We asked active locals to share some of their favorite things in the area

“Going to the three different beaches in Evanston is a great time for a family outing or date night. The sand is nice, the water is clean, parking isn’t bad and there’s even a dog beach. We like to order pizza from Big Tomato nearby and eat dinner by the lighthouse.”

— Aykut Imren

“If you’re in the mood for Vietnamese food, we found a hidden gem while shopping down at the Harlem/Irving intersection called Viet Taste (7221 W. Forest Preserve Ave. in Norridge). The chicken and rice dishes were excellent, and the peanut sauce for the spring rolls was the best we’ve tried anywhere.”

— Debbie Podmore

“Dick Pond (678 N. Northwest Hwy in Park Ridge) is the place to go for unparalleled service when it comes to running shoes and athletic wear. Can’t wait till they move into the old Talbott’s location on Busse Highway.”

— Charlie Russ

Pennyville Station

“We had the Wednesday special at Pennyville Station (112 Main St. in Park Ridge), which was mussels with sausage and potatoes in a spicy sauce that was perfect for dipping bread in at the end. Great service too, as they remembered us from our last visit.”

— Geoff Hutchins

“Goode Plumbing has taken care of us big time after an early summer basement flood, and they’re very responsive with all their work, explaining, following up and being respectful at every turn.”

— S.M.

Massa Café Italiano in Elmwood Park (7434 W. North Ave. in Elmwood Park) has won international awards with their gelato. It’s that good!

— C.M.

“I bought a gift card for a friend’s birthday from Renata’s Organic Skincare (624 Devon Ave. in Park Ridge), and she loved the experience with a relaxing facial and picking up some different lotions.”

— Helena O.

“The new D’Agostino’s location on Oakton (7530 W. Oakton in Niles) is delicious. Half-price pizza on Wednesdays. Food and service were really good. And they have a nice patio!”

— Melissa Horsberger and Danna Karkazis

Renata’s Organic Skincare