With warmer climes on the way, the city is abuzz with new boutiques, much-anticipated events and more. Here are six to put at the top of your must-do list.
Linda Emmerman, “Vine” (ink on paper), 24 inches by 19 inches
Unveiling its 4,500-square-foot gallery to the public, woman-led Springboard Arts Chicago debuts its second exhibition, titled Momentum (through May 24). Says Springboard Arts Chicago CEO and President Donna Van Eekeren: “Momentum embodies the belief that difficult times can serve as a catalyst for change as the world reimagines daily life.” Visitors to the gallery—showcasing the work of artists including Tom Flanagan, Lauri Novak and Mee Shim—will be welcomed with exhibit tours, gallery amenities, new features and the ability to meet the artists. 1910 W. North Ave., springboardarts.com
Stadium Goods’ new Mag Mile outpost
Sporting sneaker and apparel brands like Jordan, Nike, Supreme and more, Stadium Goods’ Chicago shop is newly at home along the Mag Mile. The two-level storefront brings high-end streetwear and sneaker brands, including Stadium Goods’ in-house apparel line, to this historic shopping district. “The city has such a rich history in sneaker culture, and we’re eager to be a part of it and share our best-in-class selection,” say John McPheters and Jed Stiller, co-founders and co-CEOs of the sneaker emporium. 60 E. Walton St., stadiumgoods.com
Studio Three’s Fulton Market studio joins its River North and Lincoln Park locales.
With 10,000 square feet of expertly designed, state-of-the-art fitness space and a community-minded team of health and wellness experts, the Fulton Market location of leading Chicago boutique fitness hot spot Studio Three sets the bar for innovation. Interval, cycle and yoga serve as the signature wellness trifecta for the brand, with virtual, individual, distanced and studio training sessions available. 333 N. Green St., Lobby Level, studiothree.com
A scene from Congo Square Theatre Company’s Hit ’Em on the Blackside illustrated by Sully Ratke
Congo Square Theatre Company, one of the nation’s premier African American theaters, presents the first full show of its virtual Hit ’Em on the Blackside sketch comedy series. “For spring, expect more characters with richer relationships and storylines,” says Anthony Irons, the series’ creator and director. Plus, Irons notes, the 2021 rendition of Hit ’Em on the Blackside will bring back characters from last year, including its One Minute Wilson animated parodies. The full show is available for free online viewing through March, with new sketches online through May. congosquaretheatre.org
French Quiche cafe delivers a taste from France with its jambon beurre sandwich.
Within the bustling Halsted corridor of Lincoln Park, recently opened French Quiche cafe brings roasted coffees, fresh baguettes, quiche Lorraine and croque monsieur sandwiches to its cozy Chicago storefront. “I wanted to offer a solution while also bringing a true Parisian cafe, boulangerie and patisserie experience to the locals,” says chef and owner Dominique Tougne, who also helms nearby Chez Moi. Newly added this season are hand-selected cheeses imported from France on a weekly basis and tempting tartines. 2210 N. Halsted St., fqchicago.com
Pomellato Iconica bangles in rose gold with color stones and diamonds
Celebrating its 10th anniversary with a relocation to Oak Street, Pomellato’s Gold Coast storefront is among one of the few jewelers to use 100% responsible gold purchasing, handcraft ed in-house at the maison’s atelier in Milan. A brand made by and for women, Pomellato is known for color-rich, pret-a-porter designs. “It is our pleasure to serve Chicago—rich both in history and cultural prowess—with jewels that represent Milan, another great industrial city,” says Nathalie Diamantis, CEO of Pomellato Group Americas. 37 E. Oak St., pomellato.com
Photography by: BY LINDA EMMERMAN/COURTESY OF SPRINGBOARD ARTS CHICAGO; COURTESY OF STADIUM GOODS; BY SCOTT SHIGLEY PHOTOGRAPHY; COURTESY OF CONGO SQUARE THEATRE COMPANY; BY LIBBY DONNELLY; BY MIKE CREWS/COURTESY OF POMELLATO
