Do you ever have it where you’re driving around your neighborhood, and all the sudden you’re like, “Wait, I’ve never seen that place before … or that place … or there, either!” New restaurants, amenities and places to hang pop up all the time, but you know the nature of change — it happens right under our noses. But it’s always kind of fun to see a crop of fresh spots take root, especially when they’re independent businesses investing in the community. Cue these four spots in Northbrook that I’m just getting to know — and think you should, too (obvi).
Bach to Rock
Guitar and bass, voice, drums, piano and keyboard, even DJing — Bach to Rock is called just that for a reason. Their method is based on the idea that kids learn music best when they’re allowed to play what they want. (As a pianist who really wanted to play show tunes instead of classical as a kid, I can relate.) Weekly jam sessions, battling bands and special recording sessions are a few ways this music school keeps instruction fun for kids, all while building teamwork skills and encouraging independent practice.
1141 Church St.
224-904-3190
Parker Place
We’ve all been to kids salons, but Parker Place is different — it’s, like, seriously for kids. What do I mean by that? Aside from the typical haircuts and manicures, you can also get things like the Pop Star Boys Cut (a cut with spiky styling and temporary colored gel for $25), the Dip Dye (semi-permanent “unicorn hair color” for $55), and the Guys Mani (a mini manicure for boys that includes a green slime soak for $13). And, yep, they offer adult and teen cuts, too.
1155 Church St.
224-326-2072
Championship Martial Arts
In our era of constant distraction, Championship Martial Arts is all about focus. The goal is to help each student realize self-confidence through discipline, with children’s program for ages 3 to 12, teen programs, and a wide range of adult instruction — including workouts that focus more on physical movement than strictly martial arts. Not sure if it’s for you or your kiddo? Try a class for free.
1625 Shermer Rd.
847-564-5425
Lucky Fish
Fresh seafood and handcrafted cocktails? Meet you there at 8. Lucky Fish serves up quality fare straight from the coast, from lobster tacos and barbecue shrimp to red snapper and Chilean sea bass. The prices are reasonable — especially for seafood — and the industrially inspired atmosphere is bright and inviting. Don’t miss the Sunday brunch, a mix of cuisine from New Orleans, the East Coast and Mexico.
1349 Shermer Rd.
847-236-1411