It was a nice surprise that the bookstore was still open after our post-dinner treat. It's always…read morefun to browse, and the store is very attractively laid out, with book covers gleaming and beckoning like inviting gems. I found a new book from my to-read list, coveted a cute display of Studio Ghibli merch, smiled at the witty cards, and soon my companions and I amassed a stockpile of items to purchase and so they gave us a nice tote. Maybe next time we'll skip dessert and head straight here (must check hours to see when the bar is open).

This bookstore does not support local authors. A local bookstore should. They are very rude and…read morepompous as well. We don't need that behavior in Evanston.

Cuuuuuute alert! For all you artsy crafty mavens out there, this is your stop. It's a shop filled…read morewith a well-curated selection of paper goods, books, coloring books, custom art, fabric lamp shades, and gifts in varying price points. From the second I walked in, I was engulfed by a most delightful smell, perhaps a candle burning somewhere? I was greeted by the owner's assistant, Kate, who gave me an overview of the shop and some of the classes they offer in the back, like coptic bookbinding, collage, crafting, and self-motivation classes. They also have a meet up group called The Grown*Up Girls Club where you can meet up with other like-minded individuals and explore new art/craft/maker techniques. The Club meets the second Sunday of every month. The Collage Cafe is a newer business located in an adorable corridor mixed with other art-inspired shops. You can go door to door and visit each one while you're at it! Can't wait to stop back in. But, as I'm writing this, when I go back I realize the selection is too overwhelming for my taste (in a good way of course) because I want one of everything.

One day my young daughters and I where walking by and came in into this beautiful place, what a…read morewonderful store! The owner is such a great lady, great host, kind and knowledgeable. I scheduled a coloring evening for a group of friends from church. We had a delightful experience! The place was set up with a wide variety of water colors, wood colors pencils, markers, etc. the pages provided were also varied, from really intricate to more simple so we were all able to pick something that suited our taste and level of artistry. We already scheduled another event and are looking forward to it. Definitely a great place for gifts, classes and more.

Ahh! This used to be Studio Armadi, remember that! This is a stationery and paper gift shop. Items…read morestart at six dollars and goes up. The staff and service are passengerific!

They changed their name and moved farther north into downtown Evanston but carry the same unique…read morefair trade items, and still at reasonable prices. I took my daughter here to find a gift for her friend and she loved it. In under 30 minutes she had several items picked out and we quickly and easily spent over $100.

A staple for gifts (for yourself or others) & a store you can feel great about supporting!read more

NiceLena is painted so vibrantly that you can't help but pop in!…read more Besides being a gift shop filled with gifts (stationery, magnets, stickers, planters), several of the items are designed and MADE BY the artist herself! There's little signs that say "hi I made this!" and they're everywhere! Love love love that touch! Lena is chatty and joins in the conversation which I love-it makes you feel like everyone is welcome and included. While I was checking out, she told us the most exciting part= you can bring in any vessel and she will fill it with candle wax! Think of all the perfect vessels you have at your house RIGHT NOW! Those could be candles! This is the kind of place you WANT to visit! The stuff inside is great as is the owner/designer/artist! Enjoy!

Such a cute and welcoming shop filled with trinkets of all kinds. There is something for everyone,…read moreincluding pins, mugs, buttons, stickers, earrings, clothing, and more! The store owner is so sweet and a pleasure to talk to! Things are reasonably priced and it's always great to support a small business :)

Super quaint shop that's got an extensive collection of religious/philosophical texts, Buddhist…read moresymbols, and Tibetan clothing/art. The prices are a little on the higher end (I spent $60 on my first visit for a book, two mala bracelets, and a print), but I didn't mind because it was supporting a local business. The shop owner escaped Tibet at age 7 and immigrated to the US after living for years in India. They've got a great knowledge of local Buddhist community gatherings/groups, as well as information about how you should plan your trip if you ever travel to Tibet. A must-visit in the NorthShore area for any of the sangha -- beginners or long-term practitioners-- as well as folks interested in learning about other cultures.

Cool store with a cool proprietor, a Tibetan woman who operates this shop more as a labor of love…read moreand outreach than as a profit center --when I visited, she gave my friend some free books and videos, and talked at length about her experience and the current conflict with China. Besides that, there's plenty of interesting Tibetan bric a brac, incense, books and an extensive selection of unique scarves, shirts, etc. Nb: As noted above, this place is a labor of love, not Starbucks. So make sure you call ahead to see if it's open, even during standard business hours.

Great selection of plants, pots and accessories & the staff is very knowledgeable and helpful.read more

Felt very welcome at the shop. Great selection of healthy plants and cool art. Love supporting…read moresocially conscious businesses!

I found an amazing tank top at this store, and it's good to know that they cater to larger sizes…read morefor a lot of pieces. Also great jewelry and handbags! Very warm, friendly staff.

There's a lot of old reviews here so I think Stella needs an updated one. I love this store. It…read moreis my go to for gifts, and then I usually find a "gift" for myself too! They offer a wide price range and a unique variety of items. I have purchased clothing, purses, jewelry, gloves, hats, notepads, and serving pieces. The sales staff if friendly, helpful and definitely not pushy. This store is a gem!