DIVERSIONSChicago's Andersonville: A shopper's paradise

Considering that I profile restaurants for Windy City Times in addition to being managing editor, I thought I’d be selected for the “foodie” route. However, I was surprised to discover I’d be going on the self-conducted “shopping” tour. (Just an FYI: The third option was “medley.”)

This development turned out to be a blessing in disguise. I thought I knew about this area, but it’s interesting what Andersonville has to offer:

—GreenSky (5357 N. Ashland Ave.; www.greenskyshop.com/): Half a block west of the main Andersonville artery of Clark Street, this charming eight-year-old “eco-spot” specializes in recycled, reclaimed, fair-trade and socially conscious products. Every item—from the lawn flamingos to the pop-top bags—has a story, believe me.

—Room Service (5438 N. Clark St.; www.roomservice-chicago.com/): This home-furnishings place has some of the coolest items I saw on this tour, including felt coasters, innovative cake plates, paintings that redefine 3-D and even skulls. Plus, the owner (Jim) is beyond friendly.

—Norcross & Scott (1476 W. Berwyn Ave.; www.norcrossandscott.com/): This is also a home-furnishings store. However, the products are items from both coasts that will make a home look sleeker and more airy. Moreover, the price points are lower than I thought they would (or should) be.

—Andersonville Galleria (5247 N. Clark St.; www.andersonvillegalleria.com/): Probably the best-known of the spots on my mini-journey, Andersonville Galleria is a shopper’s dream, offering everything from jewelry to paintings to food (such as Terry’s Toffee, which is marking its 10th anniversary this year).

—Andersonville Antiques (5245 N. Clark St.; “Andersonville Antiques” on Facebook): Previously located in just the lower level of this site, Andersonville Antiques has taken over the upper space (for six months now) that Landmark previously occupied. If you love vintage items, this huge space is for you.

—Milk Handmade (5137 N. Clark St.; www.milkhandmade.com/): Milk Handmade has clothes and accessories for the women in your life, including some particularly stylish dresses. Also, don’t forget to smell the candles; I fell in love with all of them, particularly the horchata one.

—Foursided Custom Framing Gallery (5061 N. Clark St.; www.foursided.com/): Foursided has two sites in Lake View (2939 N. Broadway and 2958 N. Clark St.)—but the Andersonville location has everything those have, and then some. Gino Pinto and Todd Mack have put together an uber-cool space that sells cards, books, candles—and, yes, frames.