Excitement on Elson
By Patti Kimbel
We want to highlight three new businesses in our little corner of the world. It’s amazing that some of these businesses were able to open during the pandemic and create a thriving business. Our new businesses can provide a fantastic and economical haircut, eclectic furnishings for your home, and a fabulous Italian dinner. Please consider supporting our new businesses and neighbors.
Avvio
Avvio, an Italian restaurant, opened September 2020 at 4358 N. Elston Ave. Chef Joel Piedra, from the former Sabatino’s, opened this stylish restaurant bravely in the height of the pandemic and has established a steady following. Many regular patrons from Sabatino’s, including the brothers themselves, frequent this place. In addition to an extensive menu of pasta, seafood, chicken and meat dishes, there are also nightly specials. The food was really delicious and service was impeccable. The ravioli and gnocchi are homemade and so is the tiramisu if you miraculously still have room for dessert. Currently, it is BYOB with a $10 corkage fee. A secret I stumbled upon was finding a cozy patio behind the restaurant. The patio is certainly a gem in our neighborhood, especially on a comfortable night.
Emy’s Hair Salon
Emy’s Hair Salon, 3966 N. Elston, is open everyday except Mondays. The owners are Frank and Mila and both have over ten years of experience each in prior hair salons. Frank reported feeling fortunate that many of his clients from Berwyn have followed him to his new location and that speaks highly of his skills. It is a full service salon and advertises haircuts for only $7 on their window. The couple is excited about their new business which is named after their daughter, Emy. They also hope to make our neighborhood their new home. Mila comes highly recommended and one local neighbor said Mila gives, “the best haircuts I've ever had and at such a bargain price of $7.”
Proper Bonkers
Proper Bonkers, a home goods store, opened up this past May at 4003 N. Elston. Owners Irena and Ron Terman have lived in the area for close to twenty years. They specialize in eclectic and unique home furnishings along with furniture and original artwork. Irena’s family is originally from Sarajevo and her grandmother passed on the passion and love for quality furniture and Irena hopes to honor that tradition in her new business. They are open everyday, except Wednesday, from 11-7. You can also find them through their Instagram or Facebook page or at www.properbonkers.com. You might just go bonkers for them if you do!