling at farmer’s markets. Later in Chicago she would set up pop-ups at local restaurants and empty storefronts. Maria loves supporting local artists, as she currently has 38 vendors at a time, with a long list of new vendors to be added. As a Latina and Women business owner, she is a big supporter of the Latinx community, supporting Latina artists at Plant Stand Collective whenever possible. Her love of supporting the community is shown through featuring a plant of the week at her store and a profit of what’s sold goes towards a group called Feeding People Through Plants which raises money for the Greater Chicago Food Depository.
Poke Gu – 2931 N. Broadway – Natinee Moy
“My name is Natinee Moy. I grew up in Thailand. During my childhood, I always helped my grandmother who owned an authentic Thai restaurant in daily cooking where I picked up a lot of Thai cooking techniques. After moving to the USA, I extended my passion and set up Poke GU with my 3 friends who share the same passion for healthy food and create Poke menus with unique Thai twists into it e.g. Poke Gu and zap sauce inspired by Thai spicy sauce and honey creamy sauce inspired by my mom’s salad cream dressing. Above all food at Poke Gu is prepared with fresh and healthy ingredients like what I use in cooking for my family.”
The Closet – 3325 N. Broadway – Rose Pohl & Judy Petrouski
The Closet is a women owned, women-oriented bar with incredible, fair priced drinks, and tons of entertainment. Originally established for a place where women could proudly drink and be themselves, but later became a popular destination for gay men as well. The Closet’s busiest night of the year is at their annual pre-new year’s eve bash which features a different theme every year. What makes this destination so popular for over the past three decades is it’s the place to be for post-softball game drinks for the local lesbian leagues, video bowling, darts, bingo, and tons of other games. Rose and Judy are proud to create a friendly, fun, and safe bar environment where everyone becomes family.
The Colette Collection – 2858 N. Clark St – Lauren Rubbelke
Lauren Rubbelke decided to turn her side hustle selling hand-made items on Etsy for several years, into a brick and mortar store back in 2016. The Colette Collection has turned into more than just a boutique but a community that engages customers through virtual events and Facebook live sales. Colette Collection is proud to have something for every women ages 5 to 95. With personally curated items, local artisan jewelry, and absolutely impeccable style, The Collette Collection has made their slice of Clark Street truly come alive with their lively, welcoming atmosphere.
The NOW Massage- 3120 N Broadway – Chris Lynch
“Hi, I am Chris Lynch, Owner of The NOW Massage Boutique in Lakeview. With my hospitality design background, I have always focused on taking care of others and creating. The NOW was the perfect transition for my future to continue to offer others self-care that is affordable. We have created an oasis that was designed to serve as a sanctuary from the bustling city. All elements are aligned with nature and form the ultimate Zen environment for optimum relaxation.
Design has always been an interest of mine. From reupholstering my desk chair in grade school to staging homes in Chicago, and NOW designing custom carpets for hotels. I am fortunate to also have an amazing GM who is female. Jean has helped this business grow from the beginning of construction. We have an amazing group of massage therapists and feel especially fortunate to have our business in Lakeview East.”
Trader Todd’s – 3216 N. Sheffield – Virginia Carstarphen
Virginia Carstarphen has contributed to creating this iconic karaoke staple in Lakeview East. Priding herself in creating a fun and welcoming environment for all, this tropical themed spot does not disappoint. Whether you come for Island drinks, or stay to sing your heart out, Virginia has created memories for thousands of Chicagoans throughout the years. Virginia is also heavily involved in Room 13 and Old Chicago Inn, which helps out of town visitors have a home away from home when they visit Lakeview East and Wrigleyville.
Salon Blue- 2915 N. Sheffield – Mary King + Katrina L
Mary King + Katrina hold true to their core mantra since they’ve been opened in 1993. With their manta being beauty equals confidence which equals power. These powerful women are highly trained in all beauty services. The boutique also offers haircare, skincare, make up, and hand picked scarves and jewelry!
Shaw Legal Services- 540 W Briar Pl – Anne Shaw
Shaw Legal Services, Ltd. is a certified woman and minority owned law firm serving the local Lakeview East Community, Chicago, and Internationally with clients who range from individuals, families, small businesses to Fortune 500 companies. We have been in the Lake View East neighborhood for 20 years this year and have been proud to be part of the community and Lake View East Chamber of Commerce. Our award-winning attorneys handle commercial litigation, business legal matters, real estate issues, licensing and zoning matters, estate planning, and employment law. Founder and President, Anne Shaw, has been recognized as a superb 10 out of 10 Attorney by AVVO.com and also has been named an Illinois Super Lawyer by Thomson Reuters, an honor bestowed by peers to the top 5% of Illinois lawyers.
Sit Social- 3221 N. Clark – Victoria Elena Nones
Sit Social is a dog boarding (hotel), dog grooming, dog daycare, and dog bakery space that was established in 2012 by Victoria Elena Nones. With a love for dogs and a hustle in her heart, she started the business by pounding the pavement and taping postcards to neighborhood doors offering free dog walks. Fast forward over a decade later to the 5 star rated small business Sit Social is today. Victoria’s love for dogs, people, creativity, and passion for excellence translates into her business and the care provided by all staff. We welcome you to become part of our pack and look forward to having you join our fur-ever family.
Sliced Charcuterie -Virtual Shop Claire
“I’m Claire – founder and chief flavorist of Sliced | Chicago Charcuterie! I have been obsessed with creating beautifully delicious spreads since I was a young girl. I couldn’t get enough of the artistry that went into preparing meals for her family and friends. I launched Sliced to combine my passions for hospitality, food artistry, event planning, community building, and friendships that come from sharing a delicious meal with people. My hope is that this business will encourage and inspire you to use your space to intentionally bring people in your life together. While you focus on that, allow us to come alongside you and provide a food experience that encourages folks to linger at your table just a bit longer! Sliced is located in a shared commercial West Town kitchen space, with an office and majority of business being done in Lakeview East.”
Ritual Hot Yoga – 2805 N. Sheffield – Nicole
Nicole knew she wanted to teach yoga as soon as she stepped into her first yoga class. Coming from a dancer background, movement and transitions have always enticed and thrilled her. After finding Ritual Hot Yoga in 2018, she knew that this would be where her career and heart would thrive.
Starting as an assistant, auditioning to teach, managing the River North location and now owning her very own, and the very first, Ritual Hot Yoga franchise, Nicole stops at nothing to provide the ultimate Ritual experience. Her classes are challenging, yet accessible and intentional, and her playlists will inspire your body and soul.
Robert Jeffrey Salon Hair Studio – 3153 N Broadway – Kelly Glester
“I took over the Lakeview location with my business partner Jeff, in May of 2022. We have worked together for over 20 years now in the suburbs and when his father, Robert, was ready to retire, we knew this was the perfect opportunity for us to take an already respected salon in the area and put our own stamp on it. Our core culture revolves around inclusiveness, community and sustainability. You will notice when you visit our salon that our staff have the highest levels of industry education so they are ready for any and all guests that walk through the door. We also understand the importance of community involvement and that we are a piece of a much bigger picture in Lakeview. We also understand that our actions today affect our community tomorrow and if we can do anything to help future generations, we will do it. Our refill program is a great example of our dedication to sustainability in the community.”
Wake ‘N Bacon – 420 W. Belmont – Sarah Ayala
Sarah and her husband Gabriel have had much success in the restaurant industry, previously owning Dragonfly Mandarin in the West Loop. Now running this brunch spot with Filipino and Chinese flavors and options to infuse CBD into the meals. Their goal was to set themselves apart from other brunch spots nearby by creating a menu that influences each of their cultural backgrounds. Some popular items from their menu include the adobo philly dip, cocorazz stuffed French toast, and Halo Halo Chia Chia.
Wake-N-Bakery – 3508 N. Broadway – Brianna Banks
Brianna opened up Wake-N-Bakery with the intentions of normalizing full spectrum hemp, which lead to her creating a way to normalizing all hemp. Wake-n-Bakery became the first bakery in the country to sell real THC infused products. Brianna is setting the bar for all women in cannabis. All their hemp products come from a local grower and processor in Illinois, and food products from local dairy suppliers and fair trade tea and coffee. The menu is constantly featuring new items like THC infused pizza, infused holiday pies around Thanksgiving, and everyday items like fresh squeezed lemonade, fresh baked edibles like muffins, cookie dough, scones, rice crispy treats, and lattes.
XO Studio and Spa- 3428 N. Broadway – Rani Yousefzai
Dr. Rani Yousefzai has more than twenty years of experience in the field of health care leading first-rate medical institutions to success. With Doctorates degrees in Wellness Studies focusing on preventative medicine, Healthcare Administration and Home Health, Motivational Speech, and Community Development as well as a Masters degree in Healthcare Administration, a degree in nursing from CMK, and a Bachelors from Illinois Institute of Art, she has gone on to build an empire of 10 businesses and has brought her expertise in beauty services to XO Salon and Spa in February of 2022 with new ownership of this local salon. Lakeview East is so excited to see all the great beauty expertise Rani will provide!
Yellow Tail – 3136 N Broadway
Justina Cao
Yellow Tail is one of Lakeview East’s most popular sushi restaurants! They are a casual BYOB dedicated to integrating only the finest and freshest ingredients into their ever-evolving menu, which ranges from Japanese classics to more unique offerings that will satisfy those with more adventurous tastes.
2D Restaurant – 3155 N. Halsted – Vanessa Thanh Vu
This unique spot is an immersive and interactive 2 dimensional comic artopia. Having an Asian fusion menu, Pon De Ring donuts, and Phin coffee are some menu highlights. Vanessa created the 2D restaurant along with her husband Kevin Yu. They worked closely with artist Mia Laron to create this café meets fantasy world vibe. Don’t forget to wear your cutest café look for all the instagrammable moments this café provides.
