Think up a good excuse to spoil yourself, whether it be a birthday, promotion or simply a celebration of your stellar existence, and head over to Wicker Park's sweet shop, Just Indulge, for a haven of treats. While the dreamy, creamy frozen custard is excuse enough to try out the corner shop, the cases of pastries, chocolates, candies and gourmet popcorn offer countless ways to treat yourself sweetly.
Just Indulge was inspired by owners Cap and Mia DeLaney's happy childhood memories of family celebrations centered around homemade ice cream. Now the two sisters run their own shop, offering a rotating menu of silky frozen custard floats (cola, root beer and Red Bull), milkshakes and cement-mixers (frozen custard mixed with cookies and candy) that'll help you make your own sweet memories. Toppings include peanut butter, hot fudge, fruit topping, sprinkles, Oreo cookies and many more options. For frozen custard (only $2.50 for a single scoop), choose from among buttery vanilla, melt-on-your-tongue chocolate and the flavor of the week; often it's a simple classic like raspberry, with tart raspberries and raspberry puree laced throughout vanilla custard.
This glorified ice cream shop takes things one step further by offering a full espresso-bar menu (all options under $4) with local favorite, Intelligentsia coffee, to keep customers warm through Chicago's wintry months. The ambience is fresh and modern, with green and purple walls and funky lights hanging from the ceiling. With indulgence as the philosophy and cheerful customer service as a top priority, Just Indulge has Wicker Park residents buzzing with new excuses to visit again and again.
Average cost: <$10
Centerstage Reviewer: Katie Chelminski