These women-owned businesses in Chicago are setting the trend. When it comes to supporting local businesses, it's also about supporting women in business.
From unique boutiques to innovative startups, we're bringing you the best women-owned spots in the city. Get ready to support and uplift—discover, shop, and celebrate with us!
Photo Via Sweet Mandy B's
1208 W. Webster Ave - Lincoln Park
254 E. Ontario St. - Streeterville
Sweet Mandy B’s is an old fashioned bakeshop with
locations in Lincoln Park and Streeterville. The Lincoln Park location
has been there for over 20 years while the Streetville location is about
to celebrate its fifth anniversary. They are well-known for
their custom-designed cakes, their signature cupcakes, their frosted
Sweetie Pie cookies, and a wide variety of other treats and desserts. Sweet Mandy B's is owned by former CPS school teacher Julie Wang with pastry chef and Chicago foodie influencer Sherrie Tan (@sherriesavorsthecity) at the helm.
Photo Via Uvae Kitchen & Wine Bar
5553 N. Clark St. - Andersonville
Uvae is owned by sommelier and educator Lindsey Anderson who holds her Level III Sommelier Certification and has been a Level I Wine Apprentice instructor at Kendall College since 2017. Her aim with Uvae is to make wine education unpretentious, approachable and fun. Uvae
Kitchen and Wine Bar in Andersonville is passionate about and committed
to teaching the local community that great wine is for everyone. Uvae
offers a seasonal menu that utilizes fresh ingredients from the earth,
the sea and your local farm.
PHOTO VIA FACEBOOK / ERIS BREWERY AND CIDER HOUSE
4240 W Irving Park Rd - Irving Park
A tribute to the audacious spirit inspired by the Greek goddess of mayhem. Much like the golden apple that stirred chaos, ERIS Cider invites you to a unique experience in the heart of Chicago. As a woman in a male-dominated industry, ERIS thrives on inclusivity, approachability, and accessibility—creating a space where everyone is welcome. Founded with determination, ERIS is not just crafting cider; they're telling a story—a narrative fueled by creativity, quirkiness, and a bold, unconventional spirit. Cheers to a cider adventure like no other!
2113 W Roscoe St - Roscoe Village
A gem in Roscoe Village, August House Studio is an Art Gallery featuring exhibits by contemporary artists and also offers painting and drawing classes. The spot is owned and operated by the daughter of Baseball Legend, Bill Veeck.
Online
Owned by Karyn Dethrow, this story is more than just an outlet, but a culmination of vintage excellence thats ready to wear and use! Karyn's passion for all-inclusive and sustainable clothing have driven her success sky high! Stop in to see her collection of unique pieces!
3207 Lake Ave, Wilmette, IL
Running multiple locations around the U.S. - we're so excited to support the women-owned and family-run Fajita Pete's! Available for catering, pick-up and delivery. You gotta have it familia style!
PHOTO VIA BON FEMMES
4917 N Damen Ave - Ravenswood
This happy space not only showcases the incredible work of female artists but also gives back to the community. Omotola Akinbiyi's passion for art and empowerment takes center stage. Born out of a desire to amplify the voices of women artists, Bon Femmes is more than a digital storefront – it's a celebration of black, female ownership and the importance of giving back to the community. Omotola donates a portion of the proceeds to female-led charities, making every purchase a step towards positive change. Explore a curated collection featuring art, home decor, and beauty products, all crafted by talented women. With each monthly addition, Bon Femmes becomes a canvas of stories waiting to be discovered.
Online
Burnt Waffle Marketing is a digital marketing agency, proudly woman-owned and strategically located in Chicago and Denver. The agency focuses on providing human-centered and empathy-driven marketing and design solutions, specially tailored to the requirements of mission-driven startups and small businesses. Recently, they celebrated their fifth anniversary. Way to go Burnt Waffle Marketing!
PHOTO VIA FACEBOOK / HOT CHOCOLATE CHICAGO
1623 N Milwaukee Ave - Wicker Park
From their celebrated hot chocolate to the groundbreaking venture into cannabis-infused sweets, Founder Mindy Segal's passion for pastry transcends culinary boundaries; Mindy's journey is a testament to relentless creativity. Named "Outstanding Pastry Chef" by the James Beard Foundation, she continues to redefine the culinary landscape. In 2022, Mindy's Bakery in Wicker Park emerged as a haven for artisanal bakers crafting perfection daily.
3164 N Broadway - Lakeview
Melissa Zeman, the proprietor of BottlesUp!, a wine store located in Lakeview, has been a significant figure in the community for more than five years. Melissa excels in selecting a diverse and engaging range of wines for her patrons, ensuring everyone feels welcomed as soon as they step into her store. Her extensive knowledge of wines from across the globe is matched by her warm-heartedness and dedication to fostering a welcoming environment where people can come together to discover new and exotic drinks. Beyond her remarkable service and expertise in the store, Melissa has also established the BeyoU Fund. This initiative provides an annual grant to support a female entrepreneur in need. Cheers to Melissa and her team!
PHOTO VIA EARLY to BED
5138 N Clark St - Andersonville
Chicago's pioneering woman-owned sex shop was founded by Searah Deysach in 2001. Breaking the mold of traditional adult stores, Early to Bed provides a welcoming haven for individuals of all genders, striving to create a sex-positive environment. From a curated collection of body-safe toys to gender expression gear, books, lubes, and accessories, Early to Bed goes beyond retail, offering a mission-driven approach to sexual exploration. With a knowledgeable and friendly staff, this Andersonville gem provides advice on a wide array of pleasure-enhancing products, fosters a community through workshops, and contributes to progressive causes. Step into Early to Bed, where pleasure knows no bounds.
Stores All Over Chicago
Meliora Cleaning Products is women-owned & operated! They create sustainable cleaning products and are available in a handful of stores all over Chicago. They're the perfect environmentally friendly alternative for all your tidy needs.
Photo Via Volumes Bookcafe
1373 N Milwaukee Ave - Wicker Park
Readers rejoice - we have another amazing women-owned bookstore, and this one doubles as a café! A beloved spot in Wicker Park for the last eight years, Volumes Bookstore is family-run and features curated reads alongside a tasty menu of baked goods, quality espresso drinks, and an array of local beer and wine. Books, coffee, and community! What's not to love?
2550 W. Division St - Humboldt Park
Looking for a special cake? No matter the occasion, Reina's Cakes has your back! Reina's Cakes is locally owned and serves up freshly made homemade cakes. Even for the best pup in your life!
PHOTO VIA BROADWAY BIKES
4653 N Broadway - Uptown
Maria Barnes transformed Urban Bikes into a thriving women-owned and managed haven for bicycle enthusiasts. Now co-owned by Nina Hazelton and Leah Plummer and renamed Broadway Bikes, the business continues to be a cornerstone in the community, fostering lasting relationships with customers from novices to seasoned couriers. Beyond offering new bikes, accessories, and expert services, Broadway Bikes embodies responsibility, honesty, and quality. As a beacon of independence and empowerment, this bike shop stands resilient through the pandemic, providing curbside excellence and appointment-based care. Join Broadway Bikes, where pedal-powered journeys and meaningful connections await.
PHOTO VIA OASIS FACE BAR
2136 N. Halsted - Lincoln Park
2142 West Division - Wicker Park
Reinventing the spa experience for busy, assiduous, results-driven individuals, Oasis Face Bar offers 30-minute facials in an open concept where whimsy meets clinical excellence in redefining spa traditions. Their philosophy is simple yet revolutionary: skincare should be exceptional, natural, and accessible. No more intimidation—just drop in for personalized services and leave educated and glowing. They aim to be your beauty obsession, transforming your routine into a ritual of even-toned, brighter, and more youthful skin. Join the Chicago franchise owner, Leila Golding for the chorus of those who've experienced the impressive glow.
PHOTO VIA FACEBOOK / CHICAGO FRENCH PRESS
1021 S. Delano Court - South Loop
601 S. Morgan - West Loop
970 E 58th St - University of Chicago Campus / Hyde Park
The Chicago French Press, which Kris Christian founded, is more than just a place to get coffee; it's a movement that creates over 20 flavorful blends using ethically sourced ingredients from female farmers around the world. Beyond exquisite flavors, CFP stands out for its commitment to ethical sourcing from women farmers globally, ensuring a rich and sustainable supply chain. This commitment extends to empowering communities through philanthropy, embodying the "Grinding for a Cause" ethos that donates a portion of proceeds to support charitable initiatives locally and nationally. Recognized by Forbes.com, USA Today, and more, Kris Christian is not only a coffee connoisseur but also a community advocate. Experience the CFP community, where every sip tells a story of flavor, sustainability, and social impact.
5307 S. Hyde Park Blvd. - Hyde Park
We love women who kick butt - literally! 606 Karate & Self-Defense offers several martial arts - Karate, Taang Soo Do Karate, MMA Fundamentals, Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu, Kampilan Eskrima, and more! Free Karate intro classes by appointment.
PHOTO VIA FACEBOOK / GIVE ME SOME SUGAH
2234 E 71st St - South Shore
Each treat is a testament to the passion and irresistible flavors. Give Me Some Sugah, located on the south side of Chicago, is famous for its potato chip cookies and an array of delectable delights. Visit them today and enjoy a sugary bliss delight in every bite.
PHOTO VIA INSTAGRAM / @WCFBOOK
5233 N. Clark St - Andersonville
A beacon of empowerment since 1979, Women & Children First originally focused on amplifying women's voices, but the bookstore has evolved into a sanctuary for all underrepresented perspectives, championing BIPOC and LGBTQ+ literature. Lynn Mooney and Sarah Hollenbeck, passionate stewards since 2014, have expanded the mission to curate an inclusive space, especially in their vibrant children's section. In the spirit of transparency, Sarah and Lynn share their ongoing commitment to aligning daily operations with their mission, fostering anti-oppression training, and striving for financial transparency. Support this feminist future as Women & Children First continues to shape a bookstore where every story is valued and celebrated. Join their movement toward equality, learning, and community building.
PHOTO VIA SPRUDGE
2233 S. Throop #423 - Pilsen
Ditching her wardrobe role in TV and film, Melissa Stinson, founder of Everybody's Busy went on a quest for the perfect cup, and found herself crafting a concept coffee bar where simplicity meets quality. Located in Pilsen, Everybody's Busy offers the savoring essence of Onyx coffee and espresso drinks with oat milk, embracing a culture that values creativity and fosters sustainable connections. Say goodbye to overwhelming choices as Melissa curates an experience where every cup tells a story.
912 N California - Humboldt Park
Sometimes in life you'll find yourself with too much stuff. Or perhaps...not enough stuff? Either way, Rivich Auction & Estates can help you out with a premium experience, ensuring the best success for your items. Through meticulous sorting, staging, photographing, and pricing, combined with extensive outreach via social media, community engagement, and internet-based advertising, Rivich Auction maximizes buyer reach, making it your go-to source for all things of value.
Photo Via Taylor Made Landscape Design
3933 N Tripp Avenue - Irving Park
Maureen Taylor is the horticultural mastermind behind Taylor Made Landscape Design. With multiple awards under her belt, Maureen is the green thumb of Irving Park. Besides her privately hired work, she is also responsible for several community gardens, some of which have also won awards.
Photo via Tata's Tacos
4929 W Irving Park - Portage Park
2826 N Lincoln Ave - Lake View
5700 Irving Park Rd - Portage Park
Tatas Tacos and Tatas Kitchen + Social, beloved local eateries known for innovative Mexican flavors, are co-owned by Marci Berner and Julia Paphitis. The Tatas brands blend traditional Mexican family recipes with a contemporary culinary edge. Marci and Julia’s dedication to the community and hands-on approach to business have made Tatas Tacos a beloved staple, focusing on giving back to the local community and hosting events that bring the neighborhood together, such as plays, live music performances, and networking opportunities, as well as celebratory milestones including birthday parties, anniversaries, retirement parties, weddings, baby showers, quinceañeras, and much more.
photo via folklore
2100 W Division St - Wicker Park
Jenny Di Sapio’s parents were born in Argentina, as was her older brother. The family came to the US, where Jenny was born, with the hopes of introducing Chicago to authentic Argentinian cuisine. It’s safe to say they’ve succeeded! Folklore celebrated 15 years in business in October as the city’s premier destination for exceptional meat crafted with Argentina's finest culinary traditions.
3755 N Southport - Lake View
Jenny Di Sapio’s family also owns Bodega Sur, where South American flavors and culture take center stage. Spacious outdoor seating makes it a great choice in the warmer months, while an extensive wine selection will help you fight off the cold
6318 N Clark St - Edgewater
As the self-proclaimed "spot in Chicago for watching women's sports," Whiskey Girl Tavern is woman-owned and constantly hosting watch parties for all of the biggest events in women's athletics. Don't forget, everybody watches women's sports, and Whiskey Girl should be your go-to to do so in Chi.
1744 W Balmoral Ave - Andersonville
Owned by Angela and Renauda, Nobody's Darling is an elevated cocktail lounge that seeks to provide the best possible drinks in a classy atmosphere. They were even a James Beard Award finalist for Outstanding Bar Program in 2022!
Photo via The Dropped Stitch
1524 W Bryn Mawr Ave - Andersonville
Owner Hannah Wilson opened her yarn and fiber arts emporium, The Dropped Stitch, in late 2024 after an 8-game winning streak on Jeopardy! the year prior. The delightful store is packed with high-quality natural fiber yarns for knitters and crocheters alike, as well as supplies for embroidery, cross-stitch, needle-felting, sashiko, and more, and offers beginner-friendly and advanced classes.
GIF VIA GIPHY
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