Back to the Table with Chicago Stores

For several years now, there has been a movement, a renewed spirit to get back to the dining experience…at home. Cooking and eating at home is back, precipitating more shopping in Chicago home furnishing stores.

IMR Research Group indicates that Americans are willing to spend more money on remodeling their kitchens than any other part of their home. In 2006, American homeowners spent an estimated $80 billion on kitchen remodeling. The report also indicates there is unprecedented amount of money on appliance upgrades, design features and innovative kitchen products such as built-in water filters and an oven that dramatically reduces cooking time. A report from the International Home & Housewares Show indicates a trend where Americans are spending more time on meal preparation, cooking from scratch. Whether Baby Boomers or Gen X, generations are getting back to cooking and eating with friends and/or family at home. In addition, more cookbooks focus recipe editorial on cooking fresh from scratch. None more directly addresses the resurgence of home cooking than Art Smith’s “Back to the Table.” The book is philosophical, spiritual and serves as an insightful guide to table decorating and cooking for family and friends.

Chicago is home to some of the finest and most diverse stores for cooking, baking, meal presentation and home entertaining. If you’re looking for the latest in kitchen appliances or want to take the plunge and remodel a outdated kitchen, Chicago stores will fulfill your every need. From small Bucktown-Wicker Park (Porte Rouge, Crossell & Co.), to Michigan Avenue’s magnificent flagship home furnishing stores (Pottery Barn, Crate & Barrel), Chicago has it all. These stores excel in not offering quality products, but in the warmth and atmosphere of the retail environment and customer service. A complete list of Chicago stores for cooking, baking, meal presentation and entertaining is located at www.chicago-dsc.com.