Andersonville

Andersonville is a real gem of a neighborhood. Fitting snug into the Edgewater community area, Andersonville was once a tight-knit settlement of Swedish immigrants. It still retains that heritage today with an array of locally owned Swedish businesses, such as The Swedish Bakery, Svea Restaurant, Simon’s Tavern (which used to be a speakeasy in the 1920s!), and Chicago’s own Swedish-American museum.

Andersonville’s not just for the Swedes, though, it boasts a diverse and friendly population. Its tree-lined residential streets have mostly 3-flat apartment buildings and single-family homes. I often hear it touted as the older brother of Boystown, sporting laid-back bars and a few gay clubs in addition to its variety of small businesses on the main drag of North Clark street.

So whether you’re looking for a warm glass of Swedish spiced wine to chase away a chilly Chicago winter, or just a nice neighborhood stroll, Andersonville certainly has something for everyone.

Chicago is full of great neighborhoods – but Andersonville is a real gem. It has personality, great eats, and totally reasonable prices. It’s a bit far from the loop but only a 15 min walk to the lake. Especially if you’re reverse-commuting (like I was), it’s a perfect fit!

Alissa G.

Whatever your looking for Andersonville has it! Great nightlife… early morning coffee… walks with the dog… amazingly friendly and creative people in this community nestled in the city confines!!!

Justin T.

After living in the Andersonville “nabe” for 10 years, I moved to Logan Square two years ago. I moved, not because there was a dearth of restaurants and bars, but because there had become TOO many of them. It wasn’t because these businesses were necessarily over-crowding the Clark Street Entertainment Corridor (as I call it), but because there is a creeping corporate presence rearing its ugly head. The recently-built Walgreen’s at the corner of Catalpa and Clark is one example. I also think that the locale is becoming too much of a tourist destination for what I believe is good for any neighborhood. The increasing presence of suburbanites on the weekends is evidence of this. So what’s a resident to do? I took to staying away from Clark Street on the weekends and venturing out during the week, because there are certainly a number of noteworthy watering holes, restaurants and shops that make up the neighborhood, co-existing with Starbucks, Einstein Brother’s Bagels, Potbelly Sandwich Shop, and (soon) Walgreen’s.

Home to Lady Gregory’s, In Fine Spirits and the infamous Ann Sather’s, this enjoyable little slice of Chicago is perfect for those looking to enjoy an evening out while avoiding the downtown scene. Centralized around Clark St., Andersonville accommodates the health conscious (Cheetah Gym), academic (Swedish American Museum) and hungry (Calo Ristorante). This Swedish neighborhood will delight those of all ages and backgrounds.

Andersonville is an ideal neighborhood with lots going on, a whole spectrum of retail, and lots of tasty eats. The beautiful tree-lined streets are a great place to call home.

The only downside is it’s a long way home if you work downtown, and it’s a pain to get to things off the Blue line.

Brock R

Andersonville is a large neighborhood located on Chicago’s Very Northside. It is a culturally rich neighborhood with a large polish population. However, it is mostly known for it’s very large Gay, and specifically Lesbian population. There are many little boutiques and shops in its main square, as well as quite a few bars, restaurants, and cafes to choose from. The area is very friendly and family oriented, as there are many families living on each block. The town square is very quaint and could easily remind someone of a small European town. There are several CTA bus routes in the area, as well as quite a few CTA Red Line stops as well. It is easily accessible by the best Drive in the city, Lake Shore Drive. Although if one is merely stopping in for a quick visit, it would be best to take public transportation, as parking in the area can be a bit scarce. As for cost of living, it can be quite pricey; But the real question is how much is a close knit, quaint community worth to you?

Gabi N.

Andersonville is primarily home to young, middle-class families, wandering homeless people, and Loyola students who hate living in Andersonville. Why? Because it’s boring, except for the occasional crime caused by the homeless crowd. Okay, the handful of Swedish bakeries are cute, but honestly? If you want cuteness, get a townhome in Lincoln Square or Ravenswood and buy yourself a package of Swedish fish; you will be safer and happier.

The neighborhood is inexpensive and is home to a large gay and lesbian population, and in the past 10 years has been gradually becoming more trendy. But I would NEVER call this a fun place to live; plus it’s really dirty compared to surrounding areas like Ravenswood or East Edgewater.

Liz M.