Recognized just as much for the influential people who once lived there as the stately mansions they left behind, the Gold Coast neighborhood is still one of the wealthiest areas in the city, not to mention the country. With world-class dining and magnificent shopping to boot, the Gold Coast represents upscale Chicago living at its finest. Towering condominiums, topped with rooftop patios and penthouse suites, follow the curve of Lake Michigan's shoreline, which gives way to a good-size beach halfway along the Gold Coast's waterfront. A few blocks inland is the start of Chicago's famed Magnificent Mile where retail centers like the Water Tower Place, Bloomingdale's and the 900 Shops are just the beginning of any serious shopping spree. Night springs into action with Gold Coast nightclubs leading the party scene. If you are planning on visiting these ultra-hip bars, leave the sneakers at home and be prepared to wait because these velvet rope venues are first to fill up.

History

Back in the late 1800s, the section of land along Astor Street between North Avenue and Division Street was called the Astor Street District after John Jacob Astor. While Astor never resided in Chicago, his professional accomplishments -- including the title of America's first millionaire -- were reason enough for citizens to name a neighborhood in his honor. Of course, with the namesake of a man who amassed a fortune worth $20 million by the time he died in 1848, the neighborhood epitomized high society and wealth.

In 1875, Lake Shore Drive opened between North Avenue and Oak Street. The three-quarter-mile stretch provided the perfect afternoon excursion for many of Chicago's wealthiest inhabitants. Taking a ride up the picturesque lakefront drive became a popular pastime that soon spurred interest to build homes in the area.

Potter Palmer (of Palmer Hotel fame) was one of the first to buy up property on the north side after the Great Chicago Fire of 1871. The area was mainly swamp land, but Palmer saw potential for the sparsely populated waterfront location. Smart man. In 1882, the Palmer family began construction on their $1 million Lake Shore Drive mansion. The home, which resembled a castle complete with stonewall turrets, filled the block between Banks and Schiller streets. The interesting thing about Palmer's mansion was there were no exterior locks and not a single key was cut. Instead, it was known that the millionaire employed a 24-hour staff to service the homestead and open the door for family members and guests anytime day or night. While the Potter Palmer mansion no longer exists today, his was one of the first stately manors to grace the neighborhood, establishing a "Gold Coast" standard for years to come.

Other powerful and affluent individuals attracted to the scenic lakeside country designed plans for their own palatial residences. As the first archbishop of Chicago, Archbishop Patrick Feehan was also the first archdiocese to live in the 1880 redbrick early Queen Anne-style home at 1555 N State Parkway, built under his direction. As the eighth archdiocese to reside there, the mansion is now home to Cardinal Francis Eugene George. It's the oldest existing home in the Gold Coast neighborhood, although much of the estate was sold off by the end of the 19th century to make room for more mansions between Schiller Street and North Avenue.

Heard of the Goodman Theatre? Astor Street resident William O. Goodman financed it after his young playwright son Kenneth died. Robert Todd Lincoln also lived on Astor Street in a stately townhouse. Yes, that Lincoln. He was Mary Todd and President Abraham Lincoln's only surviving son. And if the name George Swift Isham doesn't ring any bells, perhaps the name Hugh Hefner will. Isham's State Parkway mansion became the uninhibited Playboy Bunny playground after Hefner purchased the property in 1959. For the following two decades, the Chicago native turned his hometown into a lover's paradise with the original Playboy Mansion at the center of his amorous empire.

Modern Day West Loop

As more and more people relocated to the north side of the city, undeveloped land quickly became a premium, and neighbors found themselves in much closer proximity to each other than the earliest Gold Coast residents. By the 1890s properties were narrow lots with huge houses built right next to one another. There was such a focus on economy of space that high-rise apartment buildings were eventually constructed in the area. Before it lost its charm and history all together, in 1957 an active community organization called the North State and Astor Community Association was founded with the purpose to protect and preserve the history-rich neighborhood. The volunteer group, later renamed the Gold Coast Neighbors, continues to show great pride and honors the original mission of the association to this day.

Parks and Beach Life

No need to book a trip to the Caribbean or head to Florida for expansive beaches and beautiful blue waters -- we've got our own getaway right here in the Gold Coast at the Oak Street Beach. Once the winter weather breaks, sunbathers, bikers, joggers, picnickers and everyone in between show up at this popular Chicago beach for a little fun in the sun. A wide concrete sidewalk borders the beach providing a convenient thoroughfare for pedestrians, bicyclists and inline skaters. Step off the concrete into the sand and join the multitude of bikini-clad bodies soaking up rays, playing Frisbee and building castles. While many come toting coolers and picnic baskets, the Oak Street Beachstro (1001 N. Lake Shore Dr, 312-915-4100) offers sand-free dining, serving food and drinks beachside. Attracting people from all over the city, the Oak Street Beach is often packed on those hot summer days -- so we try to stake out a prime spot close to the water before the masses arrive.

Real Estate

Undoubtedly one of Chicago's most affluent neighborhoods, the Gold Coast is a mix of grand 19th century mansions, luxury high-rise condominiums and renovated gray and brownstone walkups. Here, old and new seamlessly blend together with the connecting thread of wealth and status. Shaded avenues, landscaped walkways and prim wrought-iron fences add to the neighborhood's refined appeal. A stroll among the massive stone structures that once housed many of Chicago's wealthiest and most influential families is breathtaking.

Sharing the block with lofty, contemporary condos are majestic, symmetrical Georgian Revival mansions and impressive, stone-turreted Richardsonian Romanesque townhouses that unquestionably suit the elite, but welcome the attention of any passerby. In fact, Gold Coast neighborhood architecture and history is celebrated by annual walking tours sponsored by various architectural foundations.

Not surprisingly, the price for a detached single-family property in the Gold Coast can reach well into the multi-millions. Of course, most of these homes are three or more stories and have up to eight bedrooms, attached garages or coach houses, and are every bit the lap of luxury. When homes start at $1.3 million, you know there are some serious real estate opportunities to be had, and upgraded amenities and fine finishes become standard. On the high end, private townhouses in the Gold Coast neighborhood cost thirteen or fourteen million dollars, which will get you an extravagant Old World-style home with museum quality design, marble tiling and columns, sweeping staircases, and ornate interior embellishments and woodwork.

If you are not one of Chicago's rich and powerful, check out a studio or single-bedroom unit in one of the towering Lake Shore Drive buildings that go for anywhere between $170,000 and $600,000. The average sales price for a two-bedroom condo in the Gold Coast is around $650,000, although there are plenty of condominiums and penthouses this size that sell in the one- to three-million dollar range as well. But with perks like a doorman, garage parking, an exercise room and amazing views of the lake, you won't even miss the other six or seven bedrooms!

Good Eats

The Gold Coast neighborhood caters to every taste with notable sophistication and world-wide recognition. People from all over the city come here to dine on everything from fresh sushi to upscale Italian to burger and fries! .

But it's not just the food that's famous here. The Gold Coast boasts a handful of restaurants that are just as well-known for their celebrity diners as the food itself. The Pump Room (1301 N State Pkwy, 312-266-0360) has been around since 1938 and is one of Chicago's most highly prized dining experiences. The swanky interior is accented with an entire wall featuring photographs of celebrities enjoying a meal in the restaurant's coveted seat of honor: Booth One. But whether you're a celeb or not, Pump Room chefs treat their guests to superbly prepared contemporary American-style dishes kissed with a touch of French influence and complemented by the restaurant's first-rate wine list. Also adorned with signed photographs of their superstar patrons, Gibson's Bar and Steakhouse (1028 N Rush St, 312-266-8999) has been around for almost 20 years, and still serves the best steak in town. Gibson's is a popular place for both locals and out-of-towners, but no matter how busy it gets, the wait staff has everything under control making for a delightful dining experience.

Situated on the bustling intersection of Rush and State streets, Tavern on Rush (1031 N Rush St, 312-664-9600) is another well-known restaurant in the center of the Gold Coast's busy dining district. With outdoor sidewalk seating that wraps around the entire front of the restaurant, the Tavern is especially popular during warm weather months. Still, residents and out-of-towners alike don't mind making reservations well in advance for the chance to visit this classic Chicago seafood and steakhouse. Open for breakfast, lunch and dinner, Tavern on Rush offers diners delicious options for any time of day or night. We like to visit at midday for a healthy soup and sandwich combination, matching the tomato bisque with a rib eye club that stacks lettuce, tomato, mushrooms, fontina cheese, sauteed onions and chipotle mayo on an eight ounce prime rib eye steak. Vegetarians may prefer the grilled Portobello mushroom sandwich on focaccia or one of the gourmet salads that incorporate organic mixed greens and artisan cheeses. The dinner rush here takes it up a notch with London broil, filet mignon, grilled swordfish, whole roasted chicken and shrimp cipriani pasta, followed by mouthwatering bites of mocha mud pie, lemon creme brulee or chocolate marble tiramisu.

For primo ocean cuisine, Hugo's Frog Bar & Fish House (1024 N Rush St 312-640-0999) is just down the block, specializing in a scrumptious seafood menu. Adventurous eater or not, you've got to sample Hugo's signature amphibian appetizer: the pan-fried frog legs. Honestly, we think they taste just like chicken. This restaurant also offers a superior selection of fresh oysters, crab legs, lobster, fish and steak. Another spot for tantalizing dishes from the deep blue is just around the corner at McCormick and Schmick's (41 E Chestnut St, 312-397-9500). Seafood is flown in daily from around the globe to provide exquisite flavor and freshness. Known for its intimate atmosphere and world-class service, this is an excellent place to celebrate a special occasion and sink your teeth into masterfully-prepared seafood delicacies.

European influence is seen in many of the Gold Coast neighborhood restaurants. Bistro 110 (110 E Pearson, 312-266-3110), Bistro Zinc (1131 N State St, 312-337-1131) and Cafe Des Architectes (20 E Chestnut, 312-324-4000) serve French cuisine while Carmine's (1043 N Rush St, 312-988-7676), Pane Caldo (72 E Walton St, 312-649-0055 and Il Mulino (1150 N Dearborn St, 312-440-8888) will whip up some of the best Italian pastas in the city. Other global inspirations permeate the neighborhood's dining scene at Tsunami (1160 N Dearborn St, 312-642-9911), a funky Japanese sushi bar and sake lounge.

Despite all these upscale eateries and international dining options, sometimes we really crave a quarter-pounder, piled high with all the fixings. Lucky for us, the Gold Coast has Johnny Rockets (901 N Rush St, 312-337-3900). This 1950s-style diner offers a traditional menu of all-American classics and comfort food. An endless stream of double-decker hamburgers, grilled cheese, greasy onion rings, hot-fudge sundaes and root beer floats emerge from the kitchen -- making their way to smiling faces seated around dated Formica tabletops all sporting their own nickel-a-song jukebox. Definitely a fun spot for family outings, Johnny Rockets can get a bit wild, so come with your patience and stick around for a piece of the homemade apple pie ala mode.

Shopping

Seeing as the Magnificent Mile extends north into the Gold Coast, the question of where to shop in this Chicago neighborhood is a no-brainer. Michigan Avenue and surrounding streets provide some of the city's best shopping.

Sometimes the mall atmosphere can be a little chaotic and crowded, especially on weekends. In that case, Oak, State and Rush streets are excellent Gold Coast shopping alternatives with plenty of trendy boutiques and high-end clothing chains. Prada (30 E Oak St, 312-951-1113), Barneys New York (25 E Oak St, 312-587-1700), BCBG (55 E Oak St, 312-475-0053), Kate Spade (101 E Oak St, 312-654-8853) and Pratesi (67 E Oak St, 312-943-8422) are all located on Oak Street, a block west of Michigan Avenue. Anyone who pays the slightest attention to fashion will recognize these names and know it's easy to drop a bundle on a single item from any of these retail icons. So unless you've saved up for that adorable handbag you've been eyeing or happen to be "in the money," this may be a strip where you want to stick to window browsing.

After a stroll through Oak Street's storefronts, tenacious shoppers will want to scoot over to State Street for more ultra trendy shops like Anthropologie (1120 N State St, 312-255-1848) with hip styles that inspire the soul, or G'Bani (949 N State St, 312-440-1718) offering sexy shoes and chic couture fashions that will bring out your wild side. The clothes, shoes and accessories at Anthropologie lean toward the light and flowy -- almost bohemian -- edge, providing women with a wonderful collection of attire from dresses and jackets to pajamas and underpinnings that feel feminine yet comfy. G'Bani, on the other hand, infuses its apparel with a streak of glamour and glitz that embodies the big city lifestyle and prepares you for a night on the town. When in the area, we'll usually make a quick trip into the nearby Urban Outfitters (935 N Rush St, 312-640-1919) to cruise through sale racks and check out the bizarre hodgepodge of items. With Urban's wide variety of goods -- including novelty books, East Asian-design dishes, jeweled shoes, chic furniture, scented candles and über urban apparel -- we never know what we'll walk out with.

Back out on the Magnificent Mile, people come from miles around to shop high-fashion staples such as Bottega Veneta (800 N Michigan Ave, 312- 664-3220) -- specializing in leather clutches, handbags and belts -- and Gucci (312-664-5504), which are both located inside a multi-level mall called The 900 Shops (900 N Michigan Ave, 312-915-3916). Probably most recognized for its six-story Bloomingdale's (312-440-4460) department store, The 900 Shops feature other en vogue fashion favorites like Club Monaco (312-787-8757), Coach (312-440-1777), MaxMara (312-475-9500) and Cache (312-787-3054). And, for timeless yet trendy, we like to pop into J Crew (312-751-2739) to check out the latest classic styles and skim through the sale section. The mall can get pretty busy on weekends, when tourists and out-of-towners descend on Chicago for shopping benders, so if you can, try to visit on week days or first thing on Saturday and Sunday -- it's worth the early morning wake-up call -- trust us.

When your wallet starts looking a bit thin, you still have bargain options in the Gold Coast neighborhood. H&M (840 N Michigan Ave, 312-640-0060) and Filene's Basement (830 N Michigan Ave, 312-482-8918) have cool clothes and accessories sporting price tags that won't give you sticker shock. H&M tends to be overrun with young, weekend shoppers creating long lines for both the fitting room and checkout. So, again, whenever possible it pays to go on a week day. Stocking European fashions for men, women and children, this multi-floor store is jam-packed with a wide range of apparel, hats, scarves, outerwear, jewelry, sunglasses, bags, and more. Filene's gets its fair share of traffic on the weekends, too, but here the shoppers seem to disappear in among the endless racks of discounted high-end name brands and designers. Filene's is not for the faint of heart -- there's an overwhelming amount of clothes to look through -- so only the diligent shopper will be rewarded.

Happen to be in the market for a long, white gown you only plan to wear once? This section of town has a cluster of some of the best bridal salons and wedding services around. The bride-to-be can browse through hundreds of stunning dresses from designer collections at Ultimate Bride (106 E Oak, 312-337-6300), Dimitras Bridal Access (1011 N Rush St, 312-787-0920), Belle Vie Bridal Couture LLC (34 E Oak St, 312-751-2222) and Mira Couturier Ltd (1 E Delaware Pl, 312-255-1699). Make an appointment and then spend the afternoon twirling around in front of the mirror -- imagining the walk down the aisle. The dresses in these Gold Coast bridal boutiques span from beautiful and affordably priced to exquisite and extremely expensive, so no matter what your tastes and budget, you're sure to find the ideal frock for your big day.

Nightlife

In addition to restaurant bars that double as hot nighttime hangouts, the Gold Coast has plenty of trendy clubs and swanky lounges that attract both local residents and tourists for an evening out on the town.

Kick up your heels at Leg Room (7 W Division St, 312-337-2583), one of Chicago's most popular nightspots. Drawing groups of hip, energetic partiers who are itching to dance, you can expect a line up outside after 11pm. But the scene inside this upscale dance club is worth any wait. Live DJs spin music until the wee hours as people crowd onto the dance floor and sip specialty martinis around the gigantic island bar. Right below Leg Room is another happening nightclub called the Funk Groove Bar (5 W Division St, 312-951-9001). Also packed late-night, this place fills up after midnight as people flood to the subterranean club, where Hip Hop and house music and flashing disco lights keep the party going. Sorry, if you're wearing jeans or sneakers -- you'll have to come back to Le Passage (937 N Rush St, 312-255-0022) another night! Only the totally chic are allowed past the red velvet rope into this posh establishment whose entrance is an in-the-know door in the middle of an alley. While jeans are acceptable at Level (1045 N Rush St., 312-397-1045), skip the sneaks and you're in at this newer venue that sports an elevated dance platform and modern decor.

When we're a little worn out from too much shopping, spending the evening at a nice relaxing lounge sounds a bit more appealing than any of the wild Gold Coast nightclubs. The downstairs space at Bella Lounge (1212 N State Pkwy, 312-787-9405) provides an excellent setting for chilling with a drink and sinking into the limosine-esque luxury. Le Bar (20 E Chestnut St, 312-324-4000), inside the Sofitel Chicago Water Tower hotel, is one of Chicago's classier watering holes. We like hanging out in the overstuffed couches and armchairs as servers pour our martinis tableside. It's easy to unwind and ease into a pleasurable evening at Cru Cafe and Wine Bar (25 E Delaware Pl, 312-337-4001). The sophisticated ambience is balanced with casual comfort, inviting guests to enjoy any of the 400 bottles of "vino" available at this unparalleled wine authority.

There are times when nothing sounds better than putting back a cold brew or two. In that case, we have a couple favorite bars in the neighborhood that deserve a mention. With a reasonably priced selection of domestic and imported beer, Dublin's (1050 N State St, 312-266-6340) is at the top of our list. The atmosphere is pretty laid-back with a few flat-screen TVs, linen-covered tables and traditional green and dark wood decor. We tend to gravitate toward the large, U-shaped bar where we can chat with the bartender and listen to classic Generation Y tunes on the jukebox. Centrally located at the intersection of State and Rush, The Hunt Club (1100 N State St, 312-988-7887) provides a handy stop for just a few drinks or an entire night out. Sleek and stylish, what appears to be a strictly upscale establishment is actually a casual bar in the late-afternoons and evenings -- great for getting a drink or watching sports. At night The Hunt Club takes it up a notch to pure party mode. The second level loft dining room converts into a raging dance floor while the lower level offers guests a lounge, separate bar and pool table.

Save the Date

Gold Coast's extraordinary architecture is no secret -- anyone can observe the landmark structures by simply passing through the residential streets. It's the intricate gardens hidden behind the aged stone edifices that can only be viewed during the neighborhood's annual Dearborn Garden Walk and Heritage Festival. Held in mid-July, the self-guided tour takes visitors to more than 20 private gardens on Astor, State, Dearborn and La Salle streets and Sandburg Terrace between Division Street and North Avenue. The unique, award-winning landscaping includes brilliant flower displays, serene lily ponds, outdoor sculptures, enchanting fountains and ornate gazebos. Select gardens have live classical and jazz music, providing just the right soundtrack for the oldest garden walk in country. And visitors can learn a lot about Dearborn Street's historic architecture on the narrated walking tour -- also included in the event's fee.

Not technically held within the Gold Coast borders anymore, but close enough to be included in the festivities, the Gold Coast River North Art Fair is a three-day festival that takes place a block from the Gold Coast in neighboring River North community. Drawing hundreds of thousands to the vicinity, this "Grand Daddy" of art fairs has been around for 50 years and is the largest in Chicago. More than 400 artists from all over the globe come to the neighborhood for the juried event. For the first weekend in August art tents, food stands and music venues occupy La Salle Street between Superior and Erie. In addition to perusing the exhibited work, we enjoy seeing artistry in progress as glass blowers demonstrate their skills for the public.

Transportation and Getting Around

Whether emerging from a shopping spree on Michigan Avenue or venturing out to dine on State Street, both tourists and locals will find ample taxis along these two busy Gold Coast thoroughfares. Because the streets are so hectic, driving and parking around here can be wild! fortunately, the Gold Coast neighborhood has about two dozen parking structures and lots to accommodate the excess of cars. For residents, buying a permanent parking space comes with the territory. If not included with the price of your home, a spot here can cost $30,000 to $50,000 extra -- a small price to pay for a dependable spot in this highly desirable neighborhood.

Traveling either north or south from the Gold Coast is a breeze on Lake Shore Drive which runs along the neighborhood's eastern edge. But if you prefer the convenience of public transportation, the CTA Red Line train has stops at Clark & Division and Chicago & State, both just a block west of the Gold Coast's western border. The bus can often be even easier than the train with several routes servicing the residential streets and lively commercial districts. As long as we get to exercise the credit card at our favorite stores along the Magnificent Mile -- who cares how we get there!

School Information

Some of the city's best-rated schools are found in the Gold Coast neighborhood. Ogden Elementary (24 W Walton St, 773-534-8110) is a highly-regarded primary school where local parents can send their young ones to class just blocks from home. Having been established 150 years ago, this institution offers students a variety of programs including an after school program, the International Baccalaureate Programs, and C.H.O.I.C.E. (Children's Horizons Opening In Chicago Education), which all focus on expanding our young ones' knowledge of the world and preparing them for a successful life in today's global economy. The Latin School college preparatory for junior kindergarten through twelfth grade is also a prime educational facility in the area, and for the older students, Loyola University's Water Tower campus is in the Gold Coast as well. In addition to the following list, check out our Chicago Guide Schools page for more info on Chicago area schools.

Archbishop Quigley Prep Seminary 103 E Chestnut St (312) 787-9343
St. Chrysosostom's Church 1424 N Dearborn St (312) 642-3422
Latin School of Chicago 59 W North Blvd (312) 582-6000
Loyola University 820 N Michigan Ave (312) 915-6000
William B. Ogden Elementary 24 W Walton St (773) 534-8110

And don't forget...

When living in or visiting the Gold Coast, you do not have to travel far for everyday necessities such as groceries, prescriptions or school supplies.  Going out for an evening on the town?  We've got you covered in that department as well.  We will even tune you into the area's coolest events and area happenings...

The following list includes restaurants, grocery stores, event information...and much more!!

Area Events

Gold Coast River North Art Fair August 3-5; 676 N LaSalle St 847-926-4300
Dearborn Garden Walk and Heritage Festival July 15 1300 N Dearborn St (312) 632-1241

Art and Galleries

City Gallery at the Historic Water Tower 806 N Michigan Ave (312) 744-2400
Gold Coast Fine Art Gallery

Taste of Greece on LaSalle St. 1017 N. LaSalle St., Chicago Tel: (312) 664-5485

Entertainment

Drury Lane Water Tower Place Theatre 175 E Chestnut St (312)642-2000
Shaw Chicago 1016 N Dearborn St (312) 587-7390

Groceries

1400 Market Place 1400 N Lake Shore Dr (312) 951-8920
1350 Food Commissary 1350 N Lake Shore Dr (312) 951-8920
Evergreen Food Mart 105 W Division St (312) 337-1238
Potash Bros Supermarket 875 N State St (312) 266 4200, 1525 N Clark St (312) 337-7537
Treasure Island 75 W Elm St (312) 440-1144

Health & Fitness

Curves 21 W Elm St (312) 640-1500
Designed Fitness Inc 100 E Walton St (312) 642-3481
Equinox 900 N Michigan Ave
Physical Form Pilates 1400 N Lake Shore Dr (312) 202-0086
Physique Oeuvre 1400 N Lake Shore Dr (312) 202-0086

Libraries

Newberry Park Public Library 60 W Walton St (312) 943-9090
Loyola University Chicago School of Law Library 25 E Pearson St (312)915-7200

Pharmacies

CVS 1201 N State Parkway (312) 640-2842; 1165 N Clark St (312) 280-8140
Walgreens 1200 N Dearborn St (312) 943-0973, 933 N State St (312) 943-0671

Public Transportation

Chicago Transit Authority (888) 968-7282

Curves 21 W Elm St (312) 640-1500
Designed Fitness Inc 100 E Walton St (312) 642-3481
Equinox 900 N Michigan Ave
Physical Form Pilates 1400 N Lake Shore Dr (312) 202-0086
Physique Oeuvre 1400 N Lake Shore Dr (312) 202-0086

Shopping

The 900 Shops - 900 N Michigan Ave - (312) 915-3916

Adidas Heritage Shop Retail Store 923 Rush Street (312) 932-0651
AG Adriano Goldschmied 48 E Walton St (312) 787-7680
Aldo 932 N Rush St (312) 943-4176
Alternative Shoes 942 N Rush St (312) 266-1545
American Apparel 46 E Walton St (312) 255-8360
Anthropologie 1120 N State St, 312-255-1848
Arden B 107 E Oak St (312) 944-5940
Bang & Olufsen 15 E Oak St (312) 787-6006
Barnes & Noble 1130 N State St (312) 280-8155
Barneys New York 25 E Oak St (312) 587-1700
Battaglia Footwear 70 E Walton St (312) 787-3237
BCBG 113 E Oak St (312) 475-0053
Belle Vie Bridal Couture LLC 34 E Oak St (312) 751-2222
Bravco Beauty Center 43 E Oak St (312) 943-4305
Borders 830 N Michigan Ave (312) 573-0564
Bottega Veneta 800 N Michigan Ave (312) 664-3220
Bride 106 E Oak (312) 337-6300
Calypso Christiane Celle 50 E Oak St (312) 649-9934
Camper 61 E Delaware St (312) 787-0158
Chocolatier Genevieve 1360 N Lake Shore Dr Ste 508 (312) 342-4799
Colletti Collection 67 E Oak St (312) 664-6767
The Daisy Shop 67 East Oak Street, FL 6 (312) 943-8880
Dennis Basso 980 N Michigan Ave (312) 640-9500
Diesel 923 N Rush St (312) 255-0157
Dimitras Bridal Access 1011 N Rush St #2B (312) 787-0920
Donald J Pliner 106 E Oak St (312) 202-9600
Elements 102 E Oak St (312) 642-6574
Escada at Saks 840 N Michigan Ave (312) 915-0500
Fenaroli for Regalia Boutique 56 E Oak St (312) 642-3300
Filene's Basement 830 N Michigan Ave (312) 482-8918
Frette 41 E Oak St (312) 649-3744
G'Bani 949 N State St (312) 440-1718
Giorgio Armani 800 N Michigan Ave 312-751-2244
Graff Diamonds 103 E Oak St (312) 604-1000
H&M 840 N Michigan Ave (312) 640-0060
Hermes of Paris 110 E Oak St (312) 787-8175
Hershey's Chicago 822 N Michigan Ave (312) 337-7711
Hidden Treasures 46 E Chicago Ave (312) 943-7761
Ikram 873 N Rush St (312) 587-1000
Impressive Fashions 30 Chicago Ave
Intermix Boutique 40 E Delaware Pl (312) 640-2922
Intimacy Bra Fitting Specialists 900 N. Michigan Avenue (312) 337-8366
Jake Gold Coast 939 N Rush St (312) 664-5553
Jil Sander 40 E Oak St (312) 335-0006
Kate Spade 101 E Oak St (312) 654-8853
Lester Lampert 57 E Oak St (312) 944-6888
Loro Piana 45 E Oak St (312) 664-6644
MAC 40 E Oak St # 1 (312) 951-7310
Madison and Friends 940 N Rush St (312) 642-6403
Mira Couturier Ltd 1 E Delaware Pl (312) 255-1699
A Pea in the Pod 46 E Oak St (312) 944-3080
Prada 30 E Oak St (312) 951-1113
Pratesi 67 E Oak St (312) 943-8422
Pret a Poser Photography 65 E Oak St, Ste 2F (312) 642-2211
Puma 1051 N Rush St (312) 751-8574
Sansappelle 34 E Oak St (312) 642-9642
Sarah's Pastries & Candies 11 E Oak St (312) 664-6223
Sidney Garber Jewelers 118 E Delaware Pl (312) 944-5225
Tails in the City 1 E Delaware Pl (312) 649-0347
Tods 121 E Oak St (312) 943-0070
Trabert & Hoeffer Jewels 111 E Oak St Ste 1 (312) 787-1654
Ultimate Bride 106 E Oak (312) 337-6300
Ultimo on Oak 114 E Oak St (312) 787-1171
Urban Outfitters 935 N Rush St (312) 640-1919

Dining

American Cuisine
The 3rd Coast Cafe 1260 N Dearborn St (312) 649-0730
4 Taste Off Rush - 100 E Walton St # 350 (312) 280-2400
Johnny Rockets 901 N Rush St (312) 337-3900
NoMI 800 N Michigan Ave # 7 (312) 239-4030
Oak Street Beachstro 1001 N. Lake Shore Dr (312) 915-4100
The Original Pancake House 22 E Bellevue Pl (312) 642-7917
The Pump Room 1301 N State Pkwy (312) 266-0360
Seattle Sutton's Healthy Eating 1260 N Dearborn Pkwy (312) 337-3438
Tempo Cafe 6 E Chestnut St (312) 943-4373
Whiskey Bar & Grill 1015 N Rush St (312) 475-0300

Asian Cuisine
Big Bowl 6 E Cedar St (312) 640-8888
Quang Noodle Vietnamese and Thai Cuisine 804 N State St (312) 951-9030
Ra Sushi 1139 N State St (312) 274-0011
Tsunami 1160 N Dearborn St (312) 642-9911

Cafe/Coffee Shops
Argo Tea Cafe 819 N Rush St (312) 951-5302
Ashkenaz Jewish Style Deli 12 E Cedar St (312) 944-5006
Corner Bakery Cafe 1121 N State St (312) 787-1969
Einstein Bros Bagels 44 E Walton St (312) 943-9888
Lo Cal Corner 22 W Maple St (312) 397-1501
Maple Street Market 22 W Maple St (312) 397-1501
Oak Tree Restaurant 900 N Michigan Ave (312) 751-1988
Starbucks - 106 W Germania Pl (312) 337-6481;
Starbucks - 111 E Chestnut St (312) 642-3971;
Starbucks - 39 W Division St (312) 851-6992;
Starbucks - 932 N Rush St (312) 951-5436

Fast Food
Downtown Dogs 804 N Rush St (312) 951-5141
Mike's Fast Food & bar 829 N State St (312) 482-9130
Mr. Gyros 109 W Division St (312) 951-5207
Potbelly Sandwich Works 900 N Michigan Ave (312) 587-9435
Tony's Place 22 E Chicago Ave (312) 642-9725

French Cuisine
Bistro 110 110 E Pearson St (312) 266-3110
Bistro Zinc 1131 N State St (312) 337-1131
Cafe Des Architectes 20 E Chestnut (312) 324-4000
Le Colonial 937 N Rush St (312) 255-0088

Italian Cuisine
Cafe Spiaggia 980 N Michigan Ave 312-280-2750
Carmine's: A Rosebud Restaurant 1043 N Rush St (312) 988-7676
Fornetto Mei 107 E Delaware Pl (312) 944-6300
Mario's Italian Restaurant 21 W Goethe (312) 944-0199
Il Mulino New York 1150 N Dearborn St (312) 440-8888
Merlo on Maple 16 W Maple St (312) 335-8200
Pane Caldo 72 E Walton St (312) 649-0055
Papa Milano 951 N State St (312) 787-3710
Spiaggia 980 N Michigan Ave # 2 (312) 280-3300
Tucci Benucch 900 N Michigan Ave # 5 (312) 266-2500

Pizza
Chi-Town Pizza 11 E Division St Apt 1 (312) 255-0999
Domino's Pizza 143 W Division St (312) 664-7440
Edwardo's Natural Pizza Restaurant 1212 N Dearborn St (312) 337-4490

Seafood
Cape Cod Room Drake Hotel E Walton Pl (312) 932-4626
Hugo's Frog Bar & Fish Lounge 1024 N Rush St (312) 640-0999
McCormick & Schmick's Seafood Restaurant 41 E Chestnut St (312) 397-9500
Tavern on Rush 1031 N Rush St (312) 664-9600

Steakhouses
Drake Bros.' Steakhouse 140 E Walton Pl (312) 932-4626
Gibson's Bar and Steakhouse 1028 N Rush St (312) 266-8999
Lawry's Prime Rib 800 N Michigan Ave # 7 (312) 239-4030
Mike Ditka's Restaurant 100 E Chestnut St (312) 587-8989

Morton’s of Chicago (Gold Coast) 1050 N. State St. (312) 266-4820

Rosebud Steakhouse 192 E. Walton St., Chicago Tel: (312) 397-1000

A Night on the Town

The Back Room 1007 N Rush St (312) 751-2433
Bar Chicago 9 W Division St (312) 654-8832
Bootlegger's 13 W Division St (312) 266-0944
Butch Mcguire's 20 W Division St (312) 787-4318

Fedora Lounge 712 N. Clark St., Chicago Tel: (312) 624-9008
Finn McCool's 15 W Division St (312) 337-4349
Funk Groove Bar 5 W Division St (312) 951-9001
Hang-Uppe 14 W Elm St (312) 337-0561
Hunt Club 1100 N State St (312) 988-7887
Jilly's Piano Bar 1007 N Rush St (312) 664-1001
Le Bar 20 E Chestnut St Sofitel Chicago Water Tower Hotel (312) 324-4000
Le Passage 937 N. Rush St., Chicago (312) 255-0022
Leg Room 7 W Division (312) 337-2583
Level 1045 N Rush St (312) 397-1045
The Lodge 21 W Division St (312) 642-4406
Lux Bar 18 E Bellevue Pl (312) 642-3400
McFadden's Saloon & Restaurant 1206 N State Pkwy (312) 475-9450
Mondelli Lounge 7 E Oak St (312) 266-7362
Mother's Too 14 W Division St (312) 266-7444
Original Mother's 26 W Division St (312) 642-7251
Pippin's Tavern 806 N Rush St (312) 787-5435
P.J. Clarke's 1204 N State Pkwy (312) 664-1650
P.S. Chicago 1009-1011 N Rush St Mezzanine Level (312) 335-3600
Rizzo's Live 100 E Walton St (312) 274-1000
She-nannigans House of Beer 16 W Division St (312) 642-2344
Streeter's Tavern 50 E Chicago Ave (312) 642-2344
SYN Chicago 1009 N Rush St (312) 664-0009
The Underground Wonder Bar 10 E Walton St (312) 266-7761

Zebra Lounge 1220 N. State St., Chicago Tel: (312) 642-5140

Know Your Neighbors

Gold Coast Neighbors