Evanston Uncorked: Discovering the Top Wine Destinations from Restaurants to Retail Stores

Evanston may not be the first place that comes to mind for wine enthusiasts, especially considering its historical ties to the temperance movement and a long period of sobriety until the 1970s. Yet, this seemingly quiet suburban city has cultivated a unique wine scene that blends independent businesses with a cosmopolitan flair.

Local resident Ellen King, co-owner of Hewn bakery, describes Evanston as “a lot more cosmopolitan and diverse than its size would suggest.” This city, while often overshadowed by the more prominent Chicago wine culture, boasts a vibrant array of wine destinations that are worthy of exploration.

Noteworthy Wine Restaurants

At the forefront is Oceanique, recognized for its classic French cuisine and a hidden gem of a wine selection. Open since 1989, its collection exceeds 5,000 wines, including rare vintages and exceptional Bordeaux and Burgundy options. Philippe André, who grew up in the restaurant, emphasizes its dedication to quality, particularly for wines around $50, while also offering exclusive older bottles for the serious collector. Their no-corkage Thursdays have become a favorite among locals and visiting wine aficionados alike.

The Barn Steakhouse, owned by Amy Morton, offers a more casual, steakhouse experience styled as a tribute to her father’s legacy in the restaurant industry. The wine list here caters to hearty appetites, featuring bold Napa cabernets and stand-out varietals such as an aged Rioja. Morton aims to provide a full dining experience that competes with more expensive downtown venues.

LeTour, another of Morton’s establishments, gives a contemporary twist to classic French dishes with an approachable wine list focusing on French regions like Burgundy and Bordeaux. Both The Barn and LeTour utilize a Coravin system that allows for tasting premium wines by the glass.

Adding to the array is NaKorn, a contemporary Thai restaurant that defies expectations with a creative menu and an affordable wine list topped with refreshing selections like German rieslings and Italian reds.

Al Fresco Drinking

As summer warms the city, Evanston’s dining scene shifts outdoors. Union Pizzeria has become a hotspot for its wood-fired pizzas and vibrant patio atmosphere, paired with an approachable wine list that features lesser-known Italian varietals. Right next door is Union Squared, where guests can enjoy Detroit-style pizza in a relaxed beer garden, often with bocce courts available for entertainment.

On the more elegant side, Five & Dime offers a rooftop terrace ideal for summer cocktails alongside a meticulously chosen wine selection, highlighting trendy natural wines.

Independent Wine Shops

The independent wine shops in Evanston mirror the quality focus of its restaurants. At The Wine Goddess, owner Diana Hamann emphasizes a curated selection of affordable wines from small producers. The store also operates as a wine bar, fostering a community gathering space. Meanwhile, Vinissimo Wine Shop provides a tailored shopping experience with owner Gaetano Comerci personally curating selections based on his expertise and connections in the vineyard world.

BYOB Culture

Evanston’s restaurants are also known for their BYOB friendliness, allowing wine enthusiasts to bring their own selections. Notable spots like Kabul House and Soban Korean make for great pairings with homemade flavors, creating perfect dining experiences for those who enjoy personal wine selections.

In conclusion, while Evanston may be overlooked as a wine destination, its combination of historic eateries, independent wine shops, and outdoor dining options create a rich tapestry of experiences for wine lovers and casual drinkers alike.

About the Author: Chris Lehoux

Meet Chris Lehoux, an experienced wine connoisseur and dedicated blogger with a deep passion for all things wine-related. With years of expertise in the industry, Chris shares insightful wine reviews, valuable wine tasting tips, expert pairing advice, and captivating tales of vineyard visits. Join Chris on a journey through the world of wine, where every sip is an adventure waiting to be savored!