River Forest Business Spotlight: Showcasing Local Businesses and Entrepreneurs

Though primarily residential, the bucolic Chicago suburb of River Forest includes a small but vibrant business community. Not at the scale of Melrose Park's commercial cluster to the north or featuring the notoriety of Oak Park's downtown district to the east, River Forest boasts a collection of local businesses and entrepreneurs who infuse character and charm into its daily life. River Forest’s business scene reflects an authentic commitment to serving the community, from culinary delights to everyday services and more altruistic endeavors. Below, we showcase five firmly established River Forest businesses that enhance the community and embody the spirit of entrepreneurship.

When considering a list of notable local businesses, there's no better place to start than with a homegrown pizza parlor. Family-run for 60 years, Bertolli's Pizza is the definition of a local institution. First opening its doors as the popular River Pizza in 1963, Southern Italian native Frank Bertolli would eventually purchase the pizzeria in 1981, keeping the tradition alive and maintaining the business as one of Chicago's best local eateries--pizza or otherwise.

Bertolli's success has come through tradition, quality, and outstanding taste. Whether you’re a fan of classic Chicago-style deep dish, thin crust, or a specialty pie packed with unique toppings, Bertolli’s delivers an unparalleled dining experience. Tucked away in a nondescript strip center at the corner of Thatcher Avenue and Lake Street, Bertolli's is a short walk from the River Forest Metra station and easily accessible by those living in the River Forest Historic District. In addition to the pizzeria, Bertolli's runs the equally lauded Frank's Deli next door.

It's only fitting that a serene, verdant setting such as River Forest, featuring gorgeous, tree-lined streets, the bulk of the 245-acre Thatcher Woods Natural Preserve, and includes the Des Plaines River as its western boundary hosts an equally impressive garden center. Such a place is found on Madison Street in the form of the Good Earth Greenhouse. Step inside, and you’re enveloped in a lush oasis of shrubs and trees, annuals, perennials, and seasonals, and a vast collection of houseplants and the tools necessary to help them thrive. This charming garden center offers everything a green-thumbed gardening enthusiast could want and has

While also serving as one of the area's premier florists, with a greenhouse large enough to host weddings and special events, what truly sets Good Earth Greenhouse apart is its dedication to sustainability and education. The highly knowledgeable staff is always eager to share their expertise, whether you’re a seasoned gardener or just starting your green thumb journey. In addition to plants, they offer workshops, garden supplies, and custom landscaping services and have proven an integral part in beautifying River Forest and surrounding communities.

For anyone with a sweet tooth in River Forest—or beyond—River Forest Chocolates is a dream come true. This boutique chocolatier on Lake Street at the southern end of the River Forest Historic District specializes in handcrafted confections that blend artistry with decadence. From creamy truffles to chocolate-covered fruits and nuts, every piece is a testament to the craft of fine chocolate-making.

What makes this shop particularly special is its commitment to using premium ingredients, offering customizable options, and embracing sustainable resources, including in the creation and packaging of its chocolates. In 2013, the chocolatier was awarded the Illinois Green Business Association Award. Fifteen years after its first opening, River Forest Chocolates continues to offer an indulgent and personal experience.

Not often discussed in public forums, but a real need for many in River Forest and surrounding communities is how to address the challenges of aging. The locally based Sage Lifestyle Concierge is redefining the concerns with a mission that is equal parts compassionate and practical. Founded in 2022 by Sun-Hee Yoon, who herself had to manage the trials of assisting an aging loved one, Sage Lifestyle Concierge is committed to helping families navigate the maze of aging services, from insurance and financial considerations to coordinating care or finding the perfect assisted living or home care arrangement.

Sage Lifestyle Concierge also understands the importance of connection and quality of life. Having established a significant presence in supporting the River Forest community, they offer services to foster social engagement and companionship, ensuring that their clients remain connected to their neighbors and local services that can best serve their needs. Unlike few other organizations in the region, Sage Lifestyle is the vessel for restoring dignity, easing burdens, and creating a smoother journey for aging adults and their families.

Though much of River Forest's art and cultural scene is curated through a highly successful alliance with neighboring Oak Park, a few genuine grassroots groups that tailor their programs to local patrons and participants remain. One of those is the non-profit Sunflower Chamber Orchestra. This community-driven organization aims to nurture the talents of young musicians to create exceptional classical music performances that resonate with audiences of all ages. The group's school of music is popular with those looking to discover or further explore their talents through group or private lessons.

Ultimately, the orchestra’s mission to nurture a love for music and provide a platform for seasoned professionals and emerging talents begins with homegrown talent, including a partnership with Trinity High School Orchestra. From intimate chamber concerts to larger productions, the Sunflower Chamber Orchestra’s performances are always thoughtfully curated and beautifully executed. Their commitment to making classical music accessible and inspiring is a gift to the River Forest community.

River Forest thrives because of businesses like these, which enrich the community in diverse and meaningful ways. Whether you’re savoring a perfectly baked pizza, adorning your home with greenery, indulging in artisanal chocolates, simplifying a loved one's lifestyle, or enjoying a world-class concert, there’s no shortage of ways to connect with the vibrant entrepreneurial spirit that defines this charming suburb.

If you're ready to make River Forest your home, contact the Gagliardo Group today and allow their team of experienced real estate professionals to guide you on your journey to finding the perfect home. They’ll make your buying or selling experience seamless and incredibly rewarding.