Arlington Heights Patch Readers Share Their Fave Local Businesses

ARLINGTON HEIGHTS, IL — The coronavirus pandemic has had a devastating impact on the economy, forcing small businesses across Illinois to shutter. However, in a show of exemplary community spirit, Arlington Heights residents are supporting small businesses with the hope that a new year will help turn things around.

As we turn the page on 2020, it is now more important than ever to frequent local businesses. What the next 12 months have in store for the local business community is anyone's guess, but residents are thankful that many have made it through a rough year and believe 2021 will be much better.

We asked Patch readers to nominate some of their favorite businesses as part of our year-end coverage. Here we showcase some of the best:

Peggy Kinnane's Irish Restaurant & Pub

8 N Vail Ave., Arlington Heights
847-577-7733

Over the past 17 years, the crew at Peggy Kinnane's say they've served over 1.1 million meals and poured more than 2 million Guinness drafts. In non-COVID times, it's the spot to "dine, dance and laugh in a place where every picture, every wall, every room has a story to tell. For now, carry-out and outdoor dining (weather permitting) are available. Peggy Kinnane's is open 11 a.m.-1 p.m. Monday-Thursday, 11 a.m.-2 p.m. Friday and Saturday, and 10 a.m.-1 p.m Sunday.

READER COMMENTS

• "We have been coming to Peggy’s for at least 15 years, and it always means a good time and good food. When restrictions were lifted earlier this year, and outdoor dining became possible, it’s the first place we headed. Always wonderful wait staff, which is just as important as the food. It was good to see that the owners took all necessary steps to keep their employees and patrons safe."
• "The owner did amazing job opening up restaurant in a safe and complained way. They create safe outdoor space more than six feet apart and put plexiglass inside between seating. His staff provided great food and service during a very tough time. A great example of service was during a cold night they told people to bring heating blankets and brought out exertions cords. They created a safe haven this summer!"

Woodcrafters DIY Studio

28 S Evergreen Ave., Arlington Heights
224-324-4333

Woodcrafters offers a wide variety of personalized wood signs and crafts that can be DIY or that they sell pre-made. The family-owned business offers a great activity with friends, bachelorette parties, date night, kids parties and team building.

READER COMMENT

• "The business was built solely on coming into the studio to DIY projects during teacher led workshops. Due to the COVID shutdown in March, the business plan needed a major change of direction so Take Home Kits for curbside pick up were introduced. Available for all ages and curbside pickup, the Kits to DIY at home became a hit. In addition, local business partnerships with other neighboring small businesses were formed to offer support and provide a one-stop shop for the community."

Berry Yo

50 N Vail Ave, Arlington Heights
224-735-3112

The family-owned business, located in the middle of Arlington Heights, prides itself on "supplying the community with sweet treats and even sweeter service." Curbside pickup ordering is available. Berry Yo is open noon-9 p.m. every day.

READER COMMENT

• "Quality products & quality employees."

Bentley's Pet Stuff

90 S Evergreen Ave., Arlington Heights
224-735-2160

Popular pet supply store chain features food, treats, toys and grooming. Curbside service is available. Bentley's is open 10 a.m.-7 p.m. Monday-Friday, 10 a.m.-5 p.m. Saturday, and 11 a.m.-4 p.m. Sunday.

READER COMMENT

• "Great staff and products."

Ibbotson Heating Co

514 Arthur Ave., Arlington Heights
847-380-1918

Ibbotson Heating & Air Conditioning Co. is a family-owned and operated heating and cooling business that has served the Northwest Suburbs of Chicago for over 74 years. Ibbotson is open 8 a.m.-4:30 p.m. every day.

READER COMMENT

• "We trust the thoroughness of its technicians who are quite knowledgeable and the efficiency of its staff. Most important, the people who run it are honest. We have been using Ibbotson since the 1980s and would not consider another company to service out air conditioner, furnace, humidifier, and water heater. Needs have always been met without a problem."

Hello Art Studio

212 E Northwest Highway, Arlington Heights
847-797-8382

For kids that love art, Hello Art Studio provides "high quality, affordable art lessons for kids in a space designed just for them." Virtual classes are available during the pandemic.

READER COMMENT

• "Hello Art Studio has managed to serve kids all through the pandemic, pivoting between virtual and in-person learning when needed, fostering creativity, connection and joy in a difficult year."

A La Mode Collections

13 E Campbell St., Arlington Heights
847-797-1454

Family-owned business assists customers in styling, fashion consulting, or picking out the perfect gift item. A La Mode actively participates in fundraisers and contributes to local non-profit organizations. The store is open 10:30 a.m.-5 p.m. Monday-Wednesday and Friday-Saturday, 10:30 a.m.-7 p.m. Thursday, closed on Sunday.

READER COMMENT

• "The "staff" is always upbeat and willing to please. I've never not found an item to purchase for someone, maybe even me!"

Forbici Salon and Spa

7 S Highland Ave., Arlington Heights
847-398-2887

Since 1993, Forbici has offered its full service salon and spa specializing in communication with clients. Experience the Forbici affordable luxury in the near future. The store is open 8:30 a.m.-9 p.m. Monday-Thursday, 9 a.m.-5 p.m. Friday, 8 a.m.-4 p.m. Saturday, closed Sunday.

READER COMMENT

• "Forbici Salon has always exceeded my expectations! Great staff and friendly atmosphere. The measures that were used to keep clients safe during the pandemic have been exceptional. They go above and beyond for the safety of all. I love Forbici!!!"

Gatsby’s Pizza and Pub

Arlington Heights Promenade, 427 E Rand Road, Arlington Heights
847-253-7200

Gatsby’s Pizza & Pub was established in 1973 by Bill Roscoe. He purchased interior pieces on 55th & Halsted in Chicago and brought that old town look to Arlington Heights. It has been a neighborhood “cheers” bar ever since. Owned by George Callas and John Katsiambis since 1991. Gatsby's is open 10:30 a.m.-2 a.m. Sunday-Thursday, 10:30 a.m.-3 a.m. Friday-Saturday.

READER COMMENT

• "The owners, bartenders, and servers have all bent over backwards to provide safe and comfortable service after being allowed to reopen in the spring. From the tent for outside service early on to moving inside, I've always felt that everything was clean and the staff followed all protocols."

Patch Editor Abhinanda Datta contributed to this story.