Chicago Visitors Guide - 2026
CHICAGO MAKERS & ARTISANS
Lisa Shames 2026-01-16 12:31:15
From classic baked treats and handcrafted bicycles to swank hats with a celebrity following, meet six creative locals whose only-in-Chicago goods prove we’re never done, never outdone.
BROWN SUGAR BAKERY
Nostalgic, Southern-style sweets are the specialty at James Beard Award-nominated Brown Sugar Bakery, located in the Chatham neighborhood. This charming spot is known for its traditional layer cakes that use cherished family recipes, including fan favorites luscious caramel, whimsical rainbow sherbet, and rich red velvet. Owner Stephanie Hart also takes pride in being the only Black woman-owned chocolate manufacturer in the U.S., producing a line of delicious handmade caramels and creams.
HERITAGE BICYCLES
With a love for the art of bicycle making, Heritage’s small collection of two-wheeled wonders is handcrafted in Chicago under the watchful eye of founder Michael Salvatore. Heritage offers personalized service and full customization at its Lakeview (Heritage Bikes & Coffee) and Uptown (Heritage Outpost) locations. The company leans into its welcoming vibe by creating coffeehouse-like spaces serving its own branded coffee, becoming a hangout for latte lovers as well as cycling fans. Handy bike services like tune-ups and flat fixes are also available.
DEARBORN DENIM
Rob McMillan’s family-owned and operated Dearborn Denim has been crafting their line of jeans in a Chicago factory since 2016. With an emphasis on durability and the use of local materials, Dearborn Denim jeans are made to last. The level of fine craftsmanship has earned Dearborn Denim a cult following among local fashionistas. Visit their retail location in the Andersonville neighborhood, where jeans in styles ranging from skinny high rise to straight leg are custom hemmed for the perfect fit.
JUSTICE OF THE PIES
Equal parts champion of the community and creator of epic baked goods, James Beard Award nominee Maya-Camille Broussard delivers on both fronts at her Avalon Park bakery. Her pies range from classic (Key lime, sweet potato) to innovative (lemon-basil, miso-honey chess). Start with one of her savory offerings — like the smoked gouda-and-spinach quiche or lemon chicken-and-leek pot pie — before moving on to the sweet stuff. When she’s not baking, Broussard conducts cooking workshops for kids from underserved communities.
LAUDI VIDNI
In a world of trendy “it” bags, this appointment-only River North boutique — founded by friends and Harvard Business School grads Laura Kofoid and Grace Tsao-Wu — is all about celebrating the personal style of its clientele. Its name, after all, is “individual” spelled backward. Starting with quality cowhide leather from environmentally conscious tanneries, the bags are customizable, including color, trim, lining, and hardware. Stylish crossbody purses, totes, and backpacks are some of the bag options available for both men and women.
OPTIMO HATS
Even before stepping inside Optimo Hats in the Loop’s historic Monadnock Building, you’ll be mesmerized by the beautiful hats that appear to be floating in the window. Founded in 1996 by Graham Thompson, Optimo has become legendary worldwide for its elegant, trend-defying hats, earning fans like blues guitarist Buddy Guy and comedy superstar Bill Murray. The classic, Hollywood-style men’s hats are produced in Optimo’s Beverly neighborhood factory with old-world craftsmanship, right down to the vintage hatmaking equipment used to stitch each piece. Custom orders are welcome.
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