When I stepped off the El at Main Street, I saw an eclectic mix of ethnic, antique and modern shops and restaurants. I had never been to this part of Evanston before, but the neighborhood was quainter than the area next to NU.

There were plenty of people of all ages shopping, walking their dogs and dining at the many restaurants the area had to offer when I visited early Saturday afternoon.

One of my favorite stops was Viva Vintage, 1043 Chicago Ave. The thrift shop was filled with unique items of good quality. Much of the merchandise I looked at appeared new but was much cheaper than anything at Macy’s. A nice pair of strappy black dress shoes caught my eye. The store was fairly crowded but wasn’t so chock-full of hand-me-downs (as thrift shops often are) that I couldn’t find anything.

Another interesting spot was the Main Thrift Shop, 501 Main St. It was cluttered with knickknacks piled higher than my head and rows too narrow for more than one person. Anyone who was looking for something in particular would have to do some digging, but the store is worth a look for people interested in collectible or unusual furnishings for a new apartment. A rocking chair with denim cushions reminded me of my grandma, but I could still see myself curling up in it in front of the TV.

For the shopper with more expensive tastes, Brazilian Soul on Chicago Avenue offered somewhat gaudy but well-made apparel. The clothes were too pricey for me (I liked a springy pink dress but wasn’t willing to spend $80 on it), but I think it would be a good place to look for something to wear for a special occasion or, if you have the wallet, every day.

If I worked up an appetite delving through piles of clothing and carrying heavy shopping bags, I might stop by The Firehouse Grill, 750 Chicago Ave. The restaurant appeared to be a refurbished classic fire station. There were plenty of people eating there when I walked by, and I thought the grill might offer a memorable meal, if only for the unique atmosphere. For an ethnic flair, Kuni’s Japanese Restaurant, 511 Main St., or Lucky Platter, 514 Main St., also looked like good bets.

For the animal lover, The Hungry Pup, 941 Chicago Ave., featured all kinds of leashes, collars, beds, treats and toys for man’s canine and feline friends as well as a variety of gifts for owners. My favorite piece was a cute mug with the phrase “Dogs have owners; Cats have staff” printed on the side.

I noticed an overabundance of Oriental rug and carpet stores in the area. This may reflect the residents’ fondness for floor coverings, but a more likely explanation is the cultural diversity of the area, which could also been seen in the selection of restaurants.

After touring the commercial area, I decided to wander through the residential neighborhoods to the east along Lake Michigan. There were plenty of people working in their yards or taking an afternoon stroll. As a runner, I’d consider venturing down here for an afternoon run, and it seemed many others had the same idea. Several of the apartment complexes and condos had extensive gardens and fountains. Like other parts of Evanston, the neighborhoods were a mix of classic older homes, expensive new developments and the occasional retro eyecatcher.

Going to the Main Street area certainly isn’t like going to Michigan Avenue, but it’s a good stop for someone who wants shopping alternatives to The Gap and Urban Outfitters or who wants to try somewhere new to eat without sitting on the El for an hour.

I took the El to the area, but the distance is walkable, especially on a nice spring day. The south side of Evanston is worth a look, especially for those interested in vintage or more unique shopping options.

Reach Annie Martin at [email protected].