This is my go to hardware store. I always check here first because they almost always have what I need, really friendly owner, and they're right in the neighborhood. I would recommend that you check here before going to the big box zoos where employees don't know what they are selling you. read more

Amazing service!!! Love the couple that runs this place. They put their heart and soul into their business. I won't go anywhere else for my key copies! read more

Great go to in my neighborhood. Wish more businesses like this still existed. Very helpful in finding items for you and the price is always right! read more

I needed some hardware to mount a TV. Never really done this kind of thing before. Paul and Carole were very kind and explained the whole process down to me. Really the only negative I can think of is that they are a cash only business, but I am happy to help support a local business and understand the fees the card companies charge so no problem. Thanks you guys! Will return if I need anything else. read more

Paul was super efficient and friendly! I love supporting quality local shops, such as this little gem. I had to have seven keys copied twice for a total of fourteen keys, Paul and is wife helped me personally and gave me the kind of personalized service you're not going to get a Home Depot. Make sure you bring cash when you go, and definitely stop by for any of your hardware store/key making needs. My husband and I will be back for all home improvement needs in our new neighborhood! read more

I needed some keys made and the owner was very helpful. He reassured me after that if a key didn't work right (mine were a bit worn and old), I could come back and he would make me a new one with no problem. Update: The keys work perfectly! read more

I've been going to Home Depot to get keys made at my own peril. 85% of the time, the keys are unusable or they catch in the lock and are nearly impossible to use. Paul at Chiarugi Hardware to the rescue! Paul was very friendly and from the looks of it, he uses an older machine that takes a skilled person to operate. He attentively made 6 keys for me which I came home to test. The price was also very reasonable - cheaper than Home Depot. Because of my Home Depot experiences, I expected some to not work - what a relief that 100% of my keys worked flawlessly! Maybe even better than the mediocre key they were made from! Wow. I've got more keys to make (my partner habitually loses keys - arg!) and I'm definitely coming back to Chiarugi to get them made. While waiting for the keys, I browsed around. Everything was very neat. Turns out they have wine and beer making equipment so if I ever take the plunge to brew my own beer, I'll be coming to Paul to get started with expert guidance. Side note - this place is also one of the last remnants of the once vibrant Little Italy community that Daley mercilessly destroyed when planning/building UIC. You can find old pictures of the community protests and rallys at the time at the library or history museum. It's really a shame. Come buy your Little Italy memorabilia here too. They also seem to be dog friendly - while I was there, a woman from the neighborhood came in with her little beagle and she chatted with another woman who was working. read more

Chiarugi Hardware - Any key you need made properly, Paul can do it! - Hardware Stores Near Me - Chicago, Illinois

I went to a nice little shop in University Village, Chiarugi Hardware, to get a copy of a key. The owner, Paul, greeted me as soon as I walked through the door. He was very quick to assist me, not to mention he was EXTREMELY friendly and helpful. I didn't have money to pay, so I had to make a quick run to the ATM. He trusted me to take the new key while I withdrew the money. I definitely recommend this place for anyone's hardware needs. read more

So much easier than driving t and havingto search for hours for something simple. The owners are just wonderful and helpful. They're very helpful in explaining whatever you're buying and how to use it or apply it. Would much rather give my money to a local business. read more

So thankful for this place! Paul and Carole run a fantastic business, and I just love being in the neighborhood by them. Get your keys made here and pick up home supplies. You can't ask for better customer service or small business charm. Thank you Paul and Carole! read more

Chiarugi Hardware - Hardware Stores Near Me - Chicago, Illinois

I had duplicates made for my house keys. It was super quick and very affordable. I'd recommend this shop to anyone in the area

Paul was extremely helpful. Went for lightbulbs and small nails, had exactly what I needed. He also gave advice on installing the lightbulbs. Cash only! read more

Chiarugi Hardware has a serious past and still maintains a presence in Little Italy, centrally located on Taylor St. This little gem used to be a mainstay of LI when it was located where the present day Vintage Lounge stands, but unfortunately, Home Depot and large housewares conglomerates have nearly decimated what still remains of the small privately owned hardware stores. One thing that can't be taken away, the friendly smiles and great customer care imparted every time you walk through the door. True, I pay more for everyday items, but they carry at least one of most things I need around the house without the drive and parking to a the local chain (with the satisfaction of helping the little guy). In addition, they are the only local shop in LI that carries home wine/beer making supplies. Whenever I need an on the spot carboy bung, grain bag, air spigot, etc., Chiarugi always has me covered without the long drive to brew & grow. Can't wait for tonights brew session! Oh snap, I need an airlock, Chiarugi to the rescue. read more

Great hardware store.. they've got those hard to find things and the staff is very knowledgable read more

Chiarugi Hardware - Hardware Stores Near Me - Chicago, Illinois

Extremely quick, easy, cheap to make copies of keys. The key machine down the street wanted $10/key and had to mail it since it wasn't standard shape. Chiarugi made 6 copies in one minute for $3/key. read more

Fantastic service. They weren't able to help us, but took the time to listen to our problem and refer us to another business that could help us. Wow! That's great service. read more

Family owned store - the owners sit outside of the shop (when the weather is nice) and say hello to everyone in the neighborhood. I stopped in the other day (after not coming to the neighborhood for about 2 years) and they remembered me! Chiarugi is as good as it gets. He runs the type of place that you tell him your problem - and he knows exactly what you need to fix it. He even offered to come to my apartment and help me fix my kitchen sink! That's the type of service that will keep me coming back. read more

The best. The owners will always above and beyond to get you what you need and help you solve your problem. They will talk you through your needs and give you their number so they can help you in the future! I will be bringing ALL my hardware business here in the future and referring all my friends & family in the area to them. This is the way you want to run a business!! read more

This the best hardware store in the city. in fact, the best hardware store I have ever been to. Paul, the owner, is extremely knowledge and friendly and genuinely wants his customers to be successful in fixing things in their homes. His prices are a bit higher than at the big box stores but since he gives very helpful advice on how to solve home repair problems, you end up saving money and time by avoiding mistakes and unnecessary purchases. Chiarugi Hardware should always be your first stop for hardware store items. read more

Local hardware store with many hard to find items. They are smiling and willing to give you advice. If something is not working they do not hesitate to try different options. Quick service with key cutting. They can also do glass repair, although I never had to use this service. read more

Manned by a joyful couple and always a quick and easy stop to get any hardware products or even a quick chat.

Fantastic local business in Little Italy. 99% of the time they have what you are looking for. They are always helpful! Prices are on par with big box stores. As a urban planner these are the kind of shops that there should be more of. They really help diversify neighborhoods and keep big box stores away while providing the services locals need. Great for getting keys made.... read more

The few cents more you may pay compared to the big box is more than returned to you in the time you'll save and the actionable advice and service you will get from Chiarugi Hardware. I've been coming here for five years or so -- I'm not sure why I have never Yelped about it, but shame on me because the place is a gem for those of us who maybe aren't so handy, and who don't have endless time to spend on home repair. One specific story I'll share: I came in after the wood split on a dining room chair back, and Pauly explained to me how I could fix it myself with just some really inexpensive and easy-to-use materials. Following his simple instructions, I fixed it myself, and the repair is still holding five years later and is almost invisible, too. Over the years he's clued me in to a number of products and fixes, and he's been there for me when I was in the middle of something and just had to buy something quick. It is hard to beat street parking right in front, no lines, and the owner right there to point you to exactly what it is you are looking for right now, or who can order it for you and have it for you in a day or two -- Home Depot doesn't stand a chance. What prompted me to write now is that I found myself with a raft of work that really required a handyman, and my old one was no longer available. I'd had a new one come by, highly recommended in Angie's List but I don't know why since half the things on my list he said he couldn't do. After I'd sent him packing, I picked up the phone and called my old friend Chiarugi Hardware and within a minute my problems were solved, and quite spectacularly! I won't tell you how, you will just have to become his customer to find out how his "loyalty program" really pays off. I love you Chiarugi Hardware!!!!!! read more

Family owned wonderful hardware store. Great service and great prices. Able to make copies of all keys even tricky ones.

It's rare to find family owned quality businesses anymore. I go here for all my little hardware needs. Paul, the owner, helps me every time I come in and with his extensive knowledge and experience takes the time to teach me how to use the products and even answers questions I didn't know I should be asking. Great place in the heart of Little Italy. I went here to make several copies of keys once and the prices can't be beat. I've gotten a few tools and vacuum bags, etc. over time and I'm always able to explain what I need things for and am always pointed in the right direction. The home feel and the one-on-one help from Paul is something I just can't and don't expect from a large corporation. This is the place for your hardware needs! read more

Most reliable key maker on the area. Has keys that Home Depot does not. Friendly, neighborhood establishment with customer service as soon as you walk in the door! read more

Friendly neighborhood hardware store. Has most items I needed for a quick fix/replacement.

I've been relying on this store since I was a kid very polite people great personalitys and my keys always works thanks guys!!!

Wonderful little neighborhood hardware store that you don't really find in the city much. The owners sit outside during the summer and greet people walking by on Taylor street. One of the most welcoming things when I first moved to Little Italy. If you care about small businesses stop going to Home Depot and support these magnificent people!!! read more

The owner (Paul) is honest, helpful, and friendly. Not to mention his craftsmanship- he made 2 copies of 5 different keys quicker than I've ever seen, and they all worked perfectly. What put me over the top though, was that after I realized I didn't have money to pay, he trusted me to run back to my house, try all the keys, grab the money, then return and pay him. I'm bringing all my questions and business to him. The world needs more store owners like him. read more

Just went in to have a key made- it was done in 1 second and super cheap. The couple that runs the place were so friendly and have been running the store for 50 years- definitley making this my local hardware spot m! read more

All of my hardware purchases will now be made at Chiarugi - period. Paul, one of the owners, and the other owner (I regrettably did not ask for her name), greeted me at the front door with genuine smiles! I asked Paul if he had painters tape, and he replied with such sincere enthusiasm, "Oh yes, of course, right here young lady." He led me into the store, and I immediately hit with this sweet refreshing aroma - definitely not like other hardware stores! He keeps air fresheners in the ducts! Then, when I brought the tape to the counter, I wasn't able to use my card. Shame on me, I should have realized that this classic mom and pop shop doesn't take cards. They used to, but some corporate jerk must be giving him a hard time. Shame on THAT guy then! Anyway, so when I realized I couldn't use my card, I said that I would come back with cash. Here's the MOST AMAZING PART: he let me leave the store WITH MY TAPE, trusting me to come back! What a sweet, sweet, generous man! Unfortunately, I wasn't able to return myself (I sent my student employee to deliver the money). I wish I had, though, b/c I rarely run into good people like Paul nowadays. Great prices. Wonderful smells. Friendly people! =) read more

One of the best costumer experiences I have ever had. Paul the owner is fantastic, friendly and extremely knowledgeable and helpful. I trust him like family. Never steering me in the wrong direction. This place is a hidden gem in Little Italy. Has pretty much anything you need at reasonable prices. Highly recommended over the big chains! read more

Great friendly, neighborhood hardware store with fantastic customer service. Love Paul the owner and his wife. Great people & Great service. Wouldn't go anywhere else for my supplies. Highly recommended. read more

Fabulous business and excellent customer service. This store needs to be your first-stop-shop for your locksmith and hardware needs. Incredible 50+ years of work knowledge. Paul is what I call a Subject Matter Expert (SME) when it comes to anything to do with locks. This is a very friendly place and Paul and his wife greet you personally when you walk-in and make you feel at home. read more

Was there about a week ago to get some keys made. Nice place, nice people. Will be back. All the other reviews spot on. Unfortunately after I told the owner how nice he was and look for this great review, my internet went out for a week. Selection is spotty, but I am a renter now instead of home owner, so I'm sure they will have most all of what I need, or if they don't they know where to send me. A friendly place. read more

Only place where I get my keys made. I've had horrible luck in the past with keys not working correctly - never an issue again since I've been coming here! I'm always impressed at how fast he is. Not to mention the owners are *so* sweet and helpful. Stop in and support this wonderful local business! read more

Great local business and even nicer owner. Picked up some WD-40 and had a nice chat with Paul.

A great neighborhood hardware store! I'm a student that lives in the area and always visit this store for all my home improvement/hardware needs. The owner is very kind and helpful and the prices are unbeatable! read more

After many years, this is still my first choice for buying home improvement supplies. It's not a big store, but Mr. Rinaldi will happily order something for you if he doesn't have it in the shop. You can rely on Chiarugi Hardware for helpful service and advice. read more