The Ultimate Gift Guide for Chicagoans

Ponnopozz Store in Ravenswood is our happy place (seriously, you can't not feel cheerful when stepping into the colorful storefront). Everything in the shop is from a local, independent maker or a small company, including this adorable tote from Molly Anne Bishop, a Chicago-based artist and illustrator. Consider this the perfect vessel for totting around a wallet, phone, foldable umbrella and CTA card (aka all your city essentials).

Your co-worker, your mother-in-law, your bestie, your dog walker... they could all use a little more peace and serenity in their lives. Gift them a membership card to the Chicago Botanic Garden, a 385-acre living plant museum that's beautiful and tranquil no matter the season, thanks to an array of trees, shrubs, vines and tropical plants. (We're also fans of the Model Railroard Garden for a fun-filled day out with the kiddos.)

Chili crisp is all the rage these days and can be found in just about every supermarket or grocer. But Chicago-based Vargo Brothers Ferments stands out for its seasonal ferments that use fresh ingredients sourced locally from community gardens and out of chef and creator Sebastian Vargo's own backyard garden. Yeah, your foodie pal is going to love it.

This Chicago-based clothing company makes the softest, most comfy pajama sets and they have an entire collection of matching family PJs for the holiday season that is practically begging to be Instagrammed. Choose from festive prints like tree haul, happy Hanukkah and festive ornaments. They even have matching PJs for the family pooch, whether you have a Chihuahua, Corgi, Golden Retriever or Great Dane.

Permanent jewelry feel a little too...permanent? Check out his sweet pendant necklace from Milk Handmade, owned and operated by Chicago-native Hallie Borden who features independent designers and makers who produce locally, ethically, and using environmentally friendly practices. There's plenty to love on site (like these teardrop pearl drop earrings and this wave ring), so you're sure to find something for everyone on your list—yep, even your too-cool-for-school teenage cousin.

Your brother moved out west and swears there are no decent Jewish delis north of Los Angeles. Send him a care package from this Chicago institution that has everything you need to create Manny's classic corned beef sandwiches at home (two pounds of thinly sliced, pre-cooked meat; a loaf of rye bread and horseradish mustard) and eight hand-made potato pancakes, plus two Lou Malnati’s deep dish pizzas. Yum.

This chic sweater from Chicago-based Alice & Wonder (they have stores in Lincoln Park and Southport) can be styled casually with denims and sneaks or dressed up with a blazer for a night out. And the green color is so festive, no?

We all know someone who could use a laugh, and there’s really no better place on earth for it than The Second City. The comedy club has a list of famous alumni longer than a Chicago winter and you just may see one of them stop by to work on their new routine, and you'll definitely catch some up-and-coming talent. The buzzy spot offers live shows, improv classes and more, and gift cards start from just $10.

For the friend who’s left Chicago but misses home, this soy wax candle is meant to capture the scent of The Windy City. With notes of jasmine, chocolate and sandalwood, we’re not entirely sure it smells like the city but hey, we’re not complaining. The 60 to 80 hours burn time ain't bad, either.