The Loop Shops

With 30-plus years of experience, and three locations in the city, A New Leaf has become a Chicago mainstay florist. Their arrangements, many of which include gorgeous exotic flowers, are available for delivery or pick-up. This shop in the Loop is only open weekdays, but early (8am). The other two shops are both in Old Town and open seven days a week. A New Leaf also has an awesome event space in Old Town with an outdoor courtyard and open, airy interior with exposed brick and cool industrial details.

Stepping in here is the closest thing to time travel. Peter Merz opened this North Side institution in 1875 to resemble the European apothecaries his customers were missing, and other than moving to a bigger space in the 80s, it really hasn’t changed much: Holistic remedies and herbal tinctures (rounded out by a massive selection of vitamins and supplements) are displayed in their original antique jars, while natural skincare and beauty products from modern day favorites like Dr. Hauschka, Klorane, and Jao line the shelves. There’s also an equally well-stocked Lincoln Square location.