My wife and I had a great night with friends recently at Thalaiva’s Indian Kitchen. The spicy tamarind mojito was recommended by our server and did not disappoint. The fresh garlic naan, tandoori chicken and chicken vindaloo were all very tasty and flavorful. There is a certain energy there on the weekends that is undeniable. Seeing families walking in at 9 p.m. for dinner seems to be the norm.

— Chuck DiFranco

I don’t need dry-cleaning service often, but when I do, I drive straight to US Cleaners on Summit Avenue (near Prospect) in Park Ridge. Not only did they do a phenomenal job on my suit, but they also managed to remove a stubborn wine stain from my favorite dress shirt and even sewed my son’s Wilderness Scout patches on to a hooded sweatshirt for him. The attention to detail, service and pricing can’t be beat.

— T.M.

We have used FunInChicago.com for multiple birthday parties at our home, and the whole process is a breeze from start to finish. They are communicative, have fair prices, set you up for success, and have a great variety of products.

We have used Jump Guy (now operating as FunInChicago.com) for multiple birthday parties at our home, and the whole process is a breeze from start to finish. They are communicative, have fair prices, set you up for success, have a great variety of products, and the setup and takedown are always smooth. I can’t say enough about their customer service. Highly recommend using them for your next event!

— G.H.

The Liven Room in Niles is exactly what you’re looking for when hosting private events. I had my baby shower there, and it was absolutely phenomenal for 50 people. I did my own decor and catered food and beverages. I’d 100% recommend, and the owner, Michelle, is an absolute dream to work with too.

— Hailey A

Raffia Gifts

I always find something unique at Raffia for that hard-to-buy-for person. Emily Larson does a great job there to keep things fresh and interesting. Solari & Huntington have fantastic jewelry pieces that my wife loves. I’ll never forget picking out my wife’s engagement ring there with the help of my dad.

— C.D.

Windy City Appliance Repair is the best around. My husband fixes high-end appliances for a living and only recommends them, even to our friends and family if my husband can’t get there. The owner is honest, reliable and trustworthy. Highly recommend.

— Ashley M

Tom and Jerry’s Auto Body on Northwest Highway in Norwood Park. Don and Ian there are great to work with and have excellent prices.

— Janet

Pazzi di Pizza

Italian food has always been my first love, and one of my longtime favorites is Pasta D’Arte on Milwaukee Avenue in Chicago. It’s warm, cozy and consistently delicious, whether I’m enjoying a quiet dinner or celebrating a special occasion. Another wonderful Italian spot is Pazzi Di Pizza in Park Ridge, where I’ve had many gatherings with friends. The food is fantastic, the atmosphere is inviting, and it’s one of those places that always feels like a treat.

— Sue Tunzi

I love a good breakfast at Goldy’s Grill. While I lean toward an egg breakfast, their mini-waffles are legendary. And if you’re there later in the day, their wraps are delicious and they serve some of the best fries in town.

— Paul Swanson

The facial options at Renata’s Organic Skincare & Spa seem endless, but the esthetician put me at ease and went over the benefits of each until we arrived at a hybrid service that best suited my needs. The space is so relaxing, and I left refreshed and feeling better about my complexion and skin health.

I was a little reluctant to visit a med spa for something other than a massage, but my face was definitely in need of some hydration and TLC as, admittedly, I don’t do much other than soap and water and occasional over-the-counter moisturizer. The facial options at Renata’s Organic Skincare & Spa seem endless, but the esthetician put me at ease and went over the benefits of each until we arrived at a hybrid service that best suited my needs. The space is so relaxing, and I left refreshed and feeling better about my complexion and skin health. I’ll definitely make it a routine at Renata’s.

— T.D.

We enjoy playing mini golf as a family at PuttShack in the Old Orchard Mall and then finding a restaurant nearby. Also, Village Crossing in Niles is a fun place to shop with a variety of stores, and Half Price Books is great to start. There is a large selection of books and games for everyone to enjoy. I have also been able to sell them some books and games we’ve grown out of, which helps make more space for the new items we’re bringing home.

— Anne Inwood