Oh my! What a wonderful adorable charming store! I had an hour to browse all the stores in this neighborhood and ended up spending the full hour at this store alone. I couldn't stop gathering gifts for friends - soaps, perfumes, etc. Personally, it's so good to know we have a store in Chicago that's specializes in natural/ alternative solutions to health issues - from teas to supplements, and so many formulations with clean ingredients. I can't wait to return! read more

Saw this location online and it looked neat we went. There are so many items and I mean so many to choose from. I liked that it as organized very clean. read more

Any day that I have the chance to stop by Merz Apothecary is always going to be a good one. They have the best selection of smaller niche fragrance houses I've come across so far, some that are also quite historically significant. The staff is also super educated on fragrance and are able to give you background into notable people who may have worn that fragrance. read more

Merz Apothecary - Drugstores Near Me - Chicago, Illinois

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You cannot make perfume here. Customer service, non after walking around the store looking lost. I finally walked up to the counter where someone asked me if they could help. Obviously, I need help. I approached you. This could be seen definitely, maybe they like to give their customers space to shop and view . However, the energy in the store was unpleasant. read more

Merz Apothecary is your stop for skin care, bath goods, grooming supplies, and so on. Lots of European brands here. Lots of "clean" brands, if that's your thing. They sell tooth powder here, which is an alternative to toothpaste. Hipsters can find all their beard and mustache care. The staff are knowledgeable and helpful. The store is really clean so it's pleasant to shop. Located in the square that gives Lincoln Square its name, parking is difficult since they took away one of the lots. There is a brown line station about a block away for the Western stop, which is the most reliable way to get here, but you can try finding parking on the blocks along and surrounding Lincoln, too. read more

Merz Apothecary is an absolute gem! I recently noticed they were offering $15 water ritual facials featuring Evanhealy skincare (with a $15 credit!) and couldn't resist trying it out. What started as a simple facial appointment turned into a magical experience. The Evanhealy team was incredibly knowledgeable and kind, and after chatting with them, I wandered around the store for over an hour, completely captivated by everything they offer. If you're into beauty and skincare, this place is a must-visit! They specialize in homeopathic remedies, luxurious toiletries, pampering products, and a wide range of fragrances. The atmosphere is warm and welcoming, and you truly feel transported to another world as you explore. I left the store feeling overjoyed and can't wait to return, especially to pick up holiday gifts. Huge shout-out to the Evanhealy team--my facial was fantastic, and I'm obsessed with the products I bought! read more

Merz Apothecary - Drugstores Near Me - Chicago, Illinois

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My favorite place in the city. The staff are helpful, the products are extensive and varied, and the place smells just plain good. If you haven't been, you need to go. read more

This place is amazing. I only wish they still had their Loop location open. They have so many diverse products that you won't find at other similar shops. I love the atmosphere in here and the ability to find and try products I never knew existed. read more

I often enjoy my visits at this apothecary. Even if I am just smelling the scents or enjoying the decor. But last week I am profoundly happy that I found something that I had been looking for. I need a lotion portable container and the ones I'd been finding did not satisfy my requirements. But here I found the GoToob and available as single item instead of a set. I'm so happy hehehe. I also found natural sea sponges, the large ones too. I'm conscious about carbon footprint so I'm glad these are available at my local shop as oppo to buying them online. read more

Merz Apothecary - Drugstores Near Me - Chicago, Illinois

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Been a long time customer, but cannot take the over-the-top fragrances when you are in the store. 20++ diffuser sticks with so many fragrances...Overwhelming! This seemed to be opposite of what a healthy apothecary would be. The wonderful European and homeopathic items seem to be less in number than before. Not understanding the "all-in" fragrance emphasis that Merz now has. read more

I was awed by the selection of natural products this store has. It has become my must-go-to shop whenever I visit Chicago.

I stopped by this lovely store on Shop Small Saturday and was able to go in for the first time since I moved to the area. It's incredible! I inquired and they told me they have over 15,000 products in the store. WHAT?! It's pretty wild. I found the whole line of a face mask I found in a boutique in a small town hours away. So nice I have a local shop within walking distance I can visit when I need more! Everyone there was super helpful, especially when it came to gift buying items I didn't know much about. Regarding COVID-19, they limited capacity and required masks. Staff was all wearing masks. I felt very safe! I think most days they're only doing online order pickup to minimize transmission even more. Highly recommend giving them a call if you need some gift ideas or something for yourself! read more

It's rather unfortunate that I have to write this review. My most current visit to this establishment was about a month ago. My 17 year old son and I were interested in purchasing a few things. My son headed to the colognes and I wanted to purchase foundation. There were three women chatting away. One even came by me. I was in the makeup section and she checked on her makeup. Neither of the three offered to assist us. The worst service I've ever received in my life. So, I went to Sephora where they took care of me and met my needs. My son and I left Sephora with a foundation and perfume for me and a cologne for my son. Never will I recommend this establishment to any of my family or friends. Maybe they need a little bit of diversity training as part of their customer service. read more

A lovely vintage shop in Lincoln Square and not technically Ravenswood - even though yelp seems to not know the difference. It was one of my favourite shops when I lived just a couple train stops West. Merz carries demeter fragrances, some vintage barber stuff, other well curated gift and personal care items. They have a wall of soap which - like most of their items, favors the non synthetic. The service is pleasant and light, and mostly behind the old fashioned counters. It is just down the street from Gene's where you can eat sausage or paçzki on the roof, after your shopping. read more

My favorite store you could find any and everything There. you can also ask the pharmacist if you have any alerts infection or anything, and they can recommend something for you. not to many places do that type of quality stuff. I have been going to the store for years it's been open for such a long time and now they opened up a second store totally from men Cologne and stuff read more

Their hours are a true problem. I literally have to take time off of work or brave to mania of Saturday in Lincoln Square. (Pretty please, open on Sunday or have a late night??) That said, the superbly knowledgeable staff and expansive selection of fine goods keeps me coming back. Merz is a true gem! Their Euro skincare, unique perfumes, and all manner of personal care choices is unrivaled. There is a bit of make-up, but not much. Excellent men's section. Some quality homeopathic curatives, though you may have to ask for it. One of my favorite places in the city. read more

I came in looking for a specific product and just wanting to browse. I found what I was looking for and also the perfect-sized brush for my purse to keep for my daughter's unruly hair. They also have an extensive soap and fragrance collection in addition to all sorts of grooming supplies and imported personal care and supplements! I will definitely make it a point to return! read more

For some lovely Belgian made soaps as a gift that were an original gift delivered in a cute box. It reminds me of my childhood. read more

Merz Apothecary - Belgian soap - Drugstores Near Me - Chicago, Illinois

Mickey and Sophie are the best! :) I love coming in and smelling different perfumes, always a fun lil treat!

I absolutely love this store. It can feel a little overwhelming if you've never been with the amount of inventory, but do not fear. They have an amazing educated staff that genuinely seem thrilled to help if you ask for it. I worked with Mark who took his time explaining to me the benefits of a couple different conditioners. He was mindful of my time yet provided such detailed and honest feedback on a few items that I left feeling educated and confident about my purchase! The ladies at checkout were super sweet too and helped me pick a lip balm! Overall, great place for yourself, and a great place to purchase gifts for folks too. read more

No trip to Chicago (my favorite city in the U.S.) is ever complete without a jaunt over to Lincoln Square/Merz Apothecary. MASSIVE selection of high quality lines, including Jack Black, Zum/Inigo Wild, Outremer, Diptyque, and SO many more. (I could easily spend hours in this place. I also love the Merz Apothecary website.) Ask for clerk Mark if you're in town -- he's the best! read more

I was looking forward to visiting Merz today, but did not have a great experience. I was never greeted even though I was one of the few people in the store with my husband, and there were several employees working at the time, and was never asked if I needed help. I've never felt this way in a shop, but I felt like I was judged because I was dressed somewhat casually - and I only saw the employees attend to a woman in a dress who may have at the time appeared more fashionable than myself. That's ok though since I enjoyed the other great shops in Lincoln Square read more

I work nearby and love to stop in here! The people working are always very kind, helpful, and nonjudgmental to me. I had questions relating to supplements I can take for endometriosis in addition to my medications and the pharmacist was EXTREMELY helpful in pointing out good products. 10/10 for variety of products, 11/10 for customer service!! The CBD oil they sell here is also excellent! read more

Merz Apothecary - The CBD oil sold at Merz ! - Drugstores Near Me - Chicago, Illinois

Guys usually do not think about skin, hair, and shaving products other than the basics - and as economical as possible. Mertz is a place that usually is associated with women's needs and desires, but has quite a good footprint for men's products. I recently went there to replace my shaving brush and was met by Mark, who graciously took me through the many options for bushes : horsehair, beaver and synthetic options. I bought a nicely crafted Taconic Beechwood brush. Mark is looking out for you and will do it in a way that won't turn off a guy. Curious, I asked about hair brushes and of course he had an option for that as well - an R.S. Stein Military Style Oak bristle. Overall, I felt I was investing in myself without feeling "pampered." Mertz is the place for you and Mark is the person for you. read more

If you're black I would advise you not to step foot in this store. I was followed and watched. Genuinely disappointed in how I was treated. I was thinking about recording and posting to social media. read more

I discovered Merz Apothecary when I worked in the area about 25 years ago. I used to enjoy stopping into this lovely store to check out the various personal care, homeopathic and health products. I really appreciated the pharmacist and counted on him to answer questions/make recommendations.  BTW, the rest of the staff was pretty good at helping me also! More recently, I needed a few homeopathic products and since I had questions, I decided to call Merz. The pharmacist was busy, however, the sales associate checked with him and then made recommendations.  She told me that I could find more details about the recommended products on their online store, Smallflower.com.  After deciding what I wanted and having another question, I called Merz again and then placed my order. My order was over $75, so shipping was free. The order arrived about a week later.   If you are in the area and want to take a step back in time, I highly recommend visiting Merz Apothecary.  And if you're not in the area, you can always visit their online store at www.Smallflower.com read more

What a cool store to have in our neighbourhood, a throw back if you will to the days gone by before Walgreen's. So many different items to look through it is almost overwhelming. Note I said almost, find a helpful employee and they will guide you to the place you need to be. Mustache wax, deodorant, cologne, vitamins and herbal teas are just a few of the items we have picked up here. read more

A must see apothecary! Perfectly curated for self-care, appreciation to detail, and decadence at all price points. Here you can find the brands you used to see in your grandparent's medicine cabinet, find the perfect razor for your newly shaving 16 year-old, and discover the most enchanting fragrances. Merz Apothecary brings together all the loveliest things found near and far. It is comforting to find a place like this, brimming with charm, sensory stimulation and elegance. Honor yourself with a visit! read more

This is my go-to apothecary no matter where I am in the US, they have everything I need in an apothecary that's not located in Germany.

The level of customer service is unparalleled! Kristina was amazing! I had a question about my online order today, while I was in the store today for the first time. She followed up with an email within an hour of us leaving! You do not get that level of service, detail, and attention on the customer service in American businesses anymore. Kristina broke that perception, and because of her thoroughness, I will be a nonstop return customer! Thank you, Kristina! read more

I love this shop and the Q family. I cannot recommend this shop enough as a long time patron for over a decade. They have some of the coolest products from all over the world. I go there to get soaps, shampoos, colognes, shaving products, and other toiletries or homeopathic remedies. Shoutouts to Papa Q (Abdul-Qayyum Uncle), AQ (Anthony), and all the wonderful employees. Today I went to get some shampoo and Anthony Q introduced me to his family's newest creation: Shambar shampoo & conditioner bar! I checked out the website and video on the site. I love the concepts behind the shampoo bar! Excited to try it! Thanks guys! read more

I love this place! They have a great selection of men's products, which can otherwise be hard to come by. Staff is knowledgeable and friendly, highly recommend. read more

Past, Present, and Beyond into Our Future, MERZ APOTHECARY daily offers Hospitality, Health, and Hope! Indeed a precious visit to the original Lincoln Square shoppe in the ole' Germantown neighborhood on the Northwest side of Chicago brings alive fond childhood memories of Baby Boomers, their Parents, and Grandparents! Herbs, teas, fragrances, spices, spirits, oils, ointments remain the vital foundation, and yet always you will find a Licensed Pharmacist available to offer the most modern medicines. Since 1875, the MERZ Families illuminate a genuinely caring beacon of devoted healing and optimistic vitality. If you don't stop by their storefronts, then do enjoy a cruise of their cyberspace sites. You will most certainly feel better and happier! read more

First of all the variety alone is worth a look. It feels very vintage when you walk in. The store is not so small, but the counters are set into the store so they can display more items and it feels very charmingly narrow. Old school, old world. Just really cute, like a 50s department store vibe. Then there's Q Brothers or whatever, the men's store adjoining that has a more spacious, vibrant millennial-version of 50s vibe. They really complement each other. The store can feel very busy with lots of foot traffic and limited space, but they have great employees. Madeline helped me pick out a new fragrance today. She knew all the brands, their stories, the ingredients. She knew all the different notes, the blend of artificial and natural ingredients. So knowledgeable! She led me to Unknown Pleasures by Kerosene. She knew so much about that brand! I was so impressed with her knowledge that I couldn't not take it home. I love it! I smell like sexy cake now! Thanks, Madeline! read more

You know how you go into the grocery store wanting dijon and come out with half a bag of stuff you never wanted in the first place. Like a papaya. Who the heck buys a papaya on a whim? Or organic turnips. Did I just spend twice as much on ORGANIC turnips than good ol' fashioned turnips? Yeah, ya did. That's what shopping here can be like--going in for that nice, travel-sized hand creme and coming out with oodles of totally unnecessary stuff like cardamon-scented dental floss or rum-infused peppermint foot scrub. You never knew you needed this stuff until you spent some time (and serious coin) in here. This is one of the most beautiful shops in Chicago. Love it. read more

I love this place, so glad I don't live close because I can never get out of here without making a purchase of one or many more items. Everything I've bought from here smells so good and if it happens to be a skin care product it will make your skin feel like silk. How could you not buy something? You'll also find all sorts of homeopathic items, got a headache, hot flashes, or you can't sleep, there are things to try. Today I bought a scent called "Old Bourbon" I found the scent intoxicating, not in the drunk way, but in the this really hits a note with me. It reminds me of a cologne for men that was popular some years ago, whatever the scent is it had a pheromone affect. I knew this to be true as when someone I worked with would where it, there was no attraction, unless he wore this cologne. I don't know what it is, however it's in here. The brand also had other interesting scents, leather, old leather, dirt and even grass. So if you're looking for for an unusual scent to spray on, lather up with or rub into your skin you'd be hard pressed not to find it here. They've also expanded into the storefront next door for men, looks to specialize in shaving and skin care items. I didn't check that section out today, however I plan on it soon. read more

Merz Apothecary - I found this intoxicating, pardon the pun. - Drugstores Near Me - Chicago, Illinois

The Shops at Merz has, hands down, the best fragrance section I've ever seen. I've been bouncing around the fragrance sections at the big department stores (Bloomies, Saks, you name it) and Sephora since I was a teenager and I've honestly never come across such a well curated, unique selection. I was getting bored of seeing and smelling and buying the same old few, and coming to this store reignited my passion! Bought two fragrances for Spring/Summer (One is the best Lavender fragrance I've ever smelled, by the way) and am already plotting my next ones. Go check it out, the staff are wonderful, great service, and the perfect spot to stop on a stroll through Lincoln Square. read more

I came into the store and was excited to browse their selection of fragrances. I waited at the counter for the previous customer to finish their selection, and as I was waiting with my partner, another couple came up to the counter. The salesperson ignored my partner and I and went to the older couple first, and they actually said to the salesperson that we had been waiting longer. She came over to us, and made it very apparent she did not want to be servicing us, cutting me off as I spoke and slamming the bottle I asked to smell onto the counter. The fragrance I had asked to see, was from another company I had another scent from and I had the intent to purchase their newer scent. I asked about sizing, and she said, again cutting me off that that was the only size that was available, which wasn't the case, and said the cost to us while walking away and not even making eye contact. I thought this was odd and uncomfortable how she rushed through our conversation, and shouted the price at us, as I had never requested the price. She then proceeded to welcome the other couple and offer them samples and various sizes of perfumes. After that we were ignored, and I was disheartened that I was not given the same respect and service as the other customers in the store, and decided to leave after that very uncomfortable interaction. It was very evident we were not given the same level of treatment, and it was unfortunate other customers had to point this out for us to even be acknowledged. I wanted to buy the product from a local business rather than order it from a larger company, and I was very disappointed by this experience. No customer should walk away empty-handed because an employee makes an assumption or a quick judgement. I've since purchased the product elsewhere. I hope that this experience is not a common on. read more

Picked up sunscreen, Zum soap, ginger drops, and a tube of Shea butter lip moisurizer. This fantastic little store has a ton of natural self care and health items, as well as various & sundry articles to improve and enhance your life. The staff are informed and helpful. It stays kind of busy but has such a great vibe and unique products. They also sell beauty products and fragrances. read more

I just discovered that place last night when I went to Detox 101. I had no clue this store was there (and it's been open for 144 years! Shame on me). I loved the stuff and owner of the store. They're very knowledgeable, helpful, polite and friendly. I was pleasantly surprised to find things that I was looking for and couldn't find anywhere. For example, sea blackthorn berries which are great for you (source of vitamins, antioxidants, protein building blocks (amino acids), fatty acids and minerals; for improving blood pressure and lowering cholesterol; preventing and controlling blood vessel diseases; and boosting immunity). Or another great thing to have --- Swiss bitters (great for digestion). They care product from around the world that are hard to find in other places and they are reasonably priced. Also, I loved their fragrance counter. It's very original and they help you find a right perfume just for you. I sure did find mine (lovey rose, ah!). Very happy to find this place! read more

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