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Unique spots in Lincoln Square

Things to do that actually pique your curiosity instead of just filling time with the same old options.

Based on 567 Opinions
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Updated May 2026
01
City Skyline Chicago - Coffee Lounge image 1
City Skyline Chicago - Coffee Lounge image 2
City Skyline Chicago - Coffee Lounge image 3
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Coffee lounge features aviation-themed decor with real plane seats, cockpit dashboards, and airplane parts used as furniture. Atmosphere feels cozy and inviting, suitable for reading, working, or chatting quietly. Space welcomes dogs and offers varied seating with some plugs for charging devices.

Interior design mimics the inside of an airplane, creating a fun and interesting atmosphere. Coffee options are well-crafted and varied, adding to the overall relaxed vibe.

Intricately decorated with a unique airplane theme, the coffee shop offers a cozy and inviting atmosphere. It serves a fruity coffee flavor that stands out for coffee lovers and travel enthusiasts alike.

People are saying

"This cafe's aviation theme and decor are super unique and cute."

"The aviation-themed decor here is so unique and inviting."

"The airline-style decor makes this place really interesting."

Good to know

1

The lounge is open until 6 PM daily.

2

Parking is limited in the area.

3

The coffee shop is dog-friendly.

02
Amadara - Singing Bowls, Crystal Gemstones, Unique Handmade Gifts image 1

Shop offers handmade crystals, gemstone jewelry, and singing bowls in a calm, incense-scented space. Items come from Nepal, Indonesia, and Thailand, emphasizing authenticity and affordability. Atmosphere feels welcoming and peaceful, attracting those interested in unique spiritual and cultural gifts.

The shop offers a fun vibe with a wide selection of interesting items like crystals, incense, clothing, and jewelry.

Shelves hold a wide range of unique, affordable gifts from various cultures. The shop stays well stocked with items that stand out for their authenticity and variety.

People are saying

"The owner's guidance really helped my spiritual growth."

"The owner's friendliness makes this place feel so welcoming."

"The owner is so nice and informative about the items."

Good to know

1

The store offers a wide range of organic and handmade items.

2

Prices are very reasonable, especially for handmade and authentic items.

3

They have a great selection of singing bowls suitable for sound baths.

03
Atelier Restaurant image 1
Fine dining restaurant

Open kitchen reveals chefs working with joy, creating a relaxed yet intimate atmosphere. Small dining room with carefully chosen ceramic serviceware and unique flatware fosters a sense of privileged access. Bold, adventurous wine pairings complement a fine dining experience that feels warm and un-stuffy.

Savory courses use unusual spices and house-made elements for a unique flavor. Non-alcoholic pairings connect closely with the food and offer a delicious experience.

Every visit offers a unique culinary journey with menus that change based on local farmers market supplies. Thoughtful wine pairings include a rare orange wine, and the setting features carefully considered details like simple floral arrangements and unique flatware.

People are saying

"The dinner spots here are outstanding, with creative dishes like art."

"It's a unique, intimate dining experience with only a few tables."

"The food here is interesting, creative, and delicious."

Good to know

1

Reservations are recommended at least two weeks in advance for dinner service.

2

The tasting menu costs $330 per person, excluding drinks.

3

Vegetarian options are available and can be customized upon request.

04
Bayan Ko Diner image 1

Diner offers a cozy, homey vibe with charming decor featuring dark wood and plant motifs. Seating is close together, creating an intimate but sometimes cramped atmosphere, with an upstairs patio providing outdoor, dog-friendly space. Music leans toward fabulous R&B, enhancing the relaxed, casual mood.

Food offers a unique twist with flavors that stand out. The halo halo version presents an interesting take on the classic dessert.

Menus feature unique dishes including a distinct banana split dessert. Plans for unique cocktails will add to the breakfast offerings.

People are saying

"I thought the brunch here was amazing, especially the Cubano burrito."

"The Cuban-Filipino fusion food, like the lumpia and Cubano burrito, is amazing."

"The Cuban-Filipino fusion food here is amazing and interesting."

Good to know

1

Reservations are recommended, especially on busy weekends.

2

The diner is BYOB, allowing guests to bring their own alcohol.

3

Brunch is served daily from 9am to 3pm, except on Tuesdays.

05
Augusta Food and Wine image 1

Tiny shop with carefully curated wines and cheeses creates a welcoming neighborhood vibe without snobbery. Handwritten notes on bottles and a unique monthly wine club offer discovery and expertise. Reasonable prices and specialty foods make it accessible and inviting.

Wine selections feature unique, affordable bottles from unusual places. The wine club offers interesting, different options beyond the usual.

Wine selections change monthly with unique grapes and regions rarely seen elsewhere. The shop offers a well-curated range of specialty products from around the world.

People are saying

"The staff here are super knowledgeable about wine and give great recommendations."

"I found unique wines from all over the world."

"I found the wine and spirits to be interesting and unique."

Good to know

1

Free wine tastings are held every Thursday evening.

2

The wine club features unique selections from small vineyards each month.

3

Expect a friendly atmosphere with knowledgeable staff ready to help.

06
Side Practice Coffee image 1

Small coffee shop offers a cozy atmosphere with thoughtful interior design resembling a living room. It features local art displays and hosts creative pop-ups, creating a community-focused vibe. Seating is comfortable but limited, encouraging slow, relaxed visits.

Specialty drinks include Filipino options like ube matcha and lemon croissant lattes. Pastries feature unique twists such as ube or passion fruit fillings. The menu offers seasonal selections with interesting flavors.

Banana milk serves as a unique milk alternative with a distinct flavor. The coffee shop features Filipino-inspired lattes and partners with small, unique roasters for quality single-origin pour overs.

People are saying

"The coffee here is delicious, especially the ube and pandan vanilla lattes."

"You've got to try their unique banana milk latte."

"Their specialty drinks are really interesting, especially the ube matcha."

Good to know

1

The cafe closes at 5 pm, limiting visits for those with late schedules.

2

Seating can be limited, especially during pop-up events.

3

The coffee prices are considered high compared to other cafes.

07
Cultivate by Forbidden Root image 1

Industrial-steel beams and an open kitchen define the spacious interior with huge bar and big comfy booths. Warm wood smoke scent creates a comfortable, inviting atmosphere that stays quiet enough for conversation. Beers feature floral notes with rare hops, complementing a menu with standout dishes like duck and dumplings.

Innovative beers and a diverse beer menu stand out here. The food offers interesting dishes with bold flavors, though some plates combine many elements that can overwhelm the taste.

Dishes feature unique flavor profiles and beautiful presentation. The spot offers a fun atmosphere that suits parties well.

People are saying

"The beer selection here has a great variety of styles."

"The food had unique flavor profiles and beautiful presentation."

"The food here has huge, interesting flavors."

Good to know

1

Happy hour runs from 4-6pm on weekdays with discounted drinks and appetizers.

2

The Monday burger deal includes a burger and a drink for $10.

3

Trivia night is every Wednesday at 7pm with a $5 entry fee.

08
Del Sur Bakery image 1

Small, beautifully curated bakery with cozy ambiance and thoughtful floral arrangements. Offers unique Filipino-inspired pastries alongside coffee, teas, and specialty items. Lines form early due to highly sought-after, photogenic treats and a warm, inviting vibe.

Pastries showcase interesting Filipino-inspired flavors and excellent textures. Drinks mix innovative combinations like nettle fizz and pandan passionfruit espresso with solid basics.

Unique Filipino fusion pastries blend sweet and savory flavors with a Midwest twist. Items like the adobo brownie and lognisa pastry offer creative, layered tastes not found elsewhere.

People are saying

"The pastries here are so creative and delicious."

"You have to try the pandan Basque cake; it's so unique."

"The pastries here have interesting Filipino-inspired flavors and creative combinations."

Good to know

1

Arrive early to avoid long lines, especially on weekends.

2

There is no seating available; all orders are to go.

3

Pastries are priced around $10 each, with some items costing over $8.

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Lincoln Square, Chicago

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